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2024-03-31-accounts

Charity registration number 1006990 (England and Wales) Company registration number 02592450

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Chairman A Whittaker
Executive Director S Taylor
Directors and Trustees R C Hepworth
D J Bricknell
G Clarke (Appointed 26 March 2024)
P S Cousins
K Crooks
S G Lingard
A Fuller (Appointed 26 March 2024)
A K Pilkington
D Mcareavey (Appointed 26 March 2024)
T M Wilcock
A Whittaker (Appointed 26 March 2024)
Charity number 1006990
Company number 02592450
Registered office Chalon Way East
St Helens
United Kingdom
WA10 1BX
Auditor BK Plus Audit Limited
7 Waterside Court
St. Helens
Merseyside
United Kingdom
WA9 1UA
Bankers NatWest Bank Plc
5 Ormskirk Street
St. Helens
Merseyside
WA10 1DR
Solicitors Addleshaw Goddard
100 Barbirolli Square
Manchester
M2 3AB

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 5
Independent auditor's report 6 - 9
Statement of financial activities 10
Balance sheet 11
Statement of cash flows 12
Notes to the financial statements 13 - 26

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activities

The principal objective of the charity, which accords with the public benefit requirement, is to educate the public in science and technology, with particular reference to glass manufacturing and technology employed in the glass industry.

It was always envisaged that the objectives of the charity would be primarily achieved from the operation of its museum and heritage-based visitor centre situated in the heart of St Helens. The Centre opened in March 2000 and is home to the Pilkington Glass Collection and the St Helens Council Social and Industrial History Collection. Both these collections portray how glass manufacturing has shaped the development of the town of St Helens and define the historical and continuing importance of glass as a material.

In addition to housing the collections, the centre continues to inform and educate visitors from the United Kingdom and many other parts of the world. This is achieved in many ways, but in particular:

Public benefit

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

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Achievements and performance

Significant activities and achievements against objectives

The World of Glass successfully delivered an ambitious and exciting re-imagining project of its permanent galleries. In August it opened a brand new, first-class visitor, museum and exhibition location, of which St. Helens can be justifiably proud and celebrate.

Most of the areas across the site have been improved:

The World of Glass held a large opening launch event in August, welcoming thousands of visitors in its first month and boosting visitor figures from 50K to nearly 100K per year.

The business model changed following the re-opening. Free entry to the museum is now offered to the public, with separate charging for glass blowing demonstrations and car parking charges. Further work needs to happen to maximise the increased footfall in other areas of our operations, including café, shop and events.

The Trustees knew that the fabric of the Tank House required attention and sought help from Historic England for survey work to be undertaken. The condition survey on the Tank House and subsequent conversations with Historic England and David Wiggins from Clach have given us a clear steer on the programme of works for this building. In the interim, while we seek funding for a long term solution, funding was found from Historic England to prop and secure the NE elevation of the building.

After the re-opening, the Executive Director and his team were able to put on a programme of events and activities, as well as exciting exhibitions. This included:

Financial support from St. Helens Council continued, linked to housing the Town’s Museum collection and the ongoing use of part of the building for the library. The library is currently expected to be part of the World of Glass building until at least 2026.

The Executive Director, Pete Frost, after project managing the re-imaging project decided to resign to look for new challenges. A new Executive Director was appointed and took up the post in May 2024.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Financial review

The operating surplus of the charity for the year was £366,671 (2023 £580,174) before a fixed asset depreciation charge of £411,370 (2023 £151,404).

The trading subsidiary of the charity made a profit before taxation of £420 (2023 £458).

Going concern

The World of Glass (St Helens) Limited continues to work closely with local partners, primarily St Helens Council, to establish an integrated cultural partnership within the town, as well as sourcing funding and investment for the proposed development.

Current funding from St Helens Council has been agreed through a service level agreement and the trustees are aware that without this funding The World of Glass (St Helens) Limited will be unable to continue to trade as a going concern. The World of Glass (St Helens) Limited continues to look for additional sources of funding to secure the future of the charity.

