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2024-07-31-accounts

Registered number: 12592489 Charity number: 1189548

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

CONTENTS

Page
Reference and administrative details of the Charity, its Trustees and advisers 1 - 2
Trustees' report 3 - 13
Independent auditors' report on the financial statements 14 - 17
Consolidated statement of financial activities 18
Consolidated balance sheet 19 - 20
Charity balance sheet 21 - 22
Consolidated statement of cash flows 23
Notes to the financial statements 24 - 48

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Trustees C Cannon, External Trustee (resigned 28 February 2024)
M James, External Trustee (resigned 28 February 2024)
N Thompson, External Trustee
M Ealing, External Trustee (resigned 23 January 2024)
S Mcculloch, External Trustee (resigned 30 June 2024)
A Yafele, External Trustee (appointed 1 February 2024)
D Harvey, External Trustee (appointed 1 February 2024)
M Longdon, External Trustee (appointed 1 October 2023, resigned 31 March 2024)
C A Dike, Sabbatical Trustee (resigned 12 July 2024)
N V Deka, Sabbatical Trustee (resigned 12 July 2024)
H Tyack, Sabbatical Trustee (resigned 12 July 2024)
F Farha, Sabbatical Trustee (appointed 17 July 2023)
E C Isaiah, Sabbatical Trustee (appointed 15 July 2024)
G E Ehiosun, Sabbatical Trustee (appointed 15 July 2024)
J Ononiwu, Sabbatical Trustee (appointed 15 July 2024)
B Young, Student Trustee (resigned 31 August 2024)
O Aikohi, Student Trustee (resigned 31 August 2024)
L O Grace, Student Trustee (resigned 31 August 2024)
O Lawalson, Student Trustee (resigned 31 July 2024)
A Caton-Bradley, Student Trustee (appointed 1 September 2024)
A Ghicavaia, Student Trustee (appointed 1 September 2024)
S Hutchings, External Trustee (appointed 1 August 2024)
S Morris, Student Trustee (appointed 1 September 2024)
R Hayes, External Trustee (appointed 1 August 2024)
Company registered
number
12592489
Charity registered
number
1189548
Registered office
The Student Centre
Bournemouth University
Poole
BH12 5BB
Company secretary
M Mannion
Senior Management
A Squire, CEO (appointed 19 August 2024)
H West, Interim CEO (resigned 21 August 2024)
J Harris, Director of Operations and Governance
M Koseva, Director of Strategy and Development
A Dove, Director of Commerical Services
J Raggett, Director of Finance
Independent auditors
Griffin
Chartered Accountants
Courtenay House
Pynes Hill
Exeter
EX2 5AZ

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Page 2

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

The Trustees present their report and the financial statements of the charity for the period ended 31 July 2024. The charity incorporated 07 May 2020, registered at the Charity Commission 19 May 2020 and commenced trade 29 August 2020.

The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 July 2024. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

The Trustees of the Student’s Union at BU Ltd (“SUBU”) present their annual report and audited accounts for the year ended 31 July 2024 and confirm they comply with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011, the trust deed and the Charities SORP (FRS 102).

Objectives and activities

a. Policies and objectives

The objects of the charity are the advancement of education of students at Bournemouth University for the public benefit by:

b. Strategies for achieving objectives

Whilst pursuing our aims and objectives and providing various activities for our members SUBU seeks at all times to be a leading Student Union that helps our students to create the best university experience for themselves, their community, and their future through:

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Objectives and activities (continued)

c. Activities undertaken to achieve objectives

To support these aims SUBU provides a variety of services and activities for students include:

In addition to these student facing departments, SUBU as a whole is supported by a range of staff responsible for Finance, Communications, Strategic Development, HR and Health and Safety, and Corporate Governance.

d. Main activities undertaken to further the Charity's purposes for the public benefit

The Trustee Board has given due consideration to Charity Commission published guidance on the operation of the public benefit requirement when reviewing the Guild's aims and objectives and planning future objectives.

The activities that SUBU undertakes in relation to Public Benefit include:

Achievements and performance

a. Main achievements of the Charity

Democracy and Campaigns

Fair and exciting election campaigns are a key priority for SUBU and this year’s Full-Time Officers elections saw 37 impressive candidates, and 2,450 students (16.3% of SUBU’s members) casting a remarkable 10,906 votes across all positions.

The Your Ideas platform has had an impressive 1,238 engagements which saw 9 new policies voted on and passed including improving students right to freedom of expression, increasing the provision of gender-neutral bathrooms and ensuring timetables are released at least 10 days in advance.

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

Student Opportunities

SUBU's liberation and community work encourages students to self-define and helps them find a supportive network with people from their communities at BU, be that to do with their race, gender, sexual orientation, or another unique lived experience.

They also allow people with similar backgrounds and circumstances – from students that have travelled across the globe to study at BU to those that are going through university alongside caring or parental responsibilities – to find others who understand their unique position.

By driving a strong allyship offer, and supporting 6 Liberation Officers, and celebrating their respective history months and awareness weeks, SUBU created a diverse and vibrant campus for, and with, students from marginalised groups ensuring they feel heard and included.

SUBU offered 46 community events over the course of this year, attracting over 1,300 students in a variety of creative activities, ranging from movie nights, speed friending and VR experiences to international food, wine and cheese mixers, karaoke and cultural festivals for many student groups. Highlights include nearly 100 students creating meaningful connections at our Mature Mixer and Equali-tea Party and 150 students engaging with the diversity at Bournemouth University during One World Day.

The SUBU Community Warden Scheme, run by SUBU and supported by the BCP Council, also helped both students living in private accommodation and permanent residents to enhance integration within the local community. Over the year, the student wardens worked over 1,552 hours, patrolling the main local student residential areas and supporting with a host of issues – from dealing with landlords and estate agents, to bins, parking, noise complaints and burglaries.

In April, over 200 students from the LGBTQ+ community and their allies celebrated Student Pride. It saw 15 stalls run by charities, businesses and students, many student performances from dance to poetry readings and 3 professional performers showcasing their Drag King and Drag Queen skills. This year also saw the return of the unmissable Pride Parade around campus.

Student Voice and Insight

Student Representatives (Reps) are volunteers elected by students to represent and champion the student voice on their course and offer a deep peer-to-peer insight into the student experience.

