THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
Charity Registration Number 1147356
Company number 8057493 (Registered in England and Wales)
The British Hen Welfare Trust Hen Central Rose Ash South Molton Devon EX36 4RF
THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
| Trustees | David Marek |
|---|---|
| Sharon Whitehead (Appointed 26 June 2026) | |
| Dr Sharon Eversfield (Appointed 14 August 2025) | |
| Dr Sophia Christine Fannon-Howell | |
| Charity Number | 1147356 |
| Principal Address | Hen Central |
| Rose Ash | |
| South Molton | |
| EX36 4RF | |
| Auditors | Streets Audit LLP |
| Melrose House | |
| Rydon lane | |
| Pynes Hill | |
| Exeter | |
| EX2 5AZ |
THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
| Contents | Page |
|---|---|
| Trustees' report | 1 - 5 |
| Independent Auditor's report | 6 - 8 |
| Statement of financial activities | 9 |
| Balance sheet | 10 |
| Statements of cash flows | 11 - 12 |
| Notes to the accounts | 13 - 21 |
THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
The trustees present their annual report together with the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025 which are also prepared to meet the requirements for a directors’ report and accounts for Companies Act purposes.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
The aim of the charity is to improve the living conditions of commercial laying hens by improving understanding of hen welfare and providing homes for hens destined for slaughter.
In carrying out the activities of the charity the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity commission on public benefit.
Public Benefit
In compliance with Section 17 of the Charities Act 2011, the trustees confirm that they have had due regard for the public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission defining which activities may be undertaken by a charity.
Under the charities legislation in England, Wales and Scotland the advancement of animal welfare is recognised as a distinct statutory charitable purpose. However, under the legislation, charities are also required to demonstrate that the work they do benefits the public in some way. Ensuring the welfare of animals, preventing cruelty and relieving the suffering of animals has benefits for society as a whole; this is recognised in the passing of the Animal Welfare Acts.
Whilst it has been proven that companion animals provide measurable benefits to people’s physical and mental health, it is only with the work of the British Hen Welfare Trust that the benefits of keeping backyard hens are now shining through.
By helping hens destined for slaughter, we believe our work benefits the public in many ways:
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Providing hens to those who want to give them a good home
-
Providing companionship for individuals, families, institutions, the sick and the elderly
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Providing a network of volunteers with charitable roles which reward and satisfy mental, physical and social needs
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Providing an advice line service to those adopters inexperienced in hen keeping
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Providing information on how positive change can improve hen welfare
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Providing support and working with animal organisations to find good homes for hens
-
Providing balanced, constructive feedback to government departments on animal welfare legislation
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
The most exciting aspect of 2025 was the instigation of several key strategic objectives; namely:
-
The establishment of World Hen Welfare
-
Discussions with potential affiliate candidates in both the USA and Canada
-
Exploration of quail welfare and how we can influence for improvements
-
The re-establishment of our Hens as Therapy work, with a focus on prisons
Hen numbers were significantly below those of 2024 with 50,130 being rehomed in 2025 v 62,440 in 2024. This was entirely due to disease issues causing us to lose access to farms.
Despite the very real frustrations over the Avian Influenza impact on the rehoming work, the British Hen Welfare Trust took several confident and ambitious steps towards globalising its model and message. And it is this platform that leads the charity towards an exciting and far reaching strategy for 2026 – 2030.
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THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT
The primary fundraising activity of the charity is the donations received from hen rehoming. This is supplemented by grant applications, legacies and campaigns for specific requirements to enable the charity to operate. The charity continues to monitor the performance and efficacy of its fundraising activities, as well as reviewing the performance of its fundraising activities against fundraising objectives.
The trustees would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the team in a challenging year and appreciate and recognise this world-first milestone that the charity has reached.
VOLUNTEERS
The charity recognises importance of its volunteer population and could not function as it does without them. The volunteer management function allows the charity to recognise the value of its volunteers fully, whilst ensuring maximum impact and delivery from the dedicated volunteer population.
The overall number now having served more than six years with the charity is just under 250, those with more than twelve years is over 50, and over 18 years, 7 volunteers. This is an incredible testament to their dedication and the calibre of volunteer remains as high as ever with a steady flow of professionals coming on board.
PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS
The coming year will see the charity continuing to progress several key strategic objectives; namely:
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World Hen Welfare
-
Continuing discussions with potential affiliate candidates in both the USA and Canada
-
Exploration of quail welfare and how we can influence for improvements
-
Continuing our Hens as Therapy work, with a focus on prisons
FUNDRAISING STATEMENT
The British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) is committed to carrying out all fundraising activities in a transparent, ethical, and responsible manner in line with the Code of Fundraising Practice set by the Fundraising Regulator.
