Trustees’ Annual Report for the period
01/04/2023 To 31/03/2024 Period end date
From 01/04/2023 Period start date
Charity name:
U TURN LIVES
Charity registration number:
1197260
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
1. Charity Objectives:
The charitable organization is dedicated to creating a lasting impact in the realm of accessible education, focusing on a set of comprehensive objectives that reach beyond immediate aid. These objectives are designed to empower individuals, enhance educational landscapes, and foster a culture of inclusivity.
a. University Scholarships:
The provision of scholarships for high-achieving graduates represents a strategic investment in the future. By enabling 1-3 individuals to pursue careers in teaching or special needs education at local schools, the charity aims not only to elevate the academic prospects of these graduates but also to enrich the educational experiences of students under their care.
b. After-School Support:
The targeted after-school support for children aged 5-7 with special needs is a proactive measure to address potential challenges. Beyond reducing dropout rates and improving academic performance, this initiative seeks to create a supportive environment that nurtures the unique abilities of each child, contributing to their overall development.
c. Training and Collaboration:
The emphasis on ongoing training for scholarship recipients is a forward-looking approach. This not only hones the skills of educators but also establishes a framework for collaboration with local institutions, schools, and non-governmental organizations. Through this collaborative effort, the charity aspires to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of its programs.
d. Community Engagement:
Engaging parents and community leaders is a pivotal aspect of the charity's strategy. By raising awareness of the importance of education for children with special needs, the organization seeks to create a cultural shift towards inclusivity. This broader community engagement is envisioned as a catalyst for positive change, influencing at udes and fostering a supportive environment for the targeted beneficiaries.
e. Monitoring and Adaptability:
The establishment of a robust monitoring system reflects the commitment to impact assessment and continuous improvement. By tracking program outcomes and gathering feedback, the charity ensures adaptability to evolving community needs. This dynamic approach is integral to maintaining relevance and maximizing positive outcomes.
f. Sustainability and Communication:
The charity's focus on sustainability extends beyond immediate interventions. Exploring internship opportunities and building long-term partnerships is a strategic move to secure lasting impacts.
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
Transparent communication plays a crucial role in showcasing program successes and challenges, fostering trust among stakeholders and securing ongoing support.
In essence, the charity's objectives are intricately woven into a tapestry of empowerment, collaboration, and sustainability. Beyond the immediate aid provided, the organization aspires to contribute to a transformative shift in the educational landscape, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with special needs.
2. Main Activities for Public Benefit:
The charitable organization actively engages in a multifaceted approach to deliver public benefit, with a focus on uplifting education and fostering inclusivity:
a. Scholarships for Education:
The provision of scholarships for high-achieving graduates is more than a financial gesture. It is an investment in the broader educational landscape, aiming to bring about positive change through the development of skilled and dedicated educators.
b. Specialized Support for Children:
The after-school support for children with special needs is a nuanced intervention, seeking to go beyond academic improvement. It aims to create a nurturing space that recognizes and values the unique abilities of each child, contributing to their holistic development.
c. Training and Collaboration:
Continuous training and mentoring for scholarship recipients represent an investment in human capital. This not only enhances the capabilities of educators but also establishes a collaborative network with local institutions, amplifying the impact of the charity's initiatives.
d. Strategic Partnerships:
Collaborating with local institutions and leaders is a strategic move to ensure a wider and fairer impact. By establishing transparent selection processes, the charity aims to create a network of support that goes beyond direct beneficiaries, positively influencing the broader community.
e. Community Engagement:
Engaging parents and the community is a proactive step towards creating a cultural shift. By raising awareness about the importance of education and promoting inclusivity, the charity aims to create a supportive environment that extends beyond the immediate beneficiaries.
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
f. Monitoring and Adaptation:
The implementation of a robust monitoring system showcases the commitment to program effectiveness. By gathering feedback and adapting to evolving community needs, the charity ensures that its initiatives remain relevant and impactful.
g. Sustainability and Communication:
Exploring internships and building long-term partnerships demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. Transparent communication is a crucial element in maintaining stakeholder trust and showcasing the enduring impact of the charity's programs.