The trustees believe, having taken into account all information that could reasonably be expected to be available, it is appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

Reserves policy

Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard (Charities SORP) defines reserves as income which becomes available to the charity and is to be spent at the trustees’ discretion in furtherance of any of the charity’s objectives, but which is not yet spent, committed or designated.

The definition therefore excludes income funds which could only be realised by disposing of fixed assets. The charity's total reserves are largely represented by fixed assets and, consequently, the remaining net assets of £50,576 would be available as free reserves. This represents a decrease of £70,784 from such net assets held as at 31 March 2023. The trustees do recognise, however, that it would be prudent if the level of free reserves were further increased to enable the charity to continue to further its objectives.

As at 31 March 2024 the charity had restricted funds of £4,517,801 which were represented largely by fixed assets, see Note 14.

Principal funding sources

The charity’s principal sources of funding are from a combination of commercial activities and grant aid. As in previous years, the commercial activities were largely carried out by the wholly owned trading subsidiary, The World of Glass Enterprises Limited. Trading income from The World of Glass Enterprises Limited for the year was £193,187 (2023 £185,267). The charity made a management charge of £22,107 (2023 £26,506) to the trading company during the year and this assisted the charity in meeting its objectives.

In addition to the income generated from the trading company, the charity continued to receive support from St Helens Council of £200,000 (2023 £200,000), together with a loan this year of £160,000. The Board is extremely appreciative of this continued support.

As detailed in the achievements and performance review, the charity received funding of some £890,000 allocated by the St Helens Council Town Deal project received in 2023 and 2024 year ends, to Re-Imagine the visitor centre. The charity also received funding during the year from the Rainford Trust of £66,296 for salary support. The Board is appreciative of this support too.

Major risks

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

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Plans for future periods

The year ahead will bring a range of challenges and opportunities to The World of Glass and its trustees. The World of Glass has an opportunity to target these increased visitors by supplying high quality and targeted shopping and food experiences, bespoke glass workshops and demonstrations and events and activities that create an increased income stream but requires significant investment in both the team and the infrastructure to fully realise this.

Whilst making the most of this current investment and increased visitor numbers, the World of Glass has an exciting opportunity to aim for in 2026. The Glass Art Society (GAS), has invited The World of Glass to partner with them to deliver the International Festival of Glass and the British Glass Biennale in 2026.

These opportunities will help to secure the future of the World of Glass, improving on the infrastructure, significantly raising our profile within the glass art sector, Liverpool City Region, and nationally, as well as securing much needed income.

Structure, governance and management

The charity is a company limited by guarantee and was incorporated on 18th March 1991 in England and Wales. It is governed by its memorandum and articles of association. The liability of the members in the event of the charity being wound up is limited to £1. The company is a registered charity and acts entirely as a non-profit making organisation.

The charity is governed by its Board of Trustees, which meets bi-monthly. The Board, together with the senior management team, is responsible for formulating the strategy and policies of the organisation. Performance is monitored by regular financial reporting against approved budgeting levels. The charity's chair, Mr A Whittaker, who is also a trustee, meets with the senior management team on a regular basis to review the financial position and day to day operation of the centre.

Trustees are drawn from a variety of backgrounds to ensure the Board has the required expertise. All new trustees are subject to an induction process which includes the opportunity to meet with senior managers and staff and to visit the centre to see how it operates on a day to day basis. Prior to their appointment, new trustees are given a package of information including copies of the governing documents of both the charity and trading company, accounting and risk management policies and procedures, the charity's conflict of interest policy, and their eligibility to serve, under section 72 of the Charities Act 2011, is checked.

The power of the appointment and removal of trustees is vested with the members of the charity. Each member is entitled to one vote and to be represented on the Board by up to two trustees.

The Trustees who held office during the year and since the year end are as detailed below.

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:

R C Hepworth D J Bricknell G Clarke (Appointed 26 March 2024) P S Cousins K Crooks S G Lingard A Fuller (Appointed 26 March 2024) A K Pilkington D Mcareavey (Appointed 26 March 2024) T M Wilcock A Whittaker (Appointed 26 March 2024) T Mawson (Resigned 30 March 2024) S E Murphy (Appointed 17 May 2023 and resigned 21 October 2024) J F Tabern (Resigned 13 November 2023) S L Williamson (Resigned 28 November 2023)

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Relationship with related parties

The charity owns 100% of the ordinary share capital of its subsidiary trading company, The World of Glass Enterprises Limited. The trading company occupies the charity's premises and also shares equipment, staff and resources. Whilst there is no licence or agreement for occupation, there is an appropriate apportioning of relevant costs resulting in an annual management charge.

