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 2025
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 2025
|
Page |
Report of the Trustees |
1 to 12 |
Independent Examiner's Report |
13 |
Statement of Financial Activities |
14 |
Balance Sheet |
15 to 16 |
Notes to the Financial Statements |
17 to 22 |
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities |
23 to 24 |
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
ThetrusteeswhoarealsodirectorsofthecharityforthepurposesoftheCompaniesAct2006,present their
reportwiththefinancialstatementsofthecharityfortheyearended31March2025.Thetrustees have
adoptedtheprovisionsofAccountingandReportingbyCharities:StatementofRecommended Practice
applicabletocharitiespreparingtheiraccountsinaccordancewiththeFinancialReporting Standard
applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).
IthasbeenanimportantyearfortheForum.Wecontinuetohavetodealwithhighenergycostsand the
impactofthecostoflivingonourcommunity,whichobviouslyimpactshowmuchtheycanaffordto take
advantageofourterrificfacilities.HoweverduringtheyearwewereawarethatMindwereinterested in
joiningus,andmucheffortwasmadebyusandthemtomakethishappen,suchthattheymovedinto the
Forum in August 2025. This brings us to almost 100% occupancy, with the addition of the charity Mums Aid.
ThetrusteesandIbelievewearegoingtoenjoy,withoutIhopecomplacency,aperiodofstability from
whichwecangrowandimproveourofferingtoourcommunityandstakeholdersinGreenwichinpursuit of
ourvision,ahappy,vibrantandinclusivecentreattheheartoftheGreenwichCommunity,bringing people
of all backgrounds, ages and abilities together.
Asalways,myfellowtrusteesandIwouldliketothankJillAndrewsourCEOandherhard-workingteam for
bringing this about this year.
Jill has established a tremendous team much to her and their credit, thank you.
Tim
Tim Anderson, Chair of Trustees
Chief Executive's Review of the year April 2024 - March 2025
Overview:
Nowinmy12thyearasChiefExecutivefortheForumatGreenwich.Asalways,Iwouldliketoexpress my
thankstotheTrusteesandagreatstaffteamfortheircontinuedsupportandtheloyaltytheyhave shown
towards the Forum.
2024/25hasonceagainpresenteduswithsomeinterestingchallenges.Everyonehasworkedhardand with
enthusiasmtoensurethecharitiessuccess,inwhatappearstobeanever-endingroadofchallenges.A big
thank you to everyone.
Wesaidfarewellto3longtermmembersofstaff,whotookretirement.DavidThorne,whohadbeen with
theForumfor20years,PaulNewmanandhiswifeGillianwhowerewithusfor6years.Wewish them
every success and an enjoyable retirement.
In24/25wearestillexperiencinghighutilitybills,withwaterandwasteshowingthehighestupliftof around
80%.
Lastwinterenergycostscontinuedtobehigh.Consumptionlevelseasedslightly.Thiswinterwe remained
openuntil9:00pmtosupportourorganisations,whointurnweresupportingthecommunity's needs,
around counselling and energy.
Withtheadvicefromourenergybrokers,wesetanannualtariffatthemarketslowestpriceavailableat the
time.AsnormaltherewillbeanexpectedriseinenergypricecapinOctober.Ourcurrentpricingwilltake us
through to April 2026, when tariff costs traditionally reduce for the spring and summer.
TheForumcontinuestobuildonitsreputationofprovidingcompetitive,accessible,andinclusivespaces for
charities, not-for-profit and of course our community.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Althoughanuphillstruggleafterthepandemic,customerclassesandprogrammeshavealmostreturned to
pre- pandemic levels.
TwonewLicenceHolders:Weareveryhappytowelcome.SoutheastLondonMindandMum'sAid who
took up licences in the F orum, this increased our occupancy level to almost 100%.
Theareaswehaveseenaslightdownturninischildren'spartiesandsoftplaydailysessions.Thesnack bar
revenue is also gradually decreasing.
HavingspokentoseveralusersoftheForum,themainconcernforalotoffamiliesisthecontinued high
costofliving.Alargehikeinfoodpricesandgenerallivingcosts,i.e.householdbillsishavinga negative
effect on people's disposable income, also impacting on the Forum
Our direct delivery programme . Arts and Craft is still popular and continues to gain momentum.
