11 li Jb.. D&ISg Annual Report CFt&IN Aurl8m & N•urodiv•rslty 1st April 2024- 31st March 2025 t4kn OPEN PASSIONATE INNOVATIVE Soltbufn Swl Scho01 Sollb INCLUSIVE Surf Sc AMBITIOUS EMPOWERING D6I1S cpt&IN CONTENTS View from Chair of Trustees Pages4-5 CEO Report Pages6-8 Presenting Daisy Chain Page 9 Hitting the Headlines Page10 Children Services Pages11-14 Family Services Pages15-16 Adult Services Pages17-18 Training Pages19- 20 Retail & Social Enterprise Pages 21- 24 Volunteering Page 25 Fundraising & Events Pages 26- 27 Policy& Campaign Work Page 28 Plans for Future Periods (2025-26) Page 29- 30 Safeguarding & Quality Assurance Page 31 Structure, Governance & Management Pages 32- 33 Finance Review Pages 34- 36 Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities Page 37 D6llSg cpt&lN POSTCODE PEOPLE'S• POSTCODE CHII r)RFN LOTTERY• TRUST VIEW FROM CHAIROF TRUSTEES The pasi year has been one of ambiiion. growth and deepening impact for Daisy Chain and the communities we serve. The Irusiees confirm Ihai we have had due regard 10 Ihe Charity Commission s guidance on public benefit in all our decisions and planning. Our chariiable purpose 10 support and empower autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families is at Ihe heart of every aciivity we deliver. We are saiisf led Ihai our work provides clear, ideniif iable public benef li by improving wellbeing, inclusion, confidence and life opportunities for those we serve, and by promoting wider understanding and accepiance wiihin our communiiies. As a Board, we ve supported a period of real momenium, f rom expanding our services and geographical reach 10 laying Ihe groundwork for new projects that ref lect both the scale of need and the sirength of Daisy Chain s response. One example is the £1.5 million National Loiiery funding secured for Neuthread, a programme enabling neurodivergeni individuals 10 lake Ihe lead in developing creaiive, eihical responses 10 textile waste and climate anxiety. While the programme launched after year-end, the preparaiory work this year represenis a bold slep forward in combining environmenial aciion wilh inclusion. We also had Ehe greai pleasure of welcoming represeniaiives f rom People s Posicode Lottery 10 our siie in May, a chance 10 show how Iheir long-sianding support is Iransforming lives every day. At Board level, governance has remained a core focus. We welcomed several new trustees through an open and Iransparent recruiimeni process, sirengthening our leadership with expertise across H R, educaiion, f inance, environmeni, healih and public life: Jenni Stockwell, H R expert and Chair of the Operations Committee Mathew Harris, properry and susiainabiliry lead, Chair of Ihe Environment Committee Samaniha Eason, educaiion specialisi and Safeguarding Lead Alex Cunningham, former M P Andrew Gilmore, Chartered Financial Planner David Spencer, Business Partnership Manager Dr Vijay Tandle, Consultant Community Paediatrician [continued] D6llSg cpt&lN VIEW FROM CHAIROF TRUSTEES This followed a full board skills analysis audit in January 2025, which informed our recruitment priorities and identified a future training plan to ensure all trustees new and existing continue to develop Ihe skills needed ro mainiain robusi and enduring governance. Our inducEion and ongoing development practices are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain effective and aligned to best practice. We also said goodbye to several dedicated trustees Jessica Lenham, Lesley Clode, Sean Lawless, Andrew Kindness, David Norris and Martin Pout whose time, heart and insight we deeply appreciaie. The work of the chariiy would noi be possible wiihoui Ihe commitment and leadership of our CEO, Neeraj Sharma, and Ihe dedicaiion of our Direciors. Senior Leadership Team, siaff and volunteers across every site, in every role. Finally, a heartfeli Ihank you 10 everyone who supports Daisy Chain frorn individual donors and community groups to corporate partners and major funders. In particular, we extend our thanks EO players of People's Posicode Lottery for Iheir coniinued Iransformaiional support, and 10 Ehe National Lottery for their commitment to innovation through Neuthread. Together, your support changes lives every single day. Duane Hanson Chair of Trusiees ETr1 WHrrE GOODS CH&IN (i&lS* D611Sg cpt&lN CEO REPORT As I reflect on 2024-25.1 am immensely proud of what Daisy Chain has achieved, and of the resilience, innovation and compassion that define our charitys culture. This year, we supported over 7,400 families, worked wilh 976 children and young people, and delivered services 10 713 auiisiic or neurodivergeni adulis across Ihe North Easi and Yorkshire. These are more Ihan numbers, they represenr lives changed. furures unlocked, and communities srrengthened. None of this would have been possible withoui the generosiry of our funders. I want to offer a hearrfelr thank you 10 the players of People s Postcode Lottery. Your coniinued support has been pivoial in helping us deliver life-changing work, expand our reach, and provide Ihe consisiency our beneficiaries rely on. The review was conducted Ihrough a structured away day involving rrusiees, execuiive leaders, operaiional leads and individuals wilh lived experience. incorporaied SWOT and PEST analysis, beneficiary insighr. performance benchmarking, and horizon scanning. Crucially, it provided a plattorm for newly appointed trustees to understand our delivery model, challenge assumptions, and contribute meaningfully to shaping rhe straiegy they are now accountable for. A Leadership Team United by Purpose l am fortunate to work alongside an exceptional senior leadership team. Jennifer Hewirt, Direcior of Services, coniinues 10 shape and refine our delivery model, ensuring Ihar every programme is evidence-informed. person- centred, and impaccful. This approach ensured Ihe plan remains aciive, inclusive and evidence led, nor a siaiic documeni, bui a siraiegic iool 10 guide resource allocaiion, service developmeni, and organisaiional prioriiies. li also strengrhened ownership and accountabiliry at all levels of governance and delivery. Johnathon Pickard, Direcror of Income Generarion, has led the strategic development of our income streams, securing funding for new seNices and growing our reiail presence ai a lime of significanr economic challenge. His leadership and Ihe dedicarion of our reiail ieams have ensured Daisy Chain remains boih susiainable and mission-led. Managing Risk and Building Resilience Daisy Chain mainiains a comprehensive organisaiional risk regisier Ihar covers all operaiional and financial aspecrs of Ihe charity. This regisier is reviewed monihly by Ihe Senior Leadership Team, wilh oversighi from borh Ehe Operations and Finance Commircee and rhe full Board of Trustees. Strategic Planning and Review In line wirh our governance framework and commitment 10 sirategic delivery, we undertook a formal review of our Ihree-year business plan during the year. Originally rewritten in 2024, Ihe plan ouilines our roadmap Ihrough 10 2028. This years review focused on two prioriiies.. assessing Year performance againsi defined KPIS. and siress-iesiing the relevance of our longer-rerm goals in lighr of changing beneficiary needs and operating conditions. Throughout 2024-25, Ihis structure was vital in guiding key decisions. For example, rhe register tracked early warnings around public sector funding reductions, enabling us 10 proaciively model service adiusimenis and iesi financial resilience againsi differeni income scenarios. li also informed recruiimeni iimelines and parrnership choices, balancing ambirion wirh sust3inabiliry. D6llSg cpt&lN [continued] CEO REPORT In iandem, safeguarding risks were moniiored closely, wilh audii and case file sampling exercises confirming coniinued compliance wilh besi praciice. Environmenral and repucarional risks were also actively managed, especially in the expansion of our posicode reach and growrh in retail operations. Our school ouireach