APPENDIX 1
| OSCr | Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
Trustees’ Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date Day Month Year Day Month Year From 01 APR 2024 To 31 MAR 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Period start date | ||||||||
| Day | Month | Year | Day | Month | ||||
| From | 01 |
APR | 2024 | To | 31 |
MAR |
Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator
Reference and administration details
Charity name SCOTTISH AHLUL BAYT SOCIETY Other names charity is known SABS by Registered charity number SC042568 Charity’s principal address
Names of the charity trustees on date of approval of Trustees’ Annual Report
| Trustee name | Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole year Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee (if any) |
Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole year Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee (if any) |
Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole year Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee (if any) |
Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole year Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee (if any) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 0 1 1 1 2 1 3 |
CO-CHAIR | ||||
| SECRETARY | |||||
| CO-CHAIR AND TREASURER |
|||||
| DIRECTOR-GENERAL | |||||
| VICE-CHAIR | |||||
| YOUTH CO-CHAIR | |||||
| YOUTH CO-CHAIR | |||||
| ENGAGEMENTS DIRECTOR |
|||||
| VICE-CHAIR | |||||
2
APPENDIX 1 Reference and administration details Names of all other charity trustees during the period, if any, {for example, those who resigned part way through the financial period) ame Structure, governance and management Trpe of governing document Constitution Constitutional fom: Unincorporated association Trustee recruitment and appointment Trustees are appointed and recruited through Annual General Meetings. Objectives and activities Charitable purposes The core charitable purposes of the organisation are the advancement of religion, the promolion of religious or racial hannony, and engaging with Scottish civic society. and civic society at large. Summary of the main activities in relation to these objects The promotion of religious and rdcial harn]ony, equality and diversity acmss Scotland, for the benefii of the public. Organising a committed project to establish ]iDks between the Scottish Muslim Community and society at lar8e, across all sectors, nationally and internationally, to enlighten others about the peaceful teachings of Islam. To pmvide place of gathering for lectures and public meetings for religious, cultural and educational PULposes, to pro0[e hatmony, equality and diversity. To provide suppoiL prnctical assistance, and education for the Muslim community lo aid their integration into SClery, and members of the public. Alld to prode relief to those in need by reason of age, ill-health, disability, financial hardsbip or other disadvantage by working with Ch11es. conducting 5(KiaJ outings, and providing aid.
APPENDIX 1 Achievements and performance Summary of Main Achievements of the Charity During the Financial Period As a faith-based organisation, SABS serves the Scottish Shia Muslim community and the broader public. During 2024 to 2025, SABS pursued its mission of fostering dialogue and educats'on, building partnerships, and promoting harmony and wellbeing through interfaithlintrafaith engagement, community development, humanitarian work, civic participation, and communal religious observances. Interfaith and Intrafaith Collaboration SABS has maintained a steadfast commrtment lo building bridges bebNeen faith communities throughout the year, recognising that dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation are essential pillars for a harmonious and inclusive society. The charity has actively engaged with Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu, and other faith communities through a comprehensive programme of interfaith activities, including engagement in major religious celebrations, collaborative events. joint statements on matters of social concern, educational engagements, and high-level meetings with faith leaders and covenants that promote cohesion at the grassroots. SABS has also prioritised intra-faith dialogue, particularly beeen Shia and Sunni Muslim communities, fostering partnership within the broader Islamic tradition. Throughout the year, SABS leadership engaged in numerous high4evel interfaith meetings and collaborative efforts. For instance, in April 2024, members supported an Iftar hosted b representing the Sunni tradition, symbolising unity betreen Muslim denominations during Ramadhan. SABS actively participated in Sikh celebrations at the Guru Nanak Edinburgh Gurdwara for Vaisakhi, with Co-chai Vice-chair joining the Sikh ¢0 her faith leaders, M demonstrating civic-level interfaith engagement. osted His Exc Ilen Mumbai to underscore appreciation for the wo n the Holy Shrines in Najaf and Karbala; examples of intra-religious dialogue crucial for promoting peace. SABS organised and held its 8th Annual United Eid Dinner, centred around "Bridging Muslim communities across Great Scottish Cities,, bringing together Imams, community elders, faith leaders, and youth champions from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. in