**REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 03191955 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1057831** **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND** **UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **FOR** **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ||**Page**| |---|---| |**Report of the Trustees**|1 to 13| |**Independent Examiner's Report**|14| |**Statement of Financial Activities**|15| |**Balance Sheet**|16 to 17| |**Notes to the Financial Statements**|18 to 25| |**Detailed Statement of Financial Activities**|26 to 27| ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** The Trustees who are also Directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. The Trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019). The Board presents the Report of the Trustees and financial statements of the British Association of Hand Therapists Limited (BAHT) for the year ending 31st March 2025 in accordance with the Charities Act 2011. The statements appear in the format required by the 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 (FRS102) and comply with the Companies Act 2006. The governing document is the Articles of Association of the Company and members of the Board of Trustees are Directors of the company. ## **STRUCTURE GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT** ## **Director and Trustees** The British Association of Hand Therapists was formed in February 1984 and in 1996 it became a charitable company limited by guarantee. It celebrated 40 years in 2024. All Directors of the company are also Trustees of the charity, and there are no other Directors. The number of Trustees is not subject to a maximum number but should be no less than three. Trustees serve for a term of three years and may be appointed to serve for a further term of two years. Appointment is by election at the Annual General Meeting, which takes place virtually in November each year. All Trustees are members of BAHT, and all BAHT full members are eligible to join the board by invitation, self-referral or nomination. The Chair and officers are appointed by the Trustees from among their number. The Board convenes a minimum of six times each year. The board reserves the power to appoint additional Directors as it considers fit to do so over the year. All Trustees are unpaid volunteers, and may claim reasonable out of pocket expenses only. Trustees give freely of their time to ensure the smooth running of the association. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the governance of BAHT and set the Strategic Direction for the Charity. Trustees are expected to declare any potential conflict of interest, financial or otherwise at any Board meeting and may be required to withdraw from relevant proceedings. This has not occurred during the year. The board has established three Subcommittees who advise and support the Executive Committee. They are the Education Subcommittee (ESC), the Clinical Evidence Committee (CEC), and the Global Partnership Committee (GPC). The plan is that the chair of each committee will become a Director on the Executive Committee at the AGM to facilitate good communication and shared decision making. The Subcommittees' minutes are shared with the Executive committee and the board meets with each Subcommittee at least annually. Members are elected to the Subcommittees ESC, CEC and GPC at the Annual General Meeting of the association and have relevant skills in education, and research. The Subcommittees have their own aims and objectives which link directly with BAHT's Strategic Plan. We are grateful to them for all the hard work that they put into the association. In early 2025 we aimed to set up a group to address EDBI issues. The request for members to join went out in e-bulletins. We started to address this via information on our website with links to useful organisations. Page 1 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** On appointment each Trustee signs a declaration including a disclosure statement, as well as a HMRC 'Fit and Proper Persons' form. They are given a Trustee Handbook that includes the Articles of Association, policies and procedures. It also contains the roles and responsibilities of the Directors and a copy of Charity Commission leaflet CC3. Each Trustee role has a job description clearly outlining responsibilities. New Trustees are introduced to the workings of the Board on their first meeting and given a period of time to settle into the workings of the Board prior to taking on responsibilities as Directors. Trustees are co-opted as Directors for up to a year prior to being voted onto the board in order that they can understand the workings of the Board and feel comfortable taking on responsibilities. The board has taken out indemnity insurance via Marsh Commercial Insurance which covers Trustees. ## **Management and Staffing** The Board appoints a Chair, Vice Chair, Director of Administration and Membership and Director of Finance from within the Board of Trustees. The titles for Chair and Vice Chair will be proposed to change to President and President-Elect in the next financial year. The Board has produced a strategic plan, which directs the activities of the association and the Board. The strategic plan includes the following sections: financial, committees, staffing, membership, education, conference, research, journal, professional links, regional groups and lastly communication and media. The Education Subcommittee, Clinical Evidence Committee and Global Partnership Subcommittee elect their own Chair who is responsible for directing their activities. Their activities are directed by the strategic plan, and they are answerable to the Board of Trustees. The Board have appointed the Dennis and Turnbull, chartered accountants, to administer BAHT'S day-to-day accounts. This ensures transparency on all account bookkeeping. Their work is monitored and scrutinised by the Director of Finance. The association funds are controlled and monitored to ensure that capital is maintained. The association has an agreed annual budget. Expenditure is monitored closely to ensure value for money and the Director of Finance makes a report at every Trustees meeting. Funds are reviewed annually with the bank. In order to ensure security of funds, protocols and procedures are in place to ensure accountability of funds and the Director of Finance monitors these. The