Charlty registratlon number NIC 105019 Company r8glstratlon number N1030526 {Northern Ireland) VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE LEGALAND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Directors Mr P Mcclenaghan - Chair Ms F Nicol Mr C Nicol - Treasurer Mrs M Mccallin Miss M Kennedy Ms E Doherty Dr P Mccafferty (Appointed 14 December 2022) (Appointed 3 Dec8mber 2022) Secretary Mrs A Toal Charity number NIC 105019 Company number N1030526 Reglstered offlce 100 Great Patrick Street Belfast BT12LU Auditor GMCG Lisburn Century House 40 CreSnI Business Park Lisburn BT28 2GN Bankers Danske Bank Forestside Shopping Centre Upper Galwally Belfast BT8 6FX Solicitors Scullion & Green 50 St Patricks Avenue Downpatrick Co Down BT30 6DW
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE CONTENTS Page Directors, report Independent auditor's report 12-17 statement of financial activities 18 Statement of financial position 19 Statement of cash flows 20 Notes to the financial statements 21-42
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS. REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies sel out in nole I to th8 financial statements and comply with the company's Artlcles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordanoe with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019}" Objectlves and actlvltles Voice of Young People in Care IVOYPIC) was establlshed for excluslvely charitable purposes., namely to ensure that the general welfare and interests of care experienced children and young people are advancad. Mission, Vision, and Values Created in 1993 by a group of young people in care and professionals, VOYPIC is the charily for children and young people with a lived-in experience of care in Northern Ireland. We promote the rlghts and voice of children in care and care leavers. The current strategic plan focuses on four key strategic aims- Empowering children and young people 2. Innovating practlce through partlcipalion and co-production 3. Creating change 4. Organisational growth and stability Our Mlsslon- Working togelher with children and young adults for a better care experience and life after care. Our Vision: Every child in care In Northern Ireland feels safe, valued and loved. Every young person leaving care does so with dignity and respect, and thrives into adullhood. OUR WORK: Advocacy and Awareness-ralslng We raise awareness of the rights of children and young people, their vlews and experlences living In and leaving care, and their priorities for change. Making Connectlons and Capa¢lty Bulldlng We connect young people with a lived experience of care with their peers. We host regular groups, participation forums and activities that build self-confidence, personal. social and life skills, whilst making new connections and friends. Independent Advocacy and Advlce Service We support young people to exercise Iheir rights by providing assistance to; partlclpate in declslon making processes, express their views and concerns. access information, resolve issues or to identify available support options. Youth Partlclpation and Co-production We help childran and young people to find their voice and set their own agenda for change. We create a culture of Ilstenlng that enables children and young people to Influence the world around them. Our programmes equip and prepare young people to lake part in co-production activities. Influenclng Change through Pollcy Advocacy We use our specialist knowledge and insight into the views and experiences of children and young people., we work in partnership with them to influence the development of leglslation, policy and practice.
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 OUR VALUES: VOYPIC'S work is underpinned by five core values whlch not only inform what we do bul also how we do It. Relationship Based: We are driven by the needs and aspiratlons of children and young people. We listen, learn, and work in partnership wlth them to ensure their voice is heard. We are dedicated to empowering young people so that they reach their potential in whatever Ihey choose to do. Commltment: We are committed, passionate and enthusiastic champions for change. We are persistent and determined in promoting the voice and defending the rights of children and young people in leaving care. Soclal Justlce: We work to a strong moral code rooted in Ideals of social Justice. We challenge the oppresslon and discrimination faced by children and young people in care and seek to reduce the stigma Ihey face in their daily 1Sves. Respect for Rlghls: We respect Ihe rights of children and young people and are prepared to challenge others to do the same. Solution Focused: We are positive about the future. We are proud of what we do and what we have achieved. We face problems with a solutlon-oriented menlality, and we encourage our staff, stakeholders and young people themselves to be problem solvers. The dlrectors have pald due regard to guldance issued by the Charity Commission in decidlng what activities the company should undertake. Achievements and performance This year VOYPIC'S participation and independent advocacy seNices supporled 544 children and young people. How dld we support them? 353 children and young people living in and leaving care received advocacy support. 13 children and young people received on8-to-one suppori and coaching. 64 children and young people took part in social action programmes. 30 young people took part in peer support groups. 114 children and young people took part in participation forums. 18 young people took part in our youth leadership programme and Young Reps Forum 61 children and young peoplé used our independent advocacy service at Beechcroft. 27 care experienced young adulls received advocacy support.
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS. REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Who else did we reach7 300 people attended our care day fun day events. 127 children and young people were members of MYVOYPIC. 100 young people took part in policy consultations. 34 young people attended the activity days. 26 children and young people were members of the Experts by Experience Reference Group, supporting the Independent Revièw of Children's Social Care Services We coordinated and submitted nina responses to policy consultations: UK Report to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (Childr&n's Law Centre) SBNI Slralegic Plan (Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland) Protocol for HSCTSIPSNI Interface IPSNIIHSCB) Publication of RQIA Inspeclion Reports on Children's Homes (RQIA) Custodial Arrangements for Children {DoJl Raising the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility (DOJ) Amendments to Ind&p6ndent Guardian SeNic& (DOH) Support for Care Leav8rs (DOH) Foster Placement and Foster Agency Regulalions (DOH) EMPOWERING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE INDEPENDENT ADVOCACY SERVICES VOYPIC provides independent advocacy services for a range of children and young people. These services support children and young people living in care or receiving leaving and after care seNices; care experienced young people aged 16+ who no longer receive help from soclal services.. and children and young people placed in Beechcroft. 1. INDEPENDENT ADVOCACY SUPPORT: for children and young people living in care or receiving leaving and after care services. This service is commissioned by the Slrat8gic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG}. Throughout the year we supported 353 children and young people in 396 advocacy cases, with 654 support needs. The top three reasons for referrals to this service were.. 1. Where they live (placement), 2. Rights and entitlement. 3. Famlly Time {contact). The servl¢e also hosted: 312 visiting advocacy session in children's homes 24 a¢livily days, attended by 235 children and young people. 22 advocacy workshops, attended by 282 young people on a range of issues.
