# Annual Report 2024 www.sheffieldmegroup.co.uk **Registered Charity: 1095416** ## **Introduction** ## **Our Charity** **Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group (SMEFG)** is a registered charity supporting people in South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire living with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia and/or long Covid. We are also committed to raising awareness of the conditions and promoting positive changes to local service provision for people living with these illnesses. We currently support a growing 635 members in the area. ## **Charitable purposes** 1.To relieve those suffering from the illnesses variously known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or post-viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS) and fibromyalgia and in particular by the provision of help and assistance through mutual support and information exchange. - 2.To educate the general public through the promotion and dissemination of knowledge about ME/CFS/PVFS. ## **Outcomes for Members** Our annual report is structured following the 3 outcomes for our Members: - 1.Our members make more informed life choices by accessing quality information about their illness and support available - 2.The economic situation of our members is maximised - 3.Our members increase their links and active engagement with other sufferers, carers and allies to reduce their social isolation ## **Funding** Thank you to our funders who this year have been **The National Lottery Community Fund - Reaching Communities, The National Lottery Community Fund - Awards for All England, Healthwatch Sheffield & Voluntary Action Sheffield, The People's Postcode Lottery, The Charles and Elsie Sykes Trust, Sheffield Town Trust, The University of Sheffield,** and **The Brelms Trust** . **PAGE 01** ## **Update from our Chair** ## **CAROLYN LEARY** Welcome everyone to the 2024 Annual Report of the Sheffield ME, fibromyalgia and long Covid group. 2024 was a year full of ideas, new activities, some staff changes and a lot of voluntary effort! As ever, we are a very small charity that punches above its weight and has gained a national reputation – there are no other local groups that have a team of paid staff and this many members. But of course being more well known means finding more people who want our support and those who want to volunteer and give back, so we’re on an upward spiral and sometimes struggle to keep up with ourselves! We embarked on some new ventures in 2024 – a partnership with Healthwatch and local health and well-being groups to create a new set of resources to raise awareness of long Covid, particularly among minoritised communities who were not accessing healthcare. We also partnered with the Medical School to host 2 students on placement. The pages ahead describe the wide variety of services and activities we provided for and with our members. We are hugely grateful to our dedicated benefits advice team whose tireless work has been at times life-changing, and all the tutors, volunteers and staff who contribute to make this charity unique. 2024 saw Elyane Bardou, our Charity Director, move on to new life adventures, with a final fund-raising blitz which has put us in the strong financial position we are in. In October Pauline Kimantas joined us as Charity Director for a temporary period and kept the show on the road. Emma Isaac did a great job as Communications Officer and moved on in July, and we were fortunate to appoint Claire Watkinson in November. In between, we are hugely grateful to Nolwenn Kirsch who volunteered and sustained our social media posting and newsletter. And without the ongoing support of our membership we couldn’t have achieved so much. Looking forward, 2024 will be my last full year as Chair of Trustees. It has been an absolute honour to be able to help this charity grow as a compassionate and caring community, and to find ways to enable members to speak out – most notable were our 2 large #MillionsMissing events before the pandemic. By the next AGM I will have been chair for 7 years and in my book that’s a good time for someone to bring new insights though I hope to remain as a Trustee if elected. It’s been a totally illuminating 7 years hearing people’s incredible and painfully familiar stories of frustration and resilience. I have never known illnesses where change, improvement and new knowledge is met with such entrenched resistance by those whose job it is to respond to patient needs. However, I remain resolute and will continue to put energies into fighting this cause. Meanwhile I wish to convey my enormous gratitude to all members, staff and Trustees and our patron, Berlie Doherty, for your unswerving support and kindness over the years. **PAGE 02** ## **The Team** ## Current Staffing Team - Charity Director - Maria Ashmore - Senior Benefits Advisor - Emma Kirby - Benefits Advisor - Ceri De’Ath - Admin Worker - Em Biczyk - Communications Development Officer - Claire Watkinson Bookkeeper - Clare Bateman - Freelance support - Ellie Upton - Loach, Pippa Line ## Our Trustees - Simon Briggs - Becca Gransbury (Co-Chair until June, then Minutes secretary) Beatrice Greenfield (until June) - Isabel Hemmings - Carolyn Leary - (Co-Chair until June, then Chair) - Alison Millar - Ellen Roy ## Our Patron Our patron is the ever supportive Berlie Doherty. **PAGE 03** ## **The people making this possible** Our charity is run by people with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia and/or long Covid and their carers. Lived experience of the conditions is common among our volunteers, staff, and trustees. Our work is highly member-led, and decision-making is informed by the collection of ideas and feedback from our community. As we end 2024 and look forward to 2025, we now have a strong team of 6 staff delivering fantastic services to members, and we’re looking to continue to strengthen and develop what we offer. However you've got involved this year - providing feedback, suggesting new ideas, volunteering or participating in our activities - we want to say **Thank You** for being part of our valuable community. Every town & city needs this service. ## **Big thanks to our volunteers!