Charity Registration Number: 1195519 www.akramaid.org
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Gladstone & Co. Accountants 75 Creighton Avenue East Ham London E6 3DT www.gladstoneandco.com
The Trustees of Akram Aid have pleasure in presenting this Annual Report and independently examined financial statements of the charity for the year ending 31st December 2023.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| Page | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Structure, Governance and Management | 3 - 8 |
| 2. | Trustees Report | 9 |
| 3. | Statement ofFinancial Activities | 10 |
| 4. | Statement of Financial Position | 11 |
| 5. | Notes to the Financial Statements | 12 - 14 |
| 6. | Report of the Independent Examiner | 15 |
| 7. |
Trustees Declaration | 16 |
2
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE & MANAGEMENT
TRUSTEES
The following people served as charity trustees during the year:
| Name | Role | Date of appointment |
|---|---|---|
| Armaan Kazi Ahmed | Chair | 21-Oct-20 |
| Aaliyah Sohail | Trustee | 06-Jul-24 |
| Bushra Ali | Trustee | 21-Oct-20 |
| Sohail Qulzam | Trustee | 21-Oct-20 |
| Saima Sadiq | Trustee | 21-Oct-20 |
CHARITY MANAGER: Mr Sohail Qulzam
CHARITY NUMBER: 1195519
REGISTERED OFFICE: Sherman Gardens Romford Essex RM6 4AP
BANKERS: National Westminster Bank
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER: Mr M Quadri (IFA)
Gladstone & Co. Accountants 75 Creighton Avenue East Ham London E6 3DT
3
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE & MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) Policies and Objectives
The charitable objectives of the CIO are to relieve financial hardship, distress and suffering worldwide among poor people, widows, orphans, victims of natural disasters and other people in need by means of, but not exclusively, making grants for providing or paying for items, equipment, services, and facilities, including the provision of food, clean water and clothing, medical treatment and costs for attending school for the benefit of the said persons by such means as the Trustees think fit, in particular but not exclusively by the provision of food, water and shelter. The Trustees confirm that the aims and objectives of the Charity fully meet with the public benefit test. In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit. Our strategic geographical focus remains in Eastern Asia, Western Asia, Africa and the UK.
Our Vision
“Where your generosity builds a hopeful future”. We work independently as well as in partnership with other charities and local organizations that specialise in humanitarian aid work at local and international levels. We are passionate and keen to serve humanity without distinguishing between race, religion, gender or background.
Our Mission
We aim to make an immediate and lasting improvement to the lives of people affected by the poverty, war and disaster. In this mission, our work for the alleviation of poverty is carried out through selectively chosen activities:
Education: by improving access to learning; Healthcare: by improving access to quality of healthcare; Livelihoods: promoting income generation at household level to improve economic wellbeing; Emergency relief: provision of food, water, medicines and shelter in times of crisis; Qurbani and Aqeeqah: helping people celebrate these festivals; Widows & Orphans: improving their welfare; Water & Sanitation: improving access to clean water and improve sanitation.
Our Values
Equality Respect: We affirm the dignity, potential and contribution of participants, donors, partners, staff and volunteers. Integrity: We act consistently with our mission, being honest and transparent in what we say and do. Partnerships: We work together effectively to serve the larger community. Quality: We constantly challenge ourselves to the highest levels of learning and performance to achieve greater impact. We believe the lives of all human beings are of equal value.
4
Our Team of Volunteers
All of the Charity’s activities involve trustees and volunteers in the delivery of its charitable purpose. As always, we are extremely grateful to these volunteers in supporting us to deliver the aid and complete projects worldwide.
Achievements and performance
On reviewing the activities of the CIO, our income arises from public donations. The Trustees are responsible for the day-to-day management of the financial and operational matters. Over the course of the period being reported, Akram Aid carried out and implemented various projects with volunteers and its partners to deliver aid to parts of the world.
Outlined below are the projects carried out throughout the period being reported.
Emergency Appeals
Our emergency appeals included support for Syrian refugees, and supporting the people of Pakistan, Yemen and Palestine.
We provided emergency relief to the victims by delivering food packs, hot meals, water, medication, blankets and mosquito nets. We saw that the most needy and essential items were required immediately.
Ramadan
The holy month of Ramadan involves fasting for Muslims across the world and is a time when they are generous with their donations. Millions across the globe fast during the day need to have a sufficient nutritious meal to open their fasts.