and Irair)ing programme sirengihened inclusive praciice across 20 schools, helping siaff better undersiand Ihe needs of auiisiic and neurodivergenr pupils. In our adult services, My Life My Community, our regional empowermeni programme, was independently evaluaied in December 2024. The programme aims to reduce loneliness and social isolarion, national concern for auiisiic adulis who face some of Ihe highesi raies of menial healih challenges, self-harm, and isolaiion. This structured, mulii-tiered approach ensures that risk managemenr is not theoreiical, bur an embedded part of ou r leadership culiure. By linking risk direcily 10 siraiegic decision-making. we coniinue 10 build a resilieni, agile organisaiion Ihai is prepared for complexiry while staying firmly rooted in ourvalues and purpose. The evaluator concluded.. -Individual case studies have described the profound impact the programme has had on improved confidence. independence and wellbeing. Participants have formed meaningful friendships. sociolised outside of the gmup, ond mode progress on their personol gool&- Demonstrating Impact Our work continues to creaie tangible, lasting ouicomes Ihai go beyond reach, improving wellbeing, confidence, inclusion, and life chances for neurodivergeni individuals and Iheir families. These are not light-rouch outcomes. They represenr deep change. Behind every percentage point and case srudy is a real person- a parent no longer feeling alone, an aduli gaining confidence to speak openly, or a young person being undersiood in school for the first lime. This year, our Keyworking service, which supports families experiencing signif icanr crisis, often involving risk of hospital admission, school exclusion, or mental healih breakdown, achieved standout results= This is whai real impaci looks like, and li is why we remain fully commiiied 10 measuring, sirengihening, and scaling Ehe difference we make. 671. 1001. reported si9niticant improvements in thèir homo and family life reported they now have the rightprofessional 8UPPOrt in plac& Environmental and Social Responsibility In line with our values, we have embedded environmenial responsibiliry across our operations. -1 wish we had met you at the beginning of our journey. Everything would have been so differenL- This year, we compleied an iniernal ESG audii and esiablished an Environmenial Committee 10 moniior our carbon foorprinr and drive change, parricularly in response to the waste generated by our social enterprise stores. Porent supported through the Keyworking seNice In our Auiism Ceniral peer support programme. we sei bold annual targer to ensure rhar 25 percenr of families reached came from seldom-heard, communities. We are proud ro report that we significantly exceeded this, reaching 40 percent. We have soughi funding to process surplus textiles and reduce landfill, not only 10 safeguard the environment, bui 10 creare meaningful opportuniiies for neurodivergenr individuals 10 lake posiiive aciion on climaie anxiery. Inclusion and susiainabiliry can and musi go hand in hand. D6llSg cpt&lN [continued] CEO REPORT Expanding Our Reach Working in Partnership with the Board Daisy Chain conrinues to grow wirh purpose. From Teesside to Gateshead, Sunderland ro West Yorkshire. our seNices are now supporting individuals and families across an expanding number of postcodes. areas where demand is high and access to support is often limited. As CEO, I continue to be supporred and consrructively challenged by our Board of Trusrees. Our Chair, Duane Hanson. leads the Board with energy, insight and a deep understanding of both governance and lived experience. He works tirelessly to strengthen board composition and embed oversighr strucrures that ensure Daisy Chain remains accountable. foNard-looking and responsive to rhe communities we seNe. His progressive mindset and return to Ihe charity have broughi renewed focus 10 governance. siraiegy and crusiee developmeni. With every new community we reach. we carry foNard the same commitment.. to deliver high-qualiry. inclusive. and empowering suppori rhai rransforms lives. Assurance, Monitoring and Systems Strategic Priority for the Year Ahead: Employment and nclusion Daisy Chain is commiiied 10 ensuring Ihai our ouicomes are noi only meaningful bui measurable. Our assurance and moniioring sysiems, including a siaie-of-lhe-art CRM. designaied safeguarding infrasrruciure. and qualiry assurance (QA) processes. have been developed over receni years and are now fully embedded in our operarional culiure. In 2024-25, Ihese sysrems enabled us io= Looking ahead. our srraregic focus for 2025-26 is employability. Too many neurodivergenr individuals coniinue ro face inequality, nor only in gaining employmeni, bui in susiaining ii. Thai musi change. We are working closely wilh employers co equip rhem wilh Ihe insighi, iools and confidence 10 build inclusive. neuro affirming workplaces, environmenrs where individuals feel safe, valued, and able 10 rhrive_ Track and analyse over 8,000 Suppo￿ inieracrions across programmes and regions Ideniify safeguarding rrends in re81 rime. informing Iraining prioriEies and operarional alerts Reporr ouicome dar8 across services, including My Life My Communiry and Keyworking, wilh confidence and accuracy Evidence improvemenis in home life. wellbeing. and inclusion Ihrough iools such as Ouicome Siars and posr- support surveys Our approach includes developing rraining, building partnerships in key seciors such as retail, and expanding supporred parhways 10 help neurodivergeni individuals noi only access jobs, bui succeed in Ihem. To our staff, volunreers. partners, funders 2nd rhe families we serve, Ih2nk you. Your rrust, Passion and belief in our mission have carried us rhrough anoiher exiraordinary year. We are shaping a sociery where difference is noi only accepied bui celebr21ed, where every neurodivergeni individual recognised for Iheir srrengih, value and porenrial. Our QA Lead conducred iargeied iniernal audirs Ihis year. including case file sampling 2nd policy compliance checks, sirengihening our confidence in Ihe consisiency and qualiry of delivery. Our safeguarding sysiems were exrernally reviewed and found 10 meei or exceed secior expeciarions_ Oversighr is rigorous.. safeguarding, CRM, and QA data are reviewed regularly by senior leaders 2nd reported ro Ihe Board Ihrough boih operaiional and rhemaiic reporrs. In delivering Ihese achievemenis, we remain guided by our chariiable purposes and our commiimeni 10 providing clear public benef li in line wiih Chariry Commission guidance. Wilh passion and deEerminaiion. On rhe environmenial side, we buili on prior success (including Ihe insrallarion of solar panels in Ihe previous year) by applying for further funding 10 process iexiile wasie and reduce18ndfill. Neeraj Sharma CEO Our ESG moniroring was sirengihened rhrough commirtee- led reviews and exiernal environmenial audii partnerships. These sysiems are noi siatic,. Ihey evolve in response 10 whal we learn. They have enabled us Ihis year 10 wiih confidence, demonstrate real impaci 10 funders. and proreci the safety and dignity of every person we support. D6llSg cpt&lN PRESENTING DAISY CHAIN The trustees present their annual report together with the audited f inancial statements of the charity for the period1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025. The annual report serves the purposes of both a trustees repori and a directors, repor[ under company law. The Irusiees confirm Ihai Ihe annual report and f inancial statements of the charitable company comply with the current statutory requirements, the requirements of the charitable company's governing documeni and the provisions of the Siatement of Recommended Praciice (SORP) applicable 10 chariiies preparing Iheir accounis in accordance WiEh the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2019). Since the charity qualifies as small under section 382 of the Companies Act 2006, the strategic report required of medium and large companies under the Companies Aci 2006 (Straiegic Report and Direciors, Report) Regulaiions 2013 has been omitted. Our shared vision isfor every person we support to live a life they enjoy and is meaningful to them at every stage. Our mission is to support and empower autistic and neurodivergent individuals through the provision of holistic person-centred services, whilst promoting training, wellbeing, inclusion and acceptance regionally and nationwide. 