Charity registration number 1058548 

Company registration number 3228419 (England and Wales) 

## Downs Syndrome Research Foundation UK 

**THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024** 



**THE DOWN’S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED ANNUAL ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 2024** 

**Trustees** Dr E J Corcoran Mrs S M Elliot Dr P C Elliott Mrs L Murray Mrs M Kato-Kmiec Mrs S Costerton Mrs A Morley **Secretary** Mrs S M Elliott **Charity Number** 1058548 **Company Number** 3228419 **Registered Address** DSRF-UK P.O. Box 576 Tunbridge Wells Kent TN2 9WJ **Independent Examiner** Ashleigh Martin Simple Support Solutions 90 St Catherine’s Road Southampton SO18 1LU **Bankers** CAF Bank Ltd 25 Kings Hill Avenue Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ 



**THE DOWN’S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED CONTENTS** 

**____________________________________________________________________________** 

|**Trustees’ Annual Report:**||
|---|---|
|**Governance**|**1-2**|
|**Activities and Achievements**|**3 -8**|
|**Financial Review**|**8 -9**|
|**Reserves Policy**|**9**|
|**Trustees’ Responsibilities**|**10**|
|**Independent Examiner’s Report**|**11**|
|**Financial Statements**||
|**Statement of financial activities**|**12**|
|**Balance Sheet**|**13**|
|**Accounting policies**|**14 - 17**|
|**Notes**|**17 - 20**|





THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out
in the notes to the financial ststements and comply with the charity's governing document, the
Companies Act 2006 and '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.
Legal Status
The charitable company was incorporated on 23 February 1996 and registered with the Charity
Commission on 9 October 1996. The charitable company has no share capital but is limited by
the guarantee of its members. The liability of the members is restricted to £10 each. The
charitable company is governed by its revised Articles of Association which were adopted on 5th
July 2010.
The Trustees, who are also the directors and the members for the purpose of the Companies
Act, present this report and the un-audited financial statements of the charity for the year ended
31 st December 2024.
Objects
The Charity's objects are to relieve the sickness of persons with Down's syndrome in particular
through the provision of grants and funding for research into Down's syndrome for the purpose
of finding treatments and cures, and to publish the results of such research widely and for the
public benefit.
Organisation
The charity's activity is organised by the trustees. appointed by the members.
Financial Controls
The trustees have considered the key financial risks and have systems in place to mitigate
those risks.
Registered address
PO Box 576. Tunbridge Wells. TN2 9WJ
Email: elizabeth.corcoran@dsrf-uk.org
Website: www.dsrf-uk.or
Page 1

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
Trustees
The trustees, who served throughout the year ending 31 December 2024 and up to the date of
the signing of this report, are:
Dr. E. J. Corcoran nee Elliott (Chair)
Mrs. S. M. Elliott (Secretary)
Mr. P. C. Elliott
Mrs. L. Murray
Mrs. M. Kato-Kmiec
Mrs. Sarah Costerton
Mrs. Alison Morely
As a charity our policy is to retain existing proven trustees in order to ensure continuity of the
research aims and have within the charity those skills and experience essential for the work that
we do.
When we seek a new trustee, it is always to improve the quality and efficiency of the work we do
and to add to the skill set of the trustees. This includes the need to have additional trustees
monitoring the day-to-day operations and finances of the charity. We can also use social media
and email lists to advise interested people to apply.
Any person who is willing to act as a trustee, and is permitted by law to do so, may be appointed
to be a trustee by a decision of the trustees. No person may be appointed as a trustee unless
he or she has reached the age of 18 years. A trustee may not appoint an alternate director or
anyone to act on his or her behalf at meetings of the trustees.
We may invite parents or individuals who show an interest in the aims of the charity and who do
not have conflicts of interests in performing their duties as trustees. Every trustee is selected
very carefully and must read the essential trustee guide from the Charity Commission, the
governing document. the Articles of Association of the charity and agree to abide by these rules.
Once elected as trustees they are trained on the job and can always resign or be asked to
resign. In the year ahead we would like to invite a trustee who has Down's syndrome to join us.
The trustees have paid due regard to guidan￿ issued by the Charity Commission in deciding
what activities the charity should undertake.
Page 2

