REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 04381722 (England and Wales)
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1092083
A4
A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE
TRUSTEES, REPORT AND
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30
NE 2024

**A4U** 

## **CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024** 

|||**Page**|
|---|---|---|
|**Reference and Administrative Details**||1|
|**Trustees' Report**|2|2<br>**to**11|
|**Independent Examiner's Report**||12|
|**Statement of Financial Activities**||13|
|**Statement of Financial Position**||14|
|**Notes to the Financial Statements**|15|15<br>**to**22|





A4U
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
TRUSTEES
D Bell {resigned 31.7.24)
Mrs C Crackett
D Forsyth {appointed 25.10.23)
Ms A Hiam
M Sadler (resigned 6.9.23)
MsCSShaw
REGISTERED OFFICE
Louise House
Roman Road
Shrewsbury
SY3 9JN
REGISTERED COMPANY
NUMBER
04381722 (England and Wales)
REGISTERED CHARITY
NUMBER
1092083
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
TCA (Shrewsbury) LLP
Third Floor
21 St Mary's Street
Shrew5bury
Shropshire
SY11ED
Page 1

A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with
the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 30 June 2023. The trustees have adopted the provisions of
Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to ¢harities preparing their
accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102)
(effective 1 January 2019).
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Constitution and objects
The organisation was originally formed in 1992 and was registered as a charitable company limited by guarantee on
2612102. The company registration number is 04381722, and A4U is a registered charity in England and Wales Number
1092083.
The pnncipal objects of the company, as stated in the constitution are..
For the public benefit, to promote the relief of people wlth disabilities andlor ill-health by the provision of
information. advice and advocacy services and to assist these people either directly or through their carers,
relativ•$, friends and other agencies.
Method of appolntment or ele¢tlon of Trustees
The management of the company is the responsibility of the TnJ8tees who are elected and c￿Opted under the terms of
the Articles of A88ociation.
A4U is a Disabled Persons Uyer Led Organisation run by and for people with disabilities which include long-tem health
conditions, mental health condib'ons, physical andlor sensory impairments and neurodivergence.
Many of our Staff and volunteers manag8 complex workloads whllst living with a disabilty andlor long-term condition.
We actively encourage people with disabilities to join the team, as trustees. volunteers or paid staff - the power of peer
support generates a positive energy that helps to improve wellbeing.
The trustees continue to have regard to the needs of the charity in the changing world and regularly review the skills and
expertise required to lead the organisation.
The Board of Directors meet quarterly. Appointments and specific delegated powers are agreed by the full Board at the
first meeting following the Annual General Meeting.
Regular discussions take place be￿een the Chair, Treasurer and Chief Officer to review strategic and financial matters
be￿een Board meetings. Responsibility for Servi￿ delivery and day-to-day management of staff, and volunteers, rests
with the Chief OffI￿r in conjunction with Team Leaders.
Pollcles adoptsd for the inductlon and training of Trustees
All new Trustees are encouraged. where they have not been existing volunteers, to familiarise themselves with the
practical work of the charity and gain an understanding of the culture that drives the organisation. In addition. they are
Provided with an induction pack of guidanGe notes detailing their responsibilities, including the main documents which set
out the operational framework for the Charity..
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 202
Memorandum and Articles
Latest published accounts and Annual Report
Business Plan
Key policies
Trustees are required to abide by the NCVO Code of Good Practice for Trustees, encouraged to attend any available
training, and take an active role in the organisation wherever possible.
Both our Chair and Treasurer regulady volunteer within the organisation and all Trustees participate when able beyond
their role as Trustees, giving a clearer understanding of the operational challenges facing the organisation.
Organlsatlonal structurn and decl•lon making
The composition ofthe Board is based on a skills audit to ensure the Board maintains appropriate and effective levels of
expertise to manage and develop the organisation in line with the aims ofthe Business Plan.
We actively seek experts by experience who have the skills needed for the Board.
The busine8$ plan sets out the strategy for the charity and 18 used to underpin all decision making by the Board. This is
updated regularly as a working proce8s by the Strategic Review Report completed by Ihe Chief Officer for Board.
Quallty Management
A4U is committed to contlnuous improvement and implementing appropriate quality management systems and processes
to enable us to deliver the highest practicable quality services. To do this we..
work with users of our services to develop our 80rvlc08 to meet their neod8.
conduct our work in a way that reflects our core alms and ethos.
create an environment that promotes contlnuou8 improvemant and knowled9e sharing across all stakeholders.
ensure compllanco with legal and other applicable standards.
educate and train our staff and volunteer8 to support the delivery of high-quality services.
We hold the externally audited Advice Seniice$ Alliance Advice Quality Stsndard for advlce, telephone advice and
casework for Welfare Benefits, Disability and Health and Community cara. We are subject to a bi-annual external audit
process in addition to completing regular annual internal reviews of our policies and procedures.
We are a "Disability Confident. employer and also signatories to the Mindful Employer Charter for employers Positive
about Mentsl Health recognising our commitment to the mental wellbeing of our staff and volunteers.
Safety
A4U is committed to providing a safe environment for all its worker8, volunteers, clients and visitors. This duty is
discharged by the implementation of a Health, Safety and Wellbeing Policy and the underpinning development of live risk
assessments for the workplace and relevant public areas. Health, Safety and Wellbeing are a standing item on the Board
and Staff meeting agendas and all accidents or incidents are reviewed at meetings.
Risk managemont
The Trijstees assess the major risks to which the company is exposed on an ongoing basis, in particular those related to
the operations and finances of the charity and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate, wherever possible, our
exposure to the major risks.
Our risk register is maintained and reviewed at least annually, but also in light of any changes with significant impact
occurring throughout the year.
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Safeguarding
All issues raised are logged in line with our policy and reported on as a standing agenda item at Board meetings. All staff
receive 3 yearly training updates in addition to updates and safeguarding discussions within team meetings and
understand processes for escalating safeguarding issues. Trustee5 use NCVO guidance to review safeguarding and their
understanding of it for the charity at every meeting.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Our ethos.
The Individual is Paramount
Each person is in control of their own life. We are here to help them to live that life to the fvll.
Ovèrall Alm
To improvo the quallty of Ilfe for poopl• with dl8abllltle8 andlor long-torm condltlons. tholr famili08 and carer8 In
Shropshlrg and its Borders
Spaclllc Aims
To enable people with disabililies to Improve choice and control over their lives andlor agsist independent Ilving.
To maximise financial wellbeing for people with disabilities.
To treat everyone as individuals without prejudice and with empathy.
