DORCAS
Trustee
nnual
epo
202412025
Help End F_GM
## **Contents**
## **Report of the Trustees Incorporating**
|Summary of Objectives & Public Benefit|Page 2|
|---|---|
|Chief Executive Officer’s Report|Page 3-4|
|Meet the DORCAS Team|Page 4|
|What is FGM & Consequences|Page 5|
|Data from NHS England|Page 6|
|Achievements, Performance & Services|Page 7-11|
|Financial Review & Reserves Policy|Page 12|
|Thank you to our Funders|Page 13|
|Structure, Governance and Management|Page 13|
|Responsibility of the Trustees|Page 14|
|Reference & Administrative Information|Page 15|
|Our Year in Photos|Page 16|
|**Annual Accounts Incorporating**||
|Independent Examiner’s Report|Page 17|
|Receipts and Payment Account|Page 18|
|Statement of Assets and Liabilities|Page 19|
|Notes to the Accounts|Page 20-21|
pg. 1
## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES OF DORCAS (Daughters, Optimistic, Respect, Courage, Assurance & Support)**
The Charity Trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31st March 2025. The financial statements comply with both the Charity’s Constitution and the Charities Act 2011.
DORCAS (Daughters, Optimistic, Respect, Courage, Assurance & Support) is a registered charity that was created to promote and protect the human rights of girls and women who are at risk of abuse; in particular those who are at risk of or have undergone Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
We aim to raise awareness about FGM and work in collaboration with partnership agencies throughout the West Midlands, to help people who are affected by this practice and ultimately help bring an end to this abhorrent crime.
We take a holistic approach, offering advice and support to those who need it most and place their wellbeing at the front of all our services. We provide awareness programmes to primary/secondary school pupils, colleges and universities, parent consultations, community cohesion, safeguarding, accredited training to professionals, counselling, advocacy, emotional and practical support to survivors, health and wellbeing sessions, court support for protective orders and our early years activity session called My Body Belongs to Me, which teaches younger children the importance of their body being protected and safe.
## **Summary of Objectives**
To promote, preserve and protect the physical and mental health of girls and women living in the Black Country, Birmingham area and Leicester area, especially by provision of:
- One to one emotional and practical support to women and girls at risk or have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM).
- Advocacy, support and referrals to health services and internal counselling.
To advance education, provide information and raise awareness of FGM within the community through the provision of:
- Training to professionals.
- Partnerships working.
- Delivery of FGM awareness programme to schools.
- Engaging with faith and cultural groups.
## **Public Benefit**
The trustees have given regard to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit (Charities and Public Benefit) in the relation to the charitable purpose of the charity. In providing support to women and girls of all ages and from any culture who live within the Black Country, Birmingham and Leicester area, the trustees believe that the objectives of the charity fall within the remit of ‘for public benefit’.
pg. 2
## **Chief Executive Officer’s Report**
its role as a trusted specialist provider of support for survivors of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and those at risk across Birmingham, the Black Country, and Leicester. Building on strong foundations, this year marked a period of deeper partnership working, service expansion, and strengthened safeguarding leadership, while maintaining our unwavering commitment to survivor-centred, trauma-informed practice.
FGM remains a deeply hidden form of abuse, often surrounded by stigma, fear, and silence. In response, DORCAS has continued to prioritise long-term community engagement, strengthening trust within affected communities and ensuring survivors feel safe to access support. Our approach remains rooted in co-production, ensuring services reflect the voices and lived experiences of those we serve.
A key development this year has been our strengthened collaboration with West Midlands Police and Leicestershire Police. DORCAS has worked closely with police partners and taken a leading role in safeguarding concerns, supporting risk identification, information sharing, and early intervention. This collaborative approach has strengthened safeguarding pathways and improved professional confidence in responding to FGM-related risks.