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
Activities and Achievements
The DSRF UK is the only charity in the UK focused purely on medical research for the collection
of biomedical difficulties caused by Trisomy 21, known as Down's syndrome (DS). The backbone
of our work is the belief that people with DS also deserve the scientific innovations afforded to
other conditions and illnesses over the last 50 years.
In all activities throughout 2024 due consideration towards the public benefit was made by the
trustees, with reference to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit.
Our activities during 2024
Transcranial Photobiomodulation with Near-lnfrared Light for Language in Individuals
With Down Syndrome (TransPhoM-DS)
In early 2018 Dr. Corcoran began discussions with Dr Paolo Cassano, Assistant Professor of
Psychiatry, (Harvard Medical School) and Director of Photobiomodulation (PMB)
(Massachusetts General Hospital Division of Neuropsychiatry) about the possibilities of a pilot
study of PBM in DS. Throughout 2020 there have been multiple revisions and an external
protocol review by PBM experts. In August 2020, the final protocol and budget was approved for
DSRF UK funding by the board of trustees. In January 2021, the funding contract was signed to
fund USD $415,420 over 2 years (2021. 2022). Financial support was distributed in two
payments. The first one. in the amount of $211,000 {£151.323) has been sent. The second
payment was made Sept. 30, 2022, in the amount of $203,629 (£184,313). Dr. Corcoran hosted
a Facebook Live webinar with Paolo covering the study which had close to 1.000 views adding
to the increasing interest in this cutting-edge field. It was agreed that there would be a one year
no cost extension to analyze and formalize the results which are expected to be released
sometime in 2025.
Systematic review of treatment modalities for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in children
with Down's syndrome
This piece of work forms part of on-going research led by Dr. Cathy Hill and her team at the
University Hospital Southampton. Our funding of the Systematic Review will allow Dr. Hill and
her team to make further improvements. A Systematic Review of Research is a 'deep dive. into
all published and unpublished research looking to answer a specific question. The scope of
the search has been OSA treatments in children with Down syndrome, how best to diagnose it
and what impact it has on children's sleep and developing brains. DrRina Cianfaglione,
research fellow to Dr Hill. will scrutinise the papers and systematically review the research that
we have to date on OSA treatments in children with DS.
The Foundation have given Dr. Hill's team two grants: £12,375 in 2019 to support the writing of
the Systematic Review (induding a professionals. workshop for potential research collaborators)
and £10,465 in 2020 for a piece of work building evidence for a multi-centre treatment trial for
obstructive sleep apnoea in children with Down's syndrome.
Our support strengthens the case for funding from a large body such as the NIHR as the next
stage of research will be very costly and outside of the Foundations funding capabilities.
Page 3

