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← Lightyear Foundation Ltd

2025-12-31-accounts

For year ended 31 December 2025

Charity Number 1150231 Company Number 08151118

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

CONTENTS Pages
Trustees’ Report 1 – 15
Independent Examiner’s Report 16
Statement of Financial Activities 17
Balance Sheet 18
Notes forming part of Financial Statements 19 - 27

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Financial Year Ended 31 December 2025

The Board of Trustees of the Charity, which also acts as the board of directors for company law purposes, submits their report and the financial statements for Lightyear Foundation for the period 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025. The Board of Trustees confirms that the annual report and financial statements of the Charity comply with the current statutory requirements, the requirements of the Charity’s governing document and the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (Second Edition – October 2019) and with the Charities Act 2011.

Objectives

The Charity’s objects, as set out in its governing document, are: To advance education in science amongst schoolchildren and adults in the UK and abroad in such ways as the Trustees see fit, including by:

Statement of Public Benefit

The Charity Trustees have complied with their duty to have due regard to the guidance on public benefit published by the Commission in exercising their powers or duties.

The Charity’s Activities

Lightyear Foundation breaks down the barriers to disabled and neurodivergent children and young people participating in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM), opening up the exciting world of science for all regardless of ability or background.

Through targeted educational programmes, outreach, training, and consultancy, the Charity works with children and young people, educators, and employers to inspire a new generation of disabled scientists, engineers, and innovators. The Charity delivers immersive STEM experiences, skills-based learning, and direct engagement with disabled role models, enabling young people to discover, explore, and thrive in STEM subjects and careers.

For STEM Education and Learning

Disabled and neurodivergent young people face significant challenges in accessing STEM education. Many experience inaccessible learning environments, a lack of adapted teaching resources, and few opportunities to see themselves represented in STEM fields. As a result, disabled students are less likely to engage with STEM subjects, leading to underrepresentation in STEM education and careers.

Lightyear Foundation delivers high-impact programmes designed to inspire, engage, and empower disabled and neurodivergent children and young people in STEM.

1

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

By delivering tailored, accessible and inclusive STEM opportunities, Lightyear Foundation empowers disabled and neurodivergent children and young people to discover, explore and lead in STEM. Through our programmes, we build confidence, develop transferable skills, foster a strong sense of belonging, and support long-term progression into further study, training and employment.

For the STEM Sector

Despite the increasing demand for skilled STEM professionals, disabled people remain significantly underrepresented in STEM careers. Science, engineering, and technology jobs are growing at double the rate of other occupations, with an estimated 1.8 million more STEM-qualified people needed in the UK by 2025.

However, structural barriers continue to exclude disabled individuals from STEM pathways.

Lightyear Foundation works directly with STEM organisations, employers, and educators to drive meaningful and lasting change by:

2

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Through these initiatives, Lightyear Foundation ensures that the STEM sector recognises, values, and embraces the contributions of disabled individuals—not just as participants, but as innovators, leaders, and changemakers.

Our Impact in 2025

In 2025, Lightyear Foundation delivered its largest and most ambitious programme to date, reaching 1,892 deaf, disabled and neurodivergent children and young people across the UK. This represents an increase of over 108% on the previous year and marks the first year of delivering our Strategic Plan 2025–2030.

Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent young people are growing up in a world shaped by science and technology, yet many continue to face systemic barriers to participation in STEM education and employment. Schools remain under pressure, transitions into further education and employment are fragile, and expectations are too often lowered. Meanwhile, rapid advances in artificial intelligence, green technologies and digital industries are reshaping the labour market at pace. Without intentional inclusion, the next generation of STEM pathways risks becoming less accessible, not more.

Lightyear Foundation exists to address this imbalance. We combine practical programme delivery with sector development and policy influence, ensuring that inclusion is embedded at every level of the STEM ecosystem.

In 2025, our work spanned our four core areas:

Education and Outreach, Community Development, Sector Development, and Policy and Influence.

1. Education and Outreach

Immersive Sensory Science

Our Immersive Sensory Science programme delivers multi-sensory STEM experiences designed for accessibility from the outset. Through our pop-up planetarium and immersive storytelling, we ensure that young people with a wide range of physical, sensory and communication needs can experience awe, curiosity and scientific exploration in ways that are meaningful to them.

Teachers consistently report high levels of engagement, including among learners who do not typically access traditional STEM lessons.