Akram Aid delivered food items across countries, reaching many families in the neediest locations in Africa, Eastern and Western Asia.
5
Gambia
Throughout the year we have completed the construction of water wells, cooked meal distributions to orphans and widows. Distribution of meat during Eid (Qurbani) and Sadaqah meat to the poor and needy in various locations.
Pakistan
The distribution of Emergency supplies in the form of a food parcel for a family of 5 Rice, Oil, Lentils, Wheat flour, Salt, Sugar, Milk powder, Soap. Mosquito nets & blankets. Supporting less abled families. Medical Aid – supporting the locals with pop up clinics run by qualified professionals. Water pumps & Tube Wells. We have also distributed meat during Eid (Qurbani) and gifts for children during the Eid festival.
Palestine
Project activities are conducted with a partner organisation which include Hot Food distributions, Food Parcel provisions and financial support for medical needs. Financial Aid in the form of Zakat in many locations were also distributed to the needy.
Rohingya
The construction of 12 Water pumps within the Rohingya refugee camps located along the border in neighbouring Bangladesh. We have also distributed (Qurbani) meat during Eid.
Syria
Winter Parcels consisting of blankets, gloves, scarfs and hats. Food parcel provisions, Bread supplies, Hot meals and Zakat distributions.
6
Uganda
Throughout the year we have completed the construction of our first masjid in the village Kamina Rwebigongoro.
Other projects include water wells and regularly hot meal distributions to orphans and widows. Distribution of (Qurbani) meat during Eid.
United Kingdom
Akram Aid has been supporting our local food bank via our dedicated volunteers. Chapters foodbank is open to all members of the public. The food bank is stocked via direct donated items from the general public and through provisions purchased from Akram Aid via monetary donations.
We have championed building relationships with local businesses to provide regular food donations to support the Foodbank. Akram Aid in collaboration with Serving Humanity Foundation also run a free weekly Advisory service, offering support to food bank service users and the local community.
Yemen
Food parcel provisions, Bread supplies, Hot meals, Zakat distributions and Blankets during the winter season.
Youth Activities
Akram Aid formed Çharks in another collaboration to deliver Youth Activities for the community with free Football Sessions at the local park and Indoor Activities - Table tennis, Pool, Foosball and gaming on a regular basis at a local community centre. Activities were paused and on hiatus due to volunteer commitments elsewhere and poor weather conditions.
7
Administration
The charity is controlled by its governing document, a constitution and is registered with the Charity Commission as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation.
Everything the charity does is underpinned by due diligence and risk management from checking countries in which it works in, organisations, individuals that are worked with and work in the field and always considering the reputation of the charity.
We operate on a 100% Donation Policy. All our work is carried out by experienced and dedicated volunteers. We work alongside other charities that share the same Vision and Ethos. Akram Aid covers the Administration, running and related costs through: Gift aid reclaimed from HMRC Donations received specifically for running costs. Money earned from donations of items / charity sales. Specific fundraisers to raise funds for running of charity.
Message from Chairperson
Dear Friends, Donors, Supporters and Volunteers,
After thanking the Almighty giving us the opportunity to serve humanity, I have the pleasure to inform you on Akram Aid's progress 2023. Your support and generosity have made a significant global impact on the lives of many in need. As the world continues to face numerous humanitarian crises, our focus remains on providing vital aid, food, water, shelter, financial assistance, Zakat and education to those that need it the most, in all our covered locations.
A heartfelt thank you to our donors, supporters, delivery partners, local and national businesses (including ones that wish to remain anonymous),volunteers and finally my team.
Please continue to support us in all ways.
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__ Armaan Kazi Ahmed (Sep 24, 2024 23:33 GMT+1)
Armaan Ahmed
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8
TRUSTEES REPORT
Akram Aid returned a very satisfactory surplus of £7,546 in the financial year compared to a surplus of £4,319 in the previous year. This great result was principally achieved thanks to the generosity of individuals and organizations through donations. We hope that more people will consider benefitting the charity in this way so that our long-term future can be secured.
Income for the year was £46,714
Expenditure was correspondingly £39,168
The Trustees are grateful for the service and dedication of the whole team which often extends beyond their contractual commitments. Our volunteers also play a significant role in the successful operation of the charity and whilst there is no cost associated with their work, we would not be able to function without their dedicated assistance.
