REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST ] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
Registered Charity No: 1188705
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Summary of the Purposes of the Charity
SOS Africa is a UK based grassroots organisation which funds holistic education, care and training for disadvantaged South African children and youth. The non-profit organisation removes barriers to learning and lowers South Africa’s school dropout rates. This is achieved by providing sponsorship to vulnerable children and vital support to struggling schools. The SOS Africa Skills and Training Academy also hosts certified training courses and life skills programmes to tackle youth unemployment.
The SOS Africa Charity provides:
-
A Personal Approach – Originally founded by a family from Somerset in the UK, SOS Africa provides a personal approach to charitable giving. Now in its 23rd year of operation, the charity is still managed by its original founders under the direction of an experienced panel of passionate Trustees.
-
A Holistic Education Programme – SOS Africa provides each of the children in its care with school tuition, after-school care, learning support, holiday workshops, mentoring, counselling, transport, clothing and stationery. SOS Africa’s Education Programmes are tailored to the needs of the children in the charity’s care.
-
Regular Progress Reports – SOS Africa maintains strong lines of communication between child, organisation and sponsor by providing regular updates including school reports, photo albums, updates via the SOS Africa Children’s Blog and correspondence via email. Sponsors also have the option of visiting sponsored children throughout the process.
-
Minimal Charity Expenses – Prioritising transparency, SOS Africa guarantees that 100% of donations are invested in the education and care of its children; all UK expenses are covered by Gift Aid. This is possible because the charity only employs one full-time staff member in the UK and invests all resources into its education programmes in South Africa.
2
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Summary of the Charity’s Main Activities
SOS Africa currently operates in two of the poorest regions of South Africa; Mahikeng (North-West Province) and Western Cape. The charity provides underprivileged children from these areas with the following support:
-
A high standard of education and care within Preparatory, Primary and High Schools with a good reputation throughout local communities.
-
Safe transportation to and from school.
-
School uniform and stationery to eliminate potential inequalities and barriers to learning.
-
After-school care at SOS Africa Aftercare Centres where the children receive lunch, homework assistance, tutoring and extra lessons. SOS Africa also provides each child with a mentor, with whom they can consult about any day-to-day problems which they may encounter.
-
Extra-curricular activities which include swimming lessons, kung fu and yoga, plus holiday workshops to supplement their education and keep the children safe outside of school hours.
-
SOS Africa’s Western Cape Education Centres also provide learning support for students with learning difficulties. This is essential in combating illiteracy among Primary School children (currently 78% of South African Primary School children between Grades 1 to 4 are unable to read with comprehension).
All activities carried out by the SOS Africa Charity fulfil the Charity Commission’s public benefit requirements. The SOS Africa Trustees confirm that all the charity’s operations benefit and empower South African township children through the provision of a high standard of education and care enabling them to break the poverty cycle.
3
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Summary of the Charity’s 2025/26 Fundraising Achievements
-
During the 2025/26 financial year SOS Africa achieved an annual income of £991,928. This represents the largest amount of funds raised by the organisation in a single financial year in its 23-year history. This can be attributed to an unprecedented increase in donations, child sponsorship and consequently, gift aid claims. Meanwhile, online and offline fundraising and charity shop income remained consistent.
-
First and foremost, the SOS Africa Trustees would like to thank long-term SOS Africa sponsors John and Hazel Barnett who not only sponsor four SOS Africa children but this year made the largest donation in the charity’s history. Their generousity enabled the organisation to purchase a 7.7 acre property in Sir Lowry’s Pass which will be converted into The SOS Africa Skills & Training Academy by May 2026.
4
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
- In October 2025, SOS Africa hosted a charity abseil from King Alfred’s Tower, Stourhead. Over the course of 3 nerve-jangling days, 257 fearless fundraisers abseiled from the King Alfred’s Tower in aid of SOS Africa and Stourhead National Trust. By the time the final abseiler had completed the challenge, the event fundraising total stood an incredible £31,200 thanks to 1700 sponsors. Sadly, the penultimate day of the event had to be postponed due to strong winds and will now take place in April 2026.
