Equation
Annual
Report
2013 – 2014
Equation Nottinghamshire
(formerly known as Nottinghamshire Domestic Violence Forum):
Report of the Management Committee for the year ended 31 March 2014
Aims and Objectives
Equation aims to challenge, prevent and reduce domestic and sexual violence by increasing
public awareness, promoting and implementing early interventions, and strengthening interagency work.
Equation’s Objectives:
Reference and
Administrative Information
Charity Name:
Equation Nottinghamshire, trading as Equation.
(Formerly known as Nottinghamshire Domestic
Violence Forum). Name changed on 12th June 2013)
Charity Registration number:
Company Registration number:
1140240
4517544
Registered Office and
Operational address:
2 First Avenue
Sherwood Rise
Nottingham
NG7 6JL
Our charity’s purposes, as set out in the objects contained in the company’s articles of
association are:
• To promote for the public benefit the provision of services directed toward the prevention
of domestic violence and the relief and support of persons who have been or are
affected by domestic and sexual violence in Nottinghamshire in particular but not
exclusively by the provision of training, workshops, seminars and information.
• To advance the education of voluntary and statutory agencies, professionals and the
public at large in all aspects of domestic and sexual violence, its causes and prevention.
Ensuring our work delivers our aims:
We review our aims, objectives and activities each year. This review looks at what we
achieved and the outcomes of our work in the previous 12 months. The review looks at the
success of each key activity. In particular, the trustees consider how planned activities will
contribute to the aims and objectives the organisation has planned.
The focus of our work:
Our main objectives for the year continued to be:
• To promote and enable an effective response towards domestic abuse and sexual
violence
• To promote a culture where domestic abuse and sexual violence is considered
unacceptable
• To promote a culture where people understand and aspire to a healthy relationship
• To promote an understanding of the way gender inequalities influence domestic abuse
and sexual violence
• To ensure that Equation continues as a relevant, efficient and sustainable force in
combating domestic abuse and sexual violence.
The strategies we used to meet these objectives included:
• Delivery of an in-demand, effective, topical training and awareness programme
• Development of resources to improve access to services, increase safety and promote
effective practice
• Scoping and establishing new potential areas of service provision
• To create a sustainable organisation through marketing, funding, business development
and financial security
How our activities deliver public benefit:
All our charitable activities focus on challenging, preventing and reducing domestic and
sexual violence by increasing public awareness, promoting and implementing early
interventions, and strengthening inter-agency work. These activities are undertaken to further
our charitable purposes for the public benefit and are described throughout the remainder of
the report.
3
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Chair’s Report
Kate Wells, Chair of the Management Committee
Professionals and
Communities
I welcome you to the Equation Annual Report 2013-2014.
It has been another exciting and busy year in terms of growth and development, and has
been very positive following our name change from Nottinghamshire Domestic Violence
Forum to Equation Nottinghamshire in July 2013. “Equation” means “the process of making
equal” and this more accurately reflects the aspirations of the charity and the work that we do
equipping, enabling and empowering people to have healthy, equal and respectful
relationships.
We have continued to focus our work in four key areas: Children and Young People,
Professionals and Communities, Work with Men as Survivors and sustaining the core
business.
This year we have delivered an ever increasing number of sessions to professionals and
children within the community, increasing awareness of healthy relationships, domestic and
sexual violence issues, and the support services available. We have engaged with
professionals and communities, and continue to deliver the Male Independent Domestic
Violence Advocate (IDVA) service to survivors within Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Our
work with children and young people has continued to expand, including The GREAT Project
and Equate Project (formerly the Whole School Approach) being delivered in primary and
secondary schools, plus prevention work with young men, gang affected young women, and
children and young people with special educational needs.
It continues to be a challenging time in terms of public and voluntary sector funding, and in
terms of maintaining and continuing to develop the services we offer. We have made very
positive progress on developing options to create a more sustainable financial base, including
exploring different funding streams (particularly for core funding), selling non-grant funded
resources, and encouraging people to fundraise for us through community events, such as
the Robin Hood Half Marathon in September 2013, and also through our own events, such
as the Firewalk in November 2013.
As part of our continuing development we have recruited a new Administration Support
Worker, Dee Scott. Thanks go to Aarti Hansrani who has served for several years as a trustee
and who has now moved on to pastures new.
Thank you to everyone for all their hard work in shaping Equation over the past year and we
look forward to what promises to be an exciting and challenging year ahead.
The Professionals and Communities workstream continues to promote interagency
working and early interventions by:
• Identifying and promoting a common framework of understanding and approach to
tackling domestic and sexual violence to professionals in Nottinghamshire and
Nottingham - through the identification or development of good practice.
• Identifying gaps in provision and resources and working towards the lessening of those
gaps.
• Improving access to services by survivors and their children through awareness
campaigns, working with professionals to improve interventions and developing
resources that promote access to services. Including marginalised and vulnerable groups
– LGBT, BMER, disabled survivors and those with mental health problems.
• To assist in multi-agency working on the issue of domestic violence, through the
development and facilitation of multi-agency meetings on the issue of domestic violence.
This year Equation has dramatically expanded its training provision. Equation provided
training as usual to multi-agency groups, but also to drug and alcohol intervention providers,
PCSO’s and CSO’s, Nottingham City and County Adult Safeguarding, and Nottingham City
Children’s Partnership.
Achievements in 2013 -14
95 training days delivered to workers in Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County
More than 1500 workers received training or briefings on issues related to domestic violence
and sexual abuse
127,659 resources were distributed which contribute towards enabling survivors to access
services. This includes 47,832 information cards in the City and 78,272 information cards in
the County.
