CHILDREN OF THE NATIONS ltsNifED KINGDQhf CHILDREN OF THE NATIONS UK Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Charty Commisslon for Northern Ireland Number NIC101681
Children of the Nations UK Truste Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 The Trustees present the annual report and financial statements for Children of the Nations UK for the year ended 31 December 2023. Reftrence qndAdmlnlstmtlve Infornn Charity Name: CHILDREN OF THE l+lATIOMS UK Charity Registration Number: NIC101681 Contact Address: 14 Eden Drive, Markethill BT60 ILA Correspondence Address: c/0 Dr Ruth Ford 14 Eden Drive, Markethill BT60 ILA Chorfty Trustees Dr Ruth Ford Mr ChristopherGardiner Rev Ben Preston Mrs Gillian Drennan Dr Lynne Speirs Mr Dylan Carleton Rev David Mccullagh (resigned Il" February 20231 Independent Examlner Zoe Woodhams 62 Moor Lane. Chessington, Surrey, KT9 18W Bankers The COperatiVe Bank p.l.c., P.0. Box 101, l Balloon Street, Manchester, M60 4EP. Registered in England and Wales No. 990937 Page12
Children of the Nations UK Trusteeg Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 strurture, Governance and Monagement The Trustees The charity trustees of Children of the Nations UK are responsible for the management and administration of the Charitvs Property and funds in accordan with our Trust Deed. The Trustees must hold at least four meetings each year. The Trustees must arrange at each of their meetings the date, time and place of their next meeting unless such arrangements have already been made. Dexrlptlon and Purpose The vision of Children of the Nations UK is to raise children who transform nations. Our mlssion is to provide holistic, Christ-centred Care for orphaned and destitute Children, enabling them to create positNe and lasting change in their nations. We were established to support by means of financial assistante and voluntary work any charitable project for the prevention and relief of poverty, suffering and distress, the advancement of education, the promotion of the Christian faith, the promotion of sustainable development and the promotion, preservation, and protection of health of the inhabitants, and, in particular children and young people. We serve beneficiaries in Sierra Leone, Uganda, Dominican Republic, Haiti and Malawi and promote the benefit of those inhabitants who are in need of assistance as a result of their poverty or social and economic circumstances by associatin8 With the statutory authorities, community and voluntary organisatlons and the inhabitants of the area of benefit in a common effort to provide residentlal accommodation. education and facilities in the interests of social welfare for recreation or other leisurtrtime occupation to improve their conditions of life and in particular: - to relieve poverty and hunger in the area of benefit by any charitable means and sn particular through the estsblishment or support of homes for orphans and destitute children by the provision of food, clothing and care," - the relief of sickness among the beneficiaries by the provision of medical facilities and counseS1ing and by the provision of advice, information and financial asststance with the costs of medical treatment and the provision of items and services required to ease their sufferin& - to encourage new, and strengthen existin& partnerships with thurches and evangelical groups in the area of benefit in an effort to enable local churches to support local communities in religious education and poverty alleviation; - to advance the education of children and young people on the basis of Christian principles through their educational and leisure activities so as to develop their spiritual, physical, mental and emotional capacities in such ways as the Trustees may from time to time think fit; Page13
Children of the Natlons UK Trustee< Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Dexrlptlon and Purpose (continued) - to promote Christianity, provide Christian literature and educate people in the area of benefit through evangelism and the provision of biblically based teachin& discipleship trainin& meetlngs, bible studies and social actwities: - to recruit, select and send out volunteers for both Short and long term service ' - to advance any other exclusively charitable purpose as the Trustees. may from time to time, decide in accordance with the law of charity. Children of the Nations, wre values are statements of belief which drive our vision, mission, operating prlnciples, and everything we do as an organisation. F•ith: We believe in placing our trust in God for His salvation, provision, and direction. We are confident that a relationship with Jesus Christ is essential to genuine transfomiation. We are drlven by an assuredness that does not rest solely on108tcal proof or material evidence. Integrity: We believe in strict adhereno to moral and upright conduct, in accordance to Biblical standards, in all our artions including spiritual, financial, and personal pursults. Prayer. We believe God works through the power of prayer. We are committed to