Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS** **Baby Necessities Southampton** **Year ending 31 December 2024** Registered Charity Number: 1193806 www.babynecessities.co.uk Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **TABLE OF CONTENTS** **Organisational 3 Details** **Walk the 15 Test Way** **4 Our Story** **The Lorraine 16 Show** **Vision & 5 Mission** **6 Our Team** **17 Christmas Giving Tree Campaign 18 Outreach** **8 CEO Reflection** **19 Give a Gift** **9 Chair Reflection** **20 Baby Self Weighing Clinic** **10 Our Impact** **21 Thank you** **11 Baby Bank Alliance** **22 Feedback** **Fundraising & 12 Events** **Statement from 23 the Board of Trustees** **Garfield Weston 14 Foundation** **29 Receipts & Payments Accounts** **2** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **ORGANISATIONAL DETAILS** **Baby Necessities is a registered charity (Charitable Incorporated Organisation) in England and Wales with the following object:** To relieve poverty among parents and families of babies and young children in Southampton and the surrounding area of Hampshire, England, in particular, but not exclusively, by providing donated children’s clothes and basic essential items. ## **Registered Address** Unit C1 The Premier Centre, Premier Way, Romsey SO51 9DG **Instagram** @baby_necessities_babybank ## **Website** www.babynecessities.co.uk ## **LinkedIn** @baby-necessities-southampton ## **Facebook** @babynecessities1 ## **Email** info@babynecessities.co.uk **3 3** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **OUR STORY** Baby Necessities began in 2020, founded by two local mums during the pandemic who were moved to action by the rising number of families living in poverty. What started as a small effort to support local parents quickly grew in response to an overwhelming need. From day one, our mission has been to ease the pressure on families by rehoming quality pre-loved baby items, helping children thrive while reducing waste and protecting the planet. Now, Baby Necessities has grown into a thriving local charity powered by a small staff team, a dedicated army of volunteers and referral partners, and a generous community of donors. Together, we’ve supported thousands of families across Southampton and the surrounding areas, proving that small beginnings can lead to life-changing impact. ## **What we do** We support families facing challenging times by providing essential items for their babies and young children. From clothing and toys to vital equipment, every item we pass on helps to ease pressure on local parents and ensure their little ones have the best possible start. By rehoming high-quality, pre-loved items, we not only meet urgent practical needs but also offer care, dignity, and hope to families across Southampton and the surrounding areas. ## **Who we help** Access to Baby Necessities is via third-party referral by professionals such as community midwives, health visitors, GP’s, family support workers, social workers, educator or teacher, food bank volunteer, religious leaders etc. **4** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **VISION & MISSION** ## **Mission** To alleviate the impacts of poverty in children and their families by providing practical support to those in need. ## **Vision** By 2029 Baby Necessities will be a core service supporting the needs of deprived families in Southampton and the surrounding areas. **Aims - to be a force for change by** 1) **Helping to give children the best start in life and relieving financial pressure on their families** through the provision of essential items such as clothing, equipment, toys and other essentials. 2) **Protecting the environment by recycling of pre-loved items** which reduces items going to landfill. 3) **Reducing the pressure on NHS and social care services** by working in partnership to provide necessities to the families they support. **5** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **OUR TEAM** ## **Board of Trustees** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Chris Hey
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**Gary Essery** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Imogen Hooton
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CHAIR TRUSTEE APPOINTED 11 APPOINTED 21 FEBRUARY 2022 — SEPTEMBER 2022 — PRESENT PRESENT TRUSTEE TREASURER APPOINTED 29 JULY 2023 — PRESENT **Sofie Bennett** **Rachael Reynolds** TRUSTEE APPOINTED 31 OCTOBER 2023 — PRESENT TRUSTEE APPOINTED 11 FEBRUARY 2025 — PRESENT ## **Staffing Team** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Hayleigh Jarvis Gillian Wilkins
CO-FOUNDER FUNDING AND
CEO COMMUNICATIONS
MANAGER
