THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AND TRUSTEES REPORT
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1198684
AAA Accounting Limited Jhumat House 160 London Road, Barking England IG11 8BB
THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Members of boards and professional advisors | 1 |
| Trustees annual report | 2-7 |
| Independent examiners report to the trustees | 8 |
| Statement of financial activities | 9 |
| Balance sheet | 10 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 11 |
THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD AND PROFESSIONAL ADVISERS
| Registered charity name | The Rufina Childrens Foundation |
|---|---|
| Charity number | 1198684 |
| Registered Office | CEME Launchpad Centre |
| CEME Innovation Centre | |
| Marsh Way | |
| RAINHAM | |
| Essex | |
| RM13 8EU | |
| Trustees | Dumebi Onuora (Chair) |
| Onyinye Abasilim | |
| Elizabeth Ekenna | |
| Victoria Onuora | |
| Independent examiners | AAA Accounting Limited |
| Chartered Certified Accountants | |
| Jhumat House | |
| 160 London Road, Barking | |
| England | |
| IG11 8BB | |
| Bankers | Bank of Scotland |
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
The trustees have pleasure in presenting their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the period ended 31 December 2023.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Reference and administrative details are shown in the schedule of members of the board and professional advisers on page 1 of the financial statements.
THE TRUSTEES
The trustees who served during the period were as follows:
Dumebi Onuora (Chair) Onyinye Abasilim Elizabeth Ekenna Victoria Onuora
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing document
The Rufina Childrens Foundation is an unincorporated Trust and is a registered charity, number 1198684.
Method of appointment of Trustees and policies adopted for their induction
Our methods of appointments of Trustees are outlined in our governing document 10. Appointment of charity trustees
(1) Apart from the first charity trustees, every trustee must be appointed for a term of 3 years by a resolution passed at a properly convened meeting of the charity trustees.
(2) In selecting individuals for appointment as charity trustees, the charity trustees must have regard to the skills, knowledge and experience needed for the effective administration of the CIO.
.
Decision making
The trustees are legally responsible for the overall management and control of the Charity. Members generally meet when required to consider the tasks delegated to them in respect of financial or any specialist adviser report, which are then communicated to the other trustees at the main board meeting for their deliberations.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
The aims and objects of the charity are:
For the public benefit to advance of education by providing educational books, libraries, telemedicine booths, tele-learning booths, and resource materials to underprivileged schools and Internally Displaced Persons camps in countries in Africa.
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (continued)
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
For the public benefit the relief of children and young people in need anywhere in the world by reason of ill-health, disability, or social or economic disadvantage in particular but not exclusively by coordinating and developing services such as, the provision of clothing, food, finance, water treatment services, installation of toilet units, installation of solar power for electricity and/or renewable energy for supply of tele-medicine booths, free medical consultation and such other services for those in need as the trustees may determine.
Nothing in this constitution shall authorize an application of the property of the CIO for the purposes which are not charitable in accordance with [section 7 of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005] and [section 2 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008].
PUBLIC BENEFIT STATEMENT
The Rufina Children's Foundation, with unwavering commitment and a heart full of hope, strides into 2024 with a renewed and robust mission to uplift and transform the lives of children, young people, and their families in the countries within which it operates. Our Foundation, built on the pillars of advancing education and alleviating need, continues to be a beacon of change and a source of support for those who need it most.
In alignment with our foundational principles, our outreach remains underpinned by the belief that Charity begins at home. We continually recognise that the children and youth we serve today are the architects of tomorrow's world. Their potential is boundless, and our role in nurturing this potential is both a privilege and a responsibility we take seriously.
Our operational strategy and objectives are rooted in our constitutional mandate. We focus on two primary areas: advancing education and relieving children and young people in need. True to our educational initiatives, in 2023, we provided underprivileged schools and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Nigeria with academic books and libraries.
This year, we are elated to announce unprecedented donations, highlighted by a grant from the National Lottery Fund. This surge in donations is a testament to trust and confidence in our mission and initiatives.
Reflecting on 2023, we take pride in our achievements. In Nigeria, we made significant strides in advancing education for children and young people in IDP camps. We are working around the clock to deliver telemedicine booths and tele-learning facilities. Work is underway to build a facility in Nigeria, a one-stop hub where various services are provided to children, young people and families in need. Simultaneously, we have offered comprehensive support to children and young people in Nigeria who are suffering due to ill health, disability, or socio-economic disadvantages. This support encompasses a range of services, including clothing, food, finance, water treatment services, installation of toilet units, and solar power for electricity.
Furthermore, we are working to provide renewable energy and more free medical consultations in Nigeria. Additionally, our 'drives' in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham have been a resounding success, offering essential aid to families during their time of need. These drives, meticulously organised and executed by the Rufina Children's Foundation, have encompassed a range of initiatives designed to address the varying needs of the communities we serve. Each drive is tailored to meet specific challenges faced by children, young people, and their families, ensuring that our support is impactful and meaningful.
