Annual
Report
2023
&b Girlguiding
London and
South East England
## **Message from the chair of trustees, the chief commissioner**
2023 saw us continue to focus on strengthening our structures and processes in order to support the delivery of guiding across the region. The region weekend held at the beginning of the year was a key opportunity for region volunteer appointment holders including the chief commissioner team, trustees, council members and county commissioners to come together with region staff. Time was spent looking at factors within our society and how these might impact us as an organisation. Region teams then took this into consideration when developing their plans for the forthcoming year and beyond.
A key outcome of this weekend was the creation of our assistant chief commissioner role for Impact and Inclusion and it was a pleasure to be able to successfully recruit to this role in the summer.
The year also saw the launch of an updated brand for Girlguiding as a whole organisation. Region publications have been updated to reflect the new brand and PR materials purchased to enable us to showcase who we are and encourage recruitment of new members.
My personal highlight of the year was Horizons, our commissioner conference. This was the first time that we had held a conference for district and division commissioners, and it was a pleasure to meet over 100 commissioners at the event. The day offered a range of workshops tailored to the experience levels of the commissioners plus an opportunity to meet and discuss key topics with region and national staff and volunteers.
Throughout the year we have continued to offer several opportunities to provide exceptional experiences for girls from all sections. Challenge packs with corresponding badges to celebrate the King’s Coronation and our region wide game in Belgium based on Trivial Pursuit were a huge success and enabled everyone to take part in these events. Our partnership with the RSPB continued with Wildlife Discovery Days taking place across the region. We launched a new partnership with the Institution of Civil Engineers and supported 3 interrailing trips across Europe.
None of these things would have occurred if it were not for the amazing contribution that our volunteers give. I am incredibly grateful for all that they do and the support that is given to us by the staff team of Girlguiding London and South East England.
**Amanda Teasel Chair of board of trustees, the chief commissioner**
**1**
## **Report from the trustees**
## **Statement of purpose**
- Girlguiding London and South East England region (“the region”) covers all but one London borough and the counties of Kent, East and West Sussex and Surrey. It is one of the 9 countries and regions of Girlguiding, the leading charity for girls and young women in the United Kingdom. Our region will be a diverse, supportive and connected community that offers exceptional experiences to girls and young women. Our membership will be empowered and inclusive and we will be the leading organisation for girls, young women and volunteers in the region.
- A total of 44,210 girls and young women in 2,937 units (active and reopened) were members of the region in December 2023.
- Girlguiding offers girls and young women high quality, girl-led guiding opportunities, presenting challenge and adventure, which develop their potential and enable them to make a positive contribution to their community and beyond.
## **Governing document and constitution**
The Guide Association London and South East England is governed by Royal Charter and the powers of the board of trustees are set out in the constitution as expressed under the byelaws of the Royal Charter.
## **Public benefit**
The board of trustees confirms that they have taken due regard to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the organisation’s aims and objectives in planning future activities.
**2**
## **Governance**
## **Board of trustees**
The region is one of 9 separately constituted areas of The Guide Association and as such is an independent charity in its own right (charity registration number 308268).
The reports and results contained herein relate only to the operation of the region and no other entity. The region covers Kent, Sussex, Surrey and the whole of Greater London, except the London Borough of Havering. The board of trustees is the decision-making group for policy and strategic decisions.
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Voting Members Appointed by Type
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|**Voting Members**|**Appointed by**|**Type**|
|---|---|---|
||||
|Chief commissioner|Chief guide|Ex officio|
|1 deputy commissioner|Chief commissioner|Ex officio|
|2 steering group representatives|Steering group|Ex officio|
|4 membership trustees|Board of trustees|Elected|
|2 external trustees|Board of trustees|Elected|
|Trustee treasurer|Board of trustees|Elected|
|Up to 2 other trustees|Board of trustees|Elected|
**3**
**Board of trustees**
|**Board of trustees**||||
|---|---|---|---|
|Chief commissioner and chair of the
board of trustees|Amanda Teasel|Ex officio|9 August 2021 - 8
August 2026|
|Deputy chief commissioner and
board member|Jooles Parkin|Ex officio|7 January 2022 – 8
August 2026|
|Region manager|Amrita Sheldon|Non-voting|From August 2017|
|Board member|Hannah Roberts|Ex officio: steering
group|31 July 2021 – 30 July
2023|
|Board member|Alan Lees|Trustee treasurer &
external|1 January 2019 – 31
December 2023|
|Board member|Anna Jones|Trustee treasurer|16 March 2024 - 15
March 2027|
|Board member|Matthew Thomas|External|1 January 2019 – 31
December 2023|
|Board member|Sarah Ings|Membership
representative|17 January 2022 – 16
January 2025|
|Board member|Sarah Ings|Ex officio: steering
group|1 August 2023 – 31
July 2025|
|Board member|Haf Rees|Membership
representative|1 April 2020 – 31
March 2025|
|Board member|Rebecca Whibley|Membership
representative|1 April 2020 –
31 March 2025|
|Board member|Chloe Healy|Membership
representative|19 March 2022 – 18
March 2025|
|Board member|Wendy Colson|Ex officio: steering
group|18 March 2023 – 17
March 2025|
|Board member|Rowena Bradnam|Membership
representative|23 September 2023 -
22 September 2026|
|Board member|Georgie Challinor|Membership
representative|25 November 2023
-24 November 2026|
**4**
|Board member|Vicky Cross|Membership
representative|25 November 2023-
24 November 2026|
|---|---|---|---|
|Board member|Melissa Allen|External trustee|8 June 2024 - 7 June
2027|
|Board member|Navroza Ladha|External trustee|8 June 2024 - 7 June
2027|
## **Board appointments**
- The chief commissioner was appointed by the chief guide of Girlguiding in consultation with the membership of the region.