** We are so grateful for all the volunteers who dedicated time helping our charity and community in so many ways throughout this year: being a trustee, contributing to and editing our magazine, moderating our facebook groups, hosting meet-ups and activities, the list goes on! In the year ahead, we will continue to provide volunteering opportunities for our members and other volunteers including students, as we continue to grow our charity both online and in-person. ## **Our membership** We continue to operate at a stable number of members and are looking to increase this in 2025. A big thanks to our Admin worker, Em, who has spent much time on ensuring all memberships on our database are active and current. Thank you to everyone who has joined us or helped raise awareness of our support. We hope in 2025 to be able to grow our membership across the region, and to diversify our membership from an equalities perspective by working towards ensuring we engage with and are representative of marginalised groups and communities. **----- Start of picture text -----**
700
600
500 635
608
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508
300 410
200
100
0
2021 2022 2023 2024
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## **Our membership growth over time** **PAGE 04** ## **Outcome 1** ## **Our members make more informed life choices by accessing quality information about their illness and support available** _This includes information, updates, tips & tools to manage symptoms, signposts and more._ ## **Point of contact** Email queries answered Phone queries answered **246** **453** Topics of queries: health, support regarding specific issues, benefits, membership, our activities, specific event or idea, listening ear. ## **Website** Views of our website Unique visitors **44,643 19,972** Topics: benefits, educational talks, management of symptoms, support available. ## **e-news** Digital newsletters sent Total number of subscribers **72 736** Members **1,243** General With relevant updates and information about activities, expert talks, latest research etc. ## **Social media** Facebook X followers followers **1,226 2,190 2025 figure** Instagram followers **343** YouTube Subscribers **2,120** YouTube views **52,084** Sharing information on what our charity is doing, activities and opportunities for members to be involved, relevant activities and events organised by others in our region, and accurate information from reputable sources on national developments, policy and research relevant to ME/CFS, fibromyalgia and long Covid. **PAGE 05** ## **Quarterly magazine** All our members receive our magazine via email or post. Led by our Trustee Becca (huge thank you Becca!) and contributed to by volunteers, members & staff. Informative, entertaining, to keep in touch with the community and the wider world. A variety of features including topics such as: - Benefits updates and advice - Poetry Arts & Crafts - Entertainment: quizes, jokes Care plans update with Sheffield ME/CFS Service - Research updated on ME/CFS, fibromyalgia and long Covid Gamechangers - tips and tricks from the community to manage the conditions Write-ups of our online science talks - Updates on our activities & projects - Hi Cooking & Nutrition ## **Regular wellbeing activities** A total of **202** social and wellbeing activities offered free of charge throughout the year. Hosted by professional tutors and volunteers. These qigong, mindfulness and singing activities not only provide a safe and accessible space for our members to practice healthy activities and to make new social connections, but it also provides them with tools to practice at home and help relieve symptoms in their daily life. - When I first moved back to Chesterfield I went to a couple of the socials in Sheffield which was really nice to meet other people in the same situation. This made me feel less alone and was nice to feel understood by people that 'got it'. - As a member, being able to talk to other people who are sharing the same illness and it's horrible effects on our lives [has helped me]. Having that contact is emotionally very valuable for often isolated people like me. **PAGE 06** ## **Outcome 2** ## **The economic situation of our members is maximised** ## **Benefits & social care advice** Our benefits service, made up of two advisers, continued to grow in 2024, with a 15% rise in clients supported and significant increases in financial outcomes—36% more in yearly gains and 30% more in back payments. We maintained a high success rate and saw a slight rise in client satisfaction. The team also handled more complex cases, particularly around ESA and Universal Credit, while continuing to streamline processes and expand resources to better support our members. clients supported from **138** initial advice to challenging decisions cases opened - **169** supporting **31** individuals with more than one issue one-off advice **269** provided on benefits, housing, and social care ## **Casework support** **3** online information sessions: _Information Session on Preparing for Winter, Benefits Updates and Information Webinar, Universal Credit Information Session_ We provide casework support across a wide range of social security benefits, including help with new claims, renewals, mandatory reconsiderations, and representation at appeals and tribunals. We also assist with social care-related issues and mobility. **£ 618k £ 166k 95% 99% 4.93/5** Success rate Client yearly income in back payments Success through support received rate when support satisfaction (equates to (full number is provided before rating £11,899.72 per week) £166,849.62) the MR stage (for PIP only) It’s changed my life. Now that I have PIP, I can get better without the pressure of needing to work full time. I feel happier, more secure and a lot less stressed!!! I can't thank you enough Emma. Your process and emotional support was fantastic. I said I would have felt the same if awarded or not, you were so thorough, patient, knowledgeable and encouraging. Thank you so much. **PAGE 07** ## **Area of casework supported** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Other benefits