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
Additionally. The Foundation hosted a well-attended webinar on "Down's Syndrome and Sleep"
with expert guest speakers Prof. Cathy Hill, Dr. Rina Cianfaglione and Dr. Lizzie Hill.
The publishing of the Systemic Review has been delayed due to gathering all data from the
researchers for the analysis. Southampton hosted a national online meeting with Sleep
Researchers and the team in Dublin have put together an impressive protocol testing different
sleep interventions for people with DS and they are looking to open more sleep study centers.
Funding for a nurse may be looked into in the future. Talks continued and expanded into
2023-24 with Prof. Cathy Hill. Dr. Rina Cianfaglione and Dr. Lizzie Hill regarding the possibility
of funding a refreshed sleep study. The study will be a multi city study with Southampton as the
UK hub coordinating the data (180-200 subjects). The budget covers 4 years at around
£133,417 (£33.354 a year). Further discussion is needed around possible co-funders that could
be involved.
Down Syndrome and Sleep Research Network
In late 2023, following extensive discussions with leading experts in Down syndrome (DS) and
sleep disorders, Dr. Elizabeth Corcoran identified a significant and long-standing need for a
dedicated research network focused on sleep issues within this community. Recognizing the
global gap in this area, Dr. Corcoran initiated plans to establish the world's first Down Syndrome
and Sleep Research Network.
This pioneering network will bring together researchers specializing in both adult and pediatric
care. focusing on diagnosing and treating sleep disorders in individuals with Down syndrome
across the UK. The early stages of planning and budgeting have been completed, and
fundraising efforts are currently undenvay. The official launch of the Sleep Network is tentatively
scheduled for May 2025.
Menstrual Health Research
Talks began with Dr Katie Greenland. Assistant Professor with the London School of Hygiene.
Dr. Greenland was seeking funding for a project investigating the menstrual health-related
experiences of 10-19yr olds with Down Syndrome in the UK. This study could be an extremely
beneficial training tool around rnenstruation. In 2024 we approved a budget for the study of
£16,588.
The research will generate important eviden￿ on the unmet menstrual-related requirements
and identify opportunities for interventions to improve the menstrual health of people with Down
syndrome in the UK. Details of how to participate in this study will be forthcoming for carers and
adoleS￿ntS aged 10-19 years. Through comprehensive online surveys and in-depth interviews
with adolescents with Down syndrome and their caregivers. the project seeks to uncover the
unique challenges and needs of these young individuals.
"l am so glad this complex aspect of life is being researched. It is important for Health Care
Professionals to understand the challenges people with Down's syndrome and their families
face regarding menstniation and its management" L (mum to daughter with DS and Autism)
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THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
People with learning disabilities experien￿ a wide range of health inequities. and menstrual
health is no exception. The well-being of adolescents during their menstrual cycle impacts not
only their physical health but also their schooling, mental and social well-being. Despite its
importance, there is a stark lack of evidence and guidance available to support individuals with
Down syndrome and their caregivers or doctors in managing menstrual health well.
The team will include experts Sarah Polack, Associate Professor in Disability Research at the
International Centre for Evidence in Disability (ICED) at LSHTM and Dr Jane Wilbur, Assistant
Professor at the International Centre for Evidence in Disability (ICED) at the LSHTM, focusing
on disability and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH).
Sarah Pollock has a wealth of experience in discovering the health experiences and needs of
those with disabilities, critically with those with living experience at the heart of her research
methods. Dr Wilbur has research expertise in the area of menstrual health in those with
learning disabilities developing the Bishesta campaign (in Nepal) and the Veivanua campaign
for Vanuatu's humanitarian responses.
This partnership also marks a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting
underserved communities and addressing health inequities faced by individuals with learning
disabilities.
Going to Hospital
'Going to Hospital. is an accessible publication for patients with leaming disability or autism and
aims to help children & young people with additional needs to know what they might expect to
see when visiting hospital for an appointment or when being admitted for a prO￿dure. Trustees
granted £1,000 towards its publication in 2023.
Advocacy and Campaign work
Embracing *'.
Complexity
niiersiE)' of
EJ BRISTOL
Down's Syndromé
autistica
Foundit
Thanks to the support of
Emerging
Minds
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THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
a. Don't Screen Us Out (DSUO) campaign activities
Since 2016, we have been dedicated to supporting the Don't Screen Us Out (DSUO) campaign,
which addresses the ethical concems surrounding current prenatal screening policies. The UK'S
obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) affirm that
society must accommodate, include. and support disabled individuals and their families. Yet.
there is significant evidence that parents of unborn children diagnosed with disabilities are not
provided with the necessary information and resources to make an informed choice about
continuing their pregnancy and raising a disabled child. This lack of support undermines the
rights of both the child and their family, and we stand firmly against such practices.
b. Embracing Complexity Coalition (was the Neurodevelopmental Coalition Policy Group)
In March 2017 we became a part of a coalition of medical research charities representing
various neurodevelopmentsl conditionsldisabilities. Multi-morbidity is increasingly being
recognised as the norm for people diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental condition.
We believe that priorities should be guided by the people we serve, with diagnosis being timely,
accurate, and accessible. Clinical diagnosis should not be a prerequisite for receiving support or
adjustments. which must be personalized. easily a￿SsIble. and rooted in the best available
eviden￿. Research should shift away from predefined diagnostic categories and instead reflect
the priorities of the neurodivergent community. Improving the lives of neurodivergent individuals
is a responsibility shared by all public services and sectors of society. Ultimately, we achieve
more when we collaborate and work together.
The current project is the Top 10 Priorities for Research on Neurodivergen￿.
c. NHS Fetal Anomaly Screening Programme (FASP) Information and Education
Sub-Group
As a stakeholder in the antenatal screening programme, we are requested to provide our
thoughts on any changes to the current antenatal screening pathways.
d. National Down Syndrome Policy Group {NDSPG)
In 2021 the National Down Syndrome Policy Group was formed comprising of people from a
