2025-04-05-accounts - Arc Initiative

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Arc Initiative – Trustees Annual Report – April 2024/2025

Reference and Administrative Details of The Charity, it’s Trustees and Advisers.

Trustees	Stephanie Nicola (Chair) Conrad Benjamin Craig Wright
Charity Registration Number	1199808
Principle Office	85 Great Portland Street, First Floor, London, W1W 7LT
Accountants	Veritas Finance Group Ltd
Independent Examiner	Jasbir Notay

The Trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements of the Charity for the year 06[th] April 2024 to 5[th] April 2025.

Objective and Activities

Arc Initiative’s goals, as set out in its governing document, are:

To act as a resource for young people up to the age of 25 living in London by providing advice and assistance and organising programmes of CV writing, Interview preparation, personal development, and other activities as a means of:

Advancing young people in life and relieving unemployment through the provision of support and activities that develop their skills, capacities and competencies, such as interview skills and practice, CV writing, job search and job club facilities.
Supporting young people to understand the part they play in promoting an inclusive culture in the workplace and wider society.

Activities for Achieving Objectives

Arc Initiative exists to give young people, particularly those from marginalised and disadvantaged backgrounds, access to professional quality careers and personal development support in spaces that feel safe, inclusive and relatable.

We create environments where young people can:

Develop essential employability skills, including communication, teamwork, problem solving and selfmanagement.
Strengthen their CVs, applications and interview performance.
Build confidence in who they are and how they show up at work, at home, in education, or in their community.
Connect with mentors and role models who reflect their lived experience and aspirations.

Our personal development, employability training and mentoring programmes are co-designed with young people, volunteers and industry experts to ensure they are accessible, interactive and engaging.

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Sessions are built around real scenarios, practical tools, and space for reflection, which help our beneficiaries apply their learning immediately in education, at home, in the local community, during work placements, and in job searches.

Young people receive industry-standard knowledge and insight from facilitators and mentors who are actively working in their sectors. This strengthens their skills and talents and helps them be more confident and better prepared for opportunities, not only in work but in wider life.

Arc Initiative continues to be firmly committed to providing an inclusive and non-judgmental environment where all young people can thrive, regardless of their background or starting point, by:

Creating opportunities
Improving social mobility
Furthering equality and support within society
Increasing respect, empowerment and access to employment, education and training

Current Programmes and Courses

Be Your Best Self:

The "Be Your Best Self" programme is an immersive, dynamic journey crafted to empower young people in their quest for meaningful employment, training, or further education. This comprehensive programme equips participants with the skills and insights required to shine in interviews, stand out from other applicants, and present themselves with confidence and authenticity.

Accelerating Your Potential:

"Accelerating Your Potential" is a dynamic and transformative personal development programme tailored for young people that provides essential tools to propel them into their desired careers/paths and embark on a journey of selfgrowth. This comprehensive programme cultivates skills, insights, and self-awareness across various impactful personal training themes.

Life Leaders:

The Life Leaders Mentorship Programme is a cutting-edge personal and professional development approach. This visionary initiative empowers seasoned professionals to engage young people in mentorship journeys that foster growth, inspiration, and collaborative learning. Anchored in the values of authenticity and guided support, this programme facilitates genuine connections, valuable knowledge, and the sharing of networks.

Skills 4 Life:

Skills 4 Life is a practical, workshop-based programme that helps young people build the core skills they need to move confidently into employment, education or training. Each session focuses on a blend of communication, problem solving, decision making, time management, conflict resolution and interview preparation, using real-life scenarios and interactive activities rather than theory alone.

Career Compass:

Career Compass is designed to empower and support young people navigating the combined pressures of systemic inequality, low income, and limited opportunities. Many of the young people we work with experience heightened stress, anxiety and a sense of hopelessness linked to the lack of accessible routes into meaningful work, training or further study. This programme delivers structured guidance, safe spaces for reflection, and practical tools that help young people understand their options and regain a sense of control over their future.

Short Courses and Workshops

Alongside these multi-week programmes, we delivered shorter themed bespoke workshops and tasters on topics such as:

CV and cover letter confidence
Interview skills and assessment centre preparation
Personal brand and digital presence

• Communication, resilience and managing money Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Behaviours for first jobs, apprenticeships and placements

These shorter interventions allowed us to reach young people who may not yet be ready or able to commit to longer programmes, and they created accessible entry points that often led into deeper support.

