2025-03-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25

Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation Registered charity no: 1043603

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CONTENTS

4		Report of the Trustees for the Year Ending 31 March 2025
5		Letter from the Chairman
6		Who We Are
8		Your Fundraising Stories: Companies
10		Your Fundraising Stories: Community
12		Your Fundraising Stories: Events
14		Your Fundraising Stories: Philanthropy
16		Shine Bright for Bristol Children’s Hospital
20		Our Impact: Accommodation and Support for Families
24		Our Impact: Innovation and Equipment
26		Our Impact: Patient Wellbeing Through Arts, Music, and Play
32		Our Impact: Enhancing the Hospital Environment
34		Our Impact: Funding Research and Education to Improve Patient Care
36		Our Impact: Supporting Hospital Staff
38		The World of Gromit Unleashed
40		What’s Next for The Grand Appeal?
44		Thanks from the Director
46		Structure, Governance, and Management
51		Financial Review and Reserves
55		Statement of the Trustees Responsibilities
56		Report of the Independent Auditors
60		Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities
61		Consolidated Balance Sheet
62		Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
64		Notes to the Financial Statement

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REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES

For the year ending 31 March 2025

The Trustees, who are also directors of the charity for the purpose of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. The Trustees have adopted the provision 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 (FRS102) effective 1 January 2019.

Administrative details:

Patrons:

Registered in England and Wales: Charity no 1043603 Registered Company number: 3008531

Trading subsidiary:

Cracking Enterprises Ltd: Company number: 03296361

Nick Park CBE Peter Lord CBE David Sproxton CBE

Medical Advisory Committee:

Registered HQ and contact details:

30-32 Upper Maudlin Street, Bristol, BS2 8DJ

Dr Giles Haythornthwaite Mr Mike Carter Dr James Fraser Dr Anoo Jain

grandappeal.org.uk

Bankers:

[e-mail]

Trustees:

Lloyds Bank, Bristol, BS1 4AQ

Auditors:

Jos Moule – Chairman Simon Cooper Angie Last Mike Lea Mike Norton

Sumer AuditCo Limited, BA1 1LB

Lawyers:

Company Secretary and Director:

Nicola Masters

Veale Wasbrough Vizards, BS1 4AQ

Fund Managers and Investment Advisors:

Cazenove, BS1 6BN

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i,2 family accommodation. These initiatives remain at the heart of our mission and as we grow, we will continue to evolve, expand and innovate to meet the needs of the children’s hospital, NICU and to further childhood health for the next generation.

INTRODUCTION

From the Chairman

This year marks a moment of great humility and

reflection for The Grand Appeal as we celebrate 30 years as the dedicated Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Charity. Three decades of lifesaving innovation, pioneering research, family support and extraordinary generosity - all made possible by the remarkable fundraisers, supporters and donors who support us. It is an anniversary that reminds us not only of our origins as the charity in 1995 raising £12 million to create the first purpose built children’s hospital in the UK but since, of just how profoundly philanthropy has shaped children’s healthcare.

We are also looking ahead to a landmark development for The Grand Appeal. In March 2025, The Grand Appeal’s new Patient Hotel achieved planning permission which is a major milestone that now allows us to advance this ground-breaking development with energy and purpose. The Patient Hotel will transform children’s healthcare by creating a supportive environment that bridges the gap between hospital and home.

It is also the 30th anniversary of our unique partnership with Aardman. For three decades, Aardman has entrusted us with their Academy Award–winning Wallace & Gromit characters to spearhead our fundraising: an act of generosity unparalleled in the charitable sector. Together, we have built far more than a fundraising partnership: we have created an iconic and imaginative collaboration that has inspired millions, brought creativity and joy to Bristol and helped to define The Grand Appeal’s identity in Bristol, the South West and around the UK. The relationship that powers The Grand Appeal, Cots for Tots and Gromit Unleashed is the same one that has flourished since the beginning: creative, inventive and unique.

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we are honoured to recognise the John James Bristol Foundation whose extraordinary recent pledge of £1 million stands as one of the most significant commitments in our 30-year history. As the first donors to The Grand Appeal in 1995 it is particularly poignant to be able to acknowledge the Foundation’s continued generosity is deeply meaningful to The Grand Appeal and we extend our heartfelt thanks for their enduring belief in our mission.

Finally, 2025 celebrates the culmination of two years of planning with our new Gromit Unleashed 3. The trail showcases the imagination, creativity and excellence that define our partnership with Aardman and our role within the cultural and philanthropic life of Bristol. We share a commitment to welcoming families, schools, businesses, donors and visitors to Bristol as we celebrate this landmark year together.

As an independent charity, our relationships with donors, supporters, patients and families are fundamental. Independence enables us to safeguard every donation, act with absolute transparency and ensure that every gift is used exactly as supporters intend. It is the foundation upon which trust is built and the reason The Grand Appeal can respond boldly, responsibly and decisively to support the Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neontal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Our independence is not structural; it is central to our effectiveness and our ability to lead.

On behalf of the Trustees, thank you to every supporter, donor, volunteer, partner, company, school and grantmaking trust – now and over the last 30 years. Your generosity, loyalty and belief in our mission drive everything we do. We enter our anniversary year, with gratitude, excitement and renewed purpose.

This year we have continued to deliver a wide range of support for patients, families and staff: from life-saving equipment and world-leading research into childhood health to play, music, arts and the lifeline that is our

Jos Moule Chairman Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal

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WHO WE ARE

The Grand Appeal

For 30 years, The Grand Appeal has been at the forefront of children’s healthcare through transforming facilities at Bristol Children’s Hospital and the NICU at St Michael’s Hospital. The Grand Appeal is a driving force for progress, uniting philanthropy with world-class medicine to save and improve childhood health.

Our support spans pioneering medical equipment, life-saving technology, world-leading research and cutting-edge innovation to elevate the care and treatment of babies and children from throughout the South West region. From advanced imaging and surgical robotics to pioneering developments in childhood health, our funding helps expert clinicians save more lives and shape the future of childhood health.

Our long-standing partnership with Aardman is the foundation on which The Grand Appeal is built. For 30 years, Aardman has allowed The Grand Appeal to use the Wallace & Gromit characters to spearhead our fundraising in an extraordinary act of generosity. As one of the UK’s most influential studios, Aardman brings a level of distinction that elevates our work and deepens our connection with our community of fundraisers, donors and supporters. Aardman’s commitment to The Grand Appeal helps us to build exceptional reach and resonance to raise funds towards saving and improving children’s lives.

We also recognise that treatment for a sick baby or child is more than just access to life-saving equipment and expert medical teams. It also means supporting the whole family. Through our homefrom-home family accommodation as well as our arts, music and play and wellbeing support, we create environments that offer comfort, stability and a sense of normality in what may otherwise be a whirlwind of medical treatments. Our independence as a charity allows us to safeguard every donation and pursue bold, innovative ideas such as the Grand Appeal’s Patient Hotel – the first of its kind in the UK - which will redefine family-centered care.

Cots for Tots

Cots for Tots is our dedicated charity for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at St Michael’s Hospital - one of the UK’s leading centres for newborn intensive care. Here babies born too soon or critically unwell receive world-class treatment supported by advanced technology, pioneering neonatal research and clinical expertise.

Cots for Tots supports the NICU whose expert clinical teams give every baby the strongest possible start in life. Our funding provides life-saving equipment, innovation in neonatal medicine and contributes to research that shapes the care babies are given on the Unit and beyond. We also

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support families through some of the most challenging moments they will ever face, ensuring they feel supported, reassured and never alone.

At the heart of this support is Cots for Tots House - our free home-from-home family accommodation just moments away from St Michael’s Hospital. Designed to offer calm, comfort and stability, Cots for Tots House allows parents to remain close to their baby during critical stages of their treatment without the strain of travel. For many families, it becomes a lifeline - a place to rest, recover and stay connected to their newborn.

Cots for Tots is supported by extraordinary supporters, fundraisers and donors whose support is vital when a newborn’s life begins in an unexpected way - giving every baby - no matter how early their arrival or how sick they are - the best possible chance for life.

Gromit Unleashed

Gromit Unleashed is a globally recognised creative enterprise and one of the UK’s most distinctive charity/cultural brands bringing together arts, philanthropy and creativity in support of The Grand Appeal.

Created by The Grand Appeal in partnership with Aardman, Gromit Unleashed commands national and international attention and engages audiences on an exceptional scale.

Each sculpture trail invites artists, renowned creative studios and international collaborators to come together to create sculptures of Wallace, Gromit, Feathers McGraw – and for 2025 Norbot and Shaun the Sheep - that inspires millions of visitors to visit from around the world to support The Grand Appeal. Gromit Unleashed strengthens the work of The Grand Appeal and Cots for Tots - promoting our mission and delivering significant investment in The Grand Appeal to support Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

The scale, reputation and commercial value of our trails create a unique platform for The Grand Appeal. In this sense, Gromit Unleashed is a catalyst for change. Its impact and visibility around the world strengthen The Grand Appeal’s ability to support the children’s hospital and the NICU at scale whilst its public reach increases our philanthropic impact through creative partnerships which extend the influence and ambition of our work. Gromit Unleashed is a world leader in sculpture art trails, and in partnership with Aardman operates a powerful brand to further our support for the thousands of babies, children and families who depend on Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit each year.

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FUNDRAISING

We would like to extend our heartfelt and sincere thanks to every donor who has supported The Grand Appeal this year.

Your generosity - whether through regular gifts, annual contributions, one-off donations or long-term fundraising commitments forms the backbone of all The Grand Appeal is able to achieve. We are equally grateful to those who have recently chosen to support us; your decision to join our fundraising community strengthens our work and ensures we can continue to support Bristol Children’s Hospital and the NICU as needs arise. Together, you represent a remarkable collective of individuals, families, schools and organisations who sit at the heart of our work. Each and every contribution, no matter its frequency or size, plays a vital role in funding pioneering equipment, ground-breaking research and family accommodation as well as supporting a vibrant arts, music and play programme that defines our work. We are profoundly grateful for your trust, your belief in The Grand Appeal and the steadfast generosity that enables us to help save and transform lives every single day.

YOUR FUNDRAISING: COMPANIES

Businesses large and small have engaged their teams, customers and networks to raise funds and awareness for The Grand Appeal and Cots for Tots in a truly impressive style again this year. Join us in celebrating the companies and their teams who exceeded expectations to support us:

At the RHS Malvern Spring Festival , PICU doctor and garden designer Suzy together with her business partner Isabel from Ammil Garden Design created a beautiful childfriendly garden inspired by the support offered to families at Bristol Children’s Hospital. Showcasing her design to thousands of visitors, the garden raised over £3,000 for The Grand Appeal at one of the UK’s most prestigious horticultural events.

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Fashion brand Scamp & Dude raised an incredible £12,000 through their nationwide ‘Swag Bags with Purpose’ campaign. Designed by influencer and model Ruth Crilly, the limitededition Grand Appeal cosmetic bag was inspired by the care her friend’s son received at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Our partnership with Bristol-based cake specialists Cakesmiths delivered sweet success this year. Their ‘Design Your Own Cake’ campaign invited patients in Bristol Children’s Hospital to get creative, with cancer patient Eva’s winning recipe going into nationwide production. In total, the collaboration raised more than £5,000 and brought smiles far beyond the bakery.

We were honoured to be selected as one of 15 chosen charities to benefit from Overbury’s Annual Charity Quiz , a major event organised by the UK’s leading fit-out specialists. The evening raised an astonishing £500,000, with £24,000 generously awarded to The Grand Appeal.

Long-standing partner The Entertainer continued to spread joy for young patients with character visits, including the star of their latest TV advert, Ray. Through round-up donations at the till, their customers have now raised over £965,000 .

We were thrilled to welcome the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team to Bristol Children’s Hospital for an unforgettable visit. Patients had the chance to see a full-size replica Formula 1 car and meet racing driver Jessica Hawkins, who also helped judge a special helmet design competition. It was a truly memorable day for children, families, and staff alike.

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YOUR FUNDRAISING: COMMUNITY

Our community of fundraisers has once again impressed us with their commitment and creativity to support The Grand Appeal and Cots for Tots. From mountain climbs to sponsored haircuts, supporters of all ages have teamed up to support sick children and babies at Bristol Children’s Hospital and St Micheal’s NICU.

Tez completed a 24-hour table tennis marathon in memory of baby Lily, who was cared for by St Michael’s NICU. His incredible ‘Tezathon’ raised £2,500 for Cots for Tots, helping support the unit and the families it cares for.

The amazing Planet Therapy team , made up of 25 physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists, climbed the three highest mountains in Wales in 19 hours and 54 minutes – what a feat. They battled freezing temperatures all to raise over £8,000 for the patients in their care at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

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The amazing Emily chopped off her long locks to say thanks to Bristol Children’s Hospital for saving her life. After battling pneumonia, Emily wanted to help other children like her. Her sponsored haircut raised an incredible £2,216.

James , a loving dad of two patients at Bristol Children’s Hospital, flew the flag for The Grand Appeal quite literally when he scaled Mount Kilimanjaro in an eight-day trek. He reached new heights to thank the hospital for saving the lives of his son and daughter. Congratulations, James, for conquering Africa’s highest mountain and raising £2,788!

