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← Berkshire County Blind Society

2025-03-31-accounts

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ANNUAL oe ee Sientope ee ee REPORT AND Berkshire County Blind Society ACCOUNTS e 2024-25

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Contents

4 What we do

10

17

Social Activities and Adapted Sport

Our Community

Trustees’ report

Balance sheet

33-49 Notes to the financial statements

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Chair and CEO Report

Chair CEO Jane Laura Veys Mitchell

We are delighted to present the annual report for Berkshire Vision. As we enter the final year of our five-year strategy, we are proud to reflect on a year of continued growth and transformation at Berkshire Vision. Demand for our services has never been greater, with more adults and children than ever engaging with our programmes.

Thank you to our members who have shared their voices through surveys and focus groups. Your insights have shaped our services and ensured they remain responsive and impactful.

We are especially proud of our dedicated volunteers, who donated over 4,000 hours to support our members, defying the national trend of declining participation. Thank you; we could not deliver this level of support without you.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to prioritising services based on need, ensuring our sustainability and continued impact for years to come.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

Jane Veys , Chair Laura Mitchell , CEO

We were delighted to welcome two new trustees this year, further enriching the lived experience and professional expertise on our board.

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What we do

Berkshire Vision has been at the heart of our community since 1910, supporting adults and children with sight loss at every stage of their journey. Whether someone has just received a diagnosis or has been living with sight loss for many years, we provide a wide range of emotional and practical support across Berkshire. Through our Sight Loss Support and Equipment and Resources services, we help people adjust and find the right tools for their everyday lives.

We focus on building confidence and independence, while supporting both mental and physical wellbeing, with Social Activities and adapted Sports to help people to stay active and connected.

Our Realeyes guides help people practise new routes to become more independent in the community, and our Telephone Befriending service reduces loneliness and isolation.

For adults of working age, we offer tailored support to build skills and confidence for work or study. For Children, Young People and Families, we provide fun, engaging activities and the chance to make friends, while also helping them develop the life skills they will need as they grow into adulthood.

Through all our services, we strive to reduce health inequalities by giving people with sight loss equal opportunities to live full and independent lives.

Referrals come from hospital eye clinics, local Sensory Needs Teams, GPs, other partners, friends and family, or through self-referral, ensuring that everyone who needs support can access it.

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AT A GLANCE

1544 Members across Berkshire

539 Sight Loss Support visits

116 children supported

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Sight Loss Support

Our team of six Sight Loss Support Officers provide emotional and practical support to visually impaired 4 x adults following a diagnosis or at any point when “' help is needed. They take a holistic approach, using the nationally recognised Sight Loss MOT to assess individual needs and co-develop a tailored support plan. This ensures our members can access the services, resources, technology, and benefits they need or are entitled to. Just as importantly, they are there to listen, offering reassurance and understanding when someone feels shocked, frightened, isolated, or alone. Two members of the team are visually impaired themselves, bringing both hope and a valuable insight into life after sight loss.

“Meeting [Sight Loss Support Officer] Dom gave us a model of what life can be while having sight loss in employment. Until recently I did not think it possible that I would return to work, but when somebody is there in the room with you working and coping with sight loss it gave me hope.”

Our Sight Loss Support Officers also deliver the Living Well with Sight Loss course. Through peer-to-peer support, shared experiences, and open conversation, the course helps participants gain confidence, learn practical tips, and feel less alone.

“Talking to other people made me realise I am not alone. I found out about things I didn’t know about, so I can now attempt things I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do before.”

– Living Well with Sight Loss participant

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Meet Jessica

Jessica lost her sight suddenly due to diabetic retinopathy. Overnight, she could no longer work, leave the house alone, or manage daily tasks. “It affected everything,” she says.

After accessing our Sight Loss Support Service: 93%

98%

felt it improved felt more their mental confident health

93%

felt more independent

Referred to Berkshire Vision, Jessica met Sarah, her Sight Loss Support Officer. Sarah supported her through major challenges, including losing her home just before Christmas, stepping in to handle overwhelming admin and advocate when local services did not understand the impact of her sight loss. She also arranged tech support, introduced accessibility tools, and encouraged Jessica to try new things at her own pace.

Now Jessica has begun white cane training and is starting to plan days out again. Most importantly, she’s determined to rebuild her life for her son. “I want to take him to the cinema again. I want to show him that I can still do things and that we can still do things together.”

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Social Activities and Adapted Sports

Accessing social activities and mainstream sports can be challenging when living with a visual impairment, but these opportunities are vital for physical and mental wellbeing.

e e e and reduced the loneliness e e e and isolation often felt during e e e the winter months. Theatre e e e e productions with touch tours e e e allowed people to experience e e e the joy of live performance in e e e an interactive and engaging e e e e way and our ever-popular e e e social groups, walks, = and tandem cycling activities continued ° (yy L | \]\ nfo,5 to offer vital peer ° te) ‘j i’ 1 ‘ Ww e i i | |e ‘ e support as well as | ry : fun and enjoyable experiences. New 3e activities this ’ 4 e e: year included visits V) e to the fire station = ] e to make fire safety : a. | e advice more accessible e e e e and inclusive, and Try a Train e e days helped build confidence for independent travel.

Our activities build confidence and independence, while also reducing loneliness and isolation. We offer a wide range of social activities and adapted sports, with something for all ages, all levels of ability, and all degrees of sight loss including a group for 18-25s and a Dual Sensory Loss Group.

Highlights of the year have included a Sports Taster Day featuring tandem cycling, karate, swimming, archery, and field sports, giving people the chance to try new and adapted j wd sports in a safe and supportive space. Our Christmas party ensured everyone could celebrate the festive season

AT A GLANCE:

49 178 363 adapted social unique sport sessions activities participants

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Meet Graham

At 85, Graham lost his central vision due to a rare genetic macular condition. Though he remained upbeat, the loss of visual clarity began to chip away at his independence, his confidence, and his connection to others.

