14 October 2024 - 31 October 2025
Annual Report
Registered charity no. 1210740
3
Contents
Welcome from our Board Chair
| Introduction from. our Chief Executive | 4 |
|---|---|
| Key highlights and metrics | 5 |
| Vision, mission and objectives | 7 |
| Public benefit | 8 |
| Our activities | 9 |
| Public benefit statement and monitoring impact | 10 |
| Case studies | 11 - 12 |
| Plans for the future | 13 |
| Financial overview | 14 |
| Governance and management | 15 |
| Administrative details | 19 |
20
Thanks and acknowledgements
Welcome from our Board Chair
Adam Goodman and I started 2econd Chance because it was clear to us that people with disabilities and additional needs wanted something purposeful to do but had few opportunities available to them.
Too often they were isolated at home and left out of work, training and community life. We believed that with the right support, people could learn useful skills, build confidence and feel valued.
Nigel Canin
Adam Goodman
Computers gave us an entry point to train people to repair and restore unwanted technology to give people a chance to learn and be part of a team — and to keep devices out of landfill.
This year has seen real momentum in our move to become an employment support charity. Today, we provide trainees with meaningful experience and transferable skills they can take into the workplace if they choose to work. For many, it is the first step back into education or work.
At the same time, we are realistic. Not all of our trainees will be able to work in a traditional setting. For some, the goal is not employment but purpose and confidence. We offer a place to come where people are welcomed and treated with respect, and where there is structure to the week and a sense of contribution.
One of the highlights of the year for me was seeing our first cohort of trainees graduate from our British Computer Society-accredited Tech 10 programme. I am so proud of the trainees for completing the course and of our team for working so hard to create this programme.
Our staff and trainees have shaped what 2econd Chance is today. When I walk into the workspace, it is friendly and busy, with people focused on their tasks and helping each other. It is a productive, calm place where people feel safe and valued.
I want to thank our Trustees for their guidance and oversight, our brilliant staff and volunteers who run the workspace and the computer business, and our amazing trainees who leave their comfort zones to come to a new place, meet new people, and learn new skills. We never take that for granted.
Nigel Canin Co-founder and Board Chair, 2econd Chance
Introduction from our Chief Executive
What a year it has been for 2econd Chance.
Every week we have welcomed 45 trainees through our doors, each one facing their own barriers to employment, and each one bringing their own strengths. It is wonderful to see people grow in confidence and capability during their time with us.
Our workspace is built on the belief that everyone deserves to be met where they are. Some trainees arrive with extensive IT knowledge. Others have never touched a laptop. But whatever their skill level they all receive the same calm, inclusive experience where their individual abilities are nurtured by our dedicated team.
This year, we made real strides in moving beyond technical training to offer meaningful employment support.
A delegation of our trainees visited the offices of COLT Technology Services in London, to get a taste of professional life. Two trainees completed two weeks' work experience with Barnet Homes. And in June, seven of our trainees graduated from our Tech 10 course which gives them skills for an entry-level IT role.
We have now expanded the course to include many more soft skills and workplace-ready modules such as AI, CV writing, workplace etiquette and time management. And thanks to funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, we can now subsidise 15 places on the course, removing the £600 fee.
None of our work happens in isolation. This year we developed 10 new community partnerships and 20 new corporate partnerships, adding to the network of relationships that makes everything we do possible. Our long-standing partnership with Barnet Council remains central to how we reach people connecting us with referrals from all kinds of organisations across the borough.
We also donated 424 refurbished devices to digitally excluded residents this year. Demand continues to outstrip supply but we hope with more funding we will be able to increase the amount of devices we give away.
Looking ahead, we will focus on deepening our corporate partnerships to maintain a steady supply of donated tech, and on growing our fundraising to secure the resources we need to reach more people.
Thank you for your continued support. Charlotte Solomon, Chief Executive, 2econd Chance
Key highlights & metrics 45 PEOPLE TRAINED EACH WEEK 45 trainees a week took part in our 12-week training and work experience program. They come from orqani.sation.s across the borouqh. 7 GRADUATES FROM BCS TECH 10 COURSE 7 of our trainees completed our first Tech 10 course accredited with the British Computer Society. 424 REFURBISHED DEVICES DONATED l in 4 of our refurbished devices ar donated to individuals or families who don't have access to a computer or phone. 10 VOLUNTEER PLACEMENTS PROVIDED 10 volunteer5, part of the Barnet Digital Champions program, came to our workspace to help us refurbish machi
“ B and A’s confidence has grown so much since coming to 2econd Chance. They won't be the same anymore. It has been such a positive change for them. The pride they took in doing their work — it was great for both of them — especially for B being able to get into a computer and fix things.