5
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
- Since relocating to 44 High St, Shepton Mallet in September 2023, The SOS Africa Charity Shop has thrived. Thanks to increased numbers of staff, volunteers and customers, the new shop has consistently broken previous daily takings records and generated sustainable income for the organisation. The SOS Africa Trustees would like to thank Ann, Lin and the small army of loyal and committed staff members for their dedication to our cause.
----- Start of picture text -----
SOS Africa Child Sponsors Since 2003
----- End of picture text -----
----- Start of picture text -----
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
----- End of picture text -----
- During the 2025/26 financial year, SOS Africa continued to experience an increase in recruitment of child sponsors from across the globe. SOS Africa’s 360 long-term sponsors generated an annual income of approximately £170,000 for our organisation. This sustainable sponsorship enables SOS Africa to safeguard the long-term education and care of the SOS Africa children.
6
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
- The 2025/26 financial year saw a continued increase in independent fundraising events by individuals and groups across the world. Special mention goes to long term supporter Jon Fairclough who participated in the Across the Andes 2025 gravel cycling event in Chile from 23rd November 2025. Throughout the 128-hour event, Jon cycled an incredible 800km and climbed over 12000 meters across Patagonia raising over £3000.
Congratulations also to SOS Africa child sponsor Tyrin De Gidts who climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with his partner Kelly and raised over £2500 for the SOS Africa children. Following the completion of their events, fundraisers received personalised messages from the SOS Africa children to thank them for their efforts in support of our cause.
- During the 2025/26 financial year, SOS Africa’s 120 Glastonbury Festival Litter Picking Volunteers attended the festival and kept the Pyramid Stage Field free of litter to help protect the local environment and raised invaluable funds for our cause. In addition to raising over £20,000 (More than £140,000 since 2013), many of the team members also sponsor SOS Africa children.
7
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
-
The SOS Africa Trustees would also like to extend their thanks to the many community groups from across the UK who have supported the SOS Africa cause since its inception. The above photo was taken at Bridport Rotary Club. Matt presented to the club in October 2025 and updated them on the progress of the child they have sponsored for over 10 years.
-
UK and international corporate sponsors also play a significant role in supporting SOS Africa’s operations. In December 2025, SOS Africa formed a partnership with Shepton Mallet based solicitors Lyons Bowe. After visiting our programmes, Lyons Bowe Founder Paul Lyons agreed to sponsor 5 SOS Africa children as part of his firm’s ongoing commitment to the organisation.
-
Following on from the fundraising successes of the 2024/25 financial year and the large donation from John and Hazel Barnett, The SOS Africa Trustees were able to claim and unprecedented amount of Gift Aid equating to £170,000. This income is vital as it covers UK expenses and guarantees that 100% of all initial funds raised/donated are invested in the charity’s education projects in South Africa.
On behalf of the SOS Africa staff and children, the CEO and Trustees would like to say a big thank you to all SOS Africa sponsors, fundraisers and donors for your incredible support and generosity over the past 12 months.
8
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
2025/26 Achievements in South Africa
Children and young adults supported by SOS Africa throughout 2025/26:
| Scholarship Scheme |
Learning Support | Graduated/Left | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahikeng | 4 | N/A | 18 |
| Grabouw | 37 | 50 | 10 |
| Somerset West | 10 | 70 | 4 |
| Gordon’s Bay | 20 | 0 | 8 |
| Elgin | 17 | 55 | 3 |
| Care Worker Training | 18 | N/A | 34 |
| TOTAL | 104 | 175 | 77 |
SOS Africa Education Programme Formats:
SOS Africa Scholarship Schemes
9
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
The SOS Africa Charity Scholarship Scheme funds the holistic education and care of underprivileged children from the townships of South Africa, providing each child with the following support:
-
School tuition at a school partnered with SOS Africa.
-
Transport to and from school each day.
-
School clothing, stationery and equipment .
-
Attendance at an SOS Africa Education Centre (1.30pm–4pm each afternoon). The SOS Africa Aftercare Programme provides each child with the following:
-
Nutrition – home cooked food funded by SOS provided and cooked by staff members. This ensures that the children are receiving a healthy balanced meal every day.
-
Homework support – including the introduction of reading and maths apps to further support the children who continue to struggle.
-
Student mentoring – one-on-one support.
