2024-03-31-accounts - The Forum @ Greenwich

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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 2024`

`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 2024`

	`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 2024`

ThetrusteeswhoarealsodirectorsofthecharityforthepurposesoftheCompaniesAct2006,present their
reportwiththefinancialstatementsofthecharityfortheyearended31March2024.Thetrustees have
adoptedtheprovisionsofAccountingandReportingbyCharities:StatementofRecommended Practice
applicabletocharitiespreparingtheiraccountsinaccordancewiththeFinancialReporting Standard
applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

`Dear Reader,`

Weareall,I'msure,awareoftheChineseadagemayyouliveininterestingtimes.Well,theexperience of
2023/24andtodatecertainlyfitsthebill.Thecostofenergyforusandthecostoflivingforour community
havecertainlyimpactedtheForumintermsofwhatwecandeliverforthecommunityandhowwedeliver it.
Wealwaysmustbeonourtoestoreactswiftlytoeachnewchallenge,andwehave.TheForumremains a
happy,vibrantandinclusivecentreattheheartoftheGreenwichcommunitywhichyouwillseeevidenced in
Jill'sCEOreportandforthis.I,andmyfellowtrusteeswouldonceagainliketothankJillandherteam and
our other supportive stakeholders.

`Tim`

`Tim Anderson, Chair of Trustees`

`Chief Executive's Review of the year April 2023 - March 2024`

`Overview:`

Iamnowstartingmy11thyearasChiefExecutivefortheForumatGreenwich.Asalways,Iwouldlike to
expressmythankstotheTrusteesandthestafffortheircontinuedsupportandloyaltytowardsthe Forum.
2023-24haspresenteduswithchallenges.Everyonehasworkedhardandwithenthusiasmtoensure the
charities success, in what appears to be a never-ending road of challenges. A big thank you to everyone.

OverthepastyearApril2023-March2024wehavestillexperiencedlargeutilitybills,withwaterand waste
servicesincreasingpricesbyover70%.TheForumismakingsteadyprogressafterthePandemicand our
previous and new customers and groups are returning and classes are getting back to some normality.

Onceagain,wewentthroughawinterofhighenergycosts,wecontinuedourprogrammeof reducing
openingandclosinghoursduringourquietertimes,ensuringminimumimpactonusersoftheForumand to
help reduce some of our energy consumption.

AbigthankyoutoallourlicenceholdersforsupportingtheForumwiththisinitiative,throughthese difficult
times.Conservingenergyandensuringlightsandelectricalequipmentareturnedoffwhennotinuse and
turning down heating appliance a few notches, does make a difference.

TheGovernmentprogramme,"Warmspaces"whichsupportsvulnerablepeopleinour community
continued,althoughwithalotlessfundingavailable.TheForumopeneditsdoorstosupportthese families
andsetupourdonationtreeforlocalstodonatewinterwarmingitems,suchasclothes,jackets, duvets,
warmsocks,slippers,hotwaterbottles,foodandeverydayitemssuchasnappies,babywipes,shower gel,
shampoo,razorsetc.ThisprogrammecontinuestobeasuccessandunderpinstheForum'svalues in
supporting the community it was set up to serve.

TheForumprovidedteas,coffeescakeandbiscuits,alongwithsomegreatsessionsofBingo,which all
enjoyed.

Thelocalcommunitywereextremelygenerousinsupportingthiscause,soaBIGthankyoutoallof those
that donated.

Page 1

`THE FORUM @ GREENWICH`

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES`

`FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

TocelebrateKingsCharlesIIICoronationonthe6thMay2023,theForumhostedacommunityparty with
games,singing,dancingandsomefabulousculturalfoods.Despitetheterriblewetweather,everyonehad a
great time.

