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2023-12-31-accounts

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust

Annual Report and Accounts

31 December 2023

Charity Registration Number 272581

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Acts of General Chapter 2019 - 2025

Contents

Reports

Reports
Reference and administrative details
of the charity, its trustees and advisers 1
Trustees’ report 2
Independent auditor’s report 16
Accounts
Statement of financial activities 20
Balance sheet 21
Statement of cash flows 22
Principal accounting policies 23
Notes to the accounts 27

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust

Reference and administrative details of the charity, its trustees and advisers

Trustees Marie Pitcher (Province Leader/Provincial)
Margaret Walsh
Rosemary Barter
(The trustees are incorporated under the
Charities Act 2011)
Financial administrator Noreen Morris
Principal address 16 East Acton Lane
London
W3 7EG
Charity registration number 272581
Auditor Buzzacott LLP
130 Wood Street
London
EC2V 6DL
Principal bankers HSBC plc
69 Pall Mall
London
SW1Y 5EY
Investment managers Sarasin & Partners LLP
Juxon House
100 St Paul’s Churchyard
London
EC4M 8BU
Solicitors Wedlake Bell LLP
52 Bedford Row
London
WC1R 4LR

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 1

Trustees' report 31 December 2023

The trustees present their report and the accounts of The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2023.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out on pages 23 to 26 of the attached accounts and comply with the charity’s constitution, the Charities Act 2011 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 United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

Introduction

The Institute of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) is an International Roman Catholic Religious Order. The Congregation comprises of 8 Provinces : England/Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand), 3 Vice Provinces: Cameroon, Nigeria and Peru and 3 Districts : Bolivia, Czech Republic and Myanmar.

These accounts cover the English Province of the Order which is governed by a Trust Deed dated 20 March 1975. The Trust is registered with the Charity Commission, Registration Number 272581.

Objectives

The general objectives of the Order are for “such charitable purposes which advance the religious and other charitable work for the time being carried on in England and Wales or elsewhere by or under the direction or with the support of the Congregation as the Trustees shall from time to time think fit and with the approval of the Province Leader”.

There have been no changes to the objectives during the year.

Principal activities and aims

The Institute of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) aims to advance religious and other charitable work or purposes connected with the advancement of the development of all, based on the Roman Catholic Tradition as the Trustees shall decide.

There are five Sisters resident in England. They live their mission in Wolverhampton, Birmingham, London and Horsham. The sisters form one community, residing individually in different locations. They have remained in contact via all means possible to help maintain their emotional and spiritual well-being. They have also been able to adapt to the situation within their various ministries and continue to serve those around them, particularly in their local communities.

All are involved in promoting and living a more sustainable lifestyle along with care for the environment.

Every six years a General Chapter is held and the Chapter decides the focus for our mission during the next six years. The theme which emerged during the Chapter held in Rome in June/July 2019 invites us to LISTEN even more carefully to the Spirit speaking through each person we meet and to discern what new path we should walk together to improve all our lives.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Principal activities and aims (continued)

Public benefit

The Trustees confirm that they have given due consideration to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit. These requirements are addressed in this report.

The charitable works we are involved in fall under the following main headings:

Education

Sister Pat Armato continues to be involved in two Primary Schools in the State sector in London. Following 41 years of teaching, Sister Pat is now a full time Governor at a

multicultural school in West London and also is a volunteer at another school. Her experience and expertise is a great resource for both schools. She gives ‘booster’ sessions with the pupils to support the work of raising standards in Maths and English.

Our work in education is closely linked with the Charism of the

Infant Jesus Sisters: “To foster the growth of all people in the Image of God” keeping in mind ‘We must not look for cherries on a plum tree – so it is with people’ (Nicolas Barré), as each is created uniquely. This charism is lived as much outside of the classroom as well as in it, especially in the building of community wherever we are.

Sister Pat is also involved in voluntary ministry with visitors to the local prison. This service is organised by PACT (Prison Advice and Care Trust) and she now does this at Wormwood Scrubs.

Family and Children

Hope Family Centre, Heath Town Estate, Wolverhampton.

(Hope community project Wolverhampton, Charity Registration Number: 1139362 http://hopecommunityproject.org.uk/) opened on 2 October 1985.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Principal activities and aims (continued)

Family and Children (continued)

Hope Family Centre, Heath Town Estate, Wolverhampton (continued)

This is a partnership between the Infant Jesus Sisters, Father Hudson’s Care (the social Care Agency of Birmingham Archdiocese) and St. Patrick’s parish in Wolverhampton. It was opened on 2 October 1985.

The aim of this project is to seek out, reach and support the most isolated, vulnerable and disadvantaged people in the community, particularly those on the margins who struggle with day to day living and to be accepted by society as a whole; to offer them a programme of activities designed to support them so that they can use their potential for a better life for themselves, their families and the local community.

