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2023-12-31-accounts

Royal Life Saving Society UK Annual Report and Accounts 2023

Our purpose is to enhance communities, so everyone can enjoy being in, on or near water safely - because every life is worth saving.

Our vision is a nation without drowning where everyone can safely enjoy being in, on or near water.

Our mission is to be the leader in lifesaving and lifeguarding in the UK and Ireland; sharing our expertise and knowledge with as many people as possible, giving everyone the potential to save lives and safely enjoy water.

Company Number: 03033781

Registered Charity England and Wales: 1046060

Registered Charity Scotland: SC037912

Our Impact 2023

CONTENTS

Welcome from the President 3
Our Impact in 2023 4
Financial Review 13
Governance 17
Governance documents
Developing Governance
Board of Trustees
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Initiatives
Future plans
Principle risks and uncertainties
Internal controls
Statements of Trustees’/Directors’ Responsibilities 24
Patrons, Board of Trustees (Directors) and Advisers 26
Independent Auditor’s Report 27
Financial Statements 31
Notes To The Financial Statements 36

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 2 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

Welcome to the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s (RLSS UK) 2023 Annual Report and Accounts

This report shows the fantastic work and commitment of our volunteers, members and staff in ensuring our water safety message is spread far and wide.

Some achievements from the report...

Over 250 affiliated clubs offer courses and other services to their local areas.

Our Branches continue to work in their local communities offering support to clubs, our members and the public. The Save a Life series continues to grow, offering free classes at grassroots.

Financial stability is at the front of our thinking on the Board of Trustees, and it is pleasing that our continued growth in this area is impressive.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our members both volunteer and commercial with the support of our staff.

Deborah Hunt, President Royal Life Saving Society UK

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 3 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

Our Impact in 2023

Reflecting on the achievements showcased in our impact report is a powerful reminder of the remarkable breadth and depth of our Society’s work. Leading this organisation over the past five years has been an immense privilege, and witnessing the transformative impact of our initiatives has been truly inspiring. Our Society continues to set the benchmark for excellence, paving the way for others to follow in our footsteps.

Throughout the year, we have made significant investments in our research and insight programmes, solidifying our position as global leaders in water safety.

Our ultimate mission as a charity focused on water safety education hinges on the breadth of our reach.

By prioritising children and young people, we lay the foundation for a safer future, evident in the engagement of over 1.85 million children during Drowning Prevention Week and the delivery of over 220,000 lifesaving qualifications and awards.

Each of these achievements contributes to the safety of communities nationwide.

With the unwavering support of our dedicated volunteers, our community is poised for continued expansion.

As we look ahead, I am confident that our Society will remain a beacon of innovation and collaboration, providing a welcoming space for all who share our commitment to water safety.

Robert Gofton, Chief Executive Officer Royal Life Saving Society UK

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 4 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

2023 in numbers

99 lifesaving qualifications and awards on offer, ensuring everyone has the chance to continually enhance their water safety knowledge and skills.

hours spent volunteering 13,275 by our passionate community of lifesavers and educators to amplify our work in communities.

250+ RLSS UK affiliated clubs across the UK and Ireland, ran by our active fantastic volunteers, delivering skills for life.

visits to the water 129,000+ safety pages on our website, providing important advice and guidance.

RLSS UK members registered, 14,205 representing our growing lifesaving community, supporting our lifesaving work.

354 delegates attended the RLSS UK Conference, sharing expertise and best practices in lifesaving and lifeguarding.

Rookie Lifeguard awards 48,005 presented, celebrating important milestones in children’s lifesaving ability.

377 members were recognised Honours programme, celebrating their via our outstanding contributions to the Society’s work.

RLSS UK lifeguard 45,832 qualifications were awarded, ensuring that indoor pools, aqua parks, outdoor water venues and beaches are lifeguarded across the UK and Ireland.

online training sessions 50,506 completed by lifesavers and lifeguards keeping up to date with their training and continued professional development.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 5 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

Our Impact

The impact of our work is visible across all four UK nations and in Ireland.

Our work supports the availability of safe places to play and swim, ensuring competent lifeguard provision at venues, both indoors and outdoors, at locations across the UK and Ireland.

In 2023, we awarded 221,428

lifesaving qualifications and awards, which included our industry-leading National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ).

In addition, our work sees vital water safety education delivered across the UK and Ireland.

2.26m+ children were educated in water safety using our free materials and resources, thanks to support from educators and our community networks. In our RLSS UK affiliated clubs, more than making friends. 6,250 Mm

In our RLSS UK affiliated clubs, more than children enhanced their lifesaving skills building confidence and making friends. 6,250

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 6 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

OUR OBJECTIVE: To excel in the development of internationally recognised, creative education and training opportunities that enhance everyone’s ability to save lives, develop opportunities to embrace diversity, inclusivity, and well-being, and provide affordable access for everyone, to help unlock their potential.

SPOTLIGHT ON...

In 2023, more than 98% 8,000 of those completing an RLSS UK members RLSS UK qualification benefited from our online agreed that they learnt new skills that will be useful in their learning (CPD) sessions, long-term career. keeping our Instructors, Trainer Assessors and Lifeguards up to date with the latest technical skills and developments.

RLSS UK is committed to ensuring that the NPLQ continues to lead the way in lifesaving and lifeguarding.

Having worked closely with the University of Chichester for the last five years on pioneering lifeguard research, and gathering our own feedback from lifeguards and operators, we launched our next-generation NPLQ in July 2023.

Building on the findings of our lifeguard research, the new NPLQ Gen 10 includes a wide range of updates, including:

RLSS UK remains the leading provider of training in lifesaving and lifeguarding in the UK and Ireland, awarding 221,000+ qualifications and awards in 2023.

We qualified 42,994 lifeguards with our National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), the UK and Ireland’s leading lifeguard qualification. This award helps ensure lifeguards have the best possible knowledge and skills to help members of the public stay safe in a pool environment.

In addition, a further 1,508 Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) qualifications and 1,330 National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualifications (NVBLQ) were awarded. These bespoke qualifications ensure candidates have the right knowledge and skills to keep people safe on beaches and increasingly popular open water spaces, such as lakes and aqua parks.

RLSS UK continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting its candidates’ personal development. As part of being a leading qualification provider, we believe it’s vital that our training not only provides essential lifesaving knowledge but also gives candidates an opportunity to enhance transferrable skills that could be used in a future career.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 7 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

We are proud to offer a range of lifesaving awards for children starting their lifesaving journey.

This includes our Rookie Lifeguard programme, progressing to our National Lifesaving Academy (NLA) scheme.

48,000+ Rookie Lifeguard awards were presented during the year, marking the start of a lifesaving journey for thousands in our RLSS UK affiliated clubs.

In addition, 2023 marked the final year of our Survive & Save series, with 3,842 awards issued as children completed the programme.

We also celebrated our first full year of the National Lifesaving Academy (NLA) programme, with 867 awards presented. This new, flexible approach to the initial stages of lifesaving has seen the following awards issued across pool, beach, and open water settings:

• 47 Bronze Medallion awards

SPOTLIGHT ON... We officially launched ~~a~~ our pioneering school accreditation programme, which offers high-quality, flexible water safety education to all children, whatever their background.

At RLSS UK, we believe that every young person should have access to water safety skills that can be used throughout their life, no matter their background. This knowledge will help keep them safe around the water and enrich their opportunities to engage in water-related activities and play.

In September 2023, Water Smart Schools was launched. Water Smart Schools is a flexible and adaptable course that can be applied to any learning environment with agility and ease, including primary, secondary, further and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) settings.

The first of its kind, the programme allows schools to deliver the highest quality water safety education by fulfilling bronze, silver, or gold attainment levels, utilising our tried and tested, easy-to-deliver classbased lesson plans and associated resources.

In our pilot study, the proportion of children who were confident they knew what to do if faced with a dangerous situation in open water increased by a third after completing the Water Smart Schools programme.

Between September and December 2023,148 schools enrolled on the accreditation scheme from a mix of educational settings across all UK nations and Ireland, offering the chance to deliver water safety education to more than 56,000 students.

One of our pilot schools, Bishop Perowne CofE College, spoke of their experience of the programme: “Water safety is not just a lesson but a vital life skill for our community.”

“It has been an extremely positive experience so far, and our students have been very engaged in the conversations. Remaining safe around water all year round is an important issue, and we hope more secondary schools get involved and begin working with the RLSS UK.

----- Start of picture text -----
The Water Smart Schools programme aligns
perfectly with our PSHE curriculum intent, which
is to provide children with the
knowledge and skills to keep
themselves happy, healthy and
safe – as well as to prepare
them for life and work during
their time at Bishop Perowne
CofE College and beyond.” WATER SMART
S
AinnitiativebytheRoyal LifeSavingSocieytUK
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THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 8 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

CONSULTANCY EXPERTISE AND PARTNERSHIP OUR OBJECTIVE: To create strategic partnerships and collaborations to share expertise and maximise our impact and reach. Disparities in drowning risk were highlighted in Awareness of our additional report co-authored by RLSS UK. drowning trends f and interventions RLSS UK was proud to co-author the National Child Mortality raised amongst NHS medics. Database (NCMD)’s thematic report, ‘Deaths of children and young people due to traumatic incidents’, published July 2023. Our National Drowning Report and work with the NCMD have enabled us to drive For the first time, the report highlighted disparities in drowning awareness of important drowning trends risk based on income level and ethnicity, insights which are vital amongst NHS health professionals and, for lobbying the Government in the pursuit of ensuring everyone critically, the possible interventions offered by can enjoy water safely. RLSS UK to thes e. SPOTLIGHT ON... The system complements the highly skilled work ~~a~~ of trained lifeguards. It continuously monitors RLSS UK showcases future pool users and promptly alerts lifeguards via thinking in an innovative, smartwatches about anyone who may require ground-breaking partnership assistance, enhancing overall pool safety. with GLL and Lynxight.

