Charity registration number 1152148
Company registration number 08456065 (England and Wales)
RUBY'S FUND
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
RUBY'S FUND
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Trustees
Mr A J Swindells
Mr M T Lewis
Mr J C Stewart
Mr A M Pear
Mrs E J Farr
Ms C Braniff
Secretary
Mrs A J Parr
Charity number
1152148
Company number
08456065
Registered office
Meridian House
Roe Street
Congleton
Cheshire
England
CW12 1PG
Independent examiner
Marie Shenton - FCCA
Hammond McNulty LLP
Bank House
Market Square
Congleton
Cheshire
CW12 1ET
RUBY'S FUND
CONTENTS
Page
Trustees report
1 - 7
Independent examiner's report
8
Statement of financial activities
9
Balance sheet
10
Notes to the financial statements
11 - 25
RUBY'S FUND
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 1 -

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 29 February 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 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 and activities

Objectives of the charity

To provide recreational, educational and leisure activities for (but not limited to) individuals of all ages with additional physical, mental and/or needs including (but not limited to) providing a multisensory studio, soft play area, educational classes, respite and social support group afforded by way of fundraising through various methods including (but not limited to) the design, manufacture and sale of products and the operation of a café.The charity operates within and for residents of Cheshire East.

 

Ruby's Fund began in 2008 when Alison Parr, our Founder, identified a lack of support for children with special educational needs and disabilities and their families when she had her daughter Ruby. Ruby was born with a rare chromosome disorder called IDIC 15. Ruby's Fund was a registered charity in 2009 and became a charitable company in 2013.

RUBY'S FUND
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 2 -
Public benefit

The Trustees adhere to guidance published by the Charity Commission on public benefit. The objects of the charity are addressed through multiple avenues. Ruby's Fund supports children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families and carers who face challenges and barriers due to disability in Cheshire East.

 

We run an inclusive sensory centre in Congleton with specialist, accessible facilities, and outreach support services and sessions including an outreach service with an accessible mobile sensory vehicle across Cheshire East. Our aim is to improve the overall physical, emotional and mental wellbeing of our children and their families.

 

As an organisation we are constantly looking to develop a wide variety of inclusive activities and experiences for families.

 

Children, young people, parents, and carers do not need a formal diagnosis to access Ruby's Fund and can self-refer. We as an organisation are not just here for the children, we are also here to help and support the family as a whole unit providing information signposting, resources and support opportunities.

 

We run an inclusive sensory centre in Congleton with specialist, accessible facilities which include a sensory room, softplay zone, community café, sensory garden, games room, therapy room, The Pink Pod (1:2:1 room) and staff offices. We offer outreach support services and session which include an outreach service with an accessible mobile sensory vehicle across Cheshire East working in various settings and family homes.

 

In March 2023 Ruby's Fund started a phased opening of the community café post pandemic. As we navigated our way through this challenging period, we were able to reopen to 5 days a week timetable by September 2023.

 

Partnership working is important to us at Ruby’s to give our families the best outcomes possible. Last year we delivered 36 partnership sessions with key organisations such as NHS Specialist SEND Practitioners and Speech and Language services, Space 4 Autism, Ability for All, CEIAS, The Wishing Well Project and Cheshire East Council including the family hubs, short breaks team and young carers team.

 

•    3 Spotlight sessions online with 37 attendances

•    11 Sensory Detectives Training workshops online with 146 attendances

•    1 Carers week professionals drop-in with 14 attendances

•    2 Citizens Advice Drop ins with 10 attendances

•    9 SEND Health Visitor Drop ins with 30 attendances

•    1 Speech & Language Drop in with 5 attendances

•    8 Sensory Circuits sessions with Student OT had 16 attendances

•    1 Therapy Dog session had 5 attendances

 

Total: 36 partnership sessions with 263 attendances

 

•    Cheshire & Warrington Carers Trust used our venue to run a monthly coffee morning for parent/carers and     holiday sessions

•    Smile Group used our venue to run a monthly family session for families living with peri-natal mental health     challenges

 

 

RUBY'S FUND
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 3 -
Achievements and performance
Significant activities and achievements against objectives

Like many other organisations, we have continued to be creative and adaptable in our approach to service delivery and income generation. This year, like the previous year presented us with a growing demand for our expertise, services, and facilities. As an organisation we are working at all levels to implement our 5-year strategic plan.