Project activities include:

Sister Margaret Walsh IJS is Chair of the Hope Management Board and Sister Pat Armato IJS is also a trustee.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Principal activities and aims (continued)

Family and Children (continued)

Hope Family Centre, Heath Town Estate, Wolverhampton (continued)

‘Welcoming the Stranger’ – ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

Brushstrokes

(http://www.brushstrokessandwell.org.uk/ Joint Project of the charity, Father Hudson’s Care (Charity No 512992) and St Philip Neri Parish (Charity No 234216). It was opened in September 1999)

This project is located in Smethwick, West Midlands and is a partnership between the local Parish of St. Philip Neri, Father Hudson’s Care (see above) and the Infant Jesus Sisters. Brushstrokes reaches out to those whose dignity has been disregarded and those who are the most forgotten and invisible people in the neighbourhood and further afield. As well as visiting

people in their homes, and networking with local agencies, Brushstrokes provides a range of activities for families, many of whom are refugees and asylum seekers. In more recent years, Brushstrokes has opened a number of satellite centres in other parts of the West Midlands.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Principal activities and aims (continued)

Family and Children (continued)

Brushstrokes (continued)

Brushstrokes core services include:

Sister Margaret Walsh IJS is a member of the Management Committee.

Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, London

www.wormwoodscrubsponycentre.org Registered Charity 1045045

Sister Mary Joy Langdon IJS is the founder and CEO of the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre which offers equine therapy and developmental programmes for children and young people. It has been delivering vital services to children, particularly those with special needs and physical disabilities, for over three decades. The vision for the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre has always been to

provide a safe and supportive place where all children can grow and flourish in a caring and nurturing environment. The Centre aims to improve the quality of life for all involved, giving many opportunities to both children and volunteers, which can enable them to grow towards their full potential.

HRH The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, recently visited the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre to mark the beginning of its 35[th] anniversary celebrations. She paid tribute to Sister Mary Joy in a two minute speech, describing her contribution and commitment as 'exceptional', before she unveiled a plaque commemorating the visit. Martin Clunes is patron of the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre and President of the British Horse Society. Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre is one of their highly approved centres.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Principal activities and aims (continued)

Family and Children (continued)

Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, London (continued)

They were able to see how the Centre is benefitting hundreds of children and people in the local area through riding and equine therapy.

St. Chad’s Sanctuary Birmingham

www.stchadssanctuary.com Registered Charity No. 1146151

It was opened in March 2010 and became a Registered Charity operating under Charity Number 1146151. On 11 June 2018 St. Chad’s Sanctuary was registered as a CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation under the Charity Number: 1178728).

St. Chad’s Sanctuary is a project supported by St. Chad’s Cathedral and the Salvation Army. It was set up to welcome and support asylum seekers and refugees especially those who are particularly vulnerable.

Their core services include:

Service users come from across the world including Sudan, Eritrea, Iran, Syria, Pakistan, Congo, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Somalia, and Afghanistan.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 7

Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Principal activities and aims (continued)

Family and Children (continued)

St. Chad’s Sanctuary Birmingham (continued)

Sister Margaret Walsh IJS is a trustee and Patron of the project.

Ministry of Caring for the Elderly Sisters

The trustees are very aware that they have a moral and legal obligation to care for their elderly members. None of the sisters have resources or private incomes as all their earnings, gifts, and donations, together with their pensions, have been covenanted to the charity. As the age profile increases, so too does the need to provide care for the sisters. Our main care facility for our elderly sisters in England and Ireland is in Mallow, Co. Cork.

The sisters endeavour to live as simply as they can in order to fund the care of our elderly sisters, many of whom served in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Japan as well as in England in order to build up girls’ education.

Our former school in England was called St Maur’s. Located in Weybridge this is where girls were educated from 1899 until 1999 when the

School became part of St George’s College in Weybridge. The site of the former St Maur’s Convent School now houses St George’s College Junior School where the mission to educate continues. The seed sown continues to flourish.

This is our heritage continued today by others.

The District of Great Britain comprised five sisters as at 31 December 2023.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 8

Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Financial review

Results for the year

A summary of the year’s results is set out on page 20 of this annual report and accounts.

During the year to 31 December 2023, income was £364,680 (2022 – £302,725). The components of income were donations (including pensions receivable from members of the Institute under Gift Aid compliant Deeds of Covenant) and investment income and interest receivable.

During the year the charity incurred expenditure of £222,753 (2022 - £211,451). Expenditure on maintaining the members of the Institute and enabling them to carry out their charitable work was £123,490 (2022 - £126,277). Donations payable during the year amounted to £92,042 (2022 - £78,508). Further details of donations are given in note 4 to the attached accounts. Investment management fees for the period were £7,221 (2022 - £6,666).

