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2025-03-31-accounts

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1189587

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH

2025 FOR

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE

P B Syddall & Co Chartered Accountants Grafton House

81 Chorley Old Road Bolton Lancashire BL1 3AJ

BOLTON COMMUNITY

CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Page
Report of the Trustees 1 to 4
Independent Examiner's Report 5
Statement of Financial Activities 6
Balance Sheet 7
Notes to the Financial Statements 8 to 12
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 13 to 14

BOLTON COMMUNITY

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. 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).

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Objectives and aims

The objects of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation are to promote any charitable purpose for the public benefit by the advancement of education, the protection and preservation of health and the relief of poverty, sickness and distress in particular, but without limitation, for the benefit of the community in Bolton and surrounding areas.

Bolton Community Advice aim to improve the lives of the people in our community by giving advice, guidance or information on a wide range of issues including benefits, housing and debt management.

Significant activities

A thank you from the CEO Steve Fisher

Dear volunteers, trustees, partnership workers, and friends of the centre,

2025 has been another amazing year for our Bolton Community Advice.

On behalf of myself and the trustees I want to sincerely thank everyone who has helped us on this journey. I'd like to say a special thank you to our amazing team of volunteers, without whom we wouldn't be able to do this.

Our incredible growth continues (we were facing closure in 2020) and in 2025 the number of people in our community that we helped has increased again.

Helping the people of Bolton more than ever

In 2025 we helped: Over 750 people on probation to resettle back into the community Over 550 people with benefit clams Over 750 people with hearing and sight impairment and other disabilities Over 250 people with with homelessness and housing issues Over 180 people with debt problems Over 200 people with mental health issues Over 300 elderly people Over 500 people with other issues

Public benefit

The Trustees have given due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on Public Benefit. Our door is open to anyone who needs help and advice, no matter what the issue is. We have a great deal of experience on helping people on many issues such as benefit claims, housing, employment and sensory impairment issues. If our expert volunteers can’t help directly we will try and find other sources of help in the area.

Page 1

BOLTON COMMUNITY

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Becoming Stronger

We have grown in every aspect of our organization:

Our People

We now have; 6 Full time paid staff 3 part-time staff 22 volunteers

Our Organisational Structure

We have strengthened our board with three new trustees and a new Chair, Lauren McKetchnie who replaces Jon Lord who did a fantastic job steering BCA the past couple of years.

Improving Professional Standards

Our Wellbeing Service contract with GMCA is run to highest professional standards in line with the probation service and we by adopting the same standards in our other BCA services we have greatly improved every aspect of how we operate.

We now have paid members of staff responsible for; Safeguarding Health & Safety Recording and monitoring of client information Confidentiality Data protection.

Our Location

We have substantially developed our large building at 16a Oxford Street to make more use of the space. We have decided to close our original building at 148 Deansgate so that everything operates from one building. This is now a truly unique Community Hub and under one roof we are able to offer:

ADVICE, GUIDANCE OR SIGNPOSTING on a wide range of issues, including benefits, housing, physical and mental wellbeing.

THE WELLBEING SERVICE helping people on probation to break the cycle of reoffending

PROFESSIONAL ADVOCACY SERVICES for people with issues including hearing and sight impairment. mental health issues and age-related issues

EMPLOYMENT, VOLUNTEERING AND EDUCATION HELP AND ADVICE

DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT with free training on using mobile devices or computers and access to data and devices (In collaboration with Bolton Council's DES team)

A BIKE LIBRARY giving anyone free access to bikes for hire, volunteering opportunities. in the last 6 months our team of volunteers (who we fully trained and certificated in bike maintenance) have restored over 80 bikes that were destined for landfill.

OUR MUSIC SERVICE led by volunteers giving free music training and

development ART THERAPY

OUR COMMUNITY SAFETY PROJECT, funded by Bolton Council to provide even more help to people who are at risk of being caught up in the criminal justice system.

Page 2

BOLTON COMMUNITY

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Charitable activities

Many of our staff are trained independent advocates (Generic, Community, non-statutory) who are able to work with and on behalf of some of our clients.

We have continued to step up our staff development and training and have invested a good proportion of our funding on this, with volunteers attending courses in the following:

We also provide peer advocacy for sensory, mental health, learning disabilities and mobility issues. We also a peer advocate for autism and ADHD.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial position

Our turnover increased substantially to around £285,000 (March 2025 published accounts) but so did our expenditure and so we ended 2025 on very low reserves.

We have taken steps to address this including extra fundraising initiatives, developing other income streams from licensing space in our building and monetizing initiatives from the Bike Library including bike sakes and chargeable repairs.

Reserves policy

The Trustees have worked hard to source unrestricted funding which encompasses all aspects of the charity's spending. However the charity is still heavily dependent on grant income which often has restrictions imposed and as such general reserves remain low.

FUTURE PLANS

Opportunities

The development of 16a Oxford Street, on which we have a lease extension until September 2028, provides an excellent opportunity for growth.