We continued to deliver CPD-accredited FGM training to professionals across statutory and voluntary sectors, equipping frontline staff with the knowledge and skills to identify risk, respond appropriately to disclosures, and uphold safeguarding responsibilities. Alongside this, DORCAS formed new alliances and strengthened existing partnerships with voluntary, community, and statutory agencies, facilitating and contributing to joint initiatives focused on prevention, protection, and survivor support.
Our Health and Wellbeing Programme achieved exceptional success during 2024/25. Due to high engagement and positive outcomes, the programme was expanded and delivered across additional venues within our geographical remit. Activities such as fitness sessions, yoga, mindfulness, and wellbeing workshops supported participants to rebuild physical strength, emotional resilience, and social connection, while reducing isolation and improving overall wellbeing.
Responding to growing need, DORCAS developed and delivered targeted programmes supporting asylum seekers and refugees affected by or at risk of FGM. These programmes provided culturally sensitive support alongside practical guidance and trauma-informed therapeutic interventions for individuals navigating displacement, resettlement, and recovery. In partnership with Walsall Education Services, we successfully rolled out ESOL classes, enabling women to develop language skills, increase independence, and access wider opportunities.
Through funding from the Heart of England Inclusive Communities Common Fund, DORCAS partnered with Places Leisure to provide gym memberships and access to fitness classes for men and women from under-represented Black and Ethnic Minority communities. This initiative aimed to strengthen community connections, encourage healthy lifestyles, reduce loneliness, and promote inclusion.
pg. 3
Working in partnership with My Solutions Wellbeing and Therapeutic Services, we integrated physical activity with mental health and trauma-informed therapeutic support, delivering a holistic model that addressed both physical and psychological wellbeing.
Throughout the year, DORCAS expanded its reach by strengthening relationships with additional Local Authorities and delivering services within an increasing number of community settings. This expansion improved accessibility to support, increased early intervention opportunities, and reinforced local safeguarding networks.
We are particularly grateful for the continued support of the Lloyds Bank Foundation, whose investment has been instrumental in strengthening DORCAS’s organisational capacity. Their support enabled us to develop a robust Theory of Change, enhance service quality and delivery, and invest in the growth and development of our team. This work has strengthened our sustainability and positioned the organisation for continued impact.
As we look ahead, DORCAS remains committed to keeping FGM firmly on the agenda at local, regional, and national levels. Protecting women and girls from FGM requires collective responsibility, strong partnerships, and sustained commitment across all sectors. At DORCAS, we firmly believe that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we will continue to work collaboratively to achieve lasting change.
We extend our sincere thanks to our funders, partners, and supporters who make this work possible. Your continued commitment enables DORCAS to protect those at risk, support survivors in their recovery, and work towards a future free from FGM.
## **Tessa Clarke - Chief Executive Officer**
## **Meet the DORCAS team**
pg. 4
## **What is FGM**
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but there's no medical reason for this to be done. It's also known as female circumcision or cutting, and by other terms, such as Sunna, gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan, among others.
Instruments such as a knife, scalpel, scissors, glass or a razor blade are commonly used. Children are rarely given anaesthetic or antiseptic treatment and are often forcibly restrained; meaning that they are awake during the procedure and are held down by family members while they are being cut. FGM is not based on religion but on cultural tradition, which is passed down from generation to generation for decades.
## **Consequences of FGM**
The effects of FGM in Children - excessive bleeding are common consequences of the procedures, both of which can be deadly. Death can occur as a direct result of being cut. These deaths can be caused by a range of complications, including haemorrhage, contracting septicaemia, tetanus, or HIV, due to unsterilised tools. A girl will also experience shock, fear, pain and trauma.
After undergoing FGM, a girl can experience difficulty in passing urine and difficulties with menstruation, because her urethra and/or vaginal opening may have been blocked through FGM. This can lead to chronic urinary infections and chronic pelvic inflammation. They may also suffer from cysts, abscesses and ulcers after being cut.
Young girls who are subjected to FGM may also suffer educationally. Health problems resulting from FGM can cause them to miss school/college/university, leading to poor achievements, which will economically disadvantage them later in their lives. FGM is also often a precursor to child marriage.
