HEADLINERS
Making News Changing Lives
Headliners (UK)
Annual Accounts 2024125
POWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO

Chair Foreword 2025
This year has been one of stability, growth and renewed
ambition for Headliners. At the heart of our mission is a simple
but powerful belief: young people's voices matter.
Over the past year, we have taken significant steps to ensure
that young people are not only heard but that their ideas
shape and drive the work we do. They have co-designed
projects, led on evaluation and defined the outcomes that
matter most to them. Their creativity and insight have made
our programmes more relevant, more inclusive and more
impactful.
Our focus on the North East has also created exciting
opportunities for growth. By building strong partnerships with
schools, youth organisations and local authorities, we have
expanded our reach and delivered activity more widely across
the region.
This has given young people who are too often
underrepresented in the media the chance to tell their stories
and influence the world around them. Their journalism,
photography and creative projects are not just powerful
expressions of their experiences, they are catalysts for change
in their communities.
None of this would have been possible without the dedication
and passion of our staff and young people, the generosity of
our funders, and the unwavering support of our trustees. I
want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of
you. Your belief in our mission and your commitment to young
people have been instrumental in helping us turn the page and
begin this exciting new chapter.
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO

As we look ahead, I am filled with optimism. Headliners is not
just surviving - it is thriving. We are building a charity that is not
only financially sustainable but also deeply rooted in the
communities we serve. Together, we will continue to amplify
young people's voices, champion their rights, and create
opportunities for them to lead, inspire, and make change.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Jonathan Hudson
Chair Person
Headliners (UK)
'Headliners has given me a
louder voice.,
41
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO

About Headliners
Headliners (UK) works with young people across North East
l England to empower them to share their voices, stories and the
I Stories of others through unique our unique media and journalism
programmes.
I We support young people to have a voice on issues that matter
locally such as transitioning to independent living, acquiring
skills for work and dealing with isolation amongst other things.
Headliners has a 30 year track record of advocating for young
I people on matters that effect them, Inspiring them to investigate
I the world around them, offering opportunities to enhance their
I future life chances through education and empowering them by
amplifying their voices.
Headliners unique approach blends the skills of qualified
Community and Youth Workers with the experience of
professional journalists to deliver a holistic, youth-focused
I multimedia programme that champions and amplify's youth voice.
'It's a really new and exciting thing to
have adults speak to me like I'm an equal,
I feel like I matter now.,
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO
/é
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO

Our Impact
I In 2024125 We worked with 164 young people. Our I
Impact shows:
92 % said they were more likely to speak up for
themselves after working with Headliners.
98 % said they have developed their skills.
193 % said they feel more positive about their future. I
95 % said Headliners made them more confident.
980/0 said they felt listened to at Headliners.
IOOO/o said they feel safe with Headliners
'I feel safe, trusted and respected
when I come to Headliners.,
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO

Our Projects 2024/25
Young
Journalist
Programme
The Headliners Young Journalist Programme is an open access
youth journalism project where young people create and share
stories about issues that matter to them. It builds confidence, media skills and a
platform for youth voices to be heard and influence change.
Aiming High
Aiming High works with young people from Migrant, Refugee and
Asylum Seeker backgrounds offering them the opportunity to become more digitally and
finically literate as well as exploring the world through a creative lens using journalism and
media as a tool for investigation into issues that effect them.
Tyne on Your
Side
Tyne on Your Side works with young people from North Tyneside
and Northumberland who are care experience, SEND, NEET or at risk of becoming
NEET and supports them back into Education, employment and training by
supporting them to plan for the future and gain valuable employment skills.
Bright Sparks
Bright Sparks Supports young people who are living independently
for the first time to save money through energy awareness as well as ensuring that
they understand remain safe through Carbon Monoxide awareness.
Owt or Nowt
Podcasts
Owt or Nowt Podcasts are created and presented by young
people from South Tyneside, giving them a platform to explore topics that matter
to them in their own words. The series builds confidence, media and
communication skills, while amplifying authentic youth voices to wider
audiences.
Newcastle
Youth Panel
Video Project
The Newcastle Youth Panel Video Project captured the
experiences and perspectives of young people to review the
impact of the Newcastle Youth Panel. Through film, participants shared their voices on how the
panel influenced decision-making, supported youth involvement, and created positive change in
their community.
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO

