REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 04941401 (England and Wales)

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1112667

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND

UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025

FOR

MAIDEN LANE COMMUNITY CENTRE LTD

Page

Reference and administrative details

1

Report of the trustees

2

to

11

Independent examiner's report

12

Statement of financial activities

13

Statement of financial position

14

to

15

Statement of cash flows

16

Notes to the financial statements

17

to

24

TRUSTEES

Ms Judith Powell

Mr John Cowley

Ms Valerie Amajoutt

Mr David Michael Sharratt

Ms. Marian Larragy

Ms Fatima Yousuf (appointed 17.4.24)

Ms Khedijah Ali Mohamed-Nur (appointed 17.4.24)

Ms Miriam Mannish (appointed 17.4.24)

Mr Andrew James Dowell (resigned 3.6.24)

Mr Danny Beales (resigned 19.4.24)

COMPANY SECRETARY

Mr Nazrul Islam

REGISTERED OFFICE

156 St Paul's Crescent

London

NW1 9XZ

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER

04941401 (England and Wales)

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER

1112667

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

Leroy Reid & Co

Chartered Certified

Accountants

299 Northborough Road

Norbury

London

SW16 4TR

The members of the Management Committee, who are also directors of the charity for purpose of the Companies Act, and trustees for the purpose of the Charity Act present their annual report and accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in Note 1 of the accounts and comply with the Companies Act 2006 and ‘Accounting and Reporting for Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Objectives and aims

The charity’s objects are:

To promote the benefit of the people living, working and studying in the area described as: Bounded by York Way, The Canal and Camley Nature Park and St. Pancras Hospital, Royal College Street, Camden Road, Cantelowes Gardens and North Point Estate and to enter into partnerships with other voluntary, community and statutory service providers with similar objectives to those of Maiden Lane Community Centre Ltd., to provide services throughout the Borough of Camden and in adjacent Boroughs without distinction of sex, sexual orientation or of political opinion, race, colour or creed by associating with local authorities, voluntary organisations and inhabitants in a common effort to advance education and to provide facilities in the interests of the social welfare for recreation and leisure time occupation with the object of improving the conditions of life of the said inhabitants.

To establish or to secure the establishment of a Community Centre and to maintain and manage, or to co-operate with any local or statutory authority in the maintenance and management of such a Centre for activities promoted by the Association and its constituent bodies in furtherance of the above objects. The Association shall be non-party in politics and non-sectarian in religion.

The Trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the charity should undertake.

Public benefit

The Trustees confirm that Maiden Lane Community Centre's activities continue to serve the public benefit by supporting local residents in one of the most deprived areas of Camden. Through our broad range of services, including youth provision, food support, and educational programmes, we aim to alleviate the social and economic challenges faced by the local community. In line with our charitable objectives, we ensure that all activities are accessible to those in need, regardless of their background, fostering a more inclusive and resilient community.

Volunteers

Maiden Lane Community Centre is supported by a large number of volunteers. There is a Volunteering Policy in place that underpins the way the Centre works with volunteers and details the benefits of volunteering for both the individual and the Centre. All volunteers are given a Volunteer Induction Pack and an induction before they start work with the Centre.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Charitable activities

Maiden Lane Community Centre: Supporting a Diverse and Vulnerable Community

Maiden Lane Community Centre, strategically located in the heart of the Maiden Lane Estate, serves as a lifeline for over 700 families in one of the top 10% most deprived areas in England. Since its founding in 1983, the Centre has been dedicated to providing essential services and support to the local community, acting as a vital hub for residents not only on Maiden Lane Estate but also across neighbouring areas, including the Agar Grove, St. Pancras Way, Elm Village, and Camden Square Estates. The Centre's reach extends further through its partnerships with local schools, social services, health professionals, and community organisations.

We receive a steady flow of referrals from Camden Council, social services, schools, GPs, NHS support workers, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Mind in Camden, and various faith and community groups. These organisations play a crucial role in identifying individuals and families in need, ensuring that those facing the most significant challenges can access the services and support they require.

