Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City (Cambridge) Annual Report 2023/24
Somewhere to call home
Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
| Contents |
|---|
| Charity Information ................................................................................................................ 4 |
| Strengthening Governance and Collaboration: ITAC’s Strategic Framework .............................. 5 |
| Charity foundations ............................................................................................................ 5 |
| Trustee Appointment and Collaboration .............................................................................. 5 |
| Leadership and Oversight ................................................................................................... 6 |
| Strategic Meetings and Financial Stewardship ..................................................................... 6 |
| Policy Review and Risk Management ................................................................................... 6 |
| Diversity and Development ................................................................................................. 6 |
| Enhancing Impact: A Review of Charitable activities ................................................................ 7 |
| Crossways – Emergency Winter Accommodation ................................................................. 7 |
| “Survive and Thrive” – A Continuum of Care ......................................................................... 8 |
| Enhancing Collaboration: ITAC’s Partnership Approach ........................................................ 8 |
| Bridging Connections: ITAC’s Communication and Networking ............................................ 9 |
| Website & Street Support Cambridgeshire (SSC) .............................................................. 9 |
| Social Media & Newsletter ............................................................................................... 9 |
| Broadcast Media & Public Speaking ................................................................................. 9 |
| Networking with Partner Agencies.................................................................................. 10 |
| Empowering Women Through Action: The WHAG Initiative ................................................. 10 |
| The Cambridge Homelessness Charter ............................................................................. 11 |
| Charting the Course: Future Directions and Aspirations ......................................................... 11 |
| Fiscal Refections: Assessing Our Financial Journey .............................................................. 13 |
| Financial Overview and Fundraising E�orts ........................................................................ 13 |
| Reserve Funds .................................................................................................................. 13 |
| Transition and Growth ....................................................................................................... 14 |
| Trustees’ Responsibilities Statement for the period ending 31 March 2024 ............................. 15 |
| Independent Examiner’s Report for the period ending 31 March 2024 ..................................... 16 |
| Section A - Statement of fnancial activities ........................................................................... 17 |
| Section B – Balance sheet .................................................................................................... 18 |
| Section C – Notes to the accounts ........................................................................................ 19 |
| Note 1 – Basis of Preparation............................................................................................. 19 |
| 1.1 Basis of accounting .......................................................................................... 19 |
| 1.2 Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement ....................................... 19 |
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
| 1.3 Going concern .................................................................................................. 19 |
|---|
| 1.4 Charitable funds ............................................................................................... 19 |
| 1.5 Company status ............................................................................................... 19 |
| 1.6 Income recognition ........................................................................................... 20 |
| 1.7 Expenditure ...................................................................................................... 20 |
| 1.8 Cash at bank and in hand .................................................................................. 20 |
| 1.9 Debtors ............................................................................................................ 20 |
| 1.10 Creditors and provisions ................................................................................... 20 |
| Note 2 – Income ............................................................................................................... 21 |
| Note 3 – Analysis of receipts of government grants ............................................................. 21 |
| Note 4 – Expenditure on charitable objectives .................................................................... 22 |
| Note 5 – Sta� Costs .......................................................................................................... 22 |
| Note 6 – Independent examiners renumeration .................................................................. 23 |
| Note 7 – Taxation .............................................................................................................. 23 |
| Note 8 -Debtors ................................................................................................................ 23 |
| Note 9 – Creditors ............................................................................................................. 23 |
| Note 10 – Restricted funds analysis ................................................................................... 24 |
| For year 2023/24 ........................................................................................................... 24 |
| Note 10 – Restricted funds analysis (continued) ................................................................. 25 |
| For year 2022/23 ........................................................................................................... 25 |
| Note 11 – Related party transactions ................................................................................. 25 |
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Charity Information
----- Start of picture text -----
TRUSTEES Christopher Vivian Jenkin BEM (Chair)
Alison Jane Morris
Stephanie Louise Martinsen-Barker
Emma Hooton
Simon Allcock
Madeleine Anne Cassidy (to 30 [th] November 2023)
Lee Andrew Welham (to 26 [th] February 2024)
John Cross (to 26 [th] February 2024)
Lesley Angela Yolande Crocker (to 26 [th] February 2024)
Barry Harwood Read (from 1 [st] June 2023)
Dr Asha Praseedom (from 31 [st] October 2023)
Robert Lake (from 26 [th] February 2024)
Paul Baxter (Treasurer) (from 5 [th] March 2024)
Graham Robert Dempsey (from 20 [th] May 2024)
SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM Elisabeth Silver CEO
COMPANY NAME AND IT TAKES A CITY (CAMBRIDGE)
NUMBER 12361870
CHARITY NUMBER 1190676
REGISTERED ADDRESS c/o St Andrew’s Street Baptist Church
40-43 St Andrews Street
Cambridge
CB2 3AR
BANKERS Metro Bank
Unit 1
Christ’s Lane
Cambridge
CB2 3BZ
SOLICITORS Taylor Vinters
Merlin Place
Milton Road
Cambridge
CB4 0DP
ACCOUNTANTS Business Partners Financial & Management Services Ltd
Milton Hall
Ely Rd
Milton
Cambridge
CB24 6WZ
----- End of picture text -----
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
The Trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements of the charity for the year 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. The Annual Report serves the purposes of both a Trustees' report and a directors' report under company law. The Trustees confirm that the Annual Report and financial statements of the charitable company comply with the current statutory requirements, the requirements of the charitable company's governing document and the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (second edition of the Charities SORP (FRS102) October 2019, effective 1 January 2019).