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88%
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increase in
mental wellbeing
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82% ii Va NN: iz) ay) ; PA i reduction in loneliness and 86% O44 od isolation increase in physical wellbeing

85% formed new friendships

Since finding Berkshire Vision, that has started to change. Through a wide range of social activities including Tai Chi, craft sessions, ten-pin bowling, and even alpaca petting Graham has rediscovered the joy of meeting new people, and found a purpose.

“Some of it sounds mad, but it’s brilliant,” he says. “When I put my name down, I know they’ll get me there and make sure I’m looked after.”

“When I’m at a table with five or six others, we swap stories... It’s amazing how much you pick up just by talking.”

Today, Graham feels more empowered, more informed, and more social than he has in years. He has regained the ability to communicate with friends and family, found new friendships, learned accessible tools to stay independent, and embraced new experiences, even trying Tai Chi at 85.

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Equipment, Resources and Technology

Berkshire Vision’s Equipment, Resources and Technology service helps members find practical tools and devices that build independence and confidence, and reduce isolation.

This could be smartphones and tablets with accessible features, magnifiers, voice-totext software or talking devices. Our team takes the time to understand what each person needs, offering tailored support to help members get the most out of their equipment. We offer this through 1-1 sessions in home or at a local tech hubs. Our volunteer Tech Buddies provide 1-1 sessions on setting up devices, apps and online services aiming to reduce the digital divide.

AT A GLANCE:

people supported by Equipment and Resources service

257

people supported by Tech Buddies

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126
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found the appointment with the Equipment Officer useful

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100%
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learnt something new from the appointment or felt more informed on what technology/ equipment was available to them

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85%
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of those who purchased a device, found it increased their confidence

93%

87%

of those who purchased a device, found it aided them in maintaining their independence.

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Meet Martin

For over 17 years, Martin served as a pastor, deeply engaged in community and conversation. But a routine operation triggered sudden sight loss, leaving him certified blind within weeks.

The shift in independence was jarring. No longer able to read, stay informed, or use his phone with ease, Martin feared losing the life he loved.

More than anything, he longed for reassurance that his quality of life didn’t have to disappear along with his vision.

That reassurance came through Berkshire Vision. With tailored support from Equipment Officer Phill and a volunteer Tech Buddy, Martin began exploring accessible tools including smart readers and Seeing AI. He learned to read independently again, navigate his phone, and reconnect with the world around him.

“I missed reading very much. Now I’m back into it — I’m just finishing Waiting on God by Charles Stanley.”

Today, Martin communicates more easily, stays connected, and enjoys life’s simple pleasures with confidence. “I’ve never had so many people want to help me in my life,” he says.

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Employability Service

Our Employability Service empowers adults with sight loss to gain the confidence, skills, and support needed to enter or return to work or education. Through tailored advice, training, and practical assistance, we help overcome the unique barriers of visual impairment, enabling participants to build lasting skills, achieve personal goals, and improve wellbeing, supporting social mobility and reducing health inequalities.

Nationally, only around 42% of working-age people with sight loss are in employment, compared to 82% of the general population. This significant gap highlights the ongoing challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in accessing and sustaining work. Our service plays a crucial role in breaking down these barriers by helping members develop skills, explore career options, and secure meaningful employment.

AT A GLANCE:

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entered work, education or volunteering after accessing our employability service

people supported by the service

80% 86% 93%

felt more felt more felt their mental independent confident wellbeing had improved

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Meet Laura

Laura, living with sight loss caused by Multiple Sclerosis, faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding her life and career after moving from South Africa to the UK. Diagnosed in 2019, she struggled with everyday tasks and the emotional impact of losing her vision.

“When I first started losing my vision, it was devastating. I had to give up mountain biking and adventure racing, two sports I loved dearly,” Laura explains. “But I refused to let it define me.”

After discovering Berkshire Vision, Laura accessed our Employability service, which became a turning point. With personalised support from Jenna, she gained confidence, developed job skills, and navigated the UK job market.

“Jenna has been amazing. She’s helped me navigate job applications, pointed me

toward useful resources, and continues to support me as I work to re-enter the job market in a meaningful way.” Beyond employment support, Laura found friendship and purpose through volunteering with Berkshire Vision.

“Volunteering gives me purpose and a chance to contribute to something I believe in.” Looking ahead, Laura remains optimistic, supported by the tools and community Berkshire Vision provides. “I’m not sure what the future holds, but I know I’m not facing it alone.”

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Children Young People and Families

Our Children, Young People, and Families programme supports blind and visually impaired children across Berkshire and their families, focusing on creating strong friendships, building confidence and fostering growth. Alongside fun and adventure, we offer valuable opportunities to develop practical life skills and challenge perceptions, proving there are no limits to what can be achieved.

Highlights this year have included a residential at Ufton Court, where older children learnt valuable life skills such as cooking, navigation, and teamwork. We also ran ‘try a train’ and ‘board a bus’ sessions to build confidence in using public transport independently, along with shopping trips to practise independent living skills.

On top of that, there has been plenty of fun including swimming, Lego building sessions, tandem cycling, animal encounters and exciting days out at adventure play parks.

45%

112

children supported

of participants showed improved social skills.

72

activities delivered

52%

of participants reported improved self-esteem through attending activities.

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Meet Lux

Lux, a bright and creative 8 year old child with sight loss and autism, has found a welcoming community through Berkshire Vision. Her mother, Stacey, says Lux calls the charity “her family,” feeling safe, understood, and truly accepted.

Since joining, Lux has enjoyed activities from skiing and cooking classes to adventure parks, building confidence and new skills. Cooking sessions, in particular, were a breakthrough, boosting both her and her mother’s confidence.

Berkshire Vision’s personalised approach helps Lux overcome anxiety and embrace new experiences, while forming meaningful friendships with others who share similar challenges.

Looking ahead, Lux eagerly anticipates future events. “Technically, emotionally, and socially, they’ve made a huge difference. They listen, they care, and they deliver. We’re just so thankful.”