year-end financial statements are subjected to an annual independent examination. The Board also employs an administrative assistant to deal with membership enquiries, the membership database and assist the Directors as required. The administrative assistant also assists the ESC with its administration. The administrative assistant works from home and Health and Safety checks have been made on the workplace. There is a clear reporting mechanism and an appraisal system in place. ## **Membership of BAHT** Full members of BAHT are either physiotherapists or occupational therapists who are Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) registered. They have full voting rights. Full members are entitled to discounted course rates, will have access to the quarterly Hand Therapy Journal (which will be electronic only after 2025) and can access the application process to become an Accredited Hand Therapist. They can also apply for bursaries and research grants after a specified period of continuous membership according to the type of grant being applied for. Full members are also automatically affiliated to the European Federation of Societies and International Federations of Societies for Hand Therapy. Page 2 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** New members can join at any point during the membership year (1st February to 31st January); they receive electronic access to previous issues of the journal as well as the voting rights/entitlements relevant to their membership level. Members joining more than halfway through the membership year (on or after 1st September) will be entitled to pro rata membership. As above, new full members will not be able to apply for bursaries or research grants until after a specified period of continuous membership. As of 31st March 2025, the membership numbers were as follows: 177 physiotherapists (2024 - 238) and 283 occupational therapists (2024 - 373). Total 460 active members (2024 - 611). Overseas members of BAHT are therapists living outside the United Kingdom. They have no voting rights, but they receive an electronic copy of the journal and are entitled to discounted course rates. On 31st March 2025 there were 18 overseas members (2024 - 29). Associate members have no voting rights; they receive an electronic copy of the journal and are entitled to discounted course rates. On 31st March 2025 there were 5 associate members (2024 - 5). Student members (new to 2025) will have no voting rights; they will receive an electronic copy of the journal and will be entitled to discounted course rates. On 31st March 2025 there was 1 student member. All members will have access to the 'members only' sections of the BAHT website which contain professional resources. All members will be able use the hand therapy forum for networking and information sharing, be able to access any regional group meetings, receive regular communication from BAHT via the ebulletin, record their hand therapy specific CPD, provide their professional contact details for the 'find a hand therapist' section (available to members of the public) and get discounts on hand therapy job advertisements via the ebulletin. An additional membership benefit for the year 2025-2026 is free access to the 'Handy Evidence' website. This is a database of critically appraised research articles relevant to hand therapists and usually at a cost of approx. £45. This is due to be discussed annually as it may not remain free for BAHT. Page 3 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Objectives and aims** BAHT's charitable objectives are to: - To advance and promote the study and general knowledge of the treatment of the hand and: - To publicise and promote understanding and information in order to ensure high standards of care and research in this field. To achieve these objectives the charity aims to: Offer educational opportunities to members to improve their knowledge of the treatment of the hand. This includes maintaining a structured system or programme of study enabling members to achieve the title Accredited Hand Therapist, publishing a peer reviewed quarterly journal, offering educational bursaries to members and an annual conference; and the association offers research bursaries, publishes research papers in a peer reviewed quarterly journal and encourages members to present free papers and posters at the annual conference. The strategic plan was developed in 2003 to address these needs in a structured way. It was thoroughly reviewed by the Board of Directors during early 2018, taking account of experiences over the last three years. The most recent plan was raised at the AGM on 21st November 2022 disseminating the future ambitions of the charity. This can be viewed on the association website: www.hand-therapy.co.uk. The strategic plan for 2024-2029 has been reviewed and was shared with members at the 2024 AGM. ## **Sustaining Viability** The board has ensured that new members have been voted on to the committee. It continues to try to ensure that there is a range of experience, interests and knowledge amongst the Directors. All subcommittees have had new suitably qualified members and reviewed their objectives. All new committee members are co-opted and given induction information and time to establish themselves on the committee. It is essential for us to support members on the committee and their work is much appreciated. The capability of the association has been maintained by the financial investments and the investment of time by committee members. The capital investment on behalf of BAHT should not fall by greater than 10% year on year. The main incomes for the association are from interests and dividends from the association's portfolio, membership subscriptions and educational events. Page 4 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Public benefit** The Trustees have referred to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when renewing the aims and objectives, and in planning future activities. In particular, the Trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives set. ## **Education** The ESC has continued to promote and assist UK hand therapists to develop their knowledge and skills in the field of hand therapy and/or become Accredited Hand Therapists (AHT) through the development of different routes and validation and support of development of courses. The ESC currently has 9 members with one vacancy; Anne