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← Goalball UK

2025-03-31-accounts

Charity registration number 1136892 (England and Wales)

Company registration number 07171285

GOALBALL UK

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

GOALBALL UK

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees J Grosvenor (Chair)
P Elliott (Senior Independent Director)
A Fowler-Wright
E Henwood
L Kocher
M Winder
L M Gannon (Appointed 15 October 2025)
I J Clarke (Appointed 15 October 2025)
A W Knott (Appointed 15 October 2025)
Secretary M Martin
Senior management M Winder Chief executive officer
Charity number (England and Wales) 1136892
Company number 07171285
Registered office English Institute of Sport Sheffield
Coleridge Road
Sheffield
S9 5DA
Auditor Affinia
3rd Floor
Chancery House
St Nicholas Way
Sutton
Surrey
SM1 1JB

GOALBALL UK

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 11
Statement of trustees' responsibilities 12
Independent auditor's report 13 - 15
Statement of financial activities 16
Balance sheet 17
Statement of cash flows 18
Notes to the financial statements 19 - 27

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The Trustees present their report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) and "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).

Introduction

Goalball U.K. is the governing body for the Paralympic sport of goalball across the United Kingdom. We are committed to ensuring that the sport continues to thrive from grassroots to our Performance Programme. We are responsible for the training and selection of teams representing Great Britain and for participation in and development of goalball across the United Kingdom.

Goalball U.K. represents goalball’s interests at the British Paralympic Association, the Sport and Recreation Alliance, Sport England, U.K. Sport, governmental and non-governmental agencies and many other organisations.

Goalball U.K.’s mission is to engage, grow, and lead the development of the goalball community in the UK through inclusive, high-quality opportunities.

As an organisation, we are committed to serve our people with the following values:

Our Strategic obsessions are:

Chair’s Introduction

2024/25 has been a transformative year for Goalball UK, marked by resilience, innovation, and a renewed focus on community. We have restructured our performance pathway, welcomed new staff, and invested in fundraising efforts to navigate the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.

A key highlight has been the development of our new strategy, Empowering our People 2025 and Beyond, which we launched in February 2025. This places our people at the heart of everything we do. This commitment to growth and empowerment is reflected in our revamped Performance Pathway Programme, designed to provide clear and exciting opportunities for goalball players nationwide.

We have also made significant strides in coaching and recruitment, assembling a team of experienced professionals to elevate our training and playing standards. Our investment in talent identification has yielded promising results, with new players joining the Performance Pathway Programme.

Off the court, we have expanded our outreach efforts, delivering school sessions, workshops, and community events to introduce goalball to new audiences. We have also seen success in our club development work, with the formation of new clubs across the UK.

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Chair’s Introduction (continued)

Looking ahead, we are excited about the continued growth of our sport and the opportunities to empower more people through goalball. We are committed to delivering world-class training and competition, fostering a sense of community, and increasing awareness of goalball on a national and international level.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to give a thank you to the Executive Team. They have shown professional expertise and great dedication to the sport of goalball. They could not achieve all they do without the huge support of volunteers and a big thank you to all those volunteers who give their time to goalball.

Finally, I am incredibly proud of the impact goalball continues to have on the many people involved. From players to officials to families, I see people come to life through goalball. You are out there creating bonds that will last for years as well as enjoying physical activity in a purpose driven environment.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

John Grosvenor

Business Review

Key Highlights:

Key Achievements:

Goalball UK is excited about the future and committed to continued growth and development. The new strategy, which was launched in 2025, along with the ongoing support of its members, partners, and funders, will enable us to achieve our goals and provide even more opportunities for people to experience the joy and benefits of goalball.

Annual survey results

Goalball UK is committed to providing a positive and inclusive experience for all our members. Our annual survey is a vital tool for gathering feedback and ensuring our services meet the needs of our community. We are delighted to share the positive results of our recent survey, which demonstrate high levels of satisfaction and engagement.

Key Findings:

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Annual survey results (continued)

Goalball UK is driven by a passion for providing fully accessible experiences in an inclusive environment. The annual survey is an essential part of our commitment to listening to our members' voices and taking action to address their needs and priorities.

As we launch our new strategy focused on community, we are confident that we will continue to strengthen our services and enhance the overall experience for our members. We are dedicated to building a stronger, more inclusive, and more vibrant goalball community.