light of SABS'S mission of bolstering intra-faith cooperation and understanding between denominations. The evenl was held at St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral, reflecting trust beteen our faith families. and collective prayers were offered for those oppressed and suffering in global conflicts. SABS maintained active participation in educational inits'ats-ves of many kinds, advancing rts mission to enable an authents'c understanding of Islamic teachings that encourage constructive participation in society, peace-building, and compassion. One type of educational initiative was school roadshows arranged through Edinburgh Interfaith Association or Interfaith Scotland. At these, SABS members engaged with pupils at Dollar Academy, over 200 pupils at Longstone Primary School, approximately 270 pupils at Tynewater Primary School, 600 pupils at The High School of Glasgow, and over 90 pupils at Davidson's Mains Primary School, among others. These sessions were conducive to building respect and mutual leaming alongside representatives from various faith communities and poli Scoland demonstrating SABS'S interface with civic institutions and contribulion to broader educational outcomes. SABS was invited to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland witnessing the address of the Archbishop of Canterbury and congratulating the Right Reverend his installation as Moderator. A subsequent meeting beeen SABS chairs with the Moderator and Reverend arked a step towards deepening the SABS-COS relationship to drive positive change in society. Vice-chair h Interfaith Association Peace Walk in July 2024, promoting peace, unity, and frie epresented at the Apostolic Nuncio's summer reception (representing the Holy See) in London and Ameed Versace engaged with
Scotland's Intemational Day of Yoga at Glasgow's Kelvin Hall wrth the Hindu community, all of which bolstered ties and enabled work essential to SABS, interfaith mission. Following the Southport attacks in August 2024, SABS worked Edinburgh Interfaith Association in coordinating an official joint statement in condemnation of the attacks showing commitment to standing against hatred and promoting community safety. SABS then took part in meetings with First Minister John Swinney, senior government officials, and Police Scotland to address the safety of minorty ethnic communities in respect of SABS, work to interface with government on policy and community needs. oined the Scottish Religious Leaders Forum, addressing poverty alleviation, education. combatin hatred and piomoting connected communities - priorities directly aligned with our objectives. Moulana so organised a programme with Muslim leaders from various traditions including MINAB, the European eo an unni community. and Shia Ismaili representatives, to work towards practical efforts at improving cross-denominational unity. SABS organised an Open Evening Interfaith Event at Maggie's Glasgow (in partnership with Maggie's), bringing together faith and civic groups to explore life-c itialives, reflecting our partnerships with healthcare charities to better wellbein Moiilana ed Newham with senior Imams and the Archbishop of Westminster, Cardina projects supporting domestic violence victims, asylum seekers, and the homeless to direct actions towards betterment through collaborative platforms and the provision of aid. aroun SABS participated in the Edinburgh Interfaith Association AGM, and was pleased to submit a memb to the EIFA Board to contribute much more broadly towards the interfaith spectrum within the City. SABS attended the Scottish Parliament's 25th anniversary celebration, reconnecting with church leaders and offering prayers for peace. SABS contributed to the 'Uniting for Peace and Friendship Service. at St Giles. Cathedral, with Co-chairnd Vice ing a universal prayer for peace and expressing a commrtment to coexistence and trust. SABS mem ers pa Icipa ed in a faith-based reconciliation event at Mansion House titled 'Disagreeing Agreeably., addressing challenges of diminishing common ground. SABS also engaged in programmes hosted by the Scottish Bishops, Committee for Interreligious Dialogue, and engaged with Catholic Church leaders including Bishop Brian McGee and Archbishop William Nolan to discuss civic engagement and charitable activits'es. SABS leaders contributed to the launch of the 'Four Seasons in Faith, exhibition with Museums & Galleries Edinburgh, developed with EIFA. SABS put on displays showcasing the history and artefacts of the Shia communty in Edinburgh in efforts directed towards public education about religious diversity. Sister presented SABS reception hosted by Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Paty. with speakers including Lo discussing community cohesion and inclusivity. The SABS Youth Team's annual Roses for Peace project saw them joined by Revere presenting the Moderator of the General Assembly, visiting The Scottish Parliament to hand roses to MSPS and invite engagement in charitable work. once more embodying the organisation's grassroots interfarth mission. SABS attended the Scottish Hindu Foundation's Diwali Celebration and Glasgow Afghan United's Bums and Rumi Supper, strengthening ties with diverse communities in service to interfaith hamony and cross-cultural collaboration. urs over Christmas, with members rch of Scotland, His Grace Archbisho Catholic edral strengthening mutual understanding ehveen our neighbouring gaged at the Glasgow Interfarth Initiative at Glasgow Cathedral marking Glasgow 850. Church, an faith families. Broth SABS continued its decade-long tradition of visiting St Mary's Cathedral during Ramadhan, with this year's gathering on Laylatul Qadr coinciding with Lent. The SABS community sat with church congregants, offering prayers and collectively praying for peace and alleviation of suffering. Community Building and Development
