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2025-03-31-accounts

Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

WATERLOO ACTION

CENTRE

Charity No. 284591 Company No: 1611872 (England & Wales)

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2024-25

Waterloo Action Centre Annual Report 2024-25

Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

Contents

OUR PURPOSE AND ACTIVITIES ................................................................ 2 AIMS ....................................................................................................................................... 2 CORE VALUES .......................................................................................................................... 3 The role and contribu�on of volunteers ................................................................................ 3 DIRECTOR’S REPORT FOR 2024-25 ........................................................... 4 ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES FOR OLDER PEOPLE ...................................................................... 5 DAY-TIME ACTIVITIES FOCUSING ON MORE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE OLDER PEOPLE ................. 9 LEGAL ADVICE, WELFARE BENEFITS AND INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT ......................................... 10 WELFARE BENEFIT ADVICE AND SUPPORT ........................................................................... 11 WAC RECEPTION ................................................................................................................... 11 COMMUNITY GROUP USAGE AND HALL HIRE AT WAC ........................................................ 14 PUBLIC BENEFIT STATEMENT ................................................................................................ 15 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT ............................................................... 17 REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS ........................................................................ 19 TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ..................... 19 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE .............................................................................................................................................. 21

SUMMARY INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT .............................. 22

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

The trustees/directors are pleased to present their annual directors’ report together with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31st March 2025, which are also prepared to meet the requirements for a directors’ report and Companies Act purposes.

Memorandum and Ar�cles of Associa�on, and Accoun�ng and Repor�ng by Chari�es: Statements of Recommended Prac�ce applicable to chari�es preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Repor�ng Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effec�ve 1 January 2015).

One is a term used by Chari�es; Director is used by Companies. Like many chari�es WAC is both. It is a not-for-profit company.

OUR PURPOSE AND ACTIVITIES

The main objects are the relief of poverty, sickness and distress, the protection of health and the advancement of education as well as the provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure time occupations in the interest of social welfare. Such facilities being provided are with the objective of improving the conditions of life of the persons for whom they are primarily intended, those persons having need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, infirmity, poverty or social and economic circumstances.

VISION

AIMS

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

CORE VALUES

The role and contribution of volunteers

WAC is rooted in community effort with much being done on a shared basis through the many activities over the 7-day week WAC is open. A numerous wide number and range of people have an opportunity to contribute. This accounts for the energy, creativity and level of mutual care, as well as for the incredible overall achievements despite so little money or paid staff. It also gives enjoyment and deep satisfaction because as poorer communities of the world have always known “I am because we are”.

WAC holds The Queens Award for Voluntary Service . The citation for the award reflects our core values: Promoting everyone's right to give as well as receive, WAC, developed by the local community, facilitates economic, diverse and relevant solutions to community needs.”

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

DIRECTOR’S REPORT FOR 2024-25

Context: It was an increasingly difficult year as the least advantaged suffered more than ever with tightening finances, less public services, and the declining availability of community and voluntary organisations. In the inner city an important additional dimension is that the worsening housing situation means that to get accommodation younger families have to move ever further away to find anywhere to live. Thus many older people and young families are left without intergenerational family support network anywhere nearby.

WAC Trustees have continued to face a major challenge in that negotiations with Lambeth over the Council’s desire to create a new rental and lease structure for community buildings held by the Property Department have made slow progress over the year. As detailed in our Annual Report last year the Council’s proposals have major impacts on WAC as they require giving up our current legal protection under the Landlord and Tenant legislation, paying a significantly increased annual rental which could only be met from monies currently raised to provide community services, and accepting a short lease which would prevent funding applications to major capital grants who require a minimum of 20 years. We have made constructive proposals to Lambeth to address these issues and sought recognition for the fact that WAC has been providing important front line community services for over 50 years, has taken on a derelict building and worked to repair and bring this back to life as a vibrant community resource centre and need flexibility in order to continue to provide crucial advice and community support services and activities. We are currently waiting for the Council’s response but hope to develop the discussion positively during 2025.

Fortunately the mutual support and community effort on which WAC relies is still strong and committed. Drawn from so many cultures where helping one another is the route to survival. Also, although ageism is still very powerful in Britain, at WAC we recognise that people do not lose their skills when they retire. They lose somewhere to go, somewhere to make new friends, learn new skills, help run things. So here older people are respected and run groups and help others. Sadly if older people, however capable, leave Waterloo they cannot usually find a similar way to contribute in their new areas. A national awakening could transform older lives everywhere. Enabling more people to continue their wish to engage and thus providing many more activities for others of all ages.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES FOR OLDER PEOPLE

Weekly Activities mainly aimed at people over retirement age but others are welcome too.