 

As a team we have spent this year thinking about what our core values are at Ruby’s and how we can live our values as a Ruby’s team member. Our agreed values are:

 

1.    kind

2.    accountable

3.    inclusive

4.    creative

 

The sensitive support that we provide at Ruby’s requires a caring environment, and to help us uphold this we have created a set of values that underpins everything that we do.

 

Ruby’s SEND Team Registrations Report (2021-2024) – data since the introduction of our CRM system Charitylog

 

Total Registrations since 2021:

•    835 SEND Children

•    1178 Parent Carers

•    301 Siblings

 

Registrations in 2023-24:

•    250 SEND Children

•    225 Parent Carers

•    38 Siblings

Our services:

We ran a varied timetable of sessions, activities, and workshops from March 2023 to February 2024 including:

 

 

RUBY'S FUND
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 4 -

Our impact:

SEND sessions at the Centre

We delivered 271 SEND events with 1844 attendances

Ruby’s has delivered the following SEND sessions at Ruby’s Sensory Centre:

•    Teatime club has 162 members and had 383 attendances at 20 sessions

•    SEND Cuppa in the café has 75 members and had 117 attendances at 11 sessions

•    Saturday SEND Family Social has 339 members and had 243 attendances at 8 sessions

•    SEND Parent Carer Lunch Club has 46 members and had 259 attendances at 14 sessions

•    School Holiday Lunch Club has 25 members and had 25 attendances at 1 session

•    School Holiday Disco had 15 attendees at 1 session

•    Relax Kids Holiday Sessions has 23 attendances at 2 sessions

•    Siblings Group has 144 members and has had 210 attendances at 11 sessions

•    Cheshire East Council commissioned Short Breaks has 152 members and has had 350 attendances at 107     sessions

•    Cost of Living Holiday Support has 63 members and had 63 attendances over 5 days during the school     holidays for a hot meal and a warm place to be.

•    Halloween party had 18 attendees at 1 session

•    SEND Christmas Party had 49 attendees plus Father Christmas!

•    Drop in Family support sessions provides 356 hrs of family support over 89 sessions

 

SEND Outreach data including taking our mobile sensory bus

Ruby’s SEND team has hosted the 40 outreach sessions across Cheshire East (290 hours):

•    3 outreach sessions in Macclesfield with 71 attendances

•    3 outreach lunch sessions in Crewe with 28 attendances

•    3 outreach Sunday sessions in Crewe with 23 attendances

•    6 outreach sessions in Alsager with 10 attendances

•    25 outreach sessions at schools and other settings with 350 attendances

•    30 individuals went to Chester Zoo

•    Out of hours telephone support provided 20 appointments over 35 available sessions

 

Centre data

In 2023-24 the team at Ruby’s Sensory Centre has welcomed:

•    8613 visits to its community café sessions over 156 sessions

•    346 sensory room visits (outside of SEND sessions)

•    11,700 visits to sessions held in our Siblings room over 117 sessions

 

Total Visits to the centre: 20,659

 

16-25 SEND Volunteering Project

•    12 SEND volunteers

•    Average of 42 hours volunteering time per person

 

 

Financial review

Financial position

The financial impact of the pandemic has continued to impact our organisation as funding streams have been reduced with local authority decommissioning or reducing contracts which in turn affects the families we support. Ruby's Fund continues to work tirelessly to adapt our charity services and offer ensuring we are firstly able to support our families but, secondly that we are able to continue to generate income through grant funding and contracts.