Since the charity qualifies as small under section 382 of the Companies Act 2006, the Strategic Report required of medium and large companies under the Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors' Report) Regulations 2013 has been omitted.
2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit –
It Takes a City is an organisation set up to support those in Cambridge and surrounding areas who are or who are at risk of being homeless. The charity supports all who need help regardless of personal circumstances and enables a large number of others to volunteer and contribute in various ways. The wider public benefits through a reduction in street living.
Strengthening Governance and Collaboration: ITAC’s Strategic Framework
Charity foundations
The foundational document of our charity, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, was established on 12th December 2019. As a company limited by guarantee, we are registered with both the Charity Commission and Companies House, and are acknowledged by HMRC as a charity eligible for Gift Aid.
Trustee Appointment and Collaboration
New Trustees are carefully selected through interviews conducted by existing Trustees, contingent upon the submission of a current CV. Prior to their inaugural Trustee meeting, new appointees receive comprehensive briefings from the Chair and are granted access to essential documents. Our charity prides itself on its collaborative e�orts with a diverse array of local organizations—statutory, commercial, and voluntary. These partnerships, built on mutual respect and a shared mission to eradicate homelessness, range from formal contracts to service collaborations and supportive networks.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Leadership and Oversight
Chris Jenkin BEM, our Chair, also presides over the It Takes a City Community Land Trust (CLT), a charitable entity recognized for Gift Aid by HMRC. The CLT, an o�shoot of our informal collaborative groups, shares our logo and is entrusted with the vital task of creating new supported homes for individuals transitioning from the streets or hostel living.
Chris is also a founder and Development Board member of the Greater Cambridge Impact Fund. The Fund began as a joint enterprise with Cambridge City Council to raise social investment to be used to address pressing local social issues such as homelessness and educational inequalities. Currently hosted and funded by Cambridge City Council the Fund is in the process of establishing independent financial and charitable structures.
Strategic Meetings and Financial Stewardship
Our Board of Trustees convenes at regular six-week intervals to evaluate, monitor, and steer the strategic direction of the charity. These meetings are attended as needed by key sta� who report on operational activities and emerging developments. Financial updates, including current standings and future budget forecasts, are standard agenda items. The Chair temporarily assumed the role of Acting Treasurer until the appointment of a new Treasurer in March 2024.
and accounting advice.
Policy Review and Risk Management
It Takes a City maintains a comprehensive policy suite that governs all facets of our operations. The Board’s business schedule mandates regular policy reviews to align with legislative updates and operational shifts, as well as the formulation of new policies when necessary. Routine reporting items at each meeting encompass Health & Safety incidents, Safeguarding concerns, Complaints, and GDPR compliance, with designated Trustees responsible for these critical areas.
Diversity and Development
In our quest for excellence, we actively seek new trustees who o�er specialized expertise and contribute to our diversity. During the year, we recognised our increasingly central role in service delivery by applying to the Charity Commission for a change of objects to add:
- advocating, convening and coordinating the delivery of services .
This change was approved by the Charity Commission after the end of the year.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Enhancing Impact: A Review of Charitable activities
Crossways – Emergency Winter Accommodation
In collaboration with the Cambridge City Council, ITAC has once again spearheaded the initiative to provide emergency winter accommodation for the city’s homeless, moving away from the conventional model of communal floor spaces during cold spells. Crossways o�ers a sanctuary with 20 private en-suite rooms, a spacious shared lounge and dining area, top-notch kitchen and laundry amenities, operating round-the-clock from November to March. We also have three temporary beds which can be set up in the communal areas during extreme weather conditions.
Security is discreetly but e�ectively managed by Evolve Guards, who maintain a 24/7 presence, overseeing the administration of accommodations and residents. A dedicated cadre of volunteers delivers a range of services including meal preparation, cleaning, laundry, engaging conversations, and compassionate support. Visits from specialized health and homelessness organizations are a regular occurrence.
