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2024-03-31-accounts

Charity number: 214466

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report and financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

The Foord Almshouses

Contents

Page
Reference and administrative details of the Charity, its Trustees and advisers 1
Trustees' report 2 - 9
Independent auditor's report on the financial statements 10 - 13
Statement of financial activities 14
Balance sheet 15
Statement of cash flows 16
Notes to the financial statements 17 - 29

The Foord Almshouses

Reference and administrative details of the Charity, its Trustees and advisers For the year ended 31 March 2024

Trustees Lynne Capeling
Helen Colvin
Michael Bailey (deceased 29 July 2023)
Brian Byers
Markham Chesterfield
Julie Davis (resigned 15 May 2023)
Albert Pilcher
Vivienne Simmonds
David Angier
Alex Marlow
Carol Bicker (appointed 15 May 2023)
Charity registered
number
214466
Principal office
Priestfields
Rochester
Kent
ME1 3AF
Independent auditor
Kreston Reeves LLP
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
Montague Place
Quayside
Chatham Maritime
Chatham
Kent
ME4 4QU
Bankers
Lloyds Bank PLC
142 High Street
Chatham
Kent
ME4 4DQ
Investment adviser
Cazenove Capital Management Ltd
12 Moorgate
London
EC2R 6DA
Investment adviser
CCLA
Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street
London
EC4V 4ET

Page 1

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report For the year ended 31 March 2024

The Trustees present their annual report together with the audited financial statements of the Charity for the 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024.

Objectives and activities

a. Policies and objectives

The Charity’s principal objective continues to be to promote the wellbeing of older people and to make later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

The Foord Almshouses provides 73 self-contained flats within a ten-acre site at Priestfields, Rochester to enable independent living for elderly residents in need.

The Trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.

Sadly, on 29th July 2023, our Trustee Mr Michael Bailey passed away. Mr Bailey served as a Trustee from Jan 2013 until his passing. Michael is very much missed & his contribution to the board, with his legal brain, has also left a gap in the Trustees knowledge, which, we are still trying to fill. This is ongoing.

Our Finance Trustee, Mrs Julie Davis resigned from her role on the 15th May 2023 to take early retirement. A suitable replacement Finance Trustee was found, Mrs Carol Bicker – a Branch Manager for Lloyds Bank, who, commenced her role on the 23rd May 2023. Carol is settling well into her role.

Our Building Surveyor Mr David Jarrett resigned from his role, closing his business - JA Warner, again to take retirement. After some research & several interviews, we appointed Mr Richard Tucker from Dovetail Building Consultants on the 19th February 2024.

Lastly, our Head Warden, Mr John Taylor, resigned from his role on the 4th March 2023, providing 3 months’ notice. John is retiring & moving away with his family. He therefore, declined the offer of a flat which he was offered at Foord’s in his retirement. We are currently interviewing for a new Head Warden, possibly with a new Job Title – Facilities Manager, but this has not been decided as yet.

A new Anti-Fraud Policy was introduced to the Business Plan in March 2023. This was following guidance provided in the Summer 2023 edition of the Almshouse Gazette. All staff were issued with the policy. Acknowledgement of receipt & understanding was by return of a tear off slip to the office.

Following information provided by one of our Trustees & further guidance from Susan Robinson at Kreston Reeves, we introduced a new way to run our Christmas Savings Club. This was removing any possible implications relating to savings club & the minimum wage. All payments are now made directly from each staff members bank account to the savings account via Standing Order not via their wages.

In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit: running a charity (PB2)'.

Achievements and performance

a. Review of activities

It’s been a productive year with the completion of Phase 2 of the External Redecorations & completion of all the May 2022 Fire Risk Assessment recommendations.

