BFS Ltd. Annual Report Mar 21 - March 22 (MH) (1)
Review of activities to March 2022
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LTD.
I. CHARITABLE OBJECTIVES OF THE BFS
The British Fertility Society has continued to develop its activities in relation to the promotion of education and knowledge in the field of infertility, in line with the following objectives:
1. The advancement of education
The Joint Annual Meeting with the Society for Reproduction and Fertility (SRF) and the Association of Reproductive & Clinical Scientists (ARCS) took place in January 2021. The theme of the meeting was “Rising to Global Challenges” and was planned to be an in-person event in Liverpool, England. By December 2020, the meeting had attracted more than 900 registrations and 300+ abstracts. Unfortunately, due to a surge in Covid cases in the UK, associated with the omicron variant of the virus, it was decided to switch the meeting to an on-line event. The adjustment to programme delivery was achieved in a remarkably short period and the meeting proved to be a tremendous success with more than 750 delegates logging in during live streaming. This event has continued to strengthen the Society’s relationships with other professional organisations and has increased its accessibility to all within the profession.
The Annual BFS Study Week was also delivered as an online event, with Virtual Study Week launching in mid-2021. Registration fees were appropriate to the virtual environment, and we were delighted to maintain attendance numbers in line with previous years and managed to generate a surplus once again. Feedback from delegates was wholly positive and we were again pleased that this virtual offering opened up BFS Study Week to delegates from abroad. The duration of study week was extended to six months, to enable delegates to take part, mindful of the pressures and restrictions imposed on them due to the pandemic. Particularly popular were two new study days, the first tailored to GPs and the second to fertility nurses.
The shared Annual Study Week with the RCOG was suspended for 2020, due to the pandemic but ran online in April 2021. There were 168 attendees in total, 100 of whom were from overseas further increasing our international profile. Feedback from the meeting was very positive.
The Society is responsible for the publication of Human Fertility, a multidisciplinary journal, which publishes articles ranging from molecular medicine to practical healthcare delivery and psychosocial aspects of reproductive medicine. All members of the British Fertility Society receive the Journal online as part of their subscription; the readership is still increasing both in the UK and internationally. Consideration was given during the year to switching the journal to an open-access format. This continues to be reviewed by the Executive Committee and the Journal’s Editorial Board.
Public engagement continued during the year despite the pandemic with BFS Executive members frequently engaged in on-line public debate either in the media or in taking part in panel discussions as for example provided by Progress Educational Trust and others.
The Society also contributed the RCOG Professional Development conference in November 2021.
Significant investment in the last year has been placed in the upgrade of our website which will enable to communicate better with our members and the public.
2. The advancement of health
The Joint Annual meeting and two Study Weeks are designed to better equip clinicians, nurses, scientists and ancillary professionals to deal with matters related to fertility and infertility.
Certification of Training modules also ensure that practitioners reach specific standards in delivering the relevant components of care, always incorporating the latest material and practices for the benefit of those seeking care. In 2020, we added to the modules we provide with the addition of a Nursing study day, and a GP study day. We now offer, Fertility Preservation, Creating Modern
Families, Male Fertility, ET/IUI, PGT, Pelvic Ultrasound and PR/Effective Fertility Services (in conjunction with the HFEA), GP, Nursing, Assisted Conception, and Management of the Infertile Couple. Over 175 members were registered with our certification programmes during the year of this report.
The principles of evidence-based practice, as promoted by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), underpin these and our other training modules. There is continuing interaction with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the Department of Health always striving to improve access to and delivery of highquality clinical care.
The Society also manages a mentorship programme for health professionals (nurses, doctors and scientists) in the early stages of their careers in fertility care. At the end of the year 26 pairs were registered in the programme.
3. The advancement of science
The Joint Annual meeting and the two Study weeks provide opportunities for members to present the results of their research orally and in posters and provide an arena for more general discussion of the latest trends and advances in our specialty.
The Society publishes a journal (Human Fertility) encompassing a mix of invited reviews, original articles, and publication of Policy and Practice statements and opinion papers. The journal also provides a forum for the publication of peer-reviewed articles arising out of the activities of the Association of Biomedical Andrologists, the Association of Clinical Embryologists, the Association of Irish Clinical Embryologists, the British Andrology Society, the British Infertility Counselling Association, the Irish Fertility Society and the Royal College of Nursing Fertility Nurses Group.
Consideration is being given to switching publication of the journal to an open access format which we believe will increase the number of contributions, widen circulation, and increase impact factor.
The Society is also an influential voice in the Reproductive Medicine Clinical Studies Group facilitated by the RCOG. This body carries significant weight in the determination of awards from UK national funding bodies e.g., HTA, NIHR.
4. The advancement of human rights with respect to equality
Perhaps more than in most branches of medicine, fertility care covers both males and females, and equal emphasis is placed on the delivery of their combined and mutually dependent care with due respect to individual autonomy, justice, and equality legislation. Infertility is recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and promotion of high-quality care of infertile people is part of our obligation as healthcare professionals to reduce disability, distress, stigmatisation, and disease burden in society.
The BFS Study Week delivers modules in Male Fertility and Creating Modern Families. Our equality and diversity policy is displayed on our website and all members are expected to abide by the standards set out in that document.
5. The relief of those in need because of ill-health and disability
Infertility is designated a disease and a disability by the World Health Organisation. The Society strives to offer education to enable the best care to be given by practitioners to those with fertility problems and the consequent disability.
II. KEY ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE CHARITY DURING THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2021
- a. The Charity’s constitutional arrangements have been updated and new Articles of Association were approved in January 2021 at the Annual General Meeting of British Fertility Society Ltd. &
BFS Ltd. Annual Report Mar 21 - March 22 (MH) (1)
BFS Education Ltd. The fiscal relationship between the two companies has been clarified to the satisfaction of our lawyers and accountants.