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Transport

Our four vehicles travel the length of the county transporting members to our sports and social activities. Without this vital service many people would not be able to access the support of Berkshire Vision.

miles 26,784 travelled individual 2,315 journeys

87% of people accessing activities said the transport service was very important

Telephone Befriending

Our Telephone Befriending service provides regular, friendly calls to adults living with sight loss, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Trained volunteers offer a listening ear and companionship for those who may find it difficult to get out and about.

AT A GLANCE

people receiving regular calls

118

minutes of telephone befriending calls delivered

38338

“I couldn’t be without my telephone befriender, she is brilliant, kind and dependable. we have amazing, intelligent conversations and I am so grateful that Berkshire Vision connected us”

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Our Community

We work closely with the community to reach and support individuals living with sight loss, as well as promoting eye health and working to prevent ] af sight loss. We do Aece55;4 0eter this through partnerships with hospital eye clinics, local opticians, conditionspecific support groups, and national organisations such as RNIB, Guide Dogs, Macular Society, Glaucoma UK, and Visionary. Our outreach includes information stands at events and public spaces across the county, talks to community groups such as the WI, Rotary Clubs, Cub groups, and Reading University. We also provide sight loss training to local organisations and the wider community, building awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by people with sight loss.

Our biannual Insight Magazine is a vital resource for people living with sight loss, offering key information, inspiring personal stories, and service details and updates on Berkshire Vision. It provides practical guidance on issues affecting people with sight loss and signposting to other useful support services. To ensure it is accessible to all, the magazine is produced in large print and audio formats, and distributed widely through eye clinics and health partners across Berkshire.

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Supporters and Fundraisers

We would like to thank all the private individuals who have donated to us during the year. Your support and generosity have enabled us to reach more people who need our support.

We are also incredibly grateful to everyone who has fundraised on our behalf. Our determined Santa Runners braved the rain to raise £1500, Andy cycled the distance from Land’s End to John O’Groats on his static bike, Johnson and Johnson completed a sponsored walk, and an incredible team of children we support undertook an epic bell boating challenge.

Special thanks go to The Oratory Preparatory School and Highdown School for selecting us as their Charity of the Year.

Congratulations to our fundraiser Chris Owen , a finalist in the BBC Radio Berkshire Awards for Fundraiser of the Year; Don Reed , who was highly commended in = ( the OneSlough Volunteer of the Year category; and Chris Vaughan, a nominee in the Greenham Trust Awards Volunteer of the Year category.

We are very grateful to the businesses that have supported us through donations and volunteering. Johnson and Johnson, MHA, Bliss Cars 247, Clifton Ingram, Servicemaster Clean by Deeland, Lego, Cranfield Trust and many others.

We would also like to extend our thanks to all those in the community who have supported us. The opticians branches who collected donations, Gary and Mark for the Quiz Night at Double Barrel Brewery, Tesco and Asda stores, Greenshoots Ways and Means Trust for Easter eggs, and everyone who generously donated Lego.

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Funders

We are extremely grateful to the Trusts and Foundations who supported our work through this year including

Alpkit Foundation Arborfield & Newland Parish Council

Arnold Clark Community Fund Bentley Motors Ltd Berkshire Community Foundation Binfield Parish Council CABWI

Charvil Parish Council Colefax Charitable Trust David Knight Charitable Trust Department for Culture, Media and Sport

Douglas Arter Foundation Edgar E Lawley Foundation Garfield Weston Foundation Gerald Palmer Eling Trust

Greenham Trust Groundwork

Haines Hill Charitable Trust Heathrow Community Trust Invesco Cares Foundation Mobbs Memorial Trust One Slough

Sandra Charitable Trust Shanly Foundation St Laurence Relief in Need Trust

The Childwick Trust The Hargreaves Foundation The National Lottery Community Fund

The Pargiter Trust The Powell Family Foundation The Stevenson Family’s Charitable Trust The Sunninghill Trust Theale Parish Council University of Reading Vision Foundation Warfield Parish Council Wokingham Without Parish Council

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout the year and who may not have been included in the list above

Purley on Thames Parish Council R S Brownless Charitable Trust Reading Borough Council Rotary Club of Reading Matins

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TRUSTEES’ REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

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BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee) REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Trustees:

Jane Veys, Chair David Few, (Consultant in Blandy & Blandy LLP) Peter Orr (resigned 31 October 2024) Don Reed Ian Fraser Gavin Miller (appointed 1 January 2025, resigned 3 June 2025) Andrew Jones Martin Gubb Robert Bristow Christopher Owen (appointed 1 January 2025) Clare Baldwin (appointed 1 January 2025)

Company Registered Number: 07977903

Charity Registered Number: 1146413

Registered Name : Berkshire County Blind Society Operating Name : Berkshire Vision Midleton House Registered Office: 5 Erleigh Road Reading RG1 5LR President: The Hon Mrs Jessica White Patrons: The Rt Hon the Lord Richard Benyon of Englefield Chris Tarrant OBE Souleyman Ba Laura Mitchell Chief Executive Officer: Finance Manager: Tracey Malins (until 9th July 2025) Head of Projects and Volunteering: Gillian Comley Head of Service Delivery: Hannah Lennox (from 1st July 2024) Independent Auditors: Menzies LLP Chartered Accountants Magna House 18-32 London Road Staines-Upon-Thames TW18 4BP Bankers National Westminster Bank plc, Reading Solicitors Blandy & Blandy LLP 1 Friar Street Reading Investment Managers Rathbone Investment Management Ltd 8 Finsbury Circus London EC2M 7AZ

*Denotes individuals who have sight-loss/sight condition

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TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The Trustees have pleasure in presenting their annual report together with the financial statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. The financial statements have been prepared to meet the requirements for a Directors’ report and accounts for Companies House purposes. The financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006, the Charity’s Constitution, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable in the UK and RoI (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019). Berkshire County Blind Society is a charity registered with the Charity Commission under registration number 1146413. It is also registered at Companies House as a private charitable company limited by guarantee under company number 07977903.

The Berkshire County Blind Society, under its working name of Berkshire Vision, aims to provide visually impaired people in Berkshire with the information and support they need to live independently and safely. We do this through direct support, social and peer support, information and advice and the provision of opportunities that would not otherwise be available to visually impaired people. The area covered by the Charity is the Royal County of Berkshire.

