Docusign En¥ÈlopÈ ID". ABB51A82-8682451F-B112-9DC281683678 OOMESII Annual Review 2023
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2 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Contents
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|Report of the Trustees|5 - 16|
|Report of the Independent Auditors|17-18|
|Statement of Financial Activities|19|
|Balance Sheet|20|
|Cash Flow Statement|21|
|Notes to the Cash Flow Statement|22|
|Notes to the Financial Statements|23 - 35|
|Detailed Statement of Financial Activities|36|
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3 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Our Vision A world where domestic abuse no longer exists
Our Mission For all victims and survivors of domestic abuse to receive the support they need, when they need it
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4 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Our Values Respect Inclusion Trust
Empowerment
Our Aim for survivors to
Have control over their own lives and the opportunity to make informed choices ~
Be involved in decisions about every aspect of the service they receive
~ Be treated with respect, compassion and dignity ~
Have their diversity respected and have equal rights and opportunities
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5 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Chair of Trustees Report
The Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) estimates that 5.0% of adults (6.9% women and 3.0% men) aged 16 years and over experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2022; this equates to an estimated 2.4 million adults (1.7 million women and 699,000 men). Needless to say, this has been another incredibly busy year with an ever-increasing demand on our service. We have received a total of 558 requests for space. I have nothing but the utmost respect for the staff and volunteers at I Choose Freedom. As we have continued to expand the service we offer survivors who are fleeing domestic abuse they continue to work tirelessly to support our service users with resilience and determination.
Following on from the pandemic, opening a third refuge and new refuge places for the RAFA project; we are now able to offer refuge accommodation to 38 adults and 65 children. With the continued drive and commitment from our CEO, Charlotte, and the support of the Trustees, I Choose Freedom has been able to expand to support the increase in requests. At the end of last year we announced a new Refuge Accommodation for All
Project (RAFA). This came as a result of a county wide needs assessment which identified gaps in provision for many victims, including but not limited to, men and the LGBGTQIA+ community. We have successfully recruited and trained a committed team who are working solely in the RAFA project to support these service users and their children. We now have 7 separate accommodations across Surrey. We are in the process of securing an eighth property which will be online soon. As with any new project, setting up these properties has presented the staff involved with many challenges but the success has already been proven by the testaments provided by the service users and I would like to commend the staff on their achievement and thank Surrey County Council for their support in recognising the need and providing funding for this project.
This past year we were delighted to have not only been short listed but to win the 2022 Charity Governance Award for COVID Response: Embracing Opportunity and Harnessing Risk for Long Term Change. The award was in relation to the opening of a new refuge during the pandemic which with the combination of the
Sally Stimpson Chair of Trustees
vision, drive and energy of the staff along with the response and support from the Trustees who were able to steer the governance around taking the risk to do so given such a short time frame.
bring knowledge and experience to ensure we have a broad range of disciplines to lead our diverse and growing organisation. The Board also reflects the community we serve. We always ensure we have a Board Member who has lived at an I Choose Freedom refuge. Their insight enables us to really understand where we need to improve.
Our CEO, Charlotte Kneer was also recognised in the Queens Jubilee Honours List and was awarded an MBE for her Services to Domestic Abuse in Surrey. Charlotte’s passion and commitment along with a personal drive for justice, diversity and equality has long been recognised by many of us so we were thrilled she had been chosen to receive this award.
To the CEO, staff, volunteers, trustees, fundraisers and donors, I would like to thank you all for everything you have done to support the organisation. What has been achieved in the past year is only possible because of the incredible people who are part of I Choose Freedom.
We have had some changes to our Board of Trustees this year and would like to thank Anastasia Mihailidou who has worked tirelessly for 6 years bringing her expertise of governance to the board and also Julia Zorkova who has been a valued member for the past 7 years. The Board has successfully recruited three new members who
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6 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
CEO Report
of our volunteers and I am so grateful for the incredible work they do. I am equally proud of our national voice in the media and our campaigning. Although we are small, we are mighty! This year we have been working with the Home Office to improve the outcomes in the criminal justice system. We have worked with the Lead Family Court Judge in Surrey on an innovative campaign to transform the Family Court response. We have worked closely with Probation and this focus will continue while we strive to shape a better response for survivors. There are many more campaigns that have been successful and each win
Once again I am incredibly proud of the year we have had. The team support survivors with a passion that is unrivalled. Each one of us daily asks ourself “would I live in our refuges?” and if the answer is no then we immediately make changes.
We have continued to improve our support and advocacy; with each adult and child at the very centre of the work we do. The new projects in resettlement and Refuge Accommodation for all are testament to our desire to support every survivor in every way they need. We couldn’t operate without the input
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Charlotte
Kneer MBE DL
CEO
I Choose Freedom
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To end victim blaming and tackle misogyny. Lofty goals but with our incredible team of The Board, the staff and volunteers anything is possible.
is a win for those that use our services and for survivors nationally. My hope for the future is to end domestic abuse by creating a culture shift in the way we respond to survivors and perpetrators of abuse, to make it societally unacceptable to abuse.
Campaigning
I Choose Freedom regularly appear on national main stream media; BBC, Channel 4, Sky TV, The Independent, The Times, The Sun, The Guardian and local and International media outlets. We have forged strong relationships with journalists who trust us to give a grass roots overview of what is really happening for survivors of domestic abuse. This media coverage drives change and ultimately improves the outcomes for survivors.
I Choose Freedom works closely with politicians from all parties including; Jeremy Hunt MP
Chancellor of the Exchequer , Jess Phillips MP Shadow Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding and Claire Coutinho MP Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. These relationships are important in informing the heart of Government about necessary change for survivors. I Choose Freedom were closely involved with the development of the Domestic Abuse Act, the groundbreaking legislation which has seen important changes for survivors.
Training
I Choose Freedom have provided training to Companies, Government agencies and 3rd sector organisations. We create bespoke packages to raise awareness of domestic abuse, the signs to look out for and how employers can support their employees. We can assist with writing policies and creating internal processes. Domestic Abuse is a topic that has risen up the HR agenda and we are able to assist companies to ensure they are meeting the needs of their employees.
Support for Support for Refuge accommodation Resettlement Campaigning Training women children for all
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7 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
“I Choose Freedom” is a rare, heart warming effective charity.
Compassionate and practical in its approach to all it serves. It gives strong hope and realism for enduring freedom to all who have shown the immense courage needed to contact the charity. It has proved to be a ‘life saver’.
Lady Toulson CBE DL
Domestic abuse respects no boundaries. Tragically, it will affect one in three women and girls over the course of their lifetimes.
Claire Coutinho MP Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Member of Parliament for East Surrey
Having known Charlotte and I Choose Freedom for several years now, I have always felt nothing but total admiration for all they do.
They have provided support and sanctuary for countless women and children fleeing unimaginable pain and I am incredibly proud of their work in East Surrey.
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8 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Women in refuge
When a woman arrives at the refuge they are greeted and shown around by their Domestic Abuse Refuge Advocate (DARA). They receive a welcome pack which includes new bedding, cooking items, toiletries, cleaning products and toys for the children. It is important that they have new items so they feel valued and that they matter to us. Women are often overwhelmed when they see all that has been provided and feedback from clients is often that ‘they do not feel they deserve it.’
