Cbarity registration number 1060963 (England and Wales)
Charity registration number SC049019 (Scotland)
Company registratlOD number 03280440 (England and Wales)
WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
UHY

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Management Commitee
Mrs M Sims
Mrs D Jaspal
Miss B White OBE M Inst F
Dr T Mills Chair
Mr P Smith
(Appointed l October 2024)
Secretary
A M Cleugh
Charity number (England and Wales)
1060963
Charity number (Scotland)
SC049019
Company number
03280440
Registered office
G6 AshTree Court
Mellors Way
Nottingham
NG8 6PY
Auditor
UHY Hacker Young
14 Park Row
Nottingham
NGI 6GR
Solicitors
Freeth Cartwright
Cumberland Court
80 Mount Street
Nottingham
NGI 6HH

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
CONTENTS
Page
Management Cominittee report
i- io
Independent Auditors report
11- 14
Statement of financial activities
15- 16
Balance sheet
17
Statement of cash flows
18
Notes to the financial statements
19-39

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
The Management Committee presents its report and the audited financial statements for the year ended
31 December 2024.
Structure, Governance and Management
Governin
Document
The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 19 November 1996 and
registered as a charity on 26 February 1997. The company was established under a Memorandum ol
Association, which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its
Articles of Association as amended by special resolutions dated 31 July 2008 and 2 August 2018. In Ihe event
of the company being wound up, the members are required to contribute an atnount not exceeding £1 O.
Recruitment and Appointment of the Management Committee
The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law and are together known
as the Management Committee. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the
members of the Management Committee are elected to serve for a period of three years, after which they must
be re-elected at the next Annual General Meeting.
Due to the nature of the charity objectives, much of the charity's work focuses upon very sick young people.
The Management Committee seeks to ensure that the needs of this group are appropriately reflected through
the diversity and competencies of the trustee body. The Management Committe¢ considers that an appropriate
spread of characteristics and skills are currently represented within the trustee body.
In 2024 the charity had 5 trustees, who stand for re-election every 3 years. AIE members of the Management
Committee provide a list of their skills, which is reviewed annually, and the trustees intend to increase to 7
trustees in 2025 following this review.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with th¢ accounting policies set out in note I to the
financial statements and comply with th¢ charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006, the
Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as
amended) 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 l January 2019).
Trustee Induction and Trainin
Before election, potential new trustees are required to familiarise themselves with the practical work of the
harity. They are encouraged to meet key employees and attend a variety of the fundraising events. They will
also be provided with the Charity's latest strategy document.
New trustees are provided with a pack of inforn]ation, which includes:
A copy of the Charity Commission's guide "the Essential Trustee"
A copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
A copy of the latest approved Report and Financial Statements.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
In addition to the above, periodic training and information sessions are arranged by the Chair of the
Management Committee, to update trustees on their obligations, the charity's framework, risk assessments,
understanding financial reporting and strategic planning. These sessions are generally provided by the
professional advisors to the charity but may include others who the Chair deems appropriate. All trustees have
up to date DBS Checks.
Risk Mana
ement
The Management Committee have considered the major risks facing the charity, which include the following..
Governance risks
Operational risks
Financial risks
External risks
Compliance with laws and regulations
There is a formal risk-register which is reviewed at each Management Committee meeting. Th¢ Management
Coinmittee is satisfied that sutTicient Controls and procedures are in place to manage and minimise these risks
and insuring against certain risks as appropriate. Over the past 4 years, in line with the 2020 Strategy, the
charity undertook a comprehensive review of operational structures and governance, to develop the
organisation across all areas and ensure that controls and procedures were enhanced. These strategic
objectives have mostly been achieved but were impeded by the challenges of various national and global
events. The charity will be launching its next 3-year strategy in 2025. The Charity remains a low-risk
organisation.
Careful planning and close monitoring of the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic by the Managemenl
Committee ensured that the Charity remained a going concern, but it did have a major impact on fundraising
and charitable activity as the focus of charitable giving was on Covid related causes. Then charitable giving
focus was taken by the conflicts close to Europe, and the continued slow post-pandemic economic recovery in
the UK has not helped. Holding back the planned regrowth of the charity. The challenging environment for
fundraising remains a risk and is not helped by the increasing popularity of individual personal fu]Klraising
initiatives, numerous national TV charity appeals for major charities. the expanding number of smaller
charities and corporate in-house charities. The Management Committee are recruiting new trustees with
digital marketing and social media expertise, as these areas will be a crucial part of our future development to
address these challenges.
anisational Structure
The current 5 trustee membership of the Management Committee are from a variety of professional
backgrounds and experience, they include experience in legal, corporate finance, medical. governance,
con]pany executive management. a Wish parent & long-term supporter and charity management. The
Management Committee met bi-monthly in 2024.
In 2024 a management accountant company, specialising in charities, was engaged to provide the committe¢
with monthly management accounts and at the end of the year took on the work of the departing financial
assistance. This remains under review.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
The committee are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity. The strategic and high-level
decisions are discussed, and their outcomes documented. The charity's new 2025 Strategy will underpin all
that the charity does.
The chief executive in post since 2022 has given a more strategic and developmental focus to the leadership of
the charity at this crucial time.
Related Parties
The charity has no related parties other than the Trustees. key management personnel, their close family
members and any entities in which they have a significant interest.
Ob'ectives and Activities
The Trustees confirm they have complied with the Charities Act 2011 to have regard to the general guidance
issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit.
The company's objects and principal activities are:
To relieve the need of terniinally ill or sick children with life threatening illnesses and in particular to
assist such children to have holidays and/or entertainment. and
To relieve the need of the families of such children.
The main objective during the year was to continue with the provision of Wishes to terminally ill children and
children with life threatening illnesses, between the ages of 4 and 16, within the United Kingdom.
Due to reduced income in 2023 the management committee implemented a cost improvement plan (CIP)
which included a tighter budget for charitable activity. we closed applications for Florida holidays and
overseas Wishes and took the difficult decision to not run a Lapland trip. The number of Wishes granted was
even fewer in 2024 than anticipated. partly due to an unusually high number of applications rejected as the
child had already received a Wish from another Wish provider. The charity worked hard to maintain its
profile and start to return income generation to pre-pandemic levels.
Achievements and performance
The reduced income from fundraising since 2020 has persisted and has impacted on perforniance. W¢ had a
deficit in 2023 which was addressed by our CIP. As a result of those measures the charity has seen this deficit
reduced close to break even. In 2024 the Charity managed to recruit suitably experienced fundraiser8 and the
marketing & communications lead role has bedded in, with the social media presence of the charity
improving. It was recognised in 2024 that fundraising income would be down until the new fundraising team
got up to speed, hence the CIP and reduced charitable activity. The beginning of 2025 has seen a significant
growth in projectcd fundraising activity.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Chari
Outlet
In 2024 we made major unsuccessful efforts to increase the amount of stock received by our Charity Outlet,
which sells brand new donated goods from large retail companies. Despite the hard work by our warelK)use
and shop staff, the further analysis of profit & loss for 2023124 showed only minlmal or no profit. With the
increase in staff costs due in April 2025 the viability of the Outlet and Warehouse was under discussion as we
entered 2025 and its closurc was agreed for summer 2025.
orters
Due to the vacant fundraising posts in 2024 and then new fundraisers getting up to speed in their new posts,
there was less planned fundraising activity in 2024, but there were still supporters participating in marathons
and the arctic trek event. In 2024 we did not have any balls or large social events, but planning was started for
such events in 2025, which would be our J5th Anniversary. Our dedicated supporters continued to attend and
organise 'In Aid Of, events which remained fewer than pre-pandemic. We kept in touch with our supporters,
especially via active use of social media and future events are being organised. In 2024 the supporter
stewardship was addressed but more work is required in this area. Work also started on refreshing our list of
ambassadors and making efforts to recruit new celebrities known to current Wish Children and their families.
Our own or
anised events
In December 2024 we organised the annual Santa Run in Edinburgh. We did not organise any (rther "in-
house" major fundraising events in 2024, although we did provide places on several other third-paty events.
Several large fundraising events are planned for 2025.
Wishes
In 2024 we completed our last pre-booked overseas holidays. These were Wishes to Florida, most staying at
our Villa. and several holidays in Europe, including Disneyland Paris. The Charity's Wish Portal continued to
work well, efficiently processing the Wish applications. The portal opened once a month and closed when 10
Wishes had been accepted, thus controlling the demand. The number of UK based bespoke Wishes increased;
going to shows in London, visiting Harry Potter World, safari park stays, UK based theme parks and much
more. A maximum budget was set for each Wish. This helped with the best use of resources, the best value for
money, and an increased number of Wishes granted. Th¢ budget is reviewed annually and can be exceeded
only in exceptional circumstances with trustee approval. As part of the CIP the decision had already been
made to temporarily restrict new applications to Wishes within the UK only from Mid 2024. Pr&planned
Wishes outside th¢ UK still took place and 2 European Wishes wer¢ deferred until early 2025 for medral
reasons.
Unfortunately. a larger number of Wish applications were rejected due to the child already having received a
Wish from another UK Wish charity. This is part of long-standing partnership working to make our work
equitable. This meant that fewer Wishes were granted in 2024 than had been intended. Many Wish requests
were for experiences that could not take place until 2025. This affected charitable spend for 2024. as overseas