7,400+ 976 children and young people aceessed our services. families positively supported by our services. 1,188 1.1 appointmentsfor parents/carers through Autism Central. 713 4,654 parents supported by Family Support with 5,042 total contacts. adults a¢¢essed our services. D6llSg cpt6I1N HITTING THE HEADLINES & EXTERNAL RECOGNITION IMPACTFUL CASESTUDIES- HOW DAISY CHAIN HAS TRANSFORMED LIVES FUNDRAISING WITH A DIFFERENCEAT TEESSIDEINTERNATIONALAIRPORT CH&IN RECORD BREAKING GREAT NORTH RUN PARTICIPATION TRUSTEE FUNDRAISING CHALLENGE RAISES OVER £1,000 T8¢S •11$1111$5 AWAPDS 2024 AWARDED FOR OUR DIVERSITY AND GATESHEAD CHARITY MEGASTORE INCLUSION ATTHETEES BUSINESS WINS BUSINESS IN THECOMMUNITY AWARDS 2024 AWARD D6llSg cpt&lN Read our latest news 10 SCAN ME CHILDREN'S SERVICES In the 2024/25 financial year our services have been accessed by 976 autistic or neurodivergent children and young people and 713 auiisiic or neurodivergent adulis. In addition, we have positively impacred Ihe lives of 7,473 families across Ihe North Easi and Yorkshire. Social opportunities for children and young people In 2024-25, 923 children and young people attended our clubs and activity programme, including after-school sessions, Ihemed clubs such as Dungeons & Dragons and Foresi School, inclusive cycling sessions, and community day trips. These activities are designed to build social confidence, nurture friendships, and reduce isolation, in direct support of our strategic aim to increase inclusion and wellbeing for auiisiic and neurodivergeni young people. Thanks to Ihe generous support of PD Ports, we also provided Ihree overnight residentials at Peat Rigg Aciivity Cenire. For many parEicipanis, Ihis was Iheir firsi experience away from home. Parenis and carers consistently told us these opportunities increased their child's independence, helped them try new activities, and strengthened Iheir peer relationships: 66 "We honestly didn't think our son would manage a nighr away from home, but he came back from Peac Rigg glowing wiih pride. He s siill ialking aboui Ihe high ropes and rhe friends he made. For Ihe firsi lime, he feels part of someihing-and for us. as parenis, Ihai s everyihing. Supportforthe Wider Family Our family activity days remain a much-loved part of our offer, with 375 families iaking parE in over 1,500 sessions Ihroughoui Ihe year. In addiiion, thanks to generous funding from Amazon, we were able to provide 35 families with free, fully supported trips during Ihe school holidays to desiinaiions such as Whiiby and Adveniure Valley. These ouiings offered families the chance to create special memories together, confident in the knowledge thai everything has been iaken care of-and Ihai Irained siaff are on hand 10 provide support if needed. children and young people a¢¢essed lubs and activities 66 "My daughier is pre-verbal, has frequeni melidowns and is prone 10 absconding. She had Ihe besi cime and for Ihe firsi time in nearly 6 years I was able to enjoy a day out with my daughter wiihoui rhe crippling anxiery I normally gei when going to places away from home." 375 farnilies accessed activity days D6llSg cpt&lN CHILDREN'S SERVICES Tackling Food Poverty We're delighied 10 have exiended our support for financially vulnerable families to cover all school holiday periods this year. Thanks to generous funding from Stockion Borough Council's Holiday Aciiviry Fund, 50 children and young people were able 10 access free, enriching holiday activities-each paired with a nutritious meal. children a¢¢essed free holiday activities with meals Our programme included a variery of inclusive and engaging experiences such as sensory play, cooking, animal therapy, and community-based adveniures like paddleboarding and kayaking. At Christmas, every family who attended received a festive hamper packed with healihy food, seasonal crafts, and Ihoughrful gifts- adding a litEle exira joy during whai can be a financially and emoiionally challenging time. Alongside Ihese aciiviiies, parenis and carers were also connecied with our Autism Central peer education programme, ensuring the whole family received meaningf ul, iailored suppo￿. 66- "Myson had asked 10 irypaddleboarding back in Ociober, bui I had 10 explain Ihar we simply couldn't afford it. When he got to go through Daisy Chain, he was over the moon-and honestly, so was l. I can't rhank you enough.- Personal Development & Therapeutic Packages to Support Education Our placemenis programme coniinues 10 offer life-changing support for auiisiic and neurodivergeni children and young people. In the past year we provided over10.000 hours of support to 87 children and young people and iniroduced placemenrs for primary school aged pupils in order to better supporE wilh IhaE difficuli Iransiiion 10 secondary school and meei Ihe growing need. Through Irauma- informed, person-centred care, we have witnessed transformational outcomes for young people who were previously isolated or at risk. 66 Our son only managed 5 monrhs in a mainstream secondary- his [challenges wilh his aulism and Tourette's] were so bad ai this poinr, that he was physicallysick and no longer our happy boy. Fast forward 10 now and he is Ihriving. We honesrly never Ihoughi we would be ai Ihis poini- iijusc shows that with the correctsupport and encouragement, those with SEN can achieve whatever they want." D6llSg cpt&lN 12 CHILDREN'S SERVICES School Outreach & Engagement This year marked a significant expansion of our school outreach support, Ihanks 10 our commissioned work under the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PI NS) project. As part of Ihis initiaiive, we worked wilh 20 schools across Redcar & Cleveland, providing in-depih observations, evaluating existing praciices and offering iailored feedback. This bespoke support focused on everything from emotional regulaiion and classroom communication, 10 sensory needs and posiiive behaviour support straiegies. Following our visits, each school received a comprehensive feedback report, a classroom visuals pack, and iools to help embed sustainable, inclusive praciice. Siaff were also supported Ihrough individual coaching and Ihe offer of follow-up support. "The Daisy Chain siaff have nurrured wonderful and positive relaiionships wilh our srudenis, and Ihe siudenis feel comfortable enough to speak about Ihings they have previously held back." Essential Site Improvements We remain commiiied 10 providing the very best environment for Ihe children and young people who access our services-and this year, weve invesied in key siie improvements to ensure our faciliiies remain inclusive, accessible and safe. A key highlighi has been Ihe compleie redevelopmeni of our soft play area-a space Ihai has been ai Ihe hear[ of our services for over15 years. For many auiisiic children, soft play provides a safe and calming way 10 explore, regulaie, and develop viial moEor and social skills. Il's a place where Ihey can play freely, build confidence, and enjoy sensory experiences in an environmeni Ihai feels secure and familiar. Over lime, however, Ihe space had aged, and Ihe exieni of repairs needed were beyond our financial reach. (coni) D6llSg cpt&lN 13 CHILDREN'S SERVICES Whilst it remained deeply valued by families, we recognised that it was no longer fully meeting the needs of our growing and diverse communiry. Thanks 10 generous funding from Cummins, we've now been able 10 design and insiall a brand-new, larger, and more inclusive soft play area. The new space offers more room for older children and young