Net income for the year before investment gains was £141,927 (2022 - £91,274). Net investment gains for the year totalled £122,242 (2022 – net losses of £284,474) and resulted in a net increase in funds of £264,169 (2022 – net decrease in funds of £193,200).

Financial position and reserves policy

The balance sheet shows total funds of £5,177,910 at 31 December 2023 (2022 - £4,913,741).

Of this, £569,677 (2022: £642,066) represents restricted funds. Further details of these funds are given in note 13.

£788,083 (2022: £768,767) represents the net book value of the charity’s tangible fixed assets and an equivalent amount has been designated as a tangible fixed assets fund in recognition of the fact that the assets are required for the charity’s operations and are not available as a reserve to fund activities or meet future contingencies.

Amounts totalling £3,500,000 (2022: £3,250,000) have been designated by the trustees for the care of the sisters and their ministry as explained in note 15 to the accounts.

Funds which are available as free reserves i.e., those unrestricted funds not designated for specific purposes or otherwise committed, are shown on the balance sheet as general funds and amount to £320,150 (2022 - £252,908).

Reserves policy

It is the trustees’ aim to ensure that sufficient funds are generated to be able to provide a proper level of care for sisters of all ages as they need it. The charity is reliant on investment income necessary to meet both current and future requirements. To this end, regular meetings are held to ensure that sufficient funds are generated from the investment portfolio and changes are made to the portfolio as appropriate.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Financial review for the year (continued)

Financial position and reserves policy (continued)

Reserves policy (continued)

The trustees consider that, given the nature of the charity’s work, the level of free reserves should be sufficient to cover up to three year’s on-going expenditure and to provide for contingencies, unevenness in future income and volatility in the value of investments.

At the date of the balance sheet, the trustees consider that the level of free reserves was adequate

Investment policy and performance

The charity’s investments are managed by Sarasin and Partners LLP. There are no restrictions on the charity’s power to invest. The investment strategy set by the trustees takes into account income requirements, the risk profile and the investment manager’s view of the market prospects in the medium term. The sisters take particular note of the prudent advice of the charity’s investment manager.

The policy adopted by the charity is to maximise total return through investing in unitised funds backed by a diversified portfolio whilst providing a level of income advised from time to time by the trustees. There is also an Ethical Policy precluding investment in any company which, after reasonable enquiry, clearly has significant profits from an activity which is contrary to the objectives of the Catholic Church.

The investment policy is generally risk averse with the objective of producing total return through growth in capital and income. The risk profile of the investments will be low/medium and, in order to satisfy the requirements, investments normally comprise of UK Government securities, leading UK companies, unit and investment trusts (including those investing in major international markets), and in fixed interest securities which merit an international rating of single A or better.

The performance of the portfolio and the charity’s investment strategy have been reviewed by the trustees, who are part of the investment committee which includes an independent financial adviser. The financial adviser and the finance administrator, guided by the policy of the Institute, meet with the investment managers on a regular basis and report their findings to the trustees.

The policy of the charity is to achieve a combination of income and capital growth within acceptable levels of risk. The trustees of the charity continue to take a long-term view and believe the investment policy continues to be appropriate.

The charity’s two portfolios of investments had a market value at 31 December 2023 of £2,951,662 (2022: £2,745,703) including cash available for reinvestment of £624,697 (2022: £787,314).

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 10

Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Financial review for the year (continued)

Investment policy and performance (continued)

During the year, the charity’s listed investments achieved an income yield of 2.7% and a capital yield of 5.9%. The performance of the portfolio reflected the condition of the markets generally throughout the period. The investment managers continued to invest in accordance with the trustees’ investment policy set out above. Further details of the investment portfolio are detailed in note 10 to the attached accounts.

Future plans

The trustees do not anticipate any significant changes to the charity’s activities in the year ahead.

Structure, governance and management

Constitution

The Institute of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) is an International Roman Catholic Religious Order. In terms of Canon law, the Order is governed at an international level by the Superior General and her Council. These officials are elected every six years at a General Chapter, the most recent of which was in June/July 2019.

and is a registered charity, Charity Registration Number 272581.

Governance

As all trustees are members of the Order they have a detailed knowledge of the work of the charity and of its structures. On being appointed, new trustees are required to spend some time with those leaving office, to receive a briefing on their responsibilities and the current position of the charity. They also meet with the Institute's legal, accounting, investment and property advisers during the course of a day to obtain a full briefing of their responsibilities and the charity's position. On-going in-service training takes place during the mandate.

Trustees

The names of the trustees who served during the year are set out as part of the reference and administrative details on page 1 of this Annual Report and Accounts.

