Charity Registration No. 1065021 Company Ragistration No. 03389496 (England and Walès) MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY for DEAF PEOPLE MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Patron Lord Salisbury Trustees MrAndrew Goodwin ITreasurerl Mrs Elaine McDonald (Chairl Mrs Jennifer Jones-Gray Mr David Reader MrJohn Rowson Ms Danyella Johnston Mr Barry Avison (Appointed 4 November 20251 (Appointed 8 July 20251 Charity number 1065021 Company number 03389496 Registered ¢ffi¢e Queens Drive Retsil Park Wesl Derby Liverpool L13 ODJ Audllor Mitchell Charlesworth {Auditl Limited Suites C,D,E, & F 14th Floor The Plaza 100 Old Hall Street Liverpool L3 9QJ Bankers Natwest Bank PLC 2-8 Church Street Livtrrpool L1 38G Flagstone 1st Floor Clareville House 26-27 Oxendon Street London SW1Y 4EL MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE CONTENTS Paga Chairman's ststement Trustees. report 3-13 Stslemenl of Iruslees, responsibilities 14 Independent auditorfs report 15-17 statement of financial activities 18-19 Balance sheet 20 Statement of eash flows 21 Notes lo the financial statements 22-37 MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE CHAIR'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 11 gives me great pleasure to present this year's annual report and lo reflect on the impact our teams and volunteers have had on improving lives, reducing isolation and connecting our communities. The Board is acLJtely aware of the so¢ial isolation people with hearing loss experience and the impact on mental health,. and once again our frontline teams and social clubs have facilitated a wide range of accessible activities and experiences from family events and coffee mornings to IT training and Deaf football fans enjoying tours and events. As a charity with a majority Deaf workforce, MSDP has a unique and vital perspective on national policies that affect Deaf people's access to employment. This year, we responded to the Government's Pathways to Work Green Paper consultation, highlighting the Importan￿ of a welfare and employment system that genuinely understands and meets the needs of Deaf people. Our consultation restKinse drew directly on the lived experience of our staff whom rely on Access to Work IATWI British Sign Language IBSLI Interpreting and communiration support within their job roles. We recognise the vital role of NRCPD registered Interpreters, the importance of Deaf-aware employment support from Job Centres, and the need for clear guidance lo employers on the ways that ATVV can enable Deaf staff lo thrive in the workplace. Al MSDP, we believe that equality for deaf people is not achieved through poliw stat&m&nts alone., il ￿quIreS sustsined ¢ommitmenl, collaboration, and investm8nl in services and the empowerment of all people with hearing loss. Any reforms to ATW and other disability-related benefiis must not disadvantage Deal professionals or young Deaf people entering the workforce. Investment is needed in developing future BSL Tutors and BSL Inlerpreters as both would alleviate an ongoing national workforce shortage and support capable Deaf professionals into employment. Investment in training Deaf lulors also increases access lo the rich language of BSL fostering greater communication within families and improving access to services. Our community engag8mtrnt team champion thg principle that Deaf people must have a direct and m8anngful voice in shaping the sen11￿8 designed for them and are grateful for the continued partnerships with local hospital Irusts and councils across Wirral, Sefton and LiverpcK>l who have shown commitment to really understanding the needs of our communities. One of our proudest achievements of 2025 was the realisalion of the CEO and Board's ambition lo reintroduce a service offer for families of deaf children in Merseyside. We were grateful for seed funding from Forresler Family Trust that enabled us to pilot a family developmsnt offer. Over the course of the year 30 families engaged with our new Servi￿ offer and the Board are continuing to support the proje¢t whilst we look to secure further funding. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the ladies of the Inner Wheel District 18 and Soroplimists International Liverpool for choosing MSDP as their 'charity of the year,. Their fundraising efforts and support in raising deaf awareness are valued and appreciated. Funds raised by the groups have gone directly lo activities for local deaf children and their families. As we look ahead, we remain committed to challenging structural barriers, strengthening partnerships with Deaf-led and wider sector organisations, and ensLJring that we continue trj t￿ate a more inclusive, accessible future for people with hearing loss and their families across our region and beyond. Future plans In the coming year we will continue to further the objectives in OLJr Business Strategy and Plan 2024-2027 to.. Develop MSDP'S position in the local community Increase revenue and develop the organisation Extend the customer base and increase participation in the wider community Enhancè t$chnology to improvè sèrvice d81ivery Undertakè a person-centred approach to all s8rvic8 provision Ensuring our spaces are fit for purpose.. MSDP'S Queen's Drive building is requiring increasing amounts of maintenance and Spa￿ is not effectively utilised. As part of due diligence, Trustees will be conducting an options appraisal on all premises and community spaces that we either own or hire. This will ensure that we are able lo maintain our offer of vital corllmunily space for our beneficiaries and social groups. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE CHAIR'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 D•v•lopln9 gur p••pl•: Wo WLII contsnuts to dcvclop our pcoplc. particularfy rotogni4ring tho nc*od for 6UGCgPKlgn planning. We will be working wth Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to explo￿ routes for developing future Deaf tutors a8 we ar8 awara of a skills shortage nationally. Emboddlng dlgltal transformatlon We have made considerable progress in embedding digital transformation across the charity. irnplementing a range of modem digitsl systems,. induding client m8nag&m8nt systèms, leaming management tools, digital HR platforms, and expanded use of Microsoft Teams which has improved efficiency and coll8boralion. As we ￿)ntinue to matLsre digitally, oui focus now shifts lo strengthening our digital capability, ensuring cLsntinuous improvement in how w& adopt and use technology. Lookn'ng an8ad. we will 81$0 explore how our teams may ethically and responsibly use arbficial inlellKJence in their day-to-day roles, guided by emerging best pra¢tic& in th¢ charity $8ctor and onsurin9 use of such innovations align with GDPR legislatson. our values and duty of care. Growing our w¥i¢•$ to moot the changing needs of our communiti Our prioiity remains on gxpanding our emerging family seNice for de8f child￿n. which wg now aim to grow into Btainabla, long-tgmi offgr, alongsido grwng our cgmrnunity OLrtr•ach g•rvic• #ftd eon*did*ting our aLrthority contracts Pr•gepilng the hlstory of MSDP To preserve and ¢el$brate the history of MSDP and the tiverpool Deaf Community. we have agreed to donate our film archive lo the North West Film Archive for digitisation. ensuring that the story of Merseyside's Deaf communities is safeguarded and accessible for ￿t￿re generations. Once digitised, the cdlection will be m8de availablè by MSDP. as the copyright lo the films will remain with th& organisation. while the physical rnaterials will be securely sloTed in the North West Film ￿chiVe vaults. Thank youl As always I would like lo thank our Deaf and hard of hearing communty 8nd SOCAal group5 acr058 LNerp¢>)18nd Wirral for their continued tnjsl and support. And finally, MSDP would not be able to delNer services to make the impact that we do. without the skill and detjication of our staff, volunteers. external ¢onsultanls and wilhoul th$ support of individuals an¢J oryanisations that made donations and fvnded our work. From our rx)Ilabor8tive work with NHS Trusts on improving equality of access to our fronttine staff empowering dients to a¢hl&vo 8nd gnloy the ordSnary and extraordinary things in Irf8. we are here to serve you. Elaine McDonald Chalr of Truste MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 The trustees present their annual report and