-
oAccess to an SOS Africa Library and other learning resources. -
Life skills tools and education – Brain Gym / Yoga sessions / Mindfully me (meditation tools) / Occupational Therapy / workshops led by our Educational Psychologist on matters such as ‘personal safety’, bullying and so on.
-
Individual support / therapy given to children in each Education Centre who we consider to be ‘at risk’ or not coping in school or at home.
-
Guest speakers – Police / Heroes in the community.
-
Holiday programmes aimed at bringing everyone together (staff and children) having some creative fun time outside school. This year we visited the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town.
-
Provision of a safe space for parents and teachers to meet and discuss progress or intervention plans for children at risk. We have had to facilitate meetings with the school and parents where plans need to be put into place to best support the children.
Students sponsored by SOS Africa’s Scholarship Scheme in Grabouw
10
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS Africa Learning Support Scheme (8.30am–12.30pm each day):
Impact of SOS Africa Education Programmes:
Over the last five years SOS Africa has developed the Learning Support Programme offered to the Foundation Phase (Grades 1 to 3) children of our partnering schools. Our staff received excellent basic training and assessment tools through the WORDWORKS ‘Ready, Steady, Read, Write’ Programme which has been adapted to ensure we meet the needs of each partnering school.
For the most part, each of our tutors work with 6 to 8 children per 30-minute session. These children attend Learning Support four days a week. Every week we follow the same programme of activities but with a new story.
After our 5-minute warm up of Brain Gym; a series of exercises designed to engage learning through movement; the children are relaxed and ready to absorb new lessons.
11
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS AFRICA
With each new story the lessons then follow these four predetermined steps:
-
Reading the new story.
-
Having discussions about the story highlighting new sounds and words.
-
Writing or drawing something based on the story.
-
Playing letter and sound games.
These include playdough (and other tangible materials) to physically shape letters. We also have “Letter Boxes” filled with a random assortment of items; the aim is for the child to pick out the item that begins with the letter on the box. These and many other games are developed to help the child learn through a process of playing and therefore greater understanding.
At the start and end of each term we test the children to assess their development. Each child needs to advance through three levels of reading proficiency and comprehension before leaving our programme and returning to their classroom having caught up to the level of their fellow classmates. Our staff provide regular progress updates to the teachers and we all work together for the betterment of each child’s development.
Ultimately, the aim is not only to teach the children to simply read or write but also to comprehend, to question the story and form their own opinions. In Grades 1 to 3 one learns to read but from Grade 4 onwards one reads in order to learn. If children are not properly prepared in the foundation of their education, with these fundamental yet basic skills, then the rest of the educational development is thwarted.
12
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS Africa Scholarship Schemes
SOS Africa Grabouw
SOS Africa Gordon’s Bay
13
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS Africa Elgin
SOS Africa Mahikeng
14
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
2025/26 Education Programme Highlights :
The SOS Africa Skills and Training Academy
The SOS Africa Trustees are delighted to announce the purchase of The Dennekraal Recreation Centre by SOS Africa following an unprecedented act of generosity by the charity’s sponsors. The organisation’s most significant milestone to date, once fully renovated, the site will host SOS Africa’s very first “Skills and Training Academy”.
The Dennekraal Recreation Centre is a 7.7 acre property situated on the outskirts of Sir Lowry’s Pass Village Community. In addition to its many beautiful trees and gardens, the site also hosts a conference centre, offices, classrooms, swimming pool, accommodation, kitchens, a rugby pitch, an amphitheatre and many outdoor teaching spaces.
Having received the keys to the property in January 2026, the remainder of the financial year was spent renovating the pre-existing buildings and gardens ready for the launch of the first academy courses in May 2026…
15
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS AFRICA
Within days of receiving the keys, swimming pool renovations began. The most disruptive aspect of the renovation process, this was prioritised to ensure minimal impact upon other building work. Once completed, the transformation was remarkable. As a special end of term treat, the Gordon’s Bay staff and sponsored children were the very first to swim in our newly renovated Academy Swimming Pool!
With wildfires rife throughout the Western Cape, following the handover of the property, the team also sought to eliminate all major garden fire risks. Over the course of a few weeks, years of garden waste, dangerous and invasive trees were removed, mulched and used to create contours across the site. A digger loader then cleared a multi-purpose track around the perimeter of the property which can be used as a firebreak, for emergency vehicle access and even as a running track.