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 2. INDEPENDENT ADVOCACY SUPPORT IN BEECHCROFT Beechcroft Child and Adolescent Mental Health Hospilal provides specialist care to young people from across Northern Ireland. VOYPIC provides a dedlcated advocate located in the hospital on behalf of BHSCT. The advocate supported 61 indlvlduals through 71 pieces of casa work. 3. INDEPENDENT ADVOCACY SUPPORT FOR CARE EXPERIENCED YOUNG ADULTS This service is supported by the National Lottery Community Fund. 27 young adults received help from an advocata through this programme. This service is supported by the National Lottery Community Fund. 27 young adults bemeen the age of 21-25 received help from an advocate through this programme. Tha vast majority {22) of the young adults self-referred for advocacy support, with again the majority living either independently (22) or In a form of adult supported accommodation {3). Two young people reached out for support from Hydebank Wood. There was a total of 51 support needs for Ihe young adults, which covered a wide range of issues and. topics. though Ihe highest number of requests were in relalion to ongoing support as their pathway plan ended (12) and in relation to their living arrangements {10J. Other supports included information about their rights and entitlements, training and employment, access to olher support services, access to files and seeklng asylum. VOYPIC'S Partlclpatlon Services: VOYPIC'S participative programmes were supported by the Nallonal Lottery Communlty Fund, Community Foundation Nl, and the Stralegic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG). VOYPIC cor)nects children and young people with a lived experience of care. We host regular groups. participation forums, programmes and activities that help young people develop thelr self-confidence, personal and social skills. whllst making new connections and friends. Our participative practlce helps young people to find their voice and set their own agenda for change. VOYPIC provides a space for young people to have their say, engage directly with decision makers, and influence legislation, guidance. poll¢y, and practice on Issues important lo them. Thls year we supported 239 children and young people in our participation programmes, through: Acllvlty days Personal development programmes and capacity building Coaching Participation in regional and local forums Peers support groups Social Action Projects Move on Up Bursary and Befriending Scheme: Supported by the Community Foundalion Nl we distributed £18. 000 of bursaries lo 37 young people. 15 young people received support from a mentor.
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS. REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 INNOVATING THROUGH PARTICIPATION AND CO-PRODUCTION Separated by Geographyp Connected by Care Experience In partnership with Queéns University, Belfast, and the University of Cape Town, VOYPIC supported a group of young people to take part in the 'Separated by Geography, Connected by Care Experlence, project. Care leavers from Northern Ireland and South Africa came together online. throughout the year, to share their experiences and explore the similarities and differences in the care systems in their respective countries. Empowerlng Care Experlen¢ed Parents: A Good Practlce Charter and Supportlng Resources. Following the adaption in Wales and Scotland of the 'Good Practice Charter. developed by Cardiff University and Cascade (Children's Social Care Research and Development Centre) lo empower care experienced parents, the Universily was keen to directly from young parents in Northern Ireland. The purpose of the charter is to strengthen support for young parents living in and leaving care. The Charter considers the range of support that should be available to young peoplo before and after they become parents. Five care experience parents from Northern Ireland shared their views and experiences of parenthood. They also gave feedback on the charter and agreed that it should also be adapted by local HSCTS. The team from the University and Cascade have adapted the resources for Nl and have agreed to present their research findings and the Charter to all five HSCTS. Participation forums: VOYPIC facilitates weekly participalion forums in each of the five HSCTS. 127 children and young people took part In 187 participatlon forums. TRIUMPH: VOYPIC has supported young people to parlicipate in the Youth Advisory Group of a UK-wide project exploring approaches to improving young people's mental heallh. TRIUMPH the Transdiscipllnary Research for the Improvement of Youth Mental Public Health - brings together young people, practitioners, and policy makers, with academics from across clinical, social sciences, arts and hLFmanities, design, and computer science disciplines, working together to find new way5 to improve mental health and wellbeing. The project culminated in a conference In Edinburgh in October, which was co-designed by the Youth Advisory Group. The event was delivered by the young people, and attracted interest from academics, policy makes and practitioners from across the UK. 5 young people supported to attend THE TRIUMPH Youth Conference. Particlpatlon In Declslon Making: In the run-up lo the Northern Ireland Assembly Elections in May, young people met with candidates from the main parties at events in Belfast, Ballymena and Derry-Londonderry. These events- 'Candidate Conversalions wilh Ihe CaTr Experienced Community," provlded an opportunity for young people lo meet with candidates. learn more about their stance on issues, and set out their priorities for action should the candidate be elected. Feedback from the young people was very positive, with 90 % saying they felt the candidates listened to them. On 21 June, young people hosted an event in Stormont- 'Alidsummer Tea Party Meet & Greet.. This event brought together young people with experience of care from across Northern Ireland, to informally meet with new and returning MLAS, to discuss issues important to them, and call for action in the newAssembly.
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 World Social Work Day voypic took part in a range of conferences and evenls to mark World Social Workday In March. A member of the Experts by Experience Reference Group delivered a presentation to an event organised by BASW at stormont, sharing her experiences and insights as a young people engaging in a co-production activity. She highlighted the need for young people's voices to be al the centre of such projects. and encouraged attendees to explore more how they deliver true co-production. Two members of Ihe VOYPIC leam took part In the Belfast Local Engagement Partnership co-production café In March. This café-style event, wlth partlclpants moving from table to table, and hearlng from different organlsatlons. allowed us to share our experience and learning on how to best supporl young people to engage in co-production activities. Themes of sharlng power over decision making, and ensuring strong parameters from the outset, we identified as key areas for discussion. Admlnlstratlve Data Research - ADRNIIQUBIUU VOYPIC has been worklng with colleagues in Queen's Unlversity and Ulster University, as part of the ADR partnership, to explore young people's involvement in informing administrative data research. Six young people have formed a core group for the project and have participated in workshops with staff from QUB and UU in November and March. It is hoped thal the prolect will be able to offer an internshlp to one of the young people over the summer months. CREATING CHANGE Care Day 17 February 2023 Care Day 23 look place on Friday 17 February. Following two years of scaled back Care Day activities, necessary because of the Covld-19 pandemic, Care Day 23 saw a return to a large scale. regional event. Over the course of the day, we hosl iwo Fun Day events in Belfasl, with participants coming from all over Northern Ireland. The Fun Day events attracted almost 300 participants. We also resumed our annual 'Care Day Breakfast with the Mayor, activities this year. Young people from the Southeastern, Westem and Northern areas met with the Mayors of Ards and Norlh Down (Cllr Karen Douglas), Derry City and Strabane (Cllr Sandra Dufy) and the Deputy Mayor of Mld and East Antrim (Ald Beth Adger) respectively. The focus of these events was to raise awareness of children in care, and for the first citizen of each area to celebrate the care experienced community. Belfast City Hall was illuminated in CARE DAY colours the evening before Care Day. Three young people from VOYPIC visited the City Hall gardens lo sea the illuminations. Our social media campaign asked people to put their 'Hands Up For Care Day,. The VOYPIC accounts across Facebook, TwStter and Instagram were flooded with images of politicians, pollcy makers, senior civil servants. partner organisations, member of the publi¢, and care experienced young people taking part in the activity. TRACING THE REVIEW In November 2022, VOYPIC. alongside the Children's Law Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Centre for Chlldren's Rights, Include Youth, and NIACRO jointly called on support for raising the age of criminal responsibility in Northern Ireland to 16 years of age. At the jointly hosted event 'Stop Criminalising Our Children,, in Riddle Hall. Belfast, attendees heard from a rango of experts on the issues and received a briefing paper, with evldence and best practice on youth justice issues, to guide potential respondents to the Department of Justice Nl's consultalion on whether the age of criminal responsibility should be raised in Northern Iraland.
