REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 02024373 (England and Wales)
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 294589
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
FOR
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
Andrew Cross & Co.
Chartered Certified Accountants
6 Green Lane Business Park
238 Green Lane
New Eltham
London
SE9 3TL
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
|
Page |
Report of the Trustees |
1 to 11 |
Independent Examiner's Report |
12 |
Statement of Financial Activities |
13 |
Balance Sheet |
14 to 15 |
Notes to the Financial Statements |
16 to 21 |
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities |
22 to 23 |
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
ThetrusteeswhoarealsodirectorsofthecharityforthepurposesoftheCompaniesAct2006,present their
reportwiththefinancialstatementsofthecharityfortheyearended31March2023.Thetrustees have
adoptedtheprovisionsofAccountingandReportingbyCharities:StatementofRecommended Practice
applicabletocharitiespreparingtheiraccountsinaccordancewiththeFinancialReporting Standard
applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).
Dear Reader,
This has been the first full year without Covid restrictions since the start of the pandemic.
Assuchithasbeenthefirsttime,forwhatseemsalongtime,whenwehavehadtheopportunityto assess
what business as usual looks like for us; or so we thought!
Theenergycrisisresultinginunsustainableenergybills,withoutquickandeffectiveactionwould have
caused significant, if not irreparable, harm.
We took those actions swiftly and with the support of our licence holders weathered the storm.
Welookforwardtoa"boring"yearinwhichwecanfocussolelyondeliveringourMissionandVisionto the
Community (as set out in this report).
InweatheringthatstormIwouldlike,onbehalfoftheTrustees,verymuchtothankallthosethatwork for
theForum,andourStakeholderswhosupportus(manyofwhomaregivencreditbyourCEO,Jill Andrews,
inherreport)butinparticulartoJillwhoasusualhasworkedtirelesslyandwithgreatenthusiasmto keep
everything on track.
FinallyIwouldliketothankAlexGrinfeld,whosteppeddownthisyearasaTrusteeandformerChair,for his
fantasticcontributiontotheForumovermanyyears.TheForumisaSecularorganisationresidingin a
repurposedwonderfuloldchurch.Alex,asanarchitect,hasbeeninvaluableinhisguidanceonall things
building related and his expertise will be greatly missed; although I know we can call on him if needs be.
Alexhasalsocontributedinsomanyotherways,notleast,keepingusfocusedonourMissionand Vision.
Alex will be greatly missed.
Tim
Tim Anderson, Chair of Trustees
Chief Executive's Review of the year April 2022 - March 2023
Overview:
Iamnowinmy10thyearasChiefExecutivefortheForumatGreenwich.Iwouldliketothankthe Trustees
andthestaffteamfortheirsupportandinvaluableloyaltytowardstheForum,allhaveshown tremendous
passionandenthusiasminensuringtheCharitiessurvivalintheseverydifficultandchallengingtimes.So a
big thank you to everyone.
ThepastyearApril2022-March2023hasseenfurtherchallenges.AftertheCOVID19pandemic.The Forum
wasmakinggoodprogress,customersandgroupswerereturningandclassesweregettingbackto some
normality.Wewerethenfacedwithacostoflivingandenergycrisis,mainlyduetotheWarinUkraine and
high inflation.
OverthewintermonthstheForumfacedextortionateenergybillsofupto£15,000Percalendar month
(pcm)attheheightofwinter.Ourbillswerenormallyintheregionof2-3kpcm,soahugeamount of
additionalmoneyfortheCharitytofind.UnfortunatelyunlikethePandemictherewerenoaccessible grants
to help Charities through this tough period.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
Totryandeliminatesomeoftheenergyconsumptioninthebuilding,theTrusteesandIimplemented new
temporaryopeningandclosingtimesinthemainbuilding.TheForumwouldopenanhourlaterat 9:00am
andclosetheoffices4hoursearlierat5:00pm.Thiswouldallowforalltheheatingtobeturnedoff; thus
savingus5hoursoffuelconsumptionperday.Thismadeconsiderabledifferencetoourfuelbills.A big
thank you to all our licence holders for supporting the Forum through that very difficult time.
FromOctobertoMarchtheGovernmentlaunchedanewinitiativetosupportvulnerablefamilies struggling
withheatingbills.Thiswascalled"Warmspaces"TheForumopenedupitsdoorstosupportthese families
andsetupadonationtreeforlocalstodonatewinterwarmingitems,suchasclothes,jackets,duvets, warm
socks,slippers,hotwaterbottles,foodandeverydayitemssuchasnappies,babywipes,shower gel,
shampoo, razors etc.
TheRoyalBoroughofGreenwich(RBG)providedagrantof£3,000tohelpsupportsomeofthecostsof the
energy bills and running the Warm Spaces project.
TheForumprovidedteas,coffeescakeandbiscuits,alongwithsomegreatsessionsofBingo,which all
enjoyed.TheMayoroftheRoyalBoroughofGreenwichattendedoneofthesessionsandstayedtocall out
the bingo numbers and listen to any concerns the group may have had.
Thelocalcommunitywereextremelygenerousinsupportingthiscause,soaBIGthankyoutoallof those
that donated.
Financial & Future Sustainability:
TheForumTrusteesfocusthroughouttheyearandbeyondtoensuretheCharity'sfinancial sustainability;
regularly reviewing and checking our income and expenditure against budget.