Recruitment, training and induction of trustees

The Deed of Trust does not stipulate a minimum or maximum number of trustees. It states that trustees may be appointed and removed by the Provincial. Currently the number of trustees is three, including the Provincial. In practice, members of the Provincial Council are also trustees. Under the terms of the Order’s Constitutions (rule of life) generally the Council term is two consecutive terms of three years each. In exceptional cases this may be increased to a maximum of nine years. The Province itself is administered by the Provincial and her team (who are trustees).

The trustees are kept informed on Charity Sector issues by Professional Advisors, Fact Sheets, Newsletters from our auditors and legal advisors and by attending training workshops and conferences.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 11

Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Structure, governance and management (continued)

Recruitment, training and induction of trustees (continued)

The Provincial Leader attends the Charity Conference and furnishes the trustees with information on relevant issues.

Legal and administrative information

The Provincial Office, principal bankers and advisors are as shown on page 2.

Noreen Morris is Financial Administrator and carries out the work of the Provincial Bursar in close liaison with the Provincial and her Team.

Pat Armato IJS is the Safeguarding lead for the UK.

Structure and management reporting

The trustees are ultimately responsible for the policies, activities and assets of the charity. They meet regularly to review all aspects regarding the charity and its activities, to plan and make relevant decisions for the future. When necessary, the trustees seek advice and support from the charity’s professional advisers, including property consultants, investment managers, solicitors and accountants. The day-to-day management of the charity’s activities and the implementation of policies are delegated to the appropriate members of the Institute.

Statement of trustees’ responsibilities

The trustees are responsible for preparing the trustees’ report and accounts in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financial period which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the income and expenditure of the charity for that period. In preparing the accounts the trustees are required to:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Structure, governance and management (continued)

Statement of trustees’ responsibilities (continued)

The trustees are responsible for keeping accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and which enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011, the applicable Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations and the provisions of the constitution. 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.

Key management personnel

The trustees consider that they comprise the key management of the charity in charge of directing and controlling, running and operating the charitable trust and its successor charity on a day to day basis.

The trustees receive neither remuneration nor reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties as trustees or key management personnel.

Policy on receipt of donations and legacies

The charity aims to achieve best practice in the way in which it communicates with donors and other supporters. It protects donors’ data and never sells data, it never swaps data and ensures that communication preference can be changed at any time. The charity does not employ the services of professional fundraisers. The charity undertakes to react to and investigate any complaints regarding its approach to those who give it money and to learn from them. During the year, the charity received no such complaints.

Risk management

In line with the requirement for trustees to undertake a risk assessment exercise and report on the same in their annual report, the trustees have looked at the risks the charity currently face and have reviewed the measures already in place to deal with them.

The trustees continue to work on assessing the main risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those relating to specific operational areas of the charity, its investments and its finances. The trustees believe that by monitoring reserve levels, by ensuring controls exist over financial systems and by examining the operational and business risks faced by the charity, it has established effective systems to mitigate those risks. These systems are frequently reviewed with a view to possible updates and improvements.

The key risks for the charity identified by the trustees are described below together with the principal ways in which they are mitigated:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Structure, governance and management (continued)

Risk management (continued)

Loss of key personnel

The Province Leader and Financial Administrator hold much of the information which is shared with the Provincial Team. If there was an emergency our Accountants (Buzzacott), Insurers (PIB Insurance Brokers) and Investment Managers (Sarasin) are familiar with our processes. However, we are also aware that our diminishing numbers and increasing age profile cause concern for the future and the Institute at General Level is putting in place plans to cope with this evolving scenario.

Income sources

All the sisters are now of retirement age although no one is ‘retired’. One sister receives a salary for her work with the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, a registered charity, Charity Number 1045045. Income is limited and so we will increasingly have to depend on our investments. Good budgeting and accountability is encouraged and monitored to make the most of our resources for the good of all.

Financial

The trustees review financial risks including those arising as a result of poor budgetary control, poor accounting and poor management of the investment portfolio. The charity's principal asset comprises listed investments, the value of which is dependent on movements in UK and world stock markets. The investments are managed by reputable investment managers who adhere to a policy agreed by the trustees. The trustees meet with the investment managers regularly and the manager's performance and that of the portfolio are monitored. The investment strategy is assessed regularly to ensure it remains appropriate to the charity's needs both now and in the future.

Loss of reputation

The impact of the far-reaching inquiry into child sexual abuse in England and Wales has an effect on all Religious and members of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. There are also financial implications with regard to the running costs which will require contributions from all Congregations. We are members of COR (Conference of Religious of England and Wales) and also subscribe to CSSA (Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency) and RLSS (Religious Life Safeguarding Service). These organisations keep us well informed of steps we need to take in relation to safeguarding.

