Charity rogistration number Charity No. NIC105291 COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustees N Richardson L Patterson Mr S Graham P O'Neill A Kerrigan C O'Neill B Craig Charlty number Charity No. NIC105291 Princlpal address Unit 6 North City Business Céntre 2 Duncairn Gardens Belfast BT15 2GG Audltor Celin8 Corrigan Corrigan CA Limited 24 Greystone Road Antrim N Ireland BT41 2QN
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS CONTENTS Page Trustees report 1- 16 Statement of trustees responsibilities 17 Independenl auditorfs report statemènt of financial activities 21 Balan sheet 22 Notes to the financial statements 23-32
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Trustees, report for the year ended 31st March 2023 Th8 trustees of CRIS are pleased to present their annual report and the financial statements for the period 1st April 2023- 31st March 2024. Rèference and Admlnlstratlve Detalls Charity Name: Community Relations In Schools Charity Numbor: NIC105291 The charity is an unincorporated association as per the Constitution. Prlnclpal Offjco: Unil 6, North City Business Centre, 2 Duncaim Gardens, Belfast, BT152GG Reglstered Offlce: Unit 6, 2 Duncalrn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GG Audltor: Corrigan CA Limited 24 Greystone Road Antrim BT412GG Bankers: Ulster Bank Ltd. Unit 1 Westwood Centre, Kennedy Way, Belfast, BT11 9BQ CRIS Trustees as of 31ot March 2024.. Norman Richardson (Chair) Patricia O'Neill (Wice Chair) Lawrence Patterson (Treasurer} Conor O'Neill (Secretary) Aithne Kerrigan Ben Craig Objeclives and adivities OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Charltable Objecis The purpose of CRIS is to actively contribute to the building of a shared and reconciled society in Northem Ireland by developing and dellvering peace-building programmes and activities within and beeen schools and in their loc31 communities. CRIS also works in partnership with educational authorities, higher educational institutions, other statutory agencies, funding bodies and community organisations to bring about positive impacts at an individual, family. school community. and system level. CRIS works in cooperative arrangements that 5UPPOrt reconcilialion and promote equ81ily and diversity through the building of relationships and trust across society.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Publlc Beneflt Statement The trustees of CRIS confirm that they have complied with their duty as defined in Ihe Charities Act {Northem Ireland} 2008 {as amended) and have regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit. The public benefit requiremenl has continued to inform the adivities of the charity during this reporting period. In evaluating public benefit, the trustees are pleased thal the work of CRIS has had multi-level positive impacts over this past year. Our programmes, training and other partnership initialives have involved work with 71 school communities. Over three quarters of these schools are in areas of high deprivation and CRIS intenlionally foGuses its resources in these communities where the legacy of the conflict continues to make an impact. Within tha reporting period, through its programmes and activitiès. CRIS dlrectly engaged 3840 distinct participants (pupils, parents, teachers, classroom assistants, principals, Boards of Governorsl- The total beneficiaries are 500 more than tha pr8vious year. Indirectly many more children, young people and members of their whole school communities have benefited due to the programmes, capacity building. and relationship development initiative5 undertaken to support diversity, inclusion and peacebuilding both wilhin and beeen schools across all sectors and phases of education. Wider benefits are identified such as organisational praCtiCbaSed learning that Is captured and disseminated supporting emerging policy and initiatives in education and Good Relations. For example, during Good Relations Week 2023, CRIS launched its report on trust with Cov8ntry University. Policy makers and funding bodi8S showed keen interest in research findings. In February 2024, CRIS and Coventry University were invited to present the Tmst Indicator Framework (TIFI and its suggested appllcations to 8 strategic partnership meeting with senior officials of The Ex6CUtive Office ITEO) and Community Relations Council INICRC). Furthermore, a review of the govemment's Together Building a United Community (TBUC) strategy (201 &2023) has been initiated in this period and Ihe Trust Indicator Framework (TIF) is under Consideration to bring a new lens to how Good Relations is measured and the need to consider processes for trust building a5 a foundational principle and practice. In the Achievements and Performanc8 section of this report additional public benefit is detailed in the area of supporting systems Ghange. CRIS has played an increasingly central role to improv8 regional contributions to peace and reconciliation by partnering with the Education Authority and their continued work to improve. refine and extand Shared Education across Northern Ireland. Additionally, CRIS creates wider public benefit by sharing good news stories and case studies of impact that present altemative hopeful narrative5. putting the voice of participants and schools to the fore, countering the dominant conflict orientated messaging regarding Northern Ireland. CRIS'S work in communications highlights the unique role school communities play supporting an intergenerational framework for peace and reconcilialion. It demonstrates innovative solutions that transcend structural and Psychological divisions and has an intemational appeal given the transferability of Shared Education in other conflictlpost-conflict contexts. During this reporting period CRIS has increased its communi¢ations, with a core purpose to champion an alternative narrative that speaks to thè aspirations of the 's118nt majority, to liv8 in a more shared and reGonciled society-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Summary of the Maln Activltles The core aclivities of CRIS are: Provision of training, consultancy and multi-disciplinary support aGross all school sectors to build capacity and confidence to work wilh Goodl Community Relations and to support best practice in sharing and Gollaborative working. Delivering school-based, inter-community pupil programmes thal promote diversity, inclusion and peacebuilding and that eThJage with perceived sensitive and contentious issues in age and stage appropriate ways. Provision of opportunities to engage parentslcarers in Goodlcommunity Relations and peacebuilding work wlth and through schools and other networks on a single identity and an inter-Gommunity basis. Advocacy for the role that schools. and education can play in supporting an intergenerational framework for peacebuilding and a shared future. Dissemination of good pra¢ti¢e, research findings and resources on Goodl Community Relations and school-based peacebuilding through a variety of means including social media, traditional communication, through the writing of articles, hosting eventsl conferences, and providing inputs for third level education Institutions, statutory bodies, and other organisations. Ongoing development of evaluation systems linked lo our model of practi Good Relations and Collaborative Education (GRACE). Continuing to develop the sustainability of the organisation and ensure govemance systems are robust adopting 8 continual Improvement approach across all areas of organisation81 development. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE The Year in Numbers 91h Year 3094 12 534 107,274 340,737 Supportlng School-based Peacebuilding chools Puplls Parentsl carers eachersl principals Unrestricted Reserves otal Income Programme OveNiew Thè thr8e core alms set out in the CRIS slrategic plan (2021-2024): AIM 1.. Catalysing Peace and Reconciliation AIM 2.. Equipping and Inspiring the Education Sector AIM 3.. Sustaining and Growing CRIS to achieve our mission In its current strategy CRIS commits lo investing its funded resources in seven localilies across Northern Ireland. These indude Newtownabbey & Glengormley, Antrim and Randalstown, and five additional localities aligned with The Executive Office's Urban Villages Initialive (Ardoyne and Greater Ballysillan,. Colinlwest Belfast. Eastsidel East Belfast. Sandy Row, Donegall Pass and the Markets areasl South Belfast; and The Bogside, Fountain and Bishop Street in DerylLondonderry}- CRIS also has a regional remit linked to its capacity building initiatives with teachers (including trainee teachers) and school leaders and work with the Education Authority (EA) to support scaling work linked to Shared Education. CRIS also has a targeted programme located across the Crumlin Road interface called Everyday Peacebuilding In Ardoyn8 and Sh8nkill. The Everyday Paac8building programme works with puplls, parents, teachers, and community stakeholders and is anchored to Nursery Schools where the interschool buddy system was pioneer8d ov8r enty-fIVe years ago. Everyday Peaoebuilding is an intentional Iongèr-tarm commitment and seeks to work with a capped nurnber of ten schools so an enhanced programme offering and partnership has a nr>2tar nnRqihililv nf IrAn#fAmiinn rd2linnqhinq 2nd now nnrm¢ nf np2rA