P&Landcashflowstatementsareproducedeachmonthanddiscussedaspartofthesub-finance team
reportingbimonthlytotheTrusteestoensurethatthecharitiesincomeandexpenditureismovingin a
positivedirection.Wealsolookatanyunplannedsubstantialoutgoingsinthefuturethatmayaffect the
forecast and affect the direction of travel as far as we are able.
The Forum's main income is generated from:
- Room hire
- Children's parties
- Soft play sessions
The Forum's financial accounts outline the various income streams and their value.
Summary:
The Future 2022/23
Inmid-2022,theRBGreleasedthegrantfundingprogramme2023-27.TheForumwassuccessfulwith a
grant application under "Community Centres".
Anumberofnewgovernment-fundedsupportprogrammeswerealsoreleased.TheForumwasvery well
placed to support these programmes.
Wecurrentlysupportthebelowbyprovidingspacesandfacilitiestoensuredeliveryreachesasmanyof the
local community as possible:
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
-RBGWelfareRightsHub:Thisprogrammewasintroducedtohelpsupportvulnerablepeople with
benefitsclaims,CAB,debtadviceandfoodsupport.TheForumhoststheHubeveryMonday morning
throughouttheyear.WeworkinpartnershipwiththeHubteamtoprovidemealsandsnacksfromour café
foravoucherprovidedbytheRBG.TheschemeispaidforbytheRBGandbringsadditionalrevenueto the
café. To date we have prov ided over 365 meals.
-DiabetesUKsupportprogrammes:XylaHealthandWellbeingaredeliveringaseriesofsupport and
preventativeworkshopsforpeoplesufferingwithtype(2)diabetes.TheForumsupports20 different
sessions on a weekly, bi-weekly and monthly basis.
-HolidayFood&Activitiesworkshopsforchildren:TheForumworkscloselywiththeUKLatin Group
toprovidespacesforactivitiesandlunchesforchildrenoflow-incomefamiliesduringtheschool holidays.
Thisisthe3rdyearthegrouphavebeentotheForumandthenumbersaregrowing.Wehaveover 30
children attend the classes and food is provided on a daily basis.
OurVisionandMissionwillalwaysremainthefocusfordeliveringourbusinessplan.Ournewbusiness plan
2023-2027 is available to view as part of the Trustees Report.
OurVision:Ahappy,vibrantandinclusivecentreattheheartoftheGreenwichCommunity, bringing
people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities together.
OurMission:Toprovideafullyinclusiveandaccessibleenvironmentofferingpositivesupportand facilities
to meet the di verse needs of the Greenwich Community.
TheTrusteeshaveaclearsenseofpurpose,whichistoimproveandextendthecommunityservices that
wereofferhereattheForum.Inparticular,thosethatfocusontacklingsocialisolation,Diversity& Equality,
inclusivityandawelcomingatmosphere.Allofthesekeycomponentshelpbringacommunitytogether to
support each other.
There are 4 main project areas we focus on:
- Community Interaction
- Reducing Social Isolation
- Accessibility and Affordability
CommunityEngagement:Withastrongfocusoninclusivity,equalityanddiversity,theForum works
closelywithallorganisationsthatuseourspacestopromoteaninclusiveenvironmentwhendelivering their
activitiesandclasses.Beingabletoprovideaspacetodelivermeaningfulprojectsthatsitattheheartof the
community in the curren t climate is invaluable.
TheForumreachesouttoallofthecommunityandhasrecentlybeenpleasedtosupportayoung Ukrainian
family(whofledthewarwiththeiryoungchild)throughthewinterwarmspacesprogramme,they even
enjoyed a game of bingo.
LicensedofficeSpaces:Ourleaserequiresthatweonlygrantlicencestocharitable organisations,
registeredcharities,CommunityInterestCompaniesandSocialEnterprises.Atpresentweprovidespaces for
10 charitable/not for pro fit organisations.
- More 2 Childcare
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
-
Little Splodgers
-
Inside-Out Therapies
Asonechallengeendsanotherunfolds.Thecurrentenergyandcostoflivingcrisishashada profound
financialimpactontheForum.TheForum'sbuildingsareoldandlargeandutilisealotofgasand electricity.
Ourenergycoststripledoverthewintermonths,whichputatremendousstrainontheCharity's finances.
TheGovernmentreliefhelpedmarginally.AsaCharity,wewanttoensureourfundingisfocusedinareas of
most need and not just used to pay energy bills.
Currently,theForumTrusteesarecomfortablethattheForumisinafinanciallystablepositionandwe are
all looking forward to continuing to deliver on our Vision and Mission for many years to come.
Jill Andrews Chief Executive Officer
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
TheTrustees,whoarealsodirectorsoftheCharityforthepurposeoftheCompaniesAct2006,present their
reportwiththefinancialstatementsoftheCharityfortheyearended31March2022.TheTrustees have
adoptedtheprovisionsofAccountingandreportingbyCharities:StatementofRecommended Practice
applicabletoCharitiespreparingtheiraccountsinaccordancewithcurrentFinancialStandardsapplicable in
the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2015).
