NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM (A company limited by guarantee) REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENrs YEAR EM)ED 31 MARCH 2025 Clwity Number 1062366 Company Number: 03319947 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM (A company limited by guarantee)
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR EIYDED 31 MARCH 2025 Contents Page Report of the Management Committee 3-15 Independent Examiners Report 16 Statement of Financial Activities 17 BaIanc¢ Sheet 18 Notes to the financial statements 19-26
NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMEIYT COMMITfEE REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Reference and Administrative Illfonllation Charity Name: Other names the charity is known by: Charity registration number: Company registration number: Registered OITiGe and Operational address: National Rural Touring Forum NRTF 1062366 3319947 Good Life Hub. Orchard Barn, Manor Farni Barns, Newbury HilI. Hamstead Norreys. RGI 8 OTR Trustees and Directors Tom Speight John Laidlaw Barbara Tremewan Chris Bridgman Emyr Bell Elizabeth Freestone Lindsay Higgins Hannah PrÉor Nicola Pollard Sita Brand Claire Marshall Kerry Bartlet Daniel Peddler Chair Resigned June 2024 Appointed June 2024 Appointed June 2024 Compally secretary (I)ay to day management) Holly tA)mbardo (Director Only) Names of observers Paul Kaynes, Arts Council Englan SE Peter Grcgory. Arts Council Wales & Night Out Independent Examiner Mrs M Hutchings, Apsleys Chartered Accountants. 21 Bampton StreeL Tiverton, Devo EXI 6 6AA Bankers Barclays Bank pl¢. 1-3 Broad Stree( Hereford, HR4 9BH
NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMENT COMMrrtEE RKPORT YEAR EIYDED 31 MARCH 2025 The trustees present their report and the financial statements of the clwity for the year ended 31 March 2025. Thc trustees have adopted the provisions of thc Ststement of Recommended Prdcticc (SORP) "Accounting and Reporting by Charities" (FRS 102) in prcparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity. Objectives and Activities: Summary of the objects of the charity National Rurdl Touring Forum is a charitable company limited by guarantee and set up on 18 February 1997. It is governed by a memorandum and articles of association. Its objects are to foster and promote public education in the arts tlm)ugh the maintetwlce. improvement and development of knowledge, understanding, appreciation of, and participation in. the arts. in particular at rurdl and local neighbourhood levels throughout the United Kingdom. Summary of the main activities in relation to th(KSe objects. NRTF Mission To lead on and underpin a diverse. sustainable. and collaborative comrnunity sector that delivers dynamic, high quality cultural perforniances. enhances wellbein& and provides equal opportunity for people living in rural and satellite areas. IYRTF Values Leadership - Playing a leading role in the creative sector to drive growth and equality principles that result in positive cultural change. Resilience & Relevance- driving sectoral stability and development and reacting and responding to cultural change. Quality, Innovation & Ambition- learning from evidence to take calculated risks and make innovative business decisions. Diversity & Inclusivity- generating and enabling the widest possible rdnge of voices and perspectives. Social Impact- measuring impact of work which brings wider positive and meaning[ benefit to society. Collaboration & Dynamism - cultivating collaborations and partnerships which enhance, empower and respond to sector challenges. Environmental Sustainability- maximising opportunity through initiatives that reduce carbon footprint and improve sustainability- An Environmental Sustainability Forum was establishe meeting every 6 weeks to share good practice and innovation. NRTF is also preparing to host a Sustainability Summit during the annual confercnce to set sector-wide goals and celebrate success stories. NRTF Aims Each of the 4 aims is underpinned by several key objectives. which are measurable and time relevant. Aim I: NRTF will support rnral touring and creative communities to be coIlabordtive and resilient, ensuring it has the appropriatc expertise to meet th¢ir ¢volving needs. To support th¢ Icaders of organisations in realising their ambitions.
NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MAIYAGEMEIYT COMMIrrEE REPORT (CONTINUKD) YEAREIWED 31 MARCII 2025 Aim 2: NRTF will explore and understand the needs of the sector by using quality data to promote inclusivity. equality and a diverse range of voice& cultural content and Ining that is reflective of the UKS diverse population. Aim 3: NRTF will demonstrate sectorial impact through effective research and analysis, the evidence of which has a share of voice at national policy and communications level. Aim 4: NRTF will be an influential, ambitious and innovative organisation which is fit for purpose in delivering against its mission. Delivery of AinLg Delivery will be undertaken by concentrating on 5 areas of activity: Membership- to benefit. support and communicate effectively with rnembers. NRTF invested in new data tools and commissioned analysts to track sector needs and impacL ensuring that organisational strategy remains evidence-led. Future Interventions- to lead in the Rural Touring sector. to plan and to enable work and projects. Social Impact- to research, to think ambitiously, to explore partnerships, to benefit the rural ecology. Organisation - to ensure NRTF is well run, well led. and that it works fairly and properly. Finance- to be sound fmancially and to look for opportimities to increase income where necessary. Public benefit: National Rural Touring Forum exists to deliver high quality art experiences that strengthen rural and other communities: NRTF Research project CONCERTA (Contributing to Community Enhancement through Rural Touring Arts) show English schemes promote over 2500 events per year. These are distributed across 1.000 venues. Over the last five years. English schemes have jointly delivered 9,500 events to audiences numbering just over 700,000. Annual average audiences per event sit at a highly consistent 70 to 80- person annual average. The UK approach to rural touring shows what the independent arts sector, public authoritics and communities can achieve by working togcther. it is a model of good practice and value for money in the contemporary arts world. The trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission Guidance on Public Benefit and believe this is achieved via the Charity's objectives and activitics.
NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMEIYT COMMrrrEE REPORT (coNfINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Achievements and Perforniance: Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year National Rurdl Touring Forum (NRTF) networks develops and supports the ecosystem that delivers high-quality creative experiences across communitics and'rtfdl are&8 in the UK. NRTF aims to strengthen and support rural populations to bring professional work to their venues. NRTF regularly consults with the sector. the findings of which directly inforni the organisation's key priority areas. Through consultation it charts and champions nationwide impacL shares national and regional achievements and good news, and identifies shared sectoral challenges for which it advocatcs to policymakers and other infiuential stakehold¢rs. NRTF and its members do not underestimate rural audiences. Funding for the arts is still a city-centri issue. trnvelling to large towns and cities to see productions can be time and financially prohibitive. There are social barriers to some who don't feel as comfortable in larger culturnl institutions. Access to the arts is important for everyone in society. It is important to the sector that wrnmunities have meaningful engagements with the arts by participating or seein& high quality and Énnovative perfomiances. Achievements of NRTF'S year, listed below, focus on areas in the business plan that continue the strategic and developmental role that the orgallisation is playing in delivering a dynamic thriving rural and community touring sector. These address the areas for development identified in the business plan and underline our recognition that the rural touring network consists of several key constituents including touring schemes, voluntary promoters, small scale venues, festivals, librarie% in and outdoor community spaces, perforn]ing companies and artists and organisations that support touring arts. n+J 2022 NRTF was successful in securing increased investment as an Investment Principal Support Organisation (IPSO), from Arts Council England in the current funding round. The new funding round began in April 2023. In the last two rounds of funding as an NPO we received £88.176 a year. In this round 2023 - 2027, we are being awarded £154.000. Annual Conference The National Rural Touring Forum (Tr4RTF) Confcrencc 2024. titled Articulate. took place in Blackpool in partnership with lancashire's Rural Touring Scheme, Culturapedia. This year's conference explored the language we use to communicate the value and impact of rural tourin& providing a packed 48-hour proarnMe of talks, showcases, discussion& and networking opportunities. The event brought together 135 attendee4 including artists, promote funders, and international delegates. Seven high-quality artist showcases were presented, ranging from dance to Music and theatre, including Inscribed in Me by Alethia Antonia and Daughter of a Dictator by Yasmeen Audisho Ghrawi. Four emerging artists were also selccted for Ballyhoo slots, offering dynamic, five-minute pitches of new work. The conference also featured workshops on access and networkin& panel discussions on environmental sustainability and rural touring for young audiences, and keynote talks from Kim Macari and Darren Pritchard.
NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMEiYr coiwrrrEE REPORT (CONfiNUED) YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The event demonstrated NRIF'S commitment to supporting diverse voices, sector developmenL and inclusivity, with £11,881 invested in artistic content and five fulI artist bursaries awarded. The conference generated an estimated £33.499 for the Blackpool economy and provided space for reflection and innovation within the rnral touring sector. Feedback highlighted the need to better communicat¢ NRIF'S advocacy work on behalf of its members. a priority that will bc embedded into future events. With prepardtions already underway for the 2025 conference in Newbury, including an updated programming resource for members, Articulate success11Y reinforced the conference's role as a national platfonn for collaboratio learnin& and showcasing rural touring excellence. NRTF aspires to be bold in the following areas: High-quality professional arts experiences suited to local needs and interests Fair partnerships between cornmunitie& organisations, artists, and public bodies Creative diversity in artistic programming and among our audiences Creative innovation in art practice. managemenL and policy Maintaining and developing our unique relationship with thousands of community volunteers Developing an appropriate mindset for NRTF'S role as a strategic and national leader Rural Touring Dance Initialive NRTF joined forces with The Place. Take Art and China Plate back in 2015 to deliver the Rural Touring Dance Initiative (RTDD. This innovative proj¢cL funded by Arts Council England, is helping to increase the quality¥ quantity and diversity of dance promoted by Rurdl Touring schemes all over the county. So far, the project has worked with 40 companies, promoting 140 shows to just under 13,000 audience members. RTDI was an important and highly beneficial strategic intervention into rural touring of dance. It built on, and made the best of the existing infrastructure 0£ Touring Schernes and promoters and systematically addressed the remaining gaps in dance provision in areas. RTDI epitomises the strategic approach that was behind the introduction of the Strategic Touring programme RTDI started its third iteration mid 2022 with a new projcct Icad from The Place ndOn. The New partners were made up of The Place. NRTF. Take ArL Sonia Sabri Dance and Highlights Rural Touring. The first Artists IAb of this project was held in North Wales and brought together dance artists from the menu, producers, the RTDI & F4RIF Teams. RID12024-2025 Summary- The third iteration of the Rural Touring DaDCC Initiative (RTDD supported 8 artists through the RTDI LAb, providing online training and rnentoring for pmducers and scheme representatives, promoting innovative, high-quality dance work across rural venues.
NATIONAL RtIRAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMEwf ComE REPORT (CONTIIWED) YEAR KIWED 31 MARCH 2025 Rura( Press Agency The Rural Press Agency is a tsilorcd PR and media support service for NRTF members. providing affordable access to professional press and communications expertise. 2024125 was its pilot year and it attracted strong interest from venues. touring companic4 and artists, delivering successful campaigns such as press release writing. media strategy sessions, and targeted promotion of members, work. Member feedback has been very positive. and we anticipate the Agency becoming a profit-maklng service in 2025126 as take-up increases. Sector Networks NRTF continued strategic partnerships with What Next? Campaign for The Arts. Culture Health and Wellbeing Alliance, Rural England and Rural ServAces Network. These alliances enabled us to represent rural touring within policy conversations and fostered joint exploration of future funding and advocacy priorities. Artistic Partnershi Edinburgh Fringe Presentation NRTF attendance at Edinburgh Fringe is aimed at improving voluntary promoter confLdence in booking a diverse programme of work. raising the profile of rurnl touring at the Edinburgh Fringe professional development sessions, and introducing more diverse and interesting work to the rural touring circuit. Each year, NRTF hosts a free Introduction to Rural Touring event for perforniers, LX)mpanies and producers. It provides a great opportunity for artists to hear from the rural touring sector and to find out if rural touring is for them. In 2024 NRTF teamed up with World Fringe to deliver evening networking with the two sectors, who shared similar passioDS and recognition for similarities in the sectors. City vs Rural touring: What does it look like in rlty and is it an option for your next show? 9 August 2024 There is a big difference between perforniing on the rural touring circuit and in Black Box or urban theatres. Join the National Rural Touring Forum and guests to find out what thc nuances are and what makes touring so magical. This is your opportunity to hear directly how to get involved. Host: Holly Payton-IA)mbardo - WorId Fringe & National Rural Touring Forum Confirnied Panel.. Kate LJTrch - Highlights Rural Tourin& Dawn Badland - Applause Rural Tourin& Adam J. K. Potrykus and Carnlel Clavin - Nordic Fringe Network & Stockholm Fringe Festival Who's it for: This event is for Fringe artists and industy professionals who are looking to tour beyond the FrÉnge. Why should l attend? To develop your knowledge of touring opportunities and to make professional connections.