To reduce discrimination and raise awareness of disability issues.
In partnership with public, private and VCS agencies, engage proactively in the shaping and delivery of national
disability policy at a local level.
Our aims and ethos remain constant, however we keep our activities and delivery methods under continuous review,
working alongside our particlpants and other stakeholders to develop services.
Key Strengths
We listen
We treat everyone a8 an individual
We are impartial and non-judgemental
We spot and nurture potential
We know that everyone can contribute
We go the extra mile
We look at situations holistically, finding solutions by working with trusted partners.
Activities
During trie period covered by this report the activities delivered by A4U were..
Independent confidential advice and information on benefits for people with any disability- claims and appeals.
help with fomi filling, provided face to face or by telephone or video Call, supported by tailored self-help
information
Provide holistic assessment of need and facilitate referrals into other specialist services
Quality Marked Specialist casework on welfare benefits, disability and health issues from experienced
caseworkers.
Advi￿ and independent advocacy to challenge a range of decisions including representing clients when
ne￿sSary and supporting clients to self-advocate.
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2
Keyworker support as part of multidisciplinary teams.
We lead the provision of Shropshire Autism Hub services for adults in Shropshire. These indude
managem8nt of the adults. diagnostic waiting list and first point of contact,
pre-screening for accessing diagnostic assessment,
pre and post diagnostic support, trainin9 and resources,
opportunities for social intera¢tion and development of peer support,
Access to training in relation to disability issues including Autism.
Volunteenng and employment opportunities.
All of the above activities have been undertaken with reference to the Charity Commission guidance on Public Benefit
and are available to all people with disabilities and long-term medical conditions, their families, carers, and advocates.
A4U operates within an equity, diversity and inclusion policy.
Flexlblllty in Working and delivery
Experiences during the pandemic heightened our awareness of simple measures to support both the health and
wellbeing of our dient group.
We have retained optional screens In some rooms to give added security for some clients who are 8till very anxious
about attending public space$. We continue small group work as this type of activty is much preferred by most of our
autistic visitors who struggle with large or louder groups and avoids gathering large numbers of people in enclosed
spaces parts'culady during the winter months.
We have continued hybrid working introduced during the pandemic, and provide remote 8UPPOrt (by phone, text,
zoom or Teams, messenger and 80cially distanced meetings outside) in addition to face-to-face appointments as
needed.
HIGHLIGHTS AND ACHIEVEMENT8
INFORMATION. ADVICE AND ADVOCACY SERVICES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
We continue to provide our ¢ore information, advice and advocacy services via contra¢ls with Shrop8hire Council, known
as Advice, Advocacy and Welfare Benefits Shropshire with partners, Citizens Advice Shropshire, Age UK and Taking
Part. The existing contracl was extended to September 2024 and following a ￿tender process in May 2024. has now
been confirmed for a further 5 years.
As with previous funding for our core informalion, advice and advocacy servi￿, this contract requires that addttional
fvnding will be sourced externally. and we continuously look for complementary funding options to manage the non-
statutory elements of provision in addition to general fundraising activity on a small scale.
In view of this we completed a successful funding bid to Three Guinea$ Trust for a grant to support increasing free legal
advice and representation for disabled people. We are increasingly seeing more complex situations requiring significant
additional casework hours and people needing support to pul their case forward, however this is not part of the funding
provided by the local authority. It will also allow the recruitment of a further part time caseworker to increase our capacty.
Our development of Shropshire Autism Hub, and particulady our work with the diagnostic pathway for adults, coupled with
our holistic approach, impacts on our advice and advocacy provision as many of the contacts we make through triage and
pre-screening appointments also require some additional advice input.
We have also seen a dramatic increase in referrals durin9 the year, ref>ecting national trends.
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
We also have a small contract arrangement with Midland Partnership Foundation NHS Trust to provide monthly welfare
benefit advice services to inpatients within the Redwoods Centre secure forensic wards. We had interactions with 18
patients during the last year.
All services are continuing to see increasing complexity and multiple issues arising for many Clients.
During the year through our AAWB advice contract we supported 1 ,030 clients (847.. 2023 +22% ) involving one to one
input, managing 1,368 different interventions11,136 .'2023 +20%} and achieved monetary gains for clients totalling
£839,649 (£922,000: 2023-9%).
Feedback examples from people accessing support..
°This service is invaluable to disabled people.
'Very friendly staff always there to help and explain things in plain English"
"Active ongoing pursuit and success after 2 refusals from DWP"
'L did a comprehensive job, very patient in a complicated case and won for me. It's life changing for me and my son..
SHROPSHIRE AUTISM HUB
The Hub Goals (developed with users and partners):
To be a source of impartial and reliable information and advice about autism and services in Shropshire.
To create an inclusive environment where individuals feel safe and welcomed.
To offer support to any adult resident in Shropshire,. pre-and post-diagnosis - clinical and non-clinical, and Carers.
To bring together services offering support, increasing accessibility and breaking down barriers.
To provide opportunities for life enhancing development and the achievement of ambitlons.
To develop neI￿orkIng opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum, and the opportunity to develop new
friendships.
To encourage professional ne￿orkS and promote awarenegs of the autism Spectrum among services.
To encourage individuals to work together as a group to ensu￿ the Hub continues to grow and develop.
Shropshire Autism Hub leads the provision of autism specific services for adults, and their carers, in Shropshire. It is an
umbrella for all our adult autism provision including access to the diagnostic pathway. in-house advice, support and
guidance, as well as referrals to other providers.
The purpose of the Hub is to be the point of contact for people in Shropshire, both pre- and post-diagnosis, their families,
carers and professionals We provide support which encourages personal development. builds confidence, develops
individual coping strategies and improves wellbeing and social interaction using a range of activities, in addition to
providing a safety net of infomiation. advice and advocacy provided by our casework team.
Our holists'c approach means we look at the complete picture and facilitate access to a range of help and opportunities
from our ne￿orkS to manage complex situations, always with individual wellbeing at the core.
We have ensured access to both social care and health appointmenls completed online, including multi-disciplinary team
meetings and diagnostic assessments, for individuals who have no access to a computer, tablet or smartphone andlor
need support to self-advocate.
We continue to adapt the delivery of the Hub to meet fts goals, the development of the Servi￿ driven by autistic people
themselves, and in response to feedback also from individuals who may struggle to aGcess current provision. We also
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
