Whinchat
## SONGBIRD SURVIVAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024 _—
A company limited by guarantee | Registered Charity No. 1085281 | Company No. 4078747
Wood warbler
## SUMMARY INFORMATION
## **DIRECTORS**
Tom Leicester Clive Sherwood Nick Forde Colin Strang Steel Nicky Oliver Peter Roberts Steve Guest Alison Spottiswoode Julia Shroeder (Co-opted) Gerald Kaye (Co-opted) Keith Cowieson (Co-opted)
**CEO** Susan Morgan
## **INDEPENDENT**
## **EXAMINERS**
Adam James MAAT Eric Southwick & Co Chartered Accountants 51 The Avenue Seaham Co Durham SR7 8NS
## **BANKERS**
Svenska Handelsbanken 1 Prince Of Wales Road Norwich Norfolk NR1 1BD
## **CHARITY ADDRESS**
PO Box 311 Diss IP22 1WW
## **REGISTERED OFFICE**
50 Princes Street Ipswich Suffolk IP1 1RJ
## **REGISTERED NUMBER**
4078747
**CHARITY NUMBER** 1085281 (Charity Commission for England and Wales)
Cover photo by Paul Kaiser, Kaiserchief Photography
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## INTRODUCTION FROM THE CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
THIS REPORT ACCOUNTS FOR ACTIVITY FROM OCTOBER 2023 TO SEPTEMBER 2024.
Our strategic focus remains on funding critical scientific studies to fill gaps in the evidence base around threats to songbirds. Without this, we cannot fully understand the complex interplay of issues causing the decline of many species.
This year, we made progress with our research strategy, starting a postdoctoral study at the University of Sussex in January 2024 and commissioning two PhDs in autumn 2024. All three new studies address issues that will need a strong and determined voice to achieve positive change. We are confident and committed to tackling these challenges in the best interests of the songbirds we are working to protect.
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Colin Strang Steel Susan Morgan
Colin Strang Steel Susan Morgan
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We are delighted to present SongBird Survival’s Annual Report for 2023/2024. In this report we outline our progress whilst also recognising the ongoing crisis facing songbirds.
ixty-six million years after the last mass extinction, we are now experiencing the Ssixth one, driven by our unsustainable use of the environment. The UK is now one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, retaining less than 50% of its biodiversity.
Birds are essential to our ecosystem, playing crucial roles including pest control and seed dispersal, but more than half of the 84 UK annually breeding species are on the Birds of Conservation Concern amber or red list. Over half are also included in the Defra Wild Bird Populations Indicators, highlighting the significant challenges ahead to achieve a positive future for songbirds. This urgency drives our ambition for change.
To make a tangible impact, we must be focused and strategic. Our new strategic goals provide this clarity, as reflected in the research studies we commissioned and the campaigns we delivered in 2023/2024.
Our efforts to use the research results to provide solutions and influence positive action are also growing. 2023/2024 also saw new ways of working. We exhibited at Global Bird Fair for the first time, aiming to build more partnerships and raise awareness of SongBird Survival in the wider conservation community. Our collaboration with Cats Protection to educate cat owners on reducing the impact of cats hunting birds was highly successful, extending the coverage and impact of our message. Such collaborations will be key in the future.
As the year ended, we were planning our 25th anniversary in 2025. This milestone gives us a chance to reflect on our activities and impact over the last quarter-century and re-energise for the continuing challenge, as the situation for songbirds remains critical.
We remain determined in our mission to change the future for songbirds. The environmental backdrop may be bleak, but with the support of our committed members and supporters, we believe we can make a difference.
Thank you to everyone who played a part in saving songbirds in 2023/2024. We are extremely grateful and assure you our efforts will only increase as we move into 2024/2025.
Colin Strang Steel, Chairman & Susan Morgan, CEO
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**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
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Yellow wagtail
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**the annual report and financial** |
## PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES OF SONGBIRD SURVIVAL
## **OBJECT**
The objective of the charity is to improve protect and preserve the population of song and other small birds for the benefit of national biodiversity and the public. It aims to achieve this by commissioning and funding scientific research; supporting the conservation and restoration of habitats; by education of the public and by advocacy where changes in the law may be deemed necessary to protect song and other small birds.
## **OUR VISION AND STRATEGY**
The charity’s vision is to see resilient and balanced UK songbird (and other small bird) populations sustained through sound management strategies.
**What this will look like:** A resilient and balanced UK songbird population would ideally consist of healthy and diverse bird species, with stable or increasing numbers. These birds would be welladapted to their habitats, able to withstand environmental challenges, and maintain sustainable breeding populations.
## **OUR AIM IS TO IMPROVE, SUSTAIN OR HALT THE DECLINE OF SONGBIRD POPULATIONS**
**What this means** : Each species is affected by a unique and complex mix of threats and circumstances which affect their population trend and status. Therefore, our strategy and aim for each species or family will be varied and different to enable overall achievement of our vision.
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## ORGANISATION STRATEGY
## **Our new strategic goals encompass three key themes:**
**DRIVE IMPACTFUL CONSERVATION THROUGH SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH**
**We conduct scientific research that fills crucial gaps in our understanding of songbird conservation.** By translating findings into actionable strategies, we aim to protect and preserve songbird populations.
Our programme funds novel and innovative research across the UK, contributing to the conservation evidence base. Projects are prioritised for their potential to halt or reverse songbird declines.
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Spotted flycatcher
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**PROTECT SONGBIRDS BY RAISING AWARENESS AND INSPIRING ACTION**
**Our focus is raising awareness about songbird population decline and its causes.** In 2023/2024, our campaigns motivated behaviour change and outlined ways to help songbirds, based on science.
The National Robin Day, Gardens for Birds, and Get EduCATed campaigns secured national and regional press, increased social media reach, and gained advocates like Cats Protection and gardening influencer Toby Buckland. Through the Pesticide Collaboration, we supported a campaign for change in pesticide use in urban settings.
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Mistle thrush
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**SAFEGUARD THE MOST AT-RISK SONGBIRD SPECIES IN THE UK**
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Marsh tit
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**Our goal is to address the issues facing these vulnerable species.** By working closely with partners, we strive to implement targeted conservation measures.
To achieve resilient UK songbird populations, we’ll focus on safeguarding species most at risk. This includes commissioning new research or prioritising campaigns and education on threats and solutions. The ‘most at risk’ list, reviewed annually, includes species like house martin, nightingale, and willow tit. We’ll consider factors including the IUCN UK list and steep population declines. This flexible approach ensures we adapt to changing species needs.
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**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## i RESEARCH STRATEGY
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Chaffinch
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n 2022, SongBIrd Survival funded a team of independent researchers led by Professor Paul IDolman from the University of East Anglia and Dr Alex Lees from Manchester Metropolitan University, to deliver an evidence review of all scientific knowledge regarding UK songbirds and the threats they face. By putting together all this information and studying it, we hoped to better understand the drivers of change in songbird species populations and identify gaps in the evidence base. As a result, we were able to pinpoint priorities of critical research where knowledge was limited, to better support the recovery of our songbird populations. These included:
As a result of what we’ve discovered, three new research projects have already been commissioned, and this evidence review will continue to feed the research pipeline in coming years.