The effect on women adults - With FGM, sex can be painful and traumatic. Women and girls who have undergone infibulation (narrowing the vaginal opening). This will often have to be re-cut to have sex or may experience forced penetration. It is not only the first time that is painful. For many women, scar tissue will continue to cause pain during sex throughout their lifetimes, whilst their partners may also experience pain and trauma during sex. After a girl/young woman is cut, there can be an increased risk of infertility, which within some communities may cause her to be abandoned by her husband.
FGM has a direct impact on maternal and infant mortality. Women who have undergone FGM Type 3 are 70% more likely to suffer haemorrhage through giving birth. They are twice as likely to die in childbirth and have a higher likelihood of stillbirth due to obstructed labour. Women who have undergone FGM Type 3 are also more likely to experience other complications including obstetric fistula, foetal asphyxia, and perineal tears.
pg. 5
**It is estimated that more than 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM worldwide, with the majority of children cut before the age of 5.**
## **Data from NHS England**
The NHS Dataset has reported on FGM cases in England since 2015. The below excerpt details individual cases reported between 2023 - 2025.
It shows the number of newly reported cases as well as the total of attendances to NHS services, which includes GP’s, hospitals and mental health services. Unfortunately, since the start of the Dataset, the figures have increased most years!
|**Quarterly**|**Number of**|**Newly**|**Total**|
|---|---|---|---|
|**Data**|**Individuals**|**Recorded**|**Attendances**|
|**2023**||||
|Quarter 1|1,760|805|2,990|
|Quarter 2|1,865|865|3,075|
|Quarter 3|1,945|970|3,310|
|Quarter 4|2,180|1,040|3,955|
|**2024**||||
|Quarter 1|2,090|945|3,900|
|Quarter 2|2,175|985|3,960|
|Quarter 3|2,125|955|4,010|
|Quarter 4|2,155|900|4,035|
|**2025**||||
|Quarter 1|2,245|970|4,015|
|**Total**|**18,540**|**8,435**|**33,250**|
pg. 6
## **Our Achievements, Performance and Services**
By working closely with community groups and trusted leaders, DORCAS has continued to educate, challenge and engage communities about the realities and dangers of FGM. Through open, culturally sensitive dialogue and evidence-based education, we have supported communities to dispel long-held myths, increase understanding, and begin to question practices that cause lifelong harm to women and girls. This sustained approach to prevention and awareness is essential to driving long-term behavioural and attitudinal change.
As trust grows and understanding deepens, we are seeing increased openness to discussion, earlier engagement with support services, and greater recognition of the profound impact FGM has on women’s physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing. Over time, this work contributes to improved mental and physical health outcomes for survivors, enabling women to heal, regain confidence, and rebuild their lives in ways that are meaningful and sustainable.
Crucially, our work also seeks to shift harmful gender dynamics within families and communities. By challenging deeply rooted misconceptions associated with FGM, we promote the intrinsic value, dignity, and rights of women and girls. This approach helps to amplify the voices of those who have been silenced by this practice, reducing stigma and enabling women to participate fully in family and community life without fear or shame.
Through education, advocacy, and survivor-centred support, DORCAS is contributing to generational change. Women are increasingly empowered to seek help, access services, and advocate for themselves and their children. This work not only transforms individual lives but also lays the foundation for safer, healthier communities and a future where the next generation grows up free from the threat of FGM.
## **Primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities**
The programme enables preventative interventions at the earliest possible stage, ensuring that children and young people at risk of FGM are identified, safeguarded, and supported. Through protection, counselling, and ongoing support, DORCAS works with girls at risk of FGM to strengthen resilience, promote safety, and support long-term wellbeing. This approach supports girls not only during their school years but also as they grow into confident and informed adults.
Creative arts and awareness-raising activities build confidence, encourage self-expression, and empower young people to challenge harmful cultural practices. By increasing understanding that all forms of abuse, including FGM, cause severe and lifelong physical and psychological harm, the programme supports informed decision-making for both present and future generations.
pg. 7
DORCAS creates safe spaces for open conversation, enabling children and young people to explore difficult topics without fear or judgement. Participants are empowered to challenge deep-rooted traditions based on silence and control, gaining the confidence to say no to FGM and the reassurance that strong safeguarding systems and community support are in place.