We are significantly developing numerous projects to make best use of our large first floor space, which will reinforce our position as a unique community hub, including;

Increasing our core Advice, Signposting and Guidance services Expanding our Advocacy Service Employability projects

A volunteer-led reception area Numeracy and Literacy classes ESOL classes An upcycling project Counselling Services Increased co-location of other services in our Hub

The Wellbeing Service

We are about to enter into a continuation year of funding for our Wellbeing Service until March 2027 which will go out for the tender for a longer-term contract sometime this year. We are well established as the trusted delivery partner for this service and we are very confident that we will be involved in this.

Once again, I would like pass on my sincerest thanks to everyone who has made our continuing success possible, and I look forward to an amazing 2026.

Page 3

BOLTON COMMUNITY

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust and constitutes a Charitable Incorporated Organisation first registered 21 May 2020 as amended on 20 June 2022.

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Registered Charity number

1189587

Principal address

148 Deansgate Bolton Lancashire BL1 1BB

Trustees

S Fisher (resigned 4.10.24) Mrs S Fendlen (resigned 4.10.24) S R Green (resigned 19.7.24) Mrs C Straub P Richardson J M Lord (resigned 14.3.25) Mrs J Rudd Mrs S Beaunol Mrs C Riley Ms L Mckechnie (appointed 14.3.25)

Independent Examiner

Mr Adam J Syddall MA FCA P B Syddall & Co Chartered Accountants Grafton House 81 Chorley Old Road Bolton Lancashire BL1 3AJ

Approved by order of the board of trustees on 27 January 2026 and signed on its behalf by:

Ms L Mckechnie - Trustee

Page 4

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Bolton Community Advice

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of Bolton Community Advice (the Trust) for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees of the Trust you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under Section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner's statement

Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by Section 130 of the Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (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 concerns 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 proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Mr Adam J Syddall MA FCA The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales

P B Syddall & Co Chartered Accountants Grafton House 81 Chorley Old Road Bolton Lancashire BL1 3AJ

27 January 2026

Page 5

BOLTON COMMUNITY

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Notes
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Advice support and advocacy
Investment income
2
Total
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds
3
Charitable activities
Advice support and advocacy
Other
Total
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
31.3.25
31.3.24
Unrestricted
fund
£
Restricted
fund
£
Total
funds
£
Total
funds
£
100
-
100
100
-
284,400
284,400
170,718
1,385
-
1,385
-
1,485
284,400
285,885
170,818
679
56,242
56,921
47,943
1,284
231,538
232,822
178,093
-
-
-
1,236
1,963
287,780
289,743
227,272
(478)
(3,380 )
(3,858 )
(56,454 )
1,336
55,119
56,455
112,909
858
51,739
52,597
56,455

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 6

BOLTON COMMUNITY

BALANCE SHEET 31 MARCH 2025

FIXED ASSETS
Notes
Tangible assets
5
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
6
Cash at bank and in hand
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
7
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
Unrestricted funds
8
Restricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS
Unrestricted
fund
Restricted
fund
£
£
1,527
9,449
-
28,500
456
14,810
Unrestricted
fund
Restricted
fund
£
£
1,527
9,449
-
28,500
456
14,810
Unrestricted
fund
Restricted
fund
£
£
1,527
9,449
-
28,500
456
14,810
31.3.25
Total
funds
31.3.24
Total
funds
£
£
10,976
14,833
28,500
-
15,266
45,493
31.3.25
Total
funds
31.3.24
Total
funds
£
£
10,976
14,833
28,500
-
15,266
45,493
456
(1,125 )
43,310
(1,020 )
43,766
45,493
(2,145 )
(3,871 )
(669) 42,290 41,621
41,622
858 51,739 52,597
56,455
858 51,739 52,597
56,455
858
1,336
51,739
55,119
52,597
56,455

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 27 January 2026 and were signed on its behalf by:

L Mckechnie - Trustee

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 7

BOLTON COMMUNITY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

The financial statements of the charity, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, 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)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Charities Act 2011. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.

Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, 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 accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Tangible fixed assets

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.

Improvements to property - 20% on reducing balance Fixtures and fittings - 20% on reducing balance Computer equipment - 25% on reducing balance

Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charity's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

continued...

Page 8

BOLTON COMMUNITY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2. INVESTMENT INCOME

INVESTMENT INCOME
Rents received
RAISING FUNDS
Raising donations and legacies
Computer expenses
Room hire
Advertising
Printing and stationery
Office consumables
Travel expenses
Training
Telephone
Motor expenses
Professional fees
Sundry expenses
Client welfare
Support costs
31.3.25
31.3.24
£
1,385
£
-
31.3.25
31.3.24
£
£
16,461
3,062
13,434
22,615
-
356
640
99
5,556
3,094
4,150
5,015
2,228
457
2,827
1,113
3,859
5,209
3,107
6,507
978
416
2,999
-
682
-
56,921
47,943

3. RAISING FUNDS

4. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2025 nor for the year ended 31 March 2024.

5. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

COST
At 1 April 2024 and
31 March 2025
DEPRECIATION
At 1 April 2024
Charge for year
At 31 March 2025
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024
Improvements
to
property
£
3,365
Improvements
to
property
£
3,365
Fixtures
and
fittings
£
1,636
764
175
939
697
872
Motor
vehicles
Computer
equipment
£
£
16,539
1,986
Motor
vehicles
Computer
equipment
£
£
16,539
1,986
Totals
£
23,526
1,776
460
2,236
1,129
1,589
5,052
2,872
1,101
350
8,693
3,857
7,924 1,451 12,550
8,615 535 10,976
11,487 885 14,833

continued...

Page 9

BOLTON COMMUNITY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

6. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
31.3.25 31.3.24
£ £
Grants 28,500 -
7. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
31.3.25 31.3.24
£ £
Taxation and social security 1,021 3,520
Other creditors 1,124 351
2,145 3,871
8. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Net
movement At
At 1.4.24 in funds 31.3.25
£ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General fund 1,336 (478) 858
Restricted funds
Restricted fund
55,119 (3,380 ) 51,739
TOTAL FUNDS ~~56,455~~ ~~(3,858~~) ~~52,597~~
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
Incoming Resources Movement
resources expended in funds
£ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General fund 1,485 (1,963 ) (478)
Restricted funds
Restricted fund
284,400 (287,780 ) (3,380 )
TOTAL FUNDS 285,885 (289,743 ) (3,858 )

continued...

Page 10

BOLTON COMMUNITY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

8. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Comparatives for movement in funds

Net
movement
At 1.4.23
£
in funds
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
3,194
(1,858 )
Restricted funds
Restricted fund
109,715
(54,596 )
TOTAL FUNDS
112,909
(56,454 )
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
£
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
100
(1,958 )
Restricted funds
Restricted fund
170,718
(225,314
)
TOTAL FUNDS
170,818
(227,272
)
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
Net
movement
At 1.4.23
£
in
funds
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
3,194
(2,336 )
Restricted funds
Restricted fund
109,715
(57,976
)
TOTAL FUNDS
112,909
(60,312
)
Net
movement
At 1.4.23
£
in funds
£
3,194
(1,858 )
109,715
(54,596 )
Net
movement
At 1.4.23
£
in funds
£
3,194
(1,858 )
109,715
(54,596 )
112,909
(56,454 )
170,818
(227,272
)
(56,454 )
At
31.3.25
£
858
51,739
52,597
(60,312
)

Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:

continued...

Page 11

BOLTON COMMUNITY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

8. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Restricted fund
TOTAL FUNDS
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
£
£
1,585
(3,921 )
455,118
(513,094
)
Movement
in funds
£
(2,336 )
(57,976 )
456,703
(517,015
)
(60,312 )

9. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

During the period, Steve Fisher, a trustee, received a salary of £45,025 (2024: £35,917) for managing the charity, £2,130 (2024: £1,459) of pension contributions were also made.S Fisher also has use of a car owned by the charity. S Fisher resigned from the board of trustees during the year on 4 October 2024.

Shobna Fendlen, a trustee, received a salary of £15,863 (2024: £7,983) for managing the charity finances, £508 (2024: £117) of pension contributions were also made.S Fendlen resigned from the board of trustees during the year on 4 October 2024.

Page 12

BOLTON COMMUNITY

DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31

31.3.25 31.3.24
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
funds funds funds funds
£ £ £ £
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Donations and legacies
Donations 100 - 100 100
Investment income
Rents received 1,385 - 1,385 -
Charitable activities
Grants - 284,400 284,400 170,718
Total incoming resources 1,485 284,400 285,885 170,818
EXPENDITURE
Raising donations and legacies
Computer expenses - 16,461 16,461 3,062
Room hire - 13,434 13,434 22,615
Advertising - - - 356
Printing and stationery - 640 640 99
Office consumables - 5,556 5,556 3,094
Travel expenses - 4,150 4,150 5,015
Training - 2,228 2,228 457
Telephone - 2,827 2,827 1,113
Motor expenses - 3,859 3,859 5,209
Professional fees - 3,107 3,107 6,507
Sundry expenses - 978 978 416
Client welfare - 2,999 2,999 -
- 56,239 56,239 47,943
Charitable activities
Advertising - 328 328 100
Support costs
Management
Wages - 180,858 180,858 127,218
Social security - 10,790 10,790 5,445
Pensions - 6,734 6,734 4,497
Rates and water - 379 379 352
Insurance - 1,466 1,466 1,077
Light and heat - 20,607 20,607 14,900
Property repairs - 7,031 7,031 19,981
Depreciation of tangible assets 679 3,178 3,857 4,465
679 231,043 231,722 177,935

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 13

BOLTON COMMUNITY

DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31

31.3.25 31.3.24
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
funds funds funds funds
£ £ £ £
Management
Governance costs
Independent examination 924 - 924 756
Accountancy and legal fees 360 167 527 480
Interest on PAYE - 3 3 58
1,284 170 1,454 1,294
Total resources expended 1,963 287,780 289,743 227,272
Net expenditure (478) (3,380 ) (3,858 ) (56,454 )