The first 24hrs are vital, ensuring the women are supported to meet their immediate needs and know that we understand what it has taken for them to seek help and get to refuge. DARA’s will have some immediate actions such as checking physical and mental health needs. As part of the women’s support plan, they will meet with their advocate every week, daily if necessary. These meetings offer a safe space for the women to talk freely and for their advocates to offer emotional and practical advice, and offer a space to get to know the women better and personalise their support at refuge.
Towards the end of their 6 month stay, advocates work to support the women move to the next stage of their journey. This can be a difficult time as they have found safety at refuge. When clients leave refuge advocates will continue to support the women and families as they move on with their lives.
DARA’s support with immigration, applying for all necessary benefits, applying for a new bank account, registering with a local GP, referring to our Community Debt Advice team, completing any necessary referrals which includes making housing applications.
Women attend a weekly house meeting which is led by the advocates to encourage and support the women whilst living in refuge. Advocates facilitate the freedom programme which provides women with a deeper understanding of the tactics used by their perpetrators to control them.
A DASH (Domestic Abuse Stalking and Harassment Assessment) is completed to explore their domestic abuse history and this enables the advocate to ensure they have a better understanding of the abuse the women have experienced and assess the risk. This information helps to inform the MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference) which DARA’s attend with their client’s consent.
Weekly counselling is also provided by an independent counsellor which can be with a therapist who speaks their first language. We also offer personal trainer sessions, art classes and learning English. This all contributes to supporting the women’s mental health and well-being.
The future can be bright after refuge, stay positive and believe.
You are making a difference in so many lives and I am one of them.
This year number of women supported 97
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9 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Children in refuge
At I Choose Freedom we carry out at a holistic approach to support the children in our care. From the moment a family arrives, children’s advocates will work closely with the children and the mothers. Many children have fled quickly and had to travel long distances so they are not able to bring any toys with them. Welcome packs including toys and story books are placed in their rooms. Making sure they have something just for them on arrival helps bring a little comfort.
The children have come from a home life full of fear and unpredictability. Therefore, we endeavour to create routine, structure, warmth and safety as soon as possible. We support them to begin to feel safe and secure in their surroundings and find reassurance in knowing what to expect each day. Welcoming play sessions and fun activities are arranged, which also enables their mothers to engage in meetings and counselling. We celebrate birthdays and religious occasions. With the support of generous donations we are able to offer trips out to the farm, cinemas, parks and the seaside.
Advocates liaise with health, education, children’s services and family support centres; working collaboratively with outside agencies to ensure all the children’s needs are advocated for. Nursery, school, or college places are applied for and while the child waits for their offer, we support with finding the correct uniform, so they feel a sense of belonging on the first day. It is important that school have a good understanding of domestic abuse and we have an open dialogue with them, to ensure greater support for the children.
Mothers are offered a
parenting support group designed to help them bond, learn, and overcome difficulties. Sharing their stories in a small nurturing group with other parents helps them feel understood and that they are not alone. We support families with healthy eating ideas and explain the importance of dental hygiene. Helping Hands sessions are offered to increase a child’s understanding of feeling safe, exploring feelings and developing their self-esteem.
This year we supported 129 in refuge accommodation
Play therapy is provided and allows the children to express themselves in their own way, especially if they are struggling to understand how they are feeling, or are finding it hard to put their experiences into words. Children who have fled domestic abuse will respond in different ways, but most will feel frightened and confused. It is not unusual to see aggressive play in the early days or nurturing play with the dolls, as the children begin to work through and process what they have seen and heard.
Children affected by domestic abuse are victims in their own right. Growing up in a violent and toxic home can have a hugely damaging and long - lasting impact on children. We strive to give them the support they need so when the families move on, we see a stronger family unit, empowered to take the next steps in their journey out of Refuge.
On leaving us 93% of children reported they felt happier than when they had entered the refuge
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Refuge Accommodation for All Report (RAFA)
Why was the project started?
I Choose Freedom were a refuge provider, providing support for women and children fleeing domestic abuse. I Choose Freedom recognised that there was limited provision across the country for survivors of domestic abuse who had barriers to accessing shared single sex refuge accommodation. This included males, the LGBTQ+ community and the Gypsy Roma travelling communities.
I Choose freedom
approached Surrey County Council to support them in providing self-contained accommodation for these survivors of domestic abuse. Surrey County Council awarded funding for this project starting with four units. This has now grown to 6 units for single service users and two further units, one providing accommodation for an adult and one child and a further property that can accommodate an adult and up to three children.
What work was done prior to launching the project
The Service Manager, for the project worked with external professionals to ensure staff were trained and able to provide specialist support for service users accessing this project. This included Gallop, Mankind, Women’s Traveller movement, outreach services and health professionals.
I Choose Freedom have realised that service users in self-contained units need more support to avoid them feeling isolated therefore two further advocates have been recruited and due to the properties being able to accommodate children, a children’s advocate has also been recruited. One of the team identifies as LGBTQ+ which enables I Choose Freedom to provide a “by and for” service for survivors from those communities.
Clients supported
On leaving the refuge 89% of adults reported improved understanding of domestic abuse and red flags to be aware of in the future
Up until 31st March 2023 the RAFA project had 25 referrals into the project and 4 clients were accepted. This included 2 males one who identified from the LBGTQ+ community. Since March 2023 with three more properties available and one that we hope will be available from October 2023 a further 7 service users have been supported including two who identify from the trans community and one who identified as non-binary.
This refuge totally changed my life
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Resettlement Report
This service supports survivors resettling in Surrey after leaving refuge. Survivors face many difficulties after leaving refuge, this includes but isn’t limited to, financial instability, housing insecurity, unresolved immigration, ongoing court cases where the alleged perpetrator is seeking contact,
difficulties with managing bills or paying debts, social isolation, and an overwhelming uncertainty of what the next steps are. The resettlement service aims to support ex-service users and their children in making the transition from refuge life to independent living smoother. It offers practical support, such as getting survivors and their
children into employment or education, referral into specialist debt services, school applications, support with attaining legal aid solicitors to support with ongoing court cases, co-creating budget plans and ensuring that our survivors voice is being heard in relation to permanent housing. It also offers emotional
support, this includes face to face check-in, weekly phone check ins, encouraging attendance at local social clubs and attending initial visits to local community groups, religious spaces or somewhere that the women feel they want to connect with.
On leaving the refuge 85% of adults reported improved mental health
A big success this year has been the lunch and connect drop-in which runs fortnightly. This club is held in the local community for women who are in refuge or have left refuge and want a space to socialise. Sessions are designed to combat the rising issue of social isolation that we identified in our clients after leaving refuge. Some of the activities that we have run include, art therapy sessions, vision boards, paint by numbers, a variety of arts and crafts sessions, make-up tutorial sessions, summer picnics and a trip to Brighton. At each session women are also able to enjoy a hot lunch together.
This year the resettlement service has supported 17 women and 29 children.
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Donations, Grants and Fundraising
To enable I Choose Freedom to continue with supporting as many survivors of domestic abuse as possible we, as a charity, are dependent on the organisations and individuals who support us.
Our major funders are Surrey County Council, Reigate and Banstead Council, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. Without
their support we would not be able to continue with the current service and the continued growth of the organisation and we are enormously grateful to them.
We would like to thank everyone who has fund raised or donated, no matter how large or small to I Choose Freedom. Every penny we receive helps to further our efforts to help survivors of domestic abuse. Our donators include the below and many more.
