IRIS Accounts Production v26.1.10.61 Other Company accounts True false Pounds 1.4.25 31.3.26 31.3.26 FY FRS 102 Independent examiner Small companies regime for accounts Full Charities SORP true true true true false true false true false iso4217:GBPiso4217:USDiso4217:EURxbrli:sharesxbrli:pureutr:tonnesutr:kWhNI0467632025-03-31NI0467632026-03-31NI0467632025-04-012026-03-31NI0467632024-03-31NI0467632024-04-012025-03-31NI0467632025-03-31NI046763ns0:CharitableCompanyLimitedByGuarantee2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns15:PoundSterling2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns11:FRS1022025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:IndependentExaminationCharity2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns11:SmallCompaniesRegimeForAccounts2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns11:FullAccounts2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:CharitiesSORP2025-04-012026-03-31NI04676332025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee12025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee42025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee52025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee32025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee62025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee22025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee72025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee82025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Trustee92025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns11:RegisteredOffice2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity92025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity9ns0:TotalUnrestrictedFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity9ns0:TotalRestrictedIncomeFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity92024-04-012025-03-31NI046763ns0:TotalUnrestrictedFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:TotalRestrictedIncomeFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity82025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity8ns0:TotalUnrestrictedFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity8ns0:TotalRestrictedIncomeFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity82024-04-012025-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity102025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity10ns0:TotalUnrestrictedFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity10ns0:TotalRestrictedIncomeFunds2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns0:Activity102024-04-012025-03-31NI046763ns0:TotalUnrestrictedFunds2025-03-31NI046763ns0:TotalRestrictedIncomeFunds2025-03-31NI046763ns0:TotalUnrestrictedFunds2026-03-31NI046763ns0:TotalRestrictedIncomeFunds2026-03-31NI046763ns10:WithinOneYear2026-03-31NI046763ns10:WithinOneYear2025-03-31NI04676322025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns10:OwnedAssets2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns10:OwnedAssets2024-04-012025-03-31NI046763ns10:LandBuildingsns10:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets2025-03-31NI046763ns10:FurnitureFittings2025-03-31NI046763ns10:MotorVehicles2025-03-31NI046763ns10:LandBuildingsns10:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns10:FurnitureFittings2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns10:MotorVehicles2025-04-012026-03-31NI046763ns10:LandBuildingsns10:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets2026-03-31NI046763ns10:FurnitureFittings2026-03-31NI046763ns10:MotorVehicles2026-03-31NI046763ns10:LandBuildingsns10:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets2025-03-31NI046763ns10:FurnitureFittings2025-03-31NI046763ns10:MotorVehicles2025-03-31NI046763ns10:AfterOneYear2026-03-31NI046763ns10:AfterOneYear2025-03-31NI046763ns10:AllPeriods2026-03-31NI046763ns10:AllPeriods2025-03-31NI04676312025-04-012026-03-31
REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: NI046763 (Northern Ireland)
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: NIC 104759













Report of the Trustees and

Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

for

Star Neighbourhood Centre
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)

Star Neighbourhood Centre






Contents of the Financial Statements
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026




Page

Reference and Administrative Details 1

Report of the Trustees 2 to 8

Independent Examiner's Report 9

Statement of Financial Activities 10

Statement of Financial Position 11 to 12

Notes to the Financial Statements 13 to 25

Star Neighbourhood Centre

Reference and Administrative Details
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026



TRUSTEES Kate Clarke
Liam Corr
Cecilia Devlin
Liam Wiggins
Marisa McMahon
Gerard O'Reilly
Tommy Quigley
Sally Smith (resigned 28.10.25)
Joe Doherty (resigned 19.6.26)


COMPANY SECRETARY Kate Clarke


REGISTERED OFFICE 79-83 Hillman Street
Belfast
Co. Antrim
BT15 2FS


REGISTERED COMPANY
NUMBER
NI046763 (Northern Ireland)


REGISTERED CHARITY
NUMBER
NIC 104759


INDEPENDENT EXAMINER Drake Wells Stewart Limited
Chartered Accountants
1st Floor
34 B-D Main Street
Moira
Armagh
BT67 0LE


CHIEF EXEC OFFICER Maria Valente


BANKERS Allied Irish Bank
11-15 Donegall Square North
Belfast
BT1 5GB

Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Report of the Trustees
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026


The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of 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).

