Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
Company registration number: 05587535 Charity number: 1112065
TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
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 - 10 |
| Independent examiner's report | 11 |
| Statement of financial activities | 12 |
| Balance sheet | 13 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 14 - 25 |
Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
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 2024
Trustees Mr S Bramley Mrs A Eddy Mrs D Forwood (resigned 20 July 2024) Dr K Gutteridge (resigned 15 October 2024) Mr D Hobster Mrs D Jones Dr E Morris CBE Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive Mr R Plumb Mrs D Crohn 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: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
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 2024
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
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Introduction by the Chair and Chief Executive
We are pleased to present the Group B Strep Support Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024.
This year has been one of significant progress and impact. Our mission - to prevent group B Strep infections in babies and support affected families - has never been more urgent, and we are proud of the strides we’ve made. From expanding our helpline and information services to launching our free CPD-accredited eLearning module for healthcare professionals, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that every baby has the best possible start in life.
We were honoured to host our annual Group B Strep in Pregnancy & Babies Conference in May 2024, which brought together over 400 delegates and leading experts to share the latest research and clinical insights. The stories shared by families affected by group B Strep infection were powerful reminders of why our work matters so deeply.
Our advocacy efforts gained momentum, with growing public and professional support for routine antenatal testing and for group B Strep to be made a notifiable disease. We submitted evidence to the Lord Darzi NHS Review and participated in high-level discussions with policymakers, including the WHO’s roadmap to defeat meningitis by 2030.
Financially, we ended the year in a strong position, with a surplus of £11,830 and total funds carried forward of £409,931. This reflects the generosity of our supporters and the dedication of our fundraising community, who took on marathons, bake sales and challenge events across the UK to raise vital funds.
As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and continuing to support families with compassion and expertise. We are grateful to our Trustees, staff, volunteers, funders, and supporters for their unwavering commitment to our cause.
Together, we are making a difference.
........................................... ...................................................................... EA421AB118BF4D8... D4FF7BBEC8164CC... Dr E Morris CBE, Chair Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive
Date: 08-Sep-2025
Date:
08-Sep-2025
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
The Trustees present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024. 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 2024, the meetings were held on 27 January, 27 April, 20 July, 26 October and 14 December. The meetings are a mix of video calls and face-to-face meetings.
The Trustees continue to implement the recommendations of the strategy review carried out in 2021, which has since been updated.
The charity makes its supporters and networks aware of the opportunity for suitably skilled persons to join the Board of Trustees. The Trustees operate several committees for greater efficiency, including finance, governance and diversity and inclusion. 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 2024. 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 continue to monitor our financial position carefully. 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: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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:
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66 babies are diagnosed with group 8 Strep infection
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56 babies make a full recovery
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6 babies survive with long-term physical or mental disabilities
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4 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 lie 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 2024, we received over 800 enquiries from families, demonstrating just how vital the service is. Families find us through recommendations and 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 to NHS health professionals, maternity units, neonatal units and GP practices with essential information materials on request.
In 2024 we worked hard to build relationships with maternity units, arranging for them to be sent regular orders of the information materials.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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.
In our latest survey results:
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94% 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
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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.
Here are a couple of examples of the Helpline support we provided during 2024:
Correcting confusion
In January 2024, a pregnant woman contacted us who had carried group B Strep in both of her previous pregnancies. Both of her previous children were born safe since the GBS carriage had been picked up in pregnancy and preventive antibiotics were given in labour. It is now her third pregnancy, and her midwife was saying that she would not be given antibiotics when she goes into in labour.
The pregnant woman said to us, “I have friends whose children have died from GBS. How can I make them listen to me and give me antibiotics in labour?”
We were able to give her information on the guidelines from the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, and what steps she could take if she felt she needed to. Following our response, she got back in touch to say, “Thank you for this. This is exactly the information/ guidelines I needed to be able to take to my appointment on Monday.”
Grateful parent
We spoke a number of times with a Mum whose firstborn unexpectedly developed a serious group B Strep infection. Thankfully the baby made a good recovery and we were again in touch with Mum when she became pregnant again. Her second baby was born safe and well.