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 14

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1189587 REPORT OFTHE TRUSTF.ES AND FINANCIAL STATF.MF.NTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 FOR BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE P B Syddall & Co Chartered Accountants Grafton House 81 Chorley Old Road Bolion tancashire LILI 3AJ

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE CONTENTS OF THE FIN'ANCIAL ￿ATEmENTs FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page Report of the Trustees Independent Exgminerfs Keport Stot¢ment of Finanf lal Activiti Balanee Sheet Iyolu to the Finntlal Sttements 8 10 12 Delailed.St•t¢m¢rtl of Fln*nci•l Atlivlties 13 to 14

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE REPORT OF THF. TRusfEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED31 MARCH 2024 The trustees present their re￿rt with the financial s￿eThe￿ts of the chariry for th¢ year endcd 31 March 2024. 'fhe trustees have adtsp￿d the provisions of Aec(Wllling and Reporting by Chariti¢4'. Sthtemeni of Recommended Praciice applicable io charities pr¢paring their accuunts in accordance wilh thc FinaJ)cial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102) (etTKtive l January 2019). OBJECTIVFS AND ACTIVITIES Objtetives and aims The objects of ihe Charitable IncoTpofdted Or¥anis&tion are lo promoie any charilable purpose for the public benefit by the advancement of education. the proteclion and preservation of health and ihe relief of povcrty, Sickness and distress in parti¢ular. bui without limilalion, for the benefii of the community in Llolion and suryounding areas. Bolion Communily Advice aim ￿ improve the lives of the people in our community by giving ￿1viCe, guidance or inlomotion on a wide range of issues including benefits, howsing and debt management. Significant ¥4etlvlti¢J The Wellb¢ing Project Funded by GMCA, our Wellbeing Projeci off¢ts ¢xtra support io people on probaiion. helping them lu r¢integrale back inio scrfiety and making sure they get the assistsnce th¢y need to get back into work, education or voluntttring. F()Ilowin8 a hugely successful pilot. The Wellbein8 Service i￿￿ Jointly commission¢d by Gre8L¢T Manchester Cornbined Authoriiy (GMCA) and HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) io ¢ontinu¢ work?ng in the community with people on probdtion. tv help them meet their ¥oa15 and aspiraiions. l-he service is a partnership led by 1kn¢ Big Life 8roup. which ¢offlprises of 12 local orgaDisaTion5, including FJolii)n Community Advice. meanin8 ihal when people work with us, Ihey'll benefit from our in-depih local knowledge in convenient locatiorts surh ￿ our new community hub on Oxford Streei! Ollr mi5sian is ¢0 make sure that people have all ihe iools, informaiion aThJ support they need to succeed ththilc on probaii¢m. Public bcnefit I'he Trus(Leb hdve given due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on Public Bcnefit. Our door is open to anyoni who needs help and advice. no matier whai the issue is. We have a greal dcal of experience on helping people on many ISSUCS such a5 benefii claims, housing, Cmplo￿￿ent and seNwry impairnicnt issues. If our expert volunteers can'l help directly we will try and find othcr sources of help in th¢ arca. Volunteers We havc continued io strenuhen wih 6 new volunteers. This year wc have helrrtd a Tecord number of wple.. - Over 300 People on Probaiion with our Wellbeing Servirx Over 250 people with Universal credil and other benefit claims Over 250 people with homelcssne55 and housin8 problem5 Over 300 people with disability j5sues Ovcr 600 people with PPF requirements ic Over l 80 pcople with debt problems - Over 150 people with mental hcalth issues - Over 3(K) elderly people - Over 50Q people with other issues Page I

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE RF.PORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR F.PDED JI MARCH 2024 OWECTIVLS AND ACTIVITIES Oxford Street Centre Developmenl We have substanlially develop¢d our new premises 16a Oxford Street- - A ncw buu-in door security systeTn and a new secure front door Extensive h￿1th and safety improvements - D¢velopmen¢ of an outdoor communal area on the second floor Itnprovements to lh¢ ¢lectrical system - Overhaul of the IT system and achievement of Cyb¢r Esseniials Plus Prlnershlp Working We have developed our c0-I￿atIon model by having th¢ following partners workin8 wilh us in the Wellbeing Hub C(Trnnecr ETE (Employabilily) Ing¢us {HomelessnesS SUPP¢Xt Dignify (Trauma 8upport> - Citizens Advice Man¢hesier (General welfgre Sltpport) 'I'h¢ Family Service (Family Support) Vclerdns Support Achtevc Communily Outreach are licensing spa¢¢ for their offices on otsr second floor, Providing a valuable link with recov¢ry services. ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Charilable actlvitles Many of OUT 3tulTar¢ irnined independent advocaies {Generi¢. Community. non-slatutory) who are able io work with on b¢lialf of some of our clicnts. In 2024 w¢ wclcom¢d some new rnemI￿r$ io our tearn.. Siitsnnc DLlaney- Project Officer Giedre Ferreira Digiial Troiner Helen Tiinms- F.du¢aiion and training cwdinaior We hav¢ continued io step up our %iaff devclopment and training and have invested & ¥ood proportion of our funding on this, wirh volunl¢¢r5 atiending Cours￿ itt the following.. Menlal Health First Aid First Aid Training Safeguarding Training British Si8n Languaxe Advoca¢y Trdining AdvicL and Guidartce Trainin8 Counselling Training We a150 provide peer advowy for sensory. mentsl helllth, learning disabiliiies and mobility Issues. We also a peer advocate for autism and ADHD. In 2024 w¢ r¢ceived funding to allow us (o the following new project5.. Di¥iial Inclu5ion- we now offer a disital skills service in conjunction wtth Bolton Council DES team. Bike Library- we r￿e1ved bjnding for thi5 and li will go live on the fi￿1 floor in February 202$ Music ServiLe . we have in¢re&sed our provision by adding new cquipmcnt and developin8 a music room on the rirs( tloor RCc(￿p proje¢¢ for over 50's on probation - Other projeLiS in developm¢llt - An Thernpy - Sewing Serviee Choir Page 2