people, and inEroduces inieraciive elements that encourage movement. exploration and sensory play. In addition to soft play, we ve also upgraded our sensory room, transforming li into a siaie-of-lhe-art space designed to support emorional regularion and offer a safe space for children who are feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. These newly improved spaces will play a key role in helping us fuiure proof our services, allowing us 10 continue to deliver high-quality, therapeutic experiences for children and young people for many years to come. Continual development of animal therapy facilities Research coniinues 10 show Ihai inieraciion wiih animals can have a powerful therapeutic effect-offering companionship, emotional regulation, sensory input, and opportuniiies for non- verbal communicaiion. For many auiisiic and neurodivergeni individuals, animals provide a unique sense of calm. safety, and understanding thai can be Iruly transformative. Our therapeutic farm and petting barn remain central to our offer, and over the pasi year weve further enhanced Ihis provision by iniroducing a new Repiile Club, offering children and young people the chance to safely interact with and care for our exoiic animals and improving our dedicaied sensory space 10 allow for one-10-one animal-assisied Iherapy sessions. These developmenis ensure our animal offer is noi only engaging and fun, but also purposeful and empowering- building confidence, reducing anxiety, and opening up new ways for children and young people 10 conneci wiih Ihe world around them. 66 'Seeing my son inieraci wilh che animals has been noihing short of magical. They provide a sense of calm and understanding Ihat is hard ro pui inio words. He s more open, more relaxed, and more himself when he s wilh Ihem." D6llSg cpt&lN .14 FAMILY SERVICES Extension of Family Support This year, we were proud to support over 4,700 families across the Tees Valley and Sunderland, delivering more Ihan 5,000 one-to-one appointmenis and drop-in sessions-2,000 more Ihan the previous year. The ieam coniinues 10 meei Ihe growing needs of our families, providing support on everything from sensory challenges and emotional wellbeing to education and what to expect during the diagnosis process. We were thrilled to receive conf irmation of a three-year contract extension from the ICB for the Tees Valley element of the service, a powerful endorsement of the service s impaci and the trust families place in our support. 66 "After Ihe call ioday I had a bil of a cry-butjusr from relief. I finally feli undersiood.. 5,000. 1.1 appointments delivered tofamilies in Tees Valley 66 "I've received more helpful informaiion from one phone call thon I hove from monrhs of srruggling alone." Support for the families with the most complex needs This year, our Keyworker Team has delivered over 5,000 hours of personalised support to more Ihan 100 families with children and young people under Ihe age of 25 who were ai risk of crisis, school placement breakdown, or inpatient mental health admission. PALI Our keyworkers aci as a consisieni poini of coniaci-advocaiing for the family and coordinating their support across education, healih and social care services, ensuring Ihai Ihe child or young person's voice is heard. They also provide practical tools, helping Ihe child or young person 10 understand Ihemselves and Iheir diagnosis and supporting Iruly person-cenired planning. 5,000. We re proud 10 share Ihai, thanks 10 our support100/0 of families now feel Ihey have Ihe righi professional suppor[ in place and 67/ have reported significant improvements in their home and family life. hours o personalised keyworking support delivered 66 -1 wish we had met you at the beginning of ourjourney. Everything would have been so different.. D6llSg cpt&lN 15 FAMILY SERVICES Empowering families through lived experience Autism Central Autism Central, continues to be a vital source of peer-led support for families of autistic children and young people. This year, over 2,785 families engaged wirh the service, accessing one-10-one appoinimenis and a wide range of workshops, learning opportunities, and resources. Delivered by rrained peer educarors wilh lived experience. Auiism Ceniral offers boih emotional support and practical guidance-helping families feel less isolated and more conf ident in navigaiing diagnosis, educaiion, and everyday life. This year, we expanded into new areas including Leeds and York, increasing access and raising our profile across Ihe region. A key part of Ihe programme is ensuring accessibiliry for all families, particularly Ihose who may not traditionally engage with services. We re pleased to report that 40 % of the families supporied were classed as 'seldom heard., signif icanily exceeding our Eargei of 25/. To support the incredible people delivering Ihis work, we hosied our first Peer Educator Wellbeing Day, bringing our ieam iogeiher for learning and refleciion. Feedback f rom Ihe day was overwhelmingly positive: I work alone in Ihis role so having Ihis rime 10 conneci was really rewarding. It renewed my commirment and made me feel so proud to be a part of this programme. 401. of families classed as 'seldom heard. Gateshead Autism Hubs FAMILY QGate5 HlaBS ￿ c￿j￿1 Now fully embedded in the community, our Gateshead Auiism Hubs have supported over115 families Ihis year Ihrough a combinaiion of weekly drop-ins, learning opportunities, and peer support sessions. The Hubs offer safe, welcoming spaces for families ai all siages of their journey-whether newly navigating the diagnostic process or seeking longer-ierm support. With a dedicaied coordinaior in place, we've seen sieady growih in attendance and meaningful relationships formed between parents, carers, and professionals. In partnership with Gateshead ICB, we have also launched monthly Welcome Events for parents whose child has recently entered the diagnosiic paihway. These sessions help families feel less alone and more informed, with over 25 parents attending each event. D6llSg cpt&lN 16 ADULT SERVICES Wellbeing and mental health support 263 In 2024-25, our wellbeing service provided 1..1 and group-based supporE 10 263 auiisiic and neurodivergeni individuals aged15 and over. These sessions, which draw on holistic strategies such as mindfulness, mediiaiion, animal inieraction and nature-based aciiviiies, aim 10 build self-awareness, emoiional resilience and confidence. autistic or neurodivergent adults accessed holistic wellbeing support Feedback f rom participanis highlighis Ihe posiiive changes achieved, from feeling more able to express themselves to improved day-10-day coping siraiegies. This work direcily supports our siraiegic prioriry 10 sirengihen menial healih provision and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives. The sessions truly changed my eniire ouilook on life. I ve learned that I can be the real me. and I don'r need to mask anymore. Improving digital literacy and inclusion Through our Fairer Financial Communities programme, 217 autistic and neurodivergeni adulis gained praciical skills in digiial liieracy, online safery. benefiis advice and job search iechniques. The service also helped individuals access over £250,000 in previously unclaimed benefiis, improving financial siabiliry and reducing stress. These aciiviiies align wiih our siraregy 10 remove praciical barriers to independence and ensure no one is excluded from opportuniiies because of digiial or financial disadvantage. We coniinue 10 iailor delivery for Ihose from seldom-heard or marginalised groups, providing additional guidance, accessible resources and iargeted outreach. 