Having assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, the trustees believe that by monitoring reserve levels, by ensuring controls exist over key financial systems, and by examining the operational and business risks faced, they have established effective systems to mitigate those risks.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2023

Collaborators of the Order

The trustees wish to record their recognition of the professionalism and commitment of all their collaborators and individual members of the Order. Their dedication is very much appreciated.

Signed on behalf of the trustees:

Marie Pitcher Trustee

Approved by the trustees on: 27th March 2024

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 15

Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2023

Independent auditor’s report to the trustees of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust

Opinion

We have audited the accounts of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows, the principal accounting policies and notes to the accounts. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland’ (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the accounts:

Basis for opinion

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

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the accounts, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the accounts is appropriate.

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

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

Other information

The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report and Accounts, other than the accounts and our auditor’s report thereon. Our opinion on the accounts does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

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Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2023

Other information (continued)

In connection with our audit of the accounts, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the accounts or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the accounts or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information; we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities Act 2011 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of accounts that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

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

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts

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

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

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Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2023

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts (continued)

How the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud

Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows:

We assessed the susceptibility of the charity’s accounts to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:

To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:

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Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2023

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts (continued)

How the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud (continued)

In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to:

There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the trustees and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.

Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the accounts is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 and with regulations made under section 154 of that Act. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Buzzacott LLP 27 March 2024 Statutory Auditor 130 Wood Street London EC2V 6DL

Date:

Buzzacott LLP is eligible to act as an auditor in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006

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Statement of financial activities Year to 31 December 2023

Notes 2023 2022

Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£

Total
£

Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£
Total
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
1
Investments and interest receivable
2
Other income
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
. Investment management fees
Charitable activities
. Support of members of the Order and their
ministry
3
. Charitable donations
4
Total expenditure
Net income (expenditure) before net
investment gains (losses)
6
Net gains (losses) on investment assets
10
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Funds brought forward at 1 January 2023
Funds carried forward at 31 December
2023

251,883

111,297
1,500



251,883

111,297

1,500

235,381

67,344








235,381

67,344

364,680
364,680

302,725


302,725
7,221

123,490

19,653


72,389

7,221

123,490

92,042

6,666

126,277

10,508





68,000

6,666

126,277

78,508
150,364 72,389
222,753

143,451

68,000

211,451

214,316

122,242
(72,389)

141,927

122,242

159,274

(284,474)

(68,000)

91,274

(284,474)
336,558
4,271,675
(72,389)
642,066

264,169

4,913,741

(125,200)

4,396,875

(68,000)

710,066

(193,200)

5,106,941
4,608,233 569,677
5,177,910

4,271,675

642,066

4,913,741

All of the charity’s activities during the above financial periods derived from continuing operations.

All recognised gains and losses are included in the statement of financial activities.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 20

Balance sheet 31 December 2023

Notes 2023
£
2023
£
2022
£
2022
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
9
Investments
10
Current assets
Debtors
11
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due
within one year
12
Net current assets
Total net assets
The funds of the charity
Restricted fund
13
Unrestricted funds
. General funds
. Tangible fixed assets fund
14
. Designated fund
15



2,007
1,453,596
788,083
2,951,662
1,803
1,409,906
768,767
2,745,703
3,739,745
1,438,165
3,514,470
1,399,271
1,455,603

(17,438)
1,411,709
(12,438)


5,177,910 4,913,741
569,677
320,150
788,083
3,500,000
642,066
252,908
768,767
3,250,000
5,177,910 4,913,741

Approved by the trustees and signed on their behalf by:

Marie Pitcher

Trustee

Approved by the trustees on: 27th March 2024

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 21

Statement of cash flows Year to 31 December 2023

Notes
2023
£
2022
£
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net cash provided by operating activities
A
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investment income and interest received
Purchase of investments
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 2023
B
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 2023
B

39,445

6,582
111,297
(246,334)
(23,335)

67,344


(11,601)
(158,372) 55,743
(118,927)

2,197,220

62,325
2,134,895

2,078,293
2,197,220

Notes to the statement of cash flows for the year to 31 December 2023.

A Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash provided by operating activities

2023
£
2022
£
Net movement in funds (as per the statement of financial activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charge
(Gains) losses on investments
Investment income and interest receivable
(Increase) decrease in debtors
Increase (decrease) in creditors
Net cashprovided by operating activities
264,169
4,019
(122,242)
(111,297)
(204)
5,000
(193,200)
1,160
284,474
(67,344)
383
(18,891)
39,445 6,582

B Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents
As at 31
December
2022
£
Cash flows
£
As at 31
December
2023
£
Cash at bank and in hand
Cash held by investment managers
Total cash and cash equivalents
1,409,906
787,314
43,690
(162,617)
1,453,596
624,697
2,197,220 (118,927) 2,078,293

No separate statement of changes in net debt has been prepared as there is no difference between the movements in cash and cash equivalents and movement in net cash (debt).