-
b. Trustee meetings have taken place regularly including examination of our risk register as a standing item of the agenda.
-
c. The BFS are working towards achieving a Royal Charter, with the aim of increasing our influence with government in matters related to fertility practice and reproductive health. The intention is to make us more effective in campaigning on issues such as fair access to fertility treatment and the funding of research topics. We are applying for Royal Chartered status together with ARCS and SRF. The award of a Royal Charter would mean we are recognised as the national experts on matters of fertility and reproduction and to do so, we need to include representation of the professional groups involved in the discipline: clinical, scientific and academic. In recent years we have had closer cooperation between the three societies, working together to create the annual Fertility Conference, on policy statements and guidelines, as well as recently leading a coordinated response to the Covid 19 pandemic. This partnership we believe has been of benefit to the memberships and strengthening the relationship through a Royal Charter will make us more effective.
-
d. The BFS formed a working party with ARCS to produce advice for members and the general public in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The working party worked closely with the HFEA and our FAQs continue to be used to inform public messaging.
-
e. The Charity pivoted its Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Student careers event, online – producing a series of short videos which were disseminated to all schools across the United Kingdom.
-
f. A continuing uptake of travel grants through promotion of the grants. The Charity makes available grants for professionals and trainees to attend relevant educational events, and requires them to report on their activities, to monitor effectiveness and relevance.
-
g. The Joint Fertility Meetings were major meetings, involving all the significant organisations in fertility care and, once more, attracted a large, multidisciplinary audience. The extremely positive feedback indicates to the Trustees that this event is extremely valuable to scientists and health professionals working in this field and much appreciated by attendees.
-
h. The increased topic coverage of the Study Week has continued to attract a larger group of trainees to the event and the training event is continuing to steadily enrich its reputation – online provision increased access to this training.
3. RESERVES POLICY AND GOING CONCERN
The Directors' principal aim is to ensure that membership income is sufficient to cover the charity's regular expenditure and to utilise any surplus resources towards the principal objects as set out elsewhere in this report. The intention continues to be to consolidate the current level of reserves to advance the aims and objectives of the Charity.
The Trustees have reviewed the circumstances of the Charity and consider that adequate resources continue to be available to fund its activities for the foreseeable future.
4. RISK MANAGEMENT
The directors are aware of the major risks facing the organisation and continue to develop the strengthened risk register. This clearly lays out the necessary lines of communication and measures required to manage any identified weaknesses.
5. DIRECTORS
The Directors of British Fertility Society Ltd. during the year to 31[st] March 2022 were:
Dr Mark Hamilton (Chair of Trustees from 5[th] January 2019)
Mrs Karen Woodcock Mrs Alison McTavish Prof Adam Balen Prof Allan Pacey Ms Sarah Norcross Dr Jane Stewart Dr Virginia Bolton
In summary, the charity has had another influential year and continues to expand its activities.
Company Registration Number: 03761793
British Fertility Society Limited
Contents
Unaudited Directors’ Report and Financial Statements for the period ended 31 March 2022
| Information | 1 |
|---|---|
| Directors’ Report | 2 |
| Independent Examiner’s Report | 7 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 9 |
| Balance Sheet | 10 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 11 |
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Directors
| Directors | |
|---|---|
| Dr M P R Hamilton | |
| Mrs A McTavish | |
| Ms S A Norcross | |
| Professor A A Pacey | |
| Dr J Stewart | |
| Mrs K L Woodcock | |
| Dr V Bolton | |
| Professor A H Balen | |
| Company Number | 03761793 |
| Registered and Principal Office | Profile Productions Ltd |
| Boston House | |
| Boston Manor Road | |
| Brentford | |
| Middlesex | |
| TW8 9JJ | |
| Independent Examiner | David Hoose |
| 5thFloor | |
| 3 Wellington Place | |
| Leeds | |
| West Yorkshire | |
| LS1 4AP | |
| Registered Charity Number | 1075661 |
- 1 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
The directors, who are also the trustees of the charity, present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2022.
Company status
British Fertility Society does not have a share capital and is limited by guarantee to the value of £1 per member.
The charity is constituted under the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company, which were adopted on 12 April 1999 and amended on 24 January 2022, and comprise its principal governing documents.
The objects of the charity are to promote research into the study and treatment of human reproduction including infertility, contraception and early pregnancy failure.
Statement of directors' responsibilities
Company Law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company at the end of the year and of its financial activities during the year then ended. In preparing those financial statements, the directors are required to:
-
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
-
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and
-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in operation.
The directors are responsible for keeping accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the trust and which enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 and the Companies Act 2006. They have general responsibility for taking such steps as are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets of the trust and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.
The directors also confirm that they do not know of any relevant information that has not been disclosed to the charity’s Independent Examiner, having taken all possible steps to make themselves aware of such information and pass it on to the Independent Examiner.
Governance and management
The charity is a registered charity, number 1075661. The charity is managed by its board of directors who also act as its trustees. They have power to appoint further directors. The day-to-day administration of the charity is delegated to the secretary who is responsible for instructing any advisors who may be appointed to assist in the running of the charity.
In shaping the Charity’s objectives for the year and planning our activities, the trustees have considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.
Significant relationships
British Fertility Society Limited works closely with BFS Education Limited whose principal activity is the running of the academic interests of the members. These activities complement the objectives of British Fertility Society Limited.
Financial review
The activities for the year ended 31 March 2022 have resulted in a deficit of £6,552 (period ended 31 March 2021: surplus of £38,500). At the year end total funds, all of which were unrestricted, were £98,830 (period ended 31 March 2021: £105,382).