Maiden Lane is located in an area that grapples with substantial socio-economic challenges, and when compared to the broader Camden area, the statistics reflect the stark disparities faced by its residents. The neighbourhood continues to experience high levels of poverty, unemployment, and social isolation. Key indicators of the socio-economic difficulties in the area include:

- 42.2% of children living in poverty (Camden average: 36%), reflecting the significant barriers families face in providing for their children's needs.

- 13% of working-age adults receiving out-of-work benefits (Camden average: 9.3%), indicating the challenges in securing stable employment within the community.

- 41.7% of lone parents receiving lone parent's allowance (Camden average: 26.8%), highlighting the financial strain on single-parent families who are disproportionately affected by economic hardship.

- 39.6% of older people living in deprivation (Camden average: 30.8%), which is a concern for the older population who are particularly vulnerable to isolation, ill-health, and financial insecurity.

These figures paint a picture of a community facing systemic barriers to upward mobility and access to basic resources. Maiden Lane Community Centre has been steadfast in addressing these challenges, offering a range of services and support that aim to reduce inequality, provide relief for families, and offer a sense of hope and connection for those living in one of the most deprived areas of Camden.

Maiden Lane Pre-School: Supporting Vulnerable 2-Year-Olds

At Maiden Lane Community Centre, we offer a 'free spaces' Pre-School programme that provides vital support to vulnerable 2-year-olds in our community. Our Pre-School, rated 'GOOD' by Ofsted, offers a high-quality educational experience for children facing significant challenges. Many attendees come from households with higher-than-average child poverty compared to Camden, making our support even more critical.

To ensure every child thrives, we provide healthy, nutritious hot lunches and snacks sourced from a variety of cultures. This not only supports healthy eating but also introduces children to diverse cuisines, fostering cultural awareness.

Our Pre-School offers more than education-it provides a safe, stimulating environment where children can explore, play, socialise, and develop essential life skills. Through both structured activities and free play, children gain confidence, resilience, and curiosity. These early years are crucial for setting the foundation for success, and by offering free spaces, we ensure children in our community have the best start.

We are committed to making a meaningful impact on local children's lives. Our Pre-School provides not only care but also developmental support, helping break the cycle of poverty and set children on a brighter future. This foundation is essential for success both academically and socially, setting them on a path to lifelong achievement.

Maiden Lane Junior Club: Positive Activities for Children and Young People

The Maiden Lane Junior Club remains an essential resource for children aged 5-10 in our community. We offer weekly term-time sessions and a school holiday programme with fun club days and organised trips. Activities include sports, arts and crafts, family cooking, and initiatives promoting healthy eating and well-being.

As one of the few funded projects in Camden for under-10s, our Junior Club plays a crucial role in supporting children's positive development. For many local children, it's a space to form friendships, build life skills, and develop a sense of belonging. Our programme nurtures social skills, creativity, and teamwork, which are vital for both personal and academic growth.

The Junior Club is an inclusive environment where all children, regardless of background, feel supported. Whether engaging in sports, creative arts, or cooking, the activities we offer help children develop resilience, improve social connections, and discover lifelong interests.

The Club also offers families a safe space for their children to grow in a supportive environment. Parents can have peace of mind, knowing their children are actively engaged in positive activities that foster both academic and social development.

Through the Junior Club, we not only enrich children's lives but also strengthen our community, empowering young people to lead healthy, fulfilling lives and benefit from a thriving, connected environment.

Maiden Lane Youth Club: Engaging Older Young People

The Maiden Lane Youth Club, funded by LB Camden, provides weekly sessions throughout the year, offering a variety of activities such as sports, arts, cooking, and access to Maiden Lane's state-of-the-art music studio. These activities help young people develop skills, build friendships, and discover new interests in a safe environment.

We offer both Boys' and Girls' Groups, providing gender-specific activities that promote self-expression, confidence, and leadership. Our youth workers play a key role in supporting local young people, particularly those at risk in Camden Square Ward. As tensions in the local area increased, we provided older youth with access to the music studio outside of regular Youth Club sessions. This allowed them to collaborate, create music, and engage in positive, creative activities.