Our financial objectives for the future (but not limited to) are:

•    Develop new innovative income streams

•    Continue to work closely with partners to identify and develop family centred support

•    Launch fundraising initiatives to support us to pay off our mortgage on the building

•    Continue to address the usual core funding deficit by exploring diverse sources

•    Look to develop partnership working with other organisations and professionals

•    Secure multiyear funding for staff to ensure stability and longevity of the service

 

The income for the year ended 29th February 2024 was £326,100 (2023 £487,123) with expenses totalling £396,001 (£402,193 2023). The total funds as at 29th February 2024 were £152,200 unrestricted (£84,948 2023) and £277,814 (£414,967 2023).

RUBY'S FUND
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 5 -
Reserves policy

During the last year the Directors reviewed the average costs in detail. The monthly expenditure has been monitored at £19,133 to cover core costs of core staff wages, mortgage interest, subscriptions, utility bills, accountancy fees and insurance. The reserves are currently set at £50,000 and are reviewing the reserve level.

 

Plans for future periods

FUTURE PLANS

•    Continued implementation of our strategic business plan 2023-2028.

•    Implementation of our marketing and communications strategy.

•    Secure funding for lift to make the whole centre accessible.

•    Look for longer term ambitions for the organisation.

•    Implement our fund-raising strategy.

•    Review the risk register annually or as required

•    Provide volunteering opportunities for young people with disabilities within the charity.

•    Grow the reach and reputation of Ruby's Fund as a trusted provider of support services for families accords     Cheshire East.

Structure, governance and management

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governance of the charity

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006. It is governed by the Memorandum and Articles of Association dated March 2013. Ruby's Fund is registered with the Charity Commission and Companies House. Anybody over the age of 18 years old can be a member and at 28th February 2024, there were 3 members.

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:

 

The structure of the board of trustees

The Directors (Trustees) for the charity and their responsibilities are:

•    Andrew Pear Chairperson

•    John Stewart Treasurer

•    Matthew Lewis

•    Emma Farr

•    Adrian Swindells

•    Carol Braniff

•    Alison Parr Company Secretary (non-voting)

 

The governance of Ruby's Fund is through a bi-monthly management meeting and sub-committee meetings, where key decisions on the future of the charity are taken by Trustees. As well as the trustees, these meetings are attended by a parent carer representative. The Board of Trustees has delegated the day-to-day management of the organisation to Alison Parr, Charity Leader and company secretary. Alison is responsible for the line management of the other permanent staff employed and also the health and safety, and other statutory responsibilities of centre users. Trustees are also in contact with Ruby's Fund staff on a regular basis between the management meetings.

The Charity Leader and Finance Officer are authorised to approve expenditure up to limits set by the trustees. Outside the meetings, authority for expenditure over those limits is required via email from two or all trustees, depending on the value.

 

Recruitment and appointment of trustees

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

RUBY'S FUND
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 6 -

Trustee selection

The Trustees are elected by other board members, the number being decided at the Annual General Meeting. The Trustees have the power to co-opt up to 10 Trustees. When co-opting Trustees, the Board has regard to the requirement for any specialist skills.

During the year the trustees proposed to elect five new members to increase the range of skills and experience amongst the Board. These trustees have experience that covers leadership and management, financial management, procurement, health and communities, and fundraising. Once invested, new trustees were provided with an introductory pack, including relevant guidance from the Charity Commission.