Alexander is the chair. There are now two University accredited pathways which are validated for gaining BAHT points towards accreditation as an AHT, at the Universities of Derby and Essex. Derby also has a stand-alone level II module and Essex a stand-alone level III module. The previously accredited level II module in injection therapy at University of Nottingham has now been discontinued by the University. The University of Essex Hand therapy post graduate programme was accredited for advanced practice recognition by the NHSE/ centre for advancing practice in 2024. Stand-alone level I & II courses continue to run in varied formats (face to face vs hybrid vs fully virtual) to offer choice and flexibility in learning to BAHT members and the wider hand therapy community. Across 2024-25 five level I courses and seven level II courses (and increase from 2023-24) have run, with numbers of level II courses expected to remain high in 2025-26. The electronic Level I exam has continued to be successful and is now a permanent feature of the level I course process. It is now sitting well within the BAHT owned Moodle site. There has been development of a separate 'pre course' information page with excellent video information and 'how to' guides. This separate section was developed to prevent participants having access to the exam and certificates if they a) have not paid or b) have not attended as per the BAHT level I guidelines. There have been updates developed for BAHT II course providers relating to the recognition of the prevalence and use of AI and how this can be managed to ensure work on the assignments are the applicants own. The ESC continues to work on ways to promote the AHT (BAHT) pathway and award and have updated the application form to make it easier to follow (following feedback from a dyslexic applicant) and to bring the language more in line with the 4 pillars within the enhanced and advanced levels of clinical practice. AHTs are also encouraged to gain European Certification of Hand Therapy (ECHT) and there is a BAHT bursary available to support with the cost of this process, though uptake does remain low. In 2025-26 there will be member involvement regarding how the AHT is seen and why uptake remains at only 10% of the overall membership of BAHT. The ESC continues to support the Hand Therapy Advanced Practice Network (APN), which in turn has supported the development of nine competency documents, as well as supporting working parties for development of new standards of practice. The APN continues to provide networking and peer support opportunities for hand therapists who are, or wish to be, advanced in their practice. ## **Bursary awards** BAHT continues to offer several Bursaries, which are available to members. Applications for awards and bursaries are considered if it is clear to the Directors that such funding will continue to: - Continue the professional development of the applicant; and - Achieve the aims and objectives of the association. Page 5 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **Bursary awards continued** Bursaries available for the forthcoming financial year are advertised on the BAHT website and via the e- bulletin. Advertising postcards continued to be included in the delegate packs at the BAHT annual conference. Marking criteria, closing dates for applications and the type of bursary are evaluated to assure member needs are met along with consistency and objectivity of marking. All applications are considered blind (i.e. there is no knowledge of the identity of the applicant). The BAHT committees continue to market bursary availability to members via the journal, website, e- bulletin, information at conference, BAHT regional meetings and at BAHT-validated courses; this work continues to meet the Charity's objectives. The Bursary Director maintains a record of all Bursaries allocated. During 2024-2025 BAHT awarded 17 bursaries in total (compared to 9 in 2023-2024) totalling £6,840. This list included: - 3 BAHT conference bursaries - 4 International Bursaries (shared with BSSH funding) - 1 Level III - 6 Level II (7 awarded one declined) - 1 National Bursary - 1 Charitable Bursary ## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES** ## **Research** The Clinical Evidence Committee (CEC) is currently made up of 4 full members and one member in a trial period. The CEC meets a minimum of 3 times a year with at least one face to face meeting. We continue to work closely with the BSSH, for 2024-2025 the CEC representative on the BSSH research committee was Catherine Rolls who attended 3 BSSH meetings. The remit of the CEC remains to promote and support high quality research in hand therapy; we do this through the following activities. ## Survey Review Following feedback from the membership we are currently working to streamline our survey process. From summer 2025 we will have a dedicated email address for surveys (baht.surveys@gmail.com) to facilitate easier communication regarding the survey review process and circulation via the e-bulletin. We run two pathways for survey review. - For researchers who have already had ethical approval we provide a 'light touch' review to check the survey is of an adequate quality to disseminate and is relevant to the membership. - For researchers earlier in the survey development process we provide a full review offering feedback on design and survey structure. We continue to disseminate between 1 and 2 surveys with each monthly e-bulletin. ## E-Bulletin We provide a monthly summary of research activities that are relevant to the membership. This includes highlighting funding calls, surveys (as above) and other research activities. Page 6 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **Research continued** ## Research Grant The CEC continue to manage an annual research grant of £20,000. This follows the format of previous years in that all applications are sent out to peer review and the applicant with the highest score is awarded the funding. This year there were two applications, and the grant was awarded to Cynthia Svrikesavan, a clinical academic physiotherapist from Oxford University with a project titled: "Building Relationships and co-designing culturally relevant tool kits for ethnic minorities to increase participation in upper limb rehabilitation research". We continue to oversee two on-going projects that were awarded the grant in the last 3 years and as of 2024 