It is with pleasure that I present the Trustee Report for the Star Neighbourhood Centre for the year ending March 2026.

Overview

Throughout 2025-26, the Star Neighbourhood Centre continued to focus on meeting the needs of local people, providing essential services and supports for children, young people and their families, and delivering targeted assistance to some of the most vulnerable members of our community. As highlighted in previous years, we remain firmly committed to providing high quality, accessible support that strengthens wellbeing, opportunity and community connection.

Operating Context

We continue to operate in a challenging environment characterised by short term funding cycles and rising living costs. Despite this, the organisation moves forward from a position of strength. The expertise and dedication of our staff, the commitment of our volunteers, the support of partner organisations, and the continued investment of our funders have enabled us to maintain and enhance our services.

Service Delivery

Our childcare and family support services remain at full capacity, reflecting both sustained demand and the quality of our provision. Support from DfC Neighbourhood Renewal, the Department of Education Pathway Fund, Belfast City Council and BBC Children in Need has not only sustained but strengthened our early years and family support work.
Our youth project continues to meet the needs of young people across North Belfast. Personal, social and emotional development remains central to our approach, complemented by youth intervention, good relations programmes and targeted support for those facing additional challenges.

Strategic Progress

We are now two years into our three year strategic plan. Over the past year, we have met and in many areas exceeded our targets, achieving the outcomes set out for the community we serve. This report outlines our organisational strategic aims and the activities and services delivered up to the end of March 2026.
Acknowledgements

The Board remains deeply proud of how staff and volunteers continue to adapt, innovate and respond to community need. We remain committed to providing quality services and focusing on positive outcomes that improve the lives of residents.

We extend our sincere thanks to our members, who actively support the Star and its work. We also acknowledge the vital contribution of our funders - in particular the Department for Communities, the Department of Education Pathway Fund, Belfast City Council and BBC Children in Need whose support ensures our continued impact.
To all organisations and individuals who have supported the Star Neighbourhood Centre through both the good times and the challenging ones, we offer our heartfelt appreciation.

Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Report of the Trustees
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026


Liam Wiggins
Chair of the Management Board of Trustees

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Who We Are

The Star Neighbourhood Centre is an organic, community led organisation based on the Duncairn Gardens interface in the New Lodge area of North Belfast. We are a quality driven organisation, with a strong focus on meeting user needs and demonstrating quality in our day to day operations.

Our Approach

We respond to locally identified need through close engagement with the community, beneficiaries and potential beneficiaries. Our services are tailored to reflect local circumstances, including opening hours, programme design and the range of activities offered.

The Star works holistically within the neighbourhood, supporting people from pre school age through to older residents. Because of our position within the community, we have the flexibility to react quickly to emerging issues and adapt our services as local needs change.

What We Provide

Star Neighbourhood Centre delivers a wide range of programmes, facilities and services to the Greater New Lodge community, including:

Early Years Project
Out of Schools Project
Family Support Services
Youth Projects
Older Persons Support
Support for Community Groups
Volunteer Development Projects
Community Inclusion Events

Our Role as a Community Resource

The Centre also acts as a practical resource hub for local residents. This includes providing:
i. Typing and photocopying
ii. Computer and internet access
iii. Telephone/fax services
iv. Equipment lending

We also act as a conduit to statutory and voluntary organisations, helping local people access information on training, benefits, legislation and employment. The Star serves as a signposting point to other community organisations and training providers in the area.

