Trustees’ Annual Report for the period
From Period start date 1 April 2023 To 31 March 2024 Period end date
Charity name: Charlton Masjid Trust
Charity registration number: 1191767
Objectives and Activities
| Objectives and Activities | ||
|---|---|---|
| SORP reference | ||
| Summary of the purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document |
Para 1.17 | THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE FAITH AND RELIGIOUS PRACTICES OF ISLAM IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE QUR'AN AND THE SUNNAH IN THE ROYAL BOROUGH OF GREENWICH. |
| Summary of the main activities in relation to those purposes for the public benefit, in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts. |
Para 1.17 and 1.19 | The Charlton Masjid Trust provides essential religious and community services in line with its charitable purposes. Key activities include: • Friday Prayers (Jummah): A weekly congregational prayer service, which brings the community together and fosters spiritual growth and unity. • Five Daily Prayers: The mosque offers regular daily prayer services, accessible to the public, allowing worshippers to fulfil their religious obligations. • Funeral Services: The mosque provides support to families through the organization of funeral prayers (Janazah) and assistance with burial arrangements, offering comfort and guidance during difficult times. • Nikah (Marriage) Services: The mosque facilitates Islamic marriage ceremonies, offering a vital community service that helps couples fulfil their religious and legal commitments in accordance with Islamic tradition. • Taraveeh Prayers: Taraveeh prayers are special nightly prayers performed during the month of Ramadan, allowing the communityto engage in increased |
worship and spiritual reflection.
Daily Congregational Prayers: The Masjid organizes Taraveeh prayers each night of Ramadan, where community members gather for collective worship, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual connection.
Qur’an Recitation: During Taraveeh, a significant portion of the Qur’an is recited, enhancing the community’s understanding of the holy text and encouraging reflection on its teachings.
Community Engagement: The Masjid provides an inclusive environment for worshipers of all ages, promoting intergenerational participation and enhancing community bonds.
Public Benefit: These prayers serve to deepen the spiritual experience of Ramadan for individuals and families, promote communal ties, and support the overall well-being of the community by encouraging regular worship and reflection.
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- Eid Prayers: Eid prayers mark the conclusion of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) and the celebration of the Hajj pilgrimage (Eid al-Adha). These prayers provide an opportunity for communal worship and celebration.
Special Congregational Services: The Masjid organizes large congregational Eid prayers, allowing the community to come together in worship and celebration.
Community Outreach: The Trust often encourages donations to support those in need, emphasizing the spirit of giving associated with Eid. This includes food drives and charitable initiatives.
Cultural Celebrations: In addition to prayers, the Masjid may host community events, including family gatherings and social activities, to celebrate Eid and strengthen community ties.
Public Benefit: Eid prayers not only fulfil
| a religious obligation but also foster a sense of belonging and joy within the community. The outreach initiatives associated with Eid highlight the Masjid's commitment to charity and social responsibility, benefiting those in need and promoting solidarity among community members. These activities are central to the mosque’s mission of serving the spiritual, cultural, and social needs of the local Muslim community, providingsignificantpublic benefit. |
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| Statement confirming whether the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit |
Para 1.18 | The trustees of the Charlton Masjid Trust confirm that they have had due regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit when carrying out their duties. The trustees ensure that all activities, projects, and services provided by the mosque, including religious services, and community support initiatives, are in line with the public benefit requirements and serve the needs of the wider community. |
Additional information (optional)
You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| SORP reference | ||
|---|---|---|
| Policy on grant making | Para 1.38 | The Charlton Masjid Trust does not have a formal grant-making policy, as no grants have been received or paid during the reporting period. The mosque's activities are funded through donations and other sources of income, which are used directly to support the mosque's religious, and community services. Should the committee engage in grant-making in the future, appropriate policies and procedures will be developed to ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with the mosque's charitablepurposes. |
| Policy on social investment including program related investment |
