DSIgn Envelope ID." 98F93209-OE7(P41754D3949553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED ST 31 MARCH 2025 Company Registration No 04675589 Charity Registration No. 1098868
DoGU5vJn Envelope ID." 98F93209-OE71P4175.8D39.69553F754FAO WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 The trustees are pleased to present their annual report for the year ended 31 sl March 2025. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's trust deed, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordan with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland published (FRS 102) effective 1 $1 January 2019. OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Writing on Ihe Wall Limited (Wow) organises and promotes an annual programrne of events that culminates in a Liverpool-based festival. The annual Writing on the Wall festival features local, national, and international writers, artists, historians, and musicians who engage local communities and broader aUdIenS to celebrate writing, diversity, lolerance, storytelling and humour through creativity, controversy, inquiry and debate. Writing on the Wall focuses on writing that empowers, where storytellers give and receive strength through telling. Writing on the Wall promotes both individual and collective creativity. Public Benefit ststement In considering the objectives and activities, the Trustees have considered the Charity Commission's guidance on Public Benefit to ensure that the organisation is meeting its Public Benefit requirements. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE FOR THE YEAR & PLANS 2024-2025 has been a significant year of growth, delivery and consolidation for Writing on the Wall (Wow). Building on more than two decades of creative engagement across the Liverpool City Region, Wow has continued to strengthen its reputation as a leading arts, heritage and community organisation committed lo amplifying marginalised voices, tackling inequality, and opening access to creative expression. Our programmes this year- spanning literature, heritage, health, education and community development- have further demonstrated the power of storytelling to create social connection, challenge injustice and inspire change. Across the year, Wow delivered an ambitious and wide-ranging programme. WOWFEST 2024 Fahrenheit 2024 explored urgent national and global themes, from censorship and book banning to climate Justi and Palestine. Our Creative Heritage work deepened ils impact through major partnerships, new archival projects and expanded public engagement. Our Write to Work programme continued to provide transformative opportunities for participants seeking renewed confidence, skills and pathways into work and learning. Alongside these core strands, new projects such as What's Your Walton Story? and expanded work under the ReCITE umbrella have demonstrated Wows continued relevan and responsiveness to the social realities facing our communities. This year also saw Wow deepen and diversify its partnerships, expand its publishing output, and strengthen its role within regional and national cultural networks. Our collaborations with universities, health instilulions, community organisations and cultural partners have broadened our reach and created new opportunities for meaningful impact across sectors. We also continued to prioritise accessibility, participant voice and community representation across all areas of our work. Aswe approached the end ofthe reporting year, preparations began for WoWFEST2025-marking the start of a year of celebration and reflection a8 Wow moves into its 25th anniversary year. This early planning underscored both the momentum of our current programme and the organisation's continued commitment to ambitious, community-centred work. Throughout 2024-2025, Writing on the Wall has remained firmly grounded in its core mission.. to champion creativity, promote inclusion and support the voices, stories and experiences that too often go unheard.
Envelope ID.. 98F93209-OE70.41754D3M9553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 The achievements outlined in this report reflect Ihe dedication of our team, trustees, partners, participants and supporters. Together, we continue lo build spaces where creativity thrives, communities corinect and stories inspire transformation. 2. The Year at a Glance 2024-2025 was a dynamic and wide-reaching year for Writing on the Wall, chaiaclerised by strong programme delivery, deepened partnerships, expanded publishing work, and sustained community impact. Across the year, Wow delivered a diverse range of festivals, projects and creative opportunities that engaged thousands of people across the Liverpool City Region and beyond. Key Highlights 36 WOWFEST events featuring 86 writers, artists and performers, attracting over 2,500 attendees. 13 Black History Month events, including walking tours, talks and community partnerships. Major heritage projects delivered across the city, including the Dorothy Kuya Archive, L8 Law Centre Archive, and Anti-Racist Community Arts Association work. Expansion ofthe ReCITE programme, including Vvhat's Yourstory? {Toxteth, Kirkby, Bootlel, Creative Health Exchange, and growing partnerships with health providers. Continued success of Write to Work, supporting residents seeking pathways into work, education or volunteering. Significant public engagement through What's Your Walton Story? delivered in response to community tensions following the raci8t riots of 2024. Publishing of multiple new books, reprints of hi9h-demand titles, and strengthening of Wows distribution network (including Amazon, Waterstones, TikTok Shop, and independent stockislsl. Recognition at regional and national levels, including awards, Conferen invitations and media coverage. Preparations undemay for WOWFEST 2025, marking the start of Wow's 25th anniversary year. 3. WOWFEST 2024- Fahrenheit 2024 WOWFEST 2024 marked another impressive chapter in the festival's evolution, drawing diverse audiences to events tackling urgent global, political and cultural issues. The theme Fahrenheit 2024 ntred on book banning, censorship and the pressures on creative expression, set against wider conversations about climate, LGBTQ+ rights, Palestine, and the cost-Df-Iiving crisis. Across 36 events, the festival brought together an extraordinary range of voices including Irvine Welsh, Joelle Taylor, Jon Ronson, Jackie Kay, Kamila Shamsie and Michael Rosen, alongside dozens of emerging writers and community participants from across the city. The festival showcased 11 book launches, including Brian Reade's Sick Mick, Pulp Idol Firsts 2024, and several Wow publications. Audience feedback reflected the festival's emotional and inlelleclual impact.. "Deeply moving and Ihought-provoking." 'A powerful night in honour of an inspirational man.