During 2024/25, DORCAS continued to strengthen its school delivery programme, with a significant increase in FGM awareness activity. Schools have invited DORCAS to return annually, recognising the importance of consistent education to ensure no child is left behind. Increased parental engagement has led to growing demand for more in-depth awareness sessions.
Strong safeguarding partnerships with schools have enabled DORCAS to extend its reach beyond the classroom. We were invited to engage at parent evenings, coffee mornings, school engagement events, leisure centres, university student fairs, and community wellbeing days. Awareness-raising also extended to staff supporting children and families’ emotional health and wellbeing, reinforcing a whole-school and whole-community approach to preventing FGM.
## **Counselling and one to one support**
Our counsellors provide specialist, trauma-informed therapeutic services to survivors of FGM living within our geographical remit. We offer a wide range of evidence-based and holistic interventions, including trauma therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, psychosexual therapy, support with relationship issues, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, personcentred counselling, and group therapy. Therapeutic support is delivered alongside a dedicated support worker, ensuring continuity of care and comprehensive support throughout the counselling journey.
In addition to therapeutic interventions, DORCAS provides one-to-one emotional and practical support to survivors, those at risk of FGM, and their families. During 2024/25, we increased our capacity to work more closely with families on an individual basis, supporting improved understanding of the serious physical, psychological, and long-term health impacts of FGM. This work also strengthened awareness of UK legislation, safeguarding responsibilities, and pathways to protection, helping families make informed choices and access appropriate support.
## **Community Cohesion/Outreach/Awareness**
This work continues to strengthen community partnership working, bringing together diverse groups in a spirit of inclusion rather than isolation. By encouraging multi-faith and crosscommunity collaboration, DORCAS supports communities to work collectively and in unity, breaking down barriers that can lead to exclusion or silence. Community members are better informed about where and how to access support, contributing to increased confidence in safeguarding pathways and services. As a result, DORCAS has become a trusted and recognised presence within the community, with FGM awareness continuing to grow year on year.
DORCAS works closely with a wide range of community and faith groups and delivers targeted sessions specifically for men, recognising their vital role in preventing FGM. By engaging men as allies and educators, we promote shared responsibility and collective action in ending this harmful practice.
pg. 8
The voices of survivors, children, and young people remain central to the ongoing development of our services. Their lived experiences inform service design, delivery, and improvement, ensuring our work remains relevant, responsive, and impactful. Through engagement with both male and female community groups, DORCAS continues to educate communities about the dangers and long-term consequences of FGM.
The Black Country, Birmingham and Leicester are culturally diverse areas with a higher prevalence of FGM. By actively reaching out to and engaging a wide range of community groups, DORCAS has strengthened community cohesion, challenged harmful norms, and united communities around safeguarding and prevention. This work has helped break down stigma, increase understanding, and raise awareness of the serious physical, psychological, and long-term health impacts of FGM.
Our women’s support groups are delivered weekly across local communities and offer a wide range of activities designed to promote physical health, emotional wellbeing, and social connection. These include Zumba, Yoga, Fitness, Mindfulness, Pilates, and Nutrition sessions. In partnership with health and social care providers, DORCAS also delivers essential health talks covering topics such as FGM, menopause, cervical screening, breast and bowel cancer, and domestic and sexual abuse, supporting women to make informed choices about their health and wellbeing.
Throughout the year, DORCAS has continued to respond to the complex and evolving needs of individuals affected by FGM through health and wellbeing activities, group empowerment sessions, and targeted support linked to employment, education, and access to information. Advocacy for survivors with multiple and intersecting support needs has been a significant area of achievement during this financial year. Increased trust within communities has strengthened relationships, enabling DORCAS staff to more effectively identify risk, monitor wellbeing, and provide timely, appropriate support.
