**From** ## **Trustees' annual report for the period** Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year 31 03 2023 **To** 31 03 2024 ## Reference and administration details > **Charity name** _Sudanese Community in and Portsmouth_ **Other names charity is known by** _SCIP_ **Registeredcharitynumber(ifany)** _1190685_ **Charity'sprincipaladdress** _Flat 85_ _Crown Court, Crown Street Portsmouth_ **Postcode** _PO1 1QW_ **Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity** ||**Trusteename**|**Office(if any)**|**Datesacted ifnotforwhole**
**year**|**Name of person (or body) entitled**
**to appoint trustee(if any)**| |---|---|---|---|---| |1|Mukhtar Yousif|
_Chair_||| ||HAGAR|||| ||Bakhit Ismail|||| |2|Mohamed|||| ||Osman Ibrahim|||| ||Fadlalla|||| 1 **Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members** ## _Abdelhaliem Abu-Gusseisa, BrahimDjibrine, Tarig Ahmed andWisalObied_ ## **Structure, governance and management** _Constitution adopted 12 September 2019_ _Unincorporated association_ ( _Trustees are appointed or reappointed annually at the Annual General Meeting held in July_ _Membership of the organisation is open to all people from Sudanese origin who reside in Portsmouth locality and its surroundings. The trustees oversee the day to day running of the community group. The trustees seek the views of members. There is a child protection policy in place. Criminal Records Bureau checks are carried out prior to commencement of volunteering or trusteeship and checks are carried out again in line with statutory requirements. SCIP is partnered with The Sudanese Community School in Portsmouth with whom we jointly undertake some activities which aimed to help children and youths such as Homework Club and skills sessions. All trustees give their time voluntarily and received no remuneration or other benefits._ ## **Objectives and activities** To promote the advancement of citizenship and community development for the public benefit by working with people in and around Portsmouth **Summary of the objects of** who are socially excluded on the grounds of their ethnic origin, religion, **the charity set out in its governing document** belief or creed, in particular members of the Sudanese community, to relieve the needs of such people and assist them to integrate into society. _In planning our activities for the year we kept in mindtheCharityCommission’sguidanceonpublic_ **Summary of the main activities** _benefitatourtrusteemeetings._ **undertaken for the public benefit** _Themainactivitiesareasfollows:_ 2 • _**Community weekly club**_ • _**Ramadan and Eid celebration**_ • _**Ayman’s funeral**_ **in relation to these objects** _We are grateful for the many hours volunteers, including member volunteers, have spent delivering our activities .Without this valuable contribution of time, energy and expertise we would not have been able to achieve so much._ 3 Achievements and performance ## **Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year.** ## _**Weekly Community Club:**_ The Sudanese community weekly club in Portsmouth serves as a vibrant gathering space for the Sudanese community. It aims to provide a supportive environment for Sudanese individuals and families, fostering connections, cultural exchange, and community building. The club meets every Wednesday, in the evening, from 5pm to 10pm allowing members to catch up, share stories, and connect with friends. It includes planned games, discussions, and workshops encourage interaction and teamwork, helping members bond over shared interests. Members shared experiences and challenges, fostering a supportive network that encourages collaboration and assistance. New members are actively encouraged to join conversations and participate, helping them feel valued and included. Through these avenues, the club not only provides a platform for socialisation but also helped foster a sense of community, belonging, and shared identity among its members By fostering a sense of belonging and providing valuable resources, the Sudanese weekly club played an essential role in the lives of its members, enhancing their integration and connection to the Portsmouth community. Since its opening in August 2023, the club has become a key space for reflection, healing, and a platform for the community to grow stronger and more united in the face of challenges. ## _**Funeral of community member:**_ _On 13 August 2023, the community gathered in solemn remembrance to honour the life of Ayman, who tragically lost their life due to a fatal stabbing on in late July 2023. The event was a powerful reminder of the impact they had on the lives of those around them, and the grief that now rests heavy on the hearts of family, friends, and community members._ ## Service Overview: _The funeral service began with prayer led by Imam of Portsmouth Jami Mosque, who spoke words of comfort and solace. Family members and friends filled the venue, sharing memories of the Ayman, whose sudden departure has left a void in the community._ The event saw the attendance of community members, local council representatives, family friends, and supporters who came together to extend their condolences and provide solidarity to Ayman’s family. 4 A total of **£6,225** was raised by the Sudanese community in Portsmouth, which helped cover the funeral costs. The remaining funds were sent to Ayman’s family in Sudan to support them during this challenging time. The executive committee and the trustees provided essential support, including coordinating with local authorities, assisting Ayman’s family, and organizing the logistics for the funeral and memorial. ## Community Solidarity: Members of the community and local organizations worked together to ensure Ayman’s family was supported emotionally and practically, helping them through the various arrangements and ceremonial practices. ## _**Awareness Initiatives in Memory of Ayman**_ Following the tragic loss of Ayman, a young member of the Sudanese community in Portsmouth who was fatally stabbed while watching football on public TV, the Sudanese community organised a public vigil to raise awareness of knife crime. This event not only honoured Ayman's memory but also served