Charity Registration No. 10943431England and Wales) Charity Registration No. SC049759 (Seotland) Company Reglstration No. 04379997 (England and Wales) STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE (A Company Limited by Guarantee) ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 I iuiiiiiilli A£GRoOAR 0511212025 COMPANIES HOUSE A14
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STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE} Contents Page Legal and Administrative Information Trustees Report Independent Examineff s Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet 10 Notes to the Financial Statements 11-20
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 1 LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMA TION Trust••8 Mr H Bansal (Chairman) Mrs V Boulton (Vice Chair) Mrs J Criddle (Appointed 1 October 2024 and Resigned 7 March 2025) Mr R Eddowes (Resigned 27 August 20251 Mr A Galloway (Appointed 10 September 20251 Mrs M Okojie {Appointed 1 October 2024 and Resigned 7 March 2025) Ms A Parks CEO Mrs A Goulding (Appointed 1 Aprll 2025> Company Secretary Mrs A Goulding (Appointed 3 July 2025) Charity Numbér 1094343 (England & Wales) SC049759 {Scotland) Company Number 04379997 Reglstered Offlce The White House Wilderspool Business Park Greenalls Avenue Warrington England WA4 6HL Independent Examln•r Danielle Griffin FCA Moore {South) LLP Sulte 3, Second Floor Friary Court 13-21 Hi9h Street Guildford Surrey GU13DG Bankers Barclays Bank plc Leicester LE87 2BB Solicitors Brabners Horton House Exchange Flags Liverpool L2 3YL
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDMDE) Page 2 TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The trustees present their report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025. structure, govemance and management The charity is controlled by its governing document, Memorandum of Association- and constitutes Company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Acl 2006. The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who sepied during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were.. Mr H Bansal Miss V Boulton Mrs J Criddle (Appointed 1 October 2024 and Resigned 7 March 2025) Mr R Eddowes (Appointed S March 2024 per CC and 1 October 2024 per CH and Resigned 27 August 2025) Mr A Galloway (Appointed 10 September 2025) Mrs M Okojie (Appointed 1 October 2024 and Resigned 7 March 2025) Ms A Parks (Appointed 5 March 2024 per CC and 1 October 2024 per CH) Recruitment and appointment of trustees Trustees can be elected by the existing Trustees at meetings. At each Annual General Meeting one third of Trustees must retire, but being eligible can offer themselves for re-election. Mr H Bansal and Miss V Boulton resigned and were re*lected at the December 2024 Annual General Meeting. Inductlon and tralnlng of new trustees New Trustees are typically recruited from amon9sI the beneficiaries of the charity, health professionals or individuals with specific technical skills (IT, law, marketing, etc>. The Board also reviews the skills of Trustees and will consider advertising for new Trustees to meet identified strategic needs. All new Trustees are offered a personalised induction to enable them to be fully conversant with the organisation, obligations under charity and company law, the memorandum and artides, the charity's operations, the slaff structure and responsibilities, financial monitoring and the strategic plan. Trustees are made aware of and encouraged to attend appropriate external training events where these facilitate the undertaking of their role. Organlsatlonal structure The Board of Trustees is responsible for the governance and overall management of the Charity. The Board meets each quarter but unfortunalely during 24125 some meetings did nol go ahead due to not being quorate. The Board acknowledge that this was not acceptable and to mitigate any further issues a recruitment campaign was launched in September 2025 to recruit Trustees to strengthen the Board in both number and skills. The Trustees are responsible for the strategic direction of Ihe charity and overseeing all the areas ofils operation. The Board ofTrustees delegates authority to the CEO, Amanda Goulding {previously Kennelh Sanderson, General Manager) for the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of the charity. The CEO is empowered to make decisions and delegate authority for operations and is required to escalate high risk and lor high impact issues for the timely attention and consideration of the 8oard. The Charity operates within a medical environment, and therefore it can on occasions be requested to offer condition specific support. The Board has made the decision that any specific condition support should be passed directly to a relevant health professional rather than having an internal appointed Medical Commrttee to offer this supporL Governance and Internal Control The Trustees continue to consider and identify the major risks to which the charity is exposed. Thls involves identifying the types of risks the charily faces, prioritising them in terms of potential impact and likelihood of occurrence and identifying means of reducing risks. The charity's system of internal controls are designed to provide reasonable but not absolute assurance against material misstalement or loss.. this includes reviewing the Risk Register and mitigating strategies a new risk register was developed in June 2025 and reviewed at the Board meeting on 10th September2025. The Trustees are satisfied that the systems in place minimise their exposure to the major risks. The policies and procedures of the charity continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis.