AtourannualSummerFairinJulytheweatherwasalotkindertousandwewereabletohostall our
communitystallsoutside,withoutadropofrain.Lastyearwecommissioned"NiceReelProductions" to
produceamarketingvideoofwhattheForumisallabout,whousesus,whytheyuseusandwhat work
theydotosupportthecommunity.Thelinktakesyoutothevideowhichwillgiveyouagreatinsight into
whattheForumdoesandhowitinteractswiththecommunity.(Thisisnow complete).
https://we.tl/t-iQdBGG8VPB

`Financial & Future Sustainability:`

P&Lstatementsareproducedeachmonthandreceivedbythefinancecommitteeoftheboard reporting
bi-monthlytotheTrusteestoensurethatthecharitiesincomeandexpenditureisaccuratelytracked, risks
arehighlighted,andwecanactinatimelymannertomitigatethoserisksmovinginapositivedirection. We
recogniseweoperateinabeautifulbutoldbuildingwhereissuescomeup,weneedtoaddress.We act
pro-activelytotryandanticipateandplanforthecostassociatedwiththatandreviseandamend forecasts
wherenecessary"inthefuturethatmayaffecttheforecastandaffectthedirectionoftravelasfaraswe are
able.

The Forum's main income is generated from:

Room hires
Children's parties
Soft play sessions
Licence holders.

The Forum's financial accounts outline the various income streams and their value.

`Summary:`

`The Future 2023/24`

TheForumatGreenwichisgratefulfortheongoingsupportfromtheRBGwhoprovideinvaluablefunding to
support community initiatives.

TheForumcontinuestosupportthebelowprogrammesbyprovidingspacesandfacilitiestoensure delivery
reaches as many of the local community as possible:

-RBGWelfareRightsHub:Thisprogrammewasintroducedtohelpsupportvulnerablepeople with
benefitsclaims,CAB,debtadviceandfoodsupport.TheForumhoststheHubeveryMonday morning
throughouttheyear.WeworkinpartnershipwiththeHubteamtoprovidemealsandsnacksfromour café
foravoucherprovidedbytheRBG.TheschemeispaidforbytheRBGandbringsadditionalrevenueto the
café. To date we have pro vided over 400 meals.

-DiabetesUKsupportprogrammes:XylaHealthandWellbeingaredeliveringaseriesofsupport and
preventative workshops for people suffering with type (2) diabetes.

The Forum supports 20 different sessions on a weekly, bi-weekly and monthly basis.

-HolidayFood&Activitiesworkshopsforchildren:TheForumworkscloselywiththeUKLatin Group
toprovidespacesforactivitiesandlunchesforchildrenoflow-incomefamiliesduringtheschool holidays.
Thisisthe4thyearthegrouphavebeentotheForumandthenumbersaregrowing.Wehaveover 30
children attend the classes and food is provided daily.

OurVisionandMissionwillalwaysremainthefocusfordeliveringourbusinessplan.Ournewbusiness plan
2023-2027 is available to view as part of the Trustees Report.

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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

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.Thosethatfocusontacklingsocialisolation,diversity,equality,inclusivity and
a welcoming atmosphere. All these key components help bring a community together to support each other.

There are 4 main project areas we focus on:

Community Interaction
Reducing Social Isolation
Accessibility and Affordability
Diversity and Equality

CommunityEngagement:Withastrongfocusoninclusivity,equalityanddiversity,theForum works
closelywithallorganisationsthatuseourspacestopromoteaninclusiveenvironmentwhendelivering their
activitiesandclasses.Beingabletoprovideaspacetodelivermeaningfulprojectsthatsitattheheartof the
community in the curren t climate is invaluable.

LicensedofficeSpaces:Ourleaserequiresthatweonlygrantlicencestocharitable organisations,
registeredcharities,CommunityInterestCompaniesandSocialEnterprises.Thisyearwesaidgoodbye to
twoofourlicenceholders,DebtFreeLondonandInfertilityNetwork,bothhaddecidedtoprovideonly an
on-lineplatformfortheservices.However,thecurrentclimatehasstrengthenedtheneedfor additional
energysupportandcounsellingandthereforeSELCEandRewisehaveincreasedtheirspacetosupport the
growing need for this typ e of community support.

