Charity registration number SC020755 (Scotland)
Company registration number SC183050 (Scotland)
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
CONTENTS
Page
Trustees' report
1 - 5
Independent auditor's report
6 - 8
Statement of financial activities
9 - 10
Balance sheet
11
Statement of cash flows
12
Notes to the financial statements
13 - 29
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
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 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)" (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives, activities and achievements

The charitable objects of the company, as set out in its governing document, are ‘to advance the education of carers, to increase the health and welfare of carers, to relieve the poverty and distress of carers and to promote the interests of carers within Edinburgh and the Lothian area and any other part of Scotland in which the company wishes to or does carry out any of its activities from time to time.’

 

In the light of the above objects, the aims of the charitable company are to identify unpaid carers and their needs, to provide support to carers, and to enable them to represent their interests in the planning and development of health and social care services across Lothian. The charity is carer led.

 

VOCAL advances education through provision of a wide range of information to carers, health and social care practitioners and employers, through printed and electronic materials, in particular through websites, e-bulletins, social media and newsletters. Carer support is the cornerstone of VOCAL’s engagement with carers, with the majority of staff engaged in this work. VOCAL has a range of carer support interventions: information and advice service; financial surgeries; future planning and legal advice; community brokerage, counselling and therapeutic supports; training and peer support; social activities and a short breaks (Wee Breaks) service.

VOCAL increases the health and welfare of carers through a wide range of interventions designed to address physical and emotional wellbeing, ranging from regular breaks from caring to art, leisure and exercise classes and individual counselling, therapy and support groups on management strategies for stress, guilt and personal relationships.

 

VOCAL relieves the poverty and distress of carers by providing support on financial planning, welfare benefit advice, allocation of microgrants and a programme of surgeries on different aspects of economic wellbeing. VOCAL also supports carers to remain in employment or to seek re-entering employment after the caring role has ended.

 

VOCAL measures the difference made to the quality of life of individual carers by evaluating carers' experience against personal outcomes agreed with carers at the point of referral and through the development of Adult Carer Support Plans.

 

To achieve agreed objectives VOCAL continuously seeks to strengthen the capacity of the organisation to provide support to a growing number of carer beneficiaries. VOCAL contributes to a wide range of health and social care planning committees and develops its own capacity through active income generation and staff recruitment, training and retention.

VOCAL administers a large amount of direct grants to carers (approximately 10% of overall budget), including grants for short breaks and support to assist with cost of living, energy and food. In 2023-24, 890 carer breaks were funded through short break grants.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 2 -

In its 30th year of operation, VOCAL continued to focus on the implementation of its Business Plan 2021-2026. In particular, the consolidation of Edinburgh and Midlothian carer support contracts, financed by the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016. In Midlothian, VOCAL was awarded funds to: scope the development of a local Care Cooperative; develop short breaks accommodation; expand the provision of locality support and work with employers. In addition, VOCAL’s Midlothian service was awarded three year funding to administer in the form of microgrants to carers to address rising costs of living and power of attorney support. VOCAL’s Treasure Tree service was closed as a separate trading subsidy in 2023, and is now run as a project within VOCAL.

VOCAL expanded initiatives to identify carers early in their caring role, by extending partnerships with employers and third sector agencies across Edinburgh and Midlothian, resulting in a 20% increase in new carers. VOCAL benefits from a unique partnership with Lothian Bus as their Charity of Choice (ending February 2025).

 

VOCAL continued to develop short break accommodation through Hawthorn Brae, a holiday home providing over 100 carers and the people they cared for with a break over the last year. VOCAL received two large awards of funding in 2023/24 from Edinburgh and Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnerships (HSCPs) for the purchase of two additional holiday homes at Seaton Sands. This has led to an increase in income and surplus of restricted funding to be carried forward for use in future years to support the operations of the holiday homes.


In November 2023, VOCAL underwent a rigorous and successful quality assurance assessment which scrutinises all areas of the charities business, and was awarded the Level 2 Trusted Charity mark.

Financial review

The results for the year are set out in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) on page 9.

