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2024-03-31-accounts

The Focolare Trust

Annual Report and Financial Statements

31 March 2024

Charity Registration Number (England & Wales) 279072 Charity Registration Number (Scotland) SC039844

Contents

Reports
Reference and administrative information 1
Trustees’ report 3
Independent auditor’s report 30
Financial statements
Statement of financial activities 35
Balance sheet 36
Statement of cash flows 37
Principal accounting policies 38
Notes to the financial statements 43

The Focolare Trust

Reference and administrative information

Trustees Marie Christine Fournier
Anuradha Laws
Claudia Melis
Elizabeth Taite
Patricia Whitney
The trustees are incorporated under the
Charities Act 2011
Administrative address 67 Church Road
Roby
Liverpool
L36 9TN
Charity registration numbers 279072 (England & Wales)
SC039844 (Scotland)
Auditor Buzzacott LLP
130 Wood Street
London
EC2V 6DL
Bankers Co-operative bank
PO box 250
Delf House,
Southway
Skelmersdale
Wigan
WN8 6WT
Barclays Bank plc
7 St John’s Hill
Clapham Junction
London
SW11 1TR

The Focolare Trust 1

Reference and administrative information

Bankers(continued) Santander UK plc
3rd Floor Santander House
100 Ludgate Hill
London
EC4M 7RE
Shawbrook Bank
Lutea House, Warley Business Park
The Drive
Great Warley
Brentwood
CM13 3BE
Solicitors Carter Lemon Camerons LLP
10 Aldersgate Street
London
EC1A 4HJ

The Focolare Trust 2

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

The trustees present their report together with the financial statements of the Focolare Trust for the year ended 31 March 2024.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out on pages 38 to 42 of the attached financial statements and comply with the charity’s trust deed, applicable United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) laws 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).

Governance, structure and management

The Focolare Movement began in Italy in 1943 and is now active in 182 nations across the world. It is an ecclesial Movement, a movement of spiritual and social renewal which aims at spreading the message of unity worldwide.

Inspired by Jesus’ prayer to the Father, “May they all be one” (Jn 17:21), its goal is to promote fraternity and to achieve a more united world in which people respect and value diversity. To achieve this goal, people of the Movement engage in various forms of dialogue and are committed to building bridges of fraternal relationships among individuals in every area of society.

Members of the Movement include Christians of different Churches and ecclesial communities, members of the major world religions and people of no particular religious belief. Each one adheres to the Movement’s goal and spirit, while faithfully following the precepts of their own faith and conscience.

At the heart of the Movement are small communities of men and women who consecrate their lives to God and live in households called “focolares”, from the Italian word for “hearth”.

In the women’s section of the Focolare Movement there are currently 24 consecrated members living in community in Britain.

The wider movement is made up of about 250 close members and approximately 2,000 who are more loosely associated.

The Focolare is an international organisation with its International Centre (headquarters) and General Council in Rome. The Movement is divided into a number of individual ‘zones’ (geographical areas) which are closely linked to the international centre. Since 2015, the Focolare Movement in Britain is part of the ‘zone’ of Western Europe which has its area headquarters in Brussels.

The accounts accompanying this report are the accounts of the charitable trust in which the assets of the women’s section of the Focolare Movement in Britain are held. The Focolare Trust is governed by a trust deed dated 11 October 1979 and is registered with the Charity Commission, Charity Registration No 279072 and with OSCR No SC039844.

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Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Governance, structure and management (continued)

Working with other organisations

The Focolare Trust works hand in hand with Mariapolis Limited, a charity administered by the men’s section of the Focolare Movement, in planning all the activities of the Movement in this country – managed by the ‘Core Group’.

For example, some members of The Focolare Trust contribute editorial content to Mariapolis Ltd’s ‘New City’ monthly magazine, while Mariapolis Ltd members support the daily running of the Centre for Unity.

Governance and key management personnel

The Trustees are responsible for the alignment of the charity’s development plans, activities and assets with the charity’s aims.

The key management of the day to day running of the charity (e.g. event planning, media and communication) sits with the ‘Core Group’ and the people responsible for different groups, such as local communities, youth leaders, Focolare volunteers, interest groups.

The Core Group is a body of 22 people drawn from a wide range of Focolare membership, meeting regularly every month. The aim for this group is to be a focal point for deciding on which activities best align with the aims of the Focolare Trust and for finding the resources (financial and human) to carry these out. The Core Group comprises representatives of each Focolare house, as well as members of different backgrounds, ages, skills and geographic provenance. Some Trustees also sit on the Core Group.

They all act on a voluntary basis. A lot of energy is currently being invested, and discussions have been happening around reviewing the governance of the Movement in GB and worldwide (see Risk Management Section).

The Trustees collaborate with the ‘Core Group’, and are also in regular communication with those responsible for the community houses, the Centre for Unity, and for key activities of the Movement.

Trustees

Under the terms of the trust deed new Trustees are appointed by the existing Trustees. The minimum and maximum number of Trustees is three and six respectively. The current Trustees are as follows:

Paola Grazia resigned as a Trustee in August 2023 due to relocation abroad.

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Governance, structure and management (continued)

Governance and key management personnel (continued)

Trustees (continued)

Four of the Trustees are consecrated members of the Movement; their living and personal expenses are borne by the charity but they receive no remuneration or reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties as Trustees.

For the first time since the beginning of the charity, a Trustee has been appointed who is not a consecrated member. This trustee also received no remuneration or reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties as Trustees.

Statement of trustees’ responsibilities

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales and in Scotland 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 income and expenditure of the charity for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper 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 Charities Act 2011, applicable Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 and the provisions of the charity’s trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

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Governance, structure and management (continued)

Risk management

The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those relating to the specific operational areas of the charity and its finances. The Trustees believe that by monitoring reserve levels, by ensuring controls exist over key financial systems, and by examining the operational risks faced by the charity on a regular basis, they continue to maintain effective systems to mitigate those risks.

Governance - widening participation, sharing responsibilities and ensuring sustainability.

Our governance structures are under continuous review. The significant events and new challenges of the “post-foundation period” in which the Focolare Movement finds itself, including the Covid-19 pandemic, have brought about many changes and an increasing awareness of the need for a new outlook for Focolare structures.

As shown in previous reports, the ‘Core group’ had been engaging in discussions around the different roles and ways of working within the Movement in GB.

These discussions were extended at the ‘Roots and Wings’ weekend in September 2023 which had the specific aim of consulting the wider body of the Movement in GB, and providing a forum for sharing ideas and deciding future priorities.

The weekend was also designed to incorporate opportunities for concerns around the issues raised in the GCPS report (see Safeguarding section) to be discussed more widely.

“Roots and Wings” Weekend on Governance – 16th/17th September 2023

Much consultation went into the planning of the programme for the weekend, at which 70 people were present: it was the result of many ideas and conversations gathered throughout GB.

