Charfty Y•gi8trallon numb8r 1086161 {England and WalMI Company rngl•tratlon numbor 04135225 ADVOCACY FOCUS ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
ADVOCACY F cus LEGALAND AD NIISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustee$ Mis5 D Bond Mr M I Wahab Mr D O'Byrne Mr S J Stokes (Appointed 27 July 2024) (Appointed 18 November 2024) Mr C B Lintern Mrs K Christie Mr D Rodgers Mr P S Carroll Mrs S M Meadows (Appointed 25 Sepiemb8r 2025) Senior management Justine Forster Leanne Hignett Chief Executive Officer SeNices Director Charlty number (Engl d and Wales) 1086151 Company number 04135225 Registered offlce Saturn House 6-7 Mercury Rise Altham Business Park Accfington Lancashire England BB5 5BY Audltor Mayes Business Partnership Lld Reception 1. First Floor Offices, Red Rose Court Clayton Business Park Clayton Le Moors Lancashire BB5 5JR Bankers LLOYDS BANK PLC Nationwide 8uidling Society Allica Bank
ADVOCACY FOCUS CONTENTS Pag8 Chaif s Message Trustees, report 2-15 Statement of Trustees, responsibilities Independent auditorfs report 17-19 Statement of financial aclivities 20 Balance sheet 21 Notes to the financial statements 23-32
ADVOCACY F cus CHAIR'S MESSA FOR THE YEAR DED 31 MARCH 2025 would like lo armly welcome you to the Advocacy Focus Annual Report for 2024125. This is Ihe third time I over the last year. the England. What the tea t to provide this update as the Chair of Trustees, and I do so wilh a great deal of pride, as am have continued to make a real difference lo so many people's lives across the North of do really helps people which is amazing. We have been suppothg people via our advocacy hubs across Lancashire. Salford, St Helens and Trafford, and the details and numbep of people that have benefited from our services over the last twelve months are contained within the following pa people in the local com s of the report. Our community focus hub in Burnley continues to provide support to those unity who can benefit from our services and support Iso relocated its Head Office lo Allham on the outskirts of Accrington where the team vlde their ama2ing services to those who need I would like to take thi4 opportunity to thank the partner organisations who support us in so many ways, whether that's through fundraisilyg. sponsorship. making sure that we have opportunities lo attend key events. or any other ways of providing supp. to each and every pa rt. Collaborative partnerships are crucial lo any organisalion's success, and we are grateful years. er thal we work with and look forward lo conlinuing those relationships over the coming Advocacy Focus has continue to l am proud lo say that Ie have a wonderful team atAdvocacy Focus and each one of them makes me feel welcome when I meet them. We *lso have a talented and dedicated group of Trustees who continue lo provide their time and expertise for which l a fellow Trustees do whe truly grateful. I hope that you will feel as inspired by the efforts of the team as l and my you read what they have achieved over the last e1ve months in this report. Thank you. Chris Linlem Chalr of Tru8toes Dale.. 21 July 2025
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 CEO'S Messa This year, we will be presenting our annual report in video format a new, more accessible way to highlight the incredible work of the Advocacy Focus team. We're exated to share our achievements in this engaging format and hope it will help us reach even more people. Keep an eye out for its release, and please feel free to share it with others once it's live. If you've used our services and found them valuable, we'd love to hear your feedback. And if you haven't, this report is a great way to get lo know what we do and why it matters. I will leave it to our people to tell you their story about what they have achieved over the last year. They'll tell it far better than I could. But what I will say is this: Ihe last yeaf, like many before rt. has had its ups and downs. But through it all, the team has shown up and often gone above and beyond all expeGtations. This year marks my 10th anniversary as Chief Executive of Advocacy Focus. en l joined in 2014, we were a team of just over 20. Today, we're 85 strong and every step of that grovAh has been shaped by the passion, commitment and care of our people. As the demand for our services has grown. so too has our focus on Greating a workplace where everyone feels safe, respected and valued. We've built a cuhure Ihal encourages people lo bring their whole selves lo work and that's what truly sets us apart. Because whal makes Advocacy Focus special isn't just what we do, it's who we are. This year, that commitment to our people was recognised on a national stage when we were named 'Most Flexible Workplace, al the National Wellbelng Award8 in London. It was a proud moment for all of us and a reflection of the care. trust and nexibility we've worked hard lo build together. So, what's next for Team AF? Well l¢Niards the end of 2024, changes to National Insurance Contributions crealed new financial challenges for us and others across the sector. This has led lo some tough operational decisions and we're facing a significant funding gap going into 2025. To help bridge this. we're stepping up our fundraising efforts and working with our commissioners lo. The truth 1$, the demand for statutory advocacy is outpacing the funding available. So, we're reaching out to you. You can support us in many ways.. Sha Ihis report, spread the word, donate your time or money, or even make us your charity of the year. This helps us keep wtal services running especially for children and young people who are among the most marginalised in the UK. I'll leave you with this thought.. While the song says. Yhings can only get better," 2025 may still be tough. Bul wilh our brillianl team of 85 professionals, our amazing volunleers, and the support of people like you - we're hopeful. Thank you for reading. I hope this newsletter gives you a glimpse into just how special the Advocacy Focus team truly is. Jusline Forster Chief Executive Officer The Trustees presenl their annual report and financial statements for Ihe year ended 31 March 2025. The financial statements have been prepared in accofdance with the accounting policies set out in nole 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's goveming document, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Chanlies SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charrties.. Statement of Recommended Praclice applicable lo charilies preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102>"
ADVOCACY F cus TRUSTEES, REP (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR RT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) DED 31 MARCH 2025 Objectives and activi The objects of Ihe char as set out in the Memorandum and Articles of Association are.. The charity's objects ra specifically restricted to the followlng." For the public benefit, orienlation or social e relief and assistance of people who are disadvantaged by illness, disability, age. sexual dusion wrthin England, via the provision, promotion and accessibility of high quality independent advocacy.4gnd rts associated servIs. The charity will promote wider social inclusion for the public benefit, by supportingl, nd enabling people to represent themselves in health and social care matters, obtain appropriate services a increase their life quality ar)d choices. Our misslon: To help people lo achi e the outcomes that matter to them in their lives, by providing high quality advocacy. onan Values VISION.. Making sure Ihat every ne in our communities can get advocacy support if they need it. VALUES: We are a team who values when working We made our values t meaningful. e deeply about everything we do. We want everyone who works with us to folk)w our core h others. ether as a team. They show who we are and makes sure èverything we do is clear and Quality - We per50n-led ad nly deliver high quality advocacy. We have over 25 years, experience of providing expert, cacy and are sector leaders with the awards to prove iti People - We ul people at the heart of everything we do. We care about people and want lo enable them to make positiP change in Iheir lives. Respecfful- We are a respectful team. We treat everyone fairly and equally and make sure everyone feels valued, respe ed. and listened lo. Trust- You c4b trust us to keep your information private and safe. Independent We are independent of councils and health services, and we are on your side. Learning - the people we never slop learning. We are aNvays improving and developing our services. We learn from upport. our partners and each other.