WehavereferredtotheCharityCommission'sgeneralguidanceonPublicBenefitwhenreviewingour aims
andobjectivesandinplanningourfutureactivities.Inparticular,theTrusteeshaveconsideredhow the
plannedactivitiesoftheorganisationwillcontributetotheaimsandobjectivesthathavebeen established
for the charity.
TheForum@Greenwichiswellestablishedandhasbeenoperatingforover40years.TheForum's key
objectiveistoprovideacommunitycentre,attheheartoftheEastGreenwichcommunity,onethat is
accessible to all, offering a wide range of services to meet the needs of our community.
The Forum has clear objectives which are:
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To be a source of information and advice
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To ensure services are affordable or free to some local groups
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To provide opportunities for leisure and social activities
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To support and provide a platform for vulnerable groups with learning disabilities to get back into the work
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place.
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To provide support for the aspirations of our community, particularly those whose voices are seldom heard
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To actively engage with our community and respond to their needs
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To support the long-term needs of the elderly, physically disabled and vulnerable members of the
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community
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To provide services and work with groups that actively seek to tackle social isolation
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To work in collaboration with our partner organisations to provide a more cohesive approach
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To work towards sustainable development
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To adapt our services to meet the needs of a growing and diverse community.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Significant activities
The Forum continues to deliver on its series of programmes which focus on the following:
-BabiesandYoungChildren:TheForumactivelypromotespartnershipworkingandourcontinued work
withUKLatinCommunityandMum'sAidprovidesasafespaceinwhichtoholdtheirgroups and
consultations.
-YoungAdultsandFamilies:2022/23hasseenafurtherincreaseinnewfamiliesmovingintothe area;
theForumwillcontinuetolookatnewwaysinwhichtoadaptourservicesandactivitiestomeet the
growingneedasmanyfamiliesarehousedinhighriseapartments,withaccesstogreenspace limited,
especially in the winter months.
-Partnershipbuilding,ElderlyandVolunteering:Wecontinuetohavestrongpartnershipswith Mum's
Aid,theRetiredCivilServantsFellowship.OxleasNHSadultmentalhealthgroups,DiabetesUK,RBG Welfare
Rights Hub and the local pensioners Forum.
-Volunteers:Wecurrentlyhave9volunteers,including8Trustees.Weareconstantlylookingatways in
which to expand our volunteer base and offer opportunities to local people.
-UnfortunatelyaftermanyyearsofworkingwithGLABBofferingworkplacementsandjob opportunities.
GLABBhassadlyclosedduetolackoffunding.Thisinitiativewasagreatopportunityforthe long-term
unemployed.
-TheForumremainsapopularvenueforthecommunitytoholdchildren'sparties,family celebrations,
BBQ's,publicconsultations,localcouncilandvoluntarysectorconferences,electionvotingandmuch more.
WeknowthattheForumisevenmorecrucialnowasthepopulationoftheareagrowsandthecostof living
and energy crisis will hit many local business and community facilities.
-CommunityEvents:WeweredelightedtoholdoursummerandChristmasfairs,aswellasthe Queens
PlatinumJubileecelebrations,whichwereverywellattended,asnormalthereindeerandbirdsofprey stole
theshow.SadlywesaidgoodbyetoaverydearandlongstandingCommunitymemberofthe Forum,
Charles Medhurst, wh o passed away in late 2022
-Supportingvulnerablefamilies:KeepinginlinewithourVisionandMission,thisyearweare delighted
tobeactivelyinvolvedwithprovidinglow-costmealsforpeoplevisitingtheWelfareRightsHub.Todate we
have provided 365 meals for vulnerable and at risk adults.
MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS
This year our maintenance programme included:
- Repairs and maintenance to the inside and roof of the Tower
- Re-instalment of railings and gates to the front of the Forum
- Re-decorating where required
-Continueourprogrammeofreplacingandupgradingthelightinginthebuildingstolowemission LED
panels.
-ChristChurchEastGreenwichRoofisduetoundergoextensiverepairandmaintenanceto repair
inadequate guttering hopers and replace some of the flashing.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
COMMUNICATION AND ADVERTISING
Communication and Advertising are key to spreading the word about the work the Forum undertakes.
RecentlytheForumembarkedonanewandinnovativewayinwhichtopromotethegreatcommunity work
thattheForumundertakes.ItissometimesdifficulttogetacrossentirelyhowmuchvaluetheForum brings
to the local community, so we decided to let the community have their say.
Weworkedwithanorganisationcalled"ReelNiceProductions".Josh,theArtisticDirector,spentmany days
andhoursencapsulatingthegreatcommunityworkthatthegroupsandtheForumprovide.Thevideo will
beparticularlybeneficialforgrantfundingapplicationstoallowthefundertoseefirst-handhowthe Forum
hasbuiltupinvaluablerelationshipswiththeCommunityandwhatatremendousvalueaCommunity Centre
is for everyone.
To view the video click on the link: https://we.tl/t-iQdBGG8VPB
WealsohaveadailypresenceonmostsocialmediaoutletsincludingthelocalGreenwichCommunity site.
Ourwebsitewww.forumatgreenwich.org,isupdatedregularlywithinformationandspecialevents that
everyone can get involved with.
ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE
Charitable activities
Tradingconditionsremainedslowduetotheenergycostsandthecostofliving.However,wecontinue to
promotetheCentreandwehaveseennewgroupsstarttouseourfacilities.Wewillcontinuetoinvest in
thefutureoftheCentre.Providingnewandmuchneededactivities/servicesthatbestmeettheneedsof the
community.
