Trustees’ Annual Report for the period
From 27[th] November 2023 Period start date To 31[st] January 2025 Period end date
Charity name: Igbo Women Movement Worldwide UK
Charity registration number: 1205916
Objectives and Activities
| SORP reference | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summary of the purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document |
Para 1.17 | The objects of Igbo Women Movement Worldwide UK (IWMW UK) are: To relieve poverty and financial hardship among women and families in England and the Ala Igbo region of Nigeria, particularly those from Igbo communities through education, training, healthcare initiatives, and support that promote self-sufficiency and sustainable livelihoods. To promote and protect human rights of Igbo women and families, especially in Nigeria, by raising awareness, advocating for victims of abuse, encouraging ethical conduct, and promoting respect for fundamental freedoms in line with international human rights standards. To build the capacity and skills of socially and economically disadvantaged Igbo women and families both in Nigeria and among the diaspora in the UK, enabling them to identify and address their own needs and participate more fully in society. The trustees confirm that these objectives are carried out for the public benefit and are consistent with Charity Commission guidance. |
| Summary of the main activities in relation to those purposes for the public benefit, in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts. |
Para 1.17 and 1.19 |
During the reporting period, IWMW UK delivered several key programmes and initiatives designed to advance its charitable purposes and respond to community needs: a) Project GARIH: Provided essential food parcels and nutritional support to children in Nigeria, addressing poverty and hunger among school children. |
| b) Project Your Skill Your Wealth (YSYW): Delivered vocational and entrepreneurial training in catering, baking and business management to help young people gain practical skills and confidence to start their own enterprises. d) Health Awareness Campaigns: Conducted workshops and community events on diabetes prevention, mental health awareness, and access to healthcare resources in both the UK and Nigeria. e) Youth Empowerment and Cultural Preservation: Engaged Igbo youth through language classes, cultural education, and leadership mentorship, promoting cultural identity and social cohesion within diaspora communities. Collectively, these activities further the charity’s goals of reducing poverty, promoting education and health, advancing human rights, and empowering women and youth to be economically and socially self- reliant. |
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| Statement confirming whether the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit |
Para 1.18 | The trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty under the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit when carrying out the charity’s aims and planning its activities. All of the charity’s work during the year contributed directly to the prevention or relief of poverty, the promotion of education and health, and the advancement of human rights and equality for women and families from Igbo and wider communities. Through its programmes including food relief (GARIHH), skill acquisition (YSYW), health awareness campaigns, and youth empowerment initiatives, IWMW UK has provided tangible benefits to individuals and families in the UK and the Ala Igbo region of Nigeria. These activities promote self- sufficiency, community inclusion, and cultural preservation, ensuring that the charity’s resources are used effectively for the public good. |
Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| SORP reference | ||
|---|---|---|
| Policy on grant making | Para 1.38 | As part of delivering its charitable objectives, IWMW UK provides small grants, business start-up support, and material assistance to women, youth, and families experiencing financial hardship. |
| Grants are made only where they clearly further the charity’s purposes including poverty relief, empowerment, education, and business development and are awarded following an open and fair assessment process. Applications and/or nominations are reviewed by designated committees to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper use of charitable funds. All recipients are required to demonstrate how the grant will be used to achieve self-sufficiency, economic stability, or community benefit. The trustees regularly review the effectiveness of grant-making activities to ensure alignment with IWMW UK’s objectives and tomaximise public benefit. |
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| Policy on social investment including program related investment |
Para 1.38 | |
| Contribution made by volunteers |
Para 1.38 | The trustees recognise the invaluable contribution of volunteers to the work of IWMW UK. Volunteers have supported programme delivery, administrative functions, mentoring, community events, and outreach activities across the UK and Nigeria. Their commitment has strengthened the charity’s capacity to reach more beneficiaries and has enabled IWMW UK to deliver its objectives efficiently while keeping operational costs low. Without the dedication and passion of its volunteers, the charity’s impact would not have been as significant. The trustees remain deeply grateful for their continued service. |
| Other |
Achievements and Performance
SORP reference
| Summary of the main achievements of the charity, identifying the difference the charity’s work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole. |