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 22

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2023

The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the accounts are laid out below.

Basis of preparation

These accounts have been prepared for the year ended 31 December 2023 with comparative information given in respect to the year to 31 December 2022.

The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policies below or the notes to these accounts.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with 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 United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (Charities SORP FRS 102), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

The accounts are presented in sterling and are rounded to the nearest pound.

Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement

Preparation of the accounts requires the trustees to make significant judgements and estimates.

The items in the accounts where such judgements and estimates have been made include:

Assessment of going concern

The trustees have assessed whether the use of the going concern assumption is appropriate in preparing these accounts. The trustees have made this assessment in respect to a period of at least one year from the date of approval of these accounts.

The trustees will continue to keep both income and expenditure under review. Undoubtedly there will be challenges ahead but the trustees do not expect material concerns to arise over the charity’s financial position or going concern. The trustees have concluded that the charity will have sufficient resources to meet its liabilities as they fall due.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 23

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2023

Income recognition

Income is recognised in the period in which the charity has entitlement to the income, the amount of income can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received.

Income comprises donations, investment income, bank interest receivable and other income.

Donations, including salaries and pensions of individual religious received under Gift Aid or deed of covenant, are recognised when the charity has confirmation of both the amount and settlement date. In the event of donations pledged but not received, the amount is accrued for where the receipt is considered probable. In the event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance before the charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that those conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period.

In accordance with the Charities SORP FRS 102 volunteer time is not recognised.

Investment income is recognised once the dividend has been declared and notification has been received of the dividend due. Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank.

Expenditure recognition

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to make a payment 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.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis. Expenditure comprises direct costs and support costs. All expenses, including support costs, are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings. The classification between activities is as follows:

Charitable donations are made where the trustees consider there is real need following a review of the details of each particular case. Donations are included in the statement of financial activities when approved for payment. Provision is made for donations approved but unpaid at the period end.

All expenditure is stated inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 24

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2023

Allocation of support and governance costs

Support costs represent indirect charitable expenditure. In order to carry out the primary purposes of the charity it is necessary to provide support in the form of personnel development, financial procedures, provision of office services and equipment and a suitable working environment.

Governance costs comprise the costs involving the public accountability of the charity (including audit costs) and costs in respect to its compliance with regulation and good practice.

All expenditure on support and governance is attributed directly to the charitable activities of supporting members of the Institute as any governance costs in relation to the provision of donations and grants is considered to be negligible.

Tangible fixed assets

All assets costing more than £2,000 and with an expected useful life exceeding one year are capitalised.

Land and buildings are those designed as, and used wholly or mainly for, private residential accommodation. They are stated at cost. Such buildings are not depreciated. Their value and condition are reviewed annually by the trustees, who are satisfied that their residual value is not materially less than their book value. Disposals and additions to land and buildings are accounted for on legal completion of the relevant transaction.

Expenditure in relation to Plant, furniture and equipment is capitalised and depreciated over a ten-year period on a straight-line basis.

Expenditure on the purchase of motor vehicles is capitalised and depreciated over a five-year period on a straight-line basis.

Fixed asset investments

Listed investments are a form of basic financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction value and subsequently measured at their fair value as at the balance sheet date using the closing quoted market price.

The charity does not acquire put options, derivatives or other complex financial instruments. As noted above the main form of financial risk faced by the charity is that of volatility in equity markets and investment markets due to wider economic conditions, the attitude of investors to investment risk, and changes in sentiment concerning equities and within particular sectors or sub sectors.

Realised gains (or losses) on investment assets are calculated as the difference between disposal proceeds and their opening carrying value or their purchase value is acquired subsequent to the first day of the financial year. Unrealised gains and losses are calculated as the difference between the fair value at the year end and their carrying value at that date. Realised and unrealised investment gains (or losses) are combined in the statement of financial activities and are credited (or debited) in the year in which they arise.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 25

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2023

Debtors

Debtors are recognised at their settlement amount, less any provision for non-recoverability. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid. They have been discounted to the present value of the future cash receipt where such discounting is material.

Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand represents such accounts and instruments that are available on demand or have a maturity of less than three months from the date of acquisition. Deposits for more than three months but less than one year at the time the deposit is made have been disclosed as short-term deposits. Cash placed on deposit for more than one year is disclosed as a fixed asset investment.

Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised when there is an obligation at the balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are recognised at the amount the charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt. They have been discounted to the present value of the future cash payment where such discounting is material.

Fund structure

The funds of the charity comprise restricted funds and unrestricted funds available for use in furtherance of the charity’s objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Within the total unrestricted funds are amounts representing tangible fixed assets and amounts which the trustees have designated for specific purposes. Details of funds are provided in notes 13 to 15.