Dinner at Crossways is a communal a�air, with volunteers cooking up a warm two-course meal, aiming to create a familial atmosphere. Contributions from a Cambridge College and a host of organizations, such as the Buckingham Emergency Food Appeal and Cambridge Sustainable Food, along with surplus provisions from eateries and markets, ensure a steady supply of food. Residents have the liberty to prepare their own breakfast, lunch, and snacks at their convenience from an assortment of readily available food items.
Our primary mission extends beyond safeguarding to the overall welfare and orchestrating the activities of visitors; it involves guiding each resident towards formulating a plan for transitioning to more permanent housing, ensuring they have access to necessary support.
The unique combination of professional management, volunteer engagement, and contracted security has cultivated a secure, familial environment conducive to housing the most vulnerable and at-risk individuals, including those with significant trauma and members of the LGBQT+ community who face barriers to other forms of shelter.
Key support agencies, including healthcare (Cambridge Access Surgery), mental health (Dual Diagnosis Street Project), and substance misuse services (CGL and Dual Diagnosis Street Project), find that visiting Crossways is the most e�ective way to connect with their clients—our guests. They report a remarkable success in engaging with our residents, often establishing
We are especially grateful for the support of volunteers from local churches and from the wider community, in meals preparation, domestic and practical help and conversation. Much of this is organised by the Cambridge Churches Homeless Project (CCHP), and by a team from St Andrews Street Baptist Church. Additional pastoral support from the Bishop’s O�icer for Homelessness was much reduced this year due to a vacancy, but we are very happy to learn that that vacancy
The journey to a new home is multifaceted, encompassing not just the housing itself but also the myriad practical aspects that transform a space into a home, enhancing life beyond mere
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
survival. This includes furniture and household items (sourced from Emmaus or the Besom), undergarments (provided by Bare Necessities), appropriate attire and footwear (acquired through Cambridge Aid grant applications), personal care products (donated by the community), and technology and connectivity (courtesy of Laptops4Learning). Preceding these steps is the intricate process of assisting guests with assembling their essential documents, a task underscored by the case studies in this report, which highlight the complexity and collaborative e�orts required.
Our volunteers generously contribute around 2,300 hours each winter, their invaluable service earning high praise, with an average satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5. Many volunteers express how the project has enriched their knowledge and, for some, even bolstered their personal wellbeing.
This season, Crossways provided refuge to 48 individuals who would otherwise sleep rough. Most of our guests successfully transitioned to subsequent housing solutions, though a few opted to return to the streets. When we closed at the end of March, we were unable to place three individuals into more permanent housing. We were able to house these individuals in a hotel until suitable accommodation was found for them with the help of a grant from Cambridge City Council.
“Survive and Thrive” – A Continuum of Care
Our “Survive and Thrive” initiative is dedicated to supporting individuals as they transition into any type of housing, fostering a collaborative e�ort with accommodation providers. We activate our extensive network of volunteers to o�er assistance and orchestrate specialized interventions. Referrals for our services, which include food parcels, furniture, and household essentials, are welcomed from the City Council and our partner organizations. These resources are aimed at individuals settling into new homes, whether on a temporary or more permanent basis, or for those who require ongoing support.
The delivery of food parcels serves a dual purpose: providing sustenance and enabling welfare checks for those without constant support. During these visits, we remain vigilant, ready to inform primary support agencies about any health or living condition concerns that arise. The furnishings and domestic items that we provide are typically sourced from partner agencies like Emmaus or Besom, supplemented by contributions solicited from the broader community.
benefited from our Crossways winter shelter. This creates a streamlined continuum of care, ensuring a smooth transition from the streets to a place they can call home.
Enhancing Collaboration: ITAC’s Partnership Approach
ITAC is committed to fostering expansive partnerships rather than expanding operations, ensuring our support services enhance and synchronize with existing o�erings rather than compete. Our proactive stance involves identifying and addressing service gaps, always with the ultimate goal of serving our clients’ best interests. The breadth of support required by individuals is vast, and while coordination can be intricate, prioritizing the individual over the institution significantly boosts their chances of positive outcomes.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Our collaborative e�orts span a variety of specialist areas, including substance misuse, mental health, mentoring, and employment outreach. We also facilitate connections to vital resources for immigration, housing, benefits, and debt management. Our operations are bolstered by a robust network of volunteers and partners who contribute food, clothing, and hands-on assistance. Notable collaborators include the Cambridge Churches Homelessness Partnership (CCHP), St Andrew’s Street Baptist Church, and the Cambridge Street Pastors.
Together with CCHP, we coordinate emergency and temporary housing throughout the year, focusing on women and individuals ineligible for public funds, working closely with partner agencies to determine housing eligibility and immigration status. We express our gratitude to these agencies and local B&Bs for their accommodation support.