have experts by experience within our volunteer and staff teams and continuously build practical knowledge throughout
the organisation.
We share information about other services focused on, and accessible for. neurodivergent individuals within Shropshire.
Shropshire Integrated Care Board
Funding from Shropshire Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care Board IICBI for management of the Adult Autism Diagnostic
wailing list has continued and been increased during thè year to help develop further pre- and post-diagnostic support
opportunits'es including potential development of outrea¢h options
We received ongoing referrals during the year via a dedicated NHS email from GP'S and other heallh professionals, in
addition to self-referrals directly to Shropshire Autism Hub
We have further developed the triage process in conjunction with the diagnostic team from Chester and Wirral Partnership
Foundation Trust {CWP)and now complete an initial triage of all incoming referrals also working through the transferred
list datsng back lo 2020.
We have worked very closely with their team to facilitate lake up of assessments including supporting individuals to
access the pathway, providing direct support to complete paperwork, manage appointments and access remole
assessments.
Despite all efforts the referral rate continues to increase, now exceeding 40 per month with the number on the wait list
exceeding 1 ,000 during the year. Commissioned assessments are not at a level to meet the currenl referral rale let alone
respond lo the backlog. We know this is a national problem and makes the provision of pre-diagnostic support all the
more crucial for those who will expenence a long wait.
We have built our provision to allow people to choose to access at different points and mlx the types of activities that work
for them. Many people have been referred by professionals who have told them they should consider an autism
assessment, but they may know nothing about autism themselves.
The triage and prtrscreenlng processes are geared to a needs assessment which allows u8 to provlde Information and
resources appropriate for each individual, at a pace and In 8 format that they are able to process, together with referral or
signposting to other services if they are more appropriate.
Our group sessions are both face to face and online, and offer educational information about autism, opportunities for
discussion with peers and the chance to explore what autism is and means for them.
The Hub offers a person-centered service to facilitate individuals exploring their own experiences and profiles and
Consider coping strategies Ihal work for them. Rarely is it the first solution that works for an individual, people need an
opportunity to develop a 'toolbox' of strategies which meet their individual needs.
To support our broader delivery, we also access additional fijnding from donations and grants to ensure the full breadth of
provision. This funding from health is in recognition of the need for preventative services and the value of appropriate
preparation and support, but it is not currently a ststutory requirement. We are pleased that ICB funding has enabled us to
deliver this for some people. but we are not able to deliver it to everyone who would benefit, and we are not ¢urrently able
to deliver for many more people with other disabilitie5 and health conditions, or those with complex needs.
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Carers Support
AIMS (Autism, Involvement, Mental Health and Substances) Support group provide additional support for carers and
family of those attending the Hub and we work closely with them to provide full family support whilst conscious of the
independence of adults from parents. They also provide significant additional input from experts by expenen¢e to the
overall development of our service including leading weekly educational sessions explaining and exploring autistic traits.
These are tremendously helpfijl to those who have been referred for a diagnosis but know little about autism or what the
diagnosis might mean.
We have received additional funding from the ICB to develop these sessions and specifically pilot group support for family
and carers as part of ongoing delivery.
Fèadback and evaluation
Reporting via our contract monitoring and to the Shropshire Autism Partnership Board and the ICB allows us to pass on
comments and issues that are raised by users of our seNice and share our learning with commissioners and other
stakeholders locally.
We are also encouraging and supporting Hub members to participate directly with service development within Shropshire
as part of the commitment to co-production and ongoing development of the Shropshire Autism Strategy.
Feedback on the service has been overwhelmingly positive aside from the waiting times for people lo access a diagnosis.
Comments 18tatem8nts
'Thankyou Jenny and the Hub Team.
You listened to me when I was in a right old state.
You helped open doors and allowed me to discover who l am
I can't thank you enough..
'1 am strong. I have myself back. Thank you for all your help - still the only place I've felt get me and understand and I
belong.
Further development thls year
Interactive working with the Chester and Wirral Partnership diagnostic team has been a highlight this year.
We have increased our support for individuals accessing the pathway and enabled many who would not have been able
to complete the process to obtain their diagnosis. We have seen CWP begin to provide face to face diagnoses in Louise
House, something we have been working towards for several years.
We are saddened that they have decided to cease their contract due to the development of the all-age pathway covering
Shropshire and Telford I they are an adult only seNicel but hope Ihat we can continue to share best practice and ne￿Ork
with other5 Outside our region to continue to develop better services for Shropshire's neurodivergent population.
UndoLsbledly the biggest challenge has been the increasing numbers of referrals, and we hope that an increase in
commissioned assessments in Ihe coming year will help to reduce the backlog for those most in need.
We are developing both our pre-and post-diagnoslic support offers, logelher with short-lerm urgent issue-based advice
and advocacy for those with immediate needs and continue to work with partners across our ne￿ork to provide specialist
appointment sessions via the Hub.
Regular Partners In provision include:
AIMS Carers Support
Shropshire Council Social Work teams
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 202
STAR Housing Support
Aulism West Midlands
Enable employment support
Midland Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust- Autism Forensic Service, IAPT. Community Mental Health
provision
Shropshire Mental Health Support
West Mercia Police
Louise Hou80 Calm Café
We use the café area within Louise House as both a social space and a training venue.
In addition to our support8d Autism Hub group sessions ￿lce a week, we have continued to develop the cafe to create
Safe Space for people to come who feel isolated and alone to just feel comfortable or enable them to meet others in a
Wel￿mIng and non-judgemental environment.
It also provides a drop in point for those who may be struggling, and we have identified people who fell unable to contact
us directly to make an appointment but found support in the café from our Café managerlsupport worker who facilitated
access to the casework team.
We now also serve staff and people attending NHS appointments in the building, many travelling from across Shrop8hire
and needing refreshment before returning home, or while waiting for the effect$ of treatments to subside.
"The cafe is a lovely friendly place where l Can talk to likeminded people and learn of their coping strategie8 and how we
live our lives.
Staff and volunteer development
We are proud of the qualty stsndards we have achieved., to maintain them, all staff and volunteers are trained and
supported.
Our caseworker and team meetings provide opportunities for knowledge sharlng as well a8 planning, bLrt we also operate