STEPS CHARITY {FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE Page 3 TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 In April 2025. the Trustees hired an experienced CEO to ensure that Internal controls and risk reviews are implemented on a regular basis going fop•vard. Objéctives and actlvlt108 Steps is the only UK charity working for all of those that are born or acquire in childhood a lower limb condition. The charity was founded by Sue Banton in 1980. It was set up to provide support and information to families of children with lower limb conditions, like Development Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), Congenital Talipes Equinovarus (clubfoot> or other lower limb conditions such as Fibular or Tibial Hemimelia. Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency or Perthes. In December 2024, the 8oard passed a resolution to aménd tha charity name to Steps Charity rather than Steps Charity Worldwide. This was to reflect the fact that the charty only worked in the UK and only had the resources to continue to work within the UK. The change of name has been made with the Charity Commission and was officially recognised at Companies House on 16th September 2025. The OSCR approved the change on 171h October 2025. Our Vision We believe that all those affected by a childhood lower limb condition, being this congenital or acquired, should have the very best chance to achieve their maximum potential. Our mlsslon is to ensure". that those affected by childhood lower limb conditions are fully Informed and supported, from diagnosis to treatment., that there is widespread understanding of childhood lower limb conditions and of the challenges facing those affected by them., that every effort is made to improve treatment and support for childhood lower limb conditions from birth to adulthood. Wo do thl•'. by providing practical and emotional support through our Steps Helpline and digital presence. by ensuring that families are as fully Informed as possible about the realities. challenges and options thal lie ahead, with a range of award-winning booklets. films and online resources., by offering a safe place to share concerns and to benefit from the experience of others. through our Family Contact Service and online Community., by giving financial support to purchase specialist car seals for children., by increasing public awareness of childhood lower limb conditions. through our communication activities., by working with National Health Syslems, lo encourage best practice and to raise awareness of the issues concerning patients and their families., by striving for a better future, through our work with research projects to increase understanding of. and improve treatment for, all aspects of childhood lower limb conditions. Achievement and Performance Charitable Activities Resources have been strained during the past 12 months but demand for support continues to grow. We have continued to offer information advice and support via our helpline, website. publications, videos and via social media platfomis. Whilst our information is robust and can be extremely helpful to those who seek information and help, there are many more parents who contact us that require more personalised supporL Parents are often emotional and anxious, and staff take time to listen to their concerns and ensure they have as much information as they need. Many of these parents are offered a volunteer who supports them through theirjoumey.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 4 TRUSTEES REPORT IINCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) {contlnued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 We continue to update our infomiation working with clinicians to ensure it is factual and up to date. QR codes on updated information leaflets and posters have enabled quicker access to our online inforrnation and has been welcomed by families and clinicians. Webinars are also welcomed by families. These are developed and facilitated with our clinical partners. They are well attended and are visited via our Youtube channel. Staff and volunteers have networked with hospitals and clinicians across the UK to keep them informed about Steps services and maintain positive working relationships. Events for families are extremely popular and durlng a recent supiey, most families have expressed a desire for Steps to offer more family events. This has been tsken on board and will be an objective in the new 5 year strategy which will be completed in 2026. Claire Furmedge Fund The Claire Furmedge Fund was established in 2007 in memory of Claire Furmedge, a valued supporter of Steps. Historically and during this financial year, the fund was used by the charity to offer grants lo families to enable the purchase of car seats or harnesses for safe transportation of children whilst in hip spica plaster casts. Moving forwards. the Furmedge family have agreed that the funds should have a wider use and during the next year will be used to update our websile. We are grateful to the family and friends of Claire for continuing to support the Fund and donating money every year. The National Lottery Communlty Fund. England, Wales and Scotland The continued funding from the National Lottery in England, Wales and Scotland has allowed us to continue to offer the right help and support for families in these countries through a neOrk of local volunteers who received training and support to do this, The funding also helps