5 campaigns were delivered with an estimated reach of 50,000
4 Voluntary Sector Domestic and Sexual Violence Forum meetings hosted/chaired
Further development of Equation’s social media presence
Development and update of four information cards for survivors
Future plans
To develop the Equation website
To develop resources to be used in community settings, which complement the Whole
Community Approach
To develop new updated training on same sex abuse
To take the learning from the Aspley Whole Community Approach project and work in other
areas across the City
5
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
The Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) Service
REFERRAL BREAKDOWN April 2013 – March 2014
The focus this year has been to sustain the support service for High Risk male victims of
domestic abuse across Nottinghamshire in addition to providing training and awareness for
front-line practitioners.
Total number of individual service users – not repeat referrals:
Equation has developed an Agency guide to supporting men experiencing domestic
abuse in order to assist organisations to refer men on for advice and guidance. 2000 guides
have been produced and distributed to agencies across Nottinghamshire City and County.
Equations’ IDVA service was commissioned to work in partnership with the SAFE Project
(Domestic Violence Services for Women and Men in Leicester) to produce and deliver a
training programme on working with men experiencing domestic abuse. This piece of work
was delivered to a range of specialist agencies across the Leicestershire City and County.
In addition to briefing sessions on male abuse delivered to student health care professionals,
the IDVA service has provided telephone advice and support for front-line practitioners across
Nottinghamshire.
During this period, the IDVA service has contributed to number of practitioner groups in order
to provide specialist advice and support. These groups include: Gender Equality Steering
Group, Practitioners Domestic Violence Network and Development Group, Her Majesty's
Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) Domestic Abuse Inspection, Nottingham Specialist
Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence Forum.
Victim (type of relationship to perpetrator)
City
County
Total
Same sex partner or ex-partner
5
1
6
Female partner or ex-partner
21
40
61
Son or step son
2
9
11
Father or step-father
0
5
5
HBV
0
0
0
Other family member (male)
5
5
10
Other family member (female)
0
2
2
Total
33
62
95
Police referral
28
48
76
Non-police referral
5
14
19
Total
33
62
95
City
County
Total
Ashfield
0
9
9
Bassetlaw
0
8
8
Broxtowe
0
12
12
Gedling
0
9
9
Mansfield
0
8
8
Newark & Sherwood
0
10
10
Rushcliffe
0
6
6
Out of County
0
0
0
City
33
0
33
Total
33
62
95
District Breakdown
Future plans include looking into models of work to develop and enhance the current IDVA
service. As part of this process, we will aim to increase the proportion of referrals from the
City district in order to mirror the referrals received from the County areas.
7
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Children and Young People
About Equate
Total Number of Children and Young People Engaged: 4943
Total number of professionals accessing awareness training: 284
Number of host organisations: 68
Equate is a whole school approach to domestic abuse and healthy relationships education in
mainstream secondary schools. The programme includes different creative, informative and
age appropriate projects on a range of relevant issues, such as personal space and sexual
bullying, healthy relationships, domestic abuse, gender equality and sexting. Equate
encourages secondary schools to consider how all elements of the school environment can
be used to challenge and prevent violence and abuse: it incorporates staff training, a school
communications strategy and policy review.
During 2013-14 Equation’s work with Children and Young People has continued to focus
upon aligning with the national Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Action Plan and
has therefore concentrated upon the development and delivery of projects that:
•
•
•
•
Raise awareness about VAWG and domestic abuse in all its forms,
Ensure those requiring support are able to access appropriate services,
Encourage young people to aspire to have healthy relationships; and
Challenge gender inequality.
Funding received enabled five Equation employees and 10 freelance project workers to
coordinate, develop and deliver the work below.
The
Project!
Good Relationships are Equal And Trusting
Name:
Class:
:
School
The GREAT Project (www.thegreatproject.org.uk) is a fun and interactive
project delivered to year 5 & 6 pupils in a child-sensitive and ageappropriate manner that:
• Raises awareness about domestic abuse
• Improves access to support services
• Educates to change attitudes to prevent future domestic abuse
incidents; and
• Empowers young people to aspire towards healthy relationships
Achievements in 2013 -14
48 primary schools accessed the GREAT Project (city and county)
77 projects were delivered over the year
2,033 individual pupils accessed the GREAT Project.
205 teachers received Domestic Abuse Awareness training through a twilight session
Resource distribution: 2,033 GREAT Project workbooks
West Mercia Women’s Aid bought an additional 20 projects
Achievements in 2013-14
14 secondary schools accessed one or more Equate elements (city and county)
26 Equate elements were delivered over the year, including the Relationships Project, Media
Campaign, Personal Space & Sexual Bullying, and Digital Safety (Sexting)
2832 individual pupils accessed at least one Equate element
56 teachers received Domestic Abuse Awareness training through a twilight session
23 teachers were trained to deliver elements of the Relationships Project and Media
Campaign
Resource distribution:
• 912 Relationships Project workbooks
• 2505 mini support booklets
• 370 Consent & Consequences booklets
Following our rebrand as Equation, the Whole School Approach was renamed Equate.
Equate branded resources were developed.
We laid the groundwork for greater project sustainability, preparing Equate for licensing and
sale in the same way as the GREAT Project.
We developed a robust monitoring system for evaluating each element of Equate, enabling us
to obtain comprehensive evaluation data from each project delivered.