require reporting on project progress and budget three times a year. ## Promotion of Open Access Articles Throughout 2024 -25 the CEC have continued to work with the Journal to promote historical articles that are given open access status for a month. We have now done this for over 5 years and in conversation with the journal will be taking a break from this. We are working closely with the journal on strategies to promote publications in Hand Therapy. ## Conference The 2024 conference in Sheffield received several high-quality abstract submissions, including contributions from international therapists. Each abstract underwent a blinded review by at least two members of the CEC. The CEC follows an anonymous internal review process, utilising standardised scoring forms and collaborative discussions to determine the final selection of poster and oral (free paper) presentations. During the conference, 10 free papers and 18 posters were presented. External reviewers and BAHT members were invited to help select the recipients of the Best Poster and Best Free Paper Awards. ## Objectives for the upcoming year - Given the current economic climate, the CEC will be reviewing historical spending on the research grant and exploring alternative funding models to ensure the most effective use of resources. - In our 2023 survey of the BAHT membership regarding research priorities and activity in hand therapy, one priority that was flagged was 'difficulty accessing training and support for early career researchers', especially those with little research experience not embedded in a research active department. We will be exploring ways to address this. ## **BAHT Journal** 'Hand Therapy' is the official Journal of the British Association of Hand Therapists and is dedicated to the publication of review articles, research articles, audits and case reports covering all aspects of hand and upper limb rehabilitation and its related fields. Hand Therapy has been available to members in print and online versions and from March 2025 moved to an online-only publication format. It remains the official journal of the European Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (EFSHT) and is published quarterly. Journal content is peer-reviewed with the addition of EFSHT/IFSHT updates and advertising opportunities. BAHT are financially independent in funding the publication of the journal. The contract between BAHT and Sage publishers runs from October 2024 for a 5-year period until the end of 2029, when renewal with current or other publishers will be reconsidered. Page 7 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **BAHT Journal continued** All BAHT members currently receive a quarterly digital journal (NXT book format) and open access to the back catalogue of previously printed editions, backdated to volume 1. The online journal is also available through the membership area of the BAHT website (direct link), through PubMed Central and through Sage Publishers website. 'Hand Therapy' costs in the region of £33,000 per annum to produce and distribute. The cost per BAHT member is approximately £56 which is subsidised by BAHT as part of membership benefits. Dr. Tara Packham is the editor-in-chief of Hand Therapy, and a stipend has been agreed between BAHT and her employer to protect the time spent on journal activity. Fiona Sandford is the assistant editor and supports the editor in putting the journal together. The Editorial Board combines the Editorial Committee and International Editorial Advisors, with proposals ongoing of methods to assist in recruitment of new and experienced reviewers to build the bank of experts available to review the increasing annual number of article submissions (60 in 2024 and by March 2025, 21 manuscript submissions had already been received, with a 50 % rejection rates which is in line with peer journals). The finances and governance are overseen by a Committee of Management Board composed of BAHT Executive Committee members, the Editor-in Chief and 3 members of the Editorial Board who are also BAHT members. Application for PubMed Central indexing was successful. Hand Therapy currently has an impact factor of 0.9, with a 5-year forecast of 1.4 according to Dr. Tara Packham at the Editorial Board Meeting, 07/03/2025. The BAHT executive committee, clinical evidence committee and editorial board continue to promote 'Hand Therapy' through social media, LinkedIn, Instagram, X and Facebook. The CEC can select a current or previously published journal article and arrange open access for a time limited period to publicise the journal, increase downloads and potential citations and the Editor also communicate new issues / successful articles via the Hand Therapy Community of Practice, LinkedIn and via the BAHT E-Bulletin. ## **BAHT Website** BAHT continues to communicate with members and the wider hand therapy community via the website. The website is of huge benefit for both BAHT members and other hand therapists from the UK and abroad seeking information about our association for educational purposes, as well as members of the public looking for advice and information about hand conditions and hand therapists. The website has undergone a level of re-development, including the upgrade to allow payment for membership fees via the website - this is now operational. The introduction of an Equity and Diversity page - we have established this page and will continue to develop this with the creation of a EDBI working group. We now have a central database for all UK hand units; we have introduced a Global Partnership committee page. Lastly there has been an ongoing review of the existing website pages and links. Future developments include the need to streamline and improve the ease of navigation of the website and a large-scale review of all content and its relevance. Further work is required to determine how we advertise and structure the website content. ## **BAHT E-bulletin** The first e-bulletin was sent out to members in March 2010. BAHT has committed to deliver the bulletin monthly from 2019. We currently have an opening rate for the bulletin between 50-70%. The e-bulletin is delivered via the Mailchimp platform. The e-bulletin has given the BAHT committees an effective way to communicate on a regular basis with members; we are able to monitor how many members open and click through their bulletin enabling us to improve the content. We can also provide