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**Laura Peard** MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER **Claire Dines** PROJECT WORKER **6** RESIGNED TRUSTEES: MARIANNE HARRIS-BRIDGE 05 AUG 2022 TO 01 MAY 2024. LINDA MASON 20 SEP 2023 TO 02 MAY 2024. Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **Volunteers** ## **OUR TEAM** Our volunteers are the heart of the baby bank and play an essential role in ensuring our services run smoothly and effectively. In 2024, we were fortunate to receive an incredible 1,442 hours of volunteer time from 69 different individuals. This dedicated team included regular volunteers, ad-hoc helpers and washing volunteers, as well as students undertaking work experience and employees giving back through their corporate volunteer hours or team away days. Each person brought their time, energy and compassion, helping us to sort, prepare and distribute essential items to families in need. We simply could not achieve the impact we do without their unwavering support. Being a volunteer at Baby Necessities has been a lifeline for me. Recently retired from work, I was struggling to ‘feel useful’. Much as I love helping to care for my grandchildren I wanted to involve myself in something that was both worthwhile and ‘for me’. Baby Necessities has fit the bill perfectly. I look forward to my sessions there, the staff and other volunteers are welcoming and friendly, and I feel valued. It’s a privilege to be part of such a brilliant charity that is playing such a vital role in helping families in need. **7** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **REFLECTION** ## **Reflection from our CEO - Hayleigh Jarvis** As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on what has been an extraordinary year for Baby Necessities. We’ve been truly humbled by the generosity of our incredible community - every donation, every act of kindness and every show of support has helped bring comfort, dignity and joy to families who need it most. Our reach continues to grow, and we’ve supported more children this year than ever before. While we are powered day-to-day by a small team of staff, it truly takes a much larger network to make our work possible: our committed trustees, our incredible volunteers and supporters like you. One of the things we’re most proud of is that, even as demand has grown, we’ve never had to turn a referral away. At a time when some baby banks have struggled to meet rising need, we’ve made it possible because of the unwavering support of our community. Your generosity is helping us reach families at their most vulnerable and ensuring that every child referred to us receives the essentials they need to thrive. We are proud to have become official members of the Baby Bank Alliance, joining a national movement of baby banks working together to advocate, collaborate and amplify our collective impact. We were also delighted to be chosen as the charity partner for Hays Travel in Romsey, a partnership that not only helped bring in valuable support through fundraising, but also helped raise our profile within the local community. This has been our most successful year yet. Our Christmas Giving Tree campaign received an overwhelming response. Thanks to the generosity of our partner organisations, we collected a remarkable number of brand new gifts, toiletries and essentials that brightened the holidays for countless children. We also expanded our outreach efforts into even more schools and youth groups, creating opportunities for children to learn about empathy, generosity and the power of giving. Looking ahead to 2025, our hope is to continue strengthening our role as a core community service - one that families can rely on during times of need. We are committed to helping reduce the financial pressure facing so many households, while also easing the mental and emotional strain that often comes with it. We also aim to build even stronger partnerships across the public and voluntary sectors, ensuring our support is as accessible and far-reaching as possible. With your continued support, we believe 2025 can be a year of even greater impact, hope and connection. **8** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **REFLECTION** ## **Reflection from our Chair - Chris Hey** Reflecting on 2024, it’s clear how vital Baby Necessities continues to be to families across our community. Rising demand was met with unwavering dedication - from Hayleigh and the team, to our incredible volunteers, supporters, and partners. I echo Hayleigh’s thanks to everyone who’s helped us reach more children than ever this year. The sense of shared purpose across our network has been nothing short of inspiring. We were pleased to welcome Laura Peard to the team this year, bringing fresh energy and building brand awareness and community engagement. We also closed 2024 introducing Sofie Bennett to the Board of Trustees for a three year term, her insight and fundraising expertise is already adding strength to our communications and grant applications. Behind the scenes, we’ve focused on building a stronger foundation for the future, improving financial forecasting, grant tracking, and risk oversight. These are essential steps to ensure we grow sustainably and remain accountable. Our Board continues to offer thoughtful leadership and expertise: Imogen has guided us on legal matters and policy development. Gary, stepping into the treasurer role in 2025, brings clear financial scrutiny and strategic insight. Rachael offers valuable on-the-ground perspective as a long-time volunteer and front-line professional. It’s also important to reflect on how far we’ve come — from our founders Hayleigh and Lauren packing bundles at home, to delivering essential support at scale. That founding spirit of care, community, and action remains at the heart of everything we do. Looking ahead, we remain committed to deepening our impact, child by child, family by family. Thank you for standing with us. **9** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **OUR IMPACT** **A summary in figures.