Following these conversations, the aspirations that members had for the weekend, could be summarised as follows:

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Governance, structure and management (continued)

Risk management (continued)

Governance (continued)

“Roots and Wings” Weekend on Governance – 16th/17th September 2023 (continued) It was outlined how the Movement has changed in its governance since the death of our Foundress, through the idea of the inverted pyramid, the new set-up and consequent developments in communal discernment. While it was noted that change was inevitable in this regard in common with many movements and organisations, the impact of the GCPS report also was highlighted as a key factor in the need to address inadequacies in governance.

To provide context to the discussions, an account was given of the development of governance structures in GB, as well as new models being piloted in other countries in Western Europe.

Importantly, there were pauses for reflection on shared values, connected to relationships and authority. Small buzz groups allowed a deep sharing and time to establish trust, with a sense of where people found themselves in this process.

A report from the Clitheroe Mariapolis event in May 2023 gave some indications of how new ways of decision-making and lines of accountability are consolidating. There was also a significant talk on the possible ‘pitfalls’ of group thinking, which served as useful preparation for the following sessions.

From group discussions, different topic groups were identified as areas to prioritise and develop. Attendees were free to choose which group to attend. The topic headings were Communication, Formation/Accompaniment, the Core Group, Casting/Widening the Net, and Transparency and Accountability. The more general topic of Structures was incorporated into the topic groups as many ideas overlapped and related to one another. Concerns around sufficient provision for young people were noted, but it was also highlighted that considerable work was already under way in this area in the youth team, and did not come under the topic of governance, for the purposes of discussions at this weekend. Tasks and recommendations were outlined by each Topic Working group, with the aim to provide actionable points that could be taken on by anyone in the Movement. These actions were not just for those who attended the weekend, but were to be shared to anyone interested in getting involved.

Everyone remained aware of those who carry the pain of having been hurt by bad processes and by individuals in positions of power. There was, however, a strong sense of hope based on mutual love, and that this challenge is now more truly shared.

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Governance, structure and management (continued)

Risk management (continued)

Governance (continued)

“Roots and Wings” Weekend on Governance – 16th/17th September 2023 (continued) Working groups under the topic headings were therefore established, with clear remits and task lists. The groups then continued to meet and work independently in subsequent months, Some groups, including those working on recommendations for the Core Group, produced discussion papers. Others met with different representatives from the Movement’s branches to progress their tasks. Connections were strengthened and extended beyond the ‘established’ structures, producing effective and constructive networks. The Working groups were task-limited, but as they conclude, other teams have been strengthened and established, including a reinforced communication team and a new local communities network.

All the results will be brought back to the next Roots and Wings Weekend in September 2024 to share and report back.

Centre for Unity - sustainability.

As explained in the previous report, through the 2022-23 consultation processes, the need for a new management structure for the Centre for Unity was identified, to supervise and support the day-to-day running of the Centre, as well as overseeing policy issues and future direction.

2023-24 saw the appointment of a new Manager (June 2023) and the creation of a Management Team, as well as the recruitment of a new Finance Assistant.

The consultation continues among our members to share the situation with transparency and help guide the ongoing planning for the future of the Centre.

We had forecasted a loss of income during the Methodist Modern Art Exhibition in MarchApril 2024. However, we were able to keep the Centre open, which meant that there was still income from groups using the Centre during the period of the exhibition.

The Centre faces rising costs due to increase of energy bills, maintenance and additional staff costs. At the same time, the Trustees deem that the level of reserves, including a new legacy received in August 2023, are sufficient to guarantee the sustainability of the Centre for at least the next five years.

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Governance, structure and management (continued)

Risk management (continued)

Aging communities

During 2023-24, we continued to be aware of the age profile of many of the consecrated members living in our houses. Those feeling the impact of ageing and more limiting health conditions have been supported by other consecrated members and the wider community, for example qualified medical professionals providing weekly ‘at home’ chair exercise for older members, and others taking turns to provide social companionship. We have continued to be engaged in discussions with Focolare members both in this country and in Western Europe as to how to ensure the wellbeing of members in the future. The aspect of succession planning, which is linked to the ageing of our communities, is being looked at within the governance consultations.

Safeguarding

The Focolare GB Safeguarding team comprises four members - two Safeguarding Officers: Jane Evans and Nic Innocent; and two additional members/administrators: Claudia Melis and Anja Primbs.

Progress on Plans for 2023-2024

To support the development of a culture of safeguarding:

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Governance, structure and management (continued)

Safeguarding (continued)

Progress on Plans for 2023-2024 (continued)

Plans for 2024-25

Specific objectives and relevant policies

Principal aims

The general objects of the Trust as set out in the charity deeds are the advancement of the Christian religion, the prevention or relief of poverty and education.

In particular, the Movement works towards establishing unity at all levels:

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Specific objectives and relevant policies (continued)

Objectives and priorities

During the year 2023-24, the Trustees, together with the ‘Core Group’ identified the following specific areas upon which to concentrate much of the work of the movement in keeping with our general aims:

Grant making policy

The Trust’s grant making policy and procedures depend on decisions made in consultation with the members responsible for the Movement in Britain, our regional headquarters in Brussels, with the General Council in Rome and with those responsible for each local house. Priority is given to furthering Focolare projects. Financial support is sometimes given to close relatives of consecrated members who are in need. This help is given sensitively and it corresponds to individual needs.

With regards to objectives for overseas donations, grants are made in consultation with the International Centre in Rome to give support in places of great need; and in particular through the charitable arms AMU and AFN onlus (see below, Activities - point e).

The ‘Covid and Hardship Fund’ is managed by a committee of 5 members: two trustees of the Focolare Trust, the secretary of Mariapolis Ltd and 2 other Focolare volunteers. They manage donations received for this purpose and make decisions in respect of how the funds are distributed. Requests to the committee are made via the Focolare houses or local communities.

Public benefit

In accordance with Charity Commission guidance, the Trustees have had regard to public benefit. Activities and achievements are described below in order to demonstrate the public benefit of Focolare Trust in relation to its specific objectives to foster dialogue and unity.

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Achievements and performance

Review of activities

Following the objectives and priorities set out above:

a) Supporting Focolare consecrated members in Great Britain and Focolare International Centres

In the year to 31 March 2024, the charity supported 24 consecrated members in Great Britain. These members are in the front line of our activities and events, be it with young people in particular but also in furthering our ecumenical and interfaith work at all levels.