3

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Lightyear Labs and Lightning Labs

Our fully funded small-group labs promote experimentation, collaboration and critical thinking. Sessions are delivered both in person and online and are adapted to meet diverse communication and access needs.

In 2025, we expanded our offer to include:

Evaluation shows sustained impact:

These sessions build confidence, strengthen transferable skills and reinforce the belief that STEM is accessible and relevant.

Work Inspiration Trips

Work Inspiration Trips provide behind-the-scenes access to STEM workplaces, enabling young people to see STEM in action and meet professionals working in the field.

In 2025, we visited ten STEM organisations including Prodrive, Wellcome Genome Campus, Renishaw and Systra. These experiences broaden understanding of career pathways and challenge assumptions about who belongs in STEM workplaces.

Following participation:

STEM Futures

4

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

STEM Futures marked a significant evolution in our delivery model. Moving beyond one-off interventions, we developed sustained partnerships with special schools to co-create accessible curriculum models.

The programme combined direct classroom delivery with professional development, enabling teachers to embed inclusive STEM practice beyond the life of the pilot.

Outcomes include:

2

This model reflects our strategic commitment to embedding inclusion, not simply supplementing provision.

2. Community Development

Lightyear Youth Group

In 2025, we launched our national Youth Group for disabled and neurodivergent young people aged 14–25. Developed through co-production workshops, the group now meets regularly to shape our programmes, inform advocacy and contribute to sector discussions.

This marks an important step in ensuring that lived experience guides organisational direction.

Celebrating STEM Stories

Our Celebrating STEM Stories programme continues to challenge stereotypes and increase representation. In 2025, we profiled three disabled and neurodivergent STEM professionals, producing high-quality films to showcase diverse career pathways. Representation remains critical. When young people see professionals who share their lived experience, aspirations become tangible.

3. Sector Development

Training and Consultancy

5

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Through our Making STEM Accessible training and consultancy services, we support STEM organisations to embed inclusive practice in programming, management and workforce development.

Feedback remains consistently strong:

We also supported resource development, event accessibility, research steering groups and co-production initiatives across the sector.

SEND in STEM Network

The SEND in STEM Network continues to convene educators, policy makers, researchers, disability activists and industry leaders committed to inclusive STEM practice.

In 2025, meetings focused on accessible laboratory environments, engagement with young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, and peer-led roundtables.

The Network plays a critical role in driving collaboration and knowledge exchange at national level.

4. Policy and Influence

Creating lasting change requires influence beyond programme delivery. Throughout 2025, Lightyear Foundation strengthened its national voice in policy and sector reform. We contributed to:

6

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

We engaged in disability-led networks including the DPO Forum and Funding Justice Collective, ensuring lived experience informs systems-level decisions.

Our role is increasingly recognised not only as a delivery organisation, but as a credible, disabled-led voice shaping inclusive STEM policy and practice.

2025 in Numbers

In 2025, Lightyear Foundation delivered its largest programme to date, reaching more deaf, disabled and neurodivergent young people than at any point in our history. Year One of our Strategic Plan 2025–2030 marked a significant step forward in scale, depth and influence.

Our work continued to focus on removing barriers, embedding accessibility from the outset, and ensuring young people see themselves as active participants and future leaders within STEM.

Engagement

Programme Delivery

Capacity Building and Training

Partnerships and Collaboration

7

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Volunteering and Community Involvement

Lightyear Foundation remains committed to ensuring that every disabled and neurodivergent young person has the opportunity to engage with STEM, develop essential skills, and see themselves as part of the future of science, technology, engineering, and maths.

Strategic Progress in 2025

2025 marked the first year of delivering the Lightyear Foundation Strategic Plan 2025-2030 and represented a year of significant growth and consolidation. The Charity expanded its programme reach to 1,642 deaf, disabled and neurodivergent young people, strengthening delivery models and launching STEM Futures to embed more sustained, curriculum-linked partnerships with special schools. Alongside programme expansion, we initiated a structured review of delivery and evaluation frameworks to ensure accessibility, quality and long-term impact remain central to our work.

During the year, we strengthened youth participation and community engagement, further developing our Youth Group and national SEND in STEM Network. We also increased our contribution to sector discussions, engaging in curriculum reform processes and national forums to ensure that disability inclusion remains central to STEM policy and practice. This marked an important step in positioning the Charity not only as a delivery organisation but as a credible, disabled-led voice within the sector.