C Safapour Christopher Critchlow Family Building Society Farnham Round Table In memory of Rhianna John Lewis Partnership Leathersellers R Haley and L Bywaters M & J Hill Martin Firmo Memorial Nutfield Parochial Church - St Peter & St Paul’s Nutfield WI Red Brick Road Redhill Redstone Rotary Club
Reigate Methodist Church Sharpthorne Carol Party Soroptomists St Faiths Trust Surrey Freemasons The Mishcon Family Charitable Trust The Pattenmakers Co Charitable Foundation Wisley Foundation
Surrey County Council and Individual Councillors DLUHC Reigate and Banstead Borough Council Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey A Morton Domino Jewellery Astellas B Derber C Elliss Caterham Hill Womens Institute Caterham School
Scan to donate or use the donate button on our website: www.ichoosefreedom.co.uk For larger donations please contact us info@ichoosefreedom.co.uk
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13 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Future Plans
Our intention is to continue to enable any adult and child to begin the recovery process from their experience of domestic abuse, by offering a high standard of refuge accommodation which provides:
A safe place to be for all service users Welcoming and accepting attitude to all Good standards of accommodation and on-site facilities for families, and especially children Individual support plans Assistance in applying for re-housing Practical help for service users who have a court hearing Assistance in claiming benefits Liaison with health services
Advice regarding activities within the area, including faith organisations, clubs, groups, paid or voluntary work, etc.
Structured group work to allow service users to understand domestic abuse, regain their self-esteem and avoid a similar situation in the future.
To ensure our service is inclusive and diverse and supports every survivor regardless of age, gender, sexuality, race, disability or religion
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Increase
public
awareness
Increase
external
training
Secure
sustainable
funding
Expand
child care
services
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Expand Facilitate resettlement job readiness project training
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14 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Financial Review
During the year total income was £1,539,426 (2022: £999,677), the final result of the year was a surplus of £398,303 (2022: £133,907).
Reserves policy
The Board of Trustees has examined the Charity’s requirements for reserves in light of the main risks to the organisation. It has established a policy whereby the unrestricted funds not committed or invested in tangible fixed assets held by the Charity should be equal to six months operating costs. The trustees are mindful of their responsibilities, in particular with the recent expansion of the refuge accommodation.
Unrestricted reserves are held for the following purposes:
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To maintain services through periods of reduced funding and cash flow;
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To develop new projects;
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To pay redundancy and recruitment costs; and
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To respond to adverse incidents.
At the year end the charity held total reserves of £1,059,596 (2022: £661,293) of which £326,819 (2022: £302,383) were unrestricted general funds; £300,000 (2022: £250,000) were designated general funds and £432,777 (2022: £108,910) were restricted funds.
ICF holds reserves to protect against drops in income and to allow ICF to take advantage of new opportunities.
I have become the best version of myself. I have evolved in such a way that I was not even aware of. But I like my evolved self I am independent, strong, believing, giving, caring and loving
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15 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Structure & Governance
Governing document
The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.
I Choose Freedom is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity. It is governed according to the Memorandum of Association and the Articles of Association.
Recruitment and appointment of new trustees
Directors are recruited from those who have supported the organisation or through recognised channels such as the Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) and Reach which undertakes national recruitment for voluntary organisations. Personal contacts and local organisations are also sources of directors.
The induction programme for directors (trustees) includes information from directors and staff, trustee training courses, as well as Surrey DA awareness and safeguarding training. Relevant printed material is also given including ICF documentation and national publications.
All members of the
committee give their time voluntarily and receive no benefits from the charity. Any expenses claimed from the charity are set out in note 8 to these financial statements. ICF recognises that a diverse, skilled and committed group of Directors is essential for the effective governance and management of the charity. Recruitment of new Directors is the responsibility of existing Directors.
Organisational Structure
The management committee meets on ten occasions during the year and is responsible for the strategic direction and policies of the organisation. They also monitor performance and compliance with requirements of stakeholders. The CEO attends each meeting on a non-voting basis, with input from other staff members as requested.
The CEO assumes responsibility for the provision of service, and for meeting the monitoring and evaluation requirements of stakeholders. The Head of Services assumes responsibility for the day to day operations and reports to the CEO. The lines of accountability, support and supervision are well established within the organisation ensuring good practice in delivering a high-quality service.
ICF is a member of the Women’s Aid Federation of England and is part of the Surrey Domestic Abuse Management Board which links with the Surrey Domestic Abuse Commissioning Group.
Key management personnel
The directors comprise the board of directors, who are the Charity’s trustees, and the senior management team comprise the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing and controlling, running and operating the Charity on a day to day basis. All directors give of their time freely and no director received remuneration in the year. Details of the remuneration of key management personnel and trustees’ expenses are disclosed in note 8 to the accounts.
Remuneration for CEO is set by the trustees using a benchmarking process and is reviewed annually.
The trustees have
undertaken governance training to ensure a clear understanding of their responsibility to the Refuge and its stakeholders. The NCVO’s Code of Governance and Charity Commission’s Essential Duties of a Trustee were discussed in detail. A SWOT analysis was conducted highlighting areas of excellence and areas in need of attention which in turn, has assisted with succession planning.
Induction and training of new trustees
The Committee comprises directors of the company, who are also trustees under charity law. Committee members are elected at a Board Meeting and normally serve for three years.
A committee member may serve for three years, and then be available for re-election for a further three years. They would not normally be eligible for re-election after two full terms until one year has elapsed, but this may be waived if it would not be in the interests of the Company for the services of the member to be lost by requiring the member to stand down.
Committee members are required to disclose all relevant interests and register them with the secretary and in accordance with the charity’s policy withdraw from decisions where a conflict of interest arises. Neither the charity nor any of the directors presently have such interests but any such interests would be disclosed should they arise.
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16 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Structure & Governance (cont)
Risk management
The trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
The Committee has considered the risks to which the charity is exposed. Systems and procedures have been established to mitigate the risks the charity faces. There is a comprehensive risk framework in place which is formally reviewed quarterly and updated at board meetings to reflect significant changes.
Procedures are in
place to protect staff, volunteers and service users. These procedures are regularly reviewed to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of the charity.
The Committee has
assessed the relevant safeguarding risks and have decided that all Directors undergo a DBS check every three years.
Statement of trustees’ responsibilities
The trustees (who are also the directors of I Choose Freedom Charity for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of
the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to
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select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy
at any time the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
In so far as the trustees are aware:
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there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company’s auditors are unaware; and
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the trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information.
Auditors
The auditors, Williams & Co Epsom LLP, will be proposed for re-appointment at the October 2023 Trustee Meeting.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Approved by order of the board of trustees on
and signed on its behalf by:
Ms S Gregory Consultant (appointed 10.12.22) Ms M King Head Of Risk (appointed 10.12.22)
Trustees
Mrs K E Halliwell Solicitor
Mrs A Mihailidou Charity Consultant (resigned 31.10.22) Mrs S P A Renaut Accountant
Company secretary
Mrs S Sengupta Management Consultant
Mrs A Mihailidou Mrs K Halliwell (appointed 01.11.22)
Mrs S J Stimpson Nurse Registered Mrs H A Edwards office Project Director Po Box 54 Corporate Events Reigate Ms C N Kinyanjui Surrey Ex-Service User RH2 0AZ Ms C Booth Project Manager (appointed 10.12.22)
Registered company number 01806055 (England & Wales
Registered charity number 289508
Auditors Williams & Co Epsom LLP 8-10 South Street Epsom Surrey KT18 7PF
Bankers Lloyds Bank Plc 11 High Street Horley Surrey RH6 7BJ
Mrs S J Stimpson Trustee
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Independent Auditors Report
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of I Choose Freedom Charity (the ‘charitable company’) for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Cash Flow Statement and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion the financial statements:
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give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company’s affairs as at 31 March 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended;
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have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
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have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
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 Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company 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 charitable company’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
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.
trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Other information
The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report, other than the financial statements and our Report of the Independent Auditors thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, 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 audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:
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the information given in the Report of the Trustees for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
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the Report of the Trustees has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
Once I arrived at refuge I was met with a warm welcome by my support worker from I Choose Freedom who took me to the place I’d be staying for 6 months, I arrived with cupboards full of food and words full of kindness which is something I’ve never experienced before. At that point the candle was put out, relit and I knew it was going to be the fresh start I needed, the fresh start that would change my life.
