Charity registration number 287813
Company registration number 01720498 (England and Wales)
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Trustees
Mrs P Hayward
Ms M L Cheng
Mr H H Wu
Mr H Salah
Mr C Yi
Mr T V Le
Ms S Lee
(Appointed 5 May 2023)
Secretary
Mr A S L Chau
Charity number
287813
Company number
01720498
Registered office and
680 Commerical Road
principal address
London
E14 7HA
Independent examiner
Goh Yong Chong
Silver Levene (UK) Limited
Chartered Certified Accountants
37 Warren Street
London
W1T 6AD
Bankers
Barclays Bank PLC
Canary Wharf Branch
2 Churchill Place
London
E14 5RB.
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
CONTENTS
Page
Trustees' report
1 - 14
Independent examiner's report
15
Statement of financial activities
16
Balance sheet
17
Notes to the financial statements
18 - 27
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 1 -

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets's memorandum and articles of association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019).

PURPOSE, VISION AND OBJECTIVES

 

The charity’s purpose as set out in our constitution is to provide a comprehensive range of services (welfare, community care, educational, leisure & recreational and personal development) for the Chinese/Vietnamese Community in and around the London Borough of Tower Hamlets through a supportive environment and a commitment to promote user involvement. Our vision is to ensure that the people we serve live in a sensitive and compassionate environment, have access to services that meet their physical, material and emotional needs, also, they are able to reach the quality of life to which every individual aspires.

 

The organisation’s ethos is one of empowerment and enablement. We are driven by our mission to enable people to be the architect of their own lives and be treated with dignity and respect at all times. Our focus is to work with and for those living with physical, sensory or mental impairment and in social isolation, including those with serious and enduring mental health difficulties or dementia, language barriers, or a carer role.

 

The objects for which the Association is established are:-

 

 

 

 

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES

 

The Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets is a charitable company limited by guarantee and is governed by a memorandum and articles of association. The principal activities of the Association is the provision of services to Chinese and Vietnamese community in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets through project based programmes providing specific services to meet the needs of its user groups. We are a local organization that understands the needs and aspirations of local Chinese and Vietnamese people. Every year we support hundreds of older people of Chinese origin to live life to the full, maintaining control and independence. The organization’s ethos is one of empowering and enabling people. The Statement of Financial Activities for the year is set out on Pages 16 to 27 of the financial statements.

 

HOME CARE SERVICE

 

Welcome to the annual report for CATH's Home Care & Support Services for the financial year 2022/2023. Our commitment to providing high-quality care and support to help our clients maintain their independence in the comfort of their own homes remains unwavering. This report highlights the accomplishments, challenges, and future endeavours that define our journey in fulfilling this mission.

 

Quality Care and Regulatory Compliance

 

CATH's Home Care service is dedicated to delivering responsive and compassionate care. Our service is proudly registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and has achieved the remarkable distinction of an "Outstanding" rating in the caring category, along with a "Good" rating in all other areas. These accolades reflect our unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being of our service users.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 2 -

Enhancing Quality and Safety

 

In response to the ongoing pandemic, our focus on infection control remains steadfast, and we adhere to the CQC fundamental standards to ensure that our services consistently meet high-quality care benchmarks. We also conducted a mock inspection of our Home Care Service, led by an external consultant, Gurpal Marsh, which culminated in an "outstanding" rating in the Caring category and "Good" ratings across other areas. To further boost our quality assurance, we enlisted the expertise of a former CQC inspector, who will guide us in redefining our internal audit framework.

 

Staff Satisfaction

 

We value our dedicated staff, and as evidenced by a recent staff survey, the majority of care workers believe CATH is a positive place to work. This feedback reinforces our commitment to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment.

 

Premises Enhancements: A Beacon of Safety and Efficiency

 

In 2022/2023, our community centre underwent a series of substantial improvements aimed at enhancing safety, reducing energy consumption, and modernizing its infrastructure. These upgrades transformed our centre into a safer, more energy-efficient, and welcoming space, symbolizing our dedication to the community we serve.

 

LED Lighting Revolution: Our commitment to environmental responsibility was demonstrated through the replacement of all lighting fixtures with energy-efficient LED technology. This switch not only reduced electricity consumption but also created a brighter and more welcoming atmosphere for our visitors and events.

 

Emergency Lighting Upgrade: Safety is paramount, and our community centre responded by upgrading its emergency lighting system. With LED technology integrated into these fixtures, we ensure reliable and efficient emergency lighting in case of power outages or other emergencies, offering peace of mind to all stakeholders.

 

Fire Alarm System Upgrade: We further strengthened safety measures with a comprehensive upgrade of our fire alarm system. This modernized system guarantees rapid detection and response to potential fire hazards, meeting the highest safety standards. The timely completion of this installation is a testament to our commitment to the safety and well-being of our community.

 

These premises improvements not only enhance safety but also demonstrate our forward-thinking approach to reducing environmental impact and operating costs.

 

Challenges and Commitment to the Future

 

The recruitment and retention of staff in the Home Care sector have long been challenging, exacerbated by inflation, rising business costs, and the cost-of-living crisis. We acknowledge the pressure on both frontline workers and their employers. Nevertheless, we remain dedicated to ensuring the long-term availability of our service while staying responsive to the needs of local older people.

 

Future Initiatives

 

Key operational and process-focused improvements in our future strategy include:

 

 

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 3 -

Key operational and process-focused improvements in our future strategy include: (continued)

 

In conclusion, the financial year 2022/2023 has been marked by achievements, challenges, and an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality care and support services. Our dedication to safety, efficiency, and community well-being remains at the core of our mission. We look forward to another year of progress, learning, and service to our community.

 

Below are some of the compliments we received from our service users: -

 

Case Study 1

 

Mrs. T, a lady with terminal cancer and in pain, was not able to stand up for long to cook for herself and her husband. Her husband has dementia so there were only limited things that he could do or help out with.

 

Her daughter contacted the Chinese Association and requested service for her mother, who required a Chinese care worker to assist her with cooking nutritious and culturally appropriate meals for her and her husband, as well as doing some light shopping and light housework when needed.

 

The service started off with one day a week, Mrs. T’s daughter got in touch with CATH straight after the first shift and said her mother would like to increase the service to two days a week, as she finds the care worker to be very helpful and she is able to enjoy nutritious and culturally appropriate meals and soups.