“A will always excel when it comes to IT stuff. That is his area of niche, but the confidence they both have now — I don't think that can ever be taken away from them.” Courtney Wright, Commercial Enterprise Manager, Kisharon Langdon
Our vision
At 2econd Chance we believe everyone deserves a fair shot at work and should receive the skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed.
Our mission
To empower people with physical disabilities, learning differences, or social, emotional and mental health needs by providing inclusive training, mentoring, and pathways to employment, through a circular model of tech reuse, community partnerships, and skill-building.
We offer workplace experience and IT training programmes to young people facing barriers into employment including people with Education Health Care Plans or adults who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).
When trainees come to us they get hands-on experience in refurbishing unwanted IT hardware in a friendly and inclusive workspace where they receive tailored support and are valued for their own particular skill set. Using computers as an entrance point for training, we provide opportunities to build up their experience, knowledge and soft skills to prepare them for the workplace and help them on the pathway into employment.
Charitable objectives
The protection and preservation of the environment for the public benefit by the promotion of e-waste reduction, re-use, reclamation, recycling.
The relief of financial hardship by the provision of refurbished electronic devices to individuals in need.
The advancement in life of young people up to the age of 25 and young people with learning disabilities up to the age of 30 by the provision of training and support to develop their skills, capacities and capabilities to enable them to participate in society as mature and responsible individuals.
To educate the public by the provision of accredited and vocational training in the subjects of IT and digital skills in particular, but not exclusively for individuals with disabilities, mental health issues or who are refugees or seeking asylum.
Who we support and where we work
We support young people and adults who face barriers to employment – including people with Education Health Care Plans, as well as adults who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), including those with disabilities, autism, and additional needs.
We are based in Hendon, north-west London and serve people in the London borough of Barnet and other areas of the capital.
Our device referral scheme also helps tackle digital exclusion by providing free refurbished laptops or phones to people who don’t have access to a device.
The public benefit of what we do
We help support people facing barriers to work on the pathway to employment. The employment rate of disabled people is 53% compared to 82% of non-disabled people.
We help reduce the amount of e-waste going to landfill. Currently the UK produces 1.6 million tonnes every year making us the second worst generator per capita behind Norway.
We sell 75% of our refurbished computers at low-cost affordable prices.
The remainder of our refurbished computers and phones are donated — via our device referral scheme — to people who don’t have acces to a device which helps tackle digital exclusion.
Our activities during the year
-
We welcomed 45 trainees a week from organisations across the borough including DWP, employment support organisations, schools (mainstream and SEND), colleges, social prescribers (NHS), Mencap and community and voluntary sector organisations.
-
Seven trainees completed and graduated from our first British Computer Society-accredited Tech 10 programme.
-
Following on from the first iteration of the Tech 10 programme, we enhanced the curriculum with modules on AI and have included modules on workplace skills such as time management, communication and public speaking, professionalism and workplace etiquette, work ethic, appearance and CV and cover letter writing.
-
Two of our trainees completed two weeks’ work experience with Barnet Homes.
-
We arranged for a group of trainees to visit Colt Technology Services where they could learn about the world of work and what they might expect if they went to work for a big company.
-
We donated 424 refurbished devices to digitally excluded residents in Barnet and across London.
Public benefit statement
The Trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty under section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission.
The Trustees have referred to this guidance when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives and in planning future activities. The Trustees are satisfied that the charity's activities continue to be focused on and deliver benefits to the public in accordance with its charitable purposes.
Monitoring impact
We carefully monitor and report our impact.
We track each trainee’s journey from work experience through to accredited training and onward progression into further learning or employment.
We collect and analyse feedback and data from trainees, referral partners and teaching staff.
For our device donation scheme, we log every referral and collect testimonials from recipients to understand how access to a device has improved their daily lives.
This information helps us evaluate outcomes, strengthen our programmes and demonstrate the difference our work makes.