Lee ran the Brighton Half Marathon in full firefighter gear, carrying 30kg of extra weight, and crossed the finish line with his daughter cheering him on. His amazing effort raised £825 to support babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

15-year-old Daniel was born prematurely along with his twin brother, who sadly passed away. Since Daniel’s cerebral palsy diagnosis, he has let nothing get in his way and attends grueling physiotherapy sessions at his local gym. To celebrate his achievements, Daniel challenged himself to walk eight miles and raised £2,000 in the process!

In 2024, Emma Stuart , a long-standing Cots for Tots volunteer and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit nurse at St Michael’s Hospital, achieved an extraordinary fundraising milestone, raising £50,000 in support of babies and families. Emma’s fundraising is centred around her much-loved weekly knitting stall, located at the reception of St Michael’s Hospital. Emma’s dedication was further recognised when she was named a South West finalist in the 2024 Pride of Britain Awards, celebrating her outstanding commitment to Cots for Tots.

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YOUR FUNDRAISING: EVENTS

This May, Team Grand Appeal and Cots for Tots showed up in force at the Great Bristol Run , one of the UK’s most popular races. With 92 runners taking part in the half-marathon, 10k or family run – our supporters raised a phenomenal sum for The Grand Appeal and Cots for Tots and to each and every one, we extend our heartfelt thanks.

November marked an exciting milestone with the launch of Gromit Unleashed 3 . The invitation to sponsor sculptures sparked excitement, with organisations from across the South West attending our launch event at Aardman to hear how they can get involved in this muchanticipated trail in Summer 2025 following the release of Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. There is more information in the ‘What’s Next for The Grand Appeal’ section on page 38 of this Annual Report.

Our first-ever Grand Walk in September 2024 was a sell-out success! Nearly 300 participants joined us at Ashton Court for a family-friendly sponsored walk around the beautiful Ashton Court Estate. Nine-year-old Harry’s walking efforts were even featured on BBC Breakfast. After a tragic accident at 18 months old, Harry was given just 1% chance of survival, but he defied all odds to join the fun and complete a 5k, the furthest he’s ever walked.

22 cyclists put their pedal power to the ultimate test in our London to Amsterdam challenge . The team, which included staff members from Bristol Children’s Hospital and St Michael’s Hospital, covered four countries in four days and raised a whopping £66,444 . Thank you to every participant for taking on this epic challenge.

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YOUR FUNDRAISING: PHILANTHROPY

The generosity of trusts and foundations has been instrumental to the work of The Grand Appeal and Cots for Tots this year. Their support has enabled us to deliver a wide range of initiatives that enhance the care and experience of children and families across Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St Michael’s Hospital.

Thanks to this funding, we could continue to provide the pioneering support that lies at the heart of The Grand Appeal’s mission, investing in essential projects such as music and play, our interactive arts programme Arts Unleashed and specialist equipment for the children’s hospital, NICU and the mobile critical care services.

We are grateful to all our funders for their generosity and support, including:

• Maximus Foundation UK

• Samuel Gardner Memorial Trust

• The de Brye Charitable Trust

• The Joyce Fletcher Charitable Trust

• The Tula Trust

John James Bristol Foundation

We are also profoundly honoured to receive a transformational £1 million pledge from the John James Bristol Foundation, marking yet another milestone in our extraordinary 30-year relationship. Their unwavering belief in our mission and in the children and families we support continues to inspire us. Although this pledge does not appear in this year’s accounts, its impact on our future vision for Bristol Royal Hospital for Children cannot be overstated. Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone at the John James Bristol Foundation for their generosity, trust and long-standing partnership: together, we will help create the very best future for children’s healthcare in our region.

Legacies (registered charity number 1043603)

Leaving a gift in your Will is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure that future patients and families at Bristol Children’s Hospital and St Michael’s NICU continue to benefit from the vital services and support provided by The Grand Appeal.

This year, we continued our partnership with Simpson Solicitors and Farewill to offer a free Will-writing service, helping supporters to create or update their Wills quickly, easily and at no cost.

We are grateful to the many generous individuals who have chosen to include a gift to The Grand Appeal in their wishes. These contributions will have a lasting impact, helping to improve treatment, fund pioneering medical equipment and support patients and families when they need it most.

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Jingle Jam is the annual charity event created by Bristol-based PC gamers, The Yogscast, which harnesses the power of video games and streaming to make the world a better place for children and young people. Each year, it brings together streamers, content creators, games developers and publishers to raise funds for The Grand Appeal and other great causes.

Over two weeks, more than 30 streamers took part in fun and creative challenges to raise money for The Grand Appeal, from playing piano at Bristol’s Christmas market to enduring 11-hour Skyrim sessions.

One creator in particular, The Spiffing Brit, took streaming to a new level, with a 28-hour challenge raising £114,000 , specifically for The Grand Appeal.

Their dedication helped raise a mammoth £350,000 , which now brings the grand total raised by Jingle Jam for The Grand Appeal’s Patient Hotel to over £2 million.

As part of the launch, Lewis and The Spiffing Brit made a special appearance at Bristol’s MShed, taking Wallace and Gromit’s iconic motorbike and sidecar for a spin.

We are immensely grateful to The Jingle Jam, The Yogscast, our streamers and the gaming community for their continued support. Their creativity, generosity, and commitment are making a lasting difference to children and families from Bristol and across the South West and beyond who will benefit from accommodation and rehabilitation at The Grand Appeal’s Patient Hotel which will be called Jingle Jam Building.

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SHINE BRIGHT

Once again, the festive season saw Bristol illuminated through our Shine Bright for Bristol Children’s Hospital campaign. Supporters across the South West came together to bring joy and comfort to sick children and their families over Christmas, while raising funds for The Grand Appeal’s Patient Hotel.

Bristol Children’s Hospital Projections

Our 2024 projection illuminated the exterior of Bristol Children’s Hospital. Colourful Gromit Unleashed characters popped out of Christmas presents alongside a cluster of bright stars, bringing smiles to patients, families and staff alike.

We are incredibly thankful to our generous donors, whose sponsorship raised substantial funds for our new Patient Hotel.

We were on the top floor of Paul’s House family accommodation last Christmas when our daughter was on PICU. These lights outside our window really cheered us up.

Parent of a Bristol Children’s Hospital patient

Community Christmas Displays

The South West community embraced the festive spirit this year,

raising a record-breaking

£85,000

for the Patient Hotel

with 30 dazzling Christmas displays as part of Shine Bright for Bristol Children’s Hospital.

From homes and gardens to windows and vehicles, Bristol and the South West was transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland.

Kelly’s SEND-friendly display was even featured on BBC Points West.

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Another special highlight this year was the 30th anniversary of the Brailsford Lights in Brentry. Brothers Lee and Paul first started their display in 1994, and in 2024 they marked three decades of fundraising with a spectacular switch-on event, complete with music, a visit from Wallace and Gromit, and their popular ‘Cookie Cabin’ selling hot chocolate and cakes.

All funds raised through Shine Bright for Bristol Children’s Hospital will support The Grand Appeal’s Patient Hotel. More details of this pioneering development are on page 38 of this annual report. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came together to celebrate Christmas in such a special way: your support means the world to us!

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The Grand Appeal

Funding and Operational Support for Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St Michael’s Hospital

----- Start of picture text -----
Funding Operations
Play and
Arts, music
youth
and play
team staff
Life-saving Patient Hotel
equipment (in development)
Medical Family
research accommodation
Capital Cots for
developments Tots House
Ward
Paul’s
enhancements
House
Staff Grand
Appeal
support
House
----- End of picture text -----

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OUR IMPACT

The work of the Grand Appeal and Cots for Tots spans every ward and unit of the children’s hospital and the NICU. In the year under review, we have provided funding for a wide range of activity, highlights of which are included here:

• Accommodation and support for families

Innovation and equipment

• Patient wellbeing through arts, music and play

• Enhancing the hospital environment

• Funding research and education to improve patient care

• Supporting hospital staff

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OUR IMPACT

Accommodation and support for families

Family accommodation

Through our three dedicated family home-fromhomes, Cots for Tots House, Paul’s House and Grand Appeal House, we provide free accommodation for families of critically ill babies and children in 28 en-suite rooms just a short distance away from each hospital. These homes offer more than proximity, they provide sanctuary and stability where parents can rest, regroup and remain close to their child’s bedside, easing emotional strain and supporting better recovery outcomes for their babies and children. These homes embody our belief that family presence is integral to healing.

From 2024 to 2025, we housed over 320 families, providing much-needed support to parents and carers during challenging times.

This year, we completed a refurbishment of Grand Appeal House, renewing the space with fresh decoration, furniture and comfortable furnishings. These improvements ensure it remains a warm, comfortable and practical home-from-home for families.

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The value of The Grand Appeal’s Family Accommodation and Support Programme

In 2024, our three family accommodation houses once again proved essential for parents and carers whose children required specialist treatment at Bristol Children’s Hospital and the NICU. Families with children in hospital often incur hidden expenses like local accommodation, travel and food. Across our three homes, we estimate that our family accommodation saved families over £1.35 million this year. That’s an average of over £4,000 per family. In 2024 alone, our accommodation delivered major savings for families travelling from: • Devon: Over £240k • Wiltshire: Nearly £220k • Gloucestershire: Almost £200k Between 2022 and 2024, 645 families stayed in our homes from: • Bristol: 43 Cc • Cornwall: 48 • Devon: 129 • Somerset: 95 • Gloucestershire: 103 CC2 iad During the same period, • Wales: 95 families spent Co • Wiltshire: 116 22,726 nights • Other areas: 16 in our homes. CD

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we can continue to provide free, comfortable and welcoming accommodation, keeping families together during some of the toughest times of their lives.

ee We had our other children stay with us for the whole summer at Cots for Tots House, which meant the world to us. We have to say a massive thank you to Cots for Tots. You came to our rescue. You gave us a place to stay and provided a home for our family, keeping us close to our daughter.

We also loved the items Cots for Tots provided while we were in NICU. The Miniboo, which Mireya always had snuggled up right by her face, helped to stop her from pulling on her tubes. Filling in our ‘Your NICU Story’ diaries every day as our memory journal was an important part of our journey and let us reflect on how far Mireya had come.

Somehow, despite the situation we were in, the hospital staff turned our scariest experience into one that was also filled with fun, adventures and special memories for our other children. They still speak so fondly of it. Their memories of Bristol and being in NICU for the whole summer are positive, thanks to them. There are no words that could ever express our gratitude for every single staff member that looked after us and saved our little Mireya.

Autumn, mum to Mireya, a former NICU patient

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Muslins

This year, Cots for Tots funded muslins for babies cared for in NICU. Muslins are used every day on the unit for feeding, comforting and gentle positioning.

These muslins offer comfort at a time when even the smallest gestures make a big difference.

Bereavement keyrings

As part of our support of families at Bristol Children’s Hospital, we fund bespoke keyring sets for bereaved families.

Attraction tickets

Alongside providing a free place to stay, we also help families make cherished memories away from the hospital environment. The Grand Appeal funds visitor tickets for some of Bristol’s biggest visitor attractions, including SS Great Britain, Bristol Aquarium, and We The Curious. These special experiences offer families at Bristol Children’s Hospital a vital escape from the clinical setting, allowing parents, siblings and young patients to enjoy precious time together. In the last year, The Grand Appeal has funded nearly 250 experiences for families.

The keyrings are designed to help these families through an incredibly difficult time by offering them a keepsake. The keyrings come in two or three pieces: the middle piece is placed in the child’s hands, while the outer pieces are kept by the parents and siblings.

By offering these keyrings, we aim to provide a small but lasting comfort, helping families honour their child’s memory.

Reiki

In 2024–25, The Grand Appeal funded 535 Reiki sessions for patients, parents and staff at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Heart hero Gromit teddies

Undergoing heart surgery is a daunting experience, even for the youngest patients at Bristol Children’s Hospital. To recognise their courage, The Grand Appeal funds special Gromit teddies given to every patient after their first heart surgery, alongside a certificate celebrating their bravery.

Since 2017, young patients have received their very own Gromit to cherish, offering both a companion through recovery and a keepsake to honour a huge milestone in their hospital journey.

Cancer treatment and long stays in hospital can bring exhaustion, anxiety, pain, nausea and overwhelming worry, especially for young patients facing repeated rounds of treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Our resident Reiki Therapists, Raina and Deb, play an essential role in easing these burdens. Through calming sessions, they help reduce stress, relieve tension, and support overall wellbeing at some of the most difficult moments in a family’s life.

Our support extends beyond patients. Parents coping with the emotional strain of their child’s cancer diagnosis, as well as the clinical teams caring for them, also benefit from Reiki sessions.

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I even got to enjoy a Reiki session once a week – it helped to ground me on those particularly hard days. We can’t thank The Grand Appeal enough for making those things available to us because they truly are invaluable.

Claire, mum of a cancer patient at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Parent beds for Caterpillar Ward and Lighthouse Ward

Being close to your child in hospital is vital yet staying overnight can be exhausting for parents without comfortable facilities. This year, The Grand Appeal funded new parent beds and chairs for both Caterpillar Ward and Lighthouse Ward, ensuring families can rest comfortably by their child’s side throughout their stay.

On Caterpillar (general) Ward, the hospital’s largest ward, we provided three replacement parent beds and 18 high-backed chairs. Previously, many parents had to sit for long days on hard, plastic chairs without arms, making it difficult to rest or hold their child comfortably. The new beds and chairs mean parents can now rest and relax more easily.