recrult volunteers and supports our Helpline in delivery of support that parents require at the b'mes they need it. The National Lottery support means we can continue offering the supply that our parents tell us they need. Barbara Wards Children's Tru8t Similarly, the support from the Barbara Wards Children's Trust has meant that the support parents tell us is ofgreatest value to them can be maintained and improved through offering QR code links to online reports, articles and webinars as well as through more traditional printer material. Lalla's Fund The Charity continues to fundraise for Laila's Fund. We aim to provide support and assistance for families that decide to have elective amputalion irrespective of whether this is caused by congenltal condition. trauma or illness. Step in Camp Fund The Charity continues to fundraise for the Step in Camp Fund. The Step in Camps are designed to offer activities and workshops to families affected by lower limb conditions where the whole family can step in and share medical, social and emotional experiences that will bring some comfort and support to these families. These Camps have been highly successful. and the Board are looking to run more camps in the fvture as frjnding and resources allow.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page S TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Grants and Donat5ons During the Financial year the Charity gratefully received the following donations. The Board would liké to acknowledge all the invaluable support received and in parts'cular recognise the generous contributions of the following Bodies & Organisations: Credit Agricole CIB The Charity of Stella Symons Sported Foundation Rotary Club of Easlhampstead Mobility Operations Ltd Citibank Ireland £5.000 £1.700 £1.000 £1,000 £1,000 £1,360 The charity continues to be thankful for the ongoing sponsorship support received from Field Fisher commercial partner which amounted to £12,000 in the financial year. During the year, Ajun Infrastructure Partners Ltd organised a football tournament to raise money for the charity from which Steps received donations totalling £10,784. Steps would also like to recognise the significant impact of our many supporters, old and new who generously donate to us. We are very grateful to the commitment and tenacity of individuals in running marathons. holding coffee mornings, participating in community events and taking part in our awareness campaigns. We are also very grateful to our regular donors as well as the companies, schools and nurseries who have selected Steps as their chosen charity. Research Projects Research remains a key part of our work. We are currently participating in the followlng project.. Understanding of th? experiences of children and their families when being treated for Perthes disease Adam Galloway, a paediatric physiotherapist and Vi51ting Academic Clinical Fellow at the University of Leeds, is contributin9 to a growing body ofwork researching the effectiveness of different surgical and non-surgical treatments. Adam has secured funding from the National Institute for Health Research {NIHR) to complete a PhD to develop a digital rehabilitation programme of care in the form of an app which is accessible for all children with Perthes disease. The research is split up into three workstreams.. 1. Qualitative interviews with key stakeholders including, children, families, clinicians, clinical nurse specialists, physios and surgeons to understand the current experiences of non-surgical care and identify gaps in non-surgical treatment. 2. Developlng an app in conjunction with NHS Digrtal which will enable people to access information about Perthes and allow children to log their exercise and other progress. 3. Testing the app with a group of patients and families attending the Children's Hospital in Leeds. to assess how useful it is as a non-surgical treatment. The overall aim of the research, which is ongoing and will last four years in total, is to develop a better understanding of the experiences of children and their families when being treated for Perthes disease. Working with organisations like STEPS helps Adam access patients and families affected by Perthes, ensuring the voices of Ihose most impacted by the disease are included. This information. combined with the expert opinion of clinicians and the summary ofexisting evidence, will ensure thatthe decisions we make to treat children with Perthes in the future are the best informed.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 6 TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (Continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Financial review It has been a challenging financial year for Steps. The difficult economic climate in the UK resulted in a significant reduction in reported income of£124,215 (2024.. £235,556) with individual donations from the public to Steps being lower whilst also experiencing a greater level of competition when attempting to secure grant funded income. The reduction in income has been compounded by decisions in the last financial year to invest in key staff positions by hiring a General Manager and a Lead Fundraising Officer in January 2024. Steps is therefore reporting a deficit in the current financial year of £56,544 (2024: surplus of £75,083) with the charity management opting to utilise a portion ofthe reserves it had built in the previous financial year, to ensure that the key operations of the charity were