Across the year, young people engaged with Arc Initiative through school-based sessions, community partners, youth hubs and referrals from programme alumni. Participation included both in-person delivery and blended models where appropriate, reflecting the diverse needs and circumstances of the young people we support.

Courses

Here are details of the courses we built over the last period:

Course Title	Date	Attendees	Total hours (between Apr 24 to Apr 25)
Be your Best Self	Apr 23 to Apr 24	29 young people	110 hours
Accelerating Your Potential	Apr 23 to Apr 24	23 young people	85 hours
Life Leaders	Apr 23 to Apr 24	46 young people	185 hours
Youth Board	May 23 to Jun 23	10 young people	10 hours
Future Focused	Jul 23 to Sep 23	15 young people	30 hours
Skills 4 Life	Marl 25 to Mar 26	160 young people	6 hours
Career Compass	Mar 25 to Dec 25	48 young people	6 hours
Feedback Forum	Apr 23 to Apr 24	20 young people	14 hours
Insight Sessions	May 23 to Aug 23	8 young people	7 hours
The Impact Circle	Apr 23 to Apr 24	15 young people	28 hours
Total Impact		374 young people	481 hours

Mentoring

Mentoring remains a central pillar of our work. We continue to match young people with appropriate industry experts who support and encourage their learning, maximise their potential, help them develop new skills and improve their performance at work or in education.

Our mentors include chief executives, senior managers, entrepreneurs and specialists across sectors such as finance, creative industries, technology and retail. They bring a blend of professional experience and lived experience, which helps young people see what is possible for them and feel understood.

Through mentoring this year, young people:

Clarified their next steps and longer-term aspirations.
Prepared for internal promotions, apprenticeships and external job opportunities.
Developed strategies for managing workplace challenges, low confidence and imposter feelings.
Built professional networks that will support them beyond the life of the programme.

We continue to receive powerful feedback from mentees who describe mentoring as life changing and a turning point in their journey. For several young people, mentoring has directly contributed to securing new roles, retaining employment and progressing in their chosen field.

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Work Experience and Youth Leadership

We remain committed to offering structured opportunities for young people to gain meaningful work experience and leadership exposure within Arc Initiative and through our partners.

During the year young people supported with:

Programme planning and delivery.
Administrative tasks and data entry.
Content Ideas.
Peer support and co-facilitation of sessions, where appropriate.

These experiences have helped young people practise accountability, teamwork and communication in real environments. They also provided evidence of commitment and capability that young people could reference in interviews and applications.

Youth voice continues to be central to our approach. Young people influence programme design, help us test new ideas and share honest feedback about what does and does not work for them, given the ever-changing environment around them. This ensures that Arc Initiative remains grounded in the realities of those we exist to serve.

Networking and Community Partnerships

We are intentional about sharing our extensive networks with young people and teaching them how to build and maintain their own networks.

Arc Initiative continues to grow strong relationships with a range of partners, including corporate organisations, further and higher education providers, community groups, youth organisations and local authorities. During this period, we strengthened collaborations with existing partners and began working with new schools and community-based organisations, increasing our reach to those who are most in need of accessible support.

These partnerships enable us to:

Co-design relevant programmes that respond to local needs.
Offer bespoke sessions for specific groups, such as care experienced young people, those at risk of exclusion or those not in education, employment or training.
Open doors to work experience, apprenticeships and early career roles.
Share learning and good practice across the sector.

The Contribution Made by Volunteers

Volunteers remain essential to the success and sustainability of Arc Initiative.

Our volunteers contribute to:

Financial management and planning.
Bid and proposal writing and fundraising support.
Programme delivery and facilitation.
Social media, marketing and creative development.
Risk management and governance.
Event logistics, transportation and refreshments.

They bring knowledge from a wide range of professions as well as energy, creativity and a strong commitment to the young people we support. Many volunteers have lived experience of the barriers our beneficiaries face, which strengthens trust and relatability in the room.

All volunteers are supported through clear role descriptions, induction, ongoing communication and, where appropriate, safeguarding training and DBS checks. We are grateful for the time, expertise and care they offer, which significantly extends our capacity and impact.