On Lighthouse (renal) Ward, which looks after children with kidney problems, we funded two sofa sleeper chairs for parents. In the ward’s small fourbedded bay, not every space could fit a pull-down bed for parents to use, so these new sleeper chairs now allow more parents to sit comfortably during the day and stay overnight with their child.

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OUR IMPACT >

Innovation and equipment

Every year, our funding equips hospital teams with the most advanced technologies available - advanced equipment that saves lives, transforms treatment and empowers clinicians. From pioneering robotic surgery and state-of-the-art imaging systems to specialist neonatal equipment, our investments enable precision, safety and speed in critical procedures. This continued investment in technology ensures the children’s hospital and the NICU remain at the forefront of paediatric care in the UK.

Physiotherapy chair

The Grand Appeal funded a specialist physiotherapy chair for patients on the PICU who are too mature for standard recliners. The chair provides supportive seating with straps, side supports and a tilt function, allowing critically ill children to spend time out of bed safely.

Ventilators

The Grand Appeal funded two new ventilators for the PICU at Bristol Children’s Hospital and two for the NICU at St Michael’s Hospital.

This life support equipment is vital for children and babies who need help with breathing or who are unable to breath on their own. In the NICU, they have allowed more premature and critically ill babies to receive this treatment, and in the PICU, the new ventilators have helped staff deliver safer, more comfortable and more effective treatment using the latest technology.

By funding these ventilators, The Grand Appeal ensures that both specialised intensive care units are better equipped to care for the sickest children in the South West.

Since spring 2025, the chair has helped many patients enjoy time out of bed without risking their safety and ongoing treatment and care.

By enabling children to get out of bed, the chair reduces the risk of muscle weakening, chest infections and longer hospital stays, while improving comfort during intensive care.

‘GripAble’

The Grand Appeal funded a tablet and GripAble software for children on Sunflower Ward, which offers neurorehabilitation to children aged up to 16. This interactive tool helps children rebuild hand and arm strength through games and exercises, while tracking their progress. It’s used for patients recovering from brain injury, surgery or other neurological conditions, making rehabilitation more engaging.

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Spinal halo wheelchair

The Grand Appeal funded a specialised wheelchair for children with severe spinal conditions on Penguin (surgical) Ward, at Bristol Children’s Hospital. The chair allows children to receive traction treatment, a therapy that gently stretches and straightens the spine, while sitting upright instead of being confined to a hospital bed for weeks.

It includes specialist safety features such as a parking brake, anti-tippers, and posture belt and its design helps manage complex spinal curves in patients while improving their comfort and treatment. This cuttingedge equipment will help many children every year.

Archie used a Halo Traction wheelchair every day in the run up to his spinal surgery. The wheelchair is a treatment for curved and twisted spines – it pulls at it with weights to straighten the spine so that the surgery is more likely to be a success. For Archie, he had 6kgs of weight pulling his spine straight, and he was amazing throughout it.

For four weeks, he was in it for 22 hours a day. Without it, he’d have spent those four weeks confined to a bed in ‘traction’ instead.

babies breathe without the need for a ventilator. It can support the smallest and most vulnerable infants, reduce discomfort and allow families to stay close to their babies.

Since being funded in 2025, this machine has already helped 80 babies and will continue to support many more in the future.

LED machine

The Grand Appeal has funded a Photobiomodulation (LED) machine for Starlight Ward, the inpatient oncology unit at Bristol Children’s Hospital. Children receiving chemotherapy often develop mucositis, a painful side effect that affects the lining of the mouth and digestive tract, making it hard to eat, drink or even speak and often requires strong pain relief and extended hospital stays.

This new LED machine uses light therapy to prevent and treat mucositis, helping children feel more comfortable during treatment. It is suitable for children of all ages, with no long-term side effects. Fun protective glasses are provided to make the experience more engaging for patients.

By funding this machine, The Grand Appeal is helping children stay more comfortable and improve their quality of life during intensive cancer treatment, often over many months in hospital.

So, the wheelchair has been an absolute life changer. It gave him more movement in his neck and head, and he can be moved around. It meant he could still do the things he enjoys – visit the activities room, go to the on-site school, get some fresh air in the Oasis garden – all while undergoing treatment.

Hayley, parent of a former spinal patient at Bristol Children’s Hospital

CPAP machine

Cots for Tots has funded a new CPAP machine for the NICU. Respiratory problems are one of the most common reasons for newborns to need intensive care.

This machine provides breathing support, helping

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Physiotherapy chair
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OUR IMPACT

Patient wellbeing through arts, music and play

We understand that exceptional healthcare is about more than medicine. Through our arts, music and play programmes, we bring colour, creativity and positivity into the hospital environment — transforming moments of uncertainty into moments of reassurance and calm. From bedside music sessions to immersive art installations and play therapy, these experiences reduce anxiety, boost wellbeing and help children express and release their feelings, often during the most challenging times. Each creative encounter enriches recovery, turning the hospital into a space not only for treatment, but for hope and inspiration.

patients from Lighthouse (renal) Ward and their families, were able to compete in over 24 sports and connect with other children who’ve been through similar medical journeys.

The team returned with several incredible medals, including gold, but the true impact went far beyond the podium. The Games encouraged children to stay active after transplant surgery, boosted confidence, and gave families precious time together.

The Transplant Games 2024

Every year, The Grand Appeal is proud to provide funding for patients from Bristol Children’s Hospital to attend the UK Transplant Games. The games, this year in Nottingham, celebrate transplant recipients and donors through a day of sports and community spirit.

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Thanks to support from The Grand Appeal, eight

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a Chinese Lion Dance performance by the Bristol University troupe to celebrate Chinese New Year, as well as a theatre performance of The Dark by Puet Etra, adapted from a Lemony Snicket book. Both events were enjoyed by children and families alike, supporting nearly 100 patients.

Arts Unleashed

This year marked the first full year of our hospitalwide arts, music and wellbeing programme, Arts Unleashed, running at full strength since the pandemic. Arts Unleashed has become a vibrant part of life at Bristol Children’s Hospital, helping children and families cope with the challenges of being in hospital.

Our team of artists, musicians and entertainers bring colour and creativity to the wards each week. From harpists and drumming to performances from visiting artists, these activities help patients relax and have fun like any other child.

Arts and crafts sessions, including FIMO modelling, animation workshops, collaborative painting and nature-inspired activities also give children the chance to express themselves and learn new skills.

Many sessions also involve siblings and parents offering families opportunities to spend time together.

From 2024 to 25 Arts Unleashed supported over 220 patients each month.

In addition to our core programme, this year saw a range of special Arts Unleashed events that brought unique experiences to patients and families at Bristol Children’s Hospital. Highlights included

Eilidh has always been a creative girl and is often crafting, painting, drawing or writing. During her visits back and forth to Bristol Children’s Hospital for checkups and procedures, we needed to keep her entertained. It was great that during her stay she could have moments of normality and take part in Arts Unleashed sessions. She was able to go and spend time watching the magician alongside other children who were in similar positions. Eilidh thoroughly enjoyed crafting a collage lizard using scraps of coloured paper as part of an art exhibition. It gave her an area of focus, taking her mind off being in hospital.

The sessions are so valuable to both children and their parents. They allow children to have some fun and put their imagination and creativity to use, producing beautiful pieces of art. And best of all, it put a smile on Eilidh’s face. After all she’d been through, I hadn’t seen a smile since before her surgery. It was a very special moment for me.

Desiree, mum to a Bristol Children’s Hospital patient

Play in Starlight Ward

The Grand Appeal funds a dedicated Health Play Specialist on Starlight Ward, Bristol Children’s Hospital’s cancer unit, to support children and young people through their hospital stays and medical procedures. Using therapeutic play techniques, Sian helps reduce fear, stress and the trauma associated with treatments, while promoting patient wellbeing. Activities include using play as a distraction, preparation for procedures and creative and developmental play.

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By working closely with other healthcare teams and families, Sian ensures care is tailored to each patient. She runs daily playroom activities, provides one-toone support for patients and siblings, assists with preparation for procedures like radiotherapy and helps celebrate milestones such as when patients ring the End of Treatment Bell.

We continue to be incredibly grateful to the Berni Family Charity Trust for supporting this vital role.

During 2024–25, Sian directly supported 884 children in Starlight Ward.

It’s the worst experience anyone can go through – but the Play Specialists like Tom on Apollo Ward and Sian on Starlight Ward made a huge difference. They were warm and kind, and they genuinely made a difference to Hope’s day when they visited. Sian has such a calming presence about her that really helped both of us de-stress when she visited.

They worked around her routine, how she was feeling, adding in activities like water play sessions or painting, modelling or toys. If she was feeling unwell from her treatment, Sian would bring along the projector that threw amazing interactive ocean scenes onto the floor. If they felt she needed a quieter, more peaceful session, we’d go to the sensory play room, which was Hope’s favourite thing to do. The lights and toys they have in there are amazing and perfect for children who might have additional sensory needs. Whatever they did, they’d always fit it to suit her.

Joanne, mum to a former cancer patient at Bristol Children’s Hospital

Music therapy

Since 2001, The Grand Appeal has funded a team of specialist music therapists at Bristol Children’s Hospital, working across wards to provide emotional and developmental support for patients. Music therapy is used to support a range of patients in hospital including those with long-term treatment plans, developmental needs, disabilities and mental health challenges, as well as babies in the NICU.

The service operates on a referral-based system from the clinical teams to ensure that patients receive the music therapy when they most need support. Our music therapists also work closely with the wider hospital team, including play specialists, physiotherapists, psychologists and occupational therapists.

This year, the team ran around 1,000 sessions, including individual, group and family sessions, supporting hundreds of patients throughout the children’s hospital and NICU.

The Grand Appeal-funded music therapy service is vital for Preston. From sessions in NICU with Karen to regular sessions in Bristol Children’s Hospital with Claire, it’s made a huge difference to him.

The first time he’d properly engaged with anything was in NICU with Karen, which was amazing to witness. She sang to him with a ukulele and used some chimes to encourage him to interact. In NICU, we witnessed firsthand the impact of music therapy. His heart rate was always really high because he was so poorly, but every session, you could see it dropping on his stats screen, meaning he was relaxed and calm and loving it.

Families really get something out of the sessions, too. My mum often takes part in Preston’s music therapy, helping him play instruments or singing to him. She’s here with me most of the time, and she can see firsthand the positive effect it has on him.

I’ve personally had a good cry with both Karen and Claire. Because not only are they there for patients, but they’re there for the families, too.

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The way he interacts in his music therapy sessions is so different to how it was in the beginning, and you can see that positive change in him. As he gets bigger, stronger and better, he’s even more engaged.

Claire will always tailor the sessions to him, too. She can pick up on his moods and needs and will always work around him. Once, in PICU, Claire came by, and he really wasn’t feeling it. So, she just sat there and sang these beautiful lullabies to him. It was so lovely.

She told us she’d always ‘meet you where you are’ – and that’s what she always does. Watching Preston move his arms and legs to hit the drums, play with the chimes or sing along to the lullabies with the small squeaks he can make is wonderful.

The music therapy sessions tire him out too, which is a good thing. He’s so excited and focused that he uses a lot of his energy up, and always sleeps well afterwards. It’s so clear just how important music therapy is for patients.

Paige, mum to a former Bristol Children’s Hospital patient

Activity packs

Throughout the year, The Grand Appeal designed and distributed over 5,000 Gromit Unleashed themed activity sheets to patients at Bristol Children’s Hospital, including children being supported by the Play Department, the Children’s Emergency Department, the Carousel Outpatients, the Radiography Team, the Weight Management Team, Children’s Audiology, the Immunology and Infectious Diseases Department and the Seashore Unit at Weston General Hospital.

Both Christmas and summer editions were packed with colouring pages, puzzles and games. The sheets provide children with fun, creative distraction activities to enjoy at the bedside or while they wait for treatment.

Activities Centre garden

As part of our ongoing support for patient wellbeing, The Grand Appeal funded a vibrant new mural for the Activities Centre at Bristol Children’s Hospital. The centre is a vital base for the Play Team, where they can provide creative activities, therapy and distraction.

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The mural, painted in collaboration with patients and their families, was created by Bristol-based artist Luke Palmer, a regular contributor to our Arts Unleashed programme. Using a collaborative painting approach, Luke guided patients in designing and painting the mural. The artwork is now displayed in the garden and is even accompanied by some familiar Gromit Unleashed sculptures.

Children’s Hospital. It focuses on the promotion of being active during and post treatment, empowering and encouraging children and young people to take part in physical activities. With over 30 sports and activities there is something for everyone’s individual needs and abilities, helping to improve mobility and build confidence. The event brings together patients, families and healthcare professionals in a fun and supportive environment.

There was a range of sports and activities on offer at the University of Bath Sports training village, from table tennis and cricket to archery and climbing walls, alongside a team track race and a dance-along warmup led by Flamingo Chicks.

The day was made extra special by appearances from elite athletes, including Stephanie Millward MBE, Amelia Coltman, Isabella Fassnidge, Ellie Ervine, and Tom Stabbins.

I loved taking part in making the artwork with Luke while I was in hospital. It really took my mind off what was happening, and it was something very nice to do with my family. The artwork was amazing. I worked on both the owl and the moth. For that moment in time, I forgot all about my treatment and being in hospital. I’m so pleased that I was able to be involved in such a great project.