217 people received bespoke digital skills support "I got the job and I siarr on Mondayl Thank you so much for all of your help- I definiiely couldn i have done ir wiihoui you." D6llSg cpt&lN 17 ADULT SERVICES Reducing loneliness and isolation Our clubs, activities and community empowerment initiative My Life My Community (MLMC) provided more than 2,500 inclusive sessions Ihis year, reaching 230 adulis across the Tees Valley and beyond. An independeni evaluaiion confirmed Ihai MLMC has reduced loneliness, increased community engagement and improved wellbeing for participants. Many have formed lasting friendships, become more aciive in Iheir communiiies, and developed the confidence 10 try new experiences. This work is a direci coniribuiion 10 our siraiegic goal of fosiering social inclusion and strengthening local networks of support. "Honesily [My Life My Communiry is] one of rhe best clubs I ve ever been lo. The people are kind, and you can feel Ihe conneciion. I didn'i feel alone." 230 Adults have accessed My Life My Community Expansion of our post-16 support NEW From April 2025, we will launch a new posi-16 support service, funded by the ICB, to address gaps provision for auiisiic and neurodivergeni young people and adulis. The service will provide one-10-one support, drop-in sessions, and psychoeducaiion focused on self-understanding. This expansion reflecis our commiimeni 10 ensuring Ihai needs are met well beyond statutory education age, particularly for Ihose awaiiing assessmeni or siruggling 10 access appropriaie supporE. li D6llSg cpt&lN TRAINING In 2024-25, Daisy Chain s Iraining ieam delivered specialist auiism and neurodiversity Iraining 10 educaiion providers, employers, public secior ieams, communiry organisaEions, and auiisiic and neurodivergent individuals themselves. Across the year. we trained participants through face-ro-face sessions, online modules, and bespoke workshops. This work directly supports our siraiegic prioriry 10 promoie undersranding, inclusion, and accepiance regionally and nationally. Neuro-inclusion in the workplace We work wiih employers across seciors 10 help Ihem build and susiain genuinely neuro- inclusive workplace culiures. This includes iargeied leadership Iraining, "Why You Need Us" awareness campaigns, and post-hire neurodiversity support packages. Our training supports employers 10 review recruiimeni processes, adapi induciion and career developmen[ pachways, and embed inclusive policies and environmenis so Ihar neurodivergeni employees can thrive. Many organisations reported that as a result of our work, they have improved staff reieniion, increased diversiry in recruiimeni, and seen greaier employee engagemeni. Supporting inclusion in schools We developed new training for schools and initial teacher training providers, embedding autism awareness and inclusive practice early in professional development. Tailored sessions addressed challenges in recruiimeni, reieniion, and creaiing neuro-aff irming learning environments. Educators shared examples of improved classroom communication, f lexible teaching sirategies, and greaier engagemeni wilh pupils and families. Understanding self - training for autistic and neurodivergent adults NEW We expanded our offer for auiisiic and neurodivergeni adults to include training focused on self-awareness, strengths identif icaiion, and navigating Ihe workplace and communiry as a neurodivergeni person. This strand, often delivered alongside our adult support services, helps individuals build conf idence, advocaie for Iheir needs, and make informed decisions aboui education, employment, and daily life. D6llSg cpt&lN 19 TRAINING Accessible and inclusive delivery To ensure training reaches diverse audiences, we offer flexible delivery models - including evening webinars, on-siie workshops, and iailored sessions for community groups. Materials are provided in accessible formals, and examples are drawn from lived experience 10 make content relatable and relevant. We also work with seldom-heard groups to ensure their voices inform both the design and delivery of training. Developing sector capacity and ensuring quality These developmenis align wilh our siraiegic aim 10 influence sysiemic change by equipping those in key roles- from school leaders to H R managers- with the skills to create inclusive environmenis. All Iraining conieni is reviewed annually for accuracy and compliance wilh curreni legislaiion, and our Irainers undertake conrinuing professional developmeni 10 maintain qualiiy and consisiency. Income from paid training is reinvested directly into our chariiable work, exiending our reach and impaci. D6llSg cpt&lN RETAIL, SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & INCOME GENERATION In 2024-25, Daisy Chain's reiail and social enierprise operaiions continued to provide vital income to sustain our services, while also creating volunteering, Iraining and communiry engagement opporiuniiies. Our neiwork of shops and Ihe Gaieshead Megasiore not only raise funds but also act as cotnmunity hubs where supporters can connect wilh our mission. 685K+ items diverted from landfill Growing income and customer experience We implemented a standardised pricing structure and improved store layouts, making the shopping experience more consisient and welcoming across all sires. Sales performance was sirengrhened by targeted seasonal promotions and the introduction of higher-quality donated goods sourced through new corporaie partnerships. These developmenis support our siraiegic aim 10 grow and diversify income while keeping our offer accessible. 'til?fJT nyli Neuthread and sustainable retail Preparations for the launch of Neurhread, our innovaiive neurodivergeni-led upcycling and susiainable fashion enierprise progressed throughout the year. The programme tackles two urgent issues: Ihe environmenial impaci of iexiile wasie and Ihe need for meaningful, creaiive opportuniiies for auiisiic and neurodivergeni people. Autistic and neurodivergent individuals are involved at every siage of NeuEhread's design and delivery, from concepi developmeni and product creation to marketing and retail. This approach not only reduces waste but also addresses the climaie crisis in a way Ihat is inclusive, empowering, and responsive 10 Ihe voices of Ihose mosi often excluded from environmental action. Although the official launch falls in 2025-26, groundwork during Ihis year included securing funding, developing Iraining maierials, and forging supply.- partnerships. QQ4V IOOK. views on our social media video content D611Sg cpt&lN RETAIL AND SOCIAL ENTERPRISE Community engagement and volunteer development Retail operations engaged a diverse volunteer base, including auiisiic and neurodivergent individuals gaining work experience and confidence. Many have progressed 10 furtheriraining or paid employment, demonstrating the role retail plays in delivering our charitable purpose. We coniinue EO Eailor volunieer roles 10 individual sirengihs and provide Iraining EO remove barriers for those f rom seldom-heard groups. Gateshead Employability Service Building on the success of our volunieer programme, we began developing a dedicated Gateshead Employabiliry Service in 2024-25, due 10 launch in 2025-26. Based around our reiail and social enterprise operations, this service will provide structured work placements, skills training, and job- readiness Suppo￿ for autistic and neurodivergeni individuals. Participants will gain practical retail experience alongside transferable skills such as customer service, teamwork, and stock managemeni, wilh progression rouies inio employmeni both within and beyond Daisy Chain. The iniiiaiive is designed 10 remove barriers 10 work, increase conf idence, and contribute to our strategic aim of improving employment outcomes for neurodivergent people in the North Easi. Driving footfall and digital engagement We worked proacEively 10 increase foorfrall 10 our shops and Megastore Ihrough themed evenis, in-store promotions, and community partnerships. Our retail social media presence on plarforms such as TikTok and I nstagram grew signif icanily, wilh TikTok conient achieving over100,000 views during the year. These channels showcased new siock, upcycling projecis. and behind-the-scenes siories from staff and volunieers, helping to attract new customers, reach younger audiences, and strengthen our connection with the wider communiiy. Seasonal fairs, pop-up workshops, and volunteer open days further encouraged in-siore visits and provided opportunities to raise awareness of autism and neurodiversiiy, signposi people 10 our services, and recruit new volunteers. 