Our current Licence holders are:

More 2 Childcare
Little Fish Theatre
Boadi Therapy
Metro GAD
Re-wise project
Southeast London Community Energy (SELCE)
Inside-Out Therapies

Withtwofantasticoldbuildings,theForumwillalwaysfacethechallengesofmaintainingthe structure,
internallyandexternally.Ourregularmaintenanceandrepairprogrammeensuresthatthebuildingsare safe
andsecure.Aspartofourprogrammethisyear,wecompletedmajorrepairstoChrist-Church East
GreenwichRoof,transformedtheplayparkinthecommunitybuildingtoremoveadilapidatedwalkway and
secured the grounds by replacing the railing.

ThecurrentcostoflivingcrisiscontinuestohaveaprofoundfinancialimpactontheForumandits users.
TheForumsnackbarhasseenfoodanddrinkpricestriple,whichhaslefttheForumwithnoalternative but
to raise the cost of the food and drinks.

Currently,theForumTrusteesarecomfortablethattheForumisinafinanciallystableposition,andwe are
all looking forward to continuing to deliver on our Vision and Mission for many years to come.

`Jill Andrews Chief Executive Officer`

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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES`

`Objectives and aims`

TheTrustees,whoarealsodirectorsoftheCharityforthepurposeoftheCompaniesAct2006,present their
reportwiththefinancialstatementsoftheCharityfortheyearended31March2023.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:`

To be a source of information and advice
To ensure services are affordable or free to some local groups
To provide opportunities for leisure and social activities
To support and provide a platform for vulnerable groups with learning disabilities to get back into the
workplace.
To provide support for the aspirations of our community, particularly those whose voices are seldom heard
To actively engage with our community and respond to their needs
To support the long-term needs of the elderly, physically disabled and vulnerable members of the
community
To provide services and work with groups that actively seek to tackle social isolation
To work in collaboration with our partner organisations to provide a more cohesive approach
To work towards sustainable development
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 2024`

`OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES`

`Significant activities`

Significantactivities:TheForumcontinuestodeliveronitsseriesofprogrammeswhichfocuson the
following:

-BabiesandYoungChildren:TheForumactivelypromotespartnershipworkingandourcontinued work
withUKLatinCommunityandMum'sAidprovidesasafespaceinwhichtoholdtheirgroups and
consultations.

-YoungAdultsandFamilies:22023/24hasseenafurtherincreaseinnewfamiliesmovingintothe area;
theForumwillcontinuetolookatnewwaysinwhichtoadaptourservicesandactivitiestomeet the
growingneedasmanyfamiliesarehousedinhighriseapartments,withaccesstogreenspace limited,
especially, in the winter months.

-Partnershipbuilding,ElderlyandVolunteering:Wecontinuetohavestrongpartnershipswith Mum's
Aid.OxleasNHSadultmentalhealthgroups,DiabetesUK,RBGWelfareRightsHubandthelocal pensioners
Forum.

-Volunteers:Wecurrentlyhave9volunteers,including8Trustees.Weareconstantlylookingatways in
which to expand our volunteer base and offer opportunities to local people.

-TheForum:Remainsapopularvenueforthecommunitytoholdchildren'sparties,family celebrations,
BBQ's,publicconsultations,localcouncilandvoluntarysectorconferences,electionvotingandmuch more.
WeknowthattheForumisevenmorecrucialnowasthepopulationoftheareagrowsandthecostof living
and energy crisis hits many local business and community facilities.

-CommunityEvents:Anotherpackedyearofcommunitycelebrations,KingsCoronation,SummerFair and
Christmas Fair were all successful.

-Supportingvulnerablefamilies:KeepinginlinewithourVisionandMission,thisyearweare delighted
tocontinuebeinginvolvedwithprovidinglow-costmealsforpeoplevisitingtheWelfareRightsHub.To date
we have provided 400 meals for vulnerable and at-risk adults.

`MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS`

This year our maintenance programme included:

Repairs and maintenance to the tower to remove pigeons and seal the entrance
Replace connector to the lightning conductor
Further installation of railings to the front of the Community building
Tree preservation works
Re-decorating where required
Continue our programme of replacing and upgrading the lighting in the buildings to low emission LED
panels.
Major repairs to Christchurch East Greenwich Church Roof.
Grounds maintenance
Installed New digital part for the generator
Lift repairs and maintenance
Water tanks renewal

`COMMUNICATION AND ADVERTISING`

Communication and Advertising are key to spreading the word about the work the Forum undertakes.