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 The Panda Project: Promoting the volce of young chlldren in child protection declslon making". This European Prolect aims to promote the partlclpation of young children (aged 12 years and under) in decision making in child protection and welfare services. Project objectives: Help to create the collaborative conditions for the partlcipatory social work with young Children. Increase the competence of social workersl professionals. Support the implementation of a participatory approach to social work. Provide trainers wlth post-qualiflcation training to teach new tools and methods. Following study visits lo Norway and Belgium last year, VOYPIC and QUB hosted a study vislt In Belfast in October 2022. The visit provided participants with an overview of social work in the context of Northern Ireland. Joe Duffy (QUB) gave an input to the group on social work in contested spaces. Young people from VOYPIC, and Catherin O Kane from SEHSCT gave an oveNiew of young peopla's Involvement in service and policy development. Durlng a visit to Stormont, Colm Gildemew, fomier Chair of the Health Committee, provided an input on user involvement in policy and legislative development and Judge Mccaffery providad an overview of court processes. The study visit also included a session a presentation on participative practice in early years, and a session with Laura Lundy (QUB) on her model of participation. The reach-website hosts all information about the outputs and products from the PANDA project, https-1lreacch.eu Independent Review of Children's Social Care Services: The Independent Review of Children's Social Care SeNices was announced by the Minister for Health in December 2021, and commenced its work in early 2022. VOYPIC was tasked with supporting the Review to hear the voicè of chlldren and young people with lived experience of the services being considered. Through a competitive selection process, a group of 23 young people, aged 14-25 years old, formed an Experts by Experience Reference Group lo Ihe Review. Over the year, this group met regularly to consider key questions posed by the R6view Chair, Prof Ray Jones, and the Advisory Panel. A different two members of Ihe group represented their peers at meetings of the Advisory Panel, and the whole group met regularly with Prof Jones and the panel to discuss key issues, concerns and potential solullons. Additionally, VOYPIC organised a series of workshops to support the inclusion of a wider pool of volces in the Review process. The Review will be launched in June 2023. Five Natlons, One Volce notwork {5N1VI VOYPIC continues lo work with partners in the 5N1V alliance. This year, the leadership of Become, EPIC, Voices From Care, VOYPIC, and Who Cares? Scotland met face to face on two occasions.. August 2022 in London and November 2022 in Cardiff. These meetings provlded the opportunity to r8commlt to the alliance following a change in leadership at Ihree of the charities and lo agree strategic objeclives. In January 223 Alicia Toal was nominated as Chair of the Five Nations, One Voice network. A programme for the year ahead has béen agreed which will include a series of knowledge exchange events. Changing The Language of Care The A-Z of Care in Our Words was publlshed to coincide wilh World Book Day (2 March). This resource aims to change the way we talk to, and about, children and young people with lived experience of care. The resource, whlch is available on the VOYPIC website, seeks to take readers on a journey of the language young people hear from the professionals in their lives, and refocus discussions to put that young person at the centre of the Conversation. For example, rather than describing a child as being 'in foster care,, the resource suggests we talk about a child 'living with fosler carers,. Tha resource not only makes this call, and calls like this, but goes on to explain the young people's rationale for these new terms. hlt s:/lwww.vo ic.or Ilan ua eofcarel
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS. REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 GROWTH AND STABILITY Building Project Belfast: Construction work on Ihe new premises in Belfast completed in October 2022. VOYPIC. Include Youth, and Viable Corporate Services moved into their new home in November 2022. This partnership project has been years in the making and has transformed the former warehouse into a bespoke youth, community, and administrative hub for the three organizations. The benefits of the new space can be seen already, Improving service deliv8ry to young people and increasing opportunities for partnership working due to the co-location. Fundraising & Donatlons Just Glvlng: £636.95 Amazon: £41.08 Boys Model: £150 Version 1 Communily First.. £1,000 Cohen.. £1,000 Home Bargains: £2,000 Hibernians Florida: £1,199 Everun.. £l0.000 Flnancial review VOYPIC strives to meet all targels and objectivas agreed with its funders. with all expenditure being monitored and benchmarked against budgets. The Board of Directors consider that the unreslricted funds of the charity have sufficient resources and assets available which are adequate to fulfill thelr obligations. At 31 March 2023 the balance of unrestricted reserves was £428,612 (2022 - £415.494>, of which £113,858 (2022 - £120,478) has been designated by the Board at the year end. Restricted funds are r8Stricled for the purpose specified In letters of offer provlded by the funding bodles. At 31 March 2023 the balance of restricted funds totaled £1,082,200 (2022 - £410,074). Reserves pollcy: The Board aims to mainlain free reserves in unrestricted funds at a level which equates to approximately three months of unrestricted charitable expendllure. Currently we hold the equivalent of 3.5 months expenditure. The Board of Dlreclors monitor and review the reseNes policy on an annual basis. The Board considers that reserves at this level will ensure thal, in the evenl of a significant drop in funding, VOYPIC wlll be able to continue Its aclivities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. This level of reserves has been maintained throughout the year. The VOYPIC Board of Directors has decided that VOYPIC should hold financial reserves because: 1. VOYPIC has no long-term funding sources and is entirely dependent for income from year to year on short term grants and donor funding, which is inevitably subject to fluctualion. 4. VOYPIC requires protection against, and the ability to continue operating, daspite fluctuation in income or events threatening to the organisalion. 5. VOYPIC requires the ability to continue to employ workers and continue our projecls in beeen periods of grant funding. The VOYPIC Board of Directors considers it prudent that unrestricted reserves should be sufficient to.. avoid the necessity of realising fixed assets held for the charlty's use and cover three monlhs of direct and indirect expenditure.