financial slalements for the year ended 30 September 2C>25. The financial slalements have been prepared in accordan￿ with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial ststemenls and comply with the charills Memorandum and Articles of association, the Companies Act 2006 and "A¢¢ounting and Reporting by Charities.. Ststement of Re¢ommended Practice applicable to Charities preparing their accounts in accordan￿ with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021. (effective 1 January 20191. Mission Statement "MSDP working in partnerships. bringing together Deaf and hearing communities to create more a¢Gessible services." "Deaf-De2f, deaf, Hard ofHearing and Deaf-blind The Board of Management, staff and volunteers are committed to upholding the organisalion's core values. The values of MSDP provide the foundation our growth and for the developrnent of services in the future. We are MSDP we are PROUD Professional Respectful Open communication Unique servi￿5 Deaf aware Objectives and activities From the Memorandum of Asso¢iation, the main object of the charity is, in the old-fashioned language'lhe relief of persons who are Deaf, Deaf Blind and hard of hearing I'The beneficiaries°I This is carried out in MSDP through.. Providing environmental aids equipTMenl lo beneficiaries in their own homes to enable them to live independently. These services are available in Wirral and Liverpool. Providing personrt. Understanding Risk Assessment- developing staff skills in identrfying. evaluating, and miligaling risks lo ensure safer decision-making. Warfarln Awar&n•$$ - increasing knowledge of medication risks and warning signs to better support individuals with complex health needs. Confidentiality and Data Breaches- reinforcing best practice around information governance and safe handling of sensitive data. Data Breach Procedures for the Data Protection Officer IDPOI - specialist training to strengthen our organisational complian￿ and incident-response procedures. International Sign Language {ISL} - funded under the Our Liverpool grant., this course has increased the number of staff able to confidently communicate with Deaf migrants in ISL. These training sessions have contributed lo improved practice standards, stronger safeguarding awareness. and a more confident, wo11-8quipped Support Sgrvictrs team. A full review of Safer Recruitment and induction processes was CDmpleted during the year, ensuring that all procedures remain robLJSt, compliant, and aligned with current safeguarding and regulatory siandards. The updated approach reinforces consistenl, high-quality practi￿ across the organisation and supports a safer. more structured transition for new employees entering their roles. Advice and Support Service The team comprises of an Advice and SLJPPOrt Manager, with two Advice and SupFX)rt Officers. All services are delivered in BSL, Intemalional Sign Language and Deaf-blind Tactile Signing Methods. The team provided 1,947 duty sessions of support lo Deaf and Deaf-blind clients this year in Sefton, Liverpool and the Wirral. This is an increase of 340/0 on the previous year. The Servi￿ conb'nues to be a gateway to a large array of mainstream services for isolated Deaf p￿pIe seeking help accessing mainstream services across a wide range ol issues. We have worked closely with Adult Social setvi￿s and Merseyside Police to raise and resolve serious issues affecling some of our most vulnerable clients. The team also lead on the Deaf Migrant Project which has seen an expansion of our work with vulnerable Deaf migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. The funding from Our Liverpool enabl8d the team lo create an online Welcome Pack for Deaf people and professionals working with the target group. Our engagement with the City Council's Multi-Agency Forum IMAFI has opened new referral pathways as well as raising deaf awarene&s. MSDP staff re￿iVed Iraining in International Sign Language, which is an adaptive form of Deaf-to-Deaf Communication that helps facililale understanding regardless of which national sign language people use. This year the team successfvlly supported nine clients with one person securing employment with MSDP in Support Service team. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Environmental Aids department The Environmental Aids department continues to work across Liverpool City and Wi￿al Borough Council areas to assess the needs of clients, installing and repairing equipment where required lo maintsin Independen￿ in their homes. This year our Rehabilitation Officers completed 1,254 home visits lo assess, fit and repair envIr￿Ments1 aids eqLJipment. This is an increase of 14.10 on last year. We have seen a shift in technology with some clients using hearing aids with BluetODth technology that links to a range of household equipment including smart televisions. The team works with local audiDlogy departments to gather referrals and continues to conduct outreach work by holding equipment demonstrations across our region and attending community events. Community EngagemenlTearn As a user led charity we are shaping our user engagement plan to enable our communities lo influence our services. More than 60 /0 of our staff team are dlDeaf, we have dlDeaf Trustees and provide social spaces to the one of the largest Deaf Social Clubs in the country. MSDP'S Community Engagement Manager Janice cOn￿llY Is the Charity's represenlalive al the British Deaf Association's BSL Alliance. feeding in the views of Deaf people in our region. Digit21 Inclusion and IT Development Funding of £8,958 from the VOLA Consortium enabled the completion of a full upgrade of IT equipment in the computer room al Queen's Drive and the installation of dedicated public Wi-Fi in the community room. Introduction to IT classes were initially trialled,. however, Community feedback made clear that Deaf BSL users preferred support focused on understanding and using their own personal devices. This shift resulted in strong engagement, with 45 unique community members accessing the new community broadband hub within the first month of inslallalion. Additional funding from Burbobank supported further digital skills sessions, delivered in partnership with AK Community in Birkenhead. These sessions focussd on essential digital life skills such as accessing online bank a¢wunts and staying safe online to lo¢al Deaf residents. As a result of these projects, Deaf BSL users now have an improved understanding of digital lechndogy and greater confidence using everyday digital tools. Community members have been supported to complete a range of practical digital tasks, including creating an email account. searching for affordable ulilily tariffs, and producing simple posters or documents using Microsoft Offi￿. Extemal Stakeholder Engag&ment The Community Development Team has actively collaborated with a wide range of external partners to improve accessibility, share best practices, and advocate for Deaf BSL users. These meetings have focused on health, safeguarding, information stsndards, and community inclusion. Lo￿lAuthorItieS and Cotsncils Engagement with local authorities focused on improving public information, strengthening accessibility, and representing the needs of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing residents. Key engagements included.. Participation in Sefton Council's Improving Infomiation Forum, providing insight into inclusive communication and public-informalion praCti￿S. Attondancg al tho Liverpool City Coun¢il regional meeting on accessibility, ¢onlributing lo dis¢ussions on accessiblè s8rvica dèlivèry and compliance with accèssibility standards. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Health Sector Collal)oration Partnership work wth NHS and healthcare providers centred on improving Deaf awareness, clinical communication, and equitable access lo interpreting and support serwces. Key activities included.. CollatK>ration with Signalise Co-operative to enhance Deaf awareness across hospital trusts, supporting improvements in frontline communication and patient experien￿. Engagement with the NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group to support the development of a￿SSibIlity-fOcUSed survey work. Joint work with Liverpool Women's Hospital on online interpreter access and participation in the PLACE assessment, informing inclusive patient-experien¢e standards. Discussion with Merseycare to explore improvements in accessibility within mental health and community-based services. Regular participation in Htrallhwalch Liverpool's Community Engagemtrnt Board, ensuring representstion of Deaf community perspectives. CollatKiration with Macmillan Cancer Support to explore improved Can￿r-support pathways for Deaf individuals. Community andA(Ivocacy Partnerships Engagement with community and advocacy partners strengthened awareness, visibility and informed decision-making within the Deaf community. Key inleraclions included.. Delivery of SignHealth's A¢¢essible Information Report directly to the Deaf community, ensuring the findings were accessible and widely understood. Joint work wth Signalise on improving the hospital complaints process for BSL users. Awareness presentations delivered lo Inner Wheel and Rotary Groups, supporting broader public understanding of Deaf culture and communication. Safeguarding and Campaign PartnershNps Safeguarding partnerships supported improved awareness and protection for Deaf children, young people and adults. A joint campaign was delivered with the NSPCC and the Deafness Resource Centre ISI Helens), focusing on online safely, the launch of the 'ln Safe Hands" initiative, and ac￿Ssible webinars for families and professionals. Corporate, Education and Inclusion Partnerships Broader partnership working supported inclusion, community outreach, and equality across multiple sectors. Key highlights included.. AC￿ssIbl11ty collaboration with Livèrpool Fmtball Club, including an awarenass pr8sèntation as part of their community-engagement work. Community engagement with Specsavers, supporting hearing-awareness initiatives. Inclusion-focused engagement with Edge Hill University, promoting accessible leaming environments. Partnership work with LGBTQ+ nett￿orkS and Deafblind UK, strengthening equality, diversity and inlersectional understanding across the region. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Social Media Engagement Our social media channels have been actively used to share BSL-accessible content, promote events, and provide vital infomiation for the Deaf community. Below is a summary of key themes and campaigns.. Community Engagement & Activities Overview Throughout the year, a wide range of events, awareness activities and community initiatives were thlivered lo support Deaf, Deafblind and Hard-of-Hearing individuals and families across Merseyside. Key highlights included.. October Energy bill support information and guidance Children's Halloween celebration Liverpool FC community event featuring former player Peter Beardsley Community consultation on improving gynaecology and maternity services in local hospitals AC￿SSible infomialion on recognising signs of fibromyalgia November Promotion of Ihe Deaf at Work national survey Information session on energy efficiency and Pension Credit Recognition from Inner Wheel District 18. naming MSDP their Charity of the Year Pension Credit awareness supported by the Duty Team December Collaboration wlh Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust ILUHFTI on a survey exploring Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing outpalienl experiences Children's Christmas Party February Participation in Safer Internel Day Promotion of NSPCC safeguarding resources March Ticket giveaway for the Liverpool Legends vs Chelsea Legends match Guided lour of the Royal Liver Building BSL Walking Group session at Calderstones Park Invitations to Liverpool FC community events featuring former players April BSL Walking Group- Birkenhead Park May Deaf-led guided tours al the Museum of Liverpool BSL a￿sSIble lour of Anfield Stadium Attendance at the Liverpool Disabled Supporters Awards ILDSA}. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 June Participation in the Wirral Commitment to Carers Conference Representation at the SEND Local Offer Live event in Liverpool Winter Fuel Payment Scam awareness video delivered in BSL Promotion of family and children's adivities Visit to Aintree Fire Stats'on July Summer Fair for the Community Attendance at the British DeafAsso¢iation Conferen¢e in Leeds Information campaign on support for victims of sexual abuse August BSL Walking Group recommenced for the summer holidays Autism Learning Programme delivered with BSL interpretation Tour of Everton Football Club Production of Hoart Health videos in BSL in partnership wth the NHS North West Coast Clinical Network Sèpt8mb8r 30 Deaf people attended free Heart Health Checks in partnership with Liverpool Heart and Chest and Soroptimisls International LiverFXX)I hosted by MSDP. Deaf children and family trip lo Croxtelh Park Farm Liverpool Deaf Community and Joes Bar MSDP provides a roorn at Queen's Drive for the use of community groups, which includes a bar. 'Joes Bar" funds itself and is run by Liverpool Deaf Community committee with the help of volunteer bar staff. Our weekly timetsble is.. Regular Groups.. Monday Afternoon Community drop in Tuésday Moming Oncè par month." Baby and Toddlar Group lèd by Liverpool Sensory Service Tuesday Afternoon Hard of Hearing Club Wednesday Afternoon Elderly Pensioners Club IEPCI Wednesday Evening Deaf sewing group Thursday Moming Coffee Morning Thursday Afternoon Arts and Crafts sessions including sewing Friday Evening Sports and Social Club Sunday Evening St Vincent's Parish MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Monthly Groups- O¢casionally- Big Bingo Thank you to all the volunteers who continue to work in the bar and the Committee frjr their continued support. Wirral Deafcommunily Wirral Deaf Community continue to meet at AK Community in Birkenhead each Tuesday. We support the community by covering the costs of weekly room hire, arranging presentations on various topics, providing community projects and supporting their fundraising initiatives. Fundraising activities This year we secured £56,747 in grants. We wish to express our gratitude to Garfield Weston for their kind donation to our core costs, The Forrester Family Trust for seed funding a new service offer for deaf children., and Burbobank for funding a pilot of BSL accessible IT sessions for Deaf people with partners AK Community in Birkenhead. Further thanks lo Liverpool City Council's One Liverpool Fund for supporting our work with DeafAsylum Seekers, Migrants and Refugees. We were honoured to be nominated by the fantssti¢ ladies of the Inner Wheel District 18 who ftjndrased tirelessly across the year to raise funds for our family events. The totsl raised was £1,271. Volunteers MSDP has a team of 13 volunteers providing frontline support to our reception, community activities and supporting external events. Volunteers have many reasons for seeking volunteer opportunities. Some may have attended a BSL wurse and wanted to improve their signing skills, others wanted to support the ¢ommLJnity and to Ljse their signing skills to help out in any way they can. In ALJgu8t one of our Deaf volunteers successfully gained employment with our Support Service. Volunteers are placed in different areas within the charity to ensure they get to develop new skills, build on existing ones or simply help others lo participate in their community. Task des¢riptions'. Re￿ption1AdMln Activity co-ordinalorlworker External events support Bar staff on Joe's Members, Bar Partnars Partnerships remain central to how we deliver high-quality services. Together, we have strengthened referral pathways, pursued joint initiatives, and collaborated on funding opportunities. As a sector, recruilmenl for people with specialist BSL skills remains challenging and we are especially grateful to partners who have offered SUPPDrt or advi￿ when needed,. demonstrating the trust, flexibility, and commitment that define our shared work. Thank you to our partnèrs induding", DeafActive Deafness Resource Centre Wirral Society of the Blind and Partially Sighted The Deaf Health Charity SlgnHea￿h Bradbury Fields Deafness Support Network Dèaf Chièf Officérs Group Wirral Health and Wellbeing CIC Well Placed (Liverpool's Health and Wellbeing Strategic Leads Forum) Core 20+5 Wirral MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Financial review Finances for the year remained stable, with several ¢ontrads receiving small but positive uplifts. SLJPPOrt Services performed particularly well, achieving a 10°/o increase in income through uplifts and