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Achievements and Performance

Arc Initiative is a relatively young charity that is already demonstrating strong and consistent impact. We monitor and evaluate our programmes through feedback, reflective tools and ongoing contact with young people and partners.

Across our programmes this year, young people reported:

Increased confidence in applying for jobs and apprenticeships.
Better understanding of how to present their skills and experiences.
Improved communication and teamwork in education, work and at home.
A more hopeful and proactive mindset about their future.

Many young people arrived feeling unsure, anxious and disconnected from opportunities. By the end of their time with us, they described feeling more prepared, more motivated and clearer about their next steps.

Our work has contributed to outcomes such as:

Young people securing part time roles and apprenticeships while studying.
Progression from insecure or unfulfilling work into roles that better match their skills and ambitions.
Improved engagement in education and training programmes.
Reduced feelings of isolation through connection with peers, mentors and positive role models.
Increased wellbeing at home, in social and professional spaces.

We continue to hear from parents, carers, schools and partner organisations who tell us that there are few services that offer the same mix of high-quality employability training, personal development and culturally aware support as Arc Initiative. Young people consistently highlight how relatable and approachable our facilitators and mentors are, which makes it easier for them to ask questions, be honest about their worries, use real life scenarios during activities and discussions, and stay engaged.

Key Performance Indicators

As a young, growing charity, Arc Initiative continues to focus on building a sustainable model to meet the increasing demand from young people and partners.

This year, we never delivered as many sessions as we wanted to. We started later in the year due to funding constraints, but we were able to reach more young people through improved outreach methods. Our aim for next year is to secure additional funding to deliver more programmes and workshops, which will mean more hours of delivery, for more young people.

Our key performance indicators during this period included:

Number of young people engaged through structured programmes and shorter workshops.
Hours of direct learning, coaching and mentoring delivered.
Progression outcomes, such as securing employment, apprenticeships, internships or further training.
Retention and engagement rates across programme cohorts.
Feedback from young people, parents, carers, schools, community partners and volunteers.
Investing in our core team.

We do not yet hold full free reserves, as most of our income remains restricted to projects and organisational development. The Trustees remain committed to building reserves equivalent to at least six months of running costs as our income grows and diversifies. This work is being incorporated into our business planning, income generation strategy, and fundraising activities for the next period.

Financial Review

Arc Initiative remains focused on strengthening its financial resilience so that we can continue to adapt to changing circumstances and sustain our impact for the long term.

During this year, we:

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Continued to pursue grant funding and commissioned work that aligns with our mission and values.
Deepened relationships with existing funders and partners while exploring new corporate and charitable partnerships.
Drew on the skills of volunteers and advisers with expertise in finance, business planning, marketing and creative development to strengthen our internal processes and communications.

We also continued to invest in our core capacity so that we can deliver programmes safely and effectively at greater scale. This has included:

Developing the role of a youth and programme coordinator to oversee delivery and maintain quality.
Strengthening our administrative systems to track participation, outcomes, and impact more robustly.
Planning for dedicated support in marketing and communications so that more young people and partners are aware of what we offer.

Our programme catalogue continues to grow and remains responsive to the needs of the young people and communities we serve. We are increasingly asked to tailor content at short notice for partners, which demonstrates both the relevance of our work and the trust placed in Arc Initiative.

The Trustees are confident that, with continued focus on strategic fundraising, partnership development and prudent financial management, Arc Initiative is well placed to build on this year’s progress and move toward a stronger, more sustainable financial position.

Structure, Governance and Management

Constitution

Arc Initiative is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation registered with the Charity Commission in England and Wales (Charity number 1199808). The principal object of the Charity is to advance young people in life and relieve unemployment through the provision of support and activities that develop their skills, capacities, and competencies, such as interview skills and practice, CV writing, job search, and job club facilities, alongside understanding the part they play to promote an inclusive culture at the workplace.

Management Structure

Arc Initiative has a charitable board of three trustees. Each trustee brings a combination of professional expertise and lived experience of the issues that our beneficiaries face daily. Together they offer skills in areas including finance, diversity and inclusion, fundraising, project management, marketing, property development, caring for vulnerable people, wellbeing and community building.