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Servlce Delive Ob"ectives Specialist Advocacy "Everyone who has the right to specialist advocacy can get it quickly and to a high slandard." Community Advoca¢y °Strengthening people and communities by offering high quality. preventative services and activities." Influencing °Making a difference in soctety through education and supporting people. professionals, and communities." Grow Income "Broadening funding streams to retain what we have and add what is needed to our services.. Partnership "We will work with a range of people and services to help the whole Community get better support and access to services,. People "Our team will be well trained, diverse, resilient, and ready to meet the changing needs of the community." Our Im act in numbers We received 4,257 new referrals and 5UPPOrted people through 6,164 specialist advocacy cases in Lancashire, Trafford, and St Helens. We received 491 new referrals and supported children and young people through 597 specialist advocacy cases in St Helens, Trafford, and Salford. 32 Independent Visitors provided 880 hours of support over a tolal of 220 visils. Making a positive dIfferen to the lives of children and young people in Safford and St Helens. We received 292 new referrals and worked on 373 cases to provide support lo adults through community and self-advocacy. A further 1291 people received Tier 1 advice, information and signposting in Lancashire and St Helens. We received 322 new refetrals and supported adults in East Lancashire through 389 cases as part of our Pfevenlalive Community Focus service, funded by the Big Lottery. A further 105 people were supported during drop-in sessions at our Burnley Hub. We received 62 new referrals and worked on 400 active cases. Providing 5,133 hours of support through our Spot Purchase service across the North of England. 12 Mission Impossible Peer Advocacy groups were held. An average of 13 members attended Ihese sessions, making positive changes within Trafford Local Authority. 5 community volunteers provided 42 hours of support at our Bumley Hub. 8 hospital volunteers carried out 19 hospital drop-ins, making a posilive dIfferen in Iheir local commtjnities.
ADVOCACY Focus TRUSTEES. REP (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR RT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) DED 31 MARCH 2025 Public benefit The Trustees have pa charity should underta due regard lo guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the Meet Henry. Henry wa where he was. and he place, known as DOL daughter and son. Henry's brother lived move to Cumbria. his living in a care home in Skelmersdale, where he wasn't free to leave. The staff always knew cked capacity around his care and treatment. Henry had deprivation of liberty safeguafds in But Henry didn't want to stay there. He wanted to move to Cumbria to be closer to his Skelmersdale and visited him every other month. While Henry's children wanted him lo other was worried that the move might not be good for Henry's health. Relevant Person's Representative. or RPR, who mel with him many times. They discovered ing and being outdoors. Henry often talked about his past work as a landscaper and how Henry was allocated Henry's love for gard much il meant lo him. Unfortunately, Henry's often said, how he wo urrent carè home had no garden. just a small Concrete area. Henry rarely went outside and d lovè lo gel back in the garden and grow some plants and vegetables. Henry's RPR contact brother to make them his social worker and dis¢ussed Henry's wishes. They also spoke to Henry's children and explained that they w ware of their role and explain the steps they would lake lo support Henry's views. The RPR Id be contacting a solicitor and asking a Judge in the Court of Protection to review Henry'5 situation and make a ct$ion on what they thought was best for him. Henry's social workerfijand family in Cumbria found some care homes that could meet Henry's needs. With the support of his RPR, H home he liked, which nry looked at pictures and videos of these homes. taken by his children. Henry chose a care ad a large garden and an area where residents could grow plants or vegetables. Henry's case was h4rd in the Court of Protection. His RPR supported him throughout the hearing, explaining everything that was h "out into the world. ppening. Henry was able lo tell Ihe Judge his dream of living close lo hi5 children and going er considering all the different views, the Judge decidèd it was in Henry's best interests to move lo the care hom in Cumbria. Henry's RPR ensure4jth8t his views and wishes were heard, ullimatèly helping him live the life he wanted. Henry's advocate made sure I, hearing he could mov veryone important lo Henry understood the process. helping them feel al ease loo. After Henry Cried and told his advocate, "You helped make my dreams come true.. Since moving, Henryibas been gardening most days and has gone on several tnps wilh the care home and his family. He now spen Henry says that sin quality time with his children, and the care home supports regular contact with his brother. thanks for all you did.1 moving, it's "like I'm in heaven.. His son expressed gratitude to the RPR, saying, 'Many that were in Dad's be e were very happy with the outcome, and it was a joy to work with you lo achieve decisions irtterests..
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 This ear we launch mi ndF en We spoke to people who use our service, members of the public, and our team to find out what problems people face when dealing with health and soual care seNices. From this, we created helpfvl resources, workshops. and training videos. These are designed to support people lo advocate for themselves and people they care about. Over Ihe past year. we made short training videos on topics like.. Safeguarding Others What is Advocacy? The Different Types of Advocacy More viijeos are coming soon, including.. The Role of the Advocate Accessing Health and Social Caro We also created in-person workshops about.. Self.Advocacy Health and Soclal Care Complaints These workshops will soon be tumed into online webinars. We've also made lots of easY-1Use resources. You can download and print them for free from our website. Topics include.. Signposting to other services Common lefms DNACPRS {do not attempl resuscitation orders) Rights of the Nearest Relative Section 117 Aflercare Lasting Power of Attomey and Deputies A guide lo Deprivation of Liberty This next year, we will be inviting members of the public lo join our Family and Friends Steering Group. This group will help us make and review more videos and useful resources.
