JJ Annual Report 2024 concordla SUPPORTIN6 PEOPLR T.,¢ THRIVÉ
SUPPOR TING PEOPLE TO THRIVE Life Changing -5: Experiences Concordia offers opportunities, through cross-cultural placements, which enable and support people to change their lives. "Being a volLinteei' is the most beaLltifLII experieiice. YOLI get a chance to learn more new thincJs, to travel in different places aiid YOLI also discover what YOLI want to become iii life." Annual Raport 2024 (1st January to 31st Decernber 2024)
Contents Contents 04 Our year in numbers 06 About us 08 Foreword 10 Our impact in 2024 18 Looking ahead 20 . Effective organisation 24 Managing risk 28 Financial review 32 Report of the independent auditor 36 Financial statements 54 Charity information and governance 58 Our people 11 03
concordia Our year in numbers Pillar I: Volunteering 58 Our inGominglUK volunteer contrlbuted volunteers participated. 12.401 hours with an equlvalent value of UK projects available with 16 varlatlons of volunteering. 6668Q6686606e6e £128.769.08 based on the mlnlmum wage for thelr age bracket. National Cilizen Service Emotional wellbeing 390 18010 42010 272 young people participating. 495 placements. of partlclpants receSve free school meals. of participants had EHCPS (Education Health Care Plan). young people school8 220/0 41010 6010 Over the lifetime of this project from 2020- 2024 we supported a total of of participants identified as having SEND (special educatlonal needs and disabilities). of participants did not identrfy as White British. of participants were young carers. 1086 young people. Annual Report 2024
Our year in numbers Pillar 2: Agricultural Work Placements 7633 Total enquiries seasonal workers. 12,310 of respondents would work on a UK farm again for seasonal work. of which 6555 were from applicants and 5755 were from participants (figures 19 February 2024 24 December 2024 ie not a full yearl. 980/0 confirm8d to the Concordia survey that their lob was as described. countr5es were recrulted from: the main nationalities were Tajiklstan, Kazakhstan and Moldovan. We also recruit&d from.. A2erbaijan; Bulgaria; Kyrgyzstan (Concordia returnees}; Macedonia; Romania. South Africa. Ukraine: Uzbekistan (Concordia returnees). Over 120 98010 farms and growers: confirmed that th8y would work for their sponsor again. Concordia registered recruiting agents. ' SWS end of Season Worker Survey 2024 Organisation 22 8353 Total income Total spent full time equivalent employees. total individuals supported across all our projects and services. £2.772.622 £2,735.760 05
concordia About us "one. of the activities in the final session is for the young people to open an envelope which contains the goal they had set themselves to achi8ve from the sessions. When B opened hers and read her goal, I noticed she . looked quite tearful. I went to ask her what was wrong. and she said she couldn't believe how differently she felt now compared to the start of the programme. She said her goal had been to believe in herself more. She said she felt so much more confident. and self- assured in herself now." Annual Report 2024
About us Concordia is a UK charity that offers lrfe-changing opportunltles for people to build new skllls. prosperlty and communlty, through work placements and volunteering. Our programmes bring people from different countries together, to experience new places and cultures, support them to achieve their goals and broaden what is possible in their lives. Between 1943-2023, Concordia supported an estlmated three-quarters of a million people to tak8 part in activities and projects that support communiti8S both in the UK and across the globe. Whether bringing P80ple from overseas to the UK. or sending UK citizens abroad, we aim to provide lrfe-changing opportunities. Concordia glves people the chance to travel with purpose, making a positive impact in the community where they are working or voluntéerlng, and bringing a posltlve impact Into thelr own Ilves and thelr home countrlas. Today, we continue to place international workérs on UK farms to carry out a rango of seasonal work, as w811 as helping to bring in harvests and feed the natlon whlle 8nabling prosperity for the communities of workers back home. We also facilitate volunteer placements, for indivlduals and groups, speclallslng In Intemational and cross-cultural exchange. Concordia passionately believes that these cross-cultural experiences enable people to enrlch thelr Ilves, create posltlve Impacts for others and ultimately contribute to a more understanding, peaceful world. That's why we make our programmes accessible to as many people as we can. In an IrJcr8asingly polarised world, Concordia's work to bring the world together and break down the Inequalltles that dlvide us is a8 relevant as ever. Vision: A world of opportunity, prosperity and peace. '&•. Mission: We provide tailored placements to bridge divides and increase cross-cultural understanding. Values: We are kind and courageous. We focus on individual and international impact. 07
concordla Foreword Awt 2024
Foreword The past year marfced a plvotal period for Concordia. Alongside our hlgh-quality support and provlslon to over 8000 beneficiarles. substantial organisational transformation work was carried out and a new three year strategic Pn created. The key aspects of OLir new plan are: There are many individuals and organisations we could thank for our success in 2024. including for example our government sponsors. our intemational volunteering partners, our recruiting agents, our external consultants and the NCS Trust. Our biggest thanks goes to all of the Concordia staff team, without whose hard work, skllls and commitment none of this would have been possible. The transfomiation of our approach to internatlonal volunt88ring; creating a scholarship fund for under- served people to participate; as well as an alumni programme Continu8d commltment to the dellvery of continued high standards for the Seasonal Workers Scheme, placlng over 7000 Indlvlduals a year In agricultural farm work The research. development, piloting and creatlon of a third and new area of servic8 d81iv8ry Detailed research to understand the needs and r8aliti8s of service-users Developing a clear marketing, communicatlons and digital strategy Ensuring we maintain an effective and supported staff team, retaining Investors in People silver accreditation and ensurlng our Board d8velops and learns, alongside their legal and strategic accowtability for the organisation Our work to ensure a positive workplace culture has contlnued. We have created new values: kindness, courage and impact, and we are commltted to speak-up culture where employees, trustees, benefiFiaries and partlcipants all are able to speak up and be supported. During 2024 trustees and staff w8re shocked and saddened to leam of the sudden death of our prevlous CEO, Simon Bowyer. Slmon will be sorely mlssed. We extend our condolences. and those of everyone at Concordia. to his family, colleagues and friends. We are proud of our continued achievements in delivering our key government contracts for the S8asonal Workers Scheme in 2024. enabling us to place individuals on farms In the UK. The govemment have announced a five year commitment to the scheme. creating certainty for Concordia and the horticultural industry. We continue to be a member of the Seasonal Worker Scheme Taskforca, contrlbutlng to collaboratlon, best practice and high quallty communication with govemment, growers. operators, NGOS and retailers. Victoria Lawrence Chief Executive Stuart PicGaver Interim Chalr Durina 2024 the government announced the ending of th• National Citizenship Scheme which Concordia ha5 been proud to dellver since 2016. Due to budgetary challenges at the start of the year, the Board made the difficult decision to end the Emotional Wellbeing Programme {EWP) for local young people. a well- received post-pand8mic r8sponse when Concordia was wnning a surplus. EWP was 100% dependent on Concordia funding and despite efforts during earlier years sourc1ng was not sustainabl8. 09
concordia Our impact in 2024 ua 2024
Our impact in 2024 Pillar I Concordia's Intemational Volunteering programme UK Volunteering Invlting International volunteers to volunteerlng projects in the UK. Concordla Is a member of two International volunt8er networks, the Alliance of European Voluntary Servlce Organisations and the Coordinating Committee for Intemational Voluntary Service Organisations ICCIVS). worklng In partnership with more than 60 organlsations all over the world. • Concordia had 9 UK projects available with 16 variations of volunteering. Th8ra was a mix of social and environmental voluntsering including: Festivals, Farms, Charities, SEND Care Communltles, Wildlife and Activity Centres. 47 volunteers particlpatad r8presenting 14 different countries primarlly from Europe. Our largest range of inGoming volunteers is ag8 16-19 (62.5% of participants). Outgoing volunteering was most popular during this year wlth ages 30+145% of particlpantsl The data that we have demonstrates all Intematlonal volunteers gain In confldence, cultural awareness, n8W skills and independence. Some feedback from the UK project ¥olunteers includes: "Since w8 ware mo8tty among Intemational volunteers, we were able to get to know a lot of the other cultures among us.. "An unforgettable experfenoe and 8omethlng everyone sIul do." "Alwaus learn to be a leam player and belng generous wlll take you to great plac88 and make you meet wonderful people In Ilfe." In temis of gainlng n8w skills and having a life changing exparl8nce Raphael is an excellent example. Havlng volunteered previously. Raphael volunteered wlth Concordia in 2024 at Camphlll a small live-in care facility for disabled adults in Scotland. He has been there almost a year now. In a recent conversation he was delighted to tell us he has been offered a permanent paid role and VISA sponsorship with Camphill. His joumey will continue beyond Concordia and he admits that having been quite lost. he has found his calling. "It was a great time In which I leamed a lot for myself. Not only am I now confident in speaking English. I have also met new frlends wllh whom I hope to stay in touch. l aso really Ilke the openness and charity that I received in Ihe camp." 11
