Charity registration number 270570 1181068
Company registration number 04494613 (England and Wales)
ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
| Trustees | Ugochukwu Ikokwu - Chair |
|---|---|
| Oli Chioma - Vice chair | |
| Shirazul Islam | |
| Bethan Mobey | |
| Luke Kavanagh | |
| Adeola Dosunmu | |
| Ciorsdan Brown | |
| Charity number | 270570 |
| Company number | 04494613 |
| Senior Management Personal | Udoka Chukwudum – Centre Manager |
| Munachiso Prosper Onwuzurigbo – Centre Co-Ordinator | |
| Registered office | Alpha Grove Community Centre |
| Isle of Dogs | |
| London | |
| E14 8LH | |
| Independent examiner | Samir Shah FCA, ATII |
| Ramon Lee Ltd | |
| Chartered Accountants | |
| 93 Tabernacle Street | |
| London | |
| EC2A 4BA | |
| Bankers | Barclays Bank |
| 2 Churchill Place | |
| Canary Wharf | |
| London | |
| E14 5RB |
ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Trustees' report | 1 - 8 |
| Independent examiner's report | 9 |
| Statement of financial activities | 10 |
| Balance sheet | 11 - 12 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 13 - 20 |
ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and "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).
Objectives and activities
Charitable Objects
Alpha Grove Community Centre (AGCC) is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee managed by a voluntary board of trustees. Established in 1986, it is a successful, vibrant community facility and resource providing a safe and welcoming meeting place. The centre exists to improve the quality of life for local people by offering excellent activities and services which provide a range of educational, recreational, cultural, and social opportunities and engagement. We provide information to users and the community on a wide range of matters and signpost and refer them appropriately. It is a place people from diverse backgrounds come to socialise, learn, engage, and enjoy. We work in consultation and partnership with the local community and statutory and voluntary agencies in developing our programme and responding to emerging need and new initiatives.
In addition, Alpha Grove Community Centre aims to:
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Improve the quality of life for the local community.
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Provide an accessible, welcoming venue and focal point for the community. A place for people and local organisations to meet and socialise.
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Sustain and develop our activities that connect and engage people with their communities and each other to help tackle isolation and loneliness.
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Provide educational, recreational, social, and cultural activities that are accessible to local people in response to local need.
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Provide a local resource which promotes and encourages learning and development.
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Promote and advocate the needs of groups based in the centre and provide opportunities for more integration and inclusion between users.
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Act as an informal information point on activities and services.
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To maintain strategic relevance with partnerships, local authority, and funding bodies.
The local community is largely defined as the Alpha Grove ward of the London borough of Tower Hamlets, although the centre's services are open to all Isle of Dogs residents and the local community. The Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) 2015 rank Tower Hamlets 81st most deprived out of 326 areas in England.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Message from the Chair
As we reflect on 2023-24, this year has been one of consolidation and progress following the successful completion of key phases of redevelopment in 2022-23. With the continued support of The Clothworkers Foundation, last year we undertook essential upgrades to our facilities, including roof repairs and the refurbishment of our toilets and showers. These critical improvements have allowed us to transform Alpha Grove into a more functional and welcoming space, increasing our occupancy rate from 30% to 90%, thanks to the addition of several new anchor tenants.
Building on the success of last year’s redevelopment, we have focused on consolidating these gains and looking forward to the next stage of our long-term commitment to the complete refurbishment of Alpha Grove. The impact of the upgraded facilities has been immense, strengthening the centre’s role as a key social asset for our community. Our expanded space and improved infrastructure have allowed us to serve a greater number of residents, offering crucial services that address social isolation, mental and physical well-being, and food insecurity.
Looking ahead, the next phase of redevelopment will bring even more exciting changes to Alpha Grove. Our plans include the creation of a community kitchen and the development of a food co-op, which will help tackle food insecurity and promote sustainability and healthier lifestyles for local residents. These initiatives will serve as vital resources for the community, supporting not only access to nutritious food but also fostering education around cooking and sustainable practices.