The charity also gave a substantial contribution of £791,533 to the Focolare International Centre in Rome to support consecrated members of Focolare abroad and for the work of the Movement in poorer and developing countries. This included a grant towards the purchase of a Focolare house in Angola, see point e). On behalf of the International Centre, we continue to hold funds in a separate deposit account (Centro Foco fund), which are drawn down when needed in response to needs as outlined above.

b) Accompanying young people, families and individual members and building community in our local areas

During the pandemic we started meeting online with different groups of young people. A Zoom group of girls aged 9-13 and spread across the UK (Scotland, Buckinghamshire, Wales, Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds) still continues to meet monthly. Some feedback:

“Everything is great!” “Interesting topics” “I like that I get to meet with people online that I don’t see often”

“Every person in the group has their own personality and all teachers are encouraging me”

Youth Retreats

Around 50 young people gathered at the Centre for Unity 20-22 October. This was a response to a keen desire for the young people of the Movement across GB to meet up together in person. They were aged 9-30, and were accompanied by several voluntary helpers in addition to those who usually work with the young people.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

b) Accompanying young people, families and individual members and building community in our local areas (continued)

Youth Retreats (continued)

There was a varied programme of group discussions, games and activities, workshops and moments of reflection all centred around the aim of building a united world, and what part faith plays in that aim. Workshops included media, traditional ceilidh dance and woodwork. There was also an option to visit a local care home to sing, dance and chat with residents.

Feedback from the young people included suggestions for future events, but many commented on how much they had enjoyed being all together, making “new and trustworthy friends” and participating in the different activities. Asked what they would take away from the weekend, it was clear that the opportunity to recharge spiritually had been valued. Comments included “courage” , “how God loves us” , “spreading the love and unity I found here” and “a renewed vigour for living the message of the gospel and being the first to love” .

Local and online communities

The majority of Focolare members are linked in some way to a local community. These vary from long-established groups to more recent communities. Groups meet to develop spiritually and to nurture a sense of family among generations and backgrounds. Community gatherings are open to all and are ecumenical in nature.

Members then involve themselves in many aspects of society, whether specifically as a Focolare group, or as individuals inspired by the Focolare spirituality to contribute to other like-minded projects.

Local communities provide a support network for social action e.g. those feeling inspired to work in food banks, ‘warm spaces’ or other charities. Other members find they have a 'framework' for social initiatives, such as the Refugee Support Group in Formby.

They also provide models of community cohesion amongst different cultures and faiths, with an emphasis on welcome and inclusion.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

b) Accompanying young people, families and individual members and building community in our local areas (continued)

London

In 2023-2024 a series of community events in Bexleyheath, South East London, were organised, specifically for families with children aged 4 and up. These events were held in a parish hall, which fostered a welcoming environment for both parish members and the wider community from South-East London to come together. All the events were well-attended, with programs thoughtfully organised for both children and parents. Encouraged by the positive experience in Bexleyheath, families also joined an event organised at the Focolare Centre for Unity in Welwyn Garden City (January 2024), creating an opportunity for further exchange with people joining with children from Greater London.

Long walks in the London area organised and facilitated by one of our members bring together people of different faiths and none, for a shared experience of physical exercise and friendship.

Lancashire and North West of England

An event strengthening interfaith relations whilst celebrating the Christmas season was organised by one member in her local village of Hurst Green. Other members attended an open day at the mosque in Preston, celebrating and strengthening the multiplicity of faiths and collaboration among them in the town.

The local Mariapolis in Clitheroe in May 2023 had over 100 participants. A real family atmosphere was created, partly due to the whole weekend spent ‘together’ across all ages. Even the times of reflection were shared, with the simple but profound message that we have a treasure to discover inside ourselves and in one another.

Young and old felt at ease to participate at their own pace, with several parents commenting that their children had enjoyed spending time with others without their phones. The realities of the world were not completely forgotten, and an interactive evening vigil focused on the climate crisis.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

b) Accompanying young people, families and individual members and building community in our local areas (continued)

Midlands

A gathering in December 2023 at the house of a couple in Loughborough brought together friends and neighbours for an afternoon of shared friendship and Advent reflection.

Oxfordshire

In Oxfordshire the local community is also actively pursuing regular meetings as a large family, for fellowship, support and planning.

South Wales

The local community in South Wales planned for and held a local Mariapolis in June 2023 and they meet for local community celebrations, planning and support every few months. A ‘Word of Life’ group meets every month, mostly on Zoom.

Yorkshire

A particular characteristic of this group has been creating welcoming spaces for those with dementia to maintain their spiritual and social life, and to allow them to contribute to the spiritual wellbeing of others.

Other Word of Life groups meet in various locations across the country.

Following the Roots & Wings meeting a team was put together to form a network across England, Scotland and Wales to share information and resources in order to support local community meetings, projects and spiritual lives. They meet online every few months, and the first meeting was in February 2024.

Cross-country initiatives

In Leeds and in Dunblane Focolare families have taken part in the national scheme of welcoming refugee families from Ukraine into their homes, providing accommodation and support until they are able to live independently. This involved the families’ own local churches, neighbours and friends who got involved sharing surplus goods and making personal donations. These contacts often expressed gratitude for being given an opportunity to help.

An immigrant family arriving in Lancashire in 2022 has been supported to integrate within the local community and settle into their home, familiarise themselves with local services and schools and find work to support themselves.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

b) Accompanying young people, families and individual members and building community in our local areas (continued)

Cross-country initiatives (continued)

Individuals/couples in the movement have been acting as rent guarantors for families coming from abroad with no other means of support, thus enabling them to rent accommodation independently. These families have consequently been able to maintain jobs and support themselves financially. One family had got to know the Focolare Movement while living in Hertfordshire, and offered their time to help in the Centre for Unity on a voluntary basis.

During 2023/24 a number of members who had been pillars of their communities as well as serving the Movement nationally over many years came to the end of their lives. Local communities up and down the country showed their gratitude by celebrating their lives with fond farewells.

c) Working for ecumenical and interreligious dialogue

The Centre for Unity continues to be a host for ecumenical activities, see report on the Methodist Modern Art Exhibition in section (d).

Ecumenical Prayer for Unity

This short time of simple prayer and reflection is led by a different speaker each month, and brings together people of different denominations from across the world. Hosted in Welwyn Garden City, it takes place via Zoom every 2nd Monday of the month.

Church Leaders Meeting

The meeting for Church Leaders at the Centre for Unity, Welwyn Garden City, is now a regular annual event and eagerly looked forward to by the participants.

The hybrid in-person/Zoom event on 18th January 2024 drew together friends old and new from the Roman Catholic, Methodist, Pentecostal, Moravian, United Reformed and Scottish Episcopalian Churches, as well as from the Salvation Army, the Church of England and Church of Ireland.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

c) Working for ecumenical and interreligious dialogue (continued)

Interfaith Engagement

Interfaith relations are strongly promoted by the Focolare community around Glasgow with the Shia Muslim Ahl Al Bait society (see section on Focolare activities in Scotland).

On 29th-30th April 2023 the Centre for Unity hosted a Muslim/Christian dialogue weekend, where the participants explored the themes of Union with God and Muslim-Christian Unity.

“I was struck especially by

realising that there is a special plan of God on Christian-Muslim dialogue… and walking together in God and towards God is our way! Feel so grateful for this experience.”

Birmingham

Interfaith relationships have continued to develop and intensify in Birmingham, particularly during the time of unrest in the Middle East, which has had repercussions on faith communities in GB.