Strong partnership working and targeted funding have reduced barriers to accessing essential services, including counselling, healthcare, skills development, employment opportunities, and travel. This integrated approach has enabled DORCAS to expand its reach, develop new initiatives, and respond proactively to emerging needs. As a result, we have been able to explore new areas of work, extend support into previously under-served communities, and create sustainable pathways that promote long-term recovery, independence, and empowerment.
pg. 9
## **Annual National Events Annual National Events**
DORCAS took a strong and visible stance during Zero Tolerance Day, delivering public awareness activities in Leicester Haymarket in partnership with Freedom 4 Girls, and in Birmingham in collaboration with Aston University and White Ribbon. These events provided valuable opportunities to engage the public, challenge harmful practices, and reinforce clear messages that FGM and all forms of gender-based violence are abuses of human rights.
During the 16 Days of Activism against Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), DORCAS experienced increased interest in volunteering, partnership working, and joint initiatives across both voluntary and statutory sectors. Walsall, Wolverhampton, and Birmingham Councils played a crucial leadership role in coordinating events, providing platforms for engagement, and amplifying awareness across their respective areas. Together, these initiatives helped shine a light on abusive practices that continue to impact the lives of women and girls, strengthening collective commitment to prevention, protection, and long-term change.
## **Professionals Training Course**
The FGM training provides participants with essential cultural insight into the practice of FGM and equips them with the knowledge and confidence required to respond effectively within their professional roles. The course covers the different types of FGM, prevalence, signs and indicators, health consequences, safeguarding responsibilities, professional roles, and the legal framework in the UK.
The training is delivered as a 90-minute session and is offered free of charge. Sessions can be tailored for small or large groups and delivered either at organisational premises or at a local training venue, increasing accessibility for a wide range of professionals.
DORCAS believes that awareness, education, and professional training are fundamental to preventing FGM, strengthening safeguarding responses, and protecting women and girls. Through high-quality training, we continue to support professionals to recognise risk, take action, and contribute to lasting change.
- FGM Awareness Training for Professionals Courses| The CPD Certification Service (cpduk.co.uk)
## **My Body Belongs To Me**
Recognising that FGM cannot be taught directly to young children, DORCAS developed _My Body Belongs to Me_ —a fun, interactive early years programme that teaches children the importance of body safety in an age-appropriate way. The programme helps children understand that their bodies belong to them, that they have a right to feel safe, and that private parts are private and should be protected, using simple language and engaging activities.
Prior to delivering sessions with children, DORCAS supports schools through parent consultations. These sessions give parents the opportunity to meet the DORCAS team, learn about FGM within a safeguarding context, view the programme materials, and ask questions. This approach helps build trust, transparency, and shared understanding between schools, parents, and facilitators.
pg. 10
The programme continues to flourish across schools, reaching children from nursery age through to primary school leavers. Children develop a stronger understanding of their rights around harm and unwanted touch and are encouraged to look out for one another. Through this early intervention, _My Body Belongs to Me_ supports children to grow in confidence, respect, and awareness, helping them to become safe, informed, and responsible citizens.
pg. 11
## **Financial Review**
The total income received during 2024-2025 was £111, 123. While this appears to be an increase from the previous year (2024 £98,486), £12,030 of this was a loan, therefore actual income was £99,093.
DORCAS are extremely grateful to the Heart of England Community Foundation for their Charitable donation of £73,382 and Lloyds Bank Foundation for £25,000. Without these funds DORCAS could not have survived.
Expenditure during the year was £128,062 (£87,116 2024). This increase is in line with the expansion of services and support delivered during 2024-25.
## **Financial Position post year-end 2025**
Funds at the year-end totalled just £8. However, prior to the close of the financial year, we had already received confirmation that several funding applications and a Tender had been successful. As a result, at the time of signing this report, the charity is in a significantly stronger financial position.