wide range of other charities and support groups: all with the common aim of ensuring that the
voice of people with Down syndrome is heard in society and reflected in government policy. A
third of the founding officers have Down's syndrome. Three of the DSRF UK trustees are
Founding Officers; Lynn Murray, Elizabeth Corcoran and Sarah Costerton. The NDSPG is the
Secretariat to the new All Paty Parliamentary Group, organising and supporting the meetings
and work of the APPGDS and providing lived experience. In 2023 the NDSPG applied for
charity status and was accepted. Dr Corcoran is also a trustee for the NDSPG and represents
the NDSPG on medical policy issues and ensuring the importance of research is not forgotten.
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THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
e. The Down Syndrome Act 2022 and Guidance Development
In June 2021. Dr. Liam Fox MP intrOdU￿d the Down Syndrome Bill to Westminster during the
Parliamentary session. We are proud to report that in 2022, the Down Syndrome Act was
passed into UK law, a historic achievement that enshrines specific provisions for education,
social. and healthcare support for individuals with Down syndrome. This Act marks a
transformative step toward ensuring that the unique needs of people with Down syndrome are
not only acknowledged but met with tailored sepiices and policies.
As we look ahead, our focus is on ensuring that the statutory guidance accompanying the Down
Syndrome Act is as comprehensive and impactful as possible. We are actively working
alongside civil servants, policymakers, and advocacy groups to shape robust guidelines that will
bring the full weight of the Act into practice. Throughout 2023. we have been deeply involved in
consultations with the Department of Health and Social Care regarding the Call for Evidence, a
critical process that will shape the final framework.
Dr. Elizabeth Corcoran. representing our organisation. continues to attend the Down Syndrome
Statutory Guidance Advisory Group, working closely with key govemment stakeholders,
including the then Minister, Maria Caulfield MP.
Next steps in this process include deepening our collaboration with researchers, healthcare
professionals, and education specialists to generate evidence-based recommendations that
infomi the DS Act's implementation. We are committed to facilitating research that addresses
gaps in knowledge, especially in the areas of mental health, long-term care, and educational
needs for individuals with Down syndrome. As we continue to engage with policymakers, we
aim to ensure that the statutory guidance not only reflects the best available evidence but also
promotes ongoing research and development in Down syndrome care. education. and quality of
life.
f. Assisted Dying Bill
Towards the end of 2024 we were made aware that Kim Leadbeater MP had proposed a
Terminally 111 Adults (End of Life) Bill. details of which were only just published earlier in the
week after public pressure - despite the intention to put this Bill to vote at the Second Reading
on Friday 29th November 2024. Only eighteen days. noti￿ were given for the public to examine
what was at stake" a very stunted window of opportunity in which to investigate and voice
concerns. If the Bill passes, it is likely to have catastrophic effects on the ability to uphold the
rights of terminally ill people with Down syndrome and those with other intellectual disabilities.
The change that is being proposed to UK law is enormous and the approach has been
undemocratic. With only weeks away from the deadline the DSRF UK joined its voice to a
groundswell of Con￿Med advocacy groups for people with disabilities, asking for urgent
attention and action on this matter by posting details on our websites blog post, emailing,
sharing on our social media platForms and uniting with all concerned groups. Sadly the Bill
passed its second reading in the House of Commons on November 29, 2024. Continued efforts
to monitor, update, educate and encourage all affected to let their voices be heard by writing
their MP'S continue throughout the year and will continue going forward into 2025.
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THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
Consultations with Intellectual Disability and Palliative Care Professor Irene Tuffrey-wijne
highlighted that failures of care for people with intellectual disabilities are widespread. This new
Bill proposes that ethical norms will be changed, before addressing existing problems that need
urgent attention. We re￿ntlY lived through the exposure of multiple failures and weaknesses in
the current healthcare system which significantly failed our community. Inquiries using evidence
from witnesses about treatment of people with intellectual disabilities during the Covid-19
pandemic brought disturbing evidence to light that other concerns and assumptions had clearly
outweighed human rights and the Equality Act during Covid. Evidence has emerged that there
was inappropriate use of DNACPR (Do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation) decisions
during the pandemic applied to people with intellectual disabilities, sometimes in the total
absence of consultation with either the patient or carers. For reasons that we do not fully know
yet - which are likely to include failures of due care - people with intellectual disabilities died at
a much higher rate than other people during the pandemic, at a rate of 34 times the rate of the
general population.
There are important reasons why people with intellectual disabilities would likely become more
vulnerable to the abuse of euthanasia laws than many of their peers.
Risk of Coercion and Autonomy Issues:
Studies indicate that vulnerable populations may be more SUS￿ptible to undue influence. This
raises ethical concerns around consent for people with intellectual disabilities. and proponents
of the Bill have been unable to give reasSuran￿S about how it could be known whether or not
someone was cOer￿d into assisted dying.
Need for Supportive Care..
Govemment reports advocate for enhanced health and social support for disabled individuals
(Department of Health and Social Care, 2020), emphasising care improvement over assisted
death options. Euthanasia should never be posed as an alternative to due care.
Societal Impact and Stigmatisation:
Legalising assisted dying can devalue lives with disabilities. which may reinforce negative
stereotypes. Ableist measures used to judge quality of life are frequently applied to the disabled,
despite the way disabled individuals value their own lives.
Financial review
At the beginning of 2024 the charity had net reserves of £142,996 consisting of unrestricted
reserves of £142,996. Following a surplus of £20,639 (2023: 35,778) the charity ended the year
with reserves of £163.635. Included in these unrestricted funds is a designated balance of
£16,588 for the menstrual health research. This leaves an undesignated balance of £147,047.
Legacies
i) The estate of Ms. Gladys Cullis
Towards the end of 2014 it was confirmed that the charity would receive the benefit of the
legacy of the estate of Ms. Gladys Cullis. estimated to be £60,000. The monies received from
this legacy in total were £85.556.26. with the final cheque for £1.787.50 sent in January 2024.
Page 8