Income from Weekly Maintenance contributions have improved slightly as applications for accommodation have increased. This is mainly via the network of contacts previously developed by the Clerk. We now have a short list of residents awaiting accommodation. These are all single applicants & no double applicants. The need to house single applicants, with empty double flats available & no single flats available, meant we offered a double flat to an individual, based on their affordability to pay the higher contribution. Although, we prefer not to move these residents to a single flat at a later date, the Clerk keeps a check to make sure affordability is not becoming an

Page 2

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report (continued) For the year ended 31 March 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

issue – very much with an open-door policy for residents to discuss any issues they may be having.

No further significant repairs were carried on the York Stone pathways in the Main Square, but it is accepted that this will be an ongoing task due to the nature of the feature. It is expected that more repairs will be carried out in the year 2024/25.

As mentioned above, the 5 yearly External Redecoration (Phase 2) Annexe/Riverview were carried out. Better provisions & different scaffolders mean the work progressed a lot quicker. Again, the contractors undertook to “free up” all flat casement windows, which had begun to stick due to age & build-up of paint over the years. Most were fine but some had to be removed temporarily to undergo refurbishment by J. Corely before being placed back. The Clock Tower also underwent a refurbishment as part of Phase 2 of the Redecorations.

The following works were also completed during this period: -

To ensure that there are sufficient trained staff to manage The Foord Alsmhouses appraisals continued to be undertaken and staff training included Asbestos Awareness, First Aid Training, Fire Awareness and Staff Fire Drills.

Health & Safety continues to be a priority at Foords. Constant monitoring of the York Paving & roadways, installation of handrails for residents who need them & checking & updating of Risk Assessments & COSHH are carried out each year.

On the 9th May we celebrated King Charles III Coronation with a party in the Main Square. Marquees were erected to allow for the unpredictable British Weather & we had musical entertainment, food, refreshments & a raffle. Most residents enjoyed a dance & we also played Croquet on the lawn.

This year we celebrated Thomas Hellyar Foord’s 200th Birthday. Our Annual Founder’s Day Dinner on the 18th October once again, took place with Residents, Trustees, Staff & special guest - the Mayor of Medway - Nina Gurung all being invited to enjoy a 3-course meal & music in the Main Hall. We decorated the hall & tables with gold balloons & bunting.

As it was special year for Thomas, we also hosted Evensong on the 5th October in the Main Hall. We were joined by x14 choir members, Organist, the Director of Music & the Vice Dean from Rochester Cathedral. Again Residents, Trustees, Staff & a few guests enjoyed a wonderful service.

Annual Trustee Visits to residents were carried out in Spring 23. Any residents not visited the previous year received a visit. This will be the plan moving forward. So, each resident should receive a visit at least every other year.

We have established some good relationships this year with outside agencies including Imago, AGE UK, ADSS (Alzheimer’s & Dementia Support). Several coffee mornings have been organised with representatives from these organisations attending to provide our residents with lots of useful advice, which has been greatly received & appreciated.

Page 3

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report (continued) For the year ended 31 March 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

The Clerk/OM continues to attend the quarterly Clerks Meetings. A group organised by several local Clerks/CEO’s to provide much needed support & advice to each other. The Meetings have proved to be very helpful & informative. They are held at a different almshouse each time & last around 11/2 hours.

The Clerk/OM also attended the Consortium of East Kent Almshouses Meeting in Canterbury on Tuesday 5th March 2023. This was a chance to meet various other Clerks from the area & further afield. Again, a chance to share ideas & help support each other in our roles. The meeting was also attended by Canterbury District AGE UK providing some very useful information which was relayed to the Trustees at April Meeting & to the residents via our monthly Newsletters.

The Foord Almshouses Website was monitored by the Clerk. Enquires via the website are received now and again and responded to accordingly.

b. Investment policy and performance

The Trustees invest surplus funds in such a way that (i) investment risk is kept to a minimum but an acceptable annual return is secured and (ii) sufficient funds are held in the Extraordinary Repairs Fund and Cyclical Maintenance Fund.