Following the financial year end, the organisation secured substantial additional funding, demonstrating continued funder confidence and supporting financial stability. Between April 2025 and January 2026, DORCAS received £118,593.07 in grant income from a range of established and trusted funders, including Lloyds Bank Foundation, the NHS, West Midlands Police, Sport England, Birmingham Municipal Trust, Ashworth Trust, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the first instalment of a grant award from The National Lottery Community Fund.
This post-year-end funding has strengthened cash flow, ensured continuity of service delivery, and enabled the organisation to maintain its commitment to providing specialist support and safeguarding services across our communities.
In addition, we are delighted to have been awarded a three-year grant totalling £360,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund, which will provide longer-term sustainability and security for our work.
As at the end of December 2025, the charity reserves were £51,961.
## **Reserves Policy**
The trustees recognise that it is good practice to hold reserves in place for emergencies such as a reduction in funding or the need to increase the delivery of service to meet demand for support. With this is mind, the trustees’ goal is to maintain the equivalent of 6 months expenditure as unrestricted reserves.
To achieve this, the financial strategy is to continually review the charity’s expenditure to ensure funds are used appropriately and economically. In addition, the charity plans to engage in internal and external fundraising activities including securing funds from charitable trusts and foundations.
pg. 12
## **Thank you to Our Funders**
The Trustees and staff at DORCAS would like to publicly thank all the various organisation who have financially supported our charity through 2024-25 and beyond. Without your support we would not be able to provide the extremely valuable work we achieve.
## Special thanks go to…
- The Heart of England Community Foundation
- Lloyds Bank Foundation
- Sandwell & West Birmingham NHS
- PCC West Midlands
- The Ashworth Charity
- National Lottery Community Fund
## **Structure, Governance and Management**
## **Governing Document**
DORCAS is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) based in Willenhall in the West Midlands. It is governed by a constitution and was entered on the Register of Charities by the Charity Commission of England and Wales on 12[th] April 2021.
## **Organisational Structure**
The Trustees delegate the running of the charity to the Chief Executive Officer who is responsible for running the operational aspect of the charity. The charity has a Board of Trustees consisting of at least 4 but no more than 10 individuals. The board consists of a chair, a treasurer, and up to 8 elected trustees. Charity trustees are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity.
## **Recruitment and Trustee Induction and Training**
All potential new trustees must complete an application form and are encouraged to read through literature available on the Charity commission website to ensure they are aware of their responsibilities. New trustees are then invited to attend an informal meeting with two trustees who will discuss the following aspects of the organisation and answer any questions arising.
- The role, responsibility and obligations of the charity trustees
- The main documents which set out the operational framework for the charity
- The current financial position as set out in the latest published accounts
- Future plans and objectives of the charity
If appropriate the new trustee will be invited to attend a trustee meeting as a guest in order to gain an understanding of trustee meetings and if all parties are happy to proceed, the new trustee will be formally appointed at the following trustee meeting.
pg. 13
In addition to the above, a copy of the latest Trustee Annual Report is given to anew trustees along with a charity trustee role description, a copy of the constitution, the Charity Commission’s Trustee Handbook, the charity’s main policy documents and the latest financial statement. Where appropriate and required, training for trustees is provided.
## **Risk Management**
The trustees monitor and review risk during the course of the year. A risk register is maintained describing the major risks to which the charity may be exposed and outlining the systems that have been established to help mitigate any identified risks. The main risks to the charity are lack of adequate funding, health and safety and safeguarding.
To help reduce these risks, a reserves policy is in place as well as health and safety procedures to ensure compliance with Health and Safety for all visitors to the charity offices. Disclosure and Barring checks are made on all staff and potential new volunteers where appropriate prior to them supporting service users. General Data Protection Regulations, Safeguarding Adults and Child Protection and Prevent policies are all adhered to.
## **Responsibilities of the Trustees**
The charity must hold a minimum of 6 meetings a year and there must be a quorum of 3 elected trustees at each meeting.
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 its financial position at the end of that year. In preparing these financial statements the Trustees are required to:
- Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently
- Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
- State whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and
- Prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is appropriate to presume that the charity will not continue in existence.