** Below is just a small indication of the number of items and bundles we gifted between Jan 2024 and Dec 2024. **1,174 children 195 pushchairs supported supplied** **130 Mum-to-be Hospital Packs** **501 toiletry packs** **407 blankets 144 safe places to sleep** **580 clothing bundles 353 bottles** **159 Moses Basket 126 tubs of ‘starter kits’ formula 593 packs of 217 New nappies mattresses** 6,739 essential items were gifted by Baby Necessities in 2024, with an estimated value of £236,128 **109** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **BABY BANK ALLIANCE** We’re proud members of the Baby Bank Alliance (BBA), which officially launched on 25th July 2024. This incredible organisation exists to champion and support baby banks across the UK, working to ensure that every child has access to the essentials they need to grow and thrive. The BBA plays a crucial role in helping baby banks secure the funding, resources, volunteers and practical support needed to make a meaningful impact in their communities. This year, the BBA conducted the first ever national survey of UK baby banks, revealing that nearly 200,000 children were supported in the past year. With 4.3 million children currently living in poverty across the UK, the need for baby banks like ours has never been greater. We’re especially grateful to the BBA for forging powerful partnerships and campaigns with organisations such as IKEA, ITV’s Lorraine, Morrisons, the Book Trust and Ickle Bubba. They also teamed up with Giovanna Fletcher and Save the Children UK to spotlight the incredible work of baby banks and the families who rely on them. These collaborations have helped raise vital awareness and bring essential items to baby banks nationwide. Thank you BBA, for being a constant source of support and inspiration. Your training webinars, guidance, grant opportunities and the community you’ve created have been invaluable. Together we’re not only stronger, we’re changing lives. **11** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **FUNDRAISING AND EVENTS** ## **MOTHER’S DAY CAMPAIGN** In March 2024 we were proud to provide 40 beautifully packaged gift bags to mums in need. Each one filled with pamper items, chocolate and thoughtful gifts. These bags were a small gesture with a big impact, reminding mums that they are seen, valued and appreciated. A heartfelt thank you goes to The Hygiene Bank in Romsey for generously supplying a large portion of the items, and to the kind members of the public who donated towards this project. For many of the mums who received them, this was the only gift they received. A moment of kindness that lifted spirits and offered a well-deserved moment of self-care. ## **NORTH BADDESLEY VILLAGE DAY** On 18th May, we were delighted to take part in the North Baddesley Village Day. Another wonderful opportunity to connect with our local community and raise both awareness and funds for our cause. Our tombola and ever popular "Hook the Duck" game were drawing families to our stall and giving us the chance to share more about the work we do. We're thrilled to report that we raised £293 on the day. A big thank you to everyone who stopped by, played a game, made a donation, or simply took the time to learn more about our charity. ## **ROMSEY RELAY MARATHON** Our amazing team of runners took on the challenge of the annual Romsey Relay, collectively covering the full marathon distance of 26 miles and 385 yards. We were thrilled to be joined once again by the fantastic team from B- Fit Fitness, whose energy and enthusiasm helped make the day a great success. With every step, our runners helped raise awareness of our cause and vital funds to support families in need. Thanks to their efforts and the generosity of our supporters, we’re proud to share that we raised £358! A huge thank you to everyone who ran, donated, or cheered us on - it all makes a **12** difference. Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **FUNDRAISING AND EVENTS** ## **PINK AND GREEN CAMPAIGN** Each year, we invite our wonderful supporters to get involved in our 'Pink and Green' campaign by wearing Baby Necessities’ colours, and helping us raise vital funds. This year, we held a themed bake sale on site, raising an impressive £216. A huge thank you to everyone who purchased a treat and to our amazing volunteers who baked them! We’re especially grateful to Nightingale Primary School and Hiltingbury Infant and Junior School’s for going above and beyond in support of the campaign. Not only did they collect essential items such as nappies, baby wipes and toiletries, but they also held a pink and green non-uniform day and raised an incredible £482! Your support means so much and helps us continue making a difference for local families. ## **TEST VALLEY VOLUNTEER AWARDS 2024** We were proud to once again be shortlisted for the Test Valley Team of the Year Awards, hosted by Unity. A group of our staff and volunteers attended the event to celebrate alongside an inspiring group of nominees and well-deserving winners. While we didn’t take home the award in our category, we were deeply honored to be recognised and especially thrilled to receive a special