Our Role in Community Development

Beyond service delivery, the Star plays a key role as a development catalyst for the area. We advocate and campaign on behalf of the community, attract resources, and draw the attention of funders, policymakers and statutory bodies to the needs of the Greater New Lodge.

Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Report of the Trustees
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
During 2025-26, the Star Neighbourhood Centre delivered a wide range of programmes and supports that strengthened community wellbeing, inclusion and opportunity across the Greater New Lodge. Participation levels remained high across all age groups, demonstrating both the continued need for our services and the trust local residents place in the organisation.

Community Inclusion and Engagement

185 people engaged in community inclusion events, helping to build connection, reduce isolation and strengthen neighbourhood cohesion.

12 volunteers contributed to community development activities, supporting programme delivery and enhancing local participation.

Children's Services

47 children benefited from our childcare services, receiving high quality early years support in a safe, nurturing environment.

53 children took part in our holiday schemes, providing structured play, learning and enrichment during school breaks.

30 children and young people participated in an environmental project aimed at improving the local area and promoting pride of place.

Family Support

32 parents and carers took part in programmes designed to strengthen parenting skills, confidence and family wellbeing.

Youth Development

45 young people benefited from youth inclusion and diversionary projects, supporting positive choices, personal development and improved outcomes.

15 young people achieved a range of OCN qualifications, recognising their commitment to learning and progression.
Health and Wellbeing

35 people participated in mental health promotion and awareness programmes, increasing understanding and resilience.

7 residents successfully completed the PHA Certificate in Mental Health First Aid, building local capacity to support others.

27 people took part in programmes promoting healthy lifestyles, including physical activity, nutrition and wellbeing initiatives.

Good Relations

44 people participated in good relations projects, contributing to improved understanding, shared learning and stronger community relationships

Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Report of the Trustees
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

FINANCIAL REVIEW
Financial Position

The company had net incoming resources for the year of £7,030 (2025: net incoming resources of £9,141), which reflected the completion of a number of projects during the year. Unrestricted funds increased by £12,297 and restricted funds decreased by £5,267.

Reserves Policy

The charity's policy is to retain a level of free reserves, which matches the needs of the organisation, both at the current time and in the foreseeable future. The reserves required should be sufficient to meet committed grant expenditure and the running costs for a period equivalent to six months annual expenditure.

The charity will continue to monitor compliance with this policy on a regular basis and the Board will review the appropriateness of the policy annually.

Future Plans

Looking Ahead to 2026-27

As we enter the final year of our strategic plan, our focus will be on consolidating the progress made to date and strengthening the long term sustainability of the organisation. Key priorities for 2026-27 include:

i. deepening our early intervention and prevention work across all age groups
ii. enhancing our capacity to capture, analyse and demonstrate impact
iii. strengthening youth voice and co design across programmes
iv. maintaining service stability in the face of ongoing funding pressures
v. continuing to advocate for the needs of the Greater New Lodge community

We remain committed to delivering high quality, community rooted services and ensuring that the Star Neighbourhood Centre continues to be a trusted, responsive and valued resource for local people.


Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Report of the Trustees
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governance and Structure

The Star Neighbourhood Centre is a Company limited by guarantee [NI46763] and also a registered charity [NIC104759]. This structure has been found suitable, meets all legal obligations and protects the Centre and Directors in the event of financial failure.

Currently 7 local people are on the board of directors. The roles, functions and responsibilities of the committee are as follows:-

(i) Deciding the overall strategy of the Centre;
(ii) Acting as Company Directors, leasehold and employers, and taking full responsibility for all legal aspects involved in these areas of work;
(iii) Setting structures and procedures in place for the Committee to be maintained and replaced;
(iv) Representing the Committee on external platforms and to the general public; and
(v) Being collectively responsible for the management of the Centre.