Our Approach to Fundraising
The BHWT raises funds through a combination of individual donations, regular giving, fundraising events, corporate partnerships, and charitable grants. We do not employ professional fundraisers or work with commercial participators to raise funds on our behalf. All our fundraising activities are managed directly by our staff and volunteers to maintain close oversight and ensure our values are upheld.
Compliance with Recognised Standards
We are registered with the Fundraising Regulator and adhere fully to the Code of Fundraising Practice. This ensures that all our fundraising is legal, open, honest, and respectful. We are committed to maintaining public trust and confidence in our work by ensuring our fundraising practices meet the highest standards.
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THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT
Monitoring of Third Parties
While we do not currently use external fundraising agencies or commercial partners, if we were to engage any third-party suppliers for fundraising-related services in the future, we would implement robust due diligence and contractual agreements. These would include clear expectations regarding compliance with the Code of Fundraising Practice, data protection laws, and safeguarding responsibilities. We would also monitor their performance closely to ensure these standards are maintained.
Handling Complaints
We take all complaints seriously and view them as an opportunity to improve. Complaints about our fundraising practices can be made via telephone, email, or in writing, and we aim to acknowledge all complaints within five working days. Our complaints policy ensures that issues are investigated promptly and fairly. If a complaint is not resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant, they may escalate it to the Fundraising Regulator.
Protecting Vulnerable People
The BHWT is committed to treating all donors with respect and care. We have policies and staff training in place to identify and protect individuals who may be in vulnerable circumstances. We never place undue pressure on anyone to donate and will always end a conversation or correspondence if someone indicates that they do not wish to give or continue the discussion. We also ensure that all communication is clear, accessible, and appropriate.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Financial performance for the British Hen Welfare Trust in 2025 has slowed slightly when compared to 2024. The Group’s total income in 2025 reached £1,057,626; this was £53,397 less than the year 2024 total of £1,111,022. Expenditure over the past year has also slightly decreased with 2025 ending in a total of £1,096,375 spent, a decrease of £18,350. (2024: £1,114,725). The charity has seen savings in the trading subsidiary's costs as a result of decreased sales in the year. The charity has seen less fundraising and marketing costs in 2025.
Income
The British Hen Welfare Trust is entirely reliant on the generosity of our supporters and the voluntary income they contribute to our cause. Donation income is strong due to the continued successes of both our hen re-homing and fundraising activities. We have worked hard to improve our quality of communications and fundraising functions to ensure that potential new supporters are fully engaged in the charity ethos right from the beginning. We have worked alongside a number of companies within the poultry sector, to forge mutually beneficial partnerships.
Expenditure
Total group expenditure in 2025 was £1,096,375(2024: £1,114,725). This reflects the scope and success of the wide offering of the charity, including hen re-homing and volunteer management, hen awareness and education and influencing welfare practices and policies costs. Expenditure on re-homing hens and influencing hen welfare and awareness continues to absorb the largest part of our expenditure.
Investment policy
The policy is to favour ethical investments and adopt a medium risk strategy with a balance between capital growth and income. The Trustees are content that the investment performance meets the objectives.
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THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT
Risk review
The Trust has a risk management process in place for the major risks to which the charity is exposed, notably the management of the effects on the charity of a national outbreak of Avian Influenza or similar. Systems have been established to enable regular reports so that necessary steps may be taken to lessen the risks.
RESERVES POLICY
The Trustees feel it appropriate to maintain a level of reserves that will enable activities to be continued through periods of difficulty caused by unpredictable events (such as Avian Influenza halting rehoming activity). It is considered prudent to maintain a General Reserve equivalent to up to 12 months support costs. At 31 December 2025 the General Reserve amounted to £155,465. The General Reserve therefore falls short of the annual support costs of £244,708.
Whilst general reserves are short of support costs, designated funds are in place to cover such shortfalls. These funds have been set out below, the movements of which are set out in note 11:
-
Employee Commitment Fund to cover unforeseen costs associated with employment
-
Capital Equipment Fund to provide for replacement of re-homing equipment
• Property Development Fund to respond to opportunities for growth, particularly regarding the Charity’s operating base. Note that this fund has a significant gain due to the sale of Hope Chapel. As part of the strategic growth of the charity, it is expected that these funds will be re-invested in property at some point in the future.