RecentlytheForumembarkedonanewandinnovativewayinwhichtopromotethegreatcommunity work
thattheForumundertakes.ItissometimesdifficulttogetacrossentirelyhowmuchvaluetheForum brings
tothelocalcommunity,sowedecidedtoletthecommunityhavetheirsay.Weproducedavideo showing
howinvaluablethecommunities'engagementandsupportbenefitseveryone https://we.tl/t-iQdBGG8VPB
click to view video.

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`THE FORUM @ GREENWICH`

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES`

`FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES`

Wealsohaveadailypresenceonmostsocialmediaoutlets,facebook,InstagramandtheCommunity page
oftheRoyalBoroughofGreenwichwebsite,https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/Our website
www.forumatgreenwich.org,isupdatedregularlywithinformationandspecialeventsthateveryonecan get
involved with.

`ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE`

`Charitable activities`

Tradingconditionsremainedslowduetotheenergycostsandthecostofliving.However,wecontinue to
promotethecentreandwehaveseennewgroupsstarttouseourfacilities.Wewillcontinuetoinvestin the
futureoftheCentre.Providingnewandmuchneededactivities/servicesthatbestmeettheneedsof the
community.

`STAFFING:`

TheForumstaffteamismadeupof5fulltime&4parttimestaff.TheLondonLivingWagewas increased
by 10.15% to £13.15 per hour in the year.

`FINANCIAL REVIEW`

`Principal funding sources`

Our 4-year funding grant from the Royal Borough of Greenwich continues until 2027.

RBG Grant £17,500
Mayor's Fund £1,000 to support elderly low impact training
Growth Fund 20,000 roof repairs

Additionally,ourmanagementteamarecontinuallyapplyingforvariousgrantswheretheCharitymeets the
funding criteria.

`Grants & Fundraising prediction 23/24`

Outside grants will be sought 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.Thesefundswillbedependentonunrestrictedfundsonly.Thetrusteeswillensureshoulditcome to
it,thatanyclosurewouldbeonasolventbasis.Atpresent,thereservefundisaround£50,000,which the
Forum Trustees consider adequate.

Debt:TheBoardhasanapproveddebtor'sprocedureandhaswrittenoffdebtwherethereis insufficient
evidence to substantiate the likelihood of payment.

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`THE FORUM @ GREENWICH`

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`FUTURE PLANS`

TheCharityhasexcitingplansforthefutureoftheorganisation.Alongwithdeliveringourcentral function,
wewillcontinuetogrowandimproveournewprojectsandenhanceourcollaborativeworkingwiththe RBG
and other charitable organisations as financial conditions allow.

In2023/24,TheForumtookaslightlydifferentapproachwithsomeofitsprojects.Wesetupand are
successfullyrunningourownchildren'sartandcraftclubs.Wewillofcoursecontinueourcollaboration with
otherlocalcharitiesandorganisations,inparticularprojectsandactivitiesthatcontributetoward reducing
social isolation, supporting Diversity and Equality, the vulnerable and disabled.

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 2024`

`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:

A code of conduct for our Trustees;
Terms of Reference for the Board of Trustees;
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;

c. Appointing, determining the composition of, and setting the terms of reference for Board sub-committees;
d. Determine and implement an appropriate procedure for assessing the effectiveness of the Board, the Board Chair, committees and Trustees in fulfilling their responsibilities;
e. Assuming responsibility for the Forum's governance practices;
f. Ensuring that Trustees meet regularly;
g. Setting and reviewing the terms of reference for the Board;
h. Ensuring that members are consulted regularly as required by the Memorandum of Association, setting the agenda and preparing minutes
i. Appointing and removing the Chief Executive and establishing their remuneration package
j. Monitoring the performance of the Chief Executive
k. Contributing to and final approval of charities mission statement
l. Contributing to and final approval of the budget and business plan and associated performance objectives
m. Contributing to and final approval of the strategic plan and associated performance measures
n. Implementation of strategy and ensuring appropriate resources are available
o. Reviewing and ratifying policies for reserves, risk management and investment
p. Reviewing and ratifying leases and matters relating to property holdings
q. Monitoring risk management and internal compliance and control systems and assessments
r. Approving the authorisation structure applicable to capital expenditure and operational commitments
s. Approving and monitoring financial and other reporting
t. Setting pay policy generally, including bonus
u. Ensuring compliance with the Forum's Environmental, Health and Safety Policies
v. Appointment of bankers and auditors
w. Dealing with and settling legal claims