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The rationale for CRIS'S commitment across the seven localltles is strategic in nature and has built new ways of working distinct to each initiative. In the Antrim and Newtownabbey council area. CRIS has built upon a long history of cross-sector collaboration in order to support the devèlopment of GRACE - Good Relations and Collaborative Education. Originally piloted by CRIS with the Antrim and Randalstown Schools Moving Forward Together partnership {MFT), GRACE has become a model of good practlce 2nd is viewed as ground-breaking by educational stakeholders. The SucsS of MFT led to the deliberate decision by CRIS to further invest in this councll area due to strong appelile and th8 existence of trusted neOrkS. In 2019 the Gmwing GRACE programme was established and over the subsequent five years collaboration has formalised into th8 Newtownabbey Empowering Schools Together (NEST) partnership Involving 21 schools and other stakeholders. With regard to CRIS'S other strategic locality-based programmes. The Executive Office's (TEO) Urban Villages initiative partnered with CRIS to support the Buddy Up! Project to be scaled in all Primary Schools across the five localities since 2019. Buddy Up! as a funded programme officially wound down in March 2024. In its final year, CRIS has provided enhanced capacity building support to schools and resources to enable them to continue to use the inter-school buddy system in their ongoing parlnership work. Furthermore. during this period CRIS was successful in its funding proposal to the Executive OffiGe to produce a short film to highlight the outcomes and multitude of impacts made possible by the investment over 5 years. A formal celebration event will be held in the following year lo fomally close the programme and signpost schools to additional support and funding opportunities. Teacher Training Supporting student teacher training is a regular feature of the programme year with requests from Stranmillis University College. This year CRIS led 5 sessions in the Leadership for Diversity and Mutual Understanding module which Seeks to promote best practice among educators in building leadership in diversity, equality, inclusion, and inter-cultural competen¢8. Sorvice Delivery In recènt years CRIS has lessened ils service delivery work due to the level of funding received. In this reporting period CRIS provided specialised bespoke training to Dungannon Integrated College. and a Gommunity Safety initiative run by Antrim Newtownabbey Council involving all Primary Schools across the Council. CRIS is re- developlng its consultancy model arKI enhancing our workforce via recruitment and training of Associates. These activities will help prlme CRIS to extend provision in future years. Everyday Peacebulldlng (North Belfast) The workplan focused on thr88 main area5- School engagemant (work with puplls and school staff)., parental engagement,. and community engagement. The aim of school-based activities was to build upon the neOrk of 8 schools situated on the Crumlin Road interface with links lo each oiher and Buddy Upl through th8 Nursery school programme with Edenderry and Holy Cross Nursery Schools. School EngagementActivities Included.. Listening axarcises with individual schools Networking and planning events for school leaders and staff Teacher training programme to aid delivery of pupil programmes and enhance capaclty and confidence to work on curriculum topics. Stsff training day with Holy Cross and Edèndery Nursery Schools to support plannlng for the r8Start of their Buddy Up programme after its suspension due lo Covid. Pilot programme with classroom Assistants linked to all schools. Planning. delivery and evaluation of P3 Celebrating Diverw'ty {9 hour) programme to 3 school partnerships involving ovar 150 pupils. Planning, delivery and evaluation of P7 Knowing Me, Knowing You {18 hour) programme to 3 school partnerships involving over 150 pupils.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Parent and Community EngagementActivities Included: Four workshops with parents linked to the Nursery Schools (Apr- Jun 2023). Eight workshops and art project with parents (new school year Jan- Mar 2024> Support for community fun day at Stormont Park Another highlight of the year was the first-ever Buddy Upl Disco which was held at Girdw¢Xsd Community Gentre on Saturday 19th March. Children and parents of Everyday Peacebuilding Schools attanding with approx. 100 participants (50 children + 50 adults. The event was deemed a success with positive feedback from parents and children indicating that it was viewed as a posltive opportunity for buddies to meet outside of school. Interviews with participanls were conducted to capture material for CRIS'S new short film in developmenl. Meetings were held with several community organisations and local churches to share more information about Buddy Up! and the Everyday Peacebuilding Programmes. Networking meetings will be a key feature of the programme moving forward as CRIS and schools are keen to develop a more joined up approach lo support the aims of the project and the families it serves. CRIS is delightsd that the Everydey Peacebuilding programme has had such a successful two years. The ability to meet the majority of programme targets and objectives despite the unexpected departure of a newly appointed programme lead in September 2023 is lestament to the agility of staff to reorganise resources and utilise a t8am of experienced Associates lo support the ambitious workplan. Delivery during this period was also heavily supported by the Director of Programmes who stepped into the Coordinating role and the CEO who also supported planning and delivery. During this perfod the Board was dalighted to welcome Damon Henry on as project lead In April 2024 and anticipate some staffing stability going forward which will aid wider organisational tsrggts and goals. Growing GRACE: Newtownabbey Empowering Schools Together (NEST) Partnership NEST is a reconciliation initiative that works to build understanding, collaboration, and trust belmeen school communitles in Newtownabbey. CRIS coordinates, resources and helps schools to crpcreate their own action plans linked to commonly identified needs in their localities. NEST schools are committed lo a shared vision and voice for collaboration and believe that this will create an educational ecosystem that benefiis all 21 school ommunities. The partnership is in its fifth year and progress is aleratIng. Key headlines from this reporting pariod include: As identified in GRACE Stage one, ongoing engagement with individual schools is a core aspect of the partnerships development and bespoke support offered by CRIS'S Senior Practitioner. Four NEST partnership meetings for school Principals to plan aclivities and strategies to strengthen their neork and visibility in the community Supporting New Shared Education activities (Edmund Rice College & Integr8¢ed College Glengonnl8yl. CRIS provided programmes, training and support for whole staff teams and Year 8 pupils focussing on themes relating to identily, community, conflict and flags and symbols. Sourcing funding for ongoing sustainability is an ongoing endeavour. CRIS was delighted to attract two investors, Ardbarron Trust and Clanmil and Connswater Housing Association. CRIS Facilitated three Shared Leaming NeorkS for te8chers involving over 50 staff. Staff training was provided for schools involving over 30 staff from St Mary's on the Hill PS, Carnmoney PS, and Ballyhenry PS and Gae15coiI Éanna who are hoping to engage in Shared Education for the firsl tirne. Primary School pupil programmes were delivered to school partnerships involving over 200 pupils and 20 staff. Controversial Issues training was delivered for 15 NEST teachers and principals.