- 2 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Review of activities to March 2022
British Fertility Society Limited has continued to develop its activities in relation to the promotion of education and knowledge in the field of infertility, in line with the following objectives:
• The advancement of education
The Joint Annual Meeting with the Society for Reproduction and Fertility (SRF) and the Association of Reproductive & Clinical Scientists (ARCS) took place in January 2021. The theme of the meeting was “Rising to Global Challenges” and was planned to be an in-person event in Liverpool, England. By December 2020, the meeting had attracted more than 900 registrations and 300+ abstracts. Unfortunately, due to a surge in Covid cases in the UK, associated with the omicron variant of the virus, it was decided to switch the meeting to an on-line event. The adjustment to programme delivery was achieved in a remarkably short period and the meeting proved to be a tremendous success with more than 750 delegates logging in during live streaming. This event has continued to strengthen the Society’s relationships with other professional organisations and has increased its accessibility to all within the profession.
The Annual BFS Study Week was also delivered as an online event, with Virtual Study Week launching in mid-2021. Registration fees were appropriate to the virtual environment, and we were delighted to maintain attendance numbers in line with previous years and managed to generate a surplus once again. Feedback from delegates was wholly positive and we were again pleased that this virtual offering opened up BFS Study Week to delegates from abroad. The duration of study week was extended to six months, to enable delegates to take part, mindful of the pressures and restrictions imposed on them due to the pandemic. Particularly popular were two new study days, the first tailored to GPs and the second to fertility nurses.
The shared Annual Study Week with the RCOG was suspended for 2020, due to the pandemic but ran online in April 2021. There were 168 attendees in total, 100 of whom were from overseas further increasing our international profile. Feedback from the meeting was very positive.
The Society is responsible for the publication of Human Fertility, a multidisciplinary journal, which publishes articles ranging from molecular medicine to practical healthcare delivery and psychosocial aspects of reproductive medicine. All members of the British Fertility Society receive the Journal online as part of their subscription; the readership is still increasing both in the UK and internationally. Consideration was given during the year to switching the journal to an open-access format. This continues to be reviewed by the Executive Committee and the Journal’s Editorial Board.
Public engagement continued during the year despite the pandemic with BFS Executive members frequently engaged in on-line public debate either in the media or in taking part in panel discussions as for example provided by Progress Educational Trust and others.
The Society also contributed the RCOG Professional Development conference in November 2021. Significant investment in the last year has been placed in the upgrade of our website which will enable to communicate better with our members and the public.
• The advancement of health
The Joint Annual meeting and two Study Weeks are designed to better equip clinicians, nurses, scientists and ancillary professionals to deal with matters related to fertility and infertility.
- 3 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Certification of Training modules also ensure that practitioners reach specific standards in delivering the relevant components of care, always incorporating the latest material and practices for the benefit of those seeking care. In 2020, we added to the modules we provide with the addition of a Nursing study day, and a GP study day. We now offer, Fertility Preservation, Creating Modern Families, Male Fertility, ET/IUI, PGT, Pelvic Ultrasound and PR/Effective Fertility Services (in conjunction with the HFEA), GP, Nursing, Assisted Conception, and Management of the Infertile Couple. Over 175 members were registered with our certification programmes during the year of this report.
The principles of evidence-based practice, as promoted by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), underpin these and our other training modules. There is continuing interaction with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the Department of Health always striving to improve access to and delivery of high-quality clinical care.The Society also manages a mentorship programme for health professionals (nurses, doctors and scientists) in the early stages of their careers in fertility care. At the end of the year 26 pairs were registered in the programme.
• The advancement of science
The Joint Annual meeting and the two Study weeks provide opportunities for members to present the results of their research orally and in posters and provide an arena for more general discussion of the latest trends and advances in our specialty.
The Society publishes a journal (Human Fertility) encompassing a mix of invited reviews, original articles, and publication of Policy and Practice statements and opinion papers. The journal also provides a forum for the publication of peer-reviewed articles arising out of the activities of the Association of Biomedical Andrologists, the Association of Clinical Embryologists, the Association of Irish Clinical Embryologists, the British Andrology Society, the British Infertility Counselling Association, the Irish Fertility Society and the Royal College of Nursing Fertility Nurses Group.
Consideration is being given to switching publication of the journal to an open access format which we believe will increase the number of contributions, widen circulation, and increase impact factor.
The Society is also an influential voice in the Reproductive Medicine Clinical Studies Group facilitated by the RCOG. This body carries significant weight in the determination of awards from UK national funding bodies e.g., HTA, NIHR.
• The advancement of human rights with respect to equality
Perhaps more than in most branches of medicine, fertility care covers both males and females, and equal emphasis is placed on the delivery of their combined and mutually dependent care with due respect to individual autonomy, justice, and equality legislation. Infertility is recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and promotion of high-quality care of infertile people is part of our obligation as healthcare professionals to reduce disability, distress, stigmatisation, and disease burden in society.
The BFS Study Week delivers modules in Male Fertility and Creating Modern Families. Our equality and diversity policy is displayed on our website and all members are expected to abide by the standards set out in that document.
• The relief of those in need because of ill-health and disability
Infertility is designated a disease and a disability by the World Health Organisation. The Society strives to offer education to enable the best care to be given by practitioners to those with fertility problems and the consequent disability.
- 4 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Key achievements of the charity during the year ended 31 March 2022 include:
-
The Charity’s constitutional arrangements have been updated and new Articles of Association were approved in January 2022 at the Annual General Meeting of British Fertility Society Limited & BFS Education Ltd. The fiscal relationship between the two companies has been clarified to the satisfaction of our lawyers and accountants.
-
Trustee meetings have taken place regularly including examination of our risk register as a standing item of the agenda.