As active contributors to a Council-led initiative, we have helped shape the “Team around the Person” (TAP) program, a structured series of multi-agency meetings designed to assist entrenched rough sleepers in accessing services. This collaboration unites all key professional groups dedicated to providing comprehensive support and housing solutions.
Bridging Connections: ITAC’s Communication and Networking
Website & Street Support Cambridgeshire (SSC)
Our website serves as a dynamic hub, regularly updated with the latest developments in our partnerships and the impactful work of our action groups. We spotlight Street Support Cambridgeshire on our homepage and maintain a dedicated page for the It Takes a Community Land Trust (CLT). Launched in 2019, SSC is a comprehensive platform that catalogues support options for the homeless, sorted by type, location, and availability. Over the past year, we have amplified our promotion e�orts for SSC through various channels, resulting in a rich database of 380 support o�ers from 107 organizations.
Social Media & Newsletter
Social media has been instrumental in rallying community support, especially for our winter initiative at Crossways. Our online presence has grown, with Twitter and LinkedIn followers increasing by 164 and 147, respectively, and the launch of our Facebook page in February. Our bimonthly newsletter continues to engage readers, highlighting the synergy of our partnerships and inviting community participation. The latest issue, July 2024, is available for subscription.
Broadcast Media & Public Speaking
Our team’s presence in local media and public speaking engagements has been robust, addressing the complexities faced by the homeless and the services available to aid them. Notable appearances include trustee Lee Welham’s inspiring message on Cambridge 105 and publicity following our Chair’s invitation to the Coronation of King Charles III on 6[th] May 2023. We have also shared our insights with various groups, including local Rotary Clubs, clergy associations, university societies, and street pastors, furthering the discourse on homelessness.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Networking with Partner Agencies
partnerships. Our sta� and trustees actively participate in meetings focused on service evaluation, innovation, and networking events like Changing Futures, Streets to Home, and workshops on Trauma-Informed Practice. We are also involved in the Cambridge Homelessness Impact Research Network (CHIRN), which consults on healthcare barriers, ensuring a deeper understanding of the healthcare needs and challenges within the local community.
Empowering Women Through Action: The WHAG Initiative
The Women’s Homelessness Action Group (WHAG) has been a beacon of progress, convening regularly to address the unique challenges faced by women, including gender-specific obstacles and the pervasive issue of hidden homelessness. Under ITAC’s guidance, these meetings have been a source of support for the WHAG’s Chair and Coordinator, fostering a collaborative environment for advocacy and change.
E�orts to raise awareness about WHAG’s mission have been ongoing, with a dedicated section on the ITAC website and active engagement through social media platforms. The group has been instrumental in providing direct assistance to female rough sleepers residing at Crossways, our sanctuary during the harsh winter months.
WHAG’s commitment to outreach is evident in their dynamic promotion strategies, which include hosting guest speakers and setting up informational booths in bustling city centres. Their community spirit shone brightly during a Christmas art fundraiser, organized in partnership with local entities.
A pressing priority for WHAG is the plight of vulnerable women lacking a secure place for the night. To address this, with the kind support of the Evelyn Trust and other donors, we have been sponsoring a research initiative aimed at establishing “The Haven,” a proposed sanctuary for those in need. The project garnered substantial support, paving the way for the development of a detailed implementation strategy, the search for a suitable location, and the pursuit of necessary funding.
Following our participation in the Women’s Homelessness Census in September 2023 which evidenced the local need for services for women in Cambridge city, funding was obtained from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to run a pilot for a year. The model that has been developed is based on the trauma informed methodology used at It Takes a City’s emergency winter accommodation project, Crossways.
The project will be sta�ed by an experienced female support worker working alongside a female SIA accredited guard, open 2 nights a week from 8pm – 8am and supported by volunteers responsible for preparing food and for socialising with guests plus housekeeping duties. The space will be gendered, female only, sensitive to the needs of trans women, with access to services such as showers, laundry, food, clothing and signposting to other support services. A Women’s Services Co-Ordinator was recruited in February 2024, with the opening date for the project is dependent on signing an agreement for suitable premises.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
The search for suitable premises, which had been ongoing since the middle of 2023, came to a satisfactory conclusion shortly after the end of the year, with the agreement of the Society of Friends for us to lease a two-bed flat from them in a central city location. We are very grateful to the society for their help in this, a property that would otherwise have been let by them commercially.
The Cambridge Homelessness Charter
In June 2023, our Chair was inspired by the launch of Prince William’s “Homewards” initiative, a Royal Foundation funded six-city programme to demonstrate that homelessness can be ended, rather than simply managed or mitigated.