By providing a space for physical activity, ‘Make a Move!’ encourages children and young people to get active and try new sports and enjoy a sense of achievement outside of a hospital setting.

A Bristol Children’s Hospital patient involved in the mural.

‘Make a Move!’

In 2024, we hosted the third annual ‘Make a Move!’ in partnership with Bristol Children’s Hospital. This fun-packed sports day, for patients past and present under the care of the Paediatric Oncology and Benign Haematology Department, had over 250 participants.

The Grand Appeal’s ‘Make a Move!’ event is a unique day of sports and activities hosted at the University of Bath designed specifically for these patients at Bristol

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GRAIID *PPEAL' •RISTOL • CHILDREN'S 31

OUR IMPACT

Enhancing the hospital environment

The Grand Appeal funds a wide range of art and environment enhancements at Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU creating a fusion of creativity and artistry, transforming the hospital into a vibrant, inspiring space for young patients and their families. These artistic projects and collaborations bring colour, whimsy and imagination across the hospital, creating a sense of calm for patients and their families. From transformative creative projects to interactive installations, the artwork provides not only a therapeutic escape but also fosters a positive, uplifting atmosphere that aids recovery. Each transformation is carefully designed to engage young minds and spark imagination, helping to brighten what can often be a daunting environment. These art installations are more than decorative - they are a vital part of healing, offering calm and comfort to patients and families alike.

and where staff have the space they need to provide the best possible treatment and care.

Ocean Unit treatment room

We funded the refurbishment of the treatment room on Ocean Unit at Bristol Children’s Hospital. Ocean Unit is an outpatient unit providing treatment and care for children across the South West undergoing chemotherapy, day surgery, bone marrow transplants and other day treatments. The upgrade included new integrated storage units and worktops and a new labelled tray system for staff. Colourful oceanthemed wall art and ceiling vinyls were installed to create a more engaging and comforting environment for patients. These improvements help reduce anxiety for children receiving treatment.

NICU trolleys

Whether creating specialist treatment rooms, redesigning wards or upgrading family areas, every improvement is shaped by the experiences of clinical teams and the families they support, helping to reduce stress, improve wellbeing and make care easier to deliver. By continually investing in the hospital environment, The Grand Appeal ensures that Bristol Children’s Hospital and the NICU remain places where children and families feel safe and supported

With funding from Cots for Tots, St Michael’s NICU has upgraded its 16 intensive care cot spaces with new bedside trolleys and tables. These units provide secure storage for hospital supplies, paperwork and parents’ belongings, while stainless-steel surfaces and accessible PPE help to improve infection control. Between July 2024 and March 2025, around 350 families and 150 staff benefited from the improved facilities.

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The new trolleys have made the unit feel brighter and more accessible. Parents can reach their babies more easily, and the added storage helps us support them as partners in care. This equipment has truly improved the experience of families and staff on NICU.

A NICU staff member

Bluebell Ward enhancement

The Grand Appeal funded art enhancement on Bluebell Ward with a refurbishment of their welcome desk a focal point of the ward and co-ordinated wall art throughout the ward incorporating the bluebell theme.

The desk and new artwork look amazing, it’s bright and patient friendly, it’s created a warm welcome to everyone coming onto Bluebell ward and makes the ward look more refreshed and modern, it was looking very tired. It also makes the ward look less cluttered as all the signage is now matching so looks professional and smart. A big thank you to The Grand Appeal from the Bluebell team and patients.

Bluebell Ward Sister, George.

We also supported some renovation work on Apollo Ward which cares for our older children 11 years and over. Although minor works, the impact it had on the ward to make the ward cleaner and fresher, has made such a difference.

Thank you for funding the painting on Apollo 35 it looks beautiful, clean and tidy now.

Nonni, Ward Sister

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OUR IMPACT

Funding research and education to improve patient care

The Grand Appeal has a continuous funding programme for cutting-edge clinical research that unlocks new understanding, improves outcomes, and drives the discovery of next-generation treatments for childhood health. Our partnerships with clinicians, scientists and the University of Bristol accelerates breakthroughs in healthcare for children across disciplines including cardiology and neonatal medicine. By investing in clinical research that translates from the laboratory to the bedside, we help ensure that every child benefits from the latest global advances in paediatric science.

Despite some capacity constraints, progress has continued, with new collaborations, expanded patient involvement and several forthcoming publications. The impact of this work is clear: 3D modelling is enhancing communication between clinicians and families, supporting complex surgical planning and elevating Bristol Children’s Hospital as a centre of excellence in medical 3D printing. As one complex case demonstrated (a one-year-old with multiple structural heart defects) the ability to accurately model tiny, intricate anatomy directly informs lifesaving decisions.

3D printing

Working with Professor Massimo Caputo and Associate Professor Dr Giovanni Biglino, The Grand Appeal-funded Cardiac 3D Printing Service at Bristol Children’s Hospital continues to transform how clinicians plan treatment for children with complex congential heart disease. Between April and September 2024, the team produced 60 bespoke 3D cardiac models, each offering an unprecedented three-dimensional view of a child’s heart and supporting safer, more informed clinical decisionmaking.

Thanks to funding from The Grand Appeal, this innovative service is not only improving care today but driving the future of personalised medicine for young patients.

Thanks to the generosity of The Underwood Trust, this work is now firmly established as a world-leading resource. One that continues to push boundaries, support families and advance the future of children’s cardiac care.

Alongside printed models, the service is now embedding virtual reality (VR) tools into paediatric care, helping teenagers navigating transition clinics and supporting families to visualise conditions that are otherwise impossible to comprehend. The team has also expanded its research footprint nationally and internationally, contributing to scientific literature, leading collaborative networks and building a unique library of hundreds of cardiac models for training, teaching and future innovation.

NICU research nurse

This year the service pushed boundaries further, exploring new clinical applications beyond the heart, from oesophageal and duodenal atresia to congenital diaphragmatic hernia, while refining techniques for foetal cardiac modelling: an area where high-quality imaging is exceptionally challenging.

Cots for Tots is funding a Neonatal Research Nurse for the NICU at St Michael’s Hospital. With this dedicated funding for research, the unit is able to grow its research portfolio, enabling participation in multiple national and international studies that

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directly improve outcomes for some of the most vulnerable babies in the South West and South Wales. This allows the NICU team to remain at the forefront of innovative, evidence-based care, ensuring families benefit from the latest clinical advances and that newborns with rare conditions are properly represented in research.

The funding from Cots for Tots also strengthens the NICU as a centre of academic excellence. The dedicated research nurse is able to identify suitable participants for studies and also support the training and development of nursing and medical staff, enhancing collaboration with regional partners and contributing to the Unit’s strategic commitment to innovation. The funding has increased the research capacity, enabling long-term sustainability which will help the NICU build a future model in which research activity becomes self-sufficient, mirroring the developmental pathway of the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, whose growth was catalysed by The Grand Appeal’s support. Ultimately, this role underpins a research culture that improves care, advances clinical knowledge and delivers lasting health benefits for babies and families across the region.

Mental health training

The Grand Appeal provided funding for an annual regional network training event hosted at Bristol Children’s Hospital. The event brought together professionals from acute health, community teams, and mental health services to share knowledge, encourage collaboration and discuss improvements in the care of patients with mental health needs.

critically ill infants. SoNAR delivers vital neonatal transport and retrieval services, ensuring that the most fragile babies can be transferred quickly and safely to St Michael’s Hospital NICU for the specialised care and treatment they need. The highly trained team of doctors, nurses, and paramedics offer advice, expertise and hands-on care during transfers, while also supporting families through what is often a challenging and emotional time. With its state-ofthe-art equipment and coordinated care, SoNAR plays a crucial role in saving lives and giving newborns the best possible start in life.

Cots for Tots provided funding for two members of the SoNAR team to attend the Council of International Neonatal Nurses to present at an international conference in Denmark in 2024. Recognising the anxiety families experience during transfers, SoNAR has pioneered approaches to reduce this stress, including ‘kangaroo style’ transfers, where a baby is safely secured to a parent during an ambulance ride.

By presenting their work at an international conference, the SoNAR team shared insights on their innovative approach and explored how other countries, particularly Scandinavian countries, support families. The knowledge gained from the conference will be integrated into SoNAR’s family support policies across the South West by adopting best practices from around the world.

By supporting the SoNAR team, Cots for Tots is helping to ensure that infants from across the South West are supported in the most efficient way to the specialist treatment centre at St Michael’s Hospital.

A key focus of the day was supporting the role of Mental Health Champions, which ensures physical and mental health services work together effectively.

This event enhances patient care by building skills and ensuring that patients receive timely, holistic mental health support.

The Council of International Neonatal Nurses Conference

The South West Neonatal Advice and Retrieval (SoNAR) service at St Michael’s Hospital in Bristol is a lifeline for newborns across the region, providing expert, round-the-clock care and support for

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OUR IMPACT

Supporting hospital staff

Behind every remarkable recovery stands an extraordinary clinical team. The Grand Appeal invests in staff wellbeing and training, ensuring that doctors, nurses and therapists have the resources and environment they need to thrive. By supporting those who dedicate their lives to treating others, we strengthen the very foundation of the hospital helping to foster a culture of excellence, compassion and continual improvement.

• Paediatric Critical Care Outreach Team: With funding from The Grand Appeal, the team continues their education through their team event.

• Celebration and development events: From marking the 10-year anniversary of the Faculty of Children’s Nurse Education to study days and away days, our support helped staff access training, development and to celebrate achievements.

Staff development

The Grand Appeal regularly supports a variety of away days, training sessions and study events for teams of staff across Bristol Children’s Hospital and St Michael’s NICU, giving teams the opportunity to learn and grow together to better support patient outcomes.

These events range from formal educational sessions to team-building activities, with highlights including:

• Paediatric Neurology Team Away Day: Around 40 staff came together to develop a new pathway for children with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition where the brain and nervous system have problems sending and receiving signals.

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Caterpillar Ward decking

The Grand Appeal funded repairs to the outside decking by Caterpillar Ward’s staff room. The new decking has created a safe outdoor space for staff breaks, helping to improve wellbeing for the hardworking doctors, nurses and clerical staff on this busy ward. This work included restoring access to a memorial garden, allowing staff to safely enjoy and maintain this space.

Recognition rewards

To show our ongoing support for the amazing teams at Bristol Children’s Hospital, we’ve funded ‘Good Job’ cards for every ward. Designed to complement the hospital’s vibrant wayfinding signs, these postcards offer a simple yet powerful way for staff to recognise colleagues who go beyond expectation. With a personal touch, each handwritten note helps lift spirits and reminds staff how much they are appreciated, especially during the busiest and most challenging days.

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The world of Gromit UNLEASHED Ik .41*•_ 38

Cribbs Mall remains the flagship home of our retail and commercial activity - a space that reflects the strength, quality and ambition of the Gromit Unleashed brand. For more than a decade, Cribbs Mall has been a trusted partner, providing not only a prominent location but consistent, forward-thinking support that allows our retail operation to thrive. Their commitment continues to elevate all we do, and we are proud to work alongside a partner that shares our high standards, ambition and customer-focused approach.

Our figurines have become a recognised and highly sought-after collectable range, with a loyal following that spans the UK and reaches collectors across the world. Each new release attracts excitement from customers who value design, craftsmanship and the story behind every character. Many have built full collections over the years - a testament to the enduring appeal and premium quality of Gromit Unleashed products.

All development is created entirely in-house. Led by our Head of Commercial, Anna, and designed by our Creative Lead, Emily, every range begins with original concept work and is taken through a full design process with care and attention to detail. This ensures our products feel fresh, contemporary and distinctly Gromit Unleashed. It also means we can remain agile, producing new designs and products that respond to demand from both long-standing collectors and new fans.

Work has advanced on the Gromit Unleashed 3 trail for summer 2025. Development of new sculpture design is centred at our HQ – and is a major opportunity to introduce fresh ideas and new favourites to our collectors. Cribbs Mall will once again play a central role, supporting our commercial programme throughout the trail and helping to welcome the thousands of visitors expected across the summer and Autumn. Following the trail, fans will enjoy a new exhibition and auction, bringing the whole Gromit Unleashed project together.

Thanks to the strength of our partnership with Cribbs Mall, alongside the expertise of our commercial and creative teams, our retail operation continues to grow with confidence. Together, we are building a contemporary, design-led Gromit Unleashed experience that our supporters love - and one that positions us strongly for the excitement of 2025 and beyond.

The Gromit Unleashed team at Cribbs Mall delivers a best-in-class retail experience, offering excellent customer service and a thoughtfully curated environment that showcases our full range. The store plays a vital role in introducing visitors to the Gromit Unleashed brand, supporting our reputation for quality and strengthening our connection with the wider public.

Our online shop continues to expand our reach, offering the largest collection of Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep products in the world. Orders are fulfilled to customers across the UK, Europe, Asia, the Americas and Africa. We work closely with UK manufacturers wherever possible, complemented by trusted global suppliers to ensure consistent quality across every product line.

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WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE GRAND APPEAL?

As the dedicated charity for Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St Michael’s, The Grand Appeal continues to look ahead with ambition and purpose. Our Board remains committed to delivering projects that support short, medium and long-term aspirations for childhood health at the children’s hospital and the NICU, while safeguarding our independence and ensuring our funding enhances, but never replaces, statutory provision.