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Black redstart
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- the need to understand the importance of regional variation in predation pressures
- a lack of understanding of the drivers causing declining trends in woodland species.
- identifying the cascading impact of supporting generalist species (e.g. through garden bird feeding) and its effect on other species.
- resolving uncertainty around the impact of the decline of insects on songbirds.
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## SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
## **GOAL:**
**To deliver a programme of independent scientific research targeting specific gaps in the conservation evidence base relating to songbird declines and prioritised relating to its potential to make a positive impact to achieve the organisational mission.**
## **RESEARCH PROJECTS UNDERWAY IN 2023/2024**
## **NEW STUDIES COMMISSIONED IN 2023/2024**
**In winter 2023, SongBird Survival began working with the University of East Anglia and the British Trust for Ornithology on a meta-analysis of avian nest camera studies.**
By focusing on nest camera studies that look at true natural nests across the UK, the aim is to provide an accurate snapshot of which different predator classes are contributing to nest predation events across the UK.
Current predator control strategies are often controversial, and may be poorly informed by scientific evidence, so we are examining both published and unpublished data to get the most complete picture possible.
This will enable us to determine whether there are gaps in the understanding of nest predation, or if there is a need to lobby for current management strategies to be revised.
The study was completed in September 2024 and submitted for peer review and publication.
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i oncaMS: a,os Pn Song thrush Semeened ;_
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## **Do veterinary drugs harm nesting tits?**
**What is the need:** Many species of songbird utilise hair or wool in their nesting materials. Little thought is given to whether that hair/ wool is safe, but most livestock or companion animals have been treated with veterinary flea treatment at some point.
**The study:** This project looks at whether wool treated with ‘spot-on’ type flea treatments has any negative impacts on nesting blue and great tits. The progress of eggs and chicks provided with wool will be monitored over the breeding season to see if vet products can have unintended consequences to wildlife.
The two-year post doctorate study is being completed by Dr Cannelle Tassin de Montagu with Professor Dave Goulson at Sussex University.
**Impact:** The results may inform the need to campaign to stop the use of damaging treatments, providing advice for alternatives and working with vets to promote awareness of the issue.
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**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## **NEW STUDIES COMMISSIONED IN 2023/2024**
## **Understanding impacts of recreational disturbance on woodland/shrubland birds**
**What is the need:** There is now an emerging body of evidence that disturbance impacts may also affect passerine populations in both open and wooded habitats.
**The study:** We are funding a PhD at Exeter : | University which will determine if breeding birds — f are impacted by their immediate area becoming ‘disturbed’ by walkers and their dogs and other recreational users reducing settlement and breeding activity.
**Impact:** The results will help us to create better mitigation measures and work together with landowners to reduce the impact of walkers on our wildlife. This could include increased signage, seasonal closures, dog champions etc.
## **Endocrine disrupting chemicals in waterways and the impact on sand martins**
**What is the need:** In recent years, the landscape of chemical pollutants and its effect on wildlife has become a widely recognised issue. Wastewater treatment facilities and the surrounding areas are safe havens for many bird species - especially birds that feed on the wing like martins and swallows, as well as wagtails and dippers. Our evidence review study highlighted that British songbirds are being increasingly exposed to complex cocktails of diverse chemicals, some of which are known to have direct and indirect physiological or population level impacts.
**The study:** Starting in autumn 2024, a PhD at Manchester Metropolitan University will attempt to establish if there is a pathway from wastewater systems to songbird species and unpick how these chemicals impact the reproductive success.
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Sand martins
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**Impact:** The results may inform policy change with water companies and the Environment Agency.
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## ENGAGEMENT AND EDUCATION
## **CAMPAIGNS**
## **GOAL:**
**To provide guidance and information to the public on how to take active steps to preserve and protect songbirds, and encourage meaningful engagement with this.**
## **CAMPAIGN CASE STUDY: GET EDUCATED**
hroughout the year, we help people by answering their questions and sharing useful Tadvice about protecting songbirds. We also run special campaigns based on our scientific research to spread the word and inspire action.
Our education and campaign efforts are growing steadily. We aim to turn our research findings into practical solutions that resonate with specific audiences. By doing this, we hope to make a real difference in songbird conservation and encourage everyone to get involved in protecting these beautiful creatures and their habitats.
## **GOAL:**
**To educate cat owners with science-based solutions to reduce cat hunting of songbirds.**
**The campaign, in spring 2024, focused on raising awareness of the issue of cat predation on songbird populations and encouraged cat owners to take steps to reduce the hunting behaviours of their pets.**
**We shared messaging through trusted cat welfare professionals, via blogs, through partnerships, and provided new information in the form of downloadable fact sheets and online quizzes to educate the public on the science-based solutions found by Songbird Survival funded research.**
**After conducting a poll with YouGov to 1000 cat owners, we found that 76% weren’t concerned about their cats’ impact on wildlife, and almost half were not aware of any ways to reduce cat predation. We hoped our campaign would better equip people with the knowledge and encourage cat owners to adopt one of our win-win solutions such as changing what food they feed their cat, playing with them for 5-10 minutes a day or keeping them in from dusk until dawn.**
**The key elements of this campaign were blog and social media posts, sharing the advice of trusted cat behaviour and welfare professionals to influence owners, a poll, a PR campaign and new resources in print and online.**
## **RESULTS:**
## **INFORMATION**
A new bank of resources was developed for this campaign, including an information leaflet on how to care for your cat and wildlife, information on how to create your own cat wand, and simple infographics on the science-based solutions. Veterinary clinics were also targeted with a vet clinic poster about the best ways to curb cat hunting available for download.
## **PARTNERSHIPS**
We partnered with Cats Protection, issuing a joint press release, which generated significant media interest. Our CEO was featured with an expert from Cats Protection on ITV News, reaching over 1.8 million people. Our press release resulted in over 100 items of regional and national media coverage. We also engaged with popular vet influencer Dr James Greenwood, who featured the campaign on BBC One’s Morning live, reaching 1 million people.
## **WEBSITE**
The campaign created an increase in website traffic of 100% compared to the previous quarter. Over 15,000 visits were recorded to the campaign pages, with nearly 6,000 completing our online educational quiz and we received more than 100 new newsletter subscribers.
## **ENGAGEMENT AND REACH**
**The campaign was a huge success reaching over 7.1 million people using TV and print media and paid for social media adverts reaching over 195,000 people.**
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**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## **EDUCATION CASE STUDY: NORWICH SCIENCE FESTIVAL**
## **GOAL:**
**To inspire children to become interested in nature and songbirds through hands-on activities and spread awareness of the dangers of pesticide usage on our wildlife.**
SongBird Survival participated in the ‘Bugs, Birds and Beasts Day’ at the Norwich Science Festival to educate children about the dangers of pesticides and excite them about songbirds.