praying for our staff, children, communities• goals, and all the work in whlch we are enrd8ed. Prayer reminds us that we are partnering with God to accomplish His work. People: We believe that God created all people in His image and therefore all people have value. We believe people should be treated with love and respect. We are dedicated to caring for orphans and destitute children because of God's mandate in James 1.27. Children of the Nations, Operntirq Prlndple$ are driven by our core values. These foundational methods are the compass for COTN operations and influence the way we carry out our misslon. As such they must have a prof(nd impact on what and how we communicate. Chlld Centred: We believe the most effective way to create positNe and lasting thange in families, communities, and nations is through a deep investment in individual children. Providing long-term holistic care to children in the most destitute situations results In transfomiation- children with healthy minds, healthy bodies, emotional welkbein& an authentic faith in Jesus Christ, and Biblical ethics/values. It is through the lives of these transformed young people that lasting cultural, social, economic, and political transformation will occur. Holistic Care: Holistic care is essential in order to raise healthy, well-rounded children who will become change agents in their countries. We seek to create an environment that meets our Page14
Children of the Natlons UK Trusteeg Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Descriptlon and Purpose (continued) children's basic needs, encourages their individual desires and passions. and promotes excellence in achievement. Children of the Nations is committed to caring for our children in four main areas. physical health, social welfare, spiritual care, and education. We are dedicated to working towards end results that have been established for eath area of care- long-term goals that support COTN'S mission and vision. Holistic Care End Results: • Physical Health: We are committed to raising children who are physically healthy with the ability to demonstrate and promote health in their lives, communities, and beyond. Education: We are committed to raising children who reach their fullest potential through quality education, enabling them to display l¢fe skills and independent, creative thinkn'n& Social Welfare: We are tommltted to raising emotionally healthy children who can integrate their past experiences into their lives, maintain connertion5 With their communities, achieve lasting and meanin8ful relationships, and thrive at home, in sch¢)ol. and the workplace. • Spiritual Care: We are committed to raising children who demonstrate a vibrant and authentic faith in Jesus Christ. Learnlnl and Development: Continual le¥ning and growth are foundational to ensuring our mission is best accomplished. We welcome the knowledge, skills, and passions of our partners. We embra process improvement and seek to Create standard operating ProdureS that are 'livin8 documents, that can be built and improved upon as we grow and learn as an alliance. stewardshlp: Our resources belong to God. He has entrusted us to care and use them in a responsible manner- therefore, all resources will be wisely used to best support the holistic care of the children and communities we seNe. All development efforts will be done In a rnannerthat restores and protects God's creation. Sustslnablllty: Children of the Nations defines sustainability as the ability to endure wrth increasing independence. We believe a sustainable approach to caring for the children and communities we serve is the most effective way to empower indNiduals and transform nations. Children of the Nations International is committed to designin& asse551ng, and improving the sustainability of our projects and programs. Children of the Nations is also committed to providing communities with sustainable development tools and methods in key areas indudin8 water, agriculture, renewable ene, and microfinance. Partnershlp: We are convinced successful work begins with relationships and continues through partnerships offering unique skills and knowledge. We also believe individuals are most effective within their own culture. For these reasons. Children of the Nations is not a'missionary sendin organisation - rather, in each country where we work, Children of the Nations is started through relationships and strives to operate as its own non-profit run by competent nationals who share our Page15