Docusign Envelope ID. F93209-oE71k4175-83U95S3F7s4FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 "Amazing, very informative and inspiring. Themes of justice, identity, memory and resistance threaded through the programme, with standout sessions addressing global inequalities, histories of struggle, and the need to protect free expression in a time of increasing censorship. The festival's mix of literature, performance, activism, film, walking tours and conversations reaffirmed WOWFEST'S role as a major cultural event in the Liverpool calendar and a nationally significant festival of socially engaged writing. 4. Black History Month 2024 Wow delivered 13 events during Black Hislory Month 2024, contributing significantly lo Liverpool's citywide programme coordinated by Culture Liverpool. The programme combined heritage walking tours, talks, public discussions and creative performances, with highlighls including: A Woman Like Me with Diane Abbott and Gary Younge Stories of the Blues Creative Heritage Walking Tours, including the Dorothy Kuya Tour Participation in Liverpool Rising, a major event with Love Music Hate Racism Co-Director Madeline Heneghan represented Wow and LCR Culture Network at the official citywide BHM launch in St George's Hall. Wowwas also invited to the Citizen of Honour Ceremony for The Real Thing. Audience feedback spoke to the power ofthe programme.. "A beautiful lebratIon of Black history and creativily. I left feeling inspired. BHM 2024 strengthened Wows leadership in heritage, anti-racism and community-focused arts work. 5. Creative Heritage Programm8 Creative Heritage continued to expand in scale and ambition throughout 2024-2025, with major developments across multiple archival and community projects. Key Areas of Work.. Dorothy Kuya Archive workshops. L8 Law Centre Archive acquired, catalogued and used as the basis for community storytelling and legal-heritage education. Anti-Racist Community Arts Association Archive- ongoing cataloguing and comrnunity engagerrent work. Great War to Race Riots- walking tours, educational sessions and new online resources. Wow delivered.. continued public engagement, walking tours and heritage A Creative Heritage Day bringing together researchers, artists and community members. Walking Tour training to expand the pool of heritage ambassadors in the city. A presentation at a National Archives impact seminar.
DocJ$itsn Envelope ID.. 98Fg32ogE70-4l7s4o38gSS3F754FAn WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 Delivery of the Eric Scott Lynch Memorial Writing Competition for children, in collaboration with local trade unions. The Creative Heritage programme continues to be central to Wows mission of preseNing and celebrating Liverpool's radical cultural history while empowering communities to tell their own stories. 6. Write to Work & The Writer's Bloc Write to Work The programme, funded through UKSPF, continued to support people who are economically inactive, offering creative writing skills, confidence-building and routes into employment, education or volunteering. Highlights included.. Launch of the Writing for TV course with industry professionals. Strong participant feedback describing the programme as "life-changing" and "empowering" Continued success in supporting participants into new opportunities in creative industries. The Writer's Bloc A vibrant community of writers meeting regularly in Toxleth Library, offering.. Creative writing sessions Artist masterclasses Networking events Opportunities for publication and performance Participants commented on the sense of belonging and creative growth fostered within the group. 7. ReCITE Programm ReCITE, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council in partnership with Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, expanded significantly this year. Key Achievements What's Your Story? workshops delivered in Toxteth, Bootle and Kirkby. Participants shared testimonies of health inequality, access barriers and lived experience of the healthcare system. Work showcased at public events, including a Creative Health Exchange at Liverpool Lighthouse. Strengthened collaboration between health professionals, researchers, artists and community members. ReCITE reinforced the essential role of creative expression in addressing health inequality and connecting communities with healthcare institutions.