feedback on engagement to those advertising in the e-bulletin when asked. It has also given us the facility to link members to specific areas of the website. Page 8 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES** ## **BAHT E-bulletin continued** We also issue extra special bulletins, for example, reminders to members regarding conferences, bursary availability, courses and other more specific advertisements e.g. University courses. Advertisers are also able to purchase special e-bulletins to promote their products and job vacancies. The Clinical Evidence Committee also has a section in each monthly bulletin where current research is reported as well as calls for people to get involved in specific studies and the 'free to read' Hand Therapy article is advertised. ## **Professional Links** BAHT has worked closely with the European Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (EFSHT) to develop a profile for a European Certified Hand Therapy Award (ECHT) and has allocated a specific bursary award to encourage members to apply. The EFSHT council meeting is held online, and a representative from the Executive Committee attends each year. The quarterly journal of BAHT is also the official journal of EFSHT, which EFSHT has kindly supported with donations in previous financial years. BAHT have continued the close relationship with British Society for Surgery of the Hand (BSSH) including maintaining a hand surgeon as honorary president of the association - going forwards we will be changing the title to Surgical Patron. BSSH continue to generously fund two BAHT members to attend the BSSH Instructional Courses in Manchester which run twice yearly. Members have successfully applied for and attended the Instructional Course. BSSH also fund an International Conference bursary. The regular page within the journal for the International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (IFSHT) has continued through this financial year. IFSHT now has 55 full member countries and BAHT continues to maintain close links, including voting on membership. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP) had previously recognised BAHT as a Professional Network member of CSP. However, following a review this year and ongoing discussions with the CSP we are no longer recognised as a Professional Network. As an association we do not meet the CSP criteria for percentage number of physiotherapists within our membership, and though suggested by the CSP as a way around this, we felt splitting our members and forming a physiotherapist only subcommittee would go against our aim to work as an integrated organisation with both occupational therapists and physiotherapists. As such we have come to an understanding with the CSP for 2024 onwards, that we will mutually promote news and events however not be acknowledged as a Professional Network. Within our committee we have a Director who is CSP link and maintains our working relationship with the CSP. The Royal College of Occupational Therapy (RCOT) is unable to acknowledge BAHT as a specialist group due to BAHT's independent financial status. However, the Executive Committee have met with senior personnel from RCOT and continue to forge new links with the association. BAHT is also a registered stakeholder with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) and has been involved in the development of standards for rheumatoid arthritis, fractures and complex fractures. Page 9 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **BAHT Global Partnership Committee Trustees Report** The Global Partnership Committee (GPC) was established September 2023 and currently consists of the following people: **Chair:** Meryl Glover, specialist Hand therapist, The hand therapy Practice **Co-chair** : Maeve McConnell, Specialist Hand Therapist, Ulster Hospital Belfast **Secretary** : Pascalle Smith, Hand Therapist, Sussex, and Kent **Advertising & Marketing:** Sarah Mee, Consultant Hand Therapist, Chelsea and Westminster **Finances/Fundraising** : Karen Murphy, Clinical Specialist Hands, Derry **Website and committee member** : Jean Cahill, Specialist Hand Therapist, Dublin The committee is evolving and will develop over time. The Vision of the Global Partnership Committee is: To use the BAHT membership knowledge and resources to support therapists in delivering hand therapy in the developing world. The committee will be involved in finding, reviewing, coordinating, and supporting one-off, virtual, and sustainable educational hand therapy projects across the developing world. Aims of the Committee: - Promote BAHT, BSSH and IFSSHT overseas work to ensure projects are visible and accessible to BAHT members. - Identify projects where BAHT/BSSH involvement will lead to sustainable long-term benefits. - Explore funding streams to support BAHT/BSSH overseas work. - Develop educational hand therapy resources adaptable to local needs. - Establish a register of BAHT members interested in overseas working. - Establish a register of projects/ organisations looking for BAHT members to work overseas. We currently meet every 3 months virtually and communicate via WhatsApp in the interim. Most of the committee members are involved with a variety of overseas projects, including Sierra Leone, Nepal, Bangladesh, Malawi and The Gambia. ## **Communication** The Journal, e-bulletin and social media are the principal means of communication with BAHT members. They keep members up to date with the most recent peer reviewed scientific articles and book reviews (journal) and with the more informal news including conference and course notices (e-bulletin) as well as content from related associations such as BSSH and related interest groups (social media). We are currently reviewing our social media channels to allow a smoother handover process for when Directors leave post and have linked these accounts to the appropriate BAHT emails. We currently have a Facebook account, Instagram account, X account and LinkedIn - we are looking into other platforms based on the current social media climate. As needed, we are also able to contact BAHT members via email, e.g. we have previously done this to alert to problems with membership direct debits. ## **Advertising** BAHT gains revenue from advertising on the website, through e-bulletins and within the Hand Therapy Journal. The website and e-bulletin generate advertising interest for companies wishing to advertise jobs