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`THE FORUM @ GREENWICH`

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`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
use of  this is not formalised by lease.

TheForumisresponsibleforthemaintenanceandupkeepofthebuildings,includingthespaceoccupied by
theparishchurch.Aspointedoutintheaccounts,landandbuildingrepresentsthecapitalisationofthe lease
andallsubsequentimprovementcostsincurredovertheyears.Thefreeholdsofthelandandbuildings are
ownedbyRochesterandSouthwarkDiocesanChurchTrust;theForumdoesnothaveanyfinancial interest
in these properties, other than through the leases.

`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.VidhyaRatnamsteppeddowninDecember2023.Claire Vince
steppeddowninJuly2024.AllhavebeeninvaluableinsupportingtheCharitywiththeirexperience and
skills.Wewouldliketothankthemforalltheirsupport,timeandexperiencetheyhaveshownover the
years, which has benefited the Charity tremendously. They will be greatly missed.

WearealsopleasedtoannouncetheappointmentofPeterHewitt-Penfoldasatrustee.Peterbrings a
wealth of experience in relation to facilities & property management which will be hugely valuable.

`Wider network`

InsofarasitiscomplementarytotheCharity'sobjects,weareguidedatlocallevelbyassistingin the
deliveryoftheLocalAreaAgreement,relevantRBGStrategiesandServiceLevelAgreementswith Royal
Greenwich.TheForumisamemberoftheFederationofGreenwichCommunityCentresandissignedup to
andfollowstheRoyalBoroughofGreenwichDiversityandEqualitiespolicy,activelyparticipatein focus
groups and meetings that shape the future of the community to focus on the needs of the local community.

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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES`

`FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT`

`Risk management`

WithinTheForum@Greenwich,theBoardofTrusteeshasfullresponsibilityforensuringrisks are
addressed and this Risk Register is kept up to date.

TheBoardofTrusteeshasconductedreviewsofthemajorriskstowhichthecharityisexposed, and
systemshavebeenestablishedtomitigatethoserisks.Internalrisksareminimisedbythe continuous
improvementofprocedurestoensureconsistentqualityofdeliveryforalloperationalaspectsof the
charitable company.

TheForumhasadoptedtheCharityCommission'stemplateforriskassessment.Theprocedures are
reviewedannuallytoensuretheystillmeettheneedsofthecharity.Themainriskscontinueto be
identified, among others, as

Loss of sustainable revenue
Pandemic hits the UK and Worldwide
Increase maintenance costs
Loss of Chief Executive
Long-term absence of key staff
Inadequate reserve
Increase building maintenance costs
Loss of funding
Loss of license holders
Catastrophic disruption
Reduction in demand for room hire
Malicious electronic damage
Energy Crisis
Inflationary cost of living crisis which can impact the use of the Forum by the community
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.
Reduction in demand for room hire
Malicious electronic damage
Insurance company does not pay out for business interruption

`REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Company number`

02024373 (England and Wales)

`Registered Charity number`

`Registered office`

Forum @ Greenwich
Trafalgar Road
Greenwich
London
SE10 9EQ

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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH

`REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES`

`FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`Trustees`

T R B Anderson
J A Grinfeld (resigned 7.6.2023)
M Theodosiou
N Barrington
J E D'Costa
D Bright
V Ratnam (resigned 13.12.2023)
C Vince (resigned 1.7.2024)
P S Hewitt-Penfold (appointed 14.10.2024)
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

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`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 2024.