Para 1.20 | During the reporting period, IWMW UK made significant progress in advancing its mission to empower women and alleviate poverty within Igbo and wider communities across the UK and Nigeria. The charity’s flagship programmes: GARIH, YSYW, and various health and youth initiatives collectively improved the quality of life for many vulnerable women, families, and young people affected by hardship. Through the Your Skill Your Wealth (YSYW) project, IWMW UK delivered vocational and entrepreneurial training to the youth who were facing different stages of poverty due to unemployment, job loss, or the loss of a breadwinner. The programme gave hope and practical pathways to self-reliance, enabling beneficiaries to gain new skills, start small enterprises, and regain control over their livelihoods. Project GARIH focused on school-aged children, providing nutritious food to those from low-income families in Nigeria. This intervention not only reduced hunger but also led to a significant improvement in school attendance, ensuring that more children could focus on learning and development rather than daily survival. Health awareness campaigns on diabetes prevention and mental wellbeing, alongside cultural and youth empowerment projects, continued to build resilience, wellbeing, and social inclusion across communities. Overall, IWMW UK’s achievements this year demonstrate measurable progress in reducing poverty, supporting education, empowering women, and nurturing stability and hope among the families it serves. |
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Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| Achievements against objectives set |
Para 1.41 | Objective 1: Relieve poverty and financial hardship Project GARIH provided nutritious food to school children and vulnerable families in Nigeria, leading to a significant improvement in school attendance and alleviating hunger among children from low-income households. YSYW provided vocational training and entrepreneurial guidance to women and youth experiencing unemployment or the loss ofa breadwinner,helping participants to |
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| develop practical skills, gain income opportunities, and achieve self-sufficiency. Objective 2: Promote and protect human rights The charity raised awareness of human rights issues affecting Igbo women and families in Nigeria, advocating for ethical treatment and supporting individuals affected by abuse or discrimination. IWMW UK promoted respect for human rights through educational sessions and workshops, targeting both individuals and communities, thereby enhancing knowledge, advocacy, and public support for human rights. Trustees engaged in international advocacy and partnerships to address human rights concerns, contributing to long-term empowerment and protection of vulnerable groups. Objective 3: Develop capacity and skills among disadvantaged women and families Project YSYW strengthened the capacity of women and young people to identify and meet their own needs, participate in economic activity, and make informed life choices. Health awareness campaigns equipped women and families with knowledge to manage wellbeing and make informed healthcare decisions. Cultural and youth engagement programmes preserved Igbo heritage, promoted leadership, and fostered civic participation among young people in the diaspora |
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| Performance of fundraising activities against objectives set |
Para 1.41 | There was no fundraising activity during the reporting year |
| Investment performance against objectives |
Para 1.41 | |
| Other |
Financial Review
| Financial Review | ||
|---|---|---|
| Review of the charity’s financial position at the end of the period |
Para 1.21 | At 31 January 2025, IWMW UK’s total income for the period was £4052, primarily from donations and member contributions. Total expenditure was £4183.88, resulting in a net deficit of £131.88. The deficit was minor and arose due to timing differences between incoming donations and programme payments. Overall, the charity maintained sufficient liquidity to continue its activities. |
| Statement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held |
Para 1.22 | The trustees aim to maintain unrestricted reserves sufficient to cover at least three months of operational costs. Reserves provide financial stability, ensuring that the charity can continue delivering its programmes even in the event of a shortfall in income or unexpected expenditure. |
| Amount of reservesheld | Para 1.22 | £0 |
| Reasons for holding zero reserves |
Para 1.22 | All funds were fully committed to programme delivery and operational costs, leaving no unrestricted funds. This will be reviewed regularly |
| Details of fund materially in deficit |
Para 1.24 | The unrestricted fund was in deficit by £131.88, a minor shortfall arising from timing of income and expenditure. There were no other funds materially in deficit. |
| Explanation of any uncertainties about the charity continuing as a going concern |
Para 1.23 | The trustees have reviewed the charity’s financial position and cash flow projections. Despite the absence of UK-based reserves, IWMW UK is confident in its ability to continue as a going concern, operating independently and in compliance with its governing documents. The minor deficit does not compromise the charity’s ongoing delivery of objectives. |
Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
The principal sources of funds for IWMW UK during the reporting period were:
- The charity’s principal sources of funds (including Para 1.47 1. Donations from supporters and wellany fundraising) wishers. 2. Contributions from members of the charity.
