Registered number: 2693334 Charity number: 1051317
Wonder Arts Limited
INDEPENDENTLY EXAMINED ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
Prepared By:
Harvey Guinan LLP Chartered Certified Accountants Unit 17 Mersey House Matchworks Estate, 140 Speke Road Liverpool Merseyside L19 2PH
Wonder Arts Limited
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES
Carl Beer (resigned 16/07/2025) Jennifer Camilleri Graeme Dixon (Chair) Joe Gilmour-Rees Isah-Levi Green Roach Phil Gwilliam (resigned 16/07/2025) Kevin Jones MBE Tanya McGibbon Chad Taylor
SECRETARY
Fay Lamb
REGISTERED OFFICE
Office 21, Hindley Business Centre, Platt Lane, Hindley, Wigan Greater Manchester WN2 3PA
COMPANY NUMBER
2693334
CHARITY NUMBER 1051317
BANKERS
Natwest Bank plc, PO Box 25, 5 Ormskirk Street, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1DR
SOLICITORS
Barrow and Cook, 5-7 Victoria Square, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1HQ
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER Julie Guinan FCCA
Harvey Guinan LLP Chartered Certified Accountants
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Wonder Arts Limited
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
Unit 17 Mersey House Matchworks Estate, 140 Speke Road Liverpool Merseyside L19 2PH
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Wonder Arts Limited
ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Report of the Trustees | 4 |
| Independent Examiner's Statement | 14 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 16 |
| Balance Sheet | 17 |
| Notes to the Accounts | 18 to 28 |
| Detailed Statement of Financial Activities | 29 |
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
The trustees present their report and accounts for the year ended 31/03/2026 .
Company information set out on page 1 forms part of this report. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the accounts and comply with the charity's trust deed, the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts with the Financial Reporting Standard FRS 102.
CHAIRS REPORT
Chairperson's report for the year ended 31st March 2026 - Wonder Arts
Introduction
It is my pleasure for the very first time to present the Chairperson's Annual Report for Wonder Arts for the year ending 31 March 2026. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our staff, volunteers, supporters, and partners whose continued commitment enables us to deliver meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
Our Mission and Purpose
Wonder Arts remains dedicated to its mission of creating amazing arts experiences for children, young people and families, inspiring wonder and delight and transforming lives and communities. Throughout the year, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that our services meet the evolving needs of those we support.
Highlights of the Year
This year has been one of growth and further transformation. Key achievements include:
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Delivery of artistic programmes engaging over 4500 people
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Expansion of the “Wonder Towns” brand into Wigan
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Securing further funding from Arts Council England
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Strengthening the partnership with Wigan Council
These achievements demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of our organisation in responding to both opportunities and challenges.
Financial Overview
The charity has maintained a stable and strong financial position having this year secured a further two-year funding agreement with Arts Council England and a four-year funding agreement with National Lottery Reaching Communities.
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
We have also continued our funding agreements with St Helens Council and Wigan Council despite the challenges of local authority funding.
We can confidently state that we continue to be a ‘going concern'. Our operating expenses have risen within budget and our income has exceeded expectations due to sound financial management, wise investments and creative fundraising. We have again managed to transfer surplus funds back to our designated reserves to help towards future sustainability.
We continue to prioritise responsible financial management to ensure the sustainability of our services.
The Board once again are delighted with the annual results and officially pass on our grateful thanks to Fay and Marie.
Governance and Leadership
The Board of Trustees has continued to provide strong oversight and strategic direction.
I would like to thank my fellow trustees for their dedication and commitment to good governance, continued support and input during the last twelve months.
A very special mention goes to our former Chairperson, Kevin Mark Jones MBE, who stood down from being the Chairperson earlier this year and who has decided to retire permanently from the Board at the AGM.
Kevin is the longest serving Board member and Chairperson and his wisdom and insightfulness have been a tremendous asset to the Board over the past twenty years.
Kevin skillfully guided the charity through many challenges and changes, including the very successful strategic transformation of the former Citadel Arts and Citadel Arts Centre, a venue-based charity, into Wonder Arts, an artistic performance focused charity.
I personally wish to thank Kevin for all his help and assistance during my time on the Board.
We wish Kevin well in his retirement from Wonder Arts and offer our heartfelt thanks for his long and successful service. Kevin will be greatly missed by the Board and the whole Wonder Arts community.