STAFFING
TheForumstaffteamismadeupof5fulltime&5parttimestaff.TheLondonLivingWagewas increased
by 8.15% to £11.95 per hour.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Principal funding sources
Our4-yearfundinggrantfromtheRoyalBoroughofGreenwichcontinuesuntil2027andthisyear totalled
£44,500, a 42.5% annual reduction
OurmanagementteamarecontinuallyapplyingforvariousgrantswheretheCharitymeetsthe funding
criteria.
Grants & Fundraising prediction 22/23
Outside grants will be sourced for new activities taking place in the Forum
Investment policy and objectives
Asidefromthereservesoutlinedbelow,ouraimistobuildupfundsforlong-terminvestment,including the
repairs and maintenance of the fabric of the building.
Reserves policy
TheCharitiesCommissionrecommendsthatcharitiesmaintainreservesatalevelequivalentto3 months
operatingcosts.TheBoardofTrusteeshasdevelopedareservepolicyfortheorganisationwhichseeks to
takeallreasonablestepstodesignatefundsforprovisionofredundancy,long-termsicknessor maternity
leave,fixedassetfund,replacementofequipmentandrepairfund.Thesefundswillbedependent on
unrestrictedfundsonly.Atpresent,thereservefundisaround£50,000,whichtheForumTrustees consider
adequate.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Debt:TheBoardhasanapproveddebtor'sprocedureandhaswrittenoffdebtwherethereis insufficient
evidence to substantiate the likelihood of payment.
FUTURE PLANS
TheCharityhasexcitingplansforthefutureoftheorganisation.Alongwithdeliveringourcentral function,
wewillcontinuetogrowandimproveournewprojectsandenhanceourcollaborativeworkingwiththe RBG
and other charitable organisations.
In2023/24,TheForumistakingaslightlydifferentapproachwithsomeofitsprojects.Traditionally the
ForumhasbeentheconduitsupportingotheroutsideCharitiesandCICs,whohireoutspacesinorder for
themtocarryoutCommunityActivities.Whilstwewillcontinueourcollaborationswithotherlocal charities
andorganisations,inparticularprojectsandactivitiesthatcontributetowardreducingsocial isolation,
supporting Diversity and Equality, the vulnerable and disabled, we will now deliver directly on this as well.
(NEW) Direct Delivery Programme 23/24
ArtsCraftsandCreativePlay:TheForumisembarkingonanewdirectDeliveryprogramme,which will
focusondeliveringanddevelopinganewstylefreeflowArtsCraftsandCreativeplaysessionsfor children
0-5 years.
Theclasseswillbeanopportunityforparentstointeractwiththeirchildinamorerelaxedsetting, rather
than a rigid setting, where children become bored and uninterested very quickly.
Thesessionareanopportunityforthechildtolearnandunderstandcraftssuchas,painting, textures,
interactiveplay,createandunderstandinterestingcrafts,whichstimulatethemindandbuildontheir fine
and gross motor skills, whilst also being free to play and interact with the other children.
Afterthe30-40minutescraftsessionthechildrenandparentsarefreetousethetwosoftplaystolet off
some steam.
FeedbackfrommanyoftheparentsthatvisittheForumwasthatmanyclassesaskforafull-terms payment
up-frontwhichwasbecomingunaffordableinthecurrentclimateandiftheirchildwassickthentheydid not
get any money back or free sessions.
Oursystemworksinafairerandmuchmoreaffordableway;payasyougo.Thisflexibilityisvery much
welcomed by the parents and we are finding that our classes are still full each week.
Allourworkpromotescommunitycohesion,EqualitiesandDiversity,socialinclusion,thedisabled and
vulnerable, whilst building strong and meaningful partnerships that support all our community's needs.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing document
TheCharityiscontrolledbyitsgoverningdocuments,theMemorandumandArticlesofAssociationand is
constituted as a limited company as defined by the Companies Act 2006.
ThedaytodayresponsibilityfortheprovisionofservicesisdelegatedtotheChiefExecutivewho is
responsibleforensuringtheForumdeliverstheservicesspecifiedandthatkeyperformanceindicators are
met,ensuringindividualsupervisionofthestaffteamandthattheteamcontinuetodeveloptheirskills and
working practices in line with good practice.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Organisational structure
TheForumisacharitablecompanylimitedbyguarantee,incorporatedon30May1986andregisteredas a
charityon10June1986.TheForumwasestablishedunderaMemorandumofAssociation,which established
the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed by those Articles.
ThegoverningbodyistheBoardofManagement("Board")whoseTrusteesareelectedbythe charity's
membershipattheAnnualGeneralMeetingandaredirectorsforthepurposeofcompanylawand trustees
for the purpose of charity law; in this report, they are referred to as Trustees.