This year, SUBU worked with colleagues across Faculties to elect and train 663 Student Reps, representing over 200 programmes at BU and offered an exciting social and developmental programme over to help build the Student Rep community. This included a variety of trips and socials for students to discover the surrounding areas of Dorset and make new friends, as well as the Student Leader Conference – a day of inspiring keynotes, workshops and activities. Student Reps provided over 17,700 comments through SUBU’s online feedback tool SimOn.

The main areas of concern raised over the year included: instances of poor course content, unengaging delivery, unclear assignment briefs, assessment criteria and feedback, and timetables that don’t work for students. SUBU and elected Officers worked with Reps, Programme and Faculty staff to help resolve these student issues and implement best practice. This work resulted in restructuring courses, as well as workload and timetable changes.

Speak Week runs twice a year and seeks feedback on topics that are current and important to students and strategically important to SUBU to explore. 'How’s SUBU for You?' is our annual survey to evaluate SUBU’s

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

relevance to students, inform our strategy, and assess how well we are delivering our representation, support, range of services and involvement opportunities to students. This year, Speak Week saw its highest response rates in recent years. These initiatives were especially important for both the union and the university to understand the trends in attendance, the ways in which the cost-of-living crisis is affecting students and their overall campus experience. This year’s Speak Week engagement was also instrumental in designing SUBU’s new strategic priorities as students shared their worries about their working futures, making friends and connections at university and continued struggles with mental health and the cost of living.

Student Advice Team

SUBU’s aim to build community and belonging is delivered through robust support for students on the issues that affect them the most. SUBU Advice is accredited by AQS (Advice Quality Standard) and provides independent, non-judgemental, and confidential advice while giving holistic support across areas of student life.

So far this year*, the team supported over 1,620 students and solved circa 1,790 cases, advising on a range of matters from academic issues, such as extensions and appeals, to housing problems, including contracts and deposit disputes. SUBU Advice have continued to expand the SUBU Community Kitchen and have partnered up with Campus Living Villages to offer supply packs for students who are struggling to afford food and essentials. SUBU Advice helped students in urgent need receive over £2,500 in small emergency grants, while hundreds of students were offered free food through our Community Kitchen. The Team also enhanced the SUBU Advice dashboards, providing key insights into the emerging issues students are facing and worked across University teams to identify key trends and focus on prevention in partnership.

Full-Time Officer Team

SUBU President – Chike Dike - During my time in office, the most serious issue faced by almost all students has been the cost-of-living crisis; it has limited their experience, students' engagement with their course, extracurricular opportunities, ultimately putting many students in extreme distress. Over the past two years, I worked with stakeholders to support students through these challenges. As a result, SUBU introduced a number of support initiatives, such as the community kitchen, subsidised breakfast, supper clubs and a digital cost of living support hub.

As a FullTime Officer (FTO) team we joined a national campaign to change the maintenance loan structure and I had the opportunity to raise awareness of the cost-of-living struggles experienced by international students at the UK Unipol Joint Codes’ Conference. Among the initiatives we have undertaken to enhance campus life, promote inclusivity, and empower student voices, I am particularly proud of my work as chair of the universitywide International Students Working Group and the successful International Buddy Scheme that we designed and delivered as an FTO team to tackle loneliness and isolation. The scheme saw an upwards of 400 students engaged over its two years of running, helping those arriving from across the globe find a home and a welcoming community in Bournemouth.

SUBU VP Opportunities – Holly Tyack - I wanted as many students as possible to experience the transformational power of extracurricular involvement and was excited to see the diversity of SUBU’s offer. This year, we had 70 student-run clubs and societies, 27 new societies were formed or kick-started, and there were 135 inspiring volunteering opportunities available. There was something for everyone! As society trips were amongst the most memorable and impactful experiences for me as a student, one of the first projects I set out to do was to reduce the cost of trips for student groups.

My work with the Student Opportunities team led to a trial with a coach/minibus transport brokerage provider. So far, students have seen a 30% price reduction in the average cost of transport hire, making trips more

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

costeffective and encouraging students to travel together.

I also purchased equipment for clubs to facilitate their practice. I have a passion for helping students develop their skills through employability initiatives connected to their academic course, including part-time jobs, placements, real-world work projects and student start-ups. I launched a research study with the President, culminating in our Placement Report, which we presented to university stakeholders to highlight student needs and challenges surrounding placements. This led to an action plan led by BU’s Head of Careers and Employability and sponsored by the Pro Vice-Chancellor of Student Experience to review the placement offer and employability support and encourage employer engagement and student participation by emphasizing the important benefits of placements. I also enjoyed collaborating with CareersBU and external organisations on the Student Owned Business Fair, which offered business masterclasses and a £750 prize to help make a student business idea a reality.

Being where I am today, I feel proud of the challenges I overcame and my personal growth. Public speaking, once a source of anxiety, has become a strength. I worked with our Student Voice team on SUBU’s Student Leaders Conference where I gave a speech about my journey to resilience through this role. It was an inspiring day focused on leadership, resilience and wellbeing, with many opportunities for students to network, develop professional profiles and build skills through interactive workshops, keynote speakers’ talks, and fun activities.

Having dedicated my year to improving student engagement and opportunities, reading the 300+ nominations for SUBU Awards this year was a personal highlight and a testament to the value of this work for students. Taking on this role was both a privilege and a trial. It was a step into a realm of responsibilities that I eagerly embraced, driven by a commitment to enhance the student experience. Little did I know that this would not only lead me to serve our vibrant community, but also shape me in ways I never imagined.

As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned, the connections built, and the unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.

SUBU VP Education - Norah Valerie Deka – I am proud to see the increased engagement with our Student Reps and feedback mechanisms and for SUBU achieving the highest ever proportion of students who feel that SUBU has a positive impact on student life (85%) and drives positive change across the university (81%). With growing student confidence that their feedback is listened to, many student voice initiatives saw their strongest level of engagement and SimOn submissions peaked with high rates of individual student contributions.

This year, still driven by passion to make a difference in BU’s education practice, I continued to lobby for accessibility of educational materials, as this has remained a key area of concern, as are timetables, exam changes and adjustments, and quality of teaching, assessment and feedback and I hope my advocacy on their behalf has helped students excel.