 

Eventually, her cancer treatments stopped, and the doctor told her there was nothing else to do as the cancer had spread. All she was given was morphine tablets to stop her pain, and she was told all they could do was make her as comfortable as possible. 

 

Her daughter got in touch with CATH again and requested the service to increase to three days a week, as the care worker was so helpful and flexible with her mother’s requests, and able to meet her needs.

 

One of the nominated individuals from CATH went to visit Mrs. T just after she increased her services. She informed her that she doesn’t have long to live, so she has decided to move back to Hong Kong to try out the Chinese medicine treatment, hoping to prolong her life. She told the nominated individual that the care worker had been very helpful, and her husband said the meals were so tasty, he really enjoyed her cooking.

 

Before Mrs. T moved back to Hong Kong, she asked the care worker to chat with her while packing her luggage. She was very thankful for the services she received from the care worker, and for being flexible during the time she had cancer treatments and medical appointments.

 

After she returned to Hong Kong, her daughter sent us an email as below:

 

Ping has provided care for my mum and dad for the past 7 months. She has been a wonderful help to my parents, she has cooked them tasty Chinese food, cleaned the house, talked to them and been very warm, friendly, reassuring, compassionate, kind, reliable and dependable. She has also been very accommodating when we have had to change the times of her work shift sometimes. 

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 4 -

She built a great relationship with them from the very first shift, which was invaluable as my mum was very hesitant at having a stranger in her home when she was feeling so vulnerable, but she quickly came to depend on her, and saw her as an old friend. 

 

We are so appreciative of Ping's support, she is an incredible home care worker and we are so happy with the support she provided.

 

We wish her and the Chinese Association all the best. All of the team have been so wonderful, with great communication, and we are so happy your service exists.”

 

What a beautiful comment received from a client’s family member, and it was very rewarding to hear that we can make a difference for someone who is facing the end of her life.

 

Case Study 2: A Journey of Remarkable Transformation

 

Introduction

 

The story of Mrs. K, a dedicated beneficiary of our home care service for an impressive five-year period, unveils a narrative rich in significance. Although she possesses unimpaired mental faculties, her health issues have regrettably limited her daily life, with a self-imposed retreat from public spaces. A recurring theme in her life is the pervasive sense of isolation and loneliness.

 

Challenges and Turning Points

 

For much of her journey with our service, Mrs. K's moods were shrouded in persistent despondency, and her overall life perspective remained largely pessimistic. However, a pivotal moment arose in the summer of 2023 when she experienced a solitary fall at home, resulting in the necessity of hip surgery and a subsequent hospital stay. This marked a crucial turning point in her story, necessitating four daily care calls during the delicate period of reablement. Unfortunately, the introduction of non-Cantonese-speaking care workers into her care plan inadvertently caused a breakdown in the support system. This led to her profound dissatisfaction and an increasing sense of detachment.

 

Emergency Intervention and the Path to Transformation

 

In a time of crisis, Mrs. K's son reached out to us, seeking emergency assistance for the days he couldn't be there for his mother. Responding with unwavering speed and dedication, we deployed a specialized care team, meticulously designed to assist Mrs. K during her recuperation phase. This marked the onset of a transformational period in her life.

 

Our support remained steadfast throughout her rehabilitation, culminating in the establishment of a structured care routine during weekdays. The introduction of Cantonese-speaking care workers not only bridged the communication gap but also rekindled the spark of cultural connection and rapport that Mrs. K had longed for.

 

A Profound Shift in Perspective

 

Perhaps the most noteworthy change in Mrs. K's life became evident during a recent conversation. For the first time in years, her disposition was notably optimistic. With heartfelt gratitude, she expressed how our services had been her lifeline, infusing her life with a newfound sense of companionship and social interaction. She fondly appreciated our flexibility in accommodating her caregiver preferences, an element that held particular significance for her. The support we provided was deemed nothing less than life-changing.

 

Conclusion: A Tale of Empowerment

 

The remarkable journey of Mrs. K serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that personalized care and unwavering support can have on an individual's life. Our commitment to her well-being not only addressed her immediate care needs but also reignited her appreciation for the transformative power of compassionate home care services during times of great challenge. Mrs. K's story is a testament to our dedication in not just improving lives, but also fostering renewed hope and optimism in the hearts of those we serve.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 5 -

CHINESE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OF TOWER HAMLETS

 

The 2022-2023 Annual Report for the Chinese Independent School of Tower Hamlets (CISTH) represents a year that was defined by a compelling interplay of achievements and challenges, underlining the school's remarkable journey over the past academic year. In light of the lingering influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the return to in-person classes in the 2022-2023 academic year marked a significant milestone. The school premises, which remain exclusive to CISTH, have been effectively managed to ensure the safety and well-being of the students. This dedication to safety and controlled access during lesson hours has received accolades from parents who acknowledge the conducive learning environment and the school's excellent facilities.

 

The heart of CISTH's operations, its academic programs, displayed a commendable spectrum of offerings for students, encompassing both Cantonese and Mandarin language courses, tailored to cater to a wide age range from Playgroup to A-Level. The array of classes available included Play Group, Beginner, Intermediate, Upper Intermediate, Advance, GCSE, and A-Level levels. This diversity of offerings ensures that students of varying proficiency levels can find suitable courses, thereby contributing to the school's reputation as a place of academic excellence.

 

The statistics for attendance and enrolment are worth celebrating. The achievement of an impressive over 90% attendance rate among CISTH students signifies the remarkable commitment they have shown towards their studies. In terms of enrolment, the school welcomed a total of 99 students during the 2022-2023 academic year. These students were distributed across Mandarin and Cantonese classes, spanning an age group that ranged from 3 to 18 years old. While there was a modest decline in enrolment attributed to the continuation of some students' preference for online learning, the school maintains an optimistic outlook, anticipating the future enrolment of even more students who will contribute to the vibrant academic community.

 

The ethos of recognizing and rewarding excellence continued with CISTH's participation in the Jack Petchey Award Scheme. Throughout the academic year, six young achievers were identified and acknowledged, a testament to the school's commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring that the exceptional students among its ranks receive the recognition they truly deserve.