I also thank Fay, our CEO and Artistic Director and Marie, Danny, Charles and Emily for their ongoing devotion to duty and diligent handling of the charity. There are many challenges ahead in the coming months and years and our steadfastness and resilience will help us to pull through.
Challenges and Learning
Like many organisations, we faced challenges, including most recently the political changes at St Helens Council. However, these have also provided valuable learning opportunities, enabling us to strengthen our approach and resilience.
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
In these changing times it is important to highlight that our commitment to our Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion objectives continue to be at the forefront of our mind.
Looking Ahead
As we move into the coming year, our priorities include developing our “Wonder Arts” and “Wonder Towns” brand with the dual focus of St Helens and Wigan and the implementation of the new five-year business plan for 2026-2031. This includes scope for potential further expansion into other parts of the North West.
The long-term objective remains to join the Arts Council England National Portfolio from 2029.
We remain focused on building a sustainable future and continuing to deliver meaningful outcomes.
The strategy of the Board has always been to maintain a financially stable charity, adhering to good governance and being innovative and creative where possible for the benefit of the wider community.
Acknowledgements
None of this would be possible without the generosity and hard work of our supporters, volunteers, staff, and partners. Your dedication is at the heart of everything we achieve.
In closing, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the success of Wonder Arts this year. Together, we are making a real difference, and I look forward to what we can all achieve in the year ahead.
Graeme Dixon
Chairperson – Wonder Arts
STRUCTURE GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
The charity is a company limited by guarantee incorporated on 3 March 1992 and registered as a charity on 7 December 1995. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charity and is governed under its Articles of Association. On December 6th 2021 the company Citadel Arts Limited changed its name to Wonder Arts Limited
TRUSTEES AND PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The names of the trustees who held office during the year can be found on Page 1.
At the Annual General Meeting Tanya Mc Gibbon and Chad Taylor retire by rotation and being eligible offer themselves for re-election. The appointment and resignation of trustees are governed by the memorandum and Articles of Association.
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
No trustee received any remuneration for their services as a trustee. If an trustee has any interest in the contracts of the Charity these are managed within the Charity's Trustee Conflict of Interest Policy and in accordance with Charity Commission guidelines.
SENIOR MANAGEMENT
Fay Lamb - Chief Executive and Artistic Director
PAY OF SENIOR STAFF
The pay of senior staff is reviewed and reflects the level of skill experience and knowledge for the roles and remuneration levels in the sector.
ORGANISATION
The Trustees meet quarterly in accordance with a schedule of meetings set twelve months in advance. In between regular Board meetings, the Finance and Personnel Committee meet with the executive management and report business transacted back to the Board. The Board agrees policy and oversees the management of the organisation, which is implemented and carried out on a day to day basis by the staff. In setting policy the Board of Trustees gives due consideration to guidance issued by the Charity Commission concerning public benefit.
INVESTMENT POWERS
Under the memorandum and articles of association the charity has the power to make any investment which the trustees see fit.
RELATED PARTIES
The charity has had close relationships with St Helens Metropolitan Borough Council and Wigan Council who have provided funding and opportunities to develop joint initiatives and deliver joint activities.
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES
The charity trustees (who are also the directors of Wonder Arts Limited for the purposes of Company Law) are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
Company law requires the trustees to prepare the financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the trustees have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the net incoming or outgoing resources of the charity for that period. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are required to:
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
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Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
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Make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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State whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
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Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR INDUCTION AND TRAINING OF TRUSTEES
Following the recruitment process a new trustee will meet with the Chair, Chief Executive and relevant key staff to go through an induction pack, which includes;
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History of the organisation
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Memorandum and Articles of Association
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Current business plan and budget
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Mission statement and equal opportunities policy
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Latest annual report and accounts
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Recent and forthcoming programming information
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Roles and Responsibilities of board members
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Board List with contact details and brief biographies
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Minutes of the last four board meetings
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Board meeting schedule
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Organisation chart, list of staff and brief biographies of senior staff.
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All Wonder Arts Policies, of which Safeguarding and Trustee Conflict of Interest policies must be signed by all Trustees.
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
At a meet and greet session with board members, employees and volunteers, there is opportunity for informal discussion and to become acquainted with the team. Trustees have been advised of any suitable training courses provided by training providers.