Case study B
B is in his thirties and has severe learning difficulties which means he would find it difficult to find work. He comes to us each week to refurbish computers in the workspace. The positive impact this has on him prompted his parents to write us this wonderful note last year.
"To Mark and your very special team - As we come to the end of another year, we want to express our thanks to you for going out of your way for B. Through 'going to work' at 2econd Chance his self-image has soared and his fine motor skills have improved both of which have a ripple effect on many other areas of his life."
Case study E
E is 33 and lives in north London. He started as a trainee with 2econd Chance but has now been employed by the charity on a part-time basis helping to fix laptops and support new trainees.
A university graduate, E took some time out from his PhD after his mental health deteriorated.
He volunteered in a library but struggled with dealing with members of the public and unexpected situations that could arise from that. “At work, I need to know what to expect,” he explained.
Another charitable trust that was supporting him, recommended he try a session at 2econd Chance, learning about IT refurbishment.
“I remember being pleasantly surprised at the relaxed environment. It didn’t feel stuffy and I felt comfortable,” he said. “I am of a generation that has grown up with computers but I’m not really from a tech background and I enjoyed learning about the process, the physical aspect of opening up the laptops and taking out the hard drives.”
E came to 2econd Chance once a week for around a year before being of the first students to take the Tech 10 BCS accredited course teaching IT refurbishment and workplace skills.
Now he has gone on to work at 2econd Chance one session a week helping trainees with their training as well as helping the team fix and refurbish laptops.
“Working here has really helped my confidence. I had anxieties around my abilities. But then you start to do it and you think ‘Oh I CAN do this and do it well,” he said. E is still applying for jobs for other days during his week.
“How people treat people is really important. There is no judgement here at 2econd Chance. Some people who come here have behaviours that might be frowned upon elsewhere. Some people might make noises or walk around or whatever. But here people are like ‘That’s fine’. It’s a safe place for people to be themselves.”
Plans for the future
Over the coming year, 2econd Chance will focus on strengthening both our sustainability and our impact.
We will continue to diversify and grow our funding through fundraising and partnerships, while increasing outreach to referral organisations to engage more trainees.
A key priority will be developing and deepening partnerships with corporate organisations to secure a consistent and increased supply of donated laptops and devices, which are essential to both our training programmes and our community redistribution work.
We also plan to further develop our structured trainee journey, supporting individuals from initial work experience through to accredited qualifications and onward progression into employment or specialist partner organisations.
Alongside this, we will work closely with corporate partners to align with their equality, diversity and inclusion commitments, creating meaningful opportunities for mentoring, skills development and supported routes into work for our trainees.
We have begun the process of improving our office and workspace to ensure it works for the trainees and everyone in the team.
We have started to explore expanding the IT refurbishment model and replicate it with picture framing. 2econd Chance ReFramed will be a new charitable initiative that helps people with mental health challenges to learn practical picture framing skills as a way to build confidence and a sense of purpose.
Financial overview
We have a strong gross margin on trading income but as we have scaled our operations, administrative and infrastructure costs have increased, resulting in a small operating deficit during the year. This remains manageable and reflects planned investment in capacity to support future growth.
Our primary source of income is the sale of refurbished devices at affordable prices, with salaries representing our main area of expenditure. Other income consists of donations from members of the public and from entities connected to the Trustees.
Alongside trading income, we are actively diversifying revenue through fundraising, including grant applications, to strengthen sustainability and expand our training and community programmes.
One of the trustees has provided their commitment to financially support us particularly in its early years, while we continue to secure funding and income streams.
Reserves policy
2econd Chance maintains financial reserves to ensure the stability and continuity of our charitable activities and to protect the organisation against unexpected changes in income or expenditure. As a small charity operating with a mix of private funding, donations and project income, we recognise our income can fluctuate and that we must be able to continue delivering training and support to vulnerable beneficiaries without disruption. The Trustees have therefore adopted a risk-based approach to reserves. Our policy is to hold unrestricted free reserves equivalent to between three months of normal operating costs.
This level has been assessed as sufficient to:
-
manage short-term or unforeseen reductions in income or delays in funding
-
meet essential fixed commitments such as staff salaries, premises and core programme delivery
-
respond to unexpected costs or operational risks
• cover orderly closure costs, including notice periods, contractual obligations and wind-down expenses, should this ever become necessary.