- Education Fund to provide educational resource to promote public awareness of hen related issues.
• Hen Health Fund to promote hen health knowledge nationally through working with the veterinary profession.
STRUCTURE GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
The charity is a company limited by guarantee, having no share capital. The company was formed on 4 May 2012 and at that date it received the assets of the British Hen Welfare Trust, an unincorporated charity, registration number 1109060. From that date the charitable company continued to carry on the activities of its predecessor charity.
Governing Instrument
The governing document of the charity is the Memorandum of Association dated May 2012. This followed the incorporation of the charity as a company limited by guarantee and replaced the Declaration of Trust dated December 2004.
Charity Registration Number: 1147356 Company Number: 8057493 (England and Wales) Registered Office: Hen Central, Rose Ash, South Molton, Devon, EX36 4RF
Board of Trustees (who are directors for Companies Act purposes)
The trustees who served throughout this year and up to the date of the approval of the Annual Report and Accounts comprised:
Sharon Eversfield Sophia Fannon-Howell David Marek
From 14th August 2025
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THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT
Samantha Hopps To 27 February 2025 Nigel Cowdery From 27 May 2025 to 27 June 2025
The Trustees are selected to provide the board with a comprehensive range of strengths and experiences. They are appointed by decision of the existing Trustees for a period of five years and may seek re-election. Aside from the Chair, the trustees are non-executives. The day to day administration of the charity is provided by the senior leadership team with key decisions ratified by the trustees. The senior leadership team continues to be led by Jane Howorth as CEO. Salaries for the leadership team are decided by the Personnel Committee of the Board of Trustees.
Prior to their appointment Trustees are fully acquainted with the work of the Trust and upon appointment are provided with the information that they need to fulfil their roles, including information about the role of trustees and charity law.
Advisors to the Trust
Bankers: Lloyds Bank plc, Commercial Banking, PO Box 1000, BX1 1LT Nationwide Building Society, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW
Investment Advisors: CCLA, Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 4ET
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES
The charity trustees (who are directors for Companies Act purposes) are responsible for preparing a trustees’ annual report and 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 as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources for the financial year.
In preparing those financial statements the Trustees are required to select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently, make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent and prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is not appropriate to assume that the company will continue on that basis.
The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
09/07/2026
The trustees’ annual report was approved on …........................ and signed on behalf of the trustees by
David Marek Trustee
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THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES
OPINION
We have audited the financial statements of the British Hen Welfare Trust (the group) for the year ended 31 December 2025 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable by 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).
The prior year financial statements were not subject to an audit and accordingly the comparatives included in these financial statements are unaudited.
In our opinion, the financial statements:
give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 December 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
BASIS OF OPINION
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
CONCLUSIONS RELATING TO GOING CONCERN
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the charity 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 auditor's 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 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.
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THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES
We have nothing to report in this regard.
MATTERS ON WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT BY EXCEPTION
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:
-
the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the report; or
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sufficient and proper accounting records have not been kept; or
-
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or
-
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TRUSTEES
As explained more fully in the statement of responsibilities, the trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
AUDITOR'S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below. Enquiry of management, those charged with governance and review of legal and professional costs around actual and potential litigation and claims.
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Enquiry of entity staff in tax and compliance functions to identify any instances of non-compliance with laws
-
and regulations.
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Reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance.
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Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance
-
with applicable laws and regulations.
Auditing the risk of management override of controls, including through testing journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, and evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business.
In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to:
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THE BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES
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Agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation;
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Reading the minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;
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Enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and claims; and
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Reviewing any correspondence with HMRC, relevant regulators and the Group’s legal advisors.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.