Para 1.38 | The Charlton Masjid Trust does not currently engage in social investments or program-related investments. All available funds are dedicated directly to supporting the mosque’s core activities, including religious services, and community outreach. Should the mosque decide to explore social investments in the future, the trustees will develop a comprehensive policy to ensure that any such investments align with the mosque's charitable objectives, provide public benefit, and comply with regulatory requirements. |
| Contribution made by volunteers |
Para 1.38 | The Charlton Masjid Trust greatly values the contributions made by its volunteers, who play an essential role in the successful operation of the mosque and its services. Volunteers assist in various areas,includingorganizingand |
facilitating daily and Friday prayers, maintaining the cleanliness of the mosque, and supporting community events. They also help with funeral services, and administrative tasks. The dedication and time offered by volunteers are vital to ensuring that the mosque continues to serve the needs of the community effectively and efficiently. Their efforts greatly enhance the impact of the mosque's work and are deeply appreciated by the trustees and the community. The Charlton Masjid Trust acknowledges the invaluable support of volunteers in fundraising efforts. Volunteers play a vital role in organizing fund appeals and facilitating Friday donations, which are key sources of financial support for the mosque's activities. They also assist in promoting and managing standing orders, encouraging regular contributions from community members. Through their dedication, volunteers help ensure that the mosque can continue providing essential services and maintaining its operations. Other
Achievements and Performance
| SORP reference | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summary of the main achievements of the charity, identifying the difference the charity’s work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole. |
Para 1.20 | The Charlton Masjid Trust has made significant contributions to the local Muslim community by providing a dedicated platform for congregational prayers, including the five daily prayers, the Friday Jummah prayers, taraveeh and Eid prayers. As the only mosque in Charlton, it serves as a vital spiritual and social hub for the local Muslim population, fostering unity, community engagement, and spiritual growth. In addition to its religious services, the mosque offers important community support such as funeral services, and Nikah (marriage) services. These services meet the religious, cultural, and social needs of the community, ensuring that members can access support in key aspects of their lives. The mosque’s presence also creates wider societal benefits by promoting mutual respect and understanding between different communities in Charlton, enhancing social cohesion, and fostering a sense of belonging for local Muslims. Through its work,the mosque |
continues to enrich the lives of its beneficiaries and contribute positively to the broader Charlton community.
Additional information (optional)
You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| Achievements against objectives set |
Para 1.41 | The Charlton Masjid Trust has successfully met its key objectives for the year, continuing to provide essential religious and community services to the local Muslim population. Congregational Prayers: The mosque has consistently offered five daily prayers, the Friday Jummah prayers, Taraveeh during the month of Ramadan and two Eid congregational prayers, that fulfilling its core objective of providing a space for worship and spiritual growth. Community Services: The mosque has met its objective of supporting the community by offering funeral services, assisting families in times of need, and providing Nikah (marriage) services to help couples fulfill their religious obligations. Financial Stability: Through regular Friday donations and standing orders, the mosque has sustained its operations without relying on external grants, ensuring the continuity of its services. Overall, the Charlton Masjid Trust has successfully achieved its objectives, ensuring the continued spiritual, social, and educational support of its beneficiaries while strengthening its role as a communitycentre in Charlton. |
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| Performance of fundraising activities against objectives set |
Para 1.41 | The Charlton Masjid Trust has successfully met its fundraising objectives for the year through a combination of Friday donations, standing orders, and special fund appeals. These efforts have enabled the mosque to sustain its |
| operations and continue providing essential services to the community without relying on external grants. Friday Donations: Weekly contributions during Friday prayers have been a key source of consistent funding, supporting day-to-day operations and maintenance of the mosque. Standing Orders: The mosque has encouraged regular donations through standing orders, which have provided a stable and predictable income stream to cover ongoing expenses. Special Fund Appeals: During key events and religious periods, such as Ramadan, special fund appeals have successfully raised additional funds, allowing the mosque to address specific needs and improvements. Overall, the fundraising activities have performed well against the objectives, ensuring the financial stability of the mosque and enabling it to continue delivering its religious, community,and educational services effectively. |