Investment income was up by 15% on the previous year to £111,964. This was better than the Trustees expected in the current financial climate.

The market value of investments had increased by £172,846 (total unrealised and realised gains in the year) as at the year-end but the markets did experience volatility during the year. Due to this volatility the Trustees are mindful of the timing of cashing investments. However, we did cash in £70,000 held in our Deposit Fund to boost our reserves following 2 years of External Redecorations & the Fire Risk Assessment work. The majority of our investments are held for the long term.

The subject of “Total Return” was explored by the Clerk & Mrs Carol Bicker. A meeting took place with Susan Robinson from Kreson Reeves on 14th February 2024. Susan explained the process in simple terms. It was felt that with the current funds held in the ERF with CCLA, there was not the need to take any income from the Restricted Funds. Total Return can produce higher growth potential but should only really be considered if there was not sufficient income or funds available.

Christmas Savings Club – Mrs Capeling (Trustee) highlighted an article relating to this subject. Susan Robinson from KR, again provided some feedback on this. It was suggested, to remove any ambiguity, to cease taking Christmas Savings directly from employee’s salaries but instead, each staff member setting up their own Standing Order for the required savings amount to go into the Savings Account with Lloyds. This is monitored by the Clerk, each month. This process was implemented in March 2024. X2 Staff members chose not to continue & savings to date returned to them.

Financial review

a. Financial Summary

The total deficit for the year before transfers and gains was £90,778. Income increased by £58,479 to £652,963 in the year with expenditure decreasing by £15,847 to £743,721. Investment income was up by 15% on the previous year to £111,964.

Reserves as at 31st March 2024:

General – £129,193 Unrestricted (CMF/ERF)- £848,747 Restricted - £2,763,620 Total Reserves - £3,740,995

Page 4

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report (continued) For the year ended 31 March 2024

b. Reserves policy

IIt is the Trustees’ view that a sum of between £80,000 and £130,000 should be held in general reserve at any one time. The Trustee will charge weekly contributions at a level that after receiving investment and other income, funding the general expenditure and making appropriate contributions to the ERF and CMF in any year, the reserve at the end of the financial year within that range. As at 31st March 2024 the closing balance on general funds of £224,193 which was within the target range.

The reserves policy for the CMF is to build up a sufficient balance to meet the five-yearly external repairs and redecorations expenditure and other qualifying expenditure.

The reserves policy for the ERF is to ensure that there is a sufficient balance meet the planned extraordinary repairs in any year and to maintain balance of at least £6,000 per flat.

The Trustees review the reserves policy annually.

Page 5

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report (continued) For the year ended 31 March 2024

c. Principal risks and uncertainties

Principle risks and uncertainties that our charity - The Foord Almshouses, may face

As a charity we face several risks & challenges that can impact operations & sustainability. This is particularly around governance & compliance but can also come from world wide factors such as “pandemics” or the current “cost of living crisis” even climate change.

These risks & challenges are detailed below:

Strategic Risks

Governance & Strategy. We have to navigate un-relenting change including regulatory compliance, environmental events & digitalization.

Adapting whist focusing on our beneficiaries’ needs is our main aim & is always crucial. Managing change is also crucial & we try to remain resilient.

Operational Changes

The pandemic disrupted operations & diverted focus for some time. This was difficult to manage as individuals & with the changes that took place to maintain everyone’s safety.

Ensuring smooth operations, despite these external pressures, was & is challenging.

Income & Financial Sustainability

Forecasting income & managing financial sustainability are ongoing. Having robust financial controls are essential.

Twice yearly finance meetings to specifically look at the projects we have planned & the associated finances are in place.

A finance Trustee to support the Clerk in her daily financial activities/processes on behalf of the charity. The introduction of an Anti-Fraud Policy in 2024.

Ensuring sound investment, reserves, and ongoing concerns assessments.

