Charity registration number SC018887 (Scotland)
Company registration number SC142360 (Scotland)
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Trustees
Dr Birgit Schroeter (Vice Chair)
Jill Whitfield
Tatjana Hine OBE (Treasurer)
Linda McLachlan
Jan Kerr (Chair)
Stuart Valentine
Dr Martha Pollard
Lisa McGilvray
Co-opted trustees
Daniel Reilly
Eleni Kepelian
Craig Ferguson
Secretary
Brian Magee
Chief executive officer
Brian Magee
Charity number (Scotland)
SC018887
Company number
SC142360
Registered office and principal address
16 Melville Terrace
Stirling
United Kingdom
FK8 2NE
Independent examiner
John Anderson CA
French Duncan LLP trading as AAB
Macfarlane Gray House
Castlecraig Business Park
Springbank Road
Stirling
FK7 7WT
Bankers
Virgin Money
56 Murray Place
Stirling
FK8 2BX
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
CONTENTS
Page
Trustees' report
1 - 9
Independent examiner's report
10
Statement of financial activities
11
Balance sheet
12
Notes to the financial statements
13 - 20
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 1 -

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024.

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 charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) 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)” (second edition - October 2019) (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activities

Objectives and aims

The main objectives and aims of COSCA, which are solely charitable, include the advancement of education, the advancement of health and the relief of those in need by reason of ill health by advancing, developing, maintaining, improving and expanding all forms of counselling and related activities and therapies in Scotland and beyond for the public benefit.

 

Objectives for the year

The five strategic objectives of COSCA for the year were to:

COSCA's strategies

The strategies employed to assist COSCA to meet these objectives are laid down in COSCA's Development Plan 2023-2024. These include details of the ways in which the above objectives will be met and the performance indicators, timescales, lead roles, and partners for doing so.

Significant activities

The main areas of charitable activity are the services related to the provision of information to the public on counselling, psychotherapy and the use of counselling skills, the validation of counselling and counselling-related courses, the accreditation of counsellors/psychotherapists and trainers, the recognition of counselling/counselling skills organisations, publication of good practice and ethical guidance, and the provision of networking and continuing professional development opportunities via conferences, seminars and other events and dealing with members' enquiries, including ethical issues.

Quantified use of volunteers

COSCA is committed to the development and promotion of a volunteer ethos in its work. In addition to the volunteers on COSCA's Board, COSCA directly engages, manages and supports around 30 other volunteers and follows recognised good practice in doing so. These volunteers work on COSCA's decision-making and policy formulation groups in relation to training, counselling, ethics, equalities, membership, human resources, regulation, children and young people, journal, finance and research related activities.

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 2 -
Achievements and performance

Explanation of performance against objectives

In the year under review, COSCA performed to a high standard, meeting over 90% of the performance indicators laid down in the Development Plan.

 

During the last year, during which the cost-of-living crisis was affecting many people and organisations in Scotland, COSCA has supported its members through a range of services, including the renewal of membership, production of our journal, Counselling in Scotland, and advice and support. COSCA has also validated and re-validated counselling skills, specialist, supervision and diploma courses. Our system for approving the delivery of validated courses in a blended or fully online (real time) format is continuing to help our validated training providers to adapt to the new demands for training courses to better meet the needs of the public, especially those living in rural parts of Scotland. COSCA’s Recognition Scheme for Counselling & Counselling Skills Organisations continues to attract new member organisations, and work is on-going on monitoring and supporting existing member organisations and promoting the recognition Scheme to member organisations who have not yet applied.

 

After due process via our accreditation panels, COSCA accreditation has been awarded to both counsellors and trainers. Applications for trainer accreditation this year have continued in line with the number of new courses being validated, with nearly all of the trainers on COSCA validated courses being accredited as trainers by COSCA and all other trainers involved approved in advance by COSCA to deliver COSCA validated courses. The number of students registered with COSCA for successful completion of COSCA validated courses across Scotland this year amounted to 1502 (1402) (an increase of 7% since last year). We received core investment from the Scottish Government under our 1-year award (2023-24). This funding has allowed us to plan our work with confidence over this year. COSCA’s application to the Scottish Government for funding for 2024-25 has been successful.