St Helens Council, who is a member of the charity, provides essential core funding in support of the exhibitions and education work as an amenity for local residents and the public, and to assist in the operation of the centre.

Statement of trustees' responsibilities

The trustees, who are also the directors of The World of Glass (St Helens) Limited for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

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

The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information included on the charity's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Auditor

In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that BK Plus Audit Limited be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting.

Disclosure of information to auditor

Each of the trustees has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audit, but of which the auditor is unaware. They have further confirmed that they have taken appropriate steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information.

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

A Whittaker

Trustee

27 January 2025

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of The World of Glass (St Helens) Limited (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the directors' report included within the trustees' report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the statement of trustees' responsibilities, the trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

We assessed the susceptibility of the charity's financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:

To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:

In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to:

There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the trustees and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.

Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https:// www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

Darren Leigh FCCA (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of BK Plus Audit Limited

27 January 2025

Chartered Certified Accountants Statutory Auditor

7 Waterside Court St. Helens Merseyside United Kingdom WA9 1UA

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
Notes
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Grants and donations
2
315,181
403,050
Charitable activities
3
32,276
-
Other trading activities
4
38,956
-
Investments
5
22,333
-
Other income
6
-
-
Total income
408,746
403,050
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
40,264
12,270
Charitable activities
8
439,266
364,695
Total expenditure
479,530
376,965
Net income/(expenditure) and
movement in funds
(70,784)
26,085
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 April 2023
121,360
4,491,716
Fund balances at 31 March
2024
50,576
4,517,801		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
2023
£
£
£
718,231
238,418
642,465
32,276
31,636
-
38,956
38,230
-
22,333
27,642
53
-
3,742
-
811,796
339,668
642,518
52,534
37,990
4,611
803,961
382,857
127,958
856,495
420,847
132,569
(44,699)
(81,179)
509,949
4,613,076
202,539
3,981,767
4,568,377
121,360
4,491,716		 Total
2023
£
880,883
31,636
38,230
27,695
3,742
982,186
42,601
510,815
553,416
428,770
4,184,306
4,613,076

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

The notes on pages 13 to 26 form part of these financial statements.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
14
Heritage assets
15
Investments
16
Current assets
Stocks
17
Debtors
18
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
20
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due after
more than one year
21
Net assets
The funds of the charity
Restricted funds
23
Unrestricted funds
24		 2024
£
£
4,455,029
-
2
4,455,031
2,990
45,330
313,328
361,648
(71,645)
290,003
4,745,034
(176,657)
4,568,377
4,517,801
50,576
4,568,377		 2023
£
£
4,351,195
-
2
4,351,197
2,990
39,816
383,121
425,927
(137,295)
288,632
4,639,829
(26,753)
4,613,076
4,491,716
121,360
4,613,076

The notes on pages 13 to 26 form part of these financial statements.

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 27 January 2025

A Whittaker Trustee

Company registration number 02592450 (England and Wales)

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

2024 2023
Notes £ £ £ £
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations 29 272,952 643,161
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets (515,204) (477,703)
Investment income received 22,333 27,695
Net cash used in investing activities (492,871) (450,008)
Financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings 160,000 -
Repayment of bank loans (9,874) (9,648)
Net cash generated from/(used in) financing
activities 150,126 (9,648)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash
equivalents (69,793) 183,505
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 383,121 199,616
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 313,328 383,121

The notes on pages 13 to 26 form part of these financial statements.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

The World of Glass (St Helens) Limited is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Chalon Way East, St Helens, WA10 1BX, United Kingdom.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

The charity has taken advantage of the exemption under Section 144, Charities Act 2011 not to prepare consolidated accounts, on the basis that the group of which the charity is the parent, falls under the stipulated threshold. The financial statements present information about the charity as an individual entity and not about its group.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

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

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

1.4 Income

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.