Lynxight’s cost-effective solution utilises an overhead security camera system, offering easy maintenance, minimal impact on pool buildings, and low visibility to pool visitors. It can operate in various pool types, including indoor standard tank swimming pools, freeform pools with irregular shapes, and outdoor swimming pools.

This tripartite collaboration between RLSS UK, GLL, the UK’s leading leisure trust and largest public swimming pool operator, and pool safety Assisted Lifeguard Technology company, Lynxight, aimed to explore how technology could enhance safety and support lifeguards and pool operators, thoroughly testing the Lynxight system, with a view to revolutionising how lifeguards and operators safeguard pool users across the UK and Ireland.

During a successful six-month trial by GLL, they were able to adapt, test and refine the Lynxight system to meet the stringent needs of UK pool operators. The data generated also helped to optimise swimming pool operations, including realtime insights into pool usage, swimmer numbers, and detailed data for each lane or pool area. The positive results and feedback from the trial generated immense interest, with GLL planning to install the Lynxight system in several of their swimming pools.

“After several years investigating how technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) would impact lifeguarding and lifesaving, we are thrilled to announce this partnership with Lynxight. We believe this system will elevate swimming pool safety, making pools even safer for everyone.” Robert Gofton, CEO of RLSS UK

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 9 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

RLSS UK is the appointed auditor for the Aqua Parks Association UK and Ireland, inspecting parks that have signed up for the scheme against the standards set. In 2023, 33 UK and Irish aqua parks were given the RLSS UK aquapark accreditation, with visitor numbers totaling an estimated 1.3m.

RLSS UK Consultancy projects double in 2023, further expanding the number of people who are kept safe through our work.

In the past three years, RLSS UK Consultancy has seen significant growth in its number of projects, from five in 2021, up to 21 in 2022 and 44 in 2023.

Our consultancy work is varied, and we cover a wide range of locations across the UK. For example, in 2023, we completed projects including water safety risk assessments for indoor pools and open water venues, local authorities and private landowners who own/manage bodies of water, as well as water safety audits on the coast.

SPOTLIGHT ON... a Research partnership revolutionises lifeguarding guidance.

In June 2023, the University of Chichester, in partnership with RLSS UK, published findings from a five-year study evaluating the effectiveness of the 10:20 system of bather supervision, resulting in changes to our recommended lifeguard scanning approach.

The research method tested the traditional 10:20 scanning system with a natural scan:20 approach.

In the 10-second scanning condition, lifeguards were instructed to “use the 10:20 system of supervision from your lifeguard qualification. Ensure that you supervise the whole zone. Scan the zone every 10-seconds whilst supervising the pool”.

In the natural scan condition, lifeguards were told, “While you were taught the 10:20 system of supervision during your lifeguard qualification, we have no evidence that this instruction is better than others. You must ensure that you supervise the whole zone and scan it using a natural scan method that feels comfortable to you whilst supervising the pool. Ensure that you supervise the whole zone.”

The results demonstrated that there was no significant difference in the percentage of hazards detected in the 10 second scan strategy condition compared to the natural scan condition.

However, they did show that it is not actually possible for lifeguards to scan the full zone every 10 seconds despite explicit instructions to do so. As a result, the study concluded that the 10-second scanning rule should no longer be advocated as an effective scanning strategy.

Findings highlighted several benefits to asking lifeguards to adopt a natural scanning approach rather than the 10:20 approach, including:

As a result of the findings, RLSS UK has replaced 10:20 with the System for Supervising Swimming Pools (Natural Scan: 20) within our latest National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ).

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 10 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

BUILDING OUR COMMUNITY

OUR OBJECTIVE: To build a sustainable, active, and thriving RLSS UK community.

Soaring member numbers grow our lifesaving community.

Our members play a critical role in help in to support our work, raising awareness of water safety, and sharing lifesaving knowledge and skills in our communities. The number of RLSS UK members rose by more than 50% to 14,205 in 2023.

Lifesaving Sport is an important vehicle for celebrating the incredible skills that exist in our communities and encouraging others to get involved.

The National Speed Lifesaving Championships took place in March in Liverpool, whilst the National Lifesaving Championships in November took place in Leeds. Here, 217 finalists competed in individual events, whilst teamwork was pushed to the limit in our National Club Simulated Emergency Response Competition (SERC).

RLSS UK’s first member network was created, working towards a more inclusive environment for all our members.

RLSS UK is committed to ensuring everyone feels welcome and included in our society. The LGBTQ+ is the first of what we aspire will be many networks aimed at ensuring the voices of all our members are heard within the organisation.

More than £50,000 was fundraised by our amazing supporters through a mix of challenges, such as Make a Splash, corporate sponsorships, and other donations, funding us to provide even more people with access to our water safety advice and education.

377 RLSS UK Members were recognised for their outstanding contributions to the society’s work.

Our Honours event recognised RLSS UK members on merit, for long service and via special awards, each of which aims to salute the significant impact of volunteers’ in educating and training more people to enjoy water safely across the UK and Ireland.

Ensuring inclusivity in lifesaving and lifeguarding remained a firm focus.

At RLSS UK, we are passionate about ensuring that our lifesaving awards and qualifications are inclusive for everyone.

The most common adaptations resulting from a specific disability or educational need included having up to 25% extra time and the use of a reader.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 11 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Our Impact 2023

36 #EverydayHeroes were recognised for their heroic interventions to assist someone in trouble.

Our youngest lifesaver was only four years old, and just shows that it’s never too early to learn how to be a lifesaver and learn what to do in an emergency.

Twice as many people reached on social media via our #Don’tDrinkandDrown campaign, further amplifying our important message.

This year’s activity was supported by our engaging new ‘Be a Mate’ graphics, which helped create a stronger impact and buzz on social media, outperforming previous years.

In our communities, our fantastic volunteers hosted their own mini events – helping to raise the campaign profile across different areas of the country.

Our flagship Drowning Prevention Week (DPW) campaign saw a 50%+ increase in the number of children educated in water safety vs 2022.

An estimated 1.85m+ children benefited from being taught using our free educational resources accessed by clubs, branches, volunteers, educators and leisure centres delivering important water safety messages.

Our new Water Safety Code animation offered a novel and exciting way for parents to talk to their children about water safety and gained more than 93,000 views across social media.

11 events and festivals were safeguarded by the RLSS UK Water Safety team, keeping more than half a million people safe whilst having fun in, on and around the water.

RLSS UK provided teams at seven sporting events, including the world-famous Henley Regatta and the UK's largest open water swimming event, the Great North Swim. Lifeguard cover was also provided at four music festivals, including Secret Garden Party and Wilderness.

204 William Henry volunteering awards have been presented , celebrating more than 13,000 hours and expanding our community footprint.

Hours were registered for a broad range of activities, including delivering practical and class-based education, representing RLSS UK at a community event, delivering water safety or first aid education in schools and facilitating DPW campaign activity.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 12 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Review

FINANCIAL REVIEW

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

SUMMARY

Despite the challenging trading conditions of the past few years the Charity has again increased its revenue, the third successive year. Along with well managed expenditure we have provided a stable platform to again improve the direct spend on our Charitable Aims and objectives.

During 2023 we also reviewed and updated our reserves and liquidity policies to ensure we have sufficient resource to provide the Charity with the ability to more adequately address any short term financial instabilities.

INCOME

In 2023 we increased our sales by 11% to reach £6m, a milestone for the Charity.

Our key Awards & Qualification Programmes and Product sales again performed well and we have continued to Increase the revenue in our other revenue streams. These now provide a more robust mix to our portfolio.

Expenditure is well managed and remains lower than revenue, continuing the trend of the last five years

----- Start of picture text -----
SALES IMPROVEMENT 2023/2022
Increase Decrease Total
£000’s
6,000 173 87 28 28 214 36 -22 26
5,418 17
5,000
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
REVENUE v EXPENDITURE 2019-2023
£000’s
6,000
5,000
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Revenue Expenditure
2022 ATP A&QTrainingConsultancy EventsProductMembershipFundraising Other
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THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 13 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Review

INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

2023 income from charitable activity was £138k, 64% lower than 2022, (£386k). This reduction reflects the accounting treatment of Water Safety Training which was transferred to RLSS UK Enterprises Ltd. After adjusting for this, income from Charitable Activity would have increased by £5k.

INCOME FROM OTHER VOLUNTARY SOURCES

2023 income from Other Voluntary Sources fell by £20k (-33%) against 2022 of £60k, the result of a reduction in Fundraising.

FUNDRAISING

Fundraising contributed 0.5% percent of our total income of £6.0m.