-
The BFS are working towards achieving a Royal Charter, with the aim of increasing our influence with government in matters related to fertility practice and reproductive health. The intention is to make us more effective in campaigning on issues such as fair access to fertility treatment and the funding of research topics. We are applying for Royal Chartered status together with ARCS and SRF. The award of a Royal Charter would mean we are recognised as the national experts on matters of fertility and reproduction and to do so, we need to include representation of the professional groups involved in the discipline: clinical, scientific and academic. In recent years we have had closer cooperation between the three societies, working together to create the annual Fertility Conference, on policy statements and guidelines, as well as recently leading a coordinated response to the Covid 19 pandemic. This partnership we believe has been of benefit to the memberships and strengthening the relationship through a Royal Charter will make us more effective.
-
The BFS formed a working party with ARCS to produce advice for members and the general public in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The working party worked closely with the HFEA and our FAQs continue to be used to inform public messaging.
-
The Charity pivoted its Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Student careers event, online – producing a series of short videos which were disseminated to all schools across the United Kingdom.
-
A continuing uptake of travel grants through promotion of the grants. The Charity makes available grants for professionals and trainees to attend relevant educational events, and requires them to report on their activities, to monitor effectiveness and relevance.
-
The Joint Fertility Meetings were major meetings, involving all the significant organisations in fertility care and, once more, attracted a large, multidisciplinary audience. The extremely positive feedback indicates to the Trustees that this event is extremely valuable to scientists and health professionals working in this field and much appreciated by attendees.
-
The increased topic coverage of the Study Week has continued to attract a larger group of trainees to the event and the training event is continuing to steadily enrich its reputation – online provision increased access to this training.
In summary, the charity has had another influential year and continues to expand its activities.
Reserves policy and going concern
The Directors' principal aim is to ensure that membership income is sufficient to cover the charity's regular expenditure and to utilise any surplus resources towards the principal objects as set out elsewhere in this report. The intention continues to be to consolidate the current level of reserves to advance the aims and objectives of the Charity.
The Trustees have reviewed the circumstances of the Charity and consider that adequate resources continue to be available to fund its activities for the foreseeable future.
- 5 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Risk Management
The directors are aware of the major risks facing the organisation and continue to develop the strengthened risk register. This clearly lays out the necessary lines of communication and measures required to manage any identified weaknesses.
Directors
The Directors of British Fertility Society Ltd. during the year to 31st March 2022 were:
Dr Mark Hamilton (Chair of Trustees) Mrs Karen Woodcock Mrs Alison McTavish Prof Adam Balen Prof Allan Pacey Ms Sarah Norcross Dr Jane Stewart Dr Virginia Bolton
Small Company Rules
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provision of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.
Approved by the secretary on Dec 15, 2022
and signed on their behalf by
Mark Hamilton
Mark Hamilton (Dec 15, 2022 11:51 GMT)
Dr M P R Hamilton Director
- 6 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
I report on the financial statements of British Fertility Society Limited for the year ended 31 March 2022, which are set out on pages 9 to 14.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’).
Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements 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(b) of the 2011 Act.
This report, including my statement, has been prepared for and only for the charity’s trustees as a body. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the charity’s trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an independent examiner’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body for my examination work, for this report, or for the statements I have made.
Basis of independent examiner’s report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the financial statements presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the financial statements, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the financial statements present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent examiner’s statement
In connection with my examination, which is complete, no matters have come to my attention which give me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of British Fertility Society Limited in accordance with section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
-
the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
-
the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the financial statements give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
-
the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principals of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
-
7 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Independent examiner’s statement (continued)
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.
David Hoose (Dec 15, 2022 11:54 GMT)
David Hoose FCA
For and on behalf of
Mazars LLP 5[th] Floor 3 Wellington Place Leeds West Yorkshire LS1 4AP
Date: Dec 15, 2022
- 8 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
| Income Other sundry income Conferences Bank interest receivable Incoming resources from charitable activities: Membership fees Donations Sponsorship donations Total income Expenditure Charitable activities: Educational expenses Secretarial and other member expenses Governance costs: Accountancy Total expenditure Net (expenditure)/income |
12 months to 31 March 2022 Unrestricted funds £ £ 22,871 28,195 1 79,899 5,555 240 136,761 1,806 136,347 5,160 143,313 (6,552) |
12 months to 31 March 2022 Unrestricted funds £ £ 22,871 28,195 1 79,899 5,555 240 136,761 1,806 136,347 5,160 143,313 (6,552) |
12 months to 31 March 2022 Unrestricted funds £ £ 22,871 28,195 1 79,899 5,555 240 136,761 1,806 136,347 5,160 143,313 (6,552) |
18 months to 31 March 2021 Unrestricted funds £ £ 34,404 41,457 108 146,942 36,000 19,115 278,026 22,198 207,908 9,420 239,526 38,500 |
18 months to 31 March 2021 Unrestricted funds £ £ 34,404 41,457 108 146,942 36,000 19,115 278,026 22,198 207,908 9,420 239,526 38,500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 136,761 | 278,026 | ||||
| 143,313 | 239,526 |
||||
| (6,552) | 38,500 |
The Statement of Financial Activities has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.
There are no gains or losses other than those reported in the Statement of Financial Activities.
- 9 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2022
Company number 03761793
| Notes Assets Cash at Bank and in hand Debtors 3 Liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 4 Net assets Financed by: Unrestricted funds 5 |
31 March 2022 £ 101,194 82,667 183,871 (85,041) 98,830 98,830 |
31 March 2021 £ 129,411 94,935 |
|---|---|---|
| 224,346 (118,964) |
||
| 105,382 | ||
| 105,382 |
For the financial year in question the company was entitled to exemption under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
No members have required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The directors acknowledge their responsibility for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and for the preparation of the financial statements.
The financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with the special provision of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to small companies, were approved by the Board of Trustees on and signed on their behalf by Dec 15, 2022
Mark Hamilton
Mark Hamilton (Dec 15, 2022 11:51 GMT)
Dr M P R Hamilton Director
- 10 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
1. Accounting policies
British Fertility Society Limited is a public benefit entity, limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, registered number 03761793. It is registered within the Charity Commission in England and Wales. The registered office is Profile Productions, Boston House, 69 – 75 Boston Manor Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9JJ.
The principal purpose of the charity is to promote research into the study and treatment of human reproduction including infertility, contraception and early pregnancy failure.
The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:
(a) Basis of preparation
These financial statements have been presented in pound sterling which is the functional currency of the company, and rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
British Fertility Society Limited meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes.
The financial information is presented for the 12 months ended 31 March 2022 and therefore the figures are not directly comparable with the prior period of 18 months to 31 March 2021.
(b) Income
Income from charitable activities represent fees and sponsorship receivable from members.
Bank interest is accounted for when receivable.
Other income is accounted for when receivable.
(c) Expenditure
- Educational expenses
Includes expenses directly related to the objects of the charity (in accordance with Charities SORP (FRS 102)) and include human fertility production costs and contributions to fertility meetings.
• Governance costs
Governance costs comprise the costs of running the charity including independent examination, certain legal and professional fees and secretarial and administration costs.
- 11 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
(d) Going concern
The Trustees have reviewed the circumstances of the Charity and consider that adequate resources continue to be available to fund the activities for the foreseeable future and for a period of at twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements. These financial statements have therefore been prepared on the going concern principle. The Trustees have considered the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Charity’s going concern status. The Trustees do not consider there to be any material uncertainties which could impact on the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern.
(e)
Financial instruments
The charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured as their settlement value.
(f) Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
The preparation of the financial statements requires trustees to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported for assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date and the amounts reported for reserves and expenses during the year. However, the nature of the estimation means that the actual outcomes could differ from the estimates. The trustees believe that there are no critical accounting policies where judgements or estimates are necessarily applied.
2. Independent examiner’s remuneration
| 2. Independent examiner’s remuneration |
||
|---|---|---|
| Independent examination 3. Debtors Trade debtors Prepayment Other debtors Amounts owed by BFS Education Limited |
12 months 2022 £ 3,600 31 March 2022 £ 18,769 2,776 - 61,132 82,677 |
18 months 2021 £ 3,540 |
| 31 March 2021 £ 10,145 17,640 6,018 61,132 |
||
| 94,935 |
- 12 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
4. Creditors
| Trade creditors Accruals and deferred income (see below) Other creditors Deferred income Brought forward Amounts released Amounts deferred in current year Carried forward |
31 March 2022 £ 25,764 59,252 25 85,041 31 March 2022 £ 52,670 (52,670) 54,932 54,932 |
31 March 2021 £ 55,450 62,854 660 |
|---|---|---|
| 118,964 | ||
| 31 March 2021 £ 45,031 (45,031) 52,670 |
||
| 52,670 |
Deferred income represents subscriptions and sponsorship relating to future periods.
5. Funds
| General funds | Balance at 1 April 2021 £ 105,382 |
Income £ 136,761 |
Expenditure Balance at 31 March 2022 £ £ (143,313) 98,830 |
|---|---|---|---|
6. Financial Instruments
| Financial assets Financial assets measured at amortised cost Financial liabilities Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost |
31 March 2022 31 March 2021 £ £ 18,769 16,163 31 March 2022 31 March 2021 £ £ 30,109 66,294 |
|---|---|
Financial assets that are measured at amortised cost are comprised of trade and other debtors.
Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost are comprised of trade creditors, other creditors and accrued expenses.
- 13 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
7. Related Party Transactions
During the year, BFS Education Limited, a company related to British Fertility Society Limited due to their close working, made donations to British Fertility Society Limited totalling £5,555 (2021: £36,000). At 31 March 2022 an amount of £61,132 (2021: £61,132) was owed by BFS Education Limited.
8. Remuneration and Trustee Expenses
The members of the Board of Trustees received no remuneration for their services during the year. Expenses reimbursed to Board of Trustee members for costs incurred on behalf of the charity during the period amounted to £77 (2021: £2,705). This was in respect of 1 Trustee (2021: 6 Trustees).
The Charity has no employees.
- 14 -
Company Registration Number: 03761793
British Fertility Society Limited
Contents
Unaudited Directors’ Report and Financial Statements for the period ended 31 March 2022
| Information | 1 |
|---|---|
| Directors’ Report | 2 |
| Independent Examiner’s Report | 7 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 9 |
| Balance Sheet | 10 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 11 |
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Directors
| Directors | |
|---|---|
| Dr M P R Hamilton | |
| Mrs A McTavish | |
| Ms S A Norcross | |
| Professor A A Pacey | |
| Dr J Stewart | |
| Mrs K L Woodcock | |
| Dr V Bolton | |
| Professor A H Balen | |
| Company Number | 03761793 |
| Registered and Principal Office | Profile Productions Ltd |
| Boston House | |
| Boston Manor Road | |
| Brentford | |
| Middlesex | |
| TW8 9JJ | |
| Independent Examiner | David Hoose |
| 5thFloor | |
| 3 Wellington Place | |
| Leeds | |
| West Yorkshire | |
| LS1 4AP | |
| Registered Charity Number | 1075661 |
- 1 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
The directors, who are also the trustees of the charity, present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2022.
Company status
British Fertility Society does not have a share capital and is limited by guarantee to the value of £1 per member.
The charity is constituted under the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company, which were adopted on 12 April 1999 and amended on 24 January 2022, and comprise its principal governing documents.
The objects of the charity are to promote research into the study and treatment of human reproduction including infertility, contraception and early pregnancy failure.
