Charity registration number 1124661 (England and Wales)
Company registration number 05853180
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Trustees
Mr M Vizbulis
Ms KI Zobens East
Mrs E Browell
(Appointed 9 March 2024)
Mrs B Freimane
Mrs L Liepina
(Appointed 9 March 2024)
Mrs E Osa
Mr J Voitkevics
Mrs R Harrison
(Appointed 9 March 2025)
Mrs E Beet
(Appointed 9 March 2024)
Secretary
Mrs E Beet
Charity number (England and Wales)
1124661
Company number
05853180
Registered office
Catthorpe Manor
Lilbourne Road
Catthorpe
Leicestershire
England
LE17 6DF
Independent examiner
Cottons Accountants LLP
Chestnut Field House
Chestnut Field
Rugby
Warwickshire
United Kingdom
CV21 2PD
Solicitors
Brethertons LLP
Montague House
2 Clifton Road
Rugby
Warwickshire
CV21 3PX
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
CONTENTS
Page
Trustees' report
1 - 8
Independent examiner's report
9
Statement of financial activities
10
Balance sheet
11
Notes to the financial statements
12 - 21
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 1 -

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 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 trust'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)".

Objectives and activities
  1. Objectives and Aims

The Latvian Welfare Trust’s public benefit respectively charitable activities have significantly increased in the scale in recent years, because of the increase in numbers of Latvians living in the UK. However, these activities build on what was in place initially when the charity was formed focusing on:

The maintenance of the London and Catthorpe centres is of great psychological and practical significance to the Latvian community in Britain. The centres contain not only facilities but also works of art and important historical books and documents. It is fundamental to and makes possible our charitable activities. Hence, making a success of the trading activities supports the continued existence of the two centres.

Our staff and our volunteers deserve our sincere gratitude for their huge added efforts they put into our organisation.

Overview of our cultural centres

Catthorpe Manor (also the registered office for the Trust) is an estate with several function rooms and outbuildings, most of which are leased out to it subsidiary trading company, DVF Estate Ltd. The London house is a six-storey building with a community hall and hotel business leased out to it subsidiary trading company DVF London Ltd.

The Catthorpe centre provides:

The London Centre provides:

This centre serves as a vibrant hub for the Latvian community, offering a wide range of services and facilities.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 2 -

Both Centres also:

Public benefit

In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit: running a charity (PB2)'.

These are the charitable, public benefit, activities undertaken in 2024, grouped according to the charity’s objects:

1. Advance the education of Latvian people in Latvia and in the United Kingdom independently and with Assistance of other organisations.

 

2. Advance the education of Latvian people in Latvia and in the United Kingdom independently and with Assistance of other organisations.

3. Advance the education of Latvian people in Latvia and in the United Kingdom independently and with Assistance of other organisations.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 3 -

At Catthorpe the subsidy value was £36,830 for the following activities including:

At the London centre the subsidy value for the following was £40,974 including:

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 4 -

4. To preserve ancient and modern buildings, monuments, archives and works of art of historical or cultural importance to Latvia and its people and is desirable to preserve for the public benefit and historic importance of the Baltic States.

 

5. To organise and promote social events and recreational activities for the benefit of Latvian people who have a need for such facilities by reason of their age, infirmity, financial hardship, and hardship caused by social or economic circumstances with the object of improving their conditions of life.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 5 -
Achievements and performance
Significant activities and achievements against objectives

While both UK centres employed paid staff through its subsidiary companies to carry out the normal day to day operational functions, most of the background work of the Trust is carried out by the Trustees and other volunteers from the Latvian community.

The role of volunteers is important and over the years their input has been invaluable, not least because of the cost savings. Apart from the Trustees, there are up to 100 other volunteers in any one year who contribute a wide range of skill and expertise, to advise for example about savings on utilities to practical help in clearing up the Estate. It has, however, become increasingly difficult to find suitable Trustees as this does require specific knowledge and time commitment. To reduce the pressure on the Trustees, the Board employs a full-time administrator, who takes on most of the administrative functions, and increases our presence on social media, supports the residents of the sheltered housing and increases the involvement of the diaspora in Trust activities. People who have moved from Latvia to the UK during the last 30 years now form a key part of the membership and the various committees, which is a positive sign for the future.

