Halton Cancer Support Group Limited **Charity number 1145810 A Company limited by guarantee number 7830948**
Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025
## Web Site: www.haltoncancersupport.org.uk
Registered Charity no.1145810 Company no. 07830948
Sponsored by:
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025
|**Contents**|**Page**|
|---|---|
|Trustees' Annual Report|2 to 15|
|Independent Examiner's Report|16|
|Statement of financial activities|17|
|Balance sheet|18|
|Statement of Cash flows|19|
|Notes to the Financial Statements|20 to 25|
**Prepared by the Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service**
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report
## Thanks and acknowledgements
The Board of Trustees would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the many individuals, groups, and organisations who have supported Halton Cancer Support Group throughout the year. Your generosity, time, and commitment have made a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.
We are especially grateful to the Cheshire & Merseyside Integrated Care Board (ICB) for their continued financial support through a renewed grant agreement, enabling us to sustain our services for another year.
Our sincere thanks also go to Halton Borough Council (HBC) for their Voluntary Sector Core Grant and additional funding from the Public Health Team. Despite budgetary constraints, their support remains vital and deeply appreciated.
Thank you to the National Lottery Community Fund for providing funding for our work with Children & Young People. Their players and team at the national Lottery make this possible.
We were honoured to receive a generous donation of £4,166 from Halton Crematorium, kindly nominated by Councillor Mark Dennett—a gesture that means so much to us.
We are also pleased to acknowledge Corporate Sponsorship from Coffee Time – Widnes and Empire Property Solutions, whose contributions helped us provide branded t-shirts for our annual 5K fundraising event.
In addition to grants and sponsorships, we are incredibly fortunate to receive ongoing support—both financial and in-kind—from a wide range of community members. We would like to extend special thanks to:
Masonic Goodwill Lodge, AI Lighting, LBC Fire, Mac Fire, Gaffney Sprinklers, Barrow Elect Ltd, Byrne Frodsham, Halton Housing, DWP, Kilshaw Knits, The Grange Academy, Lloyds Bank Foundation, Halton Swimming Club, St Nicholas School, Hutch Engineering Ltd, Tesco, Widnes Martial Arts, Asda, Widnes Rotary, Cutting Edge Salon (Rachel Lyons), Hale Ladies, The Lockdown Yukes, Farnworth Church, and Phoenix Fitness.
We are also deeply grateful to the many individuals who made generous donations, including: J Carter, A Jones, L Millington, S Houghton, T Nolan, J McCann, D Graal, E Hill, L Cross, D Donoghue, D Cash, T Martindale, L Stanley, G Ellis, H Ettrick, J Jones, R Carter, D Hill, B Wheat, S Connolly, J Hill, J Pennington, and B Keller.
To our regular online donors—Mr & Mrs Carr, Mr & Mrs Wilson, Mr & Mrs Hill, and Great British Dome—thank you for your consistent and valued contributions. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the many anonymous donors who support us through our online giving platform. Your kindness does not go unnoticed.
A special mention goes to Lyn Farrow, a long-standing volunteer, supporter, and fundraiser, who has raised over £19,000 through our in-house lottery. Her dedication and meticulous organisation are truly inspiring. Thank you, Lyn and to your husband, Ken for your unwavering support.
We are grateful to The Wonky Garden for the beautiful flowers that brighten our Centre, and to Riverside College for providing manicure equipment. Our thanks also go to Widnes Tesco and Asda for their generous contributions to various events throughout the year.
Widnes Martial Arts has been a valued partner, supporting our 5K event, holding their ‘Marvelous Moustachathon 2024’ and proudly incorporating our Centre logo into their school clothing—thank you for your continued involvement.
We are often humbled to receive donations in memory of loved ones who found comfort in our services. Organising such tributes during times of grief is an extraordinary act of generosity. We are deeply thankful to the families and friends of D Woodward, L Ball, K Duckett, D Hill, N Leather, and K Yates for choosing to support us in this way.
Our services would not be possible without the incredible gift of time and expertise from our volunteer counsellors, therapists, and beauty students from Riverside College. Your contributions bring healing and comfort to so many.
To all our volunteers—your dedication, compassion, and hard work are the backbone of our organisation. You make a real and lasting impact in the lives of others, and we are endlessly grateful.
This year has been a testament to the power of community, compassion, and generosity. We cannot thank you enough for all you have done to support Halton Cancer Support Group and the people we serve.
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## Chairman’s report 2024 – 2025
As we reflect on the past year, I would like to begin by expressing sincere thanks to Cheshire & Merseyside Integrated Care Board, Halton Borough Council, and Public Health for their continued support. Their funding agreements remain the cornerstone of our operations, allowing us to plan and deliver services with confidence and consistency.
We are also grateful to Halton & St Helens Voluntary Community Action (VCA) for their ongoing collaboration and sector leadership. Their ability to connect organisations and foster grassroots development continues to be a vital asset to our borough
While our Annual Report includes a full list of acknowledgements, I would like to personally recognise the tireless fundraising efforts of our team and the generosity of our supporters. Your contributions, whether financial, practical, or emotional are the lifeblood of our charity.