- The deputy chief commissioner was appointed by the chief commissioner.
- The trustee treasurer is a board appointment.
- The steering group representatives were appointed by the chief commissioner in consultation with the membership of the county they represent. They were selected as trustees by their fellow steering group members.
- Ex officio members cannot exceed their 5-year term of appointment on the board.
- Elected members of the board serve a maximum of 3 years with an option to extend for a further 2 years.
- Elected members of the board were selected based on their skills and experience.
- The deputy chief commissioner's term of office does not extend beyond the finishing date of the chief commissioner's end date.
## **Induction and training of trustees**
All trustees are provided with an induction and are supported on an ongoing basis that addresses the needs of the group and individuals.
## **Other governance groups**
The board of trustees is supported by:
- Risk group – this group oversees matters pertaining to risk and internal controls. This includes a review of the risk register, and risk assessments for large scale events including international trips. It is chaired by deputy chief commissioner.
- Steering group - the group informs decision-making with the views of the membership at the core of its agenda. It is chaired by the chief commissioner.
- Finance group – this group reviews and informs on the region finances. It is chaired by deputy chief commissioner.
- Senior leadership team (SLT) – this group consists of the chief commissioner team and staff managers. It meets monthly and deals with the operational decision making for the region. It is chaired by deputy chief commissioner.
- Awards group. This group reviews region awards, and its members are senior region volunteers. It is chaired by an assistant chief commissioner.
NA DEN **6**
## **Registered office**
Girlguiding London and South East England 3 Jaggard Way Wandsworth Common London SW12 8SG
## www.girlguidinglaser.org.uk
## **Professional advisers and consultants**
The professional advisers and consultants during the year were as follows:
## **Banks**
National Westminster Bank Wandsworth Branch, PO Box 8888, 98 Wandsworth High Street, SW18 4JZ
Lloyds Bank Plc Business Banking, BX1 1LT
CCLA COIF Charity Funds Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4ET
## **Investment Managers**
Evelyn Partners Investment Services Limited 45 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7BG
## **Auditors**
Brewers Chartered Accountants Bourne House, Queen Street, Gomshall, GU5 9LY
## **Legal consultants**
For Girlguiding: Bates Wells Braithwaite 10 Queen Street Place, London, EC4R 1BE
## **Activities & Adventure**
## **International**
## **Explore Europe 2023**
In July and August, 3 teams embarked on a 2-week European interrailing adventure. Using the network of trains across Europe, 3 teams and their leaders explored what the continent had to offer. There were 12 adult leaders and 33 young members across 3 teams. Between them, they visited 13 countries with 1 group visiting the WAGGGS World Centre, Our Chalet, in the Swiss Alps.
## **Breakaway to Belgium 2023**
In October half term 2023, over 445 Guides, Rangers, young leaders and volunteers from the region met in Brussels to take part in a 1-day wide game across the city based on Trivial Pursuit. The event was created to encourage groups to explore the city of Brussels, try fun challenges and meet other Girlguiding groups and it was a great success. Members said: “It was great to organise an international trip ourselves, but with the support from the region” and “It was an amazing opportunity for Guides and Rangers to have a taster of a Girlguiding international event. The girls were able to have fun, work as part of a team, make their own decisions and take part in a range of activities to suit all interests”. In conjunction with the Belgium event, we invited units across the region to take part in their own local Trivial Pursuit challenge over the same weekend. The challenge sold 4,000 badges!
## **Travelling abroad training**
This ever-popular training took place in London on 24 June where 20 participants learnt all about planning and leading an international trip for their girls. Topics included planning processes and timelines, budgets, leadership team roles and responsibilities, risk assessments, involving the young people in decision-making, and considering sustainability within their trips.
## **UK events and activities**
## **Google Takeover Day**
This interactive activity day took place on 12 April 2023. Through the national partnership with Google, we supported 100 Brownies to attend Google’s office in London for a day full of fun activities, including creating Lego robots, coding, and inspiring talks relating to technology.
## **Festival of Remembrance, Cenotaph, Lord Mayor's Show**
In November 2023, Surrey West county represented Girlguiding with a float for the Lord Mayor's Show, while Sussex Central county volunteered at the feeding station. Croydon county was part of the Cenotaph parade, and Greater London West county volunteered at the Festival of Remembrance. Once again, the attendees enjoyed their day with a Guide from Surrey West county saying: "I was nervous beforehand, but absolutely loved being in the procession. It was a truly memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience that I’ll remember forever."