t)wsvan Envelope ID.. 98F93209-OE7fv417&8D3&69553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 8. What's Your Story? {PSS) & What's Your Walton Story? PSS Partnership Wow continued its partnership with PSS Liverpool, delivering creative storytelling workshops for parents of young children. Participants highlighted. Increased confidence Improved wellbeing Strengthened relationships with their children What's Your Walton Story. Commissioned by Culture Liverpool in response to the racist riots following the Southport murders, this 12-week course provided a positive, community-building space for Walton residents. Outcomes included.. A published anthology A public reading celebration Strong participant feedback praising connection, reflection and belonging This project demonstrated Wows ability to respond rapidly and meaningfully to community need. 9. Publishing Programme Wows publishing output continued lo grow, with multiple new titles, reprints and anthologies published throughout the year. Key Publi¢ations12024-2025): Sick Mick by Brian Reade (May 2024, reprinted July 20241 Wally Brown.. A Life (Reprinted July 2024) From Piti Street to Granby (Reprinted July and October 2024) Lights Bearing West.. Vol 2 by Tony Wailey (May 2024, reprinted October 2024) Pulp Idol Firsts 2024 (May 20241 Silent Victims by Gary Millar (February 2025) Raising Wildflowers- PSS What's Your Story? (February 20251 Distribution Partners Waterstones Amazon Dead Ink News From Nowhere TikTok Shop National Museums Liverpool Write Blend Casa Bar
DoCugn Envelope ID. 98Fg3209-OE7N417&8D3W69553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 Vvows publishing profile continues to grow nationally, expanding access to working-class and underrepresented writers. 10. Marketing. Social Media & Communications Marketing activity this year reflected a strategic shift toward diverse plafforms, grassroots promotion and audience engagement. Achievements Continued growth across Inslagram, Facebook and TikTok strong engagement with WOWFEST and BHM campaigns National media visibility, including participation in BBC Radio 4's Decolonising the BBC Archive Represer)talion al the UK Literary Association conference Growth of newsletter mailing list and digital content output Wows communications emphasised community voice, social justice and ac$s1b111ty, ensuring that audiences remained at the heart of the organisation's work. 11. Community Voice & Impact Feedback gathered across the year demonstrated profound impact on participants, wellbeing, confidence, crealivily and sense of belonging. Participant Quotes "This course gave me the tools and confidence to pursue a career in writing. "Being part ofthis group has given me a new way to connect with my children." "Spoken Word Power has given me a new level of confidence.. "The walking tours gave me a new perspective on Liverpool's history.. "This project has given me a new perspective on the Importan of preserving history." Wows commLJnity-centred approach continues to be a defining feature of its identity and success. 12. Partnerships & Strategic Leadership Throughout 2024-2025, Wow continued lo play an active leadership role in the region's cultural and community landscape. Key Partnerships Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine National Museums Liverpool Universilies of Liverpool and Westminster Culture Liverpool Local libraries and community organisations Health providers and local authorities
D59 Envelope ID. 98F9320&0E704175-8D39-69553F154FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 Strategic Representation Wow contributed to.. Culture Network CIC Liverpool Visitor Economy Panel {LVEP) Race Equality Action Group Expert Funding Panel for Archives Revealed Advisory Board of the Poverty Research and Advocacy Network (PRAN) These forums strengthened Wows advocacy around representation, social justice and equality across the region. 13. Organisational Development & staffing This year saw continued consolidation of Wows internal structure and team cap8CIty. Highlights Recruitment Staff training and leadership development Strengthening of project management and operational systems Expanded volunteer engagement Enhanced evaluation and data processes strengthened governance through regular trustee reportin9 and reflection These developments ensured Wow remained resilient. strategically guided and operationally strong. 14. Governance Wow continued to uphold strong governan standards, meeting all expectations of a National Portfolio Organisalion. Governance activity included.. Quarterly trustee reporting Oversight of HR, finance, strategy and risk Review of policies, prOdureS and safeguarding Monitoring and evaluation improvements Continued Complian with Arts Council England reporting requirements Trustees provided consistent leadership and oversight across programme delivery, organisational development and strategic planning. 15. Funding & Financial Overview Total income for the year was £411,700 (2024.. £810,355) of which £nil12024'. £67,425) related to funding for projects upon which restrictions are placed. Total expenditure for the year was £453,380 (2024.. £581,072), leaving a deficit for the year of £41,68012024.' surplus £229,283). At 3151 March 2025 the charitable company reserves stood at £656,27912024'. £697,959) ofwhich £1,000 12024.. £28,309) represented restricted funds and £261,818 {2024'. £309,275) represents designated funds.
DSIgn Envdopts ID.. 98F93209E7417S-9D39-S9Ss3F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 Highlights include.. Continued UKSPF funding for Write to Work AHRC funding for ReCITE in partnership with LSTM Project commissions from Culture Liverpool Festival ticket sales and sponsorship Publishing revenue Ongoing discussions around putting forward a proposal for Lodge Lane Library as part of the potential for a future Community Asset Transfer process. Funding streams remained diverse and stable, supporting the organisation's core and project work. 16. Awards & Recognition Wow received significant recognition across the year, including.. Preparing for Work Award- LCR Culture and Creativity Awards Finalist: People's Choice Award- LCR Culture and Creativity Awards Partnership of the Year Award - Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (for ReCITE) Involvement in high-profile national events and media appearances These accolades demonstrate both artistic excellence and meaningful community impact. 17. Closing Note As 2024-2025 drew to a close, preparations began forWoWFEST 2025, marking the start ofwriting on the Wall's 25th anniversary year. Early planning reflected both the strength of this year's achievements and the organisation's continued commitmenl to ambitious, communily-rooled work. Writing on the Wall remains dedicated to amplifying marginalised voices, fostering creativity and driving social change through culture. The accomplishments of 2024-2025 are a testament to the collective passion, skill and commitment of our staff, Irustees, partners, participants and audiences. Together, we look forward to another year of powerful storytelling, creative collaboration and community impact. Risk Management The Iruslees examined the major risks that the charitable company faces each year and have developed and continue to develop systems to monitor and control these risks to mitigate any impact that they may have on the charity both now and in the future. Writing on the Wall are currenly negotiating a new lease on their office premises, with the Landlords, Liverpool City Council. Reserves Policy It is the policy of the charitable company to maintain unrestricted funds, which are free reserves at a level to cover redundancy provision, lease commitments, slaff training, festival and six months, running costs should no further funding be received. AS at the end of the financial year the unreslricled funds totalled £655,279 sess designated funds for projects of £261,818 the balance of unrestricted reserves £393,461.