Romanian Embassy Elections:
TheForumworkedcloselywiththeRomanianEmbassytohosttheirPresidentialElections.This service
enablesRomanianNationalstovoteinperson.Therewereseveralroundsstretchedoverseveralweeks and
months.Unfortunately,thefirstroundwascancelled,duetoallegedillegalinterferencewithon-line voting.
The second round which stretched over 3 weeks was a success.
Volunteer Rebecca Anderson:
RebeccaAndersonaLawundergraduate,volunteeredhertimetotheForumtocarryoutresearchon other
overseascountriesthatcouldconsiderholdinginpersonvotingintheUK.Rebeccaputtogethera valuable
andcomprehensivepieceofresearch;thisresearchpaperwillbeextremelybeneficialtotheForum when
future overseas elections are being planned.
TheresearchRebeccacarriedoutincludedthedatesofthenextelectionsandrelevantcontactdetailsof the
Embassies.TheForumwillreachouttotheEmbassycontactstooffertheopportunitytothemand their
citizens living in the UK to vote in person, using facilities like the Forum. Thank you, Rebecca.
TheGovernments"Warmspaces"programme,whichsupportsvulnerablepeopleinourcommunity, reduced
fundingopportunitiesthisyear,thereforetheForumwasunabletosupportthisfully.Wearehopingthat the
fundingwillreturnforthiswinterastheprogrammewasagreatsuccessandhelpedsomany vulnerable
people and families in the community.
TheForumcontinuestoworkcloselywiththeRBGtoprovideaspaceandfoodonaMondayfor the
community seeking advice through the borough's Welfare Right Project.
Duetofinancialconstraints,wedecidednottoholdanyofourfairsthisyearandhopetoresumein the
summer of 2026.
Financial & Future Sustainability:
Profit&Lossstatementsareproducedeachmonthandreceivedbythefinancecommitteeofthe board
reportingbi-monthlytotheTrusteestoensurethatthecharitiesincomeandexpenditureis accurately
tracked,risksarehighlighted,andwecanactinatimelymannertomitigatethoserisksmovingina positive
direction.
Theboardareconsciousthatthebuildingsareoldandupkeeptopartsofthebuildingishugely costly,
especiallythestoneworkontheoutsideofthemainbuilding,wecontinuetoassessthesafetyof the
stoneworkandinstigateremedialworkswhererequired.Weactpro-activelytotryandanticipateand plan
for the cost associated with that and revise and amend forecasts where necessary, as far as we are able.
The Forum's main income is generated from:
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
The Forum's financial accounts outline the various income streams and their value.
Summary:
The Future 2025/26
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 800 meals.
- The diabetes prevention programme is no longer being funded in this area.
- Holiday Food & Activities workshops for children are no longer being funded in this area.
- NXS OXLEAS: continues its programme of Hearing Voices every Friday afternoon in the Forum.
Events: We have had several large events taking place in the Forum over the year.
- NHS Doctors Convention
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Romanian Embassy Elections
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Local Council elections
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Local council consultation on proposed traffic planning
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MET Police community programme
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This year the Forum will support the Mental Health Awareness day for South East London Mind
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 5 main project areas we focus on:
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- Diversity and Equality
CommunityEngagement:Withastrongfocusoninclusivity,equalityanddiversity,theForum works
closelywithallorganisationsthatuseourspacestopromoteaninclusiveenvironmentwhendelivering their
activitiesandclasses.Beingabletoprovideaspacetodelivermeaningfulprojectsthatsitattheheartof the
community in the curren t climate is invaluable.
LicensedofficeSpaces:Ourleaserequiresthatweonlygrantlicencestocharitable organisations,
registered charities, Com munity Interest Companies and Social Enterprises.
Our current Licence holders are:
Aswithalloldbuildings,theForumwillalwaysfacethechallengesofmaintainingthestructure, internally
andexternally.Ourregularmaintenanceandrepairprogrammeaswellasannualriskassessments ensures
thatthebuildingsaresafeandsecure.Aspartofourprogrammethisyear,wecompletedmajorrepairs to
the
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External walls on the roof terrace.
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Replaced door fire strips,
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Installed LED lighting panels to most areas.