This drew our attention back to our founding steps at the It Takes a City Homelessness Summit in November 2018. Our Chair began the process of re-establishing the idea of a Cambridge Homelessness Charter, intended as a widely shared commitment to end rough sleeping and homelessness in Cambridge. The Charter would be complemented by a “six pillars” implementation programme setting out the key “gaps” that would have to be filled in order to make rough sleeping and homelessness in Cambridge “rare, brief, and non-recurring”.
A Collaboration Group comprising key stakeholders including Cambridge City Council, Cambridgeshire County Council and local agencies was established, soon broadened to include representatives of the wider community. The Group was informal, facilitated by us. Our Chair produced various materials to be reviewed by the Group, which led to the shaping of a one-page Charter, a launch and publicity program, a sign-up procedure to gather support, and initial thoughts on how to design, fund and implement the “six pillars” programme of change.
We reached out to the Royal Foundation, as we felt we had common purpose with, albeit were not part of, Homewards. This has led so far to some very helpful mutual sharing of thoughts and ideas.
Charting the Course: Future Directions and Aspirations
of objects mentioned above reflected a view that our work in service delivery was no longer simply a “pop-up” to fill short term gaps. These services are stepping stones towards an overall goal of ending homelessness in Cambridge.
This has required some adjustments to our thinking, to the way we present ourselves and the way we organise ourselves. No longer can we ignore certain things because we won’t be around for long! Hence, for example, our change of Objects explained above.
each with their own income, costs and resources, plus a governance, finance and administrative (GFA) function led by our CEO. The GFA function does not have its own income, but is supported
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
by unrestricted giving, unrestricted project surpluses and overhead contributions from project grants. This will not change.
We view the future of each project as follows:
-
Crossways the start of a supported housing journey for many, acting as a hub for support. We have the use of the current premises for 2024/25 but not beyond and have been working with Carter Jonas to secure alternative premises. However, we are also in negotiation with the Crossways owner and their lessee, our landlord, to secure the property for our purposes into the future. Financially we still need to meet a donations target and secure continued contract funding from the Council for 2026/27 and beyond. There are operational improvements needed but the service model, the user experience, seems to work very well and no changes are foreseen. The project is a key piece of the housing “pillar” of the proposed Charter, in that, during the winter at least, it can make rough sleeping “brief”, and with the support model in place, can help to make it “non-recurring”. We look to see this continue for as long as it is needed.
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Survive and Thrive – to those in various stages of a housing journey, especially those that have moved on from Crossways. Increasingly it also “supports the supporters”, extending the reach of the available support. It complements the commissioned support services. It is common ground that more support is needed, especially for those with more complex needs. There is interest from CCHP, with their new chaplaincy model, of working with us in our “ Survive and Thrive ” model of support independent of housing: staying with people when they move accommodation as in our original “ support for the journey not the house ” proposal and following the “ Trusted Person ” model promoted by Changing Futures. This is all aligned with the support “pillar” of the Charter. We look to see this grow, working in collaboration with others, to a more comprehensive model.
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Haven – Through our winter accommodation program and the lived experiences of our team, we have observed the numerous additional challenges faced by homeless women. In response, we are planning to establish The Haven, a safe overnight drop-in space for homeless and vulnerable women in Cambridge. The trustees have secured funding for the first year and have identified an ideal property. The Haven will operate overnight, featuring female SIA-approved security to ensure a safe, trauma-informed environment. The project will provide hot meals and drinks, shower and laundry facilities, but will not o�er accommodation. ITAC is collaborating with various local organizations to deliver comprehensive support to the women who use this service. Decisions regarding the next steps for the project will be made during the pilot phase.
-
Communications – the work has changed since we started from mainly coordination (of the original Action Groups) to mainly communications, with the website, Newsletter, action on LinkedIn and X, media interviews, etc. We promote our own projects and the work of others. We expect to renew the website and potentially the branding, but this is all business as usual. We do see the need for growth and development of the Street Support Cambridgeshire information service, the opportunity for development,
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
dissemination and training of prevention known-how, and the development of a “dashboard” of progress towards the goal of ending homelessness. All this is key to the “information” pillar.
- Charter – setting up the Collaboration Group to promote a Cambridge Homelessness Charter is a significant new way to bring stake-holders together around a common goal. We are clear that for ITAC it will not without wide agreement grow beyond a coordinating role: projects, initiatives and services that are identified as key to achieving the aims of the Charter must be taken up by the most appropriate body, or by new bodies, as needed, with ITAC o�ering to advocate and shape what needs to be done, acting within the Collaboration Group, but not seeking to deliver it. We see this as a 3-year coordination project, aiming to become self-sustaining by then, and we will seek funding accordingly.
Financial Overview and Fundraising E�orts
from the previous year’s £223,200. Expenditure totalled £312,057, resulting in a surplus of £19,498, compared to the prior year’s deficit of (£59).