Dogn Env*lop¢ ID.. 98F932o9E7o-4I7S-8D39&95s3F7S4FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES. REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 The charitable company requires £34,606 for redundancy provision, £1,000 lease requirement, £50,000 for the festival and £213,036 for six months running costs, (total £298,642) included as a designated reserves see note 10 and note 11. The trustees plans for the balance of the unrestricted reserves are to employ additional staff, celebration of Wow 25 anniversary, finding permanent premises, developing our publishing distribution network. Plans for the Future As we look ahead lo 2025-2026, Writing on the Wall will continue to build on this year's achievements while marking a major milestone in our history. 1. 25th Anniversary Heritage Project - We are incredibly pleased to have been awarded Heritage Lottery funding to document and celebrate our archive as part of our 25th anniversary year. This work will continue throughout 2025-2026, culminating in a public event to reveal and celebrate the archive, alongside creative activities and outputs that share our history with the communities who shaped it. 2. Strengthening Our Programmes and Partnerships - We will continue to deliver and grow our core programmes, expanding opportunities for communities across the city and strengthening partnerships in culture, education and health. 3. Building Organisational capacity To support our expanding work, we will focus on strengthening slaff and leadership capacity, including new roles linked to our heritage, community and creative development projects. STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 24 February 2003 (Company number 046755891, and registered as a charity on 5th August 2003 (Ch8rily number 10988681. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers ofthe company and is governed by its Articles ofAssocialion dated 20th February 2003. The Charity's Board of Trustees are also its Directors. The members are elected by Annual General Meetings {AGMI of the members of the Charity, with casual vacancies being filSed. as required, by the Board of Trustees in accordance with the Charity's Articles of Association. The Board meets regularly throughout the year and attends lo all strategic and operational matters. Trustee Recruitment: The board will regularly identify skill gaps and recruit when to the Board, creating specifications and role description. Opportunities will be advertised through our mailing contact and various nelworks including Liverpool Charity and Volunlary Service, City of Liverpool College, and Merseyside Literature Partnership. Adverts will explicitly state that the board welcomes applications from under- represented groups. The trustees may at any lime co-opt any person duly qualified to be appointed as a trustee to fill a vacancy in their number or as an additional Trustee, but a co-opted Trustee holds office onSy until the next AGM. Equality and Diversity In the planning and delivery of our activities, issues of inclusion, diversity, a¢$s, and equality are at the forefront of our thoughts. 10
t)ocusign Envelope ID. 98F932O94>E70-41754D39JF7s4FAO WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 The organisation ensures that all venues used are accessib5e, that publicity is targeted al relevant groups where necessary, and that all aspects of the events are welcoming and inviting, and that where possible we offer ways to support people attending, including childcare, translation and BSL signing. Wow was rated as Outstanding by Arts Council England for its diverse artistic programming in this period, programming that attracts and diverse audiences and participants. Our festival evaluations are an indication of the success of our work in engaging 'hard to reach, communities and is a clear representation of how Wow is perceived as an inclusive. asSIble organisation. Writing on the Wall's Board of Trustees are a diverse, multi-disciplinary, committed and motivated team, highly regarded in their respective sectors and disciplines and drawn from the social economy, secondary education, higher education, private and community sectors. Their combined skillsets and experience allow Wow and the annual festival lo develop to its current position. The Trustees meet bi-monthly, with a programme of dates planned throughout the year. The Co-Directors attend all meetings. There is an annual AGM. Minutes are taken at each meeting and circulated within one week of the meeting. Board papers are prepared and circulated one week in advance of meetings. An annual away day is held with board and staff to review progress and discuss proposals and activities for the year ahead. The Trustees attend the annual Creatives Meeting we hold with our partners, writers, artists, volunteers and communities. The Trustees are: Dr Stuart Borthwick, published author and Head of Studenl Governance at Liverpool John Moores University with a background in inter disciplinary cultural studies. Penny Feeny, besl-selling author, formerly on boards of Liverpool Everyman Playhouse and Brouhaha International. Lisa M¢Mullan, Director for Development and Consultancy for The Women's Organisation, qualified social accountant and auditor. Emy Onuora, author of Pitch Black.. The Story of Black British Footballers and co-author of Great War lo Race Riots, Equalities officer for Liverpool City Combined Authority.