judge’s mention: “This team’s dedication to providing essential items to families in need, with such passion and enthusiasm, is truly commendable. Their work has a direct impact on the well-being of local families.” It was a memorable evening and a wonderful reminder of the strength and spirit of our local community. ## **SUMMER RAFFLE** Our Summer Raffle was a fantastic success, thanks to an incredible selection of prizes generously donated by some of the region’s top attractions and experiences. Every ticket purchased helped us continue our vital work supporting local families in need. Among the exciting prizes were tickets to Victorious Festival and Paulton’s Park, a signed Southampton FC pennant, a Bombay Sapphire Discovery Experience for two, a £100 voucher for Delta Force Paintball Southampton, and many more amazing treats. We’re thrilled to share that the raffle raised an impressive £672! A heartfelt thank you to all the businesses who donated **13** prizes and to everyone who bought a ticket, your support makes a real difference. Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **GARFIELD WESTON FOUNDATION** A heartfelt thank you to the Garfield Weston Foundation, a long established, family founded grant-maker committed to supporting a broad spectrum of charities across the UK. Their dedication to strengthening communities and backing impactful grassroots work is truly inspiring, and we are incredibly honoured to be among the organisations they have chosen to support. We received a generous £10,000 grant from the Garfield Weston Foundation to help cover our core operating costs. This type of funding is absolutely vital for the future of Baby Necessities. While project specific donations are often easier to secure, unrestricted grants and core costs grants like this provide the stability we need to keep our services running day to day. They enable us to plan ahead, respond quickly to urgent needs and continue delivering consistent, high quality support to the families who rely on us. Support from funders like Garfield Weston doesn’t just help us function, it helps us grow, adapt and thrive. Thank you for investing in our mission and believing in the work we do. **14** **----- Start of picture text -----**
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## **WALK THE TEST WAY** This year marked Baby Necessities’ third time taking part in Romsey Rotary Club’s annual fundraiser Walk the Test Way, and what an incredible day it was! On 29th September 2024, our team was out in full force, with one of our staff members and a group of our valued referral partners at the East and Romsey Health Visiting Team walking 11 miles, and two of our long term supporters bravely tackling the full 25 mile distance. Through muddy trails, slippery slopes, stiles and long stretches across fields, they powered through with determination and heart. We’re thrilled to share that their efforts raised an amazing **£1,912** in support of our work. A huge thank you to everyone who took part and to those who sponsored them, your support helps us continue walking alongside families in need every step of the way. **15** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **THE LORRAINE SHOW** In November, the Lorraine Show on ITV launched the Big Baby Bank Appeal in partnership with the Baby Bank Alliance and Morrisons. With 4.3 million children in the UK now living in poverty and families facing ever increasing food and energy costs, this campaign came at a crucial time. The appeal played a powerful role in raising national awareness of the essential work baby banks do to support families in crisis and we’re incredibly grateful to have been part of it. As part of the campaign, members of the public were encouraged to donate essential baby items at their local Morrisons store. We were thrilled that Morrisons in Totton chose to partner with Baby Necessities. Thanks to the generosity of the local community, we were gifted a trolley overflowing with much needed supplies at the end of the two week campaign. These donations will go directly to families who need them most. Thank you to everyone who contributed. **16** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **CHRISTMAS GIVING TREE CAMPAIGN** Our 2024 Christmas Giving Tree campaign was our most successful yet, thanks to the incredible generosity of our local community. Several schools, businesses and organisations joined us by hosting beautifully decorated trees adorned with giving tags, each one representing a gift or essential item that supporters could purchase for a family in need. Thanks to this amazing collective effort, we received a wide range of brand new items, from toys and toiletries to winter essentials, all of which made a meaningful difference to the families we support. We are so grateful to everyone who took part. A heartfelt thank you to Deer Park School, Colden Common Primary, Hiltingbury Junior School, King Edward VI Preparatory School, Eco Montessori Nursery, Challoner House Care Home, NatWest in Chandler’s Ford, the Haemophilia & Anticoagulation Team at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, the Research and Innovation Services (RIS) Team at Southampton University, GEO Specialty Chemicals in Hythe, The Four Horseshoes pub, The Duke on the Test pub and the Romsey