Performance Pathway Programme

Transformation

2024/25 was an important year for high performance goalball within the UK. Whilst there was limited activity, being the final year of our Paris 2024 investment, we have restructured our performance programme which transforms the way goalball players enter and move within the pathway.

The new programme brings together players invited to join the Academy, Talent, Performance Potential and High-Performance levels in a holistic pathway delivering training, support, and opportunity to players at all levels. The goal is to deliver a clear and exciting pathway for goalball players nationwide, with future planning and working together key to making this happen.

Goalball UK has developed a newly formed Performance Pathway team of Gary Fraser, Faye Dale and Alex Cockerham to ensure our whole programme is aligned and standardised with the overall aim of selecting and preparing athletes to reach their potential and achieving the best possible results in selected competitions.

Coaching and Recruitment

Goalball UK significantly boosted its performance program in 2024. We welcomed new Performance Coach Gary Lambert, Assistant Performance Coaches Ella Strachan and Alex Jones, and Consultant Performance Coach Ferhat Esatbeyoglu, who join existing coaches Faye Dale and Alex Bunney. We also expanded our Multi-Disciplinary Team with Physical Preparation Coach Barbara Vasconcelos and Physiotherapists Ellie Cook-Smith and Louise Newman. This strengthened team enhances athlete support and drives development across the performance pathway.

In April 2024, we launched an initial Performance Pathway Programme for a transition period prior to launching our full programme which will run from December to November on an annual basis. The Goalball UK Performance Pathway Programme is purposefully driven to select and develop athletes who will form teams to achieve the best possible results in identified competitions. High engagement and individual accountability form the foundations of the programme within a supportive environment regardless of age, level, or gender.

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Coaching and Recruitment (continued)

We have developed this through delivering three specific Centre of Excellence training camps bringing the best players, coaches, and staff to the ‘home of goalball’ at the English Institute of Sport, Sheffield. As a UK Sport accredited Elite Training Centre (ETC) it is the perfect environment to develop our programme through the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Cycle.

These camps have allowed us to integrate new coaches and staff, as well as trial new ideas and a way of delivering a new model. There has been a strong focus on getting our physical preparation benchmarking right, combined with on court coaching. The break in our international calendar has enabled the team to accelerate our changes as we prepare to embark on the LA 2028 cycle from 2025 onwards.

Furthermore, we have delivered Training to Compete camps, U19 Learning to Train camps and youth competition opportunities focusing on progression, development and learning for players and coaches, in addition to piloting our new Regional Performance Centre (RPC) model with partner clubs and higher education institutions. These centres have a specific focus to achieve Quality Time on Task for both programme players and coaches in local areas.

UK Sport and Sport England

We remain incredibly grateful for our growing partnership with UK Sport and Sport England who have backed our new 20252029 Performance strategy with increased investment. This has enabled us to implement significant revolutionary changes, whilst preparing our programme and teams to grow, compete and excel on the international stage.

Talent Identification

2024 has begun the start of Goalball UK actively seeking new talent to enter the Performance Pathway Programme, starting with U18 Aspire Days in early 2024 and moving onto the introduction of the Player Recruitment Drive. This initiative is designed to attract and identify new talent and provide opportunities to learn and develop the necessary skills for individuals to reach their potential. Delivery in 2025 includes Talent Identification Days, a specific Female Futures Programme, and the continuation of Aspire Days.

Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

Although our GB teams were not out competing in Paris, the Paralympic Games still provided lots of opportunities to raise the profile of the sport and gain valuable learning experience for the LA 2028 cycle.

Gary Fraser (High Performance Lead) was part of a Paralympics GB delegation as part of the Paralympic Inspiration Programme.

Tom Dobson (Club and Competition Officer) was seconded to Paralympics GB as part of his continued professional development.

Several clubs were also represented in Paris with players and coaches taking advantage of the proximity of France to the UK to spectate at the Games.

Back in the UK, the Goalball Academy participated in a ‘Paralympic breakfast’. On the opening game day of the goalball competition at the 2024 Paralympics, we hosted breakfast during a camp where the players could watch the game together, with the aim to inspire the team to work towards one day competing themselves at the Paralympics.