The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charity (Accounts Reports) Regulations 2008. 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 Trustee Annual Report was approved by the Board of Trustees on the 28[th] January 2026 and was signed on their behalf by
Cyrillia Augustin, Chair
_**Our behalf of DORCAS, we would like to thank our funders for all of their support and help!**_
_**In addition, the trustees would like to say a massive thank you to all of the staff for their support and hard work during this amazing year**_
pg. 14
## **Reference and Administrative Information**
DORCAS is a Constitution of a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), whose only voting members are its charity trustees. The Charities Act 2011 creates the basic legal framework for the CIO.
This framework is completed by regulations: The Charitable Incorporated Organisations General Regulations 2012 ‘General Regulations’ and The Charitable Incorporated Organisations (Insolvency and Dissolution) Regulations 2012 ‘Dissolution Regulations’ DORCAS is overseen by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.
## **Charity Details:**
Charity Name: Daughters, Optimistic, Respect, Courage, Assurance & Support (DORCAS) Charity Status: Charitable Incorporated Organisation
Registered Charity Number: 1194064
Registered Office: West Midlands House and Operational Address: Gipsy Lane Willenhall WV13 2HA Telephone and Text: 0121 667 9796 / 07462837349 Email Address: dorcas@gmx.com Website: www.dorcasuk.com
## **Charity Trustees:**
|Chair|Cyrillia Augustin (appointed Mar 2023)|
|---|---|
|Treasurer|Kayon Bailey (appointed July 2023)|
|Trustee|Nigel Oram (appointed Mar 2021)|
|Trustee|Nathalie Neza Bigimbi (appointed Mar 2021)|
## **Independent Examiner:**
Bev Richardson M.A.A.T.
Charity AID Accountancy Services **,** Woodland Lodge, Dunston Business Village **,** Stafford Road, Dunston **,** Staffordshire **,** ST18 9AB
## **Bank:**
Royal Bank of Scotland 46 – 48 Deansgate Bolton Lancashire BL1 1BH
pg. 15
Our Year in Photos
DORCAS
DQRCAS
ORCA;
SAY'NO'TO I
pg. 16
## **Independent Examination Report to the Trustees of DORCAS**
I report on the financial statements of DORCAS for the year ended 31 March 2025 which are set out on pages 18-21.
## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner**
The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year (under Section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 ‘the 2011 Act’ and that an independent examination is required. It is my responsibility to:
## **Examine the accounts under Section 145 of the 2011 Act 2011**
To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission (under Section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act); and
To state whether any particular matters have come to my attention.
## **Basis of independent examiner’s report**
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
## **Independent examiner’s statement**
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
(1) Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements To keep accounting records in accordance with Section 130 of the 2011 Act; and
To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act
have not been met; or
(2) To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Bev Richardson M.A.A.T.