businesses responsible for hosting a spectacular tree along Latimer Walk. Your kindness helped bring joy and support to so many families this Christmas. **17** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **OUTREACH** This year, we’ve placed a strong emphasis on expanding our outreach programme - connecting with schools, nursing homes, Brownies, Scouts and other community groups to raise awareness about the vital work of Baby Necessities. During school assemblies, we’ve been sharing an interactive story that brings the concept of a baby bank to life. Through these sessions, we aim to inspire young minds by exploring themes such as helping those less fortunate, the importance of community, sustainability and the power of recycling. One standout moment was our visit to Nightingale Primary School, where students responded with incredible generosity by organising a toiletries collection to support our work. Not only that, to deepen their understanding further, a group of students later visited us with their Headteacher to take part in a volunteer session. They helped assemble a full Moses basket kit, experiencing firsthand how their donations directly support families in need. The students were thoughtful, engaged and showed a genuine sense of care and responsibility. It’s these moments that remind us of the power of education and community in driving meaningful change. We have also visited Hiltingbury Infant and Hiltingbury Junior School’s, Winterslow C of E Primary School, Sherbourne House, King Edward VI Prep School, Mountbatten (online talk given), Colden Common Primary, Orchard Junior School and Deer Park Secondary School. **18** **----- Start of picture text -----**
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## **GIVE A GIFT** Our Give a Gift service has continued to grow in impact this year, bringing birthday joy to children who may not otherwise be celebrated in the way they deserve. In 2024, thanks to the incredible kindness of our supporters, we were able to provide 55 children with brand new gifts, party banners, birthday cards and even cakes, totalling an amazing £3,704 worth of donated and purchased items. But this service is about far more than just the gifts. It’s about creating moments of happiness, making each child feel seen, valued and loved on their special day. We are truly thankful to everyone who contributed to making these birthdays brighter - you’ve helped create memories that will last a lifetime. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Cake supplied by
Free Cakes for Kids
Southampton
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## **BABY SELF-WEIGHING CLINIC** Our Baby Self-Weighing Clinic, held on the first Thursday of every month at Baby Necessities HQ, has grown into one of our most popular and well-loved services in 2024. What started as a response to the significant drop in post-COVID weighing clinics has quickly become a valued and trusted resource for many local parents and carers. We created this space to be warm, welcoming and free of judgment, somewhere families can feel comfortable tracking their baby’s growth and connecting with others in the community. Since launching, the clinic has been accessed hundreds of times, with 184 visits in 2024, which included a fantastic mix of regular families and new faces joining us each month. This is such a brilliant service! Always warm and friendly and has saved me worrying - especially now we have started solids. A service like this should be more widely available! Thank you! Always a warm welcome every time we come, lovely chatty people and make weighing our babies so much calmer. The team is so friendly and always there to help out. Really grateful for the weighing clinic! We’re delighted to be able to offer this much needed service, because every baby deserves the best start in life. **20** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **THANK YOU** Baby Necessities wishes to pass on its sincere thanks to the following individuals, funding sources, charities and organisations that have supported us this year. Your support and belief in us is truly inspirational and we wouldn’t be where we are today without your help. ## 52 Lives Hampshire Hospitals NHS Trust Hays Travel Romsey High Score Hiltingbury Junior School Hygiene Bank Romsey In Kind Direct I Wanna Be..... Joe’s Christmas Shop King Edward VI Prep School Kings Theatre Latimer Walk Businesses in Romsey Longdown Activity Farm Lorraine ITV Show Morrisons - Totton Mottisfont National Trust National Lottery Community Fund NatWest New Forest Activity Centre New Forest East and Romsey Health Visiting Team New Forest LCP Nightingale Primary School North Baddesley Village Day NSPCC Nursling and Rownhams Carol Service Outreach Radio Paulton’s Park Personal Best Education Plaza Theatre Romsey Play Shack Abbeyfield House Abri Community Fund Adventure Cinema Albert Hunt Trust Arnold Clark Asda Eastleigh Community Champion Asda Foundation Baby Bank Alliance Baby Bundles Bank BBC Radio Solent Beauty Banks B-Fit Fitness B&Q Bombay Sapphire Distillery Bradbeers Cash for Kids South Coast Challoner House Care Home Chameleon Theatre Company Colden Common Primary Co-op DAC Beachcroft Deer Park School Delta Force Paintball Eastleigh Football Club Eastleigh LCP Eco Montessori Nursery