## **RESULTS:**
Around 8,000 visitors to the Explorium engaged with Susan, Charlotte, and Lisa from our team. We offered child-friendly resources like pesticide awareness worksheets, bird spotting guides, and wildlife-friendly garden tips. Parents could also get involved with information leaflets and take-home worksheets.
Children enjoyed activities like ‘Bird spot corner,’ a calming space to learn about birds, and ‘Pesticide junction,’ which used visual aids to explain the impact of pesticides on the environment.
These activities made learning fun and accessible, benefiting both children and the charity by raising awareness and fostering a love for nature.
## **EDUCATION CASE STUDY: RUBY ROBIN AWARD**
## **GOAL:**
**This free challenge for children aged 5-11, aims to spark an interest in birds and conservation at an early age.**
Through completing a series of four challenges such as bird spotting, crafts to make bird feeders, fact sheets learning about songbirds and some fun tasks to share their learning, the award winners learn more about the challenges birds face and how to help them.
Children from all across the UK, took part in their homes, schools and clubs. Almost half of those taking part were from an urban environment.
_“My daughter loved taking part in the Ruby Robin challenge. It helped her understand more about songbirds and nature and why it’s so important that we help to protect them.”_
_“The pupils who took part enjoyed the range of activities immensely and request regular bird watching on the school grounds.”_
## **RESULTS:**
This first year was a resounding success with 15,000 children registered and 3,600 securing the award. Website traffic also increased significantly.
## **WHO TOOK PART:**
With parents/grandparents at home: **68%** At a club e.g. brownies, forest school, scouts: **10%** At school: **22%**
**83%** agreed they developed a deeper understanding of nature.
**80%** agreed they had more of a curiosity about songbirds.
## **GOAL:**
**To increase income from existing audiences through excellent stewardship, alongside diversifying the portfolio of activity and investing in generating income from new audiences.**
e do not recei ~~ve~~ any government funding: 100% of our income comes from Wdonations, and our work relies on the generosity of members and supporters. We have signed up to the Fundraising Regulator’s fundraising promise and we strictly adhere to the Fundraising Regulator’s code of fundraising practice and all the relevant Chartered Institute of Fundraising guidance, including ’Treating Donors Fairly.’
SongBird Survival has not received any complaints regarding aspects of our fundraising during the year. We have not received any notifications from the Fundraising Preference Service during 2023/2024.
This year has seen the recruitment of a specialist fundraiser who is leading the growth in income from Trusts and Foundations, the cornerstone of our fundraising strategy for income growth.
Securing long-term sustainable income is vital and we continue to aim to broaden the range of ways in which individuals and organisations can get involved.
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Protect threatened
songbirds with Research overwhelmingly confirms what parents know to be
true: time in nature is good for children.
Active time spent outdoors contributes to physical health
Family Membership and being in nature encourages healthy emotional development too. Fostering a lifelong appreciation of the natural world, starting in
childhood, is key to achieving our mission. Our songbirds need a
generation of nature lovers with a deep appreciation of the natural
A whole year of fun and learning world, who will use their talents to protect it.
Service user number: 5 3 2 4 6 7
Willow WarblerTotal to pay: Bank/Building Society name: [I wish to set up a Direct Debit:] [£] [Every: Month / Year ] (delete as appropriate) Bank/Building Society account number:Branch Sort Code:
¥. 1 Pee ty Bank/Building Society address: a]Fl Please pay GC re SONGBIRDSURVIVAL Direct Debits from the account detailed in this Instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with GC re SONGBIRDSURVIVAL and, if so, details will be passed electronically to my bank/building society. Instructions to your bank or building society:
Name(s) of Account Holder(s):
Postcode:
Signature(s):
Date:
Po. ie, -@ SURVIVAL THE DIRECT DEBIT GUARANTEE If there are any changes to the amount, date or frequency of your Direct Debit GC re SONGBIRDSURVIVAL will notify you 3 working days in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. If you request GC re SONGBIRDSURVIVAL to collect a payment, confirmation of the amount and date will be given to you at the time of the request. If an error is made in the payment of your Direct Debit, by GC re SONGBIRDSURVIVAL or your bank or building society, you are entitled to a full and immediate refund of the amount paid from your bank or building society. If you receive a refund you are not entitled to, you must pay it back when GC re SONGBIRDSURVIVAL asks you to. You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by simply contacting your bank or building society. Written confirmation may be required. Please also notify us. S This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay Direct Debits. This guarantee should be detached and retained by the payer.
songbird-survival.org.uk
LET YOUR CHILD
BE WILD
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## **MEMBERSHIP**
membership review resulted in the development of an updated suite of A membership materials and the first increase in membership fees for seventeen years. This was unavoidable after a period of rising costs and the need to ensure that a realistic proportion of the membership income is available to support the charitable activities. We are very grateful to our members for being supportive of this change with minimal cancellations as a result.
A new category of membership was introduced for families, aiming to encourage learning and support for songbirds at an early age. Monthly activities are provided. Although initial numbers are low we will aim to grow through marketing the product more widely.
## **BIG GIVE SUCCESS**
atched funding from the Big Give Green Match Fund was a catalyst for a successful spring appeal. With donors Mresponding very positively to this matched funding offer, we raised £21,835, beating the target of £20,000, within only a few days. The funds will be directed to support scientific research, and we send a heartfelt thanks to all the generous donors.
## **FUNDRAISING WEEK**
fundraising week was held in June 2024 to encourage individuals to fundraise on behalf of the charity in their A communities. We are grateful for the support of many individuals who took part and for their creative and fun ideas.
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
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Nightingale
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## **TRUSTS & FOUNDATIONS**
e extend our sincere gratitude to the charitable trusts and foundations Wwhose support has been instrumental this year. With contributions from 49 generous partners, we have been able to make meaningful progress toward our mission. We are especially grateful to the trusts and foundations listed for their exceptional generosity and enduring commitment to protecting and nurturing UK songbird populations.
The income generated from trusts and foundations provides essential funding that enables SongBird Survival to work alongside experts to advance critical research and expand our education and engagement programmes to drive impactful results for songbird conservation.
Looking ahead, we are committed to building on the progress made this year, with a continued focus on growing income to support our research and engagement efforts. In the coming year, we aim to deepen partnerships with experts to deliver our pipeline of research priorities and create solutions that we can share through educational outreach. With the ongoing support of trusts and foundations, we are hopeful in our plans to make a positive impact for songbirds in the face of their devastating decline. Together, we will work to ensure that our programmes continue to create lasting, positive impacts for songbirds and the ecosystems they inhabit.