In addition to these efforts, we are excited to announce plans for the construction of a new modern community hall on the ground floor, which will provide a multifunctional space for local groups, events, and services.
Throughout 2023-24, we have also focused on strengthening our financial resilience and exploring funding opportunities to bring this vision to life. We are currently in active discussions with several potential funders and partners to secure the resources needed for the next phase. These conversations are crucial as we continue to build upon the success of last year and look to the future with confidence.
While economic challenges, such as rising costs, remain a concern for the community, the growth in our programmes and services reflects our commitment to addressing these pressures head-on. With improved facilities and increased capacity, we have been able to expand our food distribution services, wellness workshops, and youth engagement initiatives, ensuring that our support reaches those who need it most.
As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, we are filled with optimism and excitement about what lies ahead for The Alpha Grove Centre. The redevelopment plans, coupled with our unwavering commitment to serving the local community, position us to create lasting and meaningful impact.
I continue my heartfelt gratitude to The Clothworkers Foundation, our staff, volunteers, and fellow Trustees, whose collective efforts and dedication have made this year such a success. Together, we are continuing to shape Alpha Grove into a thriving community hub that will serve as a beacon of hope, opportunity, and support for generations to come.
Ugo Ikokwu Chair of the Board of Trustees
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Our Purpose and Activities
The company's objective and principal activities are:
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The Relief. of Need, which arises as a result of poverty, age, disability or illness;
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The advancement of Education.
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The provision of Recreation & Leisure.
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In the interests of the social welfare of the inhabitants of the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and surrounding areas in particular, but not exclusively, of the Alpha Grove and in order to improve the conditions of life for those in need of such Facilities.
The main objectives and activities for the year continued to focus on implementation of these objectives, through a combination of community programmes.
Our Vision
The Charity's vision is for everyone in the local community around Alpha Grove Community Centre to have a better quality of life through access and participation in key services and activities, which build cohesion, a stronger and more resilient local community.
The role and contribution of volunteers
During the year a total of 50 volunteers helped support the work of the paid staff in Programme Delivery.
Achievements and performance
At Alpha Grove, we remain committed to ensuring our activities and programmes are diverse, inclusive, and accessible to as many local people as possible. Over the past year, we’ve been able to expand our services, offering critical support and engagement opportunities for the community.
One of the highlights of the year has been the launch of our Community Health and Wellbeing programme, which provided free fitness and mental health workshops to over 80 participants. This initiative targeted both youth and adults, helping to reduce isolation and improve overall physical and mental wellbeing. Many of our participants, particularly from vulnerable backgrounds, expressed that these sessions were instrumental in helping them regain confidence and stability.
In addition, we launched a Digital Literacy Project in response to the growing need for digital skills in the job market. The programme successfully supported over 60 residents, many of whom were older adults and individuals from migrant backgrounds, in acquiring essential digital skills such as using email, applying for jobs online, and navigating online services. This programme has empowered participants to become more independent and better connected to opportunities in a digital world.
We also held a series of local history and storytelling workshops, where community members—ranging from young people to seniors—shared their experiences and stories about the Isle of Dogs. These workshops, attended by over 120 people, aimed to strengthen community ties by celebrating the area’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Our Family Support Service has seen tremendous growth, offering targeted support to families dealing with financial hardship. This service included weekly drop-in sessions, and family budgeting advice. We have assisted 45 families in managing financial stress while providing referrals to additional services such as housing support and childcare.
We are particularly proud of our Holiday Activity Club, which was a huge success this year. Over 70 children participated in activities ranging from arts and crafts to outdoor sports, ensuring that they remained engaged and active during the school holidays. The programme also offered free meals, helping to address food insecurity for families during this critical time.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
For our older residents, our Age Well Initiative provided a range of activities including chair-based exercises, weekly coffee mornings, and information sessions on staying healthy and connected. We engaged with 130 seniors through this programme, which was aimed at reducing social isolation and supporting independent living. The positive feedback we’ve received has encouraged us to expand this programme in the coming year.