**8**
## **Wildlife Discovery Days with RSPB**
In September and October 2023, over 400 Rainbows, Brownies and Guides attended fantastic nature discovery days in 7 different locations – a mix of RSPB reserves and London parks - across our region. Rainbows, Brownies and Guides enjoyed a range of nature-based activities, including pond dipping, creative wild art, and minibeast hunting. 88% of girls indicated that they enjoyed the day and 78% of leaders agreed or strongly agreed that their group learnt more about and understood nature better.
## **Learning & Development**
## **Training**
## **Horizons commissioner training conference**
Attended by 100 commissioners from across the region. 15 members of staff from HQ, region team plus 13 trainers, 6 region lead volunteers, 3 of the chief’s team.
## **A safe space / 1st response trainings**
12 level 4 a safe space sessions offering spaces for 288 volunteers and 36 level 3 a safe space sessions offering spaces for 864 volunteers across the country. Counties ran 1st response trainings this year, with counties sharing availability and working together.
## **Trainers' conference**
Attended by 36 trainers and delivered by a further 6 trainers.
## **Trainer figures**
69 trainers, 16 tutors, 12 prospective trainers.
We were pleased to recruit a new lead volunteer for learning and development and a new team of specialist volunteers.
## **Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE)**
- Bronze: 72 enrolments, 22 completions
- Silver: 34 enrolments, 16 completions
- Gold: 16 enrolments, 9 completions
- There were expeditions in summer 2023 to Blackland Farm, East Grinstead for 2 Bronze qualifier groups and 1 Silver practice group.
- Drop ins for DofE: 6
## **Peer education**
- Residential peer education training weekend, February 2023, Middlesex North West - 29 participants and 6 volunteers/trainers.
- Topic training day, July 2023, region office - 6 peer educators.
- Peer Education residential training weekend September 2023, Faurefold, Surrey - 25 new peer educators, 8 attendees for topic training.
- 12/19 counties have county peer educator coordinators
**9**
## **Queen’s Guide award**
- Drop-in support sessions: 1
- Support to county coordinators with the launch of the new syllabus in March.
## **Walking**
- Drop-in support sessions: 1
- Walking weekend in September 2023 (jointly with SWE), Dartmoor – 17 members attended.
## **Marketing & Communications (M&C)**
## **Branding and design**
We updated our website and communication channels with the new Girlguiding brand. This work continued across badge design and we developed a range of new display collateral (banners, flags, etc) to support our events and activities. Region members can borrow these materials, increasing our visibility throughout the region.
Guidelines for our procurement practices are now in place to ensure that, as far as possible, our suppliers comply with good practice in terms of the materials they use and ethical labour practices.
## **Digital**
The continuing drive to enhance our social media posts in both design and content has shown good results. Improved analytics show steadily increasing engagement with our members and we can now evaluate this activity to guide our work in this area. Digital campaigns included:
- #ItsAGirlguiding thing, which drove engagement on social media over the summer by asking followers to comment and share their experiences of Girlguiding in a light-hearted way.
- The Thank You campaign, a digital thank you message and card sent to all volunteers, asking for their own words about why they volunteer for Girlguiding. We received a large number of high-quality responses that we can use for future volunteer recruitment campaigns.
The website is one of our core communication tools and a review of the website showed that the site meets key criteria around accessibility and user journey. However, plans to improve its flexibility in how we present information are in hand.
**10**
## **Good news**
We continue to focus on ‘good news’ stories and feature awareness and national days and weeks that align with Girlguiding mission and activities including:
- A campaign for Volunteers’ Week that focused on recognising and thanking our volunteers with a focus on the personal rewards of volunteering across social media, website and online media with content from our members to support key messages. Poetry Together – a campaign to encourage the coming together of young people and the elderly in poetry writing and performing, with attendance at an event hosted by Giles Brandreth and the project patron, Her Majesty the Queen.
We were also able to increase our media relations activity, with media coverage in local newspapers on RSPB events.
## **Relevance and collaboration**
We also work to highlight the topics that matter most to girls and their futures. We began the development of our first vodcast on the topic of climate change and environment, working with one of our ambassadors, which will launch summer 2024, and we continue to explore this form of engagement for the future.
We established new collaborations with Allergy UK (the leading allergy charity) and ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers), with activity packs and badges. In 2024 we will be working with Air Ambulance Kent, Surrey and Sussex on their ‘Restart a Heart’ campaign. We continue to research further collaborations that provide information and career inspiration to our young members.
## **Growth and retention**
- The DCMS (Department for Culture, Media & Sport) Uniformed Youth Fund project started in April 2023 and runs until March 2025. This project has enabled us to support new and existing Guide and Ranger units with the aim to reduce waiting lists and increase capacity.
- Peer Education has also benefited from funding in 2023, helping to support training events.
- We refreshed our region marketing materials to reflect the new branding with items loaned out to volunteers free of charge for events to help drive awareness and support recruitment activities. Likewise, county-branded materials were also ordered to support local events and marketing activities.
