The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006 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)".
Purposes and Aims
The Bridges Community Trust purposes are set out in the objects contained in the company’s Articles of Association. The objects (the •objects•) of the Company shall be to promote any charitable purpose for the benefit of inhabitants of The Meadows Nottingham and the Inhabitants of Clifton, Nottingham,( for the benefit of the Inhabit- ants of the City of Nottingham) and in particular the relief of poverty, suffering or distress; the advancement of education; the promotion of health; the provision of recreation and leisure facilities in the Interests of social welfare; and the improvement of efficiency of charities and community organisations In direct pursuit of their charitable objects by the provision of education and training.
Ensuring our work delivers our aims
We review our aims, objectives, and activities each year. The review looks at what we achieved and the outcomes of our work in the previous 12 months. It looks at the success of each key activity and the help it has brought to our beneficiaries and helps us to ensure our aims, objectives and activities remain focused on our stated purposes. We have referred to the guidance in the Charity Commissions general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aims and objectives, and in planning our future activities. In particular, the Trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives of the charity.
How our activities deliver public benefit
The trustees have considered the public benefit and concluded that -
The work done gives identifiable benefits both directly and indirectly to the beneficiaries;
All activities are related to the objectives and continue to be charitable;
There is no detriment or harm arising from the objectives or activities;
Most of the beneficiaries live in the geographical location of Areas The Meadows, and Clifton East and Clifton West, Nottingham. There are a small percentage of beneficiaries who live outside of this area; these are people at disadvantage who access our charitable services;
The benefits are for the public, and the opportunity to benefit is not unreasonably restricted;
The charities activities mainly benefit people in areas of deprivation (especially those in poverty);
Any private benefit to individuals and organisations has been incidental to delivery of the charitable objectives.
Annual review of the charity
The year 2023/2024 brought significant changes and challenges for our organization. The cost-of-living crisis, Nottingham City Council’s bankruptcy on November 29, 2023, and the end of the European Social Fund on November 30, 2023, created substantial financial difficulties. The cessation of the Area Based Grant in March 2024 and the lack of future employment contracts increased risks to our funding. Trustees made tough decisions, including relocating our office to Queens Walk Community Centre in June 2023 and making redundancies between March and May 2023, with further redundancies planned for the end of November 2023.
We received funding from the Powering Up grant, which went into core and supported salaries. An expression of interest was submitted to The Queens Walk Community Association to run the Community Café, which will provide a small income stream. Our Patron, Nick Sladen (Sladen Estates), generously donated funds to renovate the café and cover salaries for two employment advisors until February 2024, allowing us to continue our employment work clubs until March 2024. His contributions also supported small voluntary groups over the Christmas period 2023.
The café opened in April 2024 with just one paid staff member the senior manager and volunteers, adopting an unfunded five-strand approach to community services. We secured match funding for the café’s business side, enhancing our efforts. Collaborating with other charities in the centre, we ensured community service provision. We sourced Volunteers, including a volunteer accountant, who assisted in overseeing the accounts.
Our youth football project for children aged 5-16 continues to thrive thanks to resolute volunteers led by the two remaining founding fathers Jeff Meehan and John Adams. In 2023, we held the inaugural Karl White Memorial Match, which was a tremendous success, bolstered by community contributions and support from businesses like Bowmer & Kirkland and associates. This volunteer-led initiative enjoys full community backing. Local architect Julian Marsh drafted plans to gain planning permission for a container next to the changing rooms on the Meadows recreation ground, highlighting widespread community support. The project is inclusive, embracing all cultures, faiths, and genders, providing opportunities for every child to reach their potential.
In conclusion, while the organization faces short-term risks, the long-term outlook is better with relocation and a different focus. There is a strong possibility of partnership bids that will enhance service provision for the community in the Meadows and Clifton.
Despite the challenges, the steps taken by the trustees have positioned us to continue serving our community effectively. We remain committed to our mission and are optimistic about the future.