All funds received were applied directly to the delivery of charitable objectives, including poverty relief, skill acquisition, business support, health awareness, and youth empowerment. No fundraising events or commercial trading activities were undertaken during this period. Investment policy and Para 1.46
| objectives including any social investment policy adopted |
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| A description of the principal risks facing the charity |
Para 1.46 | The trustees have considered the principal risks that could affect IWMW UK and have put in place policies and procedures to manage them. The main risks include: Financial Risk: Potential shortfalls in income or timing mismatches between donations and programme expenditure. Mitigation: careful budgeting, cash flow monitoring, and conservative expenditure planning. Operational Risk: Delays or disruptions in programme delivery in the UK or Nigeria. Mitigation: regular monitoring, volunteer engagement, and collaboration with reliable local partners. Reputational Risk: Miscommunication or failure to deliver promised services could affect public confidence. Mitigation: transparent reporting, trustee oversight, and clear communication with beneficiaries and donors. Compliance Risk: Failure to comply with charity, legal, or regulatory requirements. Mitigation: adherence to the CIO constitution, regular trustee training, and engagement with professional advisers as needed. Safeguarding and Welfare Risk: Potential harm to vulnerable beneficiaries. Mitigation: robust safeguarding policies, volunteer training, and monitoring of all activities involving children and vulnerable adults. The trustees review these risks regularly and take steps to ensure that appropriate controls are in place to reduce the likelihood and impact of any issues. |
| Other |
Structure, Governance and Management
| Description of charity’s trusts: |
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| Type of governing document (trust deed, royal charter) |
Para 1.25 | IWMW UK is governed by a constitution, as required for Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs) registered in England and Wales. This constitution sets out the charity’s objects, powers, trustee responsibilities, and procedures for governance, meetings, and amendments. |
| How is the charity constituted? (e.g unincorporated association, CIO) |
Para 1.25 | IWMW UK is constituted as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) under the Charities Act 2011. As a CIO, the charity is a legal entity in its own right, able to enter into contracts, hold property, and employ staff in its own name. The CIO structure provides limited liability protection to its trustees and members. IWMW UK is independent of any other organisation, including its partner organisation IWMW, although the two collaborate on certain projects. |
| Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions e.g. election to post or name of any person or body entitled to appoint one or more trustees |
Para 1.25 | Trustees are appointed in accordance with the charity’s constitution. Appointment methods include: Election by members during Annual General Meetings (AGMs), where applicable. Nomination or appointment by the Board to fill casual vacancies or add additional expertise. The constitution specifies the number of trustees, minimum and maximum terms of office, and procedures for resignation, retirement, or removal. Trustees are required to act in the best interests of the charity, adhere to the governing document, and comply with the Charities Act 2011. |
| Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements |
Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements |
where relevant about: |
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| Policies and procedures adopted for the induction and training of trustees |
Para 1.51 | IWMW UK has established formal policies to ensure trustees are properly inducted, trained, and supported: Induction: All new trustees receive a copy of the CIO constitution, the Charity Commission guidance for trustees, and IWMW UK’s key |
| policies (Financial Management, Safeguarding, Volunteer, Grant-Making, etc.). Induction includes an overview of current programmes, projects, beneficiaries, and the charity’s strategic objectives. New trustees meet with the Chair and existing trustees to discuss roles, responsibilities, and expectations. Training: Trustees receive ongoing training relevant to their role, including updates on charity law, governance best practices, safeguarding, financial management, and risk management. External training opportunities and workshops for instance from the Charities Engagement Team may be provided where necessary to develop skills and ensure compliance. Trustees are encouraged to share learning and experiences to strengthen collective governance. |