Future plans
Additional Equate elements and a school awards scheme are currently under development
Future plans
Deliver 70 GREAT projects across the city
Engage 5 new schools to take part in the GREAT project
GREAT project school awards scheme is currently under development
GREAT and west area are currently working in partnership to develop a poster campaign
Safe in Sussex are in the initial stages of purchasing a GREAT licence
9
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Work with young people outside of mainstream education
During 2013-14 5 targeted projects were further developed and delivered with groups of
young people in organisations outside of mainstream education.
At the end of the project young women were asked to reflect on their experience and
consider the impact the project had had on them out of 10, with 10 being the most positive
score. Below is the average impact recorded:
The young women felt that the project had…
Know More Project
Equation has delivered five eight-week, targeted, interactive projects to 45 young women
involved in or at risk of involvement in gangs. This intervention has addressed the risk of
domestic abuse and sexual violence within gang settings by focusing upon building the
participating young women’s self-esteem and confidence within relationships, helping them
feel empowered and happy as women.
The project was available for small groups of young women in Year 9 identified by schools as
being involved in or at risk of involvement with gangs. All of the schools involved are located
in areas identified by Nottingham’s Gang Strategy Team. This project was funded by the
Lloyds TSB Foundation.
•
...helped them to make positive changes to their life, by a score of 8
•
…changed the way they thought about being a woman, by a score of 8
•
...helped them to feel good about themselves, by a score of 8
•
..helped them to sort out differences in a way that is fair, by a score of 7
•
…helped to improve their friendships, by a score of 9
•
…helped to improve a family relationship, by a score of 9
•
...made them think about how they behave in relationships, by a score of 9
•
…helped them understand rights and regarding their bodies, by a score of 9
•
...helped them to know where to go for help and support with unhealthy relationships, by
a score of 9
Responses to the Know More Project
•
50 young women were referred to the Know More Project. 45 young women completed
the Know More Project
•
At the end of the final session young women gave The Know More Project an average
score of 10
•
The teachers scored the usefulness The Know More Project as 9
Key Findings
At the completion of the projects, young women attending believed that…
Comments from teacher
‘The students were well engaged throughout the provision benefiting from both the content
as well as relationships built with delivery staff. Students enjoyed the opportunity to unpick
personal issues within a supportive environment which is conducive and supportive of their
needs. The Academy, through quantitative tracking and monitoring, analysed a drop in the
number of behavioural incidents the students were involved during the intervention:
‘One young woman who took part, in the project, has not had any fights since’
Comments from young women
•
…they get along well with others increased by 25%
•
…they know how to keep calm when things annoys them, increased by 141%
•
…it is easy to speak to a teacher if they have a problem increased by 32%
‘The friendships I made as part of the project was the best part’
•
…there are benefits to working with young women increased by 44%
‘I enjoyed being able to talk about anger’
•
…they know what to do when feeling angry increased by 41%
‘I will remember the facilitators most’
•
…they have a lot to offer a relationship increased by 24%
•
…they felt good about themselves increased by 59%
•
…they knew what they wanted to achieve this year, increased by 28%
•
…they have a plan for how to improve their life increased by 20%
‘The acting and the drama part of the project was what I liked most’
‘What I will remember most from the project is my rights in a relationship
‘The project has taught us lots of new life lessons that will benefit us through-out our teenage
lives’
‘This project has helped me a lot, I have learnt how to deal with situations and how to deal
with and know what a healthy relationship is’
‘The project has been an amazing experience and I will remember it for the rest of my life’
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Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Choices Project
Equation has delivered four eight-week, targeted, interactive projects to 33 young men at
risk of becoming potential perpetrators. This intervention has addressed the risk of abusive
behaviours and attitudes by focusing upon building the participating young men’s recognition
of choices and responsibilities they have over their own behaviour. This project was funded
by the CDP
The project was available for small groups of young men in Year 10 identified by schools as
using or at risk of using and displaying abusive behaviours or negative attitudes towards
women and girls.
Overall the young men across all Choices Projects felt that the project had…
•
...helped them to make positive changes to their life, by a score of 8
•
…changed the way they thought about being a man, by a score of 8
•
...helped them to feel good about themselves, by a score of 8
•
..helped them to sort out differences in a way that is fair, by a score of 8
•
…helped to improve their friendships, by a score of 8
•
…helped to improve a family relationship, by a score of 8
•
...made them think about how they behave in relationships, by a score of 8
•
…helped them to understand their rights and regarding their bodies, by a score of 8
•
...helped them to know where to go for help and support with unhealthy relationships, by
a score of 8
Creative Work
All of the young people taking part in Know More and Choices projects had the opportunity
to create a piece either some art work, music, interactive game or a short film.
The young men involved in the Choices Project went to Confetti, an institute of creative
technologies. This opportunity allowed the groups to work with specialists to create a final
piece of creative work to summarise and promote the project.
All of the girls involved in Know More produced small elements of acting such as spoken
word, mime, poetry and art to create a short film promoting ‘what it is to be a woman’
All of the creative work can be found at www.respectnotfear.co.uk
Future Plans
To continue to deliver Know More and Choices projects across Nottingham City and expand
the project delivery into Nottinghamshire County.
To create and further develop project resource packs to accompany the projects and
booklets
All young men overall gave the Choices Project an average score of 9
Comments from young men
‘I enjoyed the activities and enjoyed the personal space session the most’
‘The project has helped me to feel more confident about asking for personal space from my
parents’
‘I would like to find a healthy relationship in the future’
‘The project has helped me to deal with anger and learn new ways of managing my
emotions. It also has helped me to think about personal space in relationships’
‘I enjoyed the activities and creative work and I got on well with the facilitators’
‘In the future I want to be a role model for younger generations’
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Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Structure, Governance and Management
Governing Document
The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated in August 2002
and registered as a charity in February 2011. The company was established under a
Memorandum of Association which set out the objects and powers of the charitable
company, and is governed under its Articles of Association. In the event of the company
being wound up, members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £10.