Our Funders 2024/25
National Lottery Community Fund-
The Million Hours Fund
The Clothworkers. Foundation
Children in Need
The Arnold Clark Community Fund
The Bernicia Foundation
The Santander Foundation
The Catherine Cookson Charitable
Trust
SIGNIFICANCE
The Community Foundation
Pattinson Estate Agents
Northern Gas Networks Community
Partnering
Wellesley Trust
We are deeply grateful to our funders, without
their generous support, our work would not be
possible.
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPO

Headliners New Strategic
Direction
In 2023 Headliners (UK) closed its offices in London and Northern Ireland due
to funding challenges. These closures reflect the broader difficulties faced by
many non-profits in sustaining local operations, particularly in regions where
securing consistent financial support is challenging.
The charity shifted focus to consolidate its resources and continue delivering
projects in the North East, where it could maintain stronger funding
partnerships and community impact.
Although these decisions were hard this has allowed Headliners (UK) not only
to survive but thrive. Whilst ensuring that Headliners work continues to impact
young peoples lives by empowering them to share their voices through our
unique media and journalism programmes.
HEADLINERS (UK)
OUR STRATEGY 2024-2029
Our vision is a world where young people's voices are heard. Where they
believe in themselves, are empowered to share their views, talk about what
matters to them and make the changes they want to see in the world.
Our Vision
Our mission is to provide a platform for young people to share their voices,
challenge the world around them, build their self-confidence and promote
young people's right to be heard as equals.
Our Mission
Our purpose is to work with young people to create meaningful
opportunities for them to share their voices through creative media and
journalism.
i Our Purpose i
%*""
> EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EM

Young people's voices are powerful, they
should be heard and listened to.
Young people's opinions are valid, they
deserve a platform to share their views.
Our
Young people are tslented, creative and
deserve to be nurtured and supported to
create a positive future.
, VALUES ;;
Young people deserve equal access to
inclusive opportunities and the resources they i
require to fulfil their potential.
Young people should feel safe and be
supported without judgement.
'Headliners doe15n't
just listen to what
we sayi thei, Dut our
voices first and give
us the oppurtunity to
be the ones who
make the decisions.
MPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCAT
> ADVOCATE > EMPO

OUR CORE
Empower
Educate
Advocate
'I don't think I would have ever been
able to achieve as much as I have this
year without Headliners giving me the
voice to speak up about what matters
to me, they empowered me,
EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > E
EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > E

OUR PRIORITIES
2024-2029
2. NORTH EAST FOCUS
By embracing funding challenges,
Headliners UK will focus on opportunities in i
the North East region. This focus will
provide more sustainable programmes and
help to bridge the gap in regional youth
repre*ntation in the media and empower
young people to become active, informed
citizens capable of influencing positive
change in their community.
1. YOUNG
PEOPLES VOICE
We are deeply committed to ensuring that
young people's voices are prioritised at every i
stage or our programmes. We will continue
to involve young people in our decision
making processes, from planning and
development to execution and evaluation of
our projects. We will foster an environment i
I where young people feel valued and heard.
This participatory approach will enhance the i
I relevance and impact of our programmes but
i also empower young people to take an active I
role in shaping their futures and advocating
for issues that matter to them.
3.YOUTH WORK
AND JOURNALISM
COLLABORATION
We will place a strong emphasis on i
the collaboration between youth
work and journalism, recognising
the powerful synergy this
partnership can create. By
integrating youth work principles
into journalism, we will empower
young people to explore and tell
stories on issues that affect their
lives and communities whilst
ensuring all young people receive
aC￿sS to youth work support.
'I'm more
happy now then
I have ever
been.
WER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWE

OUR PRIORITIES
2024-2029
4.REGIONAL
GROWTH
We will ensure that more young
people in The North East have the
opportunity to access Headliners
through a wider regional offering,
with development into areas not
previously served. Giving more young I
people a chance to take part in youth I
journalism and creative media.
5. A STRONG
AND
SUSTAINABLE
CHARITY
Through a proactive approach to
governance, the charity will focus on,
financial stability, long-term impact
and community relevance. We will
achieve this through strategic
planning, diversifying funding sources I
and continuously assessing and
responding to the needs of the
community. Crucially ensuring our
programmes remain digitslly relevant,
effertive and impartful for young
people. We will invest in our team to
maintain a skilled and motivated
organisation.
'I feel calmer, more balanced and able
to focus more now that I have a safe
space to speak up..
EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE > EMPOWER > EDUCATE > ADVOCATE

**REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 02976335 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1043300** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT AND** 

**UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **FOR** 

## **HEADLINERS (UK)** 

BK Plus Limited Chartered Certified Accountants 13 Windsor Terrace Jesmond Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HE 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

|||**Page**|
|---|---|---|
|**Reference and Administrative Details**||1|
|**Chair Foreword 2025**||2|
|**Trustees' Report**|3|to 7|
|**Independent Examiner's Report**||8|
|**Statement of Financial Activities**||9|
|**Balance Sheet**|10|to 11|
|**Notes to the Financial Statements**|12|to 21|
|**Impact Report**|23|<br>to 34|





**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **Registered Company number** 

02976335 

## **Registered Charity number** 

1043300 **Registered office** 

Toffee Factory, Lower Steenbergs Yard, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2DF 

## **Trustees** 

Jonathan Hudson Chair Dr David Baines Deputy Chair Eshe Nelson Maggie Taggart retired 9 October 2024 Suleimanu Usaini appointed 28 May 2025 Nancy Anderson appointed 28 May 2025 

**Senior Management Team** Holly Ayrton Charity Manager 

## **Independent Examiner** 

Nicholas J Liley FCA, BK Plus Limited, 13 Windsor Terrace, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4HE 

## **Bankers** 

CAF Bank Ltd, 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent, ME19 4JQ 

## **Solicitors** 

Pinsent Masons, 30 Crown Place, London, EC2A 4ES 

Page 1 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **CHAIR FOREWORD 2025** 

This year has been one of stability, growth and renewed ambition for Headliners. At the heart of our mission is a simple but powerful belief: young people's voices matter. 

Over the past year, we have taken significant steps to ensure that young people are not only heard but that their ideas shape and drive the work we do. They have co-designed projects, led on evaluation and defined the outcomes that matter most to them. Their creativity and insight have made our programmes more relevant, more inclusive and more impactful. 

Our focus on the North East has also created exciting opportunities for growth. By building strong partnerships with schools, youth organisations and local authorities, we have expanded our reach and delivered activity more widely across the region. 

This has given young people who are too often underrepresented in the media the chance to tell their stories and influence the world around them. Their journalism, photography and creative projects are not just powerful expressions of their experiences, they are catalysts for change in their communities. 

None of this would have been possible without the dedication and passion of our staff and young people, the 

generosity of our funders, and the unwavering support of our trustees. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. Your belief in our mission and your commitment to young people have been instrumental in helping us turn the page and begin this exciting new chapter. 

As we look ahead, I am filled with optimism. Headliners is not just surviving - it is thriving. We are building 

a charity that is not only financially sustainable but also deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Together, we will continue to amplify young people's voices, champion their rights, and create opportunities for them to lead, inspire, and make change. 

Thank you for being part of this journey. 

Jonathan Hudson Chairperson 

Page 2 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019). 

## **Structure, Governance and Management** 

Headliners (UK) is a company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital, and is governed by a Board of Trustees, the members of which are the directors of the Company. The charity's governing document is its Articles of Association. Trustees are externally recruited and selected then appointed by ordinary resolution for an initial three-year term, which can be extended. 

It is the policy of the charity that there is representation of young people and former Headliners (UK) members on the Board of Trustees. Young people are involved across all sections of the organisation including the annual planning cycle and developing strategy. The charity's ethos is encourage the participation of young people. Young people are involved in the recruitment of key charity positions and key decision making in the charity including our strategy. 

The day-to-day operation of the charity is now managed by the Chief Executive, who reports to the Board of 

Trustees and who is supported by a small senior management team. The senior management team meets at monthly intervals and the Board meets five times per year. There are two sub committees that operate in support of the Board of Trustees. These are the Finance, Fundraising and Communications Sub Committee and the Delivery and Operations Sub Committee. 

## **Financial Review** 

During the 2024-25 financial year, Headliners (UK) made a net surplus of £13,601 (2023-24 deficit of £155,702) resulting in total funds carried forward of £18,295 (2023-24 £4,694). 

## **Going Concern** 

The financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis. In the opinion of trustees, no material uncertainties exist about the charity's ability to continue. 

## **Reserves Policy** 

The Trustees have determined that a target reserves level of £60,000 is both realistic and appropriate. This represents 18 months of core costs not supported by guaranteed income streams which is felt to provide sufficient protection for the organisation. 