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
ii) Robert Thomas Plato
In 2021 our charity, along with forty other charities, re￿iVed notice that we have been included
in the will of the late Robert Thomas Plato. Mr. Plato's estate consists of property, bank
accounts and personal possessions. They will be valued and sold in due course. The solicitors.
Huggins Lewis Foskett. will then divide the proceeds amongst the charities listed in his will. We
received a letter stating Mr. Plato's property had been sold and our portion of the estate was
enclosed. A distribution check in the amount of £7.500.00 was deposited June 2023. One final
cheque was received in February 2024 in the amount of £1,274.78.
iii) The Estate of Katherine Lucy Aucott
At the end of 2024 we were informed we were a beneficiary in the Estate of the late Katherine
Lucy Aucott in the amount of £10,000.00. This has not yet been paid, but has been accrued for
in these accounts.
iv) The Estate of the late Mr. Robert Eric Lister
Towards the end of 2024 we were informed we were a beneficiary in the Estate of the late Mr.
Robert Eric Lister in the amount of £42,375.77. This has not been paid out as yet in 2024, but
has been accrued for in these accounts.
Fund-raising activity continued in 2024, with income from monthly donations, fundraising,
legacies and interest, totaling £91,158 (2023: £83,313). At the end of 2024 the charity had
£163,635 (2023: £142.996) unrestricted reserves and nil restricted funds.
Reserves policy
The accumulation of funds (reserves} donated for medical research is a necessary strategy
when donations are very small, and the cost of clinical research is very great. The process by
which these funds are accumulated is described as a 'war chest, for medical research.
Our Reserves policy is to accumulate sufficient funds to fund appropriate medical research
projects as approved by the trustees. Our funds could also be used as 'seed money, but it will
attract other funders to support these projects i.e. by matched funding. There is always the
expectation that research needs more funds that we can raise in a single year and some of that
income is needed to fund ongoing operations. We believe a charity should give assurance to
lenders and creditors that we can meet our financial commitments by holding an appropriate
amount of reserves. Funds that we receive as a result of a grant for a specific project are spent
immediately andlor within the guidelines for the project. The same rule applies for any grant that
has a restriction on how it must be used.
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THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) Li411111 1 i i li Iiil
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities
The law applicable to incorporated charities in England and Wales requires the trustees, who
are also directors of the company, to prepare financial statements for each financial year which
give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of its financial
activities during the year. In preparing those financial statements. the trustees are required to:
Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent.
State whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practice
have been followed subject to any departures disclosed and explained in the financial
statements"
Prepare the financial statements on the going con￿rn basis unless it is inappropriate to
presume that the charitable company will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose with
reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to
ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also
responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for tsking reasonable steps for
the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with current statutory requirements.
the current Statement of Recommended Practi￿, and the Financial Reporting Standard (FRS)
102.
Approved on behalf of the trustees:
Dr. E. J. Corcoran nee Elliott (Chair)
22 September 2025
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THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH
FOUNDATION LIMITED
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of The Down's Syndrome
Research Foundation Limited (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the trustees of the charity (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are
responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements
of the Companies Act 2006 (the 2006 Act).
Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity 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 the charity's financial statements carried out under section 145 of the
Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act). In carrying out my examination I have followed all the
applicable 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 confimi that no matters have come to my attention in
connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of
the 2006 Act; or
2. the financial statements do not accord with those records. or
3. the financial statements 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 financial statements 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 accordan￿ 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 financial statements to be reached.
22 September 2025
Ashleigh Martin
Simple Support Solutions Ltd
90 St Catherine's Road
Southampton
S018 1LU
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THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
TOTAL
TOTAL
2024
2023
Notes
Income
Donations and legacies
89,257
82.257
Investments
1,901
874
Total Income
91,158
83,131
Expenditure
Raising Funds
20,016
9,322
Charitable Activities
50,503
38,031
Total Expenditure
70,519
47,353
Net expenditure for the yearl Net movement in funds
20,639
35,778
Fund balan￿S at 1 January 2024
142,996
107,218
Fund balan￿$ at 31 De￿mber 2024
163,635
142,996
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and
expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006.
The notes of pages 17 - 20 form an integral part of these financial statements.
Page 12

