2025-09-01-accounts

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator.

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT AND RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNTS

For the period from 31 January 2025 to 1 September 2025

Charity Registration Number: 1211959

Charity Information
Chair’s Introduction
Trustees’ Annual Report
Structure, Governance and Management
Transition to CIO Status
Objectives and Public Benefit
Achievements and Performance
Community Impact
Shibolim Programme
Shevet Nahal Scout Group
Adult Activities
Community Activities
Educational Outreach
Volunteer Contribution
Financial Review - Receipts and Payments Account
Risk Management
Safeguarding
Reserves Policy
Plans for Future Periods
Trustees’ Responsibilities
Notes to the Accounts

CHARITY INFORMATION

Charity Name

Alumot

Charity Registration Number

1211959

Principal Address

7 Westfield Lane Cambridge CB4 3QS

Trustees Serving During the Reporting Period

Tamara Novis (Chair)
Ron Shay Suchowski
Dr Liora Vilmovsky
Dr Hilla Tal
Dr Noa Lavi

Secretary

Ron Shay Suchowski

Bankers

Metro Bank

Unit 1, Christ's Lane, Cambridge

CB2 3BZ

CHAIR’S INTRODUCTION

This reporting period marks an important milestone in the development of Alumot with its establishment as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation.

While the legal structure has changed, our mission remains unchanged: advancing education in Hebrew heritage, supporting the development of young people, and promoting understanding, inclusion and community engagement within Cambridge and the surrounding area.

The trustees are particularly pleased that the establishment of the CIO builds upon an established programme of activities serving approximately 115 children and 80 adults on a regular basis. The continued strength of community participation demonstrates the importance of these activities and provides a strong foundation for the future work of the charity.

Although this is the first reporting period of Alumot as a registered charity, the organisation builds on many years of successful activity and community involvement. The trustees are grateful for the commitment shown by volunteers, activity leaders, supporters and participants who continue to contribute to the success of the charity.

On behalf of the trustees, I would like to thank everyone who has supported Alumot during this important first year as a registered charity.

Tamara Novis

Chair of Trustees

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT

The trustees present their Annual Report and the Receipts and Payments Accounts of Alumot for the period from 31 January 2025 to 1 September 2025.

The report has been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011, the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the charity’s Constitution.

This reporting period represents the first period in which Alumot has existed and reported as a registered charity. The predecessor unincorporated association continued to administer established activities while arrangements for the commencement of the CIO's operations were put in place.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Alumot is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales.

The trustees are responsible for the overall governance, strategic direction and financial management of the charity.

Trustees are elected by the members in accordance with the Constitution. At each Annual General Meeting, one-third of the trustees retire from office by rotation and are eligible for re-election. The trustees met regularly throughout the reporting period to oversee finance, safeguarding, programme delivery, volunteer management, governance and strategic planning.

The trustees maintain oversight of the charity’s activities through regular reporting, review of finances and engagement with programme leaders and volunteers.

New trustees are provided with relevant governance documentation, including the charity's Constitution and Charity Commission guidance, to support them in their role.

TRANSITION TO CIO STATUS

This reporting period marks an important milestone in the development of Alumot.

Prior to registration as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, Alumot operated for several years as an unincorporated association serving Hebrew-speaking families and the wider community in Cambridge and the surrounding area.

As the organisation developed and its activities expanded, it became apparent that a charitable incorporated structure would provide a more appropriate governance framework and support the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

Alumot was registered with the Charity Commission on 31 January 2025 under charity number 1211959.

During the transition period following incorporation, the predecessor unincorporated association continued to administer and fund activities established before the formation of the CIO, ensuring continuity of operations while arrangements for the commencement of the CIO's activities were put in place.

As a result, while this is the first reporting period of Alumot as a registered charity, the programmes and community activities described in this report reflect the continuation of a well-established organisation whose activities the CIO was established to continue and develop.

OBJECTIVES AND PUBLIC BENEFIT

The purposes of Alumot are:

1. To advance education for the public benefit in the subject of Hebrew heritage through the provision of:

classes and lectures for children and adults in a range of subjects such as Hebrew language, culture, religion and traditions and values; and
public celebrations of Hebrew and Jewish festivals.

2. To promote the development of young people, in particular but not exclusively Hebrew speaking young people, in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible citizens, and as members of their local, national and international communities.

3. The promotion of racial and religious harmony for the public benefit by:

promoting knowledge and mutual understanding between different racial and religious groups;
advancing education and raising awareness about different racial and religious groups to promote good relations between persons of different racial and religious groups;
working towards the elimination of discrimination on the grounds of race and / or religion.

The trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit when planning and carrying out the charity's activities.