 

There was a net increase in overall funds of the charity during the year of £480,192 (2023 : £270,215) comprising an increase of £112,875 (2023 : increase £26,687) in unrestricted funds, no movement in designated funds (2023 : £12,208) and an increase of £367,317 (2023 : £231,321) in restricted funds.

 

There is deferred income of £120,286 (2023 : £507,599) detailed in note 19 which represents grants paid in advance for 2023/24 or projects not yet started or working to a delayed delivery time.

 

Expenditure is detailed in note 7 and has increased by 4% overall.

 

Total funds carried forward amount to £2,759,243 (2023 : £2,279,051) and are analysed and explained in notes 20 to 22. Restricted funds total £1,389,935, unrestricted funds total £1,357,100 and designated funds total £12,208 at the year end.

 

Investment Policy

 

The cash reserves of the organisation are held in current accounts. The Directors keep this arrangement under regular review and pay particular attention to the requirement to ensure that sufficient liquidity is maintained to enable the organisation to manage its commitments.

 

Reserves Policy

 

VOCAL's reserves policy aims for the organisation to build up the financial 'free' reserves of the charity to an amount of £400,000, this will ensure the continuation of services to carers in the event of any temporary shortfall in funding, to cover unexpected expenditure and to meet working capital requirements. The Trustees are working towards achieving these amounts.

 

At the year end the unrestricted fund balance amounted to £1,357,100; £1,151,804 relates to unrestricted fixed assets giving the charity 'free' reserves of £205,926.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 3 -

 

Risk Management

The Board of Directors operates and regularly updates a risk register which identifies major risks under the headings: Governance, Planning, Leadership and management, Carer-led Services, Managing People, Learning and Development, Managing Money, Managing Resources, External Communications, Partnership -Working with Others and Assessing Outcomes and Impacts. The Board reviews the risk register regularly and considers that appropriate safeguards are in place in order to mitigate all identified risks.

 

To guard against funding risks and aid diversification of income sources, the Board leads a long-term legacy campaign in partnership with solicitors and a range of other fundraising and income generation activities.

Plans for future periods

VOCAL coordinated two large carer surveys in 2023-24, supported by Edinburgh and Midlothian HSCPs, involving over 1,700 carers. The findings and views expressed in these surveys form the basis of a new Business Plan 2024-2027, which outlines VOCAL aims and aspirations for the next three years.

 

VOCAL will consolidate its operations to offer a wider range of support delivered in locality settings, and ensure many more carers benefit early in their caring role, to help strengthen carer support and resilience and to minimise the risks of caring to personal health and financial and social wellbeing.

 

VOCAL will continue to develop and consolidate the Wee Breaks Enterprise programme, following the recent addition of two new holiday homes, developing new partnerships to support this work.

 

In Midlothian, VOCAL will continue to develop a local Care Co-operative model, and work with local community groups to support and resource support for carers across different sectors of the community.

 

VOCAL will continue to build and develop corporate partnerships, with a particular focus on maximising the benefits and additional value of being Lothian Bus’s Charity of Choice.

 

VOCAL will further strengthen its governance structure, recruiting additional trustees to the Board of Directors, and continue to invest in building the skills, knowledge and resilience of staff and volunteers.

 

VOCAL is pursuing further quality assurance reassessments in the form of Cyber Essentials and LGBT Charter mark, to ensure best professional practice and underpin growth with continuous quality improvement.

Structure, governance and management

VOCAL's governing documents are its Memorandum and Articles of Association. The Articles were reviewed and amended in July 2024, with support of VOCAL's solicitors.

 

VOCAL is a company limited by guarantee, established in 1993, with no share capital. VOCAL is also a registered charity (Registered in Scotland SC020575).

 

Recruitment to the Board takes place through public advertising and a formal recruitment and induction process. VOCAL seeks to expand Board membership to 10 trustees adding new trustees with caring responsibilities, from different professional backgrounds, maintaining the carer-led ethos as well as the range of professional and governance experience required to lead a dynamic and growing charity and enterprise.