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
2024
2023
Notes
Current assets
Debtors
11
52.376
602
Investments
12
48.123
47.367
Cash at bank and in hand
13
64,961
96,577
165,460
144,546
Creditors: amounts
due within one year
14
(1.825)
(1,550)
Net current assets
163,635
142,996
Unrestricted Income
funds
Designated funds
15
16.588
Undesignated funds
147,047
142.996
163.635
142,996
The notes of pages 17 - 20 form an integral part of these financial statements.
The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of
the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 December 2024. The directors acknowledge
their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with
respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for
the year in question in accordance with section 476. These financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small
companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 12th September 2025.
Dr E J Corcoran
Chair Company registration number 3228419
Page 13

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
Accounting policies Charity infonnation
The Down's Syndrome Research Foundation Limited is a private company limited by guarantee
incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is DSRF-Uk, P.0. Box 576, Tunbridge
Wells. Kent. TN2 9WJ.
1.1 Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing
document. the Companies Act 2006. FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in
the UK and Republic of Ireland" ("FRS 102.) and the Charities SORP "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 charity is a Public Benefit Entity
as defined by FRS 102.
The charity has taken advantsge of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a
Statement of Cash Flows.
The 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 £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal
accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2 Going concem
At the time of approving the financial ststements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation
that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable
future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concem basis of accounting in preparing
the financial statements.
1.3 Charitable funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their
charitable objectives.
Designated funds are a subdivision of unrestricted funds, set aside by the trustees.
Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The
purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Expenditure which meets these criteria is drawn from the fund.
Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be
maintained by the charity.
Page 14

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
TI, TITTI.TTTTI IITTl•iT
1.4 Income
Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions
have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be
received.
Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised On￿ the charity has
been notified of the donation. unless perf0rnan￿ conditions require deferral of the amount.
Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is
recognised at the time of the donation.
Legacies are recognised on re￿Ipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending
distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the
legacy is treated as a contingent asset.
The value of seniices provided by volunteers is not incorporated into these financial statements.
Where services are provided to the charity as a donation that would normally be purchased from
our suppliers. this contribution is included in the financial statements at an estimate based on
the value of the contribution to the charity.
1.5 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic
benefit to a third party. 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 classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct
costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct
costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which
contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single
activity are apportioned be￿een those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent. and depreciation charges are
allocated on the portion of the asset's use.
Expenditure includes irrecoverable VAT.
1.6 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other
short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank
overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in cu￿ent liabilities.
Page 15