Wishes are paid for in advance, but UK ones mostly result in costs being incurred closer to the date of the
Wish experience. Wish expenditure should be higher again in 2025.
A few "Red" Wishes, for very sick children approaching end of life, were completed in 2024 with specific
trustee approval. These were very rewarding and some of the most magical experiences.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Grou
Wishes
Treats
In 2024 we again offered several UK based group treats. Such as special cinema screenings, a group trip to
Alton Towers and a series of Santa Express train trips.
Due to costs and logistical issues, it was decided to suspend the annual trips to Lapland and rec(mmence in
December 2025. These flights have always been the charity's flagship event and they provided a magical day
visiting Santa, but consolidating our financial situation and reducing expenditure risk was felt essential.
Holida
Pro
erties
In 2024 Hengar Manor in Cornwall, which had not been used for Wishes for some years, was sold to release
capital to support our cash reserves.
Likewise, Alicante Villa had not been used for Wishes for several years, and maintenance costs have
increased. Income from letting had been disappointing. The sale of this property was also completed in 2024.
We completed the sale of one of the charity's two Florida Villa in late 2023 and had some of the withheld IRS
tax money returned in 2024. In recent years, maintenance and necessary refurbisliinents are increasingly
costly and troublesome. With flight and car hire also going up, this makes the costs of US Wish trips
increasingly expensive and diificult to justify for a slngle Wish. The viability and financial cost of retaintng
the remaining villa was reviewed in 2024 and the decision was made to sell that villa also. It was placed on
the market in early 2025.
Financial review
At the end 2024 the Charity had small profit, in effect break-even. The cash released by the property sales
was required to maintain the Free Reserves. This balance was an improvement on the deficit of 2023.
Certainly, unplanned-for legacics also helped. We spent less on charitable activities in 2024 than 2023, but
that had been a deliberate higher Wish spend than previous years.
Overall charitable activity expenditure in 2024 was slightly below expected. This was due to careful budgeting
of Wishes, not accepting overseas Wishes and suspending Lapland trips. Direct Wish expenditure was still 90
/0 of that in 2023.
Over the past 4 years covering the cash reserves have been maintained. In the past 3 y¢ars there was
significant spending on the Florida Villas and funding structural reorganisation. In 2023, the first full year of
more normal charitable activity since the pandemic, we saw income generation only slowly improving. This
slow growth has continued in 2024 and has still not returned to 2018119 levels. This was due to difficulty
recruiting fundraising staff and the continuing challenges of fundraising for small charities. These issues are
being addressed and 2025 promises to be a year of regeneration.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Princi
al Fundin
Sources
The charity's funding is mostly reliant on various fundraising events and donations received from businesses,
and individuals. We have additional income from Grants and legacies.
The retail outlet income helped a little in 2023 but was at a loss for 2024 if all management costs were taken
into account. As a result, the decision was taken to pursue the closure of the retail outlet and warehouse in
2025.
In 2024 the number and value of legacies received was very good, double that in 2023. We ar¢ so grateful to
those generous supporters who felt us worthy of being beneficiaries in their wills. We thank them and
remember them. These extra funds do make a difference. Working with specialist organisations we have
increased the promise of future legacies.
Grant applications have not been very successful in recent years as the charity is not seen as providing a front-
line service and it does not spend on major charitable projects. To improve this, the charity will emphasise
more how it helps the mental and physical well-being of Wish children and their familles. A specialised grant
application company has been engaged to improve grant application success.
Wish Makin
Polic
Our Wish Making Policy iemains the same. The Management Committee usually aims for us to consider all
requests received for wishes, provided they fall within the objects of the charity, but it is not always possible
to grant the first Wish requested. In mid 2024 the restrictions on Wish holidays to Europe & Florida was
reinstated. A new budget cap was set for each individual Wish, with Trustee discretion to approve Wishes
over that cost, based on ¢xc¢ptionality. In 2025 these restrictions will probably stay whilst we reassess the
situation and consider new options for providing overseas experiences and holidays, possibly in partnership
with other Wish charities.
We ale one of a few Wish charities that offer bespoke Wishes and not just a menu of restricted options. There
have been additional benefits to concentrating on UK based Wishes. They can take place closer to, or evcn
during, the time of active hospital treatment, where as foreign holidays are usually up top 18 months after. The
Wish experiences are even more personal to the Wish child and can be embellished to make the event even
more memorable. The charity receives heart felt feedback for such Wishes and the charity staff find them most
rewarding.
Investment Polic
Due to the nature of the charity's objects, the Management Committee consider it vital that funds are available
at short notic¢ to grant wishes for the children. Consequently, the charity retains approximately 8 % of funds in
instant access accounts. The iemainder is held in short notice deposit accounts, and these funds can be
accessed instantly, subject to loss of interest. The return on investment for the cash deposit has remained
consistent in 2024.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Over the past 25 years. the charity had invested in properties, which are used in the provision of Wishes
granted to sick children. In the past some have been let-out when they are not in use for Wishes, to bring in
additional funds. The Management Committee considered each property acquisition for its potential as a
sound financial investment, as well as for its ability to furnish Wishes. This situation changed in the past 5
years and the policy to have investment properties was reversed in 2022, with the decision made to *ll off
some of our properties. One Florida villa was sold in early 2023 whilst continuing to use the otherfor granting
Florida Holiday Wishes but not taking private bookings. We then agreed to sell Hengar Manor and Alicante
Villa, which happened in 2024. In 2024 the continued possession of our remaining Florida Villa was
discussed, and it was agreed to also sell that. This was put on the market in early 2025. Monies released will
be held in higher interest accounts and, if required, used to maintain charitable activity whilst income
generation improves. Currently there is no intention to return to investment in property ownership. The
removal of properties will be a net saving due to the complete cessation of ever-increasing property
managemenL utility, insurance and maintenance costs.
Reserves Polic
This policy was revised in 2022 and should now read that Free Reserves are required:
to provide funds which can be designated to specific projects to enable these
projects to be undertaken at short notice.
b)
to cover administration fund raising and support costs without which the charity
could not function.
to provide funds for the maintenance of properties at home and abroad to facilitate
the provision of various wishes.
d)
To cover expenditure, especially on charitable activities, in circumstances that result
in sudden loss of income.
Free Reserves Policy claiise c) will be reviewed in 2025 if we do sell the remaining property.
To avoid the necessity of realising fixed assets held for the charity's use, the Management Committee
considered it prudent that free reserves should be sufficient..
to cover one year's administration and fund raising and support costs.
to provide a pool equal to 25 % of the average charitable expenditure over the preceding
years from which funds can be designated to promised Wishes and specific proj¢cts.
b)
This Reserves Policy will be fully reviewed on an annual basis.
These considerations for the reserves have be¢n on hold due to the pandemic and the new main consideration
has been to maintain cash in hand of £600,000.
This revised Free Reserves Policy was agreed at the 2023 AGM.
Regarding net income, 2024 saw the charity return a break-even balance of £2,195 profit, compared with a
significant deficit of £208,946 in 2023. The deficit and increased Wish expenditure in 2023 had been planned
as was a return to break-even in 2024. It is planned that 2025 will see a growth in income and in charitable
activity spend.
The value of Net Current Assets at the end of December 2024 rose from £850,724 to £1,062,572. An increase
of £212K. The Restricted Funds remained the same at £16K, having made efforts to avoid restrictions on
donations, if possible, in 2024.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
The level of free reserve and cash flow are monitored regularly by the Management Committee.
The Charity's total funds have stabilised, having slipped to £1.56m in 2022 and £1.36m in 2023, it h&s now
risen slightly in 2024 and the total funds are now £1.36m.
Plans for future periods
It is certain that 2025 will remain difficult for fundraising due to the on-going economic climate and the
changes in charitable giving. Further improvement in the stewardship of supporters and past Wish families is
still required. The Management Committee remains committed in supporting the Fundraisers Team in its
efforts to raise funds via corporate and community SUPPOrters, grants and the promotion of th¢ charity. Our
new CEO who commences in June 2025 has a very strong background in fundraising and will re-invigorate
our fundraising strategy.
Oiir 2020 3-year strategy, which ran longer due to the pandemic, has resulted in significant structural and
governance changes. The new 2025 Strategy has had its implementation postponed until the new CEO takes
up post. Although several actions within the draft have already been actioned due to the move to new
premises, which was made essential when our long-standing Head Office was sold and the future there
became very uncertain. The new office is modern, efficient and cheaper to run. The move also meant the
review of the retail outlet was essential and resulted in the decision to close it.
The new offIce will have improved IT and the new company, ¢ngaged for IT support will continue helping. IT
hardware has been rationalised and updated where essential, with further upgrades as funds allow. For
management accounts an external provider was engaged and progress on financial data entry and reporting has
been made, but this remains under review.
The 2024 Cost Improvement Plan (CIP) saw several rationalisations of expenditure and budgets set for
charitable activity- The work on expanding income streams is continuing to increase grants and corFX)rate
partnerships. It is planned that a single Lapland Trip will take place in December 2025 and funding for this
has already been agreed.
So, there are several planned developments for the charity in 2025. new more cost-effective premises, closing
the unprofitable retail outlet, engaging with more large fundraising events, more focused work on grant
applicatlons and recriiiting a new CEO with significant fundraising experience. It is therefore anticipated that
income generation will improve in 2025.
The charity now has its intended number of fundraising staff and other staff in supporting functions as well as
a Wish coordinator who works with the charity founder in processing and planning the Wishcs. It is intended
to add additional adtninistrative support to that small team.
The new office will have improved IT and the new company, engaged for IT support will continue helping. IT
hardware has been rationalised and updated where essential, with further upgrades as funds allow. For
tnanagcm¢nt accounts an external provider was engaged and progress on financial data entry and reporting has
been made, but thÈs remains under review.

