Charity registration number 270570 Company registration number 04494613 (England and Wales)
ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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 | |
| Davidson James | |
| 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 - 10 |
| Independent examiner's report | 11 |
| Statement of financial activities | 12 |
| Balance sheet | 13 - 14 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 15 - 21 |
ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.
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 2025
Message from the Chair
As we close the 2024–25 year, Alpha Grove stands at a pivotal moment in its long history. This has been a year of regeneration—of our programmes, our partnerships, and most importantly, our vision for what a modern community centre on the Isle of Dogs can be.
Our priority over the past year has been stabilising the Centre, strengthening our reputation, and responding to the growing needs of families, older people and young residents facing persistent cost-of-living pressures. The Centre has seen more activity than at any point in the past decade, with increased demand for space hire, expanded programme reach, and new resident-led initiatives taking root.
Looking ahead, 2026–27 will mark one of the most transformative periods for Alpha Grove. We are delighted to have secured funding for Phase Two of our redevelopment , which will deliver:
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A brand new community kitchen
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Additional halls and flexible activity spaces
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Fully modernised and accessible facilities throughout
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A new outdoor community garden and gathering space
This investment will redefine what the Centre is able to offer, opening the door to new food, health, and familysupport programmes; cultural activities; and expanded youth and older-people’s services. It will also create more opportunities for resident-led initiatives and strengthen our role as a community anchor in a fast-changing neighbourhood.
This next phase is not just a building upgrade, it is a commitment to ensuring that local people have a place that is welcoming, dignified, and genuinely responsive to the needs of the community today and the generations to come.
I want to thank our dedicated staff team, trustees, volunteers, tenants and partners. Their hard work has been essential to our progress. Our gratitude also extends to the funders, supporters and local residents who continue to place their trust in Alpha Grove.
With refurbishment works beginning in the coming year, and with new programmes and partnerships already on the horizon, we enter 2026–27 with renewed confidence. This is an exciting moment not just for the Centre, but for the neighbourhood. We look forward to building this next chapter together.
Ugo Ikokwu Chair of the Board of Trustees Alpha Grove Community Trust
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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
The past year has seen significant growth in activity and community engagement at Alpha Grove. We have broadened our offer, strengthened our partnerships, and seen a notable increase in residents accessing support through the Centre.
Key achievements include:
1. Growing Grassroots Sports & Social Connection
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Launch of the Darts Club and Archery Club , both of which have rapidly become two of our most popular weekly activities for young people.
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Both clubs have strengthened social connection, improved wellbeing, and brought new groups of residents into the centre.
2. Drop-In & Breakfast Sessions
Our drop-in hub and breakfast mornings have supported a rising number of residents affected by the cost-of-living crisis, offering:
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Free breakfast
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Signposting to financial and employment support
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informal wellbeing check-ins
These sessions have become an accessible first point of contact for many residents.
3. Expanding Partnerships
This year we developed important new collaborations, including with:
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Canal & River Trust , promoting outdoor wellbeing activities and local environmental awareness.
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Local youth practitioners working to establish a new youth charity focused on creative and sports-based development.
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A growing set of local organisations delivering workshops, advice and community-led events.
4. Community Voting Day – Resident-Led Projects
We hosted our first Community Voting Day , where residents pitched and voted on local projects. This strengthened participatory democracy at a neighbourhood level and supported resident-led ideas to flourish.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
5. Communities Keeping Well Project
We piloted the Communities Keeping Well initiative linking physical health, mental wellbeing and early help support for isolated individuals and families.
6. Increased Demand for Space
Bookings for hall and room hire continued to grow across the year, reflecting the Centre’s improved facilities and our increasing visibility in the community.
7. Youth, Families and Older People
Our programmes continued to support wellbeing, learning and social connection, including the Coding & Robotics Club, family support sessions, and Age Well activities.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Financial review
The 2024–25 financial year was a stable period for the Centre, with income of £102,436, largely driven by rental income from long-term tenants and ongoing community donations. This represents a modest reduction from the £111,477 reported in the previous year, primarily because the major Phase One refurbishment funding stream concluded during 2023–24. Expenditure for the year totalled £84,554, resulting in a surplus of £17,882, broadly in line with expectations.