 

Another pillar of strength for CISTH is the constant support and constructive feedback from parents. Their appreciation is evident in their acknowledgment of the school's robust safety measures, unwavering dedication to their children's educational journey, and the hard work and commitment demonstrated by the teaching staff. The strong parent-teacher partnership is crucial in maintaining the school's excellent standards and reputation.

 

Teacher development has been a focal point as well, with educators at CISTH showing exceptional dedication to enhancing their teaching skills. This has been particularly vital given the unique challenges posed by online learning and the need to adapt to the new Edexcel GCSE and A-Level course structure and syllabus. The investments made in teacher training have undoubtedly improved the overall learning experience, contributing to the school's track record of academic excellence.

 

Looking forward, CISTH remains resolute in its commitment to fostering young minds, nurturing an affinity for the Chinese language and culture, and maintaining the high standards of GCSE and A-Level results that it is known for. The school is actively exploring innovative ways to further develop its teaching staff, identifying new opportunities for student recruitment in London and beyond, and preparing for the opportunities and challenges that the future may unveil.

 

In conclusion, the CISTH community, comprised of dedicated teachers, hardworking staff, supportive parents, and motivated students, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability throughout this academic year. Together, they have effectively navigated the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic and consistently delivered quality education. As CISTH forges ahead, the school remains steadfast in its mission to nurture young minds and kindle a deep appreciation for the Chinese language and culture, creating a brighter future for all involved.

 

ELDER CHINESE WELL-BEING AND SUPPORT PROJECT

 

The project started in January 2022 and ran until the end of March 2023, with the aim of improving the physical and mental well-being of London residents aged over 50 who were impacted by the pandemic. The project offered various activities, including interest classes, fun physical exercise groups, and a sociable luncheon club, to help participants step out from the shadow of the pandemic and raise their physical and mental health awareness.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 6 -

We aspired to reach out to 150 beneficiaries and enlisted the support of 15 dedicated volunteers to facilitate our project's activities. Over the course of the project's duration, we orchestrated a total of 120 activities, engaging 250 participants and our team of 15 volunteers. These activities spanned interest classes, invigorating physical exercise groups, and our sociable luncheon club. These numbers serve as a testament to the remarkable extent and efficacy of our project in actively engaging and positively impacting our community members.

 

Direct Beneficiaries: Our project's direct beneficiaries comprised individuals aged 50 and above from diverse backgrounds residing across London, many of whom were members prior to the pandemic or Hong Kong BNO holders who had recently relocated to England. For them, our project provided a route back to their communities, offering opportunities to reconnect with old friends and rekindle relationships that may have frayed during the pandemic. These participants derived immense value from the social connections and sense of community fostered by our project.

 

Indirect Beneficiaries: The project's positive repercussions extended beyond its direct beneficiaries. Family members of these individuals found the chance to forge new friendships with those sharing similar experiences. Our volunteers, predominantly young individuals from Hong Kong new to London, enriched their own sense of belonging to the local community by serving the senior generation originating from their homeland. This intergenerational exchange substantially strengthened the fabric of the UK Chinese community. Furthermore, the involvement of these volunteers introduced a valuable diversity of perspectives, experiences, and skills, contributing to a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all project beneficiaries. This diversity enhanced the overall experience and well-being of those engaged in our activities.

 

Community Impact: Collectively, our project positively impacted approximately 190 beneficiaries, both directly and indirectly. By addressing issues of isolation, fostering social connections, and promoting cultural exchange and diversity awareness, we made a meaningful difference in the lives of our community members. Beyond direct involvement, our project indirectly benefitted individuals through referrals and information disseminated through our website. Even when facing challenges beyond our project's scope, we diligently connected individuals with appropriate resources and support within the community. Our unwavering focus remains on providing tailored care and support to the vulnerable Chinese community, particularly the elderly, who grapple with unique challenges stemming from language barriers and limited family support.

 

Volunteer Engagement: Volunteers played a pivotal role in our project, surpassing our initial recruitment target with 27 enthusiastic individuals. Many of these volunteers were recent arrivals from Hong Kong seeking a sense of belonging in their new London community. Their involvement had a transformative effect on both the older and younger generations within the UK Chinese community. By serving seniors hailing from Hong Kong, the young volunteers deepened their connection to their roots while adding value to the activities and luncheon club, ultimately enriching the lives of our beneficiaries.

 

The involvement of volunteers also injected diversity into our project, with young people from Hong Kong infusing their unique perspectives, experiences, and talents into activities and interactions with beneficiaries. This diversity contributed to a more inclusive and welcoming project environment, enhancing the overall well-being of all participants. The success in recruiting and engaging volunteers created a mutually beneficial situation, where both beneficiaries and volunteers experienced a positive impact.

 

Impact on the Community: Our project has left an indelible mark on our beneficiary community. Survey results revealed that nearly 80% of beneficiaries formed new friendships through our activities, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, which is especially vital for newcomers without established social networks. The regularity of our activities offered a dependable platform for beneficiaries to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. This sense of belonging has significantly contributed to the overall well-being and happiness of our beneficiaries.

 

Moreover, our project offered opportunities for beneficiaries to acquire new skills, explore new interests, and cultivate hobbies. This enrichment not only enhanced their lives but also empowered them to become more active and engaged members of the community. The knowledge and skills gained through our interest classes and exercise groups have the potential for enduring personal growth and development.

 

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 7 -

Conclusion: Based on the extensive feedback gathered from beneficiaries, the impact of our project emerges as undeniably positive and multi-faceted. Our initiative has exerted a profound influence on individual participants, our organization, and the beneficiary community at large. It has delivered opportunities for learning, social connection, and personal growth, significantly contributing to the well-being and happiness of those we sought to serve. Our organization, in turn, has benefited from heightened engagement and an enhanced reputation within the community. Ultimately, our project has resoundingly achieved its goals, making a substantial and meaningful difference in the lives of both beneficiaries and the community as a whole.

 

Case Study 1

 

In August 2022, our Advocacy Service was approached by a 60-year-old male client facing a complex immigration situation. Registered blind, with no access to public funds, and currently residing in temporary bed & breakfast accommodation, his precarious situation had prompted a referral to our service. Having been rehoused twice before due to unsuitable accommodations, the client awaited the outcome of his immigration application before addressing his housing situation.