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| Investment performance against objectives |
Para 1.41 | The Charlton Masjid Trust does not currently engage in investment activities, as all funds are directed towards supporting the mosque's operational costs and community services. Given the focus on maintaining financial stability through donations and fundraising, the committee has not established specific investment objectives or performance metrics. Should the mosque choose to explore investment opportunities in the future, the trustees will develop a formal investment policy aimed at ensuring any investments align with the mosque’s charitable objectives, provide a return that supports the mosque’s services, and adhere to principles of responsible and ethical investing. This policy will also include clear performance objectives to measure the effectiveness of anyinvestments made. |
| Other |
Financial Review
| Review of the charity’s financial position at the end of the period |
Para 1.21 | At the end of the reporting period, the Charlton Masjid Trust's financial position reflects a stable and sustainable outlook. The mosque has successfullymaintained its operationsprimarily |
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| through donations and fundraising efforts, with no reliance on external grants. Income Overview: Total income for the period has been primarily generated from Friday donations, standing orders, and special fund appeals. These funding sources have shown a consistent performance, demonstrating strong community support for the mosque's activities. Expenditure Analysis: The committee has effectively managed its expenditures, ensuring that funds are allocated efficiently to essential services such as congregational prayers, community support programs, and maintenance of the mosque facilities. Reserves: The mosque has maintained a healthy reserve level, providing a financial buffer to cover operational costs and unexpected expenses, thereby ensuring the sustainability of services for the community. Future Outlook: With a solid financial foundation, the Charlton Masjid Trust is well- positioned to continue its mission of serving the local community. The trustees remain committed to prudent financial management and exploring opportunities for growth and improvement in the coming year. Overall, the financial position of the Charlton Masjid Trust at the end of the period reflects its resilience and the ongoing commitment of its supporters, ensuring that it can continue to provide vital services to its beneficiaries. |
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| Statement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held |
Para 1.22 | The Charlton Masjid Trust has established a reserves policy to ensure the financial stability and sustainability of the mosque's operations. Reserves are held to provide a safety net for the charity, enabling it to continue delivering essential services to the community even in times of financial uncertainty. Purpose of Holding Reserves: Operational Continuity: Reserves are maintained to cover day-to-day operational costs, including utilities, maintenance, ensuring that the mosque can function smoothly without interruptions. Emergency Fund: Reserves serve as an emergency fund to address unforeseen circumstances or unexpected expenses, such as repairs or urgent community needs, allowing the committee to respond quickly without jeopardizingservices. |
| Future Planning: Holding reserves provides the mosque with the flexibility to invest in future projects, improvements, or community initiatives that require upfront funding, thus facilitating long-term planning and growth. Financial Stability: A robust reserves policy enhances the charity's financial stability, reassuring donors and stakeholders of the mosque's ability to manage its resources responsiblyand effectively. |
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| Amount of reserves held | Para 1.22 | As of the end of the reporting period, the Charlton Masjid Trust holds sufficient high reserves. These reserves represent approximately 9 times of the annual operating budget and are maintained to ensure financial stability and sustainability. The reserves are carefully managed to cover essential operational costs, unexpected expenses, and future projects. The committee regularly reviews the amount held in reserves to ensure it meets the mosque's ongoing needs and aligns with its reserves policy. This prudent approach allows the Charlton Masjid Trust to provide uninterrupted services to the community while also preparing for future opportunities and challenges. |
| Reasons for holding zero reserves |
Para 1.22 | N/A |
| Details of fund materially in deficit |
Para 1.24 | N/A |
| Explanation of any uncertainties about the charity continuing as a going concern |
Para 1.23 | The Charlton Masjid Trust does not face any uncertainties regarding its ability to continue as a going concern. The committee has established a stable financial position through consistent income generated from community donations, including Friday contributions and standing orders. The ongoing support from the local community provides a reliable funding base, enabling the mosque to meet its operational costs and fulfil its charitable objectives effectively. Additionally, the committee is committed to prudent financial management, ensuring that all funds are allocated efficiently to support essential services and programs. With no identified risks or uncertainties impacting its financial stability, the Charlton Masjid Trust is well-positioned to continue its operations and serve the community for the foreseeable future. |