Goalball UK were present, delivering taster sessions, at Paralympics GB Discovery Days (in Crawley and Sheffield) and at the Fan Zone (in London). This allowed us to share our sport with a variety of organisations and individuals with some promising new partnerships emerging

Goalball Academy

2024/25 was an exciting year for the Goalball Academy programme as we introduced our Aspire Days, which are a one-day training event open to people aged 18 and under, including:

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Goalball Academy (continued)

38 blind or partially sighted people attended across four days in partnership with four goalball clubs, which were Northern Allstars, Winchester, Cambridge Dons, and RNC Academy. Out of 38 who attended, seven of those were attending their first goalball session, showcasing the Aspire Days as a viable entry route to goalball for blind or partially sighted people under the age of 18.

We have also delivered five residential training camps across 2024/26 for our Goalball Academy programme players to continue their development on and off the court.

Off the court we delivered activities such as:

As part of the wider Performance Pathway selection process, the Goalball Academy invited a total of eighteen players to the programme for 2024/2025, which is an uplift of six from the previous year. This has allowed us to introduce our two regional hubs, the North/Midlands and the South, with the aim being to reduce the travel time and costs associated to attending our camps

Participation

Children and Young People

2024/25 saw us work with, and deliver, the following numbers within school and education settings:

New secondary school resources, including a full goalball scheme of work and supporting videos, were launched in partnership with PE Office.

We were invited to speak to 50 students training to be Qualified Teachers of the Visually Impaired (QTVI’s), at the University of Birmingham, and at an online ‘Sport Special’ event, hosted by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), linked to the Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment.

Four new tutors for the Goalball School Leaders Award were recruited, and we began the onboarding process, significantly increasing the tutoring capacity for this course which will in turn impact the number of people learning how to deliver our sport within school and community settings.

The summer camp returned in August 2024 at Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent, thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Youth Forum in 2023. The Youth Forum were given responsibility to plan and deliver Summer Camp 2024, with the support of Goalball UK staff as necessary. The Youth Forum oversaw all aspects of the planning stage, from sourcing a suitable venue (including sports hall, accommodation, and catering), managing the event budget, promotion of the event to recruit players, alongside all other tasks needed to plan a successful event. This planning was followed by 4 Youth Forum members successfully delivering Summer Camp 2024, with the support of 2 Goalball UK members of staff, to 9 young people over 3 days. A special thanks goes to Staffordshire University who graciously offered the Youth Forum use of their sports hall for free throughout the event.

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

This Girl Can

In 2024 the This Girl Can Project Group delivered a variety of events and initiatives to continue developing opportunities for women and girls in goalball, including:

Clubs

Throughout 2024/25 our staff have been on hand to support existing clubs to develop in key areas of governance, safeguarding, funding, and workforce development.

Thanks to funding from the Primary Club, Sport England and Sport Wales, we have supported the development of new community clubs in Blackburn, Bolton, Chelmsford, Preston, Stoke, and Wrexham.

While new clubs have developed, we have unfortunately lost two long standing clubs due to lack of players and workforce to support and deliver their sessions - Nottingham Sheriffs and Glasgow.

Competition

Our officials, activators, and event staff have delivered over 30 regional, intermediate, and national competition days with over 230 players taking part.

The playing standard in our competitions across the levels is rising all the time thanks to the commitment of our clubs, coaches, and players.

Having appropriate entry points into competition for all playing levels is vitally important and in 2024 we supported the ‘Cambridge Friendly’ delivered by the Cambridge Dons Goalball Club. In addition, we supported the 'South Wales Friendly' in Cardiff in June. This was attended by Oxford, New College Worcester, and the Royal National College for the Blind. The competition enabled players rated 1 or below to enter a low-stress tournament to build up skills and gain confidence outside of the league structure. In 2025 we are looking to expand our support for these opportunities in partnership with our clubs.

In 2024 we also supported Fen Tigers win a bid to host a stage of the European Club Champions League. The event, in February 2025, was the first time European club goalball was hosted here in the UK.

In June 2024 we delivered our flagship event, the Goalfix Cup, at the University of Worcester. This year we piloted the install and use of a cushioned floor to improve viewing on the live stream and the court surface for the athletes. Our UK Sport funding for the event has now finished but our aim for 2025 and beyond is to deliver the event to the same high standard by attracting additional event partners and sponsorship.