Mobility support 7
23
ESA, Universal Credit
34
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
103
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## **Stage of claim supported** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Mandatory Reconsideration (MR)
13
New Claims
34
Appeal
15
Renewal
17
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It has meant I can pay my bills so it has made all the difference and removed a huge stress. It has meant I could continue living in my home. I’d like to thank Ceri for her professionalism, kindness and the time she took to talk to me and help me to understand the process. I had been wavering on whether going to the tribunal but being able to talk it through and get a better understanding of the process and risks involved really helped. **PAGE 08** ## **Outcome 3** **Our members increase their links and active engagement with other sufferers, carers and allies to reduce their social isolation** ## **Our regular online social & wellbeing activities** ## **Mindfulness** **32**[sessions hosted by Jane, a professional tutor] Mindfulness has helped me manage stress levels, and mental health issues associated with chronic illness and the resulting isolation. ## **Qigong** **29**[sessions hosted by Orla, a professional tutor] ## **French conversation** **11** sessions hosted by Tina, a volunteer member ## **The Short Book Club** **22**[sessions hosted by Anita, a volunteer member] I've enjoyed being able to join in gentle activity from home. **PAGE 09** ## **Online Singing** **25**[sessions hosted by Helen, a professional tutor] ## **Pilates** **12**[sessions hosted by Lorna, a] professional tutor Helped with improving social interaction and self esteem doing something I thought I would never do. ## **Crafternoon** **11** sessions hosted by Ellen, a trustee and volunteer member Thank you so much for your support to push us forward and to make us [feel like] we are not alone but we are as a family. **PAGE 10** ## **Plant Lovers Group** **8**[sessions hosted by Sally, a volunteer member] ## **Relax, Breathe, Sing (in-person singing)** **11**[sessions hosted by Helen, a professional tutor ] I enjoy singing and via SMEFG I can attend the face-to-face singing group, which I love. The structure of the session is tailored to allow rest time and it is possible to sing sitting down, which doesn't happen with able bodied groups. Given I suffer with ME and POTS, I really appreciate it. ## **Warm Water Swimming** **8**[sessions hosted by various members] [SMEFG] has completely transformed my daily living circumstances... I can't imagine another service being so helpful. **PAGE 11** **In-person meet-ups** ## **Long Covid Meet-Up Cuppa & Chat** **12**[meet-ups hosted by] Alison, a trustee and volunteer member **9** meet-ups hosted by Becca, a trustee and volunteer member ## **Stannington Meet-Up** meet-ups hosted **12** by Chris, a volunteer member A member I met at a Meet Up told me about Dr Gupta in York who is very proactive in treating POTS/dysautonomia. I am now [a] patient of his thanks to that encounter. ## **The Long Covid Network** Since June 2024, our Charity has supported coordination of the Sheffield Long Covid Network. The Network is for people who are living with long Covid, a carer for someone living with long Covid and/or someone living or working in Sheffield interested in or doing work related to long Covid. The Network is led by members, and we will work together to support each other to achieve these objectives: - Support people with long Covid - Raise awareness of long Covid - Provide a voice in response to the services that affect us - Support connections between people and organisations - Develop partnerships and share resources and knowledge Meetings are online on the 28th of every month from 11am to 12 pm. If you would like to join, contact us on: longcovidnetsheff@gmail.com ## **Picnics Meet-ups** ## **ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia Awareness Day Picnic** ## **Clifton Park Picnic, Rotherham** **19**[attended on the 12] th[ May] **6**[attended on 26] th[ June 2024] 2024 **PAGE 12** ## **Octoberfest** ## **SMEFG offered a bunch of new activities to members for Octoberfest!