The Board and Finance Committee meet on a bi-monthly basis. The Governance Committee currently meets monthly, and the HR Committee quarterly.

 

The Board has approved the delegation of financial authority to the Chief Executive, with specific limits imposed within an approved scheme of delegation.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 4 -

 

Company No:         SC183050

 

Scottish Charity No:     SC020755

 

Registered Office & Carer Centre:

60 Leith Walk, Edinburgh EH6 5HB

 

Board of Directors:

The following served as directors of the company and trustees of the charity during the year:

 

Directors:

Douglas Hendry - Chair and Treasurer

Alison Jarvis - Vice Chair

Ruth Hendery    

Marion Morris

James Dadge (appointed 12 June 2024)

Carol Macleod (appointed 12 June 2024)

William Aitken (resigned 24 July 2023)

Alan Smith (resigned 8 August 2023)

Jan Vettraino (resigned 2 October 2023)        

Sarah Ballard-Smith (resigned 14 August 2024)

Company Secretary:

Jan Vettraino (resigned 2 October 2023)

 

Senior Staff:

Rosemary McLoughlin Chief Executive Officer

Laura Hill         Depute Chief Executive Officer

 

Auditors:

Thomson Cooper Accountants

3 Castle Court

Carnegie Campus

Dunfermline

KY11 8PB

 

Bankers:

Co-operative Bank

PO Box 250

Delf House

Southway

Skelmersdale

WN8 6WT

Key management personnel and remuneration policy

The directors consider the Board of Directors, who are also the trustees, the Chief Executive and the Deputy Chief Executive as the key management personnel of the charity as they are in charge of directing, controlling and operating the charity on a day to day basis.

 

The Treasurer role is remunerated, in line with the organisation’s governing document. No other director has received any remuneration.

 

The remuneration of senior staff is reviewed annually. Increments were awarded in 2023 in line with National SJC scales.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 5 -
Statement of trustees' responsibilities

 

The trustees, who are also the directors of VOCAL 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.

Auditor

In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that Thomson Cooper be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting.

Disclosure of information to auditor

 

Each of the trustees has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audit, but of which the auditor is unaware. They have further confirmed that they have taken appropriate steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information.

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

D Hendry
Trustee
27 September 2024
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
- 6 -

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of VOCAL - Voice of Carers across Lothian (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

-

give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 March 2024 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended;

-
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
-

have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and regulation 8 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended).

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

 

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

 

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

 

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

 

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE TRUSTEES OF VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
- 7 -
Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) require us to report to you if, in our opinion:

-

the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the trustees' report; or

-

proper accounting records have not been kept; or

-

the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or

-

we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the statement of trustees' responsibilities, the trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

Extent to which the audit was capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

We considered the opportunities and incentives that may exist within the organisation for fraud and identified the greatest potential for fraud in the following areas: existence and timing of recognition of income, posting of unusual journals along with complex transactions and non-compliance with laws and regulations. We discussed these risks with management, designed audit procedures to test the timing and existence of revenue, tested a sample of journals to confirm they were appropriate and inspected minutes from meetings held by management and trustees for any reference to breaches of laws and regulations. In addition, we reviewed areas of judgement for indicators of management bias to address these risks.

We identified areas of laws and regulations relevant to the Charity that could reasonably be expected to have a material effect on the financial statements from our sector experience through discussion with the officers and other management (as required by the auditing standards). We focused on specific laws and regulations which may have a direct material effect on the financial statements or operations of the charity,including the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, regulation 8 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended), employment laws and health and safety legislation

We assessed the extent of compliance of the laws and regulations identified above by inspecting any legal correspondence and any correspondence from regulators and making enquiries of management.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE TRUSTEES OF VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
- 8 -

We communicated identified laws and regulations and potential fraud risks throughout our team and remained alert to any indications of non-compliance or fraud throughout the audit. However the primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with the trustees. To address the risk of fraud identified internal controls established to identify risk, performed analytical procedures to identify unusual movements, assessed any judgements and assumptions made in determining accounting estimates, reviewed journal entries for unusual transactions and identified related parties.

Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some material misstatements in the financial statements, even though we have properly planned and performed our audit in accordance with auditing standards. We are not responsible for preventing non-compliance and cannot be expected to detect non-compliance with all laws and regulations.

 

These inherent limitations are particularly significant in the case of misstatement resulting from fraud as this may involve sophisticated schemes designed to avoid detection, including deliberate failure to record transactions, collusion or the provision of intentional misrepresentations

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with regulation 10 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Senior statutory auditor exemption

Thomson Cooper is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

Fiona Haro (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of Thomson Cooper, Statutory Auditors
Dunfermline
28 September 2024
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 9 -
Current financial year
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
Total
funds
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
2
75,043
-
3,766,755
3,841,798
3,528,321
Charitable activities
3
5,831
-
250
6,081
56,490

Trading activities

4
51,195
-
-
51,195
152
Investments
5
31,125
-
-
31,125
35
Total income
163,194
-
3,767,005
3,930,199
3,584,998
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
2,392
-
-
2,392
-
Charitable activities
7
50,136
-
3,397,478
3,447,614
3,314,783
Other
12
1
-
-
1
-
Total expenditure
52,529
-
3,397,478
3,450,007
3,314,783
Net incoming resources before transfers
110,665
-
369,527
480,192
270,215
Gross transfers between funds
2,210
-
(2,210)
-
-
Net income for the year/
Net movement in funds
112,875
-
367,317
480,192
270,215
Fund balances at 1 April 2023
1,244,225
12,208
1,022,618
2,279,051
2,008,836
Fund balances at 31 March 2024
1,357,100
12,208
1,389,935
2,759,243
2,279,051

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.
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 10 -
Prior financial year
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
general

 

2023
2023
2023
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
2
87,295
-
3,441,026
3,528,321
Charitable activities
3
38,932
-
17,558
56,490

Trading activities

4
152
-
-
152
Investments
5
35
-
-
35
Total income
126,414
-
3,458,584
3,584,998
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
7
82,201
-
3,232,582
3,314,783
Total expenditure
82,201
-
3,232,582
3,314,783
Net incoming resources before transfers
44,213
-
226,002
270,215
Gross transfers between funds
(17,526)
12,208
5,318
-
Net income for the year/
Net movement in funds
26,687
12,208
231,320
270,215
Fund balances at 1 April 2022
1,217,538
-
791,298
2,008,836
Fund balances at 31 March 2023
1,244,225
12,208
1,022,618
2,279,051
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 MARCH 2024
31 March 2024
- 11 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
13
1,702,332
1,553,745
Investments
14
-
1
1,702,332
1,553,746
Current assets
Debtors
16
293,788
7,664
Investments
17
788,771
-
Cash at bank and in hand
322,871
1,350,005
1,405,430
1,357,669
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
18
(348,519)
(632,364)
Net current assets
1,056,911
725,305
Total assets less current liabilities
2,759,243
2,279,051
Income funds
Restricted funds
20
1,389,935
1,022,618
Designated funds
22
12,208
12,208
Unrestricted funds
21
1,357,100
1,244,225
2,759,243
2,279,051

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 27 September 2024
D Hendry
Trustee
Company registration number SC183050
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 12 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash (absorbed by)/generated from operations
25
(73,670)
316,666
Investing activities
Proceeds from disposal of intangibles
(1)
-
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(195,818)
(50,665)
Proceeds from disposal of subsidiaries
1
-
Proceeds from disposal of other investments
(788,771)
-
Investment income received
31,125
35
Net cash used in investing activities
(953,464)
(50,630)
Financing activities
Repayment of bank loans
-
(153,093)
Net cash used in financing activities
-
(153,093)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(1,027,134)
112,943
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
1,350,005
1,237,062
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
322,871
1,350,005
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 13 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

VOCAL - Voice of Carers across Lothian is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in Scotland. The registered office is 60 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH6 5HB.

1.1
Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended), 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 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 a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for a period not less than 12 months. 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.

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.

Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be maintained by the charity.
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.

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.