NATIONAL RIYRAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMENT COMMIrrKE REPORT (CONfINUED) YEARENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Brighton Fringe Presentation NRTF appeared as part of the Brighton Fringe Professional Development Academy. It foGuses on how to engage with Rural Touring and the nuanced differences to touring in urban spaces. NRTF ran a Q&A in partnership with World Fringe, House Network and Edinburgh Fringe to support artists to understand touring opportunities within Rural Touring Sector. 10 May 2024 Communications Website NRTF moved its websits onto a short-tenn 501ution platform. It has rebuilt functionality and useability for the members and wider sector. A comprehensive developrnent plan is being implemented and a anew WordPress site is being built. The website is successfully operating and giying the members the required needs, resources and updates. Social Media NRTF continues to use its newsletter and social media channels to keep our membership and the wider rural touring sector infonned, connected, and engagd. Our Marketing Coordinator leads on content creation and schedulin& ensuring that communications remain relevant, accessible. and targeted to different audiences. The monthly NRIF Newsletter remains a key source of inforniation, sharing sector news, funding opportunities. upcoming eventy and artist call-outs directly., with members. In the past year, we have made strategic updates to our social media approach. We have transitioned from X (fornierly Twitter) to Bluesky as our primary platfornl for real-time updates, news, and sector opportunities, responding to the changing landscape of social media. Facebook continues to be used to promote scheme news and share events happening across the rural touring network. Instagram remains an essential tool for connccting with artists, highlighting crcative worK arfd promoting artist opportunities. We also. launched an NRTF LinkedIn profile this year. creating a new space to engage with industy professionals. fimders. and partners. Our focus remains on delivering high-quality. engaging content that reflects the diversity. creativity, and impact of rural touring, while ensuring our members and sector partners feel infonned and connected. Village Halls Week NRTF teamed up with Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) to celebrdte and share the benefits of the UK'S village halls. There was good coverage from schemcs. in support of the week and a good partnership with ACRE. Membership NRTF invested in new data tools and commissioned analysts to trnck sector needs and impaGL ensuring that organisational strategy remains evidence-led.
10 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM IAIYAGEMENT COTrtMTrrEE REPORT (coiYfINUED) YEAR EIXDED 31 MARCH 2025 NRTF are well connected to a passionate netwo of artists, perforniers. venues. promoters, schemes and.partners across the UK who all benefit from our work Our network is made up of pro-active, sustainability-focused individuals who live rurally and dedicate their time and energy into bringing culturdl experiences to their local are4 providing culture and entertainment integral to strengthening rural communities. Our volunteer-led schemcs revitalise village halls and community centres, bringing joy and a eater scnsc of belonging and community spirit to the are& Measuring success: Through our relationship with Arts Council England. we are monitored quarterly and measure and record the outputs we achieve against the SMART targets in our 4-year business plan to demonstrate our progress towards our charitable aims. We gather qualitative data on our outcom¢s by gathering feedback from partners and beneficiaries we work with and case study interviews with Individuals involved in our work with communities. The case studies included below help describe the out¢om¢s we have achieved through our work with communities most recently. Member Benefits include trainin& inforniation, and networking. advice and resources. innovative worL partnerships, and commissions" research and advocacy; grant schemes and conference discounts. Training NRTF has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to enhancing the skills and capacities of its members and tbe broader rural touring sector through a series of targeted trdining and development initiatives: Media Training Initiatives Recognising the pivotal role of effective public relations in amplifying the reach and impact of rural tourin& NRTF organised a What Next? Rural session on October 1, 2024, titled PR and Media - Raising the Profile of Rural Touring. This session convened experts, including NRIF'S PR and Media Manager, Dickie Felton. journalist Laura Davies, and author Nicola Chester. to provide insights into securing media coverage tailored to the unique context of nwdl touring. Discussions encompasscd strategxes for engaging with local media outlets, adapting to the evolving media landscape, and effectively communicating the value of rural arts initiatives. Resource development for Artists In August 2024. NRTF issued an open tender inviting members to reirnagine the "Eycs Wide Open" guide, a comprehensive rcsource aimed at assisting artists. companies, and promoters intcrested in touring work to rural and community venues. Originally published in 2008, this initiative seeks to update the guide to reflect the current landscape of rurnl tourin& incorpordting diverse perspectives and contemporary bcst practices.
11 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMENf COMNiYrrEE REPORT (coNfINUED) YEAREIYDED 31 MARCH 2025 Language and Data Workshops Addressing aspects of communication and data Utilisatio NRTF hosted a "What Next? Rural" conversation on April 25, 2024, focusing on 'knguage and Data." Speakers Kim Macari and Jeremy Spafford led discussions on the influence of language in shaping understanding within the cultural sector and the importance of meaningful data collection. The session provided members with strategies to cnhanc£ there communication practices and leverage data effectively for advocacy and reporting purposes. Through these initiatives. NRTF continues to empower its members and the wider rural touring community by providing essential training and resources that address the evolving needs of the seGtor. Advocacy and Communications NRTF led high-level negotiation5 with ACE, securing a sector-wide exemption from mandatory audience feedback forn]s on Arts Council England's Illuminate platforni. This policy change directly responded to sector concerns around capacity and mental health, championed consistently by NRTF as core to sustaining the wellbeing of those working in publicly funded arts. Recognising a gap in access to effective press and media representation, where matnstream PR agencies often failed to address rt needs, NRTF innovatively established an in-house PR function. strategically designed to reflect and amplify the values of the touring movemenL This bespoke approach to communications will deliver media naryatives and raise the proffle of nwal touring worL Regular media engagemenL bi-weekly PR meeting& and participation in Campaign for the Arts and What Next? Leadership meetings ensured that rural voices were heard within the national trends. Strategic leadership signÉfLcantly advanced advocacy and communication4 leading tran5forn]ative impact across the RT sector. Demonstrating a commitment to keepxng the sector infornied on governmental developments. NRTF Director joined a group conveTsation of those attending the Labour Paty Conference. which erAabled the members to gain timely insights on cultural and nwal policy discussions and up to date with political discSsio policy shifts and the evolving political landscape. NRIF keeps up to date with the wider national networL across members,'stakeh0lde and cultural partners, to support these outcomes. As a national networL NRTF reviews collective voice to frame arguments, and strategically position the organisation at the forefront of cultural conversation, which has lcd to meaningful influcncc at both the gr&ssroots and national Icvcls. bcncfitting the entire NRTF membership. Member DropIns NRTF also launched a Sector Support FonEm, providing a structured space for leadership development and collaboration among sector representatives.