We extend our gratitude to the following key organizations for their substantial grants that have bolstered our initiatives:
-
Cambridge City Council
-
Aidan Trust
-
NPT Transatlantic
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Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities / Housing Justice / Homeless Link
-
Cambridge Aid
-
Evelyn Trust
-
Crofton Engineering Ltd
-
Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue
Reserve Funds
As of 31 March 2024, the charity’s total reserves amounted to £67,433, of which £29,326 were restricted funds. Additionally, we received grants totalling £82,205 for the Haven project which is starting next year. As the project has not yet started, su�icient uncertainty exists due to unmet conditions outside the control of the Charity and therefore the funds have been accounted for as a liability and shown in the balance sheet as deferred income.
should at least cover our regular monthly expenses, which are approximately £35,000. This threshold ensures we can maintain operations in the event of significant funding reductions. Our year-end reserves were slightly above this precautionary level.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Transition and Growth
“It Takes a City” (ITAC) is navigating a transformative phase. Initially established to unite individuals and organizations in combating homelessness, ITAC evolved into a service provider during the pandemic, managing the “Everyone In” accommodation. The recent three-year funding from DLUHC, coupled with a service contract from Cambridge City Council, underscores ITAC’s enduring role in service provision.
To date, our fundraising has not actively solicited public donations nor employed fundraisers. Nonetheless, we support volunteer-led fundraising events and activities. We continue to secure contributions from a�luent local individuals and businesses, leveraging the networks formed at the 2018 Summit and the Trustees’ personal connections. Additionally, we persistently seek suitable grant and trust funds to advance our mission.
scale and complexity of these projects are straining our administrative capabilities and financial resources, essential for initiating new programs, whether internally or through partnerships.
Shortly after the year end the charity completed a series of decisions to boost fund-raising capacity:
-
Providing the CEO with administrative support to free up more time for pursuing funding opportunities
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Buying in the Donorfy CRM system to hold and use our contacts data and manage fundraising campaigns and bids
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Employing a third=-party fund-raiser to assist with strategy and grant applications.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Trustees’ Responsibilities Statement for the period ending 31 March 2024
The Trustees (who are also the directors of the Company 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 the Trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of a�airs of the Company and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:
-
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP (FRS 102);
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make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards (FRS 102) have been followed, subject to any material
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presume that the Company will continue in business.
The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are su�icient to show and explain the Company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company 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 Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by:
………………………………………………………
Chris Jenkin BEM
Chair of Trustees
Date: 17 December 2024
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It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Independent Examiner’s Report for the period ending 31 March 2024
I report on the accounts of the Charity for the period ended 31 March 2024, which are set out on pages 17 to 25.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity’s trustees of the Company (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (“the 2006 Act”).
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited for this year under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (“the 2011 Act”). In carrying out my examination, I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner’s statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:
-
accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006;
-
the accounts do not accord with such records;
• the accounts do not comply with relevant accounting requirements under section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 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; or
- the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS102).
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 M Hewett FCA DChA
Date: 17 December 2024
Peters Elworthy and Moore Salisbury House, Station Road Cambridge CB1 2LA
16
Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
| Restricted | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | income | |||
| funds | funds | 2024 Total | 2023 Total | |
| Income (Note 2) | ||||
| Donations and legacies | 5,918 | 15,094 | 21,012 | 18,098 |
| Charitable activities | 94,193 | 216,185 | 310,378 | 204,682 |
| Other | 165 | 165 | 420 | |
| Total Income | 100,276 | 231,279 | 331,555 | 223,200 |
| Expenditure (Note 4) | ||||
| Charitable activities | 37,405 | 274,652 | 312,057 | 223,259 |
| Total Expenditure | 37,405 | 274,652 | 312,057 | 223,259 |
| Surplus / (Deficit) | 62,871 | (43,373) | 19,498 | (59) |
| Transfer Between Funds | (63,341) | 63,341 | ||
| Net Movement of funds | (470) | 19,968 | 19,498 | (59) |
| Reconciliation of funds: | ||||
| Total funds brought forward | 38,577 | 9,358 | 47,935 | 47,994 |
| Total funds carried forward | 38,107 | 29,326 | 67,433 | 47,935 |
17
Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Section B – Balance sheet
| Note CURRENT ASSETS Cash at bank and in hand Debtors and deposits 8 CURRENT LIABILITIES Deferred income 9 Creditors 9 NET CURRENT ASSETS NET ASSETS Represented by: Unrestricted 10 Restricted 10 |
Year ending March 31st 2024 £ 147,291 34,817 182,108 (82,205) (32,470) (114,675) 67,433 67,433 67,433 38,107 29,326 67,433 |
Year ending March 31st 2023 £ 80,516 4,411 |
|---|---|---|
| 84,927 - (36,992) |
||
| (36,992) 47,935 |
||
| 47,935 | ||
| 47,935 | ||
| 38,577 9,358 47,935 |
applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.