additional client hours. The charity continues to benefit from a diverse income base that includes training courses, interpreting services, rental of meeting room space, and donations and legacies. Thanks lo the successful launch of BSL Level 4 courses training incorlle exceeded tsrgel by 430/0, ¢xntinuing the strong perfoman¢e seen in 2023124 when sales grew by £13k Compared with the previous year. Demand for BSL Interpreting services also in¢￿ased, delivering 300/0 above the forecasted budget. Sales of e-learning packages remained modest, reflecting the need to balan￿ investment in a sales strategy against the anlicipated return on investment. At present, the charity is not in a financial position to fund a dedicated sales role. Trustees are satisfied with the charity's year-end position. Operationally, a small surplus aligned with the £Sk budget largel was achieved. The overall reduction in funds was expected and is allribulable lo depreciation and mortgage interest. Reserves remain strong, with £355k held in savings gtrnerating 40/0 interest. Strong financial Controls and processes ensured ¢ashflow management remained effective throughout the year without the need to draw on reserves. Trustees are actively exploring ethical investment opportunities, including options such as solar and lorestry-based products. Grant income tolalled £￿k against an £80k target, reflecting the challenging and increasingly competitive funding environment, which is expected lo continue. Inflation remains persistent, although lower than in recent years, and continues to place pressure on both operational and staffing costs. Trustees have identified several key priorities for the year ahead., each aimed at strengthening the ¢harity's operational resilience and supporting sustainable growih.. Maintaining and strengthening Service Level Agreements to ensure continuity of provision of essential services for people with hearing loss and secure the charity's core income streams. Undertaking a Strategic review of staff pay. benefits and condition5, to ensure our employment offer remains fair, competitive and aligned with sector standards. Preparing for expected interest rate reductions in Summer 2026, which are anticipated to lower mortgage costs and support an improved financial outlook. Recruiting a new Business and Operation5 Manager, enabling the CEO lo focus more fully on strategic leadtrrship, partntrrship development and rgvenutr gentrralion. Managing external cost pressures, including increases tD Employer National Insurance and the National Minimum Wage. While these have had a material impact this year, Ihe effect is expected to be moderated by falling energy costs and projected lower interest rates. Implementing the separation of utilities from the ground floor which the charity leases to a Costa franchise, which is expected lo reduce the charity's ulilily expenditure. Thanks to Supporting Organisations We would like lo extend our sincere thanks lo the organisations that supported our projects and ServI￿S this year.. Vola Consortium BLJrbobank Liverpool City Council Wirral Council Sgfton Council Finanryal reserves policy In line with Charity Comrnission guidance, Trustees aim lo hold al least three months of running costs in free reserves, recognising the uncertainly of funding and the need lo ensure service conlinuily. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Accounlabilily The charity complies wth legal and regulatory requirements covering data protection, employment matters (including recruitment, remuneration, discipline and grievan￿1, Income Tax, National Insurance, health and safety, equality, race, gender, and disability. The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks. Structurè. governancè and management Merseyside Society For Deaf People is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. The charity is governed by a memorandum of association, 16 June 1997, Revised and approved by Board and Members of the Deaf Community 31 March 2017 and as amended by special resolution dated 18 March 2025. The company has no share capital, being a company limited by guarantee. The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of cofflpany law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial stslements were.. MrAndrew Goodwin ITreasurerl Mrs Elaine McDonald (Chairl Mrs Jennifer Jones-Gray Mr David Reader MrJohn Rowson Ms Danyella Johnston Mr Barry Avison (Appointed 4 Novernber 20251 (Appointed 8 July 20251 The Trustees have Regular reviews of the company's Risk Register Review of our Business Continuity Plans Improvements to our Induction processes which now includes the requirement lo sign up to the Charity Governance Code Prinaples Increasing staff engagement through stsff surveys and all staff rneetings Inviting representatives from the Deaf Community to observe some Board meetings. Dedicated sub-groups for Finance, Safeguarding and People & Culture. Each sub-group is chaired by a designated Trustee Lead with support from stsff. As part of Trustee commitm&nt to strong govèrnan¢$, compléted a rèvièw that strengthened the ¢harily's Memorandum ofAssociation, approved by special rèsolution on 18 March 2025. Our Patron is Lord Salisbury He says .1 am very honoured lo be a Patron of MSDP, particularfy in view of my family's long connection with the City of Liverpool, and il is a privilege lo be a supporter of such an effective organisalion. I wish MSDP the very best of good fortune in the ye8rs to Come.. Trustee Selection and Development The charity recruits Trustees onto the bo8rd who ¢8n ¢onlribute lo the a¢hi&vement of the ¢harily's objedives based on their skills, gxpgrience and knowledge. We proactively seek to recruit TrLJStees with lived experience of dlDeaf issues from a variety of perspectives. Prospective Trustees are asked to complete an application form and skills audit which covers the experience they can offer and their reasons for wishing to be a Trustee. After submitting the form, representatives of the Board interview the prospective Trustee. The appointment of the prospective Trustee is discussed at the next board meeting, and if approved by a majority of Trustees present, is invited to observe the board for a three month probation period before being formally registered with Companies House and the Charity Commission. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED){INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Any new TrustO8 IS tak8n through an induciion process that includes meeting staff to leam abotrt our seNSces. attendin9 8 Dg8f Awareng5s session, comploting trustee and safeguarding training, SHJning up the Chanty Govem8ncè Code Prinripl8s. Prowding a three month period before formalty signing up a new Trustee allows but the Board and potents'al Trustee to g81 to know each other and to get 8 fesl for tho d)8rty and our objecbves. Al Trtsstsès ar8 valusd and it is important Ihey become lamiliar wilh the c*arity and are encourag•d to take 8*Jvantage of occasions to meet staff and cx)mmunty member5. All Trust8ès ar$ 8xpertgd to partiupate in rèlevant plannIn￿trainIng events with management staff an¢J to undergo any necessary training in Issues spe¢th¢ to their rol8. Audltor In accordance with the companvs artides, a Tesolution proposing th81 Michell Ch8rf98WOrth (Audltl Ltd be reappointed as audltor of thè company wll be put al a General Meetsng. Annual Accounts In ￿￿ordanCe with SectM)n 47 of the Charities Act 1993, copies of th8 Truslge's Report and 8 full set of aLEdited knnu81 Aceounts arè available from th8 registered office of Merseyside Society lor Deaf People. Dlsclosuro of Inforniatlon to audltor Each of the trustees has confirmed th* the￿ is no information of which th￿ ara awaro vthlth is rBlevant to the audit, but of which the audiloT IS unaware. They h8vg lurther confimed that they have taken appropriate 81ep8 to Identify such relevant intormation and to establish that the auditor is aware of suth information. Small company provlslon$ This report hae been prepared in accordanee wlth th& 6pocial provi6ions Te¢gting to small ts)mponigs within Part 15 of the Compa Thet pproved by thg Board of Trust80s. r•w GoodvAn ITrnasur•r) Trust88 Datad.. 13- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES. RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 The trustees, who are also the directors of Merseyside Society for Deaf People for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Stsndards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Ac¢ounb'ng Pra¢ti¢el. Company Law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year. In preparing these financial slalements. the Iruslees are required lo= select suitable accounting policies and then apply them Consistently., observe the methods and prinryples in the Charities SORP- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., slate whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject lo any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial slatemenls., prepare the financial statements on the going con￿rn basis unless it is inappropriate to presu￿￿ that the charity will conlinue in operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them lo ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 14 MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE Opinion We have audited the financial statements of Merseyside So¢iety for Deaf People Ithe '¢harity'l for the year ended 30 September 2025 which comprise the slatement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and the notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and Uniled Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and RepubliG of Ireland Iuniled Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Praclicel. In our opinion, the financial stslernents.. give a true and fair view of the state of the charitsble company's affairs as at 30 September 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resOUr￿s, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended., have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practi￿,. and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. Basls for oplnlon We conducted our audit in accordance with Intemalional Standards on Auditing IUKI IISAS IUKII and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditorts responsibilities for the audit ol the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordan￿ with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the finan¢ial ststemtrnts in th& UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Stsndard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in a¢¢ordance with these rtrquirements. We believe Ihal the aLJdit evidence we have obtained is SLJfficient and appropriate lo provide a basis for our opinion. Con¢lu$lon$ rglatlng to golng ¢on¢¥rn In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees, use of the going concem basis ol accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating lo events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going con￿rn for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect lo going concem are described in the relevant sections of this report. other information The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the fina[￿la1 stslements and our audilorts report Ihereon. The ttuslees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and. except lo the exlenl othèrwis8 éxplicitly ststéd in our rèport, we do not exprèss any form of assurance ¢onclusion Iheroon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the olher information is materially inconsistent wilh Ihe financial stalements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audil, or Dlherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstalemenl in the financial slalemenls themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misslatemenl of this other infomiation, we are required lo report that fact. We have nothing to r8port in this regard_ Oplnlons on othèr matters prèserlbèd by the Companlès Act 2006 In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit.. the information given in the trustees. report, which includes the directors, report prepared for the purposes ol company law, for the financial year for which the financial stslemenls are prepared is consistent with the financial statémants., and the directors. report included within the trustees, report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE Matters on which we are required to report by exception In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the ¢ourse of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the directors, report included within the trustees, report. We have nothing to report in respect of Ihe following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2f)06 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion.. adequate accounting records have not been kept, or retums adequate for our audit have not been re￿iVed from branches not visited by us,. or the financial statements are not in agreement with Ihe accounting records and retums., or certain disclosures of trustees. remuneration specified by law are not made., or we have not re¢eived all the infomiation and explanations we require for our audit., or the trustees were not entitled to prepare the financial staternents in accordance with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies, exemptions in preparing the Trustees. Report and from the requirement to prepare a Strategic Report. Responsibilities of trustees As &xplained more fully in the statem&nt of trustees, responsibilities. the trustees, who are also the directors of the Charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied thal they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability lo continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, mallers related to going concern and using the going con￿rn basis of accounting unless the Iruslees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or lo cease operations, or have no realistic alternative bul lo do so. Auditorfs responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assuran￿ about whether the finan¢ial ststements as a whole are free from material misststement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS IUKI will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected lo influence the economic decisions of users tsken on the basis of these financial slalemenls. Irregularities, including fraud, are instsnces of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below. The •xtsnt to whlch the audlt was conslder8d capable of dèt8ctlng Irr&gularltl•s, Includlng fraud Our approach lo identifying and assessing the risks of material misstalemenl in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-complian￿ with laws and regulations, was as follows.. the engagement partner ensured thal the engagement team collectively had the appropriate competen￿, capabilities and skills to identify or recognise non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations., we identified the laws and regulations applicable lo the company through discussions with directoB and other management., we focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a dired material effect on the financi81 slalemenls or the operations of the company, including the Companies Act 2006, laxalion legislation and data protection, anli-bribery, employment and health and safely legislation,. we assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through making enqLJiries of management and inspecting legal correspondence,. and • identified laws and regulalions were communicaled within the audit team regularly and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE We assessed the susceplibilily of the company's financial statements lo material misstslemenl, including obtaining an understsnding of how fraud rnight occur, by.. making enquiries of management as to where they considered there was suS￿plibIllty to fraud, their knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud,. and considering the internal controls in place lo mitigate risks of fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations. To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we.. perfomied analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships., tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions., assessed whether judgements and assLJmptions made in determining the accounting estimates were indicative of potential bias., and investigated the rationale behind significant or unusual transactions. In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, bul were not limited lo.. agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentstion., reading the minutes of meetings of those charged with governance., and enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and claims. There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures des¢ribed above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely il is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal corresponden￿, if any. Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion. A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council's website at.. https'.11 W￿￿.frC.org.UkIaudltorsreSponSlb1lIts'eS. This descripbon forms part of our auditor's report. Use of our report This report is made solely to the Charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our aLJdit work has been Ljndertaken so that we might state to the charitatle company's members those malters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable company's mernbers as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or forlhe opinions we have formed. Anita Mason BA (Honsl BFP FCA {Sènior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Mitchell Charlesworth (Audit) Limited 0110412026 Accountants Statutory Auditor Suites C,D,E, & F 14th Floor The Plaza 100 Old Hall Street Liverpool L3 9QJ MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Current financial year Unr8strict8d Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total Total 2025 2024 Notes Donations and legacies Charitable activities Investments Other income 5,915 987,379 77,771 4,380 5,915 994,892 77,771 4,380 12,432 850,343 98,882 3,859 7,513 Total income 1,075,445 7,513 1,082,958 965,516 Ex enditure on: Charitable activities 1,118,73 21,580 1,140,316 1,075,629 Total expenditure 1,118,73 21,580 1,140,316 1,075,629 Net movement in funds 143,2911 114,0671 (57,3581 1110,113 Reconciliation of funds Fund balances al 1 October 2024 1,206,111 14,067 1,220,178 1,330,291 Fund balance5 at 30 September 2025 1,162,820 1,162,820 1,220,178 The ststemenl of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. The movement in funds detailed above complies with the requirements for a slalement of changes in equity under FRS102. The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Prior financial year Unrastricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2024 Notes Donations and legacies Charitable activities Investments Other income 12,432 833,956 98,882 3,859 12,432 850,343 98,882 3,859 16,387 Total income 949,129 16,387 965,516 Ex enditure on: Charitable activities 1,065,509 10,120 1,075,629 Total expenditure 1,065,509 10,120 1,075,629 Net movement In funds 1116,3801 6,267 1110,1131 Re¢on¢iliation of funds Fund balances at 1 October 2023 1,322,491 7,800 1,330,291 Fund balanc8s at 30 Septèmbèr 2024 1,206,111 14,067 1,220,178 The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. The movement in funds detailed above complies with the requirements for a statement of changes in equity under FRS102. The statemenl of financial activities also complies with Ihe requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE BALANCE SHEET ASAT30 SEPTEMBER 2025 2025 2024 Flxed assets Intangible assets T8nuibl8 8ssets 12 13 5.148 1.094.788 7.524 1.137.717 1,099.936 1.145.241 Current au•t8 Debtors Cash at bank and In hand 15 144,337 396,272 132.420 461.006 540.609 593.426 Cr•dltors'. amounts falllng du• wlthSn on• yèar 16 1140.4801 (137.2761 Nel ujrrenl assets 4CKJ.129 456,150 Totsl as¥ots IM• ¢urr•nt Ilabllld•8 1,500,065 1.601.391 Crndltors.. amounts falllng di￿ after mor• thon on• y•ar 1337,2451 {381.213} Not •8$0ts 1.162.820 1.220.178 Income lunds Restrictèd funds 14.067 Designated funds G¥n8r81 unr85trictad funds R8valuation rnserve 23 85,288 1,053,541 23.991 1,182,120 23.991 1,162,820 1206.111 1.162.820 1,220,178 teme werè &ppmved by the Trustses on .. Mr drew Goodwin ITreasuTerl Trusteg Company roglstratlon numbw 03389496 20- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 2025 2024 Not&s Cash flows from operating activities Cash absorbed by operations 27 1101,8601 1128,8401 Investing activities Purchase of tangible fixed assets Investment income received 146,5641 98,882 77,771 Net ¢ash generated from investing activities 77,771 52,318 Financing activities Repayment of bank loans 140,6451 136,7651 Net cash used In flnanclng a¢tlvltle$ 140,6451 136,7651 Net de¢rease in cash and cash equivalents 164,7341 1113,2871 Cash and cash equivalents al beginning of year 461,006 574,293 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 396,272 461,006 21 MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Accounting policies Charity information Merseyside Society for Deaf People is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Queens Drive Retail Park, West Derby, Liverpool, L13 ODJ. 1.1 A¢countlng conventlon The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" I'FRS 102,1 and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Stsndard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021. (effective 1 January 20191. The charity is a Publi¢ Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements are prepared in steding, which is the fundional currency of the Charity. Monetsry amounts in these financial ststements are rounded to the nearest £. The principal accounting poliaes adopted are sel out below. 1.2 Going concern At Ihe time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources lo continue in operational existence for the foreseeable fLJture. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial ststemenls. 1.3 Charitable fund5 Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives. Designated funds comprise funds which have been sel aside al the discretion of the Iruslees for stEcific purposes. The purposes and us&s of the designated funds aro sol out in Ihtr notes lo Ihtr financial stsltrments. Restricted fLJnds can only be used for pa￿C￿lar restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular reslricled purposes. 1.4 Income Income is recognised when the charity is legally entiued lo it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and il is probable that income will be received. Cash donations are recognised on receipt. 22- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Accountlng poll¢les Icontlnuedl Income from donations and grants, including capitsl grants, and contract income is included in in(ome when these are receivable, ex￿p1 as follows.. When donors specify that donations and grants given lo the charity musl be used in future accounting periods, the income is deferred until those periods. When donors impose conditions which have to be fulfilled before the charity bewmes enlilled to use such income, the income is defer￿d and not included in income until the p￿conditIOnS for use have been met. When donors specify that donations and grants, including capital grants, are for particular restricted purposes, which do not amount lo preconditions regarding enlillemenl, this income is included in reslricled funds when receivable. Other grants, which have particular service requirements and which are provided in ac¢ordan¢e with a contract or service level agrtrement artr included in the Stalemtrnt of Financial Activities under the heading Charitable Activities. Rental income from operating leases Inet of any incentives given to the lessees) is recognised on a slraighl- line basis over the lease term. 1.5 Expenditure All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings Ihat aggregate all costs related to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated lo activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Management and governance costs are those incurred in connedion with administration of the charity and compliance with wnslilutional and stslulory requirements. 1.6 Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill Intsngible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised al cost and are subsequently measured al wsl less accumulated amortisalion and accumulated impairmonl losstrs. Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases.. Development costs over 5 years 1.7 Tanglbl8 flx8d assets Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured al cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. Dèpreciation is rècognisad so as to writè off thé cost or valuation of assèts18ss thèir rasidual valuès ovar thèir useful lives on the following bases". Freehold buildings Property improvements Fixtures, fitb'ngs and equipment Computers 2°/D on cost of buildings 100/0 on cost 10°/0 - 20 /0 on cost 200/D on cost 23- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Accountlng poll¢les Icontlnuedl Freehold land is not depreciated. The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial aclivilies. 