This year has brought both progress and challenge. We have seen a significant increase in demand for professional counselling, prompting us to expand our capacity. However, this growth has coincided with the loss of long-standing funding streams, including the HBC Voluntary Sector Core Fund and partial funding for our Children & Young People program, previously funded by Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services. These changes have placed considerable pressure on our staff and resources, yet our team has responded with resilience and determination.
Despite these financial constraints, our service has remained strong. Our annual ‘5K The Centre Way’ fundraiser in June was our most successful yet, with over 320 participants. The event continues to grow in scale and impact, thanks to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and the unwavering support of our Patron, Karl from Widnes Martial Arts, whose team played a key role in the day’s success.
We are pleased that the Halton Bereavement Café, developed in partnership with Halton Libraries and Halton & St Helens VCA, has continued and become a core part of our offer. This informal and supportive space has proven to be a valuable resource for those navigating and learning to live with grief.
We also trialled meditation sessions and expanded our sleep awareness workshops, both of which received positive feedback and will continue as part of our regular offerings.
Our work with Children & Young People remains a priority. While we have secured short-term funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, we are committed to establishing a long-term agreement to ensure the sustainability of this vital work.
Counselling remains our most requested service, and we are actively exploring ways to expand our capacity to meet growing demand. The sudden closure of a major local counselling provider earlier in the year further highlighted the importance of our role in the community.
Our Respite Caravan in Talacre has once again provided a much-needed sanctuary for clients recovering from treatment, caring for loved ones, or coping with loss. The effort required to maintain this facility is considerable, but the benefits it brings are immeasurable.
In September, we welcomed two new trustees to our Board: a professional counsellor and a service user representative. Due to some personal health concerns, the need to strengthen our Board has felt more pressing this year, and we are grateful to have welcomed individuals who bring both lived experience and professional expertise to our governance.
The staff team continue to support each other practically and emotionally, especially during times of absence and holidays. As a small team, their flexibility and willingness to adapt has been invaluable, ensuring that our service remains consistent and compassionate throughout the year.
To Nicola, Karen, Sam, Maureen, and Becci, and to all our volunteers, trustees, and supporters, thank you. Your dedication makes Halton Cancer Support the safe, welcoming, and impactful place it is. I am proud to serve as Chairman and look forward to another year of growth, connection, and care.
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## **Treasurers Report**
We are indebted once again to Jane Williams for the independent submission of our 2024-25 annual accounts and for the preparation of a balance sheet for submission to Companies House.
This is the thirteenth full accounting year since our incorporation as a Company Limited by Guarantee.
We are fortunate and grateful to have been in receipt of another yearly grant from NHS Cheshire & Merseyside Integrated Care Board, grant support from Halton Borough Council via the Public Health Department and Voluntary Sector Core Grants. We are also grateful for funds received from Halton Crematorium, The National Lottery Community Fund, Digital Arts Box, Groundwork Tesco and Widnes Rotary.
Forthcoming items of note for the accounts:
## **Reserves and designated funds policy**
- We have designated funds of £13,400 to cover redundancy and expenses in the event of
- closure.
- We have designated funds for our work related to respite activity.
Mr Ken Hill Treasurer
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## Operations Manager Report
As I reflect on my ninth year as Operations Manager, I am once again filled with immense pride and gratitude. This year has been rich with connection, growth, and resilience. Our Centre continues to be a place of warmth, healing, and empowerment, and I remain deeply honoured to walk alongside our team and community through all that this journey brings.
## Quarter 1: April – June
We began the year with a wonderful gesture of support from Halton Housing, who not only made a generous donation but also created a short video showcasing our work. Their invitation to visit their premises gave us a deeper insight into their community-focused ethos. It was heartening to see such alignment in values and purpose.
Our annual ‘5K The Centre Way’ event was once again a resounding success. Chairman Gordon’s words of praise echoed the appreciation we all feel for the tireless efforts of our staff and volunteers. Their dedication made the day not only possible but truly memorable. The energy, the smiles, the stories shared. It was a celebration of community and compassion.
## – Quarter 2: July September
Summer brought with it the vibrant Runcorn Masonic Beer Festival, which raised both funds and awareness for our work. It was a joyful event, full of laughter and generosity, and we are grateful to those who chose to support us in such a spirited way.
Recognising the emotional demands of our roles, we sourced training in stress awareness for our team. We also trialed staff therapies, offering our team a chance to experience the same care and support they so selflessly provide to others. This was a meaningful step in nurturing the wellbeing of those who give so much.
## Quarter 3: October – December
I had the privilege of presenting to the Halton Borough Council, Health and Wellbeing Board, sharing our mission and the impact of our work. It was a proud moment to represent our Centre and advocate for the importance of compassionate, community-based support.
We were honoured to be chosen by Hall & Kay Fire Engineering Ltd, who held a staff fundraising afternoon across their sites. Their enthusiasm and generosity were deeply appreciated.
A particularly touching moment came when the family and friends of a much-loved client organised a ‘Disco Bingo’ in her memory. It was a beautiful tribute to her spirit, full of love, laughter, and friendship. Her legacy lives on in the joy she inspired.
The closure of Mind Halton was a sobering reminder of the fragility of vital services. It weighed heavily on our sector and added pressure to neighbouring counselling providers. We remain committed to supporting our community through these challenges, with compassion and resolve.