an 'open door. policy for staff and volunteers to raise concerns or input ideas.
We continue to manage some homeworking flexibility for staff a$ needed and where possible for their role.
Staff share updates by email, provide feedback on file reviews and Can arrange a separate one to one meeting for issues
of particular importance.
All staff complete continuous professional development using both accredited training and regular online updates,
reviewing research papers and participating in survey. engagement and other development activty. This is designed to
improve accessibility and quality of delivery within our own service, but also share learning Wlth other services and
organisations to improve experiences for people with all disabilities.
Aut15m training for Hub staff is continuous as new research is completed, and understanding of neurodivergence is
increased. We access updates from the NHS, National Autistic Society, Research Autism, Autistica and other accredited
organisations. The comprehensive resour￿ bank we are building is not only used intemally and for clients but is also
shared with other professionals.
Recruitment of volunteers continues at a pace that we are able to manage wilhin our capacity to ensure the volunteering
experience also meets their expectations. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience or professional
expertise that informs our ongoing activities.
Many of our volunteers find us either as se￿iCe users or having supported family members and want to continue to gNe
something back to the organisation.
We are also developing Peer Support roles with those who have progressed and gained confidence to support others as a
result of their experiences with the Autism Hub.
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 J
NE 2024
We really do appreciate the time they give to us and the passion and insight they bring and value all their contribLrtions to
making A4U what it IS.
We have strengthened our casework team this year and also recruited into administrative and support work roles to
support organisats'onal development, Applicants enquire about roles with A4U because they are attracted to our ethos
and aims. and also our ability as a Disability Confident employer to support adjustments needed. We therefore very much
value the significant number of experts by experience within the team.
Key achlevements durlng the year
Obtsining funding from Three Guin8a8 Twst to extend our Welfare benefits service and
increase availability of advice and representation to meet demand from disabled people who struggle to access
specialist welfare rights provision. Our intended outcome is that people with hidden disabilities are enabled to
access tailored advice at a pace and in a setting appropriate to their needs., this reduces anxiety, improves
wellbeing and increases confidence to access future Servi￿$.
This funding 18 for 3 years which will allow us to support those who need to challenge decisions and continue to
appeal where there is merlt in the case and provide additional 8UPPOrt for process.
We have continued to develop our Autism Hub Service. responding to the challenge of ever-increasing numbers
of referrals, but continuing to champion a truly person-centred means of delivery.
We also secured funding from Clothworkers Foundation contributing to the costs of purchasing a new Client
Management System to replace our current database together with a range of Spreadsheet-based tools. A fully
operational and intera¢tive system will help to increase time for client contact, transfom our reporting processes,
and enable us to more readily demon8trate our impact.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
The renewal of our main contract for welfare benefits and advocacy from Shropshire Councll and their ongoing in-kind
support for premi888 continues to give security, and ongoing funding from the Integrated Care Board for the Autism Hub
and adult diagnostic pathway for autism in Shropshire has enabled significant development of our service.
Wrth the pressures on public funding, we know that we cannot provide the full service that our clients need withln the
capacity of the Local Authority and NHS knnding. and we continue to apply for grants which rnatch our organisational
objectives, allowing us to provide services that are truly user led and enhance the basic statutory level of provision. This
also helps to spread risk, increasing the variety offunding streams to avoid dependency. W8 have developed a Funding
strategy this year, scheduling opportunities throughout the year from organizations that fvnd work linked to our objects
and ethos.
We do receive some donations from Clients and their families wanting to give back and support a service that they have
appreciated so much, and their responses and feedback are humbling.
Reserves Pollcy
The Board annually reviews the level of reserves that are required to ensure that they are adequate to fulfil our continuing
obligations.
As a result of the continuation of reviewing risk within the organisation, the Board agreed that 4 months of operating costs
is prudent as this would allow for an activity to continue should there be a loss of income and it woukl grant time to secure
replacement income or wind down the activity with minimal impact on our vulnerable service users. For the Year ending
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A4U
TRUSTEES REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED
O JUNE 2024
30 June 2024 four months cost would be £84,365. and our total free reserves, calculated a$ unrestricted reserves less
designated funds and fwed assets, are £73.216 which is slightly below the target level.
A4U continue to take st8PS to secure funding from a wider variety of sources, to enable exploration of development and
improvement of services, there is a designated Development Fund of £30.000 for succession planning.
A fit for purpose and up-to-date IT operating system is essential for delivery of the s8rvic8s. A £3,000 IT Replacement
Fund has also been designated.
FUTURE PLANS
Continuing delivery of support for the autism diagnostic pathway in Shropshire and th8 challenges of working with
a new clinical team to develop a service that will continue to meet the needs of our Autism Hub dients, whilst
increasing the numbers of people we are supporting and retaining our Covproduction and person-centred
approach.
We wlll continue our commitment to develop high quality standards of advice and advocacy and explore all
possible options with partners and potential new funders to ensure continued provislon of preventative services in
Shrop5hire.
TRUSTEES. RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
The trustees {who are also the directors of A4U for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the
Trustees, Report and the financial statemenls in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting
standards {United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practi¢el including Financial Reporting Standard 102"The
Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland"
Company law requires the trustees to prepare finan¢ial statement8 for each finanGial year whlch give a true and fair view
of the stale of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the
income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees
are required to
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently.,
observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP.,
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
prepare the financial statements on the going concern ba818 unless it is inappropriate to presume that the
charitable company will continue in business.
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records whi¢h disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time
the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the
Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charilable company and hence for
taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to
small companies.
Approved by order of the board of trustees on .
1.6.'".0.c.r.o.W...20.zi. and
signed on its behalf by..
Mr$ C Crackett- Trustee
Page11