Operationally, 2025 saw continued progress in building a sustainable organisation. Staffing structures were stabilised, governance and financial oversight strengthened, and new fundraising and communications strategies implemented. Income diversification improved and multi-year partnerships were secured, laying strong foundations for long-term resilience and growth.

Acknowledgements and principal funders

The Trustees extend their sincere thanks to all those who supported Lightyear Foundation throughout 2025. Year One of our Strategic Plan 2025–2030 has been a year of significant growth in reach, depth and influence. None of this progress would have been possible without the generosity of our funders, the dedication of our staff and volunteers, and the commitment of our partners across education, industry and policy.

Funders and supporters

The Charity is deeply grateful to the organisations, trusts and foundations whose financial support enabled us to deliver inclusive STEM programmes to 1,642 deaf, disabled and neurodivergent young people across the UK, strengthen sector practice and contribute to national policy discussions.

8

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

We extend particular thanks to:

We are also grateful to the many individual donors who supported our work, including those who contributed to our Big Give Christmas Challenge, enabling us to exceed our fundraising target and expand access to our programmes.

Our Partners

Lightyear Foundation is proud to work alongside special schools, mainstream schools, multiacademy trusts, universities, research institutions, STEM employers, science centres and national sector bodies to embed accessibility across the STEM ecosystem.

In 2025, we worked with 26 schools and partner organisations, visited ten STEM workplaces, and initiated ten new consultancy partnerships. We are particularly grateful to the 54 STEM professionals who facilitated Work Inspiration Trips and the organisations that opened their workplaces to our young people.

We also thank the 472 members of the SEND in STEM Network, whose collaboration, insight and leadership continue to drive meaningful sector change.

9

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Finally, the Trustees extend their appreciation to our volunteers, Youth Group members and disabled-led networks who ensure that lived experience remains central to our governance, programme design and advocacy.

Your collective support ensures that deaf, disabled and neurodivergent young people are not only included in STEM but empowered to thrive within it.

Plans for 2026

Building on the first year of our Strategic Plan 2025–2030, 2026 will focus on consolidating growth, strengthening evaluation, and embedding sustainable infrastructure across the organisation.

Deliver High-Impact STEM Programmes

In 2026, we will strengthen programme evaluation and impact measurement by implementing a formal data collection and analysis system aligned to agreed KPIs. Annual accessibility audits and staff training will ensure universal design and inclusive pedagogy remain central to delivery.

Build Inclusive Communities

We will expand our Community Development work, embedding youth leadership structures including Apprentice Board Members and undertaking our first annual community engagement review to assess reach, inclusivity and impact.

Become a Trusted Resource

A priority for 2026 will be establishing a formal research and evaluation framework. This will include approving a research strategy, developing partnerships with academic and sector bodies, and publishing findings to inform sector practice.

Influence Policy and Practice

We will build on firm foundations to implement a structured Influencing and Advocacy Strategy, strengthening engagement with policymakers and producing evidence-based policy recommendations. Our aim is to ensure disability inclusion remains central to STEM education and workforce reform discussions.

Build a Sustainable Organisation

Operational priorities include reviewing governance structures, strengthening Board oversight through subcommittees, embedding upgraded financial management systems, and implementing our Marketing and Communications Strategy. We will continue to diversify income streams and build reserves in line with our five-year financial plan.

10

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

As we enter Year Two of our Strategic Plan, our focus is on ensuring that growth is underpinned by strong governance, robust evidence, and long-term financial sustainability.

Financial review

Results for the year

The Charity received income of £239,302 (2024 - £230,327) and incurred expenditure of £197,502 (2024 - £127,190) resulting in net income of £41,800 (2024 - £103,137) for the year, of which a surplus of £102,138 was attributable to unrestricted funds and a deficit of £60,338 to restricted funds. The totals funds at 31 December 2025 of £310,200 was made up of £190,248 in unrestricted funds and £119,952 in restricted funds.