SABS has continued to invest significantly in building and strengthening the Scottish Shia Muslim community through diverse educational, recreational, and social programmes, fulfilling its commitment to address the needs of adherents of the Shia community. Recognising that a thriving community is built upon knowledge, connection, and mutual support, SABS has delivered initiatives serving all age groups, including focused work to socially include and integrate youth, women, and the elderly. From the Children's Islamic School now in its 12th year to adult education programmes, SABS has prioritised learning and development as core community values, enabling authentic understanding of Shia Islamic teachings and their contribution to spiritual development and community building.
SABS delivered a 10-Week Quran Course for adults titled "Lessons for Life from Surah Yusuf," led by Head of Education , allowing participants to deepen their understanding of the Islamic scripture in harmony with core teachings. The SABS Children's School operated throughout the year at MacDonald Road Library, stepping into its 12th year with new and returning pupils. In February 2025, the school received a visit from ho engaged with children, parents and teachers.
SABS established the Sisters Badminton Club which thrived throughout the year, maintained by the SABS Youth Team, providing an important social and physical outlet contributing to women's fitness, inclusion and wellbeing in Edinburgh, with Edinburgh Leisure. The Sister's Book Club, also established and organised by SABS’ youth, continued meeting regularly throughout the year for discussions about faith, providing a spiritual and social gathering space to advance understanding and women's social inclusion. In the theme of fitness, SABS also attended the first-ever Women's Scottish Cup Final through Queen's Park FC Foundation to open up an access point to this historic sporting event and recreational opportunities for the community.
SABS and Generations Working Together collaborated towards the Learning Roadshow in Dundee bringing together participants for intergenerational learning, and incorporating methods to socially include youth and elderly in spheres of life. SABS, in furtherance of the partnership, supported the GWT Excellence Awards 2024 at the Scottish Parliament.
SABS arranged our Annual School Summer Outing to Blair Drummond Safari Park which brought nearly 200 members from the community together, from children to elderly, strengthening communal bonds and social inclusion across all age groups and backgrounds.
SABS organised multiple Sisters Games Night events in local mosques for elders and youngsters to enjoy games, discussions, and moments of worship. The youth team organised community workshops like a workshop on Upbringing led by roviding scholarly perspectives and practical Q&A as educational initiatives addressing practical needs.
SABS launched the first project in our newly-designed core programme, supported by The National Lottery Community Fund, geared towards enhancing the resilience of the community to emergencies and disasters by delivering a First Aid training programme with BPM Training and providing SCQF Level 6 qualifications in Emergency First Aid at Work. SABS, in this year, gained 12 newly qualified First Aiders (based in multiple localities across the Central Belt) prepared to serve the community and wider public, reflecting a serious drive within SABS to build an apparatus that saves lives, and assists members of the community (in, for example, community centres) and general public spaces. More work has been delivered by SABS through this programme in FY 25-26.
SABS organised an educational working session on PCOS Relief led by understand symptoms, connect with others facing similar challenges, a physical and mental wellbeing within the community, especially amongst women.
nabling a range of attendees to selves with resources to better
Humanitarian Work and Social Action
SABS has demonstrated deep attentiveness to our humanitarian work and social action throughout the year, guided by the Islamic principle "whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of Humanity" (Quran 5:32)—central to the charity’s mission to provide support, humanitarian and charitable aid, and relief to those in need. The charity has delivered comprehensive initiatives addressing critical societal needs, from alleviating food poverty and supporting vulnerable populations to promoting health through blood and stem cell donation campaigns and raising funds for
6
cancer care, all linked to partnerships with national and international healthcare charities to better the nation's wellbeing.