All members of the Committee give their time voluntarily and received no benefits from the
charity. Any expenses reclaimed from the charity are set out in note 4 to the accounts. The
charity recruit from across the community with a particular view to involving people with
specific management skills and committed to combating domestic violence. All committee
members are required to undertake mandatory training in identifying and understanding the
impacts of domestic violence.
Organisational Structure
Equation has a committee made up of 9 members who meet on a six weekly rotation and are
responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity. At present the charity has all
its members from a variety of professional backgrounds relevant to the work of the charity.
The management of the organisation is delivered by the two workstream managers who are
responsible for ensuring that the charity delivers the services specified, the key performance
targets are met and the day to day operation of the offices. Individual supervision is carried
out by the appropriate workstream manager who also ensures that the team continues to
develop their skills and working practice.
Responsibilities of the Management Committee
Company law requires the Management Committee to prepare financial statements for each
year which give a true and fair view of the affairs of the charitable company as at the balance
sheet date, and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including income and
expenditure for the financial year.
The Management Committee is responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which
disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the organisation and
enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006.
The Management committee is 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.
Trustee Induction and Training
The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law and
under the company’s Articles, are known as members of the Management Committee. Under
the requirements of the Articles of Association, the members of the Management Committee
are elected to serve for a period of one year after which they must be re-elected at the next
Annual General Meeting.
Trustees are required to undertake the Understanding and Responding to Domestic Violence
and Abuse and Challenging Domestic Violence Course to familiarise themselves with the
work of the charity and the context within which it operates. Equation’s induction programme
introduces trustees to the organisation, staff and projects and includes the obligations of the
Directors. Resources are drawn from Charity Commission’s guide “the Essential Trustee” and
also NCVO’s advise and support for Trustees.
Risk Management
The Management Committee has conducted a review of the major risks to which the charity
is exposed. A risk register is maintained and reviewed every two years. External risks to
funding have led to the development of a strategic plan which allows for the diversification of
funding and activities and to make adjustments to our business model to become more
resilient and better able to respond to new opportunities. Internal controls are in place to
minimise risk by implementation of procedures for authorisation and projects. Procedures are
also in place to ensure compliance with health and safety of staff and visitors.
Reserves Policy
Restricted Funds:
Restricted Funds are monies received by Equation for specific purposes from various funding
bodies. The restriction on how the money can be used is imposed by the donor and
Equation must spend it on the purposes for which it was given.
Unrestricted Funds:
General Fund or ‘Free’ Reserves:
The General Fund or ‘free’ reserves can be used for any purpose without restriction in the
furtherance of Equation’s aims and objectives, ie they have no targets/restrictions attached to
them, and have not otherwise been designated for specific purposes by the Management
Committee.
It is the intention of the Management Committee of Equation to have the equivalent of
approximately three months’ worth of core organisational running costs covered by ‘free’
reserves – ie 25% of the average core annual running costs. The level of free reserves is
based on the usual practice for similar charitable organisations and registered charities, and it
is also considered that the Company would require approximately three months’ worth of
expenses in the event of winding up.
15
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Designated Funds:
Designated Funds are Unrestricted Funds which have been set aside by the Management
Committee for specific purposes. These are reviewed annually and the balances on any or all
of these funds may be transferred back into the General Fund at any time.
Project funds are reviewed annually to identify any amounts of previously Restricted Funds
that are no longer attached to targets, and which have therefore become Unrestricted Funds.
It is the intention of the Management Committee that these Unrestricted Funds are
designated to the associated project, to reflect where the funds have come from and to
further that particular project’s activities.
It is the intention of the Management Committee that the resulting Designated Funds for each
project include: 1) a specified amount in reserves equivalent to 3 months of project running
costs to cover expenditure in the event of winding up the organisation, and an amount to
cover any short term cashflow shortages; and 2) the remaining amount to fund those
activities not attached to funder targets, as identified by the project’s annual Action Plan,
subject to capacity.
Equation Customer Care and Complaints
Procedures
Equation is committed to the provision of quality services, which puts our members and
service users’ needs at the forefront of our organisation. We aim to ensure that our members
and service users receive the highest quality support through the ongoing evaluation and
monitoring of the services provided. Equation has a Complaints Register and Customer Care
& Complaints Policies and Procedures. Details of these policies and procedures can be
accessed by contacting Equation. In the event of a service user being dissatisfied with the
service provided, Equation will follow these policies and procedures.
Treasurer’s Report
James Simmonds
The accounts presented cover the 12 month period from 1st April 2013 to 31st March 2014.
Equation’s income totalled £429,518, an increase of £7,432 (1.8%) on the previous year.
Grant income made up 78.7% of the total income with our main funders being the
Nottingham Crime and Drugs Partnership and Nottinghamshire County Council. Additional
grants were received from various sources and we are once again very grateful for the
continued support of our funders. Further income of £86,554 has been received in respect of
Activities and training, up by £32,255 (59.4%) from the previous year. Subscriptions and
investment income have remained at lower levels, but very positive progress has been made
to expand donations income, and we will continue to develop this in this financial year.
Expenditure totalled £427,416 for the 12 month period, an increase of £33,183 (8.4%) from
2013. The average number of employees increased to 10 during the year and associated
payroll costs increased by £19,502 (8.9%). The main areas in which costs increased were in
training and events with an increase of £10,638, and the costs of generating income with an
increase of £10,475. Whilst there has been an increase in expenditure during the period, this
has been kept under control and, where possible, costs have only been incurred when
necessary to further the activities of the charity.