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE REPORT OF THF. TRusfEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 FINANCIAL REVIEW Fin*ncial position The Lharities tuial income for the year 10 3 1st March 2024 £170,818 (2023= £210.050) and th¢ to￿7 exp¢nditure was £227,27212023.. £112,550). Ai ihe year end the Charity had c&5h in th¢ bank of £45,493. The charity had total funds at the year end of £56.455. The restricted fund accounted for £55,119 of this for the delivering of specific projec1& Reserves policy The Trusiecs have worked hard io source unrestri¢ted funding which encompasses all aspects of the charitys spendin8. However rhe charily is still heavily dependeni on grdni incoine which often has restriclions imposed and ￿ such g¢n¢ral reserves Temain low. STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEME Governing doeument The ¢h(1riiy is controlled by its governing documenL a d¢¢d of ond ¢onsiitui¢s a Charitable InwTporated Organisation firsl registered 21 May 2020 &$ amended on 20 Junc 2022. REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVF. DETAILS Registercd Charity numb¢r I I IIY587 PrineipAI Address 148 D¢ansgat¢ Bi)lion Lancashire BLI IBB Tru%tee5 S Fisher (r¢5igned 4.10.24) N S T Peel Ire.%igned 1.4.23) Mrs G Ilar8reaves (resigned 1.6.23) Mr5 s f¢ndlen (resigned 4.10.24) S R Green (re5bgn¢d 19.7.24) Mrs C Slraub (appointed 19.7.23) P Richard50n lappoinied 1.9.23) J M Lord (appointed 1.7.23) Mr5 J Kudd (appoinled 24.5.23) Mrs S Beaunol {dppoinied 5.5.23) Mrs C Riley (appointed 1.5.23) Independent Examiner Mr Adam J Syddall MA FCA P B Syddall & Co Chartered Accountdnts Grafton House 81 Chorley Old Road riolton Lancashire BLI 3AJ Page 3

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE REPORT OFTHE TRUSTELS FOR THE YF.AR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Approved by order of the board of trustees on 13 January 2025 and sigDed on its b¢half by.. J M Lord. Ttvstre Page 4

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTF.ES OF BOLTOJ¥ COMMUNITY ADVICE Independent examln¢r's report to Ihe tfU5tees of Bolton Community Adyitt I report to thc charily tnjstees on my examination of the accow)ts of Bolton Commut)iry Advi¢¢ (the l-rusi) foT the yeaT ended ) l March 2024. Re5pottsibilltles and basis of report As ihe charity tnlslecs of the Trust you are responsible for the p[q>ar￿1(ffi of the accounts Jn accord74n¢e with Ihc requirements of thc Charities A¢t 2011 {Ihe Act')- I report in ￿Spect of my examination of the Twsts accounts carried 4Wi under Section 145 ofihe Act and in £aTrying out my examination I have follow¢d all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the Act. Indtpendent examiDer'5 Statement I have complded my examiDatioll. I confirni that no rnfiierial mailers have come to my au¢nli(In in connection wilh th¢ examinatian giving me cause to bclicve thai in any material respeci.. accounting T￿OrdS wer¢ not kept in Tesp¢ci of the Tnju as required by Seciion 130 of th¢ Act: or the ac¢ounts do noi accord Wilh those records. OT Ihc account5 do not comply wilh the applicable requiremenis concerning the form and conient of 8CCDunts set out in ihc Lharitie5 (A¢¢ountg and Rcports) R¢gulations 2008 oiher than any requircmeni ihai the accounts 8ivc a tnje and fair view which 15 Tlot a maller considered &$ part of an independent examinaiion. I hav¢ no concerns and have come acr055 Do other matters in ¢onn¢uion with Ihe examination io which altention shoukl draivn in ihis report in order lo enable a proper understandin8 of the a¢¢ounts to be reached. Mr Adam J Syddall MA FCA ThL Institute of Chortercd ALcountants in En¥ldnd and Wale$ P B Syddall & Co Chartered Accountants Ciraftun House 81 Chorl¢y Old Road Bolton Lan¢￿hlre BLI 3AJ 13 January 2025 Page S