concordia "It was all fantastic. All was perfect. I will take with me all the kindness, the generosity of these people." International Volunteering Programme International Development student Sending UK volunteers to our international partnerg projects, Ellena-oldfield Edwards completed a detailed research project for Concordia in relation to internatlonal volunteerlng as a placement from Sussex Univ8rsity. There were 11 outgoing volunt88rs in 2024 The projects were in Iceland, France, Germany, Italy and Japan All volunteering involved cultural and environmental themes Our largest range of outgoing volunteers were aged 30+ (45% of participants) National Citizen Service (NCS) in Sussex Concordia has deliv8red National Cbtlzen Service INCSI for since 2016. NCS is an experience available to all 15-17 year-olds in England to encourage young people to become more active in their local communities and develop their skills. In November 2024 we received the announcement from the government that NCS will not continue beyond March 2025. This coincides with Concordla's new strategy moving away from youth work delivered directly in the local area. "Getting to help contrfbute to Improvlng some of Ihe locals, lives has baen a roally fumlllng experlence." Group Volunteering programme A bespoke intèrnational volunteering programme for students and uniforrned groups to volunteer abroad. Facilitating groups of 12 to 20 participants with Concordia acting as liaison between the group and the overseas volunteering project. There wer8 no outgoing groups in 2024- three are planned in 2025. Annual Report 2024
Our impact In 2024 4L 13
concordia National Citizen Service (NCS) Achievements Our 11-week programme was designed to be delivered during school hours by our 8xperienced Emotional Wellbeing Programme Facilitators, slotting easily into the school day. Our sessions were fun. informal, and creatlV8- giving young p&opl& th8 space and scope to explore topics in a safe and supportive environment. Each year 90% of our pre- & post- evaluation stat8m8nts register8d a positlV8 chang8, demonstrating the impact on the young people attending the programme. We had 390 young people (YPS) participating 70 YPS had received free school meals This is equivalent to 18% of participants 165 YPS had EHCPS (Educatlon Health Care Plan) This is equivalent to 42% of participants In comparison. 31.5% of young people in West Sussex schools have EHCPS 14% of young people in East Sussex schools have EHCPS During 2024 our programme helped young people understand their emotions, build an emotional toolkit, grow th8ir self-est88m and fost8r healthy relationships. This succ8ssful programm8 was implemented as a time-limited post-COVID response and we made tha difficult declslon to brlng It to an end In early 2024. 85 YPS Identlfled as havlng SEND {Speclal Education81 Needs and Disabilities) This is equivalent to 22% of participants 162 YPS identified as being part of the Global Majorlty • This is equivalent to 41% of participants who did not identify as White British Over the Ilfetime of this prolect from 2020 - 2024 we supported a total of 1086 young people. 2024: 272 young people In 4 schools 2023: 334 young people In 5 schools 2022: 255 young people 2021: 200 young people in 2 8chool8 2020: 25 young people 25 YPS were young carers This i? equivalent to 6% of participant5 8 YPS were care experlenced • This is equivalent to 2% of participants "I felt sate to talk about mu teellngs and un- ILKlged." IIThe Concordla Youth Action sessions were really fun. l enloyed making frlends and Trying naw challenges. I have leamed a lot and have galned more confldence. Thank uou tor maklng thls an experfence I wlll never forgeti." "I have made many changes In mu Ilfe and I have learnt to be muself In these sesslons." Emotional wellbeing programmes IIThank you tor another wonderful year of worklng together. On behalf of the school and myself we really appreciate the work that goes In to facilltate these sessions. always going above and beyondT I know the parents are equallu as grateful especially when they can see Ihe positive influence you have on ffieir children." We have been proud to work in partnership with schools in th@ Sussex area from 2020 to 2024 to support the wellbeing of young people aged 11-14 with our free service. This was partly made possible through surplus generated from the Seasonal Workers Scheme. Annual Report 2024
Our impact in 2024 Pillar 2 Seasonal workers programrriè During 2024 Concordia continued to provide ethical work placements on UK farms to foreign nationals. Mushrooms Bulbs and cut flowers, grown outdoors and Indoors Pot plants and bedding plants Hardy ornamental nursery stock (Chrlstmas trees. shrubs) Tree and forest nur8&rlas The Seasonal Worker Scheme {SWS) is a UK government programme that enables British farmers to recrult workers from abroad vla licansed scheme operators. Concordia Is a Ilcensed scheme operator, whlch means that we can sponsor work8rs' Seasonal Work visas. We are the only operator which is a charity and any surplus wa make from the scheme directly supports our oth8r charitable activlties. SWS recruits participants for work in the horticultural sector, which, Defra, the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affalrs, states thls conslsts of: Most seasonal work In the edlble-horticulture sector is in the fruit Sector (55%) and the veg8tab181salad sector (25%}. Work18 usually manual and unskllled. No experienc8 is necessary and training is provided. The types of work on offer Include: General work In edible and omamental horticulture Crop malntenance, harvestingi husbandry • Tunnel construction and dismantllng Irrlgation Installation/maintalnlng Packing and processing of crops Preparing and dlsrnantllng growlng areas Supervlsing horticultural workers Protected vegetables (glasshou88 production) Fleld vegetables Ilncludlng herbs, leafy salads, and potatoes) Soft fruits (outdoor and covered) Top fcuits Vlnes and blnes (hop8 and grapes) "I worked hard on the farm for six "months and earned good money to support my family financially. Many 4 thanks to Concordia Charity Organization for everything." 15
concordia "We really enjoyed working on this farm and I have improved my financial situation thanks to your support" Concordia connects British farms with international job seekers looking for work in the horticultural sector. We work with nlne Concordla audlted and registered agrlcultural recruitment speciallsts, all of whom havg a GLAA licence. Our staff team assist successful appllcants wlth their pre-departure preparatlons and offer practical and welfare support to workers durlng their time in the UK. Our aim is to ensure that both our farms and the participants have a positive experience. We also have clear contractual agr8ements with the Home Office to ensure that all workers return home at the end of th8ir stay. Every year we support many individuals to return from thèir home country for another season. Concordia woths closely with the National Farmers Union {NFU}, GLAA, Home Office and Defra. The Operatlons DSrector is a m8mb8r of the Seasonal Worker Scheme Taskforce and sits on the Govemance Group as well as a number of other working groups. Concordla has a dedlcat8d w8lfar8 SUPPOrt team which offers support when needed to all Concordla sponsored workers, Concordia has a pastoral fund available to assist workers in emergencies. Concordia has a designated Anti Modern Slavery lead. Worker5 placed by Concordia pay no fees to Concordia nor to its ag8nts. Concordia has worked with UK growers since 1943. and this experience has provided us with unrivalled knowledge of seasonal horticulture work placements. Every year we audit all farms that we place workers in, to ensure high standards of wèlfare, accommodation, management and support. In 2024 we supported 7633 people, enabling them to come to the UK to work on over 120 farms to earn an income. gain experience and learn skills. We carried out audits on all farms to ensure that welfare and working standards all meet our requirernents. We also carri8d out audits with our 9 overseas recruiting agents. Annual Report 2024
Our impact in 2024 Information and enqLiiries were from applicants requesting work and 5755 were from participants. Two themes from participants were information on how to return to the UK for work (15951 and accessing healthcare or insurance (458). We work pro-actively and closely with our recruiting agents to ensure prospective workers and all individuals who are recruited réc8ive up-to-date inforTnation on a wide range of matters. This is prior to their travel to the UK, on arrival and on- farm. Information includes pay, nature of work and hour5, accommodation, travel, healthcare, d8parture expectations and how to raise an issue or grievance. We ensure that all docum8ntation is translated into relevant languag8s- and we have a retained translation servic8. At the start of the year the rnajority of emails rec8iv&d were from participants outside of the UK. From the end of May, thi5 changed and we r8ceiv8d more emails from participants inside the UK. We have recorded statistics on a few key themes. as d8tailed below. Not ever enquiry fit into a recorded category. Wa also work re-actively, responding to enquiries and issues from workers in the UK during thair employment {whilst we are not the employer, this is the farml. Participants contact us for advice, support and informatlon on a wide variety of matters which could Include welfare support, work-related concerns or health matters. Our active support Includes resolving potential issues on farms, ensuring necessary improvement to accommodation, providing support completing fornis and arranging transfer5 where this is logistically possible. Key themes from participants InUK Oulslde UK Information on how to return to UK General Advice 1047 On 19th February 2024, we started logging the number of enqulries we receive. 88tW8en 19th February 2024 and 24th Dec&mber 2024 our partlcSpant support team rasponded to a total of 12310 enquiries, of which 6555 Transfers Accessing Healthcare/ Insurance The main countrles we sponsored workers from in 2024 were Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Moldova. W8 also recruited from.. Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Kyrgyzstan (Concordia returnees). Macedonia. Romania, South Africa, Ukraine and Uzbekistan (Concordia returnees). "The season was very, very good. the farin is great. everuone is friendly. everyone helps each other, it is nice lo work with SLlCh. people. Thank YOLI very much for everything." Our participani surveu Results showed that 98Yo of respondents confirmed ihey had access to clean toilets and showers; 96¥0 confirmed their accommodation was clean on arrival. go % knew how to request a transfer and 98% confirmed their job was as described. W8 met or exceeded all our Home Office required metric5 in 2024. 17