DSIgn Envdope ID". 9SF93209E7417&8Dj9ffj9sS3F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Name Writing on Ihe Wall Limited 04875589 Company number Charity number Registered office 1098868 Windsor Street Library Windsor Street Liverpool L8 1XF Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees who are also its directors. Members are elected by Annual General Meetings of the members of the council in accordance with the Articles of Association. Trustees P Amann Dr S Borthwick R Donaldson P Feeny L McMu112n E Onuora (Resigned 31 st July 2025) {Resigned 29th September 2025) Se¢retary Independent Examiner Ms M Heneghan Mrs Ying Huang, ACCA clo LCVS 151 Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2AH Bankers CD-Operative Bank PIC Business Direcl PO Box 250 Skelmersdale WN8 6wr Signed on behalf of the Board of Trustees PottuS*Thedby' A2542 L MCul1 _ trustee an 17 Decembei 2025 Date 12
Docusign Envdope ID 98F9320WOE704175-fjD3W695S3F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES, RESPONSIBILITIES Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the slate of affairs of the charitable company as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure, for the financial year. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees should follow best practice and.. select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently. observe the methods and principle in the Charities SORP. makejudgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue as a going COnrn. state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject lo any material departure disclosed and explained in the financial statements. The Trustees are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose wilh reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and delection of fraud and other irregularities. The financial statements have been prepared in accordan with the charity's trust deed, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended practi applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable the UK and Republic of Ireland published IFRS 102) (effective 1 St January 20191. By Order of the Board MS M Heneghan Company Secretary Windsor Streel Library Windsor Streel Liverpool L8 1XF Date.. 17 DecÉmber 2025
DSIgn Envelope ID" 98F922og-OE70-4175-8D39-69553F754FAD I tAAlVlINtM"J p(tYutf r TO THE TRUSTEES OF WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED I report on the accounts of the charitable company for the year ended 31st March 2025, which are sel out on pages 15 to 28. The trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law} are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The trustees consider that an audit is nol required for this year under section 144121 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){bl of the 2011 Act, and to state whether particular malters have come to my attention. My examination was carried out in accordance with general Diieclions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a Comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the eviden 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. Res ective res onsibilities of trustees and examiner Basis ofinde examiners re endent ort In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention.. 11} which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material respect, the requiremenls.. to keep accounting records in accordan with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006., and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice.. Accounting and Reporting Charities have not been met., or (2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Inde endent examiners statement Name: Mrs Ying Huang Relevant professional qualification or body.. ACCA Address.. clo LCVS 151, Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2AH 17 D8c&mber 2025 Dated.. 14
Docusion Envelow ID. 8BF93209-OE70-4175-SD39-69583F754FAD VVNI I ITh1 VVALL LIIVII I ttu STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (including Income & Expenditure) ST THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Notes Unrestricted Restricted Fund5 Funds 2025 2025 Total 2025 Total 2024 Income and endovmients from: Donations and legacies Charitable activities Investments 3a 3b 119,222 288,280 4,198 119,222 288,280 4,198 78,509 728,987 2,859 Total income 411,700 411,700 810,355 Expenditure on: Charitable activities 428,071 27,309 453,380 581,072 Total expenditure 426,071 27,309 453,380 581,072 Net lexpenditure)lin¢ome movement in funds 114,371) {27,3091 (41,6801 229,283 Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought forward 10,11 669,650 28,309 697,959 468,676 Total funds carried forward 9-11 655,279 1,000 656,279 697,959 The notes on pages 18 to 28 form part of these accounts. All the above amounts relate to continuing activities of the charitable company. 15
Docusign Ellve1o ID. 88F93209-OE704175-8D3949553F754FAD VVKI I U]¥ I VVALL Lllvll I tu BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31ST MARCH 2025 Company Reg No: 04675589 Notes 31¥t March 2025 315t March 2024 Fixed assets: Tangible fixed assets Intangible fixed assets 5,823 1,000 6,944 2,000 6,823 8,944 Current assets: stock Debtors Bank and cash balance 7,039 17,200 636,876 4,774 62,042 635,596 661,115 702,412 Current liabilities". Creditors." amounts falling due within one year (11,659) {13,397} Net current assets 649,456 689.015 Total assets less Current liabilities 656,279 697,959 Funds Unreslricled funds Restricted income funds 10, 11 10, 12 655,279 1,000 669,650 28,309 656,279 697,959 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS102). These accounts have been prepared in accordan with the provisions applicable lo small companies subject to the small companies, regime and in accordance with FRS102 SORP. For the period covered by these accounts the company was entitled to exemption under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating lo small companies. No merrbers have required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006. The trustees, who are the directors of the company, acknowledge their responsibility for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect lo accounting records and the preparation of financial statements. Approved by the Board on and signed on their behalf by.. POtuSHèd by. L Mcmullan - Trustee Date . 17 December 2025 16-
