2024-2025 Blackpool Carers Centre QH41i*¥ ' PAss/oM . l¢ Our Purpose ...................................................................... 2
Welcome ............................................................................ 3
What we do ....................................................................... 3
Adult Carers ................................................................. 4-5
Young Carers ................................................................. 6-7
Volunteers ......................................................................... 8
Plans for the Future ........................................................ 9
Our Supporters ............................................................... 10
Social Return on Investment (SROI) .......................... 11
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## **OUR PURPOSE** lila _Volunteer Coordinator, Kerry (c)_ rae SE Fr _with volunteers at their celebration_ so iy ~~ceaI5 sy etae 4 _event at The Village Blackpool_ li **----- Start of picture text -----**
“ Blackpool Carers Centre exists
to make a better life for carers
through our values of
Passion, Quality and Respect.
Rocco and young
carers enjoying the
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ee Pe Fray S be | ah es - “si | 4
eyen eaverbrooks House aief 5BEYae Pax “4 ; ig ; LooRe e s pus ae By ee eta 4
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_Cover images: Adult carers’ trip to Brantwood, Coniston; Young carer having fun during a respite craft session; Rock climbing experience for young carers during a respite trip._ 2 **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **WELCOME** to the 2024/25 Annual Review from Blackpool Carers Centre. This year has been one of progress, innovation, and renewed energy. Despite the challenges facing charities nationally, we are proud that Blackpool Carers Centre has continued to grow in strength, delivering high quality, person focused support that makes a real di ff erence in the lives of unpaid carers and their families. More carers than ever before have accessed our services, from young carers balancing school with their caring role, to adults supporting loved ones through illness, disability or addiction. Our work has provided vital respite, practical advice, emotional support and opportunities to connect; ensuring carers know they are not alone. We have expanded our reach through new projects, strengthened partnerships with schools, health and social care as well as introducing fresh initiatives such as digital inclusion and innovative group programmes. Each development re fl ects our ongoing commitment to shaping services around the voices of carers themselves and to continually adapt to meet changing needs. Our successes this year have only been possible thanks to the passion and commitment of our sta ff , volunteers and students. Their dedication embodies our values of Passion, Quality and Respect and ensures that every carer who walks through our doors feels seen, valued and supported. We are deeply grateful to our funders, supporters and corporate partners, whose generosity and belief in our mission enable us to provide vital services to carers and their families Together, we are building a stronger future for carers in Blackpool. Looking ahead, we remain ambitious and optimistic. With a clear strategy, strong partnerships and the energy of our incredible team, we are excited to continue developing new opportunities, raising awareness of the vital role of carers and ensuring that every carer in Blackpool has the chance of a better life. **Sarah Lambert Tom McMurdo** Chair of Trustees Director of Finance & Resources ## **WHAT WE DO** **Our mission remains steadfast: to create a better life for carers. At Blackpool Carers Centre, we achieve this through a variety of tailored support interventions, centering on a person led approach that recognises the unique journey of each carer.** This year, we’ve continued to expand and adapt our services to meet the evolving needs of carers across Blackpool. Our support extends from intensive, timelimited one-to-one assistance to community-based activities and trips for carers of all ages. Whether it's a young carer navigating school and family responsibilities or an adult balancing work and caregiving, our services are designed to o ff er comprehensive support. We are committed to evidence-based practice and continuous improvement. This year, our focus on rigorous data collection and analysis has strengthened, allowing us to better track the impact of our services. By listening to feedback from carers and measuring outcomes, we re fi ne our approaches to ensure that we are truly making a di ff erence in the lives of those we support. Our achievements are the result of a collaborative e ff ort. Our dedicated sta ff , volunteers, and Trustees work tirelessly to ensure that every carer who comes to us receives the support they need and deserve. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the lives of carers in Blackpool. Our dedicated team provides personalised care, o ff ering guidance and information that helps carers manage the complexities of their roles. From service navigation to support groups, we create safe spaces where carers can share their experiences, gain valuable insights, and fi nd comfort in knowing they are not alone. Understanding the physical and emotional demands of caring, we place a strong emphasis on respite. We continue to o ff er diverse respite opportunities, whether through engaging sessions at Beaverbrooks House or community outings. These moments of respite are crucial, giving carers the chance to recharge and focus on their own wellbeing. **SOCIAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25** ## **ADULT CARERS** **We recognise the unique challenges and immense responsibilities that adult carers face, and we're dedicated to providing a wide range of services and resources tailored to their speci fi c needs. Our goal is to support them in their caring roles while also enhancing their own well-being.** Our Adult Carers Service serves as a vital lifeline, o ff ering practical assistance, emotional support, and much-needed respite. We understand that the demands of caring can be overwhelming, often leaving carers with little time for themselves. That's why our services are speci fi cally designed to provide the respite and support adult carers need to continue their vital work without compromising their own health and happiness. **“** _**It makes such a di ff erence to have someone listen to you, especially if you are on your own and have no company.**_ **Sarah, ReFocus Carer** _Adult carers respite trip to The Winter Gardens Theatre, Blackpool_ aw Ty ## **BILL’S STORY** is fantastic as I use it to watch Blackpool play football at Bloom eld Road. I had a well-paid job as an engineer which involved travelling around the country and was often away from home. I was about to travel to Scotland, when my wife Linda had her stroke. It came as a complete shock to us, it was just a normal Friday night, she was on the phone to a friend and within minutes my daughter shouted to me mum’s having a stroke. This was in January 2020. When Linda was allowed home, it was clear that our lives had changed forever, I had to give up my job to look after her as a full-time carer. I plan my days around Linda, due to her medication she sleeps around 14 hours a day, so we do everything between the hours of 12pm – 7pm. We go out every day and make the most of the time we have. Our relationship has changed and evolved into something di ff erent. To some degree you’re trying to be a husband and a Carer and that’s sometimes di ffi cult. It a ff ects everything. I feel I manage that quite well, but for some people, I think it must just totally change the way they interact with their loved ones. I was referred to the Carers Centre by the Transfer of Care Hub at Blackpool Victoria Hospital who contacted me before Linda was discharged home. I met a support worker at the hospital which was an opportunity to talk about my caring role and the support that is available. It included planning for an emergency and setting up a Contingency Plan just in case something unexpectedly happened to me, and I was unable to care for Linda. It’s been a gradual thing, but it’s always been there, and my family have always tried to encourage me to take a break, but it is a di ffi cult one, you do feel guilty. I do need to start taking more breaks, as now my only respite is the football on a Saturday for 4 hours which is the only time I switch o ff from my caring role completely. I really appreciate the support I have received from the Carers Centre and would not have been able to move forward without their support, which has allowed me to continue to be a husband and a carer. Having the support from the Carers Centre has helped take away some of the ‘What if’ and replaced it with some reassurance if an emergency did occur. My support worker applied for a Carers Trust Grant which 4 **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ® **----- Start of picture text -----**
Carers and loved ones
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enjoying some happy ae -*
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referrals made to other organisations
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instances of partnership working
took place on behalf of adult carers
i
“ Thank you for your support and
being there for me. I feel like
people are listening to me now.