## Quarter 4: January – March
We were proud to be a key partner in the Cervical Screening Living Well Bus Pilot with NHS Cheshire & Merseyside, bringing essential services directly to the community. The pilot significantly increased screening uptake, and it was a privilege to be welcomed into this initiative.
On a personal note, I undertook additional management and leadership training which was tailored to our sector. This was the first of its kind locally. I also completed Counselling Level 3 online and became a qualified Sleep Practitioner, enabling us to deliver in-house workshops. These learning experiences have enriched my ability to lead and support our team and clients.
We welcomed a Duke of Edinburgh student, Alfie, for work experience. A bright young man with a promising future. His curiosity and kindness were a joy to witness, and we hope his time with us has inspired him as much as he inspired us.
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited Trustees' report continued
I must end the years reflections with celebrating our wonderful collaboration with our Patron, Karl Martindale and his team at Widnes Martial Arts. This has not only strengthened our reach but also brought together diverse groups, fostering unity, resilience, and hope. The energy and commitment of the team have become a cherished part of our work, and we look forward to continuing this powerful relationship in the years ahead.
As we move forward, we do so with a deepened commitment to our purpose. The challenges remain, but so does our resolve. We will continue to nurture our team, adapt to evolving needs, and advocate for the vital role we play in the broader health and wellbeing landscape.
Our mission, aims, and purpose are closely aligned with local priorities, the needs of our community, and the principles of population health. We deliver our services with warmth, compassion, and professionalism, always staying connected to our community and our colleagues across the health and care sectors.
We will continue to build meaningful relationships with local businesses, employers, and all those invested in the health and wellbeing of our community. These partnerships are key to measuring, sustaining and expanding our impact.
To everyone who walks through our doors, supports our mission, or carries our message into the community, thank you. You are the heart of our Centre. Together, we continue to make a difference.
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## **– Impact Assessment Halton Cancer Support**
## **1. Strategic Context**
Halton Cancer Support operates within the framework of:
– One Halton Health and Wellbeing Strategy (2022 2027), which prioritizes:
- Reducing health inequalities
- Supporting mental wellbeing
- Enabling people to live independently and age well.
Halton’s Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA), which highlights:
- High cancer mortality rates
- Significant health inequalities, with life expectancy gaps of up to 11.7 years between
- most and least deprived areas
- An ageing population, increasing demand for long-term and palliative care.
(The Joint Strategic Needs Assessment is the process through which local authorities assess the current and future health, care and wellbeing needs of the local population. Assessing the needs of the population involves: characterising the health and wellbeing status of the local population, identifying inequalities.)
## **2. Services Delivered by Halton Cancer Support**
- Emotional and psychological support (counselling, peer groups)
- Holistic therapies (reflexology, reiki, relaxation, meditation, sleep hygiene)
- Carer support
- Bereavement support
- Children and young people’s therapeutic services
- Community outreach.
These services directly address the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment’s identified needs for:
- Community-based mental health support
- Carer support
- Reducing pressure on primary and acute care services.
## **3. Outcomes and Benefits**
Specific quantitative data from Halton Cancer Support is available. The outcomes based on service type and strategic alignment include:
- Improved mental wellbeing for patients, carers, and those who have been bereaved
- Reduced GP and hospital visits through early intervention and emotional support
- Enhanced quality of life for people living with or affected by cancer
- Support for children and families, reducing long-term emotional impact.
## **- 4. System Level Impact**
- Supports the Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care System (ICS) goals of integrated,
- place-based care
- Contributes to Halton’s *Marmot Community approach to reducing health inequalities
- Aligns with NHS Halton’s focus on community resilience and voluntary sector
- partnerships .
* What is a Marmot approach?
A Marmot Place recognises that health and health inequalities are mostly shaped by the social determinants of health (SDH): the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age, and takes action to improve health and reduce health inequalities.
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## **Our Services**
## **Core Support**
Listening support and information services remain a cornerstone of our offer. This year, listening support delivered both face-to-face and by telephone was accessed 846 times, while information requests were responded to 1,428 times. We continue to pride ourselves on responding with both efficiency and compassion, ensuring that every person feels heard and supported.
## **Psychological Support**
Professional counselling remains a high priority, with demand continuing to grow. This year, we handled 1,088 counselling-related calls and assessments, leading to 1,137 scheduled counselling hours.
Our student placement programme continues to thrive, with many qualified counsellors choosing to stay on beyond their required hours. This enriches our counselling team and enhances the depth of support we can offer.
## **Gentlemen Only Group**
Our Gentlemen Only Group has grown steadily, attracting around 10 participants weekly. The camaraderie and mutual respect among the group is inspiring, with members supporting each other both within and beyond the Centre. New members have been warmly welcomed and have quickly become active participants, openly sharing and seeking advice during difficult times.
## **Mixed Peer Support Groups**
These groups have seen steady attendance and often require more intensive support than our gents group. Several participants this year have faced deeply traumatic experiences, and the group has become a vital space for comfort, connection, and healing—perhaps more so than before.