Assets for distribution are recognised only when distributed. Assets given for use by the charity are recognised when receivable. Stocks of undistributed donated goods are not valued for balance sheet purposes.

Grants are recognised once the charity has been notified of the grant, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Income is deferred when grants are received in advance of the performance of the activities to which they relate.

Income from trading activities is recognised as earned as the related goods and services are provided and is stated after discounts and net of VAT.

1.5 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Costs of generating funds are those costs incurred in trading activities that raise funds and include both the direct costs and support costs relating to these activities.

Charitable activities include expenditure associated with the operations of the charity as a visitor centre and include both the direct costs and support costs relating to this activity.

Governance costs include those incurred in the governance of the charity and its assets and are primarily associated with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

1.6 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Leasehold land 124 years straight line Leasehold buildings 50 years straight line Capitalised professional fees 100% in year of purchase Furniture, fittings and equipment 10%, 20% and 25% straight line Computer equipment 33% straight line

1.7 Heritage assets

Tangible fixed assets which are of historical, artistic or scientific importance and are held to advance the preservation, conservation and educational objectives of the charity are classed as heritage assets. Assets which have been purchased are capitalised at their cost, or valuation where such information can be obtained at a cost commensurate with the benefit to users of the financial statements. There are no heritage assets within the visitor centre collection other than those which have been purchased.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.8 Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. The investments are assessed for impairment at each reporting date and any impairment losses or reversals of impairment losses are recognised immediately in net income/(expenditure) for the year.

1.9 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.10 Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replacement cost and cost.

1.11 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.12 Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.13 Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

2 Income from donations, grants and legacies

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
Donations from
individuals
19,154
-
Grants receivable (see
below)
296,027
401,850
Membership fees
-
1,200
315,181
403,050
Grants receivable for core activities
St Helens Council Core
Funding
200,000
-
St Helens Council New
Town Deal
-
401,850
Rainford Trust Godfrey
Pilkington Gallery
-
-
Rainford Trust Salary
Support
66,296
-
Creative Roots
29,731
-
Other
-
-
296,027
401,850		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
2023
£
£
£
19,154
33,730
-
697,877
204,688
638,000
1,200
-
4,465
718,231
238,418
642,465
200,000
200,000
-
401,850
-
488,050
-
-
149,950
66,296
-
-
29,731
-
-
-
4,688
-
697,877
204,688
638,000		 Total
2023
£
33,730
842,688
4,465
880,883
200,000
488,050
149,950
-
-
4,688
842,688

3 Income from charitable activities

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Operations as a visitor centre
Admissions 27,893 26,494
Education & exhibitions 4,383 5,142
32,276 31,636

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

4 Income from other trading activities

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Hot glass sales 38,956 38,230

5 Income from investments

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
Management income
22,107
-
Interest receivable
226
-
22,333
-		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
2023
£
£
£
22,107
26,506
-
226
1,136
53
22,333
27,642
53		 Total
2023
£
26,506
1,189
27,695

6 Other income

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Insurance claim - 3,742

7 Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
Trading costs
Costs of goods sold
2,505
-
Staff costs
9,255
-
Depreciation and
impairment
2,481
12,270
Support costs
26,023
-
40,264
12,270		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
2023
£
£
£
2,505
8,978
-
9,255
7,142
-
14,751
2,480
4,611
26,023
19,390
-
52,534
37,990
4,611		 Total
2023
£
8,978
7,142
7,091
19,390
42,601

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

8 Expenditure on charitable activities

Admissions
Education
and
exhibitions
2024
2024
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
75,296
15,677
Depreciation and
impairment
381,547
12,554
Departmental materials
464
3
Creative roots
-
17,765
457,307
45,999
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Support
285,001
9,204
Governance
6,300
150
748,608
55,353
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
396,182
43,084
Restricted funds
352,426
12,269
748,608
55,353		 Total
Admissions
Education
and
exhibitions
2024
2023
2023
£
£
£
90,973
60,360
15,934
394,101
137,482
4,895
467
48
295
17,765
-
-
503,306
197,890
21,124
294,205
277,003
9,786
6,450
4,824
188
803,961
479,717
31,098
439,266
356,370
26,487
364,695
123,347
4,611
803,961
479,717
31,098		 Total
2023
£
76,294
142,377
343
-
219,014
286,789
5,012
510,815
382,857
127,958
510,815