Miriam Gifford Chair
Area Based Grant Employment and Community Outreach
November 29, 2023, saw Nottingham city council declare bankruptcy which effectively ended all area-based grant provision for 2024, with little likelihood of replacement funding.
The Trust has held the Matrix Quality Mark Standard in Careers Information, Advice and Guidance since 2006 with successful reaccreditation in 2021. The Employment Team continued to deliver excellent service to clients. Delivering face-to-face Library Work Clubs and utilising technology to communicate with stakeholders. Lending technology and providing data packages.
Employment programs. Nottingham Works For You, NW4Y 16-24 and an increased match funding element (that TBCT was responsible for) from 38.2% to 50%, however, this was mitigated by an increase on staffing levels and salary claims (we were allowed to add some management and administration costs) so the net variance was 0.1%.
There was a gap in employment support for those aged 25+ and the local council agreed there would be an increase in demand for support due to job losses because of Covid so we negotiated the following:
We joined Nottingham City Council’s new ‘Back2Work (B2W)’ project from 1 October 2021. Area Based Grant would provide some match funding for our own ‘ABG Employment Support’ project for ages 25+.
Both the above contracts ceased in November 2023
Senior Manager's Report
This year has been one of significant transitions, resilience, and new beginnings. As a charity deeply rooted in our local community, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide accessible, community-based services that empower individuals, reduce barriers, and foster a sense of belonging. Despite facing financial and operational challenges, we have adapted and innovated to ensure that our support services continue to make a meaningful difference.
1. Office Transition and Financial Challenges
In April 2023, The Bridges Community Trust underwent a major transition, relocating from our previous premises to the Queens Walk Community Centre (QWCC). This move was necessitated by the financial pressures stemming from not being awarded funding from UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). With rising costs, it became unsustainable to maintain our former space, and difficult decisions were made, including redundancies in roles previously funded by our core budget.
Despite these challenges, the Senior Employment Adviser stepped into a management role to oversee our existing contracts with Nottingham City Council (NCC) and the Area Based Grant (ABG). This leadership ensured continuity of our employment services while we completed the transition. By June, we had fully relocated to QWCC, where we streamlined our operations and continued delivering essential services in a more cost-effective workspace
2. Community Impact and Service Continuity
Even with reduced resources, our team demonstrated remarkable dedication to supporting our community. As a charity, our mission is to provide services that are accessible, locally focused, and tailored to meet the needs of residents.
Employment Services
The Bridges Community Trust delivered exceptional results through the NCC-funded Back2Work and Nottingham Works4You programs, achieving high outreach and client outcomes. Across both programs, 204 participants enrolled, with 86 individuals successfully transitioning into employment, training, or education.
The closure of these programs in November 2023 required significant administrative efforts. Thanks to the dedication of our team, we exceeded our targets for enrolments and outcomes, closing the projects successfully. Special thanks go to Samantha Kelly and Mark Wells for their outstanding contributions to these programs, which made a tangible difference to the lives of participants.
ABG Outreach Services
ABG funding allowed us to provide vital outreach services in The Meadows (Area 5) and Clifton (Area 7), engaging 231 residents throughout 2023–2024. Collaborations with The Renewal Trust enabled us to deliver employment sessions at community venues such as the Hope Centre, NG11 Foodbank, and Clifton Library.
In The Meadows, we maintained weekly Work Club sessions at Meadows Library despite financial constraints. Careful budgeting and strategic resource allocation ensured the continuity of this service, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to local residents.
3. Establishment of the Community Café
The move to QWCC inspired the creation of the Community Café, a transformative project that has become the heart of our operations. This space was envisioned as a welcoming, inclusive hub where individuals could access support services, connect with others, and enjoy affordable food in a friendly environment.
This ambitious project was made possible through the generosity of Nick Sladen, whose £20,000 contribution allowed us to renovate the café space and prepare for its grand opening in April 2024. Guided by an architect’s vision and the craftsmanship of local tradespeople, we spent January to April transforming the space into a calm and inviting environment. The journey was not without its challenges, but it allowed us to define the café’s purpose:
A supportive and accessible space for delivering services.