Reserves policy

The Trustees have agreed a reserves policy that ensures the Charity can continue to operate effectively and meet its commitments in the event of unforeseen circumstances. The reserves policy is designed to:

The Trustees have set a target level of free reserves equivalent to five months of core operating costs, which has been calculated at £82,092. As of 31 December 2025, the Charity’s free reserves stood at £190,248, exceeding this target level. The Trustees have determined that, in early 2026, the proportion of reserves above the target level will be used to implement organisational changes arising from the new Strategic Plan 2025-2030. This planned investment will support the Charity’s long-term sustainability and enhance its capacity to deliver on its mission.

Reserves may be accessed, with the agreement of the Trustees, to provide working capital for new areas of work, strategic development, or emergency requirements.

The reserves policy is reviewed annually to ensure that it remains appropriate for the Charity’s financial position and strategic priorities.

The Trustees remain committed to maintaining a sustainable level of reserves while ensuring that funds are effectively deployed to breaking down barriers to STEM for disabled and neurodivergent young people.

Donated goods and services

The charity is very grateful for all the pro bono support it receives but is unable to put a financial value on it.

11

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Reference and administrative details

Charity registration number: 1150231 Date of registration: 18th Dec 2012 Company registration number: 08151118 Date of incorporation: 20th July 2012 Address: Lightyear Foundation, 19 Penrith Road, Bournemouth, BH5 1LT Website: www.lightyearfoundation.org

Bankers: Lloyds Bank plc, 120 Lewisham High Street, Lewisham, London. SE13 6JG Insurers: Hiscox Independent examiner: Amy Beecroft Trustees: The Trustees who served the Charity during the period were as follows: Dr Camila Devis-Rozental (resigned 22 September 2025) Clive Gilbert Kirshen Govender (Resigned 21 May 2025) Dr Camilla Pang (resigned 21 May 2025) Dr Josie (Co-Chair) Peter Roberts (resigned 12 November 2025) Lucy Williams (Co-Chair) Chloe Askew (appointed 22 September 2025) Anthony Dodd (appointed 22 September 2025) Julie Eschelman (appointed 22 September 2025) Lisa Nicholas (appointed 22 September 2025) George O’Brien (appointed 22 September 2025) Puneet Thikral (appointed 22 September 2025) Mitchel Vidler (appointed 22 September 2025)

Structure, governance and management

Governing document

Lightyear Foundation is governed by its Articles of Association, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.

Organisational structure

The Trustees are responsible for decisions regarding the strategy and development of the Charity, and other high-level decisions. Day to day running of the Charity is delegated to the CEO of Lightyear Foundation plus a team of employed and freelance professionals.

Recruitment and appointment of new Trustees

Lightyear Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees, who are responsible for setting the Charity’s strategic direction, ensuring good governance, and overseeing financial and operational management. Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Charity’s Articles of Association and are subject to a formal recruitment, selection, and induction process.

During 2025, the Charity undertook a significant and successful Trustee recruitment round to strengthen the Board’s capacity for the delivery of the Strategic Plan 2025–2030.

12

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Following a structured recruitment and assessment process, a number of new Trustees were appointed in September 2025, bringing additional expertise across governance, finance, sector leadership and lived experience. This recruitment round substantially strengthened the Board’s breadth of skills and supported succession planning as the organisation enters a new phase of growth.

The Board also saw planned leadership transition during the year. Peter Roberts stepped down as Chair in November 2025, and the Trustees elected Lucy Williams and Josie Rawes to serve as Co-Chairs. This co-chairing model reflects the Charity’s commitment to collaborative leadership and inclusive governance.

Regular Trustee skills audits continue to be undertaken to ensure that the Board maintains a broad and balanced mix of skills, professional expertise and lived experience. All new Trustees complete a comprehensive induction programme, including briefing on governance responsibilities, strategy, financial oversight, safeguarding, and equity, diversity and inclusion. This approach ensures that Trustees are fully equipped to support the Charity’s mission and long-term sustainability.

Staff and Associates

The senior management team and staff who served during the year ended 31 December 2025 were:

Our Team and Volunteers

The Trustees would like to thank our staff, sessional workers, and volunteers for their dedication and commitment to delivering high-quality, inclusive STEM experiences. Their passion and expertise are at the heart of Lightyear Foundation’s impact. The Trustees would also like to extend a welcome those who have joined the team as we embark on an ambitious new phase of growth and impact.

Risk management

The Trustees regularly review the risks facing Lightyear Foundation and take appropriate steps to mitigate potential threats to the Charity’s operations, finances, governance, and reputation. The Charity maintains a risk register, which is reviewed and updated periodically to ensure that risks are identified, assessed, and managed effectively.

