2026-03-31-accounts

ASKARI & Co. LIMITED. 162 DARNLfY 8TrEZT. GLASGOW. G412LL ACCOUNTANTS & TAXADVISORS. M.DI G.H. ASKARI. LLII F.C.C. TEL. 014142JJC 0141423 JOJI FAXI 014142J J)J4 VAT RE(:ISTRATION NO: 8116 441¢6 44 Our R•f'. GIWSWWAI 14th May 2028 The 808rd ol Truste68 Muslim Wornen And famlly Allian¢• 26 Bumsth W•lk Coalbndge ML4 1HX Dear Tnjsiees. I have completed my revw of Ihe financial ac£ount8 for th• Mu￿1m Women •rKI Famlty Alllan for Ihe Year Endlng 31 * March 2026. Summary of Flndlngg l am pleased to rewi th81 the 8¢counts are In 9ood standing. Folltrwiro my examinatlori, I have Iden(ified no rnaior Issues or material concems regafdirvJ Ihe chanlYs financial records or reP￿Tha foi this period Your commrtment to transparency is evident. and Ihe figurnj accurately rellècl the organizalion's actNthes. Rocommendatlons for Improvement lthile the accounls are sound. I would like to offer two Small suggestsons to help 8treamllne your internal processes arKI make future year-end revlew3 even wnoother: Chronologlcal ReCOrd￿￿PIng. 11 woukl bo highly beneficial to or93nise all phy8i¢al and th'gital Pa￿Try0(k Into monltty ordw. Group¢ng Involces, receipts, and bank slatements by month rnai(e5 rt mud) easlef to trad( trail and redu￿ the twne spenl search￿9 for SFoofic docthnents. Impl•monlatlon ol a Cash Book: For better oversbght of petty cash, I recixnmend 8tartlng a lormol cash book. This shwkl be used lo record all cash donations iecoived and any mlnor expenses paKI oul in Cash. Having ded￿ated log ensures that even the sm211est Iransactions are acc(HJnled for and Prov￿8$ a clear "paper tr￿r for funds that donl pas8 directly Ihrough the bank accounL Closlng R•mark• Thank you for your coopefation during Ihis revivw. It Is a pleasure Io WQfk wilh an oroanization $0 dedi¢aled to rts mission. Please feel Iree to reach out rf you have any que$llo￿ .[egard￿g these recommendakn'ons or the final accounts. Yours fallhftAty Amir Mahmood MA4T Askan & Co LHnitwJ

ANNUAL REPORT 2025 - 2026 Account for the Year Ending 31st March 2026

North Lanarkshire Muslim Women & Family Alliance (NLMWA) Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO): SCO5588 41 Bell Street, Airdrie, ML6 0EB

Table of Contents

01. Organisational Summary

02. Chair’s Report

03. Legal & Administrator Information

04. Strategy & Operational Structure

05. Achievements

06. Acknowledgements

07. Finance Report

08. Signatures

01. Organisational Summary

The North Lanarkshire Muslim Women’s Alliance (NLMWA) is a community-led charity based in North Lanarkshire, established to promote equality, inclusion, and empowerment among Muslim and ethnic minority women and their families. Guided by its constitution, NLMWA aims to advance education, improve health and well-being, relieve isolation, and foster greater community cohesion through intercultural understanding and participation.

The organisation operates on principles of equality, respect, and empowerment, providing opportunities for women and family to develop skills, build confidence, and engage actively in their communities. Its charitable purposes include the advancement of education, citizenship, community development, and the relief of those in need by reason of age, ill-health, or socio-economic disadvantage.

Throughout the year, NLMWA has continued to deliver community activities, educational workshops, volunteer development, and well-being initiatives that address local needs and contribute to a more connected and resilient community across North Lanarkshire and beyond.

02. Chair’s Report

It is a pleasure to present the Annual Report for 2025–2026 on behalf of the Trustees of the North Lanarkshire Muslim Women and Family Alliance (NLMWA).

This year has been marked by resilience, growth, and a continued commitment to serving our community. Despite an increasingly challenging funding environment, we have successfully delivered a wide range of programmes that empower women, support young people, and strengthen community engagement.

Our daily, weekly, and monthly sessions have played a vital role in creating consistent, safe, and inclusive spaces for women and families. These regular activities are at the heart of our work reducing isolation, building confidence, and fostering a strong sense of belonging within the community. From capacity building and digital inclusion to wellbeing and youth engagement, our programmes continue to make a meaningful and lasting impact.

We are also proud to contribute beyond our organisation. Through involvement in the Community Climate Panel, we have supported community awareness initiatives that highlight the importance of environmental responsibility. This work not only raises awareness but encourages collective action, strengthening community resilience and promoting a more sustainable future at both a social and local level.