DoGusign EnveloFt ID. 98F93209-OE7D-4175-8D3s9sS3F754FAD VVKI I UP4 1 VVALL Lllvll I tu STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025 Notes 31st March 2025 31st March 2024 Cash flows from operating activities Cash generated from operations 16 7,771 220,067 Investing activitie5 Purchase of tangible fixed assets {6,491) Net cash (used inl investing activities (6,491) Net cash generated from financing activities Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 1,280 220,067 Cash and Cash equivalents at beginning of year 635,596 415,529 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 636,876 635,596 Represented by: 31st March 2025 31st March 2024 Cash at bank and in hand 636,876 635,596 17-
Do[Sign Envelope ID. 98F93209-OE70J17&8D39-69553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 SY 1. LIMITED LIABILITY The Charity is a company limited by guarantee. Each member's liability is limited to £1. 2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of Accounting The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise slated in the relevant nolelsl to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's trust deed, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordan with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland published IFRS 102) effective 1 St January 2019. The accounts are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statemenls are rounded lo the nearest £. Going concern At the time of approving the accounts, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charitable company has adequate reserves to continue in operational existen for the foreseeable future. The Trustees are confident that the levels of liquidity and free reserves will not affect the charity's operations. Thus, the Trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the accounts. Fund accounting Unrestricted funds are the Charitable Company's free reserves available for the trustees to apply in accordance with the charitable company's charitable objectives. Restricted funds are subject lo specific restrictive conditions imposed by the donor. All restricted funds are accounted for as restricted income and expenditure for the purposes is charged to the fund. Income recognition All income is recognised On the charity has entitlement lo the income, there is sufficient certainly of receipt and so it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. Donations and legacies comprise of donations and general grants which are recognised in the accounts when received, with the exception of known legacies which are accounted for when their receipt is certain. Income from charitable activities is recognised on an accrual's basis except for grants receivable, which are recognised on the date on which their unconditional payment is confirmed by the donor. Income from investment relates to bank interest received and is recognised when the amount is certain. Expenditure recognition Liabilities are recognised a8 soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charitable company lo Ihat expenditure, it is probable that settlement will be required, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All expenditure is accounted for on an accrual basis. All expenses, including support costs and governance costs, are allocated or apportioned tci the applicable expenditure headings in the Statement of Financial Activities. Support and governance costs are applied to unrestricted funds unless specifically included in the restrictions, as specified by the donor. 18
DSlO Envelopolo. 98F93209-OE7(k417MD3969553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 315t MARCH 2025 Expenditure on charitable activities relates to the operation of the charity comprising of direct charitable expenditure to meet the objectives of the charitable company. Support and governance costs relate to the management and operation of the organisation and also compliance with constitutional and slatulory requirements in producing the annual report. These are dealt with in the Statement of Financial Activities when payment has been approved by the charitable company. Stock Stock comprises books produced by the charitable company. The value of the stock is held at net realisable value as some books are given away for free whilst others are sold. Tangible Fixed Assets Capital expenditure of £500 and above is slated in the balance sheel at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided to write off the cost of each asset over ils expected useful life as below.. Equipment Fixtures & Fittings Computers & Equipment Intangible Fixed Assets Capital expenditure is treated as a fixed asset and amortised to write off each asset over its estimated useful life as follows. 330/0 per annurn stiaight line basis 250/0 per annurn reducing balance basis 33 /0 per annum straight line basis Website 200/0 per annum straight line basis Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-lerm liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Financial instruments The charity has elected to apply the provisions 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 party lo 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 lo sel off the recognised amounts and there is an intention lo settle on a net basis or lo realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. Basic financial assets Basic financial assets, which include deblors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amorlised. Basic financial liabilities Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaclion, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilitie8 classified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. 19-