The Mum messaged us to say, “After my firstborn recovered from an unexpected and scary group B Strep infection, your invaluable support helped my family prepare for my second child’s safe arrival, and helped me advocate for a brilliant birth experience for us both.”
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 programmes, and many regional and local news outlets, as well as online
Throughout the year, we engaged in many national and international awareness campaigns, including 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 2024, and we undertook updates to the key pages on our website. It is gratifying that so many people look, to us for information and guidance on group B Strep, and we remain committed to providing 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. The GBS3 trial results, due in 2025, will provide insights on improving the prevention of group B Strep infection in newborn babies.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 widely. These stories inspire us ever onwards in our work to stop group B Strep infection in babies.
Our Annual Group B Strep Pregnancy & Babies 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 ‘godmother of group B Strep prevention’ and our Global Vaccine Engagement Adviser, Dr Carol J Baker, gave the keynote speech. Families shared their experiences, and other speakers gave updates on the GBS3 trial, the latest on efforts to develop a group B Strep vaccine 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, who generously sponsored the conference.
These events offer obstetricians, midwives and other health professionals an opportunity to access the latest evidence and information about group B Strep.
Our CEO, Jane Plumb, is widely admired in the charity sector, and her influence reaches far beyond GBSS. She continues to represent Europe on the Advisory Council of the Confederation of Meningitis Organisations —- a group that shares many of our goals and values.
Jane also leads as the Women’s Voices Lead and Chair of the Women’s Network at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Through these roles, she’s helped ensure that group B Strep prevention stays firmly on the radar of key decision-makers.
GBSS has over the years produced training materials which are used by some hospitals. In 2024, GBSS secured funding for an e-learning module on group B Strep aimed at midwives and other health professionals to enable maternity units to meet the requirements of the Core Competency Framework v2 (CCF2). Our e-learning module was ready in July, and by year-end over 1376 healthcare professionals had registered.
Supporting research into group B Strep
The charity has been actively supporting the 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 nearing completion, The trial is due to include 320,000 pregnant women and their babies by the time recruitment ends in March 2025. The trial will compare the current approach to preventing early-onset group B Strep infections with testing all pregnant women and people 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.
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. It has taken a long time to get to this point, but we are getting closer.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Fundraising
We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and creativity of our fundraising community. Our supporters have taken part in a wide range of events to raise vital funds and awareness for Group B Strep Support (GBSS). Their efforts not only help sustain our work but also honour the families affected by group B Strep. Here are just a few standout examples:
Leeds Marathon – Matt and Jess’s Story
Matt and Jess ran the Leeds Marathon in support of GBSS after their newborn daughter, Hettie, developed sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis caused by group B Strep. The couple faced significant emotional and physical challenges, including Jess’s diagnosis of PTSD following the traumatic experience. Despite the demands of training while working full-time and parenting, they were driven by a powerful goal: to raise awareness and prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak.
Jess told us: ‘Marathon training is not for the faint-hearted! But if doing so saves even just one family from the heartache this infection causes, it will always be worth it.’
In Memory Fundraising – Remembering Rhodi Family Fun Day
In memory of their son Rhodi, who tragically died from group B Strep infection in January 2024, Jasmine and her family launched the “Remembering Rhodi” initiative. They organised a Family Fun Day in Tiverton, bringing together their local community to raise awareness and funds for GBSS. The event featured a wide range of activities, from raffles and performances to games and character visits, and raised an incredible £4,760.
Jasmine told us ‘Rhodi dying was by far the hardest thing my family have had to deal with, but knowing his name is saving lives makes us so incredibly proud of him.'
Inflatable 5K Run
Simon, Pixie, and David completed a 5K inflatable obstacle course to raise funds for GBSS after baby Sophie, born in January 2024, was diagnosed with a group B Strep infection shortly after birth. Thanks to swift medical intervention, Sophie recovered well. The trio tackled 32 inflatable obstacles together and were thrilled with the support they received. Simon and Pixie plan to continue fundraising for GBSS in the future, inspired by Sophie’s journey.
