Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
Company registration number: 05587535 Charity number: 1112065
TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Reference and administrative details of the Company, its Trustees and advisers | 1 - 2 |
| Trustees' report | 3 - 12 |
| Independent examiner's report | 13 |
| Statement of financial activities | 14 |
| Balance sheet | 15 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 16 - 28 |
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE COMPANY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Trustees Mr S Bramley Mrs A Eddy Mrs D Forwood Dr K Gutteridge Mr D Hobster Mrs D Jones Dr E Morris CBE Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive Mr R Plumb Mrs D Crohn (appointed 21 March 2023) Company registered number 05587535 Charity registered number 1112065 Registered office JYW House Bridge Road Haywards Heath England RH16 1UA Chief executive Mrs J Plumb MBE Secretary to the Trustees Mr O Plumb Independent examiner Janice Matthews, FCA Menzies LLP Chartered Accountants Magna House 18-32 London Road Staines-Upon-Thames TW18 4BP
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE COMPANY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Bankers
CAF Bank 25 Kings Hill Avenue West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ
HSBC 40 South Road Haywards Heath West Sussex RH16 4LA
Nationwide Building Society Kings Park Road Moulton Park Northampton NN3 6NW
Charity Bank Fosse House 182 High Street Tonbridge Kent TN9 1BE
Patrons
Dr Chris Steele MBE Baron Soames of Fletching Mr James Roby
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Introduction from the Chair and Chief Executive
We are delighted to present the 2023 Report & Accounts for Group B Strep Support, describing our progress and challenges in the past year.
The year showed an increase in activity and spending, aimed at raising the profile of group B Strep prevention, which has meant hard work and dedication on the part of many people. We thank our staff and supporters for their dedication.
We remain committed to raising awareness, providing information and support to affected families, and advocating for better identification, prevention, testing and treatment protocols.
We continued with external fundraising events, and our third annual virtual conference for health professionals was a major success in May 2023, with world-class experts presenting to over 500 delegates. Feedback showed that they rated the conference very highly. The conference generated a surplus because of sponsorship and ticket sales, and we are grateful to the sponsors.
We also continued with face-to-face training, speaking at key events and exhibiting at conferences.
Our media coverage again reached many national and local outlets. In May, the plotline of Emmerdale included a baby who developed bacterial meningitis, most likely caused by group B Strep. ITV helpfully provided a link to Group B Strep Support so that viewers could easily obtain more information.
Our prudent management of funds donated by our supporters allowed us to keep a close eye on expenditure and increase our income. We planned for a deficit, as we felt it appropriate to spend a portion of our reserves on accelerating our work. In the event, the deficit was less than anticipated.
Looking ahead, we are encouraged by the progress of the GBS3 Trial, which is well underway and expected to report in the summer of 2025. We are also excited about the prospect of a group B Strep vaccine and the World Health Organization's focus on group B Strep as an integral part of their Defeat Meningitis by 2030 Roadmap. There can be no defeating meningitis without also defeating group B Strep infection.
Despite our successes, the heartbreaking reality remains that, on average, two babies a day develop group B Strep infection in the UK, and one baby dies and another is left with a long-term disability every week. This highlights the continued importance of our work in raising awareness, supporting families, and campaigning for change.
We extend our thanks to our staff members, supporters, donors, partners, trustees, members of our Medical Advisory Panel, our Parent Advisory Panel, our Legal Panel, and to testing and pharmaceutical firms who support us and provide testing services or are working towards a vaccine. Their steadfast support has allowed us to continue delivering our vital services.
........................................... ...................................................................... Dr E Morris CBE, Chair Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive Date: Date: 28-Aug-2024 02-Sep-2024
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
The Trustees present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2023. The financial statements comply with statutory requirements, including the Charities Act 2011, the Statement of Recommended Practice ‘Accounting and Reporting by Charities’ (FRS 102), and the charity’s governing document requirements.
Structure, governance, and management
Group B Strep Support (GBSS) is a charity registered in England and Wales and incorporated on 10 October 2005 as a company limited by guarantee, continuing the activities of an unincorporated charity of the same name formed in 1996. It is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association.
The strategic direction and policies of the charity are determined by the Board of Trustees in consultation with the Chief Executive. The implementation of the business plan is delegated to the Chief Executive. Progress is reviewed at regular board meetings. In 2023, the meetings were held on March 11, June 3, September 16 and December 9. The meetings are a mix of video calls and face-to-face meetings.
The Trustees continued to implement the recommendations of the strategy review it carried out in 2021 and has updated since then.
The charity makes its supporters and networks aware of the opportunity for suitably skilled persons to join the Board of Trustees. We benefitted throughout the year from the valuable guidance of our Board and Parent Advisory Panel. During the year, the Trustees, in consultation with the Parent Advisory Panel, decided to close the Parent Advisory Panel, expressing sincere thanks to its members; we anticipate a larger group will replace it, whose terms of reference are yet to be developed and agreed.
The Trustees operate several committees for greater efficiency, including finance, fundraising, governance, communication and external affairs, and diversity and inclusion. The committees have proved a success. The Trustees collectively remain accountable for all Trustee activity and decisions.
The charity actively participates in various UK-wide committees and working groups relevant to group B Strep. These committees and working groups operated a mix of online and face-to-face in 2023. Charity employees worked partly in the office and partly from home.