Income from grants is recognised in the period to which the grant relates or when any conditions for the use of the grant have been fulfilled. Any periodic grants received in advance or grant income of a contractual nature received in advance of performance are included as deferred income in creditors. Income form other grants and donations is recognised on receipt.Where a grant or donation is received for a specific purpose, it is included in restricted income and any unexpended portion carried forward as a restricted fund.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
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.

 

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

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:

Heritable Property
1% to 2% Straight Line
Fixtures and Fittings
20% to 25% Straight Line
IT Equipment
33% 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.

 

Assets costing less than £250 are not capitalised in the balance sheet.

1.7
Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments are initially measured at transaction price excluding transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.

A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the charity. Control is the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.

1.8
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity 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).

1.9
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.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 15 -
1.10
Financial instruments

The charity 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 charity's balance sheet when the charity 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.

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.

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 charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.11
Employee benefits

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.

1.12
Retirement benefits

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

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 16 -
2
Donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Donations and gifts
75,043
30,859
105,902
87,295
4,225
91,520

Grants Receivable

-
3,735,896
3,735,896
-
3,436,801
3,436,801
75,043
3,766,755
3,841,798
87,295
3,441,026
3,528,321
Donations and legacies
Trust fund donations
-
12,158
12,158
1,000
-
1,000
Other donations (including gift aid)
25,659
18,701
44,360
32,941
-
32,941
Fundraising
45,394
-
45,394
53,354
4,225
57,579
VOCAL 100 Fundraising
3,990
-
3,990
-
-
-
75,043
30,859
105,902
87,295
4,225
91,520
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
2
Donations and legacies
(Continued)
- 17 -
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Grants receivable for core activities
Carer Support & Training Income:
Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership
-
1,668,432
1,668,432
-
1,464,790
1,464,790
Edinburgh Carer's Assistance Fund
-
191,065
191,065
-
58,934
58,934
SG - Shared Care Scotland - Short Breaks (Edinburgh)
-
409,378
409,378
-
191,001
191,001
Edinburgh Counselling
-
54,184
54,184
-
54,184
54,184
CEC -Winter Programme
-
-
-
-
10,000
10,000
SG - SiRD (Edinburgh)
-
57,467
57,467
-
55,812
55,812
SG - ScotSpirit
-
-
-
-
61,100
61,100
Edinburgh Drug and Alcohol Project
-
43,500
43,500
-
18,125
18,125
Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership - Edinburgh Carers Survey
-
23,000
23,000
-
-
-
Investment in Short Breaks Accommodation
-
100,000
100,000
-
-
-
Additional Post of CSP Finance
50,000
50,000
-
-
-
No One Left Behind
-
-
-
-
8,386
8,386
The Action Group (Parent Carers)
-
62,182
62,182
-
60,534
60,534
Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations
-
-
-
-
9,030
9,030
Lanarkshire Ent SE Digital Boost
-
-
-
-
5,000
5,000
SG - Winter Assistance Fund
-
-
-
-
56,500
56,500
Other income
-
20,000
20,000
-
-
-
Midlothian Carer Services Income:
Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership
-
725,990
725,990
-
733,177
733,177
Carer's Grants
-
-
-
-
-
-
Midlothian Carer Assistance Fund
-
6,490
6,490
-
442,288
442,288
SG - Shared Care Scotland - Short Breaks (Midlothian)
-
67,266
67,266
-
68,431
68,431
SG - SiRD (Midlothian)
-
45,153
45,153
-
43,852
43,852
Midlothian Drug and Alcohol Project
-
30,595
30,595
-
30,596
30,596
Midlothian Other Income
-
-
-
-
5,062
5,062
Midlothian Council Short Breaks Fund
-
50,000
50,000
-
40,000
40,000
Midlothian Council LACER Fund
-
16,000
16,000
-
20,000
20,000
Midlothian Council Winter Programme
-
2,650
2,650
-
-
-
Investment in Short Breaks Accommodation
112,543
112,543
-
-
-
Total Grants Receivable
-
3,735,896
3,735,896
-
3,436,802
3,436,802