** A total of **33** people attended a mixture of online and in-person events, from movie and theatre nights from the comfort of home, to learning new arts and crafts, including watercolour painting and DIY bath salts. ## **Peer support platforms** The online chat groups are a lifeline. Without them there would be no one. Sometimes I help and support other people. Sometimes other people help me. Private Facebook Public Facebook Long Covid Facebook group group group **480 2,307 222** members members members Our Facebook groups continued to be a platform for people to ask questions, share tips, news and experiences, and most of all support each other. WhatsApp groups that support our activities General Chat WhatsApp group group **85 31 9** members members members ME/CFS Stannington group WhatsApp activity groups include SMEFG swimming, Les Frenchies, Plant Lover's Group and Crafternoon. **PAGE 13** ## **Our AGM** **32**[participants] **14**[in-person] **18**[online] At our AGM, Ros Norsworthy delivered a captivating and passionate talk about the early history of the SMEFG. It was inspirational to hear that we are continuing the same battle to improve the quality of life and knowledge around the conditions. Special thanks to Pippa Line, who collected the memories and weaved them into such an interesting article. ## **Our Christmas Social** **53**[participants] **45**[in-person] **8** online We had the best turnout ever in bringing people together including prospective members at our Christmas gathering. A festive, jolly, family-friendly event that included the talented magician John, beautiful live singing & carols with Stan Edge and the Belle Haggs quartet, a quiz which was won by The Christmas Puddings, the online team and a delicious buffet. **PAGE 14** ## **Education and awareness** ## **Long Covid** 2024 included a welcome opportunity to work directly with Healthwatch on their programme to identify how long Covid was impacting minoritised communities. We were able to work with Darnall Wellbeing to run a survey gathering patient experience of services and access to them, we produced one version of a readable summary of the NICE guidelines on long Covid for patients, and one version to be given to GPs, a leaflet co-designed with patients on what people would most want their friends and family/loved ones to know, and a checklist of common symptoms to help patients talk with their GPs. We also supported other projects in Sheffield e.g. ISRAAC Somali Community project to develop materials to be disseminated among their communities. What we learnt was how many people lived with long Covid or similar symptoms, but were not being diagnosed or properly listened to and investigated, and often did not know whether they had long Covid or not. This exacerbated existing health inequalities. Healthwatch have shared all these resources: https://www.healthwatchsheffield.co.uk/long-covid-resources **PAGE 15** ## **ME Awareness Day May 12th 2024** We were delighted to be invited to run a stall at the Hallamshire Hospital jointly with the ME/CFS service. Together we spent two full days at the hospital, talking to patients but especially staff and students. We located ourselves in the canteen and had many conversations - we were very warmly received, and we went into many departments including neurology, rheumatology, infectious diseases, physiotherapy and more, leaving leaflets and information about the illnesses and our group. Staff were very willing to listen, some still referred to ME as 'chronic fatigue' but were open to discussion. SMEFG had also specially produced resources for health care professionals on our website and shared the link with many staff. ## **Training for GP practices** In August we were happy to hear that one of our members, Laura Boyles, had agreed with her GP practice to invite us to run a training session. She and Carolyn, our Chair, delivered training on the 3 illnesses, provided personal stories of impact and information on NICE guidance, on the recent inquest into the death of Maeve Boothby O-Neill, and on what our group can offer. This session was very well received, and was even more powerful with the voice of one of our members. If this is something you think your GP practice would welcome, please let us know. ## **Sheffield University Medical School** We reached out to the Medical school in the late spring and were delighted that they approved us to join the programme of community placements for medical students in the autumn. Two brilliant 3rd year students joined us and after an intensive induction involving meeting members, they immediately found their mission that there was no training on offer and lots of myths around about the illnesses and so thought through carefully the best ways of raising awareness. **PAGE 16** They embarked on capturing and writing up an anonymised case study for publication in a student medical journal, they jointly ran an information stall with us at the Winter Gardens for 2 days in December, and they produced a clear set of slides in preparation for running information sessions for GPs, and for patients to send/take to their GPs if appropriate. They also produced a summary guide for medical students to increase their awareness. All these resources will be appearing on our website in 2025. We were so impressed with how these students listened to our members and were skilful and clear in producing useful targeted information. They intend to invite the ME Association to do a talk for the student neurology society. We hope to repeat this placement in 2025. ## **Big thanks to our Funders!** ## **And a huge thank you to all who donated to our charity this year** **PAGE 17** ## **Looking forward into 2025 and beyond…** ## **Listening, learning, changing** As a Charity, our membership, volunteers and staff make up could more widely reflect the communities we aim to support, including global majority communities and people with all other protected characteristics including sexuality and gender. Over the next 12-18 months, we will make conscious and measurable efforts to better reflect a wider range of individuals and communities. We will do this by working with global majority led organisations across our geographical patch and engaging in a series of conversations with groups representing communities of interest so that we can better represent and involve more people living with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia and long Covid. We will assess our staff and volunteer recruitment procedures and governance to ensure this is a constant and visible thread of our practice. ## **Diversifying our income** We will continue to develop ways of raising vital funds for our charity, to support our membership, make a difference locally, sustain and hopefully grow our brilliant staff team. ## **Improve volunteering and events** We aim to recruit staff to support our volunteers and enable us to host more events throughout the year. We wish to offer new inclusive opportunities for our members to volunteer, share skills, share opinions, take initiative and participate in projects. ## **Increase our benefits offer** We know that more and more people need support with benefits and that this will continue to grow as we increase our outreach activities. In order to meet this need, we plan to expand our benefits team and will look to raise funds to enable us to extend this offer. **PAGE 18** ## **Get in touch!