Fundraising and Grants form part of a longer-term ambition to diversify our financial model to create greater financial stability and reduce the reliance on our current key product, Awards & Qualifications, stream.

EXPENDITURE
Whilst 2023 income
rose by £588k
(+11%) against 2022,
expenditure for the
period rose by £791k
(+15.7%) for the same
period.
2023 charitable
expenditure increased
by £226k (+15.0%)
against 2022.		 RLSS UK’s Expenditure on Charitable Activity (2023) £’s %
Award Costs 345,042 15%
Water Safety training, consultancy and provision 272,650 12%
Behaviour change campaigns 199,318 9%
Research and Development 151,835 7%
Lifesaving Sport 221,327 10%
Volunteer & Clubs 532,202 24%
Educating Young People 174,377 8%
Community Outreach 167,469 8%
International 92,991 4%
Governance 57,828 3%
Total 2,215,039

Our total spend on our charitable activity increased by 11%, from £1,994k to £2,215k (£221k).

CHARITABLE SPEND 2023

----- Start of picture text -----
Increase Decrease Total
£000’s
2,250
130 8 29 20 0
2,050 1,994 34 -77 24 3 51
1,850
1,650
1,450
1,250
2022 Opening AwardsWater Safety Behaviour R & D Sport VolunteerClubs & EducationCommunityInternationalGovernance
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THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 14 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Review

RESERVES POLICY

RLSS UK’s Trustees (Directors) are responsible for setting the minimum level of free reserves required to support the charity’s operations, ensuring RLSS UK holds sufficient funds to continue to operate at any time, to avoid financial difficulties and to sustain the delivery of core services to beneficiaries. It takes account of possible risks and aims to allow the RLSS UK to respond to new opportunities.

During 2023 the RLSS UK Trustees (Directors) reviewed the level of reserves required as part of RLSS UK’s strategic, operational and budgetary planning process and our current policy. Following this review the Reserves Policy was strengthened to protect the Company. There are now four measures to provide an increased level of financial assurance:

  1. that the General Reserves cover 3 months “Cost of Service and Operating costs” which currently equates to £1.38m.

  2. At 31 December 2023, General Reserves were valued at £1.68m.

  3. a liquidity target that must be greater than £1m

  4. At 31 December 2023, the value of the Liquidity Reserve was £1.31m

  5. that the liquidity ration must remain greater than 2.0

  6. At 31 December 2023 the Liquidity Ratio was 2.56

  7. that the level of free reserves (General Reserves less non financed Fixed Assets) should not be less than £1.25m.

  8. At 31 December 2023 the value of free reserves was £1.72m

DESIGNATED FUNDS

Designated Funds are funds identified by RLSS UK Trustees (Directors) for supporting specific projects that fall within the charitable activities of the Charity (in line with the strategic business plan). They form part of the unrestricted funds of the Charity and may be undesignated at the discretion of RLSS UK Trustees (Directors).

At 31 December 2023, Designated Funds totalled £115,279 (2022 £29,431).

Projects funded from Designated Funds during 2023 included Lifesaving courses and equipment funding for Branches & Clubs.

RESTRICTED FUNDS

The Charity’s Restricted Funds are subject to restrictions on their use through the terms of an appeal or as requested by the donor (held in accordance with the donor’s requirements). At 31 December 2023, Restricted Funds totaled £55,076 (2022 £79,041).

Projects funded from Restricted Funds during 2023 included West Mercia Water Safety and support for Search & Rescue UK training.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 15 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Review

INVESTMENTS

The charity’s general policy is to invest money that is not immediately required to meet its objectives. Such investments are low to medium risk, and medium-term.

The Board has approved the following ethical policy:

The charity will not invest directly in the producers or suppliers of tobacco, alcohol and armaments or similar products nor directly invest in the securities of organisations involved in activities incompatible with the objects and ethos of the charity.

At 31 December 2023, the Charity had no reserves held in investments.

FIXED ASSETS

At 31 December 2023, the net book value of fixed assets totaled £186,674 (2022 £80,273). This predominantly relates to RLSS UK’s IT hardware and software.

TRUSTEE (DIRECTOR) INDEMNITY INSURANCE

Trustee (Director) Indemnity Insurance (£10,000,000 limit of indemnity) was purchased for the year 2023 for £3,200, (2022, £2,900).

STATEMENT OF PUBLIC BENEFIT

The RLSS UK provides public benefit through reducing drownings and the impact of drownings in the community across the UK and Ireland.

Our Trustees (Directors) have complied with their duty in accordance with the Charities Act 2016 to follow the Charity Commission’s guidance on the operation of this public benefit.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 16 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

OUR GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE

Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is registered as a charity in England and Wales (1046060) and in Scotland (SC037912).

GOVERNING DOCUMENTS

RLSS UK operates within a constitutional framework that includes:

RLSS UK’s Articles of Association state that RLSS UK’s objects are:

To advance health and save human lives by preventing drowning and in particular to:

1) promote education and training in:

2) promote the sport of life saving.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 17 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

DEVELOPMENTS IN GOVERNANCE

We continue to invest time and resources into the RLSS UK’s governance to ensure it is fit to deliver our charitable purposes in a challenging environment.

We continue to engage in formal consultation with members and stakeholders to help inform the Board and influenced the decision-making process in relation to our Strategic Framework 2020-2025 and our future infrastructure.

Regular reviews, incorporating external support, of policies and practices of the Board help ensure that the Society continues to work towards meeting its objectives and that it operates in accordance with statutory requirements and in a manner consistent with best practice guidance published by the Charity Commission of England and Wales, the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland and the Scottish Charity Regulator.

RLSS UK’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES (DIRECTORS)

RLSS UK is controlled by a Board of Trustees (Directors). As RLSS UK is both a registered charity and private company limited by guarantee, RLSS UK Trustees are also company Directors and therefore beholden to both charity and company law.

RLSS UK’s Board of Trustees (Directors) currently includes the President, Deputy President, Honorary Treasurer, up to six elected Trustees and up to three appointed Trustees. The term of office for a Trustee shall be as near as possible to three years from the date of appointment. A Trustee (whether elected or appointed, other than the President and Deputy President, may serve no more than three terms (whether consecutive or otherwise).

RLSS UK’s Trustees (Directors) are volunteers who bring valued experience to RLSS UK from a range of backgrounds. Names of RLSS UK’s Trustees (Directors) can be found on page 26. The appointed Trustees are appointed following an application and interview process with Trustees and Senior Management Team. The elected Trustees are appointed following an application process and a vote by the membership through a ‘one member one vote’ process.

RLSS UK’s Board of Trustees (Directors) has three sub-committees where Trustees with specific skills and experience can focus on priority governance areas in more detail (Finance, Commercial Performance and Governance, Organisational Performance and Assurance Committees).

RLSS UK’s Board of Trustees (Directors) is supported by a Legal Advisor and Youth Advisor.

New RLSS UK Trustees (Directors) undergo induction training to brief them on their legal obligations under both charity and company law, the content of the Articles of Association, the structure and decision-making process, the strategic framework, RLSS UK’s Business Plan and recent performance of the Charity. Each new Trustee (Director) is provided with a copy of the Trustee Handbook which sets out the Charity’s expectations of Trustees (Directors) in terms of governance and behaviour. Ongoing training is provided as and when required and an annual budget is provided for this.

RLSS UK’s Trustees (Directors) do not receive remuneration for their time or services as Trustees (Directors) and only directly incurred expenses are reimbursed (full details on page 44). Appropriate indemnity insurance cover is held for the Trustees (Directors) of the Charity and of its subsidiary trading companies (in line with RLSS UK’s Articles of Association). RLSS UK has a Trustee Conflict of Interest policy and register, where all Trustees declare any conflict of interest.

A Chief Executive is appointed by RLSS UK Trustees (Directors) to manage the day to day operations of the Charity. The Chief Executive has delegated authority, as approved by RLSS UK Trustees (Directors) for all operational matters. These include Key Management Personnel, who are the Senior Management Team. Remuneration bands are set by the Trustees and benchmarked annually.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 18 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Initiatives by the Royal Life Saving Society UK

In addition to its core objectives, the RLSS UK also takes active measures to address ESG issues.

ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES

RLSS UK aspires to have a positive impact on the environment and be committed to playing our part in making a difference in the areas where we operate, influence and control.

Water Pollution Prevention

The RLSS UK recognises the importance of preserving the quality of water bodies to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals engaging in water-related activities. The society actively promotes initiatives aimed at preventing water pollution and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of pollutants on aquatic ecosystems. Through educational campaigns and partnerships with environmental organisations such as Surfers Against Sewage, the RLSS UK emphasises the need for responsible waste management and the adoption of sustainable practices in and around water bodies.

Members of the End Sewage Pollution Coalition and Sustainable Resource Management

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability, which is embedded within our strategic framework, the RLSS UK promotes responsible resource management in its operations. The society strives to minimise its ecological footprint by adopting energy-efficient practices, reducing waste generation, and utilising renewable resources whenever possible. This year we began preparations for ISO 14001:2015 accreditation which specifies the requirements for us to build an environmental management system. ISO 14001:2015 will be utilised by us to manage our environmental responsibilities in a systematic manner that will contributes to the sustainability foundation of our strategy.