The music studio became a vital space for older youth to express themselves and build self-esteem through music. It provided an alternative to negative behaviours and offered a constructive outlet for their creativity.

Our youth workers also offer mentorship, helping young people navigate challenges and connect with opportunities. By building trust and offering guidance, they help youth address personal issues, explore educational and career options, and make positive choices.

Through these efforts, we provide a space where young people can thrive, building resilience and life skills. Our Youth Club continues to be a key resource in the community, helping young people grow and succeed.

Girls GLOW Project

Maiden Lane Community Centre was awarded five-year funding from the City Bridge Foundation to support Girls GLOW - a project designed to empower young women living on Camden's social housing estates who face exclusion, are involved in criminal activity, or are at high risk of becoming involved.

Our research revealed that these young women were in need of a space to meet, build skills, engage in activities they enjoy, and receive support from trusted youth workers.

Girls GLOW - which stands for "Get Lots of Wisdom" - provides young women with essential life skills and the tools they need to navigate and thrive as they transition into adolescence and adulthood. The project's focus is on enhancing confidence and self-esteem, with activities designed to encourage discussions about image, identity, hopes, dreams, and emotional and social wellbeing. We use creative methods such as music, media, videography, and other interactive tools to engage participants.

This initiative provides a safe and supportive environment where young women can express themselves authentically. We work with young women aged 10 to 18, and many continue to seek support from us even after they graduate from the programme. This ongoing support often includes assistance with job applications, or advice on college and university applications, helping them to further their education and career goals.

10-Teen Project and Maiden Lane Street Team: Supporting At-Risk Young People Through Transition

Funded by the LB Camden Community Impact Levy, our 10-Teen Project provides essential support to young people aged 10-13 during their critical transition years. The project aims to help them navigate this challenging stage of life, equipping them with the skills and resilience needed for the years ahead. Weekly youth sessions were held across both the Maiden Lane and St. Pancras Way Estates, complemented by school holiday activities. These sessions were designed to engage young people in positive, structured activities while fostering a sense of community and belonging.

An integral component of this work is the Maiden Lane Street Team, which directly engages at-risk youth in their communities, offering support and guidance to those most vulnerable. Operating across Maiden Lane and St. Pancras Way Estates in Camden Square Ward, the Street Team focuses on young people at risk of gang involvement, anti-social behaviour, or those already impacted by these issues. Youth workers are a constant presence on the streets and estates, offering positive role models and delivering key messages about safe behaviour, respect, and community involvement.

Through this work, we not only support young people in crisis but also encourage them to participate in the many youth programmes we offer at Maiden Lane. This approach has proven successful, with increased participation from young people who now actively contribute to various activities. This engagement not only keeps them out of harm's way but also provides them with opportunities to develop essential life skills.

Looking ahead, we are committed to strengthening our efforts by expanding our collaboration with local schools and engaging more closely with young people who are particularly vulnerable, including those identified by Youth Offending services. Our goal is to continue providing a safe, supportive environment where young people can thrive and make positive decisions about their future.

Summer Holiday Programmes for Children and Young People

Maiden Lane Community Centre delivers a comprehensive summer programme designed to engage children and young people of all ages, with part-funding from the Camden Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, a Department for Education initiative. This 1-week Easter and 4-week summer programme is specifically tailored to provide children and young people who are eligible for Free School Meals with free access to a wide range of enriching activities alongside a nutritious meal each day, ensuring both their physical and emotional well-being throughout the summer break.

The activities on offer were diverse and designed to engage different interests, promote creativity, and encourage physical activity. These included DJ and Music Production, Music Studio Sessions, arts and crafts, gardening and green spaces activities, Multi-Sports (football, basketball, etc.), boxing, Zip lining and trips to Woburn safari Park and Chessington.

The programme not only provided a fun and dynamic range of activities but also ensured that every participant received at least one healthy meal per day, promoting healthier eating habits and contributing to the overall well-being of the children. The emphasis on healthy, nutritious meals, which included fresh fruit, vegetables, and balanced options, was particularly important as it helped to combat food insecurity during the summer months.