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Buddy Upl In Urban Villages The Buddy Up! Programme workplan between April 2023 - March 2024 involved 637 pupils, 87 teachers and 69 parents across 5 Locations.. North Belfast., West Belfast. East Belfast,. South Belfast and Dery-Londondery. Across these localities. CRIS ran Buddy Upl with 26 schools with each programme involving work with pupils, parental engagement and a Iw¢Trday teacher training programme. Due to its final year CRIS has also been working on an exit strategy and aims to be able to support schools, particularly those involved in new Shared Education partnerships in the years ahead. CRIS was delighted to be awarded not only funding to support an external review of the project which has proven useful for organisational learning and programme development but also funds to create a short film to share the story of the many positive impacls across 34 schools in the project's lifetime. The film will be premiered during Good Relations week in September 2024. A new Ripples DI Peace impact Gase study was written during this period featuring St Matthew's P.S. and Netuefield P.S. and is available here: htt s".Ilwww. ni.or osvri les-of- eats-weavin -friendshi in-the-shadow-of-the-shi ard Feedback from Buddy Upl Evaluations: CRIS developed a new survey to help measure the quality of relationships being developed beeen children involved in the programme. Indicators from Ihe newly launched Trust Indicator Framework (TIFI, research project beeen CRIS and Coventry were utilised and children were involved in a pre and post surveys. The data including 794 surveys across 26 schools, will prove invaluable in CRIS'S drive to improve its programming for the future. This data will inform CRIS practice for years to come, and the learning taken from it will be disseminated lo make a positive impact in the sector 8s a whole. Some of the findings particularfy noteworthy are detailed below. Pre-programme surveys with P7 children found that.. 540h of P3s said they felt worried or unsure when meeting people different from them 63/0 of P7s said they felt worried or unsure about meeting their buddy 69 % of P7s said they felt worried about meeting people who are different from them •> 60/0 of P7s said thal Ihey were not comfortable talking openly about their beliefs Post-programme surveys with P7 found that: 71Yo of P7s said Ihey wanted lo spend more time with their buddy 75Yo of P7s said they had fun leaning how children were different and how they were similar 59 % of P7s said they wère more comfortable m8ating chlldren from the othgr schod 95 /0 of P7s sald they had a chance to think and talk about the different groups of people who Ilve In Northem Ireland Teachers and Principals were also asked aboul their experiences with Buddy Up! This too yielded positive feedback finding.. 1000/0 believe that participating in Buddy Upl has been benaflcial to their parsonal and professional development 910/0 agreed Buddy Up! cDntribuled towards community cohesion and good relations 1000/0 believe Buddy Upl has offered their class a positive 8xperience of Shared Education Sample of Qualitative Feedback from Teachers: 'A supar initiativ8 that allows our children to intggrat& with our neighbours. A v8ry WOrthwhi1g programme". "It develops respeGt and understanding in children that they can apply through life". °It was a .qreat way to build relationships between both chIldn and staff. It was a lot ol fun and qot
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 °Delivery of the sessions is gat. Both Damon and Emily make the sessions fun for everyone. They answer all questions and make every child feel like their contribulion matters.. he children looked folward to each session really buying into the idea behind it,: .1 really enjoyed working with Emma (partner teacher) and we have built up a gre8t friendshipl. Next Goneratlon Peacebuilders Programme As a response to the neèd to widen and diversify our own team of Associates and the widely recognised weakening of capacity in the sector, CRIS led another recruitment drlve in this reporting year. We were successful in recruiling 16 new trainee Associates and engaged them in a process of immersive training that involves a variety of shadowing and ccfaCilltatIOn opportunilies with our different stakeholder participant groups. CRIS was foriunate to locate the funding to support this development initiative by the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland (CFNII. By investing in upskilling and deepening the Good Relalions reflective practice in our wider team of Associates, we hope to be in a position to respond to an antlGipated increase in requests for consultancy work to aid our own sustainability and to contribute to the longer-term sustainability of the sector. Inaugural GRACE Kitemark Award: Another accomplishment of the period was the celebration of the inaugural GRACE Good Relations and Collaborative Education Kitemark award. The award was presented to Ligoniel P.S. and St Vincent de Paul P.S. who followed a specific set of guidelineslcriteria developed by CRIS to demonstrate at classroom and school lev81 there was an evidenc&based record of inter-school collaboration. The award marks years of strong dedication to Shared Education and joint working across the two schools. The bulk of the activity and evidence gathering for the award was gathered by April-may 2023 and the official award was presented to the two schools n October at an award ceremony hosted by Belfast City Lord Mayor Ryan Murphy held al City Hall. CRIS hope to further develop the GRACE Kite Mark in Ihe nexl year. This will help recognise sites of excellence, so that at a locality-level Good Relations and reconciliation can be embedded in school communitie5. See CRC E-news that featured the story- Inau I Peacebuildin GFUICE Award for Prima Commun elations Council communit -relations.or Schools
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Rèsearch Project: Launch of the Trust Indlcator Framework CRIS was delighted to launch and begin the process of implementing our Trust Indicators Framework rriF) to measure the development of trust in our peace and reconciliation activities. CRIS launched 'Trusting GRACE.. The development of trust indicators from the Good Relations and Collaborative Education model of schools- based peacebuilding, in September 2023 during Good Relations week. The report was authored by Dr Emily Stanton (CRIS Director of Programmesl and Dr Charis Rice (Coventry University}- The event received a high level of interest, particularly from acr05s govemment departments and those responsible for Good Relations and Educational policy, statutory bodies, funders and attended by over 80 from a cross section of society including schools and community organisations. 14 The Northem Ireland Community Relations Council (NICRC) featured th8 launch event In the S8ptgmber 2023 E- news. See link: New Research Investi ates the Rolg ofTrust as Ke Communi Relations in Schools Communit Relations Council communit Fa I r for Reconciliation -relations.0 A series of follow-on aGtions and meet117gs to discuss poterptial applicability beyond direct CRIS practice devglopment soon commenced. For example, the Educ8tion Authority (EA) initiated discussions with the suggestion to pilot TIF into ShaTrd Education partnerships.. The Northern Ireland Community Relations CounGiI (CRC) also indicated interest as part of a wider review of evaluation of peace and reconciliation 0GOMeS at policy level. CRIS was also invited to present the Tnjst Indicator Framgwork (TIF) to a joint meeting of Nl Execiitive Office and Ihe Community Relations CounGil. CRIS is excited at thg enlhusiasm by which this new researGh has been received and its fOSeable utility. We look forward to further developing our partnership with Coventry University and exploring how further examinalion of TIF in praclice Gan support leaming leVant, not only to Northem Ireland policy makers and practitioners but in other post-conflict and intemational contexts.