The Trustees sincerely thank everyone who has provided financial support to the charity
during the financial year. We would also like to thank the staff for their professionalism,
passion and dedication to Equation and continued efforts to further improve Equation’s
financial position.
Cobb Burgin & Co, the accountants to Equation, were reappointed during the year. We
would therefore extend our thanks to them for their examination of Equation’s books and for
presenting the accounts for this annual report.
We would like to thank Nottingham CVS for providing payroll support and advice during the
year, and Elizabeth Michael Employment Agency for supplying us with temporary
administration support staff.
17
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Fundraising
Structure and Personnel
The aim for 2013-14 was to develop strong infrastructure for community and events fundraising,
membership and regular support, and improve resources/training/licence sales.
Fundraising administration
A donors and supporters database was created to keep track of the contact details and levels of
involvement of our supporters, keep a record of donations and enable regular supporter
communication. The fundraiser worked with the finance officer to ensure Equation can process
Gift Aid donations, and drafted a cash handling policy.
Trusts and grants
We continued to make grant applications and successfully acquired £14,000 in grants from trusts
(Garfield Weston, Lady Hind and Jessie Spencer) for our core costs. The fundraiser also
supported successful bids for project work, including £17,800 for work with girls affected by
gangs and £1000 for Special Educational Needs work.
Community fundraising
As part of the re-brand to Equation, a community fundraising pack was created to assist and
encourage supporters interested in fundraising for us. 22 people ran the Nottingham halfmarathon for Equation. We also benefited from fundraising by a number of community groups,
individuals and student groups from New College Nottingham involved in the Nottingham Citizens
programme. We raised over £4,000 via this channel. A quarterly supporters’ newsletter was also
launched, with updates on projects and fundraising.
Events fundraising
We organised our first major fundraising event at the Nottingham Contemporary with an evening
of live music, and involved over 30 fundraisers in a sponsored firewalk. This event raised over
£12,000, including engaging local solicitors St Mary’s Chambers, Hawley and Rodgers, and
Nelson’s as corporate sponsors and local businesses donated raffle prizes.
Regular giving
Equation managers and core team produced a new scheme for Equation membership, offering
different member options with a variety of discounts on resources, training and licence packages.
Record-keeping was integrated into the new supporters database.
Income generation: training, resources and licence packages
Improvements in the pricing structure and profit margins, marketing and administration of
resources were made through working with Pyramid Press (our printers), creating online marketing
materials and a monitoring database. Equation staff began systematically promoting our resources
and training at external events, including taking resource sample packs. We commissioned a
comprehensive training admin and booking database.
Fundraising volunteers
Volunteer policy, induction programme and support infrastructure was created. We successfully
recruited 13 event volunteers for the firewalk fundraiser, and began recruitment for regular
fundraising volunteers.
Targets for 2014-15
£35,000 grants; £10,000 events, £10,000 community fundraising; £2,000 project licences; £5000
resources; continue to improve internal efficiency, gain at least 250 new supporters.
Independent Examiner: Cobb, Burgin & Co, 129a Middleton Boulevard, Wollaton Park,
Nottingham, NG8 1FW
Bankers: Unity Trust Bank Plc, Nine Brindleyplace, 4 Oozells Square, Birmingham, B1 2HB
Solicitors: Geldards, The Arc, Enterprise Way, Nottingham, NG2 1EN
Board of Trustees:
Stewart Bembridge
Vanessa Grant
Hester Litten
Sally Lord
Julie McGarry
James Simmonds
Kate Wells
Sarah Wigley
Sheldon Zlotowitz
Independent
Independent
Independent
Independent
Independent
Independent
Independent
Independent
Independent
Advisors:
Rachel Adams
Jane Lewis
Paula Bishop
Nottinghamshire County Council
Nottingham Crime and Drugs Partnership
Nottingham Crime and Drugs Partnership
Staff Members:
Chloe Cheeseman:
Louise Detain:
Claire Dixon:
Yvette Khouri-Bent:
Siobhan Lynch:
Joan Millband:
Amanda Moulton:
Dee Scott
Kerry Sullivan:
Anthea Tainton:
Alison Thomas:
Adrian Thorpe:
(From October 2010)
(From December 2012)
Vice-Chair (From September 2008)
(From April 2008)
(From November 2009)
Treasurer (From November 2010)
Chair (From July 2008)
(From December 2012)
(From April 2008)
Fundraiser (From November 2012)
Special Educational Needs Development Worker (From
November 2012)
Equate Project Coordinator (From November 2012)
The GREAT Project Coordinator (From March 2009)
Campaigns and Communications (October 2011 – May 2013)
Administrator (From July 2012)
Finance Officer (From October 2007)
Administration Support Worker (From November 2013)
Professionals and Communities Manager
(From September 2000)
Young People’s Coordinator (From September 2010)
Children and Young People Manager (From March 2009)
Male Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (From October
2011)
Equation was also supported by a series of temporary Administrative Officers via the
Elizabeth Michael Employment Agency.