At the end of the programme, many parents expressed their deep gratitude for the relief the summer scheme provided, particularly in light of the rising cost of living. Families shared how the programme helped alleviate the financial burden of preparing lunches each day. For many, this meant significant savings, especially as they were facing ongoing financial challenges. Beyond just offering activities and meals, the programme gave parents peace of mind, knowing their children were engaged, safe, and enjoying themselves in a positive environment.

Summer Residential for Young People

The Summer Residential programme provided an incredible opportunity for young people to participate in outdoor activities, build teamwork skills, and take on leadership roles. Focused on physical activities, the residential allowed participants to engage in a range of exciting challenges designed to improve both their physical fitness and mental well-being.

Activities included Archery, High Ropes, Tree Top Trail, Low Ropes, Adventure Course, Forest Adventure, Kayaking, Canoeing, Raft Building and Orienteering.

In addition to increasing physical activity, the programme offered young people the chance to develop a variety of essential life skills, including leadership, resilience, communication, teamwork, confidence, and self-awareness.

The residential experience not only encouraged young people to get more active but also provided them with a unique opportunity to step outside their comfort zones. Many of the participants had never had the chance to go away from home or experience a holiday, making this programme an invaluable life experience that helped to foster independence and personal growth.

Maiden Lane Food Bank

The Maiden Lane Food Bank is a vital resource supporting Camden's most vulnerable residents. Our mission is to protect those at risk from hunger and help food-insecure families achieve their nutritional and health goals with dignity. By providing emergency food relief and support services, we aim to empower individuals and families, giving them the foundation to rebuild and regain stability. We provided 1,052 food parcels and 65 hygiene packs to local people in need.

We receive referrals from Camden Council, Social Services, Housing Services, Citizens Advice Bureau, JobCentre Plus, local community organisations, faith groups, Mind in Camden, schools, and self-referrals. This broad network ensures that we reach those in need, including families struggling with unemployment, health issues, or economic deprivation.

Our food parcels are tailored to meet the diverse needs of our community, including BAME families, such as Somali and Bangladeshi residents, ensuring cultural and dietary preferences are respected. This approach fosters inclusivity and trust, enabling us to support a broad spectrum of people, regardless of their background or circumstances.

In addition, we provide support to those who are socially isolated, such as older residents and individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Many of these individuals face barriers to accessing food and services, so we offer regular deliveries to ensure they don't go without.

As demand for our services has increased, particularly post-pandemic, we've expanded our volunteer network, allowing us to deliver food and essentials more efficiently. Volunteers play a central role in sorting, packing, and delivering parcels, and through their dedication, we can reach more families across Camden.

The Maiden Lane Food Bank is more than just a provider of food - it is a community-driven initiative that fosters resilience and solidarity. Through collaboration and compassionate care, we help ensure that vulnerable residents have access to the support they need to thrive.

Sewing Classes

In partnership with the Working Men's College, Maiden Lane Community Centre offers a series of sewing classes during term time that have become an integral part of our community outreach efforts. These classes are especially valued by residents, particularly women from BAME communities, as they provide not only a valuable skill set but also a space for social connection and empowerment.

For many participants, these classes serve as an opportunity to learn the craft of sewing, which can open doors to personal creativity, new hobbies, and even potential income generation. But perhaps more importantly, the classes foster a strong sense of belonging and community. As many of the attendees are from marginalised backgrounds, these sessions provide a safe, inclusive environment where individuals can come together, support one another, and build relationships.

Participants often meet outside the classes to share meals, stories, and life experiences, creating a network of support that extends beyond the classroom. This sense of camaraderie is invaluable in a community where many individuals face challenges related to isolation or economic hardship.

Activities for Older People

Supporting older residents is a priority for Maiden Lane Community Centre, and we are proud to provide a range of activities specifically designed to address the needs of this often-overlooked demographic. Social isolation and loneliness are significant issues facing older people, especially since the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and our programs aim to combat these challenges while also promoting mental and physical well-being.