WHEN YOU WISH UPOIY A STAR
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT)
(CONTIINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
The 2024 Cost Improvement Plan (CIP) saw several rationalisations of expenditure and budgets set for
charitable actlvlty. The work on expanding income streams is continiiing to increase grants and corwrate
partnerships. It is planned that a single Lapland Trip will take place in December 2025 and funding for this
has already been agreed.
So, there ale several planned developments for the charity in 2025- new more cost-effective premises, closing
the unprofitable retail outlet, engaging with more large fundraising events, more focused work on grdnt
applications and recruiting a new CEO with significant fundraising experience. It is therefore anticipated tliat
income generation will improv¢ in 2025.
The charity now has its intended number of fundraising staff and other staff in supporting functions as well as
a Wish coordinator who works with the charity founder in processing and planning the Wishes. It is intended
to add additional administrative support to that sinall team.
In 2024 one new Trustee joined us, and a further 2 prospective trustees have been recruited since who should
take up post at the 2025 AGM. A further person with a finance background is under active consideration. It is
also intended to recruit a trustee from Scotland, where our Scotland office is doing extremely well, they are
registered as a charity in Scotland.
The Management Committee will continue to monitor expenditure and ensure that charitable activity spend
returns to reflecting the concurrent income. The expenditure and value for money of Wishes granted will be
more tightly controlled, with every effort made to not lose the magic of the Wish experiences. They will
continue to scrutinise staff costs and ofyice expenditure. All events will require approved budget plans with
close monitoring of expenditure and accurate recording of the resulting income.
The property expenditure costs will reduce following the sale of the charity's property. The final villa in
Florida is being sold in 2025.
The additional cash released by the sale of property will. if required be used to fund a greater number of UK
only Wishes at a reduced individual cost. This will be reviewed and could reopen to overseas if income
allows, but not in 2025.
Structure? governance and management
The charity is a company limit¢d by guarantee.