ADVOCACY F cus TRUSTEES. REP (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR RT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) DED 31 MARCH 2025 .Adv In The Mission Impossibl learning disabilities an that affect them. ' Self-Advocacy Group entefed its third year in 2024r2025. The group consists of people with aulism in Trafford. Its aim is to help people to develop the sknlls to speak out about issues The group works wtth This year. the group h Transport tmces lo make them better for the people who use them. talked about issues such as: uch as bus passes, hospital transport, and 'Ring and Ride.) Housing Employm Health i ualitÉe5 Co-Produ ion Some of the key work Helped I other se but will pl e group has completed this year induded: restart the Learning Disabilrty Partnership Board. They worked with Trafftird Council and ces to help improve support for people with leaming disabilities. The tard is still quite new key role in making services better across Tfafford. Talked tojlHealthwatch about their experiences using heatth services. Heatthwalch then planned lo improve t ese services and share it with Trafford Council. Helped T called resutt of t fford Council check how well they were Working wtth people who use their seNios. This is roduclion. Trafford used the group's feedback to create a plan for better c(>production. One is plan was setting up the Learning Disabilty Partnership Boards. . ouncil worked with a partner lo write their Adult Social Care Stralegy for 2024-2027. The ked the group about their expenences, and the feedback ensured that the strategy induded f people wrth leaming disabilities and autism. Trafford partner a Took pa in the nalional self-advocacy movement. by going to conferences in Manchester, Birminghlm, and Blackpool. Joined across t ater Manchester Confirm and Challenge meetings. The meetings aim to improve services whole Gieater Manchester area. F dback f nals and le¥SU Lan¢ashire- profes*onal we worked with It has been an absol I cannot thank her en pleasure lo work with Amy. Amy has most certainly gone above and beyond to support, and gh for all her hard work, and I will be very happy to work with her again. Thank you, Amyl lonal we worked with Lanca$hire- profes Pauline was always the role of an ad fessional and dear about what she could offer. This gave me an increased undèrstanding of - This was particularly useful as a newly qualified social wofker at the time.
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Pauline was also flexible and able to offer appointments at short notice which was often useful in this case where there were frequenl changes. Pauline also adapted some of her approach due to the person's communication needs and preferenos. Lancashire - person we supported I want to thank Michelle. She is an asset lo the team that provided professional support and advice, gave her lime lo me, and has shown genuine compassion and empathy throughout. She was extremely polite and helpful and a pleasure to work with through the process. She really was wonderful. I am extremely 9raleful for her help and SLSPPOrt and cannot pul into words how grateful l am. Trafford- person we supported Ashley's support has been crucial for both health complaints and Care Act advocacy (and community advocacy in the past). He supported me for over 2 years. He iusl gels it - how overwhelming life can be for an autistic person. how difficult we can find il lo communicate verbally and how people with invisible disabilities can often need support loo. He respects and accommodates my need lo communicate via email, in person or via video calls and that I can experience situational mutism and become frustrated and overwhelmed easily due to anxiety and Pathological Demand Avoidance. I feel like I'm in control of my own complaints and assessments, which is important to me and I'm able lo express the things that matter lo me without being dismissed, which creates a safe space for me to be honest. He is also very respectful in terms of consent. Lanca8hlre- person we supported Lauren pul gr8al effort into helping me understand my rights and navigate many difficult situations during the time she supported me. She gave me the confidence and support lo sland up for what I felt was right. Lancashlre - person we 8UPPOrted My advocate provided excellenl support and advice. Aimee is an excellent advocate. She took the time lo offer guidance and support and made a difficult situation less stressful with her support. Salford Chlldren'8- person we supported If I didn't want lo go in the meetings, you would go in the meetings for me and speak what I said in my words. If I didn't undersland something you would explain il lo me. You are a good person. You made me feel more confident. Before workin9 Wlth you I was a 2110 wilh confidence and now l am at a 9. Lancashire- person wé Supported You listened lo me when I felt I wasn't being listened lo. I would totally recommend this service lo anyone who feels they don't have a voice. Lancashlre- person we Supported She rang me up and pul my case across. She helped me know my rights. She gave me hope that someone is there to help as I was feeling lost on where to go from here. St Helen's Children'8- professional we worked wlth Di is absolutely fantastic. She ¢onsistenlly goes above and beyond for our young person, following up emails and contacting relevant professionals lo ensure his voice is heard. Di took the time to develop a positive relationship with our young person and this is now a relationship he values. Trafford - per30n we supported The Peer Support and Self-Advocacy group is useful and has helped me to grow in confidence when expressing myself.
ADVOCACY F cus TRUSTEES, REP (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR RT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) DED 31 MARCH 2025 St Helen's Children- tson wo supported She always made me,feel comfortable and helped me express my feelings every time. When in Complicated situations she would atways defend me and get my issues resolved. Diane is lovely she never failed to make me smile even in stressful itualions. Men l Health Bill The government intro one Ihal the last gove House of Commons. ced the Mental Health Bill to Parliament in November 2024. This Bill is very similar to Ihe ment introdu¢ed.11 will soon have ils third reading in the House of Lords, before going to the me of the key things in the Bill are.. ing disability and autism from Section 3 1983. aoy to informal patients, not just peoplè detained under the Mental Health Act. rest relatives with nominated persons, amount oftime someone can be held under Section 3. s to the Tribunal. Removing le Offering adv Replacing n Shortening t Greater acc No longer us g police and prison cells for people in a mental health crisis. Prot ion Saf rds Thè govemment has nder the Deprivatio providers lo discuss ot provided an update on the Liberty Protection Safeguards. However, demand for advocacy of Libety Safeguards continues to rise. Advocacy Focus leads a group ol advocacy se challenges. Childr ndy Children's Social Carl. Reftjrms.. The Labour govern nt shared plans to improve children's social care. They published a paper called Keeping Children Safe, Helpi Families Thrive, and they are also working on the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill. These changes are iy'the early stages. The reforms aim to a ieve four main outcomes.. Children, yo+g people. and families stay together and get the help they need. Children anqly¢)ung people are supported by their family neork. Children an young people are safe in and outside of their homes. re and care leavers have stable, loving homes. Children in Deprivation of Libe The Children's Well 25 of the Children children's homes. ing and Schools Bill is currently going through Parliament. If passed, it would change Section t 1989 and mean Ihal children can be deprived of their liberty in places other than secure