concordia Looking ahead Our new strategic plan Annual Report 2024
Looking ahead Over the next three years 2025-2027. concordia aims to transform our worf( to reach more people, have greater impact. communicate our best practice approach and build a strong and sustainable income base. Understanding and addressing the opportunities and challenges created by radical and fast paced changes in technology will be crucial to our success. The people we support The people we support are central to everythlng we do. In the next three years, we wlll: 4. Develop new strategic partnershlps wlth govemment, educatlon, and charlty sectors to drlve Increased Impact and opportunltles. S. A scholarship programme for under- served communities. 6. An alumni programme to champion our work. 7. Skills-ba88d volunteering for professional development. l. Carry out detailed research to understand the needs and realities of service-users. the findings from which will refin8 our current programm8s and lead to new programmes tailored to reach broader and more diverse audiences. 2. Secure funding for initiatives that broaden and deepen our Impact, Including skllls development and accessibility efforts. 3. Act as the volce for our particlpants. workers and volunteers, speaking up when they cannot and representing their interests in industry and oovernment. Pillar two: Agricultural work Placements Achieve 20.000+ agricultural placements over thr88 years. 2. Enhance th8 placement experlence With skills and language support. 3. Challenge negative stereotyp&s about Seasonal workers. 4. Continue to work effectlvely and ensure best practice with growers. 6. Deliver training for grow&rs on ethical practlcas. communication and conflict r8solutlon. 6. Continue to maintain the hlghest standards of ethical and safe recruitment. During 2024 we carrled out some Inltial r8S8arch for us. using consultants Wayforward. There was a clear consistancy in the most important motivations for users to particlpate in Concordia plac8ments, for both seasonal workers and volunt88rs. The general perception of Concordia was overwhelmingly positive with servic8 users talking about interactions with the staff in very warm tarms, and holding the capability of the organisation in very high regards. Pillar one: Volunteering Pillar three: Our future pillar Concordia aspires to transform and incr8as8 its volunteering offer, establishing itself as a premi8r international volunteering organisation. Aims include: To reduce reliance on existing pillars and diversify income, Concordia plans to introduce a third pillar. To achieve this. we are investigating opportunities and assessing new ideas that align with our mission and expertise. We will design, fund and test 3 new pilot projects with potential for long-term investment. Fleview and transform the volunteering model. 2. Increase the overall number of volunteers to 1000+ per year. 3. Expand bespoke grouii trips to 100+ per year. 19
concordia Effective organisation Annual Report 2024
Effective organisation staff team staff training Concordia has a small staff team relative to our large impact, with 22 staff, who run the organisation, place and support partlcipants, monitor aTivals and departures, work with and support growers, design and deliver services to young people, place volunteers. lead group5, collate data and feedback. report to Defra and the Home Office and also audit famis and recrultlng agents. During 2024 we put in place training in a number of areas for staff including Equality, Diversity. Inclusion as well as digital transformation, wellbeing, H8alth and Safety manag8m8nt, resilience and confidence" good governance and leadership. We have undertaken significant organisational improvements, including putting in place retalners with extemal HR and H&S firms, to support US to replac8 policies and procedures and ensure good practlce. Concordla conducts an annual staff surv8y to Inform our future actions. This survey demonstrates a hlgh level of trust and confldènce by the staff in the organisation and the senior team. The most recent survey response in DeGembor 2024 shows that staff.. The Board approved a new lease to take on the ground floor premises at our office location in Portslade, In order to enable physical acc8ssiblllty, additional office space and a larger meetlng room for board meetings and training. 100% feel valued 100% are proud of what we achleve for our growers. particlpants, volunteers and young people 100% believe they have the rlght skllls and knowl8dg8 to perform their role with confidence 100% feel that their job responsibilities and oblectlves arg clear 100% belleve that Concordia car8s about th8 wollbeing of its employees 95% are proud to work for Concordla 90% would recommend Concordla as a great place to work staff wellbeing The w8llb8ing of staff is crucial to Concordia. During 2024 the board approved one day a year for all staff to take as a wellbelng day, or to US8 for extemal volunteering. We established a staff wellbeing group and reviewed our Employ80 Asslstance programme. We trained a new Mental Health First Alder, who has gone on to study counselling. We ran a series of six sessions with trainer Melody Cheal on w8llb8ing and resili8nc8. Concordia retained its Investors In People accredltatlon and was awarded Sllver level accreditation in early 2023. The accreditation was reviewed early in 2025. with a staff surv8y and Intorvlews, leading to Concordla retalnlng our Sllver level accreditatlon. .1 feel safe with concordia." INVESTORS IN PEOPLE. We invest in people silver 21
concordia staff remuneration Equality Diversity and Inclusion Staff remuneration is based on the Local Government NJC pay scales, wid8ly us8d in the voluntary sector. Our retsined HR advisors- Aspiring HR- undèrtook a salary benchmarking exercise on our behalf during 2024 to ensure staff are paid at the correct level. They ar8 reviewing our pay policy and approach with us during 2025, Concordia aims to be a welcoming, inclusive and diverse organisation where everyone can be thems81v8s. W8 know that a focus on equality diversity and inclusion will help Concordia be more effective and have greater impact. W8 have 8Stablished an EDI wort<ing group including a lead trustee, the CEO and staff. In 2024 we commissioned training and in 2025 we wlll work wlth an extarnal axpert to ensure our language Is clear, our pollcles dellver and our leadershlp and recruitment Is transparent. Extemal agencies. consultants and sessional facilitators As w8 have a small staff team. In order to ensure hlgh quality delivery, w8 rely on external agencies as well as temporary staff. These include: Digital transformation We hav8 made great progress to improve digitai skills, tools and services across th8 organisation. These are prioritised by user need and to support the delivery of our organisational strategic aims. Sessional youth workers and facilitators Temporary clerical staff Retalners and external advice: HR- Aspiring HR. H&S- Enigma H&S; safeguarding- Rachel Batten., legal matters - Bates Wells, Mayowynne Baxter. Shakespeare Martineau. PR - Susan Blackburn; dlgltal marketing - Sarah Rughoonundon., buslness development, strategy & communlcatlon8- Wayforward,. governance and strategy- Felicia Willow. EDI- Atiya Gourlay, D8rak Hooper- IT support Smartd8sc and Weald IT. invastment management- CCLA. Internally we track our digital maturlty uslng th8 NCVO digital maturlty framework to help guide our work and identify gaps. We encourag8 Staff to explor8 different digital tools to help them with efficiency in our work, as well as plannlng further digital training in 2025 to support staff skills, dev81opment. We have been a full cloud based organisation since 2022 and Continue to work on IT infrastructure8 to enable efficiency. Wa have introduced a new CRM for our international volunteering programm8 which has dramatically improved how we manage and record user voluntaar data. The CEO Is a member of the Assoclatlon for Chi8f Executives of Voluntary Organisations and th18 natlonal charlty provldes a range of support, trainlng and advice on different matters. Extemally, we will be conducting a comprehensive user research programme as part of a discovery phase and development of a new website for Concordia which will be launched in 2025. The new website will provide dramatically improved content, user journey, user experience an intuitive inlerface and a strong digital brand. We've also been developing our social media strategy and content planning to improve our social media presence and brand awareness. We also plan to introduce an Al policy to help us explore and identify opportunities for using Al across the organisation. Annual Report 2024
,Éffectlve orgaoisatiQTI," What is ethical worf(ing For Concordia ethical worklng Includes: Transparent and fair terms and conditions Clear. falr and well-monitored pay A safe working and living environment Clear communication and two-way feedback in a prof8sslonal environment. even if about a complaint or difficult subject. Diversity We know that reflecting diversity provides opportuniti8s for a range of indlviduals and communltles. Concordia is a diverse charity, working in places and with people that benefit from our different programmes. We are working to stop exclusion by belng dlverse In ethnicity, race and economic background, in Concordia beneficlaries, staff and truste8S. Equality statement Wa know that structural dlscrlmlnatlon exlst8 In the recrultment of paid workers and volunteers In accessing agricultural and volunteering opportunities. Some groups ar8 fully or partially blocked from partlclpatlng, encounter exploitation and are restricted by flnanclal barrlers. Concordia make our opportunities safe and accessible through our charitable actlons. "Being a volunteer is the most beautiful experience. You get a chance to learn more new things. to travel in drfferent places and you also discover what you want to become in life." 23
concordia Managing risk concor(Yio Arinual Repo 20