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORK TO SUPPORT SUSTAINABILITY D8velopm8nt work identified in the strategic plan to aid governance and sustainability has continued to be a central theme. During this period CRIS was fortunate to secure a corporate partnership with Lancia Consult (Belfast) who worked wlth the CEO and Finance Manager, on a pro bono basis over several months. to support improvements in our data management systems and governance. The focus of our project has been to develop a knowledg8 transfer and management process, mapping out tha m8chaniGs of how w8 opèrat8 across multiple critical priorities and capture this knowledge in user-friendly systems culminating in the creation of an interactive Knowledge Hub Handbook. The process. carefully facilitated by Lancia colleagues has supported an increased understanding, refinement and improvement making of our own systems in areas such as financial management. risk management and HR Pro5$e$ to name but a few. This time, invested into governance control, risk mitigation and su¢cession planning. allows Ihe organisation to fa¢e future challenges with a new confidence. During this time CRIS also continued to access consultancy support from Clayton Rowe Isaben Group, Canada} who has been working with the CEO and Director of Programmes on a regular basis. Several key elements were progressed during this period induding the review of our core programmes for Primary Schools work., consultation on branding and design of a new logo for CRIS,. preparatory work to overhaul the CRIS website,. and the redevelopment of our consultancy model including revised fee stnjcture, process for designing projects and new templates for contracting with dients. During this period two programme staff aGGessed extemally provided professional development training, including a Diploma in Community Development and Oxford University Spring School in Data Analysis for Social Science. CRIS has committed itself to help ensure that staff are renumerated at a competitive level and are provided with appropriale opportunities to develop professionally. As the organisations transitions into a new diversified income model, we hope to enhance terms and conditions to ensure we reward and retain talent and attract high quality staff in futur8 years. Reputation, Profile and Communication: Activity in this area has been developing at pace in recent years. CRIS'S increasing role in influencing systems change include closer working relationships with the Department of Education IDENI) and Education Authority (EA). CRIS has had several strategic meetings with Senior Officials keen to utilise our practice-based expertise and evidence base. Project inilialives during this period include.. Proposal to pilotTrust Indicator Framewotl( in Mainstreamed Shared Education partnerships. CRIS approache5 and resource guidgs to support 'Community Connections and parental engagement, included on EAS online Shared Education hub. Engagement with Deputy Secretary of Education Ilnked to the Moving Forward Together partnership. Member of DENI'S Reducing Education Dis8dvantagé (REDI iniliative to ¢deSIgn systems and collaborative approachos for future roll out of this new initiative. Invitation to join EAS collaboration with the BBC'S Once Upon a Time in Northern Iland series to support content for new teacher professional training (TPLI module on working with sensltive issues. CRIS CEO invited by Education Authority to provide an input at a seminar with Korean delegation. CRIS CEO presentèd on CRIS practice at Integrated Education Fund (IEF) GR Week event. 'Celebrating Diversity in Our Schools,. CRIS CEO part of panel on the Shared Island Dialogue Series Ilrish Government). Good Relations Week 2023 Buddy Up Video. CRC'S media company AS&G created a 0mInUte video on Buddy Up and profiled during GRW23. Thinking Changes Projoct.. CRIS supported the sgtup of a new project laygring further opportunities into its current siles of work thmugh its new link with Guth Gafa 8nd their aim to bring philosophy education to areas particularly affected by legacy of conflict and the ongoing pSenCe of paramilitarism.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Financial Revlew Summary of Fundlng Secured to Support Operations: CRIS was fortunate to secure all necessary funds to fulfil its workplan ambitions covering this period. Funding partners include- The Executlve Office's (TEO) Urban Willages Inltlatlve 'Buddy Up. project, supporting core and programme costs, for a sixth year with a grant totalling £133.470. strateglc Partner fundlng, Department of Foreign Affalrs (DFAJ Reconclllatlon Fund - total grant £84,310. The Northern Ireland Communlty Relations Councll (NICRCJ core fundlng scheme - Year 2 of three-year contract, £72,787. Communlty Relations Councll Community Relatlons and Cultural Diverslty Scheme funding in two separate grants totalling £9,501. Community Foundatlon of Northern Ireland (CFNI) - total grant £4.370 towards CRIS'S Next generation Peacebuilders capacity building programme for new Associates. project CRIS has a sound reputation for administering grants in their entirety in line with funding contracts. and for achieving and often exceeding Ihe programm8 Outcomes anticipated at the point of applicatlon. Feedback across funders suggests CRIS represents good value for money. CRIS is Gommitted to keeping the govemance costs a550Giated with running the Gharity at 2 minimum ensuring the vast majority of funds goes directly towards peacebuilding activities with school communities acr05S the seven localities we opeiate in. CFIIS is audited by the Community Relations Council and by The Executive Office ITE0>. The organisation is highly regarded for maintaining good standards in governance and financial compliance. CRIS also secured new investors for its Growing GRACE programme. namely Ardbarron Trusl and a Housing Association partnership with Clanmd and Connswater. The funds secured will span into th8 next financial year and are regarded as service agreements as opposed to funding due lo the nature of contractable obligations. CRIS hope to build on these connections and flexible and generous invostors in the future. The total income for April 2023 - March 2024 was £340,737 covering almost 100 /0 of all CRIS core operating costs and funds for project related activity. The total expenditure April 2023- March 2024 was £308,146, thereby leaving a net income of £32,591. The total unrestricted reserves are £107,274 therefore CRIS has now achieved 80Q/o of 115 target position an increase of approx. £22,000. Looking forward into 2024-2025, CRIS will be diversifying its income streams due to the Executive Office's Urban Vlllagas funding for the Buddy Up programme drawing to a Glose. Over the last years CRIS has baan planning for this transition by r&developing its consultancy model, recruiting and training new Associates, and thinking through strategie5 to engaga the business community and linkages with their Corporate Social Responsibility ICSRI commitments to support fundraising and other forms of partnership. The expenditure totals across running costs budgets were close to the original estimates detailed in our funding plans. In the area of programme expenditure. the total spent on teacher substitute cover was £22,183 1124 substitute days), a significant increase from the prior year £12,670. There are two key reasons for this increase. The accounting period was e1ve months as opposed lo a 9-month audil year for 2022-23. Also. CRIS was successful in accessing additional funds for the NEST programme where teacher capacity building activities are cenlral to the workplan. Expenses on facilitation are high at just ovèr £30,000, due to a newly appointed staff member 'Good Relations Practitioner. resigning after six months of being in post, therefore CRIS covered a lot of delivery using its bank of experienced Associates. Expenditure on resources increased by approximately £7,000. This is due to CRIS accessing additional fund5 for its new film project. programme resources, and design for CRIS publications.