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (continued)
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
Winter Drives: Our winter drives provide warmth and comfort during the colder months, particularly for families struggling financially. We distribute essential items such as warm clothing, blankets, heating devices, and nutritious food. These drives protect against the harsh winter conditions and bring a sense of security and care to those who may feel vulnerable during these challenging times.
Food Drives: Our food drives are geared towards ensuring that no child or family goes hungry. We procure and distribute a variety of primarily nutritious, non-perishable goods. These drives are crucial in combating food insecurity and promoting overall health and well-being.
Clothing Drives: Clothing is a necessity, and through our clothing drives, we strive to provide quality, appropriate attire for children and families. We procure clothing for all ages and sizes, ensuring that our beneficiaries can access comfortable and suitable clothing for different seasons and occasions. These drives address the immediate need for clothing and contribute to the dignity and self-esteem of those we serve.
Toy Drives: We recognise the importance of play and joy in a child's life; our toy drives aim to bring smiles and happiness to children, especially during festive seasons or significant events. We procure various toys, games, and educational materials catering to different age groups and interests. These drives provide children with the opportunity to play and learn and offer a sense of normalcy and comfort in times of hardship.
Hygiene Drives: In addition to our winter, food, clothing, and toy drives, the Rufina Children's Foundation places a strong emphasis on hygiene through our dedicated hygiene drives. Understanding the critical importance of personal hygiene for health, well-being, and dignity, these drives focus on collecting and distributing hygiene products to children, young people, and their families, particularly those in vulnerable situations.
Each of these drives is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to addressing the holistic needs of those we support. Through careful planning, collaboration with partners, and the generous contributions of our donors and volunteers, we have made a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals. These drives provide essential items and convey a message of hope, solidarity, and community spirit. We aim to provide such support in 2024.
Our efforts have supported over 320 families, a milestone that fuels our ambition to scale these initiatives further in 2024.
Our organisational growth has been exponential this year. We have expanded our team by hiring new personnel and embracing the enthusiasm and skills of multiple volunteers. This expansion enhances our operational capacity and enriches our organisation with diverse perspectives and talents. We aim to provide more volunteering opportunities to enthusiastic individuals passionate about the Charity's mission and objectives. Our collaboration with various contractors has been pivotal in fulfilling our mission in 2023. These partnerships have enabled us to tailor our support effectively and responsively, ensuring we address the unique needs of our communities.
In their stewardship of the Foundation, our Trustees maintain rigorous adherence to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefits. This adherence is not just a compliance measure but a core value that informs every decision and action we take. As we forge into 2024, our vision and commitment are more apparent than ever. We are dedicated to expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and reaching more children, young people, and families in
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (continued)
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
need. We strive to empower them with immediate aid and the tools and opportunities to build a brighter and more prosperous future. The Rufina Children's Foundation is more than just a charitable organisation; it is a movement, a community of compassionate individuals united in our mission to create a world where every child has the chance to thrive. Our supporters, volunteers, and staff are the heartbeat of this movement, each contributing uniquely to the tapestry of change we are weaving together.
In conclusion, the Rufina Children's Foundation is a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring spirit of humanity. As we continue our journey, we remain committed to being a source of hope, a catalyst for change, and a partner in the journey towards a better world for the leaders of tomorrow.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
We have achieved against our objectives. As a start-up charity, we have provided support to over 320 families in the U.K. and Nigeria.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
The income is generated from donations and grants. The incoming resources and resources expended are detailed in the Statement of Financial Activities.
The financial year commenced with Cash & bank balance of £ 631. During the year donations of £ 140,398 were received. Resources expended in the year totalled £ 135,563. The cash & bank balance at year end is £ 5,466.
PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS
Building on the successful completion of last year's objectives, the Rufina Children's Foundation is excited to unveil its plans for future periods, aiming to expand further and deepen our impact. Our focus remains steadfast on advancing education and alleviating needs, with a clear vision to enhance the lives of children, young people, and their families. Here are the key initiatives we plan to undertake:
Expanding Educational and Support Programmes in New Regions : After successfully implementing our programs in existing areas, we plan to extend our reach to new regions, mainly focusing on underprivileged communities. This expansion will include setting up more educational resources like libraries and tele-learning booths and increasing our support in areas such as health, nutrition, and hygiene.
Enhancing Volunteer and Staff Training Programmes : Recognising the invaluable contribution of our volunteers and staff, we intend to invest in comprehensive training programmes. These programmes will equip our team with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively deliver our services and support our beneficiaries.
Developing Strategic Partnerships : To augment our capabilities and resources, we will seek to establish new partnerships with local and international organisations, businesses, and government bodies. These collaborations will enable us to leverage additional expertise, funding, and support, thereby increasing the efficiency and impact of our programmes.