A community hub for social interaction and engagement.
A source of low-cost, nutritious meals, addressing the cost-of-living crisis.
The café has since become a vibrant focal point for our services, hosting employability workshops, community events, and regular social activities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Nick, the architect, and the tradespeople whose dedication made this vision a reality.
4. Partnerships and Support Networks
Our success would not have been possible without the continued support of our valued partners:
The Meadows Advice Group (Tesleem, Sheila, and Jane): For their expert assistance with debt, housing, legal advice, and advocacy.
Social Prescribers: For their invaluable crisis support and contributions to café events.
Nottingham Energy Partnership: For providing energy advice and tackling fuel poverty.
Green Meadows: For fostering skill-building initiatives and community engagement.
Sophie Bowater, QWCC Receptionist: For her ongoing support in signposting clients and promoting events and services.
These partnerships have strengthened our ability to provide holistic support to the community, ensuring that our services remain accessible and impactful.
5. Future of Employment Services
The closure of NCC-funded projects and the end of ABG funding in March 2024 posed significant challenges. However, we recognized the ongoing need for employment support and have continued these services through a weekly Job Club at the café. This initiative ensures continuity for existing clients while attracting new participants seeking guidance and upskilling opportunities.
Our collaboration with Futures has further enhanced our offerings, with a Futures adviser providing face-to-face engagement and signposting individuals to free courses in Business Administration, Teaching Assistant training, Mental Health, and more.
Securing further funding remains critical to sustaining and expanding these programs. We are actively exploring new funding opportunities to ensure that these vital services can continue meeting the needs of our community.
6. Moving Forward Amid Financial Challenges
The financial landscape remains uncertain, particularly in light of Nottingham City Council’s bankruptcy and the cessation of several key funding streams. Despite these challenges, The Bridges Community Trust is determined to adapt and thrive.
The Community Café now serves as the central hub for our services, allowing us to bring together five core areas of support:
Employment Services
Digital Skills Development
Cost of Living Support
Advice and Guidance
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Under the umbrella of our Community Hub, these services aim to break down personal barriers, foster resilience, and improve the quality of life for individuals and families.
Closing Remarks
This year has been one of profound change, challenge, and growth. We are deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers, and partners for their unwavering dedication and generosity, which have sustained The Bridges Community Trust through a turbulent period.
Looking ahead, our focus remains on serving the community, securing sustainable funding, and building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for your continued support and for being part of this journey
Employment Support:
The Bridges Community Trust continued delivering limited employment support after contracts ended in November 2023, thanks to the Area Based Grant, which was extended until March 2024 and donation of salaries from Sladen Estates. The trust-maintained work clubs and provided limited employment advice for those facing multiple barriers until March 2023
The Bridges Community Trust Youth and Community provision.
Brief overview of delivery
We hosted one event The Karl White Memorial Football match funded by grants the community and local business.
We hosted a Christmas Party for The Meadows Community Youth football.
We gave help and support during the Christmas period to a variety of voluntary groups in the Meadows and Clifton areas through funding donated by Nick Sladen (Sladen Estates).
The Meadows Community Youth Football program experienced significant growth over the past year. Volunteer numbers and hours dedicated to planning, administration, practices, and events saw a notable increase, driven by rising attendance. Additionally, there was a surge in donations, pledges, and grants from organizations, small businesses, and the community.
By March 31, 2024, the number of registered children reached 136, marking a 33% increase in registrations throughout the year.
1,670 attendances winter and summer sessions.
2,496 volunteer hours logged.
26 x One-hour sessions indoors aged 6-10 years,
26 x one and a half hour sessions outdoors
1 x Karl White memorial Cup 50 children attended plus parents/ carers.
1 x Christmas Party 40 children plus siblings and parents / carers limited to 6–10-year-olds from indoor sessions.