The Trust works closely with other Latvian organisations such as Latvian Diaspora Representatives in UK and the Latvian Lutheran Church as well as with the Embassy of Latvia to the UK. The Trust also supports the Latvian Educational Foundation, a joint charity established with the Latvian National Council, which helps to provide financial assistance to the growing number of weekend schools for Latvian children in the UK and supports various other educational and cultural activities.

In 2024 the subsidiaries donated all their profits to LWT which was used to support community groups and other charitable activities.

Financial review

A. Going Concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Trust 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.

Properties owned by LWT are leased to two separate subsidiaries DVF Estate Ltd and DVF London Ltd. Together with the Trustees, the trading company directors continued to develop a wide-ranging strategic review of the properties held within the lease. This involved looking for any other possible revenue streams without requiring significant capital investment. The purpose was to ensure that both the Trustees and the trading companies obtained the best possible outcomes from the use of its properties and that the needs of the Latvian community were met in line with the charitable objectives of the Trust. Any significant changes recommended would need to be approved by the members of the Trust.

The London property relies very much on the tourist industry whilst Catthorpe is an events venue, suitable for conferences and events.

During the summer months, the London guest house is at a 90% occupancy rate, but longer-term predictions are a little difficult as bookings are normally made weeks rather than months in advance. Nevertheless, there is growing demand in London for accommodation, so predictions are strong for continued growth in income levels.

The event hall in London is mostly used by Latvian community groups for choir and dance group rehearsals. The Directors of DVF London Ltd advertise the hall to other potential external customers to increase income.

The Latvian Welfare Trust is recognised by HMRC for Gift Aid, so Trustees have established a committee to increase efforts in attracting donations and claim Gift Aid where eligible.

 

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 6 -

B. Reserves Policy

It is the policy of the Trust that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should be maintained at a level equivalent to between three- and six-month’s expenditure. The Trustees consider that reserves at this level will ensure that, in the event of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the Trust’s current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. This level of reserves has been maintained throughout the year.

If required, additional reserves could be raised by disposal of a fixed asset. However, Trustees believe that such disposal would reduce the volume of charitable activities by the Trust and are not in favour of such action.

C. Principal Risks and Uncertainties

The charity's activities expose it to several financial risks including price risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.

The management changes and advanced financial controls that have been implemented are regarded as positive for the future viability of the new businesses.

D. Price Risk

The charity is exposed to price risk in the hotel and events industry, however the directors of its subsidiaries, reporting to the Trustees and in conjunction with the Trustees, regularly review and adjust the pricing structure to take account of competition and general market conditions to attract new customers.

E. Credit Risk

The charity has no significant concentration of credit risk, with exposure spread over a wide number of customers.

F. Liquidity Risk

There is currently one loan outstanding with a substantial balance in the reserves. The Trustees continue to seek improvements in the trade of its subsidiary undertakings to finance ongoing activities. A steady improvement in turnover is expected with the restructuring of the business at Catthorpe Manor and the demand for rooms in London guest house remains high.

G. Principal Funding

The principal funding sources are the trading activities from its subsidiary companies and rentals from the flats and houses on the Catthorpe estate. Income is also generated from the Garden Annex at Catthorpe Manor, which runs the sheltered housing accommodation and has several rooms to let.

H. Future Plans

Following the refurbishment of Catthorpe Manor in recent years, with the associated costs, it is not anticipated that any further major developments will be considered for some years, apart from upgrading the territory, allowing finances to stabilise. The guest house in London also continues to require regular maintenance.

We do not plan to invest further in the purchase of properties on the Catthorpe Estate at this time.

Structure, governance and management

 

A. Constitution

 

The Latvian Welfare Trust is registered as a charitable company limited by guarantee and was set up by a Memorandum of Association.

 

B. Governing Document

 

The charity is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 7 -

C. Recruitment and Appointment of New Trustees

 

New Trustees are appointed from suitable candidates who have the necessary language skills and experience in the specific requirements of the Trust. New Trustees undergo a briefing session to outline their legal obligations under charity and company law, the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the business plans and recent financial summaries. The training needs of each Trustee are assessed on an individual basis, and any courses are arranged where appropriate.