In essence, the charity's activities are not merely transactional but deeply rooted in creating lasting positive change. From educational empowerment to community engagement, each activity is strategically designed to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive societal fabric.
3. Main Achievements:
The charitable organization's achievements resonate with a profound commitment to transformative change, leaving a lasting impact on individuals and society:
a. Educational Empowerment:
The scholarships provided for teaching and special needs education have not only facilitated individual career paths but have also transformed the educational landscape. Graduates empowered through these scholarships bring a renewed dedication to their roles, positively influencing the students under their care.
b. Support for Special Needs Children:
The after-school support program stands out as a beacon of success, with tangible improvements in academic performance and a notable reduction in dropout rates among special needs children. This achievement goes beyond statistics, symbolizing a more inclusive and supportive community ethos.
c. Capacity Building and Community Engagement:
The continuous training of scholarship recipients has not only built a skilled pool of educators but has also contributed to a broader sense of community engagement. By enhancing the capabilities of educators and actively involving the community, the charity has created a network of support that goes beyond immediate beneficiaries.
d. Positive Societal Impact:
Collaborations with local institutions and leaders have significantly widened the charity's sphere of influence. This strategic partnership has contributed to a more inclusive and educated community, reflecting the organization's commitment to a positive societal impact.
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
e. Sustainability and Communication:
The exploration of internships and transparent communication strategies has positioned the charity for long-term sustainability. This achievement extends beyond immediate beneficiaries, benefiting scholarship holders individually and contributing to the overall resilience of the community.
In essence, the charity's achievements transcend mere statistical milestones, painting a picture of educational empowerment, improved outcomes, and a positive societal impact. The organization has succeeded not only in making a tangible difference for individual beneficiaries but also in contributing to a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and education.
4. Structure, Governance and Management a. Structure
U-Turn Lives (UTL) is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) that embodies a unique and purpose-driven approach in its mission to make a positive impact on society.
As a CIO, U-Turn Lives operates under a legal structure specifically crafted for charitable organizations in the United Kingdom. This framework provides UTL with a distinct legal personality, (allowing it to enter into contracts, own property, and undertake legal obligations in its own name). Importantly, the CIO status also extends limited liability to the trustees and members, safeguarding their personal assets and ensuring that their commitment to the organization remains focused on its charitable objectives.
To establish U-Turn Lives as a CIO, the organization undergoes a formal registration process with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. This regulatory body oversees charitable entities, ensuring they adhere to legal and ethical standards. The governing document, commonly known as the constitution, serves as the blueprint for UTL's operations. This document outlines the organization's charitable purposes, the powers bestowed upon its trustees, and the overall structure and governance of the CIO. Through this constitution, U-Turn Lives solidifies its commitment to the public benefit and outlines the rules and regulations that guide its operations.
The governance of U-Turn Lives is entrusted to a board of trustees who play a pivotal role in the management and administration of the organization. These trustees bear legal responsibilities, ensuring that UTL operates within the bounds of its charitable objectives and complies with all relevant laws and regulations. The constitution delineates the powers and duties of the trustees, providing a clear framework for effective decision-making and strategic planning. U-Turn Lives, as a CIO, stands as a testament to the power of structured and purposeful charitable initiatives, aiming to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives it touches.
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
b. Governance and Management
Charity Policy
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Internal Charity Financial Controls:
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a. Budgeting and Planning:
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The charity shall establish an annual budget outlining projected income and expenses.
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Regular financial reviews will be conducted to ensure adherence to the budget.
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b. Authorization and Documentation:
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All financial transactions must be authorized by designated personnel.
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Supporting documentation for expenses, receipts, and invoices must be maintained.
c. Segregation of Duties:
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Clear segregation of financial duties among staff to prevent conflicts of interest and maintain transparency.
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Financial Risk Management:
a. Identification of Risks:
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Periodic assessments will be conducted to identify and evaluate financial risks.
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Strategies will be developed to mitigate identified risks.
b. Reserve Policies:
- Establishment and maintenance of financial reserves to address unforeseen circumstances.
c. Investment Policies:
- If applicable, guidelines for responsible and ethical investment practices will be established.
3. Trustee Expenses:
a. Expense Approval:
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Trustees' expenses must be pre-approved in line with an established policy.