[kus1gn Envelo ID.. 98F93209-0E7417&D8948SS3F7s4FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 3181 MARCH 2025 Derecognition of financial liabilities Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. CritTcal ac¢ounting estimates and judgements In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities Ihat 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 are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting eslirnates are recognised in the year in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that year, or in the year of the revision and future years where the revision affects both current and future years. Taxation Income and gains are exempt from taxation as they are received and applied for charitable purposes only. The charitable company benefits from various exemptions from taxation afforded by tax legislation and is not liable to corporation tax on income or gains falling within those exemptions. 3. Donations and endowments from Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2025 2025 Total Funds 2025 Total Funds 2024 a Donations and legacies Donations General grants 22,250 96,972 22,250 96,972 437 78,072 119,222 119,222 78,509 Donalions and legacies income for year end 2024 related wholly to unrestricted fund. b. Charitable activities Book and Bar sales Box office income Cornmissions and sales Garfield Weston Foundation Liverpool City Council - Culture Arts Investmenl Programme Mayors Fund Sponsorship 6,577 15,143 266,510 6,577 15,143 266,510 4,298 9,148 644,116 20,000 20,935 26,490 4,000 50 50 288,280 288,280 728,987 Income from charitable activities for year end 2024 comprised £661,562 for unrestricted funds and £67,425 relates to restricted funds. 20-
DoGU5ign Envelope ID. 98F9320941E70-4175-8D39-89553F154FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2025 2025 Total Funds 2025 Total Funds 2024 Investments Bank Interest 4,198 4,198 2,859 Investments Income for year end 2024 related wholly to unreslricted funds. 4. Expenditure on Charitable Activities Direct Charitable Expenditure Support & Governance Costs Total 2025 Total 2024 The provision of festivals, events, and activities lo promote the art and practise of writing 354,102 99,278 453,380 581,072 Analysed as follows.. 2025 2024 Direct charitable expenditure.. Staff salary costs Pension Artists cosls Tutors Equipment Project materials Venue hire Volunteer expenses Website cosls Print and design Publicity and marketing costs Travel expenses 233,934 8,829 42,630 29,011 453 229 6,263 11,869 642 9,913 7,479 2,850 217,781 8,098 53,409 53,356 329 813 27,745 8,402 221 29,268 15,463 2,249 354,102 417,134 21
Do¢u$ign Envelope ID.. 98F93209E7c4l7s-8D3695s3F7S4FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 315t MARCH 2025 2025 2024 Support & govemance costs Staff salary costs Pension Office running Costs Insurance Rent and rates HR Support Legal costs Bank charges Community support Consultancy fees Staff expenses Training Subscriptions and licences Trustees, expenses Loss of disposal of tangible fixed asset Finance support HMRC interest Pension interest Payroll fees Accountancy Amortisalion Depreciation 58,284 2,660 3,687 1,069 7,000 53,363 2,443 3,144 1,023 5,400 5,580 163 139 460 36,636 11,538 22,263 1,984 539 1,353 304 2,387 34 1,500 4,364 39 9628 22 173 369 678 1,328 1,000 7,439 576 1,352 1,000 12,291 99,278 163,938 Total expenditure on charitable activities 453,380 581,072 £27,309 (2024.. £49,625) of the above expenditure relates to restricted funding. b. Staff cost 2025 2024 Salaries Social security costs Pension costs 270,212 22,006 11,489 251,466 19,678 10,541 303,707 281,685 c. Particulars of employees The average number of employees during the year 8.00 (2024." 8.00}, and calculated on the basis of full-time eqLJivalents, was as follows.. 2025 6.67 2024 7.55 Charitable activities Two employee received emoluments of bebNeen £60,000 10 £70,000 during Ihe year {2024.' nil) -22-
usvJn Envdope ID. 98F9320oE7fv4l75D3g&553F7S4FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2025 The Trustees are not remunerated for their services and are not included in the above number of employees. Oul-of-pocket expenses were reimbursed lo one trustee in the year £2212024.. 1 trustee £181 }. 5. Tangible fixed assets Equipment Computer Equipment Fixtures & Fittings Total Cost Brought forward at 1st April 2024 Additions during the year Disposals during Ihe year 28,127 15,758 6,491 (9,6621 582 44,467 6,491 () (9,662) Balance at 31 St March 2025 28,127 12,587 582 41,296 Accumulated DeprecTation Brought forward at 151 April 2024 Charge for the year Disposals during the year 22,328 5,799 14,643 1,632 {9,4891 552 37,523 7,439 () (9,489) Balance al 31st March 2025 28,127 6,786 560 35,473 Net Book Value at 318t March 2025 5,801 22 5,823 Net Book Value at 3181 March 2024 5,799 1,115 30 6,944 6. Intangible fixed assets Website Total Cost Brought fonNard a11sI April 2024 Additions 5,000 5,000 Balance as at 31st March 2025 5,000 5.000 Accumulated Amortisation Brought forward al 1, April 2024 Charge for the year 3,000 1,000 3,000 1,000 Balance as at 31st March 2025 4,000 4,000 Net Book Value at 31st March 2025 1,000 1,000 Net Book Value al 31st March 2024 2,000 2,000 -23-
DLrAJ&gn Envelope ID.. 98F932094)E70-4175-8D39-69553F754FAO WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2025 7. Stock Stock comprises books produced by the charity, to be sold or given away for free. 2025 2024 Stock 7,039 4,774 8. Debtors 2025 2024 Debtors Prepayrnents 16,475 725 61,335 707 17,200 62,042 9. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2025 2024 Accruals Tax and social security Pension 1,903 7,500 2,256 1,841 9,910 1,646 11,659 13,397 10. Analysis of Net Assets betweon Funds 2025 Tangible Fixed Assets Intangible Net Current Fixed Assets Assets Total Unrestricted Funds General Fund 5,823 350,814 356,637 Designated Funds Designated Reserves 298,642 298,642 5,823 649,456 655,279 Restricted Funds Arts Council Recovery Fund 1,000 1,000 Total funds 5,823 1,000 649,456 710,279 24-