The Chief Executive reports directly to the board of trustees. At least two trustees approve all significant financial decisions, ensuring appropriate oversight and good governance.

Arc Initiative’s leadership team comprises industry experts with a breadth of business experience and the financial acumen required to manage a growing charity. Young people know and trust us, and they enjoy participating in our programmes. We have lived experience of the issues they face, and we remain committed to working closely with our beneficiaries so that our offer stays relevant, responsive and impactful.

Method of Appointment or Election of Trustees

The management of the Charity is the responsibility of the Trustees, who are elected or co-opted under the terms of the governing document.

The Trustees approved this report on January 21, 2025, and it is signed on their behalf by

Chidi O’Hanekwu Chief Executive and founder.

Charity Number: 1199808

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Independent Examiner’s Report

I report to the trustees of Arc Initiative (Charity No 1199808) on the accounts for the period ended 5[th] April 2025.

Respective Responsibilities of the Trustees and the Independent Examiner

The Charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011
to follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act 2011, 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 201; or
the account 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 come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Jaz Notay ACMA CGMA BEng (Hons) Veritas Finance Group Ltd 28th January 2026

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Statement of Financial Activities For the period ended 5[th] April 2025

----- Start of picture text -----
Restricted Unrestricted
Notes Funds Funds Total 2025 Total 2024
Income From:
Donations & Legacies 2 55,630 55,630 15,000
Charitable activities 3
Other trading activities
Total Income 55,630 0 55,630 15,000
Expenditure on:
Raising Funds 4 0 0 0 0
Charitable activities 35,208 0 35,208 13,224
Other trading activities 0 0 0 19,278
Other 0 0
Total Expenditure 35,208 0 35,208 32,502
Net Movement in Funds 20,422 0 20,422 (17,502)
Reconciliation of Funds
Total funds brought forward 30 0 30 17,532
Total Funds carried forward 20,452 0 20,452 30
----- End of picture text -----

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Balance Sheet

For the period ended 5[th] April 2024

----- Start of picture text -----
2025 2024
Notes £ £ £ £
Tangible Fixed Assets 5 902 1,107
Other Debtors
Cash at Bank 21,327 380
21,327 380
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 6 (1,777) (1,456)
Net Current Assets 19,550 (1,076)
Total Net Assets
20,452 31
The Funds of the Charity
Unrestricted Funds 7 0
Restricted Funds 5,927 (13,194)
5,927 (13,194)
----- End of picture text -----

The company was entitled to exemption from audit under s477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.

These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to small companies subject to the small companies regime and in accordance with FRS102 SORP.

Approved by the Board of Trustees

Dated:

Signed: Stephanie Nicola, Chair of Trustees

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

Notes to Financial Statements

1. Accounting Policies

Basis of preparing financial statements

The financial statements of the charitable company have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRSSE) ‘Accounting and Reporting’ by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the provisions of FRS102 Section 1A Small Entities and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historic cost convention.

Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs 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.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

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 the funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purposes of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

2. Donations & Legacies

Grants Legacies Total 3. Charitable Activities Fundraising Other Total	Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds Total 2025 Total 2024 55,630 0 55,630 19,978 0 55,630 0 55,630 19,978 Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds Total 2025 Total 2024 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk

4. Analysis of Expenditure

Raising Funds Charitable activities Other trading activities Other Total	Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds Total 2025 Total 2024 0 0 0 0 35,208 0 35,208 13,224 0 0 0 19,278 0 0 0 35,208 0 35,208 32,502

5. Tangible Assets

At Cost Addition Depreciation as at 05.04.25 Depreciation charge for the year Net Book Value As at 05.04.25 As at 05.04.24 6. Creditors - amounts falling due within Creditors 7.Restricted Funds Unrestricted Restricted	Fixtures & Fittings Computer Equipment Total 2,656 2,656 1,020 1,549 1,549 885 340 1,225 222 680 902 1,107 0 1,107 one year 2025 2024 1,776 1,456 1,776 1,456 Balance as at 6th April 2024 Income Expenditure Balance as at 5th April 2025 0 0 0 0 30 55,630 (35,208) 20,452 30 55,630 (35,208) 20,452

Charity Number: 1199808 arcinitiative.co.uk