** ## **Phone Email** 0114 2536700 info@sheffieldmegroup.co.uk ## **Address** ## **Website** The Circle 33 Rockingham Lane Sheffield S1 4FW www.sheffieldmegroup.co.uk @sheffieldmefm **Instagram** @sheffieldmefm ## **Facebook YouTube** facebook.com/SheffieldMEand @sheffieldmefibromyalgiagroup FibromyalgiaGroup ## **Phone line and office opening hours - Monday to Thursday, 11am to 2pm** Printed by The Print Shop Level 1, Adsetts Learning Centre, Arundel Gate. Sheffield. S1 1WB | Tel: 0114 225 4763 SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (registered Charity Number 1095416) Contents Page Legal Information Trustee's Report Independent Examiner's Report Income and Expenditure Account Balance Sheet Notes to the Accounts SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Legal Information Trustees Carolyn Leary Simon Briggs Becca Gransbury Beatrice Greenfield Isabel Hemmings Duraiya Kapasi Alison Millar Emma Saville Chair Reglstered Charlty Number 1095416 Prlnclpal address The Circle 33 Rockingham Lane Sheffield SI 4FW Bank Lloyds TSB Church Street Sheffield Independent examiner Craig Williamson White Rose Accounting for Charities The Ghyll Threapland Aspatria CA7 2EL SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Trustees, report The trustees are pleased to present thelr report and financi31 statements of the charlty for the year ended 31 December 2024. The trustee5 have adopted the provislons of the Statement of Recommended Practice {SORPI "Accounting and Reporting by Charities" Issued In March 2005, in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity. Organlsatlon Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group is a registered charity and is governed by a constitution dated 11 October 2001, a5 amended 8 December 2002, and was entered on the register of charities on 15 January 2003. The group Is managed by a voluntary commlttee who are elected at each Annual General Meetlng. Since 2002, part-time staff have been employed. At the end of 2024, our staff team totalled 99 weekly hours. Objects of the charlty The objects of the charlty are: to relleve those sufferlng from the Illnesses known as myalgic encephalomyelltls IME1/ chronlc fatlgue syndrome ICFSI/ post-viral fatigue syndrome IPVFSI, flbromyalgia, and long Covld. to educate the general publlc through the promotlon and dlssemlnatlon of knowledge about the conditions. We do this through our benefits and social care Service, helpline, magazine and information sharin8, wellbelng and 50clal artlvltles, peer support groups, befrlendlng and educatlonal talks, We a150 network with local organisations to raise awareness and improve local support provision for our communitv. We do not 8ive medical advice nor do we offer individual treatment programmes, Where possible we sSgnpost to relevant bodies and resources. We are an Independent charlty relylng on grants, donation5 and Income from our nomlnal membership fee. Publlc Beneflt Statement Sheffield ME and Flbromyal8ia Group is a registered charitysupportin8 those wlth ME/CFS/PVFS, fibromyalgla and long Covld, thelr famllles and carer5. Our Impact on our members15 reduced soclal Isolation, enhanced wellbeing, empowerment and improved understanding of their illness and support available, maximised welfare benefits entitlement and social care support. Our wider aim is fighting stigma through educatlon, and Improvlng local Support provlsS0n. The trustees regularly give due consideration to the Commission's guidance in deciding what attivities they should undertake, by reviewing the needs of their benef iciaries, by ensuring that the service is fully inclusive and that no detrlment or harm arises from the organisatlon by carrylng out Its actlvlties. We operate with respect to each indlvidual person and we aim to give each one an opportunity to have their Say and to become more involved in the group, whilst working withln our adopted policie5 and guidellnes. Our core value5 are based on our charitable objectives as Stated in our constitution. trustees report cntd,.. SHEFFIELD ME GROUP Trustees. report (continued) Reserves policv Sheffield ME Group alms to hold free reserves of 3 months running costs, whlch would equate to £37,522 based on the 2025 budget. The Group met this target during 2024, the unrestricted funds being £78,339 at 31 December 2024. The reserve fund will be ring-fenced to offer protection to employees, to meet any outstanding overhead costs, contracts and leases plus payment of any other outstanding liabilities. Trustees, responslbllltles for the financlal statements The trustees are responsible for preparing f inancial statements for each f ina ncial period which show the state of affairs of the Charity and of the surplus or deficit of the Charity for that period. In preparing those flnanclal statements the trustees are requlred to: select sultable accounting policies and apply them consistently make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unle55 It Is inappropriate to presume that the charity will contin ue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which d15close with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable the trustees to prepare financial statements. The trustees are responslble for safeguarding the assets of the Charlty and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention of f raud and other irregularities. Signed on behalf of the trustees on....... ..J..V.fy/É.. zozb By Print name........ Trustee SHEFFIELD ME GROUP Independent examinerfs report to the trustees of SHEFFIELD ME GROUP I report on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 6 to 8. Respective responsibilities of trustees and examlner The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 14412) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It Is my responsibility to: examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145 (5){b) of the 2011 Act; and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basis of independent examiner's report My examination was carried out in accordance wlth the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination Includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also Includes conslderation of any unusual Items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view, and the report is limited to those matters set out in the Statement below. Independent examinerfs statement In connection wlth my examination, no matter has come to my attention., (l) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements: to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act. and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met. or 12) to which, i of the accou 'on, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understandin8 hed. Signed: Craig Williamson White Rose Accounting for Charities The Ghyll Threapland Aspatria CA7 2EL Date: 12 oLI2025 SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Income and Expenditure Account for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 Unrestrirted funds Restrlcted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Notes Income Grants and donatlons Members, subscrlptlons Gift aid received Fundraising Total Income 60,450 8,110 123,024 183,474 8,110 77,684 6,102 447 685 69,245 685 192,269 123,024 84,233 Expendlture Salaries and national Insurance Payroll fees Recrultment & DBS checks Staff training Staff travel Trustee tralning Events, conference, workshops and attivities Premises rental and room hire Insurance Telephone, internet and web IT Support Equipment Postage Software Stationery and office Subscriptions Publicity and newsletter Volunteers, travel and soclal Accountancy Professional fees Bank, Paypal & Wix char8es Other 27,431 62,183 689 261 2,658 61 89,614 689 355 4,885 61 82.816 304 120 373 94 2,227 32 5,279 5,148 1,066 989 1.766 1,012 7,522 5,671 1,143 1,060 484 3,747 2,503 630 83 2.108 2,395 119 147 9,288 6,683 1,143 1,405 484 3,747 2,605 630 83 3,290 2,555 170 210 345 444 1,129 142 2,667 1,234 1,182 160 51 63 215 175 206 60 269 269 Total Expenditure 34,333 93,833 128,166 102,405 Surplus / IDefl¢ltl for the year Charlty Funds as at 01 December 2024 Transfer from Restrlcted to Unrestricted Funds 34,912 29,191 64,103 118,1721 43,156 271 43,110 12711 86,266 104,438 Charlty Funds a5 at 01 December 20Z4 43,427 42,839 86,266 104,438 Charlty Funds a5 at 31 December 2024 78,339 72,030 150.369 86,266 SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Current Assets Cash at Bank and in Hand Debtors Prepayments 151,134 1,996 678 86,266 Total Current Assets 153,808 86,266 Current Liabilities Accruals 3,439 Total Current Liabilitle5 3,439 Net Current Assets 150,369 86,266 Total Net Assets 150,369 86,266 Charity Funds Represented by Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 78,339 72,030 150,369 43,427 42,839 86,266 Total Funds Signed on behalf of the Trustees on,...... ...... by Trustee PRINT NAME:.................... SHEFFIELD ME ANO FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Notes to the Accounts forthe Year Ended 31 December 2024 l Accountln8 Pollcles The Financlil Statéments havobeen prepired In accordonce ￿￿th1he Companle$ Act 2006, the Flhandal Reporllng siandird applicable In the UKdnd liepublic of IrEland IFR51021, and the Accuuntifig and Reportlng by CharitlES'. Statementof RecommendEd Piatti¢e applicable to Ihèrltles propanng thelr accDunt5 in accordance wlth FR5102 leflectlve froffl lanuary2015 and updated wlth effect frDm Ibl Donatlon and fund acrDunting Unrestrlctèd funds¢ornpr15e those funds whlch Iht ITU5t••s arefi¢etO Us¢ In attordanc• wnh ih•charltsbl• oblerts. Restricted fund5 are to be us¥d for specific purposes laid dpwn bythe donor. Icl ResDurres expended Unreitrirttd lund9 Restrieted funds 2 Grants and domtlons Totil 2024 Grants... The Natlonal Lottery Cornrnunlly Fund Reachlng Cotnmunllles 2D14 2026 The Natlonal Lo¢itry Communlty Fund- Awards lor All Heallhwaich SheffiEld- Long Covld NelwoTk South York5hlre'J Cornmunily Foundallon- comrnun￿Y Giants Dep8rtment for Work and Pen51gns- AcEess to Work 79,054 19,910 6,157 4,613 6,183 2,500 2,ODO 1,50Q i.ooo 79,054 19,910 6,157 4,613 6.183 2,500 2,000 3,500 I,ooo so,ooo 5,096 496 180,509 Thelts Gravos CharltableTruit SheifieldTown Trust The C(>mphnyof Cutlers in Hallam5hire Lloyds Bank Ftsufidaiion for Englind and Wileg 50,000 5,096 496 57,S92 Heallhwii¢h Sli¥ffield- Lyni Covld thrrrnunllyGranl Sub tot 122,917 Don•Uons ?,858 107 2,965 Total 8rint$ •nd don•iions 123 024 111474 3 St•ff ¢trS¢f 20Z4 Stafl¢osts durlni th• perlod wei•'.- 2023 Grosssal3rles ind omployefs penslon 19,614 82,816 89.614 Nurnb¢i of yt4fr'. 