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Volunteers Volunteer rvices We are excited to share an update on our amazing volunteefs and the incredible impact they've made over the past year. Let's start with the roles our volunteers take on". In our hospitals, our volunteers support patients on mental heahh wards and help them understand their rights, complete paperwork, and SnpOSI them to other support services. In the community, they help with NHS complainls, support our duty advocate and leam home visrts. Our Independent Visitors build trusted relationships by visiting children in care every month. offering ongoing support and a In'endly face. When it comes to training and developmenL" Every volunteer completes shadowing and receives training around NHS complaints. confidentiality. and conducting home visits. We're putbng together a stepby-step guide to help volunteers grow in confidence the more time they spend volunleeting with us. Whore you'll find our volunteer5: Our volunteers are currently supporting services in Bumley, alley, St Helens, Ormskirk, Chorley and Trafford. We've had such a great response thal most of our volunteer spots are now filled, and we've started a waiting list for those that are keen lo gel involved. Some highlights from this year. Five dedicated volunteers supported our Bumley Hub, including two universrty plac*ment students. Seven more stepped into hospital support roles- each one completed their training and made a real difference. Why does volunteers matter at Advocacy Focus? Because volunteers help us reach more people. more quickty, and with the same care and dedication we bring lo all our work. Their time, care and commitment are helping us grow and improve in everything we do. To every one of our volunteers- thank you. Your support makes a real dfftrence, and we're so grateful to have you alongside us and an essential part of our team. What it means to be an Inde ndent Wisitor I really enjoy being an Independent Visitor. It is such a rewarding experience. I met Jake" 18 months ago shortly after his 15th birthday and I think both of us were a little unsure as lo what to expect and whal, rf anything, we would have in common given our age drfference of 46 yearsl However, we have buift a slrong. tnjsting relationship which is based on fun but also allows us to talk about the issues of the day and what is going on in his life and his future aspirations. Our shared adventures have ranged from Go Karting. indoor climbing, attending a pottery dass, and going lo the theatre to see the play he is studying for GCSE. Or a simple dog walk and catch up over a coffeel I see Jake once a month and rt is very easy to find times lo meet that work for both of us. 11 has been an absolute pleasure to see his Confiden grow and his willingness to trust and educale me on the issues facing young people in care today. Being an Independent VIsFlor has reinforced my belief that the best thing you can give young people is your lime and consistency. I would encourage people of all ages lo consider volunteering to be an Independent Visitor. IVS truly life changing for both you and the young person you support. Beverty, Independent Wisitor "Names have been changed to pmtect the entrtY of the people we support. 10-
ADVOCACY F cus TRUSTEES, REP RT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUED) I I FOR THE YEAR 8NDED 31 MARCH 2025 Strategic report The description under requirements for the Tr e headings "Achievements and perfomiance" and "Financial review" meet the company law slees lo present a strategic report. Achlevements and p orniance Significanl activities an¢ achievements against obieciives Wellbein at Advoca Focus As we look back over the past year, it's dear that our communities continue to face challenges. People are waiting longer for support fro he NHS, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is taking a toll on everyone's wellbeing. At Advocacy Focus, wi believe that lo truly support others. we musl first look after our own team. That's why our approach lo wellbeing:. arise, being there duri s built around prevention. support. and aftercare-helping our people before difficulties tough limes, and continuing to check in afterwards. Our Wellbeing Team share practical ideas. lays a key role in this. They plan activities, lead informative sessions at leam meetings, and help everyone care for their own wellbeing. Team meetings are alchance to connect, learn. and celebrate successes together. We continue to rewnise incredible contribution Buddy awards. We al from our leam, through our ABCD {Above and Beyond the Call of Duty) and Good 15 years with our char o honour long standing team members with Long Service Awards, marking 5, 10, or even This year, we introdu kindness. These are s d the Kindness Baton, giving team members the chance to Ihank each other for acts of ared in our quarterty newsletter, 'Fe81 Good Focus., spreading positivity throughout the team, Our Wellbelng Roomlat head office offers a pealu1 spa¢e to read, relax. pray, or simply have a chal. We also welcome YOLO Welllking. Louise Magee from Tropic and Margaret Shuttleworth who is an acUpUnurISl, for quarterly treatments fl the team. Our monthly Wellbein the chance lo unwin Walks continued throughout the year. which catered to all fitness levels, and gave our team and relax, in and around the countryside. Our Employee Assistan Programme also continued lo offer benl'fits sijch as complementary therapy Irealmenls, prescription costs and glasses. Our flexible working nodel allows our team lo manage their own work commilments and working hours, making a four-day working week possible. To continue with the flexibility we are known for, we will launch our Unlimited Annual Leave Pollcy,in the coming year. These benefrts support a healthy life balance, help us attract new talent, and relain the amazing people we already have. We were proud to tak. part in Mind's Workplace Wellbeing Index again this year-4nd even prouder to be named Top Employer for th4 third year in a row. We also finished the year on a high, when we won the Most Flexible Workplace award al the Great British Workplace Wellbeing Awards. An award that shows our deep commitment to creating a supporti flexible workplace wheie Ouf people can truly thrive. 11
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Marketin Mark 104,711 Annual website visits 124.6% growth 50,493 Annual website users 127.1% growth 2,442 - total followers on social media 144.7% grovAh 39.4% Newsletter open fate 111-13% hlgher than Industry avernge Marketin in Words: This year, we stepped up our marketing to make sure more people heard our message. We reached over 257,000 people Ihrough our website. social media. and email marketing - connecting with more people than ever. Our website saw 104,711 visrts, with our Wiat is advocacy? page still holding the top spot as our most viewed. Across our channels, we sparked conversation shared lived experiences, advocacy guides, celebrated our people, and more. Our lop post? A spotlight on on8 of our incredible Independent Visitors which reached over 5,675 people organically. We also reintroduced our brnOnthty newsletter, now sent to over 600 8ub8crlbers, with a 39.4% opon rat• - smashing the sector average. 8ul our marketing isn't just about the numbers - irs about giving people the infomation they need when they don't know where lo lum or who lo talk to. Our content remains free and a¢Ssible to everyone who needs rt. And we'll keep talking about it. ensuring everyone has access to the support and resources we provide. 12-
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES. REP RT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUEDI I I FOR THE YEAR éNDED 31 MARCH 2025 ac inA vl Hi, I'm Evie. I'm nine yars old and I live in a thIldn'S home. They want me lo move lo a foster family soon. l used to talk lo my mum evy night before bed, bul my social worker said I can only talk to her twice a week now. They were worried about Sofiething with my mum, bul nothing else happened. I didn't know why I couldn't speak lo Mum anymore. Not talking té my mum every night made me really sad and it was making me feel bad and worried. I like talking to my su grown-ups. My suppo ort staff about how I feel. But I can be shy and scared to talk to my social worker and other staff thought I should talk lo an advocate to help me make my voice louder. e to meet me, they knew I might be shy. So, they asked what I like lo help me feel better. em I love Disney. I realty like Mickey and Minnie Mouse. My advocate broughl colouring en my advocate My support staff told pages for our visit. I was really quiet at fi4t and hid my face with a big cushion. But when my advocate gol out the sheets and asked if I could help draw Mickly, I ran over and sat at the table with her. She was really good al coloufing with me. After a while, I fell like I coull, talk to her. My advo&3le lold me what they do and how they can help. and I talked about my