Future funding
Future funding is a continuous process and is always a challenge, with ongoing bids and sourcing corporate sponsorship to support projects and cover running costs. We are unyielding in addressing gaps in provision by collaborating with partners and signposting. Our key focus remains on the communities we serve, addressing their needs in wellbeing, training, education, voluntary work, financial resilience. Which is addressed in some part with the Youth project and community café Hub.
Community Development and Engagement
Our Community Engagement/Development work supports the provision of recreational and leisure facilities through events we organised in partnership or collaborative work. To engage with and bring in partnership working which would benefit the community. Our Youth Project and Community Café’s five-strand approach. Welfare Advice, Digital Skills Fuel and Food Poverty, Employability, and Health and Wellbeing are on offer; underscores our commitment to EDI (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Integration and collaborative working with local Football organisations and new and emerging communities.
With the cessation of the Area based grant from Nottingham City Council, we must acknowledge the tremendous financial support given by Nick Sladen (Sladen Estates.) the community and organisations such as Bowmer & Kirkland & associated businesses.
We continued to support the local community by facilitating and/or attending meetings; providing Finance and Admin and Project Management support to local community groups and help in the organizing of events; marketing and publicity support. We have our own DBS check service and have offered this to our partner organisations.
We have a small contingency fund donated by Sladen Estates that covers emergencies such as fuel gas /electric and sign post urgent cases to Nottingham Energy Partnership who are based at Queens Walk Community Centre.
Partnership and Support
We have continued to collaborate with key Community Groups and Tenant’s and Resident’s Associations, some of which are listed below:
New Meadows Tenants and Residents Association (NEMTRA) | Old Meadows Tenants and Residents Association (OMTRA) | Arkwright Meadows Community Gardens |
NG11 Food Bank | Queens Walk Community Association | Meadows Dance and Social Group |
Hope Centre Clifton | Meadows Advice Group | Meadows Food Bank |
Meadows Library | Clifton Library | Nottingham City Council |
Nottingham City Homes | Methodist Church Sunday Supper | Queens Walk Luncheon group. |
Green Meadows Project |
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Relocation:
We joined the community hub at Queens Walk Community Centre in June 2023 central to the Meadows, with excellent communication links to Clifton the tram stops outside. It was with regret that we vacated “The One Stop Shop,” it has always been a valuable and essential resource for the community in the Meadows and surrounding areas. After so many years in became untenable financially to remain there. However, with the opening of the Community Café Hub- Basic information, signposting to other organisations and acting with immediacy with critical interventions when necessary, such as housing is still available. We continue to provide a free phone line; data packages and computers are available for community use.
Meadows Food Bank and NG11 Food Bank.
Trussel Trust changed the criteria for the provision of Food Vouchers stating only stakeholders who have signed up with us on projects were entitled: which moving forward is the Community Café Hub. We have continued to support the operation of the Meadows Food Bank, (a Trussell Trust Food Bank) by issuing vouchers to those in crisis.
Food Bank and NG11 Food Bank
The provision of Food Vouchers was changed by Trussel Trust. We can only provide vouchers to stakeholders who have signed up with us on one of our projects. We have continued to support the operation of the Meadows Food Bank, (a Trussell Trust Food Bank) by issuing vouchers to those in crisis.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement:
At the Bridges Community Trust, we believe that diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our success. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Our Commitment:
Equity: We strive to ensure fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all individuals. We actively work to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented full participation.
Diversity: We embrace and celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of our employees, clients, volunteers, stakeholders, and partners. We believe that diversity drives innovation and enhances our ability to serve our community.
Inclusion: We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture where all voices are heard, and everyone feels a sense of belonging. We encourage open dialogue and collaboration across all levels of the organisation.
Our Actions:
Implementing comprehensive training programs on unconscious bias and cultural competency.
Regularly reviewing our policies and practices to ensure they promote equity and inclusion.
Disability full and fair consideration to applications for employment made by disabled people, having regard to their aptitudes and abilities. Disabled people receive appropriate training to promote their development careerwise within the company. Employees who become disabled are retained in their existing posts where possible or retrained for suitable alternative posts.