The Charity’s Objectives

  1. To give visually impaired people independence through a safe and effective support service throughout Berkshire.

  2. To enhance and enrich the lives of visually impaired people throughout Berkshire.

  3. To promote eye health to prevent sight loss.

At Berkshire Vision, we provide practical and emotional support for people with sight loss at every stage of their journey. This includes our sight loss support service, children, young people and families service, adapted sports, social activities, tech buddies, employability support, befriending, Realeyes guiding, accessible transport and equipment, resources and technology.

The Trustees confirm that they have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the Charity’s aims and objectives and in planning future activities.

Our Strategic Plan was reviewed and updated in 2020 and outlines our key objectives for the years 2021 to 2026. These can be found on our website www.berkshirevision.org.uk/our-strategy.

As we move forward into the 2025/26 financial year, we are reviewing our strategy, reflecting on the successes of the current strategy and the significantly increased number of local people with sight loss that the charity is supporting, and planning for the next five years to ensure we are sustainable to walk alongside the rising number of local people with sight loss throughout their sight loss journey, whenever they may need us.

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TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing Document

The Berkshire County Blind Society was established in 1910 under a constitution and was a registered charity, number 202351. The constitution was amended and adopted on the 8th October 2002. The Society was incorporated on 6th March 2012 and the company took over all the assets and liabilities with effect from 1st April 2012. The new Charity registration number is 1146413 and the Company number is 07977903. The governing document is the Memorandum and Articles of Association dated 11 October 2019. On 1st April 2015 the Society adopted the working name of Berkshire Vision. On November 1st 2023 Reading Association for the Blind (Charity number 1062433 and Company number 03354127) was absorbed into Berkshire Vision.

Appointment of Trustees

The body of the trustees are appointed by the members of the Charity. New trustees are elected at the Annual General Meeting. One third of the Trustee board is elected by members at the Annual General Meeting and can serve for three years before seeking re-election.

New trustees are proactively sought by current trustees and the Chief Executive to provide the breadth of skills needed for the efficient running of the charity. Two new trustees were appointed during the year.

Trustee Induction and Training

When new trustees are appointed, they are introduced to the work of the Charity and provided with the information they need to fulfil their roles, which includes information about the role of trustees and charity law.

Trustee Involvement

The trustees meet at least four times a year. The trustees maintain an overview of the organisation, agree the strategic aims and monitor progress and performance accordingly. In order to enable effective monitoring of the key business areas the Board of Trustees has a Finance and Investment Committee, which is chaired by a trustee and has both trustee and executive officer membership.

To facilitate effective operations, the Chief Executive has delegated authority under terms approved by the Trustees for operational matters including finance and employment. The Chief Executive reports on the management of the Charity and on outputs, impact and the health of the Charity.

The pay of senior staff is reviewed annually and normally increased in line with that of other staff. Inflation levels are considered as part of the decision-making process. All roles are periodically benchmarked against charities of similar sizes in the local area and against other sight loss charities with a view to ensuring salaries remain competitive and fair whilst also being sustainable for the charity.

Fundraising

We do not engage the services of any third-party organisations to help raise funds. We are registered with the Fundraising Regulator and follow its code of practice. We have not received any complaints about any aspect of our fundraising. The Charity has a strong ethos of respect for service users’ independence and dignity and would not countenance any conduct or activity that undermined this. We do not engage in large scale fundraising activities such as mass mailings, telephone fundraising or door to door campaigns.

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TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Risk Management

The trustees are responsible for the identification and management of risk. The charity is annually reviewing its risk profile and maintains a risk register of actual and potential risks with established policies, systems and procedures to mitigate these risks. This process identifies that the key risks to the charity are risks to funding, long staff working hours, and services over capacity. Plans are in place to review services to manage longer term sustainability in light of significantly increased demand, flexible working is encouraged, and there is investment in a range of income streams. It also focused on the risks arising from health and safety, food hygiene, volunteer management, and employment. These risks are managed by having robust policies and procedures in place including a volunteer handbook and mandatory induction training, and regular awareness training for staff working in these operational areas.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial Performance

At 31st March 2025 the Charity’s net assets were £2.89 million (2024 £3.09 million) a decrease of £198,519 for the year. This is made up of fixed assets at £1.1million, investments of £1.6million and other assets/liabilities of £0.2million. Total income in the year was £677,899 (2024 £1,425,136) a decrease of £747,237. Total expenditure in the year was £836,230 (2024 £760,482) an increase of £75,748.

The Charity recorded a deficit in the year of £158,331 (2024 surplus £664,654) before a net loss on investments of £40,188 (2024 gain £114,779).

The 2024 income was inflated by £747,361 as a result of the merger with Reading Association for the Blind.

Reserves Policy

The balance sheet shows total funds of £2,894,642 (2024 £3,093,161). Excluding the Restricted reserves of £954,513 (2024 £1,023,937) and Revaluation reserve of £541,397 (2024 £556,097) which are not distributable - the balance of the Charity’s funds stands at £1,398,732 (2024 £1,513,127). These are held in an expendable endowment fund which is held in fixed asset investments, so the free reserves of the Charity are nil (2024 nil). To mitigate this and ensure day to day operational working capital can be met the Charity has the ability periodically to drawdown a small capital amount of the fixed asset investment. As of 31st March 2025 the value of this working capital deposit was £nil (2024 £200,000).

The restricted funds are held by the Charity for the purposes detailed in note 18 and are used as required on appropriate expenditure. Note 18 also explain in detail the Expendable Endowment.

Investment Policy

The investment fund continues to be managed by Rathbones. The majority is held in the Core Investment Fund for Charites. The fund’s objective is to achieve long term capital growth and a level of income employing a total return approach.

The fund returned investment income in the year of £44,414 (2024 £45,203) with interest on cash deposits of £6,713 (2024 £7,084) giving total investment income of £51,127 (2024 £53,007). Due to volatility in the financial markets the fund made an unrealised loss in the year of £40,188 (2024 gain £114,779).