12 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMENT COMMITfEE REPORT (coiYfINUED) YEAR Ef4DED 31 MARCH 2025 From February through to November. the first Tuesday of every month. NRTF Members are invited to drop in on Zoom and ask any questions face to (virtual) face. IYRTF Open Spaces These will be more inforn]al sessions specifically for topics and issues facing artists, promoters and schemes, individually. We hold titled meetings for each group to bring their questions for discussion. Scheme Meeting- Birniingham 2025 The 2025 NRTF Scheme Meeting took place in BRrn]ingham. providing a vital opportunity for Rural Touring Scheme managers and staff from across the UK to come together. This focused gathering allows space for pccr learning, sector updates, and meaningfuI discussions on shared challenges and opportunities facing rurdl touring. The meeting offers a chance to shape the direction of NRTF'S worL exchange ideas. and strengthen relationships across the network. As always, the Scheme Meeting is designed to be a supportive space for honest conversations. Collaboratio and practical knowledge- sharing to support the growth and resilience of the rural touring sector. Environmental Sustaxnability An Environmental Sustainability Forum was established, meeting every 6 weeks to share good practice and innovation. NRTF is also preparing to host a Sustainability Summit during the annual conference to set sector-wide goals and celebrate success stories. The National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF) has taken active steps to embed environmental sustainability across its operations. in alignment with Arts Council England's Investment Principle of Environmental Responsibility. As outlined in NRTF'S 2025 Environmental Action Pla the organisation is committed to reducing its environmental impacL SUPPOrting its members to do the same, and promoting sustainability within the rural touring sector. Key actions include developing policies on sustainable travel, events. and resource use, with targets such as reducing business travel emissions by 10 % over three years and ensuring 900/0 of communications are digital. NRTF is also integrating environmental themes into its programming and otTering training, rcsources, and data tools (in collaboration with Julie's Bicycle) to support members in their own sustainability efforts. Governance structures have been strengthened by appointing a Board- level Environmental Champion and establishing annual environmental perforniance reporting to ensure accountability and continuous improvement. Professional DevelopmenL Inclusion, and Equality Throuth the Go and See Grants as part of the RTDI programme. NRTF awarded ndIng to artists and organisations. Visits to member Schemes, such as Beaford Arts, Spot On. Black County Touring, LILO, Villages in Action, and Take Art provided valuable insight into diverse progrdmmin& enhancing the sector's creative confidence.