Risk policy
The Trustees regularly assess and manage the risks the charity faces that might impact its ability to pursue its charitable objectives. We review these risks in advance of each Trustee meeting. We monitored our financial position carefully throughout the Covid pandemic and will continue to do so. The Trustees are confident that these actions will enable the charity to continue operating. Therefore, it is the Trustees’ opinion that the going concern basis of preparing the accounts continues to be appropriate.
Public benefit
All of the charity’s purposes and activities are for the public benefit. The board confirms that it has complied with the duty set out in Section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to Public Benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission..
Vision and mission
The charity’s vision is to eliminate group B Streptococcal (GBS) infection in babies in the UK.
The charity’s mission is to provide high-quality information and support relating to GBS to all new and expectant families and health professionals in the UK and to campaign for improved national GBS prevention strategies.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Strategic objectives
The charity’s strategic objectives are:
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Families: To relieve the suffering caused by GBS by making help, support and information available to those affected by GBS in the UK.
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Education: To advance the education of the UK medical profession and the general public about GBS and its implications for the family.
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Research: To support organisations promoting research into GBS and to publish the useful results of such research.
Achievement and performance
Group B Strep is still the leading cause of severe infection in newborn babies and meningitis in babies under three months. On average, in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, every month 66 babies are diagnosed with group B Strep infection
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56 babies make a full recovery
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six babies survive with long-term physical or mental disabilities
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four babies die from their group B Strep infection
The charity’s overarching objective is to reduce the pain and suffering caused by group B Strep infection in babies and their families. Our aims show how we work towards achieving that:
Family support and information about Group B Strep in the UK
At the core of our charity lies the stories of families who have been affected by group B Strep. Through a range of channels, including social media and our helpline, we strive to be a compassionate and informative presence for everyone seeking our help. Whether this is a concerned parent seeking more information on GBS or someone whose baby has experienced the harrowing effects of GBS sepsis or meningitis, we are available to listen and support them every step of the way.
We provide the latest guidance on GBS prevention and treatment, so that pregnant women and people, and new parents can make informed decisions about their and their babies’ health. We offer a variety of resources, including online information, phone support, and printed materials, to empower families to work collaboratively with their healthcare providers and make the best choices for themselves and their babies.
The GBSS Helpline
At the forefront of our charity's support network is our highly valued Helpline, which is popular with families across the country. Whether people contact us by phone, email, online, or even by post, we provide a listening ear, valuable information, and unwavering support to families affected by or concerned about group B Strep. In 2023 alone, we received over 1,000 enquiries from families, demonstrating just how vital the service is – families find us through recommendations or online searches. Our Helpline is also a trusted resource for health professionals, who depend on us to provide the most up-to-date guidance on group B Strep and who recommend it to families in their care.
Through our helpline, we also provide information materials to families and also to NHS health professionals, maternity units, neonatal units, and GP practices with essential information materials on request. In 2023 we worked hard to build relationships with maternity units, arranging for them to be sent regular orders of the information materials.
The impact of our Helpline and information services cannot be overstated, and we are proud to have received countless expressions of gratitude from those who have used our resources:
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94% of those who responded to our survey said they were very likely to recommend our helpline to someone else.
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67% said they completely got the information and support they needed, and 33% said they mostly did.
Because of the generosity of our donors and funders, everything we provide, including our Helpline and information materials, comes at no cost to families or NHS health professionals.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Raising Awareness of Group B Strep
Our efforts to raise public awareness of group B Strep have been highly successful, with coverage across the broadsheet and tabloid national newspapers, national news television programmess, and many regional and local news outlets, as well as online.
Throughout the year, we engaged in many national and international awareness campaigns, including World Sepsis Day, World Meningitis Day, Volunteers Week, Baby Loss Awareness Week, and our very own Group B Strep Awareness Month. These occasions provided an opportunity to share the poignant stories of families impacted by group B Strep and express gratitude to the remarkable midwives, doctors and volunteers who support our cause. Our Group B Strep Awareness Month featured a range of activities to raise awareness and help people to understand the importance of testing for group B Strep during pregnancy.
Our online presence was significant in 2023, and we undertook updates to the key pages on our website, and refreshed the strategies for social media content, focussing particularly on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. It is gratifying that so many people look to us for information and guidance on group B Strep, and we remain committed to providing the latest information and resources to help families feel empowered to make informed choices about their care.
We continue to advocate for more reliable statistics on the rate of group B Strep infection and mortality across demographic indicators and worked with other charities during the year, asking the Department of Health & Social Care to make group B Strep a notifiable disease. No decision has yet been made. This would improve our understanding the scale of the problem, which is is crucial to tailoring our support to the needs of different groups. We will continue to press the NHS to collect and publish this information. The GBS3 trial results will also provide key insights on how to improve the prevention of group B Strep infection in newborn babies.
In July, the charity published the results of a survey of 529 respondents it had commissioned from Savanta. The survey asked about the information on group B Strep provided to new and expectant UK parents. It found that:
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Two thirds (66%) would like to learn more about group B Strep from their healthcare professional
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Fewer than two-thirds (62%) felt confident recognising symptoms in a baby
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Over nine out of ten supported the introduction of national testing for group B Strep during pregnancy
Despite the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists recommending in 2017 that everyone should be provided with information about group B Strep during their pregnancy, fewer than a quarter (24%) said they were given information about group B Strep by a health professional during pregnancy. The survey results show there remain challenges ahead in ensuring that pregnant women and people are truly informed about group B Strep.