Services provided by members

For the purpose of these accounts, no monetary value has been placed on administrative and other services provided by members of the Institute.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 26

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2023

1 Income from: donations

2023 2022
Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£

Total
£

Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£

Total
£
Pensions and similar income
of individual religious
Other donations
251,426
457


251,426

457

234,823

558




234,823

558
251,883
251,883

235,381


235,381

2 Income from: investments and interest receivable

2023 2022
Unrestricted
£

Restricted
£

Total
£
Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£
Total
£
Income from listed
investments
. UK unitised funds
Interest receivable
. Cash held by investment
managers
. Bank interest
57,030
33,907
20,360






57,030

33,907

20,360

56,664
8,223

2,457





56,664
8,223

2,457
111,297

111,297

67,344


67,344

3 Expenditure on: support of members of the Order and their ministry

2023 Unrestricted
£
44,992

57,579
1,492

7,862

2,202

1,830

10,320

126,277
2022
Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£
Total
£


Restricted
£















Total
£
44,992

57,579
1,492

7,862

2,202

1,830

10,320

126,277
Sisters' living and personal
expenses
Premises and household costs
Education, training and spiritual
renewal
Support costs
. Insurance
. Subscriptions and conferences
. Sundry administration costs
. Governance costs (note 5)
51,251
48,479
505
9,000
1,645
1,690
10,920














51,251

48,479

505

9,000

1,645

1,690

10,920
123,490

123,490

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 27

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2023

4 Expenditure on: charitable donations Donations during the year comprised:

2023 2022
Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£
Total
£
Unrestricted
£
Restricted
£
Total
£
Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre
Hope Family Centre (Hope
Community Project
Wolverhampton)
Brushstrokes
St. Chads Sanctuary
East Sussex Fire & Rescue
CAFOD
Mayhew Animal Shelter
Kids on the Green
Other sundry donations
2,500
2,500
2,500
4,500




7,653

63,389









5,000

3,000

1,000


65,889

2,500

2,500

4,500



5,000

3,000

1,000

7,653

2,000
2,000

2,000











4,508

45,000






11,000



3,000

6,000

3,000

47,000
2,000

2,000



11,000



3,000

6,000

7,508
19,653
72,389

92,042,

10,508

68,000

78,508

5 Governance costs

Legal andprofessional fees 2023
£
2022
£
10,920 10,320
Staff costs (note 7)
Auditor’s remuneration
. Statutory audit services:
.. Current year
. Other services: advisory services
Depreciation
Unrestricted and total
2023
£
2022
(As restated)
£


9,480
9,500
1,440
820
4,019
1,160
Unrestricted and total
2023
£
2022
(As restated)
£


9,480
9,500
1,440
820
4,019
1,160
2022
(As restated)
£



9,500

820

1,160

7 Staff costs and key management personnel

The charity did not employ any staff during the year (2022 – none).

As noted in the trustees’ report, the trustees consider they comprise the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing and controlling, running and operating the charity on a day-to-day basis.

The trustees are all members of the Order and whilst their living and personal expenses are borne by the charity they receive no remuneration or additional reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties to the charity.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 28

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2023

8 Taxation

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust is a registered charity and, therefore, is not liable to income tax or corporation tax on income derived from its charitable activities, as it falls within the various exemptions available to registered charities.

9 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets
Land and
buildings
£
Plant, furniture
and equipment
£
Motor
vehicles
£
Total
£
Cost
At 1 January 2023
Additions
At 31 December 2023
Depreciation
At 1 January 2023
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2023
Net book values
At 31 December 2023
At 31 December 2022
758,326

11,601

2,355

30,739

20,980

800,666

23,335
758,326
13,956

51,719

824,001


1,160

1,396

30,739

2,623

31,899

4,019

2,556

33,362

35,918
758,326
11,400

18,357

788,083
758,326
10,441


768,767

Land and buildings include two properties held on long leases originally of 125 and 999 years, commencing on 1 July 1998 and 20 August 2016 respectively. The net book value of these properties at 31 December 2022 and 31 December 2021 was £486,085.

As permitted under Financial Reporting Standard 102, the charity continues to adopt a policy of not revaluing its tangible fixed assets.