## **DONATIONS OF £10,000 OR MORE**
- HDH Wills 1965 Charitable Trust
- Master Charitable Trust
- The John Swire 1989 Charitable Trust
- The Big Give
- David Barnett Charitable Trust
## **TRUST DONORS**
- Mrs Charlotte Herber Percy Charitable Trust
- Elizabeth Gilmour Charitable Foundation
- Tansy Trust
- Mainhouse Charitable Trust
- Lionel Lyster (1980) Memorial Trust
- Barratt Family Charitable Trust
- Charles Hayward Foundation
- Trustees of the Weld 1995 Settlement
- Morrison-Bell Charitable Trust
- David Wentworth-Stanley Charitable Trust
- Ofenheim Charitable Trust
- Privy Purse Charitable Trust
- Stephen Cockburn Charitable Trust
- CCG Trust
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## **WHAT OUR SUPPORTERS SAY:**
ur annual survey provides an invaluable voice from our community of members Oand supporters. Supporters continue to be highly satisfied with the charity and they truly guide the nature and focus of our work.
The base of supporters includes a number of long-term loyal members, with 45% contributing to our work for more than 5 years. The community also includes a significant proportion of new supporters providing a vibrant and engaging community.
This year the feedback has specifically helped us to shape some updates of The Dawn Chorus, our supporter magazine, and the AGM format for 2025.
Satisfaction levels rated 8.4 out of 10 and the vast majority (more than 80%) also feel appreciated, think that we spend the donations wisely, provide good communications and keep them informed about our work.
**“I love your comunication and rearch and the way you interact with your suporters”**
**“You provide god responses to wild bird questions and queries, the human touch”**
**“I like knowing that we, as an organisation, truly care about our native songbirds and their strugle ainst the ods, and that dedicated and ofen invible indiduals are doing e rything they can to kep their songs herd”**
## **LEGACIES**
egacy giving plays a pivotal role in the ongoing success of SongBird Survival. These thoughtful Lbequests provide essential funding that enables us to continue our critical work in songbird conservation. By remembering SongBird Survival in their wills, our members and supporters help ensure that our efforts to protect these beautiful creatures can persist long into the future.
In 2023/2024 we received £39,185 of legacy income. This enduring generosity not only supports our current projects but also lays the foundation for future initiatives, allowing us to make a lasting difference in the protection of songbirds. However, income can understandably be unpredictable and changeable. This year was lower than the previous two years and it is important that we encourage more giving in this way as it can make all the difference in enabling commitment to critical larger projects.
We are profoundly thankful for the legacy gifts that empower us to carry forward our mission with confidence and hope.
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SING FOR THEIR FUTURE?
Leave a gift for songbirds
in your will today
Our dedication to songbirds is a long
WILL and difficult path and we are only able
YOU to achieve anything for our birds with
your help. Their future is in your hands.
George
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WILL
YOU
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Finches Friend Eco Bird Food
feeder stall
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## **CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS**
e work with companies in many ways and each partnership is tailored and Wbased upon shared values. This is an area of income generation which we are aiming to grow, and this year are pleased to continue to be working with Copdock Mill, now in the 3rd year of our partnership and Eyebrook. We also established new collaborations with Finches Friend and Eco Bird Food and are very grateful for all their support.
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**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS
## **GOAL:**
**To raise awareness of the organisation, it’s mission and impact, building a positive brand reputation and increased engagement with key stakeholder groups and audiences.**
uring 2023/2024 the Board approved a new communications strategy with three clear Dgoals to help support the growth of the charity.
Red backed shrike |
## **SOCIAL MEDIA AND WEBSITE**
ur digital channels allow us to get the word out about the latest campaigns, Oresearch, information on songbirds, charity news and how to get involved. They are also important for generating feedback and engagement with key audiences.
## **IN 2023/2024 OUR CHANNELS GENERATED:**
Our communications will:
Inspire action to help songbirds by our target audiences, through increasing their understanding and opportunities and motivation to act
Speak up using science to influence policy makers
Protect and build our reputation and position us as a trusted, expert voice
With the appointment of a new Communications Manager this year, we have started implementation of a strategy to enhance brand awareness and reputation. This is elevating the profile of our organisation and its work. Prioritising partnerships is key to achieving a greater impact, and we are adopting a more targeted and focused approach to our messaging around key policy areas.
**Page Followers: 7,685, +8% Engagement: 46,223 interactions Reach: 1,553,331**
**Followers: 4,015, +35% Engagement: 40,664 interactions Reach: 173,742**
## **WEBSITE:**
**Event count: 348,786 New users/month: 14,734 Events per user : 6.52 Engagement Rate +123%**
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## **NATIONAL ROBIN DAY**
ur seventh annual awareness event on 21st of December 2023 had three key goals, all Oof which were achieved.
To Increase leads by 4,000 over a four-week period To increase brand awareness of SongBird Survival through securing PR coverage and social media reach
To launch a new children focused educational activity, supported through social media and PR.
The strategy was focused to translate more people into supporters, with audiences being people with an interest in nature, families with young children and bird enthusiasts.
We commissioned polling to understand children’s views on and their involvement with helping birds. These results provided the backdrop for our messaging.
In the national press the campaign was featured on the CBBC Newsround website with a news reach of 494,000, the Daily Mail gardening column and a feature in Scotland grows.
The campaign also featured in regional press and three BBC radio interviews covering 5 counties
Social media activity reached 782,000 people and led to a significant impact on follower numbers. #NationalRobinDay trended in the UK in the top 10 on 21st December.
Over 4,000 new supporters signed up to receive our advice and ongoing information and there was a 110% increase in visitors to the website compared to the pre-campaign period.
## **GLOBAL BIRD FAIR**
ur first ever stand at Global Bird Fair in July 2024, helped us to raise Oawareness of our work and connect with organisations and individuals with shared interests and aims.
Focusing on a UK map of regional songbird decline alongside messaging around pesticides and garden bird feeding we had engaging conversations around the key issues and messages we were promoting. Many of the 13,000 attendees visited to view the materials and information on offer on our stand.
## **PRESS AND MEDIA**
orking with external freelance PR support, SongBird Survival was featured Wonce again across a broad range of print, online and radio broadcasting in 2023/2024. These activities all supported our aim to raise awareness of the charity and our work, build a positive brand reputation and increase engagement with key stakeholder groups and audiences.
## Highlights included:
- The Get EduCATed cat campaign and SongBird Survival featuring on ITV news and Morning Live
- National Robin Day BBC regional radio appearances across the UK
- Letter printed in the Telegraph relating to cat research
- Guest interviews on the Roots and All Garden Podcast
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**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## FINANCIAL REVIEW
## **INCOME**
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Income
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## Donations **£102,877**
Membership **£36,009**
Legacies and In Memory Gifts **£39,185** Trust Grants **£150,270**
Corporate Partnerships **£29,731** Gift Aid **£30,872**
Income Generating Activities **£3,287** Other Income **£15,327**
## **EXPENDITURE**
Research Programme **£180,243** Education Programme **£63,732** Fundraising costs **£118,499** Cost of membership **£25,030** PR, communications and marketing **£68,369** Support Costs **£82,779**
## **INCOME**
**Income decreased by 7% to £407,558 (2023, £437,882).** Income was generated from a mixed portfolio of income streams as we continue to invest in the development of voluntary income generation. Having this spread of income sources is helping minimise the risk longer term as well as supporting plans for growing the total.