 

Client Introduction: The client's journey to the UK began in 1995 as an overseas student studying English. Financial support ceased, compelling him to engage in various jobs to sustain himself. He later encountered immigration issues, switching from a British passport to a British National Overseas (BNO) Passport, which facilitated travel without a visa. A friend's assistance led to the submission of his immigration application for permanent residence in the UK. Concurrently, he grappled with a long history of eye health issues, receiving treatment at Moorfield Eye Hospital. Pandemic-related disruptions prevented regular check-ups, leading to diagnoses of Glaucoma and Uveitis, with sight loss in his right eye in January 2021. Destitution ensued due to immigration status, forcing reliance on friends for calls to his GP and medication collection.

 

Work Undertaken: Upon receiving the case, exhaustive research led to the engagement of Praxis, a charity for migrants and refugees. Extensive client consultations, including home visits, occurred to assess non-immigration-related needs. Sight enablement training was extended to a nearby recreation ground, aiding navigation. The client was introduced to the Chinese Association, offering culturally specific events to bolster mental health, with safety assessments and support for navigation.

 

Connection to Bikeworks provided access to a bike taxi service, promoting mobility and community engagement. Medication reinstatement to the preferred pharmacy and a photo on the registered blind card were facilitated. Vaccination arrangements and weekly well-being calls from Blindaid addressed health concerns. Ongoing support for the Home Office application, submitted with a supporting letter, ensured comprehensive aid.

 

Solution and Next Steps: The client's path forward entails resolution of his immigration status, leading to permanent residence with tailored accommodations. Access to eligible benefits will enable independence, while continued sight enablement training will enhance mobility.

 

Exploring suitable employment or volunteering opportunities will further integrate him into society. Additionally, participation in cookery classes tailored for the visually impaired will equip him with valuable skills and foster greater independence.

 

As the Charities Aid Foundation funding for our support project concludes on March 31st, 2023, we strived to achieve as much as possible within the 8-month timeframe from August 2022. Praxis will persist in providing support for the client's Home Office application, navigating the intricate process and amassing essential documentation to validate his 27-year residency in the UK. A submitted supporting letter highlights his vulnerability and reliance on social services for temporary housing and meals.

 

Bikeworks will continue to inform the client of relevant social events, ensuring his continued engagement in the community. The ultimate solution is for the client to attain permanent residency, suitable accommodations with necessary adaptations, and access to the benefits he requires for independent living. The continued support and advocacy efforts are vital to achieving these objectives.

 

Case Study 2 - Supporting an Elderly Client with Sensory Impairments Client Overview

 

Our Project Worker serve as an advocate for an 80-year-old male client who grapples with both vision and hearing impairments. He resides with his wife, who has limited English proficiency, in a suburban area. The client is reliant on his wife for most daily activities, facing isolation due to sensory impairments that hamper communication and mobility.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 8 -

Assessment: Comprehensive assessment reveals age-related macular degeneration and cataracts as the culprits behind the client's vision impairment. Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss compounds his challenges, rendering communication and mobility difficult. The primary issues are language barriers, limited social interaction, and transportation challenges.

 

Interventions: Encouraging Participation in Social Activities: The client is being encouraged to engage in social activities to enhance his well-being. Connections to local organizations such as Blindaid and Age UK have been established, offering lunch clubs, classes, and social gatherings for seniors. Outdoor excursions to parks and other recreational spaces are also explored.

 

Exploring Transportation Solutions: Due to transportation limitations, we are researching and coordinating transportation options. A bike taxi service in the local area is being considered, offering an opportunity for the client to leave home, partake in light exercise, and interact with others. Alternative transportation methods compatible with location, cost, and language barriers are also under review.

 

Assessing Additional Support: Discussions with the client and his wife regarding additional support options, such as sitting services or shopping assistance from Age UK, are underway. Collaborations with the client's GP and social services explore care assessments and potential care home arrangements for future needs.

 

Engaging the Sight and Hearing Team: Assistance in securing an appointment with the Sight and Hearing Team to further evaluate vision and hearing impairments is provided. Recommendations for hearing aids or visual aids to improve communication and mobility are anticipated.

 

Local Area Navigation and Transportation Training: To bolster the client's confidence and independence, training on local area navigation and public transportation utilization is arranged. This empowers him to better navigate surroundings and utilize available transportation, even in the face of language barriers.

 

Regular Follow-Up and Monitoring: Ensuring the effectiveness of interventions is a priority. Ongoing follow-up with the client and his wife, alongside collaboration with stakeholders like social services, healthcare professionals, and community organizations, guarantees continuous support and tailored adjustments as needed.

 

In conclusion, our multi-disciplinary approach, combining advocacy, social services, healthcare, and community engagement, has been pivotal in addressing the complex challenges faced by this elderly client with sensory impairments. By offering support in areas like social engagement, transportation, additional services, vision and hearing assessments, and training, our aim is to enhance his quality of life. Regular monitoring and follow-up remain critical to ensuring the client receives sustained support and that his evolving needs are met comprehensively. The collaborative efforts of stakeholders empower the client to overcome barriers associated with sensory impairments, fostering improved functioning and social engagement. Moving forward, our commitment to working closely with the client, his wife, and relevant parties will guarantee ongoing progress, identify emerging needs, and adjust interventions to ensure his continued well-being and satisfaction with the support provided. Through a comprehensive, person-centred approach, we aspire to enhance the client's quality of life, promote independence, and facilitate his integration into the community.

 

LOCAL HONG KONG WELCOME FUND PROJECT

 

Introduction

 

The Local Hong Kong Welcome Fund, initiated by the Greater London Authority in March 2022, stands as a cornerstone of our commitment to aiding the seamless integration of new arrivals from Hong Kong into the vibrant fabric of London. In cognizance of the pivotal role that local authorities play in fostering an environment of welcome and inclusion, this fund has been meticulously designed to fortify the local capacity and support mechanisms for Hong Kong British National (Overseas) citizens (BNOs) across London.

 

Our Role

 

The Tower Hamlets council commissioned the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets (CATH) to deliver a series of six seminars to facilitate the integration of new arrivals from Hong Kong into the Tower Hamlets community. These seminars, executed with precision, unfolded between September 2022 and January 2023. In this report, we elucidate our endeavours and the impact thereof.