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18 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Independent Auditors Report (cont)
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Report of the Trustees.
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
-
adequate accounting records have not been kept or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
-
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
-
certain disclosures of trustees’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or
-
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or
-
the trustees were not entitled to take advantage of the small companies exemption from the requirement to prepare a Strategic Report or in preparing the Report of the Trustees.
Responsibilities of trustees
As explained more fully in the Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities, the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) 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 charitable company’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 charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Our
responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
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 a Report of the Independent Auditors 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. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:
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 Report of the Independent Auditors.
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charitable company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors’ 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 charitable company and the charitable company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Mark Williams
(Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of Williams & Co Epsom LLP
8-10 South Street Epsom SurreyKT18 7PF
Date:
01 November 2023
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19 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Statement of Financial Activities
| Unrestricted | Restricted | 31.3.23 | 31.3.22 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| funds | funds | Total | Total | ||
| funds | funds | ||||
| Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Income and endowments from | |||||
| Donations and legacies | 2 | 17,076 | 417 | 17,493 | 33,400 |
| Charitable activities | 4 | ||||
| Supporting & accommodating victims | |||||
| of domestic abuse | 25,000 | 984,788 | 1,009,788 | 514,469 | |
| Investment income | 3 | 502 | - | 502 | 83 |
| Other income | 511,581 | 112 | 511,693 | 451,725 | |
| Total | 554,159 | 985,317 | 1,539,476 | 999,677 | |
| Expenditure on | |||||
| Charitable activities | 5 | ||||
| Supporting & accommodating victims | |||||
| of domestic abuse | 412,546 | 728,627 | 1,141,173 | 865,770 | |
| Net income | 141,613 | 256,690 | 398,303 | 133,907 | |
| Transfers between funds | 15 | (67,177) | 67,177 | - | - |
| Net movement in funds | 74,436 | 323,867 | 398,303 | 133,907 | |
| Reconciliation of funds | |||||
| Total funds brought forward | 552,383 | 108,910 | 661,293 | 527,386 | |
| Total funds carried forward | 626,819 | 432,777 | 1,059,596 | 661,293 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
20 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Balance Sheet
| Unrestricted | Restricted | 31.3.23 | 31.3.22 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| funds | funds | Total | Total | |
| funds | funds | |||
| Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ |
| Fixed assets | ||||
| Tangible assets 12 |
14,828 | 62,652 | 77,480 | 61,025 |
| Current assets | ||||
| Debtors 13 |
20,097 | - | 20,097 | 17,770 |
| Cash at bank and in hand | 619,706 | 370,128 | 989,834 | 932,486 |
| 639,803 | 370,128 | 1,009,931 | 950,256 | |
| Creditors | ||||
| Amounts falling due within one year 14 |
(27,815) | - | (27,815) | (349,988) |
| Net current assets | 611,988 | 370,128 | 982,116 | 600,268 |
| Total assets less current liabilities | 626,816 | 432,780 | 1,059,596 | 661,293 |
| Net assets | 626,816 | 432,780 | 1,059,596 | 661,293 |
| Funds 15 |
||||
| Unrestricted funds | 626,816 | 552,383 | ||
| Restricted funds | 432,780 | 108,910 | ||
| Total funds | 1,059,596 | 661,293 |
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime. The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on
01 November 2023
and were signed on its behalf by:
Mrs S J Stimpson - Trustee
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21 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Cash Flow Statement
| 31.3.23 | 31.3.22 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Cash fows from operating activities Cash generated from operations |
1 88,702 |
462,411 |
| Net cash provided by operating activities | 88,702 | 462,411 |
| Cash fows from investing activities Purchase of tangible fxed assets |
(31,856) | (24,412) |
| Interest received | 502 | 83 |
| Net cash used in investing activities | (31,354) | (24,329) |
| Change in cash and cash equivalents | ||
| in the reporting period | 57,348 | 438,082 |
| Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning | ||
| of the reporting period | 932,486 | 494,404 |
| Cash and cash equivalents at the end | ||
| of the reporting period | 989,834 | 932,486 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
22 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Notes to the Cash Flow Statement
1. Reconciliation of net income to net cash flow from operating activities
| 31.3.23 | 31.3.22 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Net income for the reporting period | ||
| (asper the Statement of Financial Activities) | 398,303 | 133,907 |
| Adjustments for: | ||
| Depreciation charges | 15,401 | 11,816 |
| Interest received | (502) | (83) |
| Increase in debtors | (2,327) | (12,111) |
| (Decrease)/increase in creditors | (322,173) | 328,882 |
| Net cash provided by operations | 88,702 | 462,411 |
2. Analysis of changes in net funds
| 2. Analysis of changes in net funds | |
|---|---|
| At 1.4.22 Cash fow At 31.3.23 £ £ £ |
|
| Net cash Cash at bank and in hand |
932,486 57,348 989,834 |
| Total | 932,486 57,348 989,834 |
| 932,486 57,348 989,834 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
23 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2023
1. Accounting policies
Basis of preparing the financial statements
The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity 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 accounts 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 have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) effective 1 January 2015 and with the Financial
Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
The accounts have been prepared to give a ‘true and fair’ view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a ‘true and fair view’. This departure has involved following Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS
102) effective 1 January 2015 rather than the Accounting and Reporting Charites: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.
The Charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.
The Trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the Charity’s ability to continue as a going concern.
Incoming resources
All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Income (including rents and contributions) is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the item(s) of income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably.
Income from grants, whether ‘capital’ grants or ‘revenue’ grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred.
Bank and Building Society interest are accounted for on the basis of monies receivable in the year.
Resources expended
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.
Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Resources expended are allocated to the particular activity where the cost relates directly to that activity.
Governance costs
Governance costs comprise the costs of running the charity including amounts paid to the independent examiner.
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24 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2023
(cont)
1. Accounting policies (cont)
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
Tangible fixed assets Improvements to property 10% on cost 25% on cost Fixtures and fittings
Taxation
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.
Hire purchase and leasing commitments.
Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company’s pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.