## **Wellbeing**
Our Holistic Therapies, including Reiki and Reflexology, continue to be deeply appreciated, offering relaxation and emotional relief. The kindness and compassion of our therapists shine through in the feedback we receive. We also continue our long-standing partnership with Riverside College, where beauty students provide manicures and pedicures during term time. This mutually beneficial arrangement brings pampering and joy to our clients.
## **Outreach & Engagement**
Our outreach efforts help maintain visibility in the community and encourage referrals. This year, we delivered presentations, talks, and information stands at:
- Goodwill Lodge Charity Coffee Morning (Runcorn Masonic)
- St. Helens Hospital & Whiston Hospital (leaflet drops and service updates)
- Cheshire Asbestos Victims Support Group (Action Mesothelioma Wellbeing Event)
- Widnes Women’s Institute
- Halton Haven – Tea at 3 (Dying Matters initiative)
- Coffee Time (local café)
- Upton Community Centre (Sure Start event)
- Green Oaks Shopping Centre (Halton Mental Health Hub)
- Murdishaw Health Centre (outreach stand)
- Space, Runcorn (Mental Health drop-in)
We also actively participate in regular network meetings, including:
- Monthly Bereavement Café
- Cheshire & Merseyside Cancer Alliance – Patient Engagement Network
- Whiston/St. Helens Hospitals – Patient Engagement Group
- Leadership Networks
We are proud to contribute to several leadership and strategic forums:
- NHS Cheshire & Merseyside Health Care Partnership
- Halton Cancer Improvement Group
- VCFSE Network Forum
- Halton Compassionate Communities Network
- Halton Dying Matters Group
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## **Social Media & Connectivity**
We continue to use social media to share updates and promote our services. Our website remains a key access point for new clients, offering online registration followed by a personal welcome call and appointment.
## **Email Correspondence**
We use MailChimp to send branded, GDPR-compliant newsletters. Currently, 615 people are subscribed. New clients are added with consent, and anyone can sign up via our website or Facebook page.
## **Facebook**
Our public Facebook page has grown by 10%, increasing from 1,600 to 1,762 followers over the past year. It remains a vital tool for engagement and awareness.
## **Private Facebook Group**
Our private group, launched during lockdown, continues with over 150 members. Daily posts include greetings, puzzles, uplifting messages, and peer support. The group fosters a strong sense of community and connection.
## **Children & Young People**
Over the past year, we received 23 new referrals for children and young people aged 5 to 17. These referrals came from parents, schools we’ve built strong relationships with, Halton Haven, and a breast care nurse specialist from Warrington and Halton NHS Trust.
We delivered 125 hours of therapy across seven Halton schools: Pewithall, St Michael’s, Wade Deacon, The Heath, OBA, OCA, and Sandymoor. We also supported staff and a pupil at St Vincent’s School in Penketh. For Halton children attending schools outside the borough, we used space in Brookvale and Kingsway Family Hubs to ensure sessions could still take place.
Referrals were made for young people who had a loved one undergoing cancer treatment or who had experienced a bereavement. 13 young people had an immediate family member (parent, sibling, or grandparent) with cancer, most often their mum.10 young people had experienced a bereavement.
Depending on the young person’s needs, the demand for our service, and our involvement with their school, some referrals were shared with Child Bereavement UK.
In July, we attended the Child Bereavement UK Open Day. It was a valuable opportunity to reconnect with their Widnes team and refresh our understanding of the services they offer.
In April, we were privileged to work with a group of 15–16-year-olds from Moorfield Tigers Rugby Club, who had recently lost a teammate to cancer. Experienced counsellors from our adult service joined us to support these sessions.
Before the session, we met with managers and parents to understand what would be most helpful and to address any concerns. This also gave us the chance to support them directly and offer reassurance.
The players’ support session was incredibly moving. The young people engaged fully in activities focused on:
- Expressing emotions
- Sharing special memories
- Understanding the stages of grief
It was important for them to come together as a team, remember their friend, and support one another through their grief.
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
We also provided parents with take-home information, including:
- Guidance on how teenagers may experience grief
- Tips on how to support them
- A list of local and national support services and helplines for the players
- The need for this work is evident and we intend to continue to grow our capacity to enable us to support more young people.
## **What our clients say…**
_“I had someone who listened, and I could talk to, treated with respect, felt safe”_
_“Moving forward. I can now see a future. I know I will have bad days but with the tools I have found, I can cope”_
_“They have changed my life, I feel like I have hope for my future when all I could feel was dread”_
_“Thank you for setting me on the path to recovery and a better way to deal with my mental health”_
_”It was nice to talk about my illness to someone who was not involved, and it made me feel that I was coping well”_
_“it’s really helped to have somewhere you can go outside of the home/family where you can offload”_
_“The staff are very helpful. There is a calm & welcoming vibe when you walk into the building. Excellent service for people needing this support in the Halton community”_
_“Introduced me to Tai Chi which I am taking up on a regular basis”_
_“it helped me to go through my dad's illness and supported me after I lost my dad”_
_“Counselling has been a step I would never have taken on my own initiative but has been a very, very, healing journey”_
## **Case Studies**
## _“I was referred to the Centre by my Breast Care Nurse._
_I have accessed holistic therapies which have improved my sleep and relaxation. They have given me time and space out during treatment._
_I would recommend the service to others who may benefit. If it wasn't for the Centre, I most likely would not have engaged with therapies at that stage of my treatment._
_The Centre staff are welcoming and put you at ease immediately. The Centre provides a respite from treatment”_ Ms L – Patient.