The Charity has adopted an ethical investment policy to ensure that its investments do not conflict with its aims. The Charity’s ethical investment policy precludes direct or indirect investments in any company that manufactures tobacco or tobacco products, or derives more that 10% of its sales from gambling, high-interest-rate lending, pornography or from the manufacture of alcohol or armaments.

Pensions

The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the year. In addition, the Charity operated a defined benefit pension scheme. Following the retirement on 31st July 2015 of the sole remaining member of staff contributing to the pension scheme an actuarial valuation was undertaken by the Royal County of Berkshire Pension Fund which established the Charities deficit at £185,000. This sum will be repaid in annual instalments over a 15-year term which commenced in July 2015. The balance outstanding at the year-end was £72,964 (2024 £86,603).

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TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES

The Trustees (who are also the directors of Berkshire County Blind Society for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

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 charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charitable company’s transactions, disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006 and the provisions of the charity’s constitution. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and the group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Disclosure of information to Auditors

In so far as the trustees are aware:

Auditor

Under section 487(2) of the Companies Act 2006, Menzies LLP will be deemed to have been reappointed as auditors 28 days after these financial statements were sent to members or 28 days after the latest date prescribed for filing the accounts with the registrar, whichever is earlier.

Small Companies Exemption

In preparing this report, the Trustees have taken advantage of the small companies exemptions provided by Section 415A of the Companies Act 2006.

Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by:

Jane Veys, Chair 26-Sep-2025

25

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Berkshire County Blind Society (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 the related notes, including a summary of 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 Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council'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 charitable company'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 other information comprises the information included in the Annual report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 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 course of 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 this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. 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.

26

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (CONTINUED)

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of our knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Trustees' report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the Trustees' responsibilities statement, the Trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes 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 charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

27

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (CONTINUED)

Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

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 Auditors' 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:

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' report.

28

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (CONTINUED)

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and its members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Janice Matthews FCA (Senior statutory auditor)

for and on behalf of

Menzies LLP

Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor Magna House 18-32 London Road Staines-Upon-Thames TW18 4BP

Date: 26-Sep-2025

29

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Note
Income and
endowments from:
Donations and legacies
3
Charitable activities
4
Investments
5
Other income
6
Total income and
endowments
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
Charitable activities:
8
Visiting costs
Other charitable
activities
Support costs
Total expenditure
Net
(expenditure)/income
Transfers between funds
18
Net movement in funds
before other
recognised
gains/(losses)
Other recognised
(losses)/gains:
(Losses)/gains on
revaluation of
investments
Net movement in funds		 Endowment
funds
2025
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(74,207)
(74,207)
(40,188)
(114,395)		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
381,043
11,498
-
4,083
396,624
-
17,265
361,732
54,409
466,048
(69,424)
-
(69,424)
-
(69,424)		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
77,488
152,660
51,127
-
281,275
53,734
81,442
104,338
163,310
370,182
(88,907)
74,207
(14,700)
-
(14,700)		 Total
funds
2025
£
458,531
164,158
51,127
4,083
677,899
53,734
98,707
466,070
217,719
836,230
(158,331)
-
(158,331)
(40,188)
(198,519)		 Total
funds
2024
£
505,996
118,772
53,007
747,361
1,425,136
40,823
89,674
419,619
210,366
760,482
664,654
-
664,654
114,779
779,433

30

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Note
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought
forward
Net movement in funds
Total funds carried
forward		 Endowment
funds
2025
£
1,513,127
(114,395)
1,398,732		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
1,023,937
(69,424)
954,513		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
556,097
(14,700)
541,397		 Total
funds
2025
£
3,093,161
(198,519)
2,894,642		 Tota
fund
2024
£
2,313,728
779,433
3,093,161

The Statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

31

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 07977903

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

2025 2024
Note £ £
Fixed assets
Tangible assets 13 1,069,186 1,116,780
Investments 14 1,625,868 1,869,707
2,695,054 2,986,487
Current assets
Debtors 15 261,865 170,542
Cash at bank and in hand 52,623 65,430
314,488 235,972
Current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 16 (41,936) (42,695)
Net current assets 272,552 193,277
Total assets less current liabilities 2,967,606 3,179,764
Provisions for liabilities (72,964) (86,603)
Total net assets 2,894,642 3,093,161
Charity funds
Expendable endowment funds 18 1,398,732 1,513,127
Restricted funds 18 954,513 1,023,937
Unrestricted funds 18 541,397 556,097
Total funds 2,894,642 3,093,161

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

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

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by:

................................................ [ Martin Gubb tuartiSignedFAC1C1FBC40645B. by: Gubb

Date: 26-Sep-2025

The notes on pages 33 to 49 form part of these financial statements.

32

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

1. Company information

The principal activities of the charity are to provide visually impaired people with the information and support they need to live independently and safely. The incorporated charity (registered number 07977903 and charity number 1146413) is incorporated and domiciled in the UK. The address of the registered office is Midleton House, 5 Erleigh Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 5LR.

2. Accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

Berkshire County Blind Society meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

2.2 Going concern

These financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis which assumes that the charitable company will continue in operation for the foreseeable future, considered to be at least 12 months from the date of signing these financial statements.

The charitable company has prepared cash flow forecasts and projections to 30th September 2026. In the opinion of the Trustees there will be sufficient resources to meet the charitable company’s needs over the forthcoming 12 months.

Having regard to the above, the trustees believe it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements

33

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.3 Income

Voluntary income, including donations, gifts and grants that provide core funding or are of a general nature, are recognised where there is entitlement, receipt is probable and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Investment income is recognised on an accruals basis in the year to which it relates.

Income from charitable activities includes income from unitary authority service agreements which are recognised on an accruals basis in the year to which the income relates.

Fundraising income is recognised when received. All fundraising is undertaken by employees of the charity and may include street and static box collections, organised events, donations and grants from Corporate Bodies and Charitable Trusts.