 

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 9 -

Seminar Reach

 

Our Project Worker spearheaded the organization of six seminars, offered in both physical and online formats, targeting British National (Overseas) Hong Kongers residing within the Tower Hamlets vicinity. The physical seminars witnessed a commendable attendance of 133 participants, whereas the live webinars were graced by 76 individuals keen to gain insights and knowledge.

 

Strategic Engagement

 

To ensure our message reached the intended audience, we meticulously devised and executed a strategic engagement plan. This plan leveraged popular social media platforms like Facebook, our website, and WhatsApp. Through a series of informal gatherings and discussions, we gathered invaluable insights into the specific needs of the BNO Hong Konger community in Tower Hamlets. We also identified influential community members to aid in promoting our seminars.

 

Customized Content

 

The content of our seminars was crafted based on these needs assessments and was continuously refined to ensure its pertinence and efficacy. We promoted these seminars through the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets' website, Facebook page, and prominent Hong Konger community Facebook pages.

 

Holistic Support

 

Recognizing that some participants had additional needs, such as job-seeking skills and employment-related inquiries, we seamlessly referred them to the Bromley by Bow Centre for further assistance. Overall, the seminars were met with enthusiasm and provided invaluable support to the BNO Hong Konger community in Tower Hamlets.

 

Collaboration with Bromley by Bow Centre

 

In partnership with the Bromley by Bow Centre (BBBC), we facilitated the inclusion of BNO Hongkongers in the BBBC's BNO program. This initiative afforded BNO Hongkongers an opportunity to interact with local residents, thereby introducing their culture, background, and traditions to a wider audience. This intercultural exchange serves as a beacon of London's diverse and inclusive ethos, allowing BNO Hongkongers to share their language, culinary delights, and cultural heritage with the broader society. This program, rooted in the principles of cross-cultural understanding, bolsters the integration of the BNO community into their new home in London.

 

Seminar Topics

 

Throughout the six seminar sessions, we delved into a spectrum of topics vital for the successful integration of new arrivals into the local community and the removal of barriers to accessing local services. We featured a registered nurse from the NHS emergency department to lead discussions on the healthcare system, offering vital information on emergency procedures and the availability of translation services within the NHS. The seminars on taxation addressed general information and the Autumn statement, allowing participants to submit questions and engage in meaningful dialogue. Impressively, all participants reported leaving with valuable insights that would facilitate their access to services, and their appreciation was heartily conveyed through thank-you emails.

 

Challenges Faced

 

Although we aspired to engage a targeted number of 25 onsite participants per session, totalling 150 participants, we recorded 133 onsite participants across all six seminars. While seminars on taxation, housing, and healthcare garnered significant interest, with attendance surpassing 25 participants, seminars on places of interest and Chinese medicine experienced lower attendance. This variance can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, participants displayed a stronger inclination towards practical topics presented by professional speakers, leading to higher enrolment and attendance rates for these sessions. Additionally, some residents of Tower Hamlets opted for Zoom attendance rather than onsite participation, which was not accounted for in our onsite attendance tally. Scheduling conflicts, particularly the scheduling of one seminar on a Sunday, may have further impacted attendance. Lastly, unforeseen events, such as strikes and adverse weather conditions, also contributed to lower attendance figures.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 10 -

Zoom Sessions and Improvements

 

Despite these challenges, we made concerted efforts to reach a broader audience by actively promoting Zoom sessions through social media channels. This strategy yielded an increased participation rate through the virtual platform. However, some Zoom participants did express concerns about sound quality, and we are considering conducting further testing to enhance the experience for future seminars.

 

Assessing Community Needs

 

After each seminar session, we conducted informal surveys to gain a deeper understanding of the needs and concerns of Hong Kongers. This process included group discussions, one-on-one conversations, and feedback collection via email, phone calls, WhatsApp messages, and the enrolment form.

 

Key Findings

 

Our findings underscored several key concerns within the community. Firstly, the cost of living emerged as a paramount issue, with many participants grappling with unemployment and financial stress. Secondly, language barriers posed significant hurdles in accessing government services and securing employment in desired professions. In response to these challenges, we proactively referred participants to ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes offered by BBBC and placed them on the waiting list for CATH's ESOL classes.

 

Mental health was another pressing concern, as the process of adjusting to a new country and culture can be emotionally taxing, especially for individuals who arrived alone or with their families. Feelings of homesickness and loneliness were particularly pronounced during significant festivals such as the Lunar New Year. These surveys have served as invaluable tools for better comprehending the needs of Hong Kongers and have guided us in tailoring our support to aid in their seamless integration into the wider community.

 

In Conclusion

 

In conclusion, this project underscores the potent role of volunteerism in community engagement and the cultivation of a sense of belonging. As we reflect on our journey, we are considering the establishment of a dedicated team of Hong Konger volunteers to provide ongoing support to those in need, as we continue our mission to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for Hong Kongers in London.

 

CHINESE WELFARE TRUST ADMIRAL NURSE CLINIC SERVICE

 

The Chinese Welfare Trust Admiral Nurse Clinic pilot was launched in 26th Sept 2022. It is the first-of-its-kind Admiral Nurse Clinic to support families living with dementia from the London Chinese and southeast Asian communities across five London boroughs - Barnet, Brent, Camden, Tower Hamlets and Westminster. Families can communicate with the Admiral Nurse in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.

 

This pilot service has been delivered in collaboration with the Chinese Welfare Trust, a charity dedicated to meeting the needs of elderly Chinese people living in the UK.

 

Admiral Nurses are specialist dementia nurses who provide psychological support, expert advice, and information to help families affected by dementia, particularly those with complex needs.

 

Because of the stigma surrounding the condition and the lack of culturally appropriate dementia resources and services, getting the best support is even more challenging for families living with dementia from Chinese and southeast Asian communities.

 

In Tower Hamlets, the clinic is run on Tuesdays in the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets, a charity aims at providing assistance and support to disadvantaged people of Chinese origin by offering activities and home care support. The partnership is invaluable to centre members as they can access the clinic service in a safe and trusted space.

 

Outcomes

 

The data report below covers the time period 1st August 2022 to 31st March 2023 for activities related to Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 11 -

Clinic appointments

 

Between 1st August 2022 and 31st March 2023, there were 47 requests for clinic appointments in Tower Hamlets (37% of the total 127 requests): 

 

Our service also recorded information on the outcome of requests for appointments*:

 

*Some requested appointments may not have been delivered yet

 

How the carer heard about the clinic was recorded for each appointment request and the most common way was through voluntary sector such as Chinese association of Tower Hamlets.