## **Management of Risk** 

The Trustees have a risk management strategy which comprises: -An annual review of the risks the charity may face. -Regular monitoring by the charity's Finance, Fundraising and Communications Sub Committee and the Risk Register is reported to the Board of Trustees quarterly. -The establishment of systems and procedures to mitigate those risks identified in the plan. -The implementation of procedures designed to minimise any potential impact on the charity should those risks materialise. 

This work has identified that financial sustainability is the key focus for the charity and building up of the unrestricted reserves for the charity through new sources of income and new contract income. Attention has also focussed on non-financial risks arising from safeguarding and child protection. 

Page 3 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES** 

## **About Headliners** 

Headliners (UK) works with young people across North East England and formerly London to empower young people to share their voices, stories and the stories of others through unique our unique media and journalism programmes. 

We support young people to have a voice on issues that matter locally such as transitioning to independent living, acquiring skills for work and dealing with isolation amongst other things. 

Headliners has a near 30 year track record of advocating for young people on issues that affect them, inspiring 

them to investigate the world around them, offering opportunities to enhance their future life chances through education and empowering them by amplifying their voices. 

Headliners unique approach blends the skills of qualified Community and Youth Workers with the experience 

of professional journalists to deliver a holistic, youth-focussed multimedia programme that champions and amplifies youth voice. 

## **Our Projects 2024/25** 

## **Young Journalist Programme** 

The Headliners Young Journalist Programme is an open access youth journalism project where young people create and share stories about issues that matter to them. It builds confidence, media skills and a platform for youth voices to be heard and influence change. 

## **Aiming High** 

Aiming High works with young people from Migrant, Refugee and Asylum Seeker backgrounds offering them the opportunity to become more digitally and financially literate as well as exploring the world through a creative lens using journalism and media as a tool for investigation into issues that affect them. 

## **Tyne on Your Side** 

Tyne on Your Side works with young people from North Tyneside and Northumberland who are care experience, SEND, NEET or at risk of becoming NEET and supports them back into Education, employment and training by supporting them to plan for the future and gain valuable employment skills. 

## **Bright Sparks** 

Bright Sparks Supports young people who are living independently for the first time to save money through energy awareness as well as ensuring that they understand remain safe through Carbon Monoxide awareness. 

## **Owt or Nowt Podcasts** 

Owt or Nowt Podcasts are created and presented by young people from South Tyneside, giving them a platform to explore topics that matter to them in their own words. The series builds confidence, media and communication skills, while amplifying authentic youth voices to wider audiences. 

## **Newcastle Youth Panel Video Project** 

The Newcastle Youth Panel Video Project captured the experiences and perspectives of young people to review the impact of the Newcastle Youth Panel. Through film, participants shared their voices on how the panel influenced decision-making, supported youth involvement, and created positive change in their community. 

Page 4 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **Our Funders2024/25** 

National Lottery Community Fund - The Million Hours Fund The Clothworkers' Foundation Children in Need The Arnold Clark Community Fund The Bernicia Foundation The Santander Foundation The Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust SIGNIFICANCE The Community Foundation Pattinson Estate Agents Northern Gas Networks Community Partnering Wellesley Trust Weare deeply grateful to our funders, without their generous support, our work would not be possible. 

## **OurImpact** 

## **In2024/25 weworkedwith164youngpeople.OurImpactshows:** 

- -92% said they were more likely to speak up for themselves after working with Headliners. 

- -98% said they have developed their skills. 

- -93% said they feel more positive about their future. 

- -95% said Headliners made them more confident. 

- -98% said they felt listened to at Headliners. 

- -100% said they feel safe with Headliners. 

## **Headliners New Strategic Direction** 

In2023 Headliners (UK) closed its offices in London and Northern Ireland due to funding challenges. These closures reflect the broader difficulties faced by many non-profits in sustaining local operations, particularly inregions where securing consistent financial support is challenging. 

Thecharity shifted focus to consolidate its resources and continue delivering projects in the North East, where itcould maintain stronger funding partnerships and community impact. 

Although these decisions were hard this has allowed Headliners (UK) not only to survive but thrive. Whilst ensuring that Headliners work continues to impact young people's lives by empowering them to share their voices through our unique media and journal ism programmes. 

## **Our Strategy 2024-2029** 

## **Our Vision** 

Our vision is a world where young people's voices are heard. Where they believe in themselves, are empowered to share their views, talk about what matters to them and make the changes they want to see in the world. 

## **OurMission** 

Our mission is to provide a platform for young people to share their voices, challenge the world around them, build their self-confidence and promote young people's right to be heard as equals. 