1.8 Impairment of fixed a$$ets At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying arnounts of its tangible assets lo determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such Ind￿atiOn exists, the recoverable arnounl of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss Irf any). 1.9 Cash and ¢a$h equlvalènts Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-temi liquid investments with original rllalurilies of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities. 1.10 Financial instruments The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financial Instruments, and Section 12 'Other Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all DI its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the charitys balance sheet when the charity becomes party lo the conlraclual provisions of the inslrumenl. Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the nel amounts presented in the financial ststemenls. when there is a legally enforceable right lo sel off the recognised amounts and there is an intention lo setug on a nel basis or to roalisa the asset and sotutr the liability simultantrously. Bosi¢ finan¢i81 assets Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried al amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement conslilutes a financing Iransaclion, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted al a market rale of interest. Financial assets classtfied as receivable within one year are not amortised. Basic financial liabilities Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaclion price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measLJred al Ihe present value of the future payments discounted at a market rale of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments are subsequently carried 8t atllortised cost, using the effective interest rale method. Trade ¢redilors 8re obligations to Psy for goods or services that h8ve been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from SLJppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction pri￿ and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Derecognition of fiTnancial liabilities Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity s conlraclual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. -24- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Accountlng poll¢les Icontlnuedl 1.11 Employee benefits The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's services are received. Temiination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably ¢ommitted to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits. 1.12 Retirement benefits Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due. 1.13 Leases Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives re￿ived, are charged as an expense on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease. Rentals received under operating leases are credited to the Statement of Financial Activity on a slraighl line basis over the period of the lease. 1.14 Taxation The Charity benefits from various exemptions from taxation afforded by tax legislation and is not liable to corporalion tax on income or gains falling within those exemptions. Recovery is made of tax deducted from qualifying income and from re￿Ipts under gift aid. The charity is not able to recover Value Added Tax. Expenditure is recorded in the accounts inclusive of VAT. Critical accounting estimates and judgements In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities thal are not readily apparent from other SoUr￿s. The eslimales and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered lo be relevant. Actual results may differ from these eslimales. The estimates and underlying assumptions are rgvigwgd on an ongoing basis. Rgvisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is rèvised where thé révision affects ￿lY that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. There are no critical accounting eslimales orjudgements in these accounts. Donations and legacies Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds 2025 2024 Donations and gifts Legacies receivable 5,915 12,232 200 5,915 12,432 25- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Charitable activities 2025 2024 Education. welfare and support Income from charitable activities Services provided under contract Perforrnan￿ related grants 488,905 449,240 56,747 398,003 435,611 16,729 994,892 8SO,343 Analysis by fund Unrestricted ftjnds Restricted funds 987,379 7,513 994,892 For the year ended 30 September 2024 Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 833,956 16,387 850,343 Income from investments Unrèstricted Unrastricted funds funds 2025 2024 Rental income Interest receivable 71,066 6,705 77,539 21,343 77,771 98,882 Othor in¢om¢ Unrestricted Unreslricled funds funds 2025 2024 Other income 4,38D 3,859 26- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Charitable activities 2025 2024 Education, welfare and support Staff costs Exam fees Other costs 681,203 6,701 65,028 625,864 1,872 32,108 752,932 6S9,844 Share of support costs (see note 81 Share of governance costs (see note 81 371,103 16,281 377,163 38,622 1,140,316 1,075,629 Analysis by fund Unreslricled funds Restri¢ted funds 1,118,736 1,065,509 21,580 10,120 1,140,316 1,075,629 Support costs Support Govemance Costs Gosts 2025 Support Governance costs costs 2024 Stsff Costs Depreciation & amortisalion Premisès ¢osls Office costs Other (K>sts 31,841 31,841 59,060 59,060 45,305 69,074 81,439 143,444 45,305 69,074 81,439 143,444 41,159 54,621 62,933 159,390 41,159 54,621 62,933 159,39) Audit fees Accountancy Legal and professional 8,160 5,289 2,832 8,160 5,289 2,832 7,770 6,115 24,737 7,770 6,115 24,737 371,103 16,281 387,384 377,163 38,622 415,785 Analysed be￿een Charf(able activities 371,103 16,281 387,384 377,163 38,622 41 S,785 Support and governance costs are recharged lo charitable activities. 27- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 Auditor'5 remuneration The analysis of audilorfs remuneration is as follows.. Fees payable to the charity's auditor 2025 2024 Audit of the charity's annual accounts 8,160 7,770 Non-audlt $ervl¢e$ All other non-audit services 5,289 6,115 10 Trustees None of the trustees lor any persons connected with them) received any remuneration during the year. During the year one trustee was reimbursed expenses of £212 12024- no Iruslees remunerated or reimbursed expenses). 11 Employees Number ofemployees The average monthly number of employees during the year was= 2025 Number 2024 Number Charitable activity Management and support 25 24 28 27 Employment costs 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social secLJrity Costs Other pension costs 651,866 43,749 17,429 631,017 38,844 1 5,063 713,044 684,924 Included within payroll costs above is £94,84412D24.' £72,175) for costs of freelance inlerprelers and bank stsff. There were no erllployees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more12024.' none). 28- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 12 Intangible fixed assets Development costs Cost At 1 October 2024 and 30 September 2025 11,880 Amortisation and impairment At 1 October 2024 Amortisation charged for the year 4,356 2,376 AI 30 September 2025 6,732 Carrying amount At 30 September 2025 5,148 AI 30 September 2024 7,524 13 Tanglble flxed assets Freèhold land and bulldlngs Flxture8, ffttlngs and 89ulpm&nt Computers Total Cost Al 1 October 2024 1,268,170 107,114 62,873 1,438,157 AI 30 September 2025 1,268,170 107,114 62,873 1,438,157 Depreciation and impairment Al 1 October 2024 Depreciation Charged in the year 198,048 24,756 84,939 5,139 17,453 13,034 300,440 42,929 AI 30 September 2025 222,804 90,078 30,487 343,369 Carrying amount At 30 Septèmbèr 2025 1,045,366 17,036 32,386 1,094,788 AI 30 September 2024 1,070,122 22,175 45,420 1,137,717 29- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 13 Tanglble flxed assets Icontlnuedl The land at Queens Drive is induded at the deemed cost of £30,359 8$ allowed by regulations under FRS102 and the charity SORP 2015, see nole 24. Barclays Bank plc hold a floating charge over all property or undertakings of the charity. National Weslrninster Bank plc hold a legal charge, created in July 2017, over freehold land and buildings al Queens Drive. West Derby, Liverpool. As at 30 September 2025 the amount owed to National Westsninster Bank plc was £380,697 12024.. £421,342). Freehold land and buildings includes investment property which comprises one floor of the property al Queens Drive, Wesl Derby, Liverpool. The entire property is accounted for as freehold land and buildings within tangible fixed assets as the fair value of the investment property component cannot be measured reliably wilhoul undue costs lo the charity. 