Our reserves have now strengthened to £231,571, giving the organisation a solid foundation as we move into a period of increased activity connected to Phase Two of the redevelopment. Throughout the year, we continued to prioritise financial stability by securing long-term rental agreements with anchor tenants, improving budgeting discipline, and maintaining a cautious approach to expenditure. These measures have helped create a more predictable income profile, significantly reducing volatility and improving our financial resilience.
The year also saw increased demand for space within the Centre, which has created new opportunities for earned income. This demand, alongside new partnerships and a more diverse community programme, continues to enhance our long-term financial outlook. The planned next phase of the capital project including new halls, a fully refurbished community kitchen and refreshed facilities will further strengthen our position by both expanding our capacity and improving the building’s overall efficiency.
Key financial developments this year include:
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Stabilised rental income from three long-term anchor tenants, providing predictable quarterly income and improved cash flow forecasting.
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Effective cost controls, including renegotiated utilities contracts, reducing exposure to rising energy costs.
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Continued reduction of long-term liabilities, with the Bounce Back Loan now almost fully repaid.
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No fixed staffing cost increases, with prudent financial management protecting core services.
Our reserves remain above the minimum required under the updated 2023 reserves policy, providing a strong buffer for planned redevelopment work and protecting against income volatility.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Going concern (Updated for FY25)
The Trustees have reviewed the financial position of the organisation and remain confident that the Centre continues to operate as a going concern. This assessment is based on approved budgets, forward income projections, cash-flow forecasts, and known commitments for the next 18 months.
A budget for 2025–26 has been approved by Trustees, based only on income that is contracted or otherwise secured. Additional potential funding opportunities have been identified but have not been included in the budget, reflecting our cautious approach to financial planning. The underlying financial model remains strong, with predictable revenue from anchor tenants and tight control over operating costs.
In reaching their assessment, Trustees considered the following factors:
Stable Rental Income:
Our three anchor tenants continue to provide the majority of our secured income through multi-year agreements structured around quarterly payments in advance. This significantly protects the Centre from short-term cash-flow challenges and allows for more reliable financial planning.
Robust Budgeting & Forecasting:
Budgets for 2025–26 reflect realistic assumptions and conservative income estimates. Trustees receive monthly management accounts and updated forecasts, enabling timely decision-making and early interventions where needed.
Cost Management:
The Centre maintains a flexible cost structure with no high-risk or material fixed-cost liabilities beyond essential operational requirements. Utilities and service contracts have been reviewed and renegotiated to minimise inflationary pressures.
Cash-Flow Position:
Forecasts for the next 18 months show that the Centre is expected to maintain a positive cash-flow position throughout the period, supported by a healthy reserves level and predictable income.
Redevelopment Readiness:
As we enter Phase Two of the capital refurbishment project, Trustees have reviewed potential risks and contingencies. The programme has been carefully phased to avoid major disruption to income or service delivery, and reserves remain sufficient to cushion any short-term pressures.
Based on this analysis, Trustees are satisfied that Alpha Grove has the financial resources and resilience needed to meet its liabilities as they fall due, and therefore continues to operate as a going concern.
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.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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.
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.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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.
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.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Risk management
The Trustees continue to keep a close and proactive watch on the key risks facing the organisation. This year, our focus has sharpened even further as we prepare for the next phase of our major capital redevelopment. We have taken steps to strengthen oversight, improve resilience, and ensure that both our operations and our governance remain robust during a period of significant transition.
One of our most important considerations is financial sustainability. The wider economic environment remains unpredictable, with rising costs affecting both households and community organisations. To protect Alpha Grove, we have worked to maintain stable rental income through long-term agreements with key tenants, strengthened our financial controls, and ensured that our reserves remain above the minimum threshold set by the Board. Monthly cash flow reviews allow us to identify any pressures early and respond quickly.