## **Our Purpose** 

Our purpose is to work with young people to create meaningful opportunities for them to share their voices through creative media and journalism. 

Page 5 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **Our Values** 

-Young people's voices are powerful, they should be heard and listened to. -Young people's opinions are valid, they deserve a platform to share their views. -Young people are talented, creative and deserve to be nurtured and supported to create a positive future. -Young people deserve equal access to inclusive opportunities and the resources they require to fulfil their potential. -Young people should feel safe and be supported without judgement. 

## **Our Core Empower** 

Provide young people the resources and a platform to speak up for themselves, share their opinions and tell their stories. 

## **Educate** 

Offer young people opportunities to develop their skills, to understand their community, know their rights and learn more about issues that affect them. 

## **Advocate** 

Enable young people to speak up for themselves, promoting the authentic voice of young people in their community as engaged citizens and young journalists. 

## **Our Priorities 2024-2029** 

## **1.YoungPeople'sVoice** 

We are deeply committed to ensuring that young people's voices are prioritised at every stage or our programmes. We will continue to involve young people in our decision making processes, from planning and development to execution and evaluation of our projects. We will foster an environment where young people feel valued and heard. This participatory approach will enhance the relevance and impact of our programmes but also empower young people to take an active role in shaping their futures and advocating for issues that matter to them. 

## **2. North East Focus** 

By embracing funding challenges, Headliners UK will focus on opportunities in the North East region. This focus will provide more sustainable programmes and help to bridge the gap in regional youth representation in the media and empower young people to become active, informed citizens capable of influencing positive change in their community. 

## **3. Youth Work and Journalism Collaboration** 

We will place a strong emphasis on the collaboration between youth work and journalism, recognising the powerful synergy this partnership can create. By integrating youth work principles into journalism, we will empower young people to explore and tell stories on issues that affect their lives and communities whilst ensuring all young people receive access to youth work support. 

## **4 .Regional Growth** 

We will ensure that more young people in The North East have the opportunity to access Headliners through awider regional offering, with development into areas not previously served. Giving more young people a chance to take part in youth journalism and creative media. 

Page 6 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **5.Strong andSustainable Charity** 

Through a proactive approach to governance, the charity will focus on, financial stability, long-term impact and community relevance. We will achieve this through strategic planning, diversifying funding sources and continuously assessing and responding to the needs of the community. Crucially ensuring our programmes remain digitally relevant, effective and impactful for young people. We will invest in our team to maintain a skilled and motivated organisation. 

## **STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES** 

The trustees (who are also the directors of Headliners (Uk) for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Annual 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. Under that law, the trustees have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). 

Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they 

give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to 

- select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; 

- observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP; 

- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 

- prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the 

charitable company will continue in business. 

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy 

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

Approved by order of the board of trustees on Friday 31st October 2025 and signed on its behalf by: 

................................................................. Jonathan Edward Hudson - Trustee 

Page 7 



## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF HEADLINERS (UK)** 

**Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Headliners (Uk) ('the Company')** Ireport to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2025. 

## **Responsibilities and basis of report** 

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

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 

2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act. 

## **Independent examiner's statement** 

Ihave completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe: 

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

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

3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or 

4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)). 

Ihave no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

Nicholas J Liley FCA The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales 

BK Plus Limited Chartered Certified Accountants 13 Windsor Terrace Jesmond Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HE Date: ............................................. 

Page 8 



## **HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

|||||2025|2024|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||Unrestricted|Restricted|Total|Total|
|||funds|funds|funds|funds|
||Notes|£|£|£|£|
|**INCOMEANDENDOWMENTS FROM**|**INCOMEANDENDOWMENTS FROM**|||||
|Donations and legacies||1,610|-|1,610|928|
|**Charitable activities**||||||
|England-wide operations||15,503|114,774|130,277|166,315|
|NI (Belfast & Derry Bureaux)||-|-|-|(8,526)|
|Investment income|2|116|-|116|2|
|Other income<br>**Total**||3,790<br>21,019|-<br>114,774|3,790<br>135,793|1,426<br>160,145|
|**EXPENDITURE ON**||||||
|Raising funds||-|-|-|19,976|
|**Charitable activities**||||||
|England-wide operations||7,180|115,012|122,192|279,568|
|NI (Belfast & Derry Bureaux)||-|-|-|16,303|
|**Total**||7,180|115,012|122,192|315,847|
|**NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)**||||||
|**Transfers between funds**||||||
|**Net movement in funds**|11|13,839<br>(238)|(238)<br>238|13,601<br>-|(155,702)<br>-|
|||13,601|-|13,601|(155,702)|
|**RECONCILIATIONOF FUNDS**||||||
|Total funds brought forward||4,694|-|4,694|160,396|
|**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**||||||
|||18,295|-|18,295|4,694|