Individual donations remain a key source of income with the total increasing by 5% in this financial year. We are very grateful for the loyal and committed support of these individuals. This income was boosted by our new programme of summer and winter appeals. With these having a focus on oneoff donations, we now need to do more to develop regular committed giving from individuals.
Membership subscription income grew slightly, partly due to the increased subscription model introduced in the year. The further impact of this should be further seen in 2024/2025 although actual member numbers are static.
Legacy income is unpredictable and can change significantly year on year. 2023/2024 was a low year compared to previous results with three gifts received and is the key reason for the year-on-year income reduction. Marketing the opportunity to leave a gift in a will is continuing all year round and efforts in this will be further increased in coming months.
Trust Funding has seen very positive growth of 41% with more larger grants alongside the generous and welcome support of many long-term trust funders.
## **EXPENDITURE**
**Expenditure increased by £136,829 to £538,652.** This was a planned increase, investing funds gathered for this purpose in a new programme of scientific research.
The most significant changes relate to increased research funding, investment in fundraising development and delivery of communications and PR campaigns.
In 2023/2024 staff costs increased due to cost of living pay increases for existing staff, a full year in post of a professional fundraiser and the recruitment of a Communications Manager in May. Total headcount rose from 5.4 FTE to 5.85 FTE.
17
A new research project was commissioned and started at University of Sussex as well as the funding of a short study by University of East Anglia and the British Trust for Ornithology. Year 1 funding of two new PHD’s was also expended for projects starting at the end of the financial period.
Investment in education and campaigning is now a priority area of our work and grew slightly in the year but with actual spend less than planned due to cost savings made through partnerships with other organisations.
Cost of generating income is managed carefully, remaining relatively stable year on year for many aspects. There is some minor increase for the development of more professional methods and tools to maintain a competitive approach in a challenging market. The significant increase seen this year relates to salaries for a full-time fundraising post and associated income growth is being achieved and is expected to grow further in the next year.
## **NET INCOME**
A net deficit of £131,094 was achieved in 2023/2024. This was anticipated and planned by the Board following a multi-year period of net surplus. Reserves have been built and a fund generated which has now allowed the commissioning of new longer-term research projects, where funding is needed for several years.
Closing total assets were £58,351.
As per the Charity’s Reserves and Investment Policy, £249,000 of these funds are held in Reserve or are Designated Funds towards the Research and Education Programmes. Provision for long-term research contracts means the free reserves of the charity are £27,912.
## **FINANCIAL RESERVES POLICY**
The following reserves will be held: i) A “safety reserve” of 50,000 pounds to cover budget variances, to allow contingency actions to be affected, and to provide a buffer for more radical action in the event of a more serious or more sustained variance than anticipated. ii) A “general reserve” of 74,000 pounds to be used to support the growth of the charity, in particular to ensure key staff contracts and operational costs can be continued in a crisis. This is calculated based upon three months of operating costs.
See pages 30-31 for detail.
## **RESTRICTED AND DESIGNATED FUNDS**
Research Fund – donations to this fund are actively fundraised for and restricted income ring-fenced to pay for specific project contracts and their associated direct and organisational costs. Income to this fund was £98,431 in the year. £180,243 was expended with £10,484 in restricted income explicitly donated for spending during the following financial year.
Provision for long term research contracts which have been signed within the year are restricted against the Research Fund and are included in this fund’s outgoing resources. The balance of this fund at the year-end amounted to £-208,077. Fundraising for this fund is an ongoing priority.
The charity has designated £100,000 of year-end reserves to use on the Research Programme expenditure in the coming financial year.
Duckworth Fund – this fund was set up in memory of Keith Duckworth and income from his Estate is restricted to funding PhD studentships. £15,000 was received during the year and transferred into the Research Fund for this purpose. At the year-end the fund amounted to nil.
PR Fund – this fund was set up to ensure enough funds are raised to enable the charity to communicate effectively to all audiences about the work and results of the charity. Restricted income to this fund was £15,000 in the year and £68,369 was expended. The fund balance at the year-end was nil after £53,369 was transferred from unrestricted funds. New avenues of income for this fund are actively sought.
Education Fund – donations to this fund are actively fundraised for and restricted income is ring-fenced to pay for specific activities and campaigns and the associated costs of these. Income generated for this fund was £22,564 in the year. £63,732 was expended with £20,418 in restricted income explicitly donated for spending during the following financial year. Fundraising for this fund is an ongoing priority.
The charity has designated £25,000 of year-end reserves to use on the Education Programme expenditure in the coming financial year.
All restricted funds are actively fundraised for and donations which are restricted to that purpose pass through their respective fund accordingly. Any shortfall in spending from any particular fund is made up with transfers from unrestricted funds.
18
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## **RISK MANAGEMENT**
The Board takes all reasonable steps to ensure that major risks are identified and recorded.
A new risk management policy was developed and agreed by the Board in July 2024.
The risk register which identifies both operational and strategic risks is reviewed and updated every six months by the senior staff team. The board conduct a more robust review on an annual basis.
## **PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES**
The main risks identified during the risk management process were:
- Limitations in forging partnerships and collaborations due to lack of national brand awareness.
- _**The external communications and PR activity is driving progress and mitigating this risk.**_
- Security of reserves and banking.
- _**New accounts and a spread of funds between multiple accounts has been implemented to mitigate this.**_
- Not understanding and a lack of connection to specific different types of audiences.
- _**The ongoing development and implementation of the communications strategy is working to reduce this risk.**_
- The risk of Government policy changes to environmental, charity or other laws/guidance which affect SongBird Survival functions was added to the register in 2023/2024.
- _**It was agreed to prioritise more time to the review and update on activity in the external environment especially in the light of a government change in summer 2024.**_
- The risk of the cost-of-living crisis and economic environment limiting the capacity to raise required funds was added to the register.
- _**New products have been added to the fundraising portfolio but need more promotion and a renewed focus on new audiences for income is a priority.**_
- Lack of diversity and representation on Board and staff teams was added to the register.
- _**Work is needed to develop a better understanding of what is needed before implementation. Recruitment for staff and volunteers is undertaken with this in mind using processes to limit bias and enable diversification.**_
- Not understanding and connecting with different types of audiences.
- _**A communications strategy has been developed and will be implemented in 2024/2025 with support from a specialist in house post and external PR advisors.**_
## THE SONGBIRD SURVIVAL TEAM
**Our staff team mostly work remotely across the UK with a small office hub in Diss, Norfolk where our supporter services team are based.**
**George Bradley** Operations & Finance Manager
**Robyn Cooper** Trusts & Foundations Fundraising Manager
**Susan Morgan Charlotte** Chief **Bartleet-Cross** Executive Research & Officer Engagement Manager
**Tracey Spensley** Communications Manager
19
## OUR FUTURE PLANS
## **025 marks the silver anniversary of SongBird Survival, providing the backdrop** 2 **for some new activities and projects.**
With clear strategic goals and supporting research and communication strategies, we anticipate significant development and growth in 2024/2025.