 

 

Other matters

Staff and volunteers

Ruby's Fund has the following members of staff:

- Charity Leader (PT)

- Finance Officer (PT)

- Income Generation & Communication Manager (PT)

- Lead SEND Worker (PT)

- SEND Workers x 3 (PT)

- Short Breaks Co-ordinator (PT)

- Short Breaks session workers x 5 (PT)

- Centre Manager (FT)

- Café Supervisor (FT)

- Café assistants x 2 (PT)

Volunteer data

One volunteer recruitment day with 21 attendances

•    173 hours café and reception volunteers

•    504 hours 16-25 SEND volunteers

•    144 hours Trustee hours

We are members of or affiliated with:

•    CVSCE - Community & Voluntary Services Cheshire East

•    East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce

•    NVCO

•    Information Commissioners Office

•    Fundraising Regulator

 

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Registered Company name & number - Ruby's Fund 08456065 (England and Wales)

Registered Charity name & number - Ruby's Fund 1152148

Registered office

Meridian House

Roe Street

Congleton

Cheshire

CW12 1PG

 

 

Bank - The Co-operative Bank

 

 

RUBY'S FUND
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 7 -

Reflections on the year from Alison Parr

This year has continued to present new challenges which Ruby’s team has approached with professionalism and a strong team spirit. Like many other third sector organisations, Ruby’s has seen a reduction in income which meant a review of our services. The team responded to this challenge with a positive and creative attitude to ensure our families continue to receive the high-quality support they expect from Ruby’s.

This year we enjoyed a much-needed return to event and community fundraising after a break during the pandemic. We hosted Ruby’s Star Ball at Congleton Town Hall, enjoyed our second Summer Lunch at The Lion & Swan and re-launched ‘Wear Red for Ruby’s’ with support from nurseries, schools and businesses.

I have pondered upon my favourite moments of the year and there are too many to mention here. If you have a few minutes to spare scroll through our social media pages, as they are an excellent diary of all that we do at Ruby’s.

On a personal note, I am proud of our team for supporting my daughter Ruby into her volunteering role at Ruby’s. As a young person with significant complex needs herself, opportunities are scarce. The 16–25-year-old SEND volunteering project has proved to be a great success providing much needed opportunities for young people.

I cannot write my reflections without saying thank you to the children, young people, and families that we support at Ruby’s. The SEND journey isn’t always easy, but we are always there for our families through the highs and lows. We are immensely proud and privileged to be part of their journey.

 

Chair of Trustees – Andrew Pear

The Ruby’s team has been supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families across Cheshire East since 2013, an achievement to be greatly celebrated and reflected upon. Not only has Ruby’s positively impacted many young lives during this time, giving many children the opportunity to access social, recreational and respite opportunities, but Ruby’s has also provided a lifeline to many families struggling to navigate the world of SEND. The experience gained in this decade of operation has equipped the team of staff and volunteers at Ruby’s to effectively support children and their families and for this I personally express my thanks to the dedication of our team.

 

In 2023-2024 we reviewed the mission and objectives of Ruby’s and listened to what our children and families told us they needed to thrive. This review formed the basis of the Board of Trustees agreeing Ruby’s 5-year strategic plan. We are a year into the plan and have made progress in all areas.

 

Ruby’s like the families we support have felt the impact of the cost-of-living crisis with loss of local authority funding and increased overheads. Despite these challenges the resilient Ruby’s team have successfully managed to re-open our community café which was closed during the pandemic. This has brought our centre back to life and we have seen an average footfall of 1000 visits per month.

Thanks must be given to the local community, organisations, funders, and businesses for their continued support: their volunteer hours, donations and words of support are appreciated beyond measure. Without such support we would not be able to support the children and families in the way that we do.

 

The trustees report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Mr A M Pear
Trustee
26 September 2024
RUBY'S FUND
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF RUBY'S FUND
- 8 -

I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Ruby's Fund (the charity) for the year ended 29 February 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

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

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

Independent examiner's statement

Since the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of ACCA, which is one of the listed bodies.