SG relates to Scottish Government Funding

CEC relates to City of Edinburgh Council Funding

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 18 -
3
Charitable activities
2024
2023
£
£

Consultancy Income

6,081
56,490
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
5,831
38,932
Restricted funds
250
17,558
6,081
56,490
4

Trading activities

2024
2023
£
£

Treasure Tree

36,710
-

Wee Breaks Enterprise

14,485
-

Other trading income

-
152

Trading activities

51,195
152
5
Investments
2024
2023
£
£
Interest received
31,125
35
6
Raising funds
Unrestricted
Total
funds
general
2024
2023
£
£
Investment management
2,392
-
2,392
-
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 19 -
7
Charitable activities

Carer Support Services

Grant Giving

Training for professionals consultations & development

Total
2024
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
£
Staff costs
1,228,726
-
457,824
1,686,550

Information and publications

7,039
-
46,260
53,299

Carer support and expenses

226,855
-
25,260
252,115

Other direct costs

12,757
-
20,875
33,632
Grant funding of activities
-
688,453
-
688,453
Share of support costs (see note 8)
346,349
-
360,404
706,753
Share of governance costs (see note 8)
11,766
-
15,046
26,812
1,833,492
688,453
925,669
3,447,614
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
-
-
50,136
50,136
Restricted funds
1,833,492
688,453
875,533
3,397,478
1,833,492
688,453
925,669
3,447,614
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
7
Charitable activities
(Continued)
- 20 -

Carer Support Services

Grant Giving

Training for professionals consultations & development

Total
2023
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
Staff costs
989,267
-
495,269
1,484,536
Depreciation and impairment
-
-
-
-

Information and publications

36,715
-
32,538
69,253

Individual carer grants

-
-
114
114

Carer support and expenses

837,843
-
23,177
861,020

Other direct costs

11,780
-
16,922
28,702
1,875,605
-
568,020
2,443,625
Grant funding of activities (see note )
-
253,498
-
253,498
Share of support costs (see note 8)
359,452
-
221,927
581,379
Share of governance costs (see note 8)
23,843
-
12,438
36,281
2,258,900
253,498
802,385
3,314,783
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
6,806
-
75,395
82,201
Unrestricted funds -
-
-
-
-
Restricted funds
2,252,094
253,498
726,990
3,232,582
2,258,900
253,498
802,385
3,314,783
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 21 -
8
Support costs
Support costs
Governance costs
Total
Support costs
Governance costs
Total
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Staff costs
333,133
8,542
341,675
296,460
7,602
304,062
Depreciation
44,869
2,362
47,231
57,788
3,041
60,829

Occupancy costs

104,111
5,480
109,591
78,071
4,109
82,180

Office running costs

196,497
10,338
206,835
126,639
6,663
133,302

Professional fees

18,760
90
18,850
12,760
8,060
20,820

Subsidiary loan written off

-
-
-
-
6,806
6,806

Other expenditure

9,383
-
9,383
9,661
-
9,661
706,753
26,812
733,565
581,379
36,281
617,660

Governance costs includes payments to the auditors of £6,500 (2023- £6,336) for audit fees.

9
Net movement in funds
2024
2023
£
£
Net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting)
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
47,231
60,829
Loss on disposal of intangible assets
1
-
10
Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year, other than Jan Vettraino ( Director) who received £nil (2023 - £900).

11
Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2024
2023
Number
Number
Charity employees
64
57
Employment costs
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
1,744,156
1,533,919
Social security costs
166,787
149,544
Other pension costs
117,282
105,135
2,028,225
1,788,598
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
11
Employees
(Continued)
- 22 -

The Key Management personnel are defined as Directors, the Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive. the remuneration of the Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive was £133,693 (2023 - £108,725).