ExxonMobil Flip Out - Basingstoke Food Centre at Kings Community Church Foyle Foundation Frankies Fun Factory Free Cakes for Kids Southampton Freedom Church - Romsey Garfield Weston Foundation ## Red Funnel Romsey and Waterside Lions Romsey and District Chamber of Commerce Rotary in Eastleigh Rotary in Romsey Romsey, Chandler’s Ford and District Round Table Romsey Show Romsey Skip & Bag Hire Romsey Town Mayor - Cllr. John Parker Seacity Museum Shark Home UK Sherborne House School Smalls for All Snowtrax SOS Presents Southampton FC Tea Cups Tea Room Tech Hub Test Valley Borough Council The Brickworks Museum The Duke on the Test The Four Horseshoes The Mortgage Stop The Old Station Tearooms The Romsey Rapids The Romsey Show Unity Online Victorious Festival Viro Print Wave 105 Wellington Country Park Wilton House A special thank you to everyone who has donated new or pre-loved goods, volunteered their time, shared and liked our social media posts, spread the word about us, or supported us in any way! **21** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **FEEDBACK** We had no idea of the level of support. It is beyond mind blowing that you have provided baby essentials, clothes, toys for the boys, and so much more. HUGE HUGE HUGE thanks from the bottom of our hearts for your amazing acts of kindness today. What an amazing job you are all doing. **Beneficiary** I am very happy with all the items packed for my baby and I, very lovely and most of them are brand new. Saying thank you so much because I was thinking how to get some of the items you got us. Pram and moses basket are very expensive it was something I was thinking about how to get but with your help got them free really appreciate and a big thanks to the people that make the effort. ## **Beneficiary** We are very grateful for the items given to us. The package includes all the necessary items for the newborn and it was very thoughtful. Because of your kindness, we managed to look after our little one I am overwhelmed with gratitude and smoothly in her very early days. emotion as I sit here surrounded by the incredible gifts you have generously provided **Beneficiary** for my baby. Your thoughtfulness and generosity have left me speechless, and tears of joy are flowing as I write this. The moses basket and travel system you gifted us are beyond anything l could have imagined. Each item is not just a practical necessity but a heartfelt gesture that will make a significant difference in our lives as l welcome my little one into the world. **Beneficiary** Baby Necessities has been an absolute lifeline for so many families, offering invaluable support during challenging times. Parents have shared heartfelt stories about how they wouldn’t have known what to do without this incredible service. This service has made an incredible difference to so many families, and the impact it has had on their lives cannot be overstated. The Baby Bank is more than just a resource, it’s a community lifeline that’s truly making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. With numerous positive stories pouring in from grateful parents, it's clear this service is irreplaceable and appreciated beyond words. **22** **Support Worker, Safeguarding Team.** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **STATEMENT FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES** ## **TRUSTEES’ REPORT** The trustees are responsible for preparing the trustees’ annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards. Charity law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure, of the charity for that period. The trustees are responsible for keeping accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the charity and enable them to ascertain to ensure that the financial statements comply with Charities Act 2011. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The trustees of Baby Necessities Southampton are pleased to present their approved report and the financial statement for the period ended 31 December 2024. The board commends the charity’s operational leadership, employees and volunteers for another fantastic year for the charity, despite the wider economic backdrop which challenges the sector. **23** ## Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 **STATEMENT FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES** ## **STATEMENT OF PUBLIC BENEFIT** Baby Necessities’ services benefit the children of families who, for reasons including low or loss of income, domestic violence or even the age of the parents, do not have access to the basic essentials that every child deserves. The charity provides bundles to its referral partners, being health visitor/midwifery teams, social workers, community leaders and other charities, in and around Southampton. In providing its services, it benefit the public in the following ways: - **Wider Community:** The charity offers a volunteering opportunity through which members of the community can learn new skills and meet new people. It also encourages local businesses to give back to their community by partnering with a worthwhile cause and volunteering their time and resources. - **Environment:** Through the redistribution of second hand items the charity reduces unnecessary waste. The general public donates their pre-used baby and infant