Our waste management program successfully diverted 50% of waste generated from landfills through recycling initiatives.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 19 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

SOCIAL INITIATIVES Inclusive Water Safety Education

The RLSS UK believes that everyone should have access to water safety education, regardless of their background or abilities. The society actively works towards inclusivity by developing educational resources and programs that cater to diverse audiences. Through partnerships with community organisations and schools, the RLSS UK ensures that its water safety initiatives reach individuals from all walks of life.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is a key aspect of the RLSS UK’s social initiatives. The society encourages its members and volunteers to actively participate in community outreach programs, where they can share their knowledge and skills to promote water safety. By organising public events, workshops, and training sessions, the RLSS UK fosters a sense of community and empowers individuals to become advocates for drowning prevention within their own neighbourhoods.

Our dedicated team of volunteers contributed a total of 13,275 hours to various community projects, including delivering the ‘save a baby’ training, events, school visits and environmental clean-ups.

We provided training for over 500 volunteers to deliver lifesaving awards.

Preventing accidents are a key part of our community engagement plans and, on average, RLSS UK Pool Lifeguards prevent 1 probable in-water accident every 6 minutes. Helping to keep everyone safe in, on or near water.

We collaborated with local businesses, government agencies, and other non-profits to maximise our impact and address community needs effectively.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 20 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

Drowning Prevention Advocacy

As a leading drowning prevention charity, the RLSS UK is dedicated to advocating for policies and regulations that prioritise water safety. The society actively engages with government bodies, policymakers, and stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of drowning prevention measures. By leveraging its expertise and research, the RLSS UK strives to influence decision-making processes and promote the implementation of effective strategies to reduce drownings in the UK.

GOVERNANCE INITIATIVES Transparency and Accountability

The RLSS UK places great emphasis on transparency and accountability in its governance practices. The society adheres to rigorous reporting standards and ensures that its financial statements and activities are accessible to the public. By maintaining open lines of communication and providing regular updates to its members and stakeholders, the RLSS UK demonstrates its commitment to ethical governance and responsible decision-making.

Ethical Codes of Conduct

As a reputable organisation, the RLSS UK upholds high ethical standards in all aspects of its operations. The society has established comprehensive codes of conduct that guide the behaviour of its members, volunteers, and staff. These codes emphasise integrity, professionalism, and respect for all individuals. By promoting ethical conduct, the RLSS UK maintains a positive organisational culture and fosters trust among its stakeholders.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 21 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

Board Diversity and Inclusion

The RLSS UK recognises the importance of diverse perspectives in effective governance. The society actively promotes board diversity and inclusion by seeking individuals from different backgrounds and experiences to serve on its governing body. By embracing diversity, the RLSS UK ensures that a wide range of voices are represented in its decision-making processes, leading to more comprehensive and inclusive policies.

In 2022 we partnered with the Centre for Diversity to undertake our first ever Diversity Cultural Audit. We have undertaken a number of diagnostic surveys developed by the National Centre for Diversity (NCfD):

The review of RLSS UK’s policies and procedures revealed that the organisation has diligently compiled an extensive set of policies relating to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). The majority of these policies and procedures were deemed effective at providing RLSS UK staff with valuable support and guidance. Additionally, upon reviewing the RLSS UK website, it is evident that there is commitment to enhancing their EDI practices.

To facilitate further improvements, a comprehensive action plan has been developed. These suggestions aim to bolster the existing framework and augment the organisation’s commitment to EDI. In 2023 RLSS UK will be recruiting a dedicated member of staff to lead on EDI initiatives.

Conclusion

The RLSS UK’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives reflects its dedication to creating a safer and more sustainable future. Through its environmental initiatives, the society actively works towards preventing water pollution. In terms of social initiatives, the RLSS UK focuses on promoting inclusive water safety education, community engagement, and drowning prevention advocacy. Lastly, the society upholds high governance standards through transparency, ethical codes of conduct, and board diversity. By integrating ESG principles into its operations, the RLSS UK sets an example for organisations within the water safety sector and contributes to the overall well-being of society and the environment.

Future Goals and Commitments

Environmental Sustainability

We aim to be a carbon neutral organisation by 2025.

Social Impact

We plan to expand our educational programs to reach an additional 500,000 children and continue to push for a water safety inclusive curriculum for all children.

Stakeholder Engagement

We will continue to prioritise stakeholder engagement and actively listen to the voices of our beneficiaries and communities.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

We are committed to embracing all the recommendations from the Diversity Cultural Audit.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 22 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

Through RLSS UK’s Risk Control Framework, RLSS UK’s principal risks and uncertainties have been identified as follows (including their potential impact on the charity, and steps taken to manage and mitigate risks).

Risk Mitigation

The Society will maintain liquidity and a reserves level that allows it to continue for the foreseeable future. Reserves are above the minimum level set for the Society and are reviewed monthly by the Trustees and senior staff members via a Board sub-group. Plans to create a sustainable medium term finance strategy linked to the Strategic framework to address the risk and seek out grants and initiatives to alleviate the reduction in activity in the leisure industry. Linked to this is a short-term re-prioritisation of resources to support Commercial income but with a clear timeline to develop charitable resources to meet the aims of the strategic framework. This has also highlighted that our plans to diversify income into new markets and services are timely.

RLSS UK’s Risk Policy And Control Framework

RLSS UK has a formal Risk Register and a Risk Management Policy based on Charity Commission best practice. The Risk Management Policy and Procedures guidance help RLSS UK employees and volunteers understand what risk management is, how RLSS UK should identify risks associated with the achievement of objectives and ensure that risk management is embedded into day to day activity.

Risks are identified and escalated up to the Board as appropriate. Each of the Board’s three sub- committees are responsible for identifying risks in their specialist areas and ensuring they are included on RLSS UK’s main Risk Register. The Board has ultimate responsibility for overseeing the management of risk – both identifying strategic risks and evaluating the mitigations in place. Risk is a regular item on both the Leadership Team and Board meeting agendas.

Internal Controls

RLSS UK has a robust range of policies and processes in place to ensure they perform well against the standards of a range of regulatory bodies e.g. qualification regulators, charity regulators, fundraising regulators and safeguarding bodies. RLSS UK has an annual external audit, organisational performance is measured on an ongoing basis through key performance indicators (KPI).

FUNDRAISING AND FUNDRAISING REGULATOR

RLSS UK is registered with the Fundraising Regulator. RLSS UK is committed to following the Code of Fundraising Practice, ensuring all RLSS UK fundraising is legal, honest, open, transparent and accountable. There has been no failure to comply with a scheme or any standard cited and no complaints were made towards the organisation, regarding its fundraising throughout 2023.

Monitoring all fundraising activity on behalf of RLSS UK has all been carried out by either, trained paid members of staff or, associated members of the organisation who are also trained in fundraising legislation and have a vested interest in the organisation.

SAFEGUARDING

RLSS UK Safeguarding - RLSS UK is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk and expects everyone involved in RLSS UK activity to share this commitment.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility to be proactive in promoting good practice and creating a supportive environment. It is also everyone’s responsibility to pass on any concerns in relation to questionable conduct.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 23 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

LEADING, SUPPORTING AND IMPROVING EMPLOYEES

RLSS UK has a successful Apprenticeship Programme, enabling a number of local young people to work whilst studying for a work-based qualification. A number of these apprentices have progressed into full time roles with RLSS UK.

We are committed to staff development and strive to ensure staff reach their full potential.

RLSS UK PAY POLICY

In setting pay levels for our employees, RLSS UK reviews salaries annually in two key ways:

RLSS UK adheres to the requirement of the UK Government’s National Living Wage.

RLSS UK is committed to openness and transparency on senior executive pay levels, with amounts disclosed on page 44.

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’/DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

The Trustees (who are also the directors of RLSS UK for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing a Trustees’ annual report and 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 year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and the group and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure of the charitable group for that period. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and group 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 charity and the group and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 24 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Governance

Statement as to Disclosure to our auditors

In so far as the trustees are aware at the time of approving our trustees’ annual report:

AUDITORS

The Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2023 have been audited by RSM UK Audit LLP.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 and in accordance with Section 1A of Financial Reporting Standard 102.

STATEMENT OF GOING CONCERN

The Trustees have given due regard to the on-going increased pressure on income streams brought about by changes in economic conditions. They have concluded that the positive level of general reserves and a healthy cash balance means that the going concern basis remains appropriate for the preparation of these financial statements.

POST BALANCE SHEET EVENT

The company IQL UK Limited was made dormant at 1st January 2024 and all income and expenditure transferred to RLSS UK Enterprises Limited both being fully owned trading subsidiaries of The Royal Life Saving Society – U.K.