maintained. At the end of the financial year the charty had total reseNes of £78,818 (2024.. £135,362). The Charity is keen to ensure its long-term sustalnability and under the guidance of the new CEO. Is closely monitoring its financial position. Since the year end. the financial management ofthe charity has been brought back in-house, and the team have commenced working on a strategy which addresses how the resources of Steps can be best utilised to meet the needs of the charity's beneficiaries. Funds The Trustees, reserves policy is to maintain a level of unrestricted funds that will enable the charity to ensure a continuity ofactivity, make certain that all existing commitments are fulfilled and protectagainst unforeseen changes in circumstances. The trustees have calculated that it is currently necessary to hold around £45,000 in the unrestricted fund. At the year end, the charity had total lunds of £78,818 (2024.. £135.362) of which £60,236 were unrestricted (2024.. £98,999). The unrestricted fund equates to 4 months of core operational expenditure as per the 2025126 budget and is above the desired level of £45,000 set by thé trustees. The Trustees a regularly reviewing the financial perfomiance of the charity against the budget and forecasts and the reserves policy will continue to be reviewed annually. Plans for the future The Trustees are committed to developing and extending the work of the charity, to realise our vision that all those with a childhood lower limb condition should have the very best chance to achieve their maximum potential. They acknowledge that Ihe past financial year has been challenging and did not meet expectations with regard5 to income generation. However, with the appointment of new senior leadership team. including a new experienced CEO In April 2025, the focus over the next year will be developing long term sustainability and achieving the objectives of the Charity. Investmant policy steps can make investments that are within the guidelines and regulations issued from time to time by the Charity Commission. The charity holds funds in interest bearing bank accounts. Rlsk factors The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks. Thank you We would like to end the Trustees, report thankin9 our staff. volunteers, donors, partners. trustees and health professionals we work with. We would not be able to continue with our work without their hard work and support. The role of CEO was taken on by Amanda Goulding on 11t April 2025 following the retirement of the General Manager, Kenneth Sanderson on 31 March 2025. We would like to welwme Amanda to Steps and also thank Ken for the work he did during his time at the charity.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE> Page 7 TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Twstees, Responslbilitles In Relation to the Financial Statements The Trustees (who are also directors of Steps Charity for the purposes of Company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (Untted Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of Ihe incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing these financial statement5, the Trustees are required to.. select suitsble accounting policies and then apply them consistently: observe the methods and principles in the applicable Charities SORP 2019 (FRS 102)., make judgements and estimates that are ressonable and prudent., state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed. subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements., prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue to operate. The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable 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 Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Slatemenl of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in a¢¢ordan¢e with the Financial Reporting Standard 102. In addition. the Trustees have taken advantage of the small companies, exemptions provlded by section 415A of the Companles Act 2006. This Annual Report was approved by the Board of Trustees on behalf by.. 1st Dec 2025 and signed on their Mr Harlnder Bansal Trustee and Chalrman
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE Page 8 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF STEPS CHARITY I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounlg of the company for the year ended 31 March 2025, which are set out on pages 9 to 20. Responsibililies and basis of report As Ihe charity 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 wilh the requirements of the Companies Acl 2006 ('the 2006 Act,) and the Charities and Trustee Investment {S¢otland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounls (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Having satisfied myself that the accounts ol the company are not required lo be audited under Part 18 of the 2006 Act and that the ¢harrty trustees consider that the audit requirement of Regulation 10{1)la) lo {c) of the Acxounls Regulats'ons does not apply, and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your company's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act,) and section 44{11(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment {Scotland> Act 2005. In carying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of th8 2011 Act. Independent examlneVs statemènt My examination is carried out in accordance with Regulation 11 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations. An examination includes a review ofthe accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeks explanations from the trustees con¢eming any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audil oplnlon on the vlew glven by the accounts. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come lo my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect,. Accounting records were not kept in respect of the company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act and Section 44(1 }{8) of the 2005 Act and Regulation 4 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations., or 2. The accounts do not accord with those records or fail to comply with Regulation 8 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations,. or 3. The accounts do not comply with the accountlng requirements of section 398 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair vlew, which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examlnalion. or 4. The ac¢ounls have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and prlnciples of the Stalement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). I have no ¢on¢8rns and hav8 come across no other matters in connection with th8 examination to which attention should be dravm in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Danielle Griffin FCA Moore (South) LLP Suite 3, Second Floor 13-21 High Street Guildford Surrey GU1 3DG Dated 3 Ikceffikn 202
STEPS CHARITY IFORMERLY STEPS CHARITYWORLDWIDE Page 9 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Current financial year Unrestrleted Rè8trlctod Funds Funds 2025 2025 Total Unre8trlct•d R¢strlcted Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Notes Income from: Donations and legacies Othèr ITading activities Investments 100,783 20,255 1,184 2,013 102.796 20.255 1,164 182,298 21,711 30,983 213,281 21,711 564 Total In¢orn• 122,202 2,013 124.215 204,573 30,983 235,556 Expendlturn on: Raising funds Charitable activities 36.295 124.670 36,295 144,464 12,715 116,696 12.715 147,758 19,794 31.062 Totsl resourcos expended 160.965 19,794 180.759 129,411 31,062 160,743 Net {exp8ndltur•llln¢ome lor the year N¢t movernent In fund• (38,673) (17,781) (58,544) 75,182 (791 75,083 Fund balances al 1 April 2024 16 98.999 36,363 135,362 23,837 36,442 80,279 Fund balances at 31 March 2025 16 60.236 18,582 78,818 98,999 36.363 135.362 The statement of financlal activities includes all galns and losses recognised In the year. All income and expenditure derlve from continuing activities. The statement of financial aclivities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006. The notes on pages 11 to 20 form part of these financial statemenls
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 10 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2025 2025 2025 2024 2024 Notes Current assets Stocks Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 12 13 4,101 13,682 125,240 18,248 67.817 86,065 143,023 Creditors: amounts falling due within ono year 14 {7,247} (7,661) 78.818 135,362 Income funds Restricted funds Unrestricted funds 16 17 18,582 60.236 36,363 98,999 78,818 135,362 For the financial year ended 31 March 2025 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. Dlrectors. responsibilities.. The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial stalements for the year in question in accordance with section 476., The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements, These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subjecl to the small companies, regime and the charitie5 Statement of Recommended Practice and Financial Reporting Standard 102. The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on . 1st Dec 2025 Mr Harinder Bansal Trustee and Chalrman Company Reglstratlon No. 04379997 The notes on pages 11 to 20 form part of these financial statements
STEPS CHARITY {FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 11 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting Policies Charity inforniation Steps Charity is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered Offi is The White House. Wilderspool Business Park, Greenalls Avenue, Warrington, England, WA4 6HL. The members of Ihe company are the Trustees named on page 1. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability in respect of Ihe guarantee is limited to £10 per member of the company. Accountlng convention The financial statement8 have been prepared In accordance with the charity's goveming document, the Companies Act 2006, '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). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional Currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The flnancial statements have been prepared under the hlstorlcal cost convention. The principal acKounting policies adopted are set out below. Going concorn The trustees have assessed the charity's financial position for a period of at least 12 months from signature ofthe financial statement. In assessing the position, the Trustees have reviewed the budgets and cash flow forecast to December 2026. These forecasts do not yet take into account the full impact of recent strategic plans,. however, even on this conservative basis, the charity's cashflow position remains stable. Recent deficits reflect a transitional period following organisalional restructuring and strategic changes, which have addressed prior operational issues and introduced new income- generating iniliatives. The trustees have also reviewed strengthened financial controls and governance arrangements implemenled during the year, which provide greater assurance over financial management and suslainability. lon the basis of the above, the trustees are satisfied that the charity has adequate resource5 to Continue operating for at least 12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements. Thus the Trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements. Charltable funds Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives unless the funds have been designated for other purposes. Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial siatements. Incomo resources Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been rnet. the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received. Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
STEPS CHARITY {FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY wORLDDE Page 12 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting Policies (Continued) Income resource8 (Continued) Income earned from fundraising events and trading activities to raise funds for the charity are recognised when entitlement has occurred. Income from Government and other grants are recognised at fair value when the charity has entitlement after any performance conditions have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. If ents'tlement is not met then these amounts are deferred. Interest received Is accounted for on an accruals basis. Legacies are accounted for at the earlier of: the date on which the charity is aware Ihat probate has been granted.. the estate has been finalised and notification has been made by the executor(s) to the charity that a distribution will be made., or when a distribution is made from the estate. Recelpt of a legacy, In whole or part, is only considered probable when the amount can be measured reliably and the charity has been notified of the executorfs intention to make a distribulion. Where legacies have been notified to the charity, or the charity is aware of the granting of probate, and criteria for income recognition have not been met, then the legacy is trealed as a contingent asset and disclosed if material. Donation of gifts and servlces Donated professional services and donated facilities are recognised as income when the charity has control over the item or received the service, any conditions associated with the donation have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use by the charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 1021, volunteer time is not recognized. On receipt, donated gifts, professional services and donated facilities are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity which is the amount the charity would have been willing to pay to oblain seNices or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market: a corresponding amount is then recx)gnised In expenditure in the period of receipt. Resources •xpended All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required, and the amount of the obligalion can be measured reliably. It is cate9orised under the following headings.. Costs of raising funds includes deiails of the costs in relation to fundraising events, following up donations, and seeking voluntary contributions and donations from supporters, and available sources., Expenditure on charitable activities includes the costs of the charity's work wilh young people, including all planning activities, maintenance of the charity's assets, preparation and follow up,, and Other expenditure represents ihose items not falling into the categories above. Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure arose.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 13 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Allocatlon of support costs Support costs are those functions that assist the work of the charlty, but do not directty relate to either cost of raising funds or charitable activities. These costs are all allocated to charitable activities. Sloeks Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and. where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replament cost and cost. Net realisable value is estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution. Cash and cash equlvalent• Cash and cash equivalenls include cash in hand, deposits held al call with banks, other short- temi liquid investments wllh original maturities of three months or less. 1.10 Flnanclal Instruments The charily has elected to apply the provision of Section 11 'Basic Financial Instruments. and Section 12 '0ther Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes paty to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set of the recognised amounls and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle Ihe liability simultaneously. Basic financial assets Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interesl method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounts at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised. Baslc financlal Ilabllltles Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where Ihe debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or service that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Derecognition of financlal Ilabilitles Financial liabilities are derecognized when the charity's contractual obligations expl or are discharged or cancelled.