The forthcoming refurbishment programme brings enormous opportunity but also the possibility of disruption. Trustees have been carefully managing the risks associated with construction, recognising that building works can temporarily affect service delivery and income generation. To mitigate this, the redevelopment is being carefully phased, with alternative arrangements in place for key programmes should areas of the building become unavailable. Trustees and management are closely monitoring the programme to maintain continuity wherever possible.
We are also mindful of the growing needs of our community. Demand for support—particularly around cost-of-living challenges, wellbeing, and youth engagement—continues to rise. While this demonstrates the value of the Centre, it also puts pressure on staff capacity. To address this, we have expanded our partnerships with local organisations, increased our volunteer base, and supported more resident-led activity to help distribute delivery more sustainably.
As the Centre’s activity grows, so too does the importance of strong governance and compliance. Trustees have refreshed key policies, ensured regular safeguarding training across the organisation, and strengthened oversight through quarterly reviews and, where appropriate, independent scrutiny. This reflects our commitment to ensuring that our operational growth is matched by rigorous governance standards.
We recognise that an expanding programme of work can place additional strain on staff and volunteers. To reduce the risk of burnout, we have invested in improved supervision and support, rebalanced responsibilities across the team, and planned additional recruitment where necessary. This is essential to maintaining the quality and consistency of our work.
Finally, we remain attentive to reputational risks. Any disruption to programmes, concerns raised by partners, or issues linked to the redevelopment could impact trust in the Centre. To safeguard against this, we have strengthened communication with residents, partners and funders, and maintained clear feedback and complaints mechanisms to ensure concerns can be raised and addressed promptly.
Overall, the Trustees believe the organisation is in a strong position. While the redevelopment marks a significant period of change, our preparations and strengthened risk management approach mean we are well placed to navigate the challenges ahead. In the long term, the new facilities and improved infrastructure will significantly reduce operational risks, enhance our financial stability, and ensure that the Centre remains a safe, modern and sustainable home for the community.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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
27 November 2025
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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 2025.
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: 27 November 2025
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| Unrestricted Designated funds funds Notes £ £ Income from: Charitable activities 3 102,436 - Expenditure on: Charitable activities 4 82,392 2,162 Total expenditure 82,392 2,162 Net income for the year/ Net movement in funds 20,044 (2,162) Fund balances at 1 April 2024 144,412 69,277 Fund balances at 31 March 2025 164,456 67,115 |
Total 2025 £ 102,436 84,554 84,554 17,882 213,689 231,571 |
Total 2024 £ 111,477 |
|---|---|---|
| 83,073 | ||
| 83,073 | ||
| 28,404 185,285 |
||
| 213,689 |
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 15 to 21 form part of these financial statements.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 MARCH 2025
| Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 8 Current assets Debtors 9 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 10 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 11 Net assets Income funds Unrestricted funds Designated funds 12 General unrestricted funds |
2025 £ 53,441 11,055 64,496 (16,121) 67,115 164,456 |
£ 183,506 48,375 231,881 (310) 231,571 231,571 231,571 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The notes on pages 15 to 21 form part of these financial statements.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS AT 31 MARCH 2025
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 2025.