Our Progress: In the past year, we have made significant strides in our EDI efforts, including:
Increasing the representation of women and minorities in leadership positions.
Increasing the representation of minorities within our volunteer workforce.
Conducting regular surveys to gather feedback and measure the effectiveness of our EDI initiatives.
Inviting the youth voice at our AGM they were the speakers.
We are proud of the progress we have made, but we recognise that there is still work to be done. We remain committed to continuous improvement and to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive and reach their potential.
Financial Review
Income has dropped considerably in the year (£146,017) compared to previous year (£267,481). ESF funding for the employment delivery ended and ABG Area 5 funding dropped dramatically.
Deficit has also worsened in the year (£23,940) compared to previous year (£8,095) however we had redundancies and outstanding payments to pay.
Net assets as at the year were £66k (2023 - £91k) including bank balances of £63k ( 2023 - £38k)
Reserves policy
The Bridges Community Trust Board has decided to hold reserves in main for the following reasons (this is not an exhaustive list of reasons).
Cash Flow
The system for receipt of grant income differs for each funder. Funding, which is in arrears or simply late, must be covered by Reserves.
While the expenditure of The Bridges Community Trust is reasonably steady, fluctuations in expenditure may not coincide with fluctuations in income.
For the Rainy Day'
The Bridges Community Trust is particularly vulnerable to cuts in statutory funding. Obviously, sudden cuts will leave The Bridges Community Trust with commitments to honour - not least contracts of employment, property leases and agreements to provide services.
To enable Trustees/Directors to meet their legal obligations.
The lack of sufficient Reserves would indicate the failure of the board of directors to honour their duty to manage prudently the finances of the Charity.
Level of reserves required.
Uncommitted (General) Reserves
In the long term The Bridges Community Trust aims to have uncommitted Reserves equivalent to between three and six months’ average annual expenditure. The reserves’ value should not fall below one month’s average annual expenditure and in this case, directors should be notified as soon as possible after this becomes known.
The reserves figure is the ‘cash’ value of the unrestricted funds as shown in the balance sheet. The ‘cash’ value is the total value less the value attributable to fixed assets.
Other Reserves
In addition, other restricted' or designated' reserves may be set aside and identified on the balance sheet but will not form part of the general reserves.
In our quarterly accounts, reference is made to the reserves policy. Directors receive quarterly updates on the level of reserves held.
As of the 31 March 2024 the level of unrestricted reserves was £17,299 which is sufficient based on the above policy. The Trustees are looking to increase the reserves over the next few years.
Risk Review
The Board of Directors continually review all the major risks to which the charity is exposed throughout the year at Board Meetings and normally at their Strategic Away Day(s).
Contracts are risk assessed before being accepted. Systems have been established to mitigate risks that are identified. Significant external risks to funding have led to the development of a strategic plan which will allow the diversification of funding and activities. Internal risks are minimised by the implementation of procedures for authorisation of all transactions and projects, to ensure consistent quality of delivery for all operational aspects of the charitable company. These procedures are periodically reviewed to ensure that they still meet the needs of the charity.
The Bridges Community Trust focus points in the immediate future are:
To continue to work to stabilise the Trust, particularly in relation to its finances, which have been under severe pressure over the last 6 – 9 years (inclusive of corporate funding)
To continue to focus on the core skills of the Trust, Community engagement and development through the Community Café Hub five strand approach.
To focus funding resources to meet these core skills.
To develop an internal Youth Program with a focus on bringing more youth activities to the Meadows.
To develop partnership working with another VCS Organisation
The long-term focus for the Trust is:
The recruitment of new Board members with relevant skill sets.
Continuing Training Sessions for both Board and Staff
Development of a Long-Term Strategic and Business Plans
Funding bids and corporate sponsorship will continue to be sourced and submitted by the Management team.