Children of the Nations UK Trustee Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Descrfption and Purw (continued) core values and commitment to our vision and mission. Children of the Nation5 Strategically partners with churches, groups. and or8anization5 in each country to best accomplish our mission. Famlly and Communlty: God designed people to live tn community. Strong communities are needed for individuals to thrive. Children of the Nations is committed to providing children a"home" atmosphere where they have a place to belong and are accepted as a valued family member. We are ommitted to providing children with loving and secure caregivers as well as creating and maintaining an environment that lebrateS how God created each individual and fosters love, respect, sharin& servin& participation, and fellowshlp. Accountsbllity: We are responsible to answer for our actions or lack of artions, in accordance with Biblical standards. Including our use of time, finances, and in ourwork and relational conduct. Children of the Nations, staff, children and operations are accountsble to oversight from local and international boards- clear lines of authority are maintained. We seek to exerclse authority with servant hearts, both to challen8e our staff and praise their accomplishments, a5 well as protert the weS1-bein8 of Children of the Nations. Objertlves a Actlwdes In 2023, we furthered our commltment to this vision by offering administratlve support to our partners, conducting program monitoring and evaluation and increasing awareness and support for our artivities domestically. Achlevements & Perfomwnce Llalsln8 Wlth ImplementiTY Partners A primary means of ensuring clear communication with Children of the Nations in Uganda, Malawi and Sierra Leone has been weekly meetings between Liaisons and the relevant County Director. These meetings invofve information gatherin& problem sofving and capacity building. Liaisons engage in a monthly meeting with the International President and facilitate monthly meetings between the International President and their respective Country Director. Liaisons also ensure monthly programme reports are completed as agreed and ensure accountability and 8rant compliance through detailed review of monthly finanaal reporting. Liaison staff travelled to implementing partners in Malawi and Uganda in February to support the Founderfs Tour events. connect with Boards and man4ement teams in-person and undertake Page16
Children of the Natlons UK Trustee< Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Achlevements & Perfomk7nce (continued) program assessments. Liaisons collaborated with implementing partners on a detailed assessment of all Standards of Service relevant to each partnerfs administration and operations and the education, physical care, spiritual care, and wider programming provided to each child. Following a period of assessment and evaluation, detailed compliance reports were created and shared along with rtIficateS of excellence where those had been attsined. Following a period of review and discussion, Liaisons faeilitsted agreement with the relevant implementing partner5 on corrective action plans where those were deemed essential. Liaisons assisted with the annual operational planning and budgeting processes of each implementing partner and the evaluation of submitted project proposals. In Slerra Leone, the Liaison supported the following processes: the installation by World Light Africa of a centralised solar system for the main ministry site at Ngolala, Upper Banta, offering 24n electricity for the campus. initial feasibility studies considerin8 launch of additional Yillage Partnershlp" programming in two additional communities. ongoing ministry site construction projects relating to Chlldren's Home renovation and school construction. In Malawi, the Lialson supported the following processes: development of national board practice through delivery of governance training. development of a business plan for partnerfs fami, supported be an international consultsnt. emergency intervention in Chilombo and Mgwayi communities, feeding 487 children. rolling out the "One Toilet One Household" campaign, constructing concrete slabs for approximately 80 household latrines. recruitment and orientation of key staff including Education Coordinator and Farm Manager. In Uganda, the Liaison supported the following local processes: development of a Strategic Plan to guide operations from 2024 until 2028. completion of A Level Classrooms and Floor 2 of the Boys, Dorni for $5 students. the continued advancement of social work best practice. through engagement with the National Association of Social Workers of Uganda (NASWU) as an associate member. compliance with residential care stsndards and alternative care legislation In collaboration with the Ministry of Gender. Labour and Social Development following a government inspection of the Children's Home, reviewed findings, documented compliance confimiation and reported outcomes to stakeholders. Page17