16
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Renovation Projects
Another success story from the 2025/26 financial year was the completion of SOS Africa’s Grabouw High School Swimming Pool Renovation Project. After launching an appeal to raise the £50,000 required to complete the renovations earlier in the year, work began in August 2025 to restore the pre-existing 20 metre swimming pool to its former glory.
Thanks to the generosity of our appeal sponsors and the expertise of Dunkley Construction, Helderberg Electric Fencing, Prod-Ject-Elect, Helderberg Precast Walls and Clark Pools, the transformation was quite incredible. “The Studd Pickles Swimming Centre” is now ready for use by students from Grabouw High, 11 other schools from across the region and children from local communities. Over the coming months, the staff and students of Grabouw High School will add their artistic flair to the surrounding walls before its official opening in Spring 2026.
17
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Renovation work was also completed at SOS Africa partner school, St Michael’s Primary in Elgin. After receiving an urgent appeal from Principal Rehard Smith concerning the flooding taking place at the school due to excessive seasonal rainfall, the SOS Africa Trustees approved a vital landscaping initiative.
Thanks to the SOS Africa sponsors, the building crew were able to act fast to channel rainwater, prevent any further damage and provide a safe space for the school children to play during breaktimes. The school staff and students are delighted with the result which has significantly improved the aesthetics and functionally of the school’s upper campus.
18
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Graduations
In December 2025, The Trustees celebrated the graduation of SOS Africa sponsored students from Mafikeng and The Western Cape including Ameleo, Zusakhe, Asandele, Girly, Mildred and Gideon…
Pictured here dressed to impress before their graduation balls, these star students should be praised for their hard work and dedication over the years. Because of their efforts and the generosity of their sponsors, they can now apply for further education courses or embark on new and exciting careers of their choice.
The Trustees wish them all the very best for the future and look forward to following their progress.
19
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Alumni News
As more students graduate from SOS Africa Education Programmes, the trustees follow the progress of our alumni with great interest. In January 2026 they received the exciting news that SOS Africa Somerset West graduate Camilyn Dickson was awarded a scholarship to study architecture at SEA School of Explorative Architecture based in Cape Town.
“I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been accepted to SEA School of Explorative Architecture to pursue my passion for architecture! I’m even more grateful to have received the bursary which has made this dream a reality. Thank you to everyone who supported me – your contribution has meant the world to me. I’m excited for this journey ahead. Thank you again for believing in me!” (Camilyn Dickson, SOS Africa Graduate)
The trustees would also like to congratulate SOS Africa Graduate Elvino who was awarded The Lockyear Good Fellowship Trophy at Durban’s High School Prize Giving Ceremony. The trophy is awarded to a team player who forms strong relationships with everyone around him on the sports field and in the classroom.
20
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
New and Existing School Partnerships
As the scope of SOS Africa’s support continues to grow across the Western Cape, the organisation looks to form new partnerships with reputable educational institutions. At the start of the 2026 academic year, SOS Africa announced an exciting new partnership with Gordon's Bay Primary School! The SOS Africa Trustees are proud to work with Principal Verster and his excellent school and have already enrolled 3 of his pupils onto our Gordon's Bay Education Programme.
Welcome to Zachary, Oyanda and Joanna, who now receive full educational sponsorship and attend SOS Africa’s Gordon's Bay Education Centre after school each day. The trustees hope that they are the first of many to benefit from this new collaboration!
Meanwhile, the organisation continued to increase the numbers of children sponsored to attend its preexisting partner schools throughout the region. These fruitful partnerships ensure that a broad range of educational options are available to the SOS Africa sponsored children.
21
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Leadership Roles
The trustees are also pleased to share that more SOS Africa sponsored children have been appointed to leadership roles than ever before. Congratulations to Meyah who was appointed Head Girl of Hottentots Holland High School and Quinroy who was appointed Deputy Head Boy at Mondeor Eco School of Skills.
Meanwhile, congratulations to SOS Africa’s Cleo, Olivia and Beyogan who were appointed as Head Girl, Deputy Head Girl and Deputy Head Boy respectively at St Michael’s Primary School.