The contacts toolkit you gave
me is now my go to contact list. ReFocus Carers’ Group making
new friends during a respite break
Jean, adult carer to Crow Wood Hotel, Burnley
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## **“ WHAT WE ACHIEVED** This year we have seen signi fi cant growth in our adult team. We have continued to expand our crucial support to those caring for individuals struggling with alcohol and substance misuse. We have also build upon the success of our adult respite provision, o ff ering more sessions, trips and activities throughout the year. **----- Start of picture text -----**
FACTS
AND
FIGURES
@ @ 782
adult carers received one to one
Ka support.
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**312** adult carers’ respite sessions took place **967** welfare checks made for adult carers **82** Lasting Power of Attorney forms completed. **SOCIAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25** 5 ## **YOUNG CARERS** **Young carers face a multitude of challenges as they navigate the responsibilities of caring for a family member or loved one. Our Young Carers Service is dedicated to providing personalised support, respite, and empowerment to these remarkable young individuals, who often take on adult-sized responsibilities at a young age.** Our commitment to young carers is rooted in a deep understanding of their needs and aspirations. Through one-to-one support, group activities, and dedicated projects, we aim to alleviate the burden of caring and create an environment where young carers can thrive. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Excited young carers meeting
Rab Ferguson, author of
‘The Late Crew’, a fantastic tale
of young carers...and an alien!
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The Young Carers Service also focuses on fostering a sense of community and belonging for young carers. Through group activities, workshops, and social events, we create opportunities for them to connect with peers, build supportive relationships, and share their experiences in a safe and inclusive space. This sense of belonging helps combat feelings of isolation and provides a network of understanding individuals who can relate to their unique challenges. Our support extends beyond just providing carerelated resources. We also aim to empower young carers by o ff ering opportunities for personal development, education, and skills-building. By giving them the tools they need to succeed both in their caring role and in their personal lives, we help them build a brighter future. The Young Carers Service is more than just a support system - it's a lifeline for young carers who often feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities. We are dedicated to ensuring that these young individuals receive the support, recognition, and opportunities they deserve, enabling them to live ful fi lling lives while continuing to care for their loved ones. **----- Start of picture text -----**
during a visit to Lancashire Fire Service ee
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## **SCARLETT’S** **STORY** My name is Scarlett, I am 13 years old and am a young carer for my sister who has ADHD and can be challenging with her behaviour. My sister’s behaviour impacts life at home as she can be violent and I fi nd her behaviour stressful, it also a ff ects my self-con fi dence, and I barely get any time with my mum. I help my mum a lot around the house by tidying up, washing dishes and going shopping, as my mum can’t go with my sister. I also look after my younger sister when things are challenging by taking her to my room. I was referred to Blackpool Carers Centre in 2019 where I received 1 to 1 support. Since then, I was re referred and I’ve been receiving 1 to 1 support, attending the respite sessions and took part in the trips and activities over the summer holidays. Blackpool Carers Centre has given me the chance to get away from my caring role, explore di ff erent things and make new friendships. I feel this time is time for myself. **“** _**Time spent at Blackpool Carers is time for myself.**_ **Scarlett, young carer** ## **WHAT WE ACHIEVED** The Young Carers service, has continued in a position of a strength, supporting hundreds of young carers and their families through a range of caring roles and situations. Our Family Focus Project continues successfully to be one of the few support programmes in the country speci fi cally designed to support children and young people a ff ected by parental mental ill health and/or substance misuse. **“** _**You do an amazing job and support adults and children when they need it most. Thank you for everything.**_ **Andrea, Family Focus mum** _Young carers practicing archery skills during a residential trip_ soe **“** _**You’ve helped me to know that I can now talk to people and not keep it all to myself.**_ **Carol, parent of young carer** ## **FACTS AND FIGURES** **404** young carers accessed support **718** instances of one to one support with young carers **599** instances of partnership working took place on behalf of young carers and their families _Respite Coordinator, Pat, teaching helping a_ Hy _young carer with_ * _her culinary skills_ f **100** multiagency meetings took place on behalf of young carers and their families **177** young carers respite sessions took place **221** > welfare checks made for young carers ~ ? * ™ _This young carer was let loose with a few paint pots during Take5 respite..._ > PR inte **SOCIAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25** 3 : 7 ## **VOLUNTEERS** **Our volunteers play an vital role in the operations of Blackpool Carers Centre. Whether its welcoming all of our carers and visitors to Beaverbrooks House, delivering the Caring Times or supporting respite sessions; our volunteers are intertwined in all of the work we do as an organisation.** As our charity, our strength is to be able to o ff er support and fl exibility when our volunteers experience changes in their personal lives and our willingness to change in response to the needs of the organisation to ensure that volunteering remains ‘at the heart of Beaverbrooks House’. another two teams who came to work in the garden, they donated food, resources and plants as well as their time. Their positive feedback to their colleagues has led to a visit early in 2025 to continue their work. This year volunteering has taken a new direction with community volunteers who do not attend the centre. In 2024 our regular volunteer Dianne took on the challenge of developing knitting for Rocco and the fundraising that it generates. With some help from friends and contacts in the crafting community this contribution has gone from strength to strength. We now have an additional 14 people who knit for us and we are also supported by knit and natter groups in Layton and Poulton. Each knitter has adopted their own Rocco and it has resulted in over 600 out fi ts being produced and £4,600 in donations from the hotels that support us by selling them to guests. We celebrated their success by inviting all the knitters to a Xmas afternoon tea where they received a surprise thank you from the ‘real’ Rocco. Volunteering in this way enable us to engage with a new group of people who cannot commit to a regular role but can _Dianne (r) and her team of knitters_ One of the objectives for 2024 was to develop our relationship with key partners and to explore new ways of engaging with external organisations. The Department of Work and Pension has supported the centre with volunteers from their ‘Community 10 000’ project for several years and this year we were able to o ff er opportunities for them to volunteer alongside carers by organising an afternoon tea for our regular ‘Dementia Drop In’ and creating a bug themed session for the young carers in Take 5. During their visits our volunteers with long term caring roles described their daily routines and lived experience to the teams as they described the impact of our work. Alongside contribute their time and skills to the centre. **“** _**Volunteering at Take 5 is such an honour.**_ **Danielle, Take 5 volunteer** ## **DANIELLE’S STORY** I’ve been volunteering for just over a year with Take 5, and I have been involved in organising activities, such as teaching cooking skills and organising crafts. I have also o ff ered emotional support by actively listening to any young person if they need to o ffl oad any issues that they are having. Take 5 has given me the opportunity to learn more about myself and others, and has expanded not only my own skills, but has allowed me to learn and develop new skills as well. For example, I didn’t think I would be helping teenagers in the kitchen learning how to cook meals for their friends, but I’m so glad I have! Because of this, I’m now constantly coming up with and researching new ideas I can try out with the group- especially when it comes to food! I enjoy volunteering with Take 5 because not only does it give me valuable work experience, but volunteering also has made a valuable impact upon myself as a person. I have become much more con fi dent in myself, and I have become someone who young people can come to if they feel safe to do so. This to me is such an honour, and I feel so grateful that the Take 5 team has allowed me to become a volunteer with them- thank you so much. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Volunteer, Dan