International Relations

In partnership with UK Sport and the Kenyan Sports Association for the Visually Impaired we delivered a workforce project in Nairobi to upskill 13 Kenyan goalball coaches to support the development of the game in Africa. This work is vital to help grow the sport globally in partnership with our international federation IBSA.

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Awareness and Taster Days

Throughout 2024/25 we have continued to work in strong partnership with other VI organisations and professionals to raise awareness of goalball and signpost to opportunities to play, coach, volunteer, spectate and support.

We have delivered numerous taster days; provided information at marketplace-based events; and given presentations on what goalball is and who Goalball UK are.

This has included, around the UK, at British Blind Sport (BBS) ‘Have a Go’ Days; Sight Village exhibitions; VICTA events; Sight Loss Council ‘Let’s Get Active’ Days; the Include Summit; Paralympics GB Discovery Days and Paris 2024 Fan Zone.

Learning and Development

2024/25 saw Goalball UK continue to develop the workforce across the sport. We empowered 170 individuals through 15 School Leaders courses, equipping teachers, and coaches with the skills to introduce goalball within school and education settings.

Recognising the need to support emerging clubs, we also delivered two dedicated Club Leaders courses in Preston and Carmarthen, benefiting 25 participants.

As part of our Coach Development Series, to support existing coaches, we ran two Coaching from the Bench workshops in Sheffield and Birmingham. In total there were 17 coaches and 18 players from 10 clubs and the Performance Pathway that took part. We would like to thank the Primary Club for their support in funding the workshops. More workshops within the Coach Development Series will be launched in 2025.

Expanding our reach beyond in-person training, we launched valuable new resources for schools in partnership with PE Office. This has been accessed by over 50 schools and community organisations. Furthermore, we collaborated with UK Coaching and British Blind Sport to create an accessible e-learning course, broadening the opportunities for individuals to develop their goalball knowledge and skills.

These initiatives demonstrate Goalball UK's commitment to providing diverse learning opportunities and building a strong and skilled workforce to support the growth of goalball. We will continue this work within our new strategy with increased resources planned in this crucial area.

Workforce and Volunteers

Goalball UK relies heavily on the dedication and support of volunteers to deliver our programmes and events. In 2024/25, we continued to work with a diverse and enthusiastic group of individuals who contributed significantly to our success.

Key Highlights:

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Looking Ahead :

We are incredibly grateful for the contributions of all our volunteers. Their dedication and support are vital to the growth and success of goalball in the UK. We will continue to invest in volunteer recruitment, training, and recognition to ensure a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

Partnerships

As part of our commitment to grow the sport of goalball and raise awareness, 2024/5 was a year of consolidation whilst preparing for our new strategy. We have already yielded positive results, enabling us to cultivate new partnerships and expand opportunities for blind and partially sighted people. Focused fundraising is key to the long-term sustainability of Goalball UK, allowing us to continue delivering impactful programmes and services.

Since 2017, we have successfully generated income from a variety of sources, fuelling the development of numerous projects. We are now better equipped to adopt a more strategic and measured approach to income generation.

Throughout the year, we explored various fundraising avenues to further our work. This process has provided valuable insights and helped us define our fundraising priorities for the coming years.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the following supporters who have generously contributed to our mission:

We are incredibly thankful for the ongoing support of our funders, partners, and individual donors. Their generosity enables us to continue making a positive impact on the lives of blind and partially sighted people across the UK. A special mention goes to the incredible runners who took part in the London Landmarks Half Marathon. Not only did they take on (and complete) the physical challenge of running 13.1 miles, but they also raised a considerable amount of money (and awareness) for Goalball UK in doing so.

Thank you to all our supporters, funders, partners, and fundraisers. Our work would not be possible without the support of so many individuals, organisations, and businesses.

We would like to thank:

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Partnerships (continued)

Financial review

Goalball U.K. continues to account separately for two distinct operational strands – Grass Roots and Performance. The grass roots operation is mainly shown as unrestricted funds and is funded principally by Sport England. The Performance programme is shown as restricted funds.

The Sport England grant was the third award of the 2022-7 funding cycle.

Income received by the grass roots fund rose by 4% during the financial year. Our focused fundraising has cultivated several successful new partnerships.

Expenditure by Grass Roots fell by 6% during the financial year. This was mainly attributable to falling staffing costs, as it was a transitional year in terms of membership of the Senior Management Team.