We are particularly encouraged by the unity demonstrated by our members through initiatives such as the Bench Project, alongside the strong partnerships we have built to extend our reach and impact.

However, challenges remain. Limited access to sustainable funding continues to affect long-term planning, and the ongoing Community Asset Transfer (CAT) process remains a significant barrier to securing a permanent space an essential step in achieving our vision as a community hub.

Looking ahead, we remain focused on expanding opportunities in health and wellbeing, skills development, youth engagement, and support for older women, while continuing to advocate for equality and access to resources.

I would like to sincerely thank our volunteers, trustees, members, funders, and partners for their continued support and dedication. Together, we move forward with determination to build a stronger, more inclusive, and empowered community.

Mrs Bushra Iqbal (MBE)

Chair of North Lanarkshire Muslim Women & Family Alliance (NLMWA)

03. Legal and Administration Information

Charity Name: North Lanarkshire Muslim Women and Family Alliance SCIO No: SC045588 Contact Address : c/o Mrs Bushra Iqbal MBE 26 Burnside Walk, Coatbridge, Lanarkshire, ML5 1HX

Organisation Structure Flowchart

Trustees / Office Bearers / Strategy Group Operations Group Members Sub-Committes Leads

Education • Finance • Advocacy & Support • Catering & Events • Befriending • Partnership• Voice for the Voiceless

Trustees / Office Bearers / Strategy Group

Chair Bushra Iqbal MBE Secretary Shazia Aslam Treasurer Nasim Hussain Trustees Abida Farid Tahira Hamid Samina Chishti Maria Lye Gargar Hurtado Dr. Irfan Jehangir

Board of Trustee Observers

Christina Cassidy Maryum Khan Heather Maclean Tahira Ashraf Fatima Drammch

Operations Groups

Shazia Ahmed Robina Iman Naheed Akhter Muneera Ghos Tahira Ashraf Asia Majeed Aysha Tasnim

Sub-Committee Leads

Education Samina Chishti Finance Nasim Hussain Advocacy & Support Parveen Asghar Catering & Events Naheed Mahmood Befriending Parveen Asghar Partnership Bushra Iqbal MBE

Independent Examiner

Askari & Co. Limited Chartered Certified Accountants 162 Darnley Street Glasgow G41 2LL

Bankers:

Royal Bank of Scotland, 80 Main Street, Coatbridge, Lanarkshire ML5 3DZ

04. Strategy & Operation Structure

The organisation is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Company (SCIO). It has a 2 tier Strategy and Operational Structure. All members of both the Strategy Group and the Operational Group are appointed by the membership. All posts being appointed from members of the Alliance who are considered to have the appropriate skills necessary to carry out the required tasks. A Monthly Meetings are planned (1st Saturday of the month) and Agendas issued in advance and all meetings are recorded appropriately and chaired effectively. Both Strategy and Operational members can contribute to discussion, and enough information is gathered prior to decisions being made. Board members are delegated specific tasks. There is a trustee’s code of conduct in place.

The Trustees are primarily responsible for all strategic planning and work closely with the Operations Group which has several sub-groups, each of these sub-groups includes a member of the Strategy team ensuring continuity in current working and forward planning reported via Strategy Meetings which are held monthly. There is a 5-year plan which contains the mission, vision and aims of the group. The plan is monitored and evaluated by the board and targets measured against plans.

05. Achievements

This year has been one of continued growth, resilience, and meaningful community impact for NLMWA. Through a combination of funded programmes, member-led initiatives, and strategic partnerships, the organisation has strengthened its role as a vital support hub for women, youth, and the wider community in North Lanarkshire.

Despite operating within a challenging funding landscape, NLMWA has remained committed to delivering inclusive, culturally responsive, and community-led services that promote empowerment, participation, and wellbeing.

Key Highlights

• Successfully secured and delivered multiple grant-funded projects supporting operational sustainability, community engagement, and empowerment.

• Continued delivery of monthly awareness and participation sessions, creating consistent engagement opportunities.

• Empowered women through capacity-building initiatives, enhancing confidence, skills, and independence.

• Established a foundation for youth engagement and leadership through targeted empowerment activities.

• Strengthened community unity through member-led initiatives such as the Bench Project.

• Maintained strong partnerships with local and national organisations to expand reach and impact.

• Continued advocacy efforts for Community Asset Transfer (CAT) to secure a permanent community space.