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:
Structure and Decision Making
The charity is organised so that the Trustees (together forming a Board of Trustees) meet monthly and at a minimum quarterly to manage the charity’s affairs; with responsibility for the day to day running of the Trust being undertaken by the Senior Manager.
The remuneration for key management personnel is set and approved by the Board based on:
Annual Performance and Appraisal Review
Current Market Forces
c. Available Funding
Trustee Recruitment, Induction and Training
The Bridges Community Trust Articles of Association are currently under review, including the number and make-up of the Board of Trustees and a resolution for change has been submitted to the AGM for approval. Currently, the Articles allow for a Board of no more than eighteen people and no less than eight. The balance of the Board members should be:
No more than nine Residents Sector representatives, elected by and from the Membership.
Not more than three Voluntary Sector representatives, elected by and from the Membership.
No more than three Business Sector representatives, elected by and from the Membership or co-opted by the Directors.
No more than three people co-opted by the Trustees, who may or may not be Members.
Meetings are monthly online or in person. This has resulted in the use of technology for voting purposes. Minutes recorded and drafted later when necessary.
At the point of expressing an interest and/or submission of a nomination form, potential new trustees are provided with a ‘Board Members Induction Pack’ which includes historical and current information about the Charity, including governance information, financial information, organisational structure, policies and procedures and meeting schedules. Following the AGM, a time is set for an induction meeting for introductions and an overview of the Charities activities so that trustees can learn about each other and the Charity.
All trustees must have an enhanced DBS if working with youth all must have or show evidence of Safeguarding, and Equality and Diversity training or qualifications. Trustees are encouraged to attend relevant external training courses, and sometimes in -house training is provided for trustees. The annual strategic away days are used to develop trustees’ understanding of the Charity and involve discussions on the current projects of the Charity and potential future developments. Trustees are encouraged to meet with other Trustees and members of staff to gain further knowledge about the Charity and the work undertaken.
The Trust collaborates with partner organisations and has strong links and a network of contacts within the third sector / other voluntary bodies in Nottingham. Stakeholders are sign posted to partner organisations such as The Meadows Advice Group (support for residents with debt management, housing, and benefits), Nottingham Energy Partnership, (Fuel Vouchers) the Arches (provide furniture, clothing, and food for families as emergency), Sharewear (provide emergency clothing) Framework (Housing).
We, provider of foodbank vouchers to stakeholders utilising our five-strand approach in the community café hub, daily. The senior manager is the only signatory for the food bank to ensure that this service is maintained.
The Board is actively looking / recruiting board members with the skills necessary from gaps identified.
The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.
The trustees, who are also the directors of The Bridges Community Trust 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 2019 (FRS 102);
- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
- state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; 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 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.
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;
- state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; 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 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.
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of The Bridges Community Trust (the charity) for the year ended 31 March 2024.
Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 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. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act 2011.
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:
accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of the Companies Act 2006.
the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 other than any requirement that the financial statements give a true and fair view, which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
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 financial statements 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.
Raising funds
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
Raising funds
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
The Bridges Community Trust is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Queens Walk Community Centre, Queens Walk, The Meadows, Nottingham, NG2 2DF.
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" 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)". 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 £.
These financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis. The trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity will continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future, however, the trustees are aware of certain material uncertainties which may cause doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going concern.
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.
Expenditure is allocated to individual restricted funds on an actual basis where possible, others are apportioned on an estimated percentage based on staff time allocated to each project.
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.
All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of the resources.
Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified under the following activity headings:
Costs of raising funds comprise the promotional costs to the charity.
Expenditure on charitable activities includes all costs undertaken to further the purposes of the charity and their associated support costs, including costs of governance.
Irrecoverable VAT is charged as a cost against the activity for which the expenditure was incurred.
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:
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.
The company participates in a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The amount charged as expenditure represents the contributions payable to the scheme in respect of the accounting period.
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.
Government grants
Government grants are recognised at the fair value of the asset received or receivable when there is reasonable assurance that the grant conditions will be met and the grants will be received.