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
MANAGEMEI NT COMIVllTTEE REPORT UNCLUDINC DIRECTORSI REPORT)
(CONTINUEI D)
FOR THE YEAR EI¥DED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Responsibilities of the Management Committee
The trustees (who are also directors of When You Wish Upon a Star for the purposes of coinpany law) are
responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law
and United Kingdom Accounting Standaiyls (Unifrd Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true
and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and awlication of
It50urces, including the income and expenditure of the charitable company for that period. In PiEparing these
financial ststements, the trustees aiE required to:
select suitsble accounting policies and then apply them consistently.
observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP 2015 (FRS 102).
make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and p￿dent.
state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material
departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements.
prepaiE the financial statements on the going concei'n basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that
the charitable company will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that di5cIDse with reasonable accuracy at
any time the financial position of the charitable Company and enable them to ensure that the fInancial
statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the
charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other
in'egulai'itics.
In so far as the trustees are aware: there is no relevant audit inforniation of whtch the charitable company's
auditor5 aiE unawai'e: and the trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves
aware of any relevant audit inforniation and to establish that the auditors are aware of that infoi-tnation.
The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the co￿Orate and financial information
included on the charitable company's website. Legislation in the United Kingdorn governing the preparation
and dissemination of financial statements tnay differ from legislation in other jul-isdictions.
Auditor
In a¢coi'dance with the cornpany's articles. a resoliition proposing that UHY Hacker Young be iEappointed as
auditoi- of th¢ company will be put at a General Meeting.
The Management Committee report was approved by the Board of Managernent Coinmitee.
Dr T Mills- Chair
Date..
io-