items to families in need, whilst also having a positive impact on the environment. The charity’s services cover big-ticket items such as prams and cots as well as clothing, contributing in no small way to the local circular economy. - **Families:** Providing the essentials helps to ensure that infants and young children have a safe place to sleep, are clean and are suitably clothed. The charity assists in relieving both the financial pressure and emotional stress of families facing hardship. - **Referral Partners:** Healthcare professionals and other family support workers now have a service within the local community that they can use when a family that they are working with are in need of basic and essential supplies. Such a service did not exist in the local area prior to Baby Necessities being founded. Under Section 17 of the Charities Act 2011, the Trustees have given serious consideration to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when planning the charity’s activities, and in particular to the relief and prevention of poverty in children. There has been no change to Baby Necessities’ objectives during **24** the year. Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **STATEMENT FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES** ## **METHODS USED TO RECRUIT AND APPOINT NEW TRUSTEES** New Trustees are recruited by the board in line with Baby Necessities’ Trustee Recruitment Policy. Positions are advertised across our social media channels, on our website and using platforms such as Reach Volunteering. Initial interviews take place with a trustee and a senior member of staff, and interview feedback is provided to the rest of the board for consideration. If successful, at this point a trustee may be invited to attend a board meeting as a guest, or to attend a volunteering session at Baby Necessities to assess mutual fit. Where a candidate is still interested in joining the board of trustees, the existing board will then take a vote. Prior to appointment, Trustees are DBS checked and are required to sign a Trustee Declaration detailing any other appointments or potential conflicts of interest. Newly appointed Trustees receive a formal induction which outlines the work of the charity and includes a set of key documents (such as policies and the constitution) to give them the tools required to fulfil their role. Where a skills gap is identified on the board, the board actively seeks Trustees suitable to fill this gap by advertising for the specific skillset. **25** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **STATEMENT FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES** ## **FUTURE PLANS** Baby Necessities provides an essential service to our community, and it has again succeeded in meeting the increasing numbers of referrals it has received for its services during 2024. In order to continue to meet these demands the charity is now focussing on building its corporate sponsorship and volunteer opportunities. Donation levels of second hand clothes and other goods from the general public remain strong, in part due to the charity’s online presence seeing a great improvement following the employment of a Marketing and Communications Officer. Finding adequate storage facilities is therefore a priority for the charity and it has in place a strategic roadmap for analysing, costing and locating potential new or additional storage facilities over the next 12 to 24 months. ## **FINANCIAL REVIEW AND RESERVES POLICY** Despite the overall challenging economic environment, and reducing grant support across the sector, Baby Necessities has had a successful fourth year, generating an income of £161,438 (a combination of restricted and unrestricted funds) via grants, donations and fundraising activities. Its total expenditure for the year was £143,240 resulting in a net surplus this year of £18,198. Restricted funds at the end of the financial year totalled £35,357 (2023: £18,439) across several funding providers (incl. Garfield Weston, The Foyle Foundation and Albert Hunt Trust). A portion of the grants received restrict the funds for particular expenses including premises, salaries and specified types of equipment (e.g. mattresses). Donations-in-kind are not reflected in the income or expenditure within the charity’s financial statements but represent a significant **26** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **STATEMENT FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES** additional donation stream and source of sustainability. Brand new items (from the Amazon wish list or handed in on donation mornings) are valued using the recommended retail price (RRP) when they are received. The charity received approximately £14,291 worth of donated brand-new items in 2024. A formal reserves policy is in place. The Trustees agree that the charity should maintain unrestricted funds at a level which equates to approximately three months’ of unavoidable running costs (around £30,000). This provides a buffer to cover management, administration, support costs and to respond to emergencies should income levels fall below what the charity needs to continue running. Unrestricted funds at the end of 31 December 2024 were £28,446 (2023: £27,166). The board acknowledges a continuing positive success rate in funding