and training. The website offers BAHT a range of advertising opportunities for example the use of sponsored banners. Our annual conference provides an excellent opportunity for companies to attend and sponsor the event generating income which helps cover the cost of the event. Page 10 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **FINANCIAL REVIEW** ## **Financial position** BAHT continues to receive its principal income from membership subscriptions, portfolio dividends, educational events, and interest. Income generating activities such as courses, advertising and high-quality conferences continue to be a focus for the organisation. Portfolio investments continue to provide an income, with income for this financial year increasing to £29,495 in comparison to £28,466 in 2023/2024. Income has increased this year from £159,070 to £160,367. Whilst advertising and membership continues to provide an income. Membership subscriptions increased this year generating £58,496 compared to £53,454 in 2023/24. The conference was held in October 2024 in Sheffield and was a financial success. Total income was £59,785 with an expenditure of £44,326, yielding a £15,459 profit. Expenditure has increased this year to £190,936 compared to £177,899 in 2023/2024. Committee members continue to work hard to decrease the gap between expenses and income to maintain sustainability of the Association. There is ongoing work to improve BAHT's financial stability, streamlining processes to decrease costs, and optimising membership in the most cost-effective way. There has been a change to the membership re-enrolment / enrolment implementing an automated process via Stripe which has significantly reduced human resource demand by has in the short term reduced membership. ## **Investment policy** Given the current economic climate and ongoing financial instability, the committee decided to maintain a balanced portfolio with a medium risk status. This is to mitigate loss whilst maximising the opportunity for growth. ## **Reserves policy** The board of Trustees continues to prioritise the level of reserves to ensure BAHT remains active for many years. We continue to work hard to function within our income and minimise unnecessary expenditure wherever possible. The total amount of reserves held on 31st March 2025 was £1,293,664 compared to March 2024 which was £1,309,036. ## **CONCLUSIONS AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE** The strategic plan was disseminated at the AGM in November 2024. Ways to generate more income, as well as minimise cost from primary service providers are in constant consideration to maintain financial sustainability. Whilst BAHT continues to offer generous bursaries and research grants, they will also be subject to constant review. BAHT continues to promote and encourage career development and research amongst its members. Page 11 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES** **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document** The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006. ## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Company number** 03191955 (England and Wales) ## **Registered Charity number** 1057831 ## **Registered office** 65-66 Lincoln's Inn Field London WC2A 3LH ## **Trustees** Board of Trustees as at the date of this report Leanne Topcuoglu Chair and IFSHT Link Linda Cornish Vice Chair and sub-committee Link Emma Leather Treasurer Laura Cooper Vice Treasurer Sophie Lalor Secretary and Communications Fiona Powell Bursaries Miriam Parkinson Membership Janey Milligan Journal Cate Allen Website Susan Dargie Advertising Hayley Smith Historian and EFSHT Link ## **Independent Examiner** RSM UK Tax & Accounting Limited Davidson House Forbury Square Reading Berkshire RG1 3EU ## **Bankers** Lloyds Plc 21 - 23 Hill Street London W1J 5JW ## **Solicitors** Farrer and Co 65-66 Lincoln's Inn Fields London WC2A 3LH Page 12 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. Approved by order of the board of trustees on ………12/12/2025…….. and signed on its behalf by: M E C Leather - Trustee Page 13 ## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **Independent examiner's report to the trustees of British Association of Hand Therapists Limited** ## **('the Company')** I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2025. ## **Responsibilities and basis of report** As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act'). Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act. ## **Independent examiner's statement** I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe: 1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or 2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or 3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or 4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)). 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. ## Kerry Gallagher Kerry Gallagher FCA DChA The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales Chartered Accountant ON BEHALF OF RSM UK Tax & Accounting Limited Chartered Accountants Davidson House Forbury Square Reading Berkshire RG1 3EU 15/12/25 Page 14 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** |Notes
**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM**
**Charitable activities**
Subscriptions
Educational Events
Investment income
2
**Total**
**EXPENDITURE ON**
Raising funds
3
**Charitable activities**
4
Grants & Bursary Payable
Executive Committee
Educational Events
Other
**Total**
Net gains on investments
**NET (EXPENDITURE)/INCOME**
**RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS**
Total funds brought forward
**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**|2025
Unrestricted
fund
£
58,496
72,376
29,495
160,367
7,053
32,585
146,807
4,491
-
190,936
15,197
(15,372)
1,309,036
1,293,664|2024
Total
funds
£
53,454
77,150
28,466
159,070
6,502
18,094
153,087
117
99
177,899
92,424
73,595
1,235,441
1,309,036| |---|---|---| The notes form part of these financial statements Page 15 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **BALANCE SHEET 31 MARCH 2025** |Notes
**FIXED ASSETS**
Intangible assets
8
Tangible assets
9
Investments
10
**CURRENT ASSETS**
Debtors
11
Cash at bank and in hand
**CREDITORS**
Amounts falling due within one year
12
**NET CURRENT ASSETS**
**TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT**
**LIABILITIES**
**NET ASSETS**
**FUNDS**
13
Unrestricted funds