Mission, Vision and Values

The Star Neighbourhood Centre has adopted the following as its Mission, Vision and Value Statements:

Mission
To improve the quality of life of residents by providing essential services to the Greater New Lodge area

Vision
Working to develop a cohesive and thriving community

Values
In working together towards our mission, we are committed to a number of values which underpin all that we do and the way that we do it.

(i) Community led - the participation of local people is central to our work;
(ii) Respect - everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect;
(iii) Equality and Social Justice - we seek to challenge poverty, injustice, and discrimination in all its forms;
(iv) Quality - we value creativity and innovation; we strive to deliver quality and best practice in everything we do;
(v) Accessibility - we work to remove barriers and increase accessibility to our services; and
(vi) Integrity - we work together at all times, ensuring sensitivity and openness.

Recruitment and Appointment of New Trustees

The Charity follows an appraisal process to identify the skills required for the Trustee Board and to identify any skills gap on the Board. Members of the Trustee Board receive a full induction programme on joining the Trustee Board and thereafter receive ongoing training and briefing sessions.The board completes an annual evaluation of its effectiveness. Actions arising from this process are integrated into the corporate workplan. The Trustee Board uses open recruitment and strives to ensure that there is adequate local representation on the Trustee Board.

The trustees delegate the day to day running of Star Neighbourhood to that of Maria Valente - Finance Manager.

Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Report of the Trustees
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026


Key Management Remuneration

The Charity Trustees were not paid and did not receive any remuneration from the Charity in the year 2026 (2025 :nil). During the year, no Trustees were reimbursed travel expenses (2025:nil).

Related Parties

There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2026.

Risk Management

The principles of good governance are embedded within all aspects of Star Neighbourhood Centre Limited operations with management and staff being keenly aware of the Boards responsibility of ensuring that the organisation protects itself from financial exposure and reputational damage, A close working relationship is maintained between the Board and management to ensure that operationally staff are aware of the standards required of them by the Board and the Board are always in a position to provide guidance and support to management in the discharge of their duties. This two way relationship is the key feature of Star Neighbourhood Centre Limited governance arrangements and is a key strength in the company.

A conscientious approach to ensuring that contractual project requirements are achieved has been maintained at all times both in the accounting period being reported on and since Star Neighbourhood Centre Limited establishment. Very tight financial controls on expenditure and all financial commitments are maintained at all times and project staff have been trained and have become experienced in budgetary controls. In both these areas ie Project delivery and financial controls management all staff have established close working relationships with funding organisations to ensure all mandatory standards are consistently achieved. Board representatives also actively engage with funding bodies.

The Board, management and staff are fully aware that the nature of the work in whichever Neighbourhood Centre Limited is involved can bring with it a high level of scrutiny to ensure that all activities are fully compliant with funding requirements and, therefore, beyond reproach. The Board of Star Neighbourhood Centre Limited is, therefore, greatly reassured of the company's compliance with the highest of standards of governance on the basis that all monitoring and evaluation of project delivery demonstrates achievement of all finders objectives and that funders' audits and vouching of financial expenditure and the Independent Examiners Report confirm compliance with both probity and regularity in the use of monies received

EVENTS SINCE THE END OF THE YEAR
Information relating to events since the end of the year is given in the notes to the financial statements.

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES
The trustees (who are also the directors of Star Neighbourhood Centre 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".


Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Report of the Trustees
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026


STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES - continued
Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law, the trustees have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law).

Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they 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 Charities 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 18 August 2026 and signed on its behalf by:





Kate Clarke - Trustee

Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of
Star Neighbourhood Centre
I report on the accounts of the company for the year ended 31 March 2026, which are set out on pages ten to twenty five.

Respective responsibilities of charity trustees and examiner
As the charity's trustees (and also the 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.

Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:
- examine the accounts under Section 65 of the Charities Act
- follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland under Section 65(9)(b) of the Charities Act
- state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of the independent examiner's report
I have examined your charity accounts as required under Section 65 of the Charities Act and my examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland under Section 65(9)(b) of the Charities Act. The examination included a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also included consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as charity trustees concerning any such matters.