UHY
UHY Ha¢k•r Y•vng LLP
14 Park Row
Nottingham NGI 6GR
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MANAGEMENT COMMITEE OF WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of When You Wish Upon a Star (the charitable company charity,)
for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet.
the statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies.
The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United
Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting
Standard applicable ip7 the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting
Practice).
In our opinion, the financial statements..
give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of
its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended.
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting
Practice. and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and
Truste¢ Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and regulation 8 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland)
Regulations 2006 (as amended), and the Charities Act 2011.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAS (UK)) and
applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities
for the audit of thefinancial slatements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance
with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the
FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these
requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to wovide a
basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Manag¢m¢nt Committee use of the going
concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to cvents or
condltions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a
going conccin foi a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for
issue.
Our rcsponsibilities and the responsibilities of the Management Commitee with respect to going concern are
described in the relevant sections of this report.

UHY
UHY Ha¢k•rYoung LLP
14 Park Row
Nottingham NGI 6GR
INDEPENDEIYT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MANAGEMENT COMMITEE OF WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
Other information
The other informatlon comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financtal
statements and our auditor's report thereon. The Management Commitee are responsible for the other
information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the
other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to
read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent
with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be
materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsisteii¢ies or apparent material misstatements, we are
required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves.
If, based on the work we have perfomied, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this (*her
information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Matters on which we are required to report by exceptAon
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and
Reports) Regulations 2008 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) require us to
report to you if, in our opinion..
the inforination given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the
Management Committee report. or
sufficient and prop¢r accounting records have not been kept. or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting r¢cords' or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of Management Commitee
As explained more fully in the statement of Management Committee responsibilities, the Management
Commitee, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law. are responsible for the
preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such
internal control as the Management Commitee detem]ine is necessary to enable th¢ preparation of financial
stat¢m¢nts that are free from material misstateinent, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial
statements, the Manag¢ment Commitee are responsible for assessing the charity's ability to continue as a
going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of
accounting unless the Management Commitee either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease
operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
12-

UHY
UHY Ha¢k•rYoung LLP
14 Park Row
Nottingham NGI 6GR
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MANAGEMENT COMMITEE OF WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
Auditor's responsibilities for the audit ofthe finaneial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free
from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our
opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit condiicted in
accordance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements Can arise
from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be
expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Based on our understanding of the charitable company and the industry in which it operates, we identified that
the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to the acts by the charitable company,
which were contrary to applicable laws and regulations including fraud, and we considered the extent to which
non-compliance inight have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and
regulations that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial statements such as the Companies Act
2006. We evaluated management's incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial
statements (including the risk of override of controls), and determined that the principal risks were related to
misappropriation of funds in addition to the classification of costs between Cost of raising funds and charitable
activities.
Audit procedures performed incliided:
agreeing a sample of donations and sales to the bank and/or source documentation.
recalculating the apportionment of expenditure between charitable activities and the cost of raising
funds;
enquiries of management and testing of journals. evaluating whether there was evidence of bias by the
trustees that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud; and
evaluating the appropriateness of valuations and classification of properties.
The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.
There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and the further removed non-
compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements,
the less likely we would become aware of it. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to
fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate
concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council's w¢bsite at:
https://www.frc.org.uklauditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of
Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the
charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no
other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone
other than the charitable company and the charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for
this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
13

UHY
UHY Ha¢k•rYoung LLP
14 Park Row
Nottingham NGI 6GR
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MANAGEMENT COMMITEE OF WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
UHY Hackeryoung
11106 ILOLS
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
UHY Hacker Young is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for
appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
14-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
Total Unrestrieted Restricted
funds
funds
2023
2023
Total
2024
2023
Notes
owments fr
Income
Donations and
legacies
Other trading
activities
Investment income
and interest
Other income
952,940
48,819 1,001,759
617,002
89,187
706,189
213,006
213,006
250,753
250,753
26,230
34,404
26,230
34,404
21,129
90,533
21,129
90,533
Total income
1,226,580
48,819 1,275,399
979,417
89,187 1,068,604
Raising funds
562,536
562,536
510,188
510,188
Charitable
activities
661,849
48.819
710,668
663,576
188,737
852,313
Total expenditure
1,224,385
48,819 1,273,204
1,173,764
188,737 1,362,501
15

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED)
INCLUDIING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
Total Unrestrieted Restricted
funds
funds
2023
2023
Total
2024
2023
Notes
Gross transfers
between funds
Net incoming/(outgoing)
resourees
166,078
(166,078)
2,195
2,195
(28,269) (265,628) (293,897)
Other recognised gains and losses
Revaluation of
tangible fixed
assets
13
83,951
83,951
Net movement in funds
2,195
2,195
55,682
(265,628) (209,946)
Fund balances at I
January 2024
1,339.037
16,000 1,355,037
1,283,355
281,628 1,564,983
Fund balanees at 31
December 2024
1,341,232
16,000 1,357,232
1,339,037
16,000 1,355,037
At the balance sheet date all income and expenditure was derived from continuing activities, however as noted
in the trustees report the trustees have since made the decision to close the outlet store in 2025.
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure
account under the Companies Act 2006.
16