**TOTAL FUNDS**|2025
Unrestricted
fund
£
1,813
125
1,249,422
1,251,360
33,466
49,621
83,087
(40,783)
42,304
1,293,664
1,293,664
1,293,664
1,293,664|2024
Total
funds
£
2,706
186
1,253,724
1,256,616
11,111
103,755
114,866
(62,446)
52,420
1,309,036
1,309,036
1,309,036
1,309,036| |---|---|---| The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2025. The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006. The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for - (a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and - (b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company. The notes form part of these financial statements continued... Page 16 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **BALANCE SHEET - continued 31 MARCH 2025** These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime. The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on …………12/12/2025………….. and were signed on its behalf by: M E C Leather - Trustee The notes form part of these financial statements Page 17 **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES** ## **BASIS OF PREPARING THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of investments which are included at market value, as modified by the revaluation of certain assets. ## CHARITY INFORMATION The British Association of Hand Therapists Limited is a private company limited by guarantee and incorporated in England and Wales. The address of the charity's registered office and principal place of business is 65-66 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3LH. These financial statements are prepared in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £1. ## **INCOME** All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. ## **EXPENDITURE** Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year-end date are noted as a commitment but not accrued as expenditure. ## **INTANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS** Intangible fixed assets are stated at cost less amortisation and any provision for impairment. Amortisation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life: Computer software - 33% on reducing balance ## **TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS** Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life. Fixtures and fittings - 25% on reducing balance Computer equipment - 33% on reducing balance ## **TAXATION** The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities. continued... Page 18 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued** ## **FUND ACCOUNTING** Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements. ## **INVESTMENTS** Investments are stated at market value at the Balance Sheet date. The Statement of Financial Activities includes the net gains and losses arising on additions and disposals throughout the year. ## **GOING CONCERN** The Trustees are satisfied that the forecasts provide reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue for the foreseeable future and for a period of at least 12 months from signing the financial statements. ## **FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS** The Charity's financial assets and liabilities are measured at amortised costs. ## **2. INVESTMENT INCOME** |Other fixed asset invest - FII
Deposit account interest
**RAISING FUNDS**
**INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COSTS**
Investment management costs|2025
£
27,424
2,071
29,495
2025
£
7,053|2024
£
27,743
723
28,466
2024
£
6,502| |---|---|---| |||| ## **3. RAISING FUNDS** ## **INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COSTS** continued... Page 19 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **4. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES** |Wages
Telephone
Postage and stationery
Advertising
Assessor tutor fees
Meetings
Subscriptions and
publications
Website costs
Legal and professional
Indemnity insurance
Accountancy
Penalty
Newsletter costs
Bank charges
Conferences
Training costs
Donations
Depreciation
Amortisation
Grants to individuals|2025
£
13,355
814
424
-
320
14,366
4,491
8,640
71
2,957
15,419
-
44,537
374
44,326
250
911
61
893
31,674
183,883|2024
£
13,338
759
426
-
160
6,613
117
13,059
35
3,201
12,093
99
45,126
730
56,123
-
-
91
1,333
18,094
171,397| |---|---|---| All expenditure was expenditure from unrestricted funds. ## **5. NET (EXPENDITURE) /INCOME** Net (expenditure)/income is stated after (crediting)/charging: |2025
£
Independent Examiner fees
4,440
Depreciation - owned assets
61
Computer software amortisation
893|2024
£
4,380
91
1,333| |---|---| continued... Page 20 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **6. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS** There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2025 nor for the year ended 31 March 2024. ## **TRUSTEES' EXPENSES** The trustees are entitled to reclaim reasonable out of pocket expenses. During the period 2024-2025, 11 (2024: 4) trustees claimed £10,688 (2024: £5,525) as travel expenses or reimbursed expenses. ## **7. STAFF COSTS** The average number of persons employed by BAHT during the year was 1 (2024:1). No employee earned over £60,000 during the period (2024: none). The average number of employees calculated on a full time equivalent basis analysed by function was |Education & Research
Executive Committee
**INTANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS**
**COST**
At 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025
**AMORTISATION**
At 1 April 2024
Charge for year
At 31 March 2025
**NET BOOK VALUE**
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024|**2025**
0.5
0.5
1.0|**2024**
0.5
0.5
1.0
Computer
software
£
34,800
32,094
893
32,987
1,813
2,706| |---|---|---| ## **8. INTANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS** Amortisation charges are included within Executive Committee expenditure. continued... Page 21 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **9. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS** |**COST**
At 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025
**DEPRECIATION**
At 1 April 2024
Charge for year
At 31 March 2025
**NET BOOK VALUE**
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024
**10.**
**FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS**
**MARKET VALUE**
At 1 April 2024
Additions
Disposals
Revaluations
At 31 March 2025
**NET BOOK VALUE**
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024
There were no investment assets outside the UK.