USE OF OUR REPORT
This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Streets Audit LLP Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditor
Tower House Date: 17 July 2026 Lucy Tower Street Lincoln LN1 1XW
Streets Audit LLP is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted funds Restricted
Total 2025 Total 2024
Notes General Designated funds
£ £ £ £ £
INCOME
Income from generated funds
-
Donations and legacies 636,334 171,222 807,556 810,639
Commercial trading operations 3 201,796 - - 201,796 238,169
- -
Other trading activities 31,415 31,415 45,099
Investment income 14,235 - 14,235 14,256
-
883,780 171,222 1,055,002 1,108,163
Income from charitable activities 2,624 - - 2,624 2,859
Gain on disposal of freehold property 5 - - - -
TOTAL INCOME 5 886,404 - 171,222 1,057,626 1,111,022
EXPENDITURE 6
Expenditure on raising funds
- -
Commercial trading operations 198,453 198,453 238,238
-
Donations and legacies 94,407 9,000 103,407 93,222
-
Fundraising and marketing 121,020 2,000 123,020 161,258
- -
Investment management costs 1,531 1,531 1,429
Charitable activities
-
Hen re-homing and volunteer management 312,633 50,383 363,016 343,614
Hen awareness and education 213,280 - 21,000 234,280 211,383
-
Influencing welfare practices and policies 66,167 6,500 72,667 65,581
TOTAL EXPENDITURE 1,007,492 - 88,883 1,096,375 1,114,725
NET INCOME before tax (121,088) - 82,339 (38,749) (3,703)
Tax on income - -
NET INCOME after tax (121,088) - 82,339 (38,749) - (3,703)
Net gains (losses) on investments 11 - (7,314) - (7,314) 16,023
NET INCOME before transfers (121,088) (7,314) 82,339 (46,063) 12,320
Transfers between funds 15 140,060 (125,902) (14,158) - -
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 18,972 (133,216) 68,181 (46,063) 12,320
FUNDS BROUGHT FORWARD 136,493 1,383,216 173,983 1,693,692 1,681,372
FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 155,465 1,250,000 242,164 1,647,629 1,693,692
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
CONSOLIDATED AND CHARITY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31ST DECEMBER 2025
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Group Group Charity Charity
Notes 2025 2024 2025 2024
£ £ £ £
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets 8 652,573 681,293 652,573 681,293
Investments 9 - - 100 100
652,573 681,293 652,673 681,393
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks 10 22,885 26,389 - -
Cash at bank and in hand 632,706 646,823 618,085 641,809
Investments at fair value 11 328,659 335,974 328,659 335,974
Debtors 12 53,467 53,874 77,217 73,841
1,037,717 1,063,060 1,023,961 1,051,624
CREDITORS: Amounts falling due
within one year 13
Creditors 25,911 38,111 15,819 26,226
Accruals 16,750 12,550 12,000 10,800
42,661 50,661 27,819 37,026
NET CURRENT ASSETS 995,056 1,012,399 996,142 1,014,598
NET ASSETS 17 1,647,629 1,693,692 1,648,815 1,695,991
RESERVES
Unrestricted funds 15
General fund 155,465 136,492 156,651 157,764
Designated funds 1,250,000 1,383,217 1,250,000 1,384,436
Restricted funds 16 242,164 173,983 242,164 153,791
Total income funds 1,647,629 1,693,692 1,648,815 1,695,991
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For the financial year ended 31 December 2025 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. However, an audit was required and undertaken in accordance with section 144 of the Charities Act 2011.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to small companies subject to the small companies regime and in accordance with FRS102 SORP.
David Marek Trustee Date: 09/07/2026
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
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2025 2024
£ £
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income from operating activities (46,063) 12,320
Adjustments for:
(Gains)/losses on investments 7,315 (16,024)
Investment income (14,235) (14,256)
Depreciation charges 41,791 46,666
-
(Gains)/losses on sales of fixed assets 1,343
(Increase)/decrease in debtors 407 (12,064)
Increase/(decrease) in creditors (8,000) 6,537
(Increase)/decrease in stock 3,505 10,662
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (13,937) 33,841
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (14,414) (55,330)
Interest received 14,234 14,256
Purchase of investments - (52,000)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (180) (93,074)
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the
reporting period (14,117) (59,233)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 646,823 706,056
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 632,706 646,823
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
CHARITY STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
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2025 2024
£ £
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income from operating activities (47,176) 14,619
Adjustments for:
(Gains)/losses on investments 7,315 (16,024)
Investment income (14,235) (14,256)
Depreciation charges 41,791 46,666
-
(Gains)/losses on sales of fixed assets 1,343
(Increase)/decrease in debtors (3,375) 3,312
Increase/(decrease) in creditors (9,207) 5,595
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (23,544) 39,912
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (14,414) (55,330)
Interest received 14,235 14,256
Purchase of investments - (52,000)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (179) (93,074)
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the
reporting period (23,723) (53,162)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 641,809 694,971
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 618,086 641,809
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 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 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
British Hen Welfare Trust meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102.
The trustees consider that the charity has adequate resources to continue its operations for the foreseeable future and accordingly have adopted the going concern basis in preparing the accounts.
Income
Income is included in the statement of financial activities when it is probable that the charity will become entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following policies apply to particular categories of income:
-
Where income has related expenditure the resources and the expenditure are reported gross.
-
Grants and donations are included when the conditions for receipt are met.