with young carers
a Wy
tm. during a respite trip
**----- End of picture text -----**
**BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **“** _**Volunteering at Blackpool**_ _**Carers is like belonging to a huge family, it’s a lovely place to be, everyone is happy and smiling even though the sta ff have some very di ffi cult situations to work through and I hope to be helping for a long time to come”**_ **Volunteer** **----- Start of picture text -----**
FACTS
AND
FIGURES
133
individuals volunteered during
the year
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**5,949** hours donated by volunteers **64** new volunteers welcomed ## **PLANS FOR THE FUTURE** **Blackpool Carers Centre will continue to deliver a provide a wide range of services and projects to carers and their families as we remain focused on delivering a better life for carers.** children and young people a ff ected by substance misuse and/or mental ill health Our 5 year strategy continues to de fi ne our work as we seek to achieve our objectives for carers, for our people and for resources respectively. We have identi fi ed some speci fi c focuses for the next fi nancial year, the delivery of which will progress our objects and strengthen the organisation's position. Importantly, as the Health and Social Care landscape shifts, we will develop new ways of working that align with the priorities of our statutory partners. The fi rst of these is a focus on identifying more carers at an early stage in their caring role by improving our external communications with professionals, families, businesses and the public generally. This aim will see the unveiling of a new brand for Blackpool Carers Centre and new literature which is more visually centered. There will also be work on our social media presence and a new push on our literature in the community. These steps will be further supported by speci fi c awareness work with local agencies and support teams in both statutory and third sector , organisations. We will also work to improve the fi nancial position of carers by increasing our provision of bene fi ts advice. This will see the organisation source speci fi c funding for work around income maximisation for carers to ensure that we remain able to meet the demand presented by our community. Another key focus for the year is securing long term funding for our Family Focus Project which supports **----- Start of picture text -----**
Respite Coordinator, Pat leading an adult carers’
Tai Chi session on Wellbeing Wednesday
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**SOCIAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25** 9 ## **OUR SUPPORTERS** **We remain incredibly grateful to our supporters whose continued help enables us to delivery our work and pursue our mission. This year, we have seen another bike ride and a range of personal challenges, with people running, walking and even fi ghting to raise vital funds for Blackpool Carers Centre.** _Great North Runners, Debbie and Tony, are regular supporters of Blackpool Carers._ **“** _**We love the fact that we can support such a worthwhile and local charity as we can see a direct impact in our local area.**_ **Rachel Lawless, Imperial Hotel (Caring Corporate)** The help of our Caring Corporates has been very gratefully received, as businesses from across the town have worked hard to raise funds and to raise awareness of carers across the community. From Hotels selling our Rocco teddies, through to larger organisations donating for every job they do, all of our wonderful Caring Corporates work towards making a better life for carers. _Below: Our 2024 Blackpool to 5 Countries Cyclists at the fi nish of their epic challenge, at Chester Racecourse._ _Above: Pupils from Baines School raised £550 by holding a Christmas Fair, Easter Bingo and Summer Ra ffl e throughout the year._ **“** _**I support Blackpool Carers Centre because someone needs to care for those who care for others.**_ **----- Start of picture text -----**
$ ; > = 4 %
Terry (r) with the winning team from
InXpress, at our 2024 Charity Golf Day.
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**Mark Prince, MarkSafety (Caring Corporate)** **THE IMPACT OF BLACKPOOL CARERS OVER THE PAST YEAR, THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT... Every £1 invested** Our adult carers feeling Our adult carers **in Blackpool Carers Centre provides** less socially isolated returning to work **a Social Return on Investment of** returned a value of generated a value of ® **£19.47** ® **£325,352 £344,818** The improvements in the Our work within The reassurance provided by fi nancial situations of our adult carers schools has returned Blackpool Carers to young carers with a generated a value of a social value of low level of need generated a value of ~~®~~ © ® **£491,489 £243,072 £1,604,986** Our work within Social Care teams Our work with Our work with young carers with a returned a social value of our carers’ ‘cared-for’ high level of need **£262,207** has returned a value of returned a value of ~~®®~~ **£2,059,126 £557,233** Our respite provision Our support meaning that our carers’ Our work with GPs for young carers ‘cared-for’ are less likely to require reducing unnecessary appointments returned a value of institutionalised care returned a value of returned a value of ~~>~~ **£238,469 £1,379,225 £355,810** The reassurance provided by Blackpool Carers to young carers with a low level of need generated a value of **£1,604,986** Our work with GPs reducing unnecessary appointments returned a value of **£355,810** **SOCIAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25** 11 To make a donation to provide respite for our carers **Text BLACKPOOLCARERS to 70085 to give £5**[* ] **Scan to** _OR_ **DONATE ONLINE** ORE cee: oe» : : _*Texts charged at your standard network rate_ **Blackpool Carers Centre** Beaverbrooks House, 147 Newton Drive, Blackpool FY3 8LZ Tel: 01253 393748 Email: admin@blackpoolcarers.org **www.blackpoolcarers.org** Charity No. 1114558. Registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales No. 5633524. Blackpool Carers Centre QAa//*¥ • Ptsssiom • TrsF6 Chanty No. 1114558 2024-2025 Annual Report _Carers enjoying some relaxing_ , Wl iae oY we _Wellbeing Wednesday_ it, _art-therapy during_ NO te har me ' o bar ee. 1 Mg % <, e » i mR Pe = . >t) —— se ; a ae -»c ; **“** _**Blackpool Carers Centre exists**_ ‘ | —_—__ _**to make a better life for carers**_ Zz **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **CONTENTS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
||||| |---|---|---|---| |Introduction|4| |Report of the Trustees|5| |Statement of Trustees Responsibilities|9| |Report of the Independent Auditors|10| |Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities|12| |Balance Sheets|13| |Cash|fl|ow Statement|14| |Notes to the Cash|fl|ow Statement|15| |Notes to the Financial Statements|16| |Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities|26| |Charity income and expenditure|27| **----- End of picture text -----**
_Adult carers on an inspirational trip to the Meditation Centre at Ulverston._ **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **INTRODUCTION** ## **Welcome to the 2024/25 Annual Report from Blackpool Carers Centre.** This year has been one of progress, innovation, and renewed energy. Despite the challenges facing charities nationally, we are proud that Blackpool Carers Centre has continued to grow in strength, delivering high quality, person focused support that makes a real di ff erence in the lives of unpaid carers and their families. More carers than ever before have accessed our services, from young carers balancing school with their caring role, to adults supporting loved ones through illness, disability or addiction. Our work has provided vital respite, practical advice, emotional support and opportunities to connect; ensuring carers know they are not alone. We have expanded our reach through new projects, strengthened partnerships with schools, health and social care as well as introducing fresh initiatives such as digital inclusion and innovative group programmes. Each development re fl ects our ongoing commitment to shaping services around the voices of carers themselves and to continually adapt to meet changing needs. Our successes this year have only been possible thanks to the passion and commitment of our sta ff , volunteers and students. Their dedication embodies our values of Passion, Quality and Respect and ensures that every carer who walks through our doors feels seen, valued and supported. We are deeply grateful to our funders, supporters and corporate partners, whose generosity and belief in our mission enable us to provide vital services to carers and their families Together, we are building a stronger future for carers aA. A ae in Blackpool. Looking ahead, we remain ambitious and optimistic. With a clear strategy, strong partnerships and the energy of our incredible team, we are excited to continue developing new opportunities, raising awareness of the vital role of carers and ensuring that every carer in Blackpool has the chance of a better life. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Carers and loved ones enjoying