Approved by the Board of Trustees (Directors) and signed on its behalf by:

D. M.Hunt

Deborah Hunt President Royal Life Saving Society UK

Date: 6th September 2024

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 25 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Patrons, Board Of Trustees (Directors) And Advisers

PATRONS, BOARD OF TRUSTEES (DIRECTORS) AND ADVISERS

Patrons:

RLSS UK Patron: The Rt. Hon. Lord Storey

Benjamin Johns Appointed 28 October 2023

Trustees (Directors) who were Charity Trustees during 2023:

Joanne Young Appointed 28 October 2023

Deborah Hunt (President)

Andrea Mackown Resigned 12 June 2023

Sharon Johal Appointed 30 October 2023

Trustee(Directors) who were Charity Trustees appointed after 2023:

Bryan Finlay

Peter Moyes

Craig Kerr Appointed 12 April 2024

Timothy Chadwick (Honorary Treasurer) Resigned 2 January 2023

Board Advisors during 2023:

Georgina Tomlinson (Youth Advisor)

Helen Bull Resigned 28 October 2023

Chief Executive:

Robert Gofton

Alan Sutherland Resigned 12 June 2023

David Elliott

Auditor:

RSM UK Audit LLP, 10th Floor, 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 3AG

James Cossons Resigned 12 June 2023

Trustees (Directors) who were Charity Trustees appointed after 2022

Sonia Rees (Honorary Treasurer) Appointed 2 January 2023, Resigned 29 November 2023

James Lloyd Appointed 16 January 2023

Sally Szarka Appointed 7 March 2023, Resigned 8 June 2023

Mark Smith Appointed 14 June 2023, Resigned 28 October 2023

Bankers and Investment Advisors:

Coutts and Co, St Martin’s Office, 440 The Strand, London, WC2R 0QS

Solicitors:

Motor Industry Legal Services Limited t/a MILS, Canonteign House, Lower Ashton, Nr. Exeter, EX6 7RH

The Royal Life Saving Society UK wishes to say thank you to all the volunteers, members, supporters, fundraisers, partners and employees who work collaboratively with the Charity to prevent drowning.

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) The Drowning Prevention Charity Registered Charity (England and Wales 1046060, Scotland SC037912).

Private Limited by Guarantee Company (3033781).

Ian Hutchings Appointed 14 June 2023, Resigned 28 October 2023

Rachel Healey Appointed 28 October 2023

Web: www.rlss.org.uk E-mail: info@rlss.org.uk Telephone: 0300 323 0096

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 26 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Independent Auditor’s Report

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES AND MEMBERS OF THE ROYAL LIFE SAVING SOCIETY UK

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Royal Life Saving Society UK (the ‘parent charitable company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the Consolidated and Company Statement of Financial Activities, the Consolidated and Company Balance Sheets, the Consolidated Cash Flow Statement and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We have been appointed auditor under section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, section 151 of the Charities Act 2011 and under the Companies Act 2006 and report in accordance with regulations made under those Acts.

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group and parent 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 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 group’s or parent 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.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 27 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Independent Auditor’s Report

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent charitable company and their environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the directors’ report, included within the trustees’ annual report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) require us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the statement of trustees’ responsibilities set out on page 24 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 group’s and parent 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 group or parent charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 28 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Independent Auditor’s Report

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

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

The extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

Irregularities are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. The objectives of our audit are to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding compliance with laws and regulations that have a direct effect on the determination of material amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, to perform audit procedures to help identify instances of non-compliance with other laws and regulations that may have a material effect on the financial statements, and to respond appropriately to identified or suspected non-compliance with laws and regulations identified during the audit.

In relation to fraud, the objectives of our audit are to identify and assess the risk 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 and to respond appropriately to fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit.

However, it is the primary responsibility of management, with the oversight of those charged with governance, to ensure that the entity’s operations are conducted in accordance with the provisions of laws and regulations and for the prevention and detection of fraud.

In identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud, the group audit engagement team:

As a result of these procedures we consider the most significant laws and regulations that have a direct impact on the financial statements are FRS 102, Charities SORP (FRS 102), Companies Act 2006, Charities Act 2011, Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the parent charitable company’s governing document. We performed audit procedures to detect non-compliances which may have a material impact on the financial statements which included reviewing the financial statements including the trustees’ report, remaining alert to new or unusual transactions which may not be in accordance with the governing documents and inspecting minute books and other internal records.

The most significant laws and regulations that have an indirect impact on the financial statements are those in relation to employment law. We performed audit procedures to inquire of management whether the group is in compliance with these law and regulations.

The group audit engagement team identified the risk of management override of controls and the revenue recognition as the areas where the financial statements were most susceptible to material misstatement due to fraud. Audit procedures performed included but were not limited to testing manual journal entries and other adjustments, evaluating the business rationale in relation to significant, unusual transactions and transactions entered into outside the normal course of business, challenging judgments and estimates and detailed substantive testing of revenue.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 29 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Independent Auditor’s Report

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

Use of our report

This report is made exclusively to the members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006, and to the charitable company’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and regulation 10 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) and the Charities Act 2011. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the members and the charitable company’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company, its members as a body, and its trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Anna Spencer-Gray

Anna Spencer-Gray (Senior Statutory Auditor)

For and on behalf of RSM UK AUDIT LLP, Statutory Auditor

Chartered Accountants

10th Floor 103 Colmore Row,

Birmingham,

B3 3AG

Date 09/09/24

RSM UK AUDIT LLP is eligible to act as an auditor in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 30 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

(Incorporating an Income and Expenditure Account)

For the year ended 31 December 2023

Total 2022
£
359,291
60,318
419,609
386,037
4,608,991
3,091
113
5,417,841
270,398
154,527
2,604,798
5,053
3,034,776
1,993,634
5,028,410
389,431
-
389,431
1,272,149
1,661,580
Notes
INCOME
Income from donations & legacies:
Membership
Other voluntary income
2a
Income from charitable activities
Income from trading activities
Investment income
Other income
2a
2a
2a/4c
Total Income
2a		 Unrestricted
General
£
395,272
33,182
428,454
128,272
5,403,080
28,700
-
5,988,506		 Unrestricted
Designated
£
-
7,495
7,495
9,601
-
-
-
17,096		 Restricted
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Total 2023
£
395,272
40,677
435,949
137,873
5,403,080
28,700
-
6,005,602		 Total 2022
£
359,291
60,318
419,609
386,037
4,608,991
3,091
113
5,417,841
EXPENDITURE
Cost of raising funds:
Membership
Other voluntary income
Trading activities
Investment
Expenditure on charitable activities
Total expenditure
3a
NET SURPLUS /(EXPENDITURE)
FOR THE YEAR
Transfer between funds
9f
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
FUND BALANCES BROUGHT
FORWARD
FUND BALANCES CARRIED
FORWARD
9c
Total recognised gains and losses
 309,367
141,794
3,142,043
4,868
3,598,072
2,089,346
5,687,418
301,088
(176,345)
124,743
1,553,108
1,677,851
 -
5,865
-
-
5,865
101,728		 -
-
-
-
-
23,965		 309,367
147,659
3,142,043
4,868
3,603,937
2,215,039		 270,398
154,527
2,604,798
5,053
3,034,776
1,993,634
107,593 23,965 5,818,976 5,028,410
(90,497)
176,345
85,848
29,431
115,279		 (23,965)
-
(23,965)
79,041
55,076		 186,626
-
186,626
1,661,580
1,848,206		 389,431
-
389,431
1,272,149
1,661,580
There are no recognised gains or losses other than those shown above.

There are no recognised gains or losses other than those shown above. The surplus for the year for Companies Act purposes was £186,626 (2022: £389,431).

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 31 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Statements

COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

(Incorporating an Income and Expenditure Account) For the year ended 31 December 2023

INCOME
Income from donations & legacies:
Membership
Other voluntary income
Income from charitable activities
Income from trading activities
Investment income
Other income
Total Income
EXPENDITURE
Cost of raising funds:
Membership
Other voluntary income
Trading activities
Investment
Expenditure on charitable activities
Total expenditure
NET EXPENDITURE FOR THE
YEAR
Transfer between funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
FUND BALANCES BROUGHT
FORWARD
FUND BALANCES CARRIED
FORWARD		 Notes Unrestricted
General
£		 Unrestricted
Designated
£
-
7,495
7,495
9,601
-
-
-
17,096
-
5,865
-
-
5,865
101,728
107,593
(90,497)
176,345
85,848
29,431
115,279		 Restricted
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
23,965
23,965
(23,965)
-
(23,965)
79,041
55,076		 Total 2023
£
395,272
40,677
435,949
137,873
4,604,096
13,669
-
5,191,587
309,367
147,659
1,279,891
4,868
1,741,785
2,215,039
3,956,824
1,234,763
-
1,234,763
(485,967)
748,796		 Total 2022
£
359,291
60,318
419,609
386,037
2,425,761
489
113
3,232,009
270,398
154,527
1,085,753
5,053
1,515,731
1,993,634
3,509,365
(277,356)
-
(277,356)
(208,611)
(485,967)
2b
2b
2b/4c
2b		 395,272
33,182
428,454
128,272
4,604,096
13,669
-
5,174,491
309,367
141,794
1,279,891
4,868
1,735,920
2,089,346
3,825,266
3b
9f
9d
9d
1,349,225
(176,345)
1,172,880
(594,439)
578,441

Total recognised gains and losses

There are no recognised gains or losses other than those shown above. he surplus for the year for Companies Act purposes was £1,234,763 (2022 (£277,356))

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 32 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31 December 2023