Children of the Natlons UK Truste Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Achlevements & Performance {continuedJ These steps seek to improve national programming which in 2023 in Sierra Leone, Malawi and Uganda included: - 1,259 children attending sch(K)l in Sierra Leone - 1,415 children attending school in Malawi - 929 children attending school in Uganda - 184 students in tertiary education In Sierra Leone - 78 students in tertiary edvcation in Malawi - 77 students in tertiary educatlon in Uganda Our staff team also contribvted significanttry to research and review of the Children of the Nations International safeguardin8 policv. Impart of Local Partnetshlps Fundraising activities and the generous giving of our local partners enabled us to provide financial grants to Children of the Nations Uganda, Malawi, Sierra Leone and Haiti. This was the largest cumulative international grant we have been able to award to date. These funds were granted for the holistlc care of children and young people in the programmes operated by each of these Implementing partners in the following way: Grant to Children of the Nations U8anda- £4,799 Grant to Chlldren of the Nations Malawi- £28,639 Grant to Children of the Nations Uganda- £3,708 Grant to Children of the Nations U8anda- £1,032 Included In the grant fundin8 provided to Children of the Nations Malawi was the remaining £5,739 provided by Granshaw Presbyterian Church for the construction of playparks for children in tne programmes there. A generous gift from The Souter Trust enabled Children of the NatnS UK to fund on-campus mentoring sessions offered by our partners in U8anda, reaching 331 students- 160 boys and young men a5 well as 171 girfs and young women. sdent mentees were clustered according to their age, gender and level of education and mentors were assigned based on their all-round capacity to handle the needs within that group. The topics for mentoring were generated using mentoring handbooks provided for the appropriate age group, stage of growth, level of understanding and comprehension. Mentoring sessions took place every Wednesday afternoon of the school tenn. Discussions were Interactive, incorporating time for studying the word of God, questions and answers and prayer. Children needing individual attention due to their unique challenges were referred fof I".1 Page18
Children of the Nations UK Trustee Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Achievements & Perf0mnCe (continued) counselling and, during the sessions, children were provided with refreshments. During their holidav break, students in the University Vocational Programme were offered opportunities to participate in mentoring the young ones {primary and secondary aged children) by sharin8 their own journey and life lessons. In 2022 support reNed from Action Renewables and another financial partner enabled Children of the Nations UK to partner with World Light Africa IWLA) to install a battery back-up system for the main ministry site of our partners at Children of the Nations in Malawi, significantly improving the reliability of Èlectricity supply to their campus. In April 2023 our Liaison to Children of the Nations Malawi facilitated a trip by two members of stsff from Action Renewables to see the system in action and learn about the wider work of the ministry. The team also participated in a regular food dlstribution programme and facilitsted an interactive teaching session with school students on the principles of renewable power. They also visited Melanjie Mission Hospital where Action Renewables has supported an ene upgrade and Children of the Nations Malawi is supporting students to study nursing and midwifery. We engaged directly with supporters in a number of ways throughout the year, from an evening at The Strand Arts Centre showing an Indiana Jones movie to sharing the vislon of our ministry from stand at Bangor Worldwide. Our staff team participated in events at Granshaw and Kirkpatri Memorial Presbyterian Churches, the latter taking us on as an Assoclate Partner. In October our staff helped lead a seminar on Short Temi Mission at Belfast Blble College. At the end of the year, we held our AGM at Belmont Presbyterian Church and we celebrated Christmas at the Belvoir Players Pantomime shows, serving tea and coffee and introducing their audiences to our ministry. Our two most Sl8nifKant fundralsing initiatives this year were the 250K in May event when we were joined by 43 participants who committed to raise funds by taking 250,(XJ) steps in May and the launch in June of ourjust Imagine Monthly Giving Community. We are incredibly 8ratefvl to all those who supported these initiatives. Volunteers The Trustees wish to acknowledge their deep appreciation of those who give freely of their time to support the mlnistry of Chlldfen of the Nations. We are very grateful for their commitment and contribution and in everything we give praise and honour to God. Charlty Admlnlstration and Operatlons Wednesday moming prayer continued to provide an opportunityfor staff, Board members and volunteers to come together, share updates and pray. Prayer is a tore value of ¢)ur mission and this has been a very significant weekly rhythm. Page19