## _“I come to the centre because my husband has cancer._
_I access listening support & reflexology._
_It has been really helpful to talk about our situation with someone outside of the family. The offer of therapy's is really good for my wellbeing and will help my husband when he has his therapy. I do not know of anywhere else within the area that offers this kind of service. I would not know where else to go, I was recommended the service by someone, and I would absolutely recommend the service._
_It has been really helpful, all the staff are very friendly and approachable”._
Mrs H - Carer.
_“I came to the Centre for counselling sessions started after my husband passed away. I found them a good place to release my feelings of grief and work through how I was coping or not!_
_By summarising clearly what I poured out to the counsellor, it helped me to understand and focus on what I could actually do rather than getting bogged down on things I had no control over. I then found it easier on my bad days to pick myself up and carry on. I am so grateful for all the support throughout my sessions”._ Mrs B - Bereaved
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## **Respite breaks**
Our beautiful caravan continues to be a source of peace, comfort, and joy for those we support. Nestled in tranquil surroundings, it offers a much-needed escape from the intensity of cancer treatment and the emotional toll it brings. We have been privileged to offer respite breaks to clients during their treatment providing a space to rest, reflect, and reconnect. For some, the caravan is a haven during a treatment break, a gentle pause in their path to recovery. For others, it becomes a place of healing after treatment has ended, where they can begin to rebuild and restore. And for a few, it is their final getaway, a deeply meaningful experience as they approach the end of life. We hold these moments with great reverence, knowing how precious they are to the individuals and families involved. The caravan is more than just a place to stay, it is a symbol of our care, our compassion, and our commitment to walking alongside people through every stage of their journey.
## **Respite breaks feedback**
## ~~nn~~
_Client Feedback_
_“Prior to this break I was feeling tired and worn out, I didn’t have a lot of interest in anything. I was worrying about how I was going to cope with the new chemotherapy medication and would I have any side effects from taking it. The break has given me the chance to relax, unwind and re-evaluate my situation away from normal family life in a lovely peaceful setting. Following the break, I feel so refreshed and am busy planning things for the future. Thank you”_
## **Mr P.**
_“It has given me time to collect my thoughts, feelings and emotions. I start new treatment soon, so it was booked as I had become very apprehensive and nervous. We had long slow walks due to being fatigued a lot, the surroundings were lovely and made me feel very relaxed and less nervous. I quickly began to feel able to put things into perspective and gained more control over different issues”_ **Mrs. E**
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## **Service Utilisation**
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## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Trustees' report continued
## **Public Benefit:**
In identifying and reviewing these priorities, aims and objectives, plus the supporting actions and activities for the year, we have been fully mindful of the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit. We have aimed to ensure that all these planned actions and activities, agreed or noted by the Trustees/Directors at our regular Committee Meetings, are for public benefit and in-line with the charities purpose.
## **Financial Review**
The deficit of the charity for the year amounted to (£28,731) (Surplus £3,832 ~ 2024)
## **Reserves Policy**
Details of the charity's reserves are shown in note 7a and show a figure of £83,835. This level of reserves is equivalent to 4 months of the centre's running costs. This is above the centre's aim of holding £64,000 the equivalent of 6 months running costs and this figure includes the costs of closure. However, the charity also have a designated funds policy which separates funds for the purpose of working with children and young people and also a fund for respite purposes. This amounts to £75,000. These funds are not part of the charities reserve funds.
## **Risk Management**
The trustees actively review the major strategic, business and operational risks that the charity faces on a regular basis and acknowledge that the key risks relate to reduction in core funding and utilitisation of the service.
## Statement of Directors' responsibilities
Company law requires the directors to prepare financial accounts for each year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure of the charity for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to:
select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements.
prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business;
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to 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.
The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
Approved by the Board on September 2025 and signed on behalf of the directors by:
Gordon Ellis Chairperson
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Reference and Administrative Details
Charity number 1145810
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
A Company limited by guarantee number 7830948
## PATRONS OF HALTON CANCER SUPPORT GROUP LIMITED
## Jackie Ashley
Jim Mills Derek Twigg MP
Dee Graal
## Karl Martindale
## MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2024 - 2025
## Honourable President Dr Mary Gibbons, Retired G.P.
|**OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES:**|**OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES:**||
|---|---|---|
|Chairperson|Gordon Ellis||
|Vice Chairperson|Clair Picton||
|Treasurer|Ken Hill||
|**TRUSTEES/DIRECTORS**|||
|Mr Gordon Ellis|Retired local Business Director||
|Mrs Clair Picton|Halton Resident (Voluntary Sector representative)||
|Dr Mary Gibbons|Retired G.P.||
|Mr Kenneth Hill|Retired local authority worker||
|Mrs Susan Pybus|Ex-bank worker (of the Widnes Cancer Support Fund Association)||
|Allison Roberts|Reflexology Therapist||
|Mr Ian Connolly|Retired Salesman||
|Kirsty Waite|Professional Counsellor|appointed 14 October 2024|
|**Company Secretary**|||
|Nicola Donoghue|||
|**Principal Staff**|||
|Nicola Donoghue|Operations Manager||
|Karen Millington|Centre Co-Ordinator P/T||
|Becci Keller|Centre Co-Ordinator P/T||
|Sam Gwynne|Counselling & CYP Project Co-ordinator||
|Maureen Isherwood|Outreach & Engagement Worker||
## **Method of appointment**
The Trustees are elected at the Annual General Meeting. The Members of the Board are the Directors for the purposes of company law and the Trustees for the purposes of charity law.