Tuesdays and Thursdays daytime these include an emphasis on activities which can be done seated, aimed at including frailer people and those with disabilities

Gentle Exercise Tuesdays 10.30 - 11.30

Led by a very experienced tutor Sheila Dickie who is highly valued by the group. Sheila always pays attention and care to individual needs as well as ensuring the group as a whole is enjoyable and works for all. The group was well attended throughout the year and could not accommodate everyone if they came at once but with people’s holidays or other breaks it has managed. A second group is planned for next year.

WAC’s Gentle Exercise Group

Crafts in afternoon Tuesday 12.00 – 16.00

Crochet/Knitting

A self-running group led by its members especially Bea Leighton on the crochet front, who continued the group in public spaces during lockdown. At users’ request a similar group has been meeting on Thursday afternoons but Bea needs disability transport to travel and Dial-a-Ride has become more restricted in the number of journeys people can take. Without Bea many people do not come. For the coming year the aim is to raise money for her assisted transport on Thursdays so knitters and crochet can have this group too.

Ordering knitted or crochet goods made by WAC users. Some users enjoy making things for others. During the year Asher Robinson-Jones, who leads the knitting in the above group, has started selling goods made by WAC users on a stall and also taking orders. Most of the money goes to the makers but there is a small donation to WAC from each sale. Of course, the major attraction of the

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

group is the afternoons spent with others, tea and coffee etc.

WACi Arts Tuesday 13.00 – 16.00

The long running art group continued successfully through the year. A mutual support group with coordination provided by a few energetic key people including Josianne Maillefert, who has been making an important contributing at WAC for many years. Charm Havers now also contributes particularly strongly but thanks to all who help keep it going.

Choir Thursday 11.00 -12.00 then Singalong 12.00 -13.00

Led by local resident volunteers Androcles and Rose Scicluna - both members of the prestigious National Help for Heroes Choir. Some participants have outstanding trained voices. Others less so. The point is for all to enjoy singing. A very healthy activity. Their matching shirts for public appearances bear the motto “Ubuntu” – “I am because we are”

Some members of the Singalong Group run by Androcles Scicluna

Thursday afternoons offer some of the same things as Tuesdays with also a focus on board games e.g. Chess and Dominos or just chatting. Like many activities in WAC it works because people help one another. Origami classes were provided by a Japanese member.

The Sewing Group is also an opportunity to create new clothes or do repairs and alterations. This saves money as well as being a creative activity and a way to make new friends. Attendance decreased following the death of a marvellous very experienced volunteer who was a graduate of the Royal School of Needlework. People continued to help one another but there was no advice available for the difficult bits e.g. cutting out, putting in zips. This left people frustrated.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

Sewing Group tutor Beatrice

In March 2024 WAC obtained a small grant from Lambeth Together through South Bank and Waterloo Neighbours. This paid for a tutor for 2 hours a week for the group the financial year. With the addition of the tutor the group has re-flowered.

User comments included “I improved my sewing skills and had a sense of community through the great conversations with others”, “I love the sense of community and purpose this has given me and I love helping people out” , “I’m improving skills whilst learning and sharing stories about other people’s lives” , “Given me more confidence. More self-esteem””

Nefertari in the Sewing Group

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

3 social care students from Southwark College joined the older people’s activities twice weekly for the autumn term to gain experience as a part of their training.

Homemade Lunches are provided on Tuesdays and Thursdays prepared by Claudia Santoro Lauricella, WAC’s part-time support worker with older people. WAC does not get any funding from Lambeth Council, but we are EXTREMELY grateful to the National Lottery’s Awards for All which from 1[st] March 2025 will be funding Claudia’s salary for 2 years

Free and reduced cost tickets to theatres etc are obtained. Claudia ensures that these are shared around fairly across the older people’s activities.

----- Start of picture text -----
Claudia and George preparing
lunch
----- End of picture text -----

The Old Vic uses WAC before its Matinee Idol events for packed mornings of free activities for people over 50 to enjoy before attending a play Claudia Santoro and George Thomas at a reduced price at the Theatre, one of the Old preparing lunch Vic’s contributions to opening up theatre to older Londoners. Also it is another opportunity to help people make new friends.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

DAY-TIME ACTIVITIES FOCUSING ON MORE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE OLDER PEOPLE

Line Dancing Mondays 2–3pm Intermediate; 3.15 – 4.15pm Beginners. Both run by Jean Le Clerc. In March 2024 another class was added because of the demand. All 3 ran successfully throughout the year.

Tai Chi Wednesdays 2.15-3.15 Gentle movement, good for health and mobility.

Table Tennis Wednesdays. A weekly self-running friendship group play table tennis. The table is left up afterwards for the Men’s Group.