Bank balances continue in a strong position showing a total of £13,478 compared to £5,102 in the previous year. This healthy position has been arrived at due to donations received during the year. The Trustees regularly discuss the best way to hold funds not required for immediate use but are conscious of the risks inherent in other forms of investment and the current economic uncertainty due to external factors. For the time being the decision has been taken to retain our reserves in bank deposits and professional advice will be required as when this policy changes.
Reserves are needed to bridge the gap between spending and receiving of resources and to cover unplanned emergencies. At 31 December 2023 our total reserves amounted to £12,477 (£4,931) which is a strong position and is the result of an increasing number of donations being received. We have resolved to designate funds to various projects that will meet the aims of the charity and strengthen our position for the future. These projects and the related designated funds are set out in Note xx to the Balance Sheet.
Our reserves, which are detailed on the Balance Sheet, now comprise:
Restricted funds of £9,843 which represent funding received for specific projects.
Unrestricted funds now amount to £3,634 and the Trustees are considering how best to utilize these funds for the long-term benefit of the Charity.
The Charity Commission recommends that, in order to ensure ongoing viability, a charity should hold between 9 and 15 months of total running costs. Akram Aid’s monthly running costs are now approximately £130 and, on this basis, we should be holding between £1,170 and £1,950. We have therefore decided to include within Designated Funds a Safety Reserve of £1,200 in accordance with the Charity Commission recommendation.
9
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
| Notes | 2023 | 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM: | £ | £ | ||
| Donations - restricted activities | 2 | 44,071 | 58,128 | |
| Donations-unrestricted receipts | 2 | 2,643 | 3,661 | |
| Total | 46,714 | 61,789 | ||
| EXPENDITURE ON: | ||||
| Administration expenses: | ||||
| Website | 525 | 1,200 | ||
| Accountancy | 1,000 | 1,200 | ||
| Subscriptions and other fees | 240 | 270 | ||
| Charitable Projects / Activities: | ||||
| Water | 5,350 | 9,050 | ||
| Zakat | 5,944 | 8,563 | ||
| Youth – UK | 214 | 50 | ||
| Qurbani | 2,790 | 3,811 | ||
| Orphans | - | 3,250 | ||
| Monthly Beneficiaries | 3,850 | 5,334 | ||
| Masjid Construction | 6,000 | 16,000 | ||
| Ramadan Distribution | 9,705 | 4,912 | ||
| Solar Panels | - | 1,440 | ||
| Wedding Beneficiaries | - | 218 | ||
| Floods / Emergency Relief | 400 | 1,560 | ||
| Gaza | 3,150 | - | ||
| Total | 39,168 | 56,687 | ||
| NET INCOME / (EXPENDITURE) | 7,546 | 5,102 | ||
| RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS: | ||||
| Funds brought forward | 5,102 | - | ||
| TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD | 12,648 | 5,102 |
10
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023
| Notes | 2023 | 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||||
| Current Assets: Cash at bank | |||||
| Natwest Current Account | 9,844 | 5,102 | |||
| Natwest Deposit Account | 3,634 | - | |||
| Total Cash at bank | 13,478 | 5,102 | |||
| Current Liabilities | |||||
| Accruals | 1,000 | - | |||
| Total net assets | 12,478 | 5,102 | |||
| Charity funds | |||||
| Unrestricted Funds 3 |
1,434 | 1,162 | |||
| Designated Funds | 1,200 | - | |||
| Restricted | 9,844 | 3,940 | |||
| Total Charity funds | 12,478 | **5,102 ** |
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on ________ and were signed on its behalf by:
M Qulzam - Trustee
Armaan Kazi Ahmed (Sep 24, 2024 23:33 GMT+1) ~~___~~ _
A Ahmed - Trustee
The notes on pages 12 to 14 form part of the financial statements
11
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
1. ACCOUNTINGPOLICIES
(a) Basis of preparing the financial statements
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of investments which are included at fair value.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued in October 2019 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Practice as it applies from 1 January 2019.
Fund’s structure
Where there is a legal restriction on the purpose to which a fund may be put, the fund is classified either as:
a restricted fund or
- an endowment fund.
Restricted funds are those where the donor has provided for the donation to be spent in furtherance of a specified charitable purpose. Akram Aid’s restricted funds tend to result from appeals for specified purposes.