GBSS shares the stories of babies and families affected by group B Strep – we thank the brave parents for sharing their stories, and giving us permission to share them more widely. These stories inspire us ever onwards in our work to shop group B Strep infection in babies.
Jamie-Leigh, mum to Theodore, told us “The first time I had heard of group B Strep was when Theo was born. I had reached my due date of 21 October, and my waters had started to go the day after. I was told to stay at home until the contractions became unbearable. A couple of days later, I went into the induction ward and my boy was born on 24 October.
Straightaway, he was rushed off for oxygen with no explanation as to what was happening. I was in labour for 46 hours in total after my waters had gone.
My baby had been taken to the NICU and I wasn’t allowed to see him for four hours. I had to wait until my antibiotics had finished and my epidural had worn off until I was finally allowed to be taken to the NICU.
Finally, it was time to see my boy, but unfortunately, it wasn’t all happy and exciting. It was an upsetting scene that I will never forget; seeing my little baby boy hooked up to a ventilator and all these wires helping him breathe and being pumped with all these antibiotics to fight all sorts of infections. Unbeknown to us at the time, he had group B Strep infection.
Theodore spent seven days in hospital in total, with a ventilator at first, then high-flow oxygen and feeding tubes. I felt useless, not being able to do anything except hold my baby when they would take him out of his incubator.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Finally, my boy was strong enough to be off the oxygen and back on a normal ward for two days before coming home to his family. An experience I will never forget.”
Amy, Mum to Teddy, bravely shares their story. “The day Teddy turned one month old was like any other day. I had spent the afternoon at my mum’s and left around 6pm. Teddy started to cry at around 7pm, which wasn’t anything out of the ordinary as he was quite a colicky baby. He fell to sleep in my arms, and we went to bed around 10pm. He didn’t have his bottle like normal. I woke up at midnight and had the urge to take his temp. It was 39 degrees. I packed a bag and went to A&E.
His condition worsened in the 15 mins it had taken me to get to the hospital. His breathing had now gone strange, and his skin had changed colour. They immediately knew something was wrong and got him hooked up to oxygen and antibiotics.
Teddy was then sedated and blue-lighted to a nearby children’s intensive care unit. Here we were told that Teddy’s blood cultures had returned positive for strep B sepsis with suspected meningitis. It was very very hit-and-miss as his heart rate was super high. He also had two blood transfusions. Eventually, all his stats came back to normal.
We were told that Teddy was on the road to recovery, so we were over the moon. However, that happiness soon turned to sadness as his soft spot (fontanelle) started to swell, and he was taken for an MRI. Here we came to realise that the infection had affected his whole brain.
We got taken into a side room and knew it wouldn’t be good news. We were told that the damage to his brain was so bad that as soon as the machines were all turned off his body wouldn’t be able to breathe on its own.
Teddy fought right to the very end. His dad, Jack, and I had to make the heart-breaking decision to turn off his machines. Even after this, Teddy fought longer than what the doctors thought. Unfortunately, Teddy passed away in our arms, being only five weeks old. Leaving us all devastated.”
Annual Group B Strep in Pregnancy & Babies Conference
Our annual online conference in May was another success, with 520 delegates from around the world, hearing from expert speakers on all aspects of group B Strep.
The conference was chaired by two eminent figures in the world of obstetrics, gynaecology and midwifery: Eddie Morris, Chair of Trustees at GBSS and immediate past president of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, and Kathryn Gutteridge, a GBSS trustee and past president of the Royal College of Midwives.
The ‘godmother of group B Strep prevention’ and our Global Vaccine Engagement Adviser, Dr Carol J Baker, gave the keynote speech. Families shared their lived experiences, and other speakers gave updates on the GBS3 trial, the latest on efforts to develop a group B Strep vaccines and improvements in testing for group B Strep carriage. The feedback from the conference was excellent and we are very grateful to all of our supporters, including Cepheid, Hologic, Leigh Day, MinervaX and Slater + Gordon who generously supported the conference as Silver Sponsors, Irwin Mitchell who supported it as a Bronze Sponsor and to Pfizer, whose educational grant enabled us to offer bursary places to student midwives and relevant health professionals in low- and middle-income countries.
International Symposium of Streptococcus Agalactiae Disease (ISSAD)
In October, Jane Plumb, GBSS CEO, and Oliver Plumb. GBSS Advocacy & Information Manager, were invited to attend the biannual ISSAD (International Symposium of Streptococcus Agalactiae Disease) conference on group B Strep. Jane co-led the parent and patient stream at the conference, and presented during the opening session.
Training
Throughout the year, the charity and its dedicated volunteers demonstrated their commitment to raising awareness about group B Strep by participating in various healthcare educational meetings, webinars, and conferences. Whether conducted in-person or virtually, these events offered obstetricians, midwives, and other health professionals an opportunity to access the latest evidence and information about group B Strep.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Our CEO, Jane Plumb, is a respected figure in the charity world, and her influence extends beyond GBSS. She continues to serve as the Chair of the Advisory Council of the Confederation of Meningitis Organisations and as a Trustee of the Meningitis Research Foundation, both of which have much common interest with GBSS. In February, she was also appointed Women’s Voices Lead and Chair of the Women’s Network of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, further improving opportunities for group B Strep prevention to be on the agenda of relevant groups. Her relentless endeavours have unquestionably had a substantial impact, and her ongoing engagement with these organisations speaks to her steadfast dedication to advancing public health.