A small initiative in response to this was a prayer vigil that took place on 7th December 2023. This was well attended by 70 people from a diversity of religious backgrounds. The event was organised through collaboration with the Columban Lay missionaries in Birmingham.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

c) Working for ecumenical and interreligious dialogue (continued)

Birmingham (continued)

In Birmingham itself, one community member has a leadership role with the Birmingham Faith Leaders group, and with the Catholic Diocesan Commission for Interreligious Dialogue. There are wide-spread grass roots initiatives, to foster greater community understanding and relationships.

Lancashire

In November 2023 a Focolare member who is a humanist (and convener of Lancashire Humanists), took a leading role in the organising of activities during the annual Inter Faith Week (IFW) at UCLAN (the University of Central Lancashire), increasing awareness and understanding of the different and distinct faith communities in the UK and supporting the contribution they make to their neighbourhoods. The programme involved students, visitors and panel speakers (Buddhist, Christian, Humanist and Muslim), and the table top display brought together Humanists, Baha’I, Quakers, Christian, Hindu and Buddhists, uniting old acquaintances and fostering new friendships.

West Ealing Interfaith Walk

A multi-faith pilgrimage took place in London on 15th July 2023, with stops at the Arya Samaj Hindu Temple, the International Presbyterian Church, Haven Green Baptist Church, the London Sikh Centre, the West London Islamic Centre and the S Amman Hindu Temple:

“We were about 30 pilgrims of different ages, cultures, and faiths: Chinese and Japanese Buddhists, Muslims and Sikhs from India and Pakistan as well as many Christians from a variety of countries and denominations. It was truly an ecumenical, multifaith,

multicultural and multi-ethnic gathering. Everyone went home happy and better equipped for interfaith dialogue and encounter.”

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

c) Working for ecumenical and interreligious dialogue (continued)

GB Mariapolis 2024

Plans for a GB-wide Mariapolis event in the summer 2024 (the first since 2018) started early in 2023, to allow a wide consultation and participation in the preparations.

d) Focolare Centre for Unity

In June 2023, a new Centre Manager was appointed, Ana Siewniak, with the role of overseeing the work of the Centre and managing staff and volunteers. The assistance of the Management Committee has continued in supporting the work of the Centre, particularly the maintenance of the building and making sure our working model is sustainable and faithful to the ethos of the Centre.

Internally, we focused on training the team and filling the skills gaps where needed, to ensure we work safely and to standards, to ensure consistency in our practice and safety for everyone in the building. Five members of staff and 21 volunteers attended various training courses e.g. Level 2 Food Safety in Catering and First Aid, and were provided with basic in-house training on Lone Working, Safeguarding and Health and Safety, as well as Invigilators training for stewards at the Methodist Art Exhibition.

Over the year, we continued with our regular activities, hosting 205 day group sessions - 135 for charities and faith groups, and 70 for public sector organisations like Hertfordshire NHS trusts, Hertfordshire Constabulary and Hertfordshire County Council. The latter organised a number of ESOL sessions (English for Speakers of Other Languages). We also hosted 16 residential groups over 33 days, from the Focolare Movement as well as various churches, and 11 local Focolare meetings and events.

This year’s largest project was the hosting of the Methodist Modern Art Exhibition from 1st March to 6th April 2024. It involved 40 volunteers and welcomed over 2,000 visitors. Stewards included volunteers from five different Christian denominations. A pop-up cafe welcomed visitors with refreshments. Four workshops were held for local schools and a free Lent course resource based on the artworks was made available.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

e) Focolare Centre for Unity (continued)

More information on the Exhibition can be found in the June issue of New City: https://www.newcity.co.uk/june-2024-n-589/#june-2024-n-589/1

Some of the feedback:

“Beautiful. An amazing collection of art. Beautifully curated and displayed. Conducive, not only to the appreciation of the works but also to quiet contemplation. A very moving experience and very welcoming volunteers!”

“Wonderful exhibition, brilliant location.”

“Beautiful and stunning artwork. I’m so pleased we got to see the real thing. It is thought provoking and a reminder of Christ in all parts of our lives. The venue was perfect and cakes, delicious.”

All of these activities led to over 5,000 visitors passing through the centre in 2023-24.

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Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

e) Focolare Centre for Unity (continued)

Groups come to the Centre for training and education, and very often use this space to rethink their strategy and governance, work better in partnerships or raise awareness of their services. Their comment is that this Centre, as a place of dialogue, is the right place for these meetings.

On several occasions, groups organised signposting events for the local community. A charity called Herts Vision Loss that supports and empowers people with visual loss organised an event that for the first time was accessible and adapted to the needs of their service users, from catering to accessing the Centre.

The Centre maintains a good reputation and people return, booking events a year in advance for their annual meetings, e.g. Stanborough School and Hertfordshire Community Foundation. However, we have seen that financial constraints and challenges for some organisations have led to them reluctantly having to cancel bookings.

Here are some comments from the groups:

“I just wanted to say thank you to you and your team at the Focolare Centre for looking after us yesterday for Your Workforce: Your Future. The event was a success for us and many people we spoke to were complimentary about the venue (of course!). Thanks for getting everything set up so nicely for us, and for solving the problems with the tech – I know issues like this are especially frustrating when they are due to something outside your control, and I really appreciated how you and your team sprang into action to fix it in time for the event start. Can we book already for next year?!” - Willow Humphreys, HCF Training and Development

“I would like to thank you for having the group and making us feel welcome. The centre is a fantastic venue and I wish you all the best for the future.” - R.C. (Girls Group, HCC Services for Young People)

f) Supporting international projects via Focolare agencies AMU and AFN, as well as supporting people in need in GB

The Focolare Trust holds £4,271 in the Covid & Hardship Fund with the purpose of helping families in the UK affected by the cost of living crisis.

Many generous donations have been also received by the Focolare Trust towards Focolare Projects abroad, via the International Emergency Coordination Team of the Focolare Movement, Action for a United World - AMU (www.amu-it.eu) and Action for New Families - AFN (https://afnonlus.org).

Donating to the Focolare Trust, rather than directly to AMU/AFN, allows donors who are UK payers to donate an extra 25% Gift Aid.

The Focolare Trust 21

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

e) Supporting international projects via Focolare agencies AMU and AFN, as well as supporting people in need in GB (continued)

Holy Land

Since October 2023, AMU has channelled donations to support individuals and families of the Focolare community affected by the conflict in Gaza. The Focolare community comprises people of different faiths and backgrounds and is committed to building peace through dialogue and reconciliation. From GB, we have sent £4,485 up to March 2024.

Amazon, Brazil

The Focolare community in London hosted a fundraising event in September 2023 towards the mission of a focolarino priest, Fr Hildebrando Alves, who in 2015 moved from the UK to Brazil to open a Focolare house in Óbidos - a city on the banks of the Amazon. The house is in a deprived area with many social problems. Fr Alves’ parish covers 42 communities, which he visits by boat and car, with the challenge of both the distance and the petrol costs. A total of £882 was raised for this project.