Managing risk The Board of Trustees review the major risks which may impact on Concordia on a regular basis and are satisfied that the system of Intemal control currently In place is sound and effective. whilst recognising that it is designed to manage rather than eliminate risk. This year the Board and staff have wcx*ed to improve and refine our risk reglster ensuring it is clear. Infomiative and regularfy reviewed by Flnance Committee and Board. Health and Safety Complaints During 2024 a comprehensive extemal audit of Concordia's current H&S PoThcy and associat8d procedures and practice was commissioned and the findings overseen by tha Board. A new H&S Policy was drawn up and approved. A retainer with external firm Enigma H&S was put in place, to support the staff learn to update procedures and to ensure an appointed person Is In place. Tralnlng has been undertaken and also planned for 2025. The participants complaints process is translated for all workers. It is given to them by the Concordia recruiting agent prior to arrival and is availabl8 on th8ir Concordia Central account. It is a threa step proc8SS. There Is an internal document for stsff whlch mirrors this, setting out responsibilities. In 2023 we dldn't differentlate dlssatlsfactlon and complalnts and we recelved 141 In total, primarily regarding accommodation and secondly regarding supervisors. 11 wer8 about hours and 6 about pay all were looked into and resolved. safeguarding and Child Protection Of the 8353 individuals we supported in 2024, we received 50 complaints and 29 dissatisfactions, relating to accommodation, working conditions, pay and supervlsors. Many of these were resolved quickly. Concordia has a comprehenslve safeguarding and child protectlon pollcy, which alongside disclosure and barring services IDBSI checks and other employment checks, acts as an important preventative measure for ensuring children and adults at risk are safe when interacting with the Trust. In 2025 we wlll: Improve reporting of worker resolutions and outcomes will be introduc8d. Share positives stories to growers. Utilising the monthly Grower calls to improve practices and worker welfare. Review and update the complaints policy. Due to the departure of the Deslgnated Safeguarding Lead and the government declsion to end the National Citizen Service contracts. at th8 end of 2024 an external r8view of safeguarding was commissioned by the CEO. The CEO is cijrrently the Designated Safeguarding Lead, working with the Designated Safeguarding Officers for Adults and Young People, as well as the Trustee S-feguarding Lead. A retainer is in place with Rachel Batten for advice and support, who carTied out the external review. Data protection Compliance with data protection legislation is a priority for Concordia. There were no notifiable breaches during the year. Data protection is overseen by the Data Protection Lead. During 2024 we carried out a comprehensive review of cyber s8curity and gained our Cyber essentials certificate. A participant welfare team Is in place supporting with a vast range of matters pre-departure and on-farm. Trainirig for the staff t&am in adult safeguarding took plac8 in 2024. 25
concordia Managing 8trateglc rfsks Proactiv8 risk management allows us to anticipate and respond to chall8nges in our complex operating environment. Robust risk management 8nables us tt) make informed decisions and take calculated risks. Risk across th8 organlsation are managed by the Senior Management Team and overseen by Trustees. We have a comprehensive risk reglster that Is updated and revi8W8d regularly. "I would like to express my deep gratitude. Thank you for helping with the paperwork and thank you to concordia for giving me this opportunity to work in England. I can't wait for the next season." The prlnciple risks ar8 those which. wlthout effective mitigation would severely impact our work. our reputation or our ability to achieve our ambitions. The principle risks and their mitigations are summarised below: A principal risk Is the future of th8 Seasonal Worker5 Scheme, which is currently confirmed until 2029. We recognise that future financial perfomiance and organisational sustainability is dependent on our ability to rnitigate potential impacts or explore newer sources of Income. Annual Report 2024
Managing risk Rlsk Mltlgallon Geopolitical risk5 and wars impact on ability to recruit and place participants and volunteers safely Building relationships with existing and potential recruiting agents Monitoring global situation Adhering to UK and overseas government advice and instruction Poor experience by participant eg Modern Slavery, significant accident, safeguarding. welfare issue Modern Slavery Policy in place and reviewed in 2024 Safeguarding policy & team in place, external review undertaken in 2024 and consultant support in place Multiple routes in place to raise an issue or grievance Effective communication channels in place with Concordla staff, farm and agents Designated participant welfare support team In place at Concordia. Field Compliance Off icers carry out robust audits of farms Continuous improvement made in relation to participant survey results (Defra, Concordia, Taskforce). All recruiting agents have GLAA licences. active checking of GLAA licences online,. agents audited for compliance Scrupulous in ensuring and publicising that no fees are charged to participants Change of Government regulatlons I pollcy Monitor any changes in government policy Continue collaboration with government department and policy maker5. SWS Programme confirmed 2025-2029 Rapid decision making and management action required where necessary Increased flnancial challenges for growers Be alive to the possibility of flnancial challenges for grow8rs Work with NFU to understand range of farm pressures IOnthlY grower calls to share information and concerns Negative reporting of Seasonal Workers Scheme leads to reputational damage Risks managed and media regularly checked for stories Respond to media queries in a managed way All Internal controls and polices in place and updated Crisis Communications Plan drawn up and media training undertaken Dependènce on ainglg income stream Seasonal Workers Scheme Consolidate Seasonal Worker Scheme in 2025 to ensure renewal of contract Review strategy and explore OLiler incorqe Streams Reduce costs wherever possible. and reorganise Concordia as required Strategy 2025-27 in place 2024 recorded positive financial results Significant failure of IT S,/stem Concordia rJentral External contractor in place for improvements and maintenance 27
cnDB.nrdia SUPPORTING PEOPLE TO THRIVE Financial review Total income Total spent £2.586.765 £2.724,480 2023 24 2023 Annual Report 2024
Financial review The Trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024. The financial statements have been prepared In accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charitable company's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006, and 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommend8d Practic8 applicable to charities pr8paring their accounts in accordance with th8 Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and R8public of Ireland (FRS 102) {effective 1 January 2019)" critical teGhnological infrastructure upgrades and subsidisation of Pillar 1 activity and low risks of legal action costs or unforeseen liabilit188. The new policy is for £1.250.000 to be the minimum Reserves Policy. building on the base requirement to retain adequate funds to cover a 6-month orderly wind-down. Sums In excess of the Reserve policy would be available for future investment. The Board of Trusteeg, belng also the Board of Directors, confims that it has had due regard to the public benefit guidance published by th8 Charity Commission. At year end the total funds held were E2,112,776 (2023: £2,027,306) and of this the Free Reserve was £1,964.23312023: £1,837,852). Investment Policy Results Concordia's investment policy acknowledges the fast- changing global environment and takes a pragmatic approach, dir8Cting 8xcess funds towards assets that will satisfy four principal objectives.. Total incoming resourc8s for the y8ar were £2,772,622 {2023: £2,586,765). The net surplus for the year was £85,47012023- net deficit of £119.726), including a galn on inv8stm8nts of £48,608 (2023: £17,989). Principal fundlng was from fee income and funding through the NCS contract, enabling the support and provlsion of opportunltles to volunteer and work in areas that fulfil Concordia's objectlves. The financial results are set out in the statements below. l. Enable income and capital preservatlon, in the near-term and medium-term. 2. Enable income and capital growth, In th8 long-tem. 3. Act as enhanced reserve supplement by providing a liquidity and cash-flow buffer; with excess cash raservas automatlcally reinvested to generate superlor returns. and 4. Minlmise key flnanclal risk - market, liquidity, tax. valuation and concentration risk via diversification and active monltorlng. Funds & General Reserve policy During 2024 the Board reviewed its approach to financial reserves. Determining the level of unrestricted reserves required. assessment of a number of possible scenarios and a judgement about which may occur together in one financial year. Investment management activities are delegated to the Finance Committae. No direct investments are to be made in entities in embargoed or sanctioned countries, per the government's website. The policy Is reviewed annually. The Board has decided that Concordia should hold freely available financial reserves sufficient to wind up the charity at a minimum. with an estimated 6 months operating costs. In addition. the charlty needs to be able to cover predictable and high risk annual Seasonal fluctuations in cash flow and expenditure shortfalls. Furthemior8, th@re are medium risks of Concordia's investm8nt funds are managed by CCLA. 29
concordia Legal and Administrative Information Trustee8 Mr S Piccaver Mr D Pullen Ms E Aiku Ms C Dean Mr D James Ms F Lambert Ms K Chakarova Mr M Thompson Mr M Tudge Ms A Bond . {R8signed 31 July 2025) {Appolnted 2 December 2024) {Appointed 13 November 20241 (Appoint8d 13 Nov8mb8r 20241 Chlef Execullve Ms V Lawrence senlor Managem8nt Team H8ad of Finance & IT Head of Operations Mr l Hamer Ms K Goode Charltu number 305991 Companu name Concordia IUKI Company number 00381668 Prlnclppl address 19 North Street Portslade East Sussex BN41 10H Regl8ter8d offlo8 19 North Street Portslade East Sussex BN41 10H Audltor TC Group One Bell Lane Lewes East Sussex BN7 1JU Bankers Metro Bank PLC One Southampton Row London WC1B SHA sollcitors Mayo WDe Bats LLP Shakespeare 44-46 Old Steine Martineau LLP Brighton No 1 Colmore Square East Sussex Birmingham BN1 1NH United Kingdom 134 6AA Bates Wells 10 Queen Street Place London EC4FI 1BE Annual Report 2024