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 27 November 2025 and were signed on its behalf by:
| 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 2025
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 2025
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 2025
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 2025
3 Charitable activities
| Charitable activity £ Community hire 102,436 Furlough grant - BBL interest grant - 102,436 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 102,436 102,436 For the year ended 31 March 2024 Unrestricted funds 111,477 111,477 4 Charitable activities Community hire £ Staff costs ( Inc. Subcontractors) 44,054 Volunteer Expenses 344 Premises Cost 18,039 62,437 Share of support costs (see note 5) 19,949 Share of governance costs (see note 5) 2,168 84,554 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 82,392 Designated funds 2,162 For the year ended 31 March 2024 Unrestricted funds 80,850 83,073 |
Total 2025 £ 102,436 - - 102,436 102,436 102,436 Total 2025 £ 44,054 344 18,039 62,437 19,949 2,168 84,554 82,392 2,162 |
Total 2024 £ 46,123 16,950 105 |
|---|---|---|
| 111,477 | ||
| 111,477 | ||
| 111,477 | ||
| 111,477 | ||
| 111,477 | ||
| Total 2024 £ 41,603 782 21,051 |
||
| 63,436 16,982 2,655 |
||
| 83,073 | ||
| 80,850 2,223 |
||
| 80,850 | ||
| 83,073 |
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| 5 | Support costs | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Support | Governance | 2025 | 2024 | ||
| costs | costs | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Depreciation | 2,162 | - | 2,162 | 2,223 | |
| Communications and IT cost | 2,243 | - | 2,243 | 2,574 | |
| Legal and professional costs | 5,204 | 536 | 5,740 | 5,451 | |
| General office cost | 10,340 | - | 10,340 | 7,877 | |
| Independent examiners' fee | - | 1,632 | 1,632 | 1,512 | |
| 19,949 | 2,168 | 22,117 | 19,637 | ||
| Analysed between | |||||
| Charitable activities | 19,949 | 2,168 | 22,117 | 19,637 | |
| 19,949 | 2,168 | 22,117 | 19,637 | ||
| 6 | Net movement in funds | 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||||
| Net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting) | |||||
| Independent examiners' fees | 1,632 | 1,512 | |||
| Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets | 2,162 | 2,223 | |||
| 7 | Employees | ||||
| The average monthly number of staff employed by the charity during | the year was as follows: | ||||
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||
| Number | Number | ||||
| Direct charitable work | 3.00 | 3.00 | |||
| Total | 3.00 | 3.00 | |||
| Employment costs | 2025 | 2024 | |||
| £ | £ | ||||
| Salaries | 43,150 | 40,456 | |||
| Pension costs | 904 | 1,147 | |||
| 44,054 | 41,603 |
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
7 Employees
(Continued)
No Trustees received reimbursed expenses during the year (2024 - £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 £17,372 (2024 - £17,112).
8 Tangible fixed assets
| Cost At 1 April 2024 At 31 March 2025 Depreciation and impairment At 1 April 2024 Depreciation charged in the year At 31 March 2025 Carrying amount At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024 9 Debtors Amounts falling due within one year: Trade debtors 10 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Bounce Back Loan Other taxation and social security Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals |
Land and Building Fixtures and fittings Computer and Software £ £ £ 216,169 14,252 1,875 216,169 14,252 1,875 32,376 14,252 - 2,162 - - 34,538 14,252 - 181,631 - 1,875 183,793 - 1,875 2025 £ 53,441 53,441 2025 £ 5,523 1,113 7,524 36 1,925 16,121 |
Total £ 232,296 232,296 46,628 2,162 48,790 183,506 185,668 2024 £ 35,274 35,274 2024 £ 5,368 (106) 7,524 158 1,782 14,726 |
|---|---|---|
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ALPHA GROVE CENTRE
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
11 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
| Bounce Back Loan | 2025 £ 310 310 |
2024 £ 5,465 |
|---|---|---|
| 5,465 |
12 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 2023 | expended | 1 April 2024 | expended | 31 March 2025 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Tangible assest fund | 71,500 | (2,223) | 69,277 | (2,162) | 67,115 | |
| 71,500 | (2,223) | 69,277 | (2,162) | 67,115 |
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.
13 Analysis of net assets between funds
| Unrestricted Designated funds funds £ £ Fund balances at 31 March 2025 are represented by: Tangible assets 116,391 67,115 Current assets/(liabilities) 48,375 - Long term liabilities (310) - 164,456 67,115 |
Total Unrestricted Designated 2025 funds funds £ £ £ 183,506 116,391 69,277 48,375 33,486 - (310) (5,465) - 231,571 144,412 69,277 |
Total 2024 £ 185,668 33,486 (5,465 |
|---|---|---|
| 213,689 |
14 Pension
The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charity to the fund and amounted to £2,203 (2024 - £2,174). Contributions totalling £Nil (2024 - £253) were payable to the fund at the year end and are included in creditors.
15 Related party transactions
There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2024 - none).
16 Share Capital
The company is limited by guarantee and does not have a share capital divided by shares.
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