Angola

We were asked by our International Centre in Rome to contribute towards the purchase of a Focolare house for the consecrated members in Luanda, Angola. For the previous 3 years, they had been renting the house but the owner needed to sell. He offered a discount equivalent to the rent paid during the last 3 years, but the purchase was still too high for the members to afford.

Having enough reserves in our International Property Repair fund, we were able to donate £360,000 for the purchase of that house, which is used by the wider Focolare community to host meetings and gatherings (see photos of the meeting rooms).

The Focolare Trust 22

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Achievements and performance (continued)

Review of activities (continued)

e) Supporting international projects via Focolare agencies AMU and AFN, as well as supporting people in need in GB (continued)

Angola (continued)

Focolare activities in Scotland 2023-24

2[nd] /3[rd] September 2023 in Falkirk: Scottish Mariapolis

The local Mariapolis in Scotland was held over the first weekend in September, in Falkirk. Over the two days there were 94 participants from the ages of 8 months to well over 80 years of age. The theme Journeying Together was explored through a variety of talks and personal stories, table activities, workshops and games, walks, moments of prayer, sharing and through simply being together.

The Focolare Trust 23

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Focolare activities in Scotland 2023-24 (continued)

2[nd] /3[rd] September 2023 in Falkirk: Scottish Mariapolis (continued)

Many commented on the welcome, the warm, happy and relaxed atmosphere, the “outpouring of love” , the chance to speak to people of faith, the music and the ecumenical service. Participants included members of the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of Scotland and the Methodist Church, among others.

“A day filled with universal love. What joy to be able to listen to one another to share and renew our desire to put our love for God into practice. Thank you all.”

“It was a really lovely weekend. As with every Mariapolis I’ve ever attended I left feeling refreshed and hopeful!”

“Strangers to me just approaching and being very welcoming. I did not feel alone at any time. Felt very aware of the love of God.”

In June 2023 we met with our community to review the aims and formats of our activities.

The desire was expressed:

Meetings of an ecumenical and/or interreligious nature

September 2023: The Church of Scotland ministers’ Ecumenical Committee met in the Focolare. For most of the ministers it was the very first time to meet the Focolare and they felt that it was an ideal place for them to have their day of discernment.

December 2023: meeting with Sheik Pakdin and friends from the Ahl Al Bait Society.

The Focolare Trust 24

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Focolare activities in Scotland 2023-24 (continued)

Meetings of an ecumenical and/or interreligious nature (continued)

“It felt like a family reunion. Though we had not met like that for a while, our mutual love and unity was instantly there - evident by the joy each one felt in being together.”

----- Start of picture text -----
Reflective and faith sharing meetings for the community
----- End of picture text -----

Faith exploring evening with Rev Vincent Lockhart.

March 2024: Retreat Day in the Focolare house. That day also became the beginning of the fundraising effort of the whole community for young people going to the Genfest event in Brazil (summer 2024).

The Focolare Trust 25

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Focolare activities in Scotland 2023-24 (continued)

Meetings of an ecumenical and/or interreligious nature (continued) The community also expressed the desire to remember all our close friends and family members who had died that year with a mass that was celebrated especially for them.

‘Social’ events to strengthen the sense of a family within the community

Community walks in Pollok Park on 16 July, and Dalkeith Country Park on 10 October 2023.

Barbecue on 19 August 2023.

The Focolare Trust 26

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Focolare activities in Scotland 2023-24 (continued)

‘Social’ events to strengthen the sense of a family within the community (continued) Celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Focolare Movement in December 2023.

Young people

17 December 2023 Carol Singing in Daniel’s house (pictured: preparations in the Focolare house).

February 24: Start of monthly meetings for children and their families in the Focolare.

The Focolare Trust 27

Trustees’ report 31 March 2024

Future plans 2024-25

Following discussions with the Core Group, the Trustees confirmed the following specific objectives for the coming year in keeping with our general aims:

Financial Review

Results for the year

A summary of the year’s results can be found on page 35 of the attached financial statements.

For the year to 31 March 2024, the income of the charity amounted to £1,235,977 (2023 - £894,921), including £1,047,903 (2023 - £701,765) from voluntary income, £120,639 (2023 - £160,250) from charitable activities and interest receivable of £55,129 (2023 – 25,540).

Total expenditure in the year was £1,464,200 (2023 - £1,067,396) including £877,617 (2023 - £563,311) for donations and grants payments; £174,800 (2023 - £158,841) for provision of retreats, conferences and publications; £35,100 (2023 - £4,819) for interfaith and youth projects; and £376,683 (2023 - £340,425) for the support of the members of the Movement.

The net movement in funds for the year was a decrease of £228,223 (2023 – a decrease of £172,475).

Reserves policy and financial position

The trustees have examined the requirement for the free reserves (i.e. those unrestricted funds not invested in tangible fixed assets, designated for specific purposes or otherwise committed).

The trustees consider that, given the nature of the charity’s work, the level of free reserves should be approximately between three and six months’ ongoing expenditure. The trustees are of the opinion that this provides sufficient flexibility to cover temporary shortfalls in income, adequate working capital to cover core costs, and will allow the charity to cope and respond to unforeseen emergencies.

The Focolare Trust 28

Tru8t•88' rfjport 31 March 2024 Rtsems pollcy and Ilnanclal posltlon (c￿tinUed) Th8 balanc sheet slknvs total reserves of £7.289.608 (2023 - £7.517.8311. Of this, £4,819,347 (21Y23 - £4.855.362) 15 reFffesented by tanglble ffted asseis u88d to supwrt the wort( of ttw MovemenL S￿h assets arg of tundamental imwrtance to Ihe ¢harlty', without these assets th8 ctharltywouky bè unable to fulfi its eharitable aims and obJ6cUvo5. The value of such assets. therefore. V•YJJld nol b8 easity realk8ablo, if needed to meo1 future corrtknggncks. To emphasL8& thls I￿nt, the n8t book value of Ih888 8$8ets has been sel 8ide, by the trustees. kn a tsngible flX￿ assets fund. Ottw d8sbgnated funds stood 81 £2.309.561 {2023- £2.511.743) 151. Fre8 r888PA8 avadai48 to 8UPWrt the wc d tho momb8r8 In the fuhjre are IIM)s8 shThvn on tha balarKe sheet under the 98naral fuThJ and, 8131 March 2024 équate to £148.30912023- £149,313). Thelgvel of fre8 reserv86 at 31 March 2024 8quat86 to apFxoxlm8tely 3 months, of ongolNJ expendllure which is Cor￿￿nI wilh the dasired reserv￿ level as noted above. Th• ch•rW• •u•ts ALY4uiyitI¢x￿ WKI th3pC￿ dlanglPAe r￿d dwiNJ th& y8ar are r￿Ided In r￿19 10 to tho fir￿rtIal stalom8n Tho Trustees wish to record thair grats'tsjde to all their st8ff, volunte8ryJ, membory6 8nd SUPPNters of the Fo￿ldre Mov8mnt. Th8¥ t(al d8dKalion, g8ner08ity and crealivlty has been Invaluat48. Th8r8 to thern new are unfolding, of workina and of spreading the Approved by th8 Irusiee8 ¥&Jr*d on thelr behalf by: Maiie Christine Founjier Date: aLtlioI lo? The Focolara Trust 29