`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 2024`

`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)` `RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS` `Total funds brought forward` `TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD`	`Unrestricted` `fund` `£` `35,676` `36,777` `3,251` `357,244` `14,494` `447,442` `60,604` `401,312` `461,916` `(14,474)` `112,118` `97,644`	`Restricted` `fund` `£` `-` `-` `-` `-` `-` `-` `-` `48,527` `48,527` `(48,527)` `1,158,083` `1,109,556`	`2024` `Total` `funds` `£` `35,676` `36,777` `3,251` `357,244` `14,494` `447,442` `60,604` `449,839` `510,443` `(63,001)` `1,270,201` `1,207,200`	`2023` `Total` `funds` `£` `29,999` `33,043` `2,472` `339,581` `2,119` `407,214` `55,503` `404,942` `460,445` `(53,231)` `1,323,432` `1,270,201`

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 13

`THE FORUM @ GREENWICH`

`BALANCE SHEET`

`31 MARCH 2024`

`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` `£` `14,416` `19,931` `91,148` `111,079` `(27,851)` `83,228` `97,644` `97,644`	`Restricted` `fund` `£` `1,120,366` `-` `-` `-` `(10,810)` `(10,810)` `1,109,556` `1,109,556`	`2024` `Total` `funds` `£` `1,134,782` `19,931` `91,148` `111,079` `(38,661)` `72,418` `1,207,200` `1,207,200` `97,644` `1,109,556` `1,207,200`	`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`

ThecharitablecompanyisentitledtoexemptionfromauditunderSection477oftheCompaniesAct 2006
for the year ended 31 March 2024.

Themembershavenotrequiredthecompanytoobtainanauditofitsfinancialstatementsforthe year
ended 31 March 2024 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 2024`

Thesefinancialstatementshavebeenpreparedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsapplicableto charitable
companies subject to the small companies regime.

ThefinancialstatementswereapprovedbytheBoardofTrusteesandauthorisedforissue on
............................................. and were signed on its behalf by:

.............................................

T R B Anderson - Trustee

.............................................

M Theodosiou - 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 2024`

`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 2024`

	`2024` `£` `3,251` `2024` `£` `357,244` `-` `357,244`	`2023` `£` `2,472` `2023` `£` `339,379` `202` `339,581`
	`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):

	`2024`	`2023`
	`£`	`£`
`Depreciation - owned assets`	`34,456`	`32,431`
`Hire of plant and machinery`	`754`	`557`

`6. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS`

Therewerenotrustees'remunerationorotherbenefitsfortheyearended31March2024norfor the
year ended 31 March 2023.

`Trustees' expenses`

Therewerenotrustees'expensespaidfortheyearended31March2024norfortheyear ended
31 March 2023.

continued...

Page 17

THE FORUM @ GREENWICH

`NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`7. STAFF COSTS`

The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:

`Full time` `Part time`	`2024` `6` `6` `12`	`2023` `5` `5`
		`10`

No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.

`8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS`

`COST` `At 1 April 2023` `Additions` `Disposals` `At 31 March 2024` `DEPRECIATION` `At 1 April 2023` `Charge for year` `At 31 March 2024` `NET BOOK VALUE` `At 31 March 2024` `At 31 March 2023`	`Long` `leasehold` `£` `2,045,526` `-` `-` `2,045,526` `931,466` `20,662` `952,128` `1,093,398` `1,114,060`	`Fixtures` `and` `fittings` `£` `381,203` `11,329` `(2,090)` `390,442` `336,998` `13,361` `350,359` `40,083` `44,205`	`Computer` `equipment` `£` `10,898` `-` `-` `10,898` `9,164` `433` `9,597` `1,301` `1,734`	`Totals` `£` `2,437,627` `11,329` `(2,090)` `2,446,866` `1,277,628` `34,456` `1,312,084` `1,134,782` `1,159,999`