The role of Vice-President Education has been an unparalleled learning experience and with my contributions towards BU’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) submission and the development of a new Access and Participation Plan, I gained a unique insight into the inner workings of our institution and policy development. I strongly believe in education as a social process where connection with others, and shared experiences are fundamental enablers of learning.

The recent trends of declining attendance across our campuses, however, have detrimental effects on students’ educational experience and outcomes. To help tackle these challenges, I have worked closely with the university’s Pro Vice-Chancellor of Student Experience to provide a student perspective across a number of positive initiatives, such as a new Student Engagement Policy and attendance monitoring procedure, a student support intervention trial and an important move to abolishing interruptions in the annual academic calendar. While these developments provide important external frameworks, experiential peer supported learning is unparalleled when it comes to developing curiosity and intrinsic motivation for learning. Academic societies play

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

a critical role in this and I have been working with the Student Opportunities team at SUBU and the Associate Deans of Student Experience across Faculties to reinvigorate our academic societies programme with increased focus on the role of academic patrons. On a personal level, this role has been a journey of selfdiscovery and growth. It has pushed me to step out of my comfort zone. I have worked with other sabbatical officers and students across the country to develop a 2-day conference, building a network of individuals from marginalised backgrounds.

I learned to think on my feet and connected with the student community, which reinforced the importance of inclusivity and the need to ensure that every voice is heard and valued. My tenure as Vice-President Education has shaped me into a more confident, empathetic, and capable individual, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.

SUBU VP Welfare & Community – Fatima Farha - As VP Welfare and Community, during a time of intensified divides and suffering across the world, I stepped up my efforts to create a safe space and community for students to grow, connect and celebrate all things that make them different, special and unique. As I relentlessly pursued goals for the students, I became more resilient and proactive myself. This has contributed to SUBU’s efforts in empowering marginalised communities.

This year, our Liberation officers and the SUBU team have led 46 events and initiatives supporting diverse student communities leading to increased engagement and a more inclusive campus. A highlight for me was this year’s One World Day, which was a vibrant festival bringing over 150 students of all different cultures to celebrate who they are and where they come from. It was profoundly joyful to see the excitement as people shared special moments of dancing, music, and culture!

Through my engagements with the students and listening to their stories, mental health came up again and again. These stories of loneliness and personal struggles, which I could relate to from personal experience, led to the launch of a mental health study including focus groups and Speak Week research with over 900 students. With 81% of students reporting mental health difficulties while at university (Cibyl 2022), the state of the student wellbeing is worrying and can have devastating consequences to both individuals and institutions, ranging from poor attendance and academic performance to dropping out, self-harm and suicide. The findings from the study shed light on these challenges, which I brought to the university leadership, and these have informed a set of actions to improve mental health support for our students.

To help with the cost-of-living and renting/ accommodation challenges, and to combat period poverty, I also provided extra support during exam season with 250 breakfast and food packs, worked on the ‘Rate Our Landlord’ charity project and successfully lobbied for free sustainable period products across campuses. Finding creative ways to support students has been a crucial part of my role and it has allowed me to grow into a leader.

I am delighted to be re-elected for a second term and excited to use the experiences I had and the lessons I learned to guide me in my next year as VP Welfare and Community.

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

Financial review

a. Financial review

The principle funding sources are derived from the trading subsidiary, Feelprime Limited, and the Student Union’s bar, café and shop facilities alongside the Block Grant provided by Bournemouth University. The Block grant is predetermined annually by the University and contributes to the resources used in achieving SUBU’s charitable objectives. During the academic year 2023/24 the grant awarded was £1.250m (2023: £1.190m). This alongside rent and service-free occupation of Bournemouth University facilities supports SUBU in achieving its various activities.

As at 31 July 2024 the Group, comprised of the Student’s Union at BU Limited and Feelprime Limited (“the Group”) had generated £4,393,396 of income by way of grants and trading income (2023: £4,280,209). Whilst Commercial Services saw increased footfall during the year, sales had not returned to pre-pandemic levels. A Commercial Review Group has been re-established meeting on a monthly basis. An external Financer Governance Review was undertaken during July 2024 with findings shared with BU & the Board, recommendations are being worked on & implemented where relevant.

The strain of cost of living, increased costs of goods, and changing consumer behaviours, has affected Commercial Services profits, and the year ended with a deficit of £112,483 (2023: restated deficit of £46,461).

As indicated on the consolidated balance sheet, unrestricted reserves, stood at £707,798 (2023: restated £886,157). The overall financial position at the balance sheet date reflects what will be a continuing reliance of the Union on the support of Bournemouth University as well as the income from our commercial services. Bournemouth University confirmed its willingness to continue its support for the Union, through grant funding for the year ending 31 July 2024, subject to block grant conditions.

As at 31 July 2024, the Union had a consolidated surplus reserve of -£45,990 (2023: restated £66,585). The Union's policy is to maintain sufficient unrestricted free reserves, as per the Reserves Policy, to cover committed salary and operating costs for a period of three months as well as redundancy costs and other committed liabilities, by means of judicious management of our assets. The value of reserves relating to tangible fixed assets that would be required to be sold to release the reserves is £87,597. Included within reserves is our element of the SUSS multi-employer pension scheme deficit, as set out in Note 28, and the result of this is to decrease our overall reserves by the deficit in this fund of £753,696 (2023: £819,572). There is a Recovery Plan in place for full repayment by 2032. These repayments are included in our expense calculations and as such are not considered to affect our reserves policy level. The charity's overall deficit position on the reserves has only occurred by recognising the pension scheme liability which is subsequently being met under the agreed payment plan. On this basis, we continue to present the financial statements on a going concern basis.

b. Going concern

After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Further details regarding the adoption of the going concern basis can be found in the accounting policies.

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

c. Reserves policy

The reserves policy has been developed, and will be reviewed as necessary, by SUBU’s Trustees, taking into account:

SUBU has identified that the reserves required to meet the working capital requirements of the charity are three months of expenditure (salaries and operating budgets, plus redundancy costs as well as other committed liabilities). The Trustees are confident that this level of unrestricted funds not committed or invested in tangible fixed assets would allow the charity to continue the current activities for at least one year in the event that any of the commercial facilities were wound up or there was a significant drop in funding from Bournemouth University.

d. Investment policy

The charity’s current aim is to retain a prudent amount in reserves each year with the expectation that most of the funds received or generated will be spent in the short-term. Therefore, there are no long term investment plans.