The trustees could not be prouder of these inspirational young role models. They also pass on their congratulations to the Centre Managers and Assistants who mentored and nurtured these individuals since they first joined SOS Africa in Grade 1.
22
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Holiday Programmes
During the school holidays each SOS Africa Education Centre hosts diverse holiday programmes for the charity’s sponsored children. This is a great opportunity to provide them with unique experiences which would not be possible to arrange during the school term.
SOS Africa Gordon’s Bay staff hosted a special Heritage programme. To begin with the high school students explained what Heritage Day is about and taught everyone a few phrases in Xhosa, Zulu and Shona. They also explained the symbols of our South African flag and asked everyone about their heritage. They then all played fun team building activities together. For lunch they feasted on chicken kebabs and roosterbrood with melktert and koeksisters for pudding!
23
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS Africa’s Elgin Staff hosted a “spring has sprung” workshop whereby the staff and children completed a fun art project in the spring sunshine:
"Each and every handprint differs in both size and colour in the same way that we are all unique and part of our wonderful family, SOS Africa Elgin. And with all the different hands joining together, one beautiful picture can tell our story." (Juanita De Wee, SOS Africa Elgin).
24
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS AFRICA
The July holiday programmes were all about getting active! In Grabouw Li-Andi and Moira hosted a dance workshop for our Grabouw high school children. They really enjoyed learning new routines and having lots of fun and laughter together; a refreshing break after the end of term assessments.
In Somerset West, gym Instructor Greg hosted training sessions for a number of SOS Africa's high school students. It was a great opportunity for him to chat with them about the importance of staying fit and healthy and to introduce several simple fitness exercises which they can do at home.
25
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS AFRICA
The SOS Africa Trustees would like to thank Centre Staff for always going the extra mile to provide the children in their care with diverse and exciting holiday programmes to keep them motivated, inspired and safe during the school holidays.
Parent Workshops
It takes a community to raise a child, and the children are so blessed to have such dedicated SOS Africa staff and parents/guardians working together to support them! Throughout the 2025/26 financial year, SOS Africa hosted parent workshops at each SOS Africa Education Centre. This was an invaluable opportunity to update parents on all things SOS Africa and provide them with additional guidance and support.
----- Start of picture text -----
26
----- End of picture text -----
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Staff Training
During the spring school holidays in the Western Cape the SOS Africa Trustees arrange training workshops for our staff to assist with their personal development and professional growth…
These staff training sessions are centred on enhancing individual and professional growth. Through a blend of written exercises, practical activities and facilitated discussions, participants explored key areas such as self-awareness, self-management, leadership, coaching, mentoring, teamwork, accountability, etc. The sessions fostered productive conversations directly relevant to the learning centres and staff needs, resulting in a valuable and impactful learning experience.
The trustees would like to thank course facilitator Moira Daniels - the staff thoroughly enjoyed the workshops which will no doubt stand them in good stead for the future!
27
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Volunteer Placements
During the 2025/26 financial year, SOS Africa also introduced Western Cape volunteer placement opportunities for the very first time. Our first volunteer Richard Pickles is a retired carpenter from the UK.
Rich spent an invaluable 6 months working with the SOS Africa students on several ambitious woodwork projects throughout each of our Western Cape Centres. Rich’s passion for woodwork inspired many of the older children who are looking to pursue careers in trade skills.
Throughout his stay Rich taught them how to develop micro-level woodwork businesses strategies from the purchasing of materials right through to completion of the construction process. 18-year-old Quinroy (pictured above) is now able to independently construct garden benches – for each bench he builds, he is able to generate R1500 profit.
The SOS Africa Trustees are delighted by the impact of Rich’s placement and are considering offering further volunteer placements in the future.
28
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Making the News
The SOS Africa Trustees are also delighted to share that the charity’s education projects are featured in local and national news. In the UK, local South-West media celebrated the “Somerset/South Africa bond which keeps on giving” in acknowledgment of the organisation’s 22[nd] birthday. Meanwhile in South Africa, SOS Africa’s nutritional programme featured on national news site News24! Take a bow Jesca, Claudia and Karabo who all starred in the exciting News24 feature on SOS Africa's Gordon's Bay Education Centre.