Date: 28[th] January 2026
On Behalf of
Charity AID Accountancy Services Woodland Lodge, Dunston Business Village, Stafford Road, Dunston, Staffordshire, ST18 9AB
pg. 17
## **Receipts and Payments Account**
|**Note**
**RECEIPTS**
Donations
1
Charitable Activities
2
Fundraising
3
Investments
4
Other Receipts
5
**TOTAL RECEIPTS**
**PAYMENTS**
Raising Funds
6
Charitable Activities
7
Staff Costs
8
Charity Running Costs
9
Governance
10
Other Payments
11
**ASSETS & INVESTMENTS**
Fixed Assets
Investment
**TOTAL PAYMENTS**
**Net incoming resources**
**Transfer between funds**
**Cash funds from last year**
**TOTAL CASH FUNDS**|**Unrestricted**
**Restricted**
**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
160
-
160
120
25,000
73,382
98,382
96,616
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
12,581
-
12,581
1,750|
|---|---|
||**37,741**
**73,382**
**111,123**
**98,486**|
||-
-
-
-
5,913
29,934
35,847
5,251
30,616
56,039
86,655
67,955
1,374
3,556
4,930
11,935
480
-
480
375
150
-
150
1,600|
||**38,533**
**89,529**
**128,062**
**87,116**|
||-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-|
||**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**38,533**
**89,529 128,062**
**87,116**|
|||
||**(792)**
**(16,147) (16,939)**
**11,370**|
|||
||**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**|
||800
16,147
16,947
5,577|
||**8**
**-**
**8**
**16,947**|
pg. 18
## **Statement of Assets and Liabilities**
|**ASSETS AND LIABILITIES**||||
|---|---|---|---|
||**Unrestricted**|**Restricted**|**Total**|
|**CASH FUNDS**||||
|Business Current Account
|8|-|8|
|**OTHER MONETARY ASSETS**
|-|-|-|
|**INVESTMENT ASSETS**
|-|-|-|
|**ASSETS RETAINED FOR THE**||||
|**CHARITY'S OWN USE**||||
|The Charity does not currently own any assets of monetary value||||
|**LIABILITIES**||
|---|---|
|Independent Examination|480|
|Loan|12,030|
**The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 28[th] January 2026 and were signed on their behalf by**
…………………………………………………… ……………………………………………… Cyrillia Augustin, Chair Kayon Bailey, Treasurer
pg. 19
## **Notes to The Accounts**
|**1**
**Donations**
Gift Aid Donations
Other Donations
Gift Aid Inland Revenue
Charitable Donations
**2**
**Charitable Activities**
Contracts
Grants
**3**
**Fundraising**
Crowdfunder
General Fundraising
**4**
**Investments**
Bank Interest
**5**
**Other Income**
Miscellaneous
Loan
**6**
**Raising Funds**
Fundraising Costs
Community Events
**7**
**Charitable Activities**
Professional CPD Training
Counselling
Activities
Resources & Materials
Refreshments|**Unrestricted**
**Restricted**
**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
160
-
160
120
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-|
|---|---|
||**160**
**-**
**160**
**120**|
||-
-
-
63,320
25,000
73,382
98,382
33,296|
||**25,000**
**73,382**
**98,382**
**96,616**|
||-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-|
||**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**|
||-
-
-
-|
||**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**|
||551
-
551
1750
12,030
-
12,030
-|
||**12,581**
**-**
**12,581**
**1,750**|
||-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-|
||**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**|
||-
480
480
-
848
26,558
27,406
3,850
-
-
-
-
5,065
2,836
7,901
1,315
-
60
60
86|
||**5,913**
**29,934**
**35,847**
**5,251**|
pg. 20
## **Notes to The Accounts continued**
|**8**|**Staff Costs**|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||Staff (Inc NI & Pension)|29,415|53,169|82,584|64,778|
||Payroll Services|120|320|440|480|
||Sessional Staff|546|1,961|2,507|982|
||Volunteers|-|151|151|29|
||Expenses|-|-|-|490|
||Supervision|-|-|-|-|
||Travel|535|334|869|1,136|
||Training|-|-|-|-|
||DBS|-|104|104|60|
|||**30,616**|**56,039**|**86,655**|**67,955**|
|**9**|**Charity Running Costs**|||||
||Office Rent inc Utilities|711|991|1,702|6,300|
||Rates|60|171|231|1,418|
||Room Hire|469|412|881|338|
||IT & Telephone|60|354|414|294|
||Stationery, Printing, Postage|-|42|42|235|
||Office Equipment|-|362|362|-|
||Insurance|74|104|178|169|
||Publicity|-|1,120|1,120|3,065|
||Annual Fees|-|-|-|116|
|||**1,374**|**3,556**|**4,930**|**11,935**|
|**10**|**Governance**|||||
||Governance Costs|-|-|-|-|
||Independent Examination|480|-|480|375|
||Professional Fees|-|-|-|-|
|||**480**|**-**|**480**|**375**|
|**11**|**Other Payments**|||||
||Miscellaneous|150|-|150|1,600|
|||**150**|**-**|**150**|**1,600**|
pg. 21