- A resource for university leavers and unit leaders was produced by a Queen’s Guide award candidate, with the growth team planning to expand on these resources in 2024. Towards the end of the year, we started our preparation for the launch of 1 & 3 year service awards for volunteers, with the creation of badges, pins & certificates.
- In December we launched a digital thank you campaign for region volunteers to show our appreciation for their service. It also enabled us to hear from volunteers about what volunteering for Girlguiding has brought to their lives, with plans to utilise their responses in future recruitment campaigns.
- At the tail end of the year, we also developed our plan to launch the region’s first virtual units, aimed at girls who are unable to attend in-person meetings for whatever reason.
**11**
## **Investment policy**
When setting the investment policy, the board of trustees considered the risk and rewards of returns and their duty to safeguard the charity assets.
The cash assets were managed as follows:
- Working capital was kept in an instant access deposit account with cash being swept overnight to and from the current account with NatWest. Working capital was also kept at Lloyds current account which was opened in July 2023.
- Capital that was not immediately required nor part of the general working capital was held on deposit with Virgin Money, offering a better interest rate. This account had instant access. Requirements were reviewed by the finance department on a quarterly basis. The account was closed in August 2023.
- Some of the capital that was not expected to be used within the year was held in a COIF share account with CCLA offering a healthy return on investments.
## **Investments**
The finance group reviewed 3 investment firms and proposals to invest, recommending Evelyn Partners Investment Services Ltd to the board of trustees. In June, the board of trustees decided to invest funds with Evelyn Partners Investment Services Ltd with a view to invest for the long-term financial gain for the charity.
The board of trustees has considered its approach to investments. They will do so on an annual basis to ensure that it fully reflects the needs and risk appetite of the charity. Regular meetings are also held with the region’s investment managers, Evelyn Partners Investment Services Ltd, to review the performance of the region’s investment portfolio. The Region’s Investments are held in one portfolio. However, within this, part of the portfolio has a longer term, multigenerational aim and thus adopts a medium to long term growth strategy with a moderate risk profile. The other element of the portfolio represents a shorter time horizon seeking to deliver both capital growth and income with a lower risk profile.
**Review of the financial position**
## **Income & expenditure**
Income and expenditure for the year are detailed in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA). Total income for the year amounted to £872,844 (2022 £623,277) and total expenditure amounted to £658,552 (2022 £643,201). Income and expenditure varies from year to year mainly depending on the charitable activities and events held by the region. The net surplus for the year amounted to £214,292 (2022 net deficit of £19,924).
The main sources of income for the charity were from:
- Membership subscriptions, where the underlying subscription payable by members increased in 2023 to £539,370 (2022 £506,670) this was due to an increase in membership numbers
- International activities – there were 3 international trips in 2023 with £87,894 raised for international activities (2022 nil).
- Programme and training activities raised £8,412 (2022 £6,328). Trading income in 2023 £53,743 (2022 £27,551).
The main expenditure on charitable activities comprised:
- Staff costs - £276,179 (2022 £319,885). The decrease was due the reduction in staff following the decision to close the campsites.
- International activities (including share of support costs) - £260,926 (2022 £10,403). Programme and training activities (including a share of support costs) - £170,980 (2022 £146,714).
- Merchandise in £24,657 (2022 £14,896) relates to the cost of purchasing badges for resale.
## **Balance sheet**
The total net assets for the year increased by £214,292 to £1,513,539 in 2023. Most of our assets are held in cash in interest bearing accounts. The closing cash balances were £1,276,127 (2022 £1,267,274).
## **Funds**
The specific uses of the designated funds and restricted funds are given in Note 15 and Note 16.
## **Risk management**
The board of trustees reviewed the risk policy during the year to ensure that it fully reflected the needs of the charity. The reserves allow for anticipated future investments and should be sufficient to cover any unexpected future losses. The main risk continues to be declining membership; the region is focusing on retaining and building its membership. As part of our ongoing IT systems improvements and to mitigate against cyber security we have appointed a new IT provider from November 2023 following a rigorous procurement process.
**13**
## **Reserve policy**
Free reserves represent the working capital of the region and are available to support shortand medium-term objectives and to safeguard against unexpected decreases in income. The Charity Commission defines free reserves as ‘income which becomes available to the charity and is to be expended at the executive committee’s discretion in furtherance of any of the charity’s objectives, but is not yet spent, committed or designated’.
The Board of Trustees adopts a risk-based approach to the reserves policy:
1. Identify specific risk and create a designated fund for such risks.
2. Protect against an unforeseen reduction in income by retaining 6 months’ worth of running costs.
3. Allow for 25% of annual running costs to take advantage of un-forecast opportunities or expenditure.
|**The reserves held by Girlguiding LaSER should be**|**2022 £**|**2023 £**|
|---|---|---|
|Total running costs (adminstation, establishment,
finance & payroll) for the following financial year|428,404|463,513|
|**Reserves calculation breakdown**|**2022 £**|**2023 £**|
|6 months of running costs|214,202|231,757|
|25% of running costs fo unforeseen eventualities|107,101|115,878|
|**Total reserves to be held**|321,303|347,635|
|**The reserves held by Girlguiding LaSER were**|**2022 £**|**2023 £**|
|Total general reserves at year end|1,210,823|1,401,666|
|Less fixed assets in general reserves|(135,541)|(126,946)|
|Less investments in general reserves|0|(150,000)|
|**Total**|1,075,282|1,124,720|
It is acknowledged that there are healthy reserves held above those required by the reserves policy. These funds will provide contingency for future events and international trips.