as a platform to address the growing concerns around knife-related violence, especially its impact on young people in the community. It aimed to draw attention to the dangers and consequences of knife crime, which has had devastating effects on many families and communities. Leaders from Portsmouth City Council and local law enforcement were present, showing solidarity and addressing community concerns. The event reinforced the community’s shared responsibility to address violence. It emphasised the role of parents, teachers, and community leaders in guiding youth and promoting safe alternatives to conflict. The vigil was a significant step toward fostering awareness of knife crime and encouraging action within the community. In memory of Ayman, the Sudanese community in Portsmouth is committed to ongoing education, support, and advocacy to prevent further tragedies. Future plans include collaborations with local youth programs, workshops, and continued partnership with local law enforcement to create a safer environment for all. 5 ## _**Weekly Iftar Gathering During Ramadan**_ Each year during the holy month of Ramadan, the Sudanese community in Portsmouth comes together for a weekly Iftar gathering. This event is a cherished tradition that fosters unity, preserves cultural practices, and strengthens the bonds among community members through shared meals and prayers. The event was held each Saturday at Havelock Community Centre starting shortly before sunset. It was open to all community members, including families, elders, youth, and new community members. Local friends and other Muslim community members were also welcome. Community members brought homemade dishes, including Sudanese favourites such as Aseeda, Foul, and Tamiyya (Sudanese falafel), with traditional drinks like Abray and Baobab Juice. The weekly gatherings have become a cornerstone of community life during Ramadan, strengthening bonds and fostering a sense of belonging. These events offer support for individuals and families, particularly those who may be observing Ramadan away from their extended family. The weekly gatherings have become a cornerstone of community life during Ramadan, strengthening bonds and fostering a sense of belonging. These events offer support for individuals and families, particularly those who may be observing Ramadan away from their extended family. The iftar gatherings created an inclusive environment for newcomers, making them feel welcomed and supported within the community. It was an opportunity for everyone to connect, share experiences, and offer help where needed. The weekly iftar gatherings during Ramadan were an invaluable tradition for the Sudanese community in Portsmouth. They provided a time for spiritual reflection, cultural connection, and unity, fostering a strong sense of community and continuity in the Sudanese heritage. These gatherings served not only as a source of support and warmth but as a means to reinforce shared values and foster the community's growth and resilience. 6 **Financial review** ## **Brief statement of the** Cash at bank at the end of financial year was £3001.57 in unrestricted funds. **charity’s policy on reserves** The funds are held to meet any unforeseen expenditure that may occur. **Details of any funds materially in deficit** ## **Other optional information** ## _**Future plans**_ **Expansion of Cultural Programs** : More frequent cultural workshops, language classes, and Sudanese history events. **Stronger Advocacy Efforts** : Building alliances with local organisations to amplify the Sudanese community's voice on issues like immigration, equality, and human rights. **Increased Fundraising for Humanitarian Aid** : Continued efforts to support those affected by the Sudan crisis, with a focus on medical and educational aid. ## **Declaration** **The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.** **Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees** > **Signature(s)** _B Mohamed_ > **Full name(s)** Bakhit Ismail Mohamed > **Position (eg. secretary** _Trustee_ **,chair, etc)** **Date** 7 **Independent examiner's reportonthe accounts** **Report to the trustees/ members of** _Sudanese Community in and Around Portsmouth_ **On accounts for the year** _31[st] March 2024_ **ended Atthached** _Budget report attached_ I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024. As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation of **Responsibilities and basis of** the accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”). **report** I report in respect to my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under s145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under s145 (5)(b) of the Act. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have **Independent examiner's** come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me **statement** cause to **believe** that in, any material respect: • accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act; or • the accounts do not accord with the accounting records. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached _._ > **Signed** _B I Mohamed_ **Name:** Bashir Mohamed **Date:** 6 Nov 2024 Bsc Accounting **Relevant professional qualification(s) or body** ACCA part-qualified **(If any** 8 ## **Sudanese Community in and around Portsmouth** ## **Date: 6 Nov 2024** ## **Budget Report** ## **– March 2023 March 2024** ## **Revenue and expenditure statement** **----- Start of picture text -----**
A Revenue
1 Balance forwarded £2905.27
2 Members contribution £1937.57
3 Funeral fund raising £6225.00
4 Donations £1640.00
Total £12,707.84
B Expense
1 BBQ for Eid celebration £1801.15
2 Ayman’s (community member) funeral cost £2140.22
3 Funds Remitted to Ayman’s Family £4084.70
4 Venue hiring £1027.86
5 Zoom subscription fees £143.92
6 Youth awards (Appreciation certificates and £169.91
vouchers)
7 Sudanese Union subscription fee £80.00
8 Ramadan gathering expenses £258.81
Total £9706.27
Balance at the end of financial £3001.57
–
year (A B)
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **Account details** TREASURERS ACCOUNT SUDANESE COMMUNITY IN PORTSMOUTH LLOYDS BANK Sort Code: 30-98-97 Account Number: 86442460 9