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS. REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Going Concern: The charity's funding streams have remained constant during the year 2022-2023. With a projected shortfall for the year 1 April 202310 31 March 2024 of £96,870. The Board recognises the low level of risk. However, they take an active approach in seeking to mitigate any risk to the charity's future. A fundraising plan is in place to address any potential shortfalls. and scenario planning continues. The Board has considered the secured funding in place for the nexl few years, which enables the board to forward plan and be proactive about their funding in the future. The Directors are satisfied that the charity's financial sustainability of servl¢es lo care experienced chlldren and young people in the financial year 2022 - 2023. The Directors aim to increase fundraising activities and to generatè additional income by ways of Increased training and consultancy work. After making enquiries, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue to operate for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing Ihe annual report and accounts. At 31 March 2023, the charity had cash in bank of £442,828, with unrestricted funds of £428,612 at the year end, £113,858 of which have been designated for use in the year ending 31 March 2023. In summary, based on the funding in place for 202312024 the directors have a reasonable expectation that the organisation has adequate resources to continue its operational activity. Along with written representations from Ihe Board and the reserves of the charity. We do not believe there to be a concern over the operation of VOYPIC Limited in the foreseeable future. Rlsk review Th8 Board has a risk management strategy which comprises: An annual review of principle risks., The establishment of policies, systems & procedures to miligate those risks identified in the annual review; and The implementalion of procedures designed lo minimise or manage polential impact on the charily should those risks materialise. A key element in the management of financial risk is a regular review of available funds and cash flow. Slructurey governance and management The company is a Company limited by guarantee, registered wilh Charity Commission for Northern Ireland and a registered charity for taxation purposes. It is run by a Board of Directors, no more than twelve and no less than five in total. The directors who seNed during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were.. Mr M Thompson (Resigned 30 November 2022) Ms R Mccooey (Resigned 1 October 2022) Mr P Mcclenaghan - Chair Ms F Nicol Mr C Nicol - Treasurer MrA Mcclenaghan Mr R McChesney- Co-vice Chair youth representative Mrs M Mccallin Miss M Kennedy Ms E Doherty Dr P Mccafferly (Resigned 30 November 20221 (Reslgned 18 January 2023) (Appointed 14 December 2022) (Appointed 3 December 2022}
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 The Board of Direclors has the power at any time to fill any vacancy on the board by co-option. At the Annual General Meeting directors are appointed by election. The Board of Directors meet on a monthly basis. New board members may be sought by open advertising. The interview panel is made up of young people and Current board members. When appointed, board members complete a full induction into th8 charity and receive a welcome pack which includes a brief history of the charity, a copy of the last three years annual accounts, annual reports and a copy of the Charity Commission's guidance 'The Essential Trustee; 'What you need to know and Public Benefit running a charity., None of the directors has any beneficial interest in the company. All of th& directors are members of the company and guarantee to contrSbute £1 in the event of a wlndlng up. Key Management Personnel Remuneratlon The Board of Directors and the Chief Executive comprise the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directlng and controlling the charity and operating the charity on a day-to-day basis. All Board members give of their time freely and no remuneratlon was paid in the year. Board members are required to disclose all relevant conflict of interests and register them at each monthly board meeting and in accordance with Ihe Trust's policy withdraw from decisions where a conflict of interest arises. Employee Involvement The charity's policy is to consult and discuss with employees any matters likely to affecl their inleresls. Information of matters of concern is given through staff brleflngs which seek to achieve a common awareness on the part of all employees of the financial and economic factors affecting charity's performance. Dlsabled persons Appllcations for employment are fully considered, bearing in mind Ihe aptitudes of the applicant concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled, every effort is made to ensure that their employment within the company continues and that th8 appropriate training is arranged. It is the policy of the company that the training, career development and promotion of disabled persons should as far as possible, be identical to that of other employees. 10-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE DIRECTORS, REPORT {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Statement of directors. responsibllltles The directors, who also act as trustees for the charltable activities of Voice of Young People in Care, are responsible for preparing the Directors, Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounling Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company Law requires the directors to prepare financial statemenls for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the stale of affairs of the company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year. In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to= select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently., observe the methods and princlple5 in the Charities SORP 2019 (FRS 102)., mak8 judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., state whether applicable UK Accounting Slandards have been followed. subject to any material deparlures disclosed and explalned in the financial statements., and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless il is inappropriale to presume that the company will continue in operation. The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records thal disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financlal position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial slatements comply with Ihe Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Audltor In accordance with the company's arlicles, a resolulion proposing that GMCG Lisburn be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting. Dlsclosure of informatlon to audltor Each of the directors has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audit, but of which the auditor is unaware. Théy have further confirmed thal théy have taken appropriate steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information. Thls report has bean prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the small Companies, exemption. The directors, report was authorised and approved by the Board of Directors. Mr P M¢Clenagha Dlrector air Date: ... 11
CHARTERED AeeOVNTANT8 VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE Opinion We have audited the financial statemenls of Voice of Young People In Care (the 'company'l for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the statement of financial posilion, the statement of cash flows and the 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 charitable company's affairs as at 31 March 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, 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 Companies Act 2006. Basls for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) IISAS (UKI) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Audiloffs responsibilities for the audit ol the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the company 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 olher 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 golng concern In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors, 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 Gast significant doubt on the company'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 directors with respecl to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. 12- Alfred House 19 Alfred Street BLLVAS'I. B'f2 8EQ DX3910 NR Belfast SO CenturyHoiLqe 40 Crcscent Buslnoss Park IISBURN BT28 2GN 17 MandeIle Street YORIADOWN Craigavon r62 3PB Chattr tstlilld Tel: +44 (0)28 9031 1113 +44 {0)28 9031 0777 Tel: +44 (0)28 9260 735S F. +44 (0)28 9260 1656 Tel: +44 {0)28 3833 28oJ Faxt +44 {0)28 3835 0293 chnMpTtdAcIntsllts | MewAtertdAlLON | {'h¢rteredloKAd I voreniicALYXIIllts I TrinAnreAdYtso GMdtiiAtrDdlIneOr['mrGrn limited. V¥xNtr.N'IoT9fi6rJ. IAslofJjit[SllVItsb1e*i re8L%ierthl¢)ffl¢e R¢KiSr¥ta[0nduclDll(kni kbYl1rt¥1ltuQfChu¢ALQDtOtsin [kna Amvnikraf fiAts -A WorldwideAlliLiiceof lndeptrndo.lllA¢tDnI1n5 l.IrnL8 vww.gmeg¢a.com