Men’s Group Wednesdays 2-3.45

Monthly Tea Dance. A monthly tea-dance arranged by Jean Le Clerc parisrockclub@gmail.com , includes a wide range of dance includes Foxtrot, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Swing, Latin, Quickstep, Circle dance, Sequence, Line dance, Disco and Party Dance.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

LEGAL ADVICE, WELFARE BENEFITS AND INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT

Waterloo Legal Advice Service (WLAS) The longest running project in WAC. Started in 1972 by Helena Kennedy KC in conjunction with Jenny Stiles, then the local community worker. It moved into 14 Baylis Road (now WAC) as soon as this derelict former library was made available to the community and enough work had been done to make some of the building safe. As ever WLAS continues to operate on Thursday evenings, based on volunteering by effort from members of the legal professions.

As the need for legal advice greatly exceeds availability, those requesting help now have to book online. WAC assists those who need help with IT to apply. WLAS then prioritises requests giving priority to those in most serious need and without other means of redress. They then offer appointments matching with appropriate volunteering lawyers. Over 60 members of the legal professions volunteer. Deb Anderson, a retired barrister’s clerk, assisted by a paid part-time worker, sorts out the allocation of clients to the appropriate lawyers.

We are very grateful to Jones Day Solicitors who deal with the volunteers official typing and post. George Thomas kindly volunteered throughout the year to provide the caretaking. Lambeth Estate Residents Association kindly made a donation of £1,500 from a film location contract they got, to enable WAC to employ a local teenager to help move the furniture each week for the interviewing arrangements. So together a marvellous group of volunteers has enabled 1,331 desperate people to get legal advice. This can have life-changing effects. A few examples of the many ways people have been helped:

  1. obtained a settlement of £20,000 for a person who had been discriminated against in their employment.

  2. helped a person deal with money that had been paid to them in error and which was causing them to lose their universal credit entitlement.

  3. supported an elderly person to navigate the divorce arrangements that had initially left them homeless, helping them apply for and receive council accommodation and a settlement in the divorce. 4. assisted a council tenant living in very poor housing conditions to obtain an update to their kitchen and bathroom, so these became usable again.

  4. helped a council tenant who had been moved to temporary accommodation return to her property, with the problems that had caused the move having been fixed.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

WELFARE BENEFIT ADVICE AND SUPPORT

Welfare Benefit Advice and Support for older people and people with disabilities from SE1 and SE11 WAC has to limit this service to the immediate area because the need is so great and we receive no public funding. In Lambeth there is a severe lack of provision and we get attempted referrals even from the limited services which are funded.

WAC employs a very experienced advice worker 3 days a week (Val Roach). We are also extremely fortunate that during the year Lara Khan and Mike Haran have joined our Welfare Rights Service as volunteers. Mike worked in

Senior Advice Worker Valerie Roach

employment law for many years before retraining as a CAB adviser in 2010. Since then he worked in a number of advice services, specialising in welfare rights advice. Lara Khan is a qualified solicitor, including experience, representing clients at tribunals. This team plays a vital role in supporting clients through the often complex welfare system, helping them achieve improved financial stability, increased confidence, and a better quality of life. All get great outcomes, dramatically improving lives.

The face-to-face contact reveals other needs e.g. assistance with increased water bills, home safety adaptations, accessing Freedom Passes and referrals for home help and Dial-A-Ride. Links with Housing Officers, Health and Social Care professionals, community and voluntary services provided in WAC and also elsewhere.

Food Vouchers 42 vouchers were issued for Trussell Trust food banks.

Recycling of sleeping bags, shoes, clothing, disability aids – a small supply of such things were kept for people in emergencies. As well as information important for people who are homeless or facing homelessness

WAC RECEPTION

Reception Volunteers For decades WAC has run a reception service 9-5 on weekdays as a place people can turn for help. This is staffed by volunteers who provide information about WAC and also signpost people onto other services. It is also a place where distressed people come and sit while the kindly volunteer provides tea, comfort or just a safe place to be. Over 7,145 people were helped at Reception, in person and on the phone during to the year, additional to the people being welcomed into other activities at WAC.

Volunteering on Reception has become more challenging as in increasing number of people have major difficulties and there is a decrease in places to turn for help, with a consequential growth of mental health problems as well as the original issues We are very grateful to the volunteers who have done so much to help people this year with their listening skills and compassion and information on ways forward. Gertrude Emeter, Maureen Birch, Dorothy Bates, Ayeisha Muhammad, Patricia Nebbia (who sadly died during the year and is much missed), Francine Peertum, Androcles Scicluna, Jailson Da Silva Rocha, Hollie Woplin, Josune; Sonia Luo and Rukhshana Begum. Also to Val Roach, WAC's welfare benefits worker, David Andrews, the Centre Coordinator, and George Thomas, a WAC Trustee who cover reception or provide backup when needed.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

Therapy services at WAC Given the increasing mental health pressures so many face it is a great blessing that Cashel Riordan, a person-centred therapist (Accredited & Registered) joined us as a volunteer therapist from January giving us one day a week. He provides free sessions to 4 people a week. Val Roach, the welfare benefits worker, prioritise which users are offered slots.