Children of the Nations UK Trustee< Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Achievements & PerfornN7nce (continuedj In March our staff team was joined by Children of the Nations International Liaisons to Haiti and the DominiGin Republic for a weeklong Retreat in Belfast. The week provided for a ttme of prayer, Bible study and fellowship for the whole team as well as time for reflection and planning regarding the efficienw and effectiveness of our work together. Our staff team helped lead the annual COTNI Homecoming Conference, a fivfrday event for international staff held in Sllverdale, Washington and online in May. Our staff delivered presentations updating attendees on the actmties and developments of COTN Sierra Leone, Uganda and Malawi, This event further informed intemational staff about progress and needs and equipped them with training and coordination for how to best share this with partners. Regarding Trustee changes, Rev David Mccullagh left the Board on 11 February 2023 and the entire Children of the Nations family is incredibly 8rateful for the years of service he provided. Publk 8enefltStatement Chlldren of the Natlons UK meets the public benefit requirements by working In the areas of the prevention and relief of poverty, suffering and distress, the advancement of education, the promotion of the Christian faith, the promotion of sustainable development and the promotion, preservation and protection of health of children. Our beneficiaries are primarily children and young people who have been orphaned, can no lon8er be supported by family members or are living with family members or guardians but in a destitute sltuation. We support families and communities who are in need of assistance as a result of their poverty or social and economic circumstances in Sierra Leone, Malawi, Uganda, Halti, the Dominican Republic and such other countrtes that may be Identified from tlme to time. We work with our partner charities in each of these regions to help deliver our charitable purposes which are interlinked and therefore benefits overlap between purposes. We further all of our charitable purposes through the provision of financial aid, expertise and volunteer placement. FlnoncA71Rewew The charlty started the year with £77,433 and ended the year with £66,305. Funds were raised in 2023 and earlier which will be granted to implementing partners for activities planned for 2024. Page 110
Children of the Nations UK Trusteeg Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Reserves Pollcy The Trustees, policy is to retain a level of free reserves or general reserves which matches its needs at the current time and in the foreseeable future. Free reserves are those unrestricted reserves not invested in fixed assets, whtch are available for general use. The main reason for holding reserves is to ensure that the charity has en(w8h re50urces to fund its programmes and to hold sufficient resources to meet its commitments. The Trustees believe that our reserves policy is both responsible and prudent but have not specified a particular level of reserves to be held. At 31st Detember 2023 the Chartty had unrestrkted funds of £15.717 and held £50,588 in restricted funds (closlng balance was £66,305). Funds held as custodlan ttee on behalf of others There are no funds held as custodian trustee on behalf of others. PlansfvrfvtuR perlods The Trustees are considering plans to inspire financial 8ivin8 from a larger group of supporters, churches, foundations and individuals through our.just Imagine" giving. They are also expecting the work of the international liaisons to build the capaclty of implementing partners, particularly in Sierra Leone, Malawi and Uganda. We hope to continue raising financial sUPPOrt for Children of the Nations in each countryi With a focus in 2024 on grant funding provided to our partners in Malawi, Sierra Leone and Uganda. Statement of Tntsteeg Re4>onsibllltles The Trustees are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements of the charity in accordance with applicable law and generally accepted accounting practice. As the charltys total income does not exceed £250,1, the TTUStees have elected under Section 6413) of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 21JJ8 to prepare a receipts and payment account. The Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 requires charity trustees to ensure that accounting records are kept which are sufficient to show and explain all the charlS transactions, which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the charity and enable them to prepare statement of accounts which complies with regulation under the Act. They are also responsible for safeguarding Page 111
Children of the Natlons UK Trustee< Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 Statementof TntsteerfResponslbilities (continuedj the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to: Selert suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistentlv," Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent." State whether applicable accounting stsndards and statements of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any departures disc105ed and explained in the financial statements," and Prepare the financial statements on the golng conorn basis unless It is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operational existence. Approved by the Trustee of Children of the Nations UK and signed on its behalf by Dr Ruth Ford-Chairper50n 31st October 2024 Page112