There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
12
Disposal of Investments
Total
Total
2024
2023
Net loss on disposal of intangible fixed assets
1
-
1
-
13
Tangible fixed assets
Heritable Property
Fixtures and Fittings
IT Equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2023
1,615,410
59,045
214,344
1,888,799
Additions
195,818
-
-
195,818
At 31 March 2024
1,811,228
59,045
214,344
2,084,617
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2023
112,499
46,432
176,123
335,054
Depreciation charged in the year
19,204
3,459
24,568
47,231
At 31 March 2024
131,703
49,891
200,691
382,285
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
1,679,525
9,154
13,653
1,702,332
At 31 March 2023
1,502,911
12,613
38,221
1,553,745

 

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 23 -
14
Fixed asset investments
Other investments
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2023 & 31 March 2024
1
Impairment
At 1 April 2023
-
Disposals
1
At 31 March 2024
1
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
-
At 31 March 2023
1
2024
2023
Other investments comprise:
Notes
£
£
Investments in subsidiaries
-
1
15
Financial instruments
2024
2023
£
£
Carrying amount of financial assets
Instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss
788,771
-
16
Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
148,166
5,151
Other debtors
88
-
Prepayments and accrued income
145,534
2,513
293,788
7,664
17
Current asset investments
2024
2023
£
£
Unlisted investments
788,771
-
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 24 -
18
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Other taxation and social security
42,671
37,423
Deferred income
19
120,286
507,599
Trade creditors
102,208
49,117
Other creditors
21,410
8,536
Accruals
61,944
29,689
348,519
632,364
19
Deferred income
2024
2023
£
£
Other deferred income
120,286
507,599
Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:
CEC funding for accommodation and finance posts
-
150,000
Capital Appeal
-
20,000
Screwfix
-
5,000
Edinburgh's Carers Assistance Fund
-
191,066
Edinburgh Drug and Alcohol team FSA Post
25,375
25,375
National Short Breaks Funds
-
106,426
Edinburgh Short Breaks Fund
-
9,732
Creative Breaks
14,900
-
Care Cooperative
30,000
-
Midlothian CAF
50,011
-
120,286
507,599
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
19
Deferred income
(Continued)
- 25 -
Movements in the year :
Deferred income at 1 April 2023
507,599
607,757
Released from previous periods
(507,599)
(607,757)
Resources deferred in the year
120,286
507,599
Deferred income at 31 March 2024
120,286
507,599
20
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
Balance at
1 April 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
Balance at
31 March 2024
£
£
£
£
£
Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership
432,575
2,106,456
(1,890,375)
-
648,656
Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership
149,262
836,786
(814,460)
-
171,588
SG - Winter Assistance Fund
-
2,650
(2,650)
-
-
SG - SiRD
-
102,619
(102,619)
-
-
SG - Shared Care Scotland - Midlothian
-
67,266
(67,266)
-
-
SG - Shared Care Scotland - Edinburgh
38,988
409,378
(448,366)
-
-
Wee Break Enterprises
41,217
241,850
(68,085)
-
214,982
Fixed Asset Fund
358,366
-
(3,657)
-
354,709
Vocal 100 Fund
2,210
-
-
(2,210)
-
1,022,618
3,767,005
(3,397,478)
(2,210)
1,389,935
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
20
Restricted funds
(Continued)
- 26 -
Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2022
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
Balance at
31 March 2023
£
£
£
£
£
Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership
312,533
1,482,914
(1,362,872)
-
432,575
Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership
11,888
763,773
(626,399)
-
149,262
Edinburgh Carer's Assistance Fund
-
58,934
(58,934)
-
-
SG - Winter Assistance Fund
-
56,500
(56,500)
-
-
SG - SiRD
-
99,664
(99,664)
-
-
SG - Shared Care Scotland - Short Breaks
38,988
259,432
(259,432)
-
38,988
SG - Scotspirit
-
61,100
(61,100)
-
-
Edinburgh Counselling
-
54,184
(54,184)
-
-
CEC - Recovery Fund
-
442,288
(442,288)
-
-
CEC - Winter Programme
-
10,000
(10,000)
-
-
No One Left Behind
-
8,386
(8,386)
-
-
The Action Group (Parent Carers)
-
60,534
(60,534)
-
-
Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations
-
9,030
(9,030)
-
-
Midlothian Council Short Breaks Fund
-
40,000
(45,318)
5,318
-
Midlothian Council LACER Fund
-
20,000
(20,000)
-
-
Wee Break Enterprises
65,866
17,558
(42,207)
-
41,217
Fixed Asset Fund
362,023
-
(3,657)
-
358,366
Vocal 100 Fund
-
14,287
(12,077)
-
2,210
791,298
3,458,584
(3,232,582)
5,318
1,022,618
VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
20
Restricted funds
(Continued)
- 27 -

Edinburgh Health & Social Care Partnership funds the Edinburgh Carer Support and Training , including funding for short breaks and counselling.