The Grand Appeal’s support for Bristol Children’s Hospital and the NICU is deeply embedded. The Grand Appeal has capital, revenue, operational and employee commitments within a multi-year funding portfolio.

Across our strategic funding programmes we will continue to balance pioneering new initiatives with ongoing investment in family support, arts, play, music and frontline innovation.

Our plans for the next one to five years include:

Neurosurgical Innovation: Visualase and 3D Surgical Technologies

We are making a major investment in Visualase, an advanced laser-guided system that enables minimally invasive, keyhole brain surgery for children. This pioneering technology offers greater precision, shorter recovery times and new treatment opportunities for conditions that once required highly invasive procedures.

We will also explore opportunities to expand our support for 3D printing and personalised surgical modelling, inspired by the groundbreaking work of Professor Massimo Caputo and Dr Giovanni Biglino. Their use of patient-specific 3D models has transformed cardiac surgery, and we aim to extend similar precision and planning capability to neurosurgery and other paediatric specialities giving surgeons vital tools to rehearse and refine procedures before entering the operating theatre.

Investment in life-saving medical equipment

We will strengthen our investment in cutting-edge medical equipment that sits beyond NHS provision but is essential for delivering world-class care. A key focus is the introduction of next-generation ventilators for the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. These advanced systems provide gentler, safer respiratory support for premature babies, critically ill children and young patients recovering from surgery, infection or trauma.

Alongside ventilators, we will continue to fund new imaging, monitoring and surgical technologies, giving clinicians the tools they need to diagnose earlier, treat more effectively and remain at the forefront of modern paediatric medicine.

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The Grand Appeal’s Patient Hotel

The Grand Appeal’s Patient Hotel will be a pioneering new space that transforms care for patients following acute treatment in hospital. This unique, purpose-built facility – the first of its kind in the UK - will offer 12 ensuite bedrooms where young patients can stay with their parents as they step down from inpatient care without the constant alarms, bright lighting and busy ward environment that can be overwhelming during recovery. Here families will be able to rest, recuperate and regain confidence while remaining close to clinical teams who know their child best.

Designed as a bridge between hospital and home, the Patient Hotel will give children the chance to continue their recovery in a quieter, calmer and more homely setting. Alongside the bedrooms, the building will house a dedicated indoor and outdoor therapy and rehabilitation space, allowing physiotherapy, occupational therapy and other specialist sessions to take place just a few steps away from where families are staying. This approach supports a smoother, safer and more empowering transition home for children who still need regular care but no longer require a hospital bed yet live too far away to return home.

This is one of the most ambitious projects The Grand Appeal has ever undertaken: a development approaching £4 million, designed with the support of clinicians and therapy teams with patients and families as the priority to ensure it meets the highest standards. Construction will begin once final preparations are complete, with the building set to open before the end of the decade, establishing a new model of family-centred care for the UK.

The project is made possible thanks to the extraordinary support of Jingle Jam and The Yogscast community, whose generosity and energy have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Over many years, Jingle Jam has championed The Grand Appeal with passion, creativity and commitment, rallying their global gaming community and using their platform to raise significant funds for children and families. Their belief in this project and in the transformative power it will have has been central to its progress, and we are immensely grateful for their partnership.

Family accommodation and family support

Our three home-from-home family accommodation houses remain one of the most vital ways we support parents and carers whose child is being treated at Bristol Children’s Hospital or NICU. For many families, hospital stays are unexpected, lengthy and emotionally overwhelming. Having a safe, warm and free place to stay a short distance from the hospital means they can remain close to their child day and night, speak regularly with clinical teams and avoid the financial pressure of travel and hotel costs.

In the next two years, we will continue investment and improvements across all three properties. Upgraded bedrooms, enhanced communal kitchens and living spaces and refreshed décor will ensure families feel supported, rested and cared for at every stage of their stay. These homes-from-home are more than accommodation: they are a lifeline, offering stability, privacy, comfort and compassion during some of the most challenging moments a family may ever face.

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Specialist staff across the hospital

We will continue to expand our investment in the specialist staff who make an immeasurable difference to children and families every single day. These roles support the child in ways that go far beyond treating their illness and are an essential part of the Grand Appeal’s approach:

• Our oncology play specialist helps children understand and cope with complex treatments such as chemotherapy through therapeutic play, turning fear into something manageable and empowering.

• Our youth worker ensures the children’s hospital’s young ambassadors are supported and promoted.

• Our arts coordinator transforms patient life by bringing colour, creativity and moments of calm into busy wards through curated art, workshops and participatory activities.

• Our music therapists use rhythm, melody and improvisation to reduce anxiety, manage pain and unlock communication for children who cannot always express themselves through words.

Together, these roles help families feel supported, reassured and understood throughout their hospital journey.

Enhancing wards, departments and facilities

We will continue to invest in transforming the spaces where children, families and staff spend the most time: from wards and waiting rooms to family areas, treatment spaces and staff environments across Bristol Children’s Hospital, the NICU and the Seashore Children’s Centre at Weston General Hospital.

This year, one of the most uplifting examples of this work has been the stunning new artwork installed on Carousel Ward, created by our Creative Lead Emily, to bring colour, story and comfort into a space where young patients often spend a long time. Drawing on the theme of traditional carousels and brought up to date through careful design and creativity, the artwork turns clinical corridors into bright, welcoming scenes full of movement and imagination. Families have already shared how much these improvements mean describing the artwork as “a breath of fresh air,” “a distraction during long days,” and “something that made our child smile on a really tough morning.”

These enhancements do more than decorate a space. They contribute to a calmer atmosphere, reduce anxiety, and help children feel less overwhelmed during treatment. Parents tell us that having an environment that feels warm and thoughtfully designed reassures them too: offering dignity, comfort and a sense of being looked after at a time when their world feels uncertain.

Our programme of improvements will continue across multiple departments, creating uplifting spaces for families who may be far from home and for staff working around the clock. Every refurbishment - from new murals and family lounges to improved lighting, furniture and layouts - is guided by what families and clinical teams tell us makes the biggest difference: spaces that feel brighter, safer, more welcoming and more human.

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Staff accommodation

Following successful planning approval, work will begin on our new Upper Maudlin Street property. This building will provide essential accommodation for staff at Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU, supporting recruitment, retention and wellbeing across vital clinical teams.

Gromit Unleashed 3

Gromit Unleashed 3, will be launching in Bristol in summer 2025. Developed in partnership with Aardman, the trail features new sculptures of Wallace, Gromit, Feathers McGraw, Shaun the Sheep and new character Norbot, attracting thousands of visitors to Bristol and celebrating 30 years of The Grand Appeal’s iconic partnership with Aardman. Through sculpture sponsorship, major donor engagement and retail activity at Cribbs Mall, the trail will play a vital role in our fundraising ecosystem.

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From The Grand Appeal’s Director

THANKS

2025 marks an extraordinary milestone as The Grand Appeal celebrates 30 years of transforming children’s healthcare across the region in Bristol Children’s Hospital and the region’s NICU. Our anniversary offers a moment not only to reflect on three decades of remarkable achievements, but also to recognise the ambition, creativity and independence that have shaped us from the very beginning.

There is one partnership that has defined our identity more than any other: our relationship with Aardman. For thirty years, Aardman - Nick Park and his team, Peter Lord, David Sproxton, and the Aardman staff have supported us with a generosity, imagination and good humour that are uniquely their own. Their trust in allowing us to use Wallace & Gromit to spearhead our fundraising remains one of the great privileges of our charity’s history.

Together we have created something truly exceptional. The Wallace & Gromit universe, and the creative world Aardman has entrusted to us, form one of the most powerful charitable fundraising brands anywhere. The Grand Appeal, Cots for Tots and Gromit Unleashed are much-loved and have become a cultural and commercial phenomenon - portfolios of creative assets with international reach, extraordinary goodwill and an ability to inspire joy, philanthropy and community spirit on a scale rarely seen in the charitable sector. Sculpture trails that draw global visitors, figurines collected around the world have brought an ambitious programme of innovation and ambition to children’s healthcare through this unique partnership. As we celebrate 30 years of ‘cracking’ teamwork, we are immensely proud to stand alongside Aardman in shaping a legacy for The Grand Appeal, Cots for Tots and Gromit Unleashed that continues to grow in ambition and impact.

What makes The Grand Appeal, Cots for Tots and Gromit Unleashed so remarkably effective is the very quality that has defined us from day one: our independence. Independent in governance, independent in strategy and independent in imagination. This freedom allows us to operate with scale, agility and creative confidence. It has enabled us to build a nationally recognised brand portfolio, a commercial infrastructure and an asset base that have fuelled pioneering innovation in childhood health for an entire generation.

Our supporters and donors trust that independence. They see its results in the world-class equipment we fund, the innovation in childhood health we champion, the specialist staff we enable and the home-from-home accommodation in which we continue to invest. They see it in our ability to be creative, act decisively, and to bring transformational ideas to life: ideas that would not exist without the philanthropy our growing community of supporters, donors and fundraisers make possible.

To all our supporters - fundraisers, corporate partners, philanthropic trusts, schools, community groups and individualsacross Bristol, the South West and beyond, thank you. Whether you run, climb, bake, donate, give monthly or simply cheer us on, you are the hope that powers everything we do. Your creativity and kindness continue to astonish us and we are deeply grateful for every donation – no matter how large or small.

This year, with Gromit Unleashed 3, we will bring our award-winning sculpture trail to Bristol once again with exceptional creativity from local and global artists infused with humour and excellence that define Aardman. What began as a local idea in Bristol over a decade ago, has become a global phenomenon, loved by families, collectors and visitors worldwide. We cannot wait to share the brilliance of the trail with Bristol and our whole community of supporters.

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At the same time, our ambition extends far beyond the trail. Projects such as our new Patient Hotel - a first-of-its-kind development in the UK - exemplify our drive to push boundaries and create solutions that reshape the experience of hospital care at Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St Michaels Hospital. This £4 million initiative will offer families a calmer, more supportive environment alongside a dedicated therapy space - bridging the gap between hospital and home in a way that is truly pioneering.

As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, I am filled with gratitude for our partners, our supporters, our staff and the patients and families at the heart of our mission. Together, we have built a charity that stands for ambition, imagination and excellence. Together, we have shaped 30 years of extraordinary impact and together we will shape many more for decades to come. To you all our grateful thanks.

Nicola Masters

Director

Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal

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STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE, AND MANAGEMENT

1. Registration

The Grand Appeal is a charitable company limited by guarantee and governed by its memorandum and articles of association and the Companies Act 2006.

2. Charity Commission

The Grand Appeal is formally registered with the Charity Commission under the legal name Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation and is registered in England and Wales with charity no. 1043603. The Charity also operates under the following names:

• The Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity

• Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal

• Cots for Tots

• The Special Care Baby Charity at St Michael’s Hospital

• Gromit Unleashed

3. Objects

The Objects of the Charity are the enhancement and improvement, for public benefit, of the children’s services provided by or at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust for the care and treatment of children with illnesses, diseases or disabilities. Full details may be found on the Charity Commission website or by contacting [e-mail].

4. Regulators

The Grand Appeal takes seriously its responsibility to the public and to all who come into contact with the Charity. As with all charities, we are periodically subject to routine regulatory reviews, which over the years have consistently resulted in excellent outcomes.

5. Trustees

As set out in the Articles of Association, Trustees are nominated and approved by the Board. Prospective Trustees are fully briefed on all aspects of the Charity’s operations, including strategy, risk, governance and Primary Purpose activity.

The Charity has a Board comprising five Trustees – all wholly independent of the NHS. Trustees are appointed for their professional competence, specialist skills and understanding of The Grand Appeal and its strategic relationships with Aardman and Bristol Children’s Hospital. Trustees are volunteers and receive no remuneration. Their responsibilities include sound governance, safeguarding, protection of the Charity’s assets and ensuring delivery of public benefit. Trustees have no personal or beneficial interest in Bristol Children’s Hospital, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, or any other NHS body.

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6. Operational management

The Trustees delegate day-to-day management to the Director, Nicola Masters. The Trustees meet a minimum of four times per year, supported by regular communication throughout the year, enabling decisions to be made out of committee as appropriate. This ensures a responsive approach to funding requests from Bristol Children’s Hospital.

The Senior Leadership Team (SLT) comprises the Director, Deputy Director, Head of Philanthropy, Head of Fundraising (Corporate) and the Head of Commercial. The SLT briefs Trustees formally and informally throughout the year.

7. Related parties

Simon Cooper, Jos Moule and Nicola Masters are directors of the wholly owned trading subsidiary Cracking Enterprises Ltd.

Jos Moule is a partner at Veale Wasbrough Vizards.

Honorary Patron David Sproxton is a director of Aardman Employee Owner Enterprise Trustee Ltd, which is the corporate trustee for the Aardman Holdings Group, and is also a director of Wallace & Gromit Ltd.

Honorary Patron Peter Lord is a director of Aardman Animations Ltd, Aardman Trustees Ltd, Aardman Holdings Ltd and Wallace & Gromit Ltd.

Nick Park, creator of Wallace & Gromit and Honorary Patron, is a director of Aardman Holdings Ltd, Aardman Animations Ltd and Wallace & Gromit Ltd.

Angie Last is an employee of Aardman.