Regular attendance by CCLA & Cazenove at the monthly Trustee Meetings & receiving information on possible changes that are recommended within out portfolios. (NB: Any changes to our portfolio require a majority vote by the board for agreement to proceed)

Other emerging issue

Cyber security – protecting sensitive data & systems. Having suitable storage & anti-virus software in place. The creation of an IT Disaster Recovery/cyber security Policy in 2023

.

Page 6

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report (continued) For the year ended 31 March 2024

Structure, governance and management

a. Constitution

The Foord Almshouses is a registered charity, number 214466, and is constituted under a Trust deed. The Charity, known as Foord Almshouses, was founded by the will of Thomas Hellyar Foord proved in the Principal Registry on 1 October 1917 and regulated by a Scheme of the Charity Commissioners dated 28 June 1927. A subsequent Scheme for the administration and management was approved in 5 August 1977 as amended by Schemes dated 15 March 2000 and 27 April 2004.

b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees

The management of the Charity is the responsibility of the Trustees who are elected and co-opted under the terms of the Charity Commission Scheme.

Processes in relation to Trustee Recruitment.

The aim of the Trustees is to have a board with a wide range of knowledge/skills as possible to help the charity run as smoothly & as affectively as possible. This also means that most processes or issues can be dealt with internally without the need to seek external advice & incur charges that may possibly arise as a result. When a gap in the Trustee board arises, the Trustees look at the current skill set to identify the missing knowledge/skill that is most needed/desirable. A series of actions take place as follows:-

Up & until quite recently it has not proved an issue to recruit the necessary Trustees for the effective running of the almshouse. However, during current times this is not so simple & the willingness to take up such a role not so widely found. Recently it has proved quite difficult to find a candidate with the relevant skills/knowledge required.

The current board is made up of x9 Trustees. However, we are looking for a tenth Trustee with a background/knowledge of the law i.e. a lawyer or solicitor would be ideal.

c. Organisational structure and decision-making policies

The Trustees hold at least six Ordinary meetings a year at which all strategic and significant tactical decision are taken and ratified. In addition, the Buildings Sub Committee and Financial & Personnel Sub-Committee each meet twice per year.

Currently all Trustees sit on both these Committees.

Page 7

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report (continued) For the year ended 31 March 2024

Structure, governance and management (continued)

d. Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees

Where new trustees are appointed they are given a formal induction to the work of the Charity and provided with the information they need to fulfil their roles, which includes information about the role of trustees and charity law. New trustees are nominated by members of the Board of Trustees, and appointed where they have the necessary skills to contribute to the Charity’s management and development.

e. Pay policy for key management personnel

The Board of Trustees aim to pay senior staff a fair salary that is competitive within the charity sector and proportionate to the complexity of each role. The Trustees are responsible, in line with our charitable objectives based on the following principles set out below:

Meet all national pay standards and provide all paid staff with a living wage.

Pay our staff an appropriate salary to attract and retain people with the leadership, experience, knowledge and skils required to lead the transformation we are undergoing.

f. Risk management

The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the Charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems and procedures are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.

Plans for future periods

As per the rolling 10-year programme for both Cyclical and Extraordinary Maintenance works the Trustees will continue with some or all of the planned maintenance on these reports.

With the appointment of the new Building Surveyor, many projects are being review/considered.

The program to replace all Witches Hats fitting with Henley & LED fittings will continue.

Secondary Double Glazing is currently being considered. A budget for this has been incorporated into the ERF but as yet it is uncertain if we will proceed with this project at the current time.

Tenders for a series of pot hole & York Paving repairs are currently being sought with the assistance of the new Surveyor along with the possible creation of x3 additional parking spaces near the Main Entrance due to demand from residents.

Tenders will also be required for the refurbishment of Cottage 1 the Wardens Cottage as Mr John Taylor (Head Warden) is retiring as of the end of May 2024, following over 23 years of service.

The Trustees have no plans to extend activities by increasing the number of accommodation units.