For legacies, the charity reviews entitlement, probability of receipt and the ability to accurately measure the value due. Entitlement to legacy income is recognised at the earliest of receipt of a legacy estate distribution or notification of date of death along with the existence of an uncontested will. Legacies are accrued on these conditions if the income due can be accurately estimated based on information received in the will and statement of assets or other notification by the executors of the will.

2.4 Fund accounting

Endowment funds represent assets which are held as an expendable endowment, principally held in investments.

Restricted funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area or purpose.

2.5 Expenditure

Charitable activities expenditure comprises costs of providing support to the visually impaired, costs of activities in furtherance of the charity’s objects including the costs of providing resources, activities, outings and events for the visually impaired.

Support costs comprise administration costs for running the charity itself as an organisation.

2.6 Taxation

Irrecoverable VAT is not separately analysed and is charged to the statement of financial activities when the expenditure to which it relates is incurred and is allocated as part of that expenditure.

Tax recovered from voluntary income received under gift aid is recognised when the related income is receivable and is allocated to the income category to which the income relates.

The charity is exempt from corporation tax.

2.7 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Tangible fixed assets costing £250 or more are capitalised and recognised when future economic benefits are probable and the cost or value of the asset can be measured reliably.

34

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.7 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation (continued)

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following basis:

Freehold Buildings - 2% straight line Motor vehicles - 25% straight line Office equipment - 25% straight line Fixtures, fittings, plant and - 25% straight line equipment

The freehold property is held under the revaluation model.

2.8 Fixed Asset Investments

Investments are included at closing mid-market value at the balance sheet date. Gains and losses on the sale of investments are recognised in the year they are sold. Any gains or losses on revaluation are taken to the Statement of Financial Activities.

Investments in subsidiaries are valued at cost less provision for impairment.

2.9 Financial instruments

The charitable company only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.

2.10 Pension costs

The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the year.

In addition, the Charity operated a defined benefit pension scheme. Following the retirement on 31st July 2015 of the sole remaining member of staff contributing to the pension scheme an actuarial valuation was undertaken by the Royal County of Berkshire Pension Fund which established the Society's deficit at £185,000. This sum will be prepaid in annual instalment over a 15-year term which commenced in July 2015.

2.11 Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the Charity’s accounting policies, which are described in note 2, Trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and underlying 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 on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects the current and future periods.

The Trustees consider that there are no material judgements in applying accounting policies or key sources of estimation uncertainty.

35

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

3. Income from donations and legacies

Donations
Legacies
Grants
Total 2024		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
-
104,000
277,043
381,043
256,836		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
54,696
2,266
20,526
77,488
249,160		 Total
funds
2025
£
54,696
106,266
297,569
458,531
505,996		 Total
funds
2024
£
62,729
159,925
283,342
505,996

4. Income from charitable activities

Unitary Authority Service Agreement
Contributions to activities
Transport contributions
Resource centre income
Club income
Other
Total 2024		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
-
-
-
-
11,498
-
11,498
19,794		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
85,037
10,464
14,035
9,490
-
33,634
152,660
98,978		 Total
funds
2025
£
85,037
10,464
14,035
9,490
11,498
33,634
164,158
118,772		 Total
funds
2024
£
61,637
9,634
8,462
9,284
19,794
9,961
118,772

36

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

5. Investment income

Unit trust income
Interest on cash deposits
Total 2024		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
44,414
6,713
51,127
53,007		 Total
funds
2025
£
44,414
6,713
51,127
53,007		 Tota
funds
2024
£
45,203
7,804
53,007

6. Other incoming resources

RAB Gift
Total 2024		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
4,083
747,361		 Total
funds
2025
£
4,083
747,361		 Tota
funds
2024
£
747,361

The RAB Gift of £4,083 (2024:£747,361) represents monies and assets transferred to the charity from the Reading Association for the Blind. These assets are held in restricted funds and are used for the benefit of Reading and Greater Reading residents (Note 20).

37

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

7. Expenditure on raising funds

Fundraising trading expenses

Allocated centrally incurred fundraising costs
Total 2024		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
53,734
40,823		 Total
funds
2025
£
53,734
40,823		 Total
funds
2024
£
40,823

8. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities

Summary by fund type

Other charitable activities
Visiting costs
Total 2024		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
466,048
-
466,048
365,089		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
212,507
103,941
316,448
354,570		 Total
2025
£
678,555
103,941
782,496
719,659		 Total
2024
£
629,985
89,674
719,659

38

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

9. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Other charitable activities
Visiting costs
Total 2024
Analysis of direct costs
Staff costs
Resource Centre costs
Publications
Transport costs
Minibus costs
Club expenditure
Outings events and activities
Sport activities costs
Sundry items
Motor and other expenses
Equipment
Total 2024		 Activities
undertaken
directly
2025
Support
costs
2025
£
£
427,052
251,503
103,941
-
530,993
251,503
509,293
210,366
Other
charitable
activities
2025
Visiting costs
2025
£
£
329,904
95,059
39
-
5,204
-
920
-
20,185
-
25,380
-
21,744
-
1,286
-
22,390
-
-
3,648
-
5,234
427,052
103,941
419,619
89,674		 Total
funds
2025
£
678,555
103,941
782,496
719,659
Total
funds
2025
£
424,963
39
5,204
920
20,185
25,380
21,744
1,286
22,390
3,648
5,234
530,993
509,293		 Tota
fund
2024
£
629,985
89,674
719,659
Tota
fund
2024
£
393,482
18
12,140
-
23,203
24,005
21,462
4,424
16,461
4,905
9,193
509,293

39

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

9. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of support costs

Other
charitable
activities
2025
£
Staff costs and pension
60,438
Depreciation
42,365
Premises expenses
45,907
Marketing
1,563
Heat, light and cleaning
8,529
IT and telephone
40,547
Printing and stationery
8,874
Insurances
4,140
Legal and professional
32,208
Training
1,174
Incidental expenses
2,694
Other support costs
3,064
251,503
Total 2024
210,366
10.
Auditors' remuneration
Fees payable to the Charity's auditor for the audit of the Charity's annual accounts
Fees payable to the Charity's auditor in respect of:
All non-audit services not included above		 Total
funds
2025
£
60,438
42,365
45,907
1,563
8,529
40,547
8,874
4,140
32,208
1,174
2,694
3,064
251,503
210,366
2025
£
11,600
1,980		 Total
funds
2024
£
67,396
35,984
10,877
2,509
7,359
37,865
3,572
2,491
35,145
1,061
2,431
3,676
210,366
2024
£
14,220
2,160