-
Investment income is included when receivable and can be measured reliably.
-
Legacies are included in the SOFA when receipt is probable, that is when there has been a grant of probate and the executors have established that there are sufficient assets in the estate.
-
Gift Aid receivable is included in income when there is a valid declaration from the donor.
-
The value of work done by volunteers is not included in the accounts (see note 2)
-
Investment gains and losses includes any realised or unrealised gains or losses on sale or resulting from revaluing investments to market value at the end of the year.
Expenditure and liabilities
Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis when a liability is incurred.
Governance costs include those costs associated with meeting the constitutional and statutory requirements of the
Support costs have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Creditors are measured at settlement amounts less any trade discounts.
Assets
Tangible fixed assets are depreciated on a reducing balance basis having regard to the useful lives of the assets. The rates used are as follows:
| rates used are as follows: | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Freehold property | 2% | Other office equipment | 33% |
| Welfare equipment | 15%-25% | Motor vehicles | 25% |
| Office furniture | 10% |
Debtors are measured on initial recognition at settlement amounts. Subsequently they are measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be received.
Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement
Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
Critical accounting estimates and assumptions:
The Charity makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates and assumptions will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.
Tangible fixed assets and investment property are recognised at cost or valuation, less accumulated depreciation / amortisation and any impairment. Depreciation / amortisation takes place over the estimated useful life, down to the assessed residual value. The carrying amount of the Charity's fixed assets is tested as soon as changed conditions show that a need for impairment has arisen.
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
2. FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF THE CHARITY
The consolidated statement of financial activities includes the results of the charity's wholly owned subsidiary, The BHWT Trading Co Limited, which operates an online shop.
The summary financial performance of the charity alone is:
| Incoming resources Gift aid from subsidiary company Interest and management fees charged to subsidiary Gain from disposal of freehold property Cost of generating funds Expenditure on charitable activities Net incoming resources Net gain on investments Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward Represented by: Restricted income funds Unrestricted income funds |
2025 £ 855,830 - 2,230 - 858,060 227,957 669,964 897,921 (39,861) (7,315) (47,176) 1,695,991 1,648,815 242,164 1,406,651 1,648,815 |
2024 £ 872,854 - 2,230 - 875,084 257,078 619,410 876,488 (1,404) 16,023 14,619 1,681,372 1,695,991 173,983 1,522,008 1,695,991 |
|---|---|---|
3. INCOMING RESOURCES FROM COMMERCIAL TRADING
The wholly owned subsidiary, The BHWT Trading Co Limited, is incorporated in England and Wales and pays all its profits to the charity by gift aid. It operates an online shop for the sale of products related to the activities of the charity. The charity owns the entire share capital of 100 ordinary shares of £1 each.
The summary financial performance of the subsidiary alone is:
| Turnover Cost of sales and administration costs Net profit/(Loss) Amount gift aided to charity Retained in subsidiary The assets and liabilities of the subsidiary were: Current assets Current liabilities Net assets Aggregate share capital and reserves |
2025 £ 201,795 200,683 1,112 - 1,112 39,900 40,987 (1,087) (1,087) |
2024 £ 238,169 240,468 (2,299) - (2,299) 35,216 37,415 (2,199) (2,199) |
|---|---|---|
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| 4. GROUP AND CHARITY EMPLOYEE INFORMATION The average number of employees during the period was: Administrative support staff Staff costs for the above persons were: Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs |
2025 16 £ 430,996 41,591 10,664 483,251 |
2024 14 £ 376,447 32,021 9,043 417,511 |
|---|---|---|
One employee earned more than £60,000 per annum (2024: one).
The total amount of employee benefits (including employer pension contributions and employer national insurance contributions) received by key management personnel for their services to the charity was £157,506 (2024: £170,530).
We are grateful for the contribution given by our 1,400 volunteers who help with rehoming activites across the UK. It is not practicable to attach a value to this contribution.