We are proud to house Camden Shed that provides a dedicated space for older men to engage in DIY, woodwork, ceramics, and pottery. These hands-on activities not only help individuals remain active and physically engaged but also provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Camden Shed offers a platform for men to connect, share skills, and collaborate on projects, all of which are integral in tackling feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of community.

Maiden Lane also delivers monthly community meals for older residents in partnership with 'Meet and Grains', offering another vital opportunity for people to come together, share conversations, and enjoy a cup of tea in a relaxed setting. These informal gatherings are particularly important in reducing the sense of loneliness that can often come with aging, particularly for those living alone or with limited mobility.

The post-pandemic landscape has highlighted a growing need for activities that support older people's mental health and well-being, and we have seen an increased demand for social interaction opportunities. We are committed to expanding these services to ensure that older residents feel connected, valued, and supported in their communities. Our ongoing fundraising efforts will focus on creating additional opportunities for physical activity, socialising, and engagement to further alleviate isolation and promote a healthy, active lifestyle for older adults.

Through these programs, Maiden Lane Community Centre is making a tangible impact on the lives of older residents, providing them with the resources and support they need to lead fulfilling and independent lives. The positive outcomes of these initiatives are evident in the connections made, the skills developed, and the enhanced mental and physical health of those involved.

Estate-Based Work and Collaboration with the TRA

At Maiden Lane Community Centre, we recognise the importance of strong partnerships with local community groups, and our collaboration with the Maiden Lane Tenants and Residents Association (TRA) plays a central role in enhancing the community spirit and well-being of residents. This partnership allows us to support initiatives and events that directly respond to the needs and aspirations of the people living in the area, ensuring that local voices are heard and that projects are developed with community input and ownership.

Throughout the year, Maiden Lane Community Centre has been proud to support the TRA in delivering a range of community events and initiatives that bring people together, foster a sense of belonging, and promote social cohesion. These events include:

Maiden Lane Estates Fireworks Display: A community celebration that brings families together to enjoy a safe, fun event with food and drinks, promoting social interaction and community engagement.

Maiden Lane Estate Community Meals: Intergenerational community meals celebrating local cultures and cuisines.

Winter Hampers for Older People: These hampers, which include food, treats, blankets, warm socks, and slippers, are an essential gesture to combat loneliness and ensure that older residents feel valued and cared for during the winter months. This initiative highlights the importance of supporting the elderly, particularly in a post-pandemic environment where social isolation remains a key challenge.

Our collaboration with the Maiden Lane TRA is essential in creating sustainable, community-driven solutions. By empowering local people to take the lead on projects that matter most to them, we enable them to contribute to the development of their own neighbourhoods. This strengthens the fabric of the community, ensuring that local initiatives reflect the diverse needs and interests of residents.

Maiden Lane Social Enterprise: Grounds Maintenance on Maiden Lane Estate

One of our flagship initiatives that demonstrates our commitment to local employment, environmental sustainability, and community development is the Maiden Lane Social Enterprise. Through this project, Maiden Lane Community Centre Ltd manages the grounds maintenance for the Maiden Lane Estate. The initiative is designed not only to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the estate but also to provide valuable employment and training opportunities for local people.

The project focuses on:

- Employment and Skills Development: The social enterprise directly employs local residents, offering them the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in landscaping, horticulture, and grounds maintenance. This approach ensures that community members are empowered with practical skills that enhance their employability and career prospects. It also fosters a sense of pride and ownership over the green spaces in the area.

- Environmental Awareness: By caring for the estate's trees, shrubs, and green areas, the project promotes environmental consciousness among local residents. It raises awareness about the importance of maintaining green spaces for the well-being of the community, enhancing local biodiversity, and promoting sustainable living practices. Through this, we aim to cultivate a sense of environmental stewardship in residents of all ages.

- Community Engagement: The social enterprise is not only about grounds maintenance; it also plays a vital role in building community spirit. Additionally, the project helps to improve the overall quality of life on the estate, as well-maintained outdoor spaces are key to enhancing physical and mental well-being.