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Refurbished the first-floor kitchen
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Replaced floor threshold bars
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Ongoing decorating programme
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Replaced boilers in the Community Building
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Replaced and extended buggy park outside the Community Building
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2nd floor offices refurbished
-
Asbestos survey updated
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Fire and H&S risk assessments updated
-
Fire and security alarms updated to a total Wi-Fi system, eliminating the need for expensive Redcare lines.
-
Window canopies added to the Community building
-
Gutters, drains and hoppers cleared
-
Reception area redecorated
-
New buggy park added to M2C outside area
WithSELMindcomingtotheForumamajortransformation,lastingover3monthsofourSherardHall was
undertakentoprovide4counsellingrooms.IntotalMindarelicencing4spacesintheForummain building
andthe1hubspaceandgardenintheCommunitybuilding,alltheseareashaveundergone extensive
refurbishment.
Thecurrentcostoflivingcrisiscontinuestohaveaprofoundfiscalimpactonmanyofourusers. The
increaseinemployerNIandLondonLivingwageincreasehashadasignificantimpactofthe Forum's
finances.Asaresult,wehavehadtorethinkourpriceswhilststillofferingacompetitivepricefor our
customers and users.
TheEnergyCapwillbeincreasedbyafurther2%fromOctober2025.Thisagainwillputastrainon the
Charities financial resources.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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
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@Greenwichhasbeenoperatingforover40years.TheForum'skeyobjectiveistoprovide a
communitycentre,attheheartoftheEastGreenwichcommunity,onethatisaccessibletoall,offering a
wide range of services to meet the ever-expanding 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
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workplace.
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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, mental health and
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dementia.
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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 2025
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Significant activities
Significantactivities:TheForumcontinuestodeliveronitsseriesofprogrammeswhichfocuson the
following:
-BabiesandYoungChildren:TheForumactivelypromotespartnershipworkingandourcontinued work
withMum'sAidprovidesasafespaceinwhichtheycanholdtheirgroupsandconsultations.Thisspace is
offered to Mum's Aid at a reduced cost.
-YoungAdultsandFamilies:2024/25hasseenafurtherincreaseinnewfamiliesmovingintothe area;
theForumwillcontinuetolookatnewwaysinwhichtoadaptourservicesandactivitiestomeet the
growingneedasmanyfamiliesarehousedinhighriseapartments,withaccesstogreenspace limited,
especially, in the winter months.
-Partnershipbuilding,ElderlyandVolunteering:Wecontinuetohavestrongpartnershipswith Mum's
Aid.OxleasNHSadultmentalhealthgroups,RBGWelfareRightsHubandthelocalpensioners Forum.
Hatcliffe Trust and Mind.
-Volunteers:Wecurrentlyhave8volunteers,including6Trustees.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.
WeknowthattheForumisevenmorecrucialnowasthepopulationoftheareagrowsand the
ever-increasing cost of living and energy hits many local business and community facilities.
-Supportingvulnerablefamilies:KeepinginlinewithourVisionandMission,thisyearweare delighted
tocontinuebeinginvolvedwithprovidinglow-costmealsforpeoplevisitingtheWelfareRightsHub.To date
we have provided over 800 meals for vulnerable and at-risk adults.
MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS
This year our maintenance programme included:
-External walls on the roof terrace.
- Replaced door fire strips,
Installed LED lighting panels to most areas.
- Refurbished the first-floor kitchen
- Replaced boilers in the Community Building
Replaced and extended buggy park outside the Community Building
- 2nd floor offices refurbished
- Asbestos survey updated
- Fire and H&S risk assessments updated
Fire and security alarms updated to a total Wi-Fi system, eliminating the need for expensive Redcare lines.
- Window canopies added to the Community building
Gutters, drains and hoppers cleared
- Reception area redecorated
New buggy park added to M2C outside area
- Replaced door intumescent strips
- Repairs and maintenance to the tower to remove pigeons and seal the entrance
- Re-decorating where required
-Continueourprogrammeofreplacingandupgradingthelightinginthebuildingstolowemission LED
panels.
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Repairs and maintenance to all lifts
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Grounds maintenance
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Installed New digital part for the generator
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Lift repairs and maintenance
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Water tanks cleaned sanitised and renewed were required
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
COMMUNICATION AND ADVERTISING
Communication and Advertising are key to spreading the word about the work the Forum undertakes.