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

1

accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

2

the financial statements do not accord with those records; or

3

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

4

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

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

Marie Shenton - FCCA
Hammond McNulty LLP
Bank House
Market Square
Congleton
Cheshire
CW12 1ET
Dated: 26 September 2024
RUBY'S FUND
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 9 -
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
3
68,738
173,657
242,395
57,694
413,060
470,754
Charitable activities
4
70,690
1,020
71,710
13,400
2,322
15,722
Other trading activities
5
11,715
-
11,715
615
-
615
Investments
6
280
-
280
32
-
32
Total income
151,423
174,677
326,100
71,741
415,382
487,123
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
12,179
17,303
29,482
63
1,354
1,417
Charitable activities
8
120,809
245,588
366,397
57,939
340,211
398,150
Other expenditure
13
122
-
122
2,626
-
2,626
Total expenditure
133,110
262,891
396,001
60,628
341,565
402,193
Net income/(expenditure)
18,313
(88,214)
(69,901)
11,113
73,817
84,930
Transfers between funds
48,939
(48,939)
-
35,411
(35,411)
-
Net movement in funds
10
67,252
(137,153)
(69,901)
46,524
38,406
84,930
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 March 2023
84,948
414,967
499,915
38,424
376,561
414,985
Fund balances at 29 February 2024
152,200
277,814
430,014
84,948
414,967
499,915

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

RUBY'S FUND
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
29 FEBRUARY 2024
29 February 2024
- 10 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
15
345,369
377,282
Current assets
Stocks
16
1,150
-
Debtors
17
14,971
82,235
Cash at bank and in hand
250,539
233,915
266,660
316,150
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
19
(13,006)
(22,909)
Net current assets
253,654
293,241
Total assets less current liabilities
599,023
670,523
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
20
(169,009)
(170,608)
Net assets
430,014
499,915
The funds of the charity
Restricted income funds
22
277,814
414,967
Unrestricted funds
152,200
84,948
430,014
499,915

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 29 February 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 September 2024
Mr A M Pear
Trustee
Company registration number 08456065 (England and Wales)
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 11 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

Ruby's Fund is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Meridian House, Roe Street, Congleton, Cheshire, CW12 1PG, England.

1.1
Accounting convention

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

 

The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.

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

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, [modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value]. 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 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.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors 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.

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

Income from government and other grants, whether 'capital' grants or 'revenue' grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred.

RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 12 -
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:

Freehold land and buildings
No depreciation
Property improvements
2% straight line/no depreciation
Plant and equipment
20% straight line
Fixtures and fittings
10% straight line
Computers
33% straight line
Play equipment
20% 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
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).

1.8
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.

1.9
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, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 13 -
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

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.

1.12
Retirement benefits

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

2
Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

 

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 14 -
3
Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Donations and gifts
68,199
2,420
70,619
54,828
20,501
75,329

Grants receivable

-
171,237
171,237
2,866
392,559
395,425
Other
539
-
539
-
-
-
68,738
173,657
242,395
57,694
413,060
470,754
Grants receivable for core activities
Cheshire East Council
-
29,114
29,114
2,866
147,849
150,715
Crewe Town Council
-
-
-
-
1,300
1,300
Cheshire Community Foundation
-
-
-
-
24,040
24,040
National Lottery Foundation
-
84,634
84,634
-
97,540
97,540
Steve Morgan Foundation
-
23,750
23,750
-
26,857
26,857
N-Compass
-
-
-
-
11,031
11,031
NHS Wirral CCG
-
-
-
-
26,555
26,555
Big Issue
-
-
-
-
32,628
32,628
NHS Cheshire CCG
-
2,251
2,251
-
24,759
24,759
Other - Bentley & St James Place
-
31,488
31,488
-
-
-
-
171,237
171,237
2,866
392,559
395,425
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 15 -
4
Income from charitable activities
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Shop income