## **Registered address**
21-23 Alforde Street Widnes Cheshire WA8 7TR
## **Previous Company Names**
Widnes and Runcorn Cancer Support Group 01 Nov 2011 - 17 July 2023
## **Bankers**
Lloyds Bank plc Albert Square 23-24 Albert Road Widnes, WA8 6JW
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Independent Examiner's report to the trustees of Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31st March 2025 set out on pages 16 to 25.
## **Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and examiner**
The charity's trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:
q examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act;
q to follow the procedures laid down in the general directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and
q state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
## **Basis of Independent examiner's statement**
My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
## **Independent examiner's statement**
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:
q to keep accounting records in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006; and
q to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities
have not been met; or
2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Jane Williams MAAT **Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service**
St Maries Lugsdale Road Widnes WA8 6DB
15
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Statement of Financial Activities
## (Including Income & Expenditure Account)
## for the year ended 31 March 2025
|Notes
2025
Unrestricted
funds
£
**Income from:**
Income from donations
(4)
22,176
Income from charitable activities
(5)
22,937
Other incoming resources
(6)
6,155
Bank interest
516
**Total incoming resources**
51,784
**Resources expended**
Charitable activities
(7)
79,915
**Net incoming / (outgoing) resources**
(28,131)
**Transfers between funds**
-
**Net movement in funds**
(28,131)
**Reconciliation of funds**
**Total funds as at 01 April 2024**
75,466
**Total funds as at 31 March 2025**
(9)
47,335|2025
Restricted
funds
£
70,760
-
-
-
70,760
71,360
(600)
-
(600)
37,100
36,500|2025
Total
funds
£
92,936
22,937
6,155
516
122,544
151,275
(28,731)
-
(28,731)
112,566
83,835|2024
Total
funds
£
108,321
21,187
6,879
469|
|---|---|---|---|
||||136,856|
||||133,024|
||||3,832
-|
||||3,832
108,734|
||||112,566|
The above statement includes all gains and loses recognised during the year. All activities are regarded as continuing. Comparative figures for the previous year by fund type are shown in Note 13. The Notes on pages 20 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
16
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Charity number 1145810
## A Company limited by guarantee number 7830948
## Balance sheet
## as at 31 March 2025
|2025
Unrestricted
**Fixed Assets**
£
Tangible Assets
(8)
-
**Total current assets**
-
**Current Assets**
Debtors and prepayments
(11)
-
Cash at bank and in hand
(12)
48,932
**Total current assets**
48,932
**Current liabilities:**
**amounts falling due within one year**
Creditors (due within one year)
(13)
1,597
**Total current liabilities**
1,597
**Net Assets**
47,335
**Funds of the charity**
Restricted Funds
-
Unrestricted funds
47,335
**Total Funds**
47,335|2025
Restricted
£
10,795
10,795
-
25,705
25,705
-
-
36,500
36,500
-
36,500|2025
Total
£
10,795
10,795
-
74,637
74,637
1,597
1,597
83,835
36,500
47,335
83,835|2024
Total
£
14,395|
|---|---|---|---|
||||14,395|
||||11,440
87,162|
||||98,602|
||||431|
||||431|
|||||
||||112,566|
||||37,100
75,466|
||||112,566|
The trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) confirm that for the year ended 31 March 2025
the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, and
the members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in . accordance with section 476 of the Act
the trustees acknowledge their responsiblities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts
The notes on pages 20 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
These accounts, which have been prepared in accordance with the provisions in the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies, were approved by the trustees on September 2025 and signed on their behalf by:
Ken Hill Director / Trustee
17
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025
|**Cash flows from operating activities:**
Net income/(expenditure) per SOFA
Capital purchase
Depreciation
Investment income
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
(5)
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
**Cash flows from investing activities**
Investment income
(6)
**Net increase/(decrease) in cash:**
**Total cash as at 01 April 2024**
**Total cash as at 31 March 2025**|2025
Total
£
(28,731)
-
3,600
516
11,440
1,166
(12,009)
(516)
(12,525)
87,162
74,637|2024
Total
£
3,832
-
3,600
469
(11,440)
(1,150)|
|---|---|---|
|||(4,689)|
|||(469)|
|||(5,158)
92,320|
|||87,162|
The notes on pages 20 to 25 form an integral part of these accounts.
18
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Notes to the financial statements
## for the year ended 31 March 2025
## **1 Basis of preparation**
- These accounts (financial statements) have been prepared under the historical cost convention,
- **1.1** with items recognised at cost or transaction value, unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s), in accordance with:
- (a) The Charities Act 2011
- (b) The Companies Act 2006
- (c) The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland: FRS 102
- (d) Accounting & Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice (Charities SORP FRS 102) (effective January 2019)
- **1.3** The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102
- [trustees][consider][that][there][are][not][material][uncertainties][about][the][charity's][ability][to]
- **1.4**[The] continue as a going concern.