Endowment funds arise when the donor has expressly provided that the gift is to be invested in and only the income of the fund may be spent. These funds are sub analysed between those where the trustee has the discretion to spend the capital (expendable endowment) and those where there is no discretion to expend the capital (permanent endowment).
The trustee decides each year how much of that return is released to income for spending and how much is retained for investment. The allocation is made on an equitable basis to balance the need to fund current projects as well as to invest returns for the future.
Those funds which are neither endowment nor restricted income funds, are unrestricted income funds which are sub analysed between designated (earmarked) funds where the trustee has set aside amounts to be used for specific purposes or which reflect the non-binding wishes of donors and unrestricted funds which are at the trustee’s discretion, including the general fund which represents the charity’s reserves.
(b) Income resources
All incoming resources are recognised once the charity has entitlement to the resources, it is probable (more likely than not) that the resources will be received, and the monetary value of incoming resources can be measured with sufficient reliability. Where there are terms or conditions attached to incoming resources, particularly grants, then these terms or conditions must be met before the income is recognised as the entitlement condition will not be satisfied until that point. Where terms or conditions have not been met or uncertainty exists as to whether they can be met then the relevant income is not recognised in the year but deferred and shown on the balance sheet as deferred income.
12
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
| Donations received for: 2023 2022 |
|
|---|---|
| Masjid Construction 6,000 16,110 |
|
| Monthly Beneficiaries 4,990 3,866 |
|
| Orphans - 3,255 |
|
| Qurbani 2,965 3,761 |
|
| Ramadan Distribution 5,515 6,049 |
|
| Solar Panels 1,440 |
|
| Water 5,485 6,620 |
|
| Zakat 9,403 7,983 |
|
| Gaza 5,547 - |
|
| Other miscellaneous 6,809 12,705 |
|
| 46,714 61,789 |
Akram Aid works with various affiliate partners with network of volunteers in various countries. Affiliate partners are registered charities carrying out charitable activities. During the year ended 31st December 2023 a total of £39,168 (2022: £56,687) was spent using the below partners:
| Network Partners | 2023 % 2022 % |
|---|---|
| Unite 4 Humanity | 32,261 82% 50,166 88% |
| Miscellaneous | 6,907 18% 5,921 10% |
| Serving Humanity | 0 0% 550 1% |
| Fitya Youth Centre | 0 0% 50 0% |
| 39,168 100% 56,687 100% |
3. UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
| 2023 2022 |
|
|---|---|
| Opening balance | 1,162 - |
| Received in the year | 2,643 3,661 |
| Paid in the year | (1,171) (2,499) |
| Transferred to designated fund | (1,200) - |
| 1,434 1,162 |
13
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 (CONTINUED)
4. RELATED PARTYTRANSACTIONS
None of the members of the Akram Aid board or parties related to them has undertaken any transactions with “Akram Aid” or received any benefit from the charity in payment or in kind. Board members received no honoraria or emoluments in the year (2022: NIL).
14
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
TO THE TRUSTEES OF AKRAM AID FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
I report on the accounts which are set out on pages 10 to 11.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section144 of the Charities Act and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
-
examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,
-
to follow the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act, and
-
to state whether particular matters have come to my attention
Basis of independent examiner's statement
My examination was carried out in accordance with 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 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 material matters have come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
-
the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; or
-
the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or
-
the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn into this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Mohammed S Quadri (Sep 24, 2024 23:29 GMT+1)
Mohammed S Quadri Institute of Financial Accountants 75 Creighton Avenue East Ham London E6 3DT
Date: 24 September 2024
15
TRUSTEES DECLARATION
DECLARATION
The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report.
Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees
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Signature (s) ____ ____ Armaan Kazi Ahmed (Sep 24, 2024 23:33 GMT+1)
Full name ___ ____ M Sohail Qulzam Armaan Kazi Ahmed
Position Trustee Chairman
Date ___ _______ 24/09/24 24/09/24
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We would sincerely like to thank all our donors, supporters, delivery partners staff, volunteers and members for their continued support of our work. Their support makes a real difference to people’s lives and ensures that we can continue to build a community that cares for one another, enabling us to serve humanity. Your generosity builds a hopeful future.
16
2024-09-24
AkramAid_Financial Report 2023
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