13 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMENT co1[r[EE REPORT (coffflNUED) YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 NRTF continues to invest in professional development opportunities for schemes, artists, and promoters, ensuring that the rural touring sector is supported to grow in confidence, capacity, and inclusivity. Alongside ongoing bursaries for Go-sees, conference access grants, and financial support to reduce barriers to participation. NRTF delivered an ambitious prole of training and mentoring in 2024125. This included online and in-person sessions on data collection, environmental sustainability, inclusive practice, and innovative touring models, as well as sector-wide workshops on acccss riders and inclusive policy dcveloprnent. In support of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). NRTFS work is guided by a dedicated EDI Policy and a quarterly EDI subgroup that feeds directly into programme and event design. Recent initiatives have included developing a white-label policy bank to support schemes in adopting consistenL equitable policies, redesigning NRTF'S communications with an accessibility focus, and embedding inclusive practice within the annual conference. where artists with protected characteristics are prioritised in programming. NRTF recognises the need to reflect the diversity of British society across its board, membership. and prowming. This includes measures to make all events accessible. considerntion of neurodivergence, disability, gender, cultural, and religious Inclusio and strategic work to diversify the Board itself. In its role as an IPSO (Investment Principles Support Organisation). NRTF continues to share toolki resources, and case studies to support the sector in progrdmming more diverse worL promoting inclusive leadership. and using data effectively to understand and respond.to sector needs. Key developments for the organisation Since 2022 NRTF has been on a path of development and growth, which has required investment to increase staff capacity, and therefore company overheads, to effectively reach a broader network. NRTF wants to expand quality output for a rnore resilienL diverse and sustainable nnl touring sector and has reco[sed the need to increase our team expertise to do this effectively. The board of NRTF remained stable during 2024125 with trustees representing the touring scheme, voluntary promoter and producer and artist sectors. Financial Review It is tbe policy of the Charity to maintain unrestricted fund4 which are thei free reserves of the Charity, at a level which equates to appmximatcly six months of unrcstricted expenditure. This provides sufficient funds to cover rnanagcment administration and support costs. The charity did not increase its reserves this year but plans to include this years amount in 2025126 and continue a year-on-year IncaSe over the next 2 years of the IPSO.
14 NATIONAL RI]RAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMENf COMMITTEE REPORT (coNfINUKD) YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 This is the eleventh year as an NPO (National Portfolio Organisation) of the Arts Council England. The Charity received its twelfth NPO grant from Arts Council England receiving £154.308 (2023124 £154.308. 2022123 £88.176. 2021122 £88,176, 2020121 £88.176, 2019120 £86.583. 2018119 £85,583, 2017118 £86,583, 2016117 £86.583. 2015116 £86.583, 2014115 £86,583, 2013114 £86,233, 2012113 £86,000)- Membership fees for the year totalled £21.173. The Charity is not reliant on donations. NRIF invested in new data tools and commissioned analysts to track sector needs and impact, ensuring that organisational strategy remains evidence-led. During 2024125 NRTF rruIted a freelance Fundraising manager Oob sha) to explore further income avenues. Strueture, Governance and Management: Governin document: The organisation is a Gharitsble company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 18 February 1997 and registered as a charity on 14 May 1997. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. Trustee selection methods: New Trustees are presented at the Annual Generdl Meeting in accordance with the tern]s laid down in NRTF'S Memorandum and Articles of Association. This board of management are the trustees of the Charity. Decisions are made by the board of management at quarterly meetings. The board of management reports on work undertaken, future and present financial accounts to the membership at the Annual Gcneral Meeting. No more than 14 and not less than 6 persons may be elected. One third of the trustccs must retire from office at each AGM. The members to retire shall be those longest in oifice since their last election. These members are eligible for re-election. Additional overnance issues: Board member stepping down pernianently this year Eli7abeth Freestone, Producer and Director has been on the board for 8 ycars. We want to that Elizabeth both for her hard worL guidance and energy for the rural touring sector and NRTF - particularly in the area of Sustsinability and HR The following members, as longest standing members of the board. are stepping down and are to be re- clected: John Laidlaw- Live & LocaE Barbara Tr¢mewan- Promoter, Cornwall
15 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM MANAGEMENf COMTrtrrrEE REPORT (cowfINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Board Meetings In Autumn 2024. NRTF held Away Days for scheme representatives and board members. These gatherings fostered strategic thinkin& relationship-buildin& and reinforced NR!F's role as a convener of leadership development. Four full board meetings were held during tbe year 2024125. In addition. subgroup meetings were held between board meetings as needed. A Board Away Day was held in Birniingham. Jan 2024 to discuss the a 10 year vision and the structure of FtRTF. This report has been prepared taking advautage of the stnall ¢ompally exemptioll of Section 41.5A of the Companies Act 2006. This report was approved by the Board on ......... by . and signed on their behalf Tom Speight (Chair) .