In May 2023, NHS England made it a requirement for training in "group B Strep in labour" to be provided to all maternity and neonatal staff as part of the Core Competancy Framework (CCF2). This can only help to raise standards. GBSS has over the years produced videos and other training materials which are used by some hospitals. GBSS will work to secure funding to create an elearning module on group B Strep aimed at midwives and other health professionals to enable maternity units to meet the requirements of the CCF2.
Supporting research into group B Strep
The charity has been actively supporting the £4.2m GBS3 trial, which is assessing the practice of routinely testing for group B Strep. The charity played a vital role in ensuring that a sufficient number of hospitals took part, and the trial is now well underway. The trial will eventually include 320,000 pregnant women and their babies and is comparing the current approach to preventing early-onset group B Strep infections with testing all women for group B Strep carriage, either at 35-37 weeks of pregnancy or the start of labour. It is due to report findings in 2025.
The charity is committed to supporting ethical research into group B Strep and is involved providing patient and public involvement representatives on several group B Strep research studies and policy development committees.
The charity is committed to funding up to £15,000 of the costs of the British Paediatric Surveillance Unit to conduct an enhanced surveillance survey of invasive CBS disease in babies under 3 months. This survey will provide a more accurate reflection of the number of group B Strep infections in babies aged 0-90 days and will be the first external research project for which the charity is providing funding.
These efforts are all part of the charity's mission to raise awareness and improve outcomes for babies and families affected by group B Strep. Through its support of research, advocacy, and education, the charity is making a significant impact on the prevention and treatment of group B Strep.
Vaccine development
Progress continues on developing a safe and effective vaccine, which GBSS wholeheartedly supports.
A peer-reviewed study was published in March finding that, if introduced globally, a reasonably-priced vaccine would be likely to be a cost-effective intervention, along with having a large impact on infant death and long-term disability.
In the summer, Pfizer published promising results from their trials of a group B Strep vaccine they are developing. The results were that the vaccine is safe for mothers and babies, with no significant side effects.
It has taken a long time to get to this point, but a safe and effective vaccine is getting closer.
Fundraising
We are grateful for the continuing dedication of our community of fundraisers, who have consistently shown their support for our cause over many years. Our supporters have undertaken a range of events aimed at raising crucial funds for our charity. Here are some highlights:
Digital Fundraising:
As part of our digital fundraising strategy, we have continued to develop our Facebook Challenge virtual events to engage with our supporters and create a sense of community around our cause. Throughout the year, we focused on maximising efficiency and delivering the best value for our resources while providing fun and engaging experiences for our participants.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
In March, we launched our Walk 100K challenge, encouraging our supporters to walk 100 km throughout the month. This was followed by two more virtual events later in the year, which together raised over £35,000 for the charity.
The feedback we received from our virtual challenges has been overwhelmingly positive, with one participant stating, “After my daughter Willow was born with group B Strep meningitis and sepsis, I received invaluable support from the charity. I was pleased to have raised £592 by taking part in the October skipping challenge last year,” while another shared, “It gave me focus that month to think of something other than the grief I have for my son.”
London Landmarks Half Marathon
In April, our team attended the exhilarating London Landmarks Half Marathon – we had 36 runners who bravely took on the 13.1 miles around London’s most iconic landmarks. With breathtaking views of Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Gherkin, and the Tower of London, our runners felt the buzz of London’s rich history and celebrated the city’s vibrant heritage.
We are thrilled to share that our runners raised over £16,000 to support group B Strep research, advocacy, and awareness, and we couldn’t be prouder of their remarkable achievement. We were on the sidelines, cheering them on with all our might, and the positive feedback from the event was overwhelming. One runner, Jack, told us “Yesterday was a great day with an incredible atmosphere throughout the course once again! Was a great motivation seeing everyone at the Group B Strep Support cheer station as well! Always a pleasure supporting such an incredible charity!”
Thank you to our corporate partners Irwin Mitchell, Slater + Gordon, and MWE for putting teams together.
The TCS London Marathon
Team GBSS for 2023 comprised five runners, some experienced, some first-time marathon runners, and some who have been waiting since 2020 to run! They all took to the streets of London, each with their personal story about why they chose to run for Group B Strep Support. And they all made us proud!
Our five TCS London Marathon runners raised over £7,000: thank you to them and everyone who donated.
Charity of the Year
After two families at Greenhalghs Craft Bakery experienced the devastating effects that group B Strep can cause, there was no hesitation in GBSS being chosen as the charity to run for at the Great Manchester 10K and half marathon in 2023. The team of 56 raised over £12,000 along with vital awareness of group B Strep.
Finance Director, Ray, shared his story: “When my grandson, Zachary, was 33 days old, he developed a group B Strep infection, which later turned to sepsis. We were so lucky that he received the lifesaving care he needed in time. Thankfully, he was well enough to return home after ten days and later made a full recovery, but we know just how lucky we were. He is now nearly two and half years old.”