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Flnanclal Management: CRIS has a Financial Management Policy and Procedure Manual which is updated annually and meets the requirements of the Charities Act for Northern Ireland, the Charity Commissions guidelines 'lntemal Financial Controls for Charities, and 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities= Statement of Recommended Practice (Revised 2005),. CRIS has a Finance and Personnel Subcommittee who meet quarterly, approximately two weeks before the Board meeting. It is chaired by the Treasurer and includes the Vice Chair and another member. It is also attended by the CEO and Finance Manager who prepare financial papers and documents relating to HR matter5 that require Board input and decision making. The sub-committee is responsible for reviewing and providing guidance on Ihe organisation's financial matters. Specifically, the comrnittee assures int&rn81 controls, independent audit, and financial analysis for the organisation. To help the board fulfil its oversight function, the sub committee's kay responsibiliti&s relating to financè are as fdlows: Provide directlon to the Board for fiscal responslbility. Aongsidè this is the responsibility for future long- tem planning and the development of strategies to back up the plan. 2. Ongoing review of the organisation's management acc£)unts and funding strategy (including details of income and Èxpenditure, balance sheet, and olher matters related to ils continued solvenw and organisational sustainability). 3. Approve the annual budget and submit it to the Board for approval. Oversee the maintenance of organisational-wide assets, including prudenl management of risk exposure. Provide guidance and support lo CEO on all matters relating lo finance. risk management and human resources. The CEO & Finance Manager have monthly meetings with the Treasurer, and more often as required. The Chair also meets regularly with the CEO and joins team meetings that have an organisalional development focus to ensure a joined-up approach beeen governance & delivery on charitable objectives. The Firyance Manager continues to make improvements to CRIS'S financial systems to ensure an efficient and effective approach across the team. For example, over the last year the Finance Manager developed a new intemal 'invoice tracker, system. The Finance Manager provided staff training and overseen a pilot period of 6 months with the main purpose to create a single system to track and manage invoices and budgets for programme expenditure. The improvements have been significant induding a user-friendly system with data easily transferable onlo funder specific reporting systems- areas of responsibility tightened in sync with job descriptions rèlating to varying levels of administration and financial management. minimal errors in budgets and a MO efficient process particularly in the final quarter of the financial year. Reserves Pollcy and Procedures 1. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to establish guldellnes for managing and maintaining appropriale financial reseeS to support the stability and sustair¢ability of Community Relations in Schools (CRISI. The policy aims to ensure that CRIS can meet its ongoing operatlonal commitments, manage financial risks, and invest In future projects in line with its charitable objectives. 2. Scope This policy applies to all trustees. management, and finance staff responsible for the financial management of CRIS. It covers the identification, calculation. and review of reserves. 3. Policy Statement CRIS committed to maintaining that: Ensures financial stability and operational continuity. Ajlows for effective management of unforeseen financial risks or losses. Supports thg Strategic goals and future growth of the charity in accordance with the charity's purposes and level reserves
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 4. Deflnltlon of Reserves Reserves are the portion of unreslricted funds that are freely available for general charitable purposes, excluding funds set aside for specific projects, restrided funds, and fixed assets (such as propety and equipment). 5. Key Guidance and References The Charity Commission for Northem I[and (CCNI} Reserves Guidance.. Provides guidelines on setting, managing, and reporting charity reseeS hll s'.Ilwww.charil commissionni.or .uklchari -essentials/mana financial-difficultiesjreservesl) The Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP): Offers a framework for accounting and reporting practices for charities, including reserves management. Reserves Procedures 1. Determining the Reserves Level Assess Operational Needs.. Annually assess the charilws operating costs, including regular expenses such as s8laries, rent, and overheads. Risk Assessment: Conduct a financial risk assessment to identify potential risks that may imp3Ct funding, income streams,. or expenditures. Set Target Reserves.. The target reserves level should be detemiined based on three to six months of operating costs and anticipated financial risks. 2. Monitoring and Managing Reserves Quarterfy Financial Reviews.. Financial staff should review the reserves levels quartedy (and more often as required) to ensure they align with target threshold5. Annual Review by Trustees.. The reserves policy and target levels should be reviewed annually by the Board of trustees. Reporting to Stakeholders-. Include the reserves policy and current reserves position in the annual financial statements, in line with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland ICCNI } and Statement of Recommended Practice ISORP) requirements. 3. Utilising Reserves .4T Authorisation for Use.. Reserves can be drawn down in the event of an emergency or financial shortfall, but must be authorised by the board of trustees. Replenishment of Reserves.. When reserves are utilised, the board must approve a plan to replenish reserves wilhin an agreed limeframe. Restricted and Designated Funds.. Distinguish beeen unrestricted ServeS, designat6d funds, and restricted funds, ensuring restricted funds are used solely for their intended purposes. 4. Core Purpose5 for Using ReseNes The Board aims to hold unrestricled reserves lo enable the organisation to maintain its activities in Ihe event of- Gaps in funding Late payment of granls and fees Upgrades in IT Systems and equipment as and when the need arises Gaps in opportunities to income generate through training and consultancy work Its redundancy liabilitiès and rental and other contracts Its match funding obligations set out in funding contracts where any percenlage of staff salaries are not covered by another funder{s) 5. Procedures for Reportlng and Compllance Annual Reporting Requirements: In accordance with the CCNI'S guidance, CRIS will indude a statement on reserves within the annual report. Financial Statement Disdosure- Provide a clear explanation in financial statements if reserves fall below or exceed the target range. 6. Review and Revision of Policy Annual Policy Review: The reserves policy should be reviewed annually by the Board of trustee5. Adjustment of Target Reserves.. Any adjustment to the r8seNes target level should be based on updatad