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Pago 14 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting Pollcles (Continued) 1.11 Employee benefrts The cosl of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's services are received. Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonslrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits. 1.12 Taxatlon The charity is an exempt charity within the meaning of schedule 3 of the Charities Act 2011 and is considered to pass the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 Finance Act 2010 and therefore it meets the definits'on of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. 1.13 Retirement benefits The charitable company pays contributions into a defined contribution scheme for its employees and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the charitsble company in respect of the year. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charitable company in an independently administered fund. Crltical Accounting Estimates and Judgements In the application of the charlty's eccountlng policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered lo be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions arè reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimales are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. Key Sources of Estimatlon Uncertalnty The trustees have estimated the cost of the seNices and gifts that have been donated to the charity. These amounts are included in donations and legacies and charitable acts'vities. Donations and L•gaci•8 Unrestrlcted Restrlcted Funds Funds 2025 2025 Total Total 2025 2024 Donations and gifts Donated Gifts and seICe5 Grants Legacies 97,183 900 2,700 2,013 99,196 153,581 900 24,000 2,700 32,700 3,000 100,783 2,013 102,796 213,281 For the year ended 31 March 2024 182,298 30,983 213,281
STEPS CHARITY IFORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 15 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ICONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Othèr Trading Activities Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2025 2025 Total Total 2025 2024 Fundraising events Shop income Sponsorship 7,841 414 12,000 7,841 414 12,000 9,837 874 11,000 Other trading activities 20,255 20,255 21,711 For the year ended 31 March 2024 21,711 21,711 Z2 Investments Unr•strlcted Funds 2025 Total Total 2025 2024 Interest receivable 1,164 1,164 564 All interest in 2024 was unrestricted. Ralsln9 Funds Unreslrlcted Restrlcted Funds Funds 2025 2025 Total Total 2025 2024 Fundraising and publicity Staff costs 12,905 23,390 12,905 23,390 6.944 5,771 Total raising funds 36,295 36,295 12,715 For the year ended 31 March 2024 12,715 12,715
STEPS CHARITY IFORMERLY STEPS CHARifY WORLDWIDE Page 16 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Charitable Activities Charitable Expenditure 2025 Charitable Expenditure 2024 Staff costs Rent and rates Insurance Telephone Postage and stationery Staff training and recruitment Travel costs Professional and consultancy fees Advertising and website costs General expenses and project Costs 102,148 1.031 1,905 2,412 694 234 4,021 900 49 10,649 74,923 1,008 1,598 2,645 362 1,264 6,417 24,000 336 16,391 124,043 128,944 Share of support costs (see note 8) Share of govemance costs (see note 8) 16,883 3,538 15,914 2,900 144,464 147.758 Analy818 by fund Unrestricted funds Reslricted funds 124,670 19,794 116,696 31,062 144,464 147,758 Support Costs Support Governance Costs Costs 2025 2024 Bookkeeping Accountancy fees Bank charges Legal and professional ICT and office costs Independent examination fee 10,547 10,547 1,038 2,696 1.294 2,346 2.500 8,053 900 3,416 1,213 3,232 2.000 1,038 2,696 1,294 2,346 2,500 16,883 3,538 20,421 18,814 Reslricled ftjnds Unreslricted funds 300 16,583 300 20,121 1,175 17,639 3,538 16,883 3,538 20,421 18,814 All costs We for Charitable Activities. Included in 2024 were governance costs of £2.900.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 17 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ICONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Trustees During the year. the trustees all gave freety their time and expertise without any fom of remuneration or other benefil in cash or kind. In the previous financial year, a trustee had filled the vacant CEO role, donating their time and experience lo oversee the running of the charity on a regular basis. This was treated as a gift in kind of £22,500 in 2024. During the year, there was £nil reimbursed to trustees in respect of expenses incurred on behalf of the charity (2024.. £666). None of the trustees (or any person connected with them) made any donations to the charity (2024 - £Nil). Trustee indemnity insurance is covered in the Charity insurance policy. 10. VolunteerJ The charity has volunteers to help in their work supporting families. Employees Number of employees The average monthly number of employees during the year was.. 2025 2024 Number Number Charity and fundraising siaff **X2= Employment costs 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs 117,537 6,317 1,684 76,595 2,445 1,654 125,538 80,694 z=___ Allocated as follows: Cost of raising funds Charitable activities 23,390 102,148 5,771 74,923 125,538 80,694 There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 Or more (2024- none). The key management personnel of the charity comprise the Trustees and the manager. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £32,885 (2024: £8,221 plus £22,500 gift in kind whilst a twstee covered the CEO role).