The Trustees consider that the company is entitled to exemption from the requirement to have an audit under the provisions of section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 ("the Act") relating to small companies and members have not required the company to obtain an audit for the period in question in accordance with section 476 of the Act.
The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.
Chris Jenkin BEM Chair of Trustees
Date: 17 December 2024
18
Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Section C – Notes to the accounts
Note 1 – Basis of Preparation
1.1 Basis of accounting
Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing accounts in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (Second edition October 2019, e�ective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) and the Companies Act 2006.
initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes.
1.2 Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement
preparing these financial statements.
1.3 Going concern
expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and believe no material uncertainties exist over charity’s ability to operate as a going concern. Accordingly, the financial statements will continue to be prepared on a going concern basis.
1.4 Charitable funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees and directors in order to fulfil the charitable objectives outlined.
purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes of the financial statements.
1.5 Company status
The Charity is a company limited by guarantee. The members of the Charity are the Trustees named on page 1. In the event of the Charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the Charity.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
1.6 Income recognition
Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Grants are included in the 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.
Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount.
1.7 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 are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are not apportioned out and held under general funds.
1.8 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.
1.9 Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount o�ered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
1.10 Creditors and provisions
Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Note 2 – Income
| Note 2 – Income | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Restricted | ||||
| Unrestricted | income | |||
| funds | funds | 2024 Total | 2023 Total | |
| Donations and Gifts | 5,918 | 15,094 | 21,012 | 18,098 |
| Grants from Government and other charities | - | 161,625 | 161,625 | 169,200 |
| Charitable activities | 94,193 | 54,560 | 148,753 | 35,482 |
| Interest | 65 | - | 65 | - |
| Other | 100 | - | 100 | 420 |
| Total Income | 100,276 | 231,279 | 331,555 | 223,200 |
Note 3 – Analysis of receipts of government grants
| Cambridge City Council (no name) - Coordination and communication | 2,500 |
|---|---|
| Cambridge City Council (no name) - Support Survive and Thrive project | 5,000 |
| Cambridge City Council (no name) - Comms and Coordination | 2,500 |
| Cambridge City Council (no name) - Support Survive and Thrive | 5,000 |
| DLUHC 1000 2401210969 K IT TAKES A CITY C - £45k to DLUHC Crossways Grant | |
| (Crossways project) | 45,000 |
| Cambridge City Council (James McWilliams) - Support for Rough Sleepers | |
| Survive and Thrive Service 2023/24 Year 1 | |
| (DLUHC funded via Cambridge City Council). | 20,000 |
| Cambridge City Council (no name) - Coordination and communication | 2,500 |
| Cambridge City Council (no name) - Support Survive and Thrive project | 5,000 |
| The Evelyn Trust - The Haven development project | |
| Grant to cover Alice's salary & cost for July, August and September 2023 | 1,367 |
| DLUHC 1000 2401210969 K IT TAKES A CITY C - £65k to DLUHC Crossways Grant | |
| (Crossways project) | 30,000 |
| NPT Transatlantic - Donation | 25,000 |
| Cambridge City Council (Simon Hunt) - Coordination and communication | 2,500 |
| Cambridge City Council (Simon Hunt) - Support Survive and Thrive project | 5,000 |
| The Evelyn Trust - The Haven development project | |
| Grant to cover Alice's salary & cost for October, November & December 2023 | 1,524 |
| College Charitable Projects Fund - for Crossways and specifically to cover the Music Therapy | |
| expenditure plus some extra for the project | 350 |
| The Evelyn Trust - The Haven development project | |
| Grant to cover Alice's salary & cost for January, February and March 2024 | 1,523 |
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Note 4 – Expenditure on charitable objectives
| Direct costs Cost of delivering charitable activities Employment costs Support costs Bank charges Ofce costs Subscrip�ons Insurance Other Bad Debt Write of Governance costs Independent examina�on fee Accountancy fees Total expenditure e 5 – Sta� Costs Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs Average number of staf |
2024 £ 169,972 131,170 301,142 385 - 1,026 635 - - 2,046 2,140 6,730 8,870 312,057 2024 £ 122,369 5,539 3,262 131,170 5 |
2023 £ 97,131 111,330 208,461 144 719 377 1,448 2,281 2,883 7,852 2,640 4,306 6,946 223,259 2023 £ 104,340 4,118 2,872 |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 111,330 | ||||
| 5 |
Note 5 – Sta� Costs
No employee earned in excess of £60,000.