8. Risk management

The Grand Appeal maintains a comprehensive framework for risk management across the Charity and its subdivisions. The Master Risk Register is regularly reviewed to ensure that principal risks are identified, assessed and managed effectively. Each risk is graded using an overall scoring system, supported by a traffic-light methodology categorising risks as red (principal), yellow (medium), or green (lower). Risk management is presented in written form at regular Board meetings.

The Trustees recognise both the inherent risks of operating a diversified charity and the potential opportunities that arise from managed risk-taking in support of our Primary Purpose. While accepting that no system can provide absolute assurance, the Trustees are confident that risks are properly identified and controlled.

During the year under review, the principal risk remained income generation. The Charity continues to navigate challenging economic conditions affecting household discretionary spending across the UK. We are fortunate to retain long-standing donor support and continue to attract new supporters; however, we remain mindful of the wider financial pressures faced by the public and institutions.

9. Relationship with UHBW

Over more than 30 years, The Grand Appeal has delivered sustained and substantial investment across the Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU at St Michael’s. This long-standing contribution has established a highly visible and deeply embedded charitable presence across these services.

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In accordance with the Charities Act 2011, The Grand Appeal operates with complete independence from University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) in its governance, strategic direction and delivery of public benefit.

Engagement with Bristol Children’s Hospital, NICU and/or UHBW is undertaken to inform the Charity’s understanding of patient and family needs and does not confer any operational or strategic influence from UHBW over the Charity. The contractual framework governing our interaction with UHBW continues to present complexities; these are being managed appropriately to safeguard The Grand Appeal’s autonomy, governance integrity, brand, assets and decision-making authority.

The Trustees take a proactive approach to safeguarding the Charity’s assets, reputation and brand and take all appropriate steps to prevent any potential misrepresentation or dilution of the Charity’s established identity and independence.

10. Public benefit

The Trustees confirm compliance with the Charities Act 2011 duty to have due regard to Charity Commission public benefit guidance. Further details are included in the main body of this Annual Report. The Charity delivers strategic support to the Bristol Children’s Hospital and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) through the following principles:

• Pioneering medical equipment and innovation

• Provision of family accommodation and wider support, to be expanded through the Patient Hotel development from 2025

• A vibrant arts, music and play programme for patients

• Funding for medical research into childhood health.

• Investment in wards, departments and staff facilities, and enhancements across the hospital environment

• Support for staff at Bristol Children’s Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

11. Medical Advisory Committee

In 2018, The Grand Appeal strengthened its partnership with Bristol Children’s Hospital by establishing an honorary Medical Advisory Committee to advise the Board on hospital-related funding. The Committee forms no part of the Charity’s governance structure, and members have no governance responsibilities. Members are unremunerated and claim no expenses.

Membership:

• Dr Giles Haythornthwaite (Chair), Consultant Paediatric Emergency Department and Clinical Lead for

• Major Trauma; Clinical Director of Paediatric Medicine

• Mr Mike Carter, Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon

• Dr James Fraser, Consultant Paediatric Intensive Care

• Dr Anoo Jain, Consultant Neonatologist, St Michael’s Hospital

12. Patrons board

Our Patrons provide advice relating to the long-standing 30-year partnership between Aardman and The Grand Appeal. The Patrons Board is not part of the formal governance structure, and members have no governance responsibilities. Patrons are unremunerated and claim no expenses.

Membership:

• Peter Lord CBE, Co-founder and Creative Director, Aardman Animations

• Nick Park CBE, Creator of Wallace & Gromit, Aardman Animations

• David Sproxton CBE, Co-founder, Aardman Animations

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13. Directors’ indemnity

Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance is maintained to protect the Charity.

14. HR and people management

The Trustees, Directorate and staff work together as one #TeamGrandAppeal. The Trustees acknowledge and thank staff for their loyalty, enthusiasm and dedication. The Charity has recently adopted a number of new policies and working practices designed to support recruitment, retention and wellbeing, including an enhanced benefits package, a restructured HR/pay framework and a hybrid working policy.

These updates reflect the structured revision of all Grand Appeal policies. Directorate pay is determined directly by the Trustees, and salaries across the organisation are benchmarked using XpertHR.

We are fortunate to have a strong, loyal workforce whose flexibility supports the Charity’s operational needs. The Trustees thank all staff for their continued commitment. At the time of publication, the Charity employs 41 fulltime and part-time staff. Over one-third have more than five years’ service, and more than 15% have over ten years’ service.

15. Safeguarding

Safeguarding is of the highest priority at The Grand Appeal. Our designated safeguarding lead is, Anna Shepherd (Deputy Director) with escalation processes to Nicola Masters (Director) as appropriate. Simon Cooper is the designated Trustee for Safeguarding.

Safeguarding measures apply across all our sites. Where we work within Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU or any other clinical environment, our safeguarding practices operate in tandem with the UHBW Safeguarding Team. All staff undergo DBS checks, with enhanced clearance for relevant roles.

The Charity recognises its safeguarding obligations to children, vulnerable adults and the wider public across all activities - including fundraising, operations, commercial and service provision - with all practices aligned to GDPR requirements. No safeguarding complaints about Grand Appeal, Cots for Tots or Gromit Unleashed activity were received during the year.

During the year, families staying in Grand Appeal home-from-home family accommodation raised concerns about third-party approaches from an external organisation operating in the hospital. These concerns did not relate to The Grand Appeal’s own activity, but they did highlight the potential impact of third-party interactions on families who may be experiencing significant distress or vulnerability.

The Grand Appeal raised these matters formally with UHBW and the external organisation involved in line with our safeguarding responsibilities. The Grand Appeal continues to monitor the situation and has requested ongoing assurance from UHBW. The matter remains under active review by our Trustees and senior leadership.

16. Land and buildings

The Grand Appeal leases Cots for Tots House and Grand Appeal House from UHBW under a 25-year lease with no rent payable in support of its Primary Purpose. The Charity owns several properties on Upper Maudlin Street, one of which serves as the Charity’s HQ. The Charity also owns land outside the Bristol boundary and land adjacent to Cots for Tots House.

We extend our thanks to the management and owners of The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, who lease premises to Cracking Enterprises Ltd for retail and commercial operations.

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17. Volunteers

The Charity is deeply grateful to the many members of the public who volunteer their time in support of The Grand Appeal. From fundraising and administrative support to events and promotional activity, every hour volunteered is recognised with thanks. Volunteers are welcomed and protected under our Volunteers Policy, overseen by a senior staff member.

18. Fundraising

The Grand Appeal adheres to the Fundraising Regulator’s Code of Conduct and is regulated by the Information Commissioner’s Office in accordance with GDPR. The Grand Appeal does not engage professional fundraisers. No complaints were received during the year.

The Grand Appeal, Gromit Unleashed and Cots for Tots do not operate any public-facing lotteries, nor do we undertake lottery promotions on hospital premises. This is a deliberate decision grounded in our commitment to ensuring that families, patients and visitors -many of whom may be experiencing distress or vulnerability - are not placed in a position where they might feel compromised by an approach for lottery sales within a clinical environment. Our fundraising model is intentionally designed to protect families from unexpected or potentially confusing interactions at times of significant emotional pressure. Anyone wishing to understand more is welcome to contact us directly at [e-mail].

19. Finance

All financial policies and activities are overseen by the Finance and Asset Committee, whose membership comprises: Jos Moule (Trustee and Chair), Mike Lea (Trustee), Nicola Masters (Director) and Anna Shepherd (Deputy Director). Cazenove acts as Fund Manager.

The Board receives detailed management information covering the Charity’s overall performance and that of its sub-divisions, ensuring confidence in the Charity’s medium- and long-term financial sustainability.

20. Going concern

The Trustees regularly assess the Charity’s financial position, considering cash flow, liquidity, current and future Primary Purpose activity, and commitments to Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU, against the diversified nature of income generation across fundraising, philanthropy, commercial activity and the Gromit Unleashed brand. The Trustees remain confident that the Charity has adequate resources to meet its financial obligations for the foreseeable future.

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FINANCE AND RESERVES

The Grand Appeal can only continue its extensive portfolio of work in Bristol Children’s Hospital and the region’s NICU with the support of the thousands of donors, supporters and retail customers who generously support our work every day.

Financial commitments for Primary Purpose activity

The Grand Appeal funds a vibrant and extensive programme of activity in Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU – many examples of which are reported elsewhere in this review.

To date, commitments to funding the medium-term complex portfolio of Primary Purpose activity – including the provision of services, operations, staff, capital projects and revenue funding - is valued at over £7m in approximately 100 different individual projects.

The charity’s assets stand at nearly £11m.

In the year under review, we have increased the value of our Primary Purpose activity – including on and off Balance Sheet - to £2.9m.

The Fixed Assets described below are used to support the charity’s Primary Purpose and are not readily transferrable to cash. Over £3.5m is held in restricted funds as per donor wishes. Following a recent review, the Board of Trustees have adopted a Reserve Policy which assesses that between £1.4m and £1.8m is required for operational integrity - see below for further details. The complex portfolio of the activity that is funded by The Grand Appeal, presently valued at around £7m+ falls within three levels of commitment:

• Multi-year commitments

Family accommodation forms the bedrock of our operational Primary Purpose activity for Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU. We also fund a range of long- term activities for arts, music and play, including music therapy, currently in its 22nd year, play therapy and specialists working in Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU as well as a programme of interactive art sessions co-ordinated by our ‘Arts Unleashed’ co-ordinator, Lynne.

• One-off commitments

We meet with the management and clinical teams at Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU regularly to assess how funding from The Grand Appeal can amplify and support their work. Elsewhere in this Annual Report, we’ve described some of the projects we’ve funded in the Financial Year under review. We work hard to ensure that our funding reaches a wide range of wards and departments throughout the hospital to support projects which are not the responsibility of the NHS or other statutory funding.

• Medium-long-term strategic commitments

We work closely with the children’s hospital and NICU to ensure that our funding is meeting the needs of

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patients and their families, particularly as healthcare in the NHS is evolving at pace given their particular challenges. A part of this long-term planning process is to garner private sector funding to help provide solutions to what would otherwise be intractable problems which the NHS has no funding to cover. In the year under review, there are two such projects on the horizon.

Two examples of this funding are covered elsewhere in this Annual Review – the Patient Hotel and the new staff accommodation facility. These are multi-million- pound projects which will come to fruition in approximately the next three Financial Years.

These commitments take the form of both revenue and capital commitments over a period of 1 to 5 years. More details of the strategic commitments can be found in the “What’s Next for The Grand Appeal” section of this Annual Report.

Cash assets

The Charity has an extensive portfolio of commitments to Bristol Children’s Hospital and NICU and takes a long-term view of its responsibilities to further patient, family and staff support as well as improving patient infrastructure. The value of commitments for Primary Purpose activity currently stands at £7m over approximately 100 different projects. Cash assets stand at around £7m with over £3.5m of this restricted as per donor wishes.

Fixed assets

Land and buildings: These assets are not readily transferrable to cash:

The Charity owns 30-32 Upper Maudlin Street, which acts as an HQ for the charity and provides family accommodation at Paul’s House with eight en-suite rooms for families. The property is situated directly opposite Bristol Children’s Hospital in a prime city centre site and is therefore nominally valued at £2m. The Grand Appeal also owns 16 Upper Maudlin Street, which it plans to develop into short-term accommodation for staff at the children’s hospital.

Further, The Grand Appeal holds two pieces of land – one just outside the boundary of Bristol City Council and the other adjacent to Cots for Tots House, designated for development as the Patient Hotel, which will be called Jingle Jam building.

Other assets

As the leading provider of family accommodation to Bristol Children’s Hospital, The Grand Appeal owns a portfolio of contents required to operate and function as a quasi-hotel facility for nominated patients’ families at the children’s hospital and NICU. The charity group also owns equipment and other facilities for a functioning HQ, fundraising and retail operation and Gromit Unleashed.

Wholly owned subsidiary

The Grand Appeal has a wholly owned trading subsidiary, Cracking Enterprises Ltd, which usually trades as Gromit Unleashed. All profits from the subsidiary are gifted to The Grand Appeal. These accounts are presented as consolidated accounts and include the trading and commercial activity of Cracking Enterprises Ltd.

Fundraising

The Grand Appeal has a diverse and flourishing portfolio of fundraising activity. At The Grand Appeal, we take our fundraising costs and commitment to our donors very seriously and work hard to ensure that our financial

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performance is as efficient and effective as possible. As a part of this, we benchmark our financial performance against other local charities fundraising and supporting other hospitals on a like-for-like basis and against those charities of a similar size with similar charity objects. We seek to ensure that our performance – not just the fundraising ratio, but in grant-giving, governance and costs – is both superior and competitive, giving comfort that donors can support The Grand Appeal in the knowledge that donations and financial performance are well managed. The five-year run rate of fundraising costs – to reassure donors that this is a key performance metric of the charity – is running at around 26p per £1 raised. We understand that the national average is in excess of 30p per £1 raised.

Deferred income

Income relating to Cracking Enterprises has been deferred to the next financial year, reflecting sponsorship secured in advance for Gromit Unleashed 3. In line with SORP (FRS 102) requirements, the charity must recognise income only when entitlement of receipt and reliable measurement are satisfied. As the related economic benefits and obligations fall within the forthcoming financial year, deferring this income ensures it is matched to the period in which the sponsored activity will take place. This approach provides a true and fair view of our financial performance, avoids overstating current-year income, and maintains full compliance with charity accounting standards.