The Trustees review the level of reserves annually as part of the budgeting and risk management process to ensure it remains appropriate to the scale, complexity and risk profile of the organisation. Where reserves fall outside the target range, a plan will be put in place either to rebuild or appropriately utilise funds in furtherance of the charity’s objectives.
Maintaining prudent reserves enables us to operate responsibly, safeguard beneficiaries and staff, and deliver its mission with confidence and continuity.
We are presently building up these minimum level of reserves and hope to achieve this position in the coming years. Until that point, one of the Trustees has provided financial support to cover any shortfall in funds.
Principal funding sources
2econd Chance is funded by:
Revenue from the sale of refurbished computers
Private philanthropy
Local authority grant (Barnet Council)
Donations from corporates
Governance and management
Legal Status and Structure
2econd Chance is a body corporate created under the Charities Act 2011 and registered on 31 October 2024, on which date it began operating. We are governed by a constitution dated 14 October 2024.
2econd Chance was founded by Nigel Canin and Adam Goodman in 2019 as a CIC and became a CIO in 2024.
Trustees and Governance
The members of the trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the period were: Nigel Canin (Chair)
Dawn Hallybone David Morley Lauren Garfield
Trustees are appointed by resolution at a meeting of the trustees for a term of three years. In selecting individuals for appointment as trustees, regard is given to the skills, knowledge and experience required for the role of administering the charity. None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the company. All trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up.
The Board meets twice a year to receive updates and review risks and policies.
Risk management
The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to these risks. They acknowledge that risk management is essential to the continued delivery of 2econd Chance’s services.
Key operational risks include an insufficient supply of donated devices, fluctuations in trainee referrals, data security and potential breaches when handling devices and information, and rising costs for parts and components used in refurbishment. We also monitor periods of high demand for donated devices, which can create capacity pressures and waiting lists for beneficiaries. Risks are reviewed regularly at Trustee and management meetings, with mitigation actions agreed and monitored, and emerging issues addressed promptly as they arise.
Staff and management
2econd Chance was founded in 2019 by Nigel Canin and Adam Goodman. Nigel Canin is now Board chair while Adam works in the workspace helping trainees.
The day-to-day running of the charity is organised by key management personnel and staff.
The senior team comprises: Charlotte Solomon – Chief Executive Isobel Aptaker – Head of Community Partnerships Avney Nathan – Operations Director
There are four further members of staff who run the training room.
Each week we also work with 10 volunteers from Barnet who each spend two hours a week with us helping to refurbish computers.
Safeguarding, equality and wellbeing
Safeguarding
The wellbeing and safety of our trainees, staff and volunteers is central to everything we do. Many of the people who train with 2econd Chance may be vulnerable or require additional support, so we maintain clear safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure a safe, respectful and inclusive working environment at all times. All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding training and understand how to recognise, respond to and report concerns appropriately. Safeguarding is overseen by trustees and policies are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain compliant with current legislation and reflect best practice. We aim to create a workspace where everyone feels safe, supported and able to participate with confidence.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
2econd Chance exists to remove barriers to opportunity. We are committed to equality of opportunity and to creating an environment where every individual is treated with dignity, fairness and respect. Our programmes are designed specifically to support people with disabilities, learning difficulties and social, emotional or mental health needs who are often excluded from traditional employment routes. We actively promote inclusive recruitment, accessible training and reasonable adjustments to ensure everyone can take part fully. We value the diversity of experiences, backgrounds and perspectives within our community and believe this strengthens both our workplace and the outcomes we achieve.
Staff wellbeing
We recognise that our small team plays a vital role in creating the calm, supportive and structured environment that makes our training programmes successful. We are committed to supporting staff wellbeing through manageable workloads, regular supervision, ongoing training and open communication. We encourage a collaborative culture where staff feel listened to, valued and able to raise concerns or ideas. By prioritising wellbeing and professional development, we aim to ensure our team can continue to provide consistent, high quality support to every trainee who comes through our doors.
Health and safety
Health and safety
2econd Chance is committed to providing a safe and well managed workshop and training environment for trainees, staff, volunteers and visitors. As our programmes involve practical IT refurbishment and the handling of electrical equipment, we take health and safety particularly seriously. We maintain appropriate risk assessments for all activities, provide clear guidance on safe working practices and ensure staff and trainees receive relevant training and supervision. Equipment is regularly checked and maintained, and incidents or near misses are recorded and reviewed to inform continuous improvement. Our policies are reviewed annually to ensure compliance with current legislation and best practice.