Page 8

The Foord Almshouses

Trustees' report (continued) For the year ended 31 March 2024

Statement of Trustees' responsibilities

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' 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 & Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Auditor

The auditor, Kreston Reeves LLP, has indicated his willingness to continue in office. The designated Trustees will propose a motion reappointing the auditor at a meeting of the Trustees.

Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees on 2 September 2024 and signed on their behalf by:

Helen Colvin Trustee

Brian Byers Trustee

Page 9

The Foord Almshouses

Independent auditor's report to the Members of The Foord Almshouses

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of The Foord Almshouses (the 'charity') for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the Statement of financial activities, the Balance sheet, the Statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standards applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been withdrawn.

This has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019.

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Page 10

The Foord Almshouses

Independent auditor's report to the Members of The Foord Almshouses (continued)

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the Annual report other than the financial statements and our Auditor's report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the Trustees' responsibilities statement, the Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements which give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Page 11

The Foord Almshouses

Independent auditor's report to the Members of The Foord Almshouses (continued)

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Capability of the audit in detecting irregularities, including fraud

Based on our understanding of the Charity and the sector as a whole, and through discussion with the Trustees and other management (as required by auditing standards), we identified that the principal risks of noncompliance with laws and regulations related to health and safety, safeguarding and employment law. We considered the extent to which non-compliance might have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial statements such as the Charities SORP (FRS 102) Second Edition (released October 2019) and other relevant charity legislation. We communicated identified laws and regulations throughout our team and remained alert to any indications of non-compliance throughout the audit. We evaluated Trustees' and management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of override of controls) and determined that the principal risks related to posting inappropriate journal entries to increase income or reduce expenditure. Audit procedures performed by the engagement team included:

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

Page 12

The Foord Almshouses

Independent auditor's report to the Members of The Foord Almshouses (continued)

As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs (UK), we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity's trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and its trustees, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Kreston Reeves LLP

Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor Chatham Maritime

3 September 2024

Kreston Reeves LLP are eligible to act as auditors in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 13

The Foord Almshouses

Statement of financial activities For the year ended 31 March 2024

Note
Income from:
Charitable activities
4
Investments
5
Other income
6
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
Charitable activities
8
Total expenditure
Net expenditure before net
gains/(losses) on investments
Net gains/(losses) on investments
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Net movement in funds
Total funds carried forward		 Restricted
funds
2024
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
80,987
80,987
2,682,633
80,987
2,763,620		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
540,949
111,964
50
652,963
11,467
732,274
743,741
(90,778)
91,859
1,081
976,294
1,081
977,375		 Total
funds
2024
£
540,949
111,964
50
652,963
11,467
732,274
743,741
(90,778)
172,846
82,068
3,658,927
82,068
3,740,995		 Total
funds
2023
£
496,192
97,070
250
593,512
11,473
748,095
759,568
(166,056)
(160,197)
(326,253)
3,985,180
(326,253)
3,658,927

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

The notes on pages 17 to 29 form part of these financial statements.

Page 14

The Foord Almshouses

Balance sheet As at 31 March 2024

Note
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
11
Investments
12
Current assets
Debtors
13
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within one
year
14
Net current assets
Total net assets
Charity funds
Restricted funds
15
Unrestricted funds
15
Total funds		 25,624
153,636
179,260
(34,380)		 2024
£
2
3,596,113
3,596,115
144,880
3,740,995
2,763,620
977,375
3,740,995		 16,257
357,596
373,853
(160,977)		 2023
£
2
3,446,049
3,446,051
212,876
3,658,927
2,682,633
976,294
3,658,927

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on 02 September 2024 and signed on their behalf by:

Helen Colvin Trustee

Brian Byers Trustee

The notes on pages 17 to 29 form part of these financial statements.