## **2 Accounting Policies**
## **2.1 Fund accounting**
- (a) Unrestricted funds are those that can be expended at the discretion of the trustees in the furtherance of the objects of the charity.
- (b) Restricted funds are those that may only be used for specific purposes. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor, or when funds are raised for specific purposes.
- (c) The purposes of the funds are shown in Note 7a.
## **2.2 Income**
- (a) Income is recognised and included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when the charity becomes entitled to the income; receipt is probable; and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability.
- (b) Where income has related expenditure (e.g. caravan), the income and related expenditure are reported gross in the SOFA.
- (c) Bank interest is recognised when credited to the account.
- (d) Gift Aid, where appropriate, is recognised in the same accounting period as the donation to which it relates.
- (e) Income, which is subject to conditions that the charity has yet to fulfil, or which is specifically for use in a future accounting period, is treated as deferred income.
## **2.3 Expenditure and liabilities**
- (a) Expenditure is recognised on the accruals basis.
- (b) The charity is not registered for VAT, thus all costs are shown inclusive of VAT charged.
(c) Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation to pay out resources.
(d) Governance costs include the costs of preparation and examination of the statutory accounts, the cost of trustee meetings and the cost of any legal advice to trustees on governance or constitutional matters.
19
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Notes to the financial statements
## for the year ended 31 March 2025
## **2.4 Tangible Fixed Assets**
(a) Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £1,000. They are valued at cost or, if gifted, at their value on receipt. Rates of depreciation Caravan: 20% straight line basis to nil Fixtures and fittings: 15% straight line basis to nil Equipment: 20% straight line basis to nil
## **2.5 Debtors**
(a) Debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due.
(b) Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid.
## **2.6 Cash**
(a) Cash comprises bank deposits repayable on demand and any short-term highly liquid investments with a maturity date of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.
## **2.7 Creditors**
(a) Creditors are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amount, usually the invoice amount.
- (b) Accrued charges are normally valued at their settlement amount.
## **2.8 Taxation**
The charity is not liable to income tax or capital gains tax on its charitable activities.
## **3 Transactions with trustees and related parties**
No trustees received any expenses or remuneration during the period.
Owing to the nature of the charity's activities and the composition of the board of trustees (being drawn from local statutory and voluntary organisation), it is inevitable that transactions will take place with organisations in which a trustee may have an interest. All transactions in which a trustee may have an interest are conducted at arm's length and in accordance with the charity's financial regulations and expenditure procedures. No transactions were indentified which should be disclosed under FRS 102.
20
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Notes to the financial statements
## for the year ended 31 March 2025
|**4**
**Income from donations**
Halton Borough Council: Vol Sec Funding
Halton Borough Council: Public Health
NHS Halton ICB
Halton Borough Council: One Halton
Halton Borough Council:
Groundwork
Mayors Fund
Digital Arts Box
Halton Crematorium
TNL Community Fund
HMRC: Gift Aid
The Rotary Club
Donations
**5**
**Income from charitable activities**
Fundraising
**6**
**Other Incoming resources from**
**charitable activities**
Contributions
Other Incoming Resources|2025
Unrestricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
4,166
-
-
425
-
-
1,067
500
16,018
22,176
2025
Unrestricted
funds
£
22,937
22,937
Unrestricted
funds
£
5,975
180
6,155|2025
Restricted
funds
£
-
13,000
45,760
-
-
-
-
-
-
12,000
-
-
-
70,760
2025
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-|2025
Total
funds
£
-
13,000
45,760
-
4,166
-
-
425
-
12,000
1,067
500
16,018
92,936
2025
Total
funds
£
22,937
22,937
Total
funds
£
5,975
180
6,155|2024
Total
funds
£
11,500
13,000
45,760
3,000
750
750
11,624
650
7,000
-
2,656
-
11,631|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||108,321|
|||||2024
Total
funds
£
21,187|
|||||21,187|
|||||Total
funds
£
6,879
-|
|||||6,879|
21
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Notes to the financial statements
## for the year ended 31 March 2025
## 7 **Expenditure of charitable activities**
|**7a **|2025
Unrestricted
funds
**_Direct Costs_**
£
Salaries and NICs
7a
37,415
Payroll costs
1,075
Printing & Stationery
529
Telephone, IT & Postage
4,361