Volunteer management
Volunteers play an important role in supporting our training programmes and wider activities. We are committed to providing a positive, safe and meaningful volunteering experience. Volunteers receive appropriate induction, guidance and supervision and are matched to roles that reflect their skills and interests. We ensure volunteers understand our values, safeguarding responsibilities and health and safety procedures. We aim to create an inclusive environment where volunteers feel valued and able to contribute to the success of our trainees and the wider organisation.
Data protection and information security
We recognise our responsibility to protect the personal information of our trainees, donors, partners and supporters. 2econd Chance operates in accordance with UK data protection legislation and maintains policies and procedures to ensure data is collected, stored and used securely and appropriately. Access to sensitive information is limited to authorised staff only, and all team members receive guidance on data handling and confidentiality. As part of our device refurbishment work, we also follow strict processes for secure data wiping and, where required, certified destruction of hard drives to protect the information of our corporate donors. These measures help ensure trust and confidence in our services.
Reference and administrative details
Address:
2econd Chance – charity no. 1210740 Enterprise House, 2 The Crest, Hendon, London, NW4 2HN Contact details:
Tel no. 0203 784 8280
info@2econdchance.co.uk
Trustees: Nigel Canin (Chair) Dawn Hallybone David Morley Lauren Garfield
Senior Staff:
Charlotte Solomon – Chief Executive Isobel Aptaker – Head of Community Partnerships Avney Nathan – Operations Director
Trustees’ Responsibilities Statement
The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period.
Thanks and acknowledgements
The Trustees would like to express their sincere gratitude to all those who have supported the charity throughout the year. We are deeply appreciative of our donors for their computer donations, our trainees for their dedication and enthusiasm, our community partners for their collaboration, and all our supporters for their ongoing encouragement. Their collective commitment has been invaluable in enabling us to deliver our charitable activities.
Contact us
Website: www.2econdchance.co.uk Email: info@2econdchance.co.uk Phone: 0203 784 8280
2econd Chance Empower people and reduce e-waste
Charity Registration No. 1210740
Company Registration No. CE038055 (England and Wales)
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
TRUSTEES' REPORT AND UNAUDITED ACCOUNTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
| Trustees | N. Canin |
|---|---|
| B. Horn | |
| D. Hallybone | |
| L. Garfield | |
| D. Morley | |
| Charity number | 1210740 |
| Company number | CE038055 |
| Principal & registered address | Enterprise House |
| 2 The Crest | |
| London | |
| NW4 2HN | |
| Independent examiner | A. Sharer FCA |
| Fox Sharer LLP | |
| 188 Brent Street | |
| London | |
| NW4 1BE |
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Trustees' report | 1 - 4 |
| Independent examiners' report | 5 |
| Statement of financial activities | 6 |
| Balance sheet | 7 |
| Notes to the accounts | 8 - 12 |
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
The trustees present their report and accounts for the period 14 October 2024 to 31 October 2025.
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the accounts and comply with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006 and the Statement of Recommended Practice, "Accounting and Reporting by Charities", issued in March 2005.
Structure, governance and management
The charity is a body corporate created under the Charities Act 2011 and registered on 31 October 2024, on which date it began operating. It is governed by a constitution dated 14th October 2024.
The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the period were: N. Canin (Appointed 31 October 2024) B. Horn (Appointed 4 March 2026) D. Hallybone (Appointed 31 October 2024) L. Garfield (Appointed 31 October 2024) D. Morley (Appointed 31 October 2024)
Trustees are appointed by resolution at a meeting of the trustees for a term of three years. In selecting individuals for appointment as trustees, regard is given to the skills, knowledge and experience required for the role of administering the charity.
None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the company. All of the trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up.
The day to day running of the charity is organised by key management personal and staff. The trustees meet during the period to collectively decide on the direction and policies of the charity.
The charity receives financial support from entities connected with one of the trustees, details of which are shown
in the notes to the accounts.
The trustees has assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.
Objectives and activities
The protection and preservation of the environment for the public benefit by the promotion of e-waste reduction, re-use, reclamation, recycling.
The relief of financial hardship by the provision of refurbished electronic devices to individuals in need.