PURPOSES AND ACTIVITIES
The principal activity of the charity in the year under review was operating a Family and Children's Art Agency .
In accordance with the Memorandum of Association, Wonder Arts Limited is established to foster, promote, maintain, improve, develop and advance education and artistic knowledge and understanding and appreciation of the arts, by the encouragement of the arts, including the arts of drama, mime, dance, singing and music, the visual arts, craft, performance and film and to formulate, prepare and establish schemes therefore provided that all objects of the company shall be of a charitable nature.
WONDER ARTS MISSION STATEMENT
Wonder Arts Vision
We believe magical artistic experiences have the power to change peoples' lives.
Wonder Arts Mission
Our mission is to bring artistic experiences to children, young people and families, who rarely have the opportunity to engage with the arts, to create profound, positive life enhancing impacts.
Wonder Arts Core Values
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Quality: strive for excellence in artistic purpose, process, product and experience
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Integrity: consistently act with intent rooted in the organisations honest, moral and ethical principals
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Inclusivity: hold a space for difference, access and diversity where all feel safer, valued and positively challenged.
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Welcoming: provide a supportive, professional, care driven environment where Wonder Arts is a trusted friend and people feel at home.
Wonder Arts Aims
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Performance: Provide life enhancing children and family arts experiences.
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Participation: Improve enjoyment, skills and wellbeing of children and young people via the arts.
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
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Artists: Support artists to make high quality work for children and family audiences.
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Community: Contribute to successful place-making, working in partnership to create cohesive cultural communities.
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Organisation: Maintain a well governed, resilient and dynamic organisation that is visionary, sustainable and embraces change.
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Diversity: Celebrate and reflect diversity, inclusion, equity and equality within our work
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
CURRENT POSITION
Wonder Arts is a building free organisation for children and families operating exclusively in non-traditional spaces and the public realm. We provide high quality artistic experiences that are different to the norm, creating happiness, enjoyment and transformative life changing impacts for children, young people and families who would not normally engage with traditional arts venues.
FUNDING
During 2025/26 we have continued to deliver 3-year funding commitments with Arts Council England (NLPG) and National Lottery Reaching Communities, plus have secured further two-and four-year funding agreements from both respectively. During the period we have also delivered a contract with St Helens Council and commissions from Wigan Council, both have confirmed future funding agreements for one and two years respectively. In addition, we secured financial support from public and private funders and stakeholders including Garfield Weston Foundation, PH Holt and Awards for All amongst others.
STRATEGIC GROWTH
During 2025/6 Wonder Arts continued its expansion of the ‘Wonder Towns' model into neighbouring Local Authority and ACE Priority Area, Wigan. In partnership with, and part funded by Wigan Council and Big Imaginations we delivered 11 high quality performances which engaged 340 children, young people and families. During the period we moved Wonder Arts Limited registered address to Wigan (to take advantage of greater funding opportunities linked to strategic growth) and maintain a base at St Helens Deafness Resource Centre as Wonder Arts charity Headquarters. From April 2026 to March 2028, we have secured ACE NLPG investment to further embed the Wonder Towns model in Wigan, in addition to St Helens.
PERFORMANCE, PARTICIPATION & ARTIST DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES
We deliver three strands of activity; Performance, Participation and Artist Development. April 2025 to March 2026 saw a full performance, participation and artist development programme of indoor and outdoor artistic activity that engaged over 4500 people.
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
Performance: The 2025/26 programme engaged over 1,900 audiences with 40 events. Our online presence reached 29,500 people digitally.
Participation: We engaged 370 participants with 83 workshops, and 854 schoolchildren who engaged in 11 school activities.
Artist Development: Wonder Arts collaborated with 108 artists, supported 2 new commissions and worked with 49 different partners from across the UK in the planning and delivery of our programme.
LOCAL, REGIONAL & NATIONAL REACH
We continue to build the Wonder Arts and ‘Wonder Towns' brands within the local, regional and national CYP and outdoor arts sectors. Locally in St Helens and Wigan we partner with Local Authority Arts and Culture teams, Event teams and Libraries plus Creative People and Places programme ‘Heart of Glass' and Place Partnership Programme ‘Forging The Future'. Regionally Wonder Arts is a founding partner of Big Imaginations Children's Theatre Network enabling high quality performance programming and commissioning across children's theatre with strategic audience development. Within the network Wonder Arts is leading on Ethical Programming, Managing Backlash and Early Years commissioning. Nationally, Wonder Arts is a member of TYA Theatre for Young Audiences network and has become a joint member (with Wigan Council) of Without Walls Touring Network Partnership, after being a Creative Development Network member for several years.