Wealsohaveadailypresenceonmostsocialmediaoutlets,Facebook,InstagramandtheCommunity page
oftheRoyalBoroughofGreenwichwebsite,https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/our website
www.forumatgreenwich.org,isupdatedregularlywithinformationandspecialeventsthateveryonecan get
involved with.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
Charitable activities
Tradingconditionsremainedslowduetotheenergycostsandthecostofliving.However,wecontinue to
promotethecentre,andwehaveseennewgroupsstarttouseourfacilities.Wewillcontinuetoinvest in
thefutureoftheCentre,providingnewandmuchneededactivities/servicesthatbestmeettheneedsof the
community.
STAFFING:
TheForumstaffteamismadeupof6fulltime&3parttimestaff.TheLondonLivingWagewas increased
to to £13.85 per hour in the year as well as the government increase to employer N.I.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Principal funding sources
Our 4-year funding grant from the Royal Borough of Greenwich continues until 2027.
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RBG Grant £17,500 per annum
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Hatcliffe Housing £3,600 to support elderly low impact training
Additionally,ourmanagementteamarecontinuallyapplyingforvariousgrantswheretheCharitymeets the
funding criteria.
Grants & Fundraising prediction 25/26
OutsidegrantswillbesoughtfornewactivitiestakingplaceintheForum.Currentlygrantfunding is
extremelyspecificaroundcertainprojects.Corefundingisgettinghardertoobtain.TheRBGGrowth Fund
(section106monies)wasnotavailablethisyear.TheForumdoesnottendtodeliverprojectsin house,
apart from our art and craft club.
TheForumisrunningatalmost100%occupancy;thisiswhereourcorerevenueisobtainedand supports
the charities core running costs and maintenance programmes.
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-termsickness,or maternity
leave. At present, the reserve fund is around £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 2025
FUTURE PLANS
TheCharityhasexcitingplansforthefutureoftheorganisation.Alongwithdeliveringourcentral function,
wewillcontinuetogrowandimproveourprojectsandenhanceourcollaborativeworkingwiththeRBG and
other charitable organisations as financial conditions allow.
WeareplanningtoworkcloselywithSouthEastLondonMindandsupporttheneedsoftheirservice users
where possible.
ManyofMind'sserviceusersknowtheForumverywellandareverymuchlookingforwardtousing the
facilities.
Allourworkpromotescommunitycohesion,equalitydiversity,socialinclusion.Wecentreonthe disabled,
thevulnerable,youngpeopleandfamiliesandcommunity,whilstbuildingstrongand meaningful
partnerships.
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 2025
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.Oversightandgovernanceofthecharity,includingcontrolandaccountabilitysystems.Annually reviewing
theskillsandexperiencerepresentedontheBoardconsideringtheForum'sstrategicdirection, and
approving Board composition, including electing Chair and vice-Chair.
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b. Appointing, determining the composition of, and setting the terms of reference for Board sub-committees.
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c. 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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d. Assuming responsibility for the Forum's governance practices.
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e. Ensuring that Trustees meet regularly.
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f. Setting and reviewing the terms of reference for the Board.
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g. Ensuring that members are consulted regularly as required by the Memorandum of Association, setting the agenda and preparing minutes.
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h. Appointing and removing the Chief Executive and establishing their remuneration package.
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i. Monitoring the performance of the Chief Executive.
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j. Contributing to and final approval of charities mission statement.
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k. Contributing to and final approval of the budget and business plan and associated performance objectives.
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l. Contributing to and final approval of the strategic plan and associated performance measures.
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m. Implementation of strategy and ensuring appropriate resources are available.
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n. Reviewing and ratifying policies for reserves, risk management and investment.
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o. Reviewing and ratifying leases and matters relating to property holdings.
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p. Monitoring risk management and internal compliance and control systems and assessments.
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q. Approving the authorisation structure applicable to capital expenditure and operational commitments.
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r. Approving and monitoring financial and other reporting.
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s. Setting pay policy, including bonus.
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t. Ensuring compliance with the Forum's Environmental, Health and Safety Policies.
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u. Appointment of bankers and auditors.
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v. Dealing with and settling legal claims.
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THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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.
There have been 2 changes changes to the Board of Trustees in this reporting period.
- Mr Peter Hewitt-Penfold (14.10.2024) Appointed
- Mrs C Vince (1st July 2024) retired
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.
