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
pro￿arnMe 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 success￿11Y 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 Com￿￿￿E 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 r￿lty 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 disc￿Ssio￿ 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 pro￿l￿e 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 Inc￿aSe
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 r￿ruIted 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.
R￿ponsIbIlitieS 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 SI￿lfICant 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 pU￿oses. 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 e￿Iner 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