Income

2,363
-
2,363
365
-
365
Cafe Income

Income

39,047
-
39,047
1,622
-
1,622
Room hire & parties

Income

13,835
-
13,835
8,774
-
8,774
Admissions

Income

12,514
-
12,514
2,739
-
2,739
Sponsorships

Income

-
-
-
170
-
170
Other income

Income

2,931
1,020
3,951
(270)
2,322
2,052
70,690
1,020
71,710
13,400
2,322
15,722
5
Income from other trading activities
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Fundraising events
11,715
615
6
Income from investments
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Interest receivable
280
32
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 16 -
7
Expenditure on raising funds
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Fundraising and publicity
Advertising
1,866
-
1,866
-
-
-
Other fundraising costs
10,313
2,565
12,878
63
1,354
1,417
Staff costs
-
14,738
14,738
-
-
-
12,179
17,303
29,482
63
1,354
1,417
8
Expenditure on charitable activities
Cafe costs
Other income
General costs
Total
General costs
2024
2024
2024
2024
2023
£
£
£
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
17,377
2,758
170,694
190,829
198,070
Depreciation and impairment
5
-
32,726
32,731
35,515

Light and heat

-
-
8,230
8,230
6,788

Telephone

-
-
3,336
3,336
5,390

Rent, rates and water

-
-
1,550
1,550
1,054

Insurance

-
-
11,199
11,199
8,937

Postage and stationery

57
-
818
875
3,812

Travel and motor

-
70
2,940
3,010
5,091

Craft and play equipment

-
-
1,080
1,080
1,063

Advertising and promotion

60
-
616
676
8,765

Repairs and cleaning

1,095
-
15,540
16,635
23,322

Training

276
-
6,596
6,872
4,577

IT software, consumables and website

1,862
-
9,212
11,074
15,237

Room and equipment hire

4,603
-
2,526
7,129
2,741

Purchases

17,657
-
11,298
28,955
38,508

Subscriptions

-
-
2,260
2,260
2,126

Sundries

137
-
2,096
2,233
6,339
43,129
2,828
282,717
328,674
367,335
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Support
-
-
19,477
19,477
10,831
Governance
-
-
18,246
18,246
19,984
43,129
2,828
320,440
366,397
398,150
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
41,610
2,828
76,371
120,809
57,939
Restricted funds
1,519
-
244,069
245,588
340,211
43,129
2,828
320,440
366,397
398,150
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 17 -
9
Support costs allocated to activities
Total
Total
2024
2023
£
£
Bank charges
4,575
977
Mortgage interest
14,903
9,854
Governance
18,246
19,984
37,724
30,815
2024
2023
Governance costs comprise:
£
£
Accountancy
15,323
4,660
Legal and professional
2,923
9,447
Recruitment fees
-
5,877
18,246
19,984

 

10
Net movement in funds
2024
2023
£
£
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
32,731
35,515
Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
122
2,626
11
Trustees

None of the trustees trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year.

12
Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2024
2023
Number
Number
21
21
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
12
Employees
(Continued)
- 18 -
Employment costs
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
198,174
188,372
Social security costs
4,494
6,894
Other pension costs
2,899
2,804
205,567
198,070
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
13
Other expenditure
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Net loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
122
2,626
14
Taxation

The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.

RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 19 -
15
Tangible fixed assets
Freehold land and buildings
Property improvements
Plant and equipment
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Play equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 March 2023
295,000
85,621
53,001
14,419
22,356
100,746
571,143
Additions
-
-
299
640
-
-
939
Disposals
-
-
(227)
-
(729)
-
(956)
At 29 February 2024
295,000
85,621
53,073
15,059
21,627
100,746
571,126
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 March 2023
9,833
70,485
32,387
10,186
11,623
59,347
193,861
Depreciation charged in the year
5,900
309
4,128
1,516
6,388
14,490
32,731
Eliminated in respect of disposals
-
-
(227)
-
(608)
-
(835)
At 29 February 2024
15,733
70,794
36,288
11,702
17,403
73,837
225,757
Carrying amount
At 29 February 2024
279,267
14,827
16,785
3,357
4,224
26,909
345,369
At 28 February 2023
285,167
15,136
20,614
4,233
10,733
41,399
377,282
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 20 -
16
Stocks
2024
2023
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
1,150
-
17
Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
942
38,380
Other debtors
599
34,909
Prepayments and accrued income
13,430
8,946
14,971
82,235
18
Loans and overdrafts
2024
2023
£
£
Other loans
172,155
174,686
Payable within one year
3,146
4,078
Payable after one year
169,009
170,608
Amounts included above which fall due after five years:
Payable by instalments
(156,425)
(158,024)

The long-term loans are secured by fixed charges over the property of Meridian house, Roe Street, Congleton, CW12 1PG dated 1 July 2021.