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 2024`

`9. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR`

`Trade debtors` `Other debtors` `VAT` `CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR` `Trade creditors` `VAT` `Payments received in advance` `Other creditors` `Accrued expenses` `MOVEMENT IN FUNDS` `At 1.4.23` `£` `Unrestricted funds` `General fund` `112,118` `Restricted funds` `Restricted Funds` `1,158,083` `TOTAL FUNDS` `1,270,201` `Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:` `Incoming` `resources` `£` `Unrestricted funds` `General fund` `447,442` `Restricted funds` `Restricted Funds` `-` `TOTAL FUNDS` `447,442`		`2024` `£` `6,579` `10,810` `2,542` `19,931` `2024` `£` `4,124` `-` `13,511` `11,613` `9,413` `38,661` `Net` `movement` `in funds` `£` `(14,474)` `(48,527)` `(63,001)` `Resources` `expended` `£` `(461,916)` `(48,527)` `(510,443)`	`2023` `£` `-` `-` `-` `-` `2023` `£` `9,219` `80` `19,302` `735` `11,936` `41,272` `At` `31.3.24` `£` `97,644` `1,109,556` `1,207,200` `Movement` `in funds` `£` `(14,474)` `(48,527)` `(63,001)`

`10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR`

11.MOVEMENT IN FUNDS

continued...

Page 19

THE FORUM @ GREENWICH

`NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued`

`Comparatives for movement in funds`

`At 1.4.22` `£` `Unrestricted funds` `General fund` `165,348` `Restricted funds` `Restricted Funds` `1,158,084` `TOTAL FUNDS` `1,323,432` `Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above` `Unrestricted funds` `General fund` `Restricted funds` `Restricted Funds` `TOTAL FUNDS`		`Net` `movement` `in funds` `£` `(3,319)` `(49,912)` `(53,231)` `e as follows:` `Incoming` `resources` `£` `407,214` `-` `407,214`		`Transfers` `between` `funds` `£` `(49,911)` `49,911` `-` `Resources` `expended` `£` `(410,533)` `(49,912)` `(460,445)`	`At` `31.3.23` `£` `112,118` `1,158,083` `1,270,201` `Movement` `in funds` `£` `(3,319)` `(49,912)` `(53,231)`

	`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 1.4.22` `£` `165,348` `1,158,084` `1,323,432`	`Net` `movement` `in funds` `£` `(17,793)` `(98,439)` `(116,232)`	`Transfers` `between` `funds` `£` `(49,911)` `49,911` `-`	`At` `31.3.24` `£` `97,644` `1,109,556`
				`1,207,200`

continued...

Page 20

THE FORUM @ GREENWICH

`NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued`

`FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued`

Acurrentyear12monthsandprioryear12monthscombinednetmovementinfunds,includedin the
above are as follows:

`Unrestricted funds` `General fund` `Restricted funds` `Restricted Funds` `TOTAL FUNDS`	`Incoming` `resources` `£` `854,656` `-` `854,656`	`Resources` `Movement` `expended` `in funds` `£` `£` `(872,449)` `(17,793)` `(98,439)` `(98,439)` `(970,888)` `(116,232)`

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 2024.

Page 21

`THE FORUM @ GREENWICH`

`DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024`

`INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS` `Donations and legacies` `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` `Sundries` `Repair & Maintenance` `Computer expenses` `Carried forward`	`2024` `£` `35,676` `3,251` `357,244` `-` `357,244` `36,777` `14,494` `447,442` `15,397` `45,207` `-` `222,946` `11,694` `3,980` `754` `3,489` `13,481` `50,788` `7,622` `2,240` `3,282` `189` `66,753` `13,384` `400,602`	`2023` `£` `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` `1,647` `32,451` `6,052` `358,948`

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 2024`

`Charitable activities` `Brought forward` `Staff expenses including Explore and Grow` `costs` `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`	`2024` `£` `400,602` `6,321` `1,500` `1,205` `20,662` `13,361` `433` `444,084` `2,255` `3,500` `510,443` `(63,001)`	`2023` `£` `358,948` `1,802` `4,073` `1,059` `20,662` `11,192` `578` `398,314` `2,537` `4,091` `460,445` `(53,231)`

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 23