CHAiLTERED ACCOUNTANTS VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE 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 directors are responsible for Ihe other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otheiSe expliGilly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion Ihereon. Our responsibility is lo read Ihe 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 othenmise 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 thernselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required lo report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit= the information given in the directors, report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements., and the directors, report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. Matters on which we are requlred to report by exception In Iho light of the knowledge and understanding of the Gompany and its environment oblained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the directors, report. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion.. adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us,. or the financial statemenls are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns., or certain disclosures of trustees, remuneration specified by law are not made., or we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. the directors were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies, exemptions in preparing the directors, report and from the requirement to prepare a strategic report. 13- Alfred House 19 Alfred Street BELVAS'I'B'f2 8EQ DX3910 NRBclfast 50 Cenry House 40 CrcsCentBuS?na Park USJJURN BT28 2GN 17 Mandeville Strect FOR'IADOWN Craigavon r62 3PB Tel: +44 {0)28 90311113 ax: +44 (0)28 90310777 Tel: +44 (0)28 9260 7355 Fux: +44 (0)28 9260 1656 Tel: +44 (0)28 3833 2801 Fox: +44 (0)28 3835 0293 ('hnrtered.lrilThlnts l Hrys[dAaItM l LhOrte[l.ll1wl9T8 l p<)Thl1¢AteOuntATrts I crtr TrinAnreAdthM MdriXA lrndliiginthf($NIl1 CtMuTrTdirnitd.Ke8No.. Nl(w66fJ. li$1 rJrrJirtitstsnvÈiknblent re8kl¢rfAldn¢e R5[lI0(0n(LuOIllUt th¥ In5liiUteofChRrt¥ztdALY0untunts Irelld ANl2nTrbprttr'rL46" .AWTrrldffldeAIlinn¢e.fjfinderndeillAttt1S lfjrn www.gmcgca.COAn
CHARTERED ACCOUNfANT8 VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE Responsiblllties of dire¢tors As explained more fully in the statement of directors, responsibilities, Ihe directors 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 directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements Ihat are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing Ihe 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 Ihe direGlors either intend to liquidate the charitable compar)y or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. Auditor's responsibilltles for the audit of the flnancial statements 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 misslatement 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 proGedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are Gapable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below. 14- A]fred House 19 rid Street BELFAS'I. B'f2 8LQ DX3910 NR Bclfast so Century House 40 Crcscent Business Park USBUIiN BT28 2GN 17 Mandcvillt Street POR'I'ADOWN Craigavon r62 3PB Cld Tel: +44 (0)28 9031 1113 I4. +44 {0)28 9031 0777 Tel: +44 (0)28 9260 7355 Fthx: +44 (0)28 9260 J656 Tel: +44 10)28 3833 2801 F&x: +44 (0)28 3835 0293 rhDTterdAt¢thintsnts l l¢pgi%teTedAudityr4 1 (..hgrtertdTOxAdrs | V¢JttMitALyountNnL* | crntr bin&n¢e A(1VrI fphlLITiXA irndlniMI¢DrI11lrf1GrOuplamiW7. INn.. It0([t04II1h1e1iÉe1l1Wi0ffIL ]iwst¥rnltoo)ndw'lou(bt r.bY th¥ 1wtilte0fChUrtVredA&DUnbts AeMr0fT[A1I -Awnrklw1eAlllni1¢.rInrtepedÈlltAcONlnlln8b1rnK% www.gmcgca.coin
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, Including fraud We identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and then design and perform audit procedures responsive lo those risks, including obtaining audit evidence Ihat is sufficient and appropriate lo provide a basis for our opinion. In identifying and assessing potential risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliances with laws and regulations, we considered the following.. The nature of the industry and sector, control environment and business performance, including the charitable company's remuneration policies for directors, bonus levels and performance targets, if any., Results of our enquiries of management aboul their own identification and assessment of the risks of irregularities., Any matters we identified having obtained and reviewed Ihe charitable company's documenlalion of their policies and procedures relating lo.. Identifying, evaluating and complying with laws and regulations and whether they were aware of any instance of non-compliance., Detecting and responding to the risks of fraud and whether they have knowledge of any actual, suspected or alleged fraud., and The internal controls established to mitigate risks of fraud or non-cornpliance with laws and regulations; The matters discussed among the audit engagement team regarding how and where fraud might occur in the financial statements and potential indicators of fraud. As a result of these procedures, we considered the opportunities and incentives that may exist within the charitable company for fraud and identified the greatest potential for fraud in income recognition. In common wilh all audits under ISAS (UK), we are also required to perform specific procedures lo respond to the risk of management override. We also obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that the charitable company operates in, focusing on provisions of those laws and regulalions that had a direct effect on Ihe delerminalion of material amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The key laws and regulations we considered in this context included the Companies Act 2006, and local tax legislation. In addition, we considered provisions of other laws and regulalions that do not have a direct effect on the financial statements but compliance with which may be fundamental to the company's ability to operate or to avoid a material penalty. 15- A]fred House 19 A]fi'ed Street BELTrAS'J"B'f2 8EQ DX3910 NRJJclfast SO Century House 40 Crt5cent Business Park LISBURN BT28 2GN A7 Mandeville Street PORIAI)OWN Craigavon Ff62 3PB rl Tel: +44 (0)28 9031 1113 li. +44 (0)28 9031 0777 Tel: +44 {0)28 9260 7355 F. +44 (0)28 9260 1656 Tel: +44 {0)28 3833 2801 F4x: +44 (0)28 3835 0293 RpRi%iprAI AudiloTr l ('.h4N•ml I'tsxAd¥irs l Troren$l¢A¢¢ouhtnnts I WininMYLIO (INf¢1Ylqatrtdlii8nLiifrIIlGmup Idltniled. Re8Nts." N[{Kr66(>. li%1 rJfDiJLiDtqttvalknbleDt r¢8Liethlo Re%iSi¢r] lo{dtll(bt1iJrky tht1th5titteo[cknrl¢rn¢1DntUtsin Irekn]Kl AMenilw.rDr'riAr. -AwOrld*Al1ln¢etsf IndendeI¢XI1jnA Pirn WWIV.8megca.com