STEPS CHARrrY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 18 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 12. Stocks 2025 2024 Goods for resale 4,101 All goods held for resale have been written down to £nil value in the accounts in the financial year. 13. Debtors 2025 2024 Amounts falling due withln one year: Other debtors Prepayment and accrued income 3,120 15,128 438 13,246 18,248 13,682 14. Cr•dltors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year 2025 2024 Other taxation and social security costs Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals and deferred income 3,219 357 1.171 2,500 2,782 902 977 3,000 7.247 7.661 15. Pensions The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme for qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of Ihe company in an independently administered fund. At 31 March 2025 the amount outstanding was £318 (2024 - £567). 16. Restricted Funds The income funds of the charity include restricted funds cornprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on twst for special purposes.. Balance at Incoming 1 Aprll 2024 resources Resourc•s Balance at expèndèd 31 March 2025 Claire Furmedge Fund The National Lottery Fund- England Laila's Fund The National Lottery Fund- Wales Slepin Camp Sl James Place Charitable Foundation Barbara Ward Children's Charity Other 6,976 8,893 3,921 8,399 6,167 425 1,547 35 2.013 {530) (8,893) 8,459 3,921 (8,399) 6,167 (425) (1,547) 35 36,363 2,013 {19,794) 18,582
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 19 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 16. Reslricted Funds IconL} The Claire Furmedg8 Fund consists of monies donated to the charity which is used to provlde equipment (predomlnantly car seats) to those who are in need. The National Lottery Fund England - Support for families in England. Recruit and train volunteers to support the helpline. Laila's Fund - to provide support and assistance to the families who decide to have elective ampulation, and to develop a prototype for Pediatric Prosthetic covers. The National Lotter Fund Wales- Support for families across Wales and working with staff in hospitals in Swansea, Cardiff and around the region, recruit volunteers. Stepin Camp - To provide activities and workshops for the whole family of those affected by lower limb conditions. St James Place Charitable Faundation - To provide support in communities for young people with lower limb conditions. Barbara Ward Children's Charity- To provide support through family support sessions and the continuing provision of volunteers, the charity helpline and literature. Other- Monies from Sported Foundation to be used for the Clubfoot Day in June 2023. For the year ended 31 Mar¢h 2024 Balance at 1 April 2023 Incomlng resources Resources 8alance at expondèd 31 March 2024 Claire Furmedge Fund The National Lottery Fund- England Loila's Fund The National Lottery Fund- Scolland The Nalional Lottery Fund- Wales Stepin Camp Anton Jurgens Sl James Place Charitable Foundation Baibara Ward Children's Chanty Other 5,381 6.969 2,588 7,047 6,951 6,167 1.804 2.950 10,000 1,333 (1,355> (8,076) 6,976 8,893 3,921 (7,047> (6,7521 9,200 8,399 6,167 1,804 425 1,547 35 (1,8041 (2,075) (3.435) (500) 2,500 5,000 535 36,442 30,983 {31.062) 36,363 The National Lottery Fund Scotland Support for families a¢ross Scotland and partnership workin9 With hospitals in the region with volunteers. Anton Jurgens- To provide funds to improve the digital services provided.
STEPS CHARITY (FORMERLY STEPS CHARITY WORLDWIDE) Page 20 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUEOI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 17. Unr88tricted Fund8 Balance at 1 April 2024 Incoming Resources Balanco at resources expended Transfer 31 March 2025 General Funds 98,999 122,202 {160,965> 60.238 For the year ended 31 March 2024 Balance at Incoming Resources Balance at 1 April 2023 resources expended Transfer 31 March 2024 General Fund¥ 23.837 204,573 {129,411> 98.999 18. Analysis of Net Assets Between Funds Unreslrlcted Restricted Funds Funds 2025 2025 Total 2025 Fund balances at 31 March 2025 are represented by.. Current assetsl{liabililies) 60,236 18,582 78,818 For the year ended 31 March 2024 Unrestricted Restrlcted Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total 2024 Fund balances at 31 March 2024 are represented by.. Current assetsl{liabilities) 98,999 36,363 13S,362 19. Related Party Transactlons There were no disclosable related party transactions during ihe year (2024 - none).