I look forward for the first time in my existence to being fully in control of my life, seeing what beauty life brings and my future. I will never forget once I achieve my dreams that without I Choose Freedom’s help I may never have got there and I’ll forever be grateful
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25 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2023 (cont)
----- Start of picture text -----
31.3.23 31.3.22
£ £
2. Donations and le acies
g
Donations 17,493 33,400
3. Investment income
Deposit account interest 502 83
4. Income from charitable activities
----- End of picture text -----
| Deposit account interest 4. Income from charitable activities |
502 | 83 |
|---|---|---|
| Activity | ||
| Grants Supporting & accommodating victims of domestic abuse |
1,009,788 | 514,469 |
| Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: | ||
| Local Authority Grants | 49,000 | 26,575 |
| Housing Related Support Grant | 805,312 | 366,064 |
| Optivo Grant | 15,000 | 18,199 |
| Wisley | 10,000 | 7,318 |
| Leather Sellers | 15,000 | 11,750 |
| Nationwide | - | 10,000 |
| Children In Need | - | 20,164 |
| PCC Grants | 36,285 | 19,394 |
| Caterham School | 1,500 | - |
| Elizabeth Charitable Trust | - | 1,000 |
| Farnham Round Table | 750 | 600 |
| Reg Haley | - | 1,000 |
| Mark Benevolent Fund | - | 5,430 |
| Making Herstory | - | 2,500 |
| PF Charitable Trust | - | 7,000 |
| Vinci Fund | - | 7,000 |
| C Elliss | 45,000 | 5,000 |
| Andrew Burgess | - | 5,000 |
| Dormans Evening Womens Institute | - | 475 |
| Christopher Critchlow | 850 | - |
| Linda Bywaters | 1,400 | - |
| Monique King | 1,000 | - |
| Rotary Club | 320 | - |
| Charles Safapour | 2,500 | - |
| D & K Vanrenen | 365 | - |
| John Lewis Partnership | 1,000 | - |
| Kids Out | 140 | - |
| Mrs H Williams | 20 | - |
| Surrey Provincial Archmasons | 5,000 | - |
| Georgia Treweek | 10,343 | - |
| Astellas | 6,000 | - |
| Lifetime Chances | 2,973 | - |
| Anonymous | 30 | - |
| 1,009,788 | 514,469 |
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26 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2023 (cont)
----- Start of picture text -----
5. Charitable activities costs
Direct Support cost Totals
Cost See note 6
£ £ £
Supporting & accommodating victims of domestic abuse 1,106,798 34,375 1,141,173
6. Support costs
Finance Governance Totals
costs
£ £ £
Supporting & accommodating victims of domestic abuse 1,057 33,318 34,375
31.3.23 31.3.22
Supporting &
accommodating victims Total
Support costs, included in the above, are as follows: of domestic abuse activities
£ £
Bank charges 1,057 1,050
Auditors’ remuneration 1,890 -
Accountancy and legal fees 29,683 25,703
Subscriptions 1,745 1,752
34,375 28,505
7. Net income/(expenditure)
31.3.23 31.3.22
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting): £ £
Depreciation - owned assets 15,401 11,817
Other operating leases 50,630 52,725
8. Auditors’ remuneration
-
Fees payable to the charity’s auditors for the audit of the charity’s financial statements 1,890
----- End of picture text -----
9. Trustees’ remuneration and benefits
There were no trustees’ remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2023 nor for the year ended 31 March 2022.
Trustees’ expenses
There were no trustees’ expenses paid for the year ended 31 March 2023 nor for the year ended 31 March 2022.
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27 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2023 (cont)
10. Staff costs
| Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows: Administration Refuge Workers The number of employees whose employee benefts (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was: £60,001 - £70,000 |
31.3.23 31.3.22 £ £ 625,712 452,443 49,730 36,831 12,596 9,149 |
31.3.23 31.3.22 £ £ 625,712 452,443 49,730 36,831 12,596 9,149 |
|---|---|---|
| 688,038 498,423 |
||
| 6 4 17 14 |
||
| 23 18 |
||
| 1 1 |
||
| 11. Comparatives for the statement of fnancial activities Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total funds £ £ £ Income and endowments from Donations and legacies 33,400 - 33,400 Charitable activities Supporting & accommodating victims of domestic abuse 107,079 407,390 514,469 Investment income 83 - 83 Other income 451,725 - 451,725 |
||
| Total 592,287 407,390 999,677 |
||
| Expenditure on charitable activities Supporting & accommodating victims of domestic abuse 426,887 438,883 865,770 Net income/(expenditure) 165,400 (31,493) 133,907 Transfers between funds (21,241) 21,241 - Net movement in funds 144,159 (10,252) 133,907 Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 408,225 119,161 527,386 |
||
| Total funds carried forward 552,384 108,909 661,293 |
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28 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2023 (cont)
12. Tan g ible fixed assets
| 12. Tangible fxed assets | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Improvements to property £ |
Fixtures & fttings £ |
Totals £ |
|
| Cost | |||
| At 1 april 2022 | 82,842 | 43,572 | 126,414 |
| Additions | 18,296 | 13,560 | 31,856 |
| At 31 march 2023 | 101,138 | 57,132 | 158,270 |
| Depreciation | |||
| At 1 april 2022 | 41,443 | 23,946 | 65,389 |
| Charge for year | 7,105 | 8,296 | 15,401 |
| At 31 march 2023 | 48,548 | 32,242 | 80,790 |
| Net book value | |||
| At 31 march 2023 | 52,590 | 24,890 | 77,480 |
| At 31 march 2022 | 41,399 | 19,626 | 61,025 |
| 13. Debtors: amounts falling due within oneyear | |||
| 31.3.23 | 31.3.22 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Trade debtors | 4,059 | 6,141 | |
| Accruals | 6,524 | 3,246 | |
| Prepayments | 9,514 | 8,383 | |
| 20,097 | 17,770 | ||
| 14. Creditors: amounts falling due within oneyear | |||
| 31.3.23 | 31.3.22 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Trade creditors | 13,712 | 16,691 | |
| Other creditors | 8,650 | 4,524 | |
| Accruals and deferred income | - | 316,954 | |
| Accrued expenses | 4,561 | 11,819 | |
| Deferred government grants | 892 | - | |
| 27,815 | 349,988 |
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29 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities
----- Start of picture text -----
15. Movement in funds
----- End of picture text -----
| 15. Movement in funds | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| At | Net | Transfer | At | |
| 1.4.22 | movement | between | 31.3.23 | |
| in funds | funds | |||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | ||||
| General fund | 174,145 | 142,650 | (117,177) | 199,618 |
| Contingency Reserve | 250,000 | - | 50,000 | 300,000 |
| New House Fund | 123,806 | - | - | 123,806 |
| Renewals Fund 4,432 | (1,040) | - | 3,392 | |
| 552,383 | 141,610 | (67,177) | 626,816 | |
| Restricted funds | ||||
| Surrey County Council | 28,465 | (55,477) | 27,268 | 256 |
| RBBC | - | (1,995) | 1,995 | - |
| PCC Victim Transition Fund | - | 5,704 | - | 5,704 |
| Psychotherapy Fund | 3,110 | (870) | - | 2,240 |