 

The average time for a clinical activity was 52 minutes (the average ranged from 45 to 69 mins). Clinical activity was delivered mostly via a mixture of face to face and telephone contacts. 74% are telephone contacts, 23% are face to face contacts and the rest are video call contacts.

 

The most common clinical interventions recorded are Psychological and emotional support, Accessing support and Dementia understanding and support. Most common signposting activities recorded were signposting the carers to GP or primary care, Voluntary/third sector and Health and social care worker currently involved in case.

 

Demographic information was recorded for 14 carers and 12 people living with dementia for Tower Hamlets.

 

Majority of the carer are female and aged from 61 to 70. Most of them are the wife of people living with dementia. 86% of them preferred speaking Cantonese and regards themselves as Hong Kong Chinese.

 

Half of the people living with dementia are male and another half are female. Majority of them aged from 76-80. Most of them are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. 83% of the people living with dementia preferred speaking Cantonese and regards themselves as Hong Kong Chinese.

 

Supporting Best Practice

 

Alongside working directly with families, Admiral Nurses work with others to promote best practice in dementia care. 286 supporting best practice activities, including speaking to promote and inform audience about Admiral Nurse and dementia, advice and support to health and social care professionals, presentation at best practice events were recorded from 1st September 2022 to 31st March 2023 in all districts.

 

Awareness sessions and group interventions have been conducted to raise awareness of dementia and the clinic service. Thus, expanding clinical support to more families living with dementia. 3 dementia awareness sessions were offered in Chinese association of Tower Hamlets with 20 to 30 participants from 26th September 2022 to 31st March 2023. All the sessions were conducted in Cantonese and topics include “What is dementia”, “Dementia short film sharing” and “Living with dementia: Communication Tips”.

 

Conclusion

 

Since establishing the relationship with the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets, the clinic has been able to offer clinic appointments to 12 families and indirect advice to many more up till 31st March 2023.

 

Majority are members who attend the centre activities and service users of the home care services. Some of the families resided in other boroughs accessed the clinic and were signposted to become member of the association so they could be benefited from the clinic services and the centre activities.

 

Continuous campaigns, such as memory cafes, are being planned with the centre and local organisations to break down negative stereotypes and labelling of dementia.

 

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 12 -

PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS

 

Diversifying Income Streams

 

Our primary focus centres on retaining and nurturing our partnership with Tower Hamlets Council, alongside proactive efforts to expand our presence in the private market and leverage referrals from the NHS and Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCG). To ensure our financial stability, we are committed to broadening our income sources, which will encompass fee-based services designed to remain affordable for our intended audience. We also aim to enhance our recruitment efforts and explore opportunities for growth in the local areas, particularly through extended shift hours.

 

Enhancing Online Presence

 

As part of our rejuvenated approach to private sector involvement, CATH is embarking on a comprehensive website redesign to improve accessibility for various stakeholders, including prospective clients, staff, referrers, family members, and funders. We'll complement this with an active Facebook and Twitter feed, ensuring we stay aligned with modern communication trends.

 

Five-Year Vision

 

Over the next five years, our overarching objective is to elevate our status from "Good" to "Outstanding." This vision is a resolute and ambitious statement of our aspirations for the coming half-decade. By 2025, we aim for the individuals we support to:

 

 

By 2025, our organization intends to:

 

PUBLIC BENEFIT STATEMENT

 

The Trustees have complied with the duty in section 17(5) of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission. All aspects of CATH's work are open to people who live, work or study in and around London Borough of Tower Hamlets, and CATH continues to provide a range of social welfare services and acts as an important hub for the Chinese community. The activities mentioned above demonstrate the public benefit arising through the Charity's activities.

 

RESERVES

 

The trustees/directors recognise the need to ensure adequate resources are held in reserve to account for unanticipated reduction of income or increase of expenditure. The Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets (CATH) is currently dependent heavily on earned income from its Home Care Service to sustain its activities, as grants alone would not allow CATH to continue operating. This means that if there were to be a gap in earned income it is likely that CATH would have to close down. To avoid closure if funding difficulties were to happen the trustees/directors have agreed to keep a certain level of financial reserves to ensure that main operations can continue for a period of at least 9 months. The main concerns of the board are to ensure that staff can continue working, primarily to secure new funding or to allow CATH to wind up while meeting its obligation to staff as well that that members and service users are supported to move on to other services.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 13 -
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

The Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets is a company limited by guarantee.

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:

Mrs P Hayward
Ms M L Cheng
Mr H H Wu
Mr H Salah
Mr C Yi
Mr T V Le
Ms S Lee
(Appointed 5 May 2023)

None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the company. All of the trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up.

 

APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEES

 

Applications for potential Trustees are sought through registration with appropriate local networks and associations, through the Charity’s website and through invitations sent out in member mailings.

 

Membership of the board of trustees consists of the Chair and up to eight other trustees elected by members of the Charity as determined by the Charity’s Regulations. The Board also has the power to co-opt persons to serve as members of the Board until the next election of trustees.

 

TRUSTEES INDUCTION AND TRAINING

Trustees take an active role in succession planning. Potential Trustees are initially provided with reports that will enable them to judge whether to pursue an appointment. Skills Audit forms are completed prior to an interview with the Chair of the Charity and the General Manager. If candidates are regarded as suitable, and wish to pursue an appointment, an orientation session is arranged. This forms part of the ongoing induction process and involves meetings with key staff, attendance at seminars and Committees and at least one Board meeting. Following satisfactory completion of the recruitment process the Board will recommend appointment as a Trustee.

 

ORGANISATION

The Board has the overall responsibility for the governance of the Charity. It meets at least four times a year. Regulations specify the powers of the board and the authority delegated to senior staff. The General Manager is responsible for the day to day management of the Charity, working within the financial framework, procedures and policies set down by the Board. The General Manager has delegated authority for human resource planning, employment, service development and finance. The name of the senior staff member to whom day to day management of the charity is delegated to Mr. Alan Chau, General Manager.