The Grass Roots fund therefore returned a surplus of £23,110 during the financial year. This helped us to restore our reserves figure to £23,645. Whilst this value is lower than the level of required reserves as per the reserves policy, the charity has carried out an extensive review of its income and expenditure levels in the subsequent financial years and is confident of its ability to meet its future financial commitments.

The Performance strand received limited U.K. Sport and private funding during the 2024-5 financial year. Government funding via the National Squad Support Funding Programme had already been fully utilised, leaving the programme to manage on modest resources.

Fortunately, it was not a year of major competitive activity for GB sides. Performance charitable expenditure therefore fell by 75%. At the close of the financial year, the fund had a surplus going forward of £8,117. The additional LA Performance Funding from U.K. Sport started on 1st April 2025.

It is the policy of the charity that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should ideally be maintained at a minimum level equivalent to between three and six months' non-project expenditure. The Trustees consider that reserves at this level will ensure that, in the event of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the charity’s current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised.

The Trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charitable company is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against known risks. The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charitable company is exposed, in particular those related to the operations and finances of the charity.

Robust corporate governance is another critical area of risk management. Sport England and U.K. Sport demand that we continuously undertake a very rigorous self-assurance process to ensure we maintain good governance across the whole organisation and are in line where realistically possible with best practice.

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Financial review (continued)

Significant external risks to funding present the greatest threat to the charity's future. The Board maintains close links with Sport England and U.K. Sport to ensure it has a positive and supportive relationship with them. In parallel, numerous fund raising initiatives have been undertaken and donations sought to diversify the charity's sources of income.

The Trustees have instigated insurance policies with Hiscox and Aon Protect Insurance.

The Trustees are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate our exposure to the major risks.

Structure, governance and management

Goalball U.K. is a company limited by guarantee constituted by a Memorandum and Articles of Association with charitable status.

J Grosvenor (Chair) K Coghlan (Resigned 14 June 2025) P Elliott (Senior Independent Director) A Fowler-Wright E Henwood L Kocher S McMunn (Resigned 8 October 2025) R Singh (Resigned 22 October 2024) M Winder L M Gannon (Appointed 15 October 2025) I J Clarke (Appointed 15 October 2025) A W Knott (Appointed 15 October 2025)

The members of the Board are the directors/trustees of Goalball U.K. and have the powers and responsibilities of the strategic management of the business of the organisation. The Board comprises:

Except for the Chief Executive Officer, the Board is comprised of non-executive directors. The day to day running of the organisation is delegated to the Chief Executive Officer.

The Board has appointed seven Committees to support its work:

The purpose of each Sub-Committee is recorded in its terms of reference.

Disabled persons

Applications for employment by disabled persons are always fully considered, bearing in mind the aptitudes of the applicant concerned. In the event of members of staff becoming disabled, every effort is made to ensure that their employment within the charity continues and that the appropriate training is arranged. It is the policy of the charity that the training, career development and promotion of disabled persons should, as far as possible, be identical to that of other employees.

GOALBALL UK

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Employee involvement

The charity's policy is to consult and discuss with employees, through unions, staff councils and at meetings, matters likely to affect employees' interests.

Information of matters of concern to employees is given through information bulletins and reports which seek to achieve a common awareness on the part of all employees of the financial and economic factors affecting the charity's performance.

Auditor

In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that Affinia be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting.

The Trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

J Grosvenor (Chair)

Trustee/Director

4 November 2025

GOALBALL UK

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The Trustees, who are also the directors of Goalball UK for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company Law requires the Trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

In preparing these accounts, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Companies Act 2006. 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.

Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that 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 Companies Act 2006. 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.

GOALBALL UK

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT

TO THE TRUSTEES OF GOALBALL UK

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Goalball UK (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2025 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

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 Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The Trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial 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 financial 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.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

GOALBALL UK

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF GOALBALL UK

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the statement of Trustees' responsibilities, the Trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’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.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report 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 influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

We gained an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework applicable to the company and the industry in which it operates, and considered the risk of acts by the company that were contrary to applicable laws and regulations, including fraud. We designed audit procedures to respond to the risk, recognising that the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion.

We focussed on laws and regulations which could give rise to material misstatement in the financial statements, including, but not limited to, the Companies Act 2006 and UK tax legislation. Our tests included agreeing the financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation and enquiries with management. There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above, and the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we would become aware of it. We did not identify any key audit matters relation to irregularities, including fraud. As in all of our audits, we also addressed the risk of management override of internal controls, including testing journals and evaluating whether there was evidence of bias by the directors that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud.