feelings and what I wthled lo happen. I told her how I fell about not talking lo my mum every night. I really liked that she listened lo me an didn't tell me what she thought I should do or how I should feel. I was happy for my vocale lo tell my social worker and my Cafcass guardian what I said. After that. my social Worker said I could la* to my mum every night again. I was $0 happy, and I started lo feel better again. l used lo be really s feelings were import about talking to gr¢)wn-ups, bul after meeting with my advocate, I felt like my thoughts and how I feel, and peopl t. I gol more confident lo talk lo other grown-ups loo. Now I can tell them what I think and listen to what I have lo say. Flnancial review Res&rves policy The increase in activ y by the charity requires a sensible approach lo setting Its reserves policy. Al 31 March 2025, the eslimaled redunttsncylclosure costs for the organisalion amounted lo £320.000 (2024.. £340,000). and this is set aside as a desighated fund lo provide cash Ilow so Ihal service delivery could be continued or redundancyl closure costs met wplsl further funds were sought or the organisation would up. At 31 March 2025,';Ilhis leaves £438.840 (2024. £530,508) available to increase advocacy provision, ensure readiness for the eWernal legislative changes in advocacy and Ihe implemenlation of measures to increase advocacy accessibili within other minority and rural communities. Structure, governalco and management The Charity is a coJppany limrted by guarantee and the liability of the members is limited to a sum not exedIng £10, as detailed in tFIP Artides of Association. The Trustees, who the date of signatur Miss D Bond Mr M I Wahab Mr D O'Byrne Mr S J Stokes Mr C B Linlem Mrs K Christie Mr D Rodgers Mr P S Carroll Mrs S M Meadows e Also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to of the financial statements were- (Appointed 27 July 20241 (Appointed 18 November 20241 (Appointed 25 September 2025) 13-
ADVOCACY FOCUS TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Rgcmitmgnt and appointment of Inistees Recruitment of Trustees is an open process with applications welcomed at all times from any sedor of the community. An annual review of the Board is completed and targeted recrurtment is undertaken if the Board identifies gaps in skills or representation. Appointments are made by the Board and are subject to confirmation at the Annual General Meeting. There is a rolling programme of election periods to ensure continuity. Induction and ts3ining of nèw Irustees Trustees are inducted by the Chair and Chief Executive. All Trustees are encouraged to undertake advo¢a¢y Iraining and are offered access to other relevant training to support them in their role as well as peer support through fellow Trustees. A job description detailing levels of responsibility is provided during induction. All Truslees are subject to DBS clearance. Audltor In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that Mayes Business Partnership Ltd be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting. 14-
ADVOCACY F cus TRUSTEES. REP (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR RT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) NDED 31 MARCH 2025 An update on Opern n8 We started th Salum House Marketing. year with a big move - relocating our Head Office from The Old Tannery in Accrington to in Altham. We were warmly welcomed by our new neighbours and landlord, Creativeworld Our new sp The move ce is open plan. surrounded by countryside, and designed with our team's wellbeing in mind. s proved POPLflar with Our people, they love our new base of operations. We partnered doud-based everyone. wlth PM+M Solutions for Business, who have taken over our payroll management. Their slem helped us digilalise and slreamline the process, making it faster and more efficient for We're proud 2024. A big s for all. report thal our annual health and safety audit score rose from 830A in 2023 to 87.79014 in p forward that shows our ongoing commilmenl to maintaining a safe and positive workplace This year, w Limited. The internal syste gan laying the grotsndwork for a new, bespoke IT system in partnership with Meritec ystem will modernise how we manage all referrals and triage, with plans to inlegrate all our s in the future. We are excited about our digital transformation Journey, so watch this spacel We launched,, exploring top season 3 of our podcast, FocusAF, and welcomed our new hosl. Jody Roberts. Jody s been Ihat maller to us and the people we support. Listen to se new host, an on 3 of our FocusAF podcast on your favourile podcast platform lo find out more aboul our what topics we are talking about at Advocacy Focus. Our good fri for Advoca challenge, a to them all Focus. ds at Cube HR, and Cheryle Britton of YOLO Wellbeing, look part in challenges to fundraise i Fpcus. With the team at Cube HR raising over £2,100 by tackling the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Cheryle raising almost £2,000 by taking on a personal Ifonman challenge. A huge thank you r their amazing efforts and for raising vital funds for Our preventative service, Community In October, Hall. e partnered with our friends at Lancashire Women to hold a fashion fundraiser at Mitton Over 100 pe ple attended the event, and together we raised £1,642 for both charities. We ramped plenty of ex p our commitmenl lo raising vital funds for the essential work we do as a charity- There are ing plans in the woiks for next year- so keep an eye out, and support us if you canl If you'd like..to help raise money for Advocacy Focus, we'd love to hear from you. Get in touch at fundraise dvocacyfocus.org.uk to chat about how you can get involved. The Tru51ees' report.1 nduding Ihe strategic report, was approved by the Board of Trustees. Mr C B Lintern Trustee 9 December 2025 15-
ADVOCACY FOCUS STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES. RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The Trustees, who are also the directors of Advocacy Focus for the purpose of company law, are respOnsie for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordan with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United lth'ngdom Generalty Accepted Accounting Pradice). Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of Ihe stale of affairs of Ihe charity and of the incoming resources and applicats'on of resources. induding the income and expenditure. of the charilable company for that year. In preparing these financial slatemenls, the Trustees are required to- selecl suitable accounting poliaes and then apply them consislentty. observe the methods and principles in the CharFlies SORP,. make judgements and estimates that are reasonab and pwdent., and prepare the financial slatements on the going concem basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Charity will continue in operation. The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disdose with reasonable accuiacy at any lime the financial posrtion of the chanty and enable Ihem to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps fof the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 16-
ADVOCACY F cus INDEPENDENT DITOR'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTE S OF ADVOCACY FOCUS Oplnlon We have audited the fi Comprise the slaleme ancial statements of Advocacy Focus (the 'charily'} for the year ended 31 March 2025 which l of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and notes lo the financial slalemenls, cluding significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their prep Reporting Standard 1 ation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Kingdom Generally A 2 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United eptèd Accounting Practice). In our opinion, the fin give a true and incoming resour have been pro and have been prep Cl81 statemenls.. air view of the state of thé charitablè company's affairs as al 31 March 2025 and of ils s and application of resources, for the year then ended, y prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice., ed in accordance with the requirements of the CompaniesAcl 2006. Bas18 for opinlon We conducted our a law. Our responsibiliti it in accordance with International Standards on Auditing {UK) (ISAS (UK)) and applicable the financial stat&me s under those standards are further descfibed in the Audilorfs responsibilifies for the audit ol ts section of OLtr report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that