Through this social enterprise, Maiden Lane Community Centre has been able to make a tangible impact on both the local economy and the environment, providing long-term social value to the community. It's an excellent example of how sustainable, locally-driven projects can create both economic opportunities and a positive environmental impact, while strengthening community bonds.

Support for Vulnerable Children and Young People in Response to the Cost-of-Living Crisis

Maiden Lane Community Centre was committed to addressing the rising challenges faced by local families due to the ongoing cost of living crisis. Our initiatives were designed to support vulnerable children and young people, ensuring they had access to essential resources, opportunities, and a safe environment to thrive.

We expanded our Food Bank services to specifically meet the needs of children and young people. By purchasing essential items not covered by our usual food supplies from the Felix Project and Sainsbury's, we were able to ensure that families, particularly those with young children, received nutritious food and other essential items to alleviate food insecurity. This expansion helped fill a crucial gap in services for families struggling to make ends meet.

Additionally, we provided warm meals for young people accessing our youth provision. These meals were vital in supporting the health and well-being of children and young people after school and youth activity sessions, ensuring they had nutritious food to sustain them. This initiative not only helped combat food poverty but also fostered a sense of community and care, making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.

Recognising that clothing poverty was a growing concern, particularly for young people at risk of social exclusion raised funds to purchase 68 winter coats for local young people in need to ensure children and young people had access to appropriate winter clothing. This intervention directly addressed the issue of young people being excluded or engaging in criminal activity due to lack of proper clothing, while promoting their dignity, self-worth, and mental well-being. By meeting this basic need, we helped young people feel more confident and valued, reducing the likelihood of social isolation or involvement in anti-social behaviour.

Together, these initiatives reflected our ongoing commitment to tackling the socio-economic challenges faced by the most vulnerable in our community, ensuring that children and young people had the resources they needed to grow, thrive, and contribute positively to society.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial position

Trustees are satisfied with the financial performance of the charity, and this is on pages 13 and 14 of these accounts.

The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.

Reserves policy

The trustees have adopted the Charity Commission's guidance in setting a reserve policy which is based on realistic assessments of the needs for the Charity to hold reserves.

This policy takes into account the needs of the Charity to plan for contingencies and to protect both its staff and its clients from any unforeseen adverse circumstances.

MLCC will aim to maintain operating reserves equivalent to at least three months of operating expenses.

FUTURE PLANS

Looking ahead, Maiden Lane Community Centre remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. We plan to enhance our youth programmes, continue supporting families with essential food and resources, and grow our partnerships with local organisations to address the evolving needs of our community. We will explore additional funding opportunities to enable further development of our services, particularly in the areas of mental health support, social inclusion, and educational outreach.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing document

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.

The governing document of the Charity is the Memorandum and Articles of Association. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, one-third of the members of the Council for the time being, or if their number is not a multiple of three then the number nearest to one-third shall retire from office at the AGM.

Notice must be given in writing by a member of the Charity duly qualified to be present and vote at the meeting, of her/his intention to propose a person for election and also notice in writing, signed by the person to be proposed, of her/his willingness to be elected, not less than four nor more than twenty-eight intervening days before the AGM.

Organisational structure

The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee incorporated on 23rd October 2003 and registered as a charity on 10 January 2006. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association.

Maiden Lane Community Centre has nine Directors/Trustees who meet regularly throughout the year. The Trustees are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity and compliance. The Secretary attends the Committee meetings but has no voting rights.

The Trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law and who served during the year were:

Judy Powell

John Cowley

Valerie Amajoutt

David Sharratt

Marian Larragy

Annabel Rowe

Andrew Dowell

Danny Beales

Due to the nature of the charity's work the Trustees seek to ensure that the needs of all beneficiaries of the charity are represented amongst their membership. The charity, therefore, has a Trustee's Election/Co-option Policy.

Decision making and Service Delivery

The Directors/Trustees are responsible for strategic decision making.