COMPUTER AND IT SUPPORT SERVICES

Computer and IT Support WAC provides computer access and IT support aimed at bridging the digital divide in the local community. This project is led by Akin Akinwunmi, a freelance support worker known for his patience, technical skill, and ability to assist multiple users simultaneously. Akin provides support during parts of Tuesdays and Thursdays, offering help with:

Learning Environment - the service is designed to be safe, friendly and supportive, allowing users to explore their digital identity without fear or judgment. Mistakes are treated as learning opportunities, and users are encouraged to build confidence in their digital skills.

Akin sees approximately 8 - 9 people per session for with two sessions in the week (approx. 370+ people per year). However, when users become more proficient, they can use the computers at other times. Sometimes Akin can obtain computers for people’s home use. Akin also supports some volunteers helping users and we hope to increase this in 2025-6.

“ Being Safer Online” Workshops from April to July, Clear Community Web ran a monthly workshop series at WAC titled Being Safer Online, designed to:

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

WAC Garden This has been kept up by efforts of George Thomas and other volunteers. It is a particularly valued resource as few local residents have gardens. Colourful plants, roses etc raise people’s spirits.

Away days at WAC helping with painting decorating, repairs We are grateful to the teams of volunteers from businesses who helped with tasks in the building and also supplied one-off support days to WAC users and volunteers re their smart phones and other aspects of IT.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

COMMUNITY GROUP USAGE AND HALL HIRE AT WAC

Hall Hire at WAC As part of its commitment to empowering community activity WAC provides space for community activities additional to those run by WAC. This is a crucial model because most groups cannot have their own buildings. It would be too expensive and wasteful in premises terms. Also it is far easier for a small group to run their desired activity if they do not also manage a building. WAC recognises that it is important that while a group has use of a space it feels truly “theirs”. Thus walls are kept bare and we store a lot of equipment and the groups own key decorations. In this way the space used feels and looks as they wish as well their having privacy to conduct the session how they want. During each week the dance hall looks at different times like a West African church; a 1960s disco, a craft centre, or is laid out as interviewing spaces for the legal advice etc. People of course run the activities in the language and culture of their choice.

WAC was redeveloped by the community from the derelict building of 1971 with this element in mind. So halls and meeting rooms, sound proofing and as much lockable storage as we could squeeze in.

During the year over 130 other organisations/community groups used the spaces, additional to those directly under WAC management. Some of these have been at WAC many years, but some are new. Saturdays are kept for one-off children’s or local family parties, or meetings.

There is not sufficient space to list all but main categories of these other community groups/ organisations were:

Residents of 17 of Lambeth’s 25 wards were significantly represented (i.e. all but the most southerly) and people came from other inner London boroughs.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

Frequent users among these include ballet run by dilektaptikdance@hotmail.co.uk. This project had 12-13 weekly sessions in term time. Mainly children of different ages. Children’s activities fit in efficiently between WAC’s daytime and evening activities.

Rock ‘n’ Roll/Jive http://www.parisrockclub.com; Line dance for all. Contact Jean Le Clerc 07944775 556; Salsa and Drumming https://salsateca.co.uk; Samba Dancing / Drumming http:// www.londonschoolofsamba.co.uk

Sword Fencing https://www.southlondonfencingclub.co.uk., Karate - https://www.renshinkankarateengland.org.uk/london

Music and Choir Pico Woodwind Quartet Email: iain.purvis@icloud.com; Kodaly Choir of London Email: edward_jmills@hotmail.com

Religious/spiritual -Divine Word of God Email: gilsonlondon@gmail.com; International Christian Church Email: dominik.herlitzek@usd21.org; Enlightened Christian Gathering Email: imeutuk@live.co.uk; Eglise Baptise du plein évangile Email: famienkonan@yahoo.com ; British Union of Spiritist Societies Email: lbnascimento@hotmail.co.uk ; Drum Healing Email www.pascf.org

Life Drawing https://londondrawing.com/ info@londondrawing.com

City Acting: Drama School, On Purpose Workshops on how to develop yourself and build skills. Redthread: empowering young people to live healthy, safe and happy lives.

Local Charities e.g. We are Waterloo BID (Business Improvement District) uses space for a couple of days collecting and wrapping Christmas present donated by businesses for needy locals. Guy’s and St Thomas’, Waterloo Health Centre, and the Old Vic are among many others who use the spaces.

WAC trustees wish to acknowledge the achievements of the year and thank many people for

their contribution. Our small but excellent staff: David Andrews, Centre Co-ordinator and the only full-time staff member, has done an outstanding job, as have the other staff, tutors, and contractors. WAC has of course vastly more volunteers than paid staff, especially if including the many users who contribute on a mutual support basis. Wider support from the community is also crucial. Many of our users come from traditions where it takes a village to raise a child. In hard times it certainly takes a community to sustain a community centre.