Statement of directors' responsibilities
Company Law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company at the end of the year and of its financial activities during the year then ended. In preparing those financial statements, the directors are required to:
-
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
-
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and
-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in operation.
The directors are responsible for keeping accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the trust and which enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 and the Companies Act 2006. They have general responsibility for taking such steps as are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets of the trust and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.
The directors also confirm that they do not know of any relevant information that has not been disclosed to the charity’s Independent Examiner, having taken all possible steps to make themselves aware of such information and pass it on to the Independent Examiner.
Governance and management
The charity is a registered charity, number 1075661. The charity is managed by its board of directors who also act as its trustees. They have power to appoint further directors. The day-to-day administration of the charity is delegated to the secretary who is responsible for instructing any advisors who may be appointed to assist in the running of the charity.
In shaping the Charity’s objectives for the year and planning our activities, the trustees have considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.
Significant relationships
British Fertility Society Limited works closely with BFS Education Limited whose principal activity is the running of the academic interests of the members. These activities complement the objectives of British Fertility Society Limited.
Financial review
The activities for the year ended 31 March 2022 have resulted in a deficit of £6,552 (period ended 31 March 2021: surplus of £38,500). At the year end total funds, all of which were unrestricted, were £98,830 (period ended 31 March 2021: £105,382).
- 2 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Review of activities to March 2022
British Fertility Society Limited has continued to develop its activities in relation to the promotion of education and knowledge in the field of infertility, in line with the following objectives:
• The advancement of education
The Joint Annual Meeting with the Society for Reproduction and Fertility (SRF) and the Association of Reproductive & Clinical Scientists (ARCS) took place in January 2021. The theme of the meeting was “Rising to Global Challenges” and was planned to be an in-person event in Liverpool, England. By December 2020, the meeting had attracted more than 900 registrations and 300+ abstracts. Unfortunately, due to a surge in Covid cases in the UK, associated with the omicron variant of the virus, it was decided to switch the meeting to an on-line event. The adjustment to programme delivery was achieved in a remarkably short period and the meeting proved to be a tremendous success with more than 750 delegates logging in during live streaming. This event has continued to strengthen the Society’s relationships with other professional organisations and has increased its accessibility to all within the profession.
The Annual BFS Study Week was also delivered as an online event, with Virtual Study Week launching in mid-2021. Registration fees were appropriate to the virtual environment, and we were delighted to maintain attendance numbers in line with previous years and managed to generate a surplus once again. Feedback from delegates was wholly positive and we were again pleased that this virtual offering opened up BFS Study Week to delegates from abroad. The duration of study week was extended to six months, to enable delegates to take part, mindful of the pressures and restrictions imposed on them due to the pandemic. Particularly popular were two new study days, the first tailored to GPs and the second to fertility nurses.
The shared Annual Study Week with the RCOG was suspended for 2020, due to the pandemic but ran online in April 2021. There were 168 attendees in total, 100 of whom were from overseas further increasing our international profile. Feedback from the meeting was very positive.
The Society is responsible for the publication of Human Fertility, a multidisciplinary journal, which publishes articles ranging from molecular medicine to practical healthcare delivery and psychosocial aspects of reproductive medicine. All members of the British Fertility Society receive the Journal online as part of their subscription; the readership is still increasing both in the UK and internationally. Consideration was given during the year to switching the journal to an open-access format. This continues to be reviewed by the Executive Committee and the Journal’s Editorial Board.
Public engagement continued during the year despite the pandemic with BFS Executive members frequently engaged in on-line public debate either in the media or in taking part in panel discussions as for example provided by Progress Educational Trust and others.
The Society also contributed the RCOG Professional Development conference in November 2021. Significant investment in the last year has been placed in the upgrade of our website which will enable to communicate better with our members and the public.
• The advancement of health
The Joint Annual meeting and two Study Weeks are designed to better equip clinicians, nurses, scientists and ancillary professionals to deal with matters related to fertility and infertility.
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BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Certification of Training modules also ensure that practitioners reach specific standards in delivering the relevant components of care, always incorporating the latest material and practices for the benefit of those seeking care. In 2020, we added to the modules we provide with the addition of a Nursing study day, and a GP study day. We now offer, Fertility Preservation, Creating Modern Families, Male Fertility, ET/IUI, PGT, Pelvic Ultrasound and PR/Effective Fertility Services (in conjunction with the HFEA), GP, Nursing, Assisted Conception, and Management of the Infertile Couple. Over 175 members were registered with our certification programmes during the year of this report.
The principles of evidence-based practice, as promoted by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), underpin these and our other training modules. There is continuing interaction with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the Department of Health always striving to improve access to and delivery of high-quality clinical care.The Society also manages a mentorship programme for health professionals (nurses, doctors and scientists) in the early stages of their careers in fertility care. At the end of the year 26 pairs were registered in the programme.
• The advancement of science
The Joint Annual meeting and the two Study weeks provide opportunities for members to present the results of their research orally and in posters and provide an arena for more general discussion of the latest trends and advances in our specialty.
The Society publishes a journal (Human Fertility) encompassing a mix of invited reviews, original articles, and publication of Policy and Practice statements and opinion papers. The journal also provides a forum for the publication of peer-reviewed articles arising out of the activities of the Association of Biomedical Andrologists, the Association of Clinical Embryologists, the Association of Irish Clinical Embryologists, the British Andrology Society, the British Infertility Counselling Association, the Irish Fertility Society and the Royal College of Nursing Fertility Nurses Group.
Consideration is being given to switching publication of the journal to an open access format which we believe will increase the number of contributions, widen circulation, and increase impact factor.
The Society is also an influential voice in the Reproductive Medicine Clinical Studies Group facilitated by the RCOG. This body carries significant weight in the determination of awards from UK national funding bodies e.g., HTA, NIHR.