A scheme of delegation is in place and day to day responsibility for the delivery of services rests with the Centre's Director of Strategy and of Operations and the staff team. The Director is responsible for ensuring that the charity delivers the services specified and that Quality Standards are maintained. All members of staff have a role in the day-to-day operations management of the Centre and ensuring that the Health and Safety and Safeguarding Policies are adhered to at all times. The Community Centre Director supervises members of the staff team and ensures that members of the team continue to develop their skills and working practices.

New trustees are invited to attend training sessions organised by Voluntary Action Camden if they want to gain further insight into specific aspects of managing a charity.

The charity's Memorandum and Articles call for the charity to co-operate with statutory authorities, voluntary and community organisations to achieve its objectives. Maiden Lane Community Centre maintains close working relationships with LB Camden, Camden Youth Service, and Camden's Children Schools and Families Department, Camden Community Safety Team, the Safer Neighbourhood Team, NHS, Camden Community Centres Consortium and other voluntary and community organisations. We have also established working relationships with a number of corporate bodies.

Risk management

The Trustees are mindful of the risks associated with our activities and continue to monitor these closely. Key risks include funding volatility and the potential impact of external economic pressures on the communities we serve. To mitigate these risks, we have implemented a robust risk management framework, including regular reviews of financial performance, contingency planning, and diversified income streams. Additionally, we maintain close relationships with key stakeholders and funders to ensure the sustainability of our operations.

Safeguarding

The safety and well-being of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, are of paramount importance to the Trustees. We have clear safeguarding policies in place and conduct regular training for staff and volunteers to ensure compliance with best practice standards. The Centre maintains a safeguarding lead and robust reporting procedures to promptly address any concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all participants in our programmes.

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES

The trustees (who are also the directors of Maiden Lane Community Centre Ltd for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) including Financial Reporting Standard 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland".

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 charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to

-	select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

-	observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP;

-	make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

-	prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Approved by order of the board of trustees on 11th December 2025 and signed on its behalf by:

Ms Judith Powell - Trustee

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Maiden Lane Community Centre Ltd ('the Company')

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31st March 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

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

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company 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 your charity's accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, 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:

1.	accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

2.	the accounts do not accord with those records; or

3.	the accounts 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 accounts 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 accounts to be reached.

Ebenezer Okai, BSc, FCCA

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants

Leroy Reid & Co

Chartered Certified

Accountants

299 Northborough Road

Norbury

London

SW16 4TR

12th December 2025

2025

2024

Unrestricted

Restricted

Total

Total

fund

fund

funds

funds

Notes

£

£

£

£

INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM

Donations and legacies

2

195,243

163,307

358,550

284,704

Other trading activities

3

11,915

-

11,915

22,997

Investment income

4

742

-

742

521

Total

207,900

163,307

371,207

308,222

EXPENDITURE ON

Charitable activities

5

Community centre and playscheme

220,973

163,307

384,280

358,936

NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)

(13,073

)

-

(13,073

)

(50,714

)

RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS

Total funds brought forward

109,891

-

109,891

160,605

TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD

96,818

-

96,818

109,891

2025

2024

Notes

£

£

FIXED ASSETS

Tangible assets

10

5,017

5,324

CURRENT ASSETS

Debtors

11

36,256

31,627

Cash at bank

115,731

83,403

151,987

115,030

CREDITORS

Amounts falling due within one year

12

(60,186

)

(10,463

)

NET CURRENT ASSETS

91,801

104,567

TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES

96,818

109,891

NET ASSETS

96,818

109,891

FUNDS

14

Unrestricted funds

96,818

109,891

TOTAL FUNDS

96,818

109,891

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31st March 2025.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31st March 2025 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for

(a)	ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and

(b)

preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 11th December 2025 and were signed on its behalf by:

Ms Judith Powell - Trustee

Cash flows from operating activities

Cash generated from operations

16

33,734

(25,746

)

Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities

33,734

(25,746

)

Cash flows from investing activities

Purchase of tangible fixed assets

(2,148

)

-

Interest received

742

521

Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities

(1,406

)

521

Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period

32,328

(25,225

)

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period

83,403

108,628

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period

115,731

83,403

1.	ACCOUNTING POLICIES

BASIS OF PREPARING THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) '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)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.