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVJCE STATEMENT OF FIP4ANCIAL A￿1VITIEs F()R THF. YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 31.3.24 Total funds 31.3.23 Total funds Unrestricted fund Restricted fund Notes INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donation5 and legacies 100 400 Charitable aetiyities Advice support and advocacy 170,718 170.718 209,300 Other trading activili¢S 350 Tolal IIKJ 170,718 1711,818 210,050 EXPENDITURE ON Raising funds 47.943 47,943 25,787 Charitable activiliej Advice 8UPPOrt and advocacy 722 177J71 178,093 84,294 Other 1,236 2,469 To¢al 1,958 225J14 227,272 12,550 NF.T INCQMEI(EXPF.NDITUREI (l J58) {S4J96 (56.454) 97,500 RF.CQNCILIATION OF FUNDS Total fvnds broughi fonvard 3,194 109.715 112,909 15.409 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD lJ36 55,119 56,455 112.909 The notes forni part of these financial ststements Page 6

BOLTOIY COMMUNITY ADVICE BALANCE SHEET 31 MARCH 21124 31.3.24 Total rvnds 31.3.23 Total funds Unrestrlcted fund Restricted fund Noi¢s FIXED ASSEIS I'angibl¢ assets 2306 12.627 14.1¢33 16,098 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Cash at bank and ?n httnd 50.000 50,639 5398 39,895 45,493 5098 39,895 45,493 100,639 CREDIT()RS Amounts falling duc within one year (6,468) 2J97 {3,871) jJ,828 j NLT CURRENT ASSETS (870) 42,492 41,622 96.811 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES lJ36 55.119 56.455 112,909 NET ASSETS lJ36 55,119 56,455 112,9Q9 FUPIDS Unrestricied funds Restricted funds lJ36 55,119 3.194 109,715 TOTAL FUNDS 56,455 112,909 The financial 51alements were approved by the Board of Trustees and auihori5cd for issue on 13 January 2025 and werc sign¢d on lis behalf by.. J M L(Kd- Trustee The not¢s forn] part of th¢se financial ststem¢nts Page 7

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE NOTES TO THF. FlfAf4CIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis tsf preparing the financial $ttemtnts 'lThe fiDan¢ial statements of the charity, wthich is a public benefii entiiy under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP IbKS 102) 'Accounting Reporting by Chariiies.. s￿lement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their a¢counis in accordance with the Finan¢ial R¢porting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102} (effective l January 2019),, Financial Reporting Siandard 102 The Financial Reporting Standatd applicable in the UK and Republi¢ of Ireland, and ihe Charities A¢t 2011. The financial statcmcnls have been prewdred under ihe historical cost convention. Income All income is Tecognised in the Ststem¢nt of Financial Activiii&s once the charity has ¢ntiilemeni to the f￿nds. il is probable that the in¢ome will be T¢ceived and the amount can be me&sur¢d reliably. Expenditure Liabilities are recognised ?s expenditure as soon as there is A le￿1 or constnjctive obligaiion coiNwnilting ihc charity to that ¢K￿ndituTe. il is probable thai a transfer (Trf economic benefits will be required in settlemcnt and the amouni of the obligation can be me&8ur¢d rcliably. Expcndiiure is accounted for on an accruals b&sis and has been classified under headings that aggregaic all cost related to the ¢aiegory. Whcrc costs cannoi be directly aiiyibured to parti¢ular headings they havc been allocaied to a¢tiviries on a basis consisteni wilh Lhe us¢ of resources. Tan8ibk fixfd a55¢tg Depr¢cia¢ion 15 provided at the following annual rJies in order to WTire off each &8sei over its estimated uscful life. lrnprovemcnts to promy Fixtures and fittings Compuier equipmenl 20/p on red￿l￿g balance 200/0 on rcducing balance 25Vo on reducing balance T#x8tlon The ¢harity 1$ exempt from on its charitable aciivili¢s. Unreslricted funds can be used in o¢¢ordan¢e wilh the charitablc obje¢tive$ at the discretion of the irustee5. Resiri¢ied fun(Ls can only be uscd for particular restricted purFrf)ses within ihe objects ofthe charily. R¢5triotion5 arige when specificd by the donor or wb¢n fvnd5 are raised for part?¢uiar restricicd purposa. Furth¢T explanation of ihe nature and purpose of each fund 15 included in the notes to ihe financial statements. Ptnslon Costs and other post-rttirernent benefrts Thc charity operdte5 a defined Contribution pension scheme. Conlributions payable io the charity's pension sch£m¢ are charged to the Sthiement of F'itiancial Activities in the pcriod io which they relate. Page 8 continued...