• The advancement of human rights with respect to equality
Perhaps more than in most branches of medicine, fertility care covers both males and females, and equal emphasis is placed on the delivery of their combined and mutually dependent care with due respect to individual autonomy, justice, and equality legislation. Infertility is recognised as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and promotion of high-quality care of infertile people is part of our obligation as healthcare professionals to reduce disability, distress, stigmatisation, and disease burden in society.
The BFS Study Week delivers modules in Male Fertility and Creating Modern Families. Our equality and diversity policy is displayed on our website and all members are expected to abide by the standards set out in that document.
• The relief of those in need because of ill-health and disability
Infertility is designated a disease and a disability by the World Health Organisation. The Society strives to offer education to enable the best care to be given by practitioners to those with fertility problems and the consequent disability.
- 4 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Key achievements of the charity during the year ended 31 March 2022 include:
-
The Charity’s constitutional arrangements have been updated and new Articles of Association were approved in January 2022 at the Annual General Meeting of British Fertility Society Limited & BFS Education Ltd. The fiscal relationship between the two companies has been clarified to the satisfaction of our lawyers and accountants.
-
Trustee meetings have taken place regularly including examination of our risk register as a standing item of the agenda.
-
The BFS are working towards achieving a Royal Charter, with the aim of increasing our influence with government in matters related to fertility practice and reproductive health. The intention is to make us more effective in campaigning on issues such as fair access to fertility treatment and the funding of research topics. We are applying for Royal Chartered status together with ARCS and SRF. The award of a Royal Charter would mean we are recognised as the national experts on matters of fertility and reproduction and to do so, we need to include representation of the professional groups involved in the discipline: clinical, scientific and academic. In recent years we have had closer cooperation between the three societies, working together to create the annual Fertility Conference, on policy statements and guidelines, as well as recently leading a coordinated response to the Covid 19 pandemic. This partnership we believe has been of benefit to the memberships and strengthening the relationship through a Royal Charter will make us more effective.
-
The BFS formed a working party with ARCS to produce advice for members and the general public in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The working party worked closely with the HFEA and our FAQs continue to be used to inform public messaging.
-
The Charity pivoted its Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Student careers event, online – producing a series of short videos which were disseminated to all schools across the United Kingdom.
-
A continuing uptake of travel grants through promotion of the grants. The Charity makes available grants for professionals and trainees to attend relevant educational events, and requires them to report on their activities, to monitor effectiveness and relevance.
-
The Joint Fertility Meetings were major meetings, involving all the significant organisations in fertility care and, once more, attracted a large, multidisciplinary audience. The extremely positive feedback indicates to the Trustees that this event is extremely valuable to scientists and health professionals working in this field and much appreciated by attendees.
-
The increased topic coverage of the Study Week has continued to attract a larger group of trainees to the event and the training event is continuing to steadily enrich its reputation – online provision increased access to this training.
In summary, the charity has had another influential year and continues to expand its activities.
Reserves policy and going concern
The Directors' principal aim is to ensure that membership income is sufficient to cover the charity's regular expenditure and to utilise any surplus resources towards the principal objects as set out elsewhere in this report. The intention continues to be to consolidate the current level of reserves to advance the aims and objectives of the Charity.
The Trustees have reviewed the circumstances of the Charity and consider that adequate resources continue to be available to fund its activities for the foreseeable future.
- 5 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
DIRECTORS’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Risk Management
The directors are aware of the major risks facing the organisation and continue to develop the strengthened risk register. This clearly lays out the necessary lines of communication and measures required to manage any identified weaknesses.
Directors
The Directors of British Fertility Society Ltd. during the year to 31st March 2022 were:
Dr Mark Hamilton (Chair of Trustees) Mrs Karen Woodcock Mrs Alison McTavish Prof Adam Balen Prof Allan Pacey Ms Sarah Norcross Dr Jane Stewart Dr Virginia Bolton
Small Company Rules
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provision of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.
Approved by the secretary on Dec 15, 2022
and signed on their behalf by
Mark Hamilton
Mark Hamilton (Dec 15, 2022 11:51 GMT)
Dr M P R Hamilton Director
- 6 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
I report on the financial statements of British Fertility Society Limited for the year ended 31 March 2022, which are set out on pages 9 to 14.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’).
Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements 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(b) of the 2011 Act.
This report, including my statement, has been prepared for and only for the charity’s trustees as a body. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the charity’s trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an independent examiner’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body for my examination work, for this report, or for the statements I have made.
Basis of independent examiner’s report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the financial statements presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the financial statements, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the financial statements present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent examiner’s statement
In connection with my examination, which is complete, no matters have come to my attention which give me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of British Fertility Society Limited in accordance with section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
-
the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
-
the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the financial statements give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
-
the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principals of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
-
7 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Independent examiner’s statement (continued)
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.
David Hoose (Dec 15, 2022 11:54 GMT)
David Hoose FCA
For and on behalf of
Mazars LLP 5[th] Floor 3 Wellington Place Leeds West Yorkshire LS1 4AP
Date: Dec 15, 2022
- 8 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
| Income Other sundry income Conferences Bank interest receivable Incoming resources from charitable activities: Membership fees Donations Sponsorship donations Total income Expenditure Charitable activities: Educational expenses Secretarial and other member expenses Governance costs: Accountancy Total expenditure Net (expenditure)/income |
12 months to 31 March 2022 Unrestricted funds £ £ 22,871 28,195 1 79,899 5,555 240 136,761 1,806 136,347 5,160 143,313 (6,552) |
12 months to 31 March 2022 Unrestricted funds £ £ 22,871 28,195 1 79,899 5,555 240 136,761 1,806 136,347 5,160 143,313 (6,552) |
12 months to 31 March 2022 Unrestricted funds £ £ 22,871 28,195 1 79,899 5,555 240 136,761 1,806 136,347 5,160 143,313 (6,552) |
18 months to 31 March 2021 Unrestricted funds £ £ 34,404 41,457 108 146,942 36,000 19,115 278,026 22,198 207,908 9,420 239,526 38,500 |
18 months to 31 March 2021 Unrestricted funds £ £ 34,404 41,457 108 146,942 36,000 19,115 278,026 22,198 207,908 9,420 239,526 38,500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 136,761 | 278,026 | ||||
| 143,313 | 239,526 |
||||
| (6,552) | 38,500 |
The Statement of Financial Activities has been prepared on the basis that all operations are continuing operations.