Financial review statement of Trustees, Responsibilities For the year ended 31 December 2024 The Trustees. who are also the directors of Concordia (UK) for the purpose of company law. are rasponsible for preparing the Truste8s' ReFX)rt and the financlal statements In accordance wlth applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (Unlted Kingdom Generally ACpted Accountlng Practlce). The Trustees are responslble for keeplng adequats accounting records that dlsclose with reasonabl8 accuracy at any tlme the financlal position of the charltable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taklng reasonable steps for the prevention and detectlon of fraud and other Irregularltles. Company Law requires the Trustsas to prepare flnanclal statemants for each financlal y8ar whlch glve a true and falr view of th8 state of affalrs of the charftable company and of th8 Incomlng resources and application of resources, Includlng the Income and expendlture, of the charitable company for that year. On behalf of tha Trusteas Stuart Plccaver Interfm Chaly of lh8 TYuste88 In preparing thaso ftnanclal statements, the Trustees are required to: Dat f9 select 8Uitable accountlng pollcles and then apply them conslstently; obs8rv8 the m8thods and prtnclples in the Charities SORP; make Judgement8 and e8tlmates that are reasonable and prudant; stat8 whether appllcable UK Accounting Standards hav8 b88n followed, subject to any materlal departures dlsclosed and 8xplaInj In the flnancial statements; and prepare the financlal stat8m8nts on the golng concem basls unless it Is inapproprlate to presume that the charftable company w511 contlnue In operation. 31
concordia Report of the independent auditor Ji Annual Report 2024
Independent Auditor's Report Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Concordia (UK) Opinion Conclusions relating to going concern We have audited the financial statements of Concordia (UK) (the 'charitable company'l for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the Statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, includlng significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Flnancial Reporting Standard appllcable in the UK and R8public of Ir81and (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the ISAS (UK) requira us to report to you wh8ra'. the trustees. use of the going concern basis of accountlng In the preparation of the financial statements Is not approprlats. or the Trustees have not disclosed in the financlal statements any identified material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt about the charitabla company's ability to continu8 to adopt the golng concern basis of accounting for a period of at least twel,ve rnonths from the date when the financial statements are authoris8d for issue. In our oplnion, the flnanclal statements: give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of Its incoming resources and applicatlon of resources, including Its Income and expendlture, for tho year than 8nd8d; have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Ganarally Acceptad Accounting Practice. and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companiés Act 2006. other Informatlon The other informatlon comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. Th8 Trustees are responslble for the other information contained wlthln the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, exc8Pt to the extent otherwise 8xplicitly stated In our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other infonnation is materially inconslstent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtalned in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to b8 materially misstated. If we identify such material Inconsistencies or apparent material misstatem8nts, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statèments themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, w8 conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information. we are requir8d to report that fact. Basis for oplnlon We conducted our audit in a¢Gordance with International Standards on Auditing IUKI {ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance viith the ethical requireiments that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard. and we have fultillÈd our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficlent and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. We have nothing to report in this regard. 33
concordia Opinions on other matters prescribed by the companies Act 2006 glve a true and fair vlew. and for such internal control as th8 Trustees d8termine is n8C8ssary to enabla the preparation of financial statements thal are free from matèrial misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial stat8m8nts, the Trust88s are responsibl8 for assessing th8 charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing. as applicable. matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or hav8 no realistlc alternative but to do so. In our opinion. based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit: the inforniation given in the trustees, report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared. which includes the directors, report prepared for the purposes of company law, is consistent with th8 financial statements; and • the directors, report included within the trustees, r8POrt has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements Matters on which we are requlred to report bu exceptlon Our oblectlves are to obtaln reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether du8 to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS (UK) will always d8tect a material misstat8ment when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if. individually or in tha aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to Influence the economic decisions of us8r5 taken on the basis of these financial statements. In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charltable company and Its envlronment obtained In the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the directors, report included within the trustees, report. We have nothing to report in respect of the followlng matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you If, In our opinion: • adequat8 accounting records have not been kept. or returns adequatè for our audit have not b88n received from branches not vlsit8d by us; or the financial statements are not In agreement wlth the accounting records and returns., or cèrtain disclosures of trustees, remuneratlon specifled by law are not made., or • we have not recelved all the InformatSon and explanations we require for our audit; or the Trustees were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small Companies regime and take advantage of the small companies, exerriptions in preparing the trustees, report and from the rgquirament to prepare a strategic report. Irregularitles, including fraud, are instances of non- compliance with laws and regulations. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting Irregularities, Includlng fraud, Is detailed below. Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detectlng irregularities, including fraud The objectives of our audit, in respect to fraud. are: to identify and assess th8 risks of material misstatement of the financial stat8m8nts du8 to fraud. to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risko of material misstatement due to fraud, through designing and implementing appropriate responses; and to respond approprlately to fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit. However, the primary responsibility for th8 prev8ntion and detection of fraud rests with both those charged with govemance of the entity and its management. Responsibilitles of Trustees As explained more fully in the statement of trustees. responsibilities, the Trustees, who are also the directors of the charitable Company for the purpose of company law, ar8 responsible for the pr8paration of the financial statemep.ts and for being satisfied that they Annual Report 2024
Independent Auditor's Report Our approach was as follows: Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoldable rlsk that we may not have detected some material misstat8ments in the financial statements, even though we have properly planned an4 perfonned our audit in accordanc8 Wlth auditing standards. For exampl8, th8 furth8r removed non- compliance with laws and regulations (irregularities) is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely the inherently limited procedures required by auditing standards would identify it. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional conc8aim8nt, forg8ry, collusion, omission or misr8pr8sentatlon. W8 ar8 not responsible for preventing non-compliance and cannot be expected to detect non-compliance with all laws and regulations. W8 identified areas of laws and regulations that could reasonably be expected to have a material 8ff8Ct on the financial statements from our general commercial and s8ctor 8XP8rience, and through discussion with the directors and other managernent (as required by auditing standards), and discussed with the directors and other management the policies and procedures gardIng compliance with laws and regulations- We identified the following areas as those most likaly to have such an effect: health and safety; General Data Protection R8gulation (GDPR); fraud,. bribery and corruption and 8mploym8nt law. Audlting standards limit the required audit procedures to identify non-compliance with these laws and regulations to enquiry of the trustees and other management and Inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, If any. We considered the legal and regulatory frarneworks directly applicable to the financial staternents reporting framework (FRS 102 and the Companies Act 2006 and the Charities Act 2011) and the relevant tax compliance regulations in the UK. We considered the nature of the company's operations, the control environment and business p8rfomance, Including the key drivers for management's remuneration; We communicated identified laws and regulations throughout our team and remained alert to any Indications of non-compliance throughout the audlt; We considered the procedures and controls that the group has established to address risks identified. or that otherwise prevent, deter and detect fraud., and how senior management monitors those programmes and controls. A furttyer descrlption of our responsibilities for the audit of th8 financial statements is located on the Flnanclal Reportlng Councll's wabslte at: www.frc.or .uklauditorsres onsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's raport. Use ot this report This report 15 made solely to the charltable company's members, as a body, In accordance with Chapt8r 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to th8 charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors, report and for no other purpose. To the fullest 8xt8nt permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charltable company and the charftable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. Based on this understanding we deslgn@d our audit procedures to identify non-compliance with such laws and regulations. Where the risk was considered to be higher, w8 performed audit procedur8s to address each identified fraud rislc These procedures Included: testing manual journds. reviewing the financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation. performing analytical procedures. and enquiring of management, and were designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial statements were free from fraud or error. Davld Martln FCA {senlor statutory Audltor) for and on behalf of TC Group Statutory Auditor Office: Lewes Signed: T c + Date: 2 7 P) 35