5. ANALYSIS OF INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
| Voluntary income Donations Gift aid tax recoverable Lottery Legacies Activities for generating funds Commercial trading operations Corporate sponsorship Advertising and fees Investment income Bank interest Charitable activities Poultry Vet Guide Awards and other income |
£ 476,956 93,466 62,662 3,250 636,334 201,796 24,748 6,667 233,211 14,235 14,235 2,624 2,624 Unrestricted funds |
£ 171,222 - - - 171,222 - - - - - - - - Restricted funds |
£ 648,178 93,466 62,662 3,250 807,556 201,796 24,748 6,667 233,211 14,235 14,235 2,624 - 2,624 Total 2025 |
£ 505,962 94,215 60,065 33,727 693,969 238,169 37,184 2,915 278,268 14,256 14,256 2,669 190 2,859 Unrestricted funds |
£ 116,670 - - - 116,670 - 5,000 - 5,000 - - - - - Restricted funds |
£ 622,632 94,215 60,065 33,727 810,639 238,169 42,184 2,915 283,268 14,256 14,256 2,669 190 2,859 Total 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Voluntary income includes the following donations received from charitable trusts:
| £ | £ | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Affairs | 1,000 | The Animal Defence Trust | 1,500 | ||
| The Sylvia Aitken Charitable Trust | 3,000 | Pets At Home Foundation | 18,767 | ||
| The Diana Edgson Wright Trust | 1,000 | Sylvanus Charitable Trust | 2,000 | ||
| The Marsh Christian Trust | 900 | Alan & Karen Grieve Charitable | 500 | ||
| The Walker 597 Trust | 1,050 | Trust |
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
----- Start of picture text -----
6. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE (unrestricted) Other
Staff direct Support Total Total
costs costs costs 2025 2024
£ £ £ £ £
Expenditure on raising funds
-
Commercial trading operations 198,453 198,453 238,238
Donations and legacies 53,332 6,908 34,167 94,407 84,222
Fundraising and marketing 11,947 100,505 8,568 121,020 159,258
Investment management 284 24 1,223 1,531 1,429
Expenditure on charitable activities
Hen rehoming and volunteer management 149,332 65,375 97,927 312,633 280,636
Hen awareness and education 119,466 15,473 78,341 213,280 190,383
Influencing welfare practices and policies 36,906 4,779 24,482 66,167 59,081
ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE (restricted)
Expenditure on raising funds
- -
Donations and legacies 9,000 9,000 9,000
- -
Fundraising and marketing 2,000 2,000 2,000
Expenditure on charitable activities
-
Hen rehoming and volunteer management 21,500 28,883 50,383 62,978
Hen awareness and education 21,000 - - 21,000 21,000
- -
Influencing welfare practices and policies 6,500 6,500 6,500
431,266 420,400 244,708 1,096,375 1,114,725
7. SUPPORT COSTS ALLOCATION Staff Property Admin Legal and Total
costs costs and Finance 2025
£ £ £ £ £
Expenditure on raising funds
Donations and legacies 7,512 1,079 22,013 3,563 34,167
Fundraising income 1,884 271 5,520 893 8,568
Investment management 269 39 788 128 1,223
Expenditure on charitable activities
Hen rehoming and volunteer management 21,531 3,092 63,092 10,211 97,927
Hen awareness and education 17,225 2,474 50,473 8,169 78,341
Influencing welfare practices and policies 5,383 773 15,773 2,553 24,482
53,804 7,727 157,660 25,517 244,708
----- End of picture text -----
Support costs have been allocated to activities on the basis of estimated staff time.
Governance costs included in support costs amount to £20,481 (2024: £9,800).
Governance costs include auditor's and independent examiner's fees of £16,881 (2024 £6,200).
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The contributions to the scheme amounted to £13,789 in the year and are included in the staff costs in the above notes showing the allocation to activities.
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
8. GROUP AND CHARITY TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
| Cost At 1 January 2025 Additions Disposals At 31 December 2025 Depreciation At 1 January 2025 Charge for the period Eliminated on disposals At 31 December 2025 Net book amounts At 31 December 2025 At 31 December 2024 |
Freehold Welfare Office property equipment equipment Total £ £ £ £ 619,445 143,965 44,946 130,462 938,818 - 5,241 9,173 - 14,414 - (5,068) (19,668) (119) (24,855) 619,445 144,138 34,451 130,343 928,377 64,747 92,779 38,083 61,916 257,525 12,195 9,131 3,327 17,138 41,791 - (4,285) (19,108) (119) (23,512) 76,942 97,625 22,302 78,935 275,804 542,503 46,513 12,149 51,408 652,573 554,698 51,186 6,863 68,546 681,293 Motor vehicles |
|---|---|
9. CHARITY FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
Holdings of 20% or more
The charity holds 100 shares of £1 each in its wholly owned trading subsidiary The BHWT Trading Co Limited which is incorporated in England and Wales.
The activities and results of this company are summarised in Note 3.
10. GROUP STOCKS
The stock held by the group relates entirely to trading stock held by the trading subsidiary.