Page 15

The Foord Almshouses

Statement of cash flows For the year ended 31 March 2024

Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities (Note 18)
Cash flows from investing activities
Dividends, interests and rents from investments
Proceeds from sale of investments
Purchase of investments
Net cash provided by investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
The notes on pages 17 to 29 form part of these financial statements		 2024
£
(338,706)
111,964
218,902
(196,120)
134,746
(203,960)
357,596
153,636		 2023
£
(214,170)
97,070
473,221
(359,981)
210,310
(3,860)
361,456
357,596

Page 16

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

1. General information

Foord Almshouses is a registered charity, number 214466, and is constituted under a Trust deed. The address of the registered office is given in the Charity information on page 1 of these financial statements. The nature of the Charity's operations and principal objective are set out on page 2 of these financial statements.

2. Accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair' view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair' view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP (FRS 102) published in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.

The Foord Almshouses meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

The financial statements are presented in UK pound sterling, which is the Charity's functional currency, and rounded to the nearest pound.

2.2 Going concern

The Trustees assess whether the use of going concern is appropriate i.e. whether there are any material uncertainties related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the Charity to continue as a going concern. The Trustees make this assessment in respect of a period of at least one year from the date of authorisation for issue of the financial statements and have concluded that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and there are no material uncertainties about the Charity's ability to continue as a going concern, thus they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

2.3 Income

All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.

Other income is recognised in the period in which it is receivable and to the extent the goods have been provided or on completion of the service.

Page 17

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.4 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure on raising funds includes all expenditure incurred by the Charity to raise funds for its charitable purposes and includes costs of all fundraising activities events and non-charitable trading.

Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Charity's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.

All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

2.5 Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.

2.6 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Tangible fixed assets comprise the freehold properties of the Almshouses and electrical installations, which are each included at a nominal value of £2. The actual cost of these assets is unknown.

The cost of furniture and equipment has been charged to the Statement of financial activities on acquisition.

A review for impairment of a fixed asset is carried out if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of any fixed asset may not be recoverable. Shortfalls between the carrying value of the fixed assets and their recoverable amounts are recognised as impairments. Impairment losses are recognised in the Statement of financial activities.

2.7 Taxation

The Charity is considered to pass the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 and therefore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the Charity is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by Chapter 3 Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively to charitable purposes.

2.8 Investments

Fixed asset investments are a form of financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction cost and subsequently measured at fair value at the Balance sheet date, unless the value cannot be measured reliably in which case it is measured at cost less impairment. Investment gains and losses, whether realised or unrealised, are combined and presented as ‘Gains/(Losses) on investments’ in the Statement of financial activities.

2.9 Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid.

Page 18

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.10 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

2.11 Liabilities and provisions

Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably.

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.

Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Statement of financial activities as a finance cost.

2.12 Financial instruments

The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

2.13 Pensions

The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the year.

2.14 Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.

3. Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Charity does not currently have any significant accounting estimates or areas of judgement.

Page 19

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

4. Income from charitable activities

Weekly Charges
Visitors' Flats
Lunches (net)
Total 2023		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
536,534
3,360
1,055
540,949
496,192		 Total
funds
2024
£
536,534
3,360
1,055
540,949
496,192		 Total
funds
2023
£
491,627
2,380
2,185
496,192

5. Investment income

Income from listed investments
Total 2023		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
111,964
97,070		 Total
funds
2024
£
111,964
97,070		 Total
funds
2023
£
97,070

6. Other incoming resources

Sale of equipment
Total 2023		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
50
250		 Total
funds
2024
£
50
250		 Total
funds
2023
£
250

Page 20

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

7. Investment management costs

Investment management fees
Total 2023		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
11,467
11,473		 Total
funds
2024
£
11,467
11,473		 Total
funds
2023
£
11,473

8. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Direct Costs
Total 2023		 Direct
costs
2024
£
723,874
741,895		 Support
costs
2024
£
8,400
6,200		 Total
funds
2024
£
732,274
748,095		 Total
funds
2023
£
748,095