My role is to state whether any material matters have come to my attention giving me cause to believe:

1. That accounting records were not kept in accordance with Section 386 of the Companies Act 2006
2. That the accounts do not accord with those accounting records
3. That the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the methods and principles of the 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
4. That there is further information needed for a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Independent examiner's statement
I have completed my examination and have no concerns in respect of the matters (1) to (4) listed above and, in connection with following the Directions of the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, I have found no matters that require drawing to your attention.








Billy Drake

Drake Wells Stewart Limited
Chartered Accountants
1st Floor
34 B-D Main Street
Moira
Armagh
BT67 0LE

18 August 2026

Star Neighbourhood Centre

Statement of Financial Activities
(Incorporating an Income and Expenditure Account)
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

31.3.26 31.3.25
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
fund funds funds funds
Notes £    £    £    £   
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Charitable activities 3
Grants Receivable - 215,297 215,297 213,623

Other trading activities 2 24,162 - 24,162 20,532
Total 24,162 215,297 239,459 234,155

EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable activities
Direct Charitable Expenses 10,074 218,635 228,709 221,354
Governance 1,791 1,929 3,720 3,660
Total 11,865 220,564 232,429 225,014

NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) 12,297 (5,267 ) 7,030 9,141


RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward 66,481 125,380 191,861 182,720

TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 78,778 120,113 198,891 191,861

Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Statement of Financial Position
31 March 2026

31.3.26 31.3.25
Notes £    £   
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets 8 161,835 167,560

CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors 9 5,200 2,594
Cash at bank 39,208 26,182
44,408 28,776

CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year 10 (7,352 ) (4,475 )

NET CURRENT ASSETS 37,056 24,301

TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES

198,891

191,861

NET ASSETS 198,891 191,861
FUNDS 12
Unrestricted funds 78,778 66,481
Restricted funds 120,113 125,380
TOTAL FUNDS 198,891 191,861

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2026.


The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2026 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.


Star Neighbourhood Centre (Registered number: NI046763)

Statement of Financial Position - continued
31 March 2026

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 18 August 2026 and were signed on its behalf by:





Kate Clarke - Trustee





Gerard O'Reilly - Trustee





Liam Wiggins - Trustee

Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements
(a) General information and basis of preparation

Star Neighbourhood Centre Limited is constituted as a company limited by guarantee incorporated in Northern Ireland (NI046763). In the event of the charity being would up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the charity.

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 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 Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2013, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally Accepted Practice as it applies from 1 January 2015.

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity.

The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated.

(b) Funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the charity for particular purposes. The cost of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

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


(c) Income recognition

All incoming resources are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any performance conditions have been met, the amount can be measured reliably, and it is probable that the income will be received.


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued

Basis of preparing the financial statements
For donations to be recognised the charity will have been notified of the amounts and the settlement date in writing. If there are conditions attached to the donation and this requires a level of performance before entitlement can be obtained then income is deferred until those conditions are fully met or the fulfilment of those conditions is within the control of the charity and it is probable that they will be fulfilled. Voluntary income is received by way of grants, donations and gifts and is included in full in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when receivable. Income received from collections is recognised when received.

Donated facilities and donated professional services are recognised in income at their fair value when their economic benefit is probable, it can be measured reliably, and the charity has control over the item. Fair value is determined on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity. For example, the amount the charity would be willing to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure.

No amount is included in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP (FRS 102). Further detail is given in the Trustees' Annual Report.

For legacies, entitlement is the earlier of the charity being notified of an impending distribution or the legacy being received. At this point income is recognised. On occasion legacies will be notified to the charity however it is not possible to measure the amount expected to be distributed. On these occasions, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed.

Income from trading activities includes income earned from fundraising events and trading activities to raise funds for the charity. Income is received in exchange for supplying goods and services in order to raise funds and is recognised when entitlement has occurred.