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT31 DEI CEMBER2024
2024
2023
Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
Investment property
14
15
294,660
381,613
122,700
294,660
504,313
Current assets
Stocks
Debtors
Investments
Cash at bank and in hand
16
17
18
29,767
100,503
593,214
397,057
35,155
199,566
723,764
1,120,541
958,485
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
19
(57,969)
(107,761)
Net CUlTent assets
1,062,572
850,724
Total assets less current liabilities
1,357.232
1,355,037
Income funds
Restricted funds
Genei'al unrestricted funds
Revaluation reserve
21
22
16,000
1,227,419
113,813
16,000
1,225,224
113,813
1,341,232
1,339,037
1,357.232
1,355,037
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act
2006 with respect to accoiinting records and the preparation of financial statements.
Tliese 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 Management Commitee on ... i a
Di. T Mills- Chair
Trustee
Company registration number 03280440
17-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
2024
2023
Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from/(absorbed by)
operations
27
7,794
(412.412)
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed
assets
Proceeds from disposal of investment
property
Purchase of current investments
Investment income received
(508)
(2,804)
110,291
254,913
122,700
(593,214)
26,230
21,129
Net cash (used in)Igenerated from
investing activities
(334,501)
273,238
Net cash used in financing a¢tivities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(326,707)
(139,174)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
723,764
862,938
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
397,057
723,764
18

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Accounting policies
Charity information
When You Wish Upon a Star is a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England &
Wales. In the event of the entity being wound up the members are required to contribute an amount not
exceeding £10. The address of the registered office is given in the legal and administrative information
in these financial statements. The nature of the charity's operations and principal activity is to provide
wishes for terminally ill children or children with life threatening illnesses.
1.1 Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011, the Companies
Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland)
Regulations 2006 (as amended), 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 I
January 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
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, modified to include
the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial
instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2 Going concern
The charity is still recovcring from the effects of the Coronavirus Pandemic on th¢ charity's work from
early in 2020 until the end of 2022. Th¢ Management Committee took mitigating actions, during 2020 &
2021, and followed a pandemic recovery plan throiighout 2022, under which the charity reduced staff
costs, charitabl¢ activity and other expenditure. Not only did the pandemic have a tnajor impact on
fundraising and charitable activity, but the continued effects of Brexit, and then the conflict in Ukraine,
inhibited post-pandemic economic recovery in the UK. This held back the planned regrowth of the
Charity. The reduced income from fundraising since the pandemic years has persisted and has impacted
on pcrformance.
In spring 2024, on reviewing our financ¢s, we have implemented a cost-improvement-plan as a start to
moving to a sustainable plan for the control of exp¢nditure and improving income. This included tight
management of Wish costs and income based on fundraising rather than Icgaci¢s, which cannot be relied
upon.
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The trustees have considered the
level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for at least 12 months from
authorising these financial statements and believe that the charity remains in a sustainable position to be
able to continue as a going concern.
1.3 Charitable funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the Management Commitee in furtherance of
their charitable objectives.
19

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Accounting policies
(Continued)
Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The cost of
raising and administrating such funds are charged against the specific fund. The purposes and uses of the
restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
1.4 Income
All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial activities, when the charity is entitled
to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific
policies are applied to particular categories of income.
Voluntary income is received by way of donations and gifts and is included in full in the Statement of
Financial Activities when receivable.
The trustees recognise the significant Contribution made by volunteers, including service orgartisations,
who give freely of their time. It is not practical to place a value on this contribution.
Other income, including rental income and interest receivable is included in the Statement of Financial
Activities account on receipt.
Legacies are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities at the point at which the charity is
entitled to the funds and the current value to the charity can be reliably measured.
Donations in kind are included in the Statement of Financial Activities as income and associated
expenditure where there is demonstrable financial cost borne by the donor and the current value to the
charity can be reliably measured.
Gift aid claimed is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities upon receipt and not at the time of
the donation attracting the gift aid.
1.5 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis, as a liability is incurred. Expenditure is therefore
recognised when th¢r¢ 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 includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered and
is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates.
Costs of generating funds comprise tE]e costs associated with attracting voluntary income.
Charitable expenditure Comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and
services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such services and
those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them.
Support costs include olTice costs, governance costs and administrative payroll costs. Where support
costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to cost of raising funds
and expenditure on charitable activities on a basis consistent with use of resources. Premises overheads
have been allocated on an apportionment basis and other overheads on a usage basis or percentage of
staff time.
-20-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.6 Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of
depreciation and any impairment losses.
Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over
their useful lives on the following bases:
Freehold land and buildings
Fixtures and fittings
Motor vehicles
47 years straight line
25 % straight line
25 % straight line
Land and buildings are valued at market value as detailed in note 14 to the financial statements.
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the ￿lIe
proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.
1.7 Investment property
Investment property, which is property held to earn rentals andlor for capital appreciation, is initially
recognised at cost, which includes the purchase cost and any directly attributable expenditure.
Subsequently it is measured at fair value at the reporting end date. The surplus or deficit on revaluation
is recognised in the statement of financial activities.
1.8 Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine
whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairn]ent loss. If any such indication
exists. the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in ord¢r to determine the extent of the
impaimient loss (if any).
1.9 Stocks
Stocks are clothing and goods used in furtherance of the charity's objectives as part of fundraising events
rather than for the purposes of resale. Stock held by the charity is therefor¢ recorded at cost, after due
regard for obsolete and slow-moving items. Items donated for resale are not included in the financial
statements until they are sold at which point income is r¢cognis¢d.
Net realisable value is th¢ estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be
incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.
1.10 Cash and cash eqllivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand and deposits held at call with banks. Where deposits are
made for a tertn greater than 90 days, these are shown as current asset investments..
21