EEDI & ENVIRONMENT
Wonder Arts is committed to celebrating and reflecting equity, equality, diversity and inclusion (EEDI) within our organisation, work and communities via our EEDI Policy and Action Plan. We are also taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of our organisation via our Environmental Policy and Action Plan.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
The results for the year and the charity's financial position at the end of the year are shown in attached financial statements.
The Statement of Financial Activities shows the movement on funds. Total incoming resources were £209,249 (2025 £220,531) and total resources expended were £207,816 (2025 £195,390). The total net incoming resources for the year were £1,433 (2025 £25,141) comprising £7,012 net incoming resources (2025 £11,521) on the unrestricted fund and £5,579 net outgoing resources (2025 £13,620 net incoming) on the restricted funds for the year. Total funds on the balance sheet at 31 March 2026 were £194,678 (2025 £193,245). Total funds comprise £139,052 unrestricted funds (2025 £132,040) and £55,626 restricted funds (2025 £61,205). The unrestricted funds are general funds of £47,000 (2025 £46,500) and designated funds of £92,052 (2025 £85,540). The designated funds are for creative delivery and development for continuing activities.
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
Movements in tangible fixed assets are shown in note 4 to the accounts.
RESERVES POLICY
The trustees consider that the most appropriate level of free reserves (that is those funds not tied up in fixed assets and designated and restricted funds) that the charity will require to sustain its operations over the period when projects or funding streams end and new ones begin would be 3 months' running costs including a closure contingency in unforeseen circumstances (£48,250 based on current spending levels). Unrestricted funds at 31 March 2026 are £139,052 of which £92,052 is currently designated by the trustees in a Creative Delivery and Development Fund required for short term business plans and creative activity. The balance of £47,000 in general funds is the free reserve held for resilience, sustainability and continuity. This is increased by £500 per year. The trustees consider that the current level of free reserves is adequate for the Charity's needs and the reserves policy will be reviewed annually.
RISK
The trustees confirm that controls are in place designed to mitigate the major risks to which the charity is faced. The potential fundraising shortfall is a major risk and one of which the trustees are acutely aware. They are driving forward plans aimed at mitigating risks and improving resources thereby creating new opportunities for the users. The business plan assesses the risk of the options put forward in it for full consideration by management.
PLANS FOR THE FUTURE
Wonder Arts has undertaken a visioning session and developed a new five-year business plan for 2026-2031. Within this, from April 2026-March 2028 we deliver a two-year Arts Council England NLPG for Wigan expansion and until 2029 a four-year National Lottery Reaching Communities participation programme in St Helens. St Helens and Wigan Councils have committed funding for 2026/7 and 2026-2028 respectively. However, with political changes in Local Government in St Helens, and potential of similar in Wigan, this funding is not guaranteed beyond existing contracts.
Our five-year strategy focuses on growth, and expansion of Wonder Arts ‘Wonder Towns' across the North West into areas of interest. We have submitted an ACE NLPG bid for organisational development within the 2026-7 year to support exploration of this growth strategy and build a resilient, dynamic organisation that is fit for the future.
Our long-term aim remains to enter the ACE National Portfolio from April 2029. We are confident Wonder Arts strategy, business plan and expansion of our ‘Wonder Towns' model responds strategically to ACE's revised investment framework.
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
The Independent Examiner, Julie Guinan on behalf of Harvey Guinan LLP, has indicated willingness to remain in office and a resolution will be proposed for re-appointment at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting.
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Wonder Arts Limited
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
TRUSTEES' REPORT
SMALL COMPANY RULES
The report was prepared in accordance with the special provisions within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.
This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on 01/07/2026 Graeme Dixon (Chair)
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Wonder Arts Limited
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF WONDER ARTS LIMITED
I report on the accounts of the company for the year ended 31/03/2026 .
RESPONSIBILITIES AND BASIS OF REPORT
As the charity's trustees of the Company (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (the 2006 Act).