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMEpifs- eofvtinued FOR THF, YF.AR ENDED31 MARCH 2024 OTHF.R TRADIIYG AcfiviTIES 31.3.24 il.3.23 Fundrdising events 350 RAISING FUNDS Raising donations id l¢geles 31.J.24 Computer expenses Room hire Advertising Printing and $tsiionery Office consumables 'I'rdvel expenses Training Telephone Subsisience Motor expen Professional fees Sundry cxpen5¢S Support cosis 3.062 22.615 356 1,608 7,334 300 46 2,515 3,258 3,7110 773 887 4.459 615 207 3,094 5,015 457 5,209 6.507 416 47.943 25,787 TRUSTEES, REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS There wcrc no tn￿le¢s, remuner4iion or other benefits for th¢ year cnded 31 March 2024 noT for the year cnded 31 March 2023. Trustee8' expenscs During the per1￿J, £777 (2023 £82) was paid io three of the truslees in order 10 reimburse ihem for costs iha¢ they had undertaken on behalf of lh¢ tharity. Page 9 continued...

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- ¢onlinu¢d FOR THE YEAR ENDED31 MARCH 2024 TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Improvements io Fixtures Moior vehicle5 Computer equipment PrO￿rtY fittings Toials COST Al l April 2023 Addiiions 3J65 1,636 13J39 3,200 1,986 20,326 3.2011 AL 31 March 2024 3J65 1.636 16.539 1.986 2J.526 DKPRECIATION At l April 2023 Charge for year 1290 547 217 1.667 3J85 724 377 4,228 4,465 At 31 M#rch 2024 1,776 764 S.U52 8,693 NET BOOK VALUE At J l March 2024 1,589 872 11,487 885 14.833 At J l March 2023 2,075 1,089 11.672 1,262 16,098 r>EBTORS.. AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.24 31.3.23 Grnnts 50,000 CREDITORS: AMouf4TS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YF.AR 31.3.24 31.3.23 Taxation and social sccurily Other ¢r¢ditors 3,52(1 351 2,872 956 3,871 3.828 MOVEMENT IN FUNDS Net movement in funds At 31.3.24 At 1.4.23 Unrestricied f￿ndS General fund 3,194 11,858) ,336 Reslritted fundy Re5trictcd fund 109,715 (54,590) 55.119 TOTAL FUNDS 112.909 (56,454) 56,45S Page 10 continued..

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL sfATEMENTS- tonthnued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 MOVEMENT IN FUNDS- continued Net [r￿vemen1 in fvnds, included in the above are as follows= Incoming sources Rcsources expenikd Movement in funds UThrestricted funds General fund (1,958) 11.8581 Resiricted funds Restrici¢d furwj 170,718 (225J14) (54,596) TOTAL FUNDS 170,8111 (227.272) (56,4541 Comp#rAlive5 for rnovemen¢ i• fund5 Nei movement in fund$ Ai 31.3.23 At 1.4.22 Unrnstricted funds General fijnd (13.974) 17,168 3,194 Re5tritted fundj Remricted fuTKI 29J83 80,332 109,715 TOTAL FUND 15.409 97,500 112.909 Compardtive net mov¢m¢nt in fithd¥ included in thc above aTe as follows: Incoming rewur(¢s Resources expende4J Movemcnt in funds Unrestricted f4nd¥ General fund 20,485 {3,317) 17.168 Restricted funds Restricied fund 189.565 {109.233) 80,332 TOTAL FUNDS 210,05U (112,550) 97,500 Pagell continued...

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE NOTES TO THF FINAP4CIAL STATEMENTS- eontlnved FOR THE YF.AR ENDF.D 31 MARCH 2024 MOVEMENT IN FUNDS- coTrtiAued A current year 12 months and prioT year 12 rnonths combined position 15 as follows". Nct mov¢m¢nt in ￿ndS Ai 31.i.24 At 1.4.22 Unrestricted funds (icn¢ral fund (13.974) 15,310 1,336 Restricted funds Restricted fund 29.383 25,7J6 55.119 TOTAL FUNDS 15,409 41,046 56.455 A Cu￿ent year 12 months ond kyior year 12 month5 cornbined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follow5.. Incoming resources R¢sOu￿e$ expcndcd Movcm¢nt in fund5 Unrestrlcted fvnds General fund 20,585 15,2751 15,310 Restricted funds Restricred fijnd 360,283 (334,547} 25,736 TOTAL FUNDS 380.868 (339,822) 41,046 RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES During the period. Steve Fisher. a trustee. received a salary of £35,917 (2023 £30,250) for managing ihe charity. £1.459 (2023 - £721) of pension contributions were also made. Shobna Fendlen, A Irusiee, received a salary of £7.983 for managing the charity financts, £117 of pension contribution5 were Jlso rnade. Page 12