29
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Sponsor Visits
As the organisation’s worldwide support base continues to grow, the SOS Africa staff welcome regular visits from child sponsors from across the globe…
After her whirlwind tour of each of the charity’s Western Cape Education Centres, long-term child sponsor Sharon Prosser wrote a wonderful article for the charity’s website entitled: “Education in its truest sense: not confined to textbooks, but alive in every experience.”
“Throughout the day, what struck me most was the passion of Matt and his team. SOS Africa isn’t simply about providing education for these children. It’s way more holistic than that, ensuring they have the right diet, pastoral support, and opportunities to thrive both academically and personally. It’s about giving them the tools to maximize their potential and the belief that they can.” (Sharon Prosser, Child Sponsor).
30
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Later in the year, we welcomed Chris Williams on a corporate volunteer day from UK business State Street Corporation. Chris was so taken with the children from SOS Africa Grabouw that after returning to the UK, he immediately signed up to sponsor an SOS Africa child.
In May 2025, SOS Africa also received a special visit from Ann and David Crowcombe. This wonderful couple sponsored the very first SOS Africa child back in 2003 and the rest, as they say, is history. It was a proud moment for Matt to introduce them to the many children now supported by the charity’s four education centres across the Western Cape. The SOS Africa staff, kids and parents would like to say a wholehearted thank you to Ann and Dave; so many lives have been touched by their generosity!
31
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Concluding Thoughts
There is a general feeling among the SOS Africa Staff and Trustees that the 2025/26 financial year represents a critical juncture during which the charity evolved to make an even greater and lasting impact upon the lives of disadvantaged communities in the Western Cape.
At its conception, SOS Africa was intended to be a children’s charity which focused its support on enhancing the lives of children between the ages of 5 and 18. At the time of its creation this age group was identified as the primary focus of SOS Africa’s support due to the poor standard of education and care often available to children from disadvantaged communities.
However, with the worst youth unemployment rate in the world (60.9%) it has become increasingly apparent to the SOS Africa Trustees that the organisation’s growing resources should also be invested in empowering young adults who were unable to complete their schooling. The purchase of the Dennekraal Recreation Centre in January 2026, thanks to the generosity of John and Hazel Barnett, represents a giant step towards alleviating those impacted by this national crisis. From its launch in May 2026, The SOS Africa Skills and Training Academy will provide a diverse range of certified training programmes specifically designed to fasttrack its graduates into the workplace. From care workers and IT specialists to entrepreneurs and gardeners, each course will equip those enrolled with the skills they need to thrive in the workplace. The SOS Africa Trustees pass on their sincere thanks to sponsors John and Hazel for the continued faith they place in our organisation and for enabling us to tackle this crisis head on.
The SOS Africa Trustees also recognise the considerable growth undergone by the organisation’s preexisting education programmes in Grabouw, Somerset West, Elgin and Gordon’s Bay. They are extremely proud of the incredible support provided to each individual child to ensure that they flourish. They would like to commend the dedication of Operations Manager Li-andi Claassen and her staff for always going the extra mile to ensure that SOS Africa children receive the best possible care. They would also like to applaud their commitment to providing the children with new and exciting opportunities each year to keep them motivated and inspired.
The trustees would also like to extend their appreciation to the often-unsung heroes among the SOS Africa Staff. They would like to commend the Admin & Finance Manager Rae Morris and her assistant Anuska Abrahams for their constant commitment to ensuring that the organisation is not only compliant but running efficiently and effectively. Operating in a country with a struggling civil service and so many administrative requirements can be hugely challenging, and their unerring efficiency and diligence is greatly appreciated.
Last, but by no means least, The SOS Africa Trustees would like to thank each and every supporter of this wonderful organisation. From our loyal charity shop staff, volunteers and customers to our child sponsors, fundraisers and donors; the success stories featured in this report and the many more which are achieved each day, would not be possible without your generosity!
32
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
SOS Africa CEO Dr Matt Crowcombe with UK Trustees Prof Matthew Davies (Chair),
Alex Dyer, Kim Williams and Gavin Thompson
33
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Financial Review
Review of SOS Africa’s Financial Position
At the close of the 2025/26 financial year, SOS Africa is in a strong financial position after its most successful year of fundraising to date.