 

D. Organisational Structure

 

The board of Trustees, comprising of no more than nine members, is elected from members and delegates of the Latvian Welfare Fund (also known as the DVF) branches and groups at the AGM held in March each year.

 

Election is on a rotation basis for a period of 3 years and Trustees are open to re-election at the end of that period. A general meeting is also held September/October each year. There have been reductions in the number of branches over previous years, in part due to changes in the rules governing branches and groups. A “branch” is required to have at least 20 members, whereas a “group” can be formed with at least 10 members.

 

None of the Trustees receive any remuneration or any other benefit from their work with the charity, nor are there any contractual relations between any Trustees and suppliers or contractors to any of the centres. The board of Trustees meets monthly to discuss general business and specific issues relating to the running of the centres in London and Catthorpe.

 

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:

 

 

Mr M Vizbulis
Ms KI Zobens East
Mrs E Browell
(Appointed 9 March 2024)
Mrs B Freimane
Mrs L Liepina
(Appointed 9 March 2024)
Mrs E Osa
Mr J Voitkevics
Mrs R Harrison
(Appointed 9 March 2025)
Mrs E Beet
(Appointed 9 March 2024)
Mr G Lerhs
(Resigned 7 November 2024)
Mr UJ Revelins
(Resigned 9 March 2024)
Mrs I Grickus
(Resigned 9 March 2024)

E. Wider Network

 

The Trust works closely with the Latvian Educational Foundation 1990 (charity no.1004578) by appointing two Trustees who, together with other Foundation Trustees, provide scholarships and support to Latvian weekend schools in the UK and grants to other educational and cultural programmes. In 2024 the Trust was represented by:

 

 

F. Related Party Relationships

 

The Latvian Welfare Fund is considered to be a related party as the board of Trustees is selected from its membership in accordance with the Trust’s Memorandum and Articles as amended in November 2014.

 

The Latvian Welfare Trust formed two 100% owned subsidiaries - DVF London Ltd and DVF Estate Ltd of which the profits are donated to the Trust.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 8 -

Mr Miks Vizbulis became a Trustee on 12.03.2017 and has since 1 April 2017 rented property on the Catthorpe estate which is owned by The Latvian Welfare Trust but was leased to DVF Estate Ltd. He pays a commercial rent and receives no privileges. As the Trust owns and rents out several properties on the estate, occasionally using a letting agency, guidance on rents has been made available.

 

Mr Girts Lehrs was appointed a Trustee on 20 March 2022 and resigned on 7 November 2024. He was also a member of the team organising the Midsummer Festival at Catthorpe Manor. He received no payment from the fees charged to attendees and he had not been involved in any financial negotiations concerning the use of the land rented for the festival.

 

G. Risk Management

 

The Trustees have a risk management strategy which comprises:

 

 

The Trustees are aware that financial sustainability is the main risk for the charity. Key elements in the management of financial risk are budgets to highlight expected business trends, together with assessment of monthly financial summaries against budget and close attention to cash flow. Additional attention has also been focussed on the more general non-financial risks arising from fire, health and safety, and food hygiene. Particular attention is given to the operation of the sheltered accommodation at Catthorpe for the well-being of its residents.

 

Trustees are committed to the standards outlined in the Charity Commission’s Charity Governance Code.

 

H. Fundraising

 

The charity has no fundraising activities requiring disclosure under Section 162 of Charities Act 2011

 

I. Remuneration Policy

 

Our approach to remuneration ensures that we can attract and retain talented and motivated people who can achieve our mission and deliver our objectives. Our aim is to pay competitively in the not-for-profit sector within the context of affordability.

 

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

Ms KI Zobens East
Trustee
26 September 2025
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
- 9 -

I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of The Latvian Welfare Trust (the trust) for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the trust (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.

Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the trust 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 trust’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.

Independent examiner's statement

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 trust as required by section 386 of the Companies Act 2006.

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 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

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 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.