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF
A4U
Independent examlnerfs report to the trustees of A4U ('the Company,)
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended
30 June 2024.
Responslbilltles and basis of report
As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are
responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act
2006 ('the 2006 Act,).
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the
2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination. I report in respect of my examination of your charty's
accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 {'the 2011 Act,). In carrying out my
examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145{5) (b) of the
2011 Act.
Independent examinar's statsment
I have completed my examination. I confimi that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the
examination giving me cause to believe..
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006
Act., or
the accounts do not accord with those records,. or
the accounts do not comply with the accounting requiremenis of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other
than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as
part of an independenl examination., or
the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement
of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charrties (applicable to charities preparing
Iheir accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic
of Ireland (FRS 10211.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which
attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be
reached.
CMC
kl-WLLLcU￿1 ,
C Moelwyn-williams Bsc FCA
TCA (Shrewsburyl LLP
Third Floor
21 St Mary's Street
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY11ED
Oate..
..8th..1ty.LLu 2()25
Page 12

A4
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCORPORATING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
2024
Total
funds
2023
Total
funds
un￿strICted
funds
Restricted
funds
Notes
INCOME AND ENOOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
37,763
37,763
33,468
Charltsble actlvities
General
154,285
14,405
168,670
237,707
Other trading activities
Investment income
9,275
3,357
9,275
3,357
5,008
1,716
Total
204,660
14,405
219,065
EXPENDITURE ON
Charltable activities
General
217 758
7,818
225,576
220,715
NET INCOMEIIEXPENDITUREI
113,098)
6,587
{6,511)
57,184
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
119,314
5,200
124,514
67,330
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
106 216
11,787
118,003
124,514
CONTINUING OPERATIONS
All income and expenditure has arisen from continuing activities.
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 13