729 corporate volunteers supported our stores •• Fl.:. D6llSg cpt&lN 22 RETAIL AND SOCIAL ENTERPRISE Sustainability and environmental responsibility In line with our environmental priorities, we expanded textile recycling operations, reduced wasre donarions, and Irialled new processes for upcycling f urniture and clothing. These measures not only reduce landf ill waste but also generaie addiiional income sireams, supporting our strategy to align retail operations with environmental stewardship. Governance and quality assurance Reiail performance and compliance are overseen by the Finance & Resources Committee, with monihly reporting to trusiees. Policies on healih and safery, safeguarding, and environmenial standards are regularly reviewed, and staff receive training 10 ensure high siandards in all areas of operation. Income generated from retail is reinvested directly into Daisy Chain s charitable aciiviiies, ensuring our shops remain a key part of sustaining and expanding our services. #DEFINrrELYDAISY IDE ORT. D6llSg cpt&lN RETAIL AND SOCIAL ENTERPRISE The Road Ahead In 2025-26 we will build on the strong foundations laid this year to further develop retail as boEh an income generaEor and a platform for inclusion. Key prioriiies include: Launching Neuthread, placing auiistic and neurodivergeni people at the heart of an environmenially susrainable fashion and upcycling enierprise. Opening the Gateshead Employability Service, providing structured pathways f rom volunieering and training into paid employment. Expanding our reiail social media reach 10 drive boih income and awareness, building on the success of achieving over100,000 TikTok views in 2024-25. Increasing the range of sustainable and recycled products, strengihening our response to Ihe climaie crisis and embedding environmenial responsibiliry across all reiail operaiions. Enhancing the volunteer experience through tailored training and progression opportuniiies, ensuring roles remain accessible and meaningf ul. Through these developments, retail will continue to deliver public benefit in multiple ways- raising viial f unds, reducing environmenial impaci, creaiing inclusive opportuniiies, and engaging communiiies wilh Daisy Chain's mission. D6llSg cpt&lN VOLUNTEERING We are extremely lucky and thankful to have 18 regular, committed community volunieers who work across Daisy Chain, from the day cenire gardens and farm, 10 our rerail siores, e-commerce, remore working family support volunteers and volunteers who help out at our many fundraising events. This year Ihey've spent 815 valuable days wilh us- Ihey have become an iniegral part of Ihe ieam, allowing us 10 raise more awareness. provide more services and raise more funds. 4,607 those in the community We're also very graieful 10 Ihe corporaie organisaiions, boih locally and nationally, who come back to Daisy Chain time and time again, using Iheir volunieering days 10 make a posiiive impact on our services and siies, and meering Iheir own Corporaie Social Responsibility (CSR) targets in the process. We ve welcomed over19 companies Ihis year for a ioial of 81 sessions including: 4,048 te orporate supporte rfandelsbank¢n Teesside un￿erSIty BfewTrn Dolphln sl Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives. Depreciation is provided on the following bases: Freehold property Improvements to long-term leasehold propety Plant and machinery Motor vehicles Fixtures and fittings Computer equipment 2 % straight line straight line over the remaining term of the lease 25°/o reducing balance 20°/o Straight line 25°/o reducing balance 33.33 % straight line 2.6 Investments Fixed asset investments are a form of financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction cost and subsequently measured at fair value at the balance sheet date. The net gains and losses on revaluations and disposals are included in the statement of financial activities. Investments in subsidiaries are valued at cost less provision for impairment. 2.7 Stocks Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks. 2.8 Operating leases Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the statement of financial activities on a straight line basis over the lease term. 2.9 Financial instruments The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. 2.10 Pensions The Charity contributes to a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the period. Page 48 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUEDI 2.11 Fund accounting General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtheran￿ of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes. Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements. Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements. INCOME FROM DONATIONS AND LEGACIES Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Donations Legacies Grants 114,261 8.863 510,000 114,261 8.863 697,142 160, 129 187,142 773,236 633,124 187,142 820,266 933,365 Total 2024 705, 129 228, 236 933, 365 Included in unrestricted grants above is £500.000 (2024: £525.000) from People's Postcode Lottery. Page 49 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Family support Educational pla￿MentS Training services Adult services 81.409 228,005 42.577 22,580 891.536 972,945 228,005 42,577 141,548 831,872 256, 732 186,070 135, 137 118,968 374,571 1,010,504 1,385,075 1,409,811 Total 2024 552, 562 857, 249 1,409,811 FUNDRAISING INCOME Unrestricted funds 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Retail 1,340.413 478 178.870 4,558 1.340.413 478 178.870 4,558 1,341,345 2.424 131,561 1.075 Merchandise retail Fundraising events Other income 1,524,319 1,524,319 1.476,405 Total 2024 1.476,405 1.476,405 Page 50 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 INVESTMENT INCOME Unrestricted funds 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Deposit account interest Dividends and interest on investments 2.746 5,767 2.746 5,767 3,600 4,876 8,513 8,513 8,476 Total 2024 8,476 8,476 OTHER INCOMING RESOURCES Unrestricted funds 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 VAT recoverable 27,858 27,858 166,847 The Charity registered for VAT during the year. This resulted in VAT repayable in respect of expenditure incurred before the registration was complete. Page 51 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 COSTS OF RAISING FUNDS Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Fundraising costs of grants and donations Cost of fundraising events Retail costs 35.679 71.718 640,113 851,735 37.080 1.775 35.679 71,718 640.113 868,690 37,080 1.775 25,277 74,466 717,652 821,066 41,591 1,243 Wages and salaries Depreciation Investment management fees 16,955 Totsl 2025 1.638.100 16.955 1,655,055 1,681,295 Total 2024 1. 599.369 81,926 1,681.295 ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE ON CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Summary by fund type Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total 2025 Total 2024 Children's ServI￿S Family support Educational placements Training services Adult services 277.118 55,469 555.326 42,042 74.628 15.805 798,810 10.172 40,355 342.756 292,923 854,279 565,498 82,397 417.384 416,419 666,379 434,239 111,363 429,573 1,004.583 1,207.898 2.212,481 2,057,973 Total 2024 1,279, 713 778, 260 2,057,973 Page 52 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 10. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE BY ACTIVITIES Activities undertaken directty 2025 Support costs 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Children's ServI￿S 211.582 524,555 385.384 66,418 298.276 81.341 329,724 180.114 15,979 119.108 292,923 854,279 565,498 82,397 417.384 416,419 666,379 434,239 111,363 429,573 Family support Educational placements Training services Adult services 1,486.215 726.266 2,212,481 2,057,973 Total 2024 1,351,891 706, 082 2,057,973 Page 53 O O) (n o { fo Lri (c> fo u> g) ¢9 u> (fj (o c O W t5) (D O G) {)) (N (N (o ￿ (o o ￿ Q) t CO F- ¢0 F- cw (￿ ¢ (o o) (o o o) ￿ o Q) <5) ¢J) (rj oi (N C￿ - ¢3) o 40 ¢y ffj ¢0 V ¢£• ¢0 F- ￿ O (o c - O U) ¢n O) O O tr- (D ff) rin41 co o c co LN o (o ¢ri ￿ (ri o (o (D 0 (7) 0) 0> CN CO CW C Q) Tr- rr) (D OJ DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 11. GOVERNANCE COSTS Unrestricted funds 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Auditors, remuneration Auditors, non audit costs 6,560 1.515 1,210 80.304 6,560 1.515 1,210 80,304 7,500 2,267 3,895 72,620 Consultancy, legal & professional fees Wages and salaries 89.589 89,589 86,282 Total 2024 86,282 86,282 12. AUDITORS. REMUNERATION The auditors, remuneration for the current year, and pre VAT, amounts to an auditor fee of £8,060 (2024 - £7,500), and other services of £1,920 {2024 - £1.925). Page 56 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 13. STAFF COSTS 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Contribution to defined contribution pension scheme 2.365,097 168,322 42,575 2, 166,398 149,760 37,581 2.575,994 2, 353, 739 During the year, the charity made a termination payment of £25,000 under a settlement agreement, which has been included within staff costs and was funded from unrestricted funds. The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the period was as follows.. 2025 No. 2024 No. Management and administration Fundraising Charitable activities - service delivery Retail 15 18 83 73 50 40 151 133 The number of employees vthose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was.. 2025 No. 2024 No. In the band £70,001- £80,000 The total employment benefits, including employer pension contributions, of key management personnel were £267,376 (2024." £223,422). Key management personnel include the CEO, Director of Services, Director of Income Generation, Head of Finance, Head of Family Services and Head of HR. The Charity benefits from the involvement and support of its many volunteers, further details of which are provided in the Trustees Report. In accordance with accounting standards, the economic contribution of volunteers is not measured in the financial statements. 14. TRUSTEES, REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES During the period, no trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2024 - £NIL). During the period ended 31 March 2025, no trustee expenses have been incurred (2024 - £NIL). Page 57 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 15. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Improvements to long-tenn leasehold Plant and property machinery Fixtures, fittings and Motor computer vehicles equipment Freehold property Total Cost At 1 April 2024 Additions 1,337,095 255,848 98,154 31,330 560,698 105.213 2,283,125 105.213 (25,438) Disposals 125,438) At 31 March 2025 1.337,095 230.410 98.154 31,330 665,911 2,362,900 Depreciation At 1 April 2024 Charge for the period On disposals 435,646 25,745 100,414 37.080 {4,859) 75,102 5.764 18,798 6,266 441,693 54.023 1,071,653 128.878 {4,859) At 31 March 2025 461,391 132.635 80.866 25,064 495,716 1,195,672 Net book value At 31 March 2025 875,704 97,775 17,288 6,266 170,195 1,167,228 At 31 March 2024 901,449 155,434 23, 052 12,532 119,005 1,211,472 Page 58 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 16. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS Investments in subsidiary Listed Unlisted companies investments investments Total Cost or valuation At 1 April 2024 Additions 195,772 15.231 (78,311) (4.421) 26,275 78,311 (99,807) 222,048 93.542 {178,118) {4.421) {1,775) 5,767 Disposals Revaluations Investment manager fees Dividends received (1,775) 5,767 AT 31 MARCH 2025 128,271 8,771 137,043 Net book value At 31 March 2025 128.271 8,771 137.043 At 31 March 2024 195, 772 26,275 222,048 Investments at market value 2025 2024 Equities Cash within investment portfolio Investment in trading subsidiary 128,271 8,771 195,772 26,275 137,043 222, 048 Page 59 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 16. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS ICONTINUED) PRINCIPAL SUBSIDIARIES The following was a subsidiary undertaking of the Charity.. Name Company number Registered office or principal Class of place of business shares Daisy Chain Trading (Teesside) Limited 05209370 Calf Fallow Farm, Calf Fallow Ordinary Lane, Norton, Stockton On Tees, Holding TS20 1 PF 100% Daisy Chain Trading (Teesside) Limited was dormant throughout the year. Post year end an aplication has been made to strike the company off. 17. STOCKS 2025 2024 Goods for resale 5,206 6, 799 18. DEBTORS 2025 2024 Trade debtors other debtors 102,787 4.086 134,584 97,935 175,053 124,787 Prepayments and accrued income 241.457 397, 775 Page 60 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 19. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 2025 2024 Trade creditors 91,019 80,615 10,402 131,720 60,459 32, 824 8, 849 136, 725 Taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals and deferred income 313,756 238, 857 2025 2024 Deferred income at 1 April 2024 Resources deferred during the period Amounts released from previous periods 44.831 67,729 (44.831) 102, 839 44,831 (102,839) Deferred income at 31 March 2025 67,729 44,831 Deferred income comprises money re￿iVed in advance for sessionslclubs, care contracts and training courses which will take pla￿ in the next financial year. Page 61 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 20. STATEMENT OF FUNDS STATEMENT OF FUNDS- CURRENT PERIOD Balance at 31 March 2025 Balance at 1 April 2024 Transfers inlout Gainsl (Losses) Income Expenditure Unrestricted funds General funds 1,691,711 2,568,385 (2,642,683) 104,797 (4,422) 1,717,788 Restricted funds Climate Action Fund Morrisons Foundation 16,955 {16,955) 7.709 (7.709) Catalyst- Stockton on Tees Gateshead County Council - Autism Hubs 13,216 (13,216) 50,000 (50.000) Together for Children Sunderland Sembcorp HSBC Cummins Santander Foundation National Lottery Community Fund - My Life My Community NHSA Tees Valley Scottish Power Foundation 25,000 36,000 99,996 {99,996) 25,000 (36,000) (15,000) (46.088) 15,000 46.088 51,142 49,973 {63,635) 37,480 39,344 118.969 (125.371) 32.942 40,355 {40,355) 6,697 16.697) Amazon - Charitable Giving North East Cumbria ICB- Family Support 5,000 15,000) 39,039 201.337 1201.337) 39.039 Page 62 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 20. STATEMENT OF FUNDS ICONTINUED) STATEMENT OF FUNDS - CURRENT PERIOD (continued Balance at 31 March 2025 Balance at 1 April 2024 Transfers inlout Gainsl (Losses) Income Expenditure North East Cumbria ICB- Main Contract North East Cumbria ICB- Variations 172,120 342,765 1431,702) 83,183 3,334 3.333 (6.667) National Autistic Society- Autism Central Other grants 183,750 8,200 1153,750) (10.172) 30,000 1,972 Totsl restricted funds 379,648 1.197,646 (1,224.853) (104.797) 247.644 Total of funds 2,071,359 3,766,031 (3,867.536) {4.422) 1,965,432 Page 63 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 20. STATEMENT OF FUNDS ICONTINUED) STATEMENT OF FUNDS- PRIOR PERIOD Balance at 31 MarGh 2024 BalanGe at 1 April 2023 Transfers in/out Gainsl (Losses) Income Expenditure Unrestricted funds Designated funds 135,000 (50, 000) (85, 000) General funds 1,519,175 2,909,419 (2, 829, 082) 85, 000 7,199 1,691,711 Totsl unrestricted funds 1,654, 175 2,909,419 (2, 879, 082) 7,199 1,691,711 Page 64 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 20. STATEMENT OF FUNDS ICONTINUED) Balance at 31 MarGh 2024 Balance at 1 April 2023 Transfers in/out Gainsl (Losses) Income Expenditure Restricted funds Gateshead County Council - Autism Hubs Together for Children Sunderland 37, 500 (37, 500) 100, 000 43,200 (75, 000) (7,200) 25,000 36,000 Sembcorp Santander Foundation 33,280 49,973 (32,111) 51,142 National Lottery