 

RISK MANAGEMENT

 

The Board of Directors holds a solemn responsibility to diligently assess and proactively manage risks associated with the charitable organization's activities, its beneficiaries, and its esteemed reputation. CATH, in light of its operation within a highly regulated environment, must remain vigilant in ensuring adherence to relevant regulations, as non-compliance could result in substantial financial penalties and the revocation of our registration.

 

To effectively mitigate compliance risks, CATH has rigorously adopted the Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards and invested significantly in staff training. The organization maintains comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure ongoing compliance, complemented by regular quality assessments and judicious actions to mitigate any identified risks. The organization's 'Good' rating, bestowed by the CQC during the last inspection in August 2017, serves as a testament to CATH's historical success in risk management. This commitment to risk mitigation has endured even amid the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic.

 

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 14 -

The Board of Trustees has consistently recognized the presence of inherent external risks, beyond the organization's control, alongside those foreseeable and manageable. The Trustees maintain the belief that the existing systems and controls, which have been and continue to be in place to monitor, manage, and mitigate the charity's major risks, remain efficacious. These key risks are as follows:

 

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES

The trustees, who are also the directors of Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

 

Company Law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

 

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

 

- select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

 

- observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;

 

- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and

 

- prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets will continue in operation.

 

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Mr C Yi
Trustee
21 November 2023
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
- 15 -

I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets (the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets) for the year ended 31 March 2023.

 

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the charity’s trustees those matters I am required to state to them in this report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for my work, for this report, or for the opinions I have formed.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (the 2006 Act).

Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets’s financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act). In carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

 

An independent examination does not involve gathering all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently does not cover all the matters that an auditor considers in giving their opinion on the financial statements. The planning and conduct of an audit goes beyond the limited assurance that an independent examination can provide. Consequently I express no opinion as to whether the financial statements present a ‘true and fair’ view and my report is limited to those specific matters set out in the independent examiner’s statement.

Independent examiner's statement

Since the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants, which is one of the listed bodies.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

1

accounting records were not kept in respect of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

2

the financial statements do not accord with those records; or

3

the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

4

the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.

Goh Yong Chong
Silver Levene (UK) Limited
Chartered Certified Accountants
37 Warren Street
London
W1T 6AD
Dated: 22 November 2023
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 16 -
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2023
2023
2023
2022
2022
2022
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Donations and contract income
2
340,591
-
340,591
319,504
-
319,504
Charitable activities
3
46,449
34,919
81,368
44,501
79,856
124,357
Investments
4
688
-
688
35
-
35
Other income
5
3,264
-
3,264
13,515
-
13,515
Total income
390,992
34,919
425,911
377,555
79,856
457,411
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
6
348,589
85,130
433,719
321,554
26,723
348,277
Gross transfers between funds
-
-
-
(2,184)
2,184
-
Net income/(expenditure) for the year/
Net movement in funds
42,403
(50,211)
(7,808)
53,817
55,317
109,134
Fund balances at 1 April 2022
507,205
80,258
587,463
453,388
24,941
478,329
Fund balances at 31 March 2023
549,608
30,047
579,655
507,205
80,258
587,463

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006.
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 MARCH 2023
31 March 2023
- 17 -
2023
2022
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
11
8,287
3,116
Current assets
Debtors
12
56,435
39,499
Cash at bank and in hand
544,208
574,285
600,643
613,784
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
13
(29,275)
(29,437)
Net current assets
571,368
584,347
Total assets less current liabilities
579,655
587,463
Income funds
Restricted funds
15
30,047
80,258
Unrestricted funds - general
Designated funds
16
4,140
4,140
General unrestricted funds
545,468
503,065
549,608
507,205
579,655
587,463

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 March 2023.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 17 November 2023
Mr C Yi
Ms S  Lee
Trustee
Trustee
Company registration number 01720498
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 18 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 680 Commerical Road, London, E14 7HA.

1.1
Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets's memorandum and articles of association, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019). The Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

 

The Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2
Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets 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.

1.3
Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Designated funds comprise funds which have been set aside at the discretion of the trustees for specific purposes. The purposes and uses of the designated funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

1.4
Income
Income is recognised when the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets 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.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 19 -
Assets for distribution are recognised only when distributed. Assets given for use by the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets are recognised when receivable. Stocks of undistributed donated goods are not valued for balance sheet purposes.
1.5
Expenditure

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under heading that aggregate all costs related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated on a basis consistent with use of the resources.

 

Support costs have been allocated between governance costs and other support. Governance costs comprise all costs involving public accountability of the charity and its compliance with regulation and good practice.

 

Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources, eg allocating property costs by floor areas, or per capita, staff costs by the time spent and other costs by their usage.

1.6
Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Fixtures, fittings & equipment
25% Reducing balance

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.7
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible 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 the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.8
Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.9
Financial instruments

The Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

 

Financial instruments are recognised in the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets's balance sheet when the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 20 -
Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Impairment of financial assets

Financial assets, other than those held at fair value through income and expenditure, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting date. Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset, the estimated future cash flows have been affected.

 

If an asset is impaired, the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The impairment loss is recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year.

 

If there is a decrease in the impairment loss arising from an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the impairment is reversed. The reversal is such that the current carrying amount does not exceed what the carrying amount would have been, had the impairment not previously been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year.

Derecognition of financial assets

Financial assets are derecognised only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are settled, or when the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another entity, or if some significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained but control of the asset has transferred to another party that is able to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement 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 are 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 recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.10
Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

 

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 21 -
1.11
Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

1.12

Government grants

Government grants are recognised at the fair value of the asset received or receivable when there is reasonable assurance that the grant conditions will be met and the grants will be received. A grant that specifies performance conditions is recognised in income when the performance conditions are met. Where a grant does not specify performance conditions it is recognised in income when the proceeds are received or receivable. A grant received before the recognition criteria are satisfied is recognised as a liability.

1.13
Company Status

The charity is a company limited by guarantee. The members of the company are the trustees named on page 13. In the event of the charity being wound up, the liabilities in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the charity.