The advancement in life of young people up to the age of 25 and young people with learning disabilities up to the age of 30 by the provision of training and support to develop their skills, capacities and capabilities to enable them to participate in society as mature and responsible individuals.
To educate the public by the provision of accredited and vocational training in the subjects of IT and digital skills in particular, but not exclusively for individuals with disabilities, mental health issues or who are refugees or seeking asylum.
- 1 -
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
At 2econd Chance we believe everyone deserves a fair shot at work and should receive the skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed.
We offer workplace experience and IT training programmes to young people and adults facing barriers into employment – giving them hands-on experience in refurbishing unwanted IT hardware as a way of preparing them for the workplace.
Our inclusive and accredited Tech 10 programme takes place in our friendly and inclusive IT workspace, where trainees learn how to repair and recondition donated laptops and devices.
Using computers as an entrance point for training, we provide opportunities to build skills, knowledge and soft
skills as a pathway into employment.
By refurbishing computers we are part of the circular economy, helping to prevent e-waste from ending up in landfill.
And a quarter of all refurbished devices are donated back into the community to individuals and families that
don’t have access to a laptop or mobile phone – helping to bridge the digital divide.
The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the
charity should undertake.
The Trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty under section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission.
The Trustees have referred to this guidance when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives and in planning future activities. The Trustees are satisfied that the charity's activities continue to be focused on and deliver benefits to the public in accordance with its charitable purposes.
Introduction to activities
We welcomed 45 trainees a week from organisations across the borough including DWP, Employment Support organisations, Schools (mainstream and SEND), Colleges, Social Prescribers (NHS), Mencap and community and voluntary sector organisations.
Seven trainees completed and graduated from our first British Computer Society-accredited Tech 10 programme.
Following on from the first iteration of the Tech 10 programme, we enhanced the curriculum with modules on AI and have included modules on workplace skills such as time management, communication and public speaking, professionalism and workplace etiquette, work ethic, appearance and CV and cover letter writing.
Two of our trainees completed two weeks’ work experience with Barnet Homes.
We arranged for a group of trainees to visit Colt House where they could learn about the world of work and what they might expect if they went to work for a big company.
We donated 424 refurbished devices to digitally excluded residents in Barnet and across London.
The charity operates from Enterprise House, 2 The Crest, London NW4 2HN.
The charity does not make grants.
- 2 -
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
Achievements and performance
Charitable achievements
We carefully monitor and report our impact. We track each trainee’s journey from work experience through to accredited training and onward progression into further learning or employment. We collect and analyse feedback and data from trainees, referral partners and teaching staff.
For our device donation scheme, we log every referral and collect testimonials from recipients to understand how access to a device has improved their daily lives. This information helps us evaluate outcomes, strengthen our programmes and demonstrate the difference our work makes.
Financial review
The income and expenditure of the charity for the period is set out in the Statement of Financial Activities.
During this first period the charity incurred a deficit of £23,771. One of the trustees has provided their commitment to financially support the charity over the next two years, whilst it continues to secure funding and income streams.
The majority of the charity's income is derived from donated computer goods, which are repaired and refurbished as part of the charity's training and skill development programmes before being sold at affordable prices to the public. Total income from computer sales is shown in Note 3 to the accounts.
Other income consists of donations from members of the public and from entities connected to one of the trustees.
The charity's main costs are premises and staff & training partners which total £244,000 and make up 84% of the charity's costs. These costs predominantly relate to charitable activity work.
Reserves Policy
2econd Chance maintains financial reserves to ensure the stability and continuity of its charitable activities and to protect the organisation against unexpected changes in income or expenditure.
As a small charity operating with a mix of private funding, donations and project income, we recognise our income can fluctuate and that we must be able to continue delivering training and support to vulnerable beneficiaries without disruption. The Trustees have therefore adopted a risk-based approach to reserves. Our policy is to hold unrestricted free reserves equivalent to between three months of normal operating costs.
This level has been assessed as sufficient to:
-
manage short-term or unforeseen reductions in income or delays in funding
-
meet essential fixed commitments such as staff salaries, premises and core programme delivery
-
respond to unexpected costs or operational risks
-
cover orderly closure costs, including notice periods, contractual obligations and wind-down expenses, should this ever become necessary.
The Trustees review the level of reserves annually as part of the budgeting and risk management process to ensure it remains appropriate to the scale, complexity and risk profile of the organisation.