ar4. relevant lo our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we ha that the audit eviden fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Conclusion8 relatlnl. to golng concern In auditing the finan ac¢ounling in the pre ial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees, use of the going concern basis of r81ion of the financial statements is appropriate. Based on Ihe work conditions that, indiv concern for a period e have performed, we have not identified any material unortainties relaling to events or ually or colleclively, may cast significant doubl on the charity's ability lo Continue as a going at least twelve months from when the financial statements are aulhorised for issue. nd the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect lo going concern are described in the is report. Ouf responsibilities relevant sections of I Other Infomiatlon The other informatio and our auditor's re comprises the information included in the annual report other Ihan the financial statements report. Our opinion o rt thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual of assurance concl the financial slalemenls does not cover Ihe other information and we do not express any form ion thereon. Our responsibility is lo read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other inlprmalion is materially inconsislenl with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the au or apparent material, it. or othe1$e appears lo be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies isslalemenls. we are required lo determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial slai4nents themselves. If, based on Ihe work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstateme t of this other information, we are required to report that fact. port in this regard. We have nothing to Matters on which * are required to report by exception We have nothing tty report in respect of the following matters in relation lo which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulation Ihe informatio 2008 requires Lts to report lo you if. in our opinion.. report., or given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the Trustees, sufficient ac¢onting records have not been kept., or Ihe financial s*tements are not in agreement with the accounting records., or we have not r elved all the information and explanations we require for our audit. 17
ADVOCACY FOCUS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF ADVOCACY FOCUS Responslblllties of Trustses As explained more fully in the statement of Trustees. responsibilities, the Trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of Ihe financial slalements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from maleDal misstatement. whethei due to fraud or error. In prepanng the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability lo continue as a going concern. disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidale the charilable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative bul to do so. Auditorfs responsibilltles for the audit of tho flnan¢ial Statsments We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charitiès 2011 and report in accordan with the Acl and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder. Our objectives are lo obtain reasonable assurance aboul whether the financial statements as a whole are free from malerial misslatement, whether due to fraud or error. and lo issue an audilorfs report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance bul is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS (UK) will always delecl a material misslalement when it exists. Misslalemenls can arise from fraud or error and are considered malenal if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected lo influence the economic decisions of users laken on the basis of these financial slatemenls. The e*(enl to which our procedures are Capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below. i) Idenlify and assess the nsks of material misstalement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. design and perform audit procedures responsive lo those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate lo provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error. as fraud may involve collusion. forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresenlations, or the override of internal control. {iil Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order lo design audit pro¢edure$ that are appropriate in the circumstances, but nol for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the company's internal control. lili) Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting eslimales and related disclosures made by the directors. 18-
ADVOCACY F cus INDEPENDENT DITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) S OF ADVOCACY FOCUS TO THE TRUSTE (iv) Conclude on the the audit evidencè ob significant doubl on th exists, we are require or. if such disdosure obtained up to the d cease to conlinue as 4 propriateness of the directors, use of the going conrn basis of accounting and, based on ined, whether a material uncertainly exists related lo events or conditions that may cast company's ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty to draw attention in our audito¢s report to Ihe related disclosures in the financial statements are inadequate, to modfy our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence of our audiloffs report. However, future events or conditions may cause the company to going concern. {v) Evaluate the ov and whether the fina fair presentation. 11 presentation. structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, al statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves We communicate wil timing of the audit a identify during our au those charged with governance regarding, among other matters. the planned scope and significant audit findings. including any significant deficiencies in inlernal control that we Due to the seclor in The Companies Act 2 ich the dient operates we have identified that compliance with Employment Legislation and 8 as areas most likely to have a material impact on the financial statements. Owing to the inhere material rnisslaternen in accordance with a {irregularitiesl is fromj limited procedures r higher risk of non- misrepresenlations, cannol be expected t limitations of an 8udFI there is an unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some in the financial statements, even though we have properly planned and perfomed our audit iting standards. Fof example, the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations h¢ events and transactions reflected in the financial statemenls, the less likely the inherently uired by auditing slandards would identify it. In addition, as with any audil, there remained a tection of irregularities, as these may involve collusion. forgery, intenlional omissions the override of internal controls. We are not responsible for preventing non-compliance and detect non-compliance with all laws and regulations. A further description www.frc.org.uklaudit of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council's website at.. https.'Il responsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report. Use of our report This report is made and Reports) Regula those matters we ar permitted by law, w trustees as a body, f lely to the charily's Irustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts ons 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so Ihat we might stale to the charity's trustees required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent do not accept or assume responsibility lo anyone other than the charity and the charity's our audit work, for this report, or fof the opinions we have fomed. Mr Crai ter Fis For and on behalf of Chartered Certifiéd Reception 1. First Fl Offices, Red Rose Clayton Business P Clayton Le Moors Lancashife BB5 5JR 9 December 2025 i¢k FCCA {Senior Statutory AudStor) ayes Business Partnership Ltd. Slalutory Auditor counlanls or urt Mayes Business P appointment as aud nership Ltd is eli9ible for appointment as audilor of Ihe charity by virtue of its eligibility for or of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006. 19-