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
11. GROUP AND CHARITY CURRENT ASSET INVESTMENTS
| COIF Charities Ethical Investment Fund Value at 1st January 2025 Additions Increase (decrease) in value Value at 31 December 2025 BTORS Trade debtors Other debtors Loan to subsidiary company |
£ 335,974 (7,315) 328,659 2025 2024 2025 2024 £ £ £ £ 9,404 26,103 7,011 22,512 44,063 27,771 44,062 27,549 - - 26,144 23,780 53,467 53,874 77,217 73,841 Group Charity |
|---|---|
12. DEBTORS
Debtors are measured at the best estimate of the amount expected to be recovered at the reporting date.
| EDITORS - amounts due within one year Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals |
2025 2024 2025 2024 £ £ £ £ 12,473 29,662 2,716 17,776 13,438 8,449 13,103 8,450 16,750 12,550 12,000 10,800 42,661 50,661 27,819 37,026 Group Charity |
|---|---|
13. CREDITORS - amounts due within one year
14. OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENTS
Lessee
At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding lease commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:
| Within one year Between two and five years |
2025 £ 315 788 1,103 |
2024 £ 315 1,103 1,418 |
|---|---|---|
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
15. MOVEMENTS IN CHARITABLE FUNDS
| Restricted funds (see Note 16) Unrestricted funds General fund Designated funds: Employee commitment fund Capital equipment fund Property development fund Education Hen health Restricted funds (see Note 16) Unrestricted funds General fund Designated funds: Employee commitment fund Capital equipment fund Property development fund Education Hen health |
£ £ £ £ £ £ 173,983 171,222 (88,883) (14,158) - 242,164 136,492 886,404 (1,007,491) 140,060 - 155,465 398,975 - - 208,340 (7,315) 600,000 40,000 - - - - 40,000 834,242 - - (334,242) - 500,000 35,000 - - - - 35,000 75,000 - - - - 75,000 1,519,709 886,404 (1,007,491) 14,158 (7,315) 1,405,465 £ £ £ £ £ £ 153,791 121,670 (101,478) - - 173,983 143,145 989,352 (1,013,248) 17,243 - 136,492 382,951 - - - 16,024 398,975 40,000 - - - - 40,000 851,485 - - (17,243) - 834,242 35,000 - - - - 35,000 75,000 - - - - 75,000 1,527,581 989,352 (1,013,248) - 16,024 1,519,709 At 1 January 2024 Income Expenditure At 31 December 2024 Transfers Gains and losses Transfers At 1 January 2025 At 31 December 2025 Income Expenditure Gains and losses |
|---|---|
Purposes of designated funds:
Employee commitment fund: This fund represents reserves set aside to meet unforeseen costs associated with employment, for example sickness, maternity, redundancy.
Capital equipment fund: A fund to provide for the replacement of equipment.
Property development fund: This fund has been established to purchase and develop the charity's property. The building costs and related depreciation are transferred to this fund.
Education fund: A fund to provide educational resources including coursework.
Hen health: This fund has been established to expand and promote hen health knowledge nationally through working with the veterinary profession.
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BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
16. RESTRICTED FUNDS
| Improving Pet Hen Health Van and Trailer Appeal 2020 Van Purchase 2023 Summer Appeal 2023 Hen Hospital Hen Welfare Awareness Hens as Therapy Hen helpline appeal Christmas Appeal 2021 Animal Defence Trust Pets at Home Foundation Staff Cost Support Pets at Home Helpline Grant Riffenburgh New Rehoming Points New Rehoming Points Alan & Karen Grieve Marsh Christian Trust Beau & Liz USA CAF fund Christmas appeal 2025 van Beau & Liz 2025 Christmas appeal Van Improving Pet Hen Health Van and trailer appeal 2020 Van purchase 2023 Summer appeal 2023 Hen Hospital Hen Welfare Awareness Hens as Therapy Christmas Appeal 2021 Animal Defence Trust Norman Family Charitable Trust Pets at Home Foundation Staff Cost Support Pets at Home Helpline Grant Riffenburgh New Rehoming Points New Rehoming Points Van Coachworks |
£ £ £ £ £ £ - 470 - - - 470 7,341 - (2,559) - - 4,782 26,600 60 (6,650) - - 20,010 27,253 - (9,069) - - 18,184 14,158 - - (14,158) - - - 340 - - - 340 7,022 235 - - - 7,257 2,305 - - - 2,305 18,849 (5,741) - - 13,108 1,500 1,500 14,870 - (2,461) - - 12,409 - 60,000 (60,000) - - - 29,150 18,767 - - - 47,917 7,500 - - - 7,500 19,740 10,981 (1,002) - - 29,720 - 500 (500) - - - 900 (900) - 22,500 - 22,500 29,163 - 29,163 25,000 - 25,000 173,983 171,222 (88,883) (14,158) - 242,164 £ £ £ £ £ £ 2,814 470 (3,284) - - - 9,788 - (2,447) - - 7,341 35,467 - (8,867) - - 26,600 37,984 281 (11,012) - - 27,253 14,158 - - - - 14,158 1,199 550 (1,749) - - - 6,767 255 - - - 7,022 25,252 - (6,403) - - 18,849 1,500 - - - - 1,500 1,000 - (1,000) - - - 17,862 - (2,992) - - 14,870 - 60,000 (60,000) - - - - 29,150 - - - 29,150 - 7,500 - - - 7,500 - 19,740 - - - 19,740 - 3,724 (3,724) - - - 153,791 121,670 (101,478) - - 173,983 Gains and losses Expenditure Income Expenditure At 31 December 2025 Transfers Transfers At 1 January 2024 At 1 January 2025 Gains and losses At 31 December 2024 Income |
|---|---|
Improving pet hen health: To collaborate with veterinary professionals in order to improve understanding of care for pet hens.