Cost or valuation at 31 March 2025 is represented by:
Valuation in 2025
Cost|Fixtures
and
Computer
fittings
equipment
£
£
17,429
843
17,429
657
-
61
17,429
718
-
125
-
186|Totals
£
18,272
18,086
61
18,147
125
186
Listed
investments
£
1,253,724
438,653
(458,152)
15,197
1,249,422
1,249,422
1,253,724
Listed
investments
£
243,333
1,006,089
1,249,422| |---|---|---| continued... Page 22 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **11. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR** |Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
**12.**
**CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR**
Trade creditors
Accruals and deferred income|2025
£
5,540
57
27,869
33,466
2025
£
15,343
25,440
40,783|2024
£
3,591
54
7,466
11,111
2024
£
17,927
44,519
62,446| |---|---|---| ## DEFERRED INCOME Deferred income comprises advance membership and journal subscriptions. The subscription runs from 1st February 2025 to 31st January 2026. |Balance at 1st April
Amount released to income
Amount deferred in year
**13.**
**MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**
**Unrestricted funds**
General fund
**TOTAL FUNDS**|At 1.4.24
£
1,309,036
1,309,036|2025
£
33,800
(33,800)
21,000
**21,000**
Net
movement
in funds
£
(15,372)
(15,372)|2024
£
36,558
(36,558)
33,800
**33,800**
At
31.3.25
£
1,293,664
1,293,664| |---|---|---|---| continued... Page 23 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **13. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued** Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: |**Unrestricted funds**
General fund
**TOTAL FUNDS**|Incoming
resources
£
160,367
160,367|Resources
expended
£
(190,936)
(190,936)|Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
15,197
(15,372)
15,197
(15,372)| |---|---|---|---| ## **Comparatives for movement in funds** |**Unrestricted funds**
General fund
**TOTAL FUNDS**|At 1.4.23
£
1,235,441
1,235,441|Net
movement
in funds
£
73,595
73,595|At
31.3.24
£
1,309,036| |---|---|---|---| ||||1,309,036| Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: |**Unrestricted funds**
General fund
**TOTAL FUNDS**|Incoming
resources
£
159,070
159,070|Resources
expended
£
(177,899)
(177,899)|Gains and
Movement
losses
in funds
£
£
92,424
73,595
92,424
73,595| |---|---|---|---| ## **14. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES** There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2025 (2024: £nil). continued... Page 24 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** ## **15. ULTIMATE CONTROLLING PARTY** There is no ultimate controlling party. ## **16. SHARE CAPITAL** The company is limited by guarantee and does not have a share capital. The liability of each member is limited to a sum not exceeding £1 on the winding up of the company. ## **17. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS** |**FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS**||| |---|---|---| ||2025|2024| ||£|£| |**Carrying amount of financial assets**||| |Instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss|1,249,422|
1,253,724| Page 25 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** |**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS**
**Investment income**
Other fixed asset invest - FII
Deposit account interest
**Charitable activities**
Subscription
Educational events
Journal
**Total incoming resources**
**EXPENDITURE**
**Investment management costs**
Investment management costs
**Charitable activities**
Wages
Telephone
Postage and stationery
Assessor tutor fees
Meetings
Subscriptions and publications
Website costs
Legal and professional
Accountancy
Newsletter costs
Bank charges
Conferences
Training costs
Donation
Amortisation of intangible fixed assets
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Grants to individuals
**Other**
HMRC Penalty
**Support costs**|2025
£
27,424
2,071
29,495
58,496
66,945
5,431
130,872
160,367
7,053
13,355
814
424
320
14,366
4,491
8,640
71
8,099
44,537
374
44,326
250
911
893
61
31,674
173,606
-|2024
£
27,743
723
28,466
53,454
71,817
5,333
130,604
159,070
6,502
13,338
759
426
160
6,613
117
13,059
35
7,713
45,126
730
56,123
-
-
1,333
91
18,094
163,717
99| |---|---|---| This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements Page 26 ## **BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF HAND THERAPISTS LIMITED** ## **DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025** |**Support costs**
**Governance costs**
Independent Examiner fees
Insurance
Total resources expended
**Net expenditure before gains and**
**losses**
**Realised gains on fixed asset**
**investments**
**Net (expenditure)/income**|2025
£
7,320
2,957
10,277
190,936
(30,569)
15,197
(15,372)|2024
£
4,380
3,201
7,581
177,899
(18,829)
92,424
73,595| |---|---|---| This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements Page 27