Whilst investing this income in both new and existing SOS Africa Education Programmes, funding has also been kept in reserve to secure the long-term educational development of the children supported by the charity.
Throughout the 2025/26 financial year, SOS Africa has also maintained its pledge of investing 100% of all funds raised and donated in our education projects in Africa; the £62440 of UK expenditure was comfortably covered by the £170473 claimed in Gift Aid.
Policy for Holding Reserves
Each year SOS Africa holds reserves to ensure that the charity can guarantee the long-term education of all the children within its care, in line with the charity’s policy never to remove a child from schooling for financial reasons.
Amount of Reserves Held
Following the close of the 2025/26 financial year, SOS Africa held £170864 in reserve. Including funds currently held in SOS Africa savings accounts in South Africa, this is enough funding to safeguard all SOS Africa’s Education Programmes for a further year. During the current unstable financial climate, it is essential to keep funds in reserve to protect the long-term financial security of the charity.
34
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Structure, Governance and Management
| Description of charity’s trusts: | |
|---|---|
| Type of governing document | Constitution |
| How is the charity constituted? | Charitable Incorporated Organisation |
| Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions |
New SOS Africa Trustees are appointed by resolution of the current trustees. For example, if one trustee resigns, the remaining trustees will appoint a replacement. |
Reference and Administrative Details
| Charity name | SOS Africa |
|---|---|
| Registered charity number | 1188705 |
| Charity’s principal address | SOS Africa 44 High Street Shepton Mallet Somerset BA4 5AS |
Names of Charity Trustees who Manage the Charity
| Trustee name | Office (if any) | Dates acted |
Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee (if any) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matthew Davies | Chair of Trustees | N/A | N/A |
| Gavin Thompson | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Kim Williams | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Alex Dyer | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Names of Chief Executive or Names of Senior Staff Members
SOS Africa CEO: Matthew Crowcombe
35
FOR THE YEAR END 31[ST] MAR 2026
SOS AFRICA
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Declarations
The trustees declare that they have approved the Trustees’ Report above. Signed on behalf of the charity trustees:
| Signature | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr Matthew Lloyd Davies |
| Position | Chair of Trustees, SOS Africa |
| Date | 20thJuly 2026 |
36
| SOS Africa | 1188705 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Receipts and payments accounts | CC16a | ||||
| For the period from |
1st April 2025 | To | 31st March 2026 |
Section A Receipts and payments
| A1 Receipts | Unrestricted funds to the nearest £ - - - 2,755 - 170,473 15,000 188,228 - - - 188,228 - 1,220 94 9,364 39,602 1,513 662 9,631 354 62,440 - - - 62,440 125,788 - 22,245 148,033 |
Restricted funds to the nearest £ 154,997 2,048 69,187 - 568,373 - - 9,095 803,699 - - - 803,699 919,159 - - - - - - - - 919,159 - - - 919,159 - 115,459 - 138,290 22,831 |
Endowment funds to the nearest £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Total funds to the nearest £ 154,997 2,048 69,187 2,755 568,373 170,473 15,000 9,095 991,927 - - - 991,927 919,159 1,220 94 9,364 39,602 1,513 662 9,631 354 - 981,599 - - - 981,599 10,328 |
Total funds to the nearest £ 154,997 2,048 69,187 2,755 568,373 170,473 15,000 9,095 991,927 - - - 991,927 919,159 1,220 94 9,364 39,602 1,513 662 9,631 354 - 981,599 - - - 981,599 10,328 |
Last year to the nearest £ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Sponsorship | - | 132,583 | ||||
| Offline Fundraising | - | 1,516 | ||||
| Online Fundraising& Donations | - | 13,576 | ||||
| Bank Interest | 2,755 | 3,305 | ||||
| Donations | - | 83,055 | ||||
| Gift Aid | 170,473 | 44,962 | ||||
| ShopSales | 15,000 | 20,000 | ||||
| Glastonbury | 14,310 | |||||
| Sub total(Gross income for AR) |
188,228 | 313,306 | ||||
| A2 Asset and investment sales, (see table). |
||||||
| - | ||||||
| - | - | |||||
| Sub total | - | - | ||||
| Total receipts A3 Payments |
||||||
| 313,306 | ||||||
Education Programme in South Africa |
- | 218,385 | ||||