James Melvin BA BFP FCA
Cottons Accountants LLP
Chestnut Field House
Chestnut Field
Rugby
Warwickshire
CV21 2PD
United Kingdom
26 September 2025
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 10 -
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
3
41,000
54,250
Other trading activities
4
48,349
39,464
Investments
5
108,000
75,000
Other income
6
-
309,603
Total income
197,349
478,317
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
51,642
-
Charitable activities
8
209,441
706,717
Total expenditure
261,083
706,717
Net expenditure and movement in funds
(63,734)
(228,400)
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 January 2024
11,101,089
11,329,489
Fund balances at 31 December 2024
11,037,355
11,101,089

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

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 DECEMBER 2024
31 December 2024
- 11 -
2024
2023
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Investment property
14
11,332,956
11,332,956
Investments
15
2
2
11,332,958
11,332,958
Current assets
Debtors
17
29,725
12,975
Cash at bank and in hand
28,094
20,974
57,819
33,949
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
18
(353,422)
(265,818)
Net current liabilities
(295,603)
(231,869)
Total assets less current liabilities
11,037,355
11,101,089
The funds of the trust
Unrestricted funds
21
11,037,355
11,101,089
11,037,355
11,101,089

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 December 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 2025
Ms KI Zobens East
Trustee
Company registration number 05853180 (England and Wales)
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 12 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

The Latvian Welfare Trust is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Catthorpe Manor, Lilbourne Road, Catthorpe, Leicestershire, LE17 6DF, England.

1.1
Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the trust'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 trust is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

 

The trust 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 trust. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The Latvian Welfare Trust meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

1.2
Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the trust has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The trustees acknowledge that at the year end date, the Trust had net current liabilities, however, subsequent to the year end donations have been received by the two subsidiaries. Furthermore, the Trust continues to benefit from support from the wider Latvian community. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3
Charitable funds

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

1.4
Income
Income is recognised when the trust 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 trust 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 trust 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.
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 13 -
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:

Fixtures and fittings
20% on Cost

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
Investment property

Investment property, which is property held to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation, is initially recognised at cost, which includes the purchase cost and any directly attributable expenditure. Subsequently it is measured at fair value at the reporting end date. The surplus or deficit on revaluation is recognised in profit or loss.

1.8
Fixed asset investments

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

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.

1.10
Financial instruments

The trust 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 trust's balance sheet when the trust 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.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
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 trust’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 trust 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 trust’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.

Key sources of estimation uncertainty
Investment Properties

The valuation of the Trust's property portfolio, is the most material area of estimation due to its inherent subjectivity, reliance on assumptions and sensitivity to market fluctuations.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 15 -
3
Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Donations and gifts
41,000
54,250
4
Income from other trading activities
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Non-charitable trading activities
48,349
39,464
5
Income from investments
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Rental income
108,000
75,000
6
Other income
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Net gain on disposal of intangible fixed assets
-
309,603
7
Expenditure on raising funds
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
Trading costs
Staff costs
51,642
-
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 16 -
8
Expenditure on charitable activities
Activities undertaken directly
Activities undertaken directly
2024
2023
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
39,555
96,417
Depreciation and impairment
-
484
Catthorpe Manor charitable activities
132,590
590,239
172,145
687,140
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Governance
37,296
19,577
209,441
706,717
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
209,441
706,717
9
Support costs allocated to activities
2024
2023
£
£
Finance
377
423
Other
1,172
(6,811)
Governance costs
35,747
25,965
37,296
19,577
Analysed between:
Activities undertaken directly
37,296
19,577
10
Net movement in funds
2024
2023
£
£
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the independent examination of the charity's financial statements
8,100
-
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
-
484
Loss/(profit) on disposal of intangible assets
-
(309,603)
11
Trustees

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2023 - £Nil)

 

During the year ended 31 December 2024, expenses totalling £1,068 were reimbursed or paid directly to 4 Trustees (2023 - £100, 1 Trustee).