Additional information (optional)
You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| The charity’s principal sources of funds (including any fundraising) |
Para 1.47 | Above |
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| Investment policy and objectives including any social investment policy adopted |
Para 1.46 | Above |
| A description of the principal risks facing the charity |
Para 1.46 | The Charlton Masjid Trust has assessed its operational landscape and identified that it currently faces no significant risks, whether financial or otherwise. The committee has implemented effective management practices and policies that have mitigated potential risks to a minimal level. Financial Stability: The mosque relies on consistent community support through Friday donations and standing orders, which have proven to be reliable income sources. This stability reduces the risk of financial shortfalls. Operational Risks: Regular reviews of operational procedures ensure that services run smoothly, minimizing the risk of disruptions. The committee also maintains strong relationships with community members, fostering a supportive environment. Community Engagement: Active involvement and feedback from the community help the committee stay attuned to needs and concerns, effectively addressing any issues before they escalate. Overall, the Charlton Masjid Trust is proactive in its approach to risk management and continues to monitor its operational environment to ensure ongoing stability and success in serving the community. |
| Other |
Structure, Governance and Management
| Description of charity’s trusts: | The Charlton Masjid Trust operates under a charitable trust(CIO)established to serve the |
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| spiritual, educational, and community needs of the local Muslim population. The trust's objectives and governance are outlined in its founding documents, which guide the committee in its operations and decision- making. Charitable Purpose: The trust is dedicated to promoting the Islamic faith, providing a place for worship, and offering educational resources that foster spiritual growth and understanding among community members. Governance Structure: The committee comprises appointed trustees responsible for overseeing the trust’s activities, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and managing financial resources. Trustees are committed to transparency and accountability, regularly reporting on the trust's performance and activities. Community Engagement: The trust actively engages with the local community, organizing various events and programs that cater to the needs of residents. These initiatives aim to strengthen community ties and promote mutual understanding and respect. Financial Management: The trust is funded primarily through donations and fundraising activities. The trustees are responsible for ensuring that funds are used effectively to support the trust's objectives and that financial resources are managed prudently. Through its charitable trust, the Charlton Masjid Trust is dedicated to making a positive impact on the community, ensuring that its operations align with the principles of Islam and the needs of its beneficiaries. |
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| Type of governing document (trust deed,royal charter) |
Para 1.25 | Trust |
| How is the charity constituted? (e.g unincorporated association,CIO) |
Para 1.25 | Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) |
| Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions e.g. election to post or name of any person or body entitled to appoint one or more trustees |
Para 1.25 | The Charlton Masjid Trust follows a structured and transparent process for selecting trustees, ensuring that individuals appointed to the committee are committed to the mosque's mission and values. The selection methods are governed by the mosque's constitution and include the following provisions: 1. Eligibility Criteria: Potential trustees must be members of the mosque and demonstrate a commitment to the |
Islamic faith and community service. This ensures that trustees share a common vision and are aligned with the mosque’s objectives. 2. Election Process: Trustees are elected during the mosque's Annual General Meeting (AGM). All registered members of the mosque are entitled to vote, allowing for democratic participation in the selection of leadership. Nominations for trustee positions can be made by members in advance of the AGM. 3. Induction and Training: Newly elected trustees undergo an induction process to familiarize themselves with the mosque’s operations, governance structure, and responsibilities. Ongoing training and support are provided to help trustees fulfil their roles effectively. Through these methods, the Charlton Masjid Trust ensures that trustee selection is conducted fairly, transparently, and in alignment with the values of the mosque, promoting good governance and community representation.