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.11 Financial instruments
The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section I I '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 statements,
when there is a legally enforceable 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.
Bosicfinaneial assels
Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are measured at transaction
price including transaction costs. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not
amortised.
Basicfinancial liabililies
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors are initially recognised at transaction price. Financial
liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cosL using the effective interest rate mcthod.
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.
1.12 Taxation
The charity is an exempt charity within the meaning of schedule 3 of the Charities Act 2011 and is
considered to pass the tests set out in Paragraph I Schedule 6 Finance Act 2010 and therefore meets the
definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes.
1.13 Employee benefIts
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's services
are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably
committed to terniinate the employment of an employee or to provide temiination benefits.
1.14 Leases
Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives received, charged as an
expense on a straight lin¢ basis over the temi of the relevant lease.
1.15 Foreign exchange
Transactions in currencies other than pounds sterling are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing at
the dates of the transactions. At each reporting end date, monetary assets and liabilities that are
denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the reporting end date. Gains
and losses arising on translation in the period are included in profIt or loss.
22-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.16 Government grants
Government grants are recognised at the fair value of the asset received or receivable when there is
reasonable assurance that the grant conditions will be met and the grants will be received.
A grant that specifies performance conditions is recognised in income when the performance conditions
are met. Where a grant does not specify performance conditions it is recognised in income when the
proceeds are received or receivable. A grant received before the recognition criteria are satisfied is
recognised as a liability.
Critical accounting estimates and judgements
In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the Management Commitee 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 th¢ revision and future periods where the revision affects both curent and
future periods.
The Trustees consider the following to be key estimates..
23-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Critical accounting estimates 2nd judgements
(Continued)
Property Valuation
At the year end the Charity holds one property- the property is held for wish children and is classified as
land and buildings.
The property held in land and buildings is carried in the accounts based upon desktop valuations
obtained from professional estate agents in May 2024. The trustees believe the property held this value
at the 31 Deceinber 2024 and the property is recognised at this value, less any depreciation.
Valuations by their very nature do not involve a physical inspection of the properties and so are based
upon certain assumptions in arriving at an estimated value. See note 14 for further detail.
-24-

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WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Other trading activities
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
Fundraising events
Shop income
75,939
137,067
68,595
182,158
Other trading activities
213,006
250,753
Income from other trading activities of £213,006 (2023: £250,753) was wholly attributable to
unrestricted funds.
Income from investments
2024
2023
Rental income
Interest receivable
7,761
13,368
26,230
26,230
21,129
Investment income and bank interest of £26,230 (2023: £21,129) was wholly attributable to unrestri¢t¢d
funds.
Other income
2024
2023
Net gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets
34,404
90,533
The net gain on disposal of fixed assets of £34,404 (2023.. £90.533) was wholly attributable to
unrestricted funds.
28-

WHEN YOU WtSH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS {CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Expenditure on raising funds
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
Fundraising and publicity
Governance Costs
Staging fundraising events
Advertising
Other fundraising costs
Support costs
17,004
19,342
6,564
6,870
512,756
8,051
22,248
6,696
6,179
467,Ol4
562,536
510,188
Expenditure on charitable a¢tivities
Charitable Charitable
Activities
Activities
2024
2023
Direct costs
Wishes
283,381
375,000
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Support
Governance
360,268
67,019
458,528
18,785
710,668
852,313
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
661,849
48,819
663,576
188,737
710,668
852,313
-29-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Support costs
Support Governance
costs
costs
2024 Support costs Governance
costs
2023
Staff costs
Depreciation
Sundry
Computer &
Software
Rates
Motor & Travel
Telephone
Printing, Post &
Stationery
Property
Maintenance
Insurance
Equipment Rental
Rent
Bank Charges
545,240
11,574
7,849
545,240
11,574
7,849
573,738
18,100
9,418
573,738
18,100
9,418
94,050
19,410
15,920
40,174
94,050
19,410
15,920
40,174
70,609
23,025
14,065
41,806
70,609
23,025
14,065
41,806
2,641
2,641
7,461
7,461
36,997
11,249
6,799
66,135
14,986
36,997
11,249
6,799
66,135
14,986
57,881
11,725
6,784
80,389
10,541
57,881
11,725
6,784
80,389
10,541
Audit fees
Legal and
professional
11,550
11,550
11,450
11,450
72,473
72,473
15,386
15,386
873,024
84,023
957,047
925,542
26,836
952,378
Analysed between
Fundraising
Charitable
activities
512,756
17,004
529,760
467,014
8,051
475,065
360,268
67.019
427,287
458,528
18.785
477,313
873,024
84,023
957,047
925,542
26,836
952,378
Governance costs includes payments to the auditors of £11,550 (2023- £11,450) for audit fees.
Costs have been apportioned on a Consistent basis using employees roles.
10 Net movement in funds
2024
2023
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the audit of the charity's financial statements
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
Profit on disposal of tangible fixed &ssets
11,550
11,574
(34,404)
11,447
18,100
(90,533)
30-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
11 Employees
The average monthly number of employees during the year was:
2024
Number
2023
Number
17
19
Employment costs
2024
2023
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs
Recruitment and training
478,501
38,454
13,187
15,098
505,765
37,666
14,885
15,422
545,240
573,738
No members of the Management Committee received any remuneration during the year. The
Management Committee had £12,415 (2023: £28,046) of expenses reimbursed during the year.
No other trustee or other person related to the charity had any personal interest in any contract or
transaction entered into by the charity during the year.
The total amount of employee benefits received by key management personnel is £137,996 (2023:
£139,594). The trustees consider the key management personnel to comprise the Chief Executive
Officer, General Manager, Deputy Manager and Fundraising Manager.
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
12 Taxation
The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or
section 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its
charitable objects.
31