A4U
REGISTERED NUMBER." 04381722
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
30 JUNE 2024
2024
Total
funds
2023
T¢knl
funds
Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
Notes
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks
Debtors
Cash at bank
150
3,304
139,769
150
3,304
151,558
110
5,098
129,575
11,787
143,223
11,787
155,010
134,783
CREOITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
10
(37,007)
137,007)
110,269)
NEf CURRENT ASSETS
106,216
11,787
118003
124,514
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
106,216
11,787
118,003
124,514
NET ASSETS
106216
118,003
124 514
FUNDS
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
106,216
119,314
TOTAL FUNDS
118,003
124,514
The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for
the year ended 30 June 2024.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended
30 June 2024 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
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
preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charrtable
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 r@lating lo financial statements, so far as appllcable to the
charitable company.
{b)
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions appltcable to charrtable
companies subject to the small companies regime.
finan
ial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on
i.a4. .ctobor..20.L4......
and were signed on its behalf by..
Mrs C Crackett - Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 14

A4U
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing tho financial statements
The financial ststements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102,
have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by
Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in
accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS
102) (effective 1 January 2019),, Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard
applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland, and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements
have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
Financial reporting standard 102 - reduced disclosure exemptions
The charitable company has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemptions in preparing
these financial statements, as permitted by FRS 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in
the UK and Republic of Ireland,:
the requirements of Section 7 Statement of Cash Flows,.
the requirement of paragraph 3.17{d)',
the requirements of paragraphs 11.42, 11 .44, 11.45, 11.47, 11.48(a){iii), 11.48(a)(iv), 11.48{b)
and 11.48(c)',
the requirements of paragraphs 12.26, 12.27, 12.29(al, 12.29{b) and 12.29A;
the requirement of paragraph 33.7.
Income
All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activitles once the charity has entitlement to the
funds, it is probable that the incorne will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation
committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefrts will be
required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is
accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost
related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have
been allocated to activit¢es on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Taxatlon
The charity is exempl from corporation tax on its charit8bl8 activities.
Fund accountlng
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the
trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity.
Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted
purposes.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial
statements.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. ContribLrtions payable to
the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the
period to which they relate.
Cash at bank and In hand
Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturty
of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.
Page 15
continued...