The notes form part of these financial statements 

Page 9 



## **HEADLINERS (UK) (REGISTERED NUMBER: 02976335)** 

## **BALANCE SHEET 31 MARCH 2025** 

|||2025|2024|
|---|---|---|---|
||Notes|£|£|
|**FIXED ASSETS**||||
|Tangible assets|7|4,740|1,576|
|**CURRENT ASSETS**||||
|Debtors|8|15,000|12,020|
|Cash at bank||115,114|61,252|
|||130,114|73,272|
|**CREDITORS**||||
|Amounts falling due within one year|9|(116,559)|(70,154)|
|**NET CURRENT ASSETS**||||
|||13,555|3,118|
|**TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT**||||
|**LIABILITIES**||||
|||18,295|4,694|
|**NET ASSETS/(LIABILITIES)**||18,295|4,694|
|**FUNDS**|11|||
|Unrestricted funds||18,295|4,694|
|**TOTAL FUNDS**||||
|||18,295|4,694|



The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of theCompanies Act2006 for the year ended 31 March 2025. 

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

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for 

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

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

The notes form part of these financial statements 

Page 10 

continued... 



## **HEADLINERS (UK) (REGISTERED NUMBER: 02976335)** 

## **BALANCE SHEET - continued** 

## **31 MARCH 2025** 

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

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 31st October 2025 

and were signed on its behalf by: 

............................................. Jonathan Edward Hudson - Trustee 

The notes form part of these financial statements 

Page 11 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

**NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES** 

## **Basisofpreparingthefinancialstatements** 

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. 

The presentation currency of the financial statements is the Pound Sterling (£). 

## **Going concern** 

The financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis. In the opinion of trustees, no material uncertainties exist about the charity's ability to continue. 

## **Income** 

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

## **Expenditure** 

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. 

## **Tangible fixed assets** 

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

Plant and machinery 

-33% on cost and 25% on cost 

## **Taxation** 

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

## **Fund accounting** 

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

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

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

continued... 

Page 12 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued** 

## **Pensioncostsand otherpost-retirement benefits** 

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

## **Debtors** 

Trade and other debtors (including prepayments) are recognised at the settlement amount due or amount prepaid) net of any trade discounts. 

## **Cash at bank and in hand** 

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments. 

## **Creditors** 

Trade and other creditors (including accruals) are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are recognised at their settlement amount nett of any trade discounts. 

## **Financial instruments** 

All financial assets and financial liabilities of the charity qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. 

## **INVESTMENT INCOME** 

## **2.** 

||2025|2024|2024|
|---|---|---|---|
||£|£||
|Interest receivable|116||2|



## **3. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)** 

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

||2025|2024|
|---|---|---|
||£|£|
|Depreciation - owned assets|2,448|2,007|
|Independent examiner's remuneration, including irrecoverable VAT|1,674|1,560|



continued... 

Page 13 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **4. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS** 

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

## **Trustees' expenses** 

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

## **5.** 

||2025|2024|
|---|---|---|
||£|£|
|Wages and salaries|67,979|176,238|
|Social security costs|1,871|12,325|
|Other pension costs|1,665|3,102|
||71,515|191,665|



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

||2025|2024|
|---|---|---|
|Management and administration|1|1|
|Direct charitable work|1|5|
||2|6|



No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000. The key management personnel of the charity are listed under Reference and Administrative Details. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £44,976 (2024 - £56,693). 

continued... 