ADVOCACY FOCUS STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Unre$tri¢ted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Notes In¢ome from: Donatsons and lega¢ies Charitable aclivities Inveslments 1,501 1,501 2,564,986 8,474 1,494 1,494 2,442,077 19,231 2,564,986 8,474 2,442,077 19,231 Total income 2,573.460 1.501 2,574,961 2,461,308 1,494 2.462,802 Expenditure on: Raising funds Charitable activities Olher expendilure 720 2,688,285 265 1,501 2,221 2.688.285 265 2,540 2,387,167 1,494 4,034 2.387,167 12 Total expenditure 2,689,270 1.501 2,690,771 2.389,707 1,494 2,391,201 Nel gainsl(losses) on inveslrnents 13 4,142 4,142 {14,728) (14,728) Net incomel{expenditurel and movement in funds (111,668) (111.6681 56,873 56,873 Recon¢iliation of funds: Fund balances at 1 Apnl 2024 870,508 870,508 813,635 813,635 Fund balances at 31 Mah 2025 758,840 758.840 870,508 870,508 The statemenl of financial activities in¢ludes all gains and losses recognised in Ihe year. All in¢ome and expenditure derive from continuing activities. The notes on pages 2310 32 fom part of these financial statements. -20-
ADVOCACY F ¢us BALANCE SHEE ASAT31 MARC 2025 2025 2024 Notss Flxod assèts Tangible assets Inveslmenls 15 16 56,196 240,051 64,021 142,125 Current assets Debtors Cash al bank and in h 296.247 206,146 17 289.303 303,598 308.030 436,096 Crodltors: amounts *iiing due withln one year 592,901 744.126 18 (130,308) 179,764) Net current a¥80ts 462,593 664,362 Total a88ets108• CU nt Ilablllties 758,840 870,508 The funds of the ¢h Unrestricted fvnds 20 758,840 870.508 758,840 870,508 The notes on pages to 32 form part of these financial slalements. The company is enlil 2006, for the year en to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies A¢t d 31 March 2025. The directors ackno with respect lo acco ledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ling records and the preparalion of financial slatemenls. These financial slate to the small compani ents have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable lo companies subject s regime. The financial stalem t$ were approved by the Trustees on 9 December 2025 Mr C 8 Lintern Trustsè Mr D Rodgers Trustee Company registratio number 04135225 (England and Wales) 21
ADVOCACY FOCUS STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 2025 2024 Notes Cash flows from operats.ng acts"vities Cash absorbed by operations 22 (38.329) (23,077) Investlng activities Purchase of langible fed assets Purchase of investments Proceeds from disposal of investments Investrnent income received (8,893) {125,000} 31,250 8.474 (29,113) 93,750 19,231 Net ¢ash (used In)1generated from investing activities (94.169) 83,868 Net cash generated from financlng actlvlties Net {de¢rea$ellincrease in cash and cash equivalents (132.498) 60,791 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 436,096 375,305 Cash and Cash equivalents at end of year 303,598 436.096 The notes on pages 23 to 32 form part of these financial statemenls. 22-
ADVOCACY F cus NOTES TO THE INANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR NDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting pol ies Charity infomi Advocacy Focu registered office England. ion is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The s Saturn House, &7 Mercury Rise, Allham Business Park. Accrington, Lancashire. BB5 5BY, 1.1 A¢¢ountlng co vention The financial s temenls have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document. the Companies Acl., 2006. FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and I Practice appli Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Slatement of Recommended applicable in th le to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard FRS 102. UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102)" The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by The char¢ly ha cash flows. taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not lo ppare a stalement of The financial s amounts in the lements are prepared slerling, which is the functional currency of Ihe charity. Monetary financial staternenls are rounded lo Ihe nearest £. The financial revaluation of tements have been prepared under the hislorical cost convention, Imodified to include the ehold properties and to include inve51ment properties and certain financial instruments at fair valuel. The PllTipal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 1.2 Going con¢e Al the time of 4pproving the financial statements, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate,,resources lo continue in operational exislence for the foreseeable future. Thus the Trustees continue to ad#pt Ihe going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements. 1.3 Charitable fu Unrestricted fwids are available for use al the dis¢retion of the Trustees in fLErtherance of their charitable obiectives. Restricted fiJA purposes and. s are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The ses of the restricted funds are sel out in the notes to the financial statements. 1A Income Cash donatio of the donati are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has beèn notified unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income lax recoverable in relation lo dorktions received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenanl is recognised at the lime of the donation. Legacies are,, ecognised on receipt or olhemise if the charity has been nolified of an impending distribution, the amount 4 known. and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent as*el. -23-
ADVOCACY FOCUS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting policies (Continued 1.5 Expenditure Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constmdive obligation to transfer economic benefft lo a third party, rt is probable thal a transfer of economic beneffts bwll be required in settlement. and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is dassified by activity. The costs of each adNity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, induding support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attribulable to a single activity are allocated direcdy to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent wilh the use of resour$. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset's use. 1.6 Tangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets are inf(ially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreuation and any impaimienl bsses. Depreciation is recognised $0 as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases-. Leasehold improvements Computers Website In accordance with the lease 250A reducing balanr Enter depreciats'on rate via StatDB - cd199 The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference belween the sale proceeds and the carying value of the asset. and is recognised in the statement of financial aclivities. 1.7 Fixed asset investments 1.8 Impaim7ent of fixed assets At each reporting end date, the chartty reviews the carying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether Ihere is any indication Ihat those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of Ihe asset is eslimaled in order to determine the extent of Ihe impairment loss (rf any). 1.9 Cash and tash equlvalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks. other short-tem liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities. 1.10 FFnancial instruments The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financial Inslruments. and Section 12 'Other Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the Charity's balan sheet when the charty becomes paty to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and liabiltties are offset, with the net amounls presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off Ihe recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or lo realise Ihe asset and settle the liabiltty simultaneously. -24-