There are no gains or losses other than those reported in the Statement of Financial Activities.
- 9 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2022
Company number 03761793
| Notes Assets Cash at Bank and in hand Debtors 3 Liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 4 Net assets Financed by: Unrestricted funds 5 |
31 March 2022 £ 101,194 82,667 183,871 (85,041) 98,830 98,830 |
31 March 2021 £ 129,411 94,935 |
|---|---|---|
| 224,346 (118,964) |
||
| 105,382 | ||
| 105,382 |
For the financial year in question the company was entitled to exemption under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
No members have required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The directors acknowledge their responsibility for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and for the preparation of the financial statements.
The financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with the special provision of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to small companies, were approved by the Board of Trustees on and signed on their behalf by Dec 15, 2022
Mark Hamilton
Mark Hamilton (Dec 15, 2022 11:51 GMT)
Dr M P R Hamilton Director
- 10 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
1. Accounting policies
British Fertility Society Limited is a public benefit entity, limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, registered number 03761793. It is registered within the Charity Commission in England and Wales. The registered office is Profile Productions, Boston House, 69 – 75 Boston Manor Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9JJ.
The principal purpose of the charity is to promote research into the study and treatment of human reproduction including infertility, contraception and early pregnancy failure.
The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:
(a) Basis of preparation
These financial statements have been presented in pound sterling which is the functional currency of the company, and rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
British Fertility Society Limited meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes.
The financial information is presented for the 12 months ended 31 March 2022 and therefore the figures are not directly comparable with the prior period of 18 months to 31 March 2021.
(b) Income
Income from charitable activities represent fees and sponsorship receivable from members.
Bank interest is accounted for when receivable.
Other income is accounted for when receivable.
(c) Expenditure
- Educational expenses
Includes expenses directly related to the objects of the charity (in accordance with Charities SORP (FRS 102)) and include human fertility production costs and contributions to fertility meetings.
• Governance costs
Governance costs comprise the costs of running the charity including independent examination, certain legal and professional fees and secretarial and administration costs.
- 11 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
(d) Going concern
The Trustees have reviewed the circumstances of the Charity and consider that adequate resources continue to be available to fund the activities for the foreseeable future and for a period of at twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements. These financial statements have therefore been prepared on the going concern principle. The Trustees have considered the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Charity’s going concern status. The Trustees do not consider there to be any material uncertainties which could impact on the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern.
(e)
Financial instruments
The charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured as their settlement value.
(f) Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
The preparation of the financial statements requires trustees to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported for assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date and the amounts reported for reserves and expenses during the year. However, the nature of the estimation means that the actual outcomes could differ from the estimates. The trustees believe that there are no critical accounting policies where judgements or estimates are necessarily applied.
2. Independent examiner’s remuneration
| 2. Independent examiner’s remuneration |
||
|---|---|---|
| Independent examination 3. Debtors Trade debtors Prepayment Other debtors Amounts owed by BFS Education Limited |
12 months 2022 £ 3,600 31 March 2022 £ 18,769 2,776 - 61,132 82,677 |
18 months 2021 £ 3,540 |
| 31 March 2021 £ 10,145 17,640 6,018 61,132 |
||
| 94,935 |
- 12 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
4. Creditors
| Trade creditors Accruals and deferred income (see below) Other creditors Deferred income Brought forward Amounts released Amounts deferred in current year Carried forward |
31 March 2022 £ 25,764 59,252 25 85,041 31 March 2022 £ 52,670 (52,670) 54,932 54,932 |
31 March 2021 £ 55,450 62,854 660 |
|---|---|---|
| 118,964 | ||
| 31 March 2021 £ 45,031 (45,031) 52,670 |
||
| 52,670 |
Deferred income represents subscriptions and sponsorship relating to future periods.
5. Funds
| General funds | Balance at 1 April 2021 £ 105,382 |
Income £ 136,761 |
Expenditure Balance at 31 March 2022 £ £ (143,313) 98,830 |
|---|---|---|---|
6. Financial Instruments
| Financial assets Financial assets measured at amortised cost Financial liabilities Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost |
31 March 2022 31 March 2021 £ £ 18,769 16,163 31 March 2022 31 March 2021 £ £ 30,109 66,294 |
|---|---|
Financial assets that are measured at amortised cost are comprised of trade and other debtors.
Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost are comprised of trade creditors, other creditors and accrued expenses.
- 13 -
BRITISH FERTILITY SOCIETY LIMITED
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
7. Related Party Transactions
During the year, BFS Education Limited, a company related to British Fertility Society Limited due to their close working, made donations to British Fertility Society Limited totalling £5,555 (2021: £36,000). At 31 March 2022 an amount of £61,132 (2021: £61,132) was owed by BFS Education Limited.
8. Remuneration and Trustee Expenses
The members of the Board of Trustees received no remuneration for their services during the year. Expenses reimbursed to Board of Trustee members for costs incurred on behalf of the charity during the period amounted to £77 (2021: £2,705). This was in respect of 1 Trustee (2021: 6 Trustees).
The Charity has no employees.
- 14 -