concordla Financial statements Annual Roport 2024
Financial stat8m8nts statement of Financial Activities Including income and expenditure account for the year ended 31 December 2024 Unrestricted funds2024 funds 2023 Notes Income from: Charitable activities 2,753,448 19,174 2,533,105 53.660 Investments Total inoorne 2,772,622 2,588,765 Charitable activitles 2,735,760 2,724,480 Net gains on inv8Stments 10 48,608 17,989 Net movement In fund8 85,470 (119,726) Reconciliation of funds: Fund balances at 1 January 2024 2.027,306 2,147.032 Fund balances at 31 D8cemb8r 2024 2,112,776 2.027,306 Th8 Statement of financial activitl8s includes all galns and losses r8cognls8d In th8 year. All Income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. 37
concordia Balance sheet as at 31 December 2024 Intsnglble assets Tanglble assets Investments 12 108,903 39.640 1,733,657 140,294 49,160 1,274,185 13 14 1,882,200 1.463.639 Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 15 272,286 247,968 331,328 568,386 520,254 899,714 Credltor&' amounts falllng due wllhin one year 16 (289,678) (336,04n Net cutTent a888ts 230,576 563,667 Total a888ts1888 curnnt liabi11ti88 2,112,776 2,027,306 Th8 fund8 of tho charftabl8 company Unrestrlcted funds 2,112,776 2,027,306 2,112,776 2,027,306 The flnancial statements were approved by the Trustees on Stuart Plccaver TNStee Slgned: Dats: ConcoKJla {UK)- Company registration numbar 00381668 (England and Wales) Annual Report 2024
Financial statements statement of cash flows For the year ended 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Notes cash flows from operallng actlvllles Cash generated fromllabsorbed by) operations 21 71,272 (50,998) Invesllng act1v1t8 Purchase of intangible assets Purchase of tangibl8 fixed ass8ts Purchase of investments (40.525) (53.231) (55,843) (10,000} 53,660 (1,052,726) 641,862 Proceeds from disposal of investments Iestment income received 19,174 Net cash gen8rated froml(used In) Investing activilies Net cash used In flnanclng acllvltles (391,690) 1105,9391 Net increa881(decrease) In ca8h and cash equlvalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equtvalent8 at and of u8ar (320,418) 568,386 1156.93n 725,323 247,968 568,386 39
concordia Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 Decembèr 2024 Accounting policies 1.3 Charltable funds Unrestrlcted funds ar8 available for use at the discr8tion of the Trust88s In furtherance of their charitable objectives. Chaiity information Concordia (UK) is a privat8 company limited by guarant88 incorporated in England and Wales. The r8gistered office is 19 North Street, Portslade. East Sussex, BN411DH. Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purpos8s and uses of the restricted funds are set out In the notes to the financial statements. 1.1 Accountlng cornientlon The financial stat8m8nts hav8 b88n pr8par8d In accordance with th8 charitabl8 company's Igoverning docum8ntl, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" I'FRS 102") and the Charities SORP "Accountlng and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recomm8nd8d Practic8 applicable to charities preparing thelr accounts In accordance wlth the Financlal Reportlng Standard appllcable In the UK and Republic of Ir8land IFRS 1021 18ff8Ctive 1 January 20191. The charitable company is a Publlc Benefit Entity as deflned by FRS 102. 1.4 Income Income is recognised when the charltable company is legally entitlad to it aft8r any p8rformance conditions hav8 be8n m8t, th8 amounts can be measured raliably, and it is probable that income will be received. Fees recelvable represent the amount derived from tha provision of services which fa51 wlthln the company's ordinary activities Stated net of value added tax. Amounts receivab18 in resp8Ct of deposlt interest and dividends are accounted for on an accruals basis. The fInCIal statements are prepared in sterling. which is the functional currency of the charitable company. Monetary amounts In these flnanclal statements are rounded to the nearest £. Cash donations ar8 r8cognised on receipt. Other donatlon8 are recognised once the charltable company has been notifled of the donation, unless perfomiance conditions requir8 deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable In relatlon to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of Ihe donation. The flnanclal statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The principal accounting pollcies adopted are set out below. Legacies are recognised on receipt or oth8rwise if the charitable company has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If th8 amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a conting8nt asset. 1.2 Clolng concem The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis as the trustees believe that no uncertainties exist that would cause the failure of the charity. The trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected income an expenditure ft)r 12 month5 from the authorisatlon of the financial statements. Grants are recognised on receipt or when the charity becomes unconditionally eri.titled to the grant and th8 arnount can be quantifled with accuracy. When donors specify that the grants given to the charity must be used in future accounting periods, the Income is deferred until those periods. The budgeted income and expenditure is sufficient with the level of reserves for the Gharily to be able to Continue as a going concern. Annual Report 2024
Financial statements 1.5 Expendlture All expenditure is accounted for on an aGcruals basis and has been classified under heading5 that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a18gal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separately from goodwill at th8 acquisition date where it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the entity and the fair value of the asset can be measured reliably; the intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights; and the intangible asset IS separable from the entity. Resources expended are recognised in the period in which they are incurred and are stated net of value added tax. Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases: All the charity's costs are analysed as expenditure on charitable activities (note 5) being costs incurred by the charity in th8 delivery of its activities. These costs include both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an Indirect nature necessary to support them. Software & Database Over 7 years 1.7 Tanglble flxed assets Tanglble fSxed assets are Initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. Governance costs as included with Support costs in note 6 are those costs associated with meeting the cons,titutional and statutory requirements of the charity and include professional fees and trustee expenses incurr8d in gov8rnance of the charity. Depreciation Is recognised so as to write off th8 Cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following base5- Lea8ehold Improvements Over the period of the lease All costs are allocated between the activities of th8 charity on a basis designed to reflect the use of the resource. The allocation between Operations and Volunteer projects is normally made on a direct usage basis or, but where this is not Possible. on a personnel basis. Flxtura8 and flttlng8 Over 5 or 10 year8 Computsr and offlce Over 3 years Motor vehlcles Over 4 year8 Staff costs {note 915hows total payroll costs including employers, Nl and pension contributions plus temping agency fees, training, and recruitment advertising. The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the rarrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities. Premises costs are costs relating to the office building such as rent and rates, insurance. utility bills. and the cost of depreciation of assets purchased after the office move. Asset purchases of £1,000 or over are capitalised. Asset purchases of less than £1,000 are individually considered for capitalisation by the Directors. 1.6 Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill Intangible assets acquired or created separately are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost lèss accumulated amortisation and accumulated impaimient losses. A review for impairment of a fixed asset is carried out if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the fixed asset may not bvL recoverable. 41