Unrecognised Income

During the year, the charity received a pledge of £1 million from John James Foundation to support a future development for Bristol Children’s Hospital. In accordance with SORP (FRS 102), this pledge has not been recognised in these financial statements as the entitlement conditions and timing of the associated expenditure fall within a future accounting period. The Grand Appeal is grateful for John James Foundation’s continued partnership over the last 30 years and this significant commitment will play an important role in shaping our future plans while being appropriately recognised in the period to which it relates.

Reserves

The Trustees review the Reserves held by The Grand Appeal and consider their responsibilities to donors and stakeholders at Board meetings, reviewing extensive Management Information to make informed decisions. The Trustees consider the financial resilience of The Grand Appeal over the short and medium term, reflecting the forward-facing strategy for land and building development and the charity’s particular requirements to support the NHS to ensure resilience is built into our financial and operational models. Our Reserves are available to spend on any of the charity’s purposes and it is particularly important that the charity maintains adequate reserves to support a continuum of care and operation of three family accommodation homes from home as well as staff working in the children’s hospital supporting the delivery of treatment. The Grand Appeal’s Reserve Fund is split into three separate areas:

Restricted funds

These are specific funds within our overall reserves that are restricted in their use by donor request. This encompasses the entire breadth of the remit of the Grand Appeal and represents both capital and revenue commitments as part of the £7m+ of Primary Purpose commitments.

Designated funds

These are funds within our overall Reserves that the Board specifically designates to spend on upcoming projects most of which are described in the ‘What’s Next for The Grand Appeal’ section of this Annual Review.

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Unrestricted funds

These are funds available at our disposal to spend on charitable projects at Board discretion. The Grand Appeal’s approach to Reserves is built on guidance from the Charity Commission and the particular constraints and opportunities within which the charity operates. In considering the Reserves of the charity, the Trustees have specific regard for the nature of the charitable reserve held; identifying the assets required to function as a charity; financial risk and resilience. Income generation – sources, ability and history of income receipts; cyber security and the impact of longer-term strategic planning.

For The Grand Appeal with the extensive range of capital and revenue commitments to the children’s hospital, NICU and to further childhood health, and with our funding operating at scale over the medium term, the Trustees have reviewed the guidance from the Charity Commission and have designated funds to ensure that the charity can fulfil its function, funding and provide the multi-year strategic operation of the charity.

The Charity’s reserve range seeks to balance spending the maximum amount of income raised as soon as possible after receipt while maintaining the minimum level of reserves, ensuring there are sufficient reserves to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the charity and a continuum of service to fulfil the medium-term funding commitments and objectives of the charity. It will also provide time to adjust to a change in financial circumstances should an economic shock take place, such as Covid.

A prudent assessment of the financial reserve requirement is currently estimated to be in the region of £1.4m to £1.8m, which strikes an appropriate balance while maintaining operational integrity. While this figure regularly fluctuates depending on the needs of the children’s hospital, currently, the reserve stands at £1.7m. This calculation is consistent with The Grand Appeal’s business model and considers key risks. The Board has adopted a range that gives flexibility due to the variation in commitment to Primary Purpose activities at any given time given the scale of The Grand Appeal’s work in support of the children’s hospital and the volume of activity taking place in each financial year.

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STATEMENT OF THE TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES

The Trustees (who are also the directors of Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the Trustees are required to

• select suitable account policies and then apply them consistently;

• observe the methods and principal in the Charity SORP;

• make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

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

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

In so far as the Trustees are aware:

•

there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company’s auditors are unaware;

and

• the Trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information.

AUDITORS

The auditors Sumer AuditCo Limited will be proposed for re-appointment at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting.

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

Approved by order of the board of Trustees on the 22 December 2025 and signed on its behalf by:

J H Moule

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REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS TO THE MEMBERS OF WALLACE & GROMIT’S CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation for the year ended 31 March 2025 which comprise the Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities, the Consolidated and Charitable Company’s Balance Sheet, the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

• give a true and fair view of the state of group’s and of the parent charitable company’s affairs as at 31

• March 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended;

• have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and

• have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and the Charities Act 2011.

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 Auditors responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company 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 the provisions available for small entities, in the circumstances set out in note 23 to the financial statements, 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 charitable company’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.

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Other information

The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our Report of the Independent Auditors thereon.

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.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, 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 audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. 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.

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

• the information given in the Report of the Trustees for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

• the Report of the Trustees has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charitable group and the parent charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Report of the Trustees.

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

• adequate accounting records have not been kept or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or

• the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or

• certain disclosures of trustees’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or

• we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or

• the trustees were not entitled to take advantage of the small companies exemption from the requirement

• to prepare a Strategic Report or in preparing the Report of the Trustees.

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the Statement of Trustees Responsibilities, the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes 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 charitable company’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

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operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Our 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 a Report of the Independent Auditors 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.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Explanation as to what extent the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

The objectives of our audit in respect of fraud, are; to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements due to fraud; to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud, through designing and implementing appropriate responses to those assessed risks; and to respond appropriately to instances of fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit. However, the primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both management and those charged with governance of the charitable company.

Our approach was as follows:

We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to the charitable company and considered that the most significant are the Companies Act 2006, UK financial reporting standards as issued by the Financial Reporting Council, the Charities Act 2011 and the Charities SORP.

We obtained an understanding of how the company complies with these requirements by discussions with management and those charged with governance.

We assessed the risk of material misstatement of the financial statements, including the risk of material misstatement due to fraud and how it might occur, by holding discussions with management and those charged with governance.

We inquired of management and those charged with governance as to any known instances of non-compliance or suspected non-compliance with laws and regulations.

Based on this understanding, we designed specific appropriate audit procedures to identify instances of noncompliance with laws and regulations. This included making enquiries of management and those charged with governance and obtaining additional corroborative evidence as required.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Report of the Independent Auditors

58

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 auditors’ 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.

Mark Powell (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Sumer AuditCo Limited Statutory Auditor Chartered Accountants Lennox House 3 Pierrepont Street Bath Somerset BA1 1LB

Date: 22 December 2025

59

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES for the year ended 31 March 2025

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES for the year ended 31 March 2025

Unrestricted funds Notes £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies Other trading activity 2 2 1,080,660 707,893 Investment income 3 279,665 Total 2,068,218 EXPENDITURE ON Raising funds 6 Cost of fundraising Cost of trading Charitable activities 600,559 764,042 7 Support for Bristol Children's Hospital 353,028 Support for Special Care Baby Unit/ Cots for Tots - Other 419,300 Total 2,136,929 NET (DEFICIT)/SURPLUS (68,711) Net movement in funds (68,711) RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 7,311,334 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 7,242,623

2025 2024 Restricted funds Total funds Total funds £ £ £ 1,206,828 - 2,287,488 707,893 2,736,152 900,613 - 279,665 223,282 1,206,828 3,275,046 3,860,047 - 600,559 575,810 - 764,042 900,129 954,830 1,307,858 1,179,092 275,692 275,692 114,119 - 419,300 333,672 1,230,522 3,367,451 3,102,822 (23,694) (92,405) 757,225 (23,694) (92,405) 757,225 3,574,884 10,886,218 10,128,993 3,551,190 10,793,813 10,886,218

CONTINUING OPERATIONS

All income and expenditure has arisen from continuing activities.

60

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation (Registered number: 3008531)

BALANCE SHEETS At 31 March 2025

BALANCE SHEETS At 31 March 2025
		2025	2025	2024	2024
		Group	Charity	Group	Charity
	Notes	£	£	£	£
FIXED ASSETS
Intangible assets	14	-	-	7,793	7,793
Tangible assets	15	3,119,921	3,119,921	3,108,152	3,108,152
Investments	16	3,387	3,388	3,387	3,388
Investment Property	17	196,070	196,070	196,070	196,070
		3,319,378	3,319,379	3,315,402	3,315,403
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks		68,901	-	134,770	-
Debtors	18	128,661	300,970	354,519	634,585
Cash at bank		7,989,738	7,509,923	7,378,747	7,160,151
		8,187,300	7,810,893	7,868,036	7,794,736
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year	19	(712,865)	(280,310)	(297,220)	(224,405)
NET CURRENT ASSETS		7,474,435	7,530,583	7,570,816	7,570,331
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES		10,793,813	10,849,962	10,886,218	10,885,734
NET ASSETS		10,793,813	10,849,962	10,886,218	10,885,734
FUNDS	21
Unrestricted designated	Unrestricted designated	2,267,892	2,267,892	2,267,892	2,267,892
Unrestricted funds		4,974,731	5,030,880	5,043,442	5,042,958
Restricted funds		3,551,190	3,551,190	3,574,884	3,574,884
TOTAL FUNDS		10,793,813	10,849,962	10,886,218	10,885,734

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small charitable companies.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on ………………………….. and were signed on its behalf by:

J H Moule - Trustee

61

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT for the year ended 31 March 2025

Notes Cash flows from operating activities: Cash generated from operations 1 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Cash flows from investing activities: Purchase of intangible fixed assets Purchase of tangible fixed assets Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period	2025 £ 699,486 699,486 - (88,495) (88,495) 610,991 7,378,747 7,989,738	2024 £ 757,437 757,437 - (146,343) (146,343) 611,094 6,767,653 7,378,747

62

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT for the year ended 31 March 2025

1.	RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO NET CASH FLOW FROM	OPERATING ACTIVITIES	OPERATING ACTIVITIES
		2025	2024
		£	£
	Net income for the reporting period (as per the statement of financial
	activities)	(92,405)	757,225
	Adjustments for:
	Depreciation charges	84,519	98,333
	Decrease/(increase) in stock	65,869	77,902
	Decrease/(increase) in debtors	225,858	(119,201)
	Increase/(decrease) in creditors	415,645	142,635
	Gift of fixed asset investment	-	(3,387)
	Gift of investment property	-	(196,070)
	Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	699,486	757,437
2.	ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET FUNDS

Net cash Cash at bank and in hand Total	At 1.4.24 £ 7,378,747 7,378,747 7,378,747	Cash flow £ 610,991 610,991 610,991	At 31.3.25 £ 7,989,738 7,989,738 7,989,738

63

Notes to the Financial Statement

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 March 2025

STATUTORY INFORMATION

Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation is a private company, limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. The company’s registered number and registered office address can be found on the Company Information page.

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

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

The consolidated accounts include the trading activities, assets and liabilities of the subsidiary company and are prepared in sterling which is the functional currency of the entity.

Going Concern

At the balance sheet date, the charity had net current assets of £7,531k and net assets of £10,850k. The charity continues to meet all its liabilities as they fall due.

The trustees have further considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. The trustees believe budgeted income and expenditure and the level of reserves held are sufficient for the charity to be able to continue as a going concern.

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.

Grants receivable

Income from government and other grants, whether 'capital' or 'revenue', is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred.

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.

Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year end date are noted as a commitment but not accrued as expenditure.

Allocation and apportionment of costs

Staff costs are apportioned based on the proportion of time spent on the relevant activities. Other costs are directly allocated to the activities that they relate to.

Intangible fixed assets

Website development costs are capitalised at cost and are amortised over the website's estimated useful life of 3 years.

Tangible fixed assets

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

Freehold property	- Straight line over 50 years
Leasehold improvements	- Straight line over the period of the lease
Office equipment	- Straight line over 4 years
Fixture & Fittings	- Straight line over 5 years

64

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED

for the year ended 31 March 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES – continued

Investment property

Investment property is initially measured at cost and is subsequently remeasured to fair value at the end of each reporting period. Any gains or losses are recorded in the profit and loss account.

Stocks

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items.

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 trustees' report.

Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate. The contributions are apportioned to relevant activities based upon the proportion of time spent on that activity by the employee to which they relate.

Financial instruments

Financial instruments are classified and accounted for, according to the substance of the contractual arrangement, as either financial assets, financial liabilities or equity instruments. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the company after deducting all of its liabilities.

2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES AND MERCHANDISING INCOME

Donations Grand Appeal Legacies Donated services and gifts Other trading activity INVESTMENT INCOME Bank deposit interest INCOME AND RESULTS OF THE CHARITY Donations and legacies Interest receivable Other income Incoming resources	2025 £ 2,090,285 139,309 57,894 707,893 2,995,381 2025 £ 279,665 2025 £ 2,287,488 279,665 484 ------------- 2,567,637	2024 £ 2,253,985 420,603 61,564 900,613 3,636,765 2024 £ 223,282 2024 £ 2,736,152 223,282 59,820 ------------- 3,019,254

3. INVESTMENT INCOME

4.

65

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

4. INCOME AND RESULTS OF THE CHARITY cont.

	2025	2024
	£	£
Raising funds	600,559	575,810
Charitable activities	1,583,550	1,293,211
Governance costs	419,300	333,672
	------------	------------
Resources expended	2,603,409	2,202,693
	__	___
Net income/ (expenditure) for the year	(35,772)	816,561
	========	========

5. MERCHANDISING SALES AND INVESTMENT IN TRADING SUBSIDIARY

The wholly-owned trading subsidiary, Cracking Enterprises Limited, which is incorporated in the United Kingdom, pays all its profits to the charity by gift aid. The charity owns the entire issued share capital of 1,000 shares of £1 each. A summary of the trading results is shown below.