Additional information (optional)
You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| Policies and procedures adopted for the induction and training of trustees |
Para 1.51 | The Charlton Masjid Trust has established clear policies and procedures to ensure that newly appointed trustees are fully equipped to perform their roles and responsibilities effectively. The induction and training process is designed to familiarize trustees with the mosque's operations, governance, and charitable objectives, while promoting effective leadership and decision-making. 1. Induction Process: Upon appointment, new trustees undergo a comprehensive induction program that includes: oIntroduction to the Mosque’s Mission and Activities: Trustees are briefed on the mosque's mission, core services (such as daily prayers, community support, and educational programs), and the role it plays in the community. oReview of Governance Documents: Trustees are provided with key documents such as the mosque’s constitution, policies, and annual reports to understand the legal and operational framework within which the |
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| charity operates. | ||
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Roles and Responsibilities: | |
| Trustees receive a detailed | ||
| overview of their roles, including | ||
| legal responsibilities, financial | ||
| oversight, and safeguarding | ||
| duties. This ensures they | ||
| understand their fiduciary | ||
| obligations and accountability as | ||
| charity trustees. | ||
| 2. | Ongoing Training: To support trustees in | |
| fulfilling their roles, the committee | ||
| provides access to: | ||
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Workshops and Seminars: | |
| Trustees are encouraged to | ||
| attend relevant training | ||
| sessions, including those offered | ||
| by external organizations (if | ||
| required), covering topics such | ||
| as governance best practices, | ||
| charity law, and financial | ||
| management. | ||
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Peer Support and Mentoring: | |
| Experienced trustees offer | ||
| guidance and support to new | ||
| members, helping them | ||
| navigate challenges and | ||
| providing insights from their | ||
| experience. | ||
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Continuous Learning: Trustees | |
| are kept informed of changes in | ||
| charity regulations, best | ||
| practices, and developments | ||
| that may affect the mosque, | ||
| ensuring they stay updated and | ||
| compliant with regulatory | ||
| requirements. |
| The mosque does not currently work with any | ||
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| wider network or external organisations. All | ||
| The charity’s organisational | activities, services, and decision-making | |
| structure and any wider | Para 1.51 | processes are managed internally by the |
| network with which the charity | Charlton Masjid Trust without reliance on | |
| works | external partners or networks. | |
| This independent structure allows the mosque | ||
| to focus directly on the needs of its congregation | ||
| and local community. | ||
| The Charlton Masjid Trust does not have any | ||
| relationships with related parties. The mosque | ||
| Relationship with any related | Para 1.51 | operates independently, with no affiliations or |
| parties | formal connections to external organizations, | |
| individuals, or entities that could influence its | ||
| governance or operations. | ||
| All decisions and activities are managed |
internally by the trustees, ensuring that the mosque remains fully focused on serving the needs of the local community in line with its charitable objectives. Other
Reference and Administrative details
| Charityname | CHARLTON MASJID TRUST |
|---|---|
| Other name the charityuses | |
| Registered charitynumber | 269161 |
| Charity’s principal address | Charlton Mosque 30-32 Ransom Road London SE7 8SR |
Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity
| 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 |
Trustee name | Office (if any) | Dates acted if not for whole year | Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee(if any) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Khalid Mahmood Qureshi |
Since 17 July 2020 | |||
| Shafiq Ahmed | Since 6 September 2024 | |||
| Saghir Ahmed Qureshi |
Since 6 September 2024 | |||
| Saleem Asghar | Since 6 September 2024 | |||
| Mirza Mohammad Safdar |
Since 17 July 2020 | |||
Corporate trustees – names of the directors at the date the report was approved
Director name N/A
Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity
| Trustee name | Dates acted if not for wholeyear | |
|---|---|---|
| N/A | ||
Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others
Description of the assets held in N/A this capacity Name and objects of the charity N/A on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the custodian charity’s objects Details of arrangements for N/A safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity’s own assets
Additional information (optional)
Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)
| ames and addresses of advisers (Optional information) | ames and addresses of advisers (Optional information) | ames and addresses of advisers (Optional information) |
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| Type of adviser Name Address |
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| Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information) |
Exemptions from disclosure
Reason for non-disclosure of key personnel details
Other optional information
Declarations
The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.
Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees
Signature(s) Khalid Full name(s) Khalid Mahmood Qureshi Position (eg Secretary, Chair, Chairmen etc) Date 22 October 2024