A grant that specifies performance conditions is recognised in income when the performance conditions are met. Where a grant does not specify performance conditions it is recognised in income when the proceeds are received or receivable. A grant received before the recognition criteria are satisfied is recognised as a liability.
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.
Nottingham City Council
Get Ahead
Community Action Donation
Connected2 project
Tudor Trust
BL Community Fund
YEI
Raising funds
Insurance
Printing and stationery
Training and conference costs
Rents and rates
Grants and donations awarded
Travel and subsisence
Computer costs
Light, heat and water
Equipment, repairs and renewals
Telephone and postage
Sundry expenses
Publications and subscriptions
Hospitality and events
Governance costs includes payments to the independent examiners of £4,410 for independent examination fees (2023- £2,760).
The average monthly number of employees during the year was:
The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.
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.
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.
A brief description of projects during the year is set out below:-
Area Based Grants -
Area Based Grant (ABG) was funding allocated from Nottingham City Council to Area Lead Organisations for the eight areas of the city. The funding started in 2013 and finished in 2024. We were the lead organisation for the Area Based Grant (ABG) for Area 7 (Clifton) until Nov 22. We provided community support for Play and Youth (term time only) Employment and Skills and Small Group Support. The Renewal Trust took over as Area 7 Lead in March 2023 and we continued toprovide the employment and skills element of the contract only. Area 5 (Meadows) was run by castle cavendish, and we provided the employment and skills element of the funding, continuing hosting work clubs in the Meadows Library. |
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Back 2 work - Part of Nottingham City Council’s Back2work employment support scheme BBO - Building Better Opportunities Towards Work Employment Support Programme; funded by European Social Fund (ESF) and The National Lottery, managed by Groundwork Greater Nottingham. The Bridges Community Trust withdrew from delivering this contract July 2018. Community Action Donation - Sladens Donation to form Crisis Support fund for Meadows Community during Coronavirus. Travel Grants - Travel Grants for those without other recourse to funding for travel costs to interviews, training and employment. GetAhead - Employment Strand of the Ahead Programmes, jointly funded by European Social Fund and DWP. Delivering Employment Support to eligible clients aged 18+ from April 2018 to November 2019. VCS Forums - Nottingham Together Grant for Voluntary Sector Forum. Yes Training- YES Apprenticeship Grant for staff training HAF Grant - This is part of the Area Based Grant Lead contract for the Clifton Area of Nottingham Karl W Memorial fund- collection in memory of Karl White- restricted Youth football Kickstart - One participant was engaged under the Government’s Kickstart scheme and completed the 6 month Kickstart scheme. we then offered them permanent employment after the 6 months were completed. NW4U 2021-23 - Part of Nottingham City Council’s Nottingham Works for You employment support scheme. Sladen Estates Salary - Nick Sladen agreed to cover the salaries for the General Manager position and an apprenticeship until March 2023 Cyclists UK club- money received on behalf of Cyclists UK, immediately passed on to them. There has been a transfer from unrestricted reserves to cover costs incurred. |
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Arnold Clark grant - for Youth
Nottingham Internship Scheme Grant - For using a NTU Intern for our Digital Media platforms
Youth Football - Donation by Brown Jacobson for youth football
Notts Police - Restricted fund- for youth
Unite EM NG 58 Football - £5000 restricted for youth football,£3500 unrestricted for core expenditure
Community Vaccine Fund - funding from Nottingham City Council with the aim of supporting the delivery of innovative approaches to engaging members of the community to increase the uptake of vaccinations and to proactively address health inequalities
Power to Change - Power to change funding was granted to help alleviate Staff Revenue Costs, Property Revenue Costs, Other Revenue / General Overheads and Capital Equipment or Building Costs.
Sladen Christmas Donation - Christmas donation from Nick Sladen
Thomas Farr- Paid for administration of project work
Community Cafe -Community Café renovations and start up costs
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.
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Richard McShane who was a trustee and board member during the year, supplied IT solutions, totalling £955 (2023 - £1,935) through his company called Room57.