19
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Funder Acknowledgements
•
Ashfield Community Safety Partnership
•
Austin Hope Pilkington Trust
•
Bassetlaw, Newark & Sherwood Community Safety Partnership
•
Broxtowe Borough Council
•
Garfield Weston Foundation
•
Gedling Borough Council
•
The Jessie Spencer Fund
•
The Lady Hind Trust
•
Lloyds TSB Foundation
•
Mansfield Partnership Against Crime
•
Nottingham City Council
•
Nottingham Crime & Drugs Partnership
•
Nottinghamshire County Council – Safer Nottinghamshire Board
•
Rushcliffe Borough Council
Acknowledgements and Thanks
Report and
Financial Statements
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2014
Equation would like to thank the many people who have made its work
in this year possible. This includes the dedicated staff team and
Management Committee and advisors, the freelance workers,
volunteers, fundraisers and the funders.
Equation Freelance Workers and Training Pool – Nathan Bainbridge, Christina Barbian,
Manya Benenson, Victoria Blower, Aaron Calladine, Nikki Campbell, Damian Carnell, Anna
Clark, Gill Court, Helen Glynn, Chantelle Gray, Michelle Hubbard, Lisa Jackson, Lorraine
Langley, Nav Nahal, Ben Rath, Janet Rose, Penny Sheerin, Kirby Stebbing, Jeannie
Thompson, Sonya Ward and Carol Zlotowitz.
Also: Elizabeth Michael Employment Agency, FlexyWeb, Fifteen Design, Geldards, Gooii,
Motion 7, Jane Davis at Nelsons Solicitors, Nottingham CVS, Pyramid Press.and Shake
Social.
Thank you to all individuals, groups and organisations who have supported and donated both
their time and money to Equation.
Please contact Equation if you require, or know someone who requires,
this document in larger print.
21
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
DIRECTORS' REPORT
The directors present their report and accounts for the year ended March 31, 2014
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING INCOME AND
EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2014
PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY
The company’s principal activity is to equip, enable and empower communities to build equal
relationships free from abuse.
On June 12, 2013 the Company resolved to change its name from Nottinghamshire
Domestic Violence Forum to Equation Nottinghamshire.
DIRECTORS
The following served as directors during the year:
Stewart Bembridge
Vanessa Grant
Aarti Hansrani(Resigned January 15,2014)
Hester Litten
Sally Lord
Julie McGarry
James Simmonds
Kate Wells
Sarah Wigley
Sheldon Zlotowitz
DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements that give a true and fair
view of the state of affairs of the company at the end of the financial year and of its surplus or
deficit for the financial year. In doing so the directors are required to:
•
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
•
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and
•
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to
presume that the company will continue in business.
Notes
funds
Total
Funds
2014
Total
Funds
2013
£
£
£
£
500
-
-
500
501
22,110
-
315,770
337,880
361,223
• Subscriptions & donations
4,584
-
-
4,584
3,560
• In Kind Contributions
-
-
-
-
2,503
• Activities & training
23,119
4,400
59,035
86,554
54,299
• Other income
-
-
-
-
-
Total incoming resources
50,313
4,400
374,805
429,518
422,086
27,460
20,229
10,160
-
369,567
-
407,187
20,229
379,799
14,434
INCOMING RESOURCES:
RESOURCES EXPENDED:
Restricted
General
Designated
£
1
Activities for generating funds:
Investment income – bank interest
Incoming resources from charitable
activities
• Grants receivable
Unrestricted Funds
2
1
Charitable activities
Governance costs
Total resources expended
3/4
47,689
10,160
369,567
427,416
394,233
Net incoming resources
- Net income / (deficit) for the year
Transfer between funds
5
11
2,624
7,225
(5,760)
35,192
5,238
(42,417)
2,102
-
27,853
-
9,849
29,432
(37,179)
2,102
27,853
32,427
198,189
70,633
301,249
273,396
42,276
227,621
33,454
303,351
301,249
Net movements in funds
The directors are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose with
reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enables them to
ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The directors are
also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable
steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Fund Balances at April 1,2013
SMALL COMPANY SPECIAL PROVISIONS
The report of the directors has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions
relating to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.
All incoming resources and resources expended derive from continuing activities.
The notes on pages 23 to 31 form part of these accounts
Fund Balances at March 31,2014
10/11
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
Christopher Paul Cobb of Cobb Burgin & Co will continue in office as Independent Examiner
for the ensuing year.
BY ORDER OF THE DIRECTORS
Kate Wells, Chair, Date July 16, 2014
23
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
BALANCE SHEET AS AT MARCH 31, 2014
NOTES
2014
£
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
Cash at bank
Cash in hand
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED
MARCH 31, 2014
6
2013
£
£
2,168
£
1,608
7
65,579
325,419
348
391,346
37,895
348,700
141
386,736
8
(90,163)
(87,095)
Creditors: Amounts falling
due within on year
Net Current Assets
301,183
299,641
Net Assets
303,351
301,249
33,454
70,633
Funds
Restricted funds
Unrestricted funds
General funds
Designated funds
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Accounting
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in
accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by
Charities (SORP 2005) issued in March 2005, applicable UK Accounting Standards, the
Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (effective April 2008) and the Companies Act
2006.
Fixed Assets
Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided at
rates calculated to write off the cost of tangible fixed assets over their expected useful lives
using the following annual rates:
10/11
42,276
227,621
32,427
198,189
269,897
230,616
303,351
301,249
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to small companies
within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities
(effective April 2008).
For the financial period ended March 31, 2014 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under Section
477 Companies Act 2006 and no notice has been deposited under Section 476.
Equipment 33% straight line method
Assets costing less than £100 are not normally capitalised
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the Directors in furtherance of the
general objects of the company.
Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the Directors for particular purposes.
Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure imposed by the donor and
relate to services provided.