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (continued)
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
Implementing Sustainable Solutions : In line with our commitment to long-term impact, we plan to incorporate sustainable solutions in our initiatives. This includes using renewable energy sources in our projects, promoting environmental education, and encouraging sustainable practices among the communities we serve.
Increasing Community Engagement and Awareness : We aim to intensify our efforts to raise awareness about the challenges underprivileged children and families face. We will strive to mobilise greater public support and participation through community engagement activities, fundraising events, and awareness campaigns.
Building Capacity for Emergency Response : We plan to develop a rapid response mechanism in anticipation of unforeseen crises or natural disasters. This initiative will enable us to provide timely and practical assistance to affected communities, ensuring that immediate needs such as food, shelter, and medical aid are addressed.
Enhancing Monitoring and Evaluation Systems : To improve our programmes and ensure continuous accountability, we will strengthen our monitoring and evaluation systems. This will allow us to assess the effectiveness of our initiatives, make data-driven decisions, and demonstrate our impact to our donors and partners.
Continuing Successful Drives and Expanding Their Scale : Building on the success of our winter, food, clothing, toy, and hygiene drives, we will not only continue these initiatives but also aim to expand their scale and reach. This expansion will enable us to support a larger number of beneficiaries and address a broader range of needs.
In summary, the Rufina Children's Foundation is gearing up for an ambitious and impactful future with plans that build upon our past successes and align with our mission to support and empower children, young people, and their families. We focus on sustainable growth, effective partnerships, and continuous improvement, ensuring that we remain a reliable and effective force for positive change in our communities.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TRUSTEES
The responsibilities of the Trustees are set out in the governing document as follows:
(1) Functions and duties of charity trustees
The charity trustees shall manage the affairs of the CIO and may for that purpose exercise all the powers of the CIO. It is the duty of each charity trustee:
(a) to exercise his or her powers and to perform his or her functions in his or her capacity as a trustee of the CIO in the way he or she decides in good faith would be most likely to further the purposes of the CIO; and
(b) to exercise, in the performance of those functions, such care and skill as is reasonable in the circumstances having regard in particular to:
(i) any special knowledge or experience that he or she has or holds himself or herself out as having; and,
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (continued)
FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023
(ii) if he or she acts as a charity trustee of the CIO in the course of a business or profession, to any special knowledge or experience that it is reasonable to expect of a person acting in the course of that kind of business or profession.
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
Bilal Ahmad FCCA of AAA Accounting Limited, Chartered Certified Accountants offers himself for appointment as independent examiner in accordance with the Charities Act 1993, as amended by the Charities Act 2006.
Signed on behalf of the trustees
CEME Launchpad Centre CEME Innovation Centre Marsh Way RAINHAM Essex RM13 8EU
……………………………… Ms Victoria Onuora
Date: 16.01.2024
Trustee
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
SUMMARY INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
| FROM 01 JANUARY 2023 TO 31 DECEMBER 2023 Notes Incoming resources Charitable donations Total income Direct charitable expenditure (-) Total expenditure Net incoming resources/ (Expenditure) Funds brought forward Funds carried forward |
2023 140,398 140,398 135,178 5,220 631 5,851 ===== == |
2022 £ 8,563 _ 8,563 7,932 __ 631 - _ ___ 631 ==== |
|---|---|---|
The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses in the year and therefore a statement of total recognised gains and losses has not been prepared.
All of the above amounts relate to continuing activities.
The notes on pages 9 form part of these financial statements.
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023
Notes £ Fixed assets Tangible fixed assets-Furniture Cost – Additions 705 Depn-Charge (176) Current assets Cash at bank 5,466 Creditors: PAYE & NI (144) Net assets Funds Brought forward Net (Loss)/Profit |
2023 2022 £ £ £ - - 529 631 5,466 631 - (144) - _ 5,851 631 ===== ==== 631 5,220 631 _ 5,851 631 ==== ==== |
|---|---|
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (effective April 2008).
These financial statements were approved by the members of the committee on 16.01.24 and are signed on their behalf by:
…………………………………….
Ms Victoria Onuora - Trustee
The notes on page 9 form part of these financial statements.
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THE RUFINA CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
1 Accounting Policies
1.1. Basis of accounting
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with applicable United Kingdom accounting standards, the Statement of Recommended Practice "Accounting and Reporting by Charities" issued in March 2005 (SORP 2005) and the Charities Act 1993, and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (effective April 2008).
1.2 Incoming resources
Voluntary income and donations are included in incoming resources when they are received except when donor’s conditions have not been fulfilled, and then the income is deferred.
1.3 Resources expended
Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings, they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
1.4 Exemption from preparing a cash flow statement
Exemption has been taken from preparing a cash flow statement on the grounds that the charitable company qualifies as a small charitable company.
1.5 Taxation
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities .
1.6 Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
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