Analysis of direct costs

Staff costs
Lifeline
Repairs and renewals
Gas
Electricity
Water rates
Insurance
Telephone
General expenses
Surveryors' fees
Founders day dinner
Garden contractors
Professional fees
Total 2023		 Activities
2024
£
189,163
24,715
377,833
50,498
19,309
(13,178)
13,341
2,904
9,690
11,857
3,110
32,976
1,656
723,874
741,895		 Total
funds
2024
£
189,163
24,715
377,833
50,498
19,309
(13,178)
13,341
2,904
9,690
11,857
3,110
32,976
1,656
723,874
741,895		 Total
funds
2023
£
161,781
23,948
364,247
47,631
23,347
16,000
15,454
2,533
10,390
38,831
3,497
32,976
1,260
741,895

Page 21

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

8. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of support costs

Auditor's remuneration
Total 2023		 Activities
2024
£
8,400
6,200		 Total
funds
2024
£
8,400
6,200		 Total
funds
2023
£
6,200

9. Staff costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Pension costs		 2024
£
179,855
6,677
2,631
189,163		 2023
£
155,197
4,316
2,268
161,781

The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows:

2024 2023
No. No.
11 11

The average headcount expressed as full-time equivalents was:

2024 2023
No. No.
7 7

No employee received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in either year.

Remuneration and benefits received by key management personnel during the year amounted to £93,818 (2023: £79,203).

During the year ended 31 March 2024, Trustee expenses of £60 had been incurred to cover travel expenses (2023: £156).

10. Trustees' remuneration and expenses

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2023 - £NIL).

During the year ended 31 March 2024, no Trustee expenses have been incurred (2023 - £156).

Page 22

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements
For the year ended 31 March 2024
11.
Tangible fixed assets
Cost
At 1 April 2023
At 31 March 2024
Net book value
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023
12.
Fixed asset investments
Cost
At 1 April 2023
Additions
Disposals
Revaluations
At 31 March 2024
Net book value
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023		 Freehold
property
£
2
2
2
2
Listed
investments
£
3,446,049
196,120
(225,500)
179,444
3,596,113
3,596,113
3,446,049

Page 23

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

13.
Debtors
Due within one year
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
14.
Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year
Accruals and deferred income		 2024
£
1,190
24,434
25,624
2024
£
34,380		 2023
£
4,607
11,650
16,257
2023
£
160,977

Page 24

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

15. Statement of funds

Statement of funds - current year

Unrestricted
funds
Designated
funds
Cyclical
Maintenance
funds
Extraordinary
repairs fund
General funds
Income and
expenditure
account
Total
Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Capital fund
Total of funds		 Balance at 1
April 2023
£
89,773
746,550
836,323
139,971
976,294
2,682,633
3,658,927		 Income
£
-
-
-
652,963
652,963
-
652,963		 Expenditure
£
(135,238)
(116,662)
(251,900)
(491,841)
(743,741)
-
(743,741)		 Transfers
in/out
£
76,900
95,000
171,900
(171,900)
-
-
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
91,859
91,859
-
91,859
80,987
172,846		 Balance at
31 March
2024
£
31,435
816,747
848,182
129,193
977,375
2,763,620
3,740,995

Designated funds

Both the cyclical maintenance fund and the extraordinary repairs fund comprise the market value of some of the investments held by the Charity, plus monies held within the Broker's accounts. These funds are designated for the purpose of ensuring that the Charity has funds available in order to conduct both cyclical and extraordinary repair works as and when the need for them arises.

Restricted funds

The restricted capital fund is comprised of the remainder of the investments held by the Charity that are not designated balances.