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 COMPANY NUMBER: 3033781

FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fxed assets
Intangible fxed assets
CURRENT ASSETS
Portfolio Investments
Stocks
Debtors
Cash and cash equivalents
CREDITORS:AMOUNTS FALLING DUE
WITHIN ONE YEAR
NET CURRENT ASSETS
CREDITORS:AMOUNTS FALLING DUE
AFTER MORE THAN ONE YEAR
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
General
Designated
Restricted
Notes
5a
5b
7
8a
8b
9a		 2023
£
£
106,942
79,732
186,674
-
350,958
350,806
1,891,629
2,593,393
(931,861)
1,661,532
-
1,848,206
1,677,851
115,279
55,076
1,848,206		 2022
£
£
43,900
36,373
80,273
-
386,395
588,096
1,789,493
2,763,984
(942,677)
1,821,307
(240,000)
1,661,580
1,553,108
29,431
79,041
1,661,580

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

Approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by

D. M.Hunt

Deborah Hunt Director

Date: 6th September 2024

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 33 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 31 December 2023

COMPANY BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023

COMPANY NUMBER: 3033781
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fxed assets
Intangible fxed assets
Investments
CURRENT ASSETS
Portfolio Investments
Stocks
Debtors
Cash and cash equivalent
CREDITORS:AMOUNTS FALLING
DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
NET CURRENT ASSETS
CREDITORS:AMOUNTS FALLING
DUE MORE THAN ONE YEAR
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
General
Designated
Restricted		 Notes
5a
5b
6b
6b
7
8a
8b
9b		 2023
£
£
106,942
79,732
101
186,775
-
-
91, 137
1,080,632
1,171,769
(609,748)
562,021
-
748,796
578,441
115,279
55,076
748,796		 2022
£
£
43,900
36,373
101
80,374
-
7,833
245,091
81,738
334,662
(661,003)
(326,341)
(240,000)
(485,967)
(594,439)
29,431
79,041
(485,967)
562,021
-
748,796
578,441
115,279
55,076
748,796

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

Approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by

D. M.Hunt

Deborah Hunt Director

Date: 6th September 2024

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 34 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31 December 2023

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023
2023
£
Reconciliation of net incoming resources to net cash infow from operating activities:
Net incoming resources
186,626
Depreciation
82,199
Investment income
(28,700)
Equalisation of investments
1
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
237,290
(Increase) / decrease in stocks
35,437
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
(250,816)
Net cash infow / (outfow) from operating Activities
262,037		 2022
£
389,431
133,527
(3,091)
-
417,326
(146,666)
(105,974)
684,553
NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
RETURN ON INVESTMENTS
Interest received
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
Purchase of tangible fxed assets
Disposal of tangible fxed assets
Purchase of intangible fxed assets
Disposal of investments
Movement in cash
Cash and cash equivalents
31 December
1 January
Movement in cash
Analysis of change in net (debt)/cash
Cash in hand and at bank		 2023
£
£
262,037
28,700
(96,239)
-
(92,362)
-
(188,601)
102,136
At 1
January
2023
£
1,789,493		 2022
£
£
684,553
3,091
(48,096)
-
(8,500)
-
(56,596)
631,048
1,891,629
1,789,493
1,789,493
1,158,445
102,136
631,048)
Cash fows
£
At 31
December
2023
£
102,136
1,891,629

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 35 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the year ended 31 December 2023

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Royal Life Saving Society - UK is incorporated as a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales (No. 03033781). It is also registered as a charity in England and Wales (No. 1046060) and in Scotland (No. SCO37912)

The financial statements are presented in Sterling, which is the functional currency of the Company and Group. Monetary amounts in these financial statements have been rounded to the nearest whole pound.

The following accounting policies have been used consistently in dealing with items which are considered material in relation to the Group’s financial statements:

a)

Accounting Convention

The financial statements are prepared under the historical cost convention (modified to include the revaluation of investments), in accordance and compliance with: (i) FRS 102, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom; (ii) 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) ‘Charities SORP (FRS 102) (second edition – October 2019)’ issued by the Charity Commission; (iii) Companies Act 2006; Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005; and Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006.

b)

Statement of Going Concern

The Trustees acknowledge that the unprecedented level of uncertainty caused by unstable economic conditions and rapidly changing circumstances mean that the judgements and estimates required by management are more challenging than under normal circumstances.

As set out in the Directors Report, the Trustees have given due regard to the increased pressure on income streams brought about by uncertain economic conditions and have concluded that the positive level of general reserves, a healthy cash balance and access to initiatives made available by the Government mean that the going concern basis remains appropriate for the preparation of these financial statements. The Trustees continue to prepare and review revised forecasts as the situation develops. The latest forecasts indicate that, with the increased headroom afforded by new funding mentioned above, the Group and Charity will maintain sufficient liquidity to continue in operation for at least 12 months from the approval of these financial statements.

c) Basis of Consolidation

The financial statements consolidate, on a line by line basis, the financial statements of The Royal Life Saving Society - U.K. and its subsidiary undertakings made up to 31 December each year.

d)

Branches

The Society is responsible for the financial affairs of its branches in accordance with the Constitution. Any branch funds have been consolidated in these financial statements.

e)

Income

Income is mainly derived from RLSS UK Membership fees, the sales of Award and Qualifications, and from RLSS UK’s two trading subsidiaries, IQL UK Limited and RLSS UK Enterprises Limited. All income is included when the charity is entitled to the income, the receipt of funds is probable and the amount can be reliably quantified.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 36 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

(f) Fixed assets, depreciation and amortisation

Tangible and intangible fixed assets costing more than £400 are capitalised at cost. Depreciation is calculated on a straight line basis over the estimated useful life of fixed assets at the following annual rates:

Furniture, fixtures and fittings 15% Equipment, database and software 33.3%

(g) Stock

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks on a first in, first out basis. Cost includes all direct costs and an appropriate proportion of fixed and variable costs.

h) Donations

Donations and legacies are accounted for on a receivable basis.

(i) Trading Subsidiaries

The Charity has two trading subsidiaries, RLSS UK Enterprises Limited (company number 2559199) and IQL UK Limited (company number 3719774).

RLSS UK Enterprises Limited is the RLSS UK’s online shop and mail order catalogue. RLSS UK Enterprises Limited sells lifesaving, lifeguarding and water safety products (from award and qualification resources to merchandise, clothing and equipment.) shop.rlss.org.uk

RLSS UK Enterprises Limited is also the leading UK provider of Lifeguard training and the awarding body for the UK’s premier pool lifeguard qualification - the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ).

The profits earned by the company are passed to the Charity by means of Gift Aid.

IQL UK Limited was made dormant on 1 January 2024.

(j) Leases

Rentals payable under operating leases are dealt with on a straight line basis over the lease term.

(k) Pension costs

Contributions in respect of the Charity’s defined contribution pension scheme are included in the expenditure for the year in which they are payable to the scheme.

The Charity operates a defined contribution scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Charity to the fund and amounted to £42,470 (2022 £36,248).

(l) Investments

Investments are stated at market value at the Balance Sheet date. The Statement of Financial Activities includes the net gain arising on revaluation.

(m) Volunteers

In view of the large numbers of volunteers and their varying participation in the activities of the Charity, it is not possible to quantify the financial value of their work and hence no such value is included in the Financial Statements.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 37 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

(n) Allocation of Expenditure – Statement of financial activities

(o) Fund Accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Directors in furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Directors for particular purposes.

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

(p) Judgements and estimations

In applying the accounting policies, the Trustees have made critical accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of the assets and liabilities. These estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and are reviewed on a continual basis.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 38 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

2a ANALYSIS OF INCOME - GROUP

2a
ANALYSIS OF INCOME - GROUP
MEMBERSHIP
Gift aid
Membership fees
OTHER VOLUNTARY INCOME
Fundraising
Legacies
Corporate donations
Other
OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
Commercial trading
INVESTMENT INCOME
Interest received
FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Awards
Water Safety Training
Behaviour Change Campaigns
Research & Development
Lifesaving Sport
Volunteer & Clubs
Educating Young People
Community Outreach
Other
OTHER INCOME
Other		 2023
£
17,798
377,474
395,272
31,677
-
9,000
-
40,677
5,403,080
28,700
52,711
-
-
-
35,718
31,355
-
7,249
10,840
137,873
-
6,005,602		 2022
£
20,737
338,554
359,291
58,793
-
1,525
-
60,318
4,608,991
3,091
54,078
252,731
1,000
-
31,534
8,034
24,579
6,281
7,800
386,037
113
5,417,841

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 39 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

2b ANALYSIS OF INCOME - COMPANY

MEMBERSHIP
Gift aid
Membership fees
OTHER VOLUNTARY INCOME
Fundraising
Legacies
Corporate donations
Other
OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
Commercial Trading
INVESTMENT INCOME
Interest received
FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Awards
Water Safety Training
Behaviour Change Campaigns
Research & Development
Lifesaving Sport
Volunteer & Clubs
Educating Young People
Community Outreach
Other
OTHER INCOME
Other
2023
£
17,798
377,474
395,272
31,677
-
9,000
-
40,677
4,604,096
13,669
52,711
-
-
-
35,718
31,355
-
7,249
10,840
137,873
-
5,191,587		 2022
£
20,737
338,554
359,291
58,793
-
1,525
-
60,318
2,425,761
489
54,078
252,731
1,000
-
31,534
8,034
24,579
6,281
7,800
386,037
113
3,232,009

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 40 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