The Board has in place policies and procedures in respect of governance including:
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A code of conduct for our Trustees;
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Terms of Reference for the Board of Trustees;
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Conflict of Interests Record form, which is completed by all Trustees and reviewed periodically;
The principal responsibilities of the Trustees have been set out in the Terms of Reference and include:
a. Oversight and governance of the charity, including control and accountability systems
b.AnnuallyreviewingtheskillsandexperiencerepresentedontheBoardinlightoftheForum's strategic
direction, and approving Board composition; electing Chair, vice-Chair and Treasurer;
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c. Appointing, determining the composition of, and setting the terms of reference for Board sub-committees;
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d. Determine and implement an appropriate procedure for assessing the effectiveness of the Board, the Board Chair, committees and Trustees in fulfilling their responsibilities;
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e. Assuming responsibility for the Forum's governance practices;
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f. Ensuring that Trustees meet regularly;
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g. Setting and reviewing the terms of reference for the Board;
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h. Ensuring that members are consulted regularly as required by the Memorandum of Association, setting the agenda and preparing minutes
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i. Appointing and removing the Chief Executive and establishing their remuneration package
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j. Monitoring the performance of the Chief Executive
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k. Contributing to and final approval of charities mission statement
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l. Contributing to and final approval of the budget and business plan and associated performance objectives
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m. Contributing to and final approval of the strategic plan and associated performance measures
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n. Implementation of strategy and ensuring appropriate resources are available
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o. Reviewing and ratifying policies for reserves, risk management and investment
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p. Reviewing and ratifying leases and matters relating to property holdings
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q. Monitoring risk management and internal compliance and control systems and assessments
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r. Approving the authorisation structure applicable to capital expenditure and operational commitments
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s. Approving and monitoring financial and other reporting
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t. Setting pay policy generally, including bonus
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u. Ensuring compliance with the Forum's Environmental, Health and Safety Policies
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v. Appointment of bankers and auditors
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w. Dealing with and settling legal claims
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Premises
TheForumoperatesfrom2buildingsonthesamesite.OneistheformerChristchurchChurch,which was
convertedinthelate1980sintoitspresentlayout.OnepartofthebuildingisnotdemisedtotheForum and
isoccupiedbythemorenewlyconstructedparishchurch.Theotherbuildingisformerlyaschooland East
GreenwichCommunityCentre(theCommunityBuilding).Thereisachildren'splayareaattachedto this
building.
TheRochesterandSouthwarkDiocesanChurchTrustareourlandlords.Thereisaseparateleasefor each
building,differentinformatbutbothare99-yearFullRepairingandinsuringleasesonapeppercorn rent,
dated29February1996forthemainbuildingand1stDecember1986fortheCommunityBuilding. The
leases are non-transferable.
ThecarparkattherearbelongstotheDioceseandalthoughtheForumhasaccessforitsoccupants and
users this is not formalised by lease.
TheForumisresponsibleforthemaintenanceandupkeepofthebuildings,includingthespaceoccupied by
theparishchurch.Aspointedoutintheaccounts,landandbuildingrepresentsthecapitalisationofthe lease
andallsubsequentimprovementcostsincurredovertheyears.Thefreeholdsofthelandandbuildings are
ownedbyRochesterandSouthwarkDiocesanChurchTrust;theForumdoesnothaveanyfinancial interest
in these properties.
Induction and training of new trustees
TheBoardofTrusteesseekstoensurethattheneedsofcommunityareappropriatelyreflectedthrough the
diversityofthetrusteebody.ToenhancethepoolofTrustees,theForumcontinuestoworkwithThe East
LondonBusinessAlliance(ELBA),aregisteredcharity,whichhelpsmatchcharitieswithpotential trustees.
Our Trustee Board remains strong with a wide range of skill sets and demographics.
TherehavebeentwochangestotheBoardofTrusteesduringthisreportingperiod.MrJGrinfeld resigned
hispositionasaTrusteeafter12years.VidhyaRatnamissteppingdownimmediatelyafterthe AGM
(13.12.2023). Both have been invaluable in supporting the Charity with their experience and skills.
Wewouldliketothankthemforalltheirsupport,timeandexperiencetheyhaveshownoverthe years,
which has benefited the Charity tremendously. Both trustees will be greatly missed.
Wider network
InsofarasitiscomplementarytotheCharity'sobjects,weareguidedatlocallevelbyassistingin the
deliveryoftheLocalAreaAgreement,relevantRBGStrategiesandServiceLevelAgreementswith Royal
Greenwich.TheForumisamemberoftheFederationofGreenwichCommunityCentresandissignedup to
andfollowstheRoyalBoroughofGreenwichDiversityandEqualitiespolicy,activelyparticipatein focus
groupsandmeetingsthatshapethefutureofthecommunityinordertofocusontheneedsofthe local
community.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Risk management
WithinTheForum@Greenwich,theBoardofTrusteeshasfullresponsibilityforensuringrisks are
addressed and this Risk Register is kept up to date.
TheBoardofTrusteeshasconducteditsownreviewofthemajorriskstowhichthecharityisexposed and
systemshavebeenestablishedtomitigatethoserisks.Internalrisksareminimisedbythe continuous
improvementofprocedurestoensureconsistentqualityofdeliveryforalloperationalaspectsof the
charitable company.