The charity receives government grants which are detailed within the notes to these financial statements. Income from government and other grants are recognised at fair value when the charity has entitlement after any performance conditions have been met, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably. If entitlement is not met, then these amounts are deferred.

(d) Expenditiure recognition

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis inclusive of VAT which cannot be recovered and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. It is categorised under the following headings:

Costs of raising funds includes the costs associated with attracting voluntary incomes;
Expenditure on charitable activities includes those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them; and
Other expenditure represents those items not falling into the categories above.

Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure arose.


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued

Basis of preparing the financial statements
Grants payable to third parties are within the charitable objectives. Where unconditional grants are offered, this is accrued as soon as the recipient is notified of the grant, as this gives rise to a reasonable expectation that the recipient will receive the grants. Where grants are conditional relating to performance then the grant is only accrued when any unfulfilled conditions are outside of the control of the charity.

(e) Support costs allocation

Support costs are those that assist the work of the charity but do not directly represent charitable activities and include office costs, governance costs, administrative payroll costs. They are incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Where support costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to cost of raising funds and expenditure on charitable activities on a basis consistent with use of the resources. Premises overheads have been allocated on an insert detail basis and other overheads have been allocated on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Fund-raising costs are those incurred in seeking voluntary contributions and do not include the costs of disseminating information in support of the charitable activities.

(f) Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Cost includes costs directly attributable to making the asset capable of operating as intended.

Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets, at rates calculated to write off the cost, less estimated residual value, of each asset on a systematic basis over its expected useful life as follows:

Freehold property - 2% Straight Line
Fixtures and fittings - 15% on cost
Minibus - 25% on Reducing Balance

(g) Debtors and creditors receivable / payable within one year

Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impairment are recognised in expenditure.

(h) Financial Instruments

A financial asset or a financial liability is recognised only when the charity becomes a party to the contractual provision of the instrument.

Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at the amounts receivable or payable including any related transaction costs.

Current assets and current liabilities are subsequently measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be paid or relived and not discounted.

Debt instruments are subsequently measured at amortised cost.


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued

Basis of preparing the financial statements
Where investments in shares are publicly traded or their fair value can otherwise be measured reliably, the investment is subsequently measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognised in income and expenditure. All other such investments are subsequently measured at cost less impairment.

Other financial instruments, including derivatives, are initially recognised at fair value, unless payment for an asset is deferred beyond normal business terms or financed at a rate of interest that is not a market rate, in which case the asset is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument.

Other financial instruments are subsequently measured at fair value with any changes recognised in the statement of financial activities, with the exception of hedging instruments in a designed hedging relationship.

Financial assets that are measured at cost or amortised cost are reviewed for objective evidence of impairment at the end of each reporting date. if there is objective evidence of impairment an impairment loss is recognised under the appropriate heading in the statement of financial activities in which the initial gain is recognised.

For all equity instruments regardless of significance, and other financial assets that are individually significant, these are assessed individually for impairment. Other financial assets are either assessed individually or grouped on the basis of similar credit risk characteristics.

Any reversals of impairment are recognised immediately, to the extent that the reversal does not result in a carrying amount of the financial asset that exceeds what the carrying amount would have been had the impairment not previously been recognised.

(i) Impairment

Assets not measured at fair value are reviewed for any indication that the asset may be impaired at each balance sheet date. If such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset, or the asset's cash generating unit, is estimated and compared to the carrying amount. Where the carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount where the impairment loss is a revaluation decrease.

(j) Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the charity has an obligation at the balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount can be reliably estimated.


(k) Leases

Assets acquired under finance leases are capitalised and depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and the expected useful life of the asset. Minimum lease payments are apportioned between the finance charge and the reduction of the outstanding lease liability using the effective interest method. The related obligations, net of future finance charges, are included in creditors.