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| The charity’s organisational structure and any wider network with which the charity works |
Para 1.51 | IWMW UK is governed by a Board of Trustees who are responsible for overall strategic direction, policy setting, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Operational activities are delivered by volunteers, programme managers, and coordinators under the supervision of trustees. IWMW UK works in collaboration with its partner organisation IWMW Global, as well as community organisations, women’s groups, and local leaders in the UK and Ala Igbo region of Nigeria. The charity maintains regular communication and coordination with partner organisations to maximise impact while retaining independent governance. Structure Overview: Board of Trustee: Strategic oversight, policy, financial management, risk assessment Programme Managers / Coordinators: Delivery of projects (Project, YSYW, GARIH, Health Campaigns) |
| Volunteers – Support programme delivery, mentorship, outreach, and administrative duties |
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| Relationship with any related parties |
Para 1.51 | IWMW UK is independent of Igbo Women Movement Worldwide (IWMW), though the two organisations collaborate on certain programmes and share common objectives. IWMW provides support through advice, technical guidance, and access to international networks, but does not control or fund the UK CIO directly. Trustees are required to declare any interests or relationships with organisations or individuals that might give rise to conflicts of interest. Any transactions or agreements with related parties are conducted on an arm’s-length basis and approved by the trustees. |
| Other |
Reference and Administrative details
| Charityname | IgboWomen MovemetWorldwide UK(IWMWUK) |
|---|---|
| Other name the charity uses | Enyindigbo UK |
| Registered charity number | 1205916 |
| Charity’s principal address | 123 Biddle Road, Leicester, LE3 9HL |
Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity
| 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 |
Trustee name | Office (if any) | Dates acted if not for whole year |
Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee(if any) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Nkeiruka Onyia | Chair | |||
| Rtd Barr. Anthonia Ngozi Ukachi-Lois |
Trustee | |||
| Mrs Chitua Aguoru | Trustee | 26.10.2024 till date | ||
– Corporate trustees names of the directors at the date the report was approved Director name
Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity
Trustee name Dates acted if not for whole year
Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others
Description of the assets Not Applicable held in this capacity
Name and objects of the charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the custodian charity’s objects
Details of arrangements for safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity’s own assets
Additional information (optional)
Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)
Type of Name Address adviser
Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information)
Exemptions from disclosure
Reason for non-disclosure of key personnel details
Other optional information
Declarations
The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.
Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees
| Signature(s) Full name(s) Position (eg Secretary, Chair, etc) Date |
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|---|---|---|
| Nkeiruka Onyia | ||
Chair |
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| 16thNovember 2025 | ||
| 16thNovember 2025 |
| IWMW UK Financial Report 27thNovember 2023 to 31stJanuary2025 | ||
| Table 1 Income | ||
| Members Donation | 550 | |
| Donations from Friends and Families |
900 | |
| Donations from IWMW Paris | 552 | |
| MembershipSubscription | 500 | |
| Donations for Project GARIH | 1000 | |
| Donations for Project YSYW | 550 | |
| Total Income | 4052 | |
| Table 2 Expenses | ||
| Website development-IWMW UK | 500 | |
| Zoom | 143.88 | |
| Anambra State Union UK | 100 | |
| Nigerian Chaplaincy | 70 | |
| Website Fees | 220 | |
| Gas and Electricity | 1200 | |
| Project GARIH | 1000 | |
| Project YSYW | 550 | |
| Telephone and internet | 400 | |
| Total Expenses | 4183.88 | |
| Balance Carried Forward | -131.88 |