16 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER*S REPORT TO THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE ON THE UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the company for the year cndcd 31 March 2025 which are set out on pages 17 to 26. RponsIbIlitieS and basis of report As the charity trustees of the company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordancc with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act,). Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the company are not required to bc audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examinatio I report in respect of my examination of your company's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act,). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act. Independent examiner's statement Since the company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirnl that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accoulltants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed my examination. I confirni that no matters bave 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 company as required by section 386 of the 2006 the accounts do not accord with those records; or the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view, which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination: or the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statcmcnt of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charitics prcparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be eache Mrs M Hutchings Apsleys Chartered Accountants 21 Bampton Street Tiverton Devoll Date:
17 NATIONIIL RIIRAL TOURING FORUM STATEIVIENT OF FINANCIAL AcfIvITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AM) EXPE]NDITURE ACCOUNT) YEIIR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 2025 2024 RestrÉcted Unrestricted funds funds Notes Total funds Total funds Income Grants receivable from government and other public bodies 158,408 158,408 155,448 Investment income Income from trading activities: Trading activities within the objects Membership fees Total income 812 812 651 63,995 30.050 21.173 210,443 94,045 21,173 274,438 82,143 18259 256,501 63,995 Expenditure Grants payable Other direct charitable expenditure Management of the charity Administration of the charity Total expenditure 12.181 82.000 104,228 6,310 204,719 12,181 160,103 104,228 6,310 282,822 9,459 84,995 97,804 4,952 197210 78,103 78,103 Net incomel(expenditure) for the year (14.108) 5.724 (8,384) 59291 Transfers Net movement in funds (14.108) 5.724 (8,384) 59,291 Funds b/f at l April 2024 Funds clf at 31 March 2025 29.095 14987 115.120 120,844 144,215 135,831 84,924 144215
18 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM BALANCE SHEET 31 MARCH 2025 Notes 2025 2024 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Amounts falling due within one year Cash at bank and in hand 5.039 141,346 146,385 4.366 144,068 148,434 CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year NET CURRENT ASSETS 10,554 135,831 4,219 144,215 Represented by FUNDS Restricted Unrestricted TOTAL FufiDS 14,987 I20,844 135,831 29,095 115,120 144,215 For the year ending 31 March 2025 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. Directors, responsibilities: the members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476" the dircctors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts. These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies, rcgirne. The financial staternents were approved and authorised f by the Management Committee on ..-.. .. -- . r issue and si]ed on its om Speight (Chair) Director Company registration number 03319947 The notes on pages 19 to 26 forni part of these financial statements.
19 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORISM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Summary of significant accounting policies (a) General information and basis of preparation National Rural Touring Forum is a private company limited by guarantee and docs not have a share capital. The cornpany is registered charity in England within the United Kingdom. In the event of being wound up. the liability in respect of the guardntee is limited to £1 per D]ember of the charity. The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defmed by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities". Statement of Recommended Prartice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applithle in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014 (as updated through Update Bulletin I published on 2 February 2016). the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and UK G¢n¢rnlly Accepted Accounting Practice. The fmancial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity and rounded to the nearest £. The SIlfICant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these ffftancial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated. (b) Funds Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the genernl objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for other purposes. Restricted funds are fLmds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the charity for particular pUoses. The cost of raising and (c) Income recognition All incoming resources are included in the Statcment of Financial.Activities (SOFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any pcrforniance conditions have bccn met, the amount can bc measured reliably and it is probablc that the income will be reccivcd. No amount is included in the fmancial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP (FRS 102). Income from trading activities includes income earned from fundraising events and trading activities to raise funds for the charity. Income is received in exchange for supplying goods and services in ordcr to ralse funds and is recognised when entitlement has occurred.
20 NATIONAL RllllAL TOURING FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATETrtENTS YEAR EfqDED 31 MARCH 2025 Income from government and other grdnts are recognised at fair value when the charity has cntitlement after any perfornuncc conditions have been meL it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be rneasured lIablY. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred. (d) Expenditure recognition All expenditure is accounted for on an accn]als basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is rccognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required and the amount of the obIigation can be measured reliably. It is categorised under the following headings: Grdnts payable" Expenditure on charitable activities Management of the charity. and Administration of the charity. Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure arose. Grants payable to third parties a within the charitable objectives. Where unconditional grants are offered, this is accrued as soon as the recipient is notified of the granl as this gives rise to a reasonable expectation that the recipient will receive the grants. Where grants are conditional relating to perfornlance then the grant is only accrued when any unfulfilled conditions are outside of the control of the charity. (e) Cash Cash and cash equivalents are basic financial assets and include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-ternl liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. and bank overdrafts. (Q Debtors and creditors receivable I payable within one year Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impairnient are recognised in expenditure. (g) Tax 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 it meets the dcfinition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. (h) Going concern 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 concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
21 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENrs YEAR EM)ED 31 MARCH 2025 Net movement in funds Net movement in funds is stated after.chargiog: 2025 2024 Amounts paid to eIner for: The preparation of the financial statements Indcpendent examination 1,098 952 1.428 Debtors 2025 2024 Trade debtors Prepayments Other debtors 2.538 1.680 821 3,050 495 821 4.366 Creditors 2025 2024 Trade creditors Accruals Tax and social securities Other Creditors 6,225 2.300 1,585 444 1,609 2,200 410 Directors remunerntion 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Peusion costs 91,850 2,687 2,013 90,157 1,983 1,879 94,019 Average nurnbcr of employecs There are no cmployees with emoluments above £60.000. The charity operates a defined contribution scheme for the employee. The costs for the year was £2,013 (2024 £1,879).