CMAllTBRBD ACCOUNTAN78 VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE Audit response to risks Identified Our procedures to respond to the risks identified included the following- Reviewing the financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with provisions of relevant laws and regulations described as having a direct effect on the financial statements., Enquiring of management concerning actual and potential litigation and claims., Performing analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships that may indicate risks of material misstatement due to fraud- Reading minutes of meetings of those Charged with governance and reviewing correspondence with tax authorities. and In addressing the risk of fraud through management override of controls, testing the appropriateness of journal entries and other adjustments,. assessing whether the judgements made in Tnaking accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias- and evaluating the business rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the normal course of business. We also cotnmunicated relevant identified laws and regulations and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members and remained alert to any indications of fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit. Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some material misstatements in the financial statements, even though we have properly planned and performed our audit in accordance with auditing standards. In addition, as with any audit, there remains a higher risk of non-deteGtion of irregularities, as they may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal controls. We are not responsible for preventing non-Gompliance and cannot be expected to detect non- compliance with all laws and regulations. A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: https'.11 www.frG.org.uklauditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditols report. 16- Alfred House 19 Alfi'ed Street BELTr AS'I'B'f2 8EQ DX3910 NRBelfast 50 Century House 40 CrcscentBuslness Pgrk IISBURN BT28 2GN 17 Mandeville Strcet POK'fADOWN Craisavon f62 3PB Tel: +44 (0)28 9031 IIL3
a%: +44 (0)28 9031 0777 Tel: +44 (0)28 9260 7355 F4x: +44 (0)28 9260 x656 Tel: +44 {0)28 3833 2801 F. +44 {0)28 3835 0293 ChTrrteTedAc¢oiint4nts l Re$1•r AuditoTr | LThnrtprpd'fAxAdTiy>f4 | hOcAteDDlPryts l eryr4tr ?InonreAdYLwtA Clhfd¥iSAtrndbiiDrtiiieafeMLf.fymllplirniied. PgNo-. N'Io5966th lA5tofDiTtrtOtsnY&llnll?Ll re&i4tered orriee Regl&lerlt¢condu¢tLudftMx¢kbythttInslitttteofChBrtEZErtALYountonts in tzeluAI Abl¢mkrofTtA-AW0rld1aei11llceor1dlendente1llnt1S7fjr www.gmegca.com
LISBURN eHAhiYERED ACCOUNTANTS VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE Us? of our roport This r8POrt Is made solely to the charitable CA)mpany's members. as a body, in accordance with Ch8pler 3 of Part 16 of Ihe Companios Acl 2006. Our audit work has be8n undertaken so that wo mlght state to the charltatlo company's members Ihose matters we arè required lo slate to them in an audilovs report and for no olh9r purpos&. To the fullest extent peTmitt8d by law, we do not acc8pt or assume responsibllity lo anyone other than thè charitable company and the charitabl8 company's membèrs as a body, for our audit work, for thls report, or forth8 opinions we have fomiod. Mrs Susan Dunlop FCA Isenior Statutory Auditor) for and on bèhalf of GMGG Llsburn Chartered Accountsnts Statutory Audllor Contury Housg 40 Cresc6nt Business Pa Llsbum BT28 2GN 17. GMCG LISBURN Centyry Huuse 40 C¢¢t Bu5ine5s Park Lxsburn IITA8 3GN GhlCC.111.:[.I'il.¥r A]frtH] I.[ve. 19 AifTLYI StT¢IL BL'llas1 BT2 8EQ DX 3911) Nll IlelfilSt.%o G'mee. POliTIlDOII Ptsi*4iduivn C.rdigavtsn JITf12 3PII Tel.. +44 {0)28 9260 TJ55 Fax:. +44 (0)28 9260 1056 Tel: +4410128 91)3J 1113 Fak.. +44 (u)'.% 9n3) ¢)?r/ I'el: +441()128 31138 2801 F4x: +44 (()128.483.4 orb9.3 CHARTÈKED ACCOUWTANTS CharteredAttOurttants l RtylsieredAudiiors | ChkrtÈredT&xAdlSD5 1 FoTeDsicAcctwnlanls | Corpnrale FIDuNce Adii8oTS GMCG LISJIURN isa Iradin&NatneofCMCQ GTQUP IArniled. Reg No.. Nl()59660. Listof DiTeC%OTs&Yailable ai RoKisteTrd Office Regi51eTedtoconducl uvdlt workbyilJoInsiliuie DfChurttredArcountants in Ireland
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Unrestrlcted Restricted funds funds 2023 2023 Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2022 2022 Total 2023 2022 Notes Income and endowments from: Donatlons and legacies Charilable activities Investments Other income 18.809 18,809 2,096,421 1,405 19,196 19,196 1.089.590 83 1,793 2,096,421 1,089.590 1,405 83 1.793 Total income 20,214 2,096,421 2,116,635 21,072 1,089,590 1,110,662 Ex enditure on: Charitable activities 7,096 1.424,295 1,431,391 23,522 1,150,968 1,174,490 Total resources expended 7,096 1,424,295 1,431,391 23,522 1,150,968 1,174,490 Nel Incomingl(outgolng) resources before transfers Gross transfers between funds 13.118 672,126 685,244 (2,450) (61,378) (63,828) 2,642 (2,642) Net In¢omel{expenditure) for the yearl Net movement In funds 13,118 672,126 685,244 192 (64,020) (63,828) Fund balances at 1 April 2022 415,494 410,074 825,568 415,302 474,094 889,396 Fund balances at 31 March 2023 428,612 1,082,200 1,510,812 415,494 410,074 825,568 The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. The statement of financial activities also complies with Ihe requiremenls for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006. 18-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 MARCH 2023 2023 2022 Notes Flxed assets Tangible assels Investments 14 15 1,141,950 255,059 1,141,951 255,060 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 16 192,809 442,828 102,459 916,234 635,637 1.018,693 Creditors: amounts falling due wlthin one year 17 {185,908) (362,021) Net current assets 449,729 656,672 Tolal assets less current liabilitles 1,591,680 911,732 Creditors: amounts falllng due after more than one year 18 (80,868) (86,164) Net assets 1,510.812 825,568 Income funds Restricted funds Unrestricted funds Designated funds General unrestricted funds 22 1,082,200 410,074 23 113,858 314,754 120,478 295,016 428,612 415,494 1,510.812 825,568 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance wilh the provisions applicable to companies Subject to the small companies regime. The financial statements were approved by the board of Directors and authorised for issue on are signed on its behalf by: 1.31.iUU. and Mr P McClenaghah- Trustee hair ol - Treasurer Trustee Company Registratlon No. N1030526 19-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 2023 2022 Notes Cash flows from operatlng activitles Cash absorbed by operations 29 (142,492) (9,037) Investlng activitles Purchase of tangible fixed assets Proceeds on disposal of tangible fixed assets Investment income received (327.917) (1,9411 1,798 83 1,405 Net cash used in investlng activitles (326.512) (60} Flnanclng activities Repayment of borrowings 15,093) (4,888) Net cash used In financing actlvlties (5,093) (4,888) Net decrease In cash and cash equivalents (474,097) (13,985) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 908.173 922,158 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 434,076 908,173 Relating to: Cash at bank and in hand Bank overdrafts included in creditors payable within one year 442.828 916,234 {8,752) (8,061) -20-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Accounting poll¢les Charity information Voice of Young People In Care is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in Northern Ireland. The registered office and principal place of business is 100 Great Patrick Street, Belfast, BT12LU. 1.1 Accountlng convenlion The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charltles: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance wlth the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)" The company is a Public B8nefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these flnancial statemenls are rounded to the nearest £. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are sel out below. 1.2 Going concern At the time of approving the financial statements, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to conllnue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the dire¢lors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounling in preparing the financial statements. 1.3 Charltable funds Unrestrlcted funds are available for use at the discretion of the directors in furtherance of their charitable objectives. Designated funds comprise funds which have been set aside at the discretion of the directors for specific purposes. The purposes and uses of the designated funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements. Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restrlcted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements. 1.4 Income Income is recognised when the company is legally enlilled to it after any performance conditions have been met, tho amounts can be measured rellably, and it is probable that Income will be received. Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the company has been notified of the donation, unless performance condillons require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under GiftAid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation. The charity receives grants in respect of the provision of specified services, projects and activities. Income from government and other grants are recognised at fair value when the Charity has entitlement after any performance conditions have been mel, it is probable that the income will be received and Ihe amount can be measured reliably. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred. Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity., this is normally upon notification of the inler8St paid or payable by the bank. 21