 

19
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
£
£
Borrowings
3,146
4,078
Other taxation and social security
1,813
2,377
Trade creditors
1,520
10,518
Other creditors
571
584
Accruals and deferred income
5,956
5,352
13,006
22,909
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 21 -
20
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
2024
2023
£
£
Borrowings
169,009
170,608
21
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
2,899
2,804

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

22
Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

At 1 March 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
Gains and losses
At 29 February 2024
£
£
£
£
£
£
Siblings Project
6,362
1,187
(1,229)
1,392
-
7,712
Outreach Social Enterprise
36,395
-
(23,587)
(12,808)
-
-
Restricted Fixed Assets
174,187
-
(11,632)
-
-
162,555
CE Short Breaks
13,797
19,596
(10,066)
-
-
23,327
Elworth Butterfly Group
2,245
-
(17)
-
-
2,228
FSW South (Steve Morgan)
2,116
23,750
(22,011)
-
-
3,855
RF Sustainability Project
38,028
84,634
(85,688)
-
-
36,974
Volunteer Project
29,375
18
(20,248)
(9,144)
-
-
FSW North (inc Swans)
7,758
-
-
(7,758)
-
-
Lift project
5,400
-
(462)
-
-
4,938
Alex Roberts Miller Foundation
1,053
-
(1,053)
-
-
-
Relax Kids
8,969
1,020
(1,020)
(8,969)
-
-
Early Bird Training
2,797
-
-
(2,797)
-
-
Holiday Cook
1,487
-
(95)
(1,392)
-
-
Carer Engagement Worker South
9,026
-
(3,077)
(5,949)
-
Carer Engagement
7,680
-
(1,154)
(6,526)
-
-
CCF 16-25
10,000
-
(9,956)
(44)
-
-
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
22
Restricted funds
(Continued)
- 22 -
CCF Comm & Wellbeing
13,960
-
(14,003)
43
-
-
CCG Baby & you
4,642
792
-
(5,434)
-
-
CCG Hospital
(3,642)
1,459
2,183
-
-
Training workshop
360
-
(660)
300
-
-
Warm Places
250
-
(250)
-
-
-
Early help Crisis
16,743
-
(7,225)
(9,518)
-
-
Crewe Butterfly Group
907
-
(63)
(844)
-
-
Boiler & Utilities
4,840
-
(4,840)
-
-
Be Confident
9,990
-
(10,107)
117
-
-
David Family Sat Socials
1,983
-
(1,983)
-
-
-
WO Street CF
3,600
-
(3,600)
-
-
-
Carol Cross Sensory Garden
-
100
-
(100)
-
-
Julia Rausing Trust
-
-
(20,000)
20,000
-
-
Asda Foundation
-
615
(615)
-
-
-
Fence Club
-
500
(500)
-
-
-
St James Place
-
9,818
(1,179)
-
-
8,639
Bentley
-
21,670
(3,388)
843
-
19,125
Cheshire East Cost of Living
-
9,518
(1,058)
-
8,460
Georgia Leigh Ogden Foundation
2,400
-
(2,125)
(275)
-
-
Befriending
2,259
-
-
(2,259)
-
-
414,967
174,677
(262,891)
(48,939)
-
277,814
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
22
Restricted funds
(Continued)
- 23 -
Previous year:
At 1 March 2022
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
Gains and losses
At 28 February 2023
£
£
£
£
£
£
Siblings Project
1,469
7,000
(2,107)
-
-
6,362
Outreach Social Enterprise
17,445
32,628
(13,678)
-
-
36,395
Restricted Fixed Assets
175,361
-
(27,102)
25,928
-
174,187
CE Short Breaks
2,975
25,000
(14,178)
-
-
13,797
Elworth Butterfly Group
2,535
-
(290)
-
-
2,245
FSW South (Steve Morgan)
-
26,857
(24,741)
-
-
2,116
RF Sustainability Project
38,144
84,933
(85,049)
-
-
38,028
Volunteer Project
27,402
124,201
(92,228)
(30,000)
-
29,375
FSW North (inc Swans)
9,001
-
(1,243)
-
-
7,758
Lift project
-
5,400
-
-
-
5,400
Alex Roberts Miller Foundation
-
2,500
(277)
(1,170)
-
1,053
Relax Kids
16,145
-
(7,176)
-
-
8,969
Early Bird Training
2,797
-
-
-
-
2,797
Holiday Cook
1,487
1,487
Carer Engagement
9,026
(2,320)
10,000
16,706
CCF 16-25
10,000
10,000
CCF Com & Wellbeing
14,040
(80)
13,960
CCG Baby & you
8,708
(4066)
4,642
CCG Hospital Project
13,133
(16,775)
(3,642)
Training workshop
720
(360)
360
Warm places
250
250
Early help Crisis
29,473
(12,730)
16,743
Crewe Butterfly group
1,300
(393)
907
Boiler & Utilities
12,607
(7,767)
4,840
Wish List 2021
13,522
-
-
(13,522)
-
-
Thriving Families Office
12,406
-
-
(12,406)
-
-
Be Confident
5,780
11,032
(6,822)
-
-
9,990
David Family Sat Socials
2,000
(17)
1,983
WO Street CF
3,600
3,600
SEN Triage Admin
9,496
(9,770)
274
Befriending 2021
4,670
(2,411)
2,259
Comms
5,384
-
(897)
(4,487)
-
-
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
22
Restricted funds
(Continued)
- 24 -
Early Help Sensory Fund
18,516
-
(8,488)
(10,028)
-
-
Georgia Leigh Ogden Foundation
3,000
-
(600)
-
-
2,400
376,561
415,382
(341,565)
(35,411)
-
414,967
23
Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

