## **WALK IN MY SHOES CIO** 

## **Trustees' Annual Report** 

For the Financial Year Ending 31 August 2024 

Charity Number: 1204479 

## **Structure and Governance** 

WALK IN MY SHOES CIO is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation registered in August 2023. The charity is governed by its constitution adopted on registration. 

## **Objectives and Activities** 

The charity aims to improve health equity and cultural awareness through mentoring, arts, and community engagement — particularly for Black and ethnically diverse communities in Gloucestershire. 

## **Public Benefit** 

The trustees confirm they have complied with the duty in section 4 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission. 

## **Achievements and Performance** 

As this was the charity’s first year of operation, the focus has been on foundational planning, governance, and partnership development. No public-facing or funded activity has yet taken place. 

## **Reasons for Delayed Operational Start** 

Although the charity was registered in August 2023, WALK IN MY SHOES CIO has not yet commenced operational activity during this reporting period. The trustees have been focused on establishing a strong governance foundation, developing key policies, building strategic partnerships — particularly with the NHS and education sectors — and designing a culturally responsive mentoring program to support Black and diverse communities across Gloucestershire. Delivery of mentoring and community programs is expected to begin between July and September 2025, aligning with the current financial year and in preparation for full implementation into 2026. 

## **Financial Review** 

The charity had no income or expenditure in the reporting period. The cash balance at year-end was £0. 

## **Reserves Policy** 

As the charity has not yet received funds, no reserves policy is applicable at this stage. 



## **Plans for the Future** 

WALK IN MY SHOES CIO intends to launch mentoring and community health equity projects in partnership with the NHS, local educational institutions, and VCSE partners during the 2024–25 year. 

## **Trustees** 

Valerie Simms (Chair) 

## **Trustees:** 

- **Valerie Simms** – Chair of Trustees _Provides leadership to the board, guides strategy and partnerships, and represents the charity publicly._ 

- **Sharon Bryan** – Treasurer _Oversees financial planning, reporting, and compliance with charity finance standards._ 

- **Blanche McCalla** – Secretary / Governance Lead _Maintains trustee records, meeting minutes, and supports regulatory compliance._ 




## **WALK IN MY SHOES CIO** 

**Receipts and Payments Accounts** 

For the Financial Year Ended 31 August 2024 

Charity Number: 1204479 

## **Receipts** 

Total Receipts: £0.00 

## **Payments** 

Total Payments: £0.00 

## **Cash Funds** 

Cash at Bank and in Hand at Start of Year: £0.00 

Cash at Bank and in Hand at End of Year: £0.00 

## **Notes** 

WALK IN MY SHOES CIO was registered on 25 August 2023. The charity has not yet commenced any operations and has not received or spent any funds during the financial year ending 31 August 2024. 

Prepared by: Valerie Simms 

Date: 23 June 2025