Van and trailer appeal 2020; Van purchase 2023; Summer appeal 2023, Christmas Appeal 2025, Beau and Liz 2025 Van Appeal
These funds are for the purchase of vans and trailers. The costs of the assets acquired by these funds are included in fixed assets. Depreciation of the assets is charged to each fund and the closing balance at the balance sheet date represents the book value of the assets.
Page 20
BRITISH HEN WELFARE TRUST
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
16. RESTRICTED FUNDS - continued
Hen hospital: To provide specialist equipment for a hen hospital in the charity's new building.
Hen Welfare Awareness: Funds raised through the Christmas Appeal to promote a wide understanding of the need for hen welfare procedures.
Hens as therapy: Funds raised through the Christmas Appeal to develop the understanding of the use of hens as therapy for those suffering with mental health issues.
Christmas Appeal 2021: To provide equipment to individual team poorly hen carers including heat lamps, holding pens and other equipment necessary for nursing sick and injured hens.
Norman Family Charitable Trust: A grant for equipment
Pets at Home Foundation: A grant to provide a rehoming shed in Lancashire. The cost of assets acquired by this fund is included in fixed assets. Depreciation of the assets is charged to the fund.
Staff Cost Support: Funds donated to support the staff costs of running the charity.
New Rehoming Points; Riffenburgh New Rehoming Points: Appeal focused on the cost of setting up new rehoming points,
including associated equipment. A separate row has been included for the contribution from Liz and Beau for a specific rehoming point to be set up which is anticipated in 2026.
Pets at Home Helpline Grant: Grant awarded to supply the cost of recruitment and pay for a new member of staff to support the Hen Helpline.
Alan & Karen Grieve Charitable Trust: Restricted funding towards the purchase of tarpaulins and associated equipment to support BHWT rehoming operations, primarily at the Boncath site.
Marsh Christian Trust: Restricted funding towards the purchase of tarpaulins and associated equipment for use across various BHWT rehoming sites to support operational and biosecurity requirements.
Beau & Liz USA CAF Fund: Restricted funding received via CAF America for a designated charitable purpose of transport for BHWT operations.
17. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS
| Restricted funds Unrestricted funds General fund Employee commitment fund Capital equipment fund Property fund Education fund Hen health fund |
2025 2025 2025 £ £ £ 52,433 189,731 242,164 57,637 97,828 155,465 600,000 600,000 40,000 40,000 542,503 (42,503) 500,000 35,000 35,000 75,000 75,000 652,573 995,056 1,647,629 Fixed Assets Current Assets Total |
2024 2024 2024 £ £ £ 84,995 88,988 173,983 41,599 94,893 136,492 398,975 398,975 40,000 40,000 554,699 279,543 834,242 35,000 35,000 75,000 75,000 681,293 1,012,399 1,693,692 Fixed Assets Current Assets Total |
|---|---|---|
18. TRANSACTIONS WITH TRUSTEES AND RELATED PARTIES
Jane Howorth, the founder of the charity, received a salary of £69,129 (2024: £63,338) as chief executive of the charity. Company pension contributions were £1,321 (2024: £1,320). This is permitted by article 4.6 of the Memorandum of Association.
Two trustees in the year received repaid expenses amounting to £1,550.
There are no other related party transactions that require disclosure under FRS102.
Page 21