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
13 Revaluation of fixed assets
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
Brought forward at l January 2024
Revaluation
Disposal of revalued properties
113,813
57,864
83,951
(28,002)
Carried fonvard at 31 December 2024
113,813
113,813
14 Tangible fixed assets
Frtehold 18rt11
and buildings
Fixtures Motor vthi¢les
ritting$
TotAI
Cost or valuation
At l January 2024
Additions
Disposals
364,715
53,140
508
16,794
434,649
508
(80,000)
(80,000)
At 31 December 2024
284,715
53,648
16,794
355,157
Depreciation and impairment
At l January 2024
Depreciation charged in the year
Eliminated in respect of disposals
3,830
6,341
(4,113)
36,673
4,168
12,533
1,065
53,036
11,574
(4,113)
At 31 December 2024
6,058
40.841
13,598
60,497
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024
278,657
12,807
3,196
294.660
At 31 December 2023
360,885
16,467
4,261
381,613
-32-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
14 Tangible fixed assets
(Continued)
At the year end, the Charity held one property. This property is in Florida- approximately a 15 minute
drive from Disney World and was exclusively used for the granting of wishes.
The property is classified as land and buildings, and is included in the accounts at valuation less
depreciation.
In 2024, the property was revalued to £284,716 by Stellar MLS, independent valuers not connected with
the charity on the basis of market value. The valuation was based on recent market transactions on arm's
length temis for similar properties.
The Trustees are of the opinion that the carrying values of all properties are a fair reflection of the
current inarket values.
At 31 December 2024 had the revalued assets been carried at historic cost less accumulated depreciation
and accumulated impainnent losses, their carrying amount would have been approximately £121,132
(2023- £125,618).
15 Investment property
2024
Fair value
At l January 2024
Disposals
122,700
(122,700)
At 31 December 2024
16 Stocks
2024
2023
Stock
29,767
35.155
33

WHEN YOU WISH UPONA STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
17 Debtors
2024
2023
Amounts falling due within one year:
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
418
100,085
51,336
148,230
100,503
E99,566
18 Current asset investments
2024
2023
Unlisted investments
593,214
Current asset investments now includes bank deposits which have a maturity date in excess of 90 days.
19 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
Other taxation and social security
Trade creditors
Accruals and deferred income
11,093
25,384
21,492
10,757
48,875
48,129
57,969
107,761
20 Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of
the schcme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.
34-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
21 Restricted funds
The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on
trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be iised.
At l January
2024
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
At31
December
2024
Day in York
Wish Ball
Goldman Sachs
Donations in Kind
15,000
1,000
15,000
1,000
3,968
44.851
(3,968)
(44,851)
16,000
48,819
(48,819)
16,000
Previous year:
At l January
2023
Incoming Resources
resources
expended
Transfers
At31
December
2023
377,474
377,474
Center Parcs
Key 103 Cash for Kids
Arnold Clark- Baking event
Lapland
Donations in Kind for Wishes
Hengar Manor R¢furb
Wishes for Edinburgh
Day in York
Wish Ball
Alton Towers
General Wishes
Head Office Utilities
135,118
12,909
1,000
99,167
33,434
(135,118}
(12.909)
( 1,000)
(99,167)
(76,170)
42,737
5,000
3,000
25,400
5,000
50
3.968
4,032
(i)
(5,000)
(3,000)
(10,400)
15.000
1,000
(4,000)
(50)
(3,968)
(4,032)
281,628
89.187
(188,737) (166,078)
16,000
35-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
21 Restricted funds
(Continued)
The donations in kind funds are donations specifically received for the purpose of granting wishes.
The Day in York funds provided by LNER for a trip to York, with £15k of travel costs support w&th the
LNER network.
The Wish ball fund is comprised of donations received for the purpose of funding the annual Wish ball.
The Goldman Sachs funds are specifically for the purpose of granting wishes.
22 Unrestricted funds
The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which
are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include
designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific
purposes.
At l January
2024
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
Gains and
losses
At31
December
2024
General funds
Revaluation
reserve
1,225,224
1,226,580 (1,224,385)
1,227,419
113,813
113,813
Previous year: At l January
2023
Incoming Resources
resources
expended
Transfers
Gains and
losses
At31
December
2023
General funds
Revaluation
reserve
1,253,493
979,417 (1,173,764)
166,078
1,225,224
29,862
83,951
113,813
36-

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WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
24 Operating lease commitments
Lessee
At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments
under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows=
2024
2023
Within one year
Between two and five years
16,782
18,425
20,146
35,207
35,207
55,353
25 Events after the reporting date
As noted in the Trustees report, after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are
approved, the trustees have made the decision that the outlet store will be closed.
On 7th March 2025 the Charity entered into a 5 year lease agreement for the new head office premises at
a cost of £29,000 per annum, with a break clause in 2028.
26 Related party transactions
Transactions with related parties
During the year the charity entered into the following transactions with related parties:
Members of the Management Committee were reimbursed £12,415 of expenses in the year (2023..
£28,046).
38-

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
27 Cash generated from operations
2024
2023
Surplus/(deficit) for the year
2,195
(293,897)
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities
Gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
(26,230)
(34,404}
11,574
(21,129)
(90,533)
18,100
Movements in working capital..
Decrease in stocks
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
(Decrcase)/increase in creditors
5,388
99,063
(49,792)
1,760
(30,425)
3,712
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
7,794
(412,412)
39-