**14**
## **Going concern**
The trustees have considered going concern up to 1 year from the date of signing these accounts. Budgets, forecasts and cashflow forecasts have been prepared which reflect the actual subscription income receivable in 2024. Following this review, the trustees believe there are sufficient cash resources and reserves for the foreseeable future.
## **Future plans**
- A 5-year strategy (2022-2027) in line with Girlguiding strategy.
- A business plan linked to the region strategy and budget.
- International trips, both to Europe and further afield.
- Girl and volunteer events in 2024 and 2025.
## **Statement of board of trustee responsibilities**
- The voting members of the board of trustees are responsible for preparing the trustees’ annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
- Charity law requires the board of trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year that give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the region and of the incoming resources and application of resources for the year. In preparing those financial statements the trustees are required to:
- Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently.
- Observe the methods and principles in the charities statement of recommended practice (SORP).
- Make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent. Prepare the financial statement on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business.
- The board of trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charity’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the region, enabling them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 and regulation made thereunder. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the region and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
## **This report was approved for and on behalf of the trustees on 21 September 2024 and signed on its behalf by**
## **Amanda Teasel Chair of the board of trustees**
**15**
## **Independent Auditor's Report**
## **Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements**
## **INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE GUIDE ASSOCIATION LONDON AND SOUTH EAST ENGLAND REGION**
## **Opinion**
We have audited the financial statements of The Guide Association London and South East England Region (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activity, the balance sheet, statement of cashflows and notes to the financial statements including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion, the financial statements:
- give a true and fair view of the state of the charity’s affairs as at 31 December 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources for the year then ended;
- have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011.
## **Basis for opinion**
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
## **Conclusions relating to going concern**
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
**16**
## **Other information**
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
## **Matters on which we are required to report by exception**
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:
- the information given in the trustees’ report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial statements; or
- sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or
- the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
## **Responsibilities of trustees**
As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement set out on page 15 the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’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 charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
**17**
## **Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements**
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue 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 detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:
Our approach to identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and noncompliance with laws and regulations is as follows:
- We identified those laws and regulations considered to have a material effect on the financial statements and operations of the charity, including the financial reporting framework, data protection legislation, health and safety and safeguarding regulations.
These matters were discussed amongst the engagement team at the planning stage and the team remained alert to non-compliance throughout the audit.
Audit procedures undertaken in response to the potential risks relating to irregularities (which include fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations) comprised of: inquiries of management and the trustees as to whether the entity complies with such laws and regulations; enquiries with the same concerning any actual or potential litigation or claims; inspection of relevant legal correspondence; review of trustee meeting minutes; testing the appropriateness of journal entries; and the performance of analytical review to identify unexpected movements in account balances which may be indicative of fraud.
No instances of material non-compliance were identified. However, the likelihood of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is limited by the inherent difficulty in detecting irregularities, the effectiveness of the entity’s controls, and the nature, timing and extent of the audit procedures performed. Irregularities that result from fraud might be inherently more difficult to detect than irregularities that result from error. As explained above, there is an unavoidable risk that material misstatements may not be detected, even though the audit has been planned and performed in accordance with ISAs (UK).
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at:
https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.
**18**
## **Use of our report**
This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
## **Brewers Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor**
Bourne House Queen Street Gomshall Surrey GU5 9LY
Brewers Chartered Accountants is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
## **Statement of financial activities - Year ended 31 December 2023**
**20**
## **Balance sheet - Year ended 31 December 2023**
The accounts were approved and authorised for issue by the trustee board and signed on its behalf by:
**Amanda Teasel (Chair of the board of trustees) Anna Jones (Trustee treasurer)**
**21**
**Charity number: 308268**
**21 September 2024**
**Statement of cash flows - Year ended 31 December 2023**
**22**
**Notes to the financial statements**
## **1 Accounting policies**
## **a. Basis of accounting and scope of the accounts**
The accounts comprise the activities of the region.
The accounts (financial statements) have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s)to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)issued on 16 July 2014 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.
Girlguiding London and South East England constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102 and presentational currency is £ sterling to the nearest pound. The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about Girlguiding London and South East England’s ability to continue as a going concern.
The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair view' and have deviated from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair view'. This departure has involved following Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standards applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April2005 which has since been withdrawn.
## **b. Fund accounting**
The region's unrestricted funds consist of funds which may be used for any of its purposes at the discretion of the board of trustees. These funds have been separately shown, as general funds and designated funds.
General funds - General funds are those available on a day to day basis to the board of trustees for any purpose.
Designated funds - Designated funds, are those funds set aside by the board of trustees for specific purposes. Details of the purpose of each fund are set out in Note 15.