Equipment
1,025
Other Expenses
-
Fees & licenses
77
**_Premises_**
Rent
9,153
Utilities
3,354
Insurance
1,421
Cleaning
1,316
Repairs & Maintenance
2,911
**_Other_**
Bank Charges
306
Training
741
Travel
665
Event
1,341
Group Activities
1,662
Caravan Expenses
8,238
Counselling & Supervision
1,640
Marketing & Fundraising
1,991
Depreciation
-
Governance costs
(10)
694
**Total resources expended**
79,915
**Staff costs and numbers**
Gross salaries
Employer's NI
Employer's Pension|2025
Unrestricted
funds
**_Direct Costs_**
£
Salaries and NICs
7a
37,415
Payroll costs
1,075
Printing & Stationery
529
Telephone, IT & Postage
4,361
Equipment
1,025
Other Expenses
-
Fees & licenses
77
**_Premises_**
Rent
9,153
Utilities
3,354
Insurance
1,421
Cleaning
1,316
Repairs & Maintenance
2,911
**_Other_**
Bank Charges
306
Training
741
Travel
665
Event
1,341
Group Activities
1,662
Caravan Expenses
8,238
Counselling & Supervision
1,640
Marketing & Fundraising
1,991
Depreciation
-
Governance costs
(10)
694
**Total resources expended**
79,915
**Staff costs and numbers**
Gross salaries
Employer's NI
Employer's Pension|2025
Restricted
funds|2025
Total
funds|2024
Total
funds|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||£
37,415
1,075
529
4,361
1,025
-
77
9,153
3,354
1,421
1,316
2,911
306
741
665
1,341
1,662
8,238
1,640
1,991
-
694
79,915|£
67,760
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,600
-
71,360|£
105,175
1,075
529
4,361
1,025
-
77
-
9,153
3,354
1,421
1,316
2,911
306
741
665
1,341
1,662
8,238
1,640
1,991
3,600
694
151,275
£
100,630
2,488
2,056
105,175|£
90,963
879
399
3,929
1,293
-
75
-
9,215
2,428
1,198
1,654
585
303
300
500
-
5,113
7,126
1,239
1,044
3,600
1,182|
||||||133,024|
||||||£
88,471
839
1,653|
||||||90,963|
No employee earned £60,000 per annum or more in the current accounting period The average number of employees during the year was 3.4 (2024:3.4)
22
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Notes to the financial statements
## for the year ended 31 March 2025
||Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
Notes to the financial statements
for the year ended 31 March 2025|||
|---|---|---|---|
|**8**|**Tangible assets**
**Cost**
At 1 April 2024
Additions
At 31 March 2025
**Depreciation**
At 1 April 2024
Charge for year
At 31 March 2025
**Net book value**
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024|Caravan
£
35,995
-
35,995
21,600
3,600
25,200
10,795
14,395|Total
£
35,995
-|
||||35,995|
||||21,600
3,600|
||||25,200|
|||||
||||10,795|
|||||
||||14,395|
23
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Notes to the financial statements
## for the year ended 31 March 2025
|**9**|**Movements in funds**||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||**Unrestricted funds**
General funds
**Restricted funds**
Caravan
TNL: Community Fund
HBC: Public Health
NHS Halton ICB
**Total funds**|**As at**
**01/04/2024**|**Incoming**
**Resources**|**Outgoing**
**Resources**|**Transfers**|**As at**
**31/03/2025**|
|||£
75,466|£
51,784|£
79,915|£
-|£
47,335|
|||37,100
-
-
-
37,100
112,566|-
12,000
13,000
45,760
70,760
122,544|3,600
9,000
13,000
45,760
71,360
151,275|-
-
-
-
-
-|33,500
3,000
-
-|
|||||||36,500|
|||||||83,835|
## **Purpose of restricted funds**
We are grateful to all our funders who provided support to our centre running costs and salaries.
|**10 Governance Costs**
Independent Examiners' fee
Accountancy
Professional fees
DBS Checks
Administration
**11 Debtors and prepayments**
Debtors
Prepayments
**12 Cash at bank and in hand**
Current Accounts
Deposit Accounts
Fundraising Account
Cash in hand
**13 Creditors and accruals**
Creditors
Deferred Income|2025
£
450
100
-
110
34
694
£
-
-
-
£
32,627
41,843
-
166
74,637
£
1,597
-
1,597|2024
£
300
310
414
134
23|
|---|---|---|
|||1,182|
|||£
11,440
-|
|||11,440|
|||£
40,478
46,487
-
197|
|||87,162|
|||£
431
-|
|||431|
24
## Halton Cancer Support Group Limited
## Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025
## **13 Comparative income and expenditure by fund type**
|**Income from:**
Income from donations
Income from charitable activities
Other incoming resources
Bank interest
**Total incoming resources**
**Expenditure on:**
Charitable activities
**Net incoming / (outgoing) resources**
**Transfers between funds**
**Net movement in funds**
**Reconciliation of funds**
**Total funds as at 01 April 2024**
**Total funds as at 31 March 2025**
(9)|2025
£
22,176
22,937
6,155
516
51,784
79,915
(28,131)
-
(28,131)
75,466
47,335
Unrestricted|2024
£
38,061
21,187
6,879
469
66,596
59,164
7,432
-
7,432
68,034
75,466
Funds|2025
2024
£
£
70,760
70,260
-
-
-
-
-
-
70,760
70,260
71,360
73,860
(600)
(3,600)
-
-
(600)
(3,600)
37,100
40,700
36,500
37,100
Restricted Funds|2025
2024
£
£
70,760
70,260
-
-
-
-
-
-
70,760
70,260
71,360
73,860
(600)
(3,600)
-
-
(600)
(3,600)
37,100
40,700
36,500
37,100
Restricted Funds|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||70,260|
|||||73,860|
|||||(3,600)
-|
|||||(3,600)
40,700|
|||||37,100|
25