Clinical 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 Clinical Advisory Panel, made up in 2024 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 are 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
In 2024, Group B Strep Support recorded a total income of £388,755, an increase from £367,564 in 2023. This included £136,470 from donations and legacies, £240,625 from charitable activities, and £11,452 from investments. Expenditure for the year amounted to £376,925, resulting in a surplus of £11,830 - an encouraging turnaround from the £59,499 deficit recorded in 2023.
The charity’s financial health reflects the continued generosity of donors, the success of fundraising initiatives, and prudent cost management. Notably, staff costs were reduced year-on-year, and awareness and professional fees were carefully controlled. These results demonstrate the charity’s resilience and its ability to sustain and grow its services in a challenging economic environment.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Reserves policy
The Trustees have set a reserves policy that aims to maintain unrestricted and undesignated reserves equivalent to six months’ expenditure, recognising the volatility of income from donations and fundraising events. As of 31 December 2024, the charity’s free reserves stood at £102,431, representing approximately 3.26 months of expenditure (2023: 3.06 months).
In addition to general reserves, the charity holds designated funds totalling £307,500 to support specific strategic priorities, including an emergency reserves fund, information and outreach, digital infrastructure, research and advocacy and our annual conference.
The Trustees are satisfied that the current level of reserves provides a sound financial foundation for the charity’s ongoing operations and future plans. The charity's aim to broaden our income streams and increase income has been successful in a sometimes challenging economic environment. We plan to continue this diversification in the coming years.
Pay and Expenses
The Trustees consider the charity’s key management personnel to include the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive, who are responsible for the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the charity. All Trustees, except for the Chief Executive, volunteer their time and received no remuneration or reimbursement for expenses during the year. The Chief Executive, Jane Plumb MBE, received a salary of £52,055 in 2024 (2023: £78,826), which is reviewed annually and benchmarked against comparable roles in similar-sized charities.
The Clinical Advisory Panel also provides its expertise on a voluntary basis and is not remunerated.
The Trustees are committed to transparency and fairness in remuneration, ensuring that pay reflects responsibility while safeguarding the charity’s resources.
Plans for 2025
Looking ahead, Group B Strep Support will continue to prioritise its core mission of preventing group B Strep infections in babies and supporting affected families. Key plans for 2025 include:
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expanding the reach of the charity’s Helpline and online support services;
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promoting the uptake of the newly launched eLearning module for healthcare professionals;
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advocating for the implementation of routine antenatal testing for group B Strep.
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supporting the dissemination and impact of the GBS3 trial results once published (expected in 2025);
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continuing to campaign for group B Strep to be made a notifiable disease
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planning another virtual Group B Strep in Pregnancy & Babies Conference for May 2025, building on the success of previous years.
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recruiting additional members to the charity’s Clinical Advisory Panel and to its Board of Trustees
Through these initiatives, the charity aims to deepen its impact, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that every baby has the best possible start in life.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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:
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select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP (FRS 102);
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make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards (FRS 102) have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
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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 for 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:
................................................ ecD4FF7BBEC8164CC... by: Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive
Date: 08-Sep-2025
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
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 2024.