Independent auditor’s report 31 March 2024

Independent auditor’s report to the trustees of The Focolare Trust

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of The Focolare Trust (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows, the principal accounting policies and the notes to the financial statements. 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 financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the 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 financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

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

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

The Focolare Trust 30

Independent auditor’s report 31 March 2024

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report and financial statements, including the trustees’ report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

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

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the trustees’ report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements 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 financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

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

The Focolare Trust 31

Independent auditor’s report 31 March 2024

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and report in accordance with those Acts and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

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

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

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

The Focolare Trust 32

Independent auditor’s report 31 March 2024

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements (continued)

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

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 financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

The Focolare Trust 33

Independent auditor’s report 31 March 2024

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and Regulation 10 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. 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 Statutory Auditor 130 Wood Street London EC2V 6DL

24 October 2024

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

The Focolare Trust 34

Statement of financial activities Year to 31 March 2024

Notes
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2024
£		 Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
1
Investments
Charitable activities
. Retreat and conference centre fees
. Interfaith, youth projects and events
Other income
. Surplus on disposal of tangible
fixed assets
. Miscellaneous income
2
Total income
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
. Donations and grants payable
3
. Provision of retreats, conferences
and publications
4
. Interfaith, youth projects and events
5
. Support of members of the
Movement
6
Total expenditure
Net (expenditure) income and net
movement in funds
7
Reconciliation of funds:
Balances brought forward
at 1 April
Balances carried forward
at 31 March
968,514
55,129
120,489
—
4,653

7,653		 79,389
—
—
150
—
—		 1,047,903
55,129
120,489
150
4,653
7,653		 653,886
25,540
153,828
7,688
—
6,100		 47,879
—
—
—
—
—		 701,765
25,540
153,828
7,688
—
6,100
1,156,438 79,539 1,235,977 847,042 47,879 894,921

859,532

171,998

6,448

357,663		 18,085
2,802
28,652
19,020		 877,617
174,800
35,100
376,683		 531,588
143,533
4,769
340,425		 31,723
15,308
50
—		 563,311
158,841
4,819
340,425
1,395,641 68,559 1,464,200 1,020,315 47,081 1,067,396

(239,203)
7,516,420		 10,980
1,411		 (228,223)
7,517,831		 (173,273)
7,689,693		 798
613		 (172,475)
7,690,306
7,277,217 12,391 7,289,608 7,516,420 1,411 7,517,831

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

The charity has no recognised gains and losses other than those shown above.

The Focolare Trust 35

8alanco sheet 31 March 2024 2024 1024 2023 2023 TaThJI￿ assets 10 4.819J47 4.819.347 4,855.364 4.855,364 DobtD Sh)rt torm de￿￿￿ts Ca8h at bank in hand 11 19.455 1,166,889 1.309,533 2A95,87Y 21.508 2.688.331 2.689,897 U•blJltkn• CrBditryB.' arno￿ faliffj d wNhbn 0￿ y N•t ¢urvnt 5.611) {27,430) 2.470261 7289.606 2.e62,487 7,517,831 Restrktod fuThJ¥ 13 12.391 1.411 . Gone1￿ lund . TèNJit40 fix￿ 41￿1 . Oesignated ftNKIB Totsl fvnd• 148.309 4.819.347 2,309.S61 7269,608 149,313 4,855.384 2,511.743 7.S17.83t 14 15 AFpThed by tru8teg8 8Wod on thelr bthair ty. TrLots& Marie Christine Fournier ty the trustee8 on: a (k I i 012D2y Tho FwJlar8 Trust 36

Statement of cash flows 31 March 2024

Notes
2024
£		 2023
£
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net cash used in operating activities
A
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investment income
Transfers to short term deposits

Proceeds from the disposal of tangible fixed assets
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Net cash used in investing activities

Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 April
B
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 March
B

**(235,726) **		 (134,808)


55,129
(1,166,889)
4,688
**(16,000) **		 25,540
—
—
(519,410)
**(1,123,072) ** (493,870)

(1,358,798)


2,668,331
 (628,678)
3,297,009

1,309,533		 2,668,331

Notes to the statement of cash flows for the year to 31 March:

A Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flows used in operating activities

2024
£		 2023
£
Net movement in funds (as per the statement of financial activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charge
Investment income
Donated investments
Surplus on disposal of tangible fixed assets
Decrease in debtors
Decrease in creditors
Net cash used in operating activities		 (228,223)
51,982
(55,129)
—
(4,653)
2,111
(1,814)		 (172,475)
51,166
(25,540)
6,313
—
6,638
(910)
(235,726) (134,808)

B Analysis of net debt

Analysis of net debt
2024
£		 2023
£
Cash at bank and in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents
Short term deposits
Total net debt		 1,309,533 2,668,331
1,309,533
1,166,889		 2,668,331
—
2,476,422 2,668,331

The Focolare Trust 37

Principal accounting policies 31 March 2024

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

Basis of preparation

These financial statements have been prepared for the year to 31 March 2024.

The financial statements 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 financial statements.

The financial statements 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 (FRS 102) (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 financial statements are presented in sterling and are rounded to the nearest pound.

Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement

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

The items in the financial statements where these judgements and estimates have been made include:

Assessment of going concern

The Trustees have assessed that there are no material uncertainties related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the charity to continue as a going concern.

The level of reserves and income and expenditure of the Centre for Unity continue to be subject to three monthly reviews in order to assess the financial sustainability of the Centre.

The Focolare Trust 38

Principal accounting policies 31 March 2024

Assessment of going concern (continued)

The Trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure in respect of a period of at least 1 year from the date of approval of these financial statements. The Centre faces rising costs due to increase of energy bills, maintenance and additional staff costs. At the same time, the Trustees deem that the level of reserves, including a new legacy received in August 2023, are sufficient to guarantee the sustainability of the Centre for at least the next five years.

Therefore, they are of the opinion that the charity will have sufficient resources to meet its liabilities as they fall due, and be able to continue as a going concern.

Basis of consolidation

Consolidated financial statements have not been prepared as the subsidiary company remained dormant throughout the year.

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, income from retreat and conference centre fees, income from events and workshops and other income including the surplus on the disposal of tangible fixed assets.

Donations, including salaries and pensions of individual members of the Movement 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.

Legacies are included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the legacy, the executors have established that there are sufficient surplus assets in the estate to pay the legacy, and any conditions attached to the legacy are within the control of the charity.

Income from retreat and conference centre fees and from events and workshops is usually recognised in the period to which it relates or the period in which the event or workshop took place.

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.