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Structure, governance and management

a. Constitution

SUBU operates as a charitable company, with Articles of Association (“the Articles”) as its governing document, together with bye-laws made under the Articles.

b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees

Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Articles and relevant bye-laws. The Articles provide for the appointment of up to 6 officer Trustees to be elected by secret ballot in accordance with Union bye-laws, and for the appointment of up to 6 Student Trustees, and 6 external Trustees by an Appointments Committee.

Officer Trustees and Student Trustees receive an induction in the role, responsibilities and duties of Trustees. Officer Trustees also receive an induction and extensive specialist training on their roles as full- time officers, delivered both internally and by external organisations. External Trustees receive inductions and briefings as required.

c. Organisational structure and decision-making policies

Under the Articles, the Board of Trustees are responsible for the management and administration of the Union, including its governance, budget and strategy. The Board has power to overrule any decision or policy of the members made in general meeting, in referenda or at Student Members meeting, where it is considered there are financial implications, a breach of legal requirements, a contravention of the Union’s aims and objects or the carrying out of the Board’s responsibilities as above are affected. In the reporting year, the Board of Trustees had four meetings (excluding Committee meetings).

The Trustees have power to delegate their functions to committees or individuals. There are two standing committees, as provided for in the Articles, which are responsible for the functions set out in the relevant Union bye-laws or terms of reference. These are the Human Resources Committee and the Audit and Risk Committee. In the reporting year, the Human Resources Committee met twice and the Audit and Risk Committee held four meetings. An Appointments Committee, as provided for in the Articles, responsible for the appointment of external and Student Trustees, met once.

Day to day management of the operation and administration of SUBU is delegated by the Trustees to the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”). The CEO is responsible for ensuring that the Charity delivers on the aims and objectives of the Charitable Company. The Senior Leadership and Management Teams work alongside the CEO taking responsibility for the day to day operations of SUBU and its trading subsidiary, individual supervision of employees and ensuring the team continue to develop their skills and working practices in line with good practice. The CEO reports to Trustees at each Board of Trustees’ meeting, and as necessary between meetings and to the Committees of the Board.

d. Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees

Officer Trustees and Student Trustees receive an induction in the role, responsibilities and duties of Trustees. Officer Trustees also receive an induction and extensive specialist training on their roles as full- time officers, delivered both internally and by external organisations. External Trustees receive inductions and briefings as required.

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Structure, governance and management (continued)

e. Related party relationships

SUBU acts as custodian for funds raised by the students’ many clubs and societies and these funds are separately identified in the accounts. A balance of £1,470 is held for these third parties at the end of the year.

f. Financial risk management

The Trustees are responsible for the management of the risks faced by SUBU through the strategic risk register, which the Audit and Risk Committee review in detail at each meeting, and which is subsequently reviewed by the Board. Operational risks are managed at a team level with mitigations controlled through operational planning. The University is a significant funder of the charity and we work in partnership with the University to deliver ever improving services for the students. The relationship is maintained by developing close working relationships with senior members of the University team by our trustees, particularly the Full Time Officers, and by the Senior Leadership Team.

The financial sustainability of the Union, in terms of it’s reliance on the commercial services to boost block grant income, remains the principle risk to the Union.

g. Arrangements for setting pay and remuneration of key management personnel

Pay reviews take place on an annual basis. Whether or not a pay increase is awarded, will depend on the financial position of the Organisation at the time. Employees will not receive an incremental pay increase upon earning further skills documented on the skills matrix until the designated annual pay review. There are three key steps to our pay policy and how we arrive at a figure that will be applied:

1) Data Analysis 2) Cost of Living

3) Affordability

The above will be decided by the organisations Remuneration Committee that will be made up from the CEO, a Trustee Appointed by the Trustee Board (usually the HR Trustee) and the Director of Operations & Governance.

Plans for future periods

The financial year ending 31 July 2024 continued to be challenging and the current financial position going into the new academic year has little tolerance due to the changing habits of students post-pandemic and our continued reliance on commercial operations to supplement the University Block Grant. Careful budgeting remains a priority to ensure the longer-term financial sustainability of the Union and to ensure this a zero based method was introduced. SUBU will continue to review costs and consider Key Performance Indicators to help monitor activity to ensure the most efficient use of the grant it receives.

The Strategic Plan is in it’s final year in 2023/24. SUBU’s 2024/25 Strategic Priorities form our response to the evolving student expectations, as well as the university’s current challenges, emerging student experience priorities, and Access and Participation Plans.

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Statement of Trustees' responsibilities

The Trustees (who are also the directors of the Charity for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial . Under company law, the Trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and the Charity and of their incoming resources and application of resources, including their income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Group and the Charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group and the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group and the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Disclosure of information to auditors

In so far as the trustees are aware:

Auditors

The auditors, Griffin, have indicated their willingness to continue in office. The designated Trustees will propose a motion reappointing the auditors at a meeting of the Trustees.

Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees on _______ and signed on their behalf by: 31/03/2025

E C Isaiah

Chair of Trustees

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of The Students' Union At BU Ltd (the 'parent charitable company') and its subsidiaries (the 'group') for the year ended 31 July 2024 which comprise the Consolidated statement of financial activities, the Consolidated balance sheet, the Charity balance sheet, the Consolidated statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Group's or the parent charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

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THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (CONTINUED)

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the Annual report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the Trustees' responsibilities statement, the Trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the Group's and the parent charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the Group or the parent charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Page 15

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (CONTINUED)

Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 151 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditors' report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Our audit procedures have reviewed for evidence of management override, any ongoing legal cases, completeness of related party transactions, as well as ongoing consideration of fraud and irregularities during the whole audit process.