SABS’ Scottish Food Aid programme has grown significantly, now reaching over 70 organisations across Glasgow and Edinburgh, providing Halal chicken provisions to vulnerable, refugee, and disadvantaged families with dignity, fulfilling SABS's commitment to provide relief to those in need. Over the financial year, and with the support of a generous donor, SABS has distributed on the order of 3 tonnes of chicken supplies. The programme operates through dedicated SABS volunteers, supplier partnerships, and support from distribution partners, including SCOREscotland, Mayfield & Easthouses Development Trust, The Castlemilk Pantry, Linthouse Larder, Good Food Scotland, and many others in the third sector. Some partnerships possess an interfaith and intrafaith connection, as they were brought about through our relationship-building work as an example of shared concern for humanitarian work. For example, support from our Sunni partners serves as a proven project in our Shia-Sunni Alliance. This programme runs monthly, and supply lines were bolstered at key junctures like in honour of Challenge Poverty Week, in October 2024.
As a flagship development, spun out from our Scottish Food Aid project, SABS and the Hibernian Community Foundation partnered this year to launch a brand new initiative called Pitch-to-Plate in May 2024; a monthly series of Multi-Cultural, Halal Community Meals feeding all Scots and New Scots with warmth, hospitality and dignity, fulfilling SABS's mission to foster inclusion, alleviate distress caused by cost of living hardships, and construct a platform for engagement with civic society, healthcare partners, and dialogue with diverse faith communities and leaders. Each event has between 120 and 200 participants, and we have successively enjoyed the support and partnership and participation of distinguished guests including Tommy Sheppard MP, the Macpherson MSP, The Bishop of Edinburgh, and ll evidencing the practical nature of
SABS's interface with religious leaders and key personnel to realise positive outcomes for local communities. These community meal events have also featured Changeworks (who provide tips to reduce energy costs for struggling families) and Diabetes Scotland. SABS now has 2 Diabetes Scotland Community Champions amongst our membership to act as support systems for a community predisposed to diabetes.
SABS furthered our work with and carried out multiple stem cell registration campaigns across Scotland this FY building on a healthcare partnership rooted in our resolve to save lives in light of Islamic teachings to help others. At large-scale events, SABS youth volunteers gathered numerous swabs, each with potential to save lives. At The Halal Food Festival, the SABS Youth Team signed up over 50+ new potential donors in support of children like Eesa, who found a donor after being diagnosed with aplastic anaemia. This campaign was guided by principles: "Man is either your brother in Faith or your Equal in Humanity" (Imam Ali) and "Whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of Humanity" (Quran 5:32). In March 2025, SABS also ran a digital social media campaign during Ramadhan highlighting Eesa's story and encouraging stem cell registration in partnership with Anthony Nolan.
In another SABS initiative,
In another SABS initiative, nspired by his brother's cancer treatment, organised and undertook a 100-mile Ultra Walk from Dundee to Edinburgh to Glasgow raising awareness and funds for Beatson Cancer Charity; a partnership cherished by SABS in line with our drive to sav Ultra Walk was supported by each of the Lord Provosts of Dundee, Dunfermline, and Edinburgh who me ing the journey. Bill Kidd MSP put forward a
parliamentary motion recognising this extraordinary achievement. The initiative aimed to advance cancer screening, early detection, and treatment throughout Scotland, and allowed SABS to raise over £4,000 for Beatson Cancer Charity.
SABS, in partnership with SNBTS, organised the Imam Hussain Blood Donation Campaign Scotland, in its 11th consecutive year; a flagship example of grassroots interfaith activities and partnerships with nat organisations. The initiative centres on saving lives by upholding the universal values epitomised b The campaign constituted multiple blood donation sessions organised by SABS in late July and ea with participation from the likes of SNBTS Director), and representatives from Church of Scotland, Hindu, Jewish, Sikh, and Methodist communities demonstrating our continued success in building grassroots interfaith alliances around practical humanitarian action.