22
Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Note 6 – Independent examiners renumeration
| 2024 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Independent examiners' remunera�on | ||
| - Examina�on fees | 2,325 | 2,640 |
Note 7 – Taxation
The Company was recognised as a charity with e�ect from 12 December 2019 and from that date is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or s256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. Therefore, no taxation falls to be provided for in the accounts.
Note 8 -Debtors
| Amounts falling due within one year Accounts Receivable Deposits Other Debtors Prepayments |
2024 £ 26,886 - 7,831 100 34,817 |
2023 £ 1,140 - 2,896 375 4,411 |
|---|---|---|
Note 9 – Creditors
| Amounts falling due within one year Trade creditors Expense Claims Wages Accruals Deferred Income Taxes and Social Security Other creditors |
2024 £ 12,163 - 926 14,223 82,205 5,027 131 114,675 |
2023 £ 30,139 162 - 2,640 - 4,051 - 36,992 |
|---|---|---|
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Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Note 10 – Restricted funds analysis
For year 2023/24
| Balance | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer | as at | ||||
| Opening Balance |
Income | Expenditure | from general |
the end of |
|
| funds | March | ||||
| 2024 | |||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | 38,577 | 100,276 | (37,405) | (63,341) | 38,107 |
| Crossways | 135 | 143,358 | (192,141) | 55,508 | 6,860 |
| Comms | - | 39,560 | (45,687) | 6,127 | |
| DLUHC - Capital Incubator Funding | 3,197 | - | - | - | 3,197 |
| Survive & Thrive | - | 40,000 | (22,377) | 17,623 | |
| OASISS Ukrainian Support | 5,443 | 3,358 | (7,155) | 1,646 | |
| WHAG | 583 | 5,003 | (7,292) | 1,706 | - |
| Total Restricted fund | 9,358 | 224,419 | (274,652) | 63,341 | 29,326 |
| Total funds | 47,935 | 331,555 | (312,057) | - | 67,433 |
Fund Purpose
Crossways - emergency winter accommodation project
Comms – Cambridge City Council Homelessness Prevention Grant – coordination and communication of action groups across Cambridge.
DLUHC - Capital Incubator Funding – towards the acquisition of permanent premises for the emergency winter accommodation project
Survive & Thrive – for year round support to former rough sleepers to sustain accommodation
OASISS Ukrainian Support – donations received to support the work of the OASISS community group in supporting Ukrainian refugees
WHAG – restricted donations towards projects in support of homeless women
24
Docusign Envelope ID: D992C986-54FE-40C0-9D48-EB8517CDB343
It Takes a City
A Cambridge Homelessness Partnership
Trustees’ Annual Report 2023/24
Note 10 – Restricted funds analysis (continued)
For year 2022/23
| r 2022/23 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance | |||||
| Transfer | as at | ||||
| Opening Balance |
Income | Expenditure | from general |
the end of |
|
| funds | March | ||||
| 2023 | 2023 | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted | 16,276 | 37,810 | (33,7672) | (18,258) | 38,577 |
| Restricted | |||||
| Aidan Trust - charity management | 23,806 | - | - | (23,806) | - |
| Aidan Trust – social investment | 1,200 | (1,200) | - | - | |
| Cambridge Aid | - | 1,150 | (1,015) | - | 135 |
| Comms 22/23 | - | 10,000 | (11,622) | 1,662 | - |
| Survive and Thrive 22/23 | - | 20,000 | (20,046) | 46 | - |
| Winter project 22/23 | - | 30,000 | (30,000) | - | - |
| NPT Transatlan�c | - | 15,000 | (16,009) | 1,009 | - |
| DLUHC - NSTF 22/23 | - | 65,000 | (74,186) | 9,186 | - |
| DLUHC - Capital Incubator Funding | - | 25,000 | (21,803) | - | 3,197 |
| OASISS Ukrainian Support | - | 13,633 | (8,190) | - | 5,443 |
| Rotary Club Funding | - | 3,020 | (3,481) | 461 | - |
| WHAG | - | 1,387 | (804) | - | 583 |
| HomelessLink - HWTF | 3,863 | - | - | (3,863) | - |
| MHCLG Training Grant | 2,613 | - | (1,135) | (1,478) | - |
| Other | 1,436 | - | - | (1,436) | - |
| Total Restricted | 31,718 | 185,390 | (189,492) | 18,258 | 9,358 |
| Total Funds | 47,994 | 223,200 | (223,259) | - | 47,935 |
Note 11 – Related party transactions
During the year, no trustee received any remuneration (2023: £Nil). Additionally, no trustees or their connected persons received any payments from the charity (2023: £47).
Community Land Trust," sharing the same chairman. However, none of the other trustees hold any management roles within the land trust.
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