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 17 -
12
Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2024
2023
Number
Number
5
2
Employment costs
2024
2023
£
£
Wages and salaries
84,092
86,014
Social security costs
4,918
8,098
Other pension costs
2,187
2,305
91,197
96,417
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
13
Taxation

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

14
Investment property
2024
£
Fair value
At 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
11,332,956

72 Queensborough Terrace was valued on a fair market value basis on 3rd March 2022 by Savills, with a valuation of £6,000,000 being provided retrospectively as at 31 December 2021.

 

Catthorpe Manor was valued at £4,450,000 by Holt Commercial at market value on 28 August 2020. The valuation includes a special consideration regarding the uncertainty of the current market as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and reliance was therefore placed on transactions which took place prior to look down.

 

3 Bungalows on the estate at Catthorpe were purchased between 2020 and 2021 for a total cost of £882,956. The Board believe there has been no material changes in valuation since acquisition.

Included in the net book value of property displayed above are the following amounts ascribable to land:
2024
2023
£
£
Historic cost
4,700,000
4,700,000
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 18 -
15
Fixed asset investments
Unlisted investments
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024 & 31 December 2024
2
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
2
At 31 December 2023
2
16
Subsidiaries

Separate company financial statements are required to be prepared by law. The Trust qualifies for exemption from the requirement to prepare consolidated financial statements under s.139 of the Charities Act 2011 and s.399 of the Companies Act 2006.

Details of the trust's subsidiaries at 31 December 2024 are as follows:

Name of undertaking
Registered
Nature of business
Class of
% Held
office
shares held
Direct
Indirect
DVF Estate LTD
England and Wales
Management and operation of the Catthorpe Manor Estate
Ordinary
100.00
DVF London LTD
England and Wales
Operation of a hotel and guest house
Ordinary
100.00

The investments in subsidiaries are all stated at cost.

17
Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
8,826
1,520
Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings
19,298
11,317
Prepayments and accrued income
1,601
138
29,725
12,975
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
- 19 -
18
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
£
£
Borrowings
243,850
175,000
Other taxation and social security
-
2,668
Trade creditors
37,387
29,410
Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings
25,807
10,880
Other creditors
37,500
37,980
Accruals and deferred income
8,878
9,880
353,422
265,818
19
Loans and overdrafts
2024
2023
£
£
Other loans
243,850
175,000
Payable within one year
243,850
175,000

The loans are interest free and repayable on demand.

20
Retirement benefit schemes
2024
2023
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
2,187
2,305

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

21
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 January 2024
Incoming resources
Resources expended
At 31 December 2024
£
£
£
£
General funds
10,351,089
197,349
(261,083)
10,287,355
Revaluation reserve
750,000
-
-
750,000
THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
21
Unrestricted funds
(Continued)
- 20 -
Previous year:
At 1 January 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
At 31 December 2023
£
£
£
£
General funds
10,579,489
478,317
(706,717)
10,351,089
Revaluation reserve
750,000
-
-
750,000
22
Operating lease commitments
Lessor

At the reporting end date the trust had contracted with tenants for the following minimum lease payments:

2024
2023
£
£
Within one year
132,000
-
Between two and five years
396,000
-
528,000
-
23
Related party transactions
Transactions with related parties

Transactions with the subsidiary companies are set out below.

2024
2023
£
£
Rents receivable from LWT Trading UK Limited
-
75,000
Interest receivable from LWT Trading UK Limited
-
309,063
Rents receivable from DVF Estate Ltd
36,000
-
Rents receivable from DVF London Ltd
72,000
-
108,000
384,063

The Trust was owed £19,298 (2023: £11,317) from DVF Estate Ltd at the year end.

 

The Trust owed £25,807 (2023: £10,880) to DVF London Ltd at the year end.

THE LATVIAN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
23
Related party transactions
(Continued)
- 21 -

The Latvian Welfare Fund is considered to be a related party as the board of trustees is selected from its membership in accordance with the Trust's Memorandum and Articles as amended in November 2014.

 

Transactions with The Latvian Welfare Fund are listed below along with the outstanding balances at the year end.

Amounts owed to related parties
2024
2023
£
£
Leeds branch loan outstanding creditor balance
175,000
175,000
Leeds branch loan interest paid
5,658
5,658
Latvian Welfare Fund loan
68,850
-
249,508
180,658
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