Restricted funds - Restricted funds consist of funds where the donor has placed some restriction on the use that can be made of the assets donated. Details of the purpose of each fund are set out in Note 16.
## **c. Income**
There are two main income streams for the charity; annual subscriptions received from the membership within the London and South East region, trading income from the sale of badges via the online shop. All income is accounted for when due, except donations which are accounted for when received. All trading activities are carried out with members in pursuance of the region's charitable objectives. Grants are recognised when receivable except to the extent that performance conditions have not been met.
**23**
## **d. Expenditure**
The expenditure of the region is analysed around the activities of the charity. The programme and training activities are run for the benefit of the region as a whole, the expenditure on international activities reflects the cost of organising trips, marketing and publicity is mainly concerned with raising awareness throughout the region, growth and retention focuses on increasing our membership and ensuring current members want to remain part of the charity and the grants payable comprise payments made to other Girlguiding charities to assist with the capital expenditure.
The staff costs are allocated against each expenditure heading firstly on the basis that it is directly attributable to that activity and secondly, if not directly attributable, it is allocated on a percentage share of the total cost. Support costs are allocated on a percentage share of the total cost. All expenditure is charged on an accruals basis. Governance costs are those associated with the general management of the charity as the trustees ensure compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements. They include the cost of the audit and legal fees.
## **e. Fixed assets**
Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the value of assets over their estimated useful lives. The rates used are:
- Freehold and leasehold property over the shorter of the remaining term of the lease or 50 years
- Furniture, fittings & office equipment 10% - 20% straight line Motor vehicles 25% reducing balance
All fixed assets acquired whether purchased or donated are capitalised. Major donations received for fixed assets are credited to capital grants and donations funds or other restricted funds as shown in Note 16. These funds are then used to write off the asset over its estimated useful life.
## **f. Stock**
Stock is valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
## **g. Debtors**
Debtors are stated at their recoverable amount - that is, the amount that it is anticipated will be received, or the amount that has been paid in advance for goods and services.
## **h. Cash at bank**
Cash and cash equivalents comprise deposits which have 3 months or less maturity.
## **i. Creditors**
Creditors are recognised when the charity has a present legal or constructive obligation arising from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated with sufficient reliability. Creditors are stated at their settlement amount - that is, the amount that it is anticipated will be paid to settle the charity's liabilities.
**24**
## **j. Financial instruments**
The charity's financial assets and liabilities qualify as basic financial instruments and as such are initially recorded at cash, transaction or settlement value. Subsequently, current assets and liabilities are measured at cash or settlement value.
## **k. Pensions**
The Region contributes to a money purchase pension scheme on behalf of its employees. The scheme is operated by The Pensions Trust for Charities and Voluntary Organisations. Contributions to the scheme are a set percentage of individual salaries and are charged to the general fund as incurred.
## **l. Operating leases**
Rentals paid under operating leases are charged on a straight line basis over the term of the lease.
## **m. Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty**
The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported for assets and liabilities as at the balance sheet date and the amounts reported for revenues and expenses during the year. However, the nature of estimation means that the actual outcomes could differ from those estimates. The following judgements and estimates have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements:
- Carrying value of functional property
- Net realisable value of stock
- Recoverability of prepaid trips
## **n. Going Concern**
The trustees have considered going concern up to one year from the date of signing these accounts. Budgets and forecasts have been prepared. The trustees as a result believe that Girlguiding London and South East England is a going concern as the level of unrestricted reserves are sufficient to cover losses which are incurred for the foreseeable future.
## **o. Investments**
Current asset investments are included at transaction value and are subsequently measured at market value using the closing quoted market price. The statement of financial activities includes the net gains and losses arising on revaluation and disposals throughout the year.
**25**
2. Donations and legacies
2023
Discontinued
Continued Activities
Total
Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds
General Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
General
Total Funds
Total Funds
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Activlties
Subscriptions
Donations
539370
8,778
539,370
14,785
133,341
687,496
539,370
8,778
539370
14,785
133341
687,496
6,007
6,007
Grants
133,341
6,007f 3,347
133,341
133,341
648,148
548,148
6,007
2022
Discontinued
Continued Activities
Total
Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds
General Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
General
Total Funds
Total Funds
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Activlties
Subscriptlons
Donations
506,670
7247
506,670
29,853
37,328
573,861
506,670 ,
7,247
506,670
29,853
37,328
673,861
22,606
22,606
Grants
37,328
37,328
37,328
37,328
513,917
22,606
513,917
22,606
26
3. Income from charitable activities
2023
Discontinued Activities
Continued Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Total
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds
General ', Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
General Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
General Designated
Funds
Funds
Restricted
Total Funds
Totd Funds
Funds
Activities
Intematlonol octivities
Programme & trainirg actlvlt18S
87.894
8,412
96,306
87,894
8,412
- T 98,306
87,894
8,412
96,306
87,894
8,412
-f 98,306
2022
Continued ActSvltles
Dlscontlnu8d Actlvities
Total
Unrestrlcted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Unrèstricted Funds
Total Funds
Generol , Designated Restrlcted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Total Funds
G8n8ral D8slgnated R8strfct8d
Funds
Funds
Funds
Total FurKJs
Generol Designated R8Stricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Activities
Pfogromme & trainiro octivities
Provision of campsites
6,328
6,328
6.328
6,328
11.025
17,353
11,025
Il025
11,025
111)25
11.025
11,025
6,328
6,328
6.328
27
4. Income from trading activities
2023
Discontinued
Continued Activities
Total
Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds
General
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
General
Total Funds
Total Funds
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Activities
Trading income
53,743
53,743
53,743
53,743
53,743
53,743
53,743
53,743
2022
Discontinued
Continued Activities
Total
Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds
General
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
General
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Total Funds
Total Funds
Funds
Funds
Activities
Trading income
27,551
27,551
27,551
27,551
27,551
27, 551
27,551
27,551
28
5. Costs of raising funds
2023
Discontinued
Continued Activities
Total
Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds
General Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
General
Total Funds
Total Funds
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Activities
Merchandise
24,657
24.657
24,657
24.657
24,657
24.657
24,657
24.657
2022
Discontinued
Continued Activities
Total
Activities
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Funds
General Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
General
Designated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Total Funds
Total Funds
Funds
Activities
Merchandise
14,896
14.896
14,896
14.896
14,896
14.896 '