 

COSCA’s 9th application to the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care for the renewal of the accreditation of the COSCA Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists was successful. In the last year we have seen an overall increase of 31 in the number of registrants on the COSCA Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists, giving a total of 816 registrants. There has been an overall increase of 12 in the number of individual members, which includes the above registrants but also student, counselling skills, and associate members, giving a total of 1405 individual members of COSCA.

A General Meeting of members of COSCA was held in person in Stirling on 4th March 2024. At this Meeting, it was decided to change the COSCA Memorandum and Articles of Association to allow the COSCA AGM and General Meetings in future years to be legally held either in person or remotely.

A number of other changes below were also made to modernise and improve how the Articles of Association serve the members of COSCA, and the public in general, by the COSCA members present and entitled to vote on them:

 

COSCA has continued to actively engage with the Scottish Government Regulation Unit, its Counselling in Schools Coordinators Network, and its Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Working Group.

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 3 -

The particular risk to counselling in Scotland identified and added to COSCA’s Client Risk Matrix in the last year was the risk of the overuse/misuse of either inaccurate or out of date Disclosure Scotland information.

 

Under the 5 objectives of the Development Plan 2023-2024, COSCA achieved the following outcomes:

 

OBJECTIVE 1: inform and influence policy making at local and national levels on key issues affecting counselling, psychotherapy, counselling skills and supervision of practice

 

Communicated key messages to influence decision makers and stakeholders:

 

 

OBJECTIVE 2: increase access to a wider range of ethically based services to larger numbers and more diverse groups of people

Increased Accessibility to Counselling and Psychotherapy:

 

 

OBJECTIVE 3: increase the access of individuals and agencies to training, knowledge and information on counselling, psychotherapy, counselling skills and supervision of practice

Increased Access to Information and Training:

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 4 -

COSCA’s Counselling Skills Course:

 

 

Diploma Courses in Counselling:

 

 

Specialist Courses:

 

 

Counselling Supervision Courses:

 

 

COSCA’s Further Steps in Counselling Skills Course:

 

 

COSCA’s Group Counselling Skills Course:

 

 

OBJECTIVE 4: develop and promote quality assurance systems and ethical standards and for counselling, psychotherapy, counselling skills and supervision of practice

Ethical Practice:

 

Accreditation of Counsellors and Psychotherapists:

 

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 5 -

Accreditation of Trainers:

 

 

Recognition Scheme for Counselling/Counselling Skills Organisations

 

 

OBJECTIVE 5: develop, communicate and market COSCA as Scotland’s professional body for counselling, psychotherapy, counselling skills and supervision of practice

 

Membership Services Reviewed and Developed:

 

 

Income Generated from Membership Subscriptions:

 

 

Implementation and Review of Financial Strategies:

 

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 6 -

Keeping up to Date with New Laws and Procedures:

 

 

COSCA Staff Developed and Supported:

 

 

COSCA Board’s Governance Capacity Maintained:

 

 

COSCA marketed as Scotland’s Professional Body:

 

 

Development Plan 2024-2025

The Development Plan for 2024-2025 outlines COSCA’s work plan for the next year.

Fundraising Performance against Objectives

COSCA successfully secured one year of funding from the Scottish Government Chief Nursing Officer Directorate. COSCA self-generated an income of £147,505 over the last year. The securing of funding from the Scottish Government Chief Nursing Officer Directorate has given COSCA much needed financial stability during this period.

Investment Performance

From its bank deposits COSCA raised £17,808 in interest received in this period. This represents a £12,978 increase on the previous period. The increase in interest received can be attributed to variable interest rates on investments held.

Financial review

Principal Sources of Funding

With the aid of sound financial management and the support of its staff, volunteers, sessional workers and members COSCA generated a positive financial outcome for the period with a net increase of funds of £10,131.

 

It was successful in obtaining the following funding:

Chief Nursing Officer Directorate awarded a grant of £70,000 for the period 2023-2024.

 

In addition, income generated by COSCA's activities, including donations, amounted to £149,240 for the period.

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 7 -

On a fund by fund basis, the assets of the charity are available and adequate to fulfil the obligations of the charity.

 

Investment Policy and Objectives

COSCA's non-committed funds, including its reserves, are invested in a variety of bank and investment accounts, and the Board is happy with the returns achieved.