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

9 Support costs allocated to activities

9
Support costs allocated to activities
Basis of allocation
Staff costs
Income
Depreciation
Pro rata direct
Marketing and advertising
Usage/ income
Licences and equipment hire
Usage/ income
Communications
Usage/ income
General expenses and insurance
Income
Bank charges
Income
Premises costs
Floor area
Light and heat
Floor area
Legal & professional
Income
Loan interest payable
Income
Governance costs
Income
Analysed between:
Fundraising
Admissions
Education and exhibitions
10
Net movement in funds
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the audit of the charity's financial statements
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets		 2024
£
74,233
2,518
309
4,728
6,307
31,824
1,115
66,738
123,132
7,499
775
7,500
326,678
26,023
291,301
9,354
326,678
2024
£
7,500
411,370		 2023
£
78,207
1,936
5,472
5,559
7,911
27,785
1,024
68,223
101,744
7,100
1,030
5,200
311,191
19,390
281,827
9,974
311,191
2023
£
5,200
151,404

11 Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year.

12 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

Management and administration
Operational
Total		 2024
Number
3
5
8		 2023
Number
3
4
7

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

12
Employees
Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 (Continued)
2024
2023
£
£
158,764
149,920
12,366
8,480
3,331
3,243
174,461
161,643		 (Continued)
2024
2023
£
£
158,764
149,920
12,366
8,480
3,331
3,243
174,461
161,643
161,643

There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.

13 Taxation

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

14 Tangible fixed assets

Cost
At 1 April 2023
Additions
At 31 March 2024
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2023
Depreciation charged in the year
At 31 March 2024
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023		 Leasehold
land and
buildings
£
9,999,220
20,116
10,019,336
6,152,524
154,629
6,307,153
3,712,183
3,846,696		 Furniture,
fittings and
equipment
£
5,131,452
493,338
5,624,790
4,628,936
254,459
4,883,395
741,395
502,518		 Computer
equipment
£
65,508
1,750
67,258
63,525
2,282
65,807
1,451
1,981		 Total
£
15,196,180
515,204
15,711,384
10,844,985
411,370
11,256,355
4,455,029
4,351,195

15 Heritage assets

The chandelier was donated by Manchester Airport during the year ended 31 March 2009 and its cost of £79,344 represented expenditure incurred in installing the exhibit in the visitor centre. The market value donation has not been included on the grounds that the cost of obtaining such a valuation would not be commensurate with the benefit of the users of the financial statements. The chandelier has been fully depreciated and has a net book value of £Nil (2023 £Nil).

Other heritage assets within the visitor centre are not included on the balance sheet because the charity acts only as their curator.

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

16 Fixed asset investments

Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2023 & 31 March 2024
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023
Other investments comprise:
Notes
Investments in subsidiaries
27
17
Stocks
Finished goods and goods for resale
18
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year:
Trade debtors
Amounts owed by group undertakings
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
19
Loans and overdrafts
Bank loans
Loans from related parties
Payable within one year
Payable after one year		 Other
investments
£
2
2
2
2024
2023
£
£
2
2
2024
2023
£
£
2,990
2,990
2024
2023
£
£
192
-
20,073
20,073
5,013
3,889
20,052
15,854
45,330
39,816
2024
2023
£
£
26,560
36,434
160,000
-
186,560
36,434
9,903
9,681
176,657
26,753

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

19 Loans and overdrafts

(Continued)

The bank loan is unsecured.

The related party loan represents a loan from St Helens Council for working capital and is secured by a fixed charge over the leasehold land lying South of Chalon Way, St Helens, title MS399499.

The loan from St Helens Council is repayable by 48 equal instalments commencing in March 2025. Interest is payable monthly in arrears and is charged at 5.89% per annum.