Page 25

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

15. Statement of funds (continued)

Statement of funds - prior year

Unrestricted
funds
Designated
funds
Cyclical
Maintenance
funds
Extraordinary
repairs fund
General funds
Income and
expenditure
account
Total
Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
Capital fund
Total of funds		 Balance at
1 April 2022
£
211,303
813,182
1,024,485
Balance at
1 April 2022
£
140,026
1,164,511
Balance at
1 April 2022
£
2,820,669
3,985,180		 Income
£
-
-
-
Income
£
593,512
593,512
Income
£
-
593,512		 Expenditure
£
(176,248)
(65,027)
(241,275)
Expenditure
£
(518,293)
(759,568)
Expenditure
£
-
(759,568)		 Transfers
in/out
£
68,248
7,026
75,274
Transfers
in/out
£
(75,274)
-
Transfers
in/out
£
-
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
(13,530)
(8,631)
(22,161)
Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
(22,161)
Gains/
(Losses)
£
(138,036)
(160,197)		 Balance at
31 March
2023
£
89,773
746,550
836,323
Balance at
31 March
2023
£
139,971
976,294
Balance at
31 March
2023
£
2,682,633
3,658,927

Page 26

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

16. Summary of funds

Summary of funds - current year

Designated
funds
General funds
Restricted funds		 Balance at 1
April 2023
£
836,323
139,971
2,682,633
3,658,927		 Income
£
-
652,963
-
652,963
Income
£
-
593,512
-
593,512		 Expenditure
£
(251,900)
(491,841)
-
(743,741)
Expenditure
£
(241,275)
(518,293)
-
(759,568)		 Transfers
in/out
£
171,900
(171,900)
-
-
Transfers
in/out
£
75,274
(75,274)
-
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
91,859
-
80,987
172,846
Gains/
(Losses)
£
(22,161)
-
(138,036)
(160,197)		 Balance at
31 March
2024
£
848,182
129,193
2,763,620
3,740,995
Balance at
31 March
2023
£
836,323
139,971
2,682,633
Summary of funds - prior year
Designated
funds
General funds
Restricted funds		 Balance at
1 April 2022
£
1,024,485
140,026
2,820,669
3,985,180
3,658,927

17. Analysis of net assets between funds

Analysis of net assets between funds - current period

Tangible fixed assets
Fixed asset investments
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Total		 Restricted
funds
2024
£
-
2,763,620
-
-
2,763,620		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
2
832,493
179,260
(34,380)
977,375		 Total
funds
2024
£
2
3,596,113
179,260
(34,380)
3,740,995

Page 27

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

17. Analysis of net assets between funds (continued)

Analysis of net assets between funds - prior period

Tangible fixed assets
Fixed asset investments
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Total		 Restricted
funds
2023
£
-
2,631,407
51,226
-
2,682,633		 Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
2
814,642
322,627
(160,977)
976,294		 Total
funds
2023
£
2
3,446,049
373,853
(160,977)
3,658,927

18. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities

19.

Net income/expenditure for the period (as per Statement of Financial
Activities)
Adjustments for:
Gains/(losses) on investments
Dividends, interests and rents from investments
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
Profit from the sale of investments
Net cash used in operating activities
Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
Cash in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents		 2024
£
82,068
(179,443)
(111,964)
(9,367)
(126,597)
6,597
(338,706)
2024
£
153,636
153,636		 2023
£
(326,253)
138,482
(97,070)
(2,943)
51,878
21,736
(214,170)
2023
£
357,596
357,596

Page 28

The Foord Almshouses

Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 March 2024

20. Analysis of changes in net debt

Cash at bank and in hand At 1 April
2023
£
357,596
357,596		 Cash flows
£
(203,960)
(203,960)		 At 31 March
2024
£
153,636
153,636

21. Pension commitments

The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Charity to the fund and amounted to £2,631 (2023: £2,268). As at 31 March 2024, contributions of £496 were payable to the scheme (2023: £Nil).

22. Related party transactions

There have been no related party transactions during the financial year (2023: £Nil). As at 31 March 2024, there are no balances outstanding with any related parties (2023: £Nil).

23. Charity protection policy

The Trustees have purchased a charity protection policy.

Page 29