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/ auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

GOALBALL UK

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)

TO THE TRUSTEES OF GOALBALL UK

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s 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 charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Graham Speck (Senior Statutory Auditor)

For and on behalf of Affinia, Statutory Auditor 3rd Floor Chancery House St Nicholas Way Sutton Surrey SM1 1JB 5 November 2025

Affinia is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

GOALBALL UK

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
Notes
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
3
82,997
15,000
Charitable activities
4
497,555
129,488
Other income
5
35,234
21,485
Total income
615,786
165,973
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
6
592,676
194,759
Total expenditure
592,676
194,759
Net income/(expenditure) and
movement in funds
23,110
(28,786)
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 April 2024
535
36,903
Fund balances at 31 March 2025
23,645
8,117		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
97,997
51,212
5,950
627,043
548,955
279,773
56,719
41,919
14,975
781,759
642,086
300,698
787,435
699,900
267,779
787,435
699,900
267,779
(5,676)
(57,814)
32,919
37,438
58,349
3,984
31,762
535
36,903		 Total
2024
£
57,162
828,728
56,894
942,784
967,679
967,679
(24,895)
62,333
37,438

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

GOALBALL UK

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

2025
Notes
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
12
Current assets
Stocks
13
4,820
Debtors
14
22,817
Cash at bank and in hand
125,921
153,558
Creditors: amounts falling due within one
year
15
(123,589)
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
The funds of the charity
Restricted income funds
17
Unrestricted funds
18		 2024
£
£
1,793
7,000
71,203
97,248
175,451
(140,510)
29,969
31,762
8,117
23,645
31,762		 £
2,497
34,941
37,438
36,903
535
37,438

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements under the requirements of the Companies Act 2006, for the year in question in accordance with section 476.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 4 November 2025

J Grosvenor (Chair) Trustee/Director

Company registration number 07171285 (England and Wales)

GOALBALL UK

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
21
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Net cash used in investing activities
Net cash generated from financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		 2025
£
(974)		 £
29,647
(974)
-
28,673
97,248
125,921		 2024
£
-		 £
(18,867)
-
-
(18,867)
116,115
97,248

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

Goalball UK is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is English Institute of Sport Sheffield, Coleridge Road, Sheffield, S9 5DA.

1.1 Basis of preparation

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the charity's Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) and “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)” (as amended for accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2016). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest pound.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

1.4 Income

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless delivery conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.

1.5 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 settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis. All expenses including support costs and governance costs are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings.

Governance costs comprise all costs involving the public accountability of the charity and its compliance with regulation and good practice. These costs include costs related to statutory audit and legal fees.

1.6 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Playing equipment 20% Straight Line Fixtures, fittings & office equipment 20% - 33.33% Straight Line

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.7 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.8 Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replacement cost and cost.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

1.9 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.10 Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.11 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.12 Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

1.13 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 designed for any other purpose.

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

3 Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds funds
2025 2025 2025 2024 2024 2024
£ £ £ £ £ £
Donations and gifts 82,997 15,000 97,997 51,212 5,950 57,162

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

4 Income from charitable activities

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
Sport England grants received
Performance related grants
497,555
73,043
UK Sport grants received
Performance related grants
-
31,445
Other grants received
Performance related grants
-
25,000
497,555
129,488
5
Other income
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
Other income
35,234
21,485
6
Expenditure on charitable activities
Staff costs
Other
2025
2025
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
415,111
-
Depreciation and
impairment
-
1,678
Charitable expenditure
-
365,448
415,111
367,126
Share of support and governance costs (see note 7)
Governance
-
5,198
415,111
372,324
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
375,146
217,530
Restricted funds
39,965
154,794
415,111
372,324		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
570,598
548,955
9,570
31,445
-
219,450
25,000
-
50,753
627,043
548,955
279,773
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
56,719
41,919
14,975
Total
Staff costs
Other
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
415,111
463,383
-
1,678
-
2,023
365,448
-
497,354
782,237
463,383
499,377
5,198
-
4,919
787,435
463,383
504,296
592,676
452,808
247,092
194,759
10,575
257,204
787,435
463,383
504,296		 Total
2024
£
558,525
219,450
50,753
828,728
Total
2024
£
56,894
Total
2024
£
463,383
2,023
497,354
962,760
4,919
967,679
699,900
267,779
967,679