Page 10
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Risk management
WithinTheForum@Greenwich,theBoardofTrusteeshasfullresponsibilityforensuringrisks are
addressed and the Risk Register is kept up to date.
TheBoardofTrusteeshasconductedreviewsofthemajorriskstowhichthecharityisexposed, and
systems have been established to mitigate those risks.
The Forum has adopted the Charity Commission's template for risk analysis assessment as laid out below
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Strategic - failure to create a deliverable strategic plan, failure to identify and respond to major external
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issues.
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Financial - fail to secure adequate income, fraud, fail to use resources effectively.
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Operational - injury to a beneficiary, project/activity delayed or not delivered, loss of premises.
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Reputational - damaging media coverage, unable to articulate a clear engaging message
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Legal/Compliance - significant breach of data protection, safeguarding failing, health & safety incident.
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Governance - lack of effective oversight, loss of key trustees, not managed effectively.
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IT - cyber-attack, virus, loss of systems or data and the growing AI risk.
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People - a toxic culture, loss of key people, unable to recruit adequate staff/volunteers, a serious HR
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issue.
Theseproceduresarereviewedannuallytoensuretheystillmeettheneedsofthecharity.Themain risks
continue to 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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Energy and Increased 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 reserves
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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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Significant increase in cost of living which can impact the use of the Forum by the community
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Revised legislation, for example, increased environmental requirements.
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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 11
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Trustees
T R B Anderson
M Theodosiou
N Barrington
J E D'Costa
D Bright
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
Page 12
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 2025.
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 13
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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
Charitable activities
Core activities
Total
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD |
Unrestricted
fund
£
21,097
12,978
-
418,928
8,298
461,301
48,681
396,212
444,893
16,408
97,644
114,052 |
Restricted
fund
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
24,481
24,481
(24,481)
1,109,556
1,085,075 |
2025
Total
funds
£
21,097
12,978
-
418,928
8,298
461,301
48,681
420,693
469,374
(8,073)
1,207,200
1,199,127 |
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 |
|
|
|
|
|
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 14
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
BALANCE SHEET
31 MARCH 2025
Notes
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
7
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
8
Cash at bank and in hand
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
9
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
10
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS |
Unrestricted
fund
£
18,699
27,302
111,282
138,584
(43,231)
95,353
114,052
114,052 |
Restricted
fund
£
1,085,075
-
-
-
-
-
1,085,075
1,085,075 |
2025
Total
funds
£
1,103,774
27,302
111,282
138,584
(43,231)
95,353
1,199,127
1,199,127
114,052
1,085,075
1,199,127 |
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 |
|
|
|
|
|
ThecharitablecompanyisentitledtoexemptionfromauditunderSection477oftheCompaniesAct 2006
for the year ended 31 March 2025.
Themembershavenotrequiredthecompanytoobtainanauditofitsfinancialstatementsforthe year
ended 31 March 2025 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 15
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
BALANCE SHEET - continued
31 MARCH 2025
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 16
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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 17
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
2.
OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
Fundraising events
3.
INVESTMENT INCOME
Rents received
Interest income
4.
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
Depreciation - owned assets
Hire of plant and machinery |
2025
£
-
2025
£
418,897
31
418,928
2025
£
31,008
928 |
2024
£
3,251
2024
£
357,244
- |
2024
£
3,251 |
|
|
357,244 |
|
|
|
2024
£
34,456
754 |
|
5. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
Therewerenotrustees'remunerationorotherbenefitsfortheyearended31March2025norfor the
year ended 31 March 2024.
Trustees' expenses
Therewerenotrustees'expensespaidfortheyearended31March2025norfortheyear ended
31 March 2024.
6. STAFF COSTS
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
Full time
Part time |
2025
6
5
11 |
2024
6
6 |
|
|
12 |
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.
continued...