14 Financial instruments 2025 2024 Carrying amount of financial assets Debt instruments measured at amortised cost 492,845 540,663 Carrying amount of financial liabilitias Measured at amortised cost 450,185 462,626 15 Debtors 2025 2024 Amounts falling due within one year- Trade debtors Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 96,573 77,305 2,352 26,303 25,224 121,797 105,960 2025 2024 Amounts falling due after more than one year.. PrepayTNents and accrued income 22,540 26,460 Total dèbtors 144,337 132,420 30- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 16 Creditors- arnounts falling due within one year 2025 2024 Notes Bank loans Other tsxation and social securty Deferred income Trade creditors Other Creditors Accruals 19 43,452 10,690 16,850 54,142 4,262 11,084 40,129 9,430 46,433 30,200 17 11,084 140,480 137,276 17 Defer￿d in¢ome 2025 2024 Other deferred income 16,850 46,433 Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows.. 2025 2024 Total deferred incorlle al 1 October 2024 Amounts received in year Amounts credited to statement of financial activities 46,433 16,850 146,4331 46,433 Total deferred incorne at 30 September 2025 16,850 46,433 18 Creditors- amounts falling due after more than one year 2025 2024 Notes Bank loans 19 337,245 381,213 The bank loans are secured by legal charges over the charitls property as detailed in the fixed asset and borrowings notes (see notes 13 & 191 31 MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 19 Loans 2025 2024 Bank loans 380,697 421,342 Payable within one year Payable after one year 43,452 337,245 40,129 381,213 Amounts included above which fall due after five years.. Payable by instalrnents 133,890 190,369 The bank loan is secured by a legal charge over the charity's propety in Queens Drive, Liverpool. 20 Retirement benefit schemes Defined contribution schemes The charity operates a defined contribution pension scherlle for all qualifwng employees. The assets of the schtrme are held soparattrly from thos& of the charity in an indtrpondently administtrred fund. The charge in the slalement of financjal activities for the year in resp8ct of defined contribution schemes was £17.42912024.. £15.0631. 32- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 21 Operating lease commitments At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding ￿MMItMents for ftjture minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows.. 2025 2024 Within one year Between two and five years 1,530 1,913 1,530 3,443 3,443 4,973 Lessor The operating leases represent leases to third parties. The leases are negotiated over terms of 5 to 1 S years and rental income is fixed for 5 years. The longer leases includes a provision for five-yearly upward rent reviews according to prevailing market conditions. There are no options in place for any party to extend the lerTllS of the leases. Al the reporting end dale the charity had contracted with tenants for the following minimum lease payments.. 2025 2024 Within one year Between two and five years In over five years 58,800 235,200 99,718 58,800 235,200 147,000 393,718 441,000 33- MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 22 Restricted funds The reslricled funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject lo specific conditions by donors as lo how they may be used. At 1 October 2024 Income Expenditure At30 September 2025 Wirral Building Fund Burbobank Deaf Migrants Vola Consortium Signs of Sanctuary 2,800 12,8001 14,7331 19,4821 12,8971 11,6681 4,733 1,112 8,370 2,897 1,668 14,067 7,513 121,5801 Previous year- At 1 October 2023 In￿me Expenditure At30 September 2024 Wirral Building Fund Deaf Migrants Vola Consortium 7,800 15.0001 2,800 8,370 2,897 8,370 8,017 15,1201 7,800 16,387 110,1201 14,067 The Wlrral bulldlng fund aims to raise funds to purchase and renovate a building on the Wirral to enable the charity to reach those who need it most. This has been released to general funds and we gave back Ihe funds raised by Wirral Deaf Community. Burbobank This project delivered a 10-week programme of IT classes lo improve digital inclusion for Deal people in the Wirral, helping them build essential skills such as online banking, email use, job searching, and using assistive technology. By providing a¢cessible leaming with BSL inlerprelers and dedicated support, the project aimed to increase independènce, reduce isolation, and enhance opportunities for employment and community participation. Deaf Migrants This project aims to reduce social isolation experienced by Deaf refugees, Deaf people seeking asylum and Deaf vulnerable migrants, to involve them in their local communities. Vola Consortium This project created an accessible digitsl hub for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and Deaf-blind pèople specifically for public usé in MSDP community spaces by upgrading broadband, improving Wi-Fi infrastructure, and enhancing donated Pcs with essential performance and secLJrity upgrades. These improvements enabled inclusive IT training, drop-in access, and one-to-one support, reducing isolation while increasing digital confidence, independence, and opportunities for employment. One Liverpool - Signs of Sanctuary project.. This project reduces social isolation for Deaf refugees, as￿u[￿ seekers, and vulnerable migrants by encouraging engagement in Deaf-led cultural aclivilies, one-lo-one Support and International Sign Language accessible resour￿5. Through training, partnership work, and the ¢reation of ViSLJal wèlcomè matèrials, it aims to stréngthén community intègration, improve a¢¢gss 10 sgrvi¢es, and empowèr participants to connèct with both Deaf and widér lot31 communities. MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 23 Designated funds The unreslricled funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balan￿5 of donations and grants which are not subject lo specific conditions by donors and grantors as lo how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes. Balance at 1 October 2023 Transfer5 Balance at 1 October 2024 Transfers Balance at 30 September 2025 Contingency fund 85,288 85,288 85,288 85,288 The contingency fund has been created lo sel aside funds which wll cover staff redundancjes in the unlikely event that the ¢harity should close. 24 Revaluation reserve Included within the unreslricled funds is the revaluation reserve of £23,991 12024.. £23,991). This relates lo the proportion of the land at Queens Drive, Wesl Derby, that was retained in the year ended 30 September 2015 following the sale of the rest of the sile and the old building. The land had bsen revalued in the year ended 31 Mar¢h 2012 and on transition to FRS 102 the Charity elected to measure land and buildings at deemed cost. The existing revaluation reserve at the transition date has been retained within unrestiicted funds. 35- o( L￿￿￿ Ln r)( o( *(0 CN* Lrj ) fo r Ln c p) cry MERSEYSIDE SOCIETY FOR DEAF PEOPLE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 26 Related party transactions Remuneration of key management personnel The remuneration of key management personnel was as follows.. 2025 2024 Aggregate remuneration 83,833 108,318 Merseyside Society for Deaf People is a director of Wirral Health & Wellbeing CIC, during the year MSDP received income of £152,251 12024.. £143,797) from Wirral Health & Wellbeing GIC. There were no other related party transactions in the year. 27 Cash absorbed by operations 2025 2024 Deficit for the year 157,3581 1110,1131 Adjustments for.. Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities Amortisation and impairment of intangible assets Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets 177,7711 2.376 42,929 198,8821 3,960 37,199 Movements In worklng ¢apltal: Ilncreasel in debtors Increaso in creditors (Decreasellincrease in deferred income 111,9171 29,464 129,5831 113,4121 5,975 46,433 Cash absorbad by opèratlons 1101,8601 1128,8401 37-