3a ANALYSIS OF TOTAL EXPENDITURE - GROUP

Cost of generating income
Membership
Membership
Fundraising
Fundraising
Other Trading Activities
Commercial Trading
Investment Management costs
Investment management
Charitable Activities
Awards
Water Safety Training
Behaviour Change Campaigns
Research & Development
Lifesaving Sport
Volunteer & Clubs
Educating Young People
Community Outreach
International
Governance		 Staff costs
£
146,114
68,484
913,804
4,331
206,812
160,469
122,853
75,994
95,366
270,012
115,336
107,503
36,247
26,534
1,217,126
2,349,859		 Direct costs
£
65,558
14,798
2,228,239
-
33,289
33,139
-
54,692
85,702
157,222
451
6,207
30,039
 Other
apportioned
costs
£
97,695
64,377
-
537
104,941
79,042
76,465
21,149
40,259
104,968
58,590
53,759
26,705
 Total
2023
£
309,367
147,659
3,142,043
4,868
345,042
272,650
199,318
151,835
221,327
532,202
174,377
167,469
92,991
 Total
2022
£
270,398
154,527
2,604,798
5,053
310,504
349,583
175,170
148,843
170,426
402,214
166,312
138,283
73,440
58,859
1,993,634
5,028,410
Cost of generating income
Membership
Membership
Fundraising
Fundraising
Other Trading Activities
Commercial Trading
Investment Management costs
Investment management
Charitable Activities
Awards
Water Safety Training
Behaviour Change Campaigns
Research & Development
Lifesaving Sport
Volunteer & Clubs
Educating Young People
Community Outreach
International
Governance
10,359
411,100
2,719,695		 20,935
586,813
749,422		 57,828
2,215,039
5,818,976		 58,859
1,993,634
5,028,410

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 41 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

3b ANALYSIS OF TOTAL EXPENDITURE - COMPANY
Cost of generating income
Membership
Membership
Fundraising
Fundraising
Other Trading Activities
Subsidiary undertakings
Investment management costs
Investment management
Charitable activities
Awards
Water Safety Training
Behaviour Change Campaigns
Research & Development
Lifesaving Sport
Volunteer & Clubs
Educating Young People
Community Outreach
International
Governance		 Staff costs
£
146,114
68,484
913,804
4,331
206,812
160,469
122,853
75,994
95,366
270,012
115,336
107,503
36,247
26,534
1,217,126
2,349,859		 Direct costs
£
65,558
14,798
-
-
33,289
33,139
-
54,692
85,702
157,222
451
6,207
30,039
10,359
411,100
491,456		 Other
apportioned
costs
£
97,695
64,377
366,087
537
104,941
79,042
76,465
21,149
40,259
104,968
58,590
53,759
26,705
20,935
586,813
1,115,509		 Total
2023
£
309,367
147,659
1,279,891
4,868
345,042
272,650
199,318
151,835
221,327
532,202
174,377
167,469
92,991
57,828
2,215,039
3,956,824		 Total
2022
£
270,398
154,527
1,085,753
5,053
310,504
349,583
175,170
148,843
170,426
402,214
166,312
138,283
73,440
58,859
1,993,634
3,509,365

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 42 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

4a TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GROUP Total expenditure includes the following:

4a
TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GROUP
Total expenditure includes the following:		 4a
TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GROUP
Total expenditure includes the following:		 4a
TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GROUP
Total expenditure includes the following:		 4a
TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GROUP
Total expenditure includes the following:		 4a
TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GROUP
Total expenditure includes the following:
General
£
Designated
£
Restricted
£
Staff costs
2,340,630
-
9,229
Depreciation and amortisation
82,199
Amounts due in respect of :
Audit
37,950
-
-
Other services
9,645
-
-
Operating lease rentals – property
140,894
– other
4,627
-
-		 Total
2023
£
2,349,859
82,199
37,950
9,645
140,894
4,627		 Total
2022
£
1,939,813
133,527
36,500
9,045
93,471
6,503
Staff costs comprise:
Salaries
Social security costs
Pension costs		 2023
£
2,109,165
198,224
42,470
2,349,859		 2022
£
1,734,000
169,565
36,248
1,939,813

The average number of persons employed by the group during this year were as follows:

Directly charitable
Fundraising
Management and administration
2023
FTE
48
8
7
63		 2022
FTE
45
7
5
57		 2023
NO
59
9
8
76		 2022
NO
55
8
6
69

The directors listed on page 26 are all volunteers and are therefore excluded.

The emoluments of four (2022:four) members of staff, including benefits in kind, are within the ranges.

2023 2022
No No
£60,001 to £70,000 1 1
£70,001 to £80,000 1 1
£80,001 to £90,000 1 1
£100,001 to £110,000 1 1

All employees earning more than £60,000 participated in the pension scheme.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 43 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

4a TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GROUP (Continued)

The total emoluments for key management personnel, excluding pension, including benefits in kind were:

2023
£		 2022
£		 2022
£
Key Members of Staff
Chief Executive Offcer
Commercial Director
Director of Finance & HR
Director of Charity
Director of Operations
Total Key Members of Staff		 109,592
87,028
51,386
79,800
-
327,806		 102,573
82,112
48,639
77,163
261
310,748

The ratio of our highest salary to our median salary is 4.9:1.

In 2023, (2022: one) no RLSS UK members of staff received redundancy and termination payments.

2023 2022
Redundancy & Settlement payments - 500

Directors’ remuneration

The Directors neither received nor waived any emoluments during the year (2022: Nil). Indemnity insurance of £10,000,000 was purchased during the year for £3,200, (2022, £2,900).

Out of pocket expenses were reimbursed to directors as follows:

Travel and subsistence 2023
Number
11		 2022
Number
10		 2023
£
10,501		 2022
£
4,548

In 2023, (2022: nil) no RLSS UK Trustee received payment for professional services supplied to the charity outside of their Trustee capacity.

heir Trustee capacity. heir Trustee capacity.
Payments for Professional services 2022
£
-
Payments for Professional services 2023
Number
-		 2022
Number
-		 2023
£
-		 2022
£
-

Related Parties

There was no Directors (2022: nil) and no key management personnel (2022: nil) who had interest in related parties that were involved in transactions during 2023.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 44 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

4b TOTAL EXPENDITURE - COMPANY
General
£
Total resources expended include
the following:
Staff costs
2,340,630
Depreciation and amortisation
82,199
Amounts due in respect of :
- audit
27,000
- other services
2,000
Operating leases rentals – Property
140,894
– Other
4,627
Staff costs comprise:
Salaries
Security costs
Pension costs		 Designated
£
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Restricted
£
9,229
-
-
-
-
-		 Total 2023
£
2,349,859
82,199
27,000
2,000		 Total 2022
£
1,230,188
133, 527
23,155
2,445
93,471
6,503
2022
£
1,734,000
169,565
36,248
1,939,813
140,894
4,627
2023
£
2,109,165
198,224
42,470
2,349,859

4c INVESTMENT & TRADING INCOME

4c
INVESTMENT & TRADING INCOME
GROUP
Interest receivable and capitalised dividends
COMPANY
Interest receivable and capitalised dividends
2023
£
28,700
13,669		 2022
£
3,091
489

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 45 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

5a GROUP AND COMPANY TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

COST
At 1 January 2023
Additions
Disposals
Transfer from Tangible Assets
At 31 December 2023
AMORTISATION
At 1 January 2023
Charge for the year
On Disposals
At 31 December 2023
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December 2023
At 31 December 2022
COST
At 1 January 2023
Additions
Disposals
Transfer to Intangible Assets
At 31 December 2023
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January 2023
Charge for the year
On Disposals
At 31 December 2023
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December 2023
At 31 December 2022
5b
GROUP AND COMPANY INTANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS		 Fixtures,
fttings and
equipment
£
994,641
96,239
(334,467)
-
756,413
950,741
33,196
(334,466)
649,471
106,942
43,900
Software
£
100,620
92,362
-
-
192,982
64,247
49,003
-
113,250
79,732
36,373

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 46 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

6a INVESTMENTS - GROUP

NIL

6b INVESTMENTS - COMPANY

6b
INVESTMENTS - COMPANY
Shares in subsidiaries:
Cost at 1 January and 31 December
Total at 1 January and 31 December
2023
£
101
101		 2022
£
101
101
a nd IQL UK Limite d, all companies

The Charity owns 100% of the ordinary share capital of RLSS UK Enterprises Limited and IQL UK Limited, all companies being registered in England and Wales.

The following amounts have been included in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities in respect of the trading subsidiaries before consolidating adjustments.

Incoming resources
Activities for generating funds
Investment income
Resources expended
Fundraising trading
Gift aid
Net Incoming Resources		 Incoming resources
Activities for generating funds
Investment income
Resources expended
Fundraising trading
Gift aid
Net Incoming Resources		 IQL
£
256,594
22
256,616
256,616
361,712
618,328
(361,712)		 Enterprises
£
5,776,401
15,009
5,791,410
3,351,666
3,126,170
6,477,836
(686,426)		 2023
£
6,032,995
15,031
6,048,026
3,608,282
3,487,882
7,096,164
(1,048,138)		 2022
£
4,737,928
2,601
4,740,529
2,614,558
1,459,185
4,073,743
666,786

The following amounts have been included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet in respect of the trading subsidiaries before consolidating adjustments.