On World Blood Donor Day 2024, SABS ran a social media campaign highlighting the partnership with SNBTS. In November 2024, at the Scottish Government's first Faith, Belief, and Community Cohesion Conference (which SABS worked closely with the Government, alongside partners, to organise), SABS Co-Chairs presented on the Imam
7
ood Donation Campaign's evolution, highlighting success in creating grassroots cross-sectional and hesion. Giving blood becomes a basis for building neighbourly alliances. SABS also worked on filming and screening "Blood Under the Skin". This is a documentary that we launched at the Scottish Parliament, born of a research collaboration with om the University of Nottingham. The documentary showcases the power of grassroots interfaith efforts and speaks to the determination of Scottish Shia Muslims to contribute to bettering Scotland's health and wellbeing, demonstrating how Shia Islamic ideology can contribute to broader humanitarian outcomes, using SABS as a model. The scre ured a panel including Liberatore, Professor ABS co-cha d director with support from Bill Kidd MSP and Kaukab Stewart MSP.
SABS facilitated provision of hundreds of copies of the Holy Quran and prayer mats to New Scots and asylum seekers to provide them with comfort. SABS worked with Islamic Relief UK Scotland, Broomhouse Mosque, and Al Gilani Foundation who made generous donations. By February 2025, SABS provided over 300 Qur'ans and 300 prayer mats to New Scots as the month of Ramadhan approached, making a profound difference to individuals navigating challenging circumstances. SABS further distributed food bags directly and with support from SCOREscotland and Mayfield & Easthouses Development Trust.
Civic and Governmental Engagement
SABS has maintained active engagement with civic institutions and governmental bodies throughout the year, recognising that positive change requires partnership between faith communities, elected representatives, public services, and civil society organisations. The charity has participated in significant governmental events, contributed to policy discussions on matters ranging from community cohesion to housing and poverty, and worked collaboratively with Police Scotland and other public services to promote safety and inclusivity. Through items like climate advocacy, participation in national commemorations, and contribution to discussions on poverty alleviation and community safety, SABS has demonstrated commitment to being an active participant in Scottish civic life.
SABS’ Ameed Versace joined over 30 religious leaders, academics, and conservationists signing statements urging Scottish and UK governments to bridge the gap between climate promises and action, advocating for a fairer, greener society. Ameed also signed the Scottish Faith Leaders' Statement on climate change in line with SABS' views on environmental stewardship.
D ttended the Wilton Park conference on religious leadership in times of crisis, to develop on groundwork to make society more well-connected, resilient to trial, and cooperative. SABS leadership attended Remembrance Sunday services and National Memorials across Scotland, with SABS Co-Chair Ifty laying a wreath at the Stone of Remembrance alongside the First Minister and civic leaders in Edinburgh, while presented SABS at Glasgow’s programme. First Minister John Swinney reaffirmed o inclusivity and SABS presented The First Minister with the book The Voice of Human Justice ring Imam Ali's legacy of justice and compassion, and elucidating on how the teachings of Ima cussion around how to achieve broader positive national outcomes.
Ameed engaged in policy discussions affecting community wellbeing, for example around ending forced marriage at a Scottish Parliament programme. SABS participated in the Religious Le epresentatives Conference at Edinburgh City Chambers, with Co-Chair Ifty and Youth Coordinator aging in conversations about standing united to combat hatred and promote equality. Co-Chair Ali participated in the OneCity Trust's Round Table on Edinburgh's Housing Crisis, pushing forward discussions among third-sector organisations on improving policy engagement on the matter.
SABS participated in the Kirking of the Deacons ceremony, with Vice-Chairma senting the charity and paying tribute to the Incorporation of Candlemakers for their dedication to crafting candles advocating for human values in honour of SABS’ Imam Hussain Day activities.