 

Midlothian Health & Social Care Partnership funds the Midlothian Carer Support and Training, including funding for short breaks and counselling.

 

Scottish Government - Winter Assistance Fund is to provide grants to carers to alleviate the impact of the cost of living crisis.

 

Scottish Government - SiRD are funds provided by the Scottish government through Inspiring Scotland covering Edinburgh and Midlothian services.

 

Scottish Government - Shared Cared Scotland - Short Breaks are funds provided by Scottish Government through Shared Care Scotland, with two separate awards made to Edinburgh and Midlothian services to provide short break grants to carers.

 

Edinburgh Counselling is funded by the Edinburgh Health & Social Care Partnership grant funding.

 

Midlothian Carer Assistance Fund is to provide grants to carers to alleviate the impact of the cost of living crisis.

 

CEC - Winter Programme is funding for short breaks and counselling.

No One Left Behind is funding from the Scottish Government employability programme

 

The Action Group (Parent Carers) is funding to support parent carers.

 

Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is funding for capacity development.

 

Midlothian Council Short Breaks Fund is funding for short breaks and counselling.

 

Midlothian Council LACER Fund is funding to provide grants for carers to alleviate the impact of the cost of living crisis.

 

Wee Breaks Enterprise and Fixed Asset Fund is the operation of the short breaks which consists of a property at Hawthorn Brae which is a legacy gifted to VOCAL by EMMS International through a OSCR reorganisation and two caravans at Seton Sands funded by Midlothian Council and donations both funds are for use in the purchase, operations and maintenance of short breaks accommodation for carers and people with life-limiting conditions.

 

Vocal 100 Fund is a lottery.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 28 -
21
Unrestricted funds

These are unrestricted funds which are material to the charity's activities made up as follows:

Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2023

Incoming resources

Resources expended

Transfers

Balance at
31 March 2024
£
£
£
£
£
General Fund
1,244,225
163,194
(52,529)
2,210
1,357,100
Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2022

Incoming resources

Resources expended

Transfers

Balance at
31 March 2023
£
£
£
£
£
General Fund
1,217,538
126,414
(82,201)
(17,526)
1,244,225
22
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
Balance at
1 April 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Balance at
31 March 2024
£
£
£
£
Counselling contributions
12,208
-
-
12,208
12,208
-
-
12,208

The purpose of the designated funds is to fund counselling in 2024/25.

VOCAL - VOICE OF CARERS ACROSS LOTHIAN
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024
- 29 -
23
Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
Restricted funds
Total
2024
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
£
Fund balances at 31 March 2024 are represented by:
Tangible assets
1,151,806
-
550,526
1,702,332
Current assets/(liabilities)
205,294
12,208
839,409
1,056,911
1,357,100
12,208
1,389,935
2,759,243
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
Restricted funds
Total
2023
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
Tangible assets
1,195,379
-
358,366
1,553,745
Investments
1
-
-
1
Current assets/(liabilities)
48,845
12,208
664,252
725,305
1,244,225
12,208
1,022,618
2,279,051
24
Related party transactions

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

25
Cash generated from operations
2024
2023
£
£
Surplus for the year
480,192
270,215
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities
(31,125)
(35)
Loss on disposal of intangible assets
1
-
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
47,231
60,829
Movements in working capital:
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
(286,124)
18,115
Increase in creditors
103,468
67,700
(Decrease) in deferred income
(387,313)
(100,158)
Cash (absorbed by)/generated from operations
(73,670)
316,666
26
Analysis of changes in net funds

The charity had no debt during the year.

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