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for ensuring that the company keeps accounting records which
comply with Section 386 of the Act and for preparing accounts which give a true and fair view of the state of
affairs of the company as at the end of the financial year and of its profit or loss for the 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 accounts, so far as applicable to the company.
Incoming resources
All incoming resources are included in the financial statements when the company is entitled
to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following
specific policies are applied categories of income:
These financial statements were approved by the board of Directors on July 16, 2014 and signed on their
behalf:
•
Income received by way of donations, subscriptions and grants, where entitlement is not
conditional on the delivery of a specific performance by the company, is included in the
financial statements as receivable.
•
Investment income is included when receivable.
•
Incoming resources from grants, which relate to performance and specific deliverables,
are accounted for as the company earns the right to consideration by its performance.
•
Income from activities and training is included when receivable.
The notes on pages 23 to 29 form part of these accounts
25
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Outgoing resources
Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes
any VAT, which cannot be fully recovered and is reported as part of the expenditure to which
it relates. All costs are allocated between the expenditure categories in the financial
statements on a basis designed to reflect the use of the resource. Costs relating to a
particular project are allocated directly, others are on an appropriate basis, e.g. estimated
usage.
Pension costs
The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Pension contributions are
charged in the accounts in the period in which they are payable.
3. SALARIES AND PENSIONS
Unrestricted Funds
Designated
General
£
£
Restricted
Funds
£
Total
Salaries 2014
£
Total
Salaries 2013
£
Salaries
55,152
-
151,675
206,827
190,024
Social security costs
4,792
-
13,159
17,951
16,516
Pensions
3,519
-
9,143
12,662
11,398
Total
63,463
-
173,977
237,440
217,938
No employee received emoluments of more than £60,000.
The average number of employees during the year, calculated on the basis of full time equivalents was 10 (2013: 9).
2. GRANTS
4. TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED
Unrestricted Funds
General
Designated
£
£
Restricted
Funds
£
Total
Funds 2014
£
Total
Funds 2013
£
Ashfield Community Safety Partnership
-
-
8,300
8,300
-
Austin Hope Pilkington Trust
-
-
1,000
1,000
-
Bassetlaw Newark & Sherwood
Community Safety Partnership
-
-
2,000
2,000
-
Broxtowe Borough Council
-
-
1,500
1,500
-
Comic Relief
-
-
-
-
29,870
Community Innovation Fund
-
-
-
-
48,000
Garfield Weston Foundation
10,000
-
-
10,000
-
Gedling Borough Council
-
-
1,500
1,500
-
The Jessie Spencer Fund
3,000
-
-
3,000
-
The Lady Hind Trust
1,000
-
-
1,000
-
Lloyds TSB Foundation
-
-
16,300
16,300
-
Mansfield Partnership Against Crime
-
-
3,342
3,342
6,658
Nottingham City Council:
Councillors Budget
-
-
-
-
2,000
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Unrestricted Funds
General
Designated
£
£
Restricted
Funds
£
Total
Funds 2014
£
Total
Funds 2013
£
Staff costs
49,801
-
173,977
223,778
205,573
Temporary staff
557
-
1,671
2,228
3,465
Rent, cleaning and insurance
12,809
-
-
12,809
9,764
Training and events
-
-
37,654
37,654
27,016
Resource materials
-
-
34,149
34,149
47,898
Costs of generating income
4,530
10,160
-
14,690
4,215
Telephone, internet, postage and stationery
2,368
-
4,122
6,490
4,716
Professional fees
71
-
61,704
61,775
57,827
Depreciation
784
-
799
1,583
2,428
Sundries
5,175
-
6,856
12,031
16,897
Core costs reallocation
(48,635)
-
48,635
-
-
27,460
10,160
369,567
407,187
379,799
Accountancy fees
1,300
-
-
1,300
1,400
Staff costs
13,662
-
-
13,662
12,365
Other costs
5,267
-
-
5,267
669
20,229
-
-
20,229
14,434
GOVERNANCE COSTS
Nottingham Crime and Drugs
Partnership
-
-
204,367
204,367
153,834
Nottinghamshire County Council:
Grant Aid
Community Safety Team
Councillors’ Budget
8,110
-
-
56,161
20,000
500
64,271
20,000
500
95,861
20,000
-
Rushcliffe Borough Council
-
-
800
800
-
Thomas Farr Trust
-
-
-
-
5,000
Total
22,110
-
315,770
337,880
361,223
27
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
5. NET INCOMING RESOURCES FOR THE YEAR
This is stated after charging:
2014
£
2013
£
Depreciation
1,583
2,428
Trustee’s remuneration
-
-
Travel costs amounting to £59 (2013 - £73) were reimbursed to one director (2013 – one)
9. DEFERRED INCOME
Deferred income comprises grants for which expenditure will take place in future accounting periods.