PUBLIC BENEFIT STATEMENT

In shaping our objectives for the year and planning activities, the trustees have considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit. The achievements and activities above demonstrate the public benefit clearly arising from the range of services provided and activities undertaken at WAC.

Financial Review The Statement of Financial Activities showed a net surplus of £13,010 (2024 net deficit £15,116) for the year- this figure however includes £18,000 deferred income for 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. Reserves stand at £178,985 (202 £165,975). The financial position of the year revealed by the Balance Sheet shows net current assets or working capital of £178,985 (2024 £165,975). WAC remains in a sound financial position.

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Waterloo Ac�on Centre Annual Report 2024–25

Future Activities – WAC Trustees intend to do their utmost to continue to meet local needs in line with our constitution and aims and objectives as set out in the introductory sections of this report. We are proud of the number and of diversity of the people who contribute to mutual wellbeing through the Centre.

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STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing document

Waterloo Action Centre (the word 'Limited' being omitted by licence from the Department of Trade) is registered as a company limited by guarantee and not having a capital divided by shares.

The company was incorporated on 5th February 1982 and registered as a charity on 13th May 1982 and constituted as a Limited Company under the Memorandum and Articles of Association. The charity registration number is 284591 and the company registration number is 01611872.

Recruitment and appointment of Trustees

Three trustees are elected at WAC's AGM and stand down at the end of the next AGM. One is nominated by Waterloo Legal Advice Service and the AGM informed of their nomination for the coming period. Five trustees are elected by representatives of Tenants and Residents Associations (TRAs) and Housing Co-ops in the Waterloo area and two by community activities in Lambeth, including south of Waterloo, which are relevant to activities at WAC. Three places are available for co-option by the trustees to provide otherwise unmet skills. Thus, there is a built-in broad representation, which automatically updates as the needs and priorities of the community change.

The trustees have no beneficial interest in the company other than as members. The trustees are also the directors of the company. All the trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in event of winding up.

The Directors of the organisation are also the charity trustees for the purposes of charity law.

Trustee induction and training

The method of election ensures that most trustees already have knowledge of the community needs, WAC and other local projects or specialist knowledge. At each Management Committee meeting there are reports from each service area to ensure trustees are up to date with activities and changes in legislation or funding requirements, and trustees also have away days to consider developments needed to match changing needs.

Trustees are also offered further sources of information, either through one-to-one help from other members of the Committee/staff or consultants, as well as through the publications and links to the websites of organisations such as the Charity Commission.

Organisation

The trustees normally meet monthly, except for August and December. They are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity. All areas of work report to the trustees.

Related parties

The charity works closely with other similar organisations as detailed in the achievements and performance section of the Trustees Report. 5 Trustees are nominated by Tenants/Residents Associations and Housing Co-ops in the area, One Trustee until the WAC AGM in Sept 23 when she did not re stand as a WAC Trustee was also a Trustee of Waterloo

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Community Development Group. Two trustees were on the Steering Group of South Bank and Waterloo Neighbours Forum.

Risk Management

The directors actively review the major risks which the charity faces on a regular basis, and believe that maintaining reserves at the current levels, combined with an annual review of the controls over key financial systems will provide sufficient resources in the event of adverse circumstances. The directors have also examined the operational and business risks faced by the charity and confirm that they have established systems to mitigate the significant risks.

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REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Charity Number: 284591 Company Number: 01611872 Directors and Trustees: For clarification we point out that words "directors" and "trustees" refer to the same people. One is a term used by Charities; Director is used by Companies. Like many charities WAC is both - it is a "not for profit" company. Howard Simmons – Chair Jennifer Stiles - Vice Chair John Patrick Deane - Treasurer Robert Hayward OBE Zoe Kennedy Sally Marullo George Thomas Frank Clarke (Sally Marullo and Frank Clark did not stand at the AGM on 24th September 2024) Kirsty Oliveira - From 24/9/24 Katie Barker – From 24/9/24 George Beguinot Senior Management Team: David Andrews - Centre Coordinator Wasim Hussain - Finance Worker Jean Le Clerc - Bookings Manager Registered Office: 14 Baylis Road, London SE1 7AA Bankers: TSB 296-302 High Holborn, London WC1V 7QR Independent Examiner: Elizabeth Jane Gagie, FCCA, Hagg Farmhouse, Ellington, Northumberland, NE61 5JW

TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The trustees (who are also directors of Waterloo Action Centre for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) including Financial Reporting Standard 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland".