A4
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continue
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
Flnancial instruments
The charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial
instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently
measured at their settlement value.
Debtor3
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered.
Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
Stock
Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for
obsolete and slow-moving stocks.
OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
2024
2023
Café Income
9,275
5,008
INVESTMENT INCOME
2024
2023
Deposit account interest
3,357
1,716
TRUSTEES, REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
There were no trustees, remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 30 June 2024 nor for the
year ended 30 June 2023.
Trustees. expen808
There were no trustees, expenses paid for the year ended 30 June 2024 nor for the year ended
30 June 2023.
STAFF COSTS
2024
2023
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs
166,784
4,065
156,316
3,216
176,027
164,501
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows..
2024
12
2023
12
General
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.
Page 16
continued...

A4U
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - contlnued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
Total
funds
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
33,468
33,468
Charltable activities
General
135,227
102,480
237,707
Other trading activities
Investment income
5,008
5,008
1,716
Total
175 419
102480
277,899
EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable actlvltles
General
118364
102 351
220 715
NET INCOME
57,055
129
57,184
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought fo￿rd
62,259
5,071
67.330
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
119314
5,200
124,514
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Office
equipment
COST
At 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024
DEPRECIATION
At 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024
NET BOOK VALUE
At 30 June 2024
At 30 June 2023
Page 17
continued...

A4U
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
STOCKS
2024
2023
Stocks
150
110
DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
2024
2023
Other debtors
Prepayments
3,304
3,390
1,708
3,304
5,098
10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
2024
2023
Trade creditors
Social security and other taxes
Other credrtors
Accruals and deferred income
370
1,201
912
34.524
519
1,081
2,972
5,697
37,007
Deferred income includes income received during the period of £29,58612023'. £867).
This includes a payment for drop in sessions running to August 2024 (£667 and 2023.. £667) and
conditional grant income received of £28,919, which will be recognised as the terms and conditions of
the grant are met during the financial year ended 30 June 2025.
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Net
movement
in funds
Transfers
be￿een
funds
At
30.6.24
At 1.7.23
Unr8Strlcted funds
General fund
Designated fund - Siaffing Reserve
Designated fund - IT Replacement
Designated fund - Development
79,688
30,626
3,000
(13,098)
6,626
{30,626}
73,216
3,000
30,000
24,000
119,314
(13,098)
106,216
Restricted funds
Other Small Grants
WSP - G8rden
Hub Session
Three Guineas
2,700
2,500
(350)
2,350
2,500
3,755
3,755
TOTAL FUNDS
124,514
6,511)
118,003
Page 18
continued...