20 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

20
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Notes
Bank loans
19
Other taxation and social security
Trade creditors
Accruals and deferred income
21
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
Notes
Bank loans
19
Other borrowings
19
22
Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes		 2024
£
9,903
2,511
30,887
28,344
71,645
2024
£
16,657
160,000
176,657
2024
£
3,331		 2023
£
9,681
2,853
90,016
34,745
137,295
2023
£
26,753
-
26,753
2023
£
3,243

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

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

23 Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

Building Fund
Friends of The World of Glass
Rainford Trust
Cone Restoration
Show Seating Project
Re-imagining Project
Godfrey Pilkington Gallery
Previous year:
Building Fund
Friends of The World of Glass
Rainford Trust
Cone Restoration
Show Seating Project
Re-imagining Project
Godfrey Pilkington Gallery		 At 1 April
2023
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
At 31 March
2024
£
£
£
£
3,788,305
-
(132,570)
3,655,735
15,392
1,200
-
16,592
2,500
-
-
2,500
21,389
-
-
21,389
26,130
-
-
26,130
488,050
401,850
(211,882)
678,018
149,950
-
(32,513)
117,437
4,491,716
403,050
(376,965)
4,517,801
At 1 April
2022
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
At 31 March
2023
£
£
£
£
3,920,874
-
(132,569)
3,788,305
10,874
4,518
-
15,392
2,500
-
-
2,500
21,389
-
-
21,389
26,130
-
-
26,130
-
488,050
-
488,050
-
149,950
-
149,950
3,981,767
642,518
(132,569)
4,491,716

24 Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

General funds
Previous year:
General funds		 At 1 April
2023
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
At 31 March
2024
£
£
£
£
121,360
408,746
(479,530)
50,576
At 1 April
2022
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
At 31 March
2023
£
£
£
£
202,539
339,668
(420,847)
121,360

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

25 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
At 31 March 2024:
Tangible assets
3,839
4,451,190
Investments
2
-
Current assets/(liabilities)
223,392
66,611
Long term liabilities
(176,657)
-
50,576
4,517,801
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2023
2023
£
£
At 31 March 2023:
Tangible assets
113,243
4,237,952
Investments
2
-
Current assets/(liabilities)
34,868
253,764
Long term liabilities
(26,753)
-
121,360
4,491,716		 Total
2024
£
4,455,029
2
290,003
(176,657)
4,568,377
Total
2023
£
4,351,195
2
288,632
(26,753)
4,613,076

26 Related party transactions

Transactions with related parties

During the year the charity entered into the following transactions with related parties:

The charity received the following from St Helens Council during the year:

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

27 Subsidiaries

These financial statements are separate charity financial statements for The World of Glass (St Helens) Limited.

Separate company financial statements are required to be prepared by law. Consolidated financial statements for The World of Glass Group have not been prepared as it does not fulfil the requirements stipulated by the Charity's Act.

Details of the charity's subsidiaries at 31 March 2024 are as follows:

Name of undertaking Registered Nature of business Class of % Held
office shares held Direct Indirect
The World of Glass England and Museum activities Ordinary 100.00
Enterprises Limited Wales

The World of Glass Enterprises Limited operates the trading and commercial activities of the visitor centre, which include operating the admissions to the visitor centre, its shop and cafe, the car park and the hire of its facilities for functions and conferences.

At the year end there was a balance due from The World of Glass Enterprises of £20,073 (2023 £20,073).

28 Controlling interest

The charity is controlled by the executive committee, which is composed of the trustees and members.

29
Cash generated from operations
(Deficit)/surplus for the year
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
Movements in working capital:
(Increase)/decrease in stocks
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
(Decrease)/increase in creditors
Cash generated from operations		 2024
£
(44,699)
(22,333)
411,370
-
(5,514)
(65,872)
272,952		 2023
£
428,770
(27,695)
151,404
10
3,586
87,086
643,161

THE WORLD OF GLASS (ST HELENS) LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

30 Analysis of changes in net funds
At 1 April 2023 Cash flowsAcquisitions and
At 31 March 2024
disposals
£ £ £ £
Cash at bank and in hand 383,121 (69,793) - 313,328
Loans falling due within one year (9,681) 159,778 (160,000) (9,903)
Loans falling due after more than one year (26,753) (149,904) - (176,657)
346,687 (59,919) (160,000) 126,768