82,116 6 p811 Ilmv51Jlf 4 R•%irlci•d lun1$ Tr•nsi¢r 10 Unreiiiki•d nd$ R•vls¢d 8alance at 0110112024 8414nn •t OVOV202A In￿? Exp•ndltur• 311IZIZ024 ThE NJtbnal Lts¢iery Cvmmunlly Fund- Reachln8 Communltiqs 2018- 2023 The Naiignal Loiiery Cornmunlly Fund- Reachlng Communitles 2014- 2026 851 38,722 436 Z,830 271 851 38,722 436 2,830 851 77,444 79,054 40,332 436 862 ME Loc•1 Nelwofk 1,968 Ihe National Loiiery Corntnunlly Fund Awardj forAII Voluntary Acfion Sheffteld. Lon¥ Covld NÈtwork Souih Yorkshlré's Cofflmunlty Foundallon- Communlly Grants Department for Work and Pen51ons- Accejs lo Work Th¢ Charles Pd Elsie SykesTrust TheJG Gravés thar114ble Truit Sheffitld Ttswn Trust Thè Cfjmpanyof Cuiiols In Hallamshiro Mèmber's Qgn411on5for In-P¢r5on Sin8lns Grgup 19,91D 6,157 4,613 6,183 2,500 2.000 1,500 I,DDO 107 992 2,B44 18,YllJ 3,313 4,613 6.183 1,351 1.149 93 1,407 1,000 107 271 123 024 SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2024 (registered Charity Number 1095416) Contents Page Legal Information Trustee's Report Independent Examiner's Report Income and Expenditure Account Balance Sheet Notes to the Accounts SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Legal Information Trustees Carolyn Leary Simon Briggs Becca Gransbury Beatrice Greenfield Isabel Hemmings Duraiya Kapasi Alison Millar Emma Saville Chair Reglstered Charlty Number 1095416 Prlnclpal address The Circle 33 Rockingham Lane Sheffield SI 4FW Bank Lloyds TSB Church Street Sheffield Independent examiner Craig Williamson White Rose Accounting for Charities The Ghyll Threapland Aspatria CA7 2EL SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Trustees, report The trustees are pleased to present thelr report and financi31 statements of the charlty for the year ended 31 December 2024. The trustee5 have adopted the provislons of the Statement of Recommended Practice {SORPI "Accounting and Reporting by Charities" Issued In March 2005, in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity. Organlsatlon Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group is a registered charity and is governed by a constitution dated 11 October 2001, a5 amended 8 December 2002, and was entered on the register of charities on 15 January 2003. The group Is managed by a voluntary commlttee who are elected at each Annual General Meetlng. Since 2002, part-time staff have been employed. At the end of 2024, our staff team totalled 99 weekly hours. Objects of the charlty The objects of the charlty are: to relleve those sufferlng from the Illnesses known as myalgic encephalomyelltls IME1/ chronlc fatlgue syndrome ICFSI/ post-viral fatigue syndrome IPVFSI, flbromyalgia, and long Covld. to educate the general publlc through the promotlon and dlssemlnatlon of knowledge about the conditions. We do this through our benefits and social care Service, helpline, magazine and information sharin8, wellbelng and 50clal artlvltles, peer support groups, befrlendlng and educatlonal talks, We a150 network with local organisations to raise awareness and improve local support provision for our communitv. We do not 8ive medical advice nor do we offer individual treatment programmes, Where possible we sSgnpost to relevant bodies and resources. We are an Independent charlty relylng on grants, donation5 and Income from our nomlnal membership fee. Publlc Beneflt Statement Sheffield ME and Flbromyal8ia Group is a registered charitysupportin8 those wlth ME/CFS/PVFS, fibromyalgla and long Covld, thelr famllles and carer5. Our Impact on our members15 reduced soclal Isolation, enhanced wellbeing, empowerment and improved understanding of their illness and support available, maximised welfare benefits entitlement and social care support. Our wider aim is fighting stigma through educatlon, and Improvlng local Support provlsS0n. The trustees regularly give due consideration to the Commission's guidance in deciding what attivities they should undertake, by reviewing the needs of their benef iciaries, by ensuring that the service is fully inclusive and that no detrlment or harm arises from the organisatlon by carrylng out Its actlvlties. We operate with respect to each indlvidual person and we aim to give each one an opportunity to have their Say and to become more involved in the group, whilst working withln our adopted policie5 and guidellnes. Our core value5 are based on our charitable objectives as Stated in our constitution. trustees report cntd,.. SHEFFIELD ME GROUP Trustees. report (continued) Reserves policv Sheffield ME Group alms to hold free reserves of 3 months running costs, whlch would equate to £37,522 based on the 2025 budget. The Group met this target during 2024, the unrestricted funds being £78,339 at 31 December 2024. The reserve fund will be ring-fenced to offer protection to employees, to meet any outstanding overhead costs, contracts and leases plus payment of any other outstanding liabilities. Trustees, responslbllltles for the financlal statements The trustees are responsible for preparing f inancial statements for each f ina ncial period which show the state of affairs of the Charity and of the surplus or deficit of the Charity for that period. In preparing those flnanclal statements the trustees are requlred to: select sultable accounting policies and apply them consistently make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unle55 It Is inappropriate to presume that the charity will contin ue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which d15close with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable the trustees to prepare financial statements. The trustees are responslble for safeguarding the assets of the Charlty and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention of f raud and other irregularities. Signed on behalf of the trustees on....... ..J..V.fy/É.. zozb By Print name........ Trustee SHEFFIELD ME GROUP Independent examinerfs report to the trustees of SHEFFIELD ME GROUP I report on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 6 to 8. Respective responsibilities of trustees and examlner The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 14412) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It Is my responsibility to: examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145 (5){b) of the 2011 Act; and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basis of independent examiner's report My examination was carried out in accordance wlth the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination Includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also Includes conslderation of any unusual Items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view, and the report is limited to those matters set out in the Statement below. Independent examinerfs statement In connection wlth my examination, no matter has come to my attention., (l) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements: to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act. and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met. or 12) to which, i of the accou 'on, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understandin8 hed. Signed: Craig Williamson White Rose Accounting for Charities The Ghyll Threapland Aspatria CA7 2EL Date: 12 oLI2025 SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Income and Expenditure Account for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 Unrestrirted funds Restrlcted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Notes Income Grants and donatlons Members, subscrlptlons Gift aid received Fundraising Total Income 60,450 8,110 123,024 183,474 8,110 77,684 6,102 447 685 69,245 685 192,269 123,024 84,233 Expendlture Salaries and national Insurance Payroll fees Recrultment & DBS checks Staff training Staff travel Trustee tralning Events, conference, workshops and attivities Premises rental and room hire Insurance Telephone, internet and web IT Support Equipment Postage Software Stationery and office Subscriptions Publicity and newsletter Volunteers, travel and soclal Accountancy Professional fees Bank, Paypal & Wix char8es Other 27,431 62,183 689 261 2,658 61 89,614 689 355 4,885 61 82.816 304 120 373 94 2,227 32 5,279 5,148 1,066 989 1.766 1,012 7,522 5,671 1,143 1,060 484 3,747 2,503 630 83 2.108 2,395 119 147 9,288 6,683 1,143 1,405 484 3,747 2,605 630 83 3,290 2,555 170 210 345 444 1,129 142 2,667 1,234 1,182 160 51 63 215 175 206 60 269 269 Total Expenditure 34,333 93,833 128,166 102,405 Surplus / IDefl¢ltl for the year Charlty Funds as at 01 December 2024 Transfer from Restrlcted to Unrestricted Funds 34,912 29,191 64,103 118,1721 43,156 271 43,110 12711 86,266 104,438 Charlty Funds a5 at 01 December 20Z4 43,427 42,839 86,266 104,438 Charlty Funds a5 at 31 December 2024 78,339 72,030 150.369 86,266 SHEFFIELD ME AND FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Current Assets Cash at Bank and in Hand Debtors Prepayments 151,134 1,996 678 86,266 Total Current Assets 153,808 86,266 Current Liabilities Accruals 3,439 Total Current Liabilitle5 3,439 Net Current Assets 150,369 86,266 Total Net Assets 150,369 86,266 Charity Funds Represented by Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 78,339 72,030 150,369 43,427 42,839 86,266 Total Funds Signed on behalf of the Trustees on,...... ...... by Trustee PRINT NAME:.................... SHEFFIELD ME ANO FIBROMYALGIA GROUP Notes to the Accounts forthe Year Ended 31 December 2024 l Accountln8 Pollcles The Financlil Statéments havobeen prepired In accordonce ￿￿th1he Companle$ Act 2006, the Flhandal Reporllng siandird applicable In the UKdnd liepublic of IrEland IFR51021, and the Accuuntifig and Reportlng by CharitlES'. Statementof RecommendEd Piatti¢e applicable to Ihèrltles propanng thelr accDunt5 in accordance wlth FR5102 leflectlve froffl lanuary2015 and updated wlth effect frDm Ibl Donatlon and fund acrDunting Unrestrlctèd funds¢ornpr15e those funds whlch Iht ITU5t••s arefi¢etO Us¢ In attordanc• wnh ih•charltsbl• oblerts. Restricted fund5 are to be us¥d for specific purposes laid dpwn bythe donor. Icl ResDurres expended Unreitrirttd lund9 Restrieted funds 2 Grants and domtlons Totil 2024 Grants... The Natlonal Lottery Cornrnunlly Fund Reachlng Cotnmunllles 2D14 2026 The Natlonal Lo¢itry Communlty Fund- Awards lor All Heallhwaich SheffiEld- Long Covld NelwoTk South York5hlre'J Cornmunily Foundallon- comrnun￿Y Giants Dep8rtment for Work and Pen51gns- AcEess to Work 79,054 19,910 6,157 4,613 6,183 2,500 2,ODO 1,50Q i.ooo 79,054 19,910 6,157 4,613 6.183 2,500 2,000 3,500 I,ooo so,ooo 5,096 496 180,509 Thelts Gravos CharltableTruit SheifieldTown Trust The C(>mphnyof Cutlers in Hallam5hire Lloyds Bank Ftsufidaiion for Englind and Wileg 50,000 5,096 496 57,S92 Heallhwii¢h Sli¥ffield- Lyni Covld thrrrnunllyGranl Sub tot 122,917 Don•Uons ?,858 107 2,965 Total 8rint$ •nd don•iions 123 024 111474 3 St•ff ¢trS¢f 20Z4 Stafl¢osts durlni th• perlod wei•'.- 2023 Grosssal3rles ind omployefs penslon 19,614 82,816 89.614 Nurnb¢i of yt4fr'. 82,116 6 p811 Ilmv51Jlf 4 R•%irlci•d lun1$ Tr•nsi¢r 10 Unreiiiki•d nd$ R•vls¢d 8alance at 0110112024 8414nn •t OVOV202A In￿? Exp•ndltur• 311IZIZ024 ThE NJtbnal Lts¢iery Cvmmunlly Fund- Reachln8 Communltiqs 2018- 2023 The Naiignal Loiiery Cornmunlly Fund- Reachlng Communitles 2014- 2026 851 38,722 436 Z,830 271 851 38,722 436 2,830 851 77,444 79,054 40,332 436 862 ME Loc•1 Nelwofk 1,968 Ihe National Loiiery Corntnunlly Fund Awardj forAII Voluntary Acfion Sheffteld. Lon¥ Covld NÈtwork Souih Yorkshlré's Cofflmunlty Foundallon- Communlly Grants Department for Work and Pen51ons- Accejs lo Work Th¢ Charles Pd Elsie SykesTrust TheJG Gravés thar114ble Truit Sheffitld Ttswn Trust Thè Cfjmpanyof Cuiiols In Hallamshiro Mèmber's Qgn411on5for In-P¢r5on Sin8lns Grgup 19,91D 6,157 4,613 6,183 2,500 2.000 1,500 I,DDO 107 992 2,B44 18,YllJ 3,313 4,613 6.183 1,351 1.149 93 1,407 1,000 107 271 123 024