13

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Key areas of risk management in 2025 included:

The Charity has also embedded risk management into its strategic planning processes, ensuring that potential challenges are identified early and that mitigation strategies are in place to support the successful delivery of the Strategic Plan (2025–2030). The Trustees are committed to ongoing risk monitoring and proactive risk management, ensuring that Lightyear Foundation remains a stable, sustainable, and high-impact organisation.

Statement of the Responsibilities of the Trustee Directors

The Trustees (who are also directors of Lightyear Foundation for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Report and the Financial Statements in accordance with 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). 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 income and expenditure of the charitable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

14

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The Trustees are responsible for keeping sufficient accounting records that 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. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

The company has taken advantage of the small companies’ exemption in preparing the report above.

So far as each of the Trustees is aware at the time the report is approved:

Approved by the Board and signed on its behalf by:

Josie Rawes, Co-Chair of Trustees Lucy Williams, Co-Chair of Trustees

Date: 30 March 2026

15

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

I report to the Charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of Lightyear Foundation Limited for the year ended 31 December 2025 as set out on pages 17 to 27.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the Charity’s trustees of the company (who are also directors of the company for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (“the 2006 Act”).

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the company are not required to be audited for this year under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your Charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. In carrying out my examination, I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention which give me cause to believe that:

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Signed:

Date: 30 March 2026

Name: Amy Beecroft FCA

Address: Amy Beecroft Ltd, 19 Newton Road, Lindfield, West Sussex, RH16 2NB.

16

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Notes
Income from:
Grants and donations
2
Consultancy, training and events income
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
3
Charitable activities
4,5,6
Total expenditure
NET INCOME/
9
(EXPENDITURE) FOR THE YEAR
Transfers between the funds
Net movement in the funds
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED
12
FORWARD		 Unrestricted
funds
£
101,491
9,641
111,132
393
8,244
8,637
102,495
(357)
102,138
88,110
190,248		 Restricted
funds
£
128,170
-
128,170
-
188,865
188,865
(60,695)
357
(60,338)
180,290
119,952		 31.12.2025
Total funds
£
229,661
9,641
239,302
393
197,109
197,502
41,800
-
41,800
268,400
310,200		 31.12.2024
Total funds
£
228,123
2,204
230,327
184
127,006
127,190
103,137
-
103,137
165,263
268,400

The Charity has no recognised gains or losses other than the results for the year as set out above. All of the activities of the Charity are classed as continuing.

The comparative funds are detailed in Note 13. The notes on pages 19 to 27 form part of these financial statements.

17

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025

31.12.2025 31.12.2024
Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Total funds
funds funds
Notes £ £ £ £
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors 10 61,466 73,131 134,597 1,537
Cash at bank 132,812 46,821 179,633 267,449
194,278 119,952 314,230 268,986
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one
year 11 (4,030) - (4,030) (586)
NET CURRENT ASSETS 190,248 119,952 310,200 268,400
NET ASSETS 190,248 119,952 310,200 268,400
FUNDS 12
Unrestricted funds 190,248 88,110
Restricted funds 119,952 180,290
TOTAL FUNDS 310,200 268,400

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 30 March 2026 and were signed on its behalf by:

…........................... Josie Rawes Co-Chair

…........................... Lucy Williams Co-Chair

The notes on pages 19 to 27 form part of these financial statements.

18

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

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with items recognised at cost or transaction value. The Financial statements have been prepared in accordancewith theStatement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordancewith theFinancial Reporting Standard applicablein theUK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), FRS 102 and the Charities Act 2011. The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

The Trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the Charity's ability to continue as a going concern due to accumulated reserves, and there are no significant current or longer-term liabilities, and theorganisation has significant net assets and reserves.

No changes to accounting estimates have occurred and no material prior year errors have been identified in thereporting period.

Income

All income is included on the Statement of Financial Activities when the charity is legally entitled to theincomeand the amount can bequantified with reasonableaccuracy.

Grants and donations are included in income when they are received, except for significant oneoff grants and donations, received after theyear end but promised beforethe year end.

Gift aid receivable is included in incomewhen there is a valid declaration from the donor. Any gift aid recovered on a donation is considered to be part of that gift and is treated as an addition to thesame fund as theinitial donation unless thedonor has specified otherwise.