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued

Basis of preparing the financial statements
Rentals payable and receivable under operating leases are charged to the SoFA on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

(l) Tax

No provision is required for taxation as the company is defined as a charity for taxation purposes.
The charity is a registered charity and so such is entitled to certain tax exemptions on income and profits from investments and surpluses on any trading activities carried on in furtherance of the charity's primary objectives, if these profits and surpluses are applied solely for charitable purposes.

(m) Going concern

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis as the trustees believe that no material uncertainties exist. The trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. The budgeted income and expenditure is sufficient with the level of reserves for the charity to be able to continue as a going concern.

(n) Judgements estimates

The following judgements including those involving estimates that have been made in the process of applying the above accounting policies that have had the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements and that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year:

(i) depreciation method and asset useful lives

The estimates and assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis considering the current and future market conditions.

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.

Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

2. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
31.3.26 31.3.25
£    £   
Fundraising and Donations 620 -
Childcare Fees 23,424 19,943
Interest Received 118 189
Sundry Income - 400
24,162 20,532

3. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
31.3.26 31.3.25
Activity £    £   
Grants Grants Receivable 215,297 213,623

Grants received, included in the above, are as follows:
31.3.26 31.3.25
£    £   
Department for Communities - Salaries 127,879 134,274
Department for Communities - Running costs 18,479 -
Children in Need 16,000 -
Belfast City Council - Revenue 34,289 16,829
Belfast City Council - Summer Scheme 2,500 1,500
Belfast City Council - Good Relations - 2,000
Belfast City Council - Small Grants 932 950
Belfast Interface Project 1,566 800
Education Authority - Belfast Region 2,400 7,912
Pathway Fund - Early Years 5,142 23,000
Public Health Agency -Clear 1,000 -
Belfast City Council - Fitness Group - 2,400
Belfast City Council - EVAWG - 678
Department of Health - SPPG 1,950 7,280
Newington Housing - 1,000
Garfield Weston - 15,000
King Charles III Charitable Fund 1,170 -
Department for Communities - Capital 490 -
Department for Communities - Hardship Fund 1,500 -
215,297 213,623


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

4. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)

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

31.3.26 31.3.25
£    £   
Depreciation - owned assets 6,253 6,176

5. INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS REMUNERATION

The independent examiners remuneration amounts to an independent examination fee of £3,540 (2025 £3,540)

6. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2026 nor for the year ended 31 March 2025.


Trustees' expenses

There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 March 2026 nor for the year ended 31 March 2025.


7. STAFF COSTS
31.3.26 31.3.25
£    £   
Wages and salaries 156,017 148,278
Other pension costs 10,316 11,343
166,333 159,621

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

31.3.26 31.3.25
Management & Administration 8 9

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


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Fixtures
Freehold and
property fittings Minibus Totals
£    £    £    £   
COST
At 1 April 2025 281,894 62,867 5,200 349,961
Additions - 528 - 528
At 31 March 2026 281,894 63,395 5,200 350,489
DEPRECIATION
At 1 April 2025 114,878 62,361 5,162 182,401
Charge for year 5,638 585 30 6,253
At 31 March 2026 120,516 62,946 5,192 188,654
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 March 2026 161,378 449 8 161,835
At 31 March 2025 167,016 506 38 167,560

9. DEBTORS
31.3.26 31.3.25
£    £   
Amounts falling due within one year:
PHA Clear 200 -
Amounts falling due after more than one year:
Other debtors 5,000 2,594

Aggregate amounts 5,200 2,594


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
31.3.26 31.3.25
£    £   
Social security and other taxes 2,882 -
Accruals and deferred income 4,470 4,475
7,352 4,475

11. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS
31.3.26 31.3.25
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
fund funds funds funds
£    £    £    £   
Fixed assets 42,212 119,623 161,835 167,560
Current assets 37,458 6,950 44,408 28,776
Current liabilities (892 ) (6,460 ) (7,352 ) (4,475 )
78,778 120,113 198,891 191,861

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Net
movement At
At 1.4.25 in funds 31.3.26
£    £    £   
Unrestricted funds
General fund 66,481 12,297 78,778