Page 18
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
7. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COST
At 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025
DEPRECIATION
At 1 April 2024
Charge for year
At 31 March 2025
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024 |
Long
leasehold
£
2,045,526
952,128
20,661
972,789
1,072,737
1,093,398 |
Fixtures
and
fittings
£
390,442
350,359
10,021
360,380
30,062
40,083 |
Computer
equipment
£
10,898
9,597
326
9,923
975
1,301 |
Totals
£
2,446,866 |
|
|
|
|
1,312,084
31,008 |
|
|
|
|
1,343,092 |
|
|
|
|
1,103,774 |
|
|
|
|
1,134,782 |
TheTrusteesoftheForumundertookarevaluationofthepropertyleaseattheForum, Trafalgar
RoadLondonSE109EQwiththeleaseholdtenurenotedas99yearsfrom1December1986 in
respectofthecommunitybuilding,andaleasedated29February1996foraperiodof99years for
themainbuildingwiththevaluationcarriedoutbyYouensandCompanyLtd,Chartered Surveyors
andregisteredvaluers.Themarketvalueofthepropertywasnotedas£1.235millionasat31 March
2017andtakingintoaccounttheoverallposition,thetrusteesconsiderthedepreciatedvalueof the
long leasehold of £1.072 million as shown in the accounts to be stated at an appropriate level.
TheTrusteeshavedecidedthatbecausethisassetdoesnotrepresentanyformoffunds,assets or
cashwhichcanbeaccessedbytheForumforanypurpose,theywillnotundertakeaformal valuation
of the property ongoing.
TheTrusteeswishittobenotedthatofthetotalrestrictedfunds,£1.073million (2024
£1.093million)relatestothevaluationofthepropertyfromwhichtheForumoperates in
Greenwich.Theserestrictedfunds,therefore,donotrepresentanyformoffunds, assets
orcashwhichcanbeaccessedbytheForumforanypurpose.Theyrepresentpurely the
premises from which the Forum operates, and which cannot be disposed of.
8. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Trade debtors
Other debtors
VAT |
2025
£
24,610
-
2,692
27,302 |
2024
£
6,579
10,810
2,542 |
|
|
19,931 |
continued...
Page 19
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
9. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR |
|
|
Trade creditors
Payments received in advance
Other creditors
Net wages payable
Accrued expenses |
2025
£
8,820
-
118
328
33,965
43,231 |
2024
£
4,124
13,511
11,613
-
9,413 |
|
|
38,661 |
10. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
At 1.4.24
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
97,644
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
1,109,556
TOTAL FUNDS
1,207,200
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
Incoming
resources
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
461,301
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
-
TOTAL FUNDS
461,301 |
|
Net
movement
in funds
£
16,408
(24,481)
(8,073)
Resources
expended
£
(444,893)
(24,481)
(469,374) |
At
31.3.25
£
114,052
1,085,075
1,199,127
Movement
in funds
£
16,408
(24,481)
(8,073) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
continued...
Page 20
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
10. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for 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
Comparative 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
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is a
At 1.4.23
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
112,118
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
1,158,083
TOTAL FUNDS
1,270,201 |
|
|
|
continued...
Page 21
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
10. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Acurrentyear12monthsandprioryear12monthscombinednetmovementinfunds,includedin the
above are as follows:
Unrestricted funds
General fund
Restricted funds
Restricted Funds
TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming
resources
£
908,743
-
908,743 |
Resources
Movement
expended
in funds
£
£
(906,809)
1,934
(73,008)
(73,008)
(979,817)
(71,074) |
|
|
|
TheTrusteeswishittobenotedthatofthetotalrestrictedfunds,£1.072million(2024 £1.093
million)relatestothevaluationofthepropertyfromwhichtheForumoperatesinGreenwich. These
restrictedfunds,therefore,donotrepresentanyformoffunds,assetsorcashwhichcanbe accessed
bytheForumforanypurpose.TheyrepresentpurelythepremisesfromwhichtheForum operates,
and which cannot be disposed of.
11. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2025.
Page 22
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
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
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
Staff expenses including Explore and Grow
costs
Legal and professional
Carried forward |
2025
£
21,097
-
418,897
31
418,928
12,978
8,298
461,301
24,928
23,753
226,160
13,346
4,424
928
1,629
13,568
45,742
6,111
1,450
339
121
58,875
8,017
2,529
628
383,867 |
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
6,321
1,500
408,423 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 23
THE FORUM @ GREENWICH
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Charitable activities
Brought forward
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 |
2025
£
383,867
1,781
20,662
10,020
325
416,655
638
3,400
469,374
(8,073) |
2024
£
408,423
1,205
20,662
13,361
433
444,084
2,255
3,500
510,443
(63,001) |
|
|
|
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 24