Community Fund - My Life My Community Catalyst- Stockton on Tees 99, 529 (60, 185) 39,344 5,445 (5,445) NHSA Tees Valley Scottish Power Foundation 2,011 (2,011) 40, 182 (33,485) 6,697 Amazon - Charitable Giving North East Cumbria ICB- Family Support North East Cumbria ICB- Main Contract North East Cumbria ICB- Variations 5, QOQ 5,000 239, 174 (200, 135) 39,039 93, 709 381,046 (302, 635) 172, 120 10,000 (6, 666) 3,334 National Autistic Society- Autism Central Other grants 81,925 500 (81,925) (15,888) 17,360 1,972 Totsl restricted funds 154,349 1,085,485 (860, 186) 379,648 Page 65 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 20. STATEMENT OF FUNDS ICONTINUED) Total of funds 1,808,524 3,994, 904 (3, 739,268) 7,199 2,071,359 Page 66 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 STATEMENT OF FUNDS (CONTINUED) Unrestricted funds The unrestricted funds are freely available for the use of the Charity- Restricted funds Climate Action Fund This funding was from the National Lottery Community Fund to recycle and upcycle donated clothing that was not fit for resale in its donated state. The fund provided a production lead and garment manufacturers as well as the necessary equipment. Morrisons Foundation Funding has been used to repair and improve our outdoor play area, with a focus on sensory elements including music and sand. Catalyst - Stockton on Tees This funding was used to provide a holiday club and trips and outings for children and young people. Gateshead County Council - Autism Hubs This funding has been used to deliver autism hubs in Gateshead. Together for Children - Sunderland This funding is for family support sen11￿$ in Sunderland for children and young people with neurodevelopment needs. Sembcorp This funding was for the installation of solar panels with an initial deposit paid in advan￿ of works being carried out in the current year. HSBC Funding was used to purchase specialist sensory equipment designed to mitigate sensory overload and provide a safe space for learning. Cummins Funding was used to improve and expand our existing soft play area, incorporating more Spa￿ for older children and new interactive features to encourage engagement, movement, and sensory play. Santander Foundation This funding is from the digital empowerment fund and is used to address barriers and consequences of financial, digital, and social exclusion. The project has an end date of March 2026. National Lottery Community Fund - My Life, My Community This funding is for the provision of accessible adult community hubs across the Tees Valley, tsckling high rates of loneliness and isolation among autistic and neurodivergent adults. The project has an end date of July 2026. NHSA Tees Valley This funding was to deliver training sessions for Making Sense of Neurodivergen￿, Anxiety and Emotional Regulation to primary schools in Redcar & Cleveland, in addition to delivering sessions to Trustees and Senior Leaders of the schools in Good Autism Practice. Page 67 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 STATEMENT OF FUNDS ICONTINUED) Scottish Power Foundation - Rising Stars This funding was from the rising stars fund and is aimed at enriching the lives of autistic individuals through performing arts and encouraging beneficiaries to express themselves in non-judgemental settings. The project had an end date of May 2024. Amazon - Charitsble Giving Funding was used to provide free family trips during school holidays to destinations such as Lightwater Valley and Whitby,. completed September 2024. North East Cumbria Integrated Care Board- Main ContractlFamity Support This funding is for the family support Servi￿ for children and young people with a neurodevelopmental need for and on behalf of NHS Tees Valley CCG, Darlington Borough Council, Hartlepool Borough Council, Middlesbrough Council, Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. The main contract has an end date of November 2026 whilst the family support contract had an end date of September 2025. North East Cumbria Integrated Care Board - Variations This funding was for a variety of activities, including trips for families, a sleep Servi￿ and training for staff on the keyworker project. The brought fopward funds were spent in the year ending 31 March 2025. National Autistic Society - Autism Central Funding is being used to reduce the autism employment gap through internal and external placements and further training,. end date March 2026. 21. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS Analysis of net assets between funds - current year Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total funds 2025 Tangible fixed assets Fixed asset investments 1,167,228 137.043 727,273 (313.756) 1,167,228 137.043 974,917 {313,756) Current assets Creditors due within one year 247,644 Total 1,717.788 247,644 1,965,432 Page 68 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 21. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS (CONTINUED) Analysis of net assets between funds - prior year Unrestricted funds 2024 Restricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Tangible fixed assets Fixed asset investments 1,211,472 222, 048 497, 048 (238, 857) 1,211,472 222,048 876, 696 (238,857) Current assets Creditors due within one year 379, 648 Total 1,691, 711 3T9, 648 2,071,359 RECONCILIATION OF NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING 22. ACTIVITIES 2025 2024 Net incomelexpenditure for the year (as per Statement of Financial Activities) 1105,927 262, 835 Adjustments for: Depreciation charges (Gainslllosses on investments Dividends, interests and rents from investments Loss on the sale of fixed assets 128.878 4,421 (8.513) 20,579 1.593 156,318 74.899 1,775 142,530 (7, 199) (8,476) Decreasel(increase) in stocks Decreasel(increasel in debtors Increasel(decrease) in creditors Investment management fees (4, 143) (275,067) (40,507) 1.243 Net cash provided by operating activities 274.023 71,216 Page 69 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 23. ANALYSIS OF CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 2025 2024 Cash in hand Cash within investment portfolio 728,254 8.771 472, 122 26,275 Totsl cash and cash equivalents 737,025 498,397 24. ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET DEBT At 1 April 2024 Cash flows At 31 March 2025 Cash at bank and in hand 472.122 26,275 256.132 (17,504) 728.254 8,771 Cash within investment portfolio 498,397 238,628 737,025 25. CAPITAL COMMITMENTS 2025 2024 Contracted for but not provided in these financial statements Acquisition of tangible fixed assets 28, 800 26. PENSION COMMITMENTS The Charity contributes to a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Charity to the fund and amounted to £42,568 (2024.. £37,581). Contributions totslling £10,37212024.- £8, 793) were payable to the fund at the balance sheet date and are included in creditors. This creditor figure includes both employee and employer contributions. Page 70 DAISY CHAIN PROJECT TEESSIDE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 27. OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENTS At 31 March 2025 the Charity had commitments to make future minimum lease payments under non- cancellable operating leases as follows.. 2025 2024 Not later than 1 year Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years 326,480 171.100 345,515 497,580 497,580 843, 095 28. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS The Charity has not entered into any related paty transaction during the period, nor are there any outstanding balances owing be￿een related parties and the Charity at 31 March 2025. Page 71 l/ D&lS CFthIN Autism & Neurodiversity Daisy Chain is the working name of rhe Daisy Chain Projecr Teesside, Regisrered Chariry Number1109792. Company Limited by Guaranree 4763989. All Righrs Reserved. Daisy Chain, Calf Fallow Farm, Calf Fallow Lane, Norron, Stockton-on-Tees, TS201PF. Re9iStÈTed wTth FR FUNDRAISING REGULATOR POSTCODE PEOPL￿.$ POSTCODE CHILDREN LOTTERY TRUST