Company Law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

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WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

SUMMARY INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

Notes
Unrestricted
Funds
£
Income
Donations
2
5,734
Income from charitable activities
3
157,341
Income from trading activities
4
663
Investment income
5
6,452
Total income
170,190
Expenditure
Expenditure on charitable activities
6
172,703
Total expenditure
172,703
Net income/(expenditure) and net
movement in funds for the year
before transfers
(2,513)
Transfer between funds
Net income/(expenditure)
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds, brought forward
136,209
Total funds, carried forward
133,696		 Restricted
Funds
£
27,069
6,000
33,069
17,546
17,546
15,523
29,766
45,289		 Total
2025
£
32,803
163,341
663
6,452
203,259
190,249
190,249
13,010
165,975
178,985		 Total
2024
£
11,738
152,788
987
6,038
171,551
186,667
186,667
(15,116)
181,092
165,975

The Statement of Financial Ac�vi�es also complies with the requirements for an Income and Expenditure Account under the Companies Act 2006.

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WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

CONTINUING OPERATIONS

TOTAL RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES

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WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible fxed assets
10
Current assets
Debtors
11
Cash at bank and in hand
Liabili�es
Creditors falling due within one year
12
Net current assets
Net assets
The funds of the charity
Unrestricted funds:
General
13
Designated
13
Restricted funds
13
Total charity funds		 2025
£
14,473
175,516		 £
-
178,985
178,985
5,136
128,560
45,289
178,985		 2024
£
5,825
165,654
171,479
(5,504)		 £
-
165,975
189,990
(11,005)
165,975
7,649
128,560
29,766
165,975

For the financial period ended 31 March 2025 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 Companies Act 2006. No member of the company has deposited a notice, pursuant to section 476, requiring an audit of these financial statements under the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for:

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

These financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors and Trustees on

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WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

1.1 Basis of prepara�on of fnancial statements

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their financial statements in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these financial statements.

1.2 Preparation of financial statements on a going concern basis

The charity's financial statements show net surplus of £13,010 (2024 - deficit £15,116) for the year and free reserves of £5,136 (2024 - £7,649). The trustees are of the view that these results and plans for the future have secured the immediate future of the charity for the next 12 to 18 months and on this basis the charity is a going concern.

1.3 Income recognition

All income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities when the charity is legally entitled to it, receipt is probable, and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Grant income

Grants are credited to the Statement of Financial Activities when the charity is entitled to the funds. Income is only deferred where there are time constraints imposed by the donor or if the funding is performance related.

Where entitlement to grants receivable is dependent upon fulfilment of conditions within the charity's control, the income is recognised when there is sufficient evidence that conditions will be met.

Grants supporting the core activities of the charity and with no specific restrictions placed upon their use are included within donations and legacies. Grants that have specific restrictions placed upon their use are included within income from charitable activities.

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Capital grants for the purchase of fixed assets are credited to restricted incoming resources on the earlier date of when they are received or receivable. Depreciation on the related fixed assets is charged against the restricted fund.

Donations and legacies

Donations are recognised in the period in which they are received. Legacy income is recognised when the charity's entitlement is judged to be probable and where the amount can be reliably measured.

Contract income

Income from charitable activities include income recognised as earned (as the related goods and services are provided) under contract.

Investment income

Investment income is included when receivable.

27

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1.4 Volunteers and donated services, facilities and goods

Donated professional services and donated facilities are recognised as income when the charity has control over the item, any conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use by the charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102), the general volunteer time of the charity is not recognised in the main body of the financial statements but detail is contained in the trustees report.

On receipt, donated professional services, donated facilities and goods are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity which is the amount the charity would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market; a corresponding amount is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt.

1.5 Expenditure recognition

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

Expenditure is classified under the following activity headings:

1.6 Allocation of support costs

Support costs are those functions that assist the work of the charity but do not directly undertake charitable activities. Support costs include back-office costs, finance and administration personnel, payroll and governance costs which support the charity's programmes and activities. These costs have been allocated between cost of raising funds and expenditure on charitable activities. The basis on which support costs have been allocated are set out in note 7.

1.7 Funds structure

The general fund comprises those monies, which may be used toward meeting the charitable objectives of the company at the discretion of the Management Board.

The restricted funds are monies raised for, and their use restricted to, a specific purpose or donations subject to donor imposed conditions.

28

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1.8 Investments

Fixed asset investments are stated at cost less provision for diminution in value.

1.9 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Tangible fixed assets (excluding investments) are stated at cost less depreciation. The cost of minor additions or those costing less than £500 are not capitalised. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write of the cost or valuation of fixed assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following bases:

Equipment Centre 25% on cost Computer Equipment 25% on cost

29

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1.10 Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

1.11 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term cash deposits.

1.12 Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

1.13 Financial instruments

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

1.14 Taxation

The charity is a registered charity and, therefore, is not liable for Income Tax or Corporation Tax on income derived from its charitable activities, as it falls within the various exemptions available to registered charities.