ADVOCACY F cus NOTES TO THE INANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) NDED 31 MARCH 2025 FOR THE YEAR Accounting pol ie$ Icontinuedl Basic financial ssets Basic financial transaction pri ssets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at including transaction costs and are subsequently carried al amortised cost using the effective ir)teresl melhodi unless the arrangement constilutes a financing transaction, whefe the transaction is measured al thl. present value of the future receipts discotjnled al a market rate of inteSt. Financial assets classified as re ivable within one year are not amortised. Basic financia Basic financial I the arrangeme value of the fut within one year labilities bllities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at Iransaction price unless nstilutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present e payments discounted at a maikel rate of inleresl. Financ4al liabilities dassified as payable re not amortised. Debt instrumen are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. Trade creditors, operations fro year or less. I transaction pri fe obligations to pay for goods or services Ihat have been acquired in the ordinary course of suppliers. Amounls payable are classified as ¢urrenl liabilities if payment is due within one not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at and subsequently measlrred al amortised cost using the effective interest method. Derecognitioh f financial liabilities Financial liabiliiles are derecognised when the charity's contractual obligations expl or are discharged or cancelled. 1.11 Employee benbfils The cosl of an reIved. unused holiday entitlemént is re¢ognised in the period in which the employee's services are Termination b to terminate th efits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed employment of an employee or lo provide termination benefits. 1.12 Retirement b Payments lo fined contribution retirement benefil schemes are tharged as an expense as they fall due. tlng estimates and judgements Critlcal acco In the applic estimates an ion of the charity's a¢counting policies, the Trustees are required to make judgements, 'assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other so4rces. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical eXrienCe and other factors that ar considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimate estimates arè., and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting period, or in Irecognised in thè period in which Ihe estimate is revised where the revision affects only thal periods. e period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future -25-
ADVOCACY FOCUS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Income from donatlons and legacies Re$triGtsd funds 2025 Restricted funds 2024 Donations and gifts 1,501 1,494 Income from charltsble a¢tiviti8g Unrestrlcted Unrestrlctsd funds funds 202S 2024 Provlslon of advocacy servi¢e3 Service level agreements Performance related grants Other income 2,281.836 28.594 251.441 2,207,906 5,500 207,996 Tralnlng and prfvats contracts Service level agreements 3,115 20,675 2,564.986 2,442,077 Income from Investments Unrnstrlcted Unrnstrlcted funds funds 2025 2024 Income from listed inveslmenls Inleresl receivable 4,629 3,845 15,876 3.355 8,474 19,231 Expendlture on ralsing fund8 Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total Unre8tri¢ted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Fundraising and publlcity other fundraising costs 720 1,501 2.221 2,540 1,494 4,034 -26-
ADVOCACY F cus NOTES TO THE INANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) NDED 31 MARCH 2025 FOR THE YEAR Expenditure on. haritable activities Provision of Provision of advocacy advocacy services seplices 2025 2024 Direct costs Staff costs Deprecialion an Operating leas Rates and wal Insurance Light and heat Telephone Postage and st Advertising Sundries Slaff training Repairs and m Volunteer exp IT costs Other costs 1,645,516 16.419 52,177 330 8,372 1,488 28,402 5,060 11,655 15,055 25,010 6,118 9,559 48,187 126,417 1,385,806 13,257 40,836 432 9,517 8,281 58,454 4,948 36,144 6,970 25,903 6,223 8,565 43,806 132,054 impairment tionery inlenan ses 1,999,765 1,781,196 Share of sup Support Governan rt and govemance costs {see nots 81 684,486 4,034 601,862 4,109 2,688,285 2.387,167 Analysis by Unrestrictèd f 2,688,285 2,387,167 Support cosl allocated to activities Provision of advocacy services Totsl 2025 2024 Staff costs Non-audit se Consultanls i Governan , iS 656,873 6,763 20,850 4,034 597,466 4,396 4,109 688,520 605,971 -27-
ADVOCACY FOCUS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Support Costs allocated to activlties (Continued) 2025 2024 Governan¢e ¢osts comprl$e: Staff cosls Audit fees 194 3,840 459 3,650 4.034 4,109 Net movoment in fund$ 2025 2024 The net movement in funds 15 Staled after ¢hargingl(crediting)'. Fees payable for Ihe audit of the charity's financial slatements Depreciation of owned langible fixed assets L05s on disposal of tangible fixed assets 3,840 16,419 265 3,650 13.257 10 Tru$tse8 None of the Trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year. 11 Employoes The average monthly number of employees dursng the year was- 2025 Number 2024 Number Charitable Support 60 20 52 18 Total 80 70 Employment eosts 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs 2,033,842 170,456 98,091 1,770,376 127,229 85,667 2,302,389 1,983,272 -28-
ADVOCACY F cus NOTES TO THE INANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) NDED 31 MARCH 2025 FOR THE YEAR 11 Employees Icontlnued) The number of is as follows.. ployees whose annual remuneralion was more than £60,000 2025 Number 2024 Number Senior manage ent team 12 Other expendl Unrn8tri¢tsd Unrestrlcted funds funds 2025 2024 Net loss on di o$al of tangible fixed assets 265 13 Galns and lo OB on Investments Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds 2025 2024 Gainsl(losse arising on.. Revaluation investments 4,142 (14,7281 14 Taxation The charity i exempt from taxation on ils activities because all ils income is applied for charitable purposes. -29-
ADVOCACY FOCUS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 15 Tangible fixed assets Leasehold Improvements Compuiors Webslt¢ Total Cost At l April 2024 Additions Disposals 3,084 161,684 8,893 10,200 174,968 8,893 (3,084) {3,084) At 31 March 2025 170.577 10,200 180,777 Depreclation and Impalmnt At 1 April 2024 Depreciation charged in the year Eliminated in respect of disposals 2,665 154 {2,819) 106,276 15,245 2,040 1,020 110,981 16,419 (2,819) At 31 March 2025 121,521 3.060 124,581 Caffying amount At 31 March 2025 49,056 7.140 56,196 At 31 March 2024 452 55,409 8,160 64.021 16 Fixed asset Investments Listed investments Cost or valuation At 1 April 2024 Additions Valuation changes Disposals 142,125 125,000 4,176 (31,250} At 31 March 2025 240,051 Carrying amount At 31 Marth 2025 240,051 At 31 March 2024 142,125 2025 2024 Listed investments carrying amount 240,051 142.125 30-
ADVOCACY F cus NOTES TO THE .ÈINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ¢NDED 31 MARCH 2025 17 Debtor5 2025 2024 Amounts fallin I due within one year: Trade deblors Other debtors I Prepayments a 213,875 211,927 31,250 64,853 d accrued income 75,428 289.303 308,030 18 Creditors: am unts falling due within one year 2025 2024 Other taxation: Trade credilor Oltter Cfedito Accruals and nd social security 39,769 11,268 17,378 61,893 32.535 16.520 12,396 18,313 ferred income 130.308 79,764 19 Retirernent nefit schemes 2025 Defined con'lxrtion schemes 2024 Charge to pr*t or loss in respect of defined ¢onttibulion schemes 98.091 85,667 The tharity scheme are rates a defined conlribulion pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the Id separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. 20 Unrestrictelfvnds The unrestri ¢ed funds of the ¢hanty comprise the unexpended balances of donations and granls which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These inclLrde designated f nds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for speafic purposes. At 1 April 2024 Incoming resources Resour¢es expended Gains and At 31 March losses 2025 General fun 870,508 2,573,460 {2,689.270) 4,142 758,840 Previous y At 1 April 2023 Incoming Resources resources expended Gatns and At 31 March losses 2024 General fun 813,635 2.461.308 (2,389,707) (14,728) 870,508 31
ADVOCACY FOCUS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 21 Related party transactions There were no disck)sable related party transactions during the year (2024 - none). 22 Cash absorbed by operatlon$ 2025 2024 (Deficit)Isurplus for the year (111,668) 56,873 Adjugtments for: Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities Loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets Fair value gains and losses on investments Depreciats'on and impaiment of tangible fixed assets (8,474) 265 (4.142) 16,419 (19.231 > 14,728 13,257 Movèments in worklng capital: De¢reasellincrease) in debtors Increase in creditors 18.727 50.544 (91,2941 2.590 Cash absorbed by operatlons (38,329) (23.0771 23 Analysis of changes In net fvnds The tharity had no material debt during the year. -32-