Summary profit and loss account:

Summary profit and loss account:
	2025	2024
	£	£
Turnover	707,893	900,613
Cost of sales and administrative expenses	(764,042)	(900,129)
	------------	------------
Net profit	(56,149)	484
	=======	=======
The assets and liabilities of the subsidiary were :
Current assets	658,648	355,541
Creditors	(713,797)	(354,057)
	------------	------------
Total net assets	(55,149)	1,484
	=======	=======
Share capital	1,000	1,000
Retained earnings	(56,149)	484
	------------	------------
	(55,149)	1,484
	=======	=======

6. RAISING FUNDS

Raising donations and legacies

Raising donations and legacies
	2025	2024
	£	£
Staff costs	465,578	408,765
Non-staff costs	134,981	167,045
Expenditure associated with trading	764,042	900,129
	1,364,601	1,475,939

66

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

7. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS

Support for Bristol Children's Hospital Support for Special Care Baby Unit/Cots for Tots Wallace & Gromit's Children's Charity (external) Prior year comparatives Support for Bristol Children's Hospital Support for Special Care Baby Unit/Cots for Tots Wallace & Gromit's Children's Charity (external) 8. GRANTS PAYABLE Support for Bristol Children's Hospital Support for Special Care Baby Unit/ Cots for Tots Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity (external) The total grants paid to institutions during the year The Royal Hospital for Children, Bristol Support for Special Care Baby Unit/ Cots for Tots	Direct costs £ 660,648 70,366 - 731,014 Direct Costs £ 627,703 57,947 - 685,650 was as follows:	Grant funding of activities (See note 8) £ 570,484 205,326 - 775,810 Grant funding of activities £ 470,751 56,172 - 526,923	Support costs (see note 9) £ 76,726 - - 76,726 Support costs £ 80,638 - - 80,638 2025 £ 570,484 205,326 - 775,810 2025 £ 570,484 205,326 775,810		Total £ 1,307,858 275,692 -
					1,583,550
					Total £ 1,179,092 114,119 -
					1,293,211
					2024 £ 470,751 56,172 - 526,923 2024 £ 470,751 56,172 526,923

67

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

9. SUPPORT COSTS

Governance costs

Staff costs Non staff costs Support for Bristol Children’s Hospital	2025 £ 280,274 139,026 76,726 496,026	2024 £ 233,942 99,730 80,638 414,310

10. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)

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

Auditors' remuneration Depreciation - owned assets Computer software amortisation	2025 £ 26,480 76,726 7,793	2024 £ 24,400 80,638 17,695

11. 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.

12. STAFF COSTS

STAFF COSTS
	2025	2024
	£	£
Wages and salaries	1,078,363	1,006,362
Social security costs	93,177	80,289
Other pension costs	98,807	101,117
	1,270,347	1,187,768

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

2025 All staff - full time & part time 41 The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was: 2025 £60,001-£70,000 -	2024 40 2024 -

The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:

Key management personnel: the total amount of employee benefits received by key management personnel is £155,205 (2024:£154,292).

The Charity remains grateful for the work of its volunteers. The role and scope of work undertaken varies and the time donated by volunteers is not recognised in the financial statements as this cannot be reliably or consistently valued.

68

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

13. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

Unrestricted funds £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 1,363,556 Other trading activities 900,613 Investment income 223,240 Total 2,487,409 EXPENDITURE ON Raising funds Cost of fundraising Cost of trading 575,810 900,129 Charitable activities Support for Bristol Children's Hospital 396,392 Support for Special Care Baby Unit/ Cots for Tots - Other 333,672 Total 2,206,003 NET INCOME 281,406 Net movement in funds 281,406 RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 7,029,928 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 7,311,334 14. INTANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS (Group and charity) COST At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 AMORTISATION At 1 April 2024 Charge for the year At 31 March 2025 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024

Restricted funds Total funds £ £ 1,372,596 2,736,152 - 900,613 42 223,282 1,372,638 3,860,047 - - 575,810 900,129 782,700 1,179,092 114,119 114,119 - 333,672 896,819 3,102,822 475,819 757,225 475,819 757,225 3,099,065 10,128,993 3,574,884 10,886,218 Computer software £ 53,085 - 53,085 45,292 7,793 53,085 - 7,793

69

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

15. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS (Group & Charity)

COST At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 DEPRECIATION At 1 April 2024 Charge for year At 31 March 2025 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024 COST At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 DEPRECIATION At 1 April 2024 Charge for year At 31 March 2025 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024	Freehold property £ 2,633,284 24,591 2,657,875 247,710 41,828 289,538 2,368,337 2,385,574 Asset under construction £ 102,256 41,885 144,141 - - - 144,141 102,256	Short leasehold £ 715,004 - 715,004 117,058 28,399 145,457 569,547 597,946 Office equipment £ 36,055 8,190 44,245 34,358 2,763 37,121 7,124 1,697	Fixtures & Fittings £ 119,943 13,829 133,772 99,264 3,736 103,000 30,772 20,679 Totals £ 3,606,542 88,495 3,695,037 498,390 76,726 575,116 3,119,921 3,108,152

70

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

16. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS

16.	FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
		Shares in
		group		Listed
	Group	undertakings		investments		Totals
		£		£			£
	MARKET VALUE
	At 1 April 2024		-	3,387			3,387
	Additions through legacy		-		-		-
	At 31 March 2025		-	3,387			3,387
	NET BOOK VALUE
	At 31 March 2025		-	3,387			3,387
	At 31 March 2024		-	3,387			3,387
	Charity
	MARKET VALUE
	At 1 April 2024	1		3,387			3,388
	Additions through legacy		-		-		-
	At 31 March 2025	1		3,387			3,388
	NET BOOK VALUE
	At 31 March 2025	1		3,387			3,388
	At 31 March 2024	1		3,387			3,388
17.	INVESTMENT PROPERTY (Group & Charity)
							£
	FAIR VALUE
	At 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025					196,070
	NET BOOK VALUE
	At 31 March 2025					196,070
	At 31 March 2024					196,070
18.	DEBTORS
			Charity			Group
		2025		2024	2025		2024
		£		£	£		£
	Amounts falling due within one year:
	Trade debtors	-		-		-	-
	Amounts due from group undertakings	282,241		282,241		-	-
	Other debtors	7,400		104,757	9,575		106,932
	Prepayments & accrued income	11,329		247,587	119,086		247,587
		-------------		-------------	-----------		-----------
		300,970		634,585	128,661		354,519
		========		========	=======		=======

71

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

19. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

		Charity		Group
	2025	2024	2025	2024
	£	£	£	£
Trade creditors	236,990	81,658	269,229	120,744
Other creditors	19,082	122,745	73,348	135,505
Accrued expenses	24,238	20,002	38,717	40,971
Deferred income	-	-	331,571	-
	-----------	------------	------------	------------
	280,310	224,405	712,865	297,220
	=======	=======	=======	=======

20. LEASING AGREEMENTS

Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows:

Within one year Between one and five years	2025 £ 8,110 2,938 11,048	2024 £ 6,394 4,125 10,519

21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS

MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Unrestricted funds – Group current year The Grand Appeal Designated Unrestricted funds – Charity current year The Grand Appeal Designated Restricted funds – Group and Charity Bristol Children’s Hospital Patient Hotel Cots for Tots - NICU Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity Total funds – Current year Group Charity	At 1.4.24 Net movement in funds Transfers between funds £ £ £ 5,043,442 (68,711) - 2,267,892 - - 7,311,334 (68,711) - 5,042,958 (12,078) - 2,267,892 - - 7,310,850 (12,078) - 1,075,373 (524,856) - 1,806,633 451,947 - 633,784 48,076 - 59,094 1,139 - 3,574,884 (23,694) - 10,886,218 (92,405) - 10,885,734 (35,772) -	At 31.3.25 £ 4,974,731 2,267,892 7,242,623 5,030,880 2,267,892 7,298,772 550,517 2,258,580 681,860 60,233
		3,551,190 10,793,813 10,849,962

72

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

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

Unrestricted funds - Group The Grand Appeal Unrestricted funds - Charity The Grand Appeal Restricted funds – Group and Charity Bristol Children’s Hospital Patient Hotel Cots for Tots - NICU Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity Total funds Group Charity Comparatives for movement in funds Unrestricted funds - Group The Grand Appeal Designated Unrestricted funds - Charity The Grand Appeal Designated Restricted funds – Group and Charity Bristol Children’s Hospital Patient Hotel Cots for Tots - NICU Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity Total funds Group Charity

Incoming resources Resources expended Movement in funds £ £ £ 2,068,218 (2,136,929) (68,711) 1,360,809 (1,372,887) (12,078) 429,935 (954,791) (524,856) 451,986 (39) 451,947 323,768 (275,692) 48,076 1,139 - 1,139 1,206,828 (1,230,522) (23,694) 3,275,046 (3,367,451) (92,405) 2,567,637 (2,603,409) (35,772) At 1.4.23 Net movement in funds Transfers between funds At 31.3.24 £ £ £ £ 4,762,036 281,406 - 4,762,037 2,267,892 - - 2,267,892 7,029,928 281,406 - 7,311,334 4,702,216 340,742 - 5,042,958 2,267,892 - - 2,267,892 6,970,108 340,742 - 7,310,850 1,002,427 72,946 - 1,075,373 1,606,003 200,630 - 1,806,633 432,803 200,981 - 633,784 57,832 1,262 - 59,094 3,099,065 475,819 - 3,574,884 10,128,993 757,225 - 10,886,218 10,069,173 816,561 - 10,885,734

73

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued

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

Unrestricted funds - Group The Grand Appeal Unrestricted funds - Charity The Grand Appeal Restricted funds – Group and Charity Bristol Children’s Hospital Patient Hotel Cots for Tots - NICU Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity Total funds Group Charity	Incoming resources £ 2,487,409 1,646,616 855,646 200,630 315,100 1,262 1,372,638 3,860,047 3,019,254	Resources expended Movement in funds £ £ (2,206,003) 281,406 (1,305,874) 340,742 (782,700) 72,946 - 200,630 (14,119) 200,981 - 1,262 (896,819) 475,819 (3,102,822) 757,225 (2,202,693) 816,561

Designated Funds:

The Trustees meet quarterly to approve and agree expenditure for the short and medium term to support Bristol Children’s Hospital and the NICU. The Trustees have presented their Financial Review in the main body of the Annual Report. The Board designates funding for projects that are due for completion within 12, 24 36 and 48 months depending on the nature of the project and the timeframe of the NHS. At the time of writing, the Board has approved total projects valued at £5m in approximately 100 different projects. These commitments are reviewed regularly against expenditure and against forecasted income generation. During the year under review the Trustees have revised their Reserve Policy. Please see the Financial Review, and the Structure, Government and Management sections of the Annual Report for further details.

22. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

During the year the charity recharged wages paid on behalf of the trading subsidiary, Cracking Enterprises Limited, totalling £229,038 (2024: £261,737). In line with the intentions of the trading subsidiary the profits for the prior year, totalling £484 (2024: £59,820) were paid to the charity during the year. There was a debtor of £282,241 (2024: £282,241) owing from the trading subsidiary to the charity as at the year end.

Simon Cooper and Jos Moule are directors of Cracking Enterprises Limited and Trustees of Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation. Nicola Masters is the Director (CEO) of Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation. Nicola is appointed as a Director of the wholly owned trading subsidiary Cracking Enterprises Ltd.

74

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED for the year ended 31 March 2025

22. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES - continued

Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation and Cracking Enterprises Limited incurred legal costs of £36,259 (2024: £19,564) with Veale Wasbrough Vizards LLP during the year. There was a creditor of £3,196 (2024 £5,052) owing as at the year end in Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation. Jos Moule, is a partner in Veale Wasbrough Vizards LLP.

Simon Cooper is a Trustee of Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation and a Trustee of the Musicspace Trust. Music therapy within the Bristol Children's Hospital is provided by the Musicspace Trust and funded by the charity at a cost of £Nil (2024: £53,269). There was a creditor of £Nil (2024 - £4,688) owing as at the year end.

Nick Park, Peter Lord and David Sproxton are Patrons of Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation Limited and Directors of Aardman Animations Limited.

Angie Last is a Trustee of Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation and an employee of Aardman Animations Limited.

Cracking Enterprises Limited incurred net costs of £26,990 (2024: £46,050) relating to Aardman's support for the Gromit Unleashed, Gromit Unleashed 2 and Shaun in the City arts trails which have raised to date around £6million for the primary purpose of Wallace & Gromit's Children's Foundation. This support covers web and app development for the charity's brands, rights, intellectual property, the development of merchandise and associated royalties, licensing and design.

23. FRC ETHICAL STANDARD - PROVISIONS AVAILABLE FOR SMALL ENTITIES

In common with many other businesses of our size and nature we use our auditors to prepare and submit returns to the tax authorities and assist with the preparation of the financial statements.

24. PURPOSE OF RESTRICTED FUNDS

The Grand Appeal receives many donations from supporters, donors, patients, friends, families and the general public with a specific designation. The Appeal acknowledges that all donations received for a specific ward or department should be spent according to the needs of the donor and therefore retains the above funds to ensure full compliance with the individual donor's intentions. These funds are then used to provide additional 'added value' facilities and to comply with donor wishes.

25. CONTINGENT ASSET

During the year, the charity received a pledge of £1 million from The John James Bristol Foundation to support a future development for Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. In accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102), this pledge has not been recognised in these financial statements as the entitlement conditions and timing of the associated expenditure fall within a future accounting period.

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