| Children’s Fund | 3,529 | (2,110) | - | 1,419 |
| Masons Shed | 2,928 | (366) | - | 2,562 |
| Therapy Cabin | 38,356 | (4,795) | - | 33,561 |
| PCC Childrens Grant | 5,155 | (9,737) | 4,582 | - |
| SCC HH Support Grant | 1,530 | (383) | - | 1,147 |
| PCC IT Grant | 1,737 | (434) | - | 1,303 |
| Douglas Bradley Residents Tech | 1,694 | (114) | - | 1,580 |
| Caterham School Transition | - | 1,500 | - | 1,500 |
| Nationwide Transition Fund | 116 | (419) | 303 | - |
| PF Charitiable Transition | 7,000 | (6,932) | (68) | - |
| Optivo internal decorating | - | (1,318) | 1,318 | - |
| Vinci CCT fund | 5,689 | (1,422) | - | 4,267 |
| Wisley Foundation | 4,193 | (1,441) | 125 | 2,877 |
| C Elliss Equipment | - | 15,897 | - | 15,897 |
| Gift fund | - | 285 | - | 285 |
| Household Support fund RBBC | 305 | - | (305) | - |
| SCC White Goods Hill House | 657 | (604) | (53) | - |
| NRPF | - | 48,556 | (30,827) | 17,729 |
| RBWA Name change fund | 4,446 | (6,581) | 2,135 | - |
| SCC Inclusion Refuge restricted | - | 222,103 | 60,706 | 282,809 |
| Leathersellers IT Security | - | 48 | - | 48 |
| HH Masons Play Area | - | 3,058 | - | 3,058 |
| Georgia Treeweek transition fund | - | 6,949 | (5) | 6,944 |
| Diversity and Inclusion Fund | - | 4,813 | - | 4,813 |
| Creating Healthy Communities | ||||
| Community support programme | - | 6,393 | - | 6,393 |
| RBBC Household Support Fund | - | 1,388 | - | 1,388 |
| Lifetime Chances | - | (3) | 3 | - |
| Wisley Welcome Pack Fund | - | 10,000 | - | 10,000 |
| Caroline Ellis Court Fund | - | 25,000 | - | 25,000 |
| 108,910 | 256,693 | 67,177 | 432,780 | |
| Total funds | 661,293 | 398,303 | - | 1,059,596 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
30 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
15. Movement in funds (cont)
| 15. Movement in funds(cont) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Incoming | Resources |
Movement | |
| resources | expended |
in funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| General fund | 554,159 | (411,509) | 142,650 |
| Renewals Fund | - | (1,040) | (1,040) |
| 554,159 | (412,549) |
141,610 | |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Surrey County Council | 411,807 | (467,284) | (55,477) |
| RBBC | 21,000 | (22,995) | (1,995) |
| PCC Victim Transition Fund | 16,891 | (11,187) | 5,704 |
| Psychotherapy Fund | - | (870) | (870) |
| Children’s Fund | 4,320 | (6,430) | (2,110) |
| Masons Shed - | (366) | (366) | |
| Therapy Cabin | (1) | (4,794) | (4,795) |
| PCC Childrens Grant | 19,393 | (29,130) | (9,737) |
| SCC HH Support Grant | (1) | (382) | (383) |
| PCC IT Grant - |
(434) | (434) | |
| Douglas Bradley Residents Tech | - | (114) | (114) |
| Caterham School Transition | 1,500 | - | 1,500 |
| Nationwide Transition Fund | - | (419) | (419) |
| PF Charitiable Transition | - | (6,932) | (6,932) |
| Optivo internal decorating | - | (1,318) | (1,318) |
| Vinci CCT fund | - | (1,422) | (1,422) |
| Wisley Foundation | (1) | (1,440) | (1,441) |
| C Elliss Equipment | 20,001 | (4,104) | 15,897 |
| Gift fund | 4,055 | (3,770) | 285 |
| SCC White Goods Hill House | - | (604) | (604) |
| NRPF | 58,240 | (9,684) | 48,556 |
| RBWA Name change fund | 111 | (6,692) | (6,581) |
| SCC Inclusion Refuge restricted | 312,286 | (90,183) | 222,103 |
| Leathersellers IT Security | 5,000 | (4,952) | 48 |
| HH Masons Play Area | 5,000 | (1,942) | 3,058 |
| Georgia Treeweek transition fund | 10,343 | (3,394) | 6,949 |
| Diversity and Inclusion Fund | 6,000 | (1,187) | 4,813 |
| Creating Healthy Communities Community support programme | 8,000 | (1,607) | 6,393 |
| SCC Fuel costs | 23,400 | (23,400) | - |
| RBBC Household Support Fund | 20,000 | (18,612) | 1,388 |
| Lifetime Chances | 2,973 | (2,976) | (3) |
| Wisley Welcome Pack Fund | 10,000 | - | 10,000 |
| Caroline Ellis Court Fund | 25,000 | - | 25,000 |
| 985,317 | (728,624) |
256,693 | |
| Total funds | 1,539,476 | (1,141,173) | 393,303 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
31 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
15. Movement in funds (cont)
| 15. Movement in funds(cont) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparatives for movement in funds | ||||
| At | Net | Transfer | At | |
| 1.4.21 | movement | between | 31.3.23 | |
| in funds | funds | |||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | ||||
| General fund | 79,419 | 165,967 | (71,241) | 174,145 |
| Contingency Reserve | 200,000 | - | 50,000 | 250,000 |
| New House Fund | 123,806 | - | - | 123,806 |
| Renewals Fund | 5,000 | (568) | - | 4,432 |
| 408,225 | 165,399 | (21,241) | 552,383 | |
| Restricted funds | ||||
| BBC Children in Need | 5,938 | (9,465) | 3,527 | - |
| Surrey County Council | - | 28,465 | - | 28,465 |
| RBBC | - | (2,570) | 2,570 | - |
| St Faiths Trust | 8,008 | (8,008) | - | - |
| DCLG - Translation | 1,147 | (1,147) | - | - |
| Psychotherapy Fund | 5,102 | (1,992) | - | 3,110 |
| Children’s Fund | 3,785 | (256) | - | 3,529 |
| Masons Shed | 3,294 | (366) | - | 2,928 |
| Therapy Cabin | 43,150 | (4,794) | - | 38,356 |
| PCC Childrens Grant | 7,982 | (2,827) | - | 5,155 |
| SCC HH Support Grant | 24,500 | (22,970) | - | 1,530 |
| St Faith’s Hill House Equipment | 9,134 | (9,134) | - | - |
| PCC IT Grant | - | (1,148) | 2,885 | 1,737 |
| Douglas Bradley Residents Tech | 2,121 | (427) | - | 1,694 |
| Caterham School Transition | 5,000 | (5,000) | - | - |
| Masons Washing Machines | - | 5,430 | (5,430) | - |
| Nationwide Transition Fund | - | 116 | - | 116 |
| PF Charitiable Transition | - | 7,000 | - | 7,000 |
| Optivo internal decorating | - | (1,976) | 1,976 | - |
| Vinci CCT fund | - | 5,689 | - | 5,689 |
| Wisley Foundation | - | 4,193 | - | 4,193 |
| C Elliss Equipment | - | (2,154) | 2,154 | - |
| Household Support fund RBBC | - | 305 | - | 305 |
| SCC White Goods Hill House | - | 657 | - | 657 |
| NRPF | - | (3,559) | 3,559 | - |
| RBWA Name change fund | - | (5,554) | 10,000 | 4,446 |
| 119,161 | (31,492) | 21,241 | 108,910 | |
| Total funds | 527,386 | 133,907 | - | 661,293 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
32 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
15. Movement in funds
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Incoming | Resources | Movement | |
|---|---|---|---|
| resources | expended | in funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| General fund | 592,286 | (426,319) | 165,967 |
| Renewals Fund | - | (568) | (568) |
| 592,286 | (426,887) | 165,399 | |
| Restricted funds | |||
| BBC Children in Need | 20,164 | (29,629) | (9,465) |
| Surrey County Council | 282,737 | (254,272) | 28,465 |
| RBBC | 20,999 | (23,569) | (2,570) |
| St Faiths Trust | - | (8,008) | (8,008) |
| DCLG - Translation | - | (1,147) | (1,147) |
| Psychotherapy Fund | - | (1,992) | (1,992) |
| Children’s Fund | 2,600 | (2,856) | (256) |
| Masons Shed | - | (366) | (366) |
| Therapy Cabin | - | (4,794) | (4,794) |
| PCC Childrens Grant | 19,394 | (22,221) | (2,827) |