 

Reserves Policy

The company has identified a reserves requirement of £175,000. Free reserves at the year end amounted to £690,061. At this level the Board thinks that it would be able to continue the current activities of the company for a limited period in the event of a significant drop in funding.

 

Going Concern

After making appropriate enquiries, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Further details are given in the accounting policy 1.2.

Future Plans Including Key Objectives Set

COSCA plans to continue the activities outlined above and those in COSCA's Development Plan 2024-2025 in the forthcoming year subject to satisfactory funding arrangements.

 

Explanation where specific factors may affect future performance

In December 2012, the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (PSA) established its programme for the accreditation of registers of non-regulated health and social care workers. In June 2013 COSCA applied to PSA for accreditation of the COSCA Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists. In June 2014 COSCA's Register was accredited by PSA under its accredited registers programme, and in June 2015- 2023 COSCA was re-accredited. There was an initial application fee. There will also be on-going re-accreditation and other costs associated with maintaining accreditation under the above programme and COSCA will be accountable to PSA for meeting its robust accreditation standards.

Structure, governance and management

Governing Document

The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 29 January 1993. The company was established under a Memorandum and Articles of Association that established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Memorandum and Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up, members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1.00. The Company is also recognised by the H.M. Revenue & Customs as a charity from 3 June 1991, and accordingly there is no liability to taxation on any of its income.

Trustees

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:

 

Dr Birgit Schroeter (Vice Chair)
Jill Whitfield
Tatjana Hine OBE (Treasurer)
Caron Westmorland
(Resigned 19 February 2024)
Linda McLachlan
Jan Kerr (Chair)
Stuart Valentine
Dr Martha Pollard
(Appointed 22 August 2023)
Lisa McGilvray
(Appointed 22 August 2023)
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 8 -

Recruitment and Appointment of Board

The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law and under the company's Articles are known as directors of the Board. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association the directors of the Board shall retire automatically from the Board at the annual general meeting next following the sixth anniversary of their original appointment as a member of the Board, and they will not be eligible for re-election at that annual general meeting. Such a person shall be eligible for re-appointment to the Board after the expiry of twelve months following their retirement from office.

 

One member of the Board will retire in 2024 under the above agreement. One Board Member resigned in February 2024. Elections for these vacancies will be held with appointments to be made at the COSCA AGM in September 2024.

 

As the work of COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland) focuses on the promotion and development of counselling, psychotherapy and the use of counselling skills, the Board seeks to ensure that there is appropriate representation of these activities among members of the Board. To ensure this, the Board is constituted around areas of interest that are directly related to the aims and objectives of COSCA's Development Plan. As a result, both business and professional skills specific to the fields of counselling, psychotherapy and the use of counselling skills are well represented on the Board. In the event of a vacancy arising in any of the above areas of interest, elections are organised in advance of the next Annual General Meeting by the Company Secretary.

Indemnity provisions for trustees

The company has effected a charity trustees indemnity insurance policy at a premium of £278 (2023 - £307).

Organisational Structure

COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland) has a Board to which three ex officio members (Chair, Vice-Chair and Treasurer), and a minimum of one member representing each of the eleven designated areas of interest can be appointed. In addition, the Board can co-opt up to four persons with specialist knowledge and expertise at any one time. The Board meets quarterly and is responsible for the strategic direction, governance and policy of COSCA. At present, the Board has members from a variety of the areas of interest relevant to the work of the charity. The Company Secretary also attends meetings of the Board, but does not have voting rights.

A scheme of delegation is in place and day-to-day responsibility for the running of the charity rests with the Chief Executive. The Chief Executive is responsible for ensuring that the charity delivers the aims and objectives of COSCA's Development Plan, and that the key performance indicators are met. The Chief Executive is responsible for the individual supervision of the staff team, and also ensuring that the staff team continue to develop their skills and working practices in line with good practice.

Trustee Induction and Training

All new members of the Board are invited to attend a formal and structured induction session to familiarise themselves with COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland), including its history, purpose, and the contexts in which it operates, and with their role as a member of the Board. This session is led by the Chief Executive of COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland) and covers discussion on COSCA's key documents, including its current Development Plan. All new Board members are provided with an Induction Pack that contains the above documents. Follow-up meetings are also offered on an individual basis. Feedback from new Board members about their induction has been very positive.