TheForumhasadoptedtheCharityCommission'stemplateforriskassessment.Theprocedures are
reviewedannuallytoensuretheystillmeettheneedsofthecharity.Themainriskscontinueto be
identified, among others, as
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Loss of sustainable revenue
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Pandemic hits the UK and Worldwide
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Increase maintenance costs
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Loss of Chief Executive
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Long-term absence of key staff
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Inadequate reserve
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Increase building maintenance costs
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Loss of funding
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Loss of license holders
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Catastrophic disruption
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Reduction in demand for room hire
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Malicious electronic damage
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Energy Crisis
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Inflationary cost of living crisis which can impact the use of the Forum by the community
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Revised legislation, for example, increased environmental requirements. Fire Risk Assessments are Conducted yearly by specialist consultants and its recommendations have been implemented. Accessibility assessments have also been conducted, as well as the COVID-19 Secure Building Risk Assessment and our adapted Covid-19 risk and fire Assessments.
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Reduction in demand for room hire
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Malicious electronic damage
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Insurance company does not pay out for business interruption
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Company number
02024373 (England and Wales)
Registered Charity number
294589
Registered office
Forum @ Greenwich
Trafalgar Road
Greenwich
London
SE10 9EQ
Page 10
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
Trustees
T R B Anderson
J A Grinfeld (resigned 7.6.2023)
M Theodosiou
N Barrington
J E D'Costa
D Bright
V Ratnam
C Vince
Company Secretary
J L Andrews
Independent Examiner
Charlotte Cross FCCA BSc IMA
Andrew Cross & Co.
Chartered Certified Accountants
6 Green Lane Business Park
238 Green Lane
New Eltham
London
SE9 3TL
Approved by order of the board of trustees on ............................................. and signed on its behalf by:
............................................................
J L Andrews - Secretary
Page 11
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of The Forum @ Greenwich ('the Company')
IreporttothecharitytrusteesonmyexaminationoftheaccountsoftheCompanyfortheyear ended
31 March 2023.
Responsibilities and basis of report
Asthecharity'strusteesoftheCompany(andalsoitsdirectorsforthepurposesofcompanylaw)you are
responsibleforthepreparationoftheaccountsinaccordancewiththerequirementsoftheCompanies Act
2006 ('the 2006 Act').
HavingsatisfiedmyselfthattheaccountsoftheCompanyarenotrequiredtobeauditedunderPart16 of
the2006Actandareeligibleforindependentexamination,Ireportinrespectofmyexaminationof your
charity'saccountsascarriedoutunderSection145oftheCharitiesAct2011('the2011Act').Incarrying out
myexaminationIhavefollowedtheDirectionsgivenbytheCharityCommissionunderSection145(5)(b) of
the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Sinceyourcharity'sgrossincomeexceeded£250,000yourexaminermustbeamemberofalistedbody. I
canconfirmthatIamqualifiedtoundertaketheexaminationbecauseIamamemberoftheAssociation of
Chartered Certified Accountants, which is one of the listed bodies.
Ihavecompletedmyexamination.Iconfirmthatnomattershavecometomyattentioninconnection with
the examination giving me cause to believe:
1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or
3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).
Ihavenoconcernsandhavecomeacrossnoothermattersinconnectionwiththeexaminationto which
attentionshouldbedrawninthisreportinordertoenableaproperunderstandingoftheaccountsto be
reached.
Charlotte Cross FCCA BSc IMA
Andrew Cross & Co.
Chartered Certified Accountants
6 Green Lane Business Park
238 Green Lane
New Eltham
London
SE9 3TL
Date: .............................................
Page 12
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
Notes
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Catering income
Other trading activities
2
Investment income
3
Other income
Total
EXPENDITURE ON
Raising funds
4
Charitable activities
Core activities
Total
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Transfers between funds
11
Net movement in funds
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD |
Unrestricted
fund
£
29,999
33,043
2,472
339,581
2,119
407,214
55,503
355,031
410,534
(3,320)
(49,911)
(53,231)
165,348
112,117 |
Restricted
fund
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
49,911
49,911
(49,911)
49,911
-
1,158,084
1,158,084 |
2023
Total
funds
£
29,999
33,043
2,472
339,581
2,119
407,214
55,503
404,942
460,445
(53,231)
-
(53,231)
1,323,432
1,270,201 |
2022
Total
funds
£
78,670
14,116
490
263,027
7,566
363,869
58,255
334,986
393,241
(29,372)
-
(29,372)
1,352,804
1,323,432 |
|
|
|
|
|
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 13
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
BALANCE SHEET
31 MARCH 2023
Notes
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
8
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
9
Cash at bank and in hand
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
10
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
11
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS |
Unrestricted
fund
£
10,464
-
142,926
142,926
(41,272)
101,654
112,118
112,118 |
Restricted
fund
£
1,149,535
-
8,548
8,548
-
8,548
1,158,083
1,158,083 |
2023
Total
funds
£
1,159,999
-
151,474
151,474
(41,272)
110,202
1,270,201
1,270,201
112,118
1,158,083
1,270,201 |
2022
Total
funds
£
1,168,179
2,800
183,198
185,998
(30,745)
155,253
1,323,432
1,323,432
165,348
1,158,084
1,323,432 |
|
|
|
|
|
ThecharitablecompanyisentitledtoexemptionfromauditunderSection477oftheCompaniesAct 2006
for the year ended 31 March 2023.
Themembershavenotrequiredthecompanytoobtainanauditofitsfinancialstatementsforthe year
ended 31 March 2023 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for
-
(a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and
-
(b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.
The notes form part of these financial statements
continued...