Projects Summary

Projects Summary
Grant or Project	Funding Source	Focus Area	Impact & Benefciaries
GAP (Grant Award Programme)	North Lanarkshire Council	Operational/Core Support	Enabled continuity of services, organisational stability, and support for ongoingactivities
Growth Pot Fund	North Lanarkshire Disability Forum	Engagement & Participation	Ongoing monthly sessions (last Saturday of each month) delivering awareness, skills development, and wellbeing activities with positive communityimpact
The Wee Grant	Robertson Trust	Capacity Building & Empowerment	Empowered 12 women through empower women with language, digital literacy and increased community participation
Micro Fund – Community Empowerment	North Lanarkshire Council	Youth Empowerment	Established a foundation for youth engagement, supporting young people to participate, volunteer, and developleadershipskills
Bench Project	Member Contributions	Community Unity & Ownership	Symbolic and practical initiative demonstrating unity, teamwork, and member-led achievement
Boost Fund	Corra Foundation	Health & Wellbeing	Funding secured to support wellbeing-focused sessions - ongoing (report to refect 2027)
ESGA Fund	Age Scotland & Scottish Government	Elderly Support & Dementia Awareness	Upcoming delivery of dementia awareness sessions and support for older communitymembers

Impact Summary

Community Reach & Engagement

• Engaged 100+ community members through events, consultations, and activities

• Maintained active partnerships through regular multi-agency meetings and forums

• Responded to 100+ communications to coordinate support and representation

• Impact: Stronger community voice and increased trust in services among underrepresented groups.

Health & Wellbeing

• Delivered wellbeing classes and support sessions for women

• Hosted NHS Health Check and Breast Cancer Awareness events

• Provided care packs to 3 care homes

• Supported vulnerable families, including elderly care needs

Impact: Improved physical and mental wellbeing, reduced isolation, and increased health awareness.

Skills, Training & Capacity Building

• Delivered AI, digital safety, and media literacy training

• Hosted business and employability workshops

• Completed Disclosure training (10 checks completed)

Impact: Enhanced confidence, digital inclusion, and employability skills among participants.

Youth Development

• Organised youth engagement activities and trips

• Delivered children’s classes (3 days weekly)

• Hosted youth and Eid events

Impact: Provided safe, positive spaces for young people, strengthening identity, confidence, and social skills.

Community Voice & Civic Participation

• Represented community needs in VANL, LOIP, and consortium meetings

• Contributed to Summerlee redevelopment consultations, advocating inclusive spaces

• Impact: Increased representation of minority communities in local planning and decision-making.

Improving Community Spaces

• Installed a community bench in Cambusnethan Cemetery following user consultation Impact: Created a peaceful, accessible space supporting emotional wellbeing, especially for elderly users.

Community Cohesion & Inclusion

• Delivered cultural events, Black History activities, and inter-community engagement

• Supported mosque open days, Ramadan iftars, and Eid celebrations

Impact: Strengthened community cohesion, inclusion, and cross-cultural understanding.

Why Our Work Matters

Many of the women and families we support face language barriers, social isolation, and limited access to mainstream services. Our culturally sensitive approach ensures:

• Accessible support

• Trusted community engagement

• Real opportunities for participation and leadership

Looking Ahead

We aim to:

• Expand wellbeing and skills programmes

• Increase youth engagement opportunities

• Strengthen community-led service design

• Secure a dedicated community space

Challenges and Resilience

While this year has brought significant achievements, NLMWA continues to face structural and financial challenges that impact the sustainability and growth of its services.

A key challenge remains the limited availability of long-term, sustainable funding, particularly for core operational costs. Much of the organisation’s work relies on short-term project funding, which creates uncertainty and restricts the ability to plan and expand services in a consistent and strategic manner.

Additionally, the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) process continues to present a major barrier. Securing a permanent, accessible community space is critical to the organisation’s long-term vision. Despite ongoing efforts, engagement, and advocacy, progress has been slow and challenging. The lack of a dedicated space limits service delivery, capacity building, and the ability to fully meet the growing needs of the community.

However, NLMWA remains steadfast in its commitment. The organisation will continue to:

• Advocate for equitable access to community assets and resources

• Engage with stakeholders and decision-makers to progress the CAT process

• Seek sustainable funding opportunities to strengthen service delivery

• Champion equality, inclusion, and community empowerment across all its work

The resilience, unity, and determination of NLMWA members, volunteers, and partners continue to drive the organisation forward, ensuring that it remains a strong and trusted voice within the community.

06. Acknowledgements

The Trustees of the North Lanarkshire Muslim Women and Family Alliance (NLMWA) extend their sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported the organisation throughout the year.

We are especially thankful to our dedicated volunteers, whose time, commitment, and passion continue to be the foundation of our work. Their efforts enable us to deliver meaningful programmes and provide vital support to our community.

We would also like to express our appreciation to our funders and partners for their continued trust and investment in our mission. We acknowledge the support of North Lanarkshire Council, Age Scotland, the Scottish Government, North Lanarkshire Disability Forum, the Robertson Trust, and Corra Foundation. Their contributions have been instrumental in enabling us to deliver a wide range of initiatives, from community engagement and capacity building to health, wellbeing, and empowerment programmes.