1.15 Judgement and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the company's accounting policies, the charity is required to make judgments, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

1.16 Pension

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme on behalf of its employees. Contributions are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period in which they are payable. The assets of the

30

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

31

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2. GRANTS & DONATIONS

Phyl & Hughie Charitable Trust
LERA
Euromonitor
National Lottery Community
Fund
South Bank and Water
Neighbours
Good Box Donations
CAF
Soup Kitchen
Sundry donations < £1,000		 UNRESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
TOTAL
TOTAL
FUNDS
FUNDS
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
3,000
3,000
1,000
1,500
1,500
4,500
1,500
1,500
18,515
18,515
4,054
4,054
253
253
1,336
-
1,300
1,281
1,281
1,965
2,699
2,699
1,637		 UNRESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
TOTAL
TOTAL
FUNDS
FUNDS
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
3,000
3,000
1,000
1,500
1,500
4,500
1,500
1,500
18,515
18,515
4,054
4,054
253
253
1,336
-
1,300
1,281
1,281
1,965
2,699
2,699
1,637		 UNRESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
TOTAL
TOTAL
FUNDS
FUNDS
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
3,000
3,000
1,000
1,500
1,500
4,500
1,500
1,500
18,515
18,515
4,054
4,054
253
253
1,336
-
1,300
1,281
1,281
1,965
2,699
2,699
1,637		 UNRESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
TOTAL
TOTAL
FUNDS
FUNDS
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
3,000
3,000
1,000
1,500
1,500
4,500
1,500
1,500
18,515
18,515
4,054
4,054
253
253
1,336
-
1,300
1,281
1,281
1,965
2,699
2,699
1,637		 UNRESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
TOTAL
TOTAL
FUNDS
FUNDS
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
3,000
3,000
1,000
1,500
1,500
4,500
1,500
1,500
18,515
18,515
4,054
4,054
253
253
1,336
-
1,300
1,281
1,281
1,965
2,699
2,699
1,637
5,734 27,069 32,803 11,738

The grants and donations income in 2025 totalling £32,803 was attributed to

unrestricted funds of £5,734 and restricted funds of £27,069.

32

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

3. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Centre Activities
Hall & Room Occupancy charges
Contributions from people
attending WAC Activities
Legal Services
Jones Day
More Fisher Brown
Misc		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
152,114
152,114
141,547
5,227
5,227
5,241
5,000
5,000
5,000
1,000
1,000
1,000		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
152,114
152,114
141,547
5,227
5,227
5,241
5,000
5,000
5,000
1,000
1,000
1,000		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
152,114
152,114
141,547
5,227
5,227
5,241
5,000
5,000
5,000
1,000
1,000
1,000		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
152,114
152,114
141,547
5,227
5,227
5,241
5,000
5,000
5,000
1,000
1,000
1,000		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
152,114
152,114
141,547
5,227
5,227
5,241
5,000
5,000
5,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
157,341 6,000 163,341 146,788

33

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

4 . OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES

Bric-a brac sales Unrestricted
Funds
£
663
663		 Restricted
Funds
£
 Total
2025
£

663
663		 Total
2024
£
987
~~987~~

Income from other trading activities in 2025 totaling £663 was all attributed to unrestricted funds.

5. INVESTMENT INCOME

Bank interest Unrestricted
Funds
£
6,452
6,452		 Restricted
Funds
£

 Total
2025
£

6,452

6,452		 Total
2024
£

6,038
6,038

The investment income in 2025 totaling £6,452 was all attributed to unrestricted funds.

34

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

6. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE

Staff Costs
Volunteer Expenses
Premises Costs
Legal Services
Other Direct Costs
Support Costs (Note 7)
Governance Costs ( Note 7)		 Legal
Other
Total
Service
Services
£
£
£
73,613
1,452
32,134
4,361
5,194
8,085
65,445		 Legal
Other
Total
Service
Services
£
£
£
73,613
1,452
32,134
4,361
5,194
8,085
65,445		 Legal
Other
Total
Service
Services
£
£
£
73,613
1,452
32,134
4,361
5,194
8,085
65,445		 2025
73,613
1,452
32,134
9,555
8,085
65,445		 Total
2024
£
68,666
1,991
39,631
15,985
2,519
57,875
4,361 185,888 190,249 186,667

35

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

7. ANALYSIS OF SUPPORT AND GOVENANCE COSTS

The charity initially identifies the costs of its support functions. It then identifies those costs which relate to the governance function. Governance costs and other support costs are apportioned separately between charity's key activity undertaken (see note 6) in the year. All the general support and governance costs have been apportioned to the various charitable activities on the basis of staff time allocated to each activity.