Our key themes will focus on demonstrating impact, encouraging action for songbirds, and raising awareness of their crisis and our efforts to address it. We will forge partnerships and collaborate with other organisations to amplify our work’s outcomes.
Recognising the limitations as a small, specialist charity, we will prioritise and target issues where we can make the most difference. Our new report, “Threats to UK Songbirds,” will provide a comprehensive overview of their state, the issues they face, and highlight gaps, sparking conversations with the wider conservation community to find solutions.
We are delighted that there will be a SongBird Survival garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May 2025, funded by Project Giving Back. This will be an amazing opportunity to raise the profile of the charity whilst also showcasing practical solutions for helping songbirds in gardens.
We will continue National Robin Day in December 2024 and expand the Ruby Robin Award, targeting children aged 5-11. We will also speak up on priority policy areas where we have evidence: garden bird feeding, domestic cats, disease, pesticides, and predation.
Our Gardens for Birds Campaign will reach a mass audience, motivating practical action to help birds. We will also launch a new webinar series to educate on turning scientific solutions into tangible outcomes for songbirds.
Our work will be guided by eight organisational objectives, focusing our annual plans and supporting our strategy. We will publish findings from the nest camera meta-analysis and expect results from the veterinary drugs study, potentially leading to campaigns for change.
Fundraising to develop a sustainable income base will remain a major priority, including engaging wider audiences and building our supporter base. We will grow our corporate partnerships and committed regular giving, with personalised support to build a loyal community.
Increasing brand awareness is crucial to building relationships with stakeholders and achieving our goals. We will maximise our research impact through media promotion, public education, and targeted PR campaigns, enhancing our social media profile, website, and digital communication.
2025 will also bring changes to our Board, with new Trustees and a new Chairman. As several longterm Trustees reach the end of their terms, 2025 will mark a new chapter for the charity building on the strong foundations they have laid.
## GET IN TOUCH
**Lisa Beamish** Fundraising & Supporter Care
**Gemma Spall** Fundraising & Supporter Care
## **Supporter services:**
**If you have Supporter services: any questions** Email: dawn-chorus@songbird-survival.org.uk **about how to** Tel: 01379 641715 (9am-4pm Monday to Friday) **get involved, support our Email: work or find** research@songbird-survival.org.uk **out more how** fundraising@ songbird-survival.org.uk **you can help** pr@songbird-survival.org.uk **songbirds,** education@songbird-survival.org.uk **please get in touch. We’d Follow us on social media: love to hear** SongBirdSBS | SongBirdSBS SongBirdSBS SongBirdSBS **from you.** songbird-survival | songbirdsurvival songbird-survival | songbirdsurvival songbirdsurvival songbirdsurvival
Email: dawn-chorus@songbird-survival.org.uk Tel: 01379 641715 (9am-4pm Monday to Friday)
SongBirdSBS | SongBirdSBS SongBirdSBS SongBirdSBS songbird-survival | songbirdsurvival songbird-survival | songbirdsurvival songbirdsurvival songbirdsurvival
20
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
## **STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE**
## **Structure and Governance**
The Trustees have paid due regard to the guidance published by the Charity Commission on Public Benefit, when reviewing the activities of the charity.
## **Charitable status**
The company is a registered charity. Its registration number is 1085281 with the Charity Commission of England and Wales.
## **Legal status and organisation**
The Charity is constituted as a company limited by guarantee and, therefore, governed by a memorandum and articles of association. The members of the Charity elect the Trustees at each annual general meeting. The Trustees meet around six times a year to decide how the Charity should carry out its aims.
The Trustees delegate day to day running of the charity to the CEO and staff; with monthly oversight to ensure activites are within agreed parameters.
## **Results and Dividends**
The results of the Charity are set out on the following pages
Clause 6 of the Memorandum of Association specifically prevents payment of any dividend or material benefits to members.
## **Services of volunteers**
The charity depends on the unpaid work of its Trustees, all of whom donate their time. The money saved by not paying Trustees for their professional expertise has not been quantified but is estimated to be in the region of £36,000 in the year.
## **Trustees**
The Trustees who served the company during the year were as follows: Tom Leicester Clive Sherwood Nicholas Forde Colin Strang Steel Nicky Oliver Peter Roberts Steve Guest Alison Spottiswoode Julia Shroeder (Co-opted) Gerald Kaye (Co-opted) Keith Cowieson (Co-opted)
## **Insurance**
The Charity has purchased liability insurance for the Trustees and officers.
## **Small company status**
The report of the Trustees has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
## **Appointment of Trustees**
Trustees are elected at the annual general meeting by the membership. One-third of the Trustees must retire at each general meeting. 3 new Trustees were co-opted onto the board during the year ending 30th September 2024.
This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on 14th January 2025.
21
## INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT
## TO THE MEMBERS OF SONGBIRD SURVIVAL
I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 30th September 2024, which are set out on pages 22 to 31.
## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner**
The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
- examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act;
- to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and
- to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
## **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 accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, 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 accounts 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, no matter has come to my attention:
- (1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements
- to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and
- to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or
- (2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Adam James MAAT Eric Southwick & Co Charity Accountants 51 The Avenue
Date: 10th January 2025
Seaham Co Durham SR7 8NS
22
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
**----- Start of picture text -----**
2024 2023
Unrestricted Restricted Unrestricted Restricted
Funds Funds Total Funds Funds Total
Notes £ £ £ £ £ £
Income and Endowments
from:
Donations and Legacies 2 212,563 148,509 361,072 287,256 105,367 392,623
Charitable Activities 3 3,287 - 3,287 6,874 - 6,874
Other trading activities 4 224 - 224 506 - 506
Investment Income 5 7,050 - 7,050 5,762 - 5,762
Other 5 33,439 2,486 35,925 32,165 - 32,165
Total income and Endowments 256,563 150,995 407,558 332,563 105,367 437,930
Expenditure on
Charitable activities:
Research 6 - 180,243 180,243 - 107,572 107,572
Education 6 - 32,402 32,402 - 32,396 32,396
Campaigns 6 - 31,330 31,330 12,749 15,139 27,888
Raising funds
Membership 7 25,030 - 25,030 30,373 - 30,373
Fundraising 7 110,004 - 110,004 61,830 - 61,830
Activities 7 8,265 - 8,265 4,540 - 4,540
PR 7 - 68,369 68,369 - 48,036 48,036
Trading activities 8 230 - 230 155 - 155
Support costs 9 82,779 - 82,779 89,033 - 89,033
Total Expenditure 226,308 312,344 538,652 198,680 203,143 401,823
Net income / expenditure 30,255 (161,349) (131,094) 133,883 (97,776) 36,107
Transfers between funds 17 (192,051) 192,051 - (97,776) 97,776 -
Net movement in funds (161,796) 30,702 (131,094) 36,107 - 36,107
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward 408,006 - 408,006 371,899 - 371,899
Total funds carried forward 246,210 30,702 276,912 408,006 - 408,006
**----- End of picture text -----**
23
## BALANCE SHEET YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
|**2024 Total**
Notes
£|**2023 Total**
£|
|---|---|
|**Fixed Assets**||
|Tangible Assets
12
1,818|1,731|
|||
|**Current Assets**||
|Stock
289|519|
|Cash at bank - Current Account
216,083|275,494|
|Cash at bank - Deposit Account
150,000|200,000|
|Cash in hand
421|308|
|Funds in transit
1,474|627|
|Debtors
13
1,586|2,872|
|**Total current assets**
**369,853**|**479,820**|
|||
|**Creditors: Amounts falling due within oneyear**
14
**(94,759)**|**(73,545)**|
|**Provision for long-term Contracts**
15
**(218,561)**
**Net current assets**
**56,533**|**-**
**406,275**|
|||
|**Total assets less current liabilities**
**58,351**|**408,006**|
|||
|**Funds:**||
|Unrestricted Funds
17
246,210|408,006|
|Restricted Funds
17
(187,859)|-|
|**Total c/fwd**
**58,351**|**408,006**|
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions for small companies under Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the Financial Reporting Standard FRS 102.