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company's trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and its members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Page 16

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (CONTINUED)

Laura Waycott FCA (Senior statutory auditor) for and on behalf of Griffin Chartered Accountants Courtenay House Pynes Hill Exeter EX2 5AZ Date: 1/4/25

Griffin are eligible to act as auditors in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 17

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Note
Income from:
Donations and legacies
4
Charitable activities
5
Other trading activities
6
Investments
7
Other income
8
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
9
Charitable activities
10
Total expenditure
Net expenditure
Transfers between funds
22
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Net movement in funds
Total funds carried forward		 Restricted
funds
2024
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
57,848
57,848
(57,848)
123,724
65,876
(819,572)
65,876
(753,696)		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
1,745,065
1,152,904
1,485,448
979
-
4,384,396
1,324,216
3,114,907
4,439,123
(54,727)
(123,724)
(178,451)
886,157
(178,451)
707,706		 Total
funds
2024
£
1,745,065
1,152,904
1,485,448
979
-
4,384,396
1,324,216
3,172,755
4,496,971
(112,575)
-
(112,575)
66,585
(112,575)
(45,990)		 As restated
Total
funds
2023
£
1,684,207
1,224,895
1,346,635
590
23,882
4,280,209
1,311,206
3,015,464
4,326,670
(46,461)
-
(46,461)
113,046
(46,461)
66,585

The Consolidated statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

The notes on pages 24 to 48 form part of these financial statements.

Page 18

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 12592489

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 JULY 2024

Note
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
14
Current assets
Stocks
16
Debtors
17
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within one
year
18
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due after more
than one year
19
Net assets excluding pension liability
Defined benefit pension scheme liability
27
Total net assets
Charity funds
Restricted funds:
Restricted funds excluding pension asset
22
Pension reserve
22
Total restricted funds
22
Unrestricted funds
22
Total funds		 76,343
85,257
687,264
848,864
(216,627)
-
(753,696)		 2024
£
87,597
87,597
632,237
719,834
(12,128)
707,706
(753,696)
(45,990)
(753,696)
707,706
(45,990)		 76,596
274,434
705,212
1,056,242
(264,867)
-
(819,572)		 As restated
2023
£
117,083
117,083
791,375
908,458
(22,301)
886,157
(819,572)
66,585
(819,572)
886,157
66,585

Page 19

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 12592489

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED) AS AT 31 JULY 2024

The Charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006.

The members have not required the entity to obtain an audit for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

However, an audit is required in accordance with section 151 of the Charities Act 2011.

The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and preparation of financial statements.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to entities subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on _______ and signed on their behalf by: 31/03/2025

E C Isaiah Chair of Trustees

The notes on pages 24 to 48 form part of these financial statements.

Page 20

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 12592489

CHARITY BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 JULY 2024

Note
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
14
Investments
15
Current assets
Stocks
16
Debtors
17
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within one
year
18
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Net assets excluding pension liability
Defined benefit pension scheme liability
27
Total net assets
Charity funds
Restricted funds:
Restricted funds excluding pension liability
22
Pension reserve
22
Total restricted funds
22
Unrestricted funds
22
Total funds		 53,390
46,081
490,990
590,461
(153,715)
-
(753,696)		 2024
£
31,440
1
31,441
436,746
468,187
468,187
(753,696)
(285,509)
(753,696)
468,187
(285,509)		 51,039
808,822
104,944
964,805
(195,358)
-
(819,572)		 As restated
2023
£
38,421
1
38,422
769,447
807,869
807,869
(819,572)
(11,703)
(819,572)
807,869
(11,703)

The Charity's net movement in funds for the year was £ (273,806) (2023 - £(105,772)) .

Page 21

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 12592489

CHARITY BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED) AS AT 31 JULY 2024

The Charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006.

The members have not required the entity to obtain an audit for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

However, an audit is required in accordance with section 151 of the Charities Act 2011.

The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and preparation of financial statements.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to entities subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on _______ and signed on their behalf by:

E C Isaiah Chair of Trustees

The notes on pages 24 to 48 form part of these financial statements.

Page 22

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Dividends, interests and rents from investments
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Defined benefit pension liability movement
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Net cash provided by financing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
The notes on pages 24 to 48 form part of these financial statements		 2024
£
55,198
979
(8,249)
(65,876)
(73,146)
-
(17,948)
705,212
687,264		 2023
£
(325,375)
2,676
(126,527)
(118,890)
(242,741)
-
(568,116)
1,273,328
705,212

Page 23

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

1. General information

The Students Union at BU Limited is a private company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales, registration number 12592489 (company) and 1189548 (charity). The registered office is The Student Centre, Bournemouth University, Fern Barrow, Poole, BH12 5BB.

2. Accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

The Students' Union At BU Ltd meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

The Consolidated statement of financial activities (SOFA) and Consolidated balance sheet consolidate the financial statements of the Charity and its subsidiary undertaking. The results of the subsidiary are consolidated on a line by line basis.

The Charity has taken advantage of the exemption allowed under section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 and has not presented its own Statement of financial activities in these financial statements.

The financial statements are prepared in pound sterling.

2.2 Going concern

Due to the recognition of the multi-employer pension-scheme deficit as a result of FRS102 requirements, the charity presents a negative statement of financial position. The pension deficit liability is being met by way of an agreed recovery repayment plan, established under the previous unincorporated charity and this has been in successful operation for several years. The annual repayment requirement is currently being met within the working capital of the charity.

With continued support from Bournemouth University being agreed, and the breadth of information currently available to the Trustees, it is considered appropriate to prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis.

Page 24

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.3 Income

All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

Grants are included in the Consolidated statement of financial activities on a receivable basis. The balance of income received for specific purposes but not expended during the period is shown in the relevant funds on the Balance sheet. Where income is received in advance of entitlement of receipt, its recognition is deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Where entitlement occurs before income is received, the income is accrued.

Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.

Other income is recognised in the period in which it is receivable and to the extent the goods have been provided or on completion of the service.

2.4 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Expenditure on raising funds includes all expenditure incurred by the Group to raise funds for its charitable purposes and includes costs of all fundraising activities events and non-charitable trading.

Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Group's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.

All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

2.5 Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Group; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.

Page 25

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.6 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Tangible fixed assets under the cost model are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management.

Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working condition should be included in the measurement of cost.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following basis:

Fixtures and fittings - 25% straight-line Computer equipment - 25% straight-line

2.7 Investments

Fixed asset investments are a form of financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction cost and subsequently measured at fair value at the Balance sheet date, unless the value cannot be measured reliably in which case it is measured at cost less impairment. Investment gains and losses, whether realised or unrealised, are combined and presented as ‘Gains/(Losses) on investments’ in the Consolidated statement of financial activities.

Investments in subsidiaries are valued at cost less provision for impairment.

2.8 Stocks

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks. Cost includes all direct costs and an appropriate proportion of fixed and variable overheads.

2.9 Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

2.10 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

Page 26

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.11 Liabilities

Liabilities and provisions are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably.

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.

Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Consolidated statement of financial activities as a finance cost.

2.12 Financial instruments

The Group only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

2.13 Pensions

SUSS

The Union participates in the Student Union Superannuation Scheme, a defined benefit scheme which is externally funded and contracted out of the State Second Pension. The fund is valued at least every three years by a professionally qualified independent actuary with the rates of contribution payable being determined by the Trustees on the advice of the actuary. The scheme operates as a pooled arrangement, with contributions paid at a centrally agreed rate. As a consequence, no share of the underlying assets and liabilities can be directly attributed to the Union. Under the terms of FRS 102 in these circumstances, contributions are accounted for as if the scheme were a defined contribution scheme based on actual contributions paid through the year. This scheme was frozen to new contributions in September 2011. The scheme was inherited as part of the transfer from the previous unincorporated charity The Students’ Union at Bournemouth University.

AEGON

The Union also participates in AEGON. This is a defined contribution scheme and as such only the amounts recorded as paid during the year are shown. No further liability is attributable with this type of scheme.

Page 27

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.13 Pensions (continued)

NEST

As required by the Government's auto enrolment policy, the Union participates in a NEST defined contribution scheme and as such only the amounts recorded as charged during the year are shown. Contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised as an expense in the period in which the related service is provided. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that the prepayment will lead to a reduction in future payments or a cash refund. When contributions are not expected to be settled wholly within 12 months of the end of the reporting date in which the employees render the related service, the liability is measured on a discounted present value basis. The unwinding of the discount is recognised as an expense in the period in which it arises.

2.14 Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees for the general objectives of the Group and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Group for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.

3. Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgment

Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

Critical accounting estimates and assumptions:

The Charity makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates and assumptions will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

4. Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted Total
funds funds
2024 2024
£ £

Page 28

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

4. Income from donations and legacies (continued)

Donations
Grants
Donations
Grants		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
495,065
1,250,000
1,745,065
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
494,207
1,190,000
1,684,207		 Total
funds
2024
£
495,065
1,250,000
1,745,065
Total
funds
2023
£
494,207
1,190,000
1,684,207

The donation of serviced accomodation is the estimated value of the services provided by the University free of charge to the Union. These include use of premises and related services.

5. Income from charitable activities

Bar, Shop and Cafe income
Marketing income
Sundry income		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
1,056,747
67,205
28,952
1,152,904		 Total
funds
2024
£
1,056,747
67,205
28,952
1,152,904

Page 29

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

5. Income from charitable activities (continued)

Bar, Shop and Cafe income
Marketing income
Sundry income
6.
Income from other trading activities
Income from trading subsidiary		 Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
1,137,086
75,612
12,197
1,224,895		 Total
funds
2023
£
1,137,086
75,612
12,197
1,224,895
Trading activities
Trading activities		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
1,485,448
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
1,346,635		 Total
funds
2024
£
1,485,448
Total
funds
2023
£
1,346,635

Page 30

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

7. Investment income

Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
Investment income
979
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
Investment income
590		 Total
funds
2024
£
979
Total
funds
2023
£
590

8. Other incoming resources

Unrestricted Total
funds funds
2023 2023
£ £
Other operating income 23,882 23,882

Page 31

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

9. Expenditure on raising funds

Expenditure of trading company

Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
Bar operating costs
952,816
Wages and salaries
319,783
NI
11,804
Pension costs
11,750
1,296,153
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
Bar operating costs
937,784
Wages and salaries
354,041
1,291,825		 Total
funds
2024
£
952,816
319,783
11,804
11,750
1,296,153
Total
funds
2023
£
937,784
354,041
1,291,825

Page 32

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

9. Expenditure on raising funds (continued)

Other trading expenses

Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
Cost of sales
681
Administration expenses
441
Administration depreciation
26,941
28,063
Other trading expenses (continued)
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
Administration depreciation
19,381		 Total
funds
2024
£
681
441
26,941
28,063
Total
funds
2023
£
19,381

10. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Student services
Shop and bar
Marketing		 Activities
undertaken
directly
2024
£
676,431
542,269
13,614
1,232,314		 Support
costs
2024
£
1,579,443
360,998
-
1,940,441		 Total
funds
2024
£
2,255,874
903,267
13,614
3,172,755

Page 33

(A company limited by guarantee)

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

10. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)
Student services
Shop and bar
Marketing		 As restated
Activities
undertaken
directly
2023
£
550,819
619,099
57,936
1,227,854		 Support
costs
2023
£
1,428,477
359,133
-
1,787,610		 As restated
Total
funds
2023
£
1,979,296
978,232
57,936
3,015,464

Analysis of support costs

Staff costs
Depreciation
Insurance
Office costs
Rent and overheads
Bad debt provision
Repairs and renewals
Other staff costs
Legal and professional fees
Governance costs		 Student
services
2024
£
1,131,253
-
38,356
27,628
147,019
-
24,225
80,603
80,323
50,036
1,579,443		 Shop and
bars
2024
£
-
9,937
-
-
348,046
3,015
-
-
-
-
360,998		 Total
funds
2024
£
1,131,253
9,937
38,356
27,628
495,065
3,015
24,225
80,603
80,323
50,036
1,940,441

Page 34

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

10. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of support costs (continued)