Youth activities and training continue to be central to our mission. This year, we introduced a new Coding and Robotics Club for young people, which saw 40 teenagers learning to code and build simple robots. The club sparked interest in STEM subjects and is helping young people develop the skills needed for future careers in technology.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to building on these successes and further expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of our community.
Financial review
The financial year 2023-24 has seen steady income generation from donations and rental income, totalling £111,477 down from £204,010 the previous year due to the completion of major funding for the refurbishment project. Expenditure for the year was £83,073, compared to £105,146 in the prior year, resulting in a surplus of £20,158.
Our reserves have increased to £213,689, providing a buffer for future projects. This strong financial position has been bolstered by our strategic focus on securing long-term rental agreements with anchor tenants, providing greater income stability.
Going concern (Updated for FY24)
A budget for FY24 was approved by Trustees, based on contracted or otherwise-secured income sources and new potential grants and contracts. This year, the Charity has continued its practice of actively monitoring financial performance to remain responsive to any potential financial impacts, positive or negative. The FY24 budget originally projected a £20k surplus, with actual performance closely reviewed to ensure any necessary adjustments are made while maintaining alignment with the agreed reserves policy.
Throughout the year, the Trustees have continued to closely monitor income sources, identifying additional savings where possible and adjusting forecasts accordingly. The Charity has taken a cautious approach by budgeting only for secured income, while also investing resources in developing new funding opportunities. Trustees are confident that the Charity remains a going concern, able to meet its debts as they fall due, based on the following analysis:
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Anchor Tenant Agreements: The Charity continues to benefit from long-term agreements with three anchor tenants, providing security around its principal source of funding. These agreements, structured to provide quarterly payments in advance, significantly reduce cash flow risk and improve financial stability.
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FY24 Budgets and Forecasts: Budgets and forecasts for FY24 are based on secured income sources and include realistic additional income targets, which are considered achievable given the Charity’s ongoing fundraising efforts.
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Cost Control: The Charity maintains a flexible cost structure, with no fixed costs beyond essential operational expenses. Trustees and management have full control over expenditure, ensuring responsiveness to any further economic challenges. The Charity has also renegotiated its utilities contracts, reducing its exposure to inflationary pressures and energy cost increases.
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Cash Flow: Cash flow forecasts for the next 18 months, based on current assumptions, indicate that the Charity will maintain a positive cash flow throughout the period.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Reserves policy
A significant proportion of the Charity's income continues to come from three anchor tenants, providing a stable baseline rental income. The Charity reviewed its hire rates and rental agreements in January 2024, which will cover the period up to 2026. All income generated from these agreements is treated as unrestricted income and is used to support the Charity’s core activities.
The Trustees reviewed and updated the reserves policy in September 2023 to reflect the current risk landscape. This updated policy continues to focus on a risk-based approach, identifying key risk factors and determining appropriate reserve levels to cover these risks. The policy also provides a framework for building reserves above the minimum level to allow for future investments and strategic developments.
In addition to maintaining restricted and unrestricted reserves, Trustees have continued the use of designated reserves, which are set aside for specific purposes at their discretion. This provides greater flexibility in the Charity’s financial planning and allows the organisation to pursue strategic opportunities when they arise.
Investment powers and policy
The Memorandum and Articles of Association authorises the Trustees to expend the funds of the Charity in such manner as they shall consider most beneficial for the achievement of the objects and to invest in the name of the Charity such part of the funds as they may see fit and to direct the sale or transposition of any such investments and to expend the proceeds of any such sale in furtherance of the objects of the charity. At the present time the Trust does not invest its money.
Structure, governance and management Governing document
Alpha Grove is registered in England as a company limited in guarantee; its governing instrument is the memorandum and article of association.
The company was incorporated on 25 July 2002 and was registered as a charity on 07 January 1976.