We also recognise the invaluable support of our members, whose contributions both financial and voluntary continue to strengthen the organisation. Initiatives such as the Bench Project reflect the unity, ownership, and shared vision that define NLMWA.

Finally, we extend our thanks to our wider community, participants, and partner organisations for their ongoing engagement, collaboration, and feedback. Your involvement ensures that our work remains relevant, responsive, and impactful.

Together, we will continue to build stronger, more inclusive, and empowered communities across North Lanarkshire and beyond.

07. Financial Report

North Lanarkshire Muslim Women and FamilyAlliance RECEIPTS & PAYMENTS A¢¢OiINT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31stMARCH 2024 26 2025 Urrfothctedlvnd5 k•1￿cl•d IKEipts ls¢p n¢l¢S) Grants&donolrAIS NLC Grants A9eScollgnd RObert5￿Tiust 7.74544 £ 2.CtsJCO È 9.745.I4 £ 16.LKXI.W £ 16WO. 1 25000 £ £ é.250A Donat￿￿5 k IntÉtasticDmpÈnsution &1000 £ I.6￿￿ £ 2270. Total i•¢•Wts 9Tr5425 £ 27￿￿1V) È 37.41425 £12 PAYMENTSlotAcMo5 5.25000 £ 1775.co £ 8.025 246 Inswtshce PrOiÈ¢I. Robetl5tsnTruit IEmtyOwtrmeiil L￿Vage& I￿luS￿n Proiecl. NLDF (G￿￿h Pot Ftsnd. EmptswmÈn1 Piopcl. NLC ICommUThlyknpowém￿n1j £ Piopcl. NLMVIAÈènch Geneigl Adfflin Cost & Vcqunte R￿mb￿￿ment £ 3.&35.53 £ 3.￿5￿? 1.041£5 É I.041￿s 1.58160 £ 1.587.60 1.29798 £ £ 1.297.98 1.52 £ 152 IFO Cl￿nings&￿c EYWI C021 Childrèn &y￿Ph Nole5 P￿alle Othèi.'MiscalkJno<yJS 43746 £ 437.46 Tolql 795770 % 19.944.14 E la.901.04 £ aml. 1.79a.55 £ 14.715M £ ia.51141 £ 4.87& STAIEMENI OF BALANCES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2026 FurAs i•conclalbtsn Cosh o18tsnk r17d￿￿￿￿￿-J1 Mr#ch2Ot¢ £ 5yrPluSllDeEIti Cash atBank ￿Jnd-3) Mcdch202é t 202 33,{￿￿2 É 28.21 IA2 51.59823 i•• not•s e 33.06S.82 lank rthdcoth ts¢lanc Br]nkAccoLnl C¢Sh 51.598.¥J É 33thSA 51.59823 i•• not•s t 33.06S.82 9&3 ai. R￿lÈr Bann 2xFTrér RICÈ Cookèr I19￿8 184. Total JnusAbtd•t• As 2.453.FO 44.99 TotalAst•l 1234.71 NOTE5". Trnolhe bll R•kl•d Urrfoskled lahinct kÈsèiv8d. PL￿￿1pon￿1￿￿nlWJ¢rtr 1.29lQn event. Re5e5ro¢d- Fund$ 10 poyOwe¢ Fun4 01 Phe 95.ei Project RÈsÈYvÈd. G￿tsn Mèm0tyDÈtr￿nl1tt Pityètl Z 16.rm.w DeSvery RÈsvÈd- Pr1 Fund HÉdlh & VlÉlltÈi Proiecl DeSvery-SolurdgyGIu55 leqLiprneDI. 3.rm.tyJ relre5hments & IraV￿re1￿bU￿1MeD￿l bll balonc&tOwoiJICAT buy￿1 5105125-22ioin6 £ 1.25DaD £ I.￿D0D £ 2YJ.OJ £ NLC. 1112125.2W2126 £ 9584 £ 95.84 E5GA Pund 6104I26-TrM3127 % IOmO.00 % 16mD.OD 4104I26-27M3127 % 3mO.00 % 3XhJD.OD NLPAWA. CATICvrnrynHyAss*Trorffjlw) NIA RexTred7owLvd5 Rvnntrffj Co51 NIA % 30.WOQO % 30.QODOD f JO.QWQO Icryoingl 1.252 39 £ 1.252.39 Balancerem￿￿ Fogot￿IdSTWn1D9 c051 Is￿.39 £ 51.Sg82

North Lanarkshire Muslim Women and FamilyAlliance 08. Authorised Signatures Bushra lobal MBE (Chairl 1" May2026 Nasim Hussain ttreasurer) 3tO May2026 Maria Hurtado (Board Member) 29 April 202S Name: Amir Mahmood MAAT Date 14" Moy2026 Askaii & Co. Limited Chartered Certilied Accountants 162 Darrnley Streei Glasgow C412LL