Scotland's faith leaders including SABS came together calling for a Minimum Income Guarantee to help end poverty, releasing a joint statement ahead of Challenge Poverty Week emphasising the urgent need to tackle poverty. SABS worked closely with the Scottish Government to organise the first Faith, Belief, and Community Cohesion Conference,
8
at which co-chairs Ali and lfy presented a case study on the Imam Hussain Blood Donation Campaign and its model in creating grassroots interfaith alliances around practical action. SABS also maintained ties with Police Scotland representatives to ensure their connection with the grassroots, and lty and Kashan attended the Chief Constable's Engagement Dinner at Police Scotland Headquarters to connect with other community organisations and charities. Religious and Communal Observances SABS has continued to serve the spiritual needs of the Scottish Shia Muslim community by facilitating religious observances and commemorations throughout the year, fulfilling a commitment to meet the needs of the communty across the religious spectrum. These programmes have provided opportunities for the communty to gather in worship, remembrance, and celebration of signfficant occasions in the Islamic calendar. particularly those connected to the Ahl al-Bayt (the Prophet Muhammad and his family), enabling adherents to deepen their understanding and practice. From solemn commemorations of Arbaeen and Imam Hussain Day honouring sacrffice, to joyful celebrations of birth anniversaries in Islamic calendar inspiring hope and devotion, SABS has created spaces for spiritual reflection and communal bonding contributing to spiritual development and community building. The charity has hosted distinguished scholars delivering lectures connecting timeless teachings to contemporary challenges, enabling an authents'c and sophisticated understanding of Shia Islamic teachings. The annual Imam Hussain Day event at Edinburgh City Chambers has grown to become a significant civic occasion bringing together representatives from across Scottish society-faith leaders, politicians, civic figures, and public servants-united in values of peace, justice, and coexistence. In October, SABS organised and delivered a "Light Candles for Peace" event at the Edinburgh City Chambers marking Imam Hussain Day. The year's theme, Peace and Coexistence in Difficult Times, resonated deeply demonstrated by an attendance that included the First Minister. Secretsry of State for Scotland, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats. Jackson Carlaw MSP, the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, Catholic, Jewish, Hindu, and other faith representatives, the Lord Lyon King of Arms, the Duke of Hamilton, Sir Geoff Palmer, Sir lain Livingstone, NHS Scotland, Recovery Scotland, Legion Scotland, Police Scotland, Scottish Refugee Council, SNBTS, and others, showcasing our breadth of partnerships with civil society and third sector organisations. This exemplified a religious observance that is centred on universal values becoming a platfomi for bringing together diverse sectors of society in seniice to principles of humanity and peace. SABS organised a series of community events to mark Arbaeen, the 40th day after the Matyrdom of Imam Hussain, which is commemorated by hundreds of millions worldwide. We organised educational programs and events with the Shia Communities in Aberdeen and Edinburgh. One such programme specifically also welcomed om the Chinese community, demonstrating the inclusive nature of SABS, religious observances and commitment to building bridges across communities. SABS, in December. held a Grand Celebration event with Jafaria Foundation marking the Prophet Muhammad's birth anniversary, providing opportunities for spiritual reflection. SABS also organised and arranged the first Scottish visit of Sayed Mahdi al-modarresi in a 0-daY Lecture Serie January, SABS also organised a community lecture and celebration featur ese are Jus some examples of many other lecture programmes and community events organised by SABS in the year to mark various auspicious occasions in the Islamic calendar., others inclu ns of Imam Hussain, Hazrat Abbas, Imam Mahdi, and Imam Ali al-SaJJad with speakers lik oviding numerous opportunrties for worship and learning in congregation throughout the y Conclusion Throughout 2024-2025, SABS advanced its mission through interfaith dialogue, community development, humanitarian aid, civic engagement, and religious observances, benefiting the Scottish Shia Muslim community and wider society in general. Guided by compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity, SABS demonstrates how Shia Islamic teachings contribute to humanitarian outcomes and communty development. and looks fomard to building upon these achievements.