Staff costs
Depreciation
Insurance
Office costs
Rent and overheads
Bad debt provision
Repairs and renewals
Other staff costs
Legal and professional fees
Governance costs		 Student
services
2023
£
1,014,481
-
43,872
21,355
157,950
-
28,692
60,071
61,472
40,584
1,428,477		 Shop and
bars
2023
£
-
19,876
-
-
336,257
3,000
-
-
-
-
359,133		 Total
funds
2023
£
1,014,481
19,876
43,872
21,355
494,207
3,000
28,692
60,071
61,472
40,584
1,787,610
11.
Auditors' remuneration
Fees payable to the Charity's auditor for the audit of the Charity's annual
accounts
12.
Staff costs
Group
Group
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
1,695,094
1,587,959
Social security costs
113,053
90,534
Contribution to pension schemes
125,523
53,138
1,933,670
1,731,631		 2024
£
5,160
Charity
2024
£
1,375,311
101,249
113,773
1,590,333		 2023
£
8,250
Charity
2023
£
1,233,918
90,534
53,138
1,377,590

Included within staff costs are redundancy payments of £2,333 relating to one employee (2023 - £Nil)

Page 35

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

12. Staff costs (continued)

The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows:

Student Services
Shop and bars		 Group
2024
No.
43
172
215		 Group
2023
No.
42
250
292		 Charity
2024
No.
43
24
67		 Charity
2023
No.
42
24
66

The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:

Group Group
2024 2023
No. No.
In the band £60,001 - £70,000 1 -
In the band £70,001 - £80,000 - 1

The total amount of employee remuneration and benefits received by key management personnel (including employer's pension costs) was £279,455 (2023 - £268,896).

Page 36

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

13. Trustees' remuneration and expenses

During the year, Sabbatical Trustees have been paid remuneration from an employment with the Charity. The Trustees' remuneration and other benefits received was a total of £104,137 (2023 - £94,001) which includes employer's pension costs.


includes employer's pension costs.
2024 2023
£ £
F Asafu-Adjaye Remuneration - 21,187
Pension contributions paid - 412
N V Deka (resigned 12 July 2024) Remuneration 23,588 23,845
Pension contributions paid 567 486
C A Dike (resigned 12 July 2024) Remuneration 25,106 24,032
Pension contributions paid 611 485
O Ayomoto Remuneration - 23,050
Pension contributions paid - 504
F Farha Remuneration 26,413 -
Pension contributions paid 554 -
H Tyack (resigned 12 July 2024) Remuneration 23,688 -
Pension contributions paid 477 -
E C Isaiah (appointed 15 July 2024) Remuneration 1,251 -
G E Ehiosun (appointed 15 July 2024) Remuneration 1,045 -
J Ononiwu (appointed 15 July 2024) Remuneration 837 -

During the year ended 31 July 2024, expenses totalling £ 874 were reimbursed or paid directly to 4 Trustees (2023 - £755 to 5 Trustees) . The Trustees were reimbursed expenses in relation to training, travel and company secretarial work.

Page 37

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

14.
Tangible fixed assets
Group
Cost or valuation
At 1 August 2023
Additions
Disposals
At 31 July 2024
Depreciation
At 1 August 2023
Charge for the year
At 31 July 2024
Net book value
At 31 July 2024
At 31 July 2023		 Fixtures and
fittings
£
883,816
8,249
(858)
891,207
766,733
36,877
803,610
87,597
117,083

Page 38

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

14.
Tangible fixed assets (continued)
Charity
Cost or valuation
At 1 August 2023
Additions
Disposals
At 31 July 2024
Depreciation
At 1 August 2023
Charge for the year
At 31 July 2024
Net book value
At 31 July 2024
At 31 July 2023		 Fixtures and
fittings
£
325,015
3,813
(858)
327,970
286,594
9,936
296,530
31,440
38,421

Page 39

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

15. Fixed asset investments

Charity
Cost or valuation
At 1 August 2023
At 31 July 2024
Net book value
At 31 July 2024
At 31 July 2023		 Investments
in
subsidiary
companies
£
1
1
1
1

Principal subsidiaries

The following was a subsidiary undertaking of the Charity:

Name Company Registered office or Principal activity Class of Holding
number principal place of shares
business
Feelprime Limited 04001419 Talbot Campus The running of the Ordinary 100%
Fern Barrow nightclub for students
Poole of Bournemouth
BH12 5BB University.

The financial results of the subsidiary for the year were:

Name Income Expenditure Profit/(Loss)
£ £ / Surplus/
(Deficit) for
the year
£
Feelprime Limited 1,490,184 1,328,953 161,231

Page 40

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

Net assets

£

239,519

16. Stocks

Bar and food stock
General trading stock		 Group
2024
£
30,934
45,409
76,343		 Group
2023
£
33,319
43,277
76,596		 Charity
2024
£
7,981
45,409
53,390		 Charity
2023
£
7,762
43,277
51,039

17. Debtors

Due within one year
Trade debtors
Amounts owed by group undertakings
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income		 Group
2024
£
31,860
-
1,769
51,628
85,257		 As restated
Group
2023
£
156,808
-
57,066
60,560
274,434		 Charity
2024
£
13,510
-
1,769
30,802
46,081		 As restated
Charity
2023
£
151,829
546,053
57,066
53,874
808,822

18. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

As restated As restated
Group Group Charity Charity
2024 2023 2024 2023
£ £ £ £
Bank loans 10,372 9,962 - -
Trade creditors 110,902 126,883 51,861 96,527
Amounts owed to group undertakings - - 18,324 -
Corporation tax - 260 - -
Other taxation and social security 39,575 56,257 39,575 56,257
Other creditors 10,230 11,390 8,650 11,390

Page 41

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

18. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year (continued)

Accruals and deferred income Group
2024
£
45,548
216,627		 Group
2023
£
60,115
264,867		 Charity
2024
£
35,305
153,715		 Charity
2023
£
31,184
195,358

Page 42

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

19. Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

Group Group
2024 2023
£ £
Bank loans 12,128 22,301

Agency arrangements

The Students' Union of BU Ltd hold funds for the Student Unions' clubs and societies. An amount of £1,470 is included in other creditors relating to funds that are repayable to the clubs and societies. Included in the cash at bank and in hand figure is £1,470 in the activities bank account. The money in this account does not belong to the Students' Union of BU Ltd, it is money they hold on behalf of the clubs and societies.