A4U
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows..
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Movement
in funds
Unrestricted funds
General fund
204,660
(217.758)
{13,098)
Restrlcted funds
Other Small Grants
Hub Session
Three Guineas
(350)
(1,010)
6,458)
(350)
3,755
3,182
4,765
14,405
7,818
6,587
TOTAL FUNDS
219 065
Comparatlvos for movamant In fund8
Net
movement
in funds
Transfers
be￿een
funds
At
30.6.23
At 1.7.22
Unrestricted funds
General fund
Designated fund - Staffing Reserve
Designated fund - IT Replacement
Designated fund - Development
62,259
57,055
(39,626)
30,626
3,000
79,688
30,626
3,000
62,259
57,055
119,314
Re8trfctod funds
CCG
CCG Winter Monies
Other Small Grants
WSP - Garden
2,589
2,482
12,589)
(2,482)
2,700
2,700
129
5,200
TOTAL FUNDS
124 514
Page 19
continued...

A4U
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - contlnued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparative net movement in fund5. included in the above are as follows..
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Movement
in funds
Unrestricted funds
General fund
175,419
(118,364)
57,055
Restricted funds
BBO
CCG
CCG Winter Monies
Other Small Grants
WSP - Garden
48,280
49,000
(48,280)
{51,589}
(2,482)
12,589)
{2,482)
2,700
2,500
2.700
2,500
102 480
102,351)
129
TOTAL FUNDS
277 899
220 715)
57,184
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined posilion is as follows..
Net
movement
in funds
Transfers
belween
funds
At
30.6.24
At 1.7.22
Unrestricted funds
General fund
Designated fund - IT Replacement
Designated fund - Development
62,259
43,957
(33,000}
3,000
30,000
73,216
3,000
62,259
43,957
106,216
Rostri¢tod funds
CCG
CCG Winter Monies
Other Small Grants
WSP - Garden
Hub Session
Three Guineas
2,589
2,482
(2,589)
(2,482)
2,350
2,500
3,755
3,182
2,350
2,500
3,755
3,182
6,716
TOTAL FUNDS
67,330
118003
Page 20
continued...

A4U
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - contlnued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the
above are as follows..
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Movement
in funds
Unrestricted funds
General fund
380,079
(336,122)
43,957
Restrlcted funds
BBO
CCG
CCG Winter Monies
Other Small Grants
WSP - Garden
Hub Session
Three Guineas
48.280
49,000
(48,280)
(51,589)
12,482)
(350)
(2,589)
(2,482)
2,350
2,500
3,755
3,182
2,700
2,500
4,765
{1,010)
116,885
110 169)
6,716
TOTAL FUNDS
446,291)
50,673
Deslgnated Funds
Staffing Reserves - This is the cost of redundancy payments in CAse of full or partial income loss, the
value is the total cost of the redundancy liability re-calculated annually as at 30th June 2023.
IT Replacement - This is planned essential expenditure needed to maintain the operating capacity, to
spend on our IT infrastructure to maintain frt for purpose, up-to-date equipment.
OeveSopment - This is costs incurred through the process of developing and improving our service to
meet the clients, needs.
Restricted Fund8
The CCG fund is a pilot project to provide enhanced pre-assessment support together with
development of an indicative passport lo enable improved access to support services, individuals and
their families having a better understanding of autism and a means of articulating their needs to key
services. In addition, a triage to provide young people 18-25 years old on the waiting list for autism
assessment with support to reduce the negative effects of a long wart.
The CCG Winter Monies fund is to support individuals with ASD over Winter 2022.
The BBO fund relates to the funding received in advance of expenditure for our Building Better
Opportunities project funded by the European Social Fund and the National Lottery Communty Fund.
The WSP - Garden fund is a grant to support with creating a legacy, in our case a sensory and
disability fn'endly garden at Louise House, alongside volunteers from the WSP local office.
Autism Hub Sessions - Group activities including educational sessions explaining autism for those in
the process of a diagnosis. and a150 available for families and carers, and social groups to assist wrth
development of Social and communication ski115 and to provide opportunities for meeting other autistic
people and gaining peer sUPPOrt
The Three Guineas Trust - This fund relates to restricted grant funding received from the Three
Guineas Trust to increase the availability of advice and representation to meet demand from disabled
people who struggle lo access specialist welfare rights provision.
Page 21
continued..

A4U
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS
The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the ￿heme
are held separately from those of the charitable company in an independently administered fund. The
pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charitable company to the fund and
amounted to £5,178 (2023.. £4,969). Contributions totalling £912 (2023.. £2,972) were payable to the
fund at the balance sheet date.
13. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 30 June 2024.
Page 22