| SCC HH Support Grant | - | (22,970) | (22,970) |
| St Faith’s Hill House Equipment | - | (9,134) | (9,134) |
| PCC IT Grant | - | (1,148) | (1,148) |
| Douglas Bradley Residents Tech | - | (427) | (427) |
| Caterham School Transition | - | (5,000) | (5,000) |
| Masons Washing Machines | 5,430 | - | 5,430 |
| Nationwide Transition Fund | 10,000 | (9,884) | 116 |
| Hill House Therapy Room | 2,500 | (2,500) | - |
| PF Charitiable Transition | 7,000 | - | 7,000 |
| Optivo internal decorating | 3,199 | (5,175) | (1,976) |
| Vinci CCT fund | 7,000 | (1,311) | 5,689 |
| Wisley Foundation | 7,318 | (3,125) | 4,193 |
| SCC Maxgate dining tables | 1,000 | (1,000) | - |
| C Elliss Equipment | 5,000 | (7,154) | (2,154) |
| Gift fund | 5,475 | (5,475) | - |
| Household Support fund RBBC | 5,575 | (5,270) | 305 |
| Maxgate Sofas | 1,000 | (1,000) | - |
| SCC White Goods Hill House | 1,000 | (343) | 657 |
| NRPF | - | (3,559) | (3,559) |
| RBWA Name change fund | - | (5,554) | (5,554) |
| 407,391 | (438,883) | (31,492) | |
| Total funds | 999,677 | (865,770) | 133,907 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
33 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
15. Movement in funds (cont)
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
| At | Net | Transfer | At | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4.21 | movement | between | 31.3.23 | |
| in funds | funds | |||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | ||||
| General fund | 79,419 | 308,617 | (188,418) | 199,618 |
| Contingency Reserve | 200,000 | - | 50,000 | 250,000 |
| New House Fund | 123,806 | - | - | 123,806 |
| Renewals Fund | 5,000 | (1,608) | - | 3,392 |
| 408,225 | 307,009 | (88,418) | 626,816 | |
| Restricted funds | ||||
| BBC Children in Need | 5,938 | (9,465) | 3,527 | - |
| Surrey County Council | - | (27,012) | 27,268 | 256 |
| RBBC | - | (4,565) | 4,565 | - |
| St Faiths Trust | 8,008 | (8,008) | - | - |
| PCC Victim Transition Fund | - | 5,704 | - | 5,704 |
| DCLG - Translation | 1,147 | (1,147) | - | - |
| Psychotherapy Fund | 5,102 | (2,862) | - | 2,240 |
| Children’s Fund | 3,785 | (2,366) | - | 1,419 |
| Masons Shed | 3,294 | (732) | - | 2,562 |
| Therapy Cabin | 43,150 | (9,589) | - | 33,561 |
| PCC Childrens Grant | 7,982 | (12,564) | 4,582 | - |
| SCC HH Support Grant | 24,500 | (23,353) | - | 1,147 |
| St Faith’s Hill House Equipment | 9,134 | (9,134) | - | - |
| PCC IT Grant | - | (1,582) | 2,885 | 1,303 |
| Douglas Bradley Residents Tech | 2,121 | (541) | - | 1,580 |
| Caterham School Transition | 5,000 | (3,500) | - | 1,500 |
| Masons Washing Machines | - | 5,430 | (5,430) | - |
| Nationwide Transition Fund | - | (303) | 303 | - |
| PF Charitiable Transition | - | 68 | (68) | - |
| Optivo internal decorating | - | (3,294) | 3,294 | - |
| Vinci CCT fund | - | 4,267 | - | 4,267 |
| Wisley Foundation | - | 2,752 | 125 | 2,877 |
| C Elliss Equipment | - | 13,743 | 2,154 | 15,897 |
| Gift fund | - | 285 | - | 285 |
| Household Support fund RBBC | - | 305 | (305) | - |
| SCC White Goods Hill House | - | 53 | (53) | - |
| NRPF | - | 44,997 | (27,268) | 17,729 |
| RBWA Name change fund | - | (12,135) | 12,135 | - |
| SCC Inclusion Refuge restricted | - | 222,103 | 60,706 | 282,809 |
| Leathersellers IT Security | - | 48 | - | 48 |
| HH Masons Play Area | - | 3,058 | - | 3,058 |
| Georgia Treeweek transition fund | - | 6,949 | (5) | 6,944 |
| Diversity and Inclusion Fund | - | 4,813 | - | 4,813 |
| Creating Healthy Communities Community support programme - |
6,393 | - | 6,393 | |
| RBBC Household Support Fund | - | 1,388 | - | 1,388 |
| Lifetime Chances | - | (3) | 3 | - |
| Wisley Welcome Pack Fund | - | 10,000 | - | 10,000 |
| Caroline Ellis Court Fund | - | 25,000 | - | 25,000 |
| 119,161 | 225,201 | 88,418 | 432,780 | |
| Total funds | 527,386 | 532,210 | - | 1,059,596 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
34 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
15. Movement in funds (cont)
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
included in the above are as follows: |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Incoming | Resources |
Movement | |
| resources | expended |
in funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| General fund | 1,146,445 | (837,828) | 308,617 |
| Renewals Fund | - | (1,608) | (1,608) |
| 592,286 | (426,887) |
165,399 | |
| Restricted funds | |||
| BBC Children in Need | 20,164 | (29,629) | (9,465) |
| Surrey County Council | 694,544 | (721,556) | (27,012) |
| RBBC | 41,999 | (46,564) | (4,565) |
| St Faiths Trust | - | (8,008) | (8,008) |
| PCC Victim Transition Fund | 16,891 | (11,187) | 5,704 |
| DCLG - Translation | - | (1,147) | (1,147) |
| Psychotherapy Fund | - | (2,862) | (2,862) |
| Children’s Fund | 6,920 | (9,286) | (2,366) |
| Masons Shed | - | (732) | (732) |
| Therapy Cabin | (1) | (9,588) | (9,589) |
| PCC Childrens Grant | 38,787 | (51,351) | (12,564) |
| SCC HH Support Grant | (1) | (23,352) | (23,353) |
| St Faith’s Hill House Equipment | - | (9,134) | (9,134) |
| PCC IT Grant | - | (1,582) | (1,582) |
| Douglas Bradley Residents Tech | - | (541) | (541) |
| Caterham School Transition | 1,500 | (5,000) | (3,500) |
| Masons Washing Machines | 5,430 | - | 5,430 |
| Nationwide Transition Fund | 10,000 | (10,303) | (303) |
| Hill House Therapy Room | 2,500 | (2,500) | - |
| PF Charitiable Transition | 7,000 | (6,932) | 68 |
| Optivo internal decorating | 3,199 | (6,493) | (3,294) |
| Vinci CCT fund | 7,000 | (2,733) | 4,267 |
| Wisley Foundation | 7,317 | (4,565) | 2,752 |
| SCC Maxgate dining tables | 1,000 | (1,000) | - |
| C Elliss Equipment | 25,001 | (11,258) | 13,743 |
| Gift fund | 9,530 | (9,245) | 285 |
| Household Support fund RBBC | 5,575 | (5,270) | 305 |
| Maxgate Sofas | 1,000 | (1,000) | - |
| SCC White Goods Hill House | 1,000 | (947) | 53 |
| NRPF | 58,240 | (13,243) | 44,997 |
| RBWA Name change fund | 111 | (12,246) | (12,135) |
| SCC Inclusion Refuge restricted | 312,286 | (90,183) | 222,103 |
| Leathersellers IT Security | 5,000 | (4,952) | 48 |
| HH Masons Play Area | 5,000 | (1,942) | 3,058 |
| Georgia Treeweek transition fund | 10,343 | (3,394) | 6,949 |
| Diversity and Inclusion Fund | 6,000 | (1,187) | 4,813 |
| Creating Healthy Communities Community support programme | 8,000 | (1,607) | 6,393 |
| SCC Fuel costs | 23,400 | (23,400) | - |
| RBBC Household Support Fund | 20,000 | (18,612) | 1,388 |
| Lifetime Chances | 2,973 | (2,976) | (3) |
| Wisley Welcome Pack Fund | 10,000 | - | 10,000 |
| 1,392,708 | (1,167,507) | 225,201 | |
| Total funds | 2,539,153 | (2,006,943) | 532,210 |
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
35 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
15. Movement in funds (cont)
Transfers between funds
Transfers represent amounts transferred to the individual restricted funds from general funds to provide additional funding for the particular project(s) in the year.