At 1 March 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
At 29 February 2024
£
£
£
£
£
General
36,515
112,376
(55,939)
(72,415)
20,537
Designated fund - support costs
-
-
(15,721)
29,033
13,312
Designated fund - running costs
-
-
(19,309)
27,694
8,385
Designated fund - Cafe
48,433
39,047
(43,565)
(30,000)
13,915
Designated fund - Centre Wages
-
-
(2,265)
51,835
49,570
Designated fund - SEND Team
-
-
3,689
5,258
8,947
Designated fund - marketing & fundraising
-
-
-
35,000
35,000
Designated fund - Sensory Resource
-
-
-
275
275
Designated fund - Congleton SEND
-
-
-
2,259
2,259
84,948
151,423
(133,110)
48,939
152,200
Previous year:
At 1 March 2022
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
At 28 February 2023
£
£
£
£
£
General
38,424
50,019
(22,992)
(28,936)
36,515
Designated fund - support costs
-
-
(11,154)
11,154
-
Designated fund - running costs
-
-
(22,098)
22,098
-
Designated fund - Cafe
-
21,722
(4,384)
31,095
48,433
38,424
71,741
(60,628)
35,411
84,948
RUBY'S FUND
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 29 FEBRUARY 2024
- 25 -
24
Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
At 29 February 2024:
Tangible assets
182,814
162,555
345,369
Current assets/(liabilities)
138,395
115,259
253,654
Long term liabilities
(169,009)
-
(169,009)
152,200
277,814
430,014
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
At 28 February 2023:
Tangible assets
378,014
(732)
377,282
Current assets/(liabilities)
(122,458)
415,699
293,241
Long term liabilities
(170,608)
-
(170,608)
84,948
414,967
499,915
25
Related party transactions

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

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