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited for this year under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act). In carrying out my examination, I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS STATEMENT
The company's gross income did not exceed £250,000 but I am qualified to undertake the examination by being a qualified member of ACCA.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention which give me cause to believe that:
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accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006; or
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the accounts do not accord with such records; or
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the accounts do not comply with relevant accounting requirements under section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
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the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS102).
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
...................................................Independent Examiner Julie Guinan FCCA
Date: 01/07//2026
Harvey Guinan LLP Chartered Certified Accountants Unit 17 Mersey House
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Wonder Arts Limited
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
Matchworks Estate, 140 Speke Road Liverpool Merseyside L19 2PH 0151 709 7797
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Wonder Arts Limited
Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31/03/2026
Including Income and Expenditure Account
| Income Income from generated funds Income from Investments Income from charitable activities Total Income Expenses Costs of generating funds Expenditure on Charitable activities Total Expenses Net Income Net movement in funds: Net income for the year Total funds brought forward Net funds carried forward |
Unrestricted funds £ 4,873 55,800 60,673 53,661 53,661 7,012 7,012 132,040 139,052 |
Restricted funds £ - 148,576 148,576 154,155 154,155 (5,579) (5,579) 61,205 55,626 |
2026 Total £ 4,873 204,376 209,249 207,816 207,816 1,433 1,433 193,245 194,678 |
2025 Total £ 4,952 215,579 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220,531 | ||||
| 195,390 | ||||
| 195,390 | ||||
| 25,141 | ||||
| 25,141 168,104 |
||||
| 193,245 |
This statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities
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Wonder Arts Limited
BALANCE SHEET AT 31/03/2026
| Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 4 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors (amounts falling due within one year) 5 Cash at bank and in hand CREDITORS: Amounts falling due within one year 6 NET CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES RESERVES Unrestricted funds 8 General fund Designated funds Restricted funds 9 |
16,150 222,346 238,496 43,818 |
2026 £ - 194,678 194,678 47,000 92,052 55,626 194,678 |
5,013 240,998 246,011 52,766 |
2025 £ - 193,245 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 193,245 | ||||
| 46,500 85,540 61,205 |
||||
| 193,245 |
For the year ending 31/03/2026 the company was entitled to exemption under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.
Approved by the board of trustees on 01/07/2026 and signed on their behalf by
............................. Graeme Dixon Trustee
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NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31/03/2026
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
1a. Basis Of Accounting
The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with FRS102 - The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland and the Companies Act 2006 and the requirements of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities.
1b. Incoming Resources
Voluntary income including cash and in kind donations and grants that provide core funding or are of a general nature are recognised where there is entitlement, certainty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability. Such income is only deferred when: - The donor specifies that the grant or donation must only be used in future accounting periods or - The donor has imposed conditions which must be met before the charity has unconditional entitlement. Income from commercial activities is recognised as earned as the related goods and services are provided. Gift aid has been included when receivable. Investment income is recognised on a receivable basis. Income from charitable activities includes income from the operation of a family and children's art agency and includes income received from Young Wonders subscriptions, production and performance and related administration income, workshop income and project income all recognised as the related goods and services are provided. Grant income in this category provides funding to support community outreach and performance activity under a service level agreement or project grants to deliver specific creative programmes of work. This category of grant income is also recognised where there is entitlement, certainty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability. Such income is deferred when: - Admission fees (ticket sales) are received in advance of the performance date or event to which they relate or grants received under a service level agreement are received in advance of the financial year to which they relate. Donated Services (In Kind Income) These are only included in incoming resources (with an equivalent amount in resources expended) where the benefit to the charity is reasonably quantifiable, measurable and material. The value placed on these resources is the estimated value to the charity of the service or facility received.
1c. Resources Expended
Expenditure is recognised when a liability is incurred. Costs of generating funds are those costs incurred in trading activities that raise funds. Charitable activities include expenditure associated with performances, workshops, art and education projects and include both the direct costs and support costs relating to these activities. Governance costs include those incurred in the governance of the charity and its assets and are primarily associated with constitutional and statutory requirement and include costs of independent examination.
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1d. Allocation And Apportionment Of Costs
Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources, for example based upon staff time allocated to the activity or space occupied by the activity of the organisation.
1e. Fund Accounting
Funds held by the charity are either: Unrestricted general funds - these are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the trustees. Designated funds – these are funds set aside by the trustees out of unrestricted general funds for specific future purposes or projects. Restricted funds – these are funds that can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for a particular restricted purpose. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the accounts.