The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 30 September 2024
The members have not required the charitable company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2024 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
- (b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 14th January 2025 and were signed on its behalf by:
The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for
- (a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and
Colin Strang Steel, Director
The notes on pages 24 to 31 are an integral part of these accounts.
24
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## STATEMENT OF CASH FLOW YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
**----- Start of picture text -----**
2024 2023
£ £ £ £
Net Income / Expenditure (131,094) 36,107
Adjustments for:
Purchases / disposals of assets 590 1,142
Depreciation of fixed assets 1,024 593
Dividends, interest and rents from
investments (7,050) (5,762)
Increase / decrease in stock 230 155
Increase / decrease in debtors 1,286 67
Decrease / increase in creditors 21,214 27,653
Cash flows from operating
activities (113,800) 59,955
Cash flows from investing
activities
Purchase of property, plant and
equipment (1,701) (1,701) (2,050) (2,050)
Dividends, interest and rents from
investments 7,050 7,050 5,762 5,762
Change in cash and cash
equivalents in the year (108,451) 63,667
Cash and cash equivalents at the
beginning of the year 476,429 412,762
Total cash and cash equivalents
at the end of the year 367,978 476,429
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **Cashflow restrictions**
Charity law prohibits the use of net cash inflows on any endowed or other restricted fund to offset net cash outflows on any fund outside its own objects, except on special authority. In practice, this restriction has not had any effect on cash flows for the period.
**----- Start of picture text -----**
Analysis of changes in cash during the period
2024 2023 Change
£ £ £
Cash at hand and in bank 367,978 476,429 (108,451)
2023 2022 Change
£ £ £
Cash at hand and in bank 476,429 412,762 63,667
**----- End of picture text -----**
25
## NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
## **1) ACCOUNTING POLICIES**
SongBird Survival is a company limited by guarantee and not having a share capital. Company number 4078747. The registered office is 50 Princes Street, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP1 1RJ. SongBird Survival is a registered charity. Registered in England and Wales Number 1085281.
The principal accounting policies are summarised below. The accounting policies have been applied consistently throughout the year.
## **BASIS OF ACCOUNTING**
The accounts (financial statements) have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued in October 2019 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011, Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally Accepted Practice as it applies from 1 January 2019.
The charity is a public benefit entity as defined under FRS102.
There are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern. Whilst the Trustees expect there could be an impact from the current uncertain economic environment on the charity’s operations and reserves in the coming months and years, the charity has sufficient reserves to be able to meet these challenges.
## **INCOMING RESOURCES**
All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial activities when the Charity is entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income:
Voluntary income is received by way of grants, donations, subscriptions and gifts and is included in full in the Statement of Financial Activities when receivable, except as follows:
- i) When donors specify that donations given to the Charity must be used in future accounting periods, the income is deferred until those periods.
- ii) When donors impose pre-conditions which have to be fulfilled before the Charity becomes entitled to us such income, the income is deferred until the pre-condition have been met.
Legacies are included on a receivable basis where the Charity is entitled to the income, it can be measured reliably and receipt is probable. Where legacies have been notified to the Charity, or the Charity is aware of the granting of probate, and the criteria for income recognition have not been met, then the legacy is not included in income but is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed if material.
Investment income is included when receivable.
## **APPLICATION OF RESOURCES**
Resources expended are included in the statement of financial activities on an accruals basis inclusive of any VAT which cannot be recovered. Expenditure which is directly attributable to specific activities has been included in the relevant cost categories. Where costs are attributable to more than one activity they have been apportioned across the cross categories on a basis consistent with the use of these resources.
26
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
## **FUND ACCOUNTING**
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general activities of the Charity.
Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure imposed by the donor or through the terms of appeal.
## **CREDITORS**
Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.
## **FIXED ASSETS**
Fixed assets are included at cost less depreciation. Depreciation is charged so as to write off the cost of fixed assets over their estimated useful lives. The Trustees estimate that the following classes of assets have the following useful lives:
Computer - 3 years Office equipment - 5 years
## **STOCK**
Stock represents the purchase of goods that are initially recognised at cost. Provision for slowmoving or obsolete lines is made, reducing their carrying value to expected realisable sales or written off and disposed.
## **DEBTORS**
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
## **CASH**
Cash at bank and cash in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.
## **PENSION SCHEME**
The Charity has arranged a defined contribution scheme for its staff. Pension costs charged in the SOFA represent the contributions payable by the Charity in the period.
## **COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE**
The company is limited by guarantee, not having a share capital.
The maximum liability of each member does not exceed £1.
## **TRUSTEES’ EXPENSES**
Details of the Trustees’ expenses can be found on page 28. Trustees were reimbursed expenses that they incurred whilst carrying out Trustee duties. The nature of these expenses was travel, mileage and subsistence costs.
## **TRUSTEES’ REMUNERATION**
No Trustee received remuneration during the year.
## **ACCOUNTANCY AND EXTERNAL SCRUTINY FEES**
During the year accountancy and external scrutiny fees amounted to £1,560 (2023 £1,300).
## **TAXATION**
No provision is made for taxation because the company is a registered charity.
## **CONTROL**
The Charity is under the control of the Board of Trustees, each of whom are a Director.
The Charity is entitled to reclaim tax on gift aid donations.