Financial review
| Brief statement of the charity’s policy on reserves Details of any deficit Donated facilities and services (if any) |
The trustees’ policy is to retain 3 months’ worth of normal running costs in order to meet commitments and to cover any unexpected expenditure. Three months expenditure stands at roughly an average of £8,040.43 and reserves are in excess of this . |
|
|---|---|---|
| N/A | ||
| N/A |
10
Statement of Receipts and Payments for the year ended 31 March 2025
| Receipts Donations Grants Total Receipts Payments Cost of charitable activities Total Payments Surplus/(Deficit) for the year Transfers between funds Surplus/(Deficit) for the year |
Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 22,216.43 13,440.00 - 6,000.00 22,216.43 19,440.00 18,286.96 13,874.77 18,286.96 13,874.77 3,929.47 5,565.23 - - 3,929.47 5,565.23 |
Year ended 31/03/25 35,656.43 6,000.00 41,656.43 32,161.73 32,161.73 9,494.70 - 9,494.70 |
Period ended 31/03/24 26,732.94 - |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26,732.94 | |||
| 30,867.17 | |||
| 30,867.17 | |||
| (4,134.23) | |||
| - | |||
| (4,134.23) |
11
Statement of Balances - As at 31 March 2025
| Opening cash at bank and in hand Surplus/(Deficit) for the year Closing cash at bank and in hand Bank and Cash Balances Bank account Other assets - unrestricted fund Fitness equipment (estimated value) |
Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 20,202.92 - 3,929.47 5,565.23 24,132.39 5,565.23 24,132.39 5,565.23 24,132.39 5,565.23 |
Total 2025 20,202.92 9,494.70 29,697.62 29,697.62 29,697.62 |
Total 2024 24,337.15 (4,134.23) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20,202.92 | |||
| 20,202.92 | |||
| 20,202.92 | |||
| 1,000 | |||
| 1,000 |
12
Notes to the accounts - for the year ended 31 March 2025
1 Basis of accounting
These accounts have been prepared on the Receipts and Payments basis in accordance with the Charities & Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended).
2 Nature and purpose of funds
Unrestricted funds are those that may be used at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the objects of the charity. The trustees maintain a single unrestricted fund for the day-to-day running of the charity.
Restricted funds may only be used for specific purposes. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for specific purposes.
3 Trustees’ remuneration and expenses
No remuneration was paid to the trustees or any connected persons during the financial year. However, as is authorised within the constitution under the section on Personal Interests : “The members of the management committee may be paid all travelling and other expenses reasonably incurred by them in connection with their attendance at meetings of the management committee, general meetings, or meetings of committees, or otherwise in connection with the carrying-out of their duties.” In accordance with this, fuel and travel expenses wrought from members of the management committee, were reimbursed by the charity over this financial year. This has been included in the cost of charitable activities as the reimbursement is valid only for the travelling borne from the management committee’s carrying out charitable activities.
4 Donations
All unrestricted donations received by the charity were charitable donations made by members of the Shia Muslim community, and members of society at large.
Restricted donations totalling, for the year, £13,440.00 were received from a donor to be used solely for the purchasing of the halal chicken supplies that support SABS’ Scottish Food Aid Project and Pitch to Plate. The entirety of the sum was spent on purchasing chicken provisions from suppliers over the course of the financial year.
5 Grants Received
This financial year, we were awarded a restricted grant from the Ethnic Minority Development Fund (EMDF), provided by the National Lottery Community Fund, totalling £6,000.00. The grant was designated solely for use to deliver our “EMDF R2 Thrive - Nurturing Wellbeing and Resilience in the Community” project. The project is aimed at improving the Shia Muslim community’s collective resilience and response to emergencies, and its social and emotional welfare. Specifically, the project seeks to train physical and mental health first aid champions for the community, while also organising social outings to boost community connection and wellbeing and combat isolation amongst elders, youth, and the underprivileged. This FY, £434.77 of this grant monies was spent to deliver a First Aid training course and certification.