10 Investments

Investments
2023
£
2022
£
Listed investments
Market value/fair value at 1 January 2023
Additions
Net unrealised gains (losses)
Market value/fair value at 31 December 2023
Cash held by investment managers
Listed investments and cash held for re-investment
Cost of listed investments at 31 December 2023
1,958,389
246,334
122,242
2,242,863

(284,474)
2,326,965
624,697
1,958,389
787,314
2,951,662 2,745,703
1,880,845 1,634,511

All listed investments comprise units in Charity Authorised Investment Funds, the underlying investments of which were dealt in on a recognised stock exchange. These comprised:

2023
£
2022
£
Sarasin Endowment Fund Class A Income units
Sarasin Climate Active Endowments Fund Class A Income Units
Sarasin Income and Reserves Fund Class A Inc
1,431,433
690,040
205,492
1,354,447
603,942
2,326,965 1,958,389

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 29

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2023

11 Debtors

Debtors
2023
£
2022
£
Prepayments 2,007 1,803

12 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023
£
2022
£
Monies administered by the charity on behalf of individual members of
the Order
Accruals
Donations payable
2,938
9,500
5,000
2,938
9,500
17,438 12,438

13 Restricted fund

2023
£
2022
£
At 1 January 2023
Expenditure in the year
At 31 December 2023
642,066
(72,389)
710,066
(68,000)
569,677 642,066

The restricted fund comprises monies donated by a member of the Order following the inheritance of a property. The net proceeds from the sale of the property were gifted by the member to the charity under a declaration of trust in 2021. The fund is to be used to finance donations to organisations and causes supported by the sister and by the charity.

14 Tangible fixed assets fund

Tangible fixed assets fund
2023
£
2022
£
At 1 January 2023
Net movements in the year
At 31 December 2023
768,767
19,316
758,326
10,441
788,083 768,767

The tangible fixed assets fund represents the net book value of the charity’s properties and other tangible assets. This fund is separated from the general funds of the charity in recognition of the fact that the tangible fixed assets are essential to the day-to-day work of the charity and as such their value should not be regarded as funds that would be realisable with ease, in order to meet future contingencies.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 30

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2023

15 Designated fund

The income funds of the charity include the following fund designated by the trustees:

Retirement reserve fund

The fund represents monies designated by the trustees to provide for the members of the Order in their retirement. It has been calculated using actuarial principles and is reviewed regularly by the trustees in the light of the resources available and those likely to be required.

2023
£
2022
£
At 1 January 2023
Designated during the year
At 31 December 2023
3,250,000
250,000

3,250,000
3,500,000 3,250,000

16 Analysis of net assets between funds

The fund balances are represented by the following assets and liabilities.

General
fund
£

Tangible
fixed assets
fund
£

Designated
fund
£

Restricted
fund
£

2023
Total
funds
£
Fund balances at 31 December 2023
are represented by:
Tangible fixed assets
Listed investments
Net current assets
Total net assets


320,150

788,083






2,951,662

548,338





569,677

788,083

2,951,662

1,438,165
320,150
788,083

3,500,000

569,677

5,177,910
General
fund
£

Tangible
fixed assets
fund
£

Designated
fund
£

Restricted
fund
£

2022
Total
funds
£
Fund balances at 31 December 2022
are represented by:
Tangible fixed assets
Listed investments
Net current assets
Total net assets


252,908

768,767






2,745,703

504,297





642,066

768,767

2,745,703

1,399,271
252,908
768,767

3,250,000

642,066

4,913,741

The total unrealised gains as at 31 December 2023 constitute movements on revaluation of listed investments and were as follows:

isted investments and were as follows:
2023 2022
£ £
Unrealised gains at 31 December 2023 included above:
Total unrealised gains on listed investments 446,120 323,878
Reconciliation of movements in unrealised gains
Unrealised gains at 1 January 2023 323,878 608,352
Gauns (losses) arising on revaluation in the year 122,242 (284,474)
Total unrealisedgains at 31 December 2023 446,120 323,878

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 31

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2023

17 Transactions with trustees and other related party transactions

The charity’s trustees are members of the Institute. While in England, their living and personal expenses may be borne by the charity. No trustee received any remuneration or reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties as trustees (2022 – £nil).

As members of the Institute, the trustees have no resources of their own as all earnings, pensions and other income have been donated to the charity under a Gift Aid compliant Deed of Covenant. During the year, the total amount donated by the trustees to the charity was £24,556 (2022 – £22,464).

Sister Margaret Walsh, a trustee of the charity is also a trustee of the Hope Community Project Wolverhampton (Charity Registration Number 1139362) and St. Chad’s Sanctuary (Charity Registration Number 1178728). During the year, the charity donated £2,500 to the Hope Community Project Wolverhampton and £2,000 to St. Chad’s Sanctuary (2022 - £2,000 to the Hope Community Project Wolverhampton and £2,000 to St. Chad’s Sanctuary). Sister Margaret took no part in the decision to make these donations.

There were no other related party transactions during the year which require disclosure (year to 31 December 2022 – none).

18 Ultimate control

The charity, which is constituted as a trust, was controlled throughout the period by the Institute of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust, by virtue of the fact that the Provincial appoints all of the trustees.

The Sisters of the Infant Jesus (Nicolas Barré) General Trust 32