concordia 1.8 Hxed asset Investments Inv8Stm8nts h81d as fixed assets are revalued at the bid price at the balance sheet date and the gain or loss taken to th8 Stat8m8nt of Financial Activities. method unless the arrangement constitLrtes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measurad at th8 present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rat8 of interest. Financial assets classrfied as receivable within on8 yaar ara not amortised. 1.9 cash and cash 84uival8nt8 Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks. other short-term liquld investments with orlginal maturlties of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in curr8nt liabilities. Basic flnanclal liabiliti88 Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are inltially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constltutes a financing transaction, wh8r8 the d8bt instrum8nt is m8asur8d at the present value of the future payments dlscounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classifi8d as payable within one year are not amortlsed. 1.10 Flnanclal Instrument8 The charitable company has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financial Instrumenls, and Section 12 '0ther Flnancial Instruments Issues. of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Debt Instruments are subsequently carrled at amortlsed cost. using the effective interest rate method. Financial instruments are recognised in the charitable cornpany's balance sheet when the charitable company becomes party to the contractual provi8ion8 of the instrument. Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired In the ordlnary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due withln one year or less. If not. they are presented as non- current Ilabiliti88. Trad8 creditors are recognised initially at transactlon prlce and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Flnanclal assets and Ilabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statemenls, when there is a legally enforceable right lo set off the recognised amounts and there Is an int8ntlon Io s8tt18 on a net basis or to r8allse th8 ass8t and 88ttl@ th8 liability simultaneously. Derecognition of financial liabilitle8 Financial liabllities are derecognised when the charitab18 company's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. Baslc financlal a88ets Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction prlce Includlng transactlon cost5 and are subsequently carrled at amortlsed cost uslng the effectlve Interest 1.11 Retlrement ben8flt8 Payments to defined contrlbutlon r8tlrement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as th8y fall due. Annual R8POrt 2024
Financial statements 2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements In the application of the charitable company's accounting policles, the Trustees are required to make judgements, estirnates and assumptions about the carying amount Df assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sourGes. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historicai experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimat8s and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the 8stimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects tK)th current and future periods. Key sources of esiimaiion uncertalnty Depreciatlon The charitable company exercises judgement to determine useful lives and r8sidual values of property, plant and equipment. The ass8ts are depr8ciat8d down to their r8sidual values over their 8Stlmated useful liv88. 3 Charitable activities Unreslrfoted funds 2024 Unr88trfctad Farm fe88 2,612.545 129,393 11,510 2.418.909 37,817 76,379 Other fees Volunteer projects 2,753,448 2,533,105 4 Income from investments Unrestrlcted Unreslrfcted funds 2023 2024 Income from listed inve tments 18.854 50,843 2.817 Interest receivable 320 19,174 53.660 43
concordia 5 Charitable activities Vokmteer Project8 2024 Volunteer Proleol8 2023 Operation8 2024 TO1 operalions 2024 2023 Total 2023 Staff costs 725,644 33,303 758,947 663,866 48,319 712,185 Depreciation and impalrment Agency costs Participant insurance and vlsa costs 40,911 1,088,646 40,911 1,088,646 37.394 1,025,189 37,394 1,025,189 132,454 132.454 16,378 8,424 124,494 124,494 1,643 15,494 NCS 16,378 Travel Volunteer project expenses Advertising and marketing Pastoral fund 8,424 14,900 594 14,774 14,774 62,782 62,782 15,855 6,443 12,840 770 16,625 6,443 12,840 25,832 14,874 15,546 1,141 26,973 14,874 15,546 Field Officers Conferences and roadshows 10,124 10,380 10,124 10,380 12,081 9,748 12,081 9,748 Motor costs Training and recruitment EWP 51,689 51,689 426 82,290 82,290 8,376 4,951 21,470 426 8,376 4,951 21,470 CYA Bad debts 17,0081 (7,008) 2,103,410 58.643 2,162,053 2,026,214 149.276 2.175,490 Share of support costs (see note 6) Share of governanc8 costs (see note 61 527,675 37,832 565,507 306,703 222,096 528,799 7,651 549 8,200 11,711 8,480 20.191 2,638.736 97,024 2,735,760 2,344,628 379,852 2,724,480 Annual Report 2024
Financial statements 6 Support costs Support Llovernance costs Support Govem8nc8 costs C08ts 2024 2023 Staff costs 302,509 91,916 57,046 302,509 91,916 57,046 314,088 51.091 91,716 314,088 51.091 91,716 Pr8mises costs Computer services Legal and professional Telephone Sundries HR services 63,097 20.733 12,696 1,707 63,097 20,733 12.696 1,707 20,361 19,379 19,690 675 20,361 19,379 19,690 675 Prlnting, stationery, postage & courier Equlpment hlre Bank charges and Interest 2,361 1,982 2,361 1,982 3,945 1,982 3,945 1,982 5,365 6.095 5,365 6,095 5,872 5,872 7.500 870 Audit fees 7,500 670 Accountancy Board meetings 8,200 8,200 12,021 12,021 565,507 8,200 573,707 528,799 20,191 548.990 Analysed to Charitable actjvltles 565,507 8,200 573,707 528,799 20,191 548,990 7 Net movement in fund8 2024 2023 The D.et movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting).' Fees payable for the audit of the charity's financial statements Depraciation of owned tangible fixed assets 6,095 9,520 7.500 5,894 Amortisation of intangible assets 31,391 31.500
concordia 8 Trustees None of the twstees (or any persons connect8d with th&ml received any remuneration or benefits from employment during the year under review nor for 2023. No termination payments were made during the either year. During the year under review, travel and subsistence expenses totalling £8,20012023- £12,021) were 1MburSed to and paid on behalf of Key Management Personnel. Non ex8CUtiv8 trust88 8XP8ns8S totalling £2,359 {2023 - £2,324} were reimbursed during the year. Additional expenses paid on behalf of non executive trustees totalling £5,841 {2023 - £9,697) were paid during the year. 9 Employees The average monthly number of employee5 during the year, calculated on a full time equlvalent basis and analysed by function was: 2024 Number 2023 Numbe Direct Charltable- Operatlons department Direct Charitable- Volunteers departmerrt Support staff 14 13 Total 24 25 Employment C08t8 2024 2023 Wages and salaries Social securlty costs Other penslon costs 931,434 88,646 41,376 906.480 81,848 37,945 1,061,456 1.026.273 The number of employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,QOO is as follows: 2024 Number 2023 £70,001-£80,000 Annual Report 2024
Financial statements 9 Employees (continued) Of the employees whose 8moluments exceed £60,000, 1 (2023: 0) have rètirement beneffts accruing under defined contribution pension schemes. RemLmeralion of key manageth persornel The remuneration of key management Personnel whlch is comprised of gross salaries. employers national insurance and pension contributions, is as follows. 2024 Aggregate compensation 295,008 277,446 10 Galns arKI losses on Investments lund8 funds Gainsl(Jossesl arlsing on: Revaluatlon of Investments Sale of Investments 41,930 6.678 17,989 48,608 17,989 11 Taxatlon The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its Income is applied for charitable purposes. 47
concordia 12 Intangible fixed assets Database C08t At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024 259,423 Amort18atlon and Impalrment At 1 January 2024 Amortlsation charged for the year 119,129 31,391 At 31 December 2024 150,520 C*iiikng amount At 31 December 2024 108,903 At 31 December 2023 140,294 13 Tanglble fixed assets Lea88hold Flxturesand Improvements fitllng8 Computer and office Mi)tor vahlcle8 C08t At 1 January 2024 105,573 35,086 252,366 37,119 430,144 At 31 Decemb8r 2024 105.573 35,086 252,366 37,119 430,144 Depreclallon And Impalnnent At 1 January 2024 Depreciation charged in the year 80.690 2,765 28,449 1,327 252,366 19,479 5,428 380,984 9,520 At 31 December 2024 83,455 29.776 252,366 24,907 390,504 calIng amount At 31 December 2024 22,118 5,310 12,212 39,640 At 31 December 2023 24,883 6.637 17,640 49,160 Annual Report 2024
Financial statements 14 Fixed asset irniestments Cash In portfollo Total Costor valuallon At 1 January 2024 Addltlons 1,264,185 1,052.726 48,608 (1,465,771) 10,000 823.909 1,274,185 1,876,635 48.608 (1,465,771) Valuatlon changes Dlsposals At 31 December 2024 899,748 833,909 1,733,657 CarryhvJAmount At 31 December 2024 899,748 833.909 1,733,657 At 31 December 2023 1,264,18S 10.000 1,274,185 Th8 strUcre ot tha current portfollo of Investment818 a8 ftAIows: CCLA Investment Fund (Unlted Kingdom) Th8 balDw were c1088d durlng Ihe year: SUTL Cazenove Charlty Multi Asset Fund {was Schroders Multi Asset Fund) (United Kingdom) Close Dlverslfied Income (Unlt8d Kingdom) 15 Debtors 2024 2023 AMnISta11Ing duewllhln one uear. Trade debtors 118,350 122,950 904 Other debtors Prepayments and accrued incomg 153,936 207,474 272,286 331,328 49
concordia 16 Creditors.. amounts falling due within one year 2024 2023 Othertaxatlon and soclal security Trade creditors 78,042 42,033 75,640 21.914 186 Othar creditors Accruals and deferred income 169,603 238,307 289,678 336,047 17 Retlrement benefit schemes 2024 Detlned conlfibulion 8chem88 Charge to proflt or loss in respect of defined contrlbution schemes 41.376 37.945 The Chitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charltable company In an Independently administered fund. Annual Report 2024
I
concordia 19 Operating lease commitments Lass88 At the reporting end date the charitable company had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-canc811ab18 Operating leases, which fall due as follows: 2024 2023 Within on8 year Between two and five years In over five years 48,430 217.570 82,072 49,665 213.632 123,108 348.072 386.405 20 Related party transactions The followlng Concordla directors are also customers of the company in their capacity as grow8rs or agents; Stuart Piccav8r is a director of J E Piccaver and Co. who were invoiced £63,98912023- £59,739} during the year for the supply of Concordia seasonal workers. At the year 8nd the farm's account balance was £Nil (2023 - £2,268). Annual Report 2024
Financial statements 21 cash generated from operations 2024 Surplusl(d8flclt) for the year 85,470 (119,726) Adjustments for: Investment income recognised in statement of financial activiti8s Gain on disposal of investments Fair value gains and losses on investments Depreciation and impalnnent of tangible fixed assets (19,1741 (6,6781 (41.9301 40,911 (53,660) (17,989) 37,394 Movements in working capital: Decrease in debtor8 {Decrease)/lncreasa in credltors Cash generated fromllabsorbed by) operations 59,042 (46,369) 27,976 75,007 71,272 (50,998) 22 Analysi8 of changes In net funds The charitable company had no material debt during the year.