The company was established under the Memorandum of Association, which established the objects and power of the charitable company and is governed under the Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1. The charity registration number is 270570 and the company registration number is 04494613.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Recruitment and appointment of trustees
Trustees are appointed for a period of three years, which can then be extended by ordinary resolution for another period of three years. The Chair’s position may be extended for a third term of up to three years under the Articles. There is no maximum number of Trustees who may be appointed.
The recruitment of new Trustees follows an evaluation of the desired skills and experience for the Board, aligned to the Charity’s evolving strategy. The skills assessment is overseen by the Nominations Committee. A rigorous selection process is adopted to provide potential candidates with a rounded perspective of the Charity, and the environment in which we work.
On joining the Board, new Trustees receive a welcome pack with key documents and an induction programme which covers the Charity’s values and purpose, and separately, includes information on the financial, governance and operational arrangements for the Charity. During the induction, Trustees meet members of the Alpha Grove team to help them fully understand their role as a Trustee. In addition, all Trustees are invited to attend programmes and events to see them in action and are asked to take an interest in a particular area of the Charity’s work via membership of one of the committees or in one of our champion roles (safeguarding, diversity & inclusion, technology).
Trustees receive ongoing support and up to date guidance to enable them to fulfil their responsibilities to the organisation. They are invited to meet regularly with young people at events and participate in programme activities. Trustees receive insights on the Charity’s work at its meetings and regular briefings from the committees, staff, and the leadership team.
The Board meets quarterly with occasional additional meetings as needed. The Trustee role is unremunerated, but Trustees can claim expenses where relevant. Training requirements are considered regularly, and a budget exists for Trustee training. All Trustees undertake training to ensure they are aware of the importance of safeguarding and child protection.
The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law.
Organisational Structure and Governance
The Board of Trustees is responsible for overall strategy and management of the organisation. The day-to-day management of the charity, including staff and financial matters, is delegated to the Centre Manager who is supported by the Centre Co-ordinator. Volunteers fulfil other roles in the organisation. The Centre Manager has the function of Chief Executive Officer, reporting directly to the Board.
The Board of Trustees meets approximately every three months at Alpha Grove. This year, Trustees met four times. Meetings were well attended, and trustees have continued to take an active role in supporting the staff team.
The Trustees periodically undertake a review of the major risks to which the charity is exposed. Each year when considering the operating budget and strategic plan, the Trustees review the associated organisational risks. The senior management team also review operational systems and procedures and service area risk assessments to manage risks that are in place. We review and update our risk assessments, business continuity and emergency contingency plans annually.
Trustee induction and training
The Trustees maintain a working knowledge of charity/company law and best practice by attendance at-charity and company courses run internally' and/or by outside providers. New Trustees are given copies of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, Policies and Procedures of the organisation, with their duties and responsibilities outlined in the Trustee Handbook. Additional key documents are also provided including the Risk register, Cycle of Business and Scheme of Delegation. Individual Trustee and Board Development is planned, scheduled, and delivered throughout the year.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Charity Governance Code
The Board recognises the importance of the Governance Code in promoting good governance in the Charity sector. The Board and Audit & Risk Committee have fully self-assessed the Charity’s compliance with the Charity Governance Code and the further guidance issued by the Charity Commission related to charities that are connected to a non-charity. The assessment highlighted a high level of compliance with all aspects of the Code. An action plan was developed and approved to enhance compliance where gaps have been identified.
As part of an ongoing strengthening of our governance and assurance processes, an overall Board Assurance Framework was developed and implemented over the period of review. This includes any further assurance required to evidence full compliance with the Charity Commission’s guidance. Trustees continue to keep themselves appraised of developments in the sector and on regulatory and good practice requirements related to governance and charity management via updates from the Governance and Assurance Officer. A formal Scheme of Delegation, setting out the mutual responsibilities of the Board, Committees, and the CEO, was reviewed and approved in March 2022.
Risk management
The Board and management acknowledge that sound risk management is fundamental to both good governance and good management practice. Risk management forms an essential part of the Charity’s decision-making process and is integrated into strategic and operational planning.