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:
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accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
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the accounts do not accord with those records; or
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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
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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: 09-Sep-2025
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: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
| Note Income from: Donations and legacies 2 Charitable activities 3 Investments 4 Other income 5 Total income Expenditure on: Raising funds 6 Charitable activities 7 Total expenditure Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought forward Net movement in funds Total funds carried forward |
Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 136,470 240,625 11,452 208 388,755 33,686 343,239 376,925 11,830 398,101 11,830 409,931 |
Total funds 2024 £ 136,470 240,625 11,452 208 388,755 33,686 343,239 376,925 11,830 398,101 11,830 409,931 |
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 |
The Statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
The notes on pages 14 to 25 form part of these financial statements.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 05587535
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | £ | £ | |||
| Fixed assets | |||||
| Tangible assets | 10 | 1,862 | 3,150 | ||
| 1,862 | 3,150 | ||||
| Current assets | |||||
| Stocks | 639 | 1,245 | |||
| Debtors | 11 | 47,921 | 24,433 | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 398,565 | 395,560 | |||
| 447,125 | 421,238 | ||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due within one year | 12 | (39,056) | (26,287) | ||
| Net current assets | 408,069 | 394,951 | |||
| Total net assets | 409,931 | 398,101 | |||
| Charity funds | |||||
| Restricted funds | 13 | - | - | ||
| Unrestricted funds | 13 | 409,931 | 398,101 | ||
| Total funds | 409,931 | 398,101 |
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:
................................................ ecD4FF7BBEC8164CC... by: Mrs J Plumb MBE, Chief Executive
Date: 08-Sep-2025
The notes on pages 14 to 25 form part of these financial statements.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 2023 |
Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 21,070 15,446 11,544 20,823 34,339 7,519 25,729 136,470 116,080 |
Restricted funds 2024 £ - - - - - - - - 2,000 |
Total funds 2024 £ 21,070 15,446 11,544 20,823 34,339 7,519 25,729 136,470 118,080 |
Total funds 2023 £ 1,797 35,623 10,161 19,258 8,625 28,366 14,250 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 118,080 | ||||
3. Income from charitable activities
| General fundraising Sponsorships Merchandise income Total 2023 |
Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 130,727 108,794 1,104 240,625 241,318 |
Total funds 2024 £ 130,727 108,794 1,104 240,625 241,318 |
Total funds 2023 £ 130,174 110,630 514 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 241,318 | |||
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
4. Investment income
| Investment income Total 2023 |
Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 11,452 8,166 |
Total funds 2024 £ 11,452 8,166 |
Total funds 2023 £ 8,166 |
|---|---|---|---|
5. Other incoming resources
| Unrestricted | Total | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| funds | funds | funds | |
| 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Other income | 208 | 208 | - |
6. Expenditure on raising funds
Costs of raising voluntary income
| Website trading Merchandise Other fundraising costs Total 2023 |
Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 5,280 635 27,771 33,686 37,478 |
Total funds 2024 £ 5,280 635 27,771 33,686 37,478 |
Total funds 2023 £ 5,078 3,328 29,072 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37,478 | |||
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
7. Analysis of expenditure by activities
| Expenditure Total 2023 |
Support costs 2024 £ 343,239 389,585 |
Total funds 2024 £ 343,239 389,585 |
Total funds 2023 £ 389,585 |
|---|---|---|---|
Analysis of support costs
| Staff costs Depreciation Premises, rent and stationery Office running costs Awareness Entertainment and travel Bank charges and interest Management and professional fees Trustees expenses Governance - independent examiner's fee Awareness eLearning Total 2023 |
Activities 2024 £ 231,531 2,705 23,563 15,985 41,337 2,383 241 13,719 920 4,650 6,205 343,239 389,585 |
Total funds 2024 £ 231,531 2,705 23,563 15,985 41,337 2,383 241 13,719 920 4,650 6,205 343,239 389,585 |
Total funds 2023 £ 242,444 3,853 22,519 14,026 66,742 5,375 415 30,211 - 4,000 - |
|---|---|---|---|
| 389,585 | |||
8. Independent examiner's remuneration
The independent examiner's remuneration amounts to an independent examiner and accounts preparation fee of £4,240 ( 2023 - £4,000 ).
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
9. Staff costs
| Wages and salaries Social security costs Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes |
2024 £ 208,407 16,395 6,729 231,531 |
2023 £ 218,425 17,066 6,953 |
|---|---|---|
| 242,444 |
The average number of persons employed by the Company during the year was as follows:
| 2024 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| No. | No. | |
| Administration | 6 | 7 |
The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:
| 2024 | 2023 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| No. | No. | ||
| In the band £70,001 | - £80,000 | - | 1 |
During the year, one trustee received emoluments (including pension contributions) of £52,055 (2023 - £78,826) 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 (2023: There were no reimbursed costs during the year).