INCOME

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.

EXPENDITURE

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, 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 accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost 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 resources.

TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.

Plant and machinery

33% on cost

Fixtures and fittings

20% on cost

Computer equipment

25% on reducing balance

TAXATION

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

FUND ACCOUNTING

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

PENSION COSTS AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

2.	DONATIONS AND LEGACIES

2025

2024

£

£

Donations

33,933

12,036

L.B Camden - Youth Service Grant

15,000

15,000

LB Camden Community Partner

85,000

85,000

John Lyons Charity

50,000

-

L.B Camden- Early Years

31,985

48,191

LB Camden Ground Maintenance

19,125

-

L.B Camden - Recovery Grant

-

27,499

Young Camden Foundation

19,230

21,140

Greater London Authority

-

12,000

The J H Rausing Trust

-

16,334

LB Camden - cost of living

20,000

7,500

CIL Street Team

20,000

20,004

CAF - Make Moves Fund

-

20,000

Bywell Productions

5,200

-

City of London

54,400

-

Percy Bilton

4,677

-

358,550

284,704

3.	OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES

2025

2024

£

£

Hall hire

10,815

13,155

Children's Fees

1,100

9,842

11,915

22,997

4.	INVESTMENT INCOME

2025

2024

£

£

Deposit account interest

742

521

5.	CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS

Direct

Costs (see

note 6)

£

Community centre and playscheme

384,280

6.	DIRECT COSTS OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

2025

2024

£

£

Staff costs

297,513

282,150

Business rates & water rates

5,071

1,126

Insurance

3,954

3,639

Light & heat

6,457

15,776

Telephone

4,202

-

Printing, stationery and telephone

98

3,699

Centre activities

2,807

-

Repairs & maintenance

1,608

2,477

Maiden Lane Pre-school expenses

1,785

2,965

Pre-school equipment

1,184

866

Subscription & DBS check

1,137

1,199

Examination fees

4,032

4,032

Professional services

16,446

14,819

Training

1,538

487

Bank charges

-

151

Food Bank

2,242

1,963

Girls Glow Costs

6,072

2,387

Youth Expenses

945

970

Miscellaneous Expenses

2,329

6,425

Security Costs

420

1,336

Social Enterprise

2,674

-

S106 Grant

1,035

2,144

Small equipment purchases

2,939

1,000

HAF expenditure

9,011

5,504

Motor expenses

2,326

1,862

Grants disbursed

4,000

-

Depreciation

2,455

1,959

384,280

358,936

7.	NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)

Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):

2025

2024

£

£

Depreciation - owned assets

2,455

1,959

8.	TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31st March 2025 nor for the year ended 31st March 2024.

TRUSTEES' EXPENSES

There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31st March 2025 nor for the year ended 31st March 2024.

9.	STAFF COSTS

2025

2024

£

£

Wages and salaries

270,265

258,354

Social security costs

16,404

13,416

Other pension costs

10,844

10,380

297,513

282,150

The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:

2025

2024

Project worker

2

2

Core worker

13

13

15

15

No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.

10.	TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Fixtures

Plant and

and

Motor

Computer

machinery

fittings

vehicles

equipment

Totals

£

£

£

£

£

COST

At 1st April 2024

20,974

35,464

6,000

6,243

68,681

Additions

-

-

-

2,148

2,148

At 31st March 2025

20,974

35,464

6,000

8,391

70,829

DEPRECIATION

At 1st April 2024

20,972

33,661

3,000

5,724

63,357

Charge for year

2

286

1,500

667

2,455

At 31st March 2025

20,974

33,947

4,500

6,391

65,812

NET BOOK VALUE

At 31st March 2025

-

1,517

1,500

2,000

5,017

At 31st March 2024

2

1,803

3,000

519

5,324