Legacies are included when the charity is advised by the personal representative of an estatethat thepayment will bemade, or property transferred and the amount can bequantified.

Donated services and facilities are included in the SoFA when received at the value of the gift to thecharity provided thevalue of the gift can be measured reliably. Donated services and facilities that are consumed immediately are recognised as income with an equivalent amount recognised as an expense under the appropriateheading in theSoFA.

The value of any volunteer help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the Trustees' Annual Report.

There has been no offsetting of assets and liabilities or incomeand expenses.

19

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

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

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

Expenditure

Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Support costs have been allocated between governance costs and other support costs. Governance costs comprise all costs involving public accountability of the charity and its compliance with regulation and good practice. Support costs includecentral functions and have been allocated to activity costs categories on a basis consistent with theuse ofthe resources.

Expenditureincludes attributableVATwhich cannot berecovered.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.

Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

Creditors

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the Trustees. Designated funds form part of unrestricted funds and have been identified as being for particular purposes by the Trustees. They are not restricted and can be transferred to general funds at any time at the discretion of the Trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for the particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

Legal status of the charity

The charity is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. In the event of the charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to a sum not exceeding £10 per member of the charity.

20

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

2. GRANTS AND DONATIONS

Grants - unrestricted
Grants - restricted
- Lightyear Labs
- Core Costs
- SEN in STEM
- Role Models
- Immersive Sensory Science
- Work Inspiration Trips
- Community Projects
- Signs for Science
- STEM Futures
Donations
Gift aid
3.
RAISING FUNDS
Fundraising costs
Donation website charges		 Unrestricted
funds
£
44,988
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
55,715
788
101,491
Unrestricted
funds
£
377
16
393		 Restricted
funds
£
-
29,960
69,710
3,800
4,100
12,700
6,500
1,400
-
-
-
-
128,170
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-		 31.12.2025
31.12.2024
Total
Total
£
£
44,988
23,613
29,960
19,437
69,710
71,529
3,800
1,500
4,100
7,200
12,700
8,900
6,500
3,400
1,400
10,500
-
11,000
-
70,252
55,715
669
788
123
229,661
228,123
31.12.2025
31.12.2024
Total
Total
£
£
377
180
16
4
393
184		 31.12.2025
31.12.2024
Total
Total
£
£
44,988
23,613
29,960
19,437
69,710
71,529
3,800
1,500
4,100
7,200
12,700
8,900
6,500
3,400
1,400
10,500
-
11,000
-
70,252
55,715
669
788
123
229,661
228,123
31.12.2025
31.12.2024
Total
Total
£
£
377
180
16
4
393
184
184

All raising funds expenditure was from unrestricted funds totalling £184 in 2024.

4. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES - CURRENT YEAR

Charitable activities (see Note 5)
Support and governance costs (see Note 6)
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES - PRIOR YEAR
Charitable activities (see Note 5)
Support and governance costs (see Note 6)		 Direct
costs
£
490
7,754
8,244
Direct
costs
£
510
9,439
9,949		 Project
31.12.2025
costs
Total
£
£
188,865
189,355
-
7,754
188,865
197,109
Project
31.12.2024
costs
Total
£
£
117,057
117,567
-
9,439
117,057
127,006		 Project
31.12.2025
costs
Total
£
£
188,865
189,355
-
7,754
188,865
197,109
Project
31.12.2024
costs
Total
£
£
117,057
117,567
-
9,439
117,057
127,006
127,006