Where reserves fall outside the target range, a plan will be put in place either to rebuild or appropriately utilise
funds in furtherance of the charity’s objectives.
Maintaining prudent reserves enables 2econd Chance to operate responsibly, safeguard beneficiaries and staff,
and deliver its mission with confidence and continuity.
The charity is presently building up these minimum level of reserves and hopes to achieve this position in the coming years. One of the trustees has provided a two year financial commitment to assist the charity over this period.
- 3 -
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
Plans for the future
Over the coming year, 2econd Chance will focus on strengthening both our sustainability and our impact.
We will continue to diversify and grow our funding through fundraising and partnerships, while increasing outreach to referral organisations to engage more trainees.
A key priority will be developing and deepening partnerships with corporate organisations to secure a consistent and increased supply of donated laptops and devices, which are essential to both our training programmes and our community redistribution work.
We also plan to further develop our structured trainee journey, supporting individuals from initial work experience through to accredited qualifications and onward progression into employment or specialist partner organisations.
Alongside this, we will work closely with corporate partners to align with their equality, diversity and inclusion commitments, creating meaningful opportunities for mentoring, skills development and supported routes into work for our trainees.
We have begun the process of improving our office and workspace to ensure it works for the trainees and everyone in the team.
We have started to explore expanding the IT refurbishment model and replicate it with picture framing. 2econd Chance ReFramed will be a new charitable initiative that helps people with mental health challenges to learn practical picture framing skills as a way to build confidence and a sense of purpose.
On behalf of the board of trustees
N. Canin
Trustee Dated: 30 March 2026
- 4 -
2ECOND CHANCE CIO
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF 2ECOND CHANCE CIO
I report on the accounts of the charity for the period ended 31 October 2025, which are set out on pages 6 to 12.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The trustees, who are also the directors of 2econd Chance CIO for the purposes of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this period under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011, the 2011 Act, and that an independent examination is needed. The charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 and I am qualified to undertake the examination being a qualified member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:
-
(i) examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act;
-
(ii) to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and
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(iii) to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of independent examiner's report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the 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 you as 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
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(a) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:
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(i) to keep accounting records in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006; and
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(ii) to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records, comply with the accounting requirements of 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities;
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(b) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
A. Sharer FCA Fox Sharer LLP 188 Brent Street London NW4 1BE
Dated: 30 March 2026
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2ECOND CHANCE CIO
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
| Notes Incoming resources from generated funds Donations and legacies 2 Incoming resources from charitable activities 3 Total incoming resources Resources expended 4 Costs of generating funds Costs of generating donations and legacies Net incoming resources available Charitable activities Training and education Computer recycling Total charitable expenditure Governance costs Total resources expended Net expenditure for the year/ Net movement in funds Fund balances at 14 October 2024 Fund balances at 31 October 2025 |
2025 89,067 176,870 265,937 48,166 217,771 114,189 122,767 236,956 4,586 289,708 (23,771) - (23,771) |
|---|---|
The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006.
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2ECOND CHANCE CIO
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 OCTOBER 2025
| 2025 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Notes | £ | £ | |
| Fixed assets | |||
| Investments | 9 | 2 | |
| Current assets | |||
| Debtors | 10 | 1,994 | |
| Cash at bank and in hand | 1,696 | ||
| 3,690 | |||
| Creditors: amounts falling due within one year | 11 | (27,463) | |
| Net current liabilities | (23,773) | ||
| Total assets less current liabilities | (23,771) | ||
| Income funds | |||
| Unrestricted funds | (23,771) | ||
| (23,771) |
The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the period ended 31 October 2025. No member of the company has deposited a notice, pursuant to section 476, requiring an audit of these accounts.
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for ensuring that the company keeps accounting records which comply with section 386 of the Act and for preparing accounts which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company as at the end of the financial year and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the financial year in accordance with the requirements of sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to accounts, so far as applicable to the company.
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.