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

7
Support costs allocated to activities
Governance costs
Analysed between:
Other
Governance costs comprise:
Audit fees
Legal and professional
8
Net movement in funds
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the audit of the charity's financial statements
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets		 2025
£
5,198
5,198
2025
£
4,410
788
5,198
2025
£
4,410
1,678		 2024
£
4,919
4,919
2024
£
4,200
719
4,919
2024
£
4,200
2,023

9 Trustees

In their roles as trustees, they were reimbursed a total of £989 travelling expenses (2024 - £1,119). In addition, Mark Winder is remunerated in his senior management role as Chief Executive Officer.

10 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2025 2024
Number Number
Administration 10 12
Employment costs 2025 2024
£ £
Wages and salaries 372,721 408,607
Social security costs 33,635 44,970
Other pension costs 8,755 9,806
415,111 463,383

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

10 Employees

(Continued)

The number of employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000 is as follows:

follows:
2025 2024
Number Number
£70,001 - £80,000 1 1

Gross wages totalling £67,900 (2024: £67,900) were made to employees whose emoluments exceed £60,000, national insurance contributions totalling £8,114 (2024: £8,115) were made on behalf of employees whose emoluments exceed £60,000 and contributions totalling £1,321 (2024: £1,321) were made to defined contribution pension schemes on behalf of employees whose emoluments exceed £60,000.

Remuneration of key management personnel

The remuneration of key management personnel was as follows:

2025 2024
£ £
Aggregate compensation 77,335 77,336

The balance includes £67,900 (2024: £67,900) of gross wages, £8,114 (2024: £8,115) of Employer's national insurance and £1,321 (2024: £1,321) of Employers pension contributions.

11 Taxation

The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.

12 Tangible fixed assets

Playing
equipment
Fixtures, fittings
& office
equipment
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2024
15,436
9,802
Additions
-
974
At 31 March 2025
15,436
10,776
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2024
15,436
7,305
Depreciation charged in the year
-
1,678
At 31 March 2025
15,436
8,983
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2025
-
1,793
At 31 March 2024
-
2,497		 Total
£
25,238
974
26,212
22,741
1,678
24,419
1,793
2,497

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

13
Stocks
Finished goods and goods for resale
14
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year:
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
15
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income
16
Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes		 2025
£
4,820
2025
£
12,605
8,870
1,342
22,817
2025
£
14,774
10,099
98,716
123,589
2025
£
8,755		 2024
£
7,000
2024
£
11,891
50,210
9,102
71,203
2024
£
33,348
59,086
48,076
140,510
2024
£
9,806

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

17 Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

At 1 April 2024 Incoming Resources At 31 March
resources expended 2025
£ £ £ £
36,903 165,973 (194,759) 8,117

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

17 Restricted funds (Continued)
Previous year: At 1 April 2023 Incoming Resources At 31 March
resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £
3,984 300,698 (267,779) 36,903

18 Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

At 1 April 2024 At 1 April 2024 Incoming Resources At 31 March
resources expended 2025
£ £ £ £
General funds 535 615,786 (592,676) 23,645
Previous year: At 1 April 2023 Incoming Resources At 31 March
resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £
General funds 58,349 642,086 (699,900) 535
Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds
2025 2025 2025
£ £ £
At 31 March 2025:
Tangible assets 1,793 - 1,793
Current assets/(liabilities) 21,852 8,117 29,969
23,645 8,117 31,762
Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds
2024 2024 2024
£ £ £
At 31 March 2024:
Tangible assets 2,497 - 2,497
Current assets/(liabilities) (1,962) 36,903 34,941
535 36,903 37,438

19 Analysis of net assets between funds

GOALBALL UK

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

20 Operating lease commitments

Lessee

At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

2025 2024
£ £
Within one year 4,733 4,557
21 Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations 2025 2024
£ £
Deficit for the year (5,676) (24,895)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets 1,678 2,023
Movements in working capital:
Decrease/(increase) in stocks 2,180 (7,000)
Decrease/(increase) in debtors 48,386 (23,193)
(Decrease)/increase in creditors (16,921) 34,198
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations 29,647 (18,867)