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Accountlng pollcles (Contlnued) 1.5 Expendlture All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obllgation 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. It is categorised under one of the following headings.. Costs of raising funds, Expenditure on charitable actlvities and Other expenditure. Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure aros8. Support costs are those that assist the work of the charity but do not direclly represent charitable activities and include office costs. governance costs, depreciation costs and administrative payroll costs. They are incurred directly In support of expenditure on Ihe objects of the charity and include project management carried out at the office. Office costs, depreciation costs. governance costs and payroll costs are allocated to charitable activities based on useage. The allocation of the support costs is analysad in note 9. 1.6 Tangible flxed assets Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. Depreciation 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.. Land & buildings Leasehold improvements Fixtures and fittings 2°/0 Straight line 250/0 Straight line 25°/ts Straight line The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset Is determined as the difference beeen the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities. 1.7 Fixed asset investments Fixed asset investments are stated at cost. 1.8 Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held al call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities. 1.9 Financial Instruments The company has elected to apply Ihe provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financial Instruments, and Section 12 'Other Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all of Its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the companls balance sheet when the company bacomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and liabililiès are offset, wilh Ihe net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there Is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. Basic finan¢lal assets Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement Constitutes a financing Iransaclion, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market ral8 of interest. Financial assets Classified as receivable within one year are not amortised. -22-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Accountlng pollcles (Contlnued} Baslc flnanclal Ilabilities Basi¢ financial liabilities, including Creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement conslilutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrumont is measured at the present value of Ihe future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabllllies classifled as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instrumenls are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. Trade creditors are obligations lo pay for goods or services that have been acquired In the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective Interest method. Derecognltion of flnancial Ilabllities Financial liabilities are derecognised when the company's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or Cancelled. 1.10 Employee benefits The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's services are received. Termination benefils are recognised immediately as an expense when the company is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits. 1.11 Retlrement beneflts Payments to defined conlribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due. Crltlcal accounting estlmates and Judgements In the application of the company's accounting policies, the directors are required to make Judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilit16S that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historlcal experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estlmates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. -23-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Crltlcal accountlng estlmates and Judgements (Continued) Key sources of estimation uncertainty Fixed assets The annual depreciation charge on fixed assets depends primarily on the estimated lives of each lype of asset and estimates of residual values. The directors regularly review these assets lives and change them as necessary to reflect current thinking on remaining lives in light of prospectlve economic utilisation and physical condition of the assets concerned. Changes in assets lives can have a significant impact on depreciation charges for the period. Detail of the useful lives is included in the accounting policies. Restricted and unrestrlcted funds Judgements are made in relation to allocalion of income and expenditure to restrlcted and unrestricted funds. The directors consider it appropriate to allocate these funds based on interpretation of donations received. Support costs Judgements are made in relation to the allocation of support costs of the charity to ils charitable activities. The directors consider it appropriate to allocate these costs based on the allocalion of grant funding to the charitable activities in the year. Deferred and accrued Income Income is deferred or accrued based on when Ihe directors believe the company is legally entilled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be m&asured rellably, and It is probable that income will be recelved. Donatlons and legacles Unrestricted Unreslricted funds funds 2023 2022 Donations and gifts Unrestricted grants 13,206 5,603 19,196 18,809 19,196 Donatlons and glfts other income Training Refunds 8,786 4,420 8,455 4,128 6,613 13,206 19,196 -24-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Charitable actlvities Advo¢a¢y Partlclpation Policy Vol¢• Bullding Project 2023 Total 2023 Total 2022 2023 2023 2023 Grants receivable for charitable activities (see note 7) 636,715 347,990 141,705 970,011 2,096,421 1,089,590 For the year ended 31 March 2022 Advocacy Partl¢ipatlon Pollcy Volce Tralnlng and Educatlon Total 2022 Grants receivable for charitable activities (see note 7) 659.395 324,954 95,241 10,000 1,089,590 Investments Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds 2023 2022 Interesl receivable 1,405 83 Other In¢ome Total Unrestricted funds 2023 2022 Net gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets 1,793 -25-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Granls receivable for charitable activities 2023 2022 Act for Change Allantic Philanthroples Belfast City Council BHSCT Building grant r8ceived (DFC, DOH, DFE) Children in Need Community Foundation Department for Communities DOH DOH Care Day DOH Core Funding DOH TSP tralning Erasmus+ Esmee Fairbairn Everun Garfield Weston Include Youth Nalional Loltery Community Fund NHSCT Public Health Agency Strategic Planning and Performance Group Lot 1 Strategic Planning and Performance Group Lot 3 The Clothworkers Foundation Tudor Trust Ulster Garden Villiage 370 150,000 3,377 56,999 472,611 24,197 11,332 5,256 53,114 5,000 41,179 54,666 30,000 10,000 4,000 41.179 9,000 8,375 12,000 10,000 140,000 8,520 170,436 14,374 750 1,492 157,934 3,000 3,774 613.676 159,749 562,502 149,749 37,400 110,000 50.000 2,096,421 1,089,590 -26-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Description of charitable actlvities The charity continues to remain focused on its main charitable objeclSves of . Advocacy, participation. policy voice, training and education. These charitable objectives are described in more delail below: Advocacy and Awareness-ralsing