20. Accruals and deferred income

Deferred income at 1 August 2023
Resources deferred during the year
Amounts released from previous periods
Deferred income at 31 July 2024		 Group
2024
£
14,586
13,802
(14,586)
13,802		 Group
2023
£
-
14,586
-
14,586		 Charity
2024
£
14,586
13,802
(14,586)
13,802		 Charity
2023
£
-
14,586
-
14,586

Included within deferred income is income received in advance for Freshers Events totalling £13,802 (2023: £14,586)

21. Prior year adjustments

A prior year adjustment has been made to correct the final 2023 VAT position.

Page 43

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

22. Statement of funds

Statement of funds - current year

As restated
Balance at 1
August 2023
£
Unrestricted funds
General Funds
886,157
Restricted funds
Pension reserve
(819,572)
Total of funds
66,585		 Income
£
4,377,423
-
4,377,423		 Expenditure
£
(4,432,150)
(57,848)
(4,489,998)		 Transfers
in/out
£
Balance at
31 July 2024
£
(123,724)
707,706
123,724
(753,696)
-
(45,990)

The specific purposes for which the funds are to be applied are as follows:

Pension Reserve

The charity's deficit in relation to the Student Union's Superannuation scheme.

Statement of funds - prior year

Unrestricted funds
General Funds
Restricted funds
Pension reserve
Total of funds		 Balance at
1 August
2022
£
1,051,508
(938,462)
113,046		 Income
£
4,280,209
-
4,280,209		 As restated
Expenditure
£
(4,323,206)
(3,464)
(4,326,670)		 Transfers
in/out
£
(122,354)
122,354
-		 As restated
Balance at
31 July 2023
£
886,157
(819,572)
66,585

Page 44

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

23. Analysis of net assets between funds

Analysis of net assets between funds - current period

Tangible fixed assets
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Creditors due in more than one year
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Total		 Restricted
funds
2024
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
£
-
87,597
-
848,864
-
(216,627)
-
(12,128)
(753,696)
-
(753,696)
707,706		 Total
funds
2024
£
87,597
848,864
(216,627)
(12,128)
(753,696)
(45,990)

Analysis of net assets between funds - prior period

Tangible fixed assets
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Creditors due in more than one year
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Total		 Restricted
funds
2023
£
-
-
-
-
(819,572)
(819,572)		 As restated
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
117,083
1,056,242
(264,867)
(22,301)
-
886,157		 Total
funds
2023
£
117,083
1,056,242
(264,867)
(22,301)
(819,572)
66,585

Page 45

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

24. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities

Net expenditure for the period (as per Statement of Financial Activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
Dividends, interests and rents from investments
Loss on the sale of fixed assets
Decrease/(increase) in stocks
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
Decrease in creditors
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities
25.
Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
Cash in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents
26.
Analysis of changes in net debt
At 1 August
2023
£
Cash at bank and in hand
705,212
Debt due within 1 year
(9,962)
Debt due after 1 year
(22,301)
672,949		 Group
2024
£
(112,575)
36,877
(979)
858
253
189,177
(58,413)
55,198
Group
2024
£
687,264
687,264
Cash flows
£
(17,948)
(410)
10,173
(8,185)		 Group
As restated
2023
£
(46,461)
28,548
(2,676)
-
(4,685)
(231,386)
(68,715)
(325,375)
Group
2023
£
705,212
705,212
At 31 July
2024
£
687,264
(10,372)
(12,128)
664,764

Page 46

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

27. Pension commitments

The Group operates a defined contribution pension scheme.

The Students' Union at BU Ltd operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the group in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the group to the fund and amounted to £67,675 (2023 - £45,765). Contributions totalling £6,945 (2023 - £9,259) were payable to the fund at the balance sheet date and are included in creditors.

The Company operates a defined benefit pension scheme.

The Union participates in the Students' Union Superannuation Scheme, which is a defined benefit scheme whose membership consists of employees of students' unions and related bodies throughout the country. Benefits in respect of service up to 30 September 2003 are accrued on a ''final salary'' basis, with benefits in respect of service from 1 October 2003 onwards accruing on a Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) basis. With effect from 30 September 2011 the scheme closed to future accrual.

The most recent valuation of the scheme was carried out as at 30 June 2022 and showed that the market value of the Scheme's assets was £106.7m with these assets representing 44% of the value of the benefits that had accrued to members after allowing for expected future increases in earnings. The deficit on an ongoing funding basis amounted to £127.6m, a decrease from the deficit of £140.9m from the previous valuation as at 30 June 2019. The decrease in the funding deficit since 2019 is principally due to deficit contributions being made.

The assumptions which have the most significant effect upon the results of the valuation are those relating to the rate of return on investments and the rates of increase in salaries and pensions.

Following the completion of the 2022 valuation, the SUSS put in train a deficit funding plan designed to eradicate the deficit over the 15 years to May 2037. Under the funding plan, contributions increase 5% in October each year. This recovery plan is due to end in May 2037, but contributions due from October 2026 onwards will be reviewed following the next acturial valuation due with the effective date of 30 June 2025, which is expected to be completed in 2026.

Principal actuarial assumptions at the Balance sheet date (expressed as weighted averages):

At 31 July At 31 July
2024 2023
% %
Discount rate 5.20 5.10

Page 47

THE STUDENTS' UNION AT BU LTD (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

27. Pension commitments (continued)

Movements in the present value of the defined benefit obligation were as follows:

Opening defined benefit obligation
Actuarial movements
Closing defined benefit obligation		 2024
£
1,674,348
57,848
1,732,196

Movements in the fair value of the Group's share of scheme assets were as follows:

Opening fair value of scheme assets
Contributions by employer
Closing fair value of scheme assets		 2024
£
854,776
123,724
978,500

28. Members' liability

Each member of the charitable company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the company in the event of it being wound up while he/she is a member, or within one year after he/she ceases to be a member, such amount as may be required, not exceeding £1 for the debts and liabilities contracted before he/she ceases to be a member.

29. Related party transactions

The Union is in receipt of a block grant from Bournemouth University of £1,250,000 (2023: £1,190,000 which is on an unrestricted basis. In addition, the Union and the subsidiary occupies the University’s buildings and The Old Firestation on a rent free basis under a formal lease which is dated 04 December 2017 and ends 24 March 2027.

The charity is controlled by the Trustee Board which is, in part, subject to the democratic election by voting membership of the Union.

Page 48

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