27
## NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
## **ANALYSIS OF INCOMING RESOURCES**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
2024 2023
Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Total
£ £ £ £
2) DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
Donations 53,818 49,059 102,877 97,746
Membership 36,009 - 36,009 34,384
Legacies and In Memory gifts 39,185 - 39,185 138,029
Trust Grants 53,820 96,450 150,270 106,413
Corporate Partnerships 29,731 - 29,731 13,051
Gifts in Kind -
Professional Services - 3,000 3,000 3,000
212,563 148,509 361,072 392,623
3) INCOME GENERATING ACTIVITIES
Lottery and Raffles 2,425 - 2,425 5,970
Auctions - - - -
Events - - - -
Other activities 862 - 862 904
3,287 - 3,287 6,874
4) OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
Sales 224 - 224 506
224 - 224 506
5) OTHER
Investment Income 7,050 - 7,050 5,762
Gift aid 28,386 2,486 30,872 27,038
Other Revenue 53 - 53 127
Employment allowance 5,000 - 5,000 5,000
40,489 2,486 42,975 37,927
**----- End of picture text -----**
28
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
## **ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE ON:**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
2024 2023
Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Total
£ £ £ £
6) COST OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Research Programme - 180,243 180,243 107,572
Education Programme - 32,402 32,402 32,396
Campaigns - 31,330 31,330 27,888
- 243,975 243,975 167,856
7) RAISING FUNDS
Fundraising costs 110,004 - 110,004 61,830
Cost of membership 25,030 - 25,030 30,373
Cost of activities 8,265 - 8,265 4,540
Communications - 68,369 68,369 48,036
143,299 68,369 211,668 144,779
8) COST OF OTHER TRADING ACTIVITY
Cost of sales 230 - 230 155
230 - 230 155
9) SUPPORT COSTS
Staff costs 61,665 - 61,665 65,550
Staff expenses 5,704 - 5,704 7,901
Trustee meetings and expenses 1,140 - 1,140 3,109
Insurances 1,373 - 1,373 1,468
Professional services 2,100 - 2,100 1,724
Bank charges 1,520 - 1,520 950
Rent rates and power 3,451 - 3,451 3,044
Office, telephone and stationery 3,940 - 3,940 3,518
Equipment and software 862 - 862 1,176
Depreciation 1,024 - 1,024 593
82,779 - 82,779 89,033
10) NET INCOME / EXPENDITURE
Total income 256,563 150,995 407,558 437,930
Total expenditure 226,308 312,344 538,652 401,823
30,255 (161,349) (131,094) 36,107
**----- End of picture text -----**
29
## NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
**----- Start of picture text -----**
2024 2023
Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Total
£ £ £ £
11) STAFF COSTS
Wages and Salaries 216,350 - 216,350 158,201
Employer's National Insurance 20,047 - 20,047 16,257
Pension contributions 4,646 - 4,646 3,753
Staff training 4,189 - 4,189 3,248
Recruitment costs 863 - 863 6,192
Other employment costs 1,341 - 1,341 430
247,436 - 247,436 188,081
2024 2023
Employees with salaries over £60k - -
Number of these employees - -
Total benefits received by these employees, including pension
contributions - -
The average monthly employees during the period 6 5
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **12) FIXED ASSETS**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
Computer Office Total
equipment equipment
£ £ £
a) Cost
Balance b/fwd 1,978 1,175 3,153
Additions in the year 1,440 261 1,701
Disposal in the year (450) - (450)
Balance c/fwd 2,968 1,436 4,404
b) Depreciation
Balance b/fwd 1,238 184 1,422
Charge for the year 801 223 1,024
Elimination on disposal 140 - 140
Balance c/fwd 2,179 407 2,586
c) Net book value
Balance b/fwd 740 991 1,731
Balance c/fwd 789 1,029 1,818
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30
**SONGBIRD SURVIVAL** REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
## NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
## **13) DEBTORS**
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2024 Total 2023 Total
£ £
Gift aid recoverable 1,498 1,582
Prepayments - 1,290
Other debtors 88 -
1,586 2,872
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## **14) CREDITORS**
|Amounts|fallingdue within oneyear:||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|Creditors|||2,368|4,337|
|Pensions|and HMRCpayable||979|819|
|Accruals|||91,412|68,389|
||||**94,759**|**73,545**|
## **15) PROVISION FOR LONG TERM CONTRACTS**
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2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 Total
Research contracts: £ £ £ £
Veterinary drugs 68,791 - - 68,791
Recreational disturbance 33,933 35,670 12,668 82,271
Endocrine disrupting chemicals 30,290 30,290 6,919 67,499
Total Provision: 133,014 65,960 19,587 218,561
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## **16) ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS**
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Unrestricted Restricted Total
Funds Funds Funds
£ £ £
Tangible fixed assets 1,818 - 1,818
Current assets 339,151 30,702 369,853
Current liabilities 94,759 - 94,759
Long term liabilities - 218.561 218,561
Net assets as at 30/09/24: 246,210 (187,859) 58,351
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See page 17 for explanation about our funds and provision for research contracts.
31
## NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2024
## **17) MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**
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At 01/10/2023 Incoming Outgoing Transfers At 30/09/2024
Resources Resources
£ £ £ £ £
Restricted Funds: - 150,995 530,905 192,051 (187,859)
Research Fund: - 98,431 398,804 92,296 (208,077)
Duckworth Fund: - 15,000 - (15,000) -
PR Fund: - 15,000 68,369 53,369 -
Education Fund: - 22,564 63,732 61,386 20,218
Unrestricted
Funds: 408,006 256,563 226,308 (192,051) 246,210
Total funds: 408,006 407,558 757,213 - 58,351
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## **18) RESERVES AND DESIGNATED FUNDS**
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At 01/10/2023 Incoming Outgoing Transfers At 30/09/2024
Resources Resources
£ £ £ £ £
General Reserve 74,000 - - - 74,000
Safety Reserve 50,000 - - - 50,000
Designated funds:
Research
programme 196,000 - - (96,000) 100,000
Education
Programme 72,000 - - (47,000) 25,000
Provision for
Future contracts - - 218,561 - (218,561)
Total: 392,000 - 218,561 (143,000) 30,439
Surplus/Deficit: 16,006 407,558 538,652 143,000 27,912
Free reserves - - - - 27,912
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See page 17 for explanation about our funds, reserves and designated funds.
Greenfinch
## THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED OUR WORK THIS YEAR
Our songbirds are facing a challenging time, with population numbers plummeting at an ever increasing rate. We need to work together to build a world where songbirds can thrive. If we don’t act soon, we may lose our dawn chorus forever.
The key to restoring songbird populations is our independent, high-quality scientific research. However, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to raise funds for conservation research. While we grapple with funding challenges, songbirds remain in a bit of a flap.
**Just £5 a month from you can be the lifeline our songbirds desperately need. Your contribution means that we can share practical and expert advice, making sure that at-risk birds get the support they need to thrive.**
**For those who are able to give a little more and make an even bigger impact, £20 a month can help fund groundbreaking research. Imagine being the force behind studies that unravel the mysteries of how pesticides impact our birds. Your generosity leads us towards solutions that kick pesticides to the curb and let birds soar without the damaging effects.**
**Are you ready to make a difference and join us in the fight to save our songbirds? Donate here:**