6 Cost of charitable activities
The cost of charitable activities comprise the following expenses incurred during the financial year:
| Expense Breakdown | Amount (£) |
|---|---|
| Chicken Supplies - Scottish Food Aid & Pitch to Plate | 14,552.00 |
| Office Costs & Membership fees | 1,025.00 |
| Ladies Badminton Project | 823.20 |
| Honorariums - Guest Lecturers | 2,547.42 |
13
| Training & Certification - Food Safety & First Aid qualification |
564.37 |
|---|---|
| Mobile & Insurance | 196.20 |
| Annual Community Outing | 1,811.28 |
| Roses for Peace Initiative | 144.00 |
| Project Delivery, Logistics & Operations – including supplies to vulnerable groups; venue hire for events & community programmes; provision of food, refreshments, & serviceware at events; remembrance sunday wreath; travel, accommodation, & subsistence for committee members and invited speakers incurred due to travelling for charitable activities; stationery & postage; printing & production of school & educational supplies/resources; media, video, & pop-up banner/leaflets production; and website maintenance & hosting |
10,498.26 |
7 Governance costs
There were no expenses incurred that may be categorised under the governance costs of the charity.
8 Transfer between funds
In the financial year in question there was no monetary transfer between funds.
The following trustee declares that they have approved the Financial Statements above.
----- Start of picture text -----
Signature(s)
Full name(s)
Position (e.g. TREASURER
Chair)
Date 8/12/2025
----- End of picture text -----
14
APPENDIX 3 OSCR R•wi to th• Indepnd•nt •xamln•rfs r•port on tho accounts riDffI4 A4LLL r5fv numb•r On th• ac¢ounts of th• ch•rtty for th• p•rlod Pw)d start d•t• Pwhxl •1 date mth 81 03 ?c)ef 11to14 Rwp•rtlv• The Ch¥ Iruit••s ar• rup1• lor th• W•pWall of ejnts In a(wd¥K• r••pon•lbllltlM of whth tIKI twms of th• Ch¥lllM and Tnmloo Inve8lment (Scotsnd) 21K15 Act arwj lh• tnMt••B and •xamln•r Charflth Acthunts {knUand) Rowlatlons 2008 {•• •mendedl Tlw ch•rlly tru•lee$ c¢rK8klw thal Ih ALWJII r•qutr•ment ol R14th)n 10(1 } (d) ol th• Accwnls R•gulaik)ni does nol •PFAy, tt h my r•sponslbilty to •xarnlM tho accounts M rWu1r und•r uclk 44(1) (Gl of Iho Act WKI lo Itste partlcAl•r mthr• ha ¢•Jn• to my att8ntlM. Ba•1• ol Ind•p•nd•nl My ex4rnkn li Carn wt In ac¢ordanc• %%lth Rewlatlon 11 2LMM5 Accounts •xamln•f• Itst•nI Regulalk>. An •x4mlnatlon Includas a r•vW ol lh• accountkng rec01 k•pt by th• chwlty and a aMTrparknn of th• Acc(wts wewitod wlth those reccrfd8.11 also IrKiud conskl•ratknn of any urxmual li•m• rx dIo6U101 In the a(xounl8 armj se8k$ •xp1artK8 frc#m th8 truslo68 corKeming any ch rnatt•rs. The woc•dures undertaken t W41d• 411 Ihe •vlderrA Ihat %yJkl b• r•qutred In an aLNJII •rvJ, conwuanliy. I do rKA an opInn ¢)n th• gfv•n by th• •ccwnls. Ind•p•nd•nl •xwnln•fs In courm of my axamknatbn. rK+ m8tter h•1 com• b my att•ntlon lothw th•n thai l. whkh ¥ve¥ me rea8onth Use io b8118ve that In any matwlal f•spxt the requlr•menlJ: to k•w acctyjntlng r•cord8 In aec4xdarK• wlth iectlon 4411) lal of th• 2005 Ad arnl Regulalk>n 4 of the 2006 Acctyjnts R•gulailoni, and to prap8ra accwnls with tha acxotmtsrvJ recuth comply wlth Regulallon 9 01 th• 2008 A¢uAnls Rewlalo havo not been Met, or Sn•d: N•n•: R•l•vant prol•Mlonal ' quallfkatlon(•) or body , (If •ny>: AddrM•: 15 'Pl••M ¢ld• In If •th.11 ¥Ard• Oo •Ffty, Mt ryxn• tr) •liwth• rm )lry pwJ•.
APPENDIX 3 Disclosure section con¥)kno If tho examlw neodi to hlgNlght nthrlal sxoblems. Glv• hw• brfd d•tall• ol [- yhwn1thth• I •xwnln•r wl•hM to , dl•¢loM |