22 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEIVIENrs YEAREIYDED 31 MARCH 2025 Grants paid to Anstitutions Profe55ional Development CPD Conference Bursaries Scheme Moeting Sector Training Neurodiversity Sector Training Away Day Total CPD 2025 2024 2,976 2,820 1.234 870 4.076 7.052 4,924 Edinburgh/ Brighton Village Hall Highlights Cheshire Live & Local Artsreach Spot On Lancashire Theatre Orchard ArtERY Villages in Action Carn to Cove Arts at the Old Fire Station Applause Take Art Edinburgh Village Hall The Mill Total Edinbllrgl Brighton 400 400 285 400 1,950 400 400 400 300 400 490 55 30 400 2220 300 15 800 19 5,129 4,535 Total Grants Awarded 12,181 9,459 Restricted funds 2025 2024 RTD13 Balance at l April 2024 Contributed Income Less Direct Charitable expenditure RTD13 Balance at 31 hfarch 2025 29,095 63,995 (78.103) 14,987 9,049 62.510 (42,464) 29,095 Total Restricted funds at 31 st March 2025
NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR EIYDED 31 MARCH 2025 Unr&stricted funds 2025 2024 Balance at l April 2024 Surplus for the year Transfer Balance at 31 March 2025 115,120 5,724 75.875 39,245 120,844 115.120 Analysis of net assets between funds Restricted Unrestricted funds funds Total 2025 Funds balances at 31 March 2025 are represented by: Current assets Current liabilities 14,987 131,398 (10,554) 120 844 146,385 (10,554 135 831 10. Related party transactiolls No officials of the Charity were remunerated for their services. 11. ManageD]ent committee members remuneration alld expenses Nil remuneration was paid to committee members for the year ended 31 March 2025 (2024: Nil). £1,153 expenses were reimbursed to committee members for the year ended 31 March 2025 (2024". £1,775).
NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM NOTES TO THE FINIINCIAL STATEMENrs YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 INCOME AM) EXPENDrruRE ACCOUNT 2025 2024 Income Grant Income= Arts Council England NPO Access to Worf( Equality Diversity Jnclusion 154,308 4,100 154,308 1.140 158.408 155.448 Total Grant Income 158,408 155,448 RTDI (3) Contributed and Earned Income Unrestricted Income Earned Income: Membership Fees Trading actlVLties within the objects: Bank Interest Conference Buxton Schernes The Place contribution to costs 63,995 62.510 21.173 18259 812 21,561 4,500 651 14,758 RTDI (3) 4,875 Training Fees Donations Other Total Unrestricted Income 489 3.500 52,035 38,543 Total Earned and Contributed Income 116,030 101,053 Balance carried forward 274,438 256501
25 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM 2025 2024 Balallce BF 274,438 256,501 Restricted Funds: RTDI (3) Total expenditure 78,103 42.464 78,103 42,464 Total Restricted funds 78,103 Unrestricted Funds: Grants able: Edinburgh Village Hall Professional Development Grants Away Day Conference Bursaries Total 4.535 4,924 4,829 4,376 2,976 12,181 9.459 Other direct charitable activi Conference 56,049 8,000 2.472 31,060 8,000 2,481 990 RTDI (3) Advocacy Digital Resources Research and Development Dance Project Marketing Resources Village Halls Week Resources Project Seed Funding Rural Press Agency Education and outreach costs Sustainability Audit Total 602 350 438 1,000 7,669 4,000 1.420 82,000 42.531 Mana ement of the chari Finances Staff Salary/ Taxl NV Pension Staff Travel Governance/ Board Meetingsl Trnvev Subsistence Staff CPD and Membership CommunicationslAdmin Manager Insurdnces Project Manager Staffing Costs (Tr4D Fundraising Total 10,956 57.497 4,963 4.088 3,656 11.273 870 Jo,000 41539 4,843 4.454 2,141 23.162 942 5,450 4,273 2,687 8,238 104,228 97.804
26 NATIONAL RURAL TOURING FORUM 2025 2024 Administration of the chari Printing Postagc Stationery, Office Costs Web Desi Hostingj Maintenance Accoulltancy Fees Total 812 1460 3.038 1.623 455 2,874 6,310 4.952 Total unrestricted 204.719 154,746 Total expenditure 282.822 197,210 Excess of income over expenditure