We raise awareness of the rights of children and young people, their views and experiences living in and leaving care, and their priorities for change. Making Connections and Capaclty Building We connect young people with a lived experience of care wlth their peers. W8 host regular groups, participation forums and activities that build self-confidence, personal. social and life skills, whilst making new connections and friends. Independent Advocacy and Advice Service We support young people to exercise their rights by providing assistance to,. participate decision making processes, express their views and concerns, access informalion, resolve issues or to identify available support options. Youlh Participatlon and Coproduclion We help chlldren and young people to find their voice and set their own agenda for change. We create a Culture of listening that enables children and young people to influence the world around them. Our programmes equip and prepare young people to take part in co-production activities. Influencing Change through Policy Advocacy We use our speciallst knowledge and insight into the views and experiences of chlldren, young people, we work in partnefship with them to influence the development of legislation, policy and practice. -27-
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VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 10 Support costs Support Governance costs costs 2023 2022 Basls of allocatlon Rent and rates Insurance Heat and light Maintenance Recruitment Staff training other staff costs 39,462 9,540 12,370 16,833 3.058 14.016 11,464 39,462 9,540 12,370 16,833 3,058 14,016 11,464 46,799 Useage 7.681 Useage 7,154 Useage 8,056 Useage 2,763 Useage 17.440 Useage 17,024 Useage Ll Ill Print, post & stationery Tèlephone IT support Bank charges Subscriptions Hosting and PR Corporate seNices Sundry office expenses 14,959 9,353 12,657 143 1,049 23,800 29,304 12,283 14,959 9,353 12,657 143 1,049 23,800 29,304 12,283 8,772 Useage 11,210 Useage 7,655 Useage 113 Useage 1,794 Useage 10,311 Us8age 25,028 Useage 11,194 Useage Audll and accountancy fees Governance 6,600 6.600 6,396 210,291 6,600 216,891 189,390 Analysed between Charilable activities 210,291 6,600 216,891 189,390 Governance costs includes payments to Ihe auditors of £6,600 (2022 - £6,396) for audit and accountancy fees. 11 Dlrectors None of the directors (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the company during the year. -30-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 12 Employees The average monthly number of employees during the year was.. 2023 Number 2022 Number 23 25 Employment cosls 2023 2022 Wages and salaries Social security costs other pension costs 717.990 74,787 41,863 764,629 73,124 44,534 834,640 882,287 The charity considers its key management personnel to comprise of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive, the Chlld Services Manager, Resource Manager and the Engagement Manager. The total employment benefits including employer pension contributions of the key management personnel were £188,300 {2022 - £137,583). There were no employees whose annual remunération was £60,000 or more. 13 Taxation The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxationof Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that thes8 are applied to its charitable oblects. 31
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 14 Tanglble fixed assets Land & Leasehold Flxtures and bulldlngs improvements fittings Total Cost At 1 April 2022 Additions Disposals 278,956 896,170 23,780 28,850 21,877 (18,658) 331,586 918,047 (18,658) At 31 March 2023 1,175,126 23,780 32,069 1,230,975 Depreclatlon and Impairment At 1 April 2022 Depreciation charged in the year Eliminated in respect of disposals 31,454 21,152 23,780 21,293 10,004 (18,658) 76.527 31,156 {18,658) At 31 March 2023 52,606 23,780 12,639 89,025 Carrylng amounl Al 31 March 2023 1,122,520 19,430 1,141,950 At 31 March 2022 247,502 7,557 255,059 1 S Fixed asset investments Unlisted investments Cost or valuatlon Al 1 April 2022 & 31 March 2023 Carrylng amount At 31 March 2023 At 31 March 2022 16 Debtors 2023 2022 Amounts falllng due withln one year: other debtors Prepayments 183,115 9,694 90.576 11,883 192,809 102,459 -32-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 17 Credilors: amounts falling due wilhin one year 2023 2022 Notes Bank overdrafts Other borrowings Deferred income other credltors Accruals 19 8,752 5,092 8,061 4,889 290,000 838 58,233 20 3,824 168,240 185,908 362,021 18 Credltors: amounts falllng due after more than one year 2023 2022 Borrowings 80.868 86,164 19 Loans and overdrafts 2023 2022 Bank overdrafts Other loans 8,752 85,960 8,061 91,053 94,712 99,114 Payable within one year Payablè after one year 13.844 80,868 12,950 86,164 Amounts Included above which fall due after five years: Payablè by instalments 60,499 65,591 20 Deferred Income 2023 2022 Deferred income 290,000 Included in deferred income is £nil (2022 - £290,000) this related lo monies received for refurbishment costs of the Gr&at Patrick Street property. 33-
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 21 Retirement benefit schemes Defined contribution Schemes The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company in an independently administered fund. The charge to profil or10ss in respect of defined contribution schemes was £41,86312022 - £44,534). -34-
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VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 24 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestrlcted Restrlcted funds funds 2023 2023 Total Unrestricted Reslricted funds funds 2022 2022 Total 2023 2022 Fund balances at 31 March 2023 are represented by.. Tangible assets Investments Current assetsl(liabilities) Long term liabilities 26,286 1.115,664 1,141,950 26,951 228,108 255,059 483,193 (80,868) (33,464) 449,729 (80,868) 474,706 (86,164) 181,966 656,672 (86,164) 428,612 1,082,200 1,510,812 415,494 410,074 825,568 25 Flnanclal Commilments, guarantees and ¢ontingent Ilabilities A contingent Ilability exists to repay grants received in relation to capilal building costs should certain conditions not be fulfilled by the charity. In this regard charges have been registered by The Department for Communltles who partly financed the buildlng works. 26 Share ¢apltal Th8 company is limiled by guarantee and has no share capital. The liability of the members is limited to £1 per member. 27 Operatlng lease commllments At the reporting end date the company had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows.. 2023 2022 within one year Between two and five years 41,671 21,175 33,977 292 62,846 34,269 41
VOICE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 28 Related party transactions (i) Control The charity was under the control of the Board of Directors throughout the year. (11) Vl-able Corporate Services Llmlted The charity holds 500/0 of the issued share capital in a joint venture company Vi-able Corporale SeNices Llmited (Vi-able). During the year Vi-able charged the charity £32,351 (2022 £27,592) for Ihe provision of corporate services. At the year end there was a debtor balance owing from Vi-able Corporate Services Limited of £10,517 (2022- £10,517} for services paid but not yet provided to the charity. Vi-able occupled offices renl free at 100 Great Patrlck Street, Belfast a property jointly owned by VOYPIC and Include Youth. 29 Cash generated from operatlons 2023 2022 Surplusl(deficit) for the year 685,244 (63,828) Adjustments for- Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities Donated assets Gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets Depreclation and imp8lrment of tangible flxed assets {1,405) (472,611) (83) (1,794) 15,811 31,156 Movements in worklng capital: (Increase) in debtors (Decrease)lincrease in creditors {Decrease)lincrease in deferred income (90,350) {4,5261 (290,000) (10,893) 6,750 45,000 Cash absorbed by operations (142,492) (9,037) 30 Analysis of Changes in net funds At 1 Aprll 2022 Cash flow8At 31 March 2023 Cash at bank and in hand Bank overdrafts 916,234 (8.061 } (473,406) 1691) 442,828 (8,752) 908,173 (474,097} 434,076 Loans falling due within one year Loans falling due after more than one year (4,889) (86,164) 1203) 5,296 (5,092) (80,868) 817,120 (469,004) 348,116 -42-