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 7. Current Reserves Position: As of the end of March 2024, the total reserves are £107.274. By the end of this reporbng pariod CRIS has achieved 80Yo of its target position, an inGrease of approx. £22,000. The Board has revised its reserves target for this period calculating six months running costs1£106,000) and a further £28.000 for redundancies should this be necessary in the future, leaving the target amount of £130,000. Over the course of the next year CRIS expects to meet its target reserves figure. Meeting this target will rely on Sussful implementation of the resource diversification strategy, which centres around a return to consultancy work, developing corporate partnerships and other forms of traditional fundraislng through events and attracting donors. Substantial planning has taken place during this year to enable a Successful pivot towards this new multi stranded income generation strategy. As CRIS moves into its 40th year a large-sGa18 celebration and fundraising event will b8 planned to mark the special anniversary year.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Risk Management: The main concems of the Board going forward are to ensure.. That the public benefit enabled through CRIS activities is continued That core and programme funding can continue to be secured and increased to retain staff and ensure stability and growth To continue to implement appropriate salary reviews To action a transitionary resour diversification strategy in 2024-2025 to help grow the level of reserves and meet our iarget To focus on organisational sustainability, and succession planning The board members recognise their duty to idenlify and review the risks lo which the charity Is exposed and to 8nsure appropriatè controls are in place to provide reasonabl8 assurance and mitlgations. Within the section of Ihis report titled, 'Organis8tional Development and Sustainability, details have been shared r81ating to risk management. governance improvements and longer-temi sustainability. Within our current risk registry, we have prioritised organisational risks and the action steps we will take in which to mitigate them, wilh significant progress made against each risk in this reporting period. We have prioritised these starting with greatest likelihood and impact and detailed tasks that have been completed and continue to be in progress moving into the new financial year. RISK 1: Political uncertainty in Northern Ireland and overreliance on government grants MITIGATIONS: New funding slralegy developed, with a diversification of funding partners detailed including Trusts and Foundations across Northem Ireland, Republic of Ireland and England. Strategy also includes relationship development with Nl Shad Housing Associations, business community. return to Gonsultancy work. and more traditional fundraising activitl8S. RISK 2: Lack of long-temi fundraising plan MITIGATIONS: Activities detailed above also support this risk. As CRIS successfully transition into a new multi stranded funding and income generation model in 2024-2025. a review of progress, opportunities and barriers will be conducted. A longer-term fundraising plan will be Consulted upon and developed linked to a new organisational slrategy planning for period 2026- 2029. RISK 3: Impact of Cost-of-living crisis MITIGATIONS: Exploring new salary structure to take effect 2024~ 2025., agreement lo award inflationary raiso when deemed affordable without adding risk to financial status, considering the conclusion of Urban Villages funding tenure with CRIS in this reporting year. RISK 4: Loss of key staff and challenges in attracting new staff MITIGATIONS: Activities detailed above also support this risk. Board fvas agreed thal CRIS need to hold ompetitive advantage to both retain and attract new talent. Research of Ihe terms and conditions aGr055 the sector will inform this goal in crealion of a new competitive salary structure- staff development opportunities hav8 been r&prioritised in line with CRIS study leave policy and will be afforded equitably across the team., investment in Next Generation Peacebuilders programme induding recruitment and training programme to widen our team of Associates RISK 5: Ineffective knowledge management systems MITIGATIONS". Partnership with Lancia Consult (Belfast) has transformed the likelihood of this risk occurring. CRIS has a new Interaclivg Knowledge hub Handbook detailing process maps across seventeen critical areas relating to governance systems, management, administration and finance. Ongoing work to transfer all CRIS files onto a share point system will take plaGe in the 2024-25 year so that interactive Gapabilities are achieved. CRIS will continue to implament its new risk management process and continues to act on ils govemance responsibilities to ensure CRIS has plans in place to mitigate risk5 and put plans in place to support -qi IqIAinAhilifv.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCEAND MANAGEMENT Type of governing document: Community Re12tions in Schools is a community organisalion govemed by its constitutlon. It was adopted in April 1984 and last amended in October 2017 to ensure it was up to date using best practice guidelines as set out In suggested model doGum8nts on the Northern Ireland Charity Commission's website. Trustees who have served during the year are as follows- N Richardson L Patterson Mr S Graham P O'Neill A Kerrigan C O'Neill B Craig Trustee selection methods: At the Annual General Me8ling each year a Board is appointed to run CRIS for the next year. Each member of th8 Committee is elècied for a period of throè years. Retiring members are eligible for re-election. All nominees must indicate their willingness to stand and be proposed and seconded. A written agreement of the nominated persons in absentia must be presented. Committee members may 81so be Co-opted on the CRIS committee as potential new interested individuals are considered throughout the year. When considering the ¢(Fopting of trustees, the Board has regard to the requirement for any specialist skills needed. We are fortunate to have an engaged and active Board with an array of skills. The Board strives to be as diverse and retiresentative of educational slakeholders and society in general, as possible and has expertise spanning the community and voluntary, funding, corporate and statutory sectors. CRIS plans to increase the Board to a maximum of 10 members, with priority areas identified for recruitmenl in the disciplines of human resources, finanGe, and fundraising and areas for welcome statements identified to increase our diversity. Trustee Inductlon and Training: New trustees receive an induction pack which provides information and guidelines on their task, responsibilities. and the policies and ethos. The CEO and members of the Board meet with new trustees during the preliminary stages of their appointment to talk through the organisation in more detail, the history of its work, strategic positioning, and di5CUSS Qther areas of interest. New trusteès are briefed on their legal Dbligations under charfty guidelines, the ¢h8rity commission guidance on public benefit, the content of the constitution, the committee and decision-making process, the strategic and operational p12n, and the recent financial performance of the charity. During the induction period Ihey will meet the full staff team, other trustees and key partners. Trustees are encouraged to attend appropriate exlemal training events where these will facilitate the undertaking of their role. New trustees are invited to attend any mandatory meetings as set down by funders who support CRIS.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Organisatlonal Structure: The Board meets four times per year and Sub-groups meel to address any additional finance, personnel and policy matters as required. Finance and Personnel subcommittee meetings take place Iwo weeks before the Board meetings to ensure sufficient time to update briefing packs and draft recommendations for Board discussion and decision making. The policy subcommittee operates on a more adhoc basis. Statement of dlsclosure of Inforniatlon to audltors: So far as each of the Board members at the date of approval of these financial statements ar8 awar8: (a) th8r8 15 no relevant information of which the charity auditors are unaware,. and Ibl they have taken all the steps that they ought lo have taken as trustees in order to make Ihemselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the charity's auditors are aware of that information. Approved and adopted by a meeting of the Trustees on Wednesday 22nd January 2025 and signed on their behalf. The trustees report was approved by the Board of Trustees. N RIGhardson (Chairperson) Dated: 22 January 2025 L. Patterson {Tr8asurer) Daled............