Risk assessments are carried out on all activities and projects to ensure they adhere to the Charity’s objectives. Risk management is part of the Charity’s internal control system, and a new Board Assurance Framework was developed and adopted in June 2022. This framework replaced the existing risk register and ensures all key corporate risks are maintained and updated and reviewed by the leadership team during the year. The Board Committees and leadership team consider all key activity with a risk mindset, and this contributes to the way new initiatives are developed and performance is monitored and reported. All staff are provided with adequate training on risk management to help them efficiently fulfil their roles and responsibilities. The Audit & Risk Committee reviews the Board Assurance Framework at least twice annually and makes regular reports available to the Board periodically, and in accordance with the nature of any identified risks. The leadership team and reviews the Board Assurance Framework on a quarterly basis.
During the year the Board re-confirmed and monitored the Charity’s principal risks and reviewed the ongoing specific risks to the Charity arising from the cost-of-living crisis. The Board also considered its risk appetite. Risk appetite was made a permanent feature of the Board Assurance Framework, as was an Assurance Rating, with the intention of providing further evidence and clarity to the Board on strategic threats and risk mitigation.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
Statement of trustees' responsibilities
The trustees, who are also the directors of Alpha Grove Centre for the purpose of company law, 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).
Company Law 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, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.
In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:
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select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that 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 Companies Act 2006. 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.
The trustees are responsible for maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.
The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees and signed on its behalf by:
Ugochukwu Ikokwu Chair
29 October 2024
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Alpha Grove Centre (the charity) for the year ended 31 March 2024.
This report is made solely to the charity's trustees, as a body, in accordance with the Charities Act 2011. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the charity's trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an independent examiner’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity's trustees as a body, for my Independent Examination, for this report, or for the opinions I have formed.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the trustees of the charity (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (the 2006 Act).
Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act). In carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
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1 accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
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2 the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
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3 the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
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4 the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.
Samir Shah FCA, ATII
Ramon Lee Ltd Chartered Accountants 93 Tabernacle Street London EC2A 4BA
Dated: 29 October 2024
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
| Unrestricted Designated funds funds Notes £ £ Income from: Donations and legacies 3 - - Charitable activities 4 111,477 - Total income 111,477 - Expenditure on: Charitable activities 5 80,850 2,223 Total expenditure 80,850 2,223 Net income for the year/ Net movement in funds 30,627 (2,223) Fund balances at 1 April 2023 113,785 71,500 Fund balances at 31 March 2024 144,412 69,277 |
Total 2024 £ - 111,477 111,477 83,073 83,073 28,404 185,285 213,689 |
Total 2023 £ 151,500 52,510 |
|---|---|---|
| 204,010 | ||
| 105,146 | ||
| 105,146 | ||
| 98,864 86,421 |
||
| 185,285 |
CONTINUING OPERATIONS
None of the company's activities were acquired or discontinued during the above two financial periods.
TOTAL RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES
The company has no recognised gains or losses other than the above movement in funds for the above two financial periods.
The notes on pages 13 to 20 form part of these financial statements.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 MARCH 2024
| Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 9 Current assets Debtors 10 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 11 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 12 Net assets Income funds Unrestricted funds Designated funds 13 General unrestricted funds |
2024 £ 35,274 12,938 48,212 (14,726) 69,277 144,412 |
£ 185,668 33,486 219,154 (5,465) 213,689 213,689 213,689 |
2023 £ 17,570 16,398 33,968 (20,577) 71,500 113,785 |
£ 182,456 13,391 195,847 (10,562) 185,285 185,285 185,285 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The notes on pages 13 to 20 form part of these financial statements.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 MARCH 2024
The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 March 2024.
The directors acknowledged their responsibilities for ensuring that the company keeps accounting records which comply with Section 386 of the Act and for preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company as at the end of the financial period and of its profit or loss for the financial period in accordance with the requirements of Section 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to accounts, so far as is applicable to the company.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476.