The accounts were approved by the Board on 30 March 2026
N. Canin Trustee
Company Registration No. CE038055
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2ECOND CHANCE CIO
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
1 Accounting policies
1.1 Basis of preparation
The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
At the balance sheet date the charity's reserves were in deficit. One of the charity's trustees has provided financial reassurances to the charity to support its activities and cover any shortfall in day to day funding. The accounts have been prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards, the Statement of Recommended Practice, "Accounting and Reporting by Charities", issued in March 2005 and the Companies Act 2006. 1.2 Incoming resources Donations, legacies and other forms of voluntary income are recognised as incoming resources when receivable, except insofar as they are incapable of financial measurement. Assets for distribution are recognised only when distributed. Assets given for use by the charity are recognised when receivable. Stocks of undistributed donated goods are not valued for balance sheet purposes.
1.3 Investments
2 Donations and legacies
2025
| Donations and gifts Incoming resources from charitable activities Training and education Computer recycling |
89,067 |
|---|---|
| 2025 8,500 168,370 |
|
| 176,870 |
3 Incoming resources from charitable activities
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2ECOND CHANCE CIO
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
4 Total resources expended
| Total resources expended | |
|---|---|
| Costs of generating funds Costs of generating donations and legacies Charitable activities Training and education Activities undertaken directly Support costs Total Computer recycling Activities undertaken directly Support costs Total Governance costs Support costs Training and education Computer recycling £ £ Premises costs 25,000 25,000 Office costs 1,608 1,608 Staff costs 45,784 24,639 72,392 51,247 |
2025 £ 48,166 |
| 41,797 72,392 114,189 71,520 51,247 122,767 |
|
| 236,956 | |
| 4,586 | |
| 289,708 | |
| Total 2025 £ 50,000 3,216 70,423 |
|
| 123,639 |
5 Support costs
6 Governance costs
| Legal and professional Accountancy and bookkeeping Other |
2025 419 4,134 33 |
|---|---|
| 4,586 |
The independent examiner's remuneration amounts to £1,200.
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2ECOND CHANCE CIO
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
7 Trustees
None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration during the period. Reimbursed trustee expenses amount to £33 in the period.
8 Employees
Number of employees
The average monthly number of employees during the period was:
| Charitable activities Fundraising and awareness Employment costs Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs |
2025 Number 4 1 |
|---|---|
| 5 | |
| 2025 £ 114,565 3,784 2,205 |
|
| 120,574 |
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more.
9 Fixed asset investments
| Fixed asset investments | |
|---|---|
| Shares in | |
| group | |
| undertakings | |
| £ | |
| Cost/market value at 14 October 2024 | - |
| Acquisitions at cost | 2 |
| Cost/market value at 31 October 2025 | 2 |
| Historical cost: | |
| At 31 October 2025 | 2 |
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2ECOND CHANCE CIO
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
9 Fixed asset investments
(Continued)
Holdings of more than 20%
The charity holds more than 20% of the share capital of the following companies:
| Company | Country of registration or | Shares held | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| incorporation | ||||
| Class | % | |||
| Subsidiary undertakings | ||||
| IT Refurb Hub Limited | UK | Ordinary | 100 | |
| Shares |
The aggregate amount of capital and reserves and the results of these undertakings for the last relevant financial year were as follows:
| Capital and | Profit/(loss) for the year | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| reserves | |||
| Principle Activities | £ | £ | |
| IT Refurb Hub Limited | Disposal of donated goods | 2,859 | 230 |
| 10 | Debtors | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| £ | ||
| Other debtors | 1,994 |
| 11 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Bank loans Trade creditors Amounts owed to group undertakings Payroll liaiblities Other creditors Accruals |
2025 £ 3,473 219 16,366 2,750 1,055 3,600 |
|---|---|
| 27,463 |
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2ECOND CHANCE CIO
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2025
12 Related parties
The charity was incorporated on 31 October 2024 to take over the activities previously undertaken by Second Chance CIC (registered company number 11845887). During the accounting period transitional arrangements were in place whereby 2econd Chance CIC processed transactions and met operational requirements, including the employment of staff as part of the handover of operations to the charity.
At the balance sheet date the charity was owed £1,995 by 2econd Chance CIC.
During the period the charity benefited from the use of rent free premises valued at £50,000 made available by an entity controlled by one of the trustees. At the balance sheet date the charity owed the entity £1,055 in respects of costs settled on behalf of the charity.
During the period the charity received donations of £27,350 from entities controlled by one of the trustees.
Computer equipment donated to the charity is sold to the public by the charity's wholly owned subsidiary, IT Refurb Hub Limited, with the proceeds of sale passed to the charity. At the balance sheet date the charity owed its subsidiary £16,366.
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