Staff Costs
Training Costs
Communications Cost
IT and Website
Subscription
Books and Periodicals
Bank Charges
General expenses
Depreciation
Trustees & board meeting expenses		 General
Governance
Total
Total
Support
Function
2025
2024
£
£
£
£
40,892
40,892
38,230
190
190
48
8,553
8,553
5,704
6,050
6,050
6,103
2,163
2,163
1,867
111
111
73
319
319
276
7,021
7,021
5,338
-
-
134
147
147
102
65,445
65,445
57,772

8. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) FOR THE YEAR

This is stated after charging:

Depreciation on tangible fixed assets

2024 £ 2025 £ 134 -

36

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

9. ANALYSIS OF STAFF COSTS, TRUSTEES REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES, AND COST OF KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL

STAFF COSTS
Salaries
National Insurance
Pension		 2025
£
114,505
401
404
115,309		 2024
£
105,184
109
1,603
106,896

37

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

9. ANALYSIS OF STAFF COSTS, TRUSTEES REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES, AND COST OF KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL (Cont/d)

The average number of full- time equivalent employees was as follows:

2025 2024
Direct project work 1.1 1.1
Administration work 0.6 0.6
Cleaners/Caretakers 1.2 1.2
Centre Co-ordination / Finance management 1.6 1.6
No employee earned more £60,000 including benefits.

None of the trustees received any remuneration during the year. A very active long term volunteer became a Trustee on 27/10/2021, his volunteer expenses continued for his volunteer roles amounted to £777 during the year.

10. FIXED ASSETS

Net book value:
Equipment Centre
Computer Equipment
Cost
Equipment Centre
Computer Equipment		 Opening
Balances
£

32,303
15,848
48,151
Additions
£
 2025
£
-
-

Disposals
£
 2024
£
-
-

Closing
Balances
£
32,303
15,848
48,151

38

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Depreciation
Equipment Centre
Computer Equipment		 Opening
Balances
£
32,303
15,848
48,151		 Charge
For Period
£		 Disposals
£		 Closing
Balances
£
32,303
15,848
48,151

39

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

11.
DEBTORS
Trade Debtors
Other Debtors
12.
CREDITORS: Amounts falling due within one year
Trade creditors
Taxation and social security
Other creditors
Accruals		 2025
£
14,273

200
14,473
2025
£
44

3,590
7,371
11,005		 2024
£

5,625
200
5,825
2024
£

1,263
1,725
2,516
5,504

40

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

13. ANALYSIS OF CHARITABLE FUNDS

Restricted Funds
Phyl & Hughie Charitable Trust
Waterloo Legal Advice Service
WLAS Salary Recharge
LERA
National Lottery Community Fund
South Bank and Water Neighbours
Designated Funds
Employment related costs
Loss of hall hire income
General Funds
Total Funds		 Balance at
Income
Expenditure
Transfer
Balance at
01/04/2024
Between
Funds
31/03/2025
£
£
£
£
£
-
3,000
675
-
2,325
28,260
6,000
4,361
-20,000
9,899
-141
5,104
20,000
14,755
1,647
1,500
1,500
1,647
18,515
1,852
16,663
4,054
4,054
-
29,766
33,069
17,546
45,289
50,000
50,000
78,560
78,560
128,560
128,560
7,649
170,190
172,703
22,674
165,975
203,259
190,249
178,986

New Restricted Funds in the year were received from the following funders:

41

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

42

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Description, nature and purpose of restricted funds:

Phyl and Hughie Charitable Trust – Funding received for general social services for vulnerable people.

Description, nature and purpose of designated funds:

Employment related cost: Funding designed to cover employment related costs.

Building repair and maintenance: Cost associated with reduction of income from hall hire due to building issues or acts beyond the control of the charity.

Description, nature and purpose of unrestricted funds:

General Funds: General fund represents funds available to spend at the discretion of the trustees.

14. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS

Net Current assets Unrestricted
Funds
£
5,136
5,136		 Designated
Funds
£
128,560
128,560		 Restricted
Funds
£
45,289
45,289		 Total
2025
£
178,986
178,986

Analysis of net assets between funds - previous year

43

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Net Current assets Unrestricted
Funds
7,650
7,650		 Designated
Funds
128,560
128,560		 Restricted
Funds
29,766
29,766		 Total
2024
165,975
165,975

44

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

15. DEFERRED INCOME

2025 2024 £ £ Balance brought forward Amount released to income in the year Amount deferred in the year

Balance carried forward

16. SHARE CAPITAL

The company is limited by guarantee and does not have a share capital divided by shares. The trustees are also the directors of the company. All the trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute

17. PENSIONS

The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charity to the fund and amounted to £1,537 (2024 - £1,603). Contributions totaling £404 (2024 - £358) were payable to the fund at the year end and are included in creditors.

18. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The charity received £3,000 (2024 - £1,000) from The Phyl and Hughie Williams Charitable Trust of which Jennifer Stiles is a trustee.

Details of transactions with trustees and senior management are in note 9. There were no other related party transactions during the year.

45

WATERLOO ACTION CENTRE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

46