Page 14
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
BALANCE SHEET - continued
31 MARCH 2023
Thesefinancialstatementshavebeenpreparedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsapplicableto charitable
companies subject to the small companies regime.
ThefinancialstatementswereapprovedbytheBoardofTrusteesandauthorisedforissue on
............................................. and were signed on its behalf by:
.............................................
T R B Anderson - Trustee
.............................................
V Ratnam - Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 15
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing the financial statements
Thefinancialstatementsofthecharitablecompany,whichisapublicbenefitentityunderFRS 102,
havebeenpreparedinaccordancewiththeCharitiesSORP(FRS102)'AccountingandReporting by
Charities:StatementofRecommendedPracticeapplicabletocharitiespreparingtheiraccounts in
accordancewiththeFinancialReportingStandardapplicableintheUKandRepublicofIreland (FRS
102)(effective1January2019)',FinancialReportingStandard102'TheFinancialReporting Standard
applicableintheUKandRepublicofIreland'andtheCompaniesAct2006.Thefinancial statements
have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
Income
AllincomeisrecognisedintheStatementofFinancialActivitiesoncethecharityhasentitlement to
the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Expenditure
Liabilitiesarerecognisedasexpenditureassoonasthereisalegalorconstructive obligation
committingthecharitytothatexpenditure,itisprobablethatatransferofeconomicbenefitswill be
requiredinsettlementandtheamountoftheobligationcanbemeasuredreliably.Expenditure is
accountedforonanaccrualsbasisandhasbeenclassifiedunderheadingsthataggregateall cost
relatedtothecategory.Wherecostscannotbedirectlyattributedtoparticularheadingsthey have
been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciationisprovidedatthefollowingannualratesinordertowriteoffeachassetover its
estimated useful life:
Long leasehold - 1/99 depreciation per annum, based on 99 year lease
Fixtures and fittings - 25% on reducing balance
Computer equipment - 25% on reducing balance
Taxation
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestrictedfundscanbeusedinaccordancewiththecharitableobjectivesatthediscretionof the
trustees.
Restrictedfundscanonlybeusedforparticularrestrictedpurposeswithintheobjectsofthe charity.
Restrictionsarisewhenspecifiedbythedonororwhenfundsareraisedforparticular restricted
purposes.
Furtherexplanationofthenatureandpurposeofeachfundisincludedinthenotestothe financial
statements.
Hire purchase and leasing commitments
RentalspaidunderoperatingleasesarechargedtotheStatementofFinancialActivitiesona straight
line basis over the period of the lease.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
Thecharitablecompanyoperatesadefinedcontributionpensionscheme.Contributionspayable to
thecharitablecompany'spensionschemearechargedtotheStatementofFinancialActivitiesin the
period to which they relate.
continued...
Page 16
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
2.
OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
Fundraising events
3.
INVESTMENT INCOME
Rents received
Interest income
4.
RAISING FUNDS
Grant related expenditure, Christmas Fair and Easter Fair
Cafe and catering expenses
Sinbads soft play costs |
|
2023
£
2,472
2023
£
339,379
202
339,581 |
|
2022
£
490
2022
£
263,026
1
263,027 |
|
|
2023 |
|
2022 |
|
|
£ |
|
£ |
|
27,578 |
|
|
14,393 |
|
16,661 |
|
|
674 |
|
14,016 |
|
|
5,595 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
58,255 |
|
|
20,662 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The above amounts are expended on activities to enable the charity to raise funds.
5. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
|
2023 |
2022 |
|
£ |
£ |
Depreciation - owned assets |
32,431 |
46,690 |
Hire of plant and machinery |
557 |
1,488 |
6. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
Therewerenotrustees'remunerationorotherbenefitsfortheyearended31March2023norfor the
year ended 31 March 2022.
Trustees' expenses
Therewerenotrustees'expensespaidfortheyearended31March2023norfortheyear ended
31 March 2022.
continued...
Page 17
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
7. STAFF COSTS
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
Full time
Part time |
2023
5
5
10 |
2022
5
6 |
|
|
11 |
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.
8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COST
At 1 April 2022
Additions
At 31 March 2023
DEPRECIATION
At 1 April 2022
Charge for year
At 31 March 2023
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 March 2023
At 31 March 2022 |
Long
leasehold
£
2,045,526
-
2,045,526
910,804
20,662
931,466
1,114,060
1,134,722 |
Fixtures
and
fittings
£
356,952
24,251
381,203
325,807
11,191
336,998
44,205
31,145 |
Computer
equipment
£
10,898
-
10,898
8,586
578
9,164
1,734
2,312 |
Totals
£
2,413,376
24,251 |
|
|
|
|
2,437,627 |
|
|
|
|
1,245,197
32,431 |
|
|
|
|
1,277,628 |
|
|
|
|
1,159,999 |
|
|
|
|
1,168,179 |
TheTrusteesoftheForumundertookarevaluationofthepropertyleaseattheForum, Trafalgar
RoadLondonSE109EQwiththeleaseholdtenurenotedas99yearsfrom1December1986 in
respectofthecommunitybuilding,andaleasedated29February1996foraperiodof99years for
themainbuildingwiththevaluationcarriedoutbyYouensandCompanyLtd,Chartered Surveyors
andregisteredvaluers.Themarketvalueofthepropertywasnotedas£1.235millionasat31 March
2017andtakingintoaccounttheoverallposition,thetrusteesconsiderthedepreciatedvalueof the
long leasehold of £1.135 million as shown in the accounts to be sated at an appropriate level.