Afternoon Tea and Tunes at
The Village Blackpool =
**----- End of picture text -----**
_Trips with their peers are a vital form of respite for our young carers._ **Sarah Lambert Tom McMurdo** Chair of Trustees Director of Finance & Resources **----- Start of picture text -----**
Young carers with one of
the 71 Elmer Elephants on
Blackpool Promenade
**----- End of picture text -----**
**BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES** The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the fi nancial statements of the charity for the year ended 31st March 2025 The trustees have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) ‘Accounting and Reporting by Charities’ issued in March 2015. ## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS** **Charity Name** Blackpool Carers Centre Ltd **Registered Company number** 05633524 (England and Wales) **Registered Charity number** 1114558 ## **Registered o ffi ce** Blackpool Carers Centre Beaverbrooks House 147 Newton Drive Blackpool FY3 8LZ ## **Trustees** S Lambert, Chair S Howarth T Jackson S Leighton B Reilly J Topping A Ward A Gilmore, Treasurer **Company Secretary** Mr T W McMurdo ## **Auditors** Champion Accountants LLP Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditors 7-9 Station Road Hesketh Bank Preston Lancashire PR4 6SN **Bankers** HSBC 1 Newhouse Road Oxford Square Blackpool Lancashire FY4 4YH **President:** Professor Saul Becker ## **Patrons:** Mr John Barnett DL MBE Mrs Danielle Barnett MBE Miss Hayley Kay Mr Clive Hirst ## **KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL** The Trustees delegate responsibility for the day-to-day management of the charity to the following senior employees: - Nigel McMurdo – Director of Operations - Tom McMurdo – Director of Finance and Resources - Alison Brown – Director of Quality ## **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT** ## **Governing document** The Charitable Company (hereafter referred to as “the Charity”) is controlled by its governing document, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as de fi ned by the Companies Act 2006. ## **Recruitment and appointment of new trustees** As set out in the Articles of Association, the board of trustees comprises not less than three trustees but not more than 12 trustees. The Board is responsible for the recruitment and appointment of new Trustees. Each year a skills audit is undertaken and if gaps are identi fi ed, a recruitment process takes place. The recruitment process has been developed in order to attract a diverse group of trustees with appropriate skills, knowledge and experience. Occasionally potential trustees register an interest in the organisation. Following this, a meeting is arranged with the Chair and a Director and the trustee is held on a waiting list until an appropriate vacancy arises. ## **Induction and training of new trustees** Once a decision has been made to take up a Board position, Trustees receive an induction pack containing the annual report, strategy and business plan and detailed information about the organisation and the personal commitment required. Trustees are invited to visit Beaverbrooks House and shadow workers in order to ensure a detailed understanding of the work carried out. Each year a Board Development Day is held, when trustees, supported by senior sta ff , take part in governance training and review the strategy, developing new ideas and learning about each other’s roles. ## **Organisational structure** The activities of the organisation are governed by the board of trustees, all of whom are directors. The board has established an Audit and Governance Sub-Committee. Board meetings are held quarterly, and a board assurance framework has been established in order to guide the board and subcommittee agenda. The Treasurer works closely with the fi nance team to provide assurance to the board around organisational fi nance. The board of trustees appoints the Directors who report to the Board on the operational running of the organisation. **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES continued** ## **Trustees’ attendance at board meetings** |**Trustee**|13.05.24|12.08.24|11.11.24|10.02.25| |---|---|---|---|---| |Sarah Lambert(Chair)|3|3|3|3| |Alison Gilmore(Treasurer)|x|3|3|3| |TracyJackson|x|N/A|N/A|N/A| |AnthonyWard|3|3|N/A|N/A| |John Topping|3|3|3|3| |Sian Howarth|x|N/A|N/A|N/A| |Sarah Leighton|x|x|x|x| |Ben Reilly|3|3|3|x| |Nicola Blackburn|3|3|3|3| Relationships with funders are maintained and regarded as high priority in order to develop sustainable and diverse funding streams. ## **Related parties** None of the trustees receives remuneration or other bene fi ts from their work with the charity. Trustees are invited to declare any relevant interests at each board meeting, and formally requested to submit an annual register of interests form. ## **Quality** Blackpool Carers Centre holds the Trusted Charity Level 2 Quality Mark and is a Carers Trust Centre of Excellence. Blackpool Carers’ Centre Ltd is a network partner of Carers Trust. ## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES** ## **Remuneration policy** The board is responsible for considering the remuneration of all sta ff , taking account of the skills and experience required, as well as the sector norms for charities of this size. Sta ff pay is reviewed annually by the board of trustees and a full pay review has been conducted with a new salary structure in place. ## **Objectives and aims** The Charity’s objects as set out in the objects contained in the company’s memorandum of association are: a) For the public bene fi t, to relieve the stresses experienced by carers and the families of people with physical, mental, sensory impairment or substance misuse problems, within the family or home, through the provision of support services and the promotion of the needs of carers on the Fylde Coast and surrounding areas. ## **Risk management** The board follows a comprehensive risk management policy which clearly de fi nes the roles of the board, audit committee and sta ff in identifying and managing risks, and how the register of risks should be used as a live document. - b) To advance public education concerning carers. - c) To undertake any other charitable activity in connection with the above. The board has a risk matrix to identify all major risks. Each risk is scheduled for attention according to the severity of its potential impact and the Audit and Governance Sub-Committee manages the risk process. ## **Purpose** The charity has a clear and easily understandable purpose which is to make ‘A Better Life for Carers’. MarkSafety Limited has been employed to manage Health and Safety. ## **Public Bene t** The trustees have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission guidance on public bene fi t in setting its strategy and when planning for the future. The charity supports carers from age of 5 who live, attend school/college or have a GP in Blackpool. A wide variety of support is o ff ered to carers, families and professionals without charge. We provide: - One to one intensive support plans; - Respite activities including youth clubs, trips and activitiesage speci fi c - Beaverbrooks House as a venue for respite and ad hoc support - Bene ts advice - School liaison - Information and advice - Volunteering opportunities - Dementia training - Substance Misuse project - Mental Health support - Emergency and small grants - Whole family support - Hospital based service - Magazine In order to ensure that resources are allocated e ff ectively and to reduce dependency on services, initial assessments identify carers who are in the highest need according to a ‘red/amber/green’ status. The most complex families receive time limited, intensive packages of support intended to improve the quality of their lives. At the end of the support plan, carers are able to access peer or volunteer led support alongside organised events and activities. Beaverbrooks House is open 5 days a week from 8.00am to 6.00pm with activities also taking place most weekends. Carers can call into Beaverbrooks House at any time to use facilities, gardens, take part in activities or seek advice and support. By embedding ourselves in our community, we are able to **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES continued** introduce the concept of caring and its potential impact on individuals/ families and educate all our stakeholders in the services that we o ff er. ## **Charitable activities** In order to deliver our purpose, we have developed a strategy focusing on three areas and this is reviewed annually. With the use of an operational plan, we review how our activities have performed against outputs and outcomes. We report on impact and ensure that all planned activities will achieve our purpose. Regular reviews allow trustees to build on the successes and learn when things go wrong in order to feed into a cycle of continuous development. ## **A. Carers** We will: - a) Deliver excellent carer-led, timelimited and outcome focussed support to carers and their families - b) Be the Single Point of Access for all carers in Blackpool - c) Identify hidden carers each year. - d) Increase the understanding of carers within the local community each year ## **B. People - Developing a highquality team of sta ff , volunteers, students and partners and be an employer of choice.