Great North Run
Tommy and Beth ran the 13.1 miles of the Great North Run on the 10 September, each with their own story about why they wanted to run for Group B Strep Support. Beth told us, “I participated in the Great North Run to raise money for Group B Strep Support, a charity that’s very close to our hearts. My son Cruz contracted group B Strep sepsis shortly after birth and has now been diagnosed with autism, global delay, and is non-verbal. The charity provided invaluable support to me and continues to help me whenever I have questions. Thank you, GBSS, for all that you do. Participating in the Great North Run was an amazing experience, and I loved every second of it.” Together, they raised £1,880.
July's Group B Strep Awareness Month
During Group B Strep Awareness Month, over 30 families shared their stories with us, and we want to say a massive thank you to each and every one of them! Their stories are so important: by sharing them, they are improving awareness and supporting others going through similar experiences.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Families across the country showed their support through various activities, including Jon and Becki, who took on a 50km trek around the Peak District after their daughter, Ruby, developed group B Strep meningitis. They raised an incredible £1,375 and told us “The trek was very tough with plenty of blisters to act as painful memories, but so glad we did it and proud of our achievement.”
As a result of these amazing events, crucial awareness and funds have been raised towards GBSS's mission to prevent group B Strep infections in babies. We are grateful to all the supporters, runners, and volunteers who helped make these events successful.
Baby Loss Awareness Week and In memory fundraising
Our MuchLoved dedication page in honour of Baby Loss Awareness Week (9-15 October) received 25 dedications from supporters wanting to leave a dedication to their babies and raised £105.
The MuchLoved platform is a memorial website, where families can share memories, thoughts, and stories with family and friends as well as light virtual candles, and add music, photos, and videos. In 2023, seven tribute pages were set up which raised over £15,000. Families can grow their tributes by organising fundraising events and linking them to their tribute pages, like Amy Wilkins. Amy organised a charity walk in memory of her son Teddy.
Amy told us, “The day was bittersweet. We were overwhelmed with all the support and love that was shown to us but of course, was also incredibly sad as Teddy wasn’t here with us.
This is just the start of our fundraising attempts and raising awareness of group B Strep. We refuse to let Teddy’s death be in vain and will do everything we can to keep his memory alive and, in turn, hopefully let other families know about group B Strep in pregnancy and newborn babies and the signs to look out for once their baby has been born.”
The Big Give
Our application was successful to the Women and Girls funding stream. The campaign ran between midday on 11 October and midday on 18 October and achieved a total of 48 donations from 44 individuals, which the Big Give matched. In total, we received £10,529.25 through this campaign.
We are extremely grateful to everyone who donated, shared, and supported our cause. The funds raised will make a tangible difference in expanding and improving our information and support services for women and families affected by group B Strep.
Medical Advisory Panel
At Group B Strep Support, we take great pride in ensuring that all of the information we provide is of the highest quality and accuracy. To achieve this, we rely on the expertise of our distinguished Medical Advisory Panel, made up of renowned medical professionals Professor Philip Steer, Dr Alison Bedford Russell, Dr Guduru Gopal Rao OBE, Mrs Philippa Cox and Dr Sonali Kochhar.
Their vast knowledge and experience in the field of group B Strep infection is invaluable to us, and we are grateful for their ongoing commitment to providing us with outstanding advice and support. Their contributions play a crucial role in enabling us to deliver the most up-to-date and reliable information to the families and health professionals we serve, and we thank them for their dedication to our cause.
Financial review
During the year, income of £367,564 was received (2022: £382,098). The expenditure was £427,063 (2022: £349,093). The deficit was £59,499 (2022: surplus of £33,005).
We also reviewed our financial controls, which we do annually as part of good governance.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Reserves policy
The charity is funded primarily by volunteer fundraisers' participation in events and by donations, which are volatile. The Trustees have set the reserves policy accordingly. The Trustees aim to maintain unrestricted and undesignated reserves to cover six months' expenditure. On 31st December 2023, the charity's free reserves represented 3.06 months' (2022: 3.17 months') expenditure: £108,851.
The charity is budgeting for deficit spending for this and next year. Our running costs may include implementing some of the projects for which we are holding designated funds. The Trustees are therefore comfortable that the reserves we hold in total would see the charity through six months of running.
The charity's aim to broaden our income streams and increase income has been successful in a sometimes challenging economic environment. We expect to continue this diversification in the coming years.
Pay and Expenses
The directors consider that the charity's Trustees, including the Chief Executive, comprise the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing and controlling, running and operating the charity daily. Except for the Chief Executive, all trustees give their time freely, and none received remuneration in the year. Similarly, the Medical Advisory Panel is not remunerated. Although Trustees can claim their travelling expenses to attend Board meetings, none were claimed during 2023.
The pay of the Chief Executive is reviewed annually against the mid-point of pay levels for similar roles in other small charities.
Plans for 2024
GBSS will:
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continue to work with the Royal Colleges and other professional bodies to ensure our information materials are appropriate for their members and the families in their care
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develop and improve the support we offer to families; through our Helpline, social media platforms and other online services
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press for all women and people who are pregnant to be provided with information about group B Strep so they can make an informed choice about testing and treatment
-
improve group B Strep training and awareness for obstetricians, midwives, health visitors and GPs and encourage more hospitals to use our leaflets and posters so that expectant and new parents are fully informed about group B Strep and able to make informed decisions about their care
-
encourage ethical research, support it whenever possible, and be involved as patient and public involvement representatives on group B Strep research studies and policy development committees. We will look to influencing and accelerate the pace of research and vaccine development where we can
-
support the GBS3 trial and other clinical trials that will lead to better group B Strep prevention, identification and treatment
-
campaign and engage with politicians, government bodies and other decision-makers across the UK to ensure group B Strep is a top priority and all babies are given the best start in life
-
undertake research into forming a replacement body for the Parent Advisory Panel to enable us to best support affected families and draw on the abilities of families affected by group B Strep
-
work tirelessly to stop group B Strep infection in babies and to support families who have been affected
We will hold another conference on Group B Strep in Pregnancy and Babies in May 2024. It will again be an entirely virtual conference, aimed chiefly at health professionals.