TheTrusteeshavedecidedthatbecausethisassetdoesnotrepresentanyformoffunds,assets or
cashwhichcanbeaccessedbytheForumforanypurpose,theywillnotundertakeaformal valuation
of the property ongoing.
TheTrusteeswishittobenotedthatofthetotalrestrictedfunds,£1.135millionrelates to
thevaluationofthepropertyfromwhichtheForumoperatesinGreenwich. These
restrictedfunds,therefore,donotrepresentanyformoffunds,assetsorcashwhich can
beaccessedbytheForumforanypurpose.Theyrepresentpurelythepremises from
which the Forum operates, and which cannot be disposed of.
continued...
Page 18
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
9.
DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Prepayments
10.
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Trade creditors
VAT
Payments received in advance
Other creditors
Accrued expenses
11.
MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Net
movement
At 1.4.22
in funds
£
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
165,348
(3,319)
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
1,158,084
(49,912)
TOTAL FUNDS
1,323,432
(53,231)
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
Incoming
resources
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
407,214
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
-
TOTAL FUNDS
407,214 |
|
2023
£
-
2023
£
9,219
80
19,302
735
11,936
41,272
Transfers
between
funds
£
(49,911)
49,911
-
Resources
expended
£
(410,533)
(49,912)
(460,445) |
2022
£
2,800
2022
£
7,286
1,973
17,976
660
2,850
30,745
At
31.3.23
£
112,118
1,158,083
1,270,201
Movement
in funds
£
(3,319)
(49,912)
(53,231) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
continued...
Page 19
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for movement in funds
At 1.4.21
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
194,719
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
1,158,085
TOTAL FUNDS
1,352,804
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above
Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
TOTAL FUNDS |
|
Net
movement
in funds
£
22,188
(51,560)
(29,372)
e as follows:
Incoming
resources
£
363,869
-
363,869 |
|
Transfers
between
funds
£
(51,559)
51,559
-
Resources
expended
£
(341,681)
(51,560)
(393,241) |
At
31.3.22
£
165,348
1,158,084
1,323,432
Movement
in funds
£
22,188
(51,560)
(29,372) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ar |
|
|
|
|
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
TOTAL FUNDS |
At 1.4.21
£
194,719
1,158,085
1,352,804 |
Net
movement
in funds
£
18,869
(101,472)
(82,603) |
Transfers
between
funds
£
(101,470)
101,470
- |
At
31.3.23
£
112,118
1,158,083 |
|
|
|
|
1,270,201 |
continued...
Page 20
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Acurrentyear12monthsandprioryear12monthscombinednetmovementinfunds,includedin the
above are as follows:
Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming
resources
£
771,083
-
771,083 |
Resources
Movement
expended
in funds
£
£
(752,214)
18,869
(101,472)
(101,472)
(853,686)
(82,603) |
|
|
|
TheTrusteeswishittobenotedthatofthetotalrestrictedfunds,£1.135millionrelatesto the
valuationofthepropertyfromwhichtheForumoperatesinGreenwich.Theserestricted funds,
therefore,donotrepresentanyformoffunds,assetsorcashwhichcanbeaccessedbytheForum for
anypurpose.TheyrepresentpurelythepremisesfromwhichtheForumoperates,andwhich cannot
be disposed of.
12. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2023.
Page 21
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Donations and legacies
Grants
Covid-19 government grants
Other trading activities
Fundraising events
Investment income
Rents received
Interest income
Charitable activities
CafT & catering income
Other income
Other income
Total incoming resources
EXPENDITURE
Raising donations and legacies
Grant related expenditure and similar
Other trading activities
Cafe and catering expenses
Investment management costs
Sinbad soft play area costs
Charitable activities
Wages
Social security
Pensions
Hire of plant and machinery
Rates and water
Insurance
Light and heat
Telephone
Postage and stationery
Advertising and marketing
Carried forward |
2023
£
29,999
-
29,999
2,472
339,379
202
339,581
33,043
2,119
407,214
21,871
33,578
54
200,279
10,901
3,786
557
6,566
12,689
75,345
7,135
789
751
318,798 |
2022
£
51,001
27,669 |
|
|
78,670
490
263,026
1 |
|
|
263,027
14,116
7,566 |
|
|
363,869
27,578
16,661
14,016
164,787
7,523
3,019
1,488
373
11,554
40,983
6,982
1,525
231
238,465 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 22
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
Charitable activities
Brought forward
Sundries
Repair & Maintenance
Computer expenses
Staff expenses
Legal and professional
Payroll services
Long leasehold
Fixtures and fittings
Computer equipment
Support costs
Finance
Bank charges
Governance costs
Accountancy and legal fees
Total resources expended
Net expenditure |
2023
£
318,798
1,647
32,451
6,052
1,802
4,073
1,059
20,662
11,192
578
398,314
2,537
4,091
460,445
(53,231) |
2022
£
238,465
2,060
31,621
5,982
2,996
469
1,035
20,662
25,257
771
329,318
1,932
3,736
393,241
(29,372) |
|
|
|
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 23