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Adequate documentation must be provided for reimbursement.
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b. Reasonableness and Transparency:
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Expenses should be reasonable and directly related to the charity's objectives.
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
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Transparency in reporting and disclosure of trustee expenses.
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Trustee Conflicts of Interest:
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a. Disclosure:
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Trustees are required to disclose any conflicts of interest promptly.
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A register of interests will be maintained.
b. Recusal from Decision-making:
- Trustees with a conflict of interest shall recuse themselves from relevant decisionmaking processes.
c. Review and Monitoring:
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Regular reviews to ensure compliance with conflict-of-interest policies.
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Actions taken to manage conflicts documented.
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Serious Incident Reporting Policy:
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a. Definition of Serious Incidents:
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Clearly define what constitutes a serious incident requiring reporting.
b. Reporting Procedures:
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Establish a clear and accessible reporting mechanism for serious incidents.
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Outline reporting timelines and the parties involved.
c. Investigation and Follow-up:
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Develop a procedure for investigating reported incidents.
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Establish corrective actions and preventative measures.
Review and Updates: 30/01/2024
The charity policy will be periodically reviewed and updated to ensure alignment with legal requirements and best practices.
Approval: 30/01/2024
This policy is approved by the board of trustees and shall be communicated to all relevant stakeholders.
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
Administrative information
| Name | Role | Date of appointment |
|---|---|---|
| Wissam Cherri | Chair | 01 October 2021 |
| Graham Preston | Trustee | 01 October 2021 |
| Dina Ibrahim Abouelamaiem | Trustee | 01 October 2021 |
| Rayan Cherri | Trustee | 01 October 2021 |
| Warda Al-Jawahiry | Trustee | 01 June 2023 |
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
5. Financial Review
Receipt And Payment Account
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fundds | Fundds | |||
| Receipt | ||||
| Receipts from Donors | 1,945 | 0 | 1,945 | |
| Investment income | 5 | 0 | 5 | |
| 1,950 | 0 | 1,950 | ||
| Payment | ||||
| Charity actvites | 4,964 | 0 | 4,964 | |
| Administraton | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| 4,964 | 0 | 4,964 | ||
| Statement of Assets and | Liabilites | |||
| Cash Fund | ||||
| Bank Current account | 6,243 | 0 | 6,243 | |
| 6,243 | 0 | 6,243 | ||
| Liabilites | ||||
| Liabilites | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| 0 | 0 | 0 |
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
Based on the information provided, we can review the charity's financial position at the end of the period (31/3/23) and address the statement explaining the policy for holding reserves and details of any funds materially in deficit.
a. Review of the Charity's Financial Position at 31/3/24:
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The charity has a surplus cash balance of £6,243 in its account as of 31/3/24.
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This surplus cash is reserved for the next year's plan and to support the charity's activities.
b. Policy for Holding Reserves:
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The charity has a policy of maintaining reserves to ensure financial stability and support its ongoing and future activities.
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Reserves are held to cover unexpected expenses, ensure operational continuity, and provide a financial cushion against economic uncertainties.
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The reserve amount of £6,243 at the end of the period is earmarked for the next year's plan, indicating a proactive approach to financial planning and sustainability.
c. Details of Funds in Deficit:
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The information provided does not mention any funds being in deficit explicitly.
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If there are funds in deficit, the charity should disclose the nature and extent of the deficits, outlining plans to address and rectify the situation.
Overall, the charity seems to be in a positive financial position with a surplus cash reserve. The policy for holding reserves indicates a prudent financial management approach. However, if there are funds in deficit, it is crucial to provide detailed information on these deficits and strategies to address them in the financial statements or accompanying notes.
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
6. Declarations
The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.
Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees
Signature(s) Wissam Cherri Full name(s) Wissam Cherri Position Chair Date 30/01/2025
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES
Independent examiner's statement
In the course of my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material respect, the requirements
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to keep accounting records in accordance with section 41 of the Act;
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and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting record and comply with the accounting requirement of the 1993 Act.
Nhan Bao
23 Dagmar court
London
31/01/2025
Charity number: 1197260
U TURN LIVES