There continues to be great need for our services, and we will continue to provide and improve them.
Page 11
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities
The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in England & Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:
-
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
-
observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP (FRS 102);
-
make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
-
state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards (FRS 102) have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Charity will continue in business.
The trustees are responsible keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by:
................................................
Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive
Date: 02-Sep-2024
Page 12
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
Independent examiner's report to the Trustees of Group B Strep Support ('the Company')
I report to the charity Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2023.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the Trustees of the Company (and its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act').
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the Company's accounts carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Since the Company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of ICAEW, which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
-
the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities [applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)].
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
This report is made solely to the Company's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Company's Trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent examiner's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company's Trustees as a body, for my work or for this report.
Signed: Dated: 06-Sep-2024
Janice Matthews FCA
Menzies LLP
Chartered Accountants Magna House 18-32 London Road Staines-Upon-Thames TW18 4BP
Page 13
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
| Note Income from: Donations and legacies 2 Charitable activities 3 Investments 4 Total income Expenditure on: Raising funds 5 Charitable activities Total expenditure Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought forward Net movement in funds Total funds carried forward |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 116,080 241,318 8,166 365,564 37,478 329,695 367,173 (1,609) 399,710 (1,609) 398,101 |
Restricted funds 2023 £ 2,000 - - 2,000 - 59,890 59,890 (57,890) 57,890 (57,890) - |
Total funds 2023 £ 118,080 241,318 8,166 367,564 37,478 389,585 427,063 (59,499) 457,600 (59,499) 398,101 |
Total funds 2022 £ 142,056 237,897 2,145 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 382,098 | ||||
| 28,560 320,533 |
||||
| 349,093 | ||||
| 33,005 | ||||
| 424,595 33,005 |
||||
| 457,600 |
The Statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
The notes on pages 16 to 28 form part of these financial statements.
Page 14
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 05587535
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023
| Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 9 Current assets Stocks Debtors 10 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 11 Net current assets Total net assets Charity funds Restricted funds 12 Unrestricted funds 12 Total funds |
1,245 24,433 395,560 421,238 (26,287) |
2023 £ 3,150 3,150 394,951 398,101 - 398,101 398,101 |
1,280 53,016 418,493 472,789 (21,779) |
2022 £ 6,590 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6,590 451,010 |
||||
| 457,600 | ||||
| 57,890 399,710 |
||||
| 457,600 |
The Company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of Companies Act 2006.
The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and preparation of financial statements.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to entities subject to the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by:
................................................
Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive
02-Sep-2024 Date:
The notes on pages 16 to 28 form part of these financial statements.
Page 15
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
1. Accounting policies
1.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
Group B Strep Support meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.
1.2 Company status
The company is a company limited by guarantee. The members of the company are the Trustees named on page 1. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £10 per member of the company.
1.3 Going concern
The Trustees are committed to ensuring Group B Strep Support's long-term sustainability. We regularly assess and manage potential risks that could impact our ability to achieve our charitable goals. Our financial health is strong, with a healthy reserve and consistent funding streams. This robust financial position allows us to continue operations and deliver on our mission of improving maternity safety and preventing Group B Strep infection in babies. We remain vigilant, conducting regular financial monitoring and maintaining a commitment to responsible management practices. We also actively seek ways to generate sustainable income sources. With these proactive measures in place, the Trustees are confident that Group B Strep Support will continue to operate effectively for the foreseeable future. Therefore, the Trustees believe the "going concern" basis for preparing these accounts remains appropriate.
1.4 Income
All income is recognised once the Company has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.
Grants are included in the Statement of financial activities on a receivable basis. The balance of income received for specific purposes but not expended during the period is shown in the relevant funds on the Balance sheet. Where income is received in advance of entitlement of receipt, its recognition is deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Where entitlement occurs before income is received, the income is accrued.
Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.
1.5 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.
Page 16
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
1. Accounting policies (continued)
1.5 Expenditure (continued)
Expenditure on raising funds includes all expenditure incurred by the Company to raise funds for its charitable purposes and includes costs of all fundraising activities events and non-charitable trading.
Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Company's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.
All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.
1.6 Government grants
Government grants relating to tangible fixed assets are treated as deferred income and released to the Statement of financial activities over the expected useful lives of the assets concerned. Other grants are credited to the Statement of financial activities as the related expenditure is incurred.
1.7 Interest receivable
Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Company; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.
1.8 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation
Tangible fixed assets are carried at cost, net of depreciation and any provision for impairment. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of fixed assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following bases:
Fixtures and fittings - 33% Straight line Office equipment - 33% Straight line
1.9 Stocks
Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks. Cost includes all direct costs and an appropriate proportion of fixed and variable overheads.