** We will: - a) Provide a values driven, performance based learning culture for our team - b) Grow our own workforce; providing excellent training with opportunities for progression and continuous development. - c) Increase our capacity through providing a safe, supportive and stimulating placement for sta ff , students and volunteers - d) Be an employer of choice. ## **C. Resources – Developing a sustainable future.** We will: - a) Develop and maintain strong relationships with a diverse range of funders and partners, focusing on unrestricted income streams - b) Develop a sustainable and vibrant carers centre - c) Achieve net carbon neutrality - d) Deliver excellence in governance and fi nancial management. ## **ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE** Over 2024/25: For adult carers: - 677 carers were signposted to partner services; - 3,213 1:1 support sessions were provided; - 936 adult carers accessed support; - 502 referrals for support; - 967 welfare checks made for adult carers; - 180 training places provided for carers caring for those su ff ering from dementia; - 256 face-to-face bene fi ts reviews, applications and appeals; - £318,618 is the total value of bene fi ts that have been accessed for carers. For young carers: - 220 referrals for support; - 404 young carers accessed support; - 2,180 instances of support provided; - 599 instances of partnership working; - 100 multiagency meetings attended on behalf of young carers For young adult carers - 633 instances of support provided; - 47 referrals for young adult carer support; respite sessions have taken place. - 159 instances of partnership working took place with YACs ## **Resources** We are particularly indebted to the many funders who have provided vital support this year. We are indebted to The Beaverbrooks Charitable Trust, who have not only provided Beaverbrooks House at a peppercorn rent for 20 years, but also provide the funding for our Volunteer Coordinator. In addition to monetary support we have been fortunate to bene fi t from many pro bono supporters who provide professional guidance and corporate resources. We very much appreciate the kindness of all our supporters who so generously fundraise and volunteer to make a better life for carers. ## **Passion, Quality, Respect** As part of our commitment to our sta ff , students and volunteers, we have introduced a values-based performance management system. This has seen the end of annual appraisals with monthly live time feedback, matched against our values. ## **Donations** We make every penny count. For every £1 we spend on fundraising, we bring in £26.98 to support more local carers (2024: £20.60). ## **FINANCIAL REVIEW** Financial review and reserves The results of the Group are summarised on the Statement of Financial Activities. The closing reserves are shown on the Balance Sheet. The group has reserves of £1,212,071 at the year end. - 121 young adult carers speci fi c **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES continued** Of this total; £752,981 is a designated fund which includes the net book value (after depreciation) of donated assets received in respect of leasehold improvements during the DIYSOS: BBC Children in Need Big Build in 2016 and the capital expenditure on the annexe development during 2023. This leaves a balance of £459,090 constituting free reserves. The Charity’s reserves policy is to hold a level of 3-6 months free reserves equating to the unrestricted direct charitable costs for the year, being approximately £104,390 per month. The free reserves of £459,090 currently represent around 4 months’ worth of those costs. The Trustees will endeavour to retain this level in the future. **Investment policy and objectives** The Charity is holding £200,000 in a deposit Bond for safekeeping. ## **Future Developments** During 2025 we will be focusing on: - identifying more carers at an early stage in their caring role by improving our external communications with professionals, families, businesses and the public generally; - improving the fi nancial position of carers by increasing provision of bene fi ts advice; - securing long term funding for young carers substance misuse support Importantly, as the Health and Social Care landscape shifts, we will develop new ways of working that align with the priorities of our statutory partners. ## **OUR FUNDRAISING PRACTICE** Blackpool Carers Centre Ltd has moved away from a heavy reliance on statutory funding from the local authority. Instead, the Charity is developing and widening its income streams to ensure a sustainable future. Our approach to fundraising is based on building and maintaining key relationships. We take this approach seriously, ensuring that donors feel fully involved in our work and able to see clearly why their donations are making a better life for carers. Whilst we accept single donations, we do not actively seek them. Our best fundraisers are the service delivery team who deliver excellence in their daily work. Passionate, committed donors who understand the value of unpaid carers will often become our ambassadors. We aim to connect with donors and help them to understand why donations are important and how their money will be used. We o ff er our donors choice and focus on the impact of their donations. We consult with donors regularly. Many donors accept recognition whereas some of our donors request anonymity. Our Head of Fundraising holds the MInstF (Cert) quali fi cation from the Institute of Fundraising (IoF). We have subscribed to the IoF’s Code of Fundraising Practice and proactively adhere to the code by training all sta ff and volunteers in its contents. As a result of our relationship approach, we do not approach individuals for donations and we have not received any fundraising complaints. There is a clear process to deal with complaints. ## **GOING CONCERN** The accounts are prepared on a going concern basis, which the Trustees consider to be appropriate having considered the foreseeable future. The Charitable Company holds reserves which are su ffi ciently in line with its reserves policy. ## **MEASURING PERFORMANCE** The charity employs a number of tools to measure the performance of each of its projects. All carers across the service receive a pre and post intervention assessment, enabling a measure to be taken of the impact achieved by each project, both collectively and individually with carers and their families. Quantitative information is generated through each contact made, with a range of key performance indicators, including referral numbers, instances of 1:1 support and activity attendances, all being regularly assessed to ensure quality throughout the service. Qualitative information, most frequently communicated through case studies, is used to give a holistic picture of a case, both internally to measure performance and externally to inform our partners. ## **EMPLOYMENT POLICY** The charity’s policy is to promote equality of opportunity to all in employment and throughout the selection process, irrespective of their gender, race, ethnic origin, disability, age, nationality, sexuality, marital status and social class. Blackpool Carers oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. All employees, students and volunteers are treated fairly and equally. Selection for employment, promotion, training and any other bene fi ts is on the basis of aptitude and ability. All employees are helped and encouraged to further develop to their full potential and the talents and the resources of the workforce are fully utilised to maximise the e ffi ciency of the organisation. **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES** The trustees (who are also the directors of Blackpool Carers Centre Limited for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the fi nancial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company law requires the trustees to prepare fi nancial statements for each fi nancial year which give a true and fair view of the state of a ff airs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those fi nancial statements, the trustees are required to - select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; - observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP; In so far as the trustees are aware: - there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company's auditors are unaware; and - the trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information. ## **AUDITORS** The auditors, Champion Accountants LLP will be proposed for re-appointment at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. ## **ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD:** ## in. Ga ...................................................... A Gilmore - Trustee 27th January 2026 - make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; - Prepare the fi nancial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the fi nancial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the fi nancial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. ...................................................... Mr T W McMurdo - Secretary 27th January 2026 > **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** @ 9 ## **REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS** ## **Opinion** We have audited the fi nancial statements of Blackpool Carers Centre Limited (the 'parent company') and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) for the year ended 31st March 2025 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Cash Flow Statement and notes to the fi nancial statements, including a summary of signi fi cant accounting policies. The fi nancial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion the fi nancial statements: - give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of the parent company's a ff airs as at 31st March 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended; - have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and - have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. ## **Basis for opinion** We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the fi nancial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the fi nancial statements in the UK, including the FRC's Ethical Standard, and we have ful lled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is su ffi cient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. ## **Conclusions relating to going concern** We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the ISAs (UK) require us to report to you where: - the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the fi nancial statements is not appropriate; or - the trustees have not disclosed in the fi nancial statements any identi fi ed material uncertainties that may cast signi fi cant doubt about the charitable company's ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting for a period of at least twelve months from the date when the fi nancial statements are authorised for issue. ## **Other information** The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report, other than the fi nancial statements and our Report of the Independent Auditors thereon. Our opinion on the fi nancial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the fi nancial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the fi nancial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the fi nancial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. ## **Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006** In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: - the information given in the Report of the Trustees for the fi nancial year for which the fi nancial statements are prepared is consistent with the fi nancial statements; and - the Report of the Trustees has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. ## **Matters on which we are** ## **required to report by exception** In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identi fi ed material misstatements in the Report of the Trustees. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: - adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or - the fi nancial statements are not in agreement with the **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** - accounting records and returns; or - certain disclosures of trustees' remuneration speci fi ed by law are not made; or - we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. ## **Responsibilities of trustees** As explained more fully in the Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the fi nancial statements and for being satis fi ed that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of fi nancial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the fi nancial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. ## **Our responsibilities for the audit of the fi nancial statements** Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the fi nancial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue a Report of the Independent Auditors that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance; but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to in fl uence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these nancial statements. A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the fi nancial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsib ilities. This description forms part of our Report of the Independent Auditors. ## **Use of our report** This report is made solely to the Charitable company's / Group’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's / Group’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charitable Company/Group and the Charitable Company's / Group’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. P Buck FCA,DChA (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Champion Accountants LLP & Statutory Auditors 7-9 Station Road Hesketh Bank Preston Lancashire PR4 6SN 27th January 2026 > **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ® 11 ## **CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025 (incorporating income and expenditure account)** 2025 2024 Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Total funds funds fund Notes £ £ £ £ **INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM** Donations and legacies 2 188,930 440,828 629,758 597,104 **Charitable activities** Direct charitable activities 5 454,595 7,252 461,847 466,282 Other trading activities 3 78,149 - 78,149 97,913 Investment income 4 22,650 - 22,650 14,486 **Total** 744,324 448,080 1,192,404 1,175,785 **EXPENDITURE ON** Raising funds 6 44,200 - 44,200 57,056 **Charitable activities** 7 Direct charitable activities 804,600 448,080 1,252,680 1,047,553 **Total** 848,800 448,080 1,296,880 1,104,609 **NET INCOME BEFORE TRANSFERS** (104,476) - (104,476) 71,176 **Gross transfers between funds** 19 - - - - **NET INCOME** (104,476) - (104,476) 71,176 **RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward** 1,316,547 - 1,316,547 1,245,371 **TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD** 1,212,071 - 1,212,071 1,316,547 The consolidated fi gures above include the results of the Charity which had income for the year of £1,176,388 (2024: £1,157,217) and a net de fi cit of (£104,795) (2024: £72,921 surplus). The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses in the year and therefore a statement of total recognised gains and losses has not been prepared. All of the above amounts relate to continuing activities. **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **BALANCE SHEETS** ## **as at 31st March 2025** ||**Consolidated**
**Charity**| |---|---| |2025 2024 2025 2024|2025 2024 2025 2024| |Group Group Charity Charity|Group Group Charity Charity| |Notes £ £ £ £|Notes £ £ £ £| |**FIXED ASSETS**|| |Tangible assets 14 388,046 430,086 383,921 424,586|Tangible assets 14 388,046 430,086 383,921 424,586| |Investments 15 - - 100 100|Investments 15 - - 100 100| |388,046 430,086 384,021 424,686|388,046 430,086 384,021 424,686| |**CURRENT ASSETS**|| |Stock – raw materials 6,678 2,326 6,678 2,326|Stock – raw materials 6,678 2,326 6,678 2,326| |Debtors 16 60,486 81,364 59,525 80,062|Debtors 16 60,486 81,364 59,525 80,062| |Investments 17 820,001 831,623 820,001 831,623|Investments 17 820,001 831,623 820,001 831,623| |Cash at bank 139,820 161,765 118,971 152,608|Cash at bank 139,820 161,765 118,971 152,608| |1,026,985 1,077,078 1,005,175 1,066,619|1,026,985 1,077,078 1,005,175 1,066,619| |**CREDITORS**|| |Amounts falling due within one year 18 (202,960|Amounts falling due within one year 18 (202,960)(190,617)(191,864)(189,177)| |**NET CURRENT ASSETS**824,025 886,461 813,311 877,442|824,025 886,461 813,311 877,442| |**TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES**1,212,071 1,316,547 1,197,332 1,302,128|| |**NET ASSETS**1,121,071 1,316,547 1,197,332 1,302,128|1,121,071 1,316,547 1,197,332 1,302,128| |**FUNDS**|| |Unrestricted funds:|Unrestricted funds:| |General fund 19 459,090 423,247 444,351 414,328|General fund 19 459,090 423,247 444,351 414,328| |Designated fund 752,981 893,300 752,981 887,800|Designated fund 752,981 893,300 752,981 887,800| |1,212,071 1,316,547 1,197,332 1,302,128|1,212,071 1,316,547 1,197,332 1,302,128| |Restricted fund - - - -|Restricted fund - - - -| |**TOTAL FUNDS**1,212,071 1,316,547 1,197,332 1,302,128|1,212,071 1,316,547 1,197,332 1,302,128| ## ***The designated fund includes the net book value (after depreciation) of donated assets received in respect of leasehold improvements. This does not represent available liquid resources.