The Focolare Trust 39

Principal accounting policies 31 March 2024

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.

Expenditure comprises the costs of the charity’s primary charitable purposes as described in the trustees’ report. Such costs include:

All expenditure is stated inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

Tangible fixed assets

All assets costing more than £1,500 and with an expected useful life exceeding one year are capitalised.

Tangible fixed assets are depreciated at the following annual rates in order to write them off over their estimated useful lives:

These are included on the balance sheet at cost.

No depreciation is provided on freehold buildings used as private residential accommodation. The value and condition of the buildings are reviewed annually by the trustees, who are satisfied that their residual value is not materially less than their book value.

The Focolare Trust 40

Principal accounting policies 31 March 2024

Tangible fixed assets (continued)

Freehold land and buildings used for the provision of the conference centre are depreciated at a rate of 2% per annum on a straight-line basis in order to write the properties off over their estimated useful life.

Investments

Investment in the subsidiary company is included in the balance sheet at cost.

Listed investments are included in the financial statements at their market value at the balance sheet date. Realised and unrealised gains (or losses) are credited (or debited) to the statement of financial activities in the year in which they arise.

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 have been disclosed as short term deposits.

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.

Fund accounting

Restricted funds comprise moneys raised for and their use restricted to a specific purpose or contributions subject to donor imposed conditions.

The charity’s unrestricted funds comprise a number of funds which are available for application towards the charity’s objectives. Within unrestricted funds, the trustees have designated certain amounts for specific purposes and have identified those non-liquid funds represented by tangible fixed assets. Details of these funds are given in notes 14 and 15 to the financial statements.

The Focolare Trust 41

Principal accounting policies 31 March 2024

Financial instruments

The charity only holds basic financial instruments as defined in FRS 102. The financial assets and financial liabilities of the charity and their measurement basis are as follows:

Financial assets – other debtors are basic financial instruments and are debt instruments measured at amortised cost. Listed investments are a basic financial instrument as detailed above. Prepayments are not financial instruments.

Cash at bank – classified as a basic financial instrument and is measured at face value.

Financial liabilities – accruals and other creditors are financial instruments, and are measured at amortised cost.

Leased assets

Rentals applicable to operating leases where substantially all of the benefits and risks of ownership remain with the lessor are charged to the statement of financial activities on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

Services provided by members of the Movement

For the purposes of these financial statements, no value has been placed on administrative and other services provided by the members of the Movement.

The Focolare Trust 42

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

1 Donations and legacies

Donations and legacies
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£


Total
funds
2024
£
Salaries and pensions of individual religious received under
deed of covenant
General donations
Legacies
2024 Total funds		 571,715
234,047
162,752		 —
79,389
—		 571,715

313,436
162,752
968,514 79,389
1,047,903

Salaries and pensions include amounts totalling £56,999 (2023 - £75,371) from trustees. General donations include an amount of £152,424 (2023 – £nil) from a trustee.

Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Salaries and pensions of individual religious received
under deed of covenant
General donations
Legacies
2023 Total funds		 546,093
68,343
39,450		 —
47,879
—		 546,093
116,222
39,450
653,886 47,879 701,765

2 Miscellaneous income

Miscellaneous income
Unrestricted
funds
£
Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2024
£
Sundry income
2024 Total funds		 7,653 — 7,653
7,653 — 7,653
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Sundry income
2023 Total funds		 6,100 — 6,100
6,100 — 6,100

3 Donations and grants payable

The charity makes grants to both individuals and institutions in accordance with its grant making policy set out in the trustees’ report.

Several donations have been sent via the Movement’s centre in Rome for the work of the Movement in various countries including some specific projects for those in need, especially in the Holy Land as the conflict which started in October 2023 affected the Focolare communities there. We also supported a project in the Amazon forest (Brazil), led by a member of Focolare who used to live in the UK. We continue to support adoption at distance projects through AFN (Action for New Families) and contribute to an international fund towards helping Focolare members in various countries.

The Focolare Trust 43

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

3 Donations and grants payable (continued)

The donations and grants payable during the year were for the following purposes:

Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£


Total
funds
2024
£
Contributions to the Global Mission
Grants to international projects
Covid-19 emergency grants
Contribution to former members
2024 Total funds		 784,492
—
—
75,040		 7,041
10,844
200
—
791,533

10,844

200
75,040
859,532 18,085
877,617

Included above are grants paid to 7 individuals totalling £33,342 (2023 – 7 individuals totalling £22,317).

Total
Unrestricted Restricted funds
funds funds 2023
£ £ £
Contributions to the Global Mission 492,991 — 492,991
Grants to international projects 94 24,833 24,927
Covid- 19 emergency grants — 2,700 2,700
Contribution to former members 8,736 — 8,736
Other grants 29,767 4,190 33,957
2023 Total funds 531,588 31,723 563,311

4 Provision of retreats, conferences and publications

Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£


Total
funds
2024
£
Retreat and conference centre costs
. Premises
. Centre for Unity running costs
. Staff costs (note 8)
. Office sundries
Other costs and publications
2024 Total funds		 85,027
31,801
50,573
3,457
1,140		 —
2,802
—
—
—		 85,027

34,603
50,573

3,457
1,140
171,998 2,802
174,800
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Retreat and conference centre costs
. Premises
. Centre for Unity running costs
. Staff costs (note 8)
. Office sundries
Other costs and publications
2023 Total funds		 60,659
54,260
27,683
774
157		 —
14,473
—
—
835		 60,659
68,733
27,683
774
992
143,533 15,308 158,841

The Focolare Trust 44

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

5 Interfaith, youth projects and events

Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2024
£
Mariapolis
Gen Verde
Youth projects
2024 Total funds		 3,125
—
3,323		 8,053
20,252
347		 11,178
20,252
3,670
6,448 28,652 35,100
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Youth projects
2023 Total funds		 4,769 50 4,819
4,769 50 4,819

6 Support of members of the Movement

Support of members of the Movement
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2024
£
Direct costs
. Premises
. Members’ living expenses
Support and governance costs
. Legal and professional fees
2024 Total funds		 113,325
221,350
22,988		 —
19,020
—		 113,325
240,370
22,988
357,663 19,020 376,683
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Direct costs
. Premises
. Members’ living expenses
. Education, training and spiritual renewal
Support and governance costs
. Legal and professional fees
2023 Total funds		 123,776
174,774
20,021
21,854		 —
—
—
—		 123,776
174,774
20,021
21,854
340,425 — 340,425

7 Net movement in funds

This is stated after charging:

Net movement in funds
This is stated after charging:
Total
2024
£		 Total
2023
£
Auditor’s remuneration (including VAT)
. Statutory audit services
. Other services
Depreciation(note 10)		 9,840
9,840
51,982		 9,210
9,210
51,166

The Focolare Trust 45

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

8 Staff costs and trustees’ remuneration

Staff costs and trustees’ remuneration
Total
2024
£		 Total
2023
£
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Pension contributions
Total staff cost		 44,520
4,320
1,733		 25,048
2,143
492
50,573 27,683

The charity employed an average of four staff members during the year (2023 – two) on a part-time basis.