40

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

11. Staff costs

2025
2024		 2025
2024
£
£
Wages and salaries 489,084 459,113
Social security costs 37,767 29,556
Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes 8,541 7,475
Operating costs of defined benefit pension schemes 1,861 3,313
537,253 499,457
The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows:
2025
2024
No.
No.
Employees 29 36
The average headcount expressed as full-time equivalents was:
2025
2024
No.
No.
Employees 16 18
The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:
2025
2024
No.
No.
In the band £60,001 - £70,000 1 1

Key management consist of the Trustees and senior management team listed on page 1. The remuneration of key management (including employer's NI and employer's pension contributions) was £173,771 (2024: £183,343).

12. Trustees' remuneration and expenses

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2024 - £NIL) .

During the year ended 31 March 2025, no Trustee expenses have been incurred (2024 - £NIL) .

41

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

13. Tangible fixed assets

Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2024
Additions
Disposals
At 31 March 2025
Depreciation
At 1 April 2024
Charge for the year
On disposals
At 31 March 2025
Net book value
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024		 Freehold land
& properties
£
1,050,000
-
-
1,050,000
11,229
14,700
-
25,929
1,024,071
1,038,771		 Motor
vehicles
£
138,665
-
(20,000)
118,665
70,388
21,153
(2,083)
89,458
29,207
68,277		 Fixtures,
fittings, plant
& equipment
£
76,052
12,688
-
88,740
66,320
6,512
-
72,832
15,908
9,732		 Office
equipment
£
2,975
-
-
2,975
2,975
-
-
2,975
-
-		 Total
£
1,267,692
12,688
(20,000)
1,260,380
150,912
42,365
(2,083)
191,194
1,069,186
1,116,780

The two freehold properties were valued by a chartered surveyor from Haslams, property consultants, on 17 March 2023 on a market value basis. The historic cost of the properties were £58,767.

42

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

14. Fixed asset investments

Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2024
Movements in cash
Revaluations
At 31 March 2025
Net book value
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024		 Investment in
subsidiary
company
£
1
-
-
1
1
1		 Quoted
investments
£
1,869,707
(203,654)
(40,186)
1,625,867
1,625,867
1,869,707		 Total
£
1,869,708
(203,654)
(40,186)
1,625,868
1,625,868
1,869,708

Principal subsidiaries

The following was a subsidiary undertaking of the Charity:

Name Company Registered office or principal Principal activity
number place of business
Berkshire Vision Limited 09690472 Midleton House, 5 Erleigh Road, 100% owned dormant
Reading, RG1 5LR company

43

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

15. Debtors

Due within one year
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income		 2025
£
27,276
215,200
19,389
261,865		 2024
£
20,581
134,692
15,269
170,542

16. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

Trade creditors
Other taxation and social security
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income		 2025
£
14,005
7,666
3,568
16,697
41,936		 2024
£
12,116
9,663
3,163
17,753
42,695

17. Provisions

Pension scheme deficit 2025
£
72,964
72,964		 2024
£
86,603
86,603

The pension scheme is administered as part of the Royal County of Berkshire Pension Fund. The scheme ceased within the fund on 31 July 2015 on the retirement of the remaining staff contributor and an actuarial valuation undertaken by the Royal County of Berkshire Pension Fund established a deficit of funds to meet future liabilities of £185,000.

This is repayable in annual instalments over a period of 15 years which commenced in July 2015. In accordance with FRS102, the provision is calculated as the net present value of the future contributions required over the next 6 years to clear the funding deficit of £72,964. In calculating this net present value, annual increases of 2.6% have been made and a discount rate is 4.69% representing the typical yield of high-quality corporate bonds has then been applied.

44

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

18. Statement of funds

Statement of funds - current year

Unrestricted
funds
Property
revaluation
reserve
General Funds
Endowment
funds
Expendable
endowment funds
Restricted funds
Sports
Children's Funds
Maidenhead Club
Langley & Slough
Club
Socialeyes
Hungerford Club
Midleton House
Facing the future
Berkshire
Community
Foundation
Energy Saving
Midleton House
Realeyes
Aktiveyes Club
Merger
Employability
Resources &
equipment service
Sight Loss
Support Service
Reading RAB -
Cash		 Balance at 1
April 2024
£
556,097
-
556,097
1,513,127
10,398
166,620
49,746
38,832
22,783
6,898
279
27,652
3,372
-
3,895
3,711
5,000
2,751
8,794
3,000
204,045		 Income
£
-
281,275
281,275
-
420
12,520
14,454
4,246
13,980
-
6,750
112,018
-
32,654
-
3,079
-
19,941
12,039
28,539
111,102		 Expenditure
£
-
(370,182)
(370,182)
-
(6,718)
(44,522)
(13,845)
(5,593)
(12,917)
(471)
(1,756)
(110,002)
-
(32,654)
(3,895)
(1,190)
(5,000)
(12,501)
(13,738)
(17,268)
(151,528)		 Transfers
in/out
£
(14,700)
88,907
74,207
(74,207)
-
-
-
-
6,427
(6,427)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
-
-
(40,188)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Balance at 31
March 2025
£
541,397
-
541,397
1,398,732
4,100
134,618
50,355
37,485
30,273
-
5,273
29,668
3,372
-
-
5,600
-
10,191
7,095
14,271
163,619

45

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

18. Statement of funds (continued)

Statement of funds - current year (continued)

Reading RAB -
Assets
Core costs
Total of funds		 Balance at 1
April 2024
£
466,161
-
1,023,937
3,093,161		 Income
£
4,882
20,000
396,624
677,899		 Expenditure
£
(12,450)
(20,000)
(466,048)
(836,230)		 Transfers
in/out
£
-
-
-
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
-
-
(40,188)		 Balance at 31
March 2025
£
458,593
-
954,513
2,894,642

The endowment fund represents assets which are held as an expendable endowment, however there are no records available to show the value of the initial gifts. Income arising on the Endowment fund can be used in accordance with the objects of the Society and is included in unrestricted income. The Trustees may convert all or part of the Fund into an income fund which can also be spent in accordance with the objects of the Society as unrestricted income.