** These fi nancial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small charitable companies and with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (e ff ective April 2008). The fi nancial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 27th January 2026 and were signed on its behalf by: ## i. Gos ................................................... A Gilmore - Trustee ## **Registered Company Number: 05633524 (England and Wales); Charity Number: 1114558** > **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** | 13 ## **CASH FLOW STATEMENT** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** 2025 2024 Notes £ £ **Cash fl ows from operating activities:** Cash generated from operations 1 (56,217) 227,203 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (56,217) 227,203 **Cash fl ows from investing activities:** Purchase of tangible fi xed assets - (751) Disposal of tangible fi xed assets - - Interest received 22,650 14,486 **Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities** 22,650 13,735 **Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period** (33,567) 240,939 **Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period** 993,388 752,449 **Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period** 959,821 993,388 **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT** **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **1. RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES** 2025 2024 £ £ **Net income for the reporting period (as per the statement of fi nancial activities)** (104,476) 71,176 **Adjustments for:** Depreciation charges 42,040 45,042 Interest received (22,650) (14,486) Decrease/(Increase) in stocks (4,352) 1,364 Decrease/(Increase) in debtors 20,878 61,389 Increase/(Decrease) in creditors 12,343 62,718 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (56,217) 227,203 **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES** ## **Basis of preparing the fi nancial statements** The fi nancial statements of the charitable company have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice and the Companies Act 2006. The fi nancial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with the exception of investments which are included at market value. ## **Group Financial Statements** These Financial Statements consolidate the results of the charity, and its subsidiary: Blackpool Carers Centre Trading Limited on a line by line basis. Details of the relationship between these entities are included in the notes to the Financial Statements. ## **Income** All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has legal entitlement to the funds, it is possible that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. Grants are credited to income (voluntary income; where no conditions are attached) as they are received except where there is con fi rmation from the donor that these should be deferred, to be matched against future costs. ## **Expenditure** Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic bene fi ts will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classi fi ed under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Grants o ff ered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year end date are noted as a commitment but not accrued as expenditure. ## **Allocation and apportionment of costs** ## **Support costs** There is only one charitable activity heading, and a very small proportion of charitable activities are attributed to fund raising, therefore to reallocate support costs to this heading would be meaningless and the fi gures involved immaterial. Only costs formerly included in governance are shown as support costs and allocated to charitable activities. Since there is only one charitable activity heading, all costs are included there. ## **Tangible fi xed assets** Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write o ff each asset over its estimated useful life. Leasehold improvements - 5% straight line over the life of the lease Plant and machinery - 25% on reducing balance Fixtures and fi ttings - 25% on reducing balance Motor vehicles - 25% on reducing balance ## **Taxation** The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities. **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **Fund accounting** Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when speci fi ed by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the fi nancial statements. ## **Pension costs and other post-retirement bene ts** The charitable company operates a de fi ned contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate. ## **Donated assets and services** In accordance with the Charity SORP, donated services are included in the accounts at the value they would have otherwise have been if paid for by a customer. Donated goods are included at the cost to the donor. The resulting amount is shown within donation income on the Statement of Financial Activities, with a corresponding cost heading within charitable activities. Items that would normally be capitalised are included as fi xed assets and depreciated over the life of the asset as noted above. The value of volunteer labour is not included within the Accounts except as a narrative note valued by taking the amount of time given multiplied by a reasonable rate per hour (such as national minimum wage). Goods donated for re-sale, especially those that are di ffi cult to place a value on, are not included within the accounts (as income or stock) until the items are sold when the price sold for is recorded as income. ## **Investments** Investments are shown at market value. ## **Stock** Stocks are included at the lower of cost and net realisable value. **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES – Charity and Group** 2025 2024 £ £ Donations 50,581 70,772 Grants 526,056 494,367 Donated services 53,121 31,965 629,758 597,104 Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: 2025 2024 £ £ Beaverbrooks Charitable Trust 28,000 28,000 Blackpool CCG - Connect 5 25,502 25,350 Blackpool Council – Accelerating Reform 18,000 - Blackpool Council – Managing Challenging Behaviour 26,734 26,575 Cares Trust – Making Carers Count 4,088 39,540 Carers Trust – Employability 15,000 15,000 Community Foundation – Know Your Neighbourhood 47,611 - Community Foundation – Moore and Smalley 3,933 - Children in Need 39,858 39,878 Eric Wright Charitable Trust 36,000 30,000 Henry Smith 67,833 39,570 ICB – VCFSE Transformation 74,540 70,284 Individual grants 32,867 9,912 The National Lottery Community Fund – RC North West Region 78,989 99,181 The National Lottery Community Fund – Know Your Neighbourhood 22,494 22,494 The Rank Foundation – Time 2 Shine 4,607 - Vera Wolstencroft Trust - - 526,056 494,367 **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** **3. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES** 2025 2024 £ £ Fundraising and events – charity 62,134 79,344 Trading – subsidiary 16,015 18,569 78,149 97,913 **4. INVESTMENT INCOME – Charity & Group** 2025 2024 £ £ Deposit account interest 22,650 14,486 Interest receivable – trading - - 22,650 14,486 **5. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES – Charity & Group** 2025 2024 £ £ **Activity** Social work, student placements Direct charitable activities 3,400 5,400 Contract income Direct charitable activities 432,077 443,861 Support services Direct charitable activities 26,370 17,021 461,847 466,282 2025 2024 £ £ Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: Blackpool CCG - Adult Carers' Support 194,737 193,873 Blackpool CCG - Carers Break and Relief Fund 10,673 10,312 Blackpool CCG - Dementia Support 77,807 77,343 Blackpool CCG – Young Carers’ Support 65,358 64,968 Blackpool Council – Early Help 26,250 35,000 Blackpool Council – HAF 7,252 6,115 ICB – TOCH 50,000 56,250 432,077 443,861 **6. RAISING FUNDS – Charity & Group** 2025 2024 £ £ Fundraising costs – Charity 28,506 36,741 Charity shops and trading – subsidiary 15,694 20,315 44,200 57,056 **7. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS – Charity & Group** Grant funding Support Direct of activities costs Totals costs (see note 8) (see note 9) £ £ £ Direct charitable activities 1,217,017 25,099 10,564 1,252,680 **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **8. GRANTS PAYABLE – Charity & Group** Grants paid to individuals amount to £25,099 (2024: £12,446). ## **9. SUPPORT COSTS – Group** Governance costs £ Direct charitable activities 10,564 ## **10. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) - Group** Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting): 2025 2024 £ £ Auditors’ remuneration – charity 10,080 8,280 Accountancy fees – subsidiary 1,596 1,440 Depreciation – owned assets 9,540 12,542 Depreciation – donated assets 32,500 32,500 ## **11. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS** There were no trustees' remuneration or other bene fi ts for the year ended 31 March 2025 nor for the year ended 31 March 2024. ## **Trustees' expenses** There were no trustees’ expenses in the year ended 31 March 2025. ## **12. STAFF COSTS – Charity & Group** 2025 2024 £ £ Wages and salaries 754,017 651,476 Social security costs 67,071 55,627 Other pension costs 22,632 19,566 843,720 726,669 The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows: 2025 2024 Charity 27 24 Subsidiary 0 0 27 24 The key management personnel of the Charity are noted in the Trustees Report. The total employee bene fi of the key management personnel of the Charity were £137,240 (2024: £151,449) No member of sta ff was paid more than £60,000 during the year (being the reportable limit speci fi ed by the Charity Commission). There are pension contributions outstanding at the balance sheet date of £1,171 (2024: £46). **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **13. GRANT INCOME IN ADVANCE – Charity (note 18)** As at 1/4/24 Movement As at 31/3/25 £ £ £ The National Lottery Community Fund – RC North West Region 16,980 (16,980) - Blackpool Council – Accelerating Reform - 40,250 40,250 Blackpool Council – YC Link - 35,000 35,000 Blackpool Council – Early Help 26,250 (26,250) - Children in Need 6,643 - 6,643 Henry Smith 28,231 (34) 28,197 The Community Foundation – Moore & Smalley 3,933 (3,933) - Carers Trust – YAC Employability - 31,500 31,500 ICB – VCFSE Transformation 74,540 (74,540) - The Rank Foundation – Time 2 Shine - 13,821 13,821 156,577 (1,166) 155,411 Group total 156,577 (1,166) 155,411 **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **14 a) TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS - Group** **Leasehold Improve- Plant Fixtures Improvements ments to and (Donated) Property Machinery Fittings Vehicles Totals £ £ £ £ £ £ COST** At 1st April 2024 580,234 8,987 138,699 55,250 31,540 814,710 Additions/(Disposals) - - - - - - At 31st March 2025 580,234 8,987 138,699 55,250 31,540 814,710 **DEPRECIATION** At 1st April 2024 188,308 5,959 117,516 43,083 29,757 384,623 Charge for year 32,500 756 5,296 3,042 447 42,040 At 31st March 2025 220,808 6,715 122,812 46,125 30,204 426,663 NET BOOK VALUE At 31st March 2025 359,426 2,272 15,887 9,125 1,336 388,046 At 31st March 2024 391,926 3,028 21,183 12,167 1,783 430,086 **14 b) TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS – Charity Leasehold Plant Fixtures Improvements and and Motor (Donated) Machinery Fittings Vehicle Totals £ £ £ £ £ COST** At 1st April 2024 580,234 138,699 48,794 31,540 799,267 Additions/Disposals - - - - - At 31st March 2025 580,234 138,699 48,794 31,540 799,267 **DEPRECIATION** At 1st April 2024 188,308 117,516 39,101 29,756 374,681 Charge for year 32,500 5,296 2,423 446 40,665 At 31st March 2025 220,808 122,812 41,524 30,202 415,346 **NET BOOK VALUE** At 31st March 2025 359,426 15,887 7,270 1,338 383,921 At 31st March 2024 391,926 21,184 9,693 1,783 424,586 **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **15. SUBSIDIARY COMPANY** The Charity has one trading subsidiary: Blackpool Carers Centre Trading Ltd, a company incorporated in England and Wales which is consolidated into the results of the Charity. The Charity owns the entire share capital of the trading subsidiary, being 100 £1 ordinary shares. The audited Financial Statements of Blackpool Carers Centre Trading Ltd for the year ended 31st March 2025 are fi led with the Registrar of Companies. A summary of the trading results of Blackpool Carers Centre Trading Ltd are shown below: 2025 £ Turnover 16,015 Cost of sales (2,569) Gross pro fi t 13,446 Administrative and fi nance costs (11,750) Depreciation (1,375) Net Pro fi t for the year 321 The aggregate of assets, liabilities and reserves is: 2025 £ Fixed Assets 4,125 Current Assets 21,811 Current Liabilities (11,096) Total reserves 14,839 ## **16. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR** |

Trade debtors
Inter company account
Other debtors
Prepayments
|**Group**
**2025 2024**
**£ £**
44,800 65,624
- -
2,436 6,704
13,250 9,036
60,486 81,364|**Charity**
**2025 2024**
**£ £**
44,500 63,698
(661) 624
2,436 6,704
13,250 9,036
59,525 80,062| |---|---|---| **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **17. CURRENT ASSET INVESTMENTS** |**17. CURRENT ASSET INVESTMENTS**|||| |---|---|---|---| ||**Group**||**Charity**| ||**2025**|**2024 2025**|**2024**| ||**£**|**£ £**|**£**| |Unlisted investments – bonds and deposits|820,001 831,623 820,001||831,623| |**18.CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR**|||| ||**Group**||**Charity**| ||**2025**|**2024 2025**|**2024**| ||**£**|**£ £**|**£**| |Trade creditors|19,129|8,195 9,629|8,195| |Social security and other taxes|15,466 14,265 15,466||14,265| |Accruals and deferred income (note 13)|155,411 156,577 155,411||156,577| |Accrued expenses|12,954 11,580 11,358||10,140| ||202,960 190,617 191,864||189,177| |**19. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - Charity & Group**|||| ||Net movement Transfers||| ||At 1.4.24 in|fundsbetween funds|At 31.3.25| ||£|£ £|£| |**Unrestricted funds**|||| |Designated fund – Charity|887,800 (60,000) -||752,981| |General fund – Charity|414,328 (44,796) -||444,351| |Designated fund - Subsidiary|5,500 (5,500) -||-| |General fund – Subsidiary|8,919|5,820 -|14,739| ||1,316,547 (104,476) -||1,212,071| |**Restricted funds**|||| |Restricted fund – Charity & Group|-|- -|-| |**TOTAL FUNDS**|1,316,547 (104,476)-||1,212,071| |
Analysis of net assets between funds: Group|||| ||Restricted Unrestricted||Total| |||funds funds|2025| |||£ £|£| |Fixed Assets||- 388,046|388,046| |Current Assets||- 1,026,985|1,026,985| |Current Liabilities||- (202,960)|(202,960)| |Net Assets||- 1,212,071|1,212,071| **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued** ## **for the year ended 31st March 2025** ## **19. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - Charity & Group - Continued** Analysis of net assets between funds: Charity Restricted Unrestricted Total funds funds 2025 £ £ £ Fixed Assets and Investments - 384,021 384,021 Current Assets - 1,005,175 1,005,175 Current Liabilities - (191,864) (191,864) Net Assets - 1,197,332 1,197,332 Designated funds are allocated as follows: £192,500 is a designated fund which represents the net book value (after depreciation) of leasehold improvements donated in 2017), £190,000 is designated for speci fi c elements of the Young Carers programme, £131,555 is designated for hospital discharge and rehabilitation, £166,926 is designated towards fi xed assets purchased and £72,000 is designated for Family Focus. This leaves a balance of £459,090 constituting general / free reserves. The transfer from restricted funds to unrestricted funds represents costs incurred in head o ffi ce and central activities relating to restricted projects which have been re-charged by way of a management recharge. ## **20. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES** During the year the charity incurred net income totalling £14,500 in relation to the trading subsidiary. The balance owed by the trading subsidiary at the year end, and shown within debtors is (£661) (2024 debtors: £624). ## **21. DONATED SERVICES AND FACILITIES** The fi gure recognised as income/expenditure relating to donated services and facilities may be summarised as follows: £ General donations 33,121 Notional annual rent- Beaverbrooks House 20,000 53,121 **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** ## **CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES** **Comparative fi gures for the year ended 31st March 2025** Unrestricted Restricted Total funds funds funds £ £ £ **INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM** Donations and legacies 173,021 424,083 597,104 **Charitable activities** Direct charitable activities 460,166 6,116 466,282 Other trading activities 97,913 - 97,913 Investment income 14,486 - 14,486 **Total** 745,568 430,199 1,175,785 **EXPENDITURE ON** Raising funds 57,056 - 57,056 **Charitable activities** Direct charitable activities 617,354 430,199 1,047,533 **Total** 674,410 430,199 1,104,609 **NET INCOME BEFORE TRANSFERS** 71,176 - 71,176 **Gross transfers between funds** - - - **NET INCOME** 71,176 - 71,176 **RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward** 1,245,371 - 1,245,371 **TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD** 1,316,547 - 1,316,547 **BLACKPOOL CARERS CENTRE** ## **CHARITY INCOME AND EXPENDITURE** **ANNUAL REPORT 2024-25** To make a donation to provide respite for our carers **Text BLACKPOOLCARERS to 70085 to give £5**[* ] _OR_ _*Texts charged at your standard network rate_ Blackpool Carers Beaverbrooks House, 147 Newton Drive, Blackpool FY3 8LZ Tel: 01253 393748 Email: admin@blackpoolcarers.org www.blackpoolcarers.org Registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales No. 5633524.