applications being granted. The board recognises that there has been a decrease in grants across the sector, which includes a reduction in the charity’s success rate when compared to 2023. However the charity’s income remains stable and sustainable, and donations of items and clothing from the public remain strong. With the continuing focus on developing the additional funding streams and marketing strategy, including a marked improvement in the charity’s social media presence, the board has no current concerns about the charity’s ability to continue operating. **27** Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **STATEMENT FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES** ## **PRICIPLE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES** The charity has a risk register in place, covering governance, financial, operational, external and reputational, legal and compliance risk and how they are managed. The board regularly review the register at its meetings. ## **DECLARATION** The Trustees declare that they have approved the Trustees’ report above. Signed on behalf of the charity’s Trustees: **Signature: Full Name:** Imogen Hooton **Position:** Trustee **Date:** 07 August 2025 **28** Docusign EnvelopÈ ID". A2CD874F-825E-4686-B32B-AEF686C37656 LfiHKI i T LVIVIIVII))IVIY FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Recelpts and payments accounts Baby Necesslilès 1193806 CC16a For th• p•rlod from 0110112024 3111212024 Section A Receipts and payments Unrestricted funds to the nearest Restricted fund5 Endowment fund5 Totsl funds Last yea to the neiresl£ to the nearest£ tothe nearest £ to the nearest£ A1 R•c•i Grants Donations Fundraislng evonlg other 4.700 11.918 6.532 138,288 142.988 11.918 6.532 113.306 9.060 9.328 55 Sub total(Gross income lor AR) 23.150 138,288 161.438 131.749 A2 Ass•t and Inv•sthi•nt sal•s. s•• tabl• . Sub roral Toralreceip 2J,150 138,288 101838 131,749 A3Pa •nt5 Fundraising Expenses Supplles for $oMC8 US•IS Volunleor Costs 471 1.034 75 162 471 36.681 75 162 1.281 18.709 154 35.648 Ath*fysing 8 Mark•lng Accoun1￿0 Bank F••• Cl••ning In$uian¢• Ir Soth¥*e and Con$umaty•$ Legal F•¢$ Llghl. Pow•1 and H•at Offl¢• Expgn$•s P•nsion Costs Poitag•. Fr•ight8 Courl•l Prinbng & siatsoThèry R•M R•paJrs & M*nt•n4nc• Saian05 siall Ti•rtn9 SuD$thpthons Sunary Expens•s Telephone & thlemel 402 2J 82 327 102 756 2,076 2A78 23 392 927 2.049 756 954 309 800 1,948 J42 ATO 1.585 216 1,588 1,915 2.132 1881 1.871 438 11 1,0fj8 1,068 142 210 24.938 345 449 1,988 345 22,950 22.914 2.371 47.492 34J 13,698 5J.465 100 67.164 1r 144 270 200 200 829 143.035 182 890 104,fj71 826 121,31T Sub roral 21,718 29 Docusign EnvelopÈ ID". A2CD874F-825E-4686-B32B-AEF686C37656 A4 Asset and Invèstmènt purcha5e5, {5ee table) Leasehold Improvemonls Computer Equipment Plant 2.408 349 205 205 885 Sub iotal 205 205 3.642 Totslpayments 21,923 121,317 143.240 108,313 Net of receiprs/{payments) A5 Transfers between funds A6 Cash funds last y•ar •nd Cash funds thls year end 1,227 53 16,970 53 18,198 23,436 27,166 18,446 18,439 35,357 45.605 63.803 22,169 45,605 Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period Unrestricted funds to nearesl £ Resiricied funds io nè•resl £ Endowment funds io ne•reit£ Cat•gorl•s D•tslls B1 Cash funds CurrentAccount$ 28,413 35.357 Petty Cash 33 Toral cash funds 28,446 35,351 logr•e ￿&•n¢•I Wth recegls and ￿Y￿nIS •ccount(•ll Unr•strlct•d funds R•strf￿•d funds io n*•r*$i £ 8.000 Endowm•nt funds lo ne•r*$i£ Details Rent d¢po$ll B2 Other mon•tary assets Fund to ¥hloh Details Cosl loplional) B3 Inv•stm•nt ass•ts Fund to Which assei bèlon Unrestrictèd Cost lopilonal) 3.7Z3 Curr•nl valu• B4 AsS•ts r•tain•d for th• charlty's own use Comput*F Equiwnenl 570 C*lioe Equiwneni Unresiricied 1.934 538 Plaii andmaohineiy UnTesiTioied 1.291 705 Leaseholdlrrprovemenis Unresiilcied 2.408 1.673 30 Docusign EnvelopÈ ID". A2CD874F-825E-4686-B32B-AEF686C37656 Fund to ¥hich ielales P￿StriCt•d Amouni due o oional When due ilonal Deiails PAYEINIC PayabLp B5 Liabilities 2.237 Pension P￿a￿e Pffistricted Accounis Payable Lhrestricied Acoounianoy Resiiicied 2.094 R•lat•d Party Transactions During the year ended 31 December 2024 the rernuneratK¢n of key personnel was £22,521 12023.. £24,844) SKJned ty one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees Date of roval Print Name CHRIS HEY 08 August 202 31 Docusign Envelope ID: A2CD874F-B25E-46B6-B32B-AEF686C37656 ## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES** ## **Year ended 31 December 2024** I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Baby Necessities CIO (the Charity) for the period ended 31 December 2024. ## **Responsibilities and basis of report** As the charity trustees of the Charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’). I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act. ## **Independent examiner’s statement** I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect: - 1.accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by section 130 of the Act; or - 2.the accounts do not accord with those records. 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. ## **Signed:** **Name:** Mrs Lucy A Parry ACA **Address:** Langdowns DFK Limited, Fleming Court, Leigh Road, Eastleigh, Southampton, SO50 9PD **Date:** 11 August 2025 **32**