The charitable activities associated with Alumot during the reporting period supported each of these charitable purposes. The CIO was established to continue and develop these activities under an incorporated charitable structure.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

The trustees are pleased to report the successful establishment of Alumot as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation. During the reporting period, the charity prepared for the commencement of operations while building upon the established activities and community engagement developed by its predecessor organisation.

The established educational and community programmes that the CIO was formed to continue reached record levels, with approximately 115 children and 80 adults participating in regular activities.

Feedback received through surveys, social media and direct communication demonstrated high levels of satisfaction among participants. Families frequently reported that Alumot helped them strengthen community connections, maintain Hebrew language skills, celebrate cultural traditions and access meaningful educational opportunities.

The trustees believe that Alumot continues to play an important role in supporting Hebrewspeaking families while contributing positively to the wider Cambridge community.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

The trustees believe that the establishment of the CIO provides a strong platform for continuing the educational, cultural and community activities developed by the predecessor organisation.

Through regular educational, cultural and social activities, the charity supports the study and celebration of Hebrew heritage, promotes the development of young people and encourages participation in community life.

These programmes provide opportunities for participants to develop knowledge, skills, confidence and social connections while strengthening understanding of Hebrew and Jewish culture and traditions.

Feedback received throughout the reporting period consistently highlighted the value of these activities in helping participants feel connected, supported and engaged within both the local community and wider society.

The trustees are particularly pleased that participation has continued to increase across all age groups and that many activities are now led or supported by volunteers who first became involved as participants.

The following sections describe the established educational, cultural and community programmes that the CIO was formed to continue and develop.

SHIBOLIM PROGRAMME

Shibolim is an established programme for children from birth to Year 4, based on the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) while taking into consideration families' lives in the UK and their cultural background. It is designed to strengthen children's connection to the Hebrew language and culture through weekly sessions in which they develop their reading and writing skills, learn about Jewish culture, and build a sense of community. This is achieved through educational, cultural and social experiences led by volunteer community members acting as group leaders in age-based groups, as well as through family-focused activities.

The CIO was established to continue and develop this programme as part of its educational and community objectives.

SHEVET NAHAL SCOUTS GROUP

Shevet Nahal is the name of the community's Scout group, serving young people from Year 5 through to Year 12. The group forms an important part of the educational and youth development activities that the CIO was established to continue and develop.

Supported by Israeli Scouts Western Europe and the Shinshinim (gap-year volunteer) programme, the group offers educational, social and leadership opportunities for participants and youth leaders alike. Activities include weekly meetings, leadership development, training and enrichment opportunities for young leaders, as well as camps and joint activities with other European Israeli Scouts groups. Community and youthfocused events also play an important role in fostering engagement, leadership and a strong sense of belonging among participants.

The group is supported by five adult volunteers, together with leaders from the Israeli Scouts movement and members of the wider Alumot community, whose ongoing contribution is invaluable to its continued success.

ADULT ACTIVITIES

Adult activities form an important part of the educational and cultural programme that the CIO was established to continue and develop. The programme provides opportunities for lifelong learning, cultural engagement and community participation.

Topics of lectures have included:

Hebrew literature
Hebrew cinema
Community and cultural topics

These educational and cultural activities help encourage lifelong learning, strengthen community engagement and support the charity's objectives of advancing education and promoting understanding of Hebrew heritage. The activities have served over 50 participants.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Community activities form an important part of the educational and social programme that the CIO was established to continue and develop. They provide opportunities for families and individuals to come together, strengthen community connections and celebrate shared cultural traditions.

Activities include:

Festival celebrations
Community gatherings
Bonfire events
Family hikes
Outdoor activities

These activities help strengthen relationships across different generations within the community and support the charity's objectives of promoting education, community participation and understanding of Hebrew heritage.

EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH

Educational outreach forms a key part of the educational and community activities that the CIO was established to continue and develop.

In line with the British education system, which recognises learning about religions and cultures as an important part of education, we support local schools by contributing to classroom lessons and educational activities during Jewish festivals, commemorative events, and other cultural occasions.

The programme includes outreach activities in schools across Cambridge, providing opportunities to promote understanding of Judaism, Hebrew language and heritage through direct engagement with pupils, teachers, and the wider school community.

These activities contribute to educational enrichment, foster cultural understanding and respect, and further the charity's objective of promoting understanding between people of different racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds.

VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTION

The trustees recognise that Alumot relies heavily on volunteer support.

Volunteers contribute to governance, administration, educational activities, community events, youth programmes and outreach initiatives.

The trustees are grateful for the substantial contribution of time, expertise and commitment made by volunteers throughout the reporting period. Without volunteer support many of the charity’s activities would not be possible.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Receipts and Payments Account

For the period from 31 January 2025 to 1 September 2025

The CIO was registered on 31 January 2025. However, the charity's bank account was not opened until July 2025 and the transition of operational activities from the predecessor unincorporated association took place in preparation for the start of the 2025/26 academic year.