concordia Charity information and governance
Charity information and governance .Ct Organisational structure Concordia UK Is a registered charlty Ino. 3059911 and a company Ilmited by guarantee in England and Wal8S (no. 381668). The organisation was founded in 1943. During 2024 Concordla trustees reviewed our objects. to modemise them and reduce repetitlon. The Charlty Commission have approved our appllcation currently. Durlng 2024 the Board approved the adoptSon of a modernised set of Articles. These Articles removed the previous requirement for membership and an AGM. There are no members In addition to the trustees. Our thanks to sollcitors Shakespeare Martlneau for their advice and guidance during 2024. Public benefit Obiects The trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public beneflt guldance published by the Charity Commission. Concordia's public benefit is enshrined in its charitable objectives and activities, providing multiple benefits for its beneficiaries which are wide ranging and long lasting. Our objects and18gal purpose, as set out in our Articles of Association, ar8: To support individuals, especially but not exclusively young people and students, by providing work placements, volunteering, training or other similar opportunities {both nationally and Intematlonall'i) to support them to develop thoir skills and capabilities, to experience changes of environment and to develop a wider sense of cross cultural understanding, community or citizenship. 55
concordia Govemance These committees have been reviewed during Dec8mb8r 2024 and from January 2025 the following will meet: The Board is Concordia's governing body, made up of 10-12 individuals who serve as both Trustees of the charity and Dir8Ctors of the company. Trustees can serve for three cons8CUtive terms of three years. All twstees are volunteers. To ensure that the Board IS 8quipped to carry out its responsibilities it carri8S out skills analysis of existing members, has recruited and inducted new trustees with different skills and views into the charity and provides trustee training on diffent matters as required. Impact Committee - to create and review Concordia's impact framework, to progress and oversee EDI matters and communications. HR Committee- as abov8, bringing together all HR remits. Remuneration Commltt88 Finance committee - as above, with the Inclusion of fundraising Nominations Commlttee- as above The Board met three times in parson in 2024. Additional online extraordinary board meetings wer8 arranged as neGe55ary to address specrfiG priorlty topics. A major part of Concordia's activities consists of delivering our Seasonal Workers Programme lo the UK horticultural sector, and two of our trustees who served during 2024 came from this sector. providing useful J(nowledge of the industry. Datails of related party buslness transactions are dlsclosed In note 21 of the Financial Statements. No other trustees had any personal interest in any contract or transaction entered into by tha charity during the year. The Board is assisted by committees that meet regularly and report back to the Board: The four committees of the Board in 2024 were: Human Resources & Oparations Committee IHR&Ops), which advlses the Board on HR mattews, reviews policy. monitors key HR metrics and provides advice on successlon planning. The committee has also overseen operational metrlcs. Finance Committee- which provides expertise and advice to 8oard on all financial matters, undertakes scrutiny of accounts, maintains oversight of investments and financial controls, reviews and develops policy and provides insight on risk. Nominations Committee- whlch ov8rs8es trustee succéssion plannlng and advlses the Board on all matters pertalnlng to Board appointments and recruitment. Appointments are mad8 by the Board. Remunerations Committee - which me8ts once a year to revlew the CEO salary. Bates Wells Solicitors provlded support to the Board on various governanc8 matters. "What have you done with my son? I do not recognise this boy who never left the computer in his room. He has returned with confidence, friends and a new positivity. which is heartwarming considering his additional needs. I will be forever gratefull 11 Annual Report 2024
Financial statements Trustee development and Iraining andlor replaced such as the delegation framewod(. Tertns of Reference for Committees and the induction pack. A govemance working group has been established to take forward the action plan. All new trustees follow a structured induction process and receive copies of Concordia's governing documents. In addition, they are enGouraged to attend 8Xternal confer8nC8s and seminars as appropriate, online training modules and in-person training. Our thanks to consultant Felicia Willow for her support and guidanc8 during 2024. During 2024 the Board had opportunities to attend online briefings in relation to digital transformation as well as Equality. Diversity and Inclusion. Th8 Chair of Finance Committ8a attanded in-person18adership training togeth8r with th8 Staff team. The board held an 8ffectlV8 gov8rnance development day in November, externally facilitated. A compulsory online governance training module was commissioned from Willow Consulting for all trustaes. Auditor An independent audit is performed annually to fulfil the charity's legal obligations and for the Board to ensure that the financial statements have been properly prepared and give a true and falr vlew. Disclosure of infomiation to auditor Each of the Trustees has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audlt, but of whlch the audltor Is unaware. They have further confirnied that they have taken appropriat& steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information. The board undertook a governance review during 2024, using an online system, Digiboard. This was supplemented with support from Willow Consulting, to create a governance action plan and undertake 360 feedback reviews with board members. A number of governanca documents have been r8Vi8W8d, updated 57
concordia Our people Annual Report 2024
Our people Trustees Mr s piccavar Vice Chair from 6th February 2024. Interim Chair from 25th November 2024 Ms A Bond Vice Chair 16th November 2022. Actlng Chalr from 19th June 2023; Chair 12th July 2024 to 25th November 2024 Mr D Pullen Chalr of HR & Operations Committee M8 E Alku Safeguarding Trustee (to 31 July 2025) MS C Dean Mr D James Chair of Finance Commlttee M8 F Lambert Mf A Moran (to 22nd January 2025) Mr M Noulor (to 2nd April 2024) Mf M Thomp8( (from 13th Novemb8r 2024) M8 K Chak from 2nd December 2024) Mf M Tudge (from 13th Nov8mb8r 20241 Day to day management is delegated to the Chlef Executlve, accordlng to a Scheme of Delegation authorlsed by the Board and revlewed regularly. Management- Senior Staff Chief Executlve Offlcer Victorla Lawrence Ifrorn 6th November 2023) Flnance Dlrector lan Hamer Operallons Dlrector Karen Goode Head of yth Programmes Victor Petersson {to 30th Saptember 2024) 59
concordia. concordia (UK) Registered office: 19 North Street. Portslade, Brighton BN41 1DH website: www.concordia.org.uk Follow us: @Concordiacharity SUPPORTING PEOPLE TO THRIVE oooo Concordia is a registered charity no. 305991. Registered company no. 381668. Annual Report 2024 (1st January to 31st December 2024)