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustee Report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law and UnÉted kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generdlly Accepted Accounting Practice). The law applicable to charities in Northern Ireland requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year whlch give a true and fair view of th8 State of affairs of the charity and of the Incoming resourc8s and application of resources of the charity for that year. In preparing these accounts. the trustees are required to: select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently., observe the methods and principles in the Charities Statement of Recornmended Practice (SORP)" make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the accounts,. and prepare the accounts on the going concem basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping sufficient accounting rewrds that dis¢lose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial po$tion of the charity and enable them to ensure that Ihe accounts comply wilh the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015, and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for $8feguarding the assets of the charity and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS Oplnlon We have audited the financial stst8mènts of Community Relatlons In Schools {th8 'charity') for th8 year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance Sheet and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting pollcies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparalion is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, induding Financial Reporting Stsndard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicabl8 in the UK 8nd Republic of Ireland (United Klngdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion, the financial statements: give a true and fair view of the state of the charity's affairs as at 31 March 2024 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended. have been properly prepared in accordance with Unit8d Kingdom Generally AcpIed Accounting Praclice,. and have been prepared in accordan with the requirements of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations (Northem Ireland) 2015. Basls for opinion We Gonducted our audit in accordance with Intemational Stsndards on Auditing (UK) (ISAS (UK)) and applicable law. Our responslbilities und8r those standards are furth8r doscribed In the Auditoffs rgsponsibilities for the audlt of th8 financial slatements section of our report. We are independenl of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial slatements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our olher ethical responsibilitie5 in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidenca we have obtained is sufficient and approprfate lo provide a basis for our opinlon. Concluslons relatlng to golng concern We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relalion to which the ISAS (UK) require us to report lo you where: the trustees use of the going cnncern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is not appropriate. or the Irustees have not disclosed in the financial statements any identified material uncertainties that may cast sionificant doubt about the charity's ability lo continue to adopt the going concem basis of accounting for a period of al least twelve months from the dale when the financial statements are authorised for issue. other information The olher information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained wlhin the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance concluslon thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is malerially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audlt, or othemise appears to be materially mlsslated. If we identify such material Inconsisténcies or apparent material misslatemenls, we are required to determine whether this gives rtse to a material mlsstatem8nt in the fsnancial statements themselves. If. based on the work we have performed, we condude that there is a material misstatement of this other infonnation, we are required to report that facL We have nothing to report in this regard.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS Mattèrs on whlch we are required to report by exceptlon In the light of the knowledge and understandlng of the charity and Its environment obtalned in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the directors, report included wilhin the trustees report. We have nothing to report in respecl of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (AOuntS And Reports) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 requires us to report to you rf, In our opinion.. the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the trustees report., or sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records: or we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. Responslbilities of trustees As explained more fully in the stat8m8nt of trustees responsibilities, the trust88s are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such intemal control as the trustees detemiine is necessary to enable the pr8paration of financial stat?m8nts that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's abillty to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to cease operations, or have no realistic altemats've but to do so, Audltofs responslbllltl88 for the audlt of the flnancial statements Our objaciives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether tha financial statemants as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that inGludes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conductèd in accordance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in Ihe aggregate, Ihey could reasonably be expected lo infjuénce the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the accounts is located on the Financial Reporting Councivs website at: http:Ilwww.frc.org.uklaudilorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's reporL
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS Other matters which we are requlred to address Your attention is drawn lo the fact that the charity has prepared accounts in accordance with °Accounting and Reporting by Charitiès.. Statement of Recommended Practice appllcablè to charities preparlng their accounts in accordance wilh the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statemènt of Recommend8d Pra¢tlce Issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the exlant regulations but has now been withdrawn. This has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2015. This report is made solely to the charily's trustees, as a body, in accordance with the Charities (Accounts and Reports} Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015. Our audit work has been undertaken so thal we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors, report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and its trustees as a body, for our audit work. for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. rri for and on behalf of Corrl r Statutory Auditor n CA Limited 20 January 2025 Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor 24 Greystone Road Antrim N Ireland BT412QN
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2023 2023 Total 2024 2023 Notss Income from: Donations and legacies Charitable activities 4,450 304,438 4,450 336,287 31,849 17,556 178,273 195,829 Ttstal income 31,849 308,888 340.737 17,556 178,273 195,829 Expenditure on: Charitable activitiès 21,094 287,052 308,146 2,161 254,954 257,115 Total expendlture 21,094 287,052 308,146 2,161 254,954 257,115 Nat Incomel{expendlture) 10,755 21,836 32,591 15,395 {76,681) (61.286} Transfers beeen funds 14,616 {14,616) 23,106 {23,106) Net movement in funds 25,371 7,220 32,591 38,501 199,787) {81,286) Reconciliation of funds: Fund balances at 1 April 2023 81,903 81,903 43,402 99,787 143,189 Fund b'alances at 31 March 2024 107,274 7,220 114,494 81,903 81.903 Th8 Statem&nt of financial activities Includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. Atl income and axpenditure derive from continuing activities.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024 2024 2023 Notes Flxed assets Intangible assets Tangible assets 11 10 3,421 5,102 3.427 5,108 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 12 86,855 35,116 32,358 50,085 121.971 82.443 Credltors: amounts falling due wlthln one year 13 (10,904) (5,648) Net current assets 111,067 76.795 Total assets less current liabilities 114,494 81.903 Net assets excludlng penslon Ilabllity 114.494 81.903 Incomo Funds Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds 14 7,220 107,274 81.903 114,494 81,903 The financial tatements were approved by the trustees on 22 January 2025 L Patlerson Truste8