2014
£
2013
£
Balance at April 1,2013
51,500
67,445
Amount released to incoming resources
(42,000)
(67,445)
Amount deferred in year
50,000
51,500
Balance at March 31,2014
59,500
51,500
6. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COST
Equipment
£
At April 1,2013
7,281
Additions at cost
2,143
Disposals
At March 31,2014
10. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS
Unrestricted Funds
General
Designated
£
£
Restricted
Funds
£
Total
Funds
£
Tangible fixed assets
797
-
1,371
2,168
-
Current assets
46,819
227,621
116,906
391,346
9,424
Current liabilities
( 5,340)
-
( 84,823)
( 90,163)
Net assets at March 31, 2014
42,276
227,621
33,454
303,351
C&YP
P&C
WWM
Total
DEPRECIATION
At April 1,2013
5,673
Provided in year
1,583
Eliminated on disposal
-
At March 31,2014
7,256
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
INTER-PROJECT ACTIVITY TRANSFERS
Forum
(Core)
NET BOOK VALUE
At March 31,2013
£ 1,608
At March 31,2014
£ 2,168
Details
INCOME
General Fund
£
£
£
£
£
Internal recharges
2,615
-
470
-
3,085
LESS:
EXPENDITURE
7. DEBTORS
Freelance Workers
-
-
(190)
-
(190)
2014
£
2013
£
Training
-
-
( 2,615)
-
( 2,615)
Grant debtors
50,000
28,500
Staff Training
-
(185)
-
(95)
( 280)
Other debtors
15,579
9,395
Sub- total
-
( 185)
( 2,805)
(95)
(3,085)
Total
65,579
37,895
Total
2,615
(185)
(2,335)
(95)
-
8. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
2014
£
2013
£
Other creditors
11,892
14,891
Accruals
18,771
20,704
Deferred income
59,500
51,500
Total
90,163
87,095
29
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (continued)
Purposes of designated funds:
Restricted Funds:-
At April 1,
2013
£
Incoming
Resources
£
Outgoing
Resources
£
£
At March
31, 2014
£
Children & Young People
– Restricted Fund
41,648
197,397
(198,354)
(18,237)
22,454
28,985
130,343
(130,022)
(18,306)
11,000
-
47,065
( 41,191)
(5,874)
-
70,633
374,805
(369,567)
(42,417)
33,454
Professionals & Communities
- Restricted Fund
Work With Men –
Restricted Fund
Total restricted funds
Transfers
Unrestricted funds:Designated funds:
Children & Young People
- Designated Funds:Project Reserves
Project Costs
50,000
31,438
-
-
11,836
50,000
43,274
Professionals & Communities
- Designated Funds:Project Reserves
Project Costs
45,000
33,383
-
-
11,111
45,000
44,494
Work With Men
- Designated Funds:Project Reserves
Project Costs
10,000
3,727
-
-
4,879
10,000
8,606
Redundancy, Sickness,
Maternity & Paternity
9,200
-
-
7,366
16,566
Enterprise
15,441
4,400
-
9,681
General funds
32,427
50,313
( 47,689)
7,225
42,276
Total unrestricted funds
230,616
54,713
(57,849)
42,417
269,897
Total funds
301,249
429,518
(427,416)
-
303,351
(10,160)
Purposes of restricted funds:
Children & Young People-Restricted Fund
The ‘Children & Young People’ project delivers healthy relationships work in schools, provides
session work for young people aged 9-19 outside of mainstream school education, and
training of professionals who work directly with children and young people.
Professionals & Communities-Restricted Fund
The ‘Professionals & Communities’ project raises awareness of domestic violence by
providing training of professionals, seminars, newsletters, publicity materials, etc, and working
with other agencies to improve best practice on domestic violence.
Work With Men-Restricted Fund
The ‘Work With Men’ project delivers the Male Independent Domestic Violence Adocate
(IDVA) service for high risk male survivors of domestic violence. The project is also being
developed to include work on identifying gaps in services for men and to provide sessions on
healthy relationships for young men and boys.
The trustees have reviewed the reserves at the year end for each project and have agreed
that a certain portion of project funds previously included under Restricted Funds is not now
attached to targets, and is therefore now unrestricted. The unrestricted reserves for each
project have been put into designated funds to reflect where the funds have come from and
to further that particular project’s activities.
Designated Funds Project Reserves: For each project this includes an amount equivalent
to 3 months’ running costs in the event of winding up the company, as well as an amount to
cover any cashflow shortages.
Designated Funds Project Costs: The remainder of unrestricted funds for each project will
be used to fund those activities not attached to funder targets, as identified by the project’s
annual Action Plan, subject to capacity.
Children & Young People-Designated Funds:
Designated fund for monies identified as the unrestricted element of the total funds for
Children & Young People.
Professionals & Communities-Designated Funds:
Designated fund for monies identified as the unrestricted element of the total funds for
Professionals & Communities.
Work With Men-Designated Funds:
Designated fund for monies identified as the unrestricted element of the total funds for Work
With Men.
Other designated funds:
Redundancy, sickness, maternity & paternity:
Funds for employment costs as stated, and are split between the Core function and projects
as follows: Core £4,590, Children & Young People £6,216, Professionals & Communities
£4,860 and Work With Men £900.
Enterprise:
The “E-Commerce” designated fund was renamed “Enterprise” during the year, after the
trustees reviewed the fund and agreed that “Enterprise” better reflects that income generation
from selling certain non-grant funded resource materials has not been via the internet.
12. RESERVE CAPITAL
The company is limited by guarantee with no authorised or issued share capital.
The amounts guaranteed in the nature of reserve capital are £90. These amounts are only
capable of being called for the purposes of the winding up of the company.
31
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014
Independent Examiner’s Report to the
Trustees of Equation Nottinghamshire
(FORMERLY NOTTINGHAMSHIRE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FORUM )
I report on the accounts of the Charitable Company for the year ended March 31, 2014,
which are set out on pages 23 to 31.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The trustees (who are also directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are
responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit
is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and
that an independent examination is needed. The charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000
and I am qualified to undertake the examination by being a qualified member of the Institute
of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
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 145 of the 2011 Act;
•
to follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by
the Charity Commission under section 145 (5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and
•
to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of independent examiner’s report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the
Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the
charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes
consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and the seeking of
explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken
do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and, consequently, no
opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is
limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent examiner’s statement
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
33
Equation Annual Report 2013-2014