14,896
14.896
29
## **6. Expenditure on charitable activities**
## Grants are made to individual Girlguiding members and Girlguiding levels in the region.
**30**
## **7. Staff costs**
No member of staff earned in excess of £60,000.
**31**
8. Support costs
2023
Discontinued
2022
Discontinued
Continued
Continued
Total
Total
Activities
Activities
Activities
Activities
Computer support
Photocopier
Postage & stationery
Insurance
23,333
1.183
432
23,333
1,183
432
8,729
1,038
1,289
3,373
5,199
3,052
3,983
4,479
1,440
13,183
1,931
1,112
4,064
2,200
1,838
10,832
1,693
25,482
94,917
8,729
1,038
1,289
3,373
5,199
3,0 52
3,983
4,479
1,440
13,183
1,931
1,112
4,064
2,200
1,838
10,832
1,693
25,482
94.917
3,361
5,841
5,018
3,778
5,328
3,361
5841
5,018
3,778
5228
Property Costs
utilities
Telephone
Repairs & maintenance
Life assurance
Steering group meetings
Subscriptions
Training
Welfare & travel
12,544
12,544
877
877
6,061
1,076
15,422
11,711
2,025
13B43
111,833
6,061
1,076
15,422
11,711
2,025
13,843
111,833
Porfroll
Sundry
Depreciation
Bank charges
Governance costs
Operating lease costs
5,984
5,984
2,073
2,073
32
## **8. Support costs continued**
Staff costs of £276,179 (2022 £319,885) and support costs of £111,833 (2022 £94,917) have been shared across charitable activities as follows
**33**
9. Fixed assets
2023
Fixtures,
Freehold
fittings &
Unrestricted equiFxnent
unrestricted
Total
Cost
At l January 2023
Additions
296,972
118,881
3,116
415,853
3,116
Disposals
At 31 December 2023
296,972
121,997
418,969
Depreclatlon
At l January 2023
Charge for the year
Disposals
At 31 December 2023
184.122
5,939
96,190
5,772
280,312
190,061
101,962
292,023
Book Value
At 31 December 2023
106,911
112,850
20,035
21691
126.946
135,541
At 31 December 2022
34
## **10. Stock**
## **11. Investments**
During the year under review, the trustees placed capital of £150,000 with Evelyn Partners Investment Services Limited under their Personalised Investment Management Service.
**35**
12. Debtors
2023
2022
continued
Discontinued
continued
Discontinued
Total
Total
Activities
Activities
Activities
Activities
Accounts receIvale
20278
11.392
20,378
11.392
13,280
7.937
464
4,000
17.280
7,937
464
PreFoyments of general expenses
Prepjyments of future actlvity expens8S
Other debtors
570
570
32.340
405
22,086
1,098
5.098
1.503
27.184
32.340
13. Creditors
2023
2022
Continued
Discontinued
Continued
Discontinued
Total
Total
Actlvitles
Activities
Activities
Actlvities
Credltor8- amourt8falllng duoln less than one yoar
S¢xioI security and other taxes
Oth8r creditors
10,735
9,975
9,360
57.027
87,097
10,735
9,975
9.360
57,027
87.097
6,098
19,865
7.369
6I405
94.737
6,098
4l996
34.000
61,405
143.499
22,131
26,631
Accruals for general expenses
Accruals & deferred income for future octivities
48,762
36
14. Analysis of net assets
2023
Continued Activities
Discontinued Activlties
Totol
Provision
Provision
Provision
other net
other net
other net
Cosh &
for
Cosh &
for
Cosh &
for
Fixed
current
Fixed
current
Fixed
current
liobilities
Total
bcmk
liabilities
Totol
bonk
liobilities
Total
Assets
assets
Assets
assets
Assets
assets
balances
balances
balances
(liabilities)
(li(Jt)ilities)
(lialilities)
charges
charges
charges
Generol fUrS
126,948
I168,759
16,656
90,712
l276.127
110,466
1.406,171
16,656
90,712
1.513.539
126,946
1,168,759
16.656
90.712
126.946 ' 1.276.127
110.466
I406.171
16,656
90,712
1.613.539
Designated lunds
Restricted funds
Yolal net as80ts
128.946
110.488
110.466
2022
Continued Activities
Discontinued Activltios
Totol
Provision
Provision
Provision
othèr net
othèr net
othar not
Cosh &
for
Cosh &
for
Cosh &
for
Fixed
current
Fixed
current
Flxed
current
bcmk
liobilities
Total
bcmk
liabilitieg
Totol
bonk
liobllltie9
Total
Assets
assets
Assets
assets
Assets
balances
t(Jlances
balances
assetsl
(lialilities)
charges
(liatslities)
charges
charges
General funds
135,541
I135.186
19,035
69,389
1,223.610
(59.904)
I210,823
19.035
69,389
l299.247
135.541
1,135.186
62699
69289
135.541 1.287.274 {3,588)
(59,904)
{43.664)
1210,823
19.03S
69,389
1.299.247
Designated lunds
Restrlcted funds
43,664
{43,664)
Total net assets
135.541
(59.904)
43,884 (43.684)
37
## **15. Movement in funds - Designated funds**
## **General fund**
These funds comprise the assets available to the region's board of trustees, for use without any restrictions imposed by donors. Only one general fund is established for this purpose and the movements in that fund are those shown on the Statement of Financial Activities.