| Website Fees | 1,220 | 8,474 | ||||
| Bank Charges / Just GivingFees | 94 | 720 | ||||
| Tax / National Insurance Payments | 9,364 | 7,960 | ||||
| Wages / Pension | 39,602 | 43,157 | ||||
| Printing/ Travel | 1,513 | 4,077 | ||||
| Event Expenses | 662 | 1,080 | ||||
| Funds Raised for Other Charities | 9,631 | |||||
| Accounts / Prof Fees | 354 | 541 | ||||
| GlastonburyLitterpickingDeposits | 24,000 | |||||
| **Sub total ** | 62,440 | 308,394 | ||||
| A4 Asset and investment purchases (see table) |
||||||
| , | - | |||||
| - | ||||||
| **Sub total ** | - | - | ||||
| Total payments Net of receipts/(payments) A5 Transfers between funds A6 Cash funds last year end Cash funds this year end |
||||||
| 308,394 | ||||||
| 125,788 | - 115,459 | - | 10,328 |
4,912 | ||
| - | - | - | - | - | ||
| 22,245 | 138,290 | - | 160,535 | 155,623 | ||
| 148,033 | 22,831 | - | 170,863 | 160,535 |
CCXX R1 accounts (SS)
16/07/2026
1
| Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at | Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at | the end of the period | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Categories Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees B5 Liabilities B3 Investment assets B2 Other monetary assets B4 Assets retained for the charity’s own use B1 Cash funds |
Details Details Total cash funds (agree balances with receipts and payments account(s)) SOS Africa UK HSBC ACCOUNT Details Details Details Signature |
Unrestricted funds Restricted funds to nearest £ to nearest £ 148,033 22,831 - - - - 148,033 22,831 OK OK Unrestricted funds Restricted funds to nearest £ to nearest £ - - - - - - - - - - - - Fund to which asset belongs Cost (optional) - - - - - Fund to which asset belongs Cost (optional) - - - - - - - - - Fund to which liability relates Amount due (optional) - - - - - Print Name Matthew Lloyd Davies |
Endowment funds to nearest £ |
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| OK | |||
| Endowment funds to nearest £ |
|||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| Current value (optional) |
|||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| Current value (optional) |
|||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| When due (optional) |
|||
| Date of approval |
|||
| Matthew Lloyd Davies | 12/05/2026 | ||
CCXX R2 accounts (SS)
16/07/2026
2
CHARITY COMMISSION Independent examinerfs report on the FOR ENGLAND AND WALES accounts Sectlon A Independent Examinerfs Report Report to th6 truste• members of On accounts forthe year ended 01-202 Charlty no (If any) I I kfr7E)S- Set out on pages I report lo the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above harity ('the Trusl-) for the year ended 31 loS12&é As the chantys trustees. you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (Ihe Act'i. Re8pon51bllltles and basls of report I report in respe of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried OLrt under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have foll¢)wed all Ihe applicable Directions given by the Charty Commisslon under section 14515)Ib) of the Act. Independent rrhe charity's gross income exceeded £250.000 and l am qualified to examlnerfs statement undertake the examination by being a qualified member ofl4ft9etrn U fv)et appl1. Dekte I l rf not applicable. I have completed my examination. I confim that no material matters have come lo my attention in connection with the examination (other than that disclosed below ") which gNes me caus8 to believe that in, any material respect.. the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charfties Act. or the accounts did not accord with the accounting records., or the accounts dKJ not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the fom and content of accounts Set out in the Charitie$ (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair. view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no cOnmS and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a propeT understanding of the accounts to be reached. . Please deletè the words in the brackets rfthey not apply. Date: Slgned: 1&- 6-202 Name: N A7PrLI Relevant professional quallflcationls) or body LM* CGM•f IER Oct 2018
Ilf any): Addrèss: 61 &siThlS Secllon B Disclosure Only cornplele If the examiner needs to highlight material matters of concern (see CC32. Independent examination of charty accounts.. directions and guidance for examiners). Give here brief detalls of any items that the examiner wlshes to dlsclose. IER Oct 2018