Page 14 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

|**6.**|**COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIALACTIVITIES**|**COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIALACTIVITIES**|**COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIALACTIVITIES**||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||Unrestricted|Restricted|Total|
|||funds|funds|funds|
|||£|£|£|
||**INCOMEANDENDOWMENTS FROM**||||
||Donations and legacies|928|-|928|
||**Charitable activities**||||
||England-wide operations|37,520|128,795|166,315|
||NI (Belfast & Derry Bureaux)|-|(8,526)|(8,526)|
||Investment income|2|-|2|
||Other income<br>**Total**|1,426<br>39,876|-<br>120,269|1,426<br>160,145|
||**EXPENDITURE ON**||||
||Raising funds|19,976|-|19,976|
||**Charitable activities**||||
||England-wide operations|77,733|201,835|279,568|
||NI (Belfast & Derry Bureaux)|6,269|10,034|16,303|
||**Total**|103,978|211,869|315,847|
||**NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)**|(64,102)|(91,600)|(155,702)|
||**Transfers between funds**|(1,555)|1,555|-|
||**Net movement in funds**|(65,657)|(90,045)|(155,702)|
||**RECONCILIATIONOF FUNDS**||||
||Total funds brought forward|70,351|90,045|160,396|
||**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED**||||
||**FORWARD**|4,694|-|4,694|



continued... 

Page 15 



## **HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **7. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS** 

|**7.**|**TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS**|||
|---|---|---|---|
||||Plant and|
||||machinery|
||||£|
||**COST**|||
||At 1 April 2024||25,208|
||Additions||5,612|
||At 31 March 2025||30,820|
||**DEPRECIATION**|||
||At 1 April 2024||23,632|
||Charge for year||2,448|
||At 31 March 2025||26,080|
||**NETBOOKVALUE**|||
||At 31 March 2025||4,740|
||At 31 March 2024||1,576|
|**8.**|**DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR**|||
|||2025|2024|
|||£|£|
||Other debtors|-|1,000|
||Accrued income|15,000|11,020|
|||15,000|12,020|
|**9.**|**CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR**|||
|||2025|2024|
|||£|£|
||Trade creditors|4,646|7,844|
||Social security and other taxes|6,731|1,699|
||Other creditors|1,627|306|
||Accruals|1,674|1,560|
||Deferred income|101,881|58,745|
|||116,559|70,154|



continued... 

Page 16 



## **HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **10. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS** 

|||||2025|2024||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||Unrestricted|Restricted|Total|Total||
|||funds|funds|funds|funds||
|||£|£|£|£||
||Fixed assets|4,740|-|4,740|1,576||
||Current assets|28,233|101,881|130,114|73,272||
||Current liabilities|(14,678)|(101,881)|(116,559)|(70,154)||
|||18,295|-|18,295|4,694||
|**11.**|**MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**||||||
||||Net|Transfers|||
||||movement|between|At||
|||At 1/4/24|in funds|funds|31/3/25||
|||£|£|£|£||
||**Unrestricted funds**||||||
||England-wide Operations|3,118|16,287|(5,850)|13,555||
||Designated funds|1,576<br>4,694|(2,448)|5,612|4,740||
|||-|13,839|(238)|18,295||
||**Restricted funds**|-|||||
||Tyne on Your Side|-|(3,008)|3,008||-|
||Bright Sparks<br>Owt or Nowt<br>Capital Project|-<br>-|(1,339)<br>(1,365)<br>5,474|1,339<br>1,365<br>(5,474)||-<br>-<br>-|
|||||||~~-~~|
|||4,694|(238)|238|~~18,295~~||
||**TOTAL FUNDS**||13,601|-|||



continued... 

Page 17 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued** 

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

||Incoming|Resources|Movement|
|---|---|---|---|
||resources|expended|in funds|
||£|£|£|
|**Unrestricted funds**||||
|England-wide Operations|21,019|(4,732)|16,287|
|Designated funds|-<br>21,019<br>38,227|(2,448)<br>(7,180)|(2,448)|
|**Restricted funds**<br>Santander<br>Tyne on Your Side<br>Bright Sparks|10,000<br>7,025<br>3,493<br>6,700<br>49,329|(38,227)<br>(13,008)<br>(8,364)<br>(4,858)<br>(1,226)|13,839<br>-<br>(3,008)<br>(1,339)|
|Owt or Nowt<br>Capital Project<br>Young Journalists Programme|114,774<br>135,793|(49,329)<br>(115,012)|(1,365)<br>5,474<br>-|
|||(122,192)|(238)|
|**TOTAL FUNDS**|||13,601|



continued... 