2
Donations and contract income
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
general
general
2023
2022
£
£
Donations and gifts
2,962
2,278

Contract income

337,629
317,226
340,591
319,504
Contract income
London Borough of Tower Hamlets
151,868
146,539
London Borough of Islington
44,791
42,364
London Borough of Hackney
19,242
16,444
Direct Payments
121,728
111,879
337,629
317,226
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 22 -
3
Income from charitable activities
Grants

School fees and other income

Total
2023
Total
2022
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
Sales within charitable activities
-
46,449
46,449
44,501
Performance related grants
34,919
-
34,919
79,856
34,919
46,449
81,368
124,357
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
-
46,449
46,449
44,501
Restricted funds
34,919
-
34,919
79,856
34,919
46,449
81,368
124,357
For the year ended 31 March 2022
Unrestricted funds - general
-
44,501
44,501
Restricted funds
79,856
-
79,856
79,856
44,501
124,357
4
Investments
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
general
general
2023
2022
£
£
Interest receivable
688
35
5
Other income
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
general
general
2023
2022
£
£
Other income
3,264
13,515

Other income incudes Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme grant of £Nil (2022: £13,370).

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 23 -
6
Expenditure on charitable activities

Unrestricted funds expenditure

Restricted funds expenditure

Total
2023

Unrestricted funds expenditure

Restricted funds expenditure

Total
2022
2023
2023
2022
2022
£
£
£
£
£
£
Staff costs
310,061
54,424
364,485
306,530
15,945
322,475

Food/luncheon club

2
5,077
5,079
29
1,356
1,385

Home care project

5,328
-
5,328
5,009
-
5,009

Chinese school

1,077
-
1,077
100
-
100

Rent

16,412
803
17,215
(1,243)
201
(1,042)

Other premises expenses

1,822
456
2,278
1,427
210
1,637

Travel

10
1,751
1,761
-
573
573

Insurance

1,222
306
1,528
1,259
-
1,259

Repairs and maintenance

1,287
60
1,347
635
2
637

Training, books & subscriptions

2,154
776
2,930
431
1,121
1,552

Professional fees

-
10,030
10,030
-
3,400
3,400

Bank charges

570
-
570
511
-
511

Telephone

1,126
388
1,514
1,484
217
1,701

Sundry expenses

1,420
4,691
6,111
243
3,537
3,780

Depreciation

2,762
-
2,762
1,039
-
1,039
Projects
-
5,534
5,534
-
161
161
345,253
84,296
429,549
317,454
26,723
344,177
Share of governance costs (see note 7)
3,336
834
4,170
4,100
-
4,100
348,589
85,130
433,719
321,554
26,723
348,277
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
348,589
-
348,589
321,554
-
321,554
Restricted funds
-
85,130
85,130
-
26,723
26,723
348,589
85,130
433,719
321,554
26,723
348,277
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 24 -
7
Support costs
Governance costs
2023
2022
Basis of allocation
£
£
£

Professional fees

4,170
4,170
4,100
50% Chinese School
50% Home Care
4,170
4,170
4,100
Analysed between
Charitable activities
4,170
4,170
4,100

Governance costs include fees of £3,420 (2022: £3,300) for an independent examination.

8
Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits, or claimed any expenses from the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets during the year.

9
Employees
Number of employees

The average monthly number employees during the year (including trustees) was:

2023
2022
Number
Number
Management and administration
9
9
Charitable activities
30
28
39
37
Employment costs
2023
2022
£
£
Wages and salaries
336,089
305,154
Social security costs
14,238
3,298
Other pension costs
14,158
14,023
364,485
322,475

The key management personnel of the Charity comprises the Trustees, General Manager, Nominated Individuals and Head of Chinese School.

 

The total employee benefit of the key management personnel of the Charity were £64,220 (2022 : £57,527).

 

No individual employee received benefits of more than £60,000 during the year or preceding year.

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 25 -
10
Taxation

The charitable company is a registered charity and is not subject to corporation tax on its current activities.

11
Tangible fixed assets
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
£
Cost
At 1 April 2022
34,519
Additions
7,933
At 31 March 2023
42,452
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2022
31,403
Depreciation charged in the year
2,762
At 31 March 2023
34,165
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2023
8,287
At 31 March 2022
3,116
12
Debtors
2023
2022
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Prepayments and accrued income
56,435
39,499
13
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023
2022
£
£
Accruals and deferred income
29,275
29,437
14
Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes

The Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets in an independently administered fund.

The charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes was £14,158 (2022 - £14,023).

CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 26 -
15
Restricted funds
The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes:
Movement in funds
Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2021
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
Balance at
1 April 2022
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Balance at
31 March 2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
Opportunity Centre Project
1,403
-
-
-
1,403
-
-
1,403
Youth Club
222
-
-
-
222
-
-
222
After School Homework Club
2,161
-
-
-
2,161
-
-
2,161
After School sporting
4,938
-
-
-
4,938
-
-
4,938
I Dare Project
3,497
-
-
-
3,497
-
-
3,497
Jack Petchey Project
4,804
1,700
(998)
-
5,506
1,800
-
7,306
Elderly Luncheon Club
-
-
(2,184)
2,184
-
-
-
-
Core
4,484
-
-
-
4,484
-
-
4,484
Chinese New Year Event
529
-
-
-
529
-
-
-
East End Community Foundation
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
529
Covid-19 Project for Chinese
2,903
-
(2,560)
-
343
-
-
343
CAF Funding
-
78,156
(20,981)
-
57,175
27,719
(80,263)
4,631
Local Hong Kong Welcome Fund Project
-
-
-
-
-
5,400
(4,867)
533
24,941
79,856
(26,723)
2,184
80,258
34,919
(85,130)
30,047
CHINESE ASSOCIATION OF TOWER HAMLETS
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023
- 27 -
16
Designated funds
The income funds of the charity include the following designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes:
Movement in funds
Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2021
Incoming resources
Balance at
1 April 2022
Incoming resources
Balance at
31 March 2023
£
£
£
£
£
Equipment replacement fund
4,140
-
4,140
-
4,140
4,140
-
4,140
-
4,140
The trustees have designated funds of £4,140 to cover the future cost of IT & communication system of the Charity.
17
Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Total
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Total
2023
2023
2023
2022
2022
2022
£
£
£
£
£
£
Fund balances at 31 March 2023 are represented by:
Tangible assets
8,287
-
8,287
3,116
-
3,116
Current assets/(liabilities)
541,321
30,047
571,368
504,089
80,258
584,347
549,608
30,047
579,655
507,205
80,258
587,463
18
Operating lease commitments

At the reporting end date the Chinese Association of Tower Hamlets had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

2023
2022
£
£
Within one year
-
15,125
19
Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2022 - none).

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