Stock
Debtors
Bank
Creditors
Accumulated funds
IQL
£
-
256,594
7,711
(264,304)
1		 Enterprises
£
350,958
547,678
803,286
(602,412)
1,099,510		 2023
£
350,958
804,272
810,997
(866,716)
1,099,511		 2022
£
378,562
381,319
1,707,756
(319,989)
2,147,648

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 47 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

7 DEBTORS


DEBTORS
DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR:
Trade
Amount due from subsidiary undertakings
Prepayments and Accrued Income
2023
Group
Company
£
£
277,164
7,051
-
12,265
73,642
71,821
350,806
91,137		 2022
Group
Company
£
£
409,950
89,849
-
13,443
178,146
141,799
588,096
245,091

8a CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

Trade
Amount due to subsidiary undertakings
Accruals
Deferred income
Tax and social security
Borrowings
Other creditors		 2023
Group
£
Company
£
170,182
53,338
-
11,625
192,904
142,770
322,713
207,601
51,321
51,321
-
-
194,741
143,093
931,861
609,748		 2022
Group
£
Company
£
269,197
130,625
-
23,139
148,488
116,038
301,981
191,826
40,757
40,757
80,000
80,000
102,254
78,618
942,677
661,003

8b CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE AFTER ONE YEAR

Borrowings at 3.25% above base rate
2023
Group
£
Company
£
-
-
-
-		 2022
Group
£
Company
£
240,000
240,000
240,000
240,000

Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings are interest free and payable on demand.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 48 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

h Fiil S
otes to te nanca tatements
Movement in deferred income
Balance as at 1 January 2023
Released to income during the year
Deferred income arising during the year
Balance as at 31 December 2023
Group
£
301,981
(301,981)
322,713
322,713		 Company
£
191,826
(191,826)
207,601
207,601

Deferred Income relates to Approved Training Centre and Membership Fees each for a 12 month period in 2023/2024.

9a RESERVES CATEGORY COMPARATIVES - GROUP

INCOME
Income from donations legacies:
Membership
Other voluntary income
Income from charitable activities
Income from trading activities
Investment income
Other income
Total Income
EXPENDITURE
Cost of raising funds:
Membership
Other voluntary income
Trading activities
Investment
Expenditure charitable activities
Total expenditure
NET SURPLUS/EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR
Transfer between funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
FUND BALANCES BROUGHT FORWARD
FUND BALANCES CARRIED FORWARD
a
 General
2022
£
359,291
60,318
419,609
339,195
4,608,991
3,091
113
5,370,999
270,398
139,577
2,604,798
5,053
3,019,826
1,902,587
4,922,413
448,586
11,334
459,920
1,093,188
1,553,108
 Designated
2022
£
-
-
-
446
-
-
-
446
-
14,950
-
-
14,950
38,385
53,335
(52,889)
(11,334)
(64,223)
93,654
29,431		 Restricted
2022
£
-
-
-
46,396
-
-
-
46,396
-
-
-
-
-
52,662
52,662
(6,266)
-
(6,266)
85,307
79,041		 Total
2022
£
359,291
60,318
419,609
386,037
4,608,991
3,091
113
5,417,841
270,398
154,527
2,604,798
5,053
3,034,776
1,993,634
5,028,410
389,431
-
389,431
1,272,149
1,661,580

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 49 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

9b RESERVES CATEGORY COMPARATIVES - COMPANY

INCOME
Income from donations legacies:
Membership
Other voluntary income
Income from charitable activities
Income from trading activities
Investment income
Other income
Total Income
EXPENDITURE
Cost of raising funds:
Membership
Other voluntary income
Trading activities
Investment
Expenditure charitable activities
Total expenditure
NET EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR
Transfer between funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
FUND BALANCES BROUGHT FORWARD
FUND BALANCES CARRIED FORWARD		 General
2022
£
359,291
60,318
419,609
339,195
2,425,761
489
113
3,185,167
270,398
139,577
1,085,753
5,053
1,500,781
1,902,587
3,403,368
(218,201)
11,334
(206,867)
(387,572)
(594,439)		 Designated
2022
£
-
-
-
446
-
-
-
446
-
14,950
-
-
14,950
38,385
53,335
(52,889)
(11,334)
(64,223)
93,654
29,431		 Restricted
2022
£
-
-
-
46,396
-
-
-
46,396
-
-
-
-
-
52,662
52,662
(6,266)
-
(6,266)
85,307
79,041		 Total
2022
£
359,291
60,318
419,609
386,037
2,425,761
489
113
3,232,009
270,398
154,527
1,085,753
5,053
1,515,731
1,993,634
3,509,365
(277,356)
-
(277,356)
(208,611)
(485,967)

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 50 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

9c MOVEMENT IN GROUP FUNDS

General
Designated
Restricted
Represented by
Tangible fxed assets
Intangible fxed assets
Investments
Cash at bank
Other net liabilities
9d
MOVEMENT IN COMPANY FUNDS		 At 31
December
2022
£
1,553,108
29,431
79,041
1,661,580		 Statement of
fnancial
activities
£
124,743
85,848
(23,965)
186,626		 At 31
December
2023
£
1,677,851
115,279
55,076
1,848,206		 At 31
December
2023
£
1,677,851
115,279
55,076
1,848,206
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
55,076
-
55,076		 Designated
funds
£
-
-
-
115,279
-
115,279		 General
fund
£
106,942
79,732
-
1,721,274
(230,097)
1,677,851		 Total
£
106,942
79,732
-
1,891,629
(230,097)
1,848,206
General
Designated
Restricted
Total funds
Represented by
Tangible fxed assets
Intangible fxed assets
Investments
Cash at bank
Other net assets		 Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
55,076
-
55,076		 At 31
December
2022
£
(594,439)
29,431
79,041
(485,967)
Designated
funds
£
-
-
-
115,279
-
115,279		 Statement of
fnancial
activities
£
1,172,880
85,848
(23,965)
1,234,763		 At 31
December
2023
£
578,441
115,279
55,076
748,796
Total
£
106,942
79,732
101
1,080,632
(518,611)
748,796
General
fund
£
106,942
79,732
101
910,277
(518,611)
578,441

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 51 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

9e MOVEMENT IN GROUP AND COMPANY RESTRICTED FUNDS
Education Crowdfunding
Disabled Children Water Safety
Diverse Community Training
Club Lifeguard Training
Don’t Drink & Drown
Drowning Prevention Week
Youth Lifesaving
Lifesaving–Disadvantaged Children
Water Safety Scotland
Drowning Prevention Bath
Search & Rescue Training UK
Sports Offcials Development
ECORYS Safety Managers
West Mercia Educate Water Safety
Worcester Water Safety
Regional Legacy Funds		 At 31
December
2022
£
1,000
11,054
5,000
4,664
2,093
1,237
667
250
514
116
13,560
1,000
3,691
9,229
315
24,652
79,041		 Income
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Expenditure
£
-
-
-
-
932
322
-
-
514
-
6,363
-
-
9,229
55
6,550
23,965		 Transfers
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 At 31
December
2023
£
1,000
11,054
5,000
4,664
1,161
915
667
250
-
116
7,197
1,000
3,691
-
259
18,102
55,076

Restricted funds have been received on a number of projects in regard to Water Safety training, research and development and these funds are used solely for the purpose or areas stated.

9f DESIGNATED FUNDS

Designated funds have been
allocated by the Charity for
development
Planned Development projects
Legacies
Regional Development Funds		 At 31
December
2022
£
19,160
-
10,271
29,431		 Income
£
2,656
-
14,440
17,096		 Expenditure
£
98,161
-
9,432
107,593		 Transfers
£
176,345
-
-
176,345		 At 31
December
2023
£
100,000
-
15,279
115,279

Trustees set aside a sum of £250,000 for Planned Branch Development Projects.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 52 | Year ending 31 December 2023

Notes to the Financial Statements

10 CAPITAL COMMITMENTS

At 31 December 2023 capital expenditure commitments authorised by the Board of Directors but not contracted for amounted to £Nil (2022 – £Nil).

11 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

There were no known contingent liabilities at 31 December 2023 (2022 - £Nil)

12 LEASING COMMITMENTS – GROUP AND COMPANY

2023 2022
£ £

At 31 December 2023 there were annual commitments under non-cancellable operating leases expiring as follows:

Land and buildings
Within one year 100,000 85,000
Between two and fve years 400,000 340,000
Over 5 years 741,666 800,417
Other operating leases
Within one year 3,702 4,427
Between two and fve years - 9,592
2023 2022
£ £
At 31 December 2023 there were annual commitments under non-cancellable fnancial leases and loans expiring
as follows:
Fixtures & Fittings
Within one year - 3,117
Between two and fve years - -
CIBL Loan
Within one year - 80,000
Between two and fve years - 320,000
The Balance Sheet amount for “Creditors: amounts falling due more than one year” relates to
a CIBL Loan received due to COVID19 with both being between two and fve years.
Other fnancial leases
Within one year - -
Between two and fve years - -

13 POST BALANCE SHEET EVENT

The company IQL UK Limited was made dormant at 1st January 2024 and all income and expenditure transferred to RLSS UK Enterprises Limited both being fully owned trading subsidiaries of The Royal Life Saving Society – U.K.

THE ROYAL LIFESAVING SOCIETY UK - RLSS UK | 53 | Year ending 31 December 2023