Although these accounts cover the statutory reporting period from 31 January 2025 to 1 September 2025, substantive financial activity commenced on 1 August 2025 following the operational transition from the predecessor unincorporated association.

Certain expenditure incurred for the benefit of the CIO was initially paid from the predecessor unincorporated association's bank account using resources held by the unincorporated association. These amounts have been reflected in the accounts as funds applied for the benefit of the CIO. Following the transfer of activities to the CIO, the predecessor unincorporated association is expected to be wound up once all remaining administrative matters have been concluded.

Total income: £16990.51

Total expenditure: £722.67

Net: £16267.84

Unrestricted Restricted funds funds

Receipts

INCOME FROM DONATIONS AND GRANTS Membership fees 16,257.84 less: refund

----- Start of picture text -----
less: Israeli Scouts Membership Subscription 0
Net membership fee retained 16,257.84
Donations 10
Grants 0
Gift Aid 0
Transfer from predecessor unincorporated 722.67
association
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Events 0
Camps and trips 0
Merch 0
INVESTMENT INCOME
Savings interest 0
TOTAL RECEIPTS 16,990.51
----- End of picture text -----

Payments
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Events expenses	0
Camps and trips expenses	0
WEEKLY ACTIVITY
Equipment	155.39
Room hire	0
Tutor reimbursements	0
Shinshinim (gap-year tutors)	0
Expenses paid via Israeli Scouts (Shinshinim	0
commute and expenses)
SUPPORT COSTS
Insurance	567.28
Food	0
Bank fees	0

Seminars 0 Subscriptions 0 TOTAL PAYMENTS 722.67

The trustees are satisfied that appropriate arrangements were put in place to ensure continuity of activities while establishing the CIO. Resources held by the predecessor unincorporated association were utilised, where appropriate, to support expenditure incurred for the benefit of the CIO before the commencement of its independent financial operations.

RISK MANAGEMENT

The trustees regularly review risks facing the charity and maintain appropriate controls to mitigate those risks.

Principal Risk Mitigation Safeguarding Safeguarding policies, trustee oversight and periodic review Reliance on volunteers Recruitment and succession planning Financial sustainability Monitoring income and maintaining reserves Venue availability Maintaining relationships with venue providers Trustee succession Active recruitment and member engagement Regulatory compliance Ongoing review of Charity Commission guidance

The trustees believe that appropriate systems are in place to manage these risks.

SAFEGUARDING

The trustees recognise their responsibility to safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults participating in the charity’s activities.

The charity maintains safeguarding procedures and periodically reviews these arrangements to ensure that activities are delivered in a safe and appropriate environment.

Safeguarding training, DBS arrangements and First Aid training: The charity has a designated Safeguarding Lead who oversees safeguarding policies and procedures. Volunteers and activity leaders whose roles require DBS checks are expected to hold the appropriate DBS clearance before undertaking those duties. In addition, designated first aiders are present at activities and events.

RESERVES POLICY

The trustees aim to maintain sufficient unrestricted reserves to support the continuity of the charity’s activities and meet expected commitments. As this was the charity’s first reporting period, the trustees will keep the reserves policy under review as the CIO becomes fully operational.

PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS

The trustees intend to continue developing educational, cultural and community programmes.

Priorities for the coming year include:

Expanding participation in existing activities
Increasing opportunities for youth leadership
Supporting volunteer development
Strengthening community engagement
Developing additional educational outreach programmes
Promoting Hebrew language and culture
Ensuring the long-term sustainability of the charity

TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES

The trustees are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records, safeguarding the assets of the charity and preparing accounts which accurately reflect the charity's financial activities during the reporting period.

The trustees approve this report on behalf of the Board.

Approved by the Trustees on: 13/06/2026

Signed on behalf of the Trustees:

Name: Tamara Novis

Position: Chair of Trustees

Signature: Tamara Novis

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Basis of Preparation

These accounts have been prepared on a Receipts and Payments basis in accordance with the Charities Act 2011.

Continuity of Operations Following Incorporation

Following registration on 31 January 2025, the predecessor unincorporated association continued to administer its established activities during the transition period while arrangements were made for the commencement of operations under the CIO structure.

Resources held by the predecessor unincorporated association were utilised, where appropriate, to meet expenditure incurred for the benefit of the CIO prior to the commencement of its independent financial operations.

The trustees are continuing to ensure that all assets, records and financial arrangements are appropriately reflected within the CIO structure.

Post Balance Sheet Events

The trustees are not aware of any significant events occurring after the reporting period that would materially affect these financial statements.