1.10 Fund accounting
General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Company 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 Company for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Page 17
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
2. Income from donations and legacies
| Donations Corporate Individual Regular individual Gift Aid Honorarium/research In Memory Charitable Trusts & Foundations and Government Grants Trusts and foundations Total 2022 |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 1,797 35,623 10,161 19,258 8,625 28,366 12,250 116,080 84,166 |
Restricted funds 2023 £ - - - - - - 2,000 2,000 57,890 |
Total funds 2023 £ 1,797 35,623 10,161 19,258 8,625 28,366 14,250 118,080 142,056 |
Total funds 2022 £ 20,123 32,495 15,971 13,843 317 18,933 40,374 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 142,056 | ||||
3. Income from charitable activities
| General fundraising Sponsorships Merchandise income Total 2022 |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 130,174 110,630 514 241,318 237,897 |
Total funds 2023 £ 130,174 110,630 514 241,318 237,897 |
Total funds 2022 £ 126,705 110,589 603 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 237,897 | |||
Page 18
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
4. Investment income
| Investment income Total 2022 |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 8,166 2,145 |
Total funds 2023 £ 8,166 2,145 |
Total funds 2022 £ 2,145 |
|---|---|---|---|
5. Expenditure on raising funds
Costs of raising voluntary income
| Website trading Merchandise Other fundraising costs Total 2022 |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 5,078 3,328 29,072 37,478 28,560 |
Total funds 2023 £ 5,078 3,328 29,072 37,478 28,560 |
Total funds 2022 £ 3,277 352 24,931 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28,560 | |||
6. Analysis of expenditure by activities
| Expenditure Total 2022 |
Support costs 2023 £ 389,585 320,533 |
Total funds 2023 £ 389,585 320,533 |
Total funds 2022 £ 320,533 |
|---|---|---|---|
Page 19
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
6. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)
Analysis of support costs
| Activities 2023 £ Staff costs 242,444 Depreciation 3,853 Premises, rent and stationery 22,519 Office running costs 14,026 Awareness 66,742 Entertainment and travel 5,375 Bank charges and interest 415 Management and professional fees 30,211 Trustees expenses - Governance - independent examiner's fee 4,000 389,585 Total 2022 320,533 7. Independent examiner's remuneration Fees payable to the Company's independent examiner for the independent examination of the Company's annual accounts 8. Staff costs Wages and salaries Social security costs Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes |
Total funds 2023 £ 242,444 3,853 22,519 14,026 66,742 5,375 415 30,211 - 4,000 389,585 320,533 2023 £ 4,000 2023 £ 218,425 17,066 6,953 242,444 |
Total funds 2022 £ 215,172 5,007 21,306 6,358 57,699 1,994 379 9,059 659 2,900 |
|---|---|---|
| 320,533 | ||
| 2022 £ 2,900 |
||
| 2022 £ 194,323 15,305 5,544 |
||
| 215,172 |
Page 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
8. Staff costs (continued)
The average number of persons employed by the Company during the year was as follows:
| 2023 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| No. | No. | |
| Administration | 7 | 6 |
The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:
| 2023 | 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| No. | No. | ||
| In the band £60,001 | - £70,000 | - | 1 |
| In the band £70,001 | - £80,000 | 1 | - |
During the year, one trustee received emoluments (including pension contributions) of £78,826 (2022 - £73,775) for acting as Chief Executive. No remuneration is paid for acting as trustee. Authority for these payments is contained in the memorandum of association. The Chief Executive is considered to be the key management personnel of the charity.
During the year, there were no trustee expenses claimed (2022: There were no reimbursed costs during the year).
Page 21
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
9. Tangible fixed assets
| Cost or valuation At 1 January 2023 Additions At 31 December 2023 Depreciation At 1 January 2023 Charge for the year At 31 December 2023 Net book value At 31 December 2023 At 31 December 2022 10. Debtors Due after more than one year Prepayments and accrued income Due within one year Trade debtors Prepayments and accrued income |
Fixtures and fittings £ 4,592 - 4,592 3,802 271 4,073 519 790 |
Office equipment £ 18,252 413 18,665 12,452 3,582 16,034 2,631 5,800 2023 £ 308 308 196 23,929 24,433 |
Total £ 22,844 413 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23,257 | |||
| 16,254 3,853 |
|||
| 20,107 | |||
| 3,150 | |||
| 6,590 | |||
| 2022 £ - |
|||
| - 4,836 48,180 |
|||
| 53,016 |
Page 22
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
11. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year
| Trade creditors Other taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals and deferred income |
2023 £ 1,868 824 345 23,250 26,287 |
2022 £ 158 4,226 345 17,050 |
|---|---|---|
| 21,779 |
. Deferred income
| Deferred income brought forward Amount released to income Amounts deferred during the year Deferred income at 31 December 2023 |
2023 £ 13,830 (13,830) 19,250 19,250 |
2022 £ 9,000 (9,000) 13,830 |
|---|---|---|
| 13,830 |
Page 23
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
12. Statement of funds
Statement of funds - current year
| Unrestricted funds Designated funds Running costs reserves Information products update IT services fund GBS Research impact fund Website and internal IT review fund Conference Fund General funds General Fund Total Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Sussex Community Foundation Big Give Campaign The Hospital Saturday Fund Total of funds |
Balance at 1 January 2023 £ 111,500 50,000 25,000 35,000 62,000 17,500 301,000 98,710 399,710 7,000 50,890 - 57,890 457,600 |
Income £ - - - - - - - 365,564 365,564 - - 2,000 2,000 367,564 |