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED) AS AT 31 MARCH 2024 Crltlcal accountlng estlmates and judgèments In the application of Ihe charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimate5 and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actu31 results may differ from these estimates. Th8 estimates and undedying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the eslimate 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. Accountlng pollcles Charlty Informatlon Community Relations In Schools is an unincorporated charity. 2.1 Accountlng convention The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations {Northem Ireland) 2015 and -Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. statement of Recommended Practice appliGable to charities preparing their acGounls in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021" (as amended for accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2016). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletin 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows. TAe accounts have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following Ihe Statemenl of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn. The finanGial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the Gharily. Monetary amounts in these fsnancial ststements are rounded to the nearest £. The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention. modified lo include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 2.2 Golng concern At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements. 2.3 Charitable funds Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtheran of their charitable objectives. Restricled funds ar8 subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accounting policies (Continued) Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors thal the capitsl must be maintained by the charity. 2.4 Incomlng resources Income From Charitable Activities Income from charitable activities is recognised when the charity Is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be recEived. Incorne from govemment or other grants. wheth8r'capitsl' or'revenue, grants, is recognised when the charity has the @nlitiement to the fund5, any performance conditions attsGhed to the grants have been met. it is probable thal the income will be received and the amount can be measured r81iably and is not deferred. Donations & Le cies Cash donalions are r8cognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions 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. 2.5 Resources expended Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or conslructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in sett]ement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure 15 classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared cosis, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared Gosts which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned beeen those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central stsff costs are allocated on the bas15 of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on Ihe portion of the asset's use. enditure On Charitable Activities Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third paty, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefts will be required in settl8ment and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. The charily is balow the charity audit threshold and therefore 15 exempt from reporting expenditure on an activity besis. The charity has opt8d to report by the nature rather than on an activity basis.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accounting policies (Continued) 2.6 Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequendy measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impaimient losses. Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separately from goodwill at the acquisition date where it is probable that the expecled future economic benefrts Ihat are attribulable to the asset will flow to the entity and the fair value of the asset can be measured reliably- the intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights.. and the intangible asset is separable from the entity. Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valualion of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following basis: Soare 2.7 Tangible flxed assels Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. 20Yo Straight line Depreuation 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- Fixtures. fittings & equipment 200/D Straight line The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the diffgrence between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities. 2.8 Impalnnent of fixed assets At each reporting end date. the charity reviews the carrylng amounts of Its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of th8 asset is estimated in order to determinè the extent of the impaimient loss (if any). 2.9 Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents indude cash in hand. deposits held at call with banks. other short-tem liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities. 2.10 Financial instruments The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Ba5ic Financial Instruments, and Section 12 'Other Financial Instruments Issues. of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Flnancial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presentèd in the financi21 statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basls or to reallse the asset and settle the Ilsbility simultaneously. Baslc r Inanclal assets Basic financial assgls, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, arg initially measured al transaction pri including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised wst using the effective interest method unless the arrangament constitutes a financing transaction, where Ihe transaction is measured at the Dresent value of the future receiDts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 AGGounting policies (Continued) Basic financial liabilitles Basic financial liabilities, induding creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the aangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments ar8 subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method, Trade creditors are obligations to 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 reGognised initially at transaction price and subsequenuy measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Derecognition of financial liabilities Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charily's CntractUal obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. 2.11 Employee benefits The cost of any unused holiday enlitlement is recognised in the perlod in which the èmployee's servlces are received. Termination benefils are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to lerminale Ihe employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 3 Charltable actlvltles Total 2024 Total 2023 Donations Service Delivery Grants 4.450 31,849 304,438 17.556 178,273 340,737 195,829 Totsl 2024 Total 2024 Totsl 2024 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds Restrictad funds 31,849 31,849 308,888 308,888 308,888 31,849 340,737 For Ihe year ended 31 March 2023 Total 2023 Total 2023 Total 2023 Unrestricted funds Reslricted funds 17,556 17,556 178,273 178,273 178.273 17,556 195.829 Total 2024 Totsl 2D23 Included in Grar]ts Are: Northem Ireland Community Relations Council Core Funding Northem Ireland Community Relations Council Community Relations and Cultural Dlversity Funding Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Reconciliation Fund The ExeGutive Office, Urban Villages Initiative Community Foundation Northem Ireland 72,787 39,997 9,501 1,567 84,310 133,470 4,370 136,709 304,438 178,273
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Charltable actlvlties 2024 2023 staff costs Staff Training Depreciation and Impairmant Programme Costs Resources Travel Subscriptions Hospitality Facilitation Light & Heal Telephone Sundry Advertising Subcover Accountancy Professional Fees Bank Charges Rent Insurance Post, printing & Stationery Computer Running expenses Venues L05s on disposal of Fixed Assets creaning 193,966 2,990 1,897 152,861 105 1.776 193 5,979 9,655 12,832 8,613 1,863 7,066 30,561 1,188 475 1,137 6,100 34,244 967 338 1,570 935 12,670 2,700 7,394 174 10,314 3,002 1,169 720 2.895 (517) 1,871 22,183 2,939 1,556 99 11,655 3,164 1,708 18 2,192 44 308.146 257,115 Net movement In funds 2024 2023 The net movement in funds is staled after chargingl(crediting)'. Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets 1,897 1,776 Trustees None of the trustees lor any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year. No trustee expenses have been incurred.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Auditor's ramuneratlon The analysis of auditorfs remuneration is as follows.. 2024 2023 Auditorfs Remuneration 2,706 2,646 Total audit fees 2,706 2,646 Employees There were 6 employees during the year. Employment costs 2024 2023 Wages and salaries Other pension costs 189,702 4,263 149,580 3,281 No employees received employee benefits of more than £60,000. Taxallon The charity is exempt from taxation on its aclivities b8cause all its income is applied for charitable purposes. 10 Tangible fixed assets Fixturès, flttlngs & equipment Cost At 1 April 2023 Additions 18,358 216 At 31 March 2024 18,574 Depreciation and impalrment At 1 April 2023 Depreciation charged in Ihe year 13,256 1,897 At 31 March 2024 15,153 Carrying amount At 31 March 2024 3,421 At 31 March 2023 5,102
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 11 Intanglble flxed assets Software Cost At 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024 35,464 Amortisation and impairment At 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024 35,458 Carrying amount At 31 March 2024 At 31 March 2023 12 Debtors 2024 2023 Amounts falling due within one year: Trade debtors 86,855 32,358 13 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2024 2023 Trade creditors Other Creditors Accruals and deferred income 5,656 2,691 2,557 2.093 612 2,943 10.904 5,648 14 Restrfcted funds The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and granls held on trust subject to spacific condition5 by donors as to how they may be used. At 1 Aprll 2023 Incomlng resourGes Resources expended Transfers At 31 March 2024 308,888 1287,052) {14,616) 7,220 Previous Period: At 1 April 2022 Incoming resources Resources expended Transfers At 31 March 2023 99,787 178,273 (254.954) (23,106)
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 15 Unrestrlcted funds The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specif1c purposes. Transfers At 31 March 2024 At 1 Aprll 2023 Incoming resources Resourcas expended General funds 81,903 31,849 {21,094) 14,616 107,274 Previous Period: At l April 2022 Incoming resources Resources expended Transfers Al 31 March 2023 General funds 43,402 17,556 (2,161) 23,106 81,903 16 Analysis of net assets belween funds Restricted Unrestricted Total Fund balances at 31 March 2024 are represented by: Inlangible fixed assets Tangible assets Current assetsl(liabilities} 3,421 103,847 3,421 111,067 7,220 7,220 107,274 114,494 17 Movement In Funds Fund At 01104123 Incoming Resources Resources Expended Transfers At 31103124 Restrict8d Unrestricted 308,888 31,849 (287,052} (21,094} 114,6161 14,616 7,220 107,274 81,903 81.903 340,737 (308,146} 114,494
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 18 Related party transaGtlons There were no disGlosable related party transactions during the year (2023- none).