## **Designated funds**
**38**
## **15. Movement in funds - Designated funds continued**
## **Key**
**39**
16. Movement in funds- Restricted funds
2023
C¢)ntinu8d P£tivitios
Diseontinuod Activitiès
Total
TTansfgr Balance at
Trsjnsfw
Tronsler &jIae at
Bolanca C
Iroml(to)
9Bnorol Dèeemtr*r
lund
2023
8alonco (rt
8donc8 (rt
Babnce ot
31
Iroml{io)
g•n•rd D•c•mb•r
luThJ
2023
31
l January
2023
Exp8nditure
Iroml{ro)
Income
i Jonuoiy Irwn
2C23
EXndIu1
370en*)
l Janu¢Jy
2023
Incorn8
Exp8ndture
2023
fvnd
16a Chiefs Memorial Fund
16b Edwards Logacy
16¢
King G8orge Vl Fund
16d Join Ug
18e chanc¥1 L8gcty
Diomond Duke ol Edinburgh
16g SNUG (storting o New Unil Gic•)t)
16h Gr¢)wth & Retention
Asyjtho s Fund
G8neration Gr9en FurKI
16k Tr81 Fund
19,080
2.297
11,873
5222
1,699
1,132
2,073
L205
5,505
529
Il997
6,7n
(15,000)
1651)
(248)
(z959)
(662)
(9n)
(1,000)
(200)
4.080
l646
IZ969
2,263
L341
155
I073
I005
5.505
879
11997
431
19.080
1297
IL873
5,222
L699
l132
1073
1205
5.505
529
(15000)
(651)
(248)
12859)
(662)
1977)
(Ipoo)
1200)
4,080
l646
11969
Z263
l3441
L344
304
304
155
In73
IW5
5,505
879
Il997
431
350
350
Il997
First Response Training Fund
16m Torget8d linonclol SUFPDrt
16n Cost ol Living Fund
160 DCMS wailing list Fyolgct
16p Children in Neod Fund
(6,346)
(36.278)
(800)
(46097)
(6,346)
(36,278)
(800)
(46.897)
40LJOO
40,000
46,897
4,446
133.341
1722
39200
40,000
40,OIXI
46£97
4,446
133,341
3,722
39200
4.446
4,446
90,712
69.389
(ll2,0)
69.389
{niffl8)
40
## **16. Movement in funds - Restricted funds continued**
**41**
## **16. Movement in funds - Restricted funds continued - Key**
**42**
## **17. Financial commitments**
## Minimum lease payments under operating leases were as follows
**43**
## **18. Connected charities**
## **The Guide Association at Commonwealth Headquarters**
The Guide Association is an umbrella organisation to the region.
The region is one of the 9 separately constituted country/region associations established under the powers and bylaws of the Royal Charter to administer Guiding in each area.
## **Counties, divisions, districts and units**
Within the London and South East England region, there are 19 county areas of the Guide Association, each further subdivided into divisions, districts and units.
Each county, division, district and unit is responsible as a separate charity for their own finances.
## **Trefoil Guild**
The Trefoil Guild is a connected charity established under the powers of the Guide Association Royal Charter.
The Guild has a Regional Association, and the chairman of this association is appointed by the chief commissioner in conjunction with the Trefoil Guild.
The Trefoil Guild is a separate charity and manages its own affairs and prepares its own annual report.
Material transactions with the Guide Association are as follows
**44**
## **19. Reconciliation of net income to net cash flow from operating activities**
**45**
## **20. Trustee expenses**
The trustees all give freely their time and expertise without any form of remuneration or other benefit in kind.
**46**
Girlguiding
London and
South East England