Dasign Envdope ID." 98F9320WOE704175-eD39-69552F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2025 2024 Tangible Fixed Assets Intangible Net Current Fixed Assets Assets Total Unrestricted Funds General Fund Arts Council England 6,875 30 353,470 360,345 30 Designated Funds Designated Reserves 309,275 309,275 6,905 662,745 669,650 Restricted Funds Arts Council Recovery Fund ESF Community Giant- Next Chapter Garfield Weston Foundation Liverpool City Council - Festival Enhancement Programme Mayors Fund 2,000 2.000 39 39 20,000 20,ooa 1,353 4,917 1,353 4,917 39 2,000 26,270 28,309 Total funds 6,944 2,000 689.015 697,959 11. Unrestricted Funds Movements in the year Income Expenditure Transfer of funds Reserves at Beginning of year Reserves at end of year 2025 General Fund Arts Council England Liverpool CC CAIP 360,345 30 314,728 78,072 18,900 1329,D69) 178,102) 118,900) 10,633 356,637 Designated Funds Designated Reserves 309,275 110,6331 298,642 669,650 411,700 1426,071) 655,279 -25-
D<sign Envelope ID." 98F9320WOE7Ck4175-8D3949553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31tst MARCH 2025 Movements in the year Income Expenditure Transfer of funds Reserves at Beginning of year Reserves at end of year 2024 General Fund Arts Council England 41,427 859 570,516 78,072 1318,543) (78,901) 66,945 360,345 30 Designated Funds Designated Reserves L8 Archive Project Liverpool City Region National Museum Liverpool 281,878 9,696 22,024 27,397 309,275 (9,696) (22,024 {102,283) 102,283 94,342 (94,342) 458,167 742,930 (531,4471 669,650 General Fund is used to finance the charitable company's general activities as outlined in the Trustees, Report. Arts Council England - Contribution towards festival and core costs Liverpool CC CAIP - Contribution towards Story creative writing project Designated Funds Designated Reserves- Contribution towards the redundancy provision and three months, running costs and lease commitments. L8 Archive Project- For the delivery of the L8 Archive Project Liverpool City Region- For the delivery of Different Voices Shared Lives. National Museum Liverpool- For the delivery of the Dorothy Kuy8 Archive Projecl. Transfer of funds- Movement of the designated reserves, transfer profit lo core funds 26-
D¢Ku5vJTr Envelope ID. 98F93209-OE7N17&8D3949553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2025 12. Restricted Funds Movements in the year Income Expenditure Reserves at Beginning of year Reserves at End of year 2025 Arts Council Recovery Fund ESF Community Grant- Next Chapter Garfield Weston Foundation Liverpool City Council - Festival Enhancement Programme Mayors Fund 2,000 (1,000) {39) 120,000) (1,353) (4,9171 1,000 39 20,000 1,353 4,917 28,309 127,309) 1,000 Movements in the year Income Expenditure Reserves at Beginning of year Reserves at End of year 2024 Arts Council Recovery Fund ESF Community Grant- Next Chapter Garfield Weston Foundation Liverpool City Council - Culture Arts Investment Programme Liverpool City Council - Festival Enhancement Programme Mayors Fund National Lottery- Reaching Communities Paul Hamlyn Foundation Violence Reduction Partnership Arts & Culture 3,000 11,000) 2,000 239 1200) 39 20,000 20,935 20,000 140 121,075) 1,412 {59) (21,5731 (971 {5,525} 1961 1,353 4,917 26,490 97 5,525 96 10,509 67,425 (49,6251 28,309 Description of Funds These are monies given to the charitable company to be spent at the discretion of the Board of Trustees for specific charitable purposes, as follows.. Arts Council Recovery Fund - to help fa the challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic and lo ensure Wow has a sustainabSe future. ESF Community Learning Grant- Next chapter - Contribution to project to support writers and artists career development. Garfield Weston Foundation- Contribution towards Wow young Writers programme, Volunteers programme and core costs 27-
uSn EnveloKE ID. 98F93209.OE7fy417>8D3W9553F754FAD WRITING ON THE WALL LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31$1 MARCH 2025 Llverpool City Council, Culture Arts Investment Programme- To support Wows capacity to deliver the annual programme of events, aclivilies, and festivals. Liverpool City Council, Festival Enhancement Programme festival. Cor)tribution towards annual Mayors Fund - Contribution to Black History Month Festival for Wow and for external commissions. National Lottery, Reaching Communities- Conlribution towards'writers Bloc, project. Paul Hamlyn Foundation- Contribution towards Super Heroes Words are our Powerl, schools- based project. Violence Reduction Partnership Arts & Culture- Wow Young Writers - Match funding to help develop Wowyoung Writers 13. Operating Lease Commitments The only financial commitment is Ihree-month noti payment of rent of £1,000. {2024.' notice £1,000} 14. Related Party Transactions There were no material related party transactions during the year which require disclosure {2024= none). 15. Guarantee5 As at 31. March 2025, 6 members had given a guarantee of £1 each in the event of the company winding-up. Total.. £6 (2024.. 6 Members Total.. £6} 16. Cash generated from operations. 2025 2024 IUsed)Isurplus for the year (41,680} 229,283 Adjustments for: Depreciation Amortisation Loss on disposal of tangible fixed asset 7,439 1,000 173 12,291 1,000 1,353 Movements in working capital: Ilncreaseldecreasel in stocks Ilncreaselldecrease in debtors Increasel(decrease) in creditors {2,265) 44,842 11,738) 8.874 135,3011 2,567 Cash generated from operations 7,771 220,067 28-