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED TI T |TTI.TTTTI Tl TIT•iT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Li;;Iiil Iiiii Iiil, I
1.7 Financial instruments
The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financial Instruments, and
Section 12 '0ther Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes
party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset. with the net amounts presented in the financial
ststements, when there is a legally enfor￿able right to set off the recognised amounts and
there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability
simultaneously.
Basic financial assets
Basic financial assets. which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially
measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at
amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a
financing transaction. where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future
receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within
one year are not amortised.
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction
pri￿ unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is
measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest.
Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost. using the effective interest rate
method.
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the
ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current
liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not. they are presented as non-current
liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently
measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity's contractual obligations expire or are
discharged or cancelled.
1.8 Employee benefits
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's
seNices are received.
Page 16

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED TI T |TTI.TTTTI Tl TIT•iT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Li;;Iiil Iiiii Iiil, I
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is
demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination
benefits.
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 cu￿ent and future periods.
3 Donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Funds
Unrestricted
Funds
2024
2023
Donations and gifts
33,819
10,276
Legacies
55,438
62,981
Grants receivable
9.000
89,257
82,257
4 Investments
Unrestricted
Funds
Unrestricted
Funds
2024
2023
Interest re￿1vable
1.901
874
Page 17

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED TI T |TTI.TTTTI Tl TIT•iT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Li;;Iiil Iiiii Iiil, I
5 Raising Funds
Unrestricted
Funds
Unrestricted
Funds
2024
2023
Fundraising costs
20,016
9,322
20,016
9,322
6 Charitable Activities
2024
2023
Research
9,168
1,000
9,168
1,000
Share of support costs (see note 7)
40,385
36.431
Share of govemance costs (see note 7)
950
600
50,503
38.031
7 Support costs
Support
costs
Governance
costs
2024
Supwjrt
costs
Goveman
costs
2023
Staff
37,256
37,256
34,159
34,159
Office Costs
2,048
2,048
2,518
2,518
Website and internet
1,081
1,081
754
754
Legal and
professional fees
500
500
Independent
Examiner's Fees
450
450
600
600
TOTAL
40,385
950
41.335
37,431
600
38,031
Page 18

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED TI T |TTI.TTTTI Tl TIT•iT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Li;;Iiil Iiiii Iiil, I
Support
costs
Governance
costs
2024
Support
costs
Govemance
costs
2023
Staff
37,256
37.256
34,159
34,159
8 Trustees
None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) re￿iVed any remuneration or benefits
from the charity during the year except as detailed in note 14.
9 Financial Instruments
2024
2023
Carrying amount of financial assets
Instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss
48.123
47.367
10 Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
52.376
603
Prepayments and accrued income
52.376
603
11 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Total
Unrestricte
d Funds
2024
2023
Creditors
1,824
1,550
1.824
1,550
Page 19

THE DOWN'S SYNDROME RESEARCH FOUNDATION LIMITED TI T |TTI.TTTTI Tl TIT•iT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Li;;Iiil Iiiii Iiil, I
12 Designated funds
The income funds of the charity have included unrestricted funds comprising the following
unexpended balan￿S of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes
designated by the trustees.
Balance at
1 January
2024
Incoming
Resources
Outgoing
Resour¢es
Balance
a131
Decembe
r 2024
Balance al
31
December
2023
Menstrual health re$8ar¢h
16.558
16.588
16,588
Menstrual health research is a project investigating the menstrual health-related experiences of
10-19yr olds with Down Syndrome in the UK.
13 Analysis of net assets between funds
Undesignate
d funds
2024
Designate
d funds
2024
Total
2024
Undesignat
ed funds
2023
Designate
d Funds
2023
Total
2023
Fund balances at
31 December 2024
are represented by:
147.047
16.588
163,635
126.408
16.588
142,996
TOTAL
147,047
16,588
163,635
126,408
16,588
142,996
14 Related party transactions
Transactions with related parties
During the year the charity entered into the following transactions with related parties..
Ms Christine Elliott is the sister of two of the trustees. Dr E J Corcoran Elliott (Chair) and Dr
P C Elliott, and daughter of the trustee Ms S M Elliott. On 12 March 2015 the other trustees.
including the I￿0 independent trustees. appointed Ms Christine Elliott as the charity's Office
Manager on a freelance basis at the rate of £25 per hour for 20-30 hours per week. This
was ratified by the current trustees during 2017. Fees of £37,256 were paid during the year
ended 31 December 2024 ( £34,727 in 2023), and nil expenses (2023: £1,093).
Page 20