Expenditure £ - - - - - - - (367,173) (367,173) (7,000) (50,890) (2,000) (59,890) (427,063) |
Transfers in/out £ 27,100 (20,000) (10,000) - (12,000) - (14,900) 14,900 - - - - - - |
Balance at 31 December 2023 £ 138,600 30,000 15,000 35,000 50,000 17,500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 286,100 | |||||
| 112,001 | |||||
| 398,101 | |||||
| - - - |
|||||
| - | |||||
| 398,101 |
Page 24
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
12. Statement of funds (continued)
Statement of funds - prior year
| Unrestricted funds Designated funds Running costs reserves Information products update IT services fund GBS Research impact fund Covid recovery Fund Website and internal IT review fund Conference Fund General funds General Fund Total Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Sussex Community Foundation Big Give Campaign Total of funds |
Balance at 1 January 2022 £ 121,000 50,000 25,000 35,000 35,000 - - 266,000 158,595 424,595 - - - 424,595 |
Income £ - - - - - - - - 324,208 324,208 7,000 50,890 57,890 382,098 |
Expenditure £ - - - - - - - - (349,093) (349,093) - - - (349,093) |
Transfers in/out £ (9,500) - - - (35,000) 62,000 17,500 35,000 (35,000) - - - - - |
Balance at 31 December 2022 £ 111,500 50,000 25,000 35,000 - 62,000 17,500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 301,000 | |||||
| 98,710 | |||||
| 399,710 | |||||
| 7,000 50,890 |
|||||
| 57,890 | |||||
| 457,600 |
Page 25
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
12. Statement of funds (continued)
Designated Funds:
The designated reserves for 2023 are:-:
Running costs reserves
The running costs reserve was set up to safeguard against major fluctuations in income or significant short-term funding issues.
Information products update
The Information Fund includes producing, promoting and disseminating key GBS information in English and other languages.
IT Services Fund
The IT services fund was created to cover the costs of integrating a new database with the IT system and website, and to improve the website particularly in the light of the new trial of GBS prevention strategies which will increase traffic to the site. The funds will also be used to cover the costs of additional updates to helpdesk, including monitoring and evaluation, and replacement of IT equipment to allow for agile working.
GBS Research Impact Fund
The GBS research impact fund was created to cover additional costs associated with the new trial of GBS prevention strategies which will increase use of the charity's existing information materials (particularly the leaflet co-written with the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists), creating new information materials and the need to provide additional support via the charity's helplines and forums. The pandemic forced the delay of the trial by 12 months.
Website and internal IT review fund
A review of our IT infrastructure is long overdue and has been on hold since the start of the pandemic. A hybrid of home and office working is now the norm. Increasingly our beneficiaries are expecting to be able to access all the information they need when they need it, and using multiple platforms. We need to adapt the charity’s services and ways of working to address these changes.
Conference Fund
Our virtual conferences in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 have been very successful. For 2024, we want to build on this success and offer bursary places to student midwives in the UK, plus midwives and other health professionals involved in maternity and neonatal care from low and middle-income countries. We will approach potential funders for this particularly the international element, but will also set aside funds for UK student midwives. This will increase knowledge and education about group B Strep among midwives, one of the targets highlighted in our strategy refresh in 2021.
Restricted Funds :
Sussex Community Foundation
The charity received £7,000 in the prior year from the Sussex Community Foundation towards our Helpline services, including targeted work to reach families in Sussex with information and support around GBS.
Big Give Campaign
The charity raised £25,000 from public donations (matched by £25,000 of funding from the DCMS Tampon Tax fund) towards the running of its Helpline service, providing information and support to families affected by GBS.
Page 26
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
12. Statement of funds (continued)
The Hospital Saturday Fund
The charity received £2,000 for The Hospital Saturday Fund toward the running of its Helpline service.
13. Analysis of net assets between funds
Analysis of net assets between funds - current year
| Tangible fixed assets Debtors due after more than one year Current assets Creditors due within one year Total |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 3,150 308 420,930 (26,287) 398,101 |
Total funds 2023 £ 3,150 308 420,930 (26,287) |
|---|---|---|
| 398,101 |
Analysis of net assets between funds - prior year
| Tangible fixed assets Current assets Creditors due within one year Total |
Unrestricted funds 2022 £ 6,590 414,899 (21,779) 399,710 |
Restricted funds 2022 £ - 57,890 - 57,890 |
Total funds 2022 £ 6,590 472,789 (21,779) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 457,600 |
Page 27
Docusign Envelope ID: 691B7362-75CA-406E-960F-079AE0CAE44F
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
14. Operating lease commitments
At 31 December 2023 the Company had commitments to make future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases as follows:
| Amounts payable Not later than 1 year Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years |
2023 £ 8,394 - 8,394 |
2022 £ 16,514 8,394 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 24,908 |
15. Related party transactions
Oliver Plumb, the son of Jane Plumb (a trustee), is employed by the charity. During the year he received remuneration of £39,000 (2022: 32,930). He also received employer pension contributions of £1,537 (2022: £958). Oliver received no other expenses or benefits from the charity in either year.
Page 28