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
10. Tangible fixed assets
| Cost or valuation At 1 January 2024 Additions Disposals At 31 December 2024 Depreciation At 1 January 2024 Charge for the year On disposals At 31 December 2024 Net book value At 31 December 2024 At 31 December 2023 11. 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 4,073 271 - 4,344 248 519 |
Office equipment £ 18,665 1,417 (2,270) 17,812 16,034 2,434 (2,270) 16,198 1,614 2,631 2024 £ 21 21 21,665 26,235 47,921 |
Total £ 23,257 1,417 (2,270) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22,404 | |||
| 20,107 2,705 (2,270) |
|||
| 20,542 | |||
| 1,862 | |||
| 3,150 | |||
| 2023 £ 308 |
|||
| 308 196 23,929 |
|||
| 24,433 |
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
12. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year
| Trade creditors Other taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals and deferred income |
2024 £ 3,755 4,561 - 30,740 39,056 |
2023 £ 1,868 824 345 23,250 |
|---|---|---|
| 26,287 |
. Deferred income
| Deferred income brought forward Amount released to income Amounts deferred during the year Deferred income at 31 December 2024 |
2024 £ 19,250 (19,250) 26,000 26,000 |
2023 £ 13,830 (13,830) 19,250 |
|---|---|---|
| 19,250 |
Page 21
Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
13. Statement of funds
Statement of funds - current year
| Unrestricted funds Designated funds Emergency reserves fund Information & outreach fund IT services fund Research & advocacy fund Website and internal IT review fund Conference fund Digital infrastructure fund General funds General Fund Total Unrestricted funds |
Balance at 1 January 2024 £ 138,600 30,000 15,000 35,000 50,000 17,500 - 286,100 112,001 398,101 |
Income £ - - - - - - - - 388,755 388,755 |
Expenditure £ - - - - - - - - (376,925) (376,925) |
Transfers in/out £ (3,600) 10,000 (15,000) 25,000 (50,000) - 55,000 21,400 (21,400) - |
Balance at 31 December 2024 £ 135,000 40,000 - 60,000 - 17,500 55,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 307,500 | |||||
| 102,431 | |||||
| 409,931 |
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
13. Statement of funds (continued)
Statement of funds - prior year
| Unrestricted funds Designated funds Emergency reserves fund Information & outreach fund IT services fund Research & advocacy 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 |
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
13. Statement of funds (continued)
Designated Funds:
The designated reserves for 2024 are:
Emergency reserves fund
The running costs reserve was set up to safeguard against major fluctuations in income or significant short-term funding issues.
Information & Outreach Fund
Supports updates to the 'After Your Baby’s GBS Infection' leaflet and its translation, outreach to maternity and neonatal units, and completion of PIF TICK Certification to ensure trusted health information.
Research and Advocacy Fund
Supports GBSS involvement in clinical trials and maximising the impact of the GBS3 Trial results. Includes collaboration with communications experts.
Conference Fund
Funds bursaries for UK student midwives and international professionals to attend the annual virtual conference. Capped at 500 free tickets.
Digital Infrastructure Fund
Covers IT equipment upgrades, software tools, Cyber Essentials, website overhaul, chatbot integration, and internal systems review.
14. Analysis of net assets between funds
Analysis of net assets between funds - current period
| Tangible fixed assets Debtors due after more than one year Current assets Creditors due within one year Total |
Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 1,862 21 447,104 (39,056) 409,931 |
Total funds 2024 £ 1,862 21 447,104 (39,056) |
|---|---|---|
| 409,931 |
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Docusign Envelope ID: 0FCA3F77-EFF9-4F16-9976-1A11463644FC
GROUP B STREP SUPPORT (A company limited by guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
14. Analysis of net assets between funds (continued)
Analysis of net assets between funds - prior period
| 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 |
15. Operating lease commitments
At 31 December 2024 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 |
2024 £ 16,514 24,863 41,377 |
2023 £ 8,394 - |
|---|---|---|
| 8,394 |
16. Related party transactions
Oliver Plumb, the son of Jane Plumb (a trustee), is employed by the charity. During the year he received remuneration of £43,010 (2023: 39,000). He also received employer pension contributions of £1,720 (2023: £1,537). Oliver received no other expenses or benefits from the charity in either year.
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