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL AcfiviTILS FOR THF. YEAR EliDED 31 MARCH 2024 31.3.24 Total funds 31.3.23 I'otal funds Unre51rkcd fijnds Rcstrict¢d funds INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS Donatiotls And legacies Donation 400 Other trAdlng actlvities Fundraising events 350 Ch8rltble aetivities Grants 170.718 170,718 209,300 Total incomlng resources 170.718 170818 210,050 EXPENDITURE Rhising donallons l¢g8cl Compuler expenses Room hire Advertising Printing an(15taiionery Office con5umablcs Trav¢1 expenses Trainin I'elephone Subsistence Moior expenses Profes5ion&l fees Sundry expenses 3.062 22,015 3.062 22,615 356 99 3,094 S,lJlS 457 1,608 7,334 300 46 2,515 3,258 3,780 773 887 4,459 615 207 99 3.094 5,015 457 5,209 6.507 416 5,209 6,507 416 47,943 47,943 25,782 Ch#rlt¥ble acliYili¢i Advertising IOD Support eosts Management Wages Social securiry Pensions Kaics and water In5uiance Light and heat Propeny repairs D¢pr¢¢iation of tangible wet5 127,218 127218 S,445 4.497 352 .077 14,900 19.981 4,465 75.322 2,270 1,029 393 865 760 1.480 2,807 4,497 352 1,077 14,900 19,981 3.743 722 722 177213 177,935 84,926 Thi5 page does llix forni part of thc statutory financial Statements Page 13

BOLTON COMMUNITY ADVICE DETAILF,D STATEMENT OF FtNANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YF.AR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 31.324 '] oral funds 31.3.23 Total funds Unr￿ric￿d funds Restricted funds Monagement Information technology Repairs and renewa15 853 Governance ¢o$ts Independenl examinaiion Accountancy and legal fees Intere51 on PAYE ?56 480 756 48 360 596 33 58 1336 1294 989 Total resources expended 1.958 225J14 227,272 12,550 Nel incom¢/l¢xpenditure) {1.858) {54.596) (S6,454) 97,500 This page doe5 not fonn part of th¢ staDrtory financial slal¢ments Page 14

Date: 27 January 2026

PBS P.B.SYDDALL & CO Your Ref.. Charte￿0 kcounTlnt5 1 6u51fbe5s AdviSeTJ Partners: Adam l. Syddall MA.. F.C.A. Matthew Collin5 B.k. A.C.￿, F.C.C.A. Consultant: Peter B. Syddall F.CA F.C.I.E. Associate: Howard G. Simp50n Our Ref.. AJSIB170 Please Ask For.. Mr A Syddall FAO Sieve Fisher CEO Bolton Community Advice 148 Deansgale Billion Lai)Lashire BLI IBB D¢tir Sieve. I now have pleasure in enclosing two sets of Ihe charii}' I ccounts for your attention. These are due with Ihe Chariiy Commission, along with the annual report. by the end of thi5 w¢¢k. It any Trustee wishes lo contact me as Independeni Examiner about the accouiits or the letter ot. representation for any explanations. they can ot-course do so. Assumingj there are 110 adjuslmenis required, if Lms Lauren McKeLhnie Lould sigbn boili sets ol. aLcounls on pagye 4 and page 7 on bL.hAIt' of the truste¢s. If you Lould then rt'lurii h()Ih %els ot. SigTned accounis to me, I will sigin 14e Independeni Examiner's re.p()rt aiid reiurn a l'ully si¥iied sei of accounis io you for your records. Yoii sh<)4ild then scan and upload Ihese fully signed accounts to your pa&¥e on ihe ("liurily C ()mniis5ion websile along iviih your annual r¢lurn. I Ivould be gratetul if Lauren could also sign and date ihe le.tler ot. reprcseiilalion enclosed .liiLli is trom Il)¢ trustees lo myself as independenl cxaminer an(1 rL':Iirn Iliis with the dC¥ounts. Il. J"i)11 hav¢ ali) qu'eries regarding any ofthe above. please do noi hesiiaie lo cuniacl me. I. inally. l enclose our uccoui)t for Services rendered ￿'hICh l irusl you ii'ill liiid aLceptable. Besl wishe¢ Yours sincerely P 13 SYDDAI.L & CO Grafton House. 81 ChorLey Old Road. Bolton. BLI SAi Tel: (012041380038 Email: enquiries@pbsyd.co.uk Web.. www.pbsyd.co.uk ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS in

INVOICE Partners: Peter B. Syddall F.C.A, F.C.l.E. Nicholas W. Polding B.Sc., F.C.A. Adam J. 5yddall M.A., F.CA Matthew Collins B.￿, ￿c.A., F.C.C.A. Assoclate: Howard G. Simpson Oate.. 9 January 2026 Our Ref.. B170 The Trustees Bolion Con)munity Advice 148 DeansgTate Bolion BLI IBB Protessional services rendered in connection wilh ihe preparaiion ol" annudl aLcounts from your records. 350.00 Professional services rendered in coimeclion with the independent examination of ihe charil), accounts. 420.00 770.00 VAT@20% 154.00 £924.00 D•t*S15'. kcoum Name.. P 8 Sydd•ll & Co. Accwrrt No. 0104￿197 Sort Code.. 01-50-99 For terms & conditions of business and for payment methods please see overleaf Grafton House. 81 Chorley Old Road. Bolton. BLI 3AJ V.A.T. Reg. No. 376 1176 43 Tel.. (012041380038 ICAEW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Email: enquiries@pbsyd.co.uk Web.. www.pbsyd.co.uk in If paying by cheque or cash please return this portion with your remittance From.. IWOICE 23745