The purpose of the individual restricted funds is set out below:
Unrestricted Funds
General Purpose Fund
This represents the working capital of the Refuge.
Contingency Reserve
Although some insurance is in place, the Directors regard it as essential to hold a contingency reserve should the above revenue be curtailed.
New House Fund
This fund has been set aside for the initial set up costs that will be incurred when an additional property has been made available.
Renewals Fund
There is a continuing need for replacement furnishings and garden equipment which will be financed by this reserve.
SCC Inclusion Fund
This fund has been set aside for the running costs that will be incurred on the Inclusion Refuge project.
Restricted Funds
Children’s fund
This fund has been set up to provide activities and facilities for the children during their stay in the Refuge. It is funded from donations and fundraising.
New Shed
This restricted fund was given to enable us to set up a garden project. This has been completed in 2020/21.
Therapy Cabin
This grant was received to provide a new Therapy cabin. This has been completed in 2020/21.
Psychotherapy Fund
This fund has been set up to provide Adolescent Therapy sessions.
PCC - IT Grant
This grant was given to help purchase new IT equipment for the refuge.
St Faiths - Hill House Equipment
This grant was given to contribute towards purchasing essential equipment for the new site.
Caterham School - Transition
This grant was given to help purchase items when a woman and her children arrive at the refuge.
Washing Machines
This fund has been set up to purchase washing machines for the refuge.
MHCLG
The Ministry has granted three funds to contribute to the setting up of the new refuge, and salary costs and therapy for the residents.
Nationwide Transition
This grant was given to help purchase items when a woman and her children arrive at the refuge.
Hill House Therapy Room This grant was given to help furnish the therapy room at the new refuge.
PF Charitable Transition
This grant was given to help purchase items when a woman and her children arrive at the refuge.
Vinci CCTV Fund
This grant was given to set up a CCTV system for security reasons.
Wisley Foundation
This grant was given to help purchase items when a woman and her children arrive at the refuge.
RBWA Name Change Fund
This fund was set up to cover costs of changing the name of the charity, funded by the charity itself.
C Elliss Equipment
This grant was given to provide gym equipment at the refuge.
Gift fund
This fund was set up to provide Christmas gifts and support items to the women and children at the refuge.
Household Support fund RBBC
This grant was given to help purchase items when a woman and her children arrive at the refuge.
Maxgate Sofas
This grant was given to provide new sofas at the refuge.
SCC White Goods HH
This grant was given to purchase new white goods for the refuge.
Leathersellers IT Security
This grant was given to improve security provision at the refuge.
HH Masons Play Area
This grant was given to make improvements to the children’s play area at Hill House.
Georgia Treeweek transition fund
This grant was given to help purchase items when a woman and her children arrive at the refuge.
Diversity and Inclusion Fund
This grant was given to help make the refuge and its activities more inclusive for its residents.
Wisley Welcome Pack Fund
This grant was given to help purchase items when a woman and her children arrive at the refuge.
Creating Healthy Communities Community support programme
This grant was given to provide supportive drop in sessions available to the local community.
SCC Fuel costs
This grant was provided to support residents with housing costs during the cost of living crisis.
RBBC Household Support Fund
This grant was provided to support residents with housing costs during the cost of living crisis.
Caroline Ellis Court Fund
This grant was given to develop a court information pack for survivors.
Lifetime Chances
This grants is provided to meet one-off expenses for residents’ personal development and life achievement.
DocuSign Envelope ID: ABB51A82-8682-451F-B112-9DC281683678
36 I Choose Freedom | Annual Review 2022/2023
16. Related art disclosures p y
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2023.
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2023 (cont)
| Income and endowments | 31.3.23 £ |
31.3.22 £ |
|---|---|---|
| Donations and legacies | ||
| Donations | 17,493 | 33,400 |
| Investment income | ||
| Deposit account interest | 502 | 83 |
| Charitable activities | ||
| Grants | 1,009,788 | 514,469 |
| Other income | ||
| Resident’s contributions Housing beneft & rent income |
46,934 399,175 |
40,020 344,602 |
| Fundraising income | 65,584 | 67,103 |
| 511,693 | 451,725 | |
| Total incoming resources | 1,539,476 | 999,677 |
| Expenditure | ||
| Charitable activities | ||
| Wages | 625,712 | 452,443 |
| Social security | 49,730 | 36,831 |
| Pensions | 12,596 | 9,149 |
| Other operating leases | 50,630 | 52,725 |
| Rates and water | 7,308 | 7,221 |
| Insurance | 4,829 | 4,206 |
| Light and heat | 15,536 | 19,391 |
| Telephone | 14,711 | 13,281 |
| Postage and stationery | 3,927 | 6,155 |
| Sundries | 12,471 | 9,824 |
| Travel | 4,158 | 6,050 |
| Computer & IT | 26,919 | 17,376 |
| Repairs & renewals | 24,559 | 48,790 |
| Cleaning & waste | 8,437 | 6,389 |
| Bad debts | 141 | - |
| Training | 11,392 | 4,460 |
| Vouchers & fundraising | 8,250 | 7,136 |
| Charitable activities | 210,091 | 124,022 |
| Improvements to property Fixtures and fttings |
7,105 8,296 |
5,275 6,541 |
| 1,106,798 | 837,265 | |
| Support costs | ||
| Finance | ||
| Bank charges | 1,057 | 1,050 |
| Governance costs | ||
| Auditors’ remuneration | 1,890 | - |
| Accountancy and legal fees | 29,683 | 25,703 |
| Subscriptions | 1,745 | 1,752 |
| 33,318 | 27,455 | |
| Total resources expended | 1,141,173 | 865,770 |
Net income
398,303 133,907