Restricted funds
Deferred Capital Grant Reserve 125,030 (5,824 ) 119,206
Big Lottery - Awards for All (Capital) 350 (350 ) -
Department for Communities - Capital - 907 907
125,380 (5,267 ) 120,113
TOTAL FUNDS 191,861 7,030 198,891

Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Incoming Resources Movement
resources expended in funds
£    £    £   
Unrestricted funds
General fund 24,162 (11,865 ) 12,297

Restricted funds
Deferred Capital Grant Reserve - (5,824 ) (5,824 )
Department for Communities -
Salaries

127,879

(127,879

)

-
Department For Communities -
Running costs

18,479

(18,479

)

-
Belfast City Council - Revenue 34,289 (34,289 ) -
Belfast City Council - Summer
Scheme

2,500

(2,500

)

-
Belfast City Council - Small Grants 932 (932 ) -
Children in Need 16,000 (16,000 ) -
Belfast Interface Project 1,566 (1,566 ) -
Education Authority - Belfast Region 2,400 (2,400 ) -
Pathway fund - Early Years 5,142 (5,142 ) -
Public Health Agency - Clear 1,000 (1,000 ) -
Big Lottery - Awards for All (Capital) - (350 ) (350 )
Department of Health - SPPG 1,950 (1,950 ) -
King Charles III Charitable Fund 1,170 (1,170 ) -
Department for Communities - Capital 490 417 907
Department for Communities -
Hardship Fund

1,500

(1,500

)

-
215,297 (220,564 ) (5,267 )
TOTAL FUNDS 239,459 (232,429 ) 7,030


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Comparatives for movement in funds

Net
movement At
At 1.4.24 in funds 31.3.25
£    £    £   
Unrestricted funds
General fund 51,139 15,342 66,481

Restricted funds
Deferred Capital Grant Reserve 130,681 (5,651 ) 125,030
Department for Communities -
Salaries

25

(25

)

-
Big Lottery - Awards for All (Capital) 875 (525 ) 350
131,581 (6,201 ) 125,380
TOTAL FUNDS 182,720 9,141 191,861

Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Incoming Resources Movement
resources expended in funds
£    £    £   
Unrestricted funds
General fund 20,532 (5,190 ) 15,342

Restricted funds
Deferred Capital Grant Reserve - (5,651 ) (5,651 )
Department for Communities -
Salaries

134,274

(134,299

)

(25

)
Belfast City Council - Revenue 16,829 (16,829 ) -
Belfast City Council - Summer
Scheme

1,500

(1,500

)

-
Belfast City Council - Good Relations 2,000 (2,000 ) -
Belfast City Council - Small Grants 950 (950 ) -
Belfast Interface Project 800 (800 ) -
Education Authority - Belfast Region 7,912 (7,912 ) -
Pathway fund - Early Years 23,000 (23,000 ) -
Big Lottery - Awards for All (Capital) - (525 ) (525 )
Belfast City Council - Fitness Group 2,400 (2,400 ) -
Belfast City Council - EVAWG 678 (678 ) -
Department of Health - SPPG 7,280 (7,280 ) -
Newington Housing 1,000 (1,000 ) -
Garfield Weston 15,000 (15,000 ) -
213,623 (219,824 ) (6,201 )
TOTAL FUNDS 234,155 (225,014 ) 9,141

13. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

A contingent liability exists to repay grants received should certain conditions not be fulfilled by the charity.


Star Neighbourhood Centre

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2026

14. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2026.

15. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENTS

There were no events after the reporting period therefore no material issues need disclosed.

16. WINDING UP

Every member of the Company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Company, in the event of the same being wound up while it is a member, or within one year after it ceases to be a member, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the Company contracted before it ceases to be a member, and of the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributor's among themselves, such amount as may be required not exceeding one pound.

17. SHARE CAPITAL

The Company is Limited by Guarantee and has no Share Capital