In this financial year £74,207 (2024: £18,456) was transferred into the Expendable Endowment from the Unrestricted - General Fund to bring the General Fund to nil.

Children's funds - are funds to specifically benefit children.

Sports Fund - represents grants and donations to maintain and expand the sports programme.

Individual clubs' balances - represent funds held in their own accounts plus specific residual legacy monies in the case of Maidenhead & Slough/Langley clubs.

Berkshire Community Foundation - represents grant money restricted to exercise and leisure activities for visually impaired adults in Berkshire.

Midleton House - represents grants restricted to the fabric of the building.

Facing the future - represents grant funding from the National Lottery.

Employability - represents grants restricted to our "Eyes on The Future" programme.

Reading RAB - Assets - represents Reading Association for the Blind (RAB) assets which include a building and vehicles which are specified to be used for the benefit of the visually impaired in Reading/Greater Reading area.

Reading RAB - Cash - represents Reading Association for the Blind (RAB) funds which are specified to be used for the benefit of the visually impaired in Reading/Greater Reading area.

46

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

18. Statement of funds (continued)

Statement of funds - prior year

Unrestricted
funds
Property
revaluation
reserve
General Funds
Endowment
funds
Expendable
endowment funds
Restricted funds
Sports
Children's Funds
Maidenhead Club
Langley & Slough
Club
Socialeyes
Hungerford Club
Midleton House
Facing the future
Thatcham &
Theale Club
Berkshire
Community
Foundation
Realeyes
Aktiveyes Club
Merger
Employability
Resources &
equipment service
Sight Loss
Support Service		 Balance at
1 April 2023
£
573,597
-
573,597
1,379,892
22,864
153,871
42,880
43,420
17,548
6,584
909
24,766
61
4,023
6,066
4,048
-
3,796
16,228
13,175		 Income
£
-
396,349
396,349
-
11,614
60,076
17,671
150
9,927
1,395
-
107,115
-
-
8,656
2,352
10,000
18,565
22,809
10,000		 Expenditure
£
-
(395,393)
(395,393)
-
(24,080)
(47,327)
(10,805)
(4,738)
(4,692)
(1,081)
(630)
(104,229)
(61)
(651)
(10,827)
(2,689)
(5,000)
(19,610)
(30,243)
(20,175)		 Transfers
in/out
£
(17,500)
(956)
(18,456)
18,456
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
-
-
114,779
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Balance a
31 March
2024
£
556,097
-
556,097
1,513,127
10,398
166,620
49,746
38,832
22,783
6,898
279
27,652
-
3,372
3,895
3,711
5,000
2,751
8,794
3,000

47

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

18. Statement of funds (continued)

Statement of funds - prior year (continued)

Reading RAB -
Cash
Reading RAB -
Assets
Total of funds		 Balance at
1 April 2023
£
-
-
360,239
2,313,728
- current year
Balance at 1
April 2024
£
556,097
1,513,127
1,023,937
3,093,161
- prior year
Balance at
1 April 2023
£
573,597
1,379,892
360,239
2,313,728		 Income
£
277,457
471,000
1,028,787
1,425,136
Income
£
281,275
-
396,624
677,899
Income
£
396,349
-
1,028,787
1,425,136		 Expenditure
£
(73,412)
(4,839)
(365,089)
(760,482)
Expenditure
£
(370,182)
-
(466,048)
(836,230)
Expenditure
£
(395,393)
-
(365,089)
(760,482)		 Transfers
in/out
£
-
-
-
-
Transfers
in/out
£
74,207
(74,207)
-
-
Transfers
in/out
£
(18,456)
18,456
-
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
-
-
114,779
Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
(40,188)
-
(40,188)
Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
114,779
-
114,779		 Balance at
31 March
2024
£
204,045
466,161
1,023,937
3,093,161
Balance at 31
March 2025
£
541,397
1,398,732
954,513
Summary of funds
Summary of funds
General funds
Endowment funds
Restricted funds
2,894,642
Balance at
31 March
2024
£
556,097
1,513,127
1,023,937
Summary of funds
General funds
Endowment funds
Restricted funds
3,093,161

19. Summary of funds

48

Docusign Envelope ID: F4CEB52D-B77A-4A40-8BA2-FD7B35A8B8E1

BERKSHIRE COUNTY BLIND SOCIETY (A company limited by guarantee)

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

20. Analysis of net assets between funds

Analysis of net assets between funds - current year

Tangible fixed assets
Investments
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Difference
Total		 Expendable
endowment
funds
2025
£
1,069,186
-
269,245
-
-
60,301
1,398,732		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
-
954,513
-
-
-
-
954,513		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
-
671,355
45,243
(41,936)
(72,964)
(60,301)
541,397		 Total
funds
2025
£
1,069,186
1,625,868
314,488
(41,936)
(72,964)
-
2,894,642

Analysis of net assets between funds - prior year

Tangible fixed assets
Investments
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Total		 Expendable
endowment
funds
2024
£
-
1,513,127
-
-
-
1,513,127		 Restricted
funds
2024
£
466,161
-
557,776
-
-
1,023,937		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
650,619
356,580
(321,804)
(42,695)
(86,603)
556,097		 Total
funds
2024
£
1,116,780
1,869,707
235,972
(42,695)
(86,603)
3,093,161

21. Related party transactions

David Few (Trustee) is a Consultant at the Charity's legal advisors. During the year they were paid £Nil (2024: £Nil) in relation to fees and expenses incurred. No amounts were outstanding at year end (2024:Nil). There were no other related party transactions during the year.

49