 

The Board is offered regular capacity building sessions covering their role as trustees and to keep them informed about new roles and responsibilities.

Network and Related Parties

As a membership organisation, COSCA works closely with its individual and organisational members in all its activities. It also works collaboratively when appropriate with other professional bodies at a UK and international level in the field of counselling, psychotherapy and the use of counselling skills. It regularly submits written responses to relevant Scottish Government consultation documents. It also submits written reports annually to its funders.

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 9 -
Statement of trustees' responsibilities

The trustees, who are also the directors of COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland) 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 charity 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 charity 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 charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) and the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity 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.

Brian Magee
Secretary
Dated: 26 August 2024
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
- 10 -

I report on the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2024, which are set out on pages 11 to 20.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity’s trustees, who are also the directors of COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland) for the purposes of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the terms of the Charities and Trustee Investments (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended). The trustees consider that the audit requirement of Regulation 10(1)(a) to (c) of the 2006 Accounts Regulations does not apply. It is my responsibility to examine the financial statements as required under section 44(1)(c) of the Act and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner's statement

My examination is carried out in accordance with Regulation 11 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the financial statements presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the financial statements, and seeks explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the financial statements.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

(a)
which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:
(i)

to keep accounting records in accordance with section 44(1) (a) of the 2005 Act and Regulation 4 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations; and

(ii)

to prepare financial statements which accord with the accounting records and comply with Regulation 8 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations;

have not been met or
(b)

to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.

John Anderson CA
French Duncan LLP trading as AAB
Macfarlane Gray House
Castlecraig Business Park
Springbank Road
Stirling
FK7 7WT
United Kingdom
Dated: 26 August 2024
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 11 -
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
2
71,735
71,179
Charitable activities
3
46,278
57,102
Other trading activities
4
106,226
109,639
Investments
5
17,808
4,829
Total income
242,047
242,749
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
109,347
105,906
Charitable activities
7
122,569
114,755
Total expenditure
231,916
220,661
Net income for the year/
Net movement in funds
10,131
22,088
Fund balances at 1 April 2023
679,930
657,842
Fund balances at 31 March 2024
690,061
679,930

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.
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 MARCH 2024
31 March 2024
- 12 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
12
-
73
Current assets
Stocks
13
2,639
2,446
Debtors
14
23,285
41,689
Cash at bank and in hand
715,837
672,571
741,761
716,706
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
15
(51,700)
(36,849)
Net current assets
690,061
679,857
Total assets less current liabilities
690,061
679,930
Income funds
Unrestricted funds
690,061
679,930
690,061
679,930

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 2024.

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 26 August 2024
Jan Kerr (Chair)
Trustee
Company registration number SC142360
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 13 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

COSCA (Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland) is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in Scotland. The registered office is 16 Melville Terrace, Stirling, FK8 2NE, United Kingdom.

1.1
Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) 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)” (second edition - October 2019) (effective 1 January 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. 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 have reviewed the future funding and activities of the charity. The trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3
Charitable funds

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

1.4
Income
Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Donations and similar income

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

Grants receivable

Grants receivable are credited to the SOFA in the year in which they accrue.

 

Membership Income

Membership Subscriptions are included in the year in which the charity becomes entitled to the resource.

 

Income from charitable activities

Income from charitable activities includes income from activities or where entitlement is subject to specific performance conditions is recognised as earned (as the related service is provided).

Investment income, rental income and similar income

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the Bank.