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 29 October 2024
Ugochukwu Ikokwu Oli Chioma Chair Trustee
Company registration number 04494613
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
1 Accounting policies
1.1 Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Charities SORP "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 charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2 Going concern
The Charity’s Financial Statements show free reserves of £213,689 as at the year end. The trustees are of the view that these results and fundraising plans for the future have secured the immediate future of the Charity for the next 12 months and on this basis the Charity is a going concern.
1.3 Charitable funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.
Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
1.4 Income
Income is recognised when the Charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the item(s) of income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and amount can be measured reliably.
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Income received by donations is included in full in the Statement of Financial Activities when received, unless they relate to a specified future period, in which case they are deferred.
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Income from charitable activities received by way of revenue grants and donations are credited to restricted incoming on the earlier date of when they are received or when they are receivable, unless they relate to a specified future period, in which case they are deferred.
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Grants and donations of general nature which are not conditional on delivering certain levels of service are included as part of Donations as shown under Note 2. Performance related grants and donations which have conditions for a specific outcome are include as Income from Charitable Activities as shown in Note 3.
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Income from charitable activities include income recognised as earned (as the related goods and services are provided) under contract.
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Rental income and service charge income are credited to income in the year in which they are receivable.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.5 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 is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.
Allocation of support costs
Support costs are those functions that assist the work of the charity but do not directly undertake charitable activities. Support costs include back office costs, finance, personnel, payroll and governance costs which support the Charity’s programmes and activities. These costs have been allocated between cost of raising funds and expenditure on charitable activities.
1.6 Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Freehold property 100 years Fixtures and fittings 10% straight line
1.7 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
1.8 Financial instruments
The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
1.9 Taxation
The Charity is a registered charity and, therefore, is not liable for Income Tax or Corporation Tax on income derived from its charitable activities, as it falls within the various exemptions available to registered charities.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.10 Creditors and Provisions
Creditors and Provisions are recognised when the charity has a legal or constructive present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that the charity will be required to settle that obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.
The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting end date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the amount expected to be required to settle the obligation is recognised at present value. When a provision is measured at present value, the unwinding of the discount is recognised as a finance cost in net income/(expenditure) in the period in which it arises.
1.11 Cash flow statement
The charitable company qualifies as a small company and advantage has been taken of the exemption provided by SORP (FRS 102) as amended by Bulletin 1, not to prepare a cash flow statement.
1.12 Pension
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charity to the fund. The charity has no liability under the scheme other than for the payment of those contributions.
1.13 Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
1.14 Volunteers and donated services and facilities
Donated professional services and donated facilities are recognised as income when the charity has control over the item, any conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use by the charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102), the general volunteer time of the Charity is not recognised in the main body of the financial accounts but detail is contained in the Trustees report.
On receipt, donated professional services, donated facilities and goods are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity which is the amount the charity would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market; a corresponding amount is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt.
2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements
In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
3 Donations and legacies
| Donation For the year ended 31 March 2023 4 Charitable activities Charitable activity £ Community hire 111,477 Furlough grant - BBL interest grant - 111,477 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 111,477 111,477 For the year ended 31 March 2023 Unrestricted funds 52,510 52,510 |
Total 2024 £ - - Total 2024 £ 111,477 - - 111,477 111,477 111,477 |
Total 2023 £ 151,500 |
|---|---|---|
| 151,500 | ||
| 151,500 | ||
| Total 2023 £ 46,123 16,950 105 |
||
| 52,510 | ||
| 52,510 | ||
| 52,510 | ||
| 52,510 | ||
| 52,510 |
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
5 Charitable activities
| Community hire £ Staff costs ( Inc. Subcontractors) 41,603 Volunteer Expenses 782 Premises Cost 21,051 63,436 Share of support costs (see note 6) 16,982 Share of governance costs (see note 6) 2,655 83,073 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 80,850 Designated funds 2,223 For the year ended 31 March 2023 Unrestricted funds 102,947 105,146 |
Total 2024 £ 41,603 782 21,051 63,436 16,982 2,655 83,073 80,850 2,223 |
Total 2023 £ 33,619 1,999 21,600 |
|---|---|---|
| 57,218 46,242 1,686 |
||
| 105,146 | ||
| 102,947 2,199 |
||
| 102,947 | ||
| 105,146 |
6 Support costs
| Depreciation Communications and IT cost Legal and professional costs General office cost Independent examiners' fee Analysed between Charitable activities |
Support costs Governance costs £ £ 2,223 - 2,574 - 4,308 1,143 7,877 - - 1,512 16,982 2,655 16,982 2,655 16,982 2,655 |
2024 £ 2,223 2,574 5,451 7,877 1,512 19,637 19,637 19,637 |
2023 £ 2,199 1,388 34,889 8,054 1,398 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47,928 | |||
| 47,928 | |||
| 47,928 |
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
| 7 | Net movement in funds | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||
| Net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting) | |||
| Independent examiners' fees | 1,512 | 1,398 | |
| Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets | 2,223 | 2,199 |
8 Employees
The average monthly number of staff employed by the charity during the year was as follows:
| 2024 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Number | Number | |
| Direct charitable work | 3.00 | 3.50 |
| Total | 3.00 | 3.50 |
| Employment costs | 2024 | 2023 |
| £ | £ | |
| Salaries | 40,456 | 32,472 |
| Pension costs | 1,147 | 1,147 |
| 41,603 | 33,619 |
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
No Trustees received reimbursed expenses during the year (2023 - £nil).
The key management personnel of the charity comprise the Executive Director. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £17,112 (2023 - £9,903).
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
| 9 Tangible fixed assets Land and Building Fixtures and fittings Computer and Software £ £ £ Cost At 1 April 2023 210,734 14,252 1,875 Additions 5,435 - - At 31 March 2024 216,169 14,252 1,875 Depreciation and impairment At 1 April 2023 30,227 14,178 - Depreciation charged in the year 2,149 74 - At 31 March 2024 32,376 14,252 - Carrying amount At 31 March 2024 183,793 - 1,875 At 31 March 2023 180,507 74 1,875 10 Debtors 2024 Amounts falling due within one year: £ Trade debtors 35,274 35,274 11 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2024 £ Bounce Back Loan 5,368 Other taxation and social security (233) Trade creditors 7,524 Other creditors 285 Accruals 1,782 14,726 12 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 2024 £ Bounce Back Loan 5,465 5,465 |
Total £ 226,861 5,435 232,296 44,405 2,223 46,628 185,668 182,456 2023 £ 17,570 17,570 2023 £ 5,270 (2,055) 7,524 8,296 1,542 20,577 2023 £ 10,562 10,562 |
|---|---|
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
13 Designated funds
The income funds of the charity include the following designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes:
| Balance at | Resources | Balance at | Resources | Balance at | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | April 2022 | expended 1 April 2023 |
expended 31 March 2024 |
|||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Tangible assest fund | 73,699 | (2,199) | 71,500 | (2,223) | 69,277 | |
| 73,699 | (2,199) | 71,500 | (2,223) | 69,277 |
Description, nature and purpose of designated funds:
Tangible asset fund : We have about £4,587 in our business reserve account. This account was primarily opened for grants/fund applied for community projects.
14 Analysis of net assets between funds
| Unrestricted Designated funds funds £ £ Fund balances at 31 March 2024 are represented by: Tangible assets 116,391 69,277 Current assets/(liabilities) 33,486 - Long term liabilities (5,465) - 144,412 69,277 |
Total Unrestricted Designated 2024 funds funds £ £ £ 185,668 110,956 71,500 33,486 13,391 - (5,465) (10,562) - 213,689 113,785 71,500 |
Total 2023 £ 182,456 13,391 (10,562 |
|---|---|---|
| 185,285 |
15 Pension
The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charity to the fund and amounted to £2,174 (2023 - £1,174). Contributions totalling £253 (2023 - £177) were payable to the fund at the year end and are included in creditors.
16 Related party transactions
There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2023 - none).
17 Share Capital
The company is limited by guarantee and does not have a share capital divided by shares.
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