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

All trustees are members of the Movement and whilst, for some of them, their living and personal expenses are borne by the charity they receive no remuneration or reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties as trustees.

9 Taxation

The Focolare 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.

10 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets
Freehold land and
buildings
Furniture
and
equipment
£
Computer
equipment
£
Motor
vehicles
£
Total
£
Residential
£
Conference
centre
£
Cost
At 1 April 2023
Additions
Disposals
At 31 March 2024
Depreciation
At 1 April 2023
Charge for year
Eliminated on disposal
At 31 March 2024
Net book values
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023		 3,570,310
—
—
2,052,477

—

—
268,734

4,512

—
10,295

—

—
88,687

11,488

(8,337)		 5,990,503

16,000
(8,337)
3,570,310
2,052,477
273,246
10,295
91,838		 5,998,166
—
—
—
790,393

41,049

—
251,881

4,437

—
10,295

—

—
82,570

6,496

(8,302)		 1,135,139

51,982
(8,302)
—
831442
256318
10295
80764		 1,178,819
3,570,310 1,221,035 16,928 —
11,074		 4,819,347
3,570,310
1,262,084
16,853
—
6,117		 4,855,364

The Focolare Trust 46

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

11 Debtors

Debtors
2024
£		 2023
£
Accrued income and prepayments
Other debtors		 19,455
—		 12,947
8,619
19,455 21,566

12 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
£		 2023
£
Loans payable
Accruals and other creditors		 6,000
19,616		 8,200
19,230
25,616 27,430

All loans are interest free and repayable on demand. Loans payable relate to amounts borrowed before 2000 to purchase the Focolare Centre for Unity.

13 Restricted funds

The income funds of the charity include the following restricted funds to be applied for specific purposes:

At 1 April
2023
£		 Income
£		 Expenditure
£		 At 1 April
2024
£
Interfaith, Youth Projects, Events
Centre for Unity
Overseas Project
Covid Emergency and Hardship
Education grant
Other		 —
—
—
1,411
—
—		 29,829
2,802
17,237
3,610
19,020
7,041		 (28,652)
(2,802)
(10,844)
(200)
(19,020)
(7,041)		 1,177
—
6,393
4,821
—
—
1,411 79,539 (68,559) 12,391
At 1 April
2022
£		 Income
£		 Expenditure
£		 At 1 April
2023
£
Interfaith, Youth Projects, Events
Centre for Unity
Overseas Project
Covid Emergency and Hardship
Other		 —
—
—
613
—		 50
14,473
24,833
3,498
5,025		 (50)
(14,473)
(24,833)
(2,700)
(5,025)		 —
—
—
1,411
—
613 47,879 (47,081) 1,411

This fund consists of monies received towards various Focolare projects and events in GB, including interfaith and youth activities and other events such as local ‘Mariapolis’.

The Focolare Trust 47

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

13 Restricted funds (continued)

This fund consists of restricted donations received to support the work of the Centre for Unity.

14 Tangible fixed assets fund

Tangible fixed assets fund
Total
£
At 1 April 2023
Net movements in year
At 31 March 2024(see note 10)		 4,855,364
(36,017)
4,819,347
Total
£
At 1 April 2022
Net movements in year
At 31 March 2023(see note 10)		 4,329,620
525,744
4,855,364

The tangible fixed assets fund represents the net book value of the charity’s fixed assets. A decision was made to separate this fund from the general fund and other designated 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. The fund value, therefore, cannot be realised with ease or without jeopardising the ongoing work of the charity.

The Focolare Trust 48

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

15 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:

At
1 April
2023
£		 New
designations
£

3628

22,633

1,510

27,575

75,600

171,420

11,001

252,717
12,905
11,490
590,479		 Utilised/
transferred
£		 At
31 March
2024
£
81,500
35,539
146,779
1,051,841
145,842
493,461
11,738
332,040
10,821
—
2,309,561
Focolare UK major maintenance fund
. The Focolare Centre for Unity
. Other Properties
Western Europe property repair fund
International property repair fund
The Focolare Centre for Unity fund
Retirement fund
Volunteers fund
Centro Foco fund
Methodist Modern Art Exhibition Fund
New car fund		 113,902
17,506
198,406
1,383,400
80,290
334,662
4,942
378,635
—
—		 (36,030)
(4,600)
(53,137)
(359,134)
(10,048)
(12,621)
(4,205)
(299,312)
(2,084)
(11,490)
2,511,743 (792,661)
At
1 April
2022
£		 New
designations
£		 Utilised/
transferred
£		 At
31 March
2023
£
Focolare UK major maintenance fund
. The Focolare Centre for Unity
. Other Properties
Western Europe property repair fund
International property repair fund
Property replacement fund
The Focolare Centre for Unity fund
Retirement fund
Volunteers fund
Centro Foco fund		 79,902
201,557
1,400,000
—
540,000
61,574
333,060
—
529,090
34,000

17,506

15,929

1,383,400

—

52,716

5,778

7,059

300,189
—

(201,557)
(1,217,523)

—

(540,000)

(34,000)

(4,176)

(2,117)

(450,644)
113,902

17,506

198,406

1,383,400

—

80,290

334,662

4,942
378,635
3,145,183 1,816,577 (2,450,017) 2,511,743

This fund consists of monies set aside for the purpose of financing large scale repairs to the charity’s residential freehold properties and the Centre for Unity.

This fund consists of monies set aside for the purpose of financing large scale repairs to the Focolare Movement’s properties across Western Europe.

This fund consists of monies set aside for the purpose of financing large scale repairs to the Focolare Movement’s properties across the world (beyond Western Europe).

The Focolare Trust 49

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

15 Designated funds (continued)

This fund consists of moneys designated towards the purchase of new cars for the Focolare houses.

The Focolare Trust 50

Notes to the financial statements 31 March 2024

16 Analysis of net assets between funds

General
fund
£		 Tangible
fixed assets
fund
(note 14)
£		 Other
designated
funds
(note 15)
£		 Restricted
funds
(note 13)
£		 Total
2024
£
Fund balances at 31 March 2024
Are represented by:
Tangible fixed assets (note 10)
Net current assets
Total net assets		 —
148,309		 4,819,347
—		 —
2,309,561		 —
12,391		 4,819,347
2,470,261
148,309 4,819,347 2,309,561 12,391 7,289,608
General
fund
£		 Tangible
fixed assets
fund
(note 14)
£		 Other
designated
funds
(note 15)
£		 Restricted
funds
(note 13)
£		 Total
2023
£
Fund balances at 31 March 2023
Are represented by:
Tangible fixed assets (note 10)
Net current assets
Total net assets		 —
149,313		 4,855,364
—		 —
2,511,743		 —
1,411		 4,855,364
2,662,467
149,313 4,855,364 2,511,743 1,411 7,517,831

The Focolare Trust 51