1f. Depreciation
Fixed assets are shown at historical cost.
Depreciation is provided, after taking account of any grants receivable, at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
At each Balance sheet date the charity reviews the carrying amount of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that any items have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists the recoverable amount of an asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss if any. Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of the asset the charity estimates the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit to which the asset belongs.
1g. Pension Costs
The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The pension charge represents the amounts payable by the company to the fund in respect of the year.
1h. Turnover
Turnover represents the invoiced value of goods and services supplied by the company, net of value added tax and trade discounts.
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1i. Debtors Policy
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid after taking account of any discount due.
1j. Policy For Income Recognition
Items of income are recognised and included in the accounts when all of the following are met: (1) The charity has entitlement to the funds; (2) Any performance conditions attached to the income have been met or are fully within the control of the charity; (3) There is sufficient certainty that receipt of the income is considered probable and (4) The amount can be measured reliably.
1k. Cash At Bank And In Hand Policy
Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short term liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.
1l. Creditors And Provisions Policy
Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in a transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement value amount after allowing for any discount due.
1m. Financial Instruments Policy
The charity has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.
1n. Public Benefit
Wonder Arts meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s).
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1o. Policy For Going Concern
Based upon business plans and cash flow at the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Trustees are dependent upon the future financial support of key funders. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements. The trustees have considered a period of at least 12 months from the date of approval of these accounts.
1p. Leases
Rentals payable under operating leases are charged to the statement of financial activities as incurred over the term of the lease.
2. DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES
Particulars of employees (including directors) are shown below:
| Employee costs during the year amounted to: Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs The average weekly numbers of employees during the year were as follows: Management and administration |
2026 £ 93,800 1,052 3,645 98,497 2026 No. 5 5 |
2025 £ 97,238 3,375 3,605 |
|---|---|---|
| 104,218 | ||
| 2025 No. 5 |
||
| 5 |
There have been no material transactions with trustees throughout the year and none of the trustees received any emoluments or expenses during the year (2025 £Nil) for their services as a trustee. No employee received more than £60,000. The remuneration of key management personnel including pension contributions was £48,919 (2025 £44,124).
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Wonder Arts Limited
| 3. PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS Pension contributions 4. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Cost At 01/04/2025 Disposals At 31/03/2026 Depreciation At 01/04/2025 Disposals At 31/03/2026 Net Book Amounts At 31/03/2026 5. DEBTORS Amounts falling due within one year: Trade debtors Other debtors |
2026 £ 3,645 3,645 Fixtures and Fittings £ 23,919 (23,919) - 23,919 (23,919) - - 2026 £ 1,310 14,840 16,150 |
2025 £ 3,605 |
|---|---|---|
| 3,605 | ||
| Total £ 23,919 (23,919) |
||
| - | ||
| 23,919 (23,919) |
||
| - | ||
| - | ||
| 2025 £ 225 4,788 |
||
| 5,013 |
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Wonder Arts Limited
6. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
| 6. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR | ||
|---|---|---|
| Trade creditors Other creditors |
2026 £ 10 43,808 43,818 |
2025 £ 1,396 51,370 |
| 52,766 |
Included in Other Creditors is deferred income of £36,808 (2025 £46,450) comprising grants in advance of spend in future periods being Arts Council England Project Grant £30,000 (2025 £23,100), Heart of Glass Project Grant £nil (2025 £3,500), Awards for All £nil (2025 £19.850) St Helens MBC £5,000 (2025 £nil) and Torus Foundation £1,808 (2025 £nil).
7. LIMITED BY GUARANTEE
The company is limited by guarantee and does not have a share capital. Each member gives a guarantee to contribute a sum not exceeding £1, to the company should it be wound up. At 31/03/2026 there were 7 members.
8. UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
| General fund Creative Delivery and Development Fund (Designated) |
Brought forward £ 46,500 85,540 132,040 |
Incoming resources £ 60,673 - 60,673 |
Outgoing resources £ (53,661) - (53,661) |
Transfers £ (6,512) 6,512 - |
Carried forward £ 47,000 92,052 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 139,052 |
Creative Delivery and Development Fund (Designated)
Funds Designated for Artisitic and Creative Projects and Development
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Wonder Arts Limited
9. RESTRICTED FUNDS
| KFC Youth Foundation Granada Foundation Arts Council England Grants for the Arts Cultural Hub and Arts Service Garfield Weston Foundation Primark P H Holt Foundation Reaching Communities Awards for All Torus Foundation |
Brought forward £ - - - - - 15,000 15,000 31,205 - - 61,205 |
Incoming resources £ 3,000 2,000 33,000 9,877 15,000 - - 64,557 19,850 1,292 148,576 |
Outgoing resources £ (3,000) (2,000) (33,000) (9,877) (3,750) (15,000) (15,000) (61,311) (9,925) (1,292) (154,155) |
Transfers £ - - - - - - - - - - - |
Carried forward £ - - - - 11,250 - - 34,451 9,925 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55,626 |
KFC Youth Foundation
Funds for Young People' s Community Arts Programme
Granada Foundation
Funds for Young People' s Participation Programme
Arts Council England Grants for the Arts
Funds for Creative and Overhead costs
Cultural Hub and Arts Service
Funds for Library Performances and Story Telling Festival
Garfield Weston Foundation
Funds for Community Outreach
Primark
UK Youth fund for community impact
P H Holt Foundation
Funds from the Resilience Fund for Young Wonders
Reaching Communities
Funds for Communities of Wonder Project
Small grants
Funds for the Young Wonders Programme
Awards for All
Funds for Young Wonders Environmental Programme
Torus Foundation
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Wonder Arts Limited
Funds for Young People' s Participation Programme
10. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
During the year there were no transactions requiring disclosure as related party transactions.
11. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS
In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. There are no critical accounting estimates or judgements in these accounts.
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Wonder Arts Limited
12. INCOMING RESOURCES
| Incoming Resources from Charitable Activities Donations Investment Income Bank Interest Receivable Incoming Resources for Family and Children's Art Agency Service Agreements with Public Authorities Performance Income Other Self Generated Income Revenue Grants Total Incoming Resources |
Unrestricted Funds 748 4,873 39,250 2,375 288 13,139 55,052 60,673 |
Restricted Funds - - - - - 148,576 148,576 148,576 |
Total 2026 748 4,873 39,250 2,375 288 161,715 203,628 209,249 |
Total 2025 938 4,952 32,000 5,591 836 176,214 214,641 220,531 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
13. EVENTS SINCE THE YEAR END
There have been no significant events since the year end.
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Wonder Arts Limited
14. RESOURCES EXPENDED
| Charitable Activities for Operation of a Family and Children's Art Agency Direct costs Performance costs Direct Project costs Support costs Staff costs Premises Costs Marketing costs Administration, insurance and finance Total Charitable Activities Governance costs Independendent Examination Total Resources Expended |
2026 35,598 36,073 71,671 97,755 7,827 9,449 19,212 134,243 205,914 1,902 207,816 |
2025 31,628 17,925 49,553 109,982 7,280 7,641 18,934 143,837 193,990 2,000 195,390 |
|---|---|---|
15. NET ASSETS BY FUND
| Restricted Funds - Capital Restricted funds - Revenue Unrestricted Funds - Designated Unrestricted Funds - General |
Net Current Assets - 55,626 92,052 47,000 194,678 |
Total Net Assets - 55,626 92,052 47,000 194,678 |
|---|---|---|
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Wonder Arts Limited
16. DEFERRED INCOME
Included in Other Creditors is deferred income as follows:
| Analysis of Deferred Income Grant - Heart of Glass project Grant - Arts Council England Grant - Awards for All Torus Foundation St Helens MBC |
At 01/04/25 3,500 23,100 19,850 - - 46,450 |
Received in Year - 39,900 - 3,100 5,000 48,000 |
Released 3,500 33,000 19,850 1,292 - 57,642 |
At 31/03/26 - 30,000 - 1,808 5,000 36,808 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
17. LEGAL AND TAX STATUS
The charity is a company limited by guarantee (company number 2693334) registered in England and Wales and has no share capital. The liability of each member in the event of a winding-up is limited to £1.
Wonder Arts Limited is a registered charity (number 1051317) and claims exemption from corporation tax.
Its registered office is Office 21, Hindley Business Centre, Platt Lane, Hindley, Wigan, Greater Manchester WN2 3PA. The accounts are stated in sterling the functional currency of the company.
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