Page 18 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

**NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued** 

## **Comparatives for movement in funds** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|Net|Transfers|
|movement|between|At|
|At 1/4/23|in funds|funds|31/3/24|
|£|£|£|£|
|Unrestricted funds|
|England-wide Operations|66,768|(55,826)|(7,824)|3,118|
|Northern Ireland Operations|-|(6,269)|6,269|-|
|Designated funds|-|
|3,583|(2,007)|1,576|
|70,351|(64,102)|
|(1,555)|4,694|
|Restricted funds|
|317|(317)|
|Jack Petchey|-|-|
|Co-Ray Project|11,250|(11,250)|-|-|
|Lloyds TSB EngageLondon Wildlife FundESF Equip Community LeadersSantanderPostcode LotteryNE YouthCommunity Foundation NCSEducation authority for Northern|22,8954,7333,6631,600770568750|(22,895)(4,733)(3,663)(1,600)(770)(568)(750)|-------|- - - - - - -|
|IrelandDept of JusticeLondon's Young Platinum Green|9,0949,466|(9,094)(9,466)|--|- -|
|Champions|7,452|(7,746)|294|-|
|Breaking Through the HeadlinesTyne on Your Side|6,4835,117|(6,483)(5,201)|84-|- -|
|Kickstarter|5,887|(5,887)|-|-|
|-|
|Owt or Nowt|(1,177)|1,177|-|
|90,045|(91,600|)|1,555|-|
|160,396|(155,702|)|
|-|4,694|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


**TOTAL FUNDS** 

continued... 

Page 19 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued** 

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

||Incoming|Resources|Movement|
|---|---|---|---|
||resources|expended|in funds|
||£|£|£|
|**Unrestricted funds**||||
|England-wide Operations|39,876|(95,702)|(55,826)|
|Northern Ireland Operations<br>Designated funds|-<br>-|(6,269)<br>(2,007)|(6,269)<br>(2,007)|
|**Restricted funds**|39,876<br>1,350|(103,978)|(64,102)|
|Jack Petchey<br>Co-Ray Project|-<br>11,104|(1,667)<br>(11,250)|(317)<br>(11,250)|
|Lloyds TSB Engage|-|(15,837)|(4,733)|
|London Wildlife Fund<br>ESF Equip Community Leaders<br>Santander<br>Postcode Lottery|-<br>49,993<br>-<br>3,500|(770)<br>(3,663)<br>(72,888)<br>(568)|(770)<br>(3,663)<br>(22,895)<br>(568)|
|Old Street|-|(3,500)|-|
|NE Youth<br>Community Foundation NCS<br>Education authority for Northern<br>Ireland<br>Dept of Justice<br>Edward Gostling Foundation<br>London's Young Platinum Green<br>Champions<br>Breaking Through the Headlines<br>Tyne on Your Side<br>Kickstarter|-<br>(5,005)<br>(3,521)<br>12,000<br>15,950<br>-<br>19,640<br>-<br>12,763|(1,600)<br>(750)<br>(4,089)<br>(5,945)<br>(12,000)<br>(23,696)<br>(6,483)<br>(24,841)<br>(5,887)|(1,600)<br>(750)<br>(9,094)<br>(9,466)<br>-<br>(7,746)<br>(6,483)<br>(5,201)|
|Bright Sparks|2,495|(12,763)|(5,887)|
|Owt or Nowt|120,269|(3,672)<br>~~(211,869~~)|-<br>(1,177)<br>(91,600)|
||160,145|~~(315,847~~)|(155,702)|
|**TOTAL FUNDS**||||



## **Designated funds** 

Designated funds represent the illiquid funds of the charity. Transfers to this fund represent capital expenditure during the year. 

## **Restricted Funds** 

Details of the charity's projects can be found in the Trustees Annual Report. Transfers to restricted funds represent funding shortfalls made up from the charity's free reserves, transfers from restricted funds represent fixed capital expenditure . 

continued... 

Page 20 



**HEADLINERS (UK)** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** 

## **12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS** 

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The pension charge for the year represents contributions payable by the charity to the scheme and amounted to £3,102 (2023 - £4,666). 

Contributions totalling £306 (2023 - £nil) were payable to the scheme at the balance sheet date and are included in other creditors. **RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES** 

## **13.** 

There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2025. **LEGAL STATUS** Headliners (UK) is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales and has no share **14.** capital. The company's registered number and registered office address can be found within Reference and Administrative Details. 

The Liability of the members is limited. Every member of the charitable company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the charitable company, in the event of being wound up while they are a member or within one year after they ceased to be a member, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the charitable company contracted before they ceased to be a member and of the costs, charges and expenses of winding up and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributories among themselves, such amount as may be required not exceeding £1. 

Page 21 



The following pages do not form part of the statutory financial statements