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
1.5
Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

 

Costs of raising funds are costs incurred in attracting voluntary income, and those incurred in trading activities that raise funds. Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them. Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity. Governance costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the charity and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements. All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

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 and fittings
25% Straight Line
Computers
30% Straight Line

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
Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replacement cost and cost.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

1.8
Financial instruments

The charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

1.9
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 charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.10
Retirement benefits

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

COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 15 -
2
Donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Donations and gifts
594
1,179

Government grants

70,000
70,000
Gift aid
1,141
-
71,735
71,179
Grants receivable for core activities
Scottish Government
70,000
70,000
70,000
70,000
3
Charitable activities
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Funds
Funds
2024
2023
£
£
Training and associated income
41,278
52,102
Other income
5,000
5,000
46,278
57,102
4
Other trading activities
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Postage income
1,259
1,903
Membership subscriptions
64,470
65,278
Sale of resource material
39,435
40,099
Journal sales
1,062
2,359
Other trading activities
106,226
109,639
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 16 -
5
Investments
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Interest receivable
17,808
4,829
6
Raising funds
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Fundraising and publicity
Support costs
4,042
3,833
Trading costs
Training
10,839
11,224
Services to members
1,100
1,200
Other trading expenses
6,869
6,530
Support costs
86,497
83,119
109,347
105,906
7
Charitable activities
2024
2023
£
£

Training

3,676
2,625

Accreditation

15,360
14,610
19,036
17,235
Share of support costs (see note 8)
90,540
86,952
Share of governance costs (see note 8)
12,993
10,568
122,569
114,755
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
122,569
114,755
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 17 -
8
Support costs
Support costs
Governance costs
2024
Support costs
Governance costs
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Staff costs
155,984
7,736
163,720
148,888
7,293
156,181
Depreciation
73
-
73
390
-
390

Office administration

11,873
-
11,873
13,283
-
13,283

Property costs

12,331
-
12,331
10,180
-
10,180

Accountancy and professional fees

796
-
796
759
-
759

Other staff expenses

22
-
22
404
-
404

Accountancy and professional fees

-
4,944
4,944
-
2,928
2,928

Office administration

-
313
313
-
347
347
181,079
12,993
194,072
173,904
10,568
184,472
Analysed between
Fundraising
4,042
-
4,042
3,833
-
3,833
Trading
86,497
-
86,497
83,119
-
83,119
Charitable activities
90,540
12,993
103,533
86,952
10,568
97,520
181,079
12,993
194,072
173,904
10,568
184,472

Governance costs includes independent examiner fees of £3,144 (2023- £2,928).

9
Net movement in funds
2024
2023
£
£
Net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting)
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
73
390
10
Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration during the year, but 4 of them were reimbursed a total of £132 meeting expenses (2023- none).

11
Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2024
2023
Number
Number
6
6
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
11
Employees
(Continued)
- 18 -
Employment costs
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
142,564
135,668
Social security costs
12,746
12,730
Other pension costs
8,410
7,783
163,720
156,181

The charity considers its key management personnel to comprise of the trustees' and the Chief Executive.

 

One employee received remuneration (including employer national insurance contributions) in excess of £60,000 (within the band of £70,000 - £80,000).

12
Tangible fixed assets
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Total
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2023
9,336
10,935
20,271
At 31 March 2024
9,336
10,935
20,271
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2023
9,336
10,862
20,198
Depreciation charged in the year
-
73
73
At 31 March 2024
9,336
10,935
20,271
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
-
-
-
At 31 March 2023
-
73
73
13
Stocks
2024
2023
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
2,639
2,446
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 19 -
14
Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
6,128
25,259
Prepayments and accrued income
17,157
16,430
23,285
41,689
15
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Other taxation and social security
3,694
3,192
Deferred income
16
26,653
28,518
Trade creditors
17,767
1,896
Accruals
3,586
3,243
51,700
36,849
16
Deferred income
2024
2023
£
£
Arising from membership subscriptions
26,653
28,518

Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:

2024
2023
£
£
Deferred income is included within:
Current liabilities
26,653
28,518
Movements in the year:
Deferred income at 1 April 2023
28,518
27,595
Released from previous periods
(28,518)
(27,595)
Resources deferred in the year
26,653
28,518
Deferred income at 31 March 2024
26,653
28,518
COSCA (COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY IN SCOTLAND)
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 20 -
17
Unrestricted funds
Movement in funds
Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2022

Incoming resources

Resources expended

Balance at
1 April 2023

Incoming resources

Resources expended

Balance at
31 March 2024
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
General funds
657,842
242,749
(220,661)
679,930
242,047
(231,916)
690,061
18
Operating lease commitments

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

2024
2023
£
£
Within one year
7,800
7,800
Between two and five years
3,250
11,050
11,050
18,850
19
Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2023 - none).

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