21

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

5. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES - CURRENT YEAR

6. Unrestricted
funds
£
Direct costs
Website and marketing
490
Project costs
- Lightyear Labs
-
- Core Costs
-
- SEN in STEM
-
- Role Models
-
- Immersive Sensory Science
-
- Work Inspiration Trips
-
- Community Projects
-
- Signs for Science
-
- STEM Futures
-
490
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES - PREVIOUS YEAR
Unrestricted
funds
£
Direct costs
Website and marketing
477
Project costs
- Lightyear Labs
33
- Core Costs
-
- Role Models
-
- Immersive Sensory Science
-
- Work Inspiration Trips
-
- Signs for Science
-
510
SUPPORT AND GOVERNANCE COSTS
Unrestricted
funds
£
Support costs
Operations team - freelance
300
DBS checks
-
Training and development
672
Travelling and hotels
271
Printing, postage and stationery
32
Subscriptions
-
Sundry
87
Bank charges
72
Bookkeeping and accounts
2,576
4,010
Governance
Insurance
-
Independent examiner's fee
480
Impact report design
1,830
Strategy and policy reports
1,400
Companies House fee
34
Data protection registration fee
-
3,744
Total support and governance
7,754		 Restricted
funds
£
-
26,544
70,009
1,500
3,444
8,660
6,157
10,582
170
61,799
188,865
Restricted
funds
£
-
21,582
77,267
5,870
8,934
3,186
218
117,057
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 31.12.2025
Total
£
490
26,544
70,009
1,500
3,444
8,660
6,157
10,582
170
61,799
189,355
31.12.2024
Total
£
477
21,615
77,267
5,870
8,934
3,186
218
117,567
31.12.2025
31.12.2024
Total
Total
£
£
300
1,350
-
500
672
1,402
271
2,318
32
541
-
172
87
133
72
64
2,576
1,035
4,010
7,515
-
325
480
-
1,830
790
1,400
740
34
34
-
35
3,744
1,924
7,754
9,439		 31.12.2025
Total
£
490
26,544
70,009
1,500
3,444
8,660
6,157
10,582
170
61,799
189,355
31.12.2024
Total
£
477
21,615
77,267
5,870
8,934
3,186
218
117,567
31.12.2025
31.12.2024
Total
Total
£
£
300
1,350
-
500
672
1,402
271
2,318
32
541
-
172
87
133
72
64
2,576
1,035
4,010
7,515
-
325
480
-
1,830
790
1,400
740
34
34
-
35
3,744
1,924
7,754
9,439
7,515
325
-
790
740
34
35
1,924
9,439

22

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

6. SUPPORT AND GOVERNANCE COSTS (CONTINUED)

Support and governance expenditure from unrestricted funds totalled £9,439 in 2024.

7. STAFF COSTS AND NUMBERS - CURRENT YEAR

Gross salaries and wages
Employer pension
Employer national insurance
Freelance staff
- Charitable activities - projects
- Management and governance
Total staff costs
STAFF COSTS AND NUMBERS - PRIOR
Gross salaries and wages
Freelance staff
- Charitable activities - projects
- Management and governance
Total staff costs		 Unrestricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
300
300
300
YEAR
Unrestricted
funds
£
-
-
1,510
1,510
1,510		 Restricted
funds
£
87,056
1,927
-		 31.12.2025
Total
£
87,056
1,927
-
88,983
26,437
13,915
40,352
129,335
31.12.2024
Total
£
-
31,024
67,829
98,853
98,853		 31.12.2024
Total
£
-
-
88,983 -
26,437
13,615
40,052
129,035
Restricted
funds
£
-
31,024
66,319
97,343
97,343		 31,024
67,829
98,853
98,853

There were four members of staff employed during 2025 (2024 None).

No members of staff received staff benefits (excluding employer pension costs) for the year of more than £60,000.

The remuneration of the key management personnel (2025, 4 people) amounted to £88,983 (2024, 3 people all freelance, £40,300).

23

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

8. TRANSACTIONS WITH TRUSTEES AND RELATED PARTIES

Trustees' remuneration and benefits

Therewere no Trustees' remuneration or other benefits for theyear ended 31 December 2025 nor for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Trustees' expenses

There were Trustees' expenses paid to two Trustees of £80 for training courses for the year

Trustees' donations

Three Trustees made donations totalling £500 in theyear (2024 Nil).

9. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)

This is stated after charging:

This is stated after charging:
31.12.2025 31.12.2024
£ £
Independent examiner's fee 480 -

The above fees have been paid to the Independent Examiner for their review (2024 - £NIL) and they have not provided any other assurance or advisory services.

10. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

31.12.2025
£
Grant income
73,131
Local Giving
10,137
Donations
46,502
Trading income debtor
4,827
134,597
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
31.12.2025
£
Tax and social security
1,701
Other creditors
971
Accruals
1,358
4,030		 31.12.2024
£
1,000
12
-
525
1,537
31.12.2024
£
-
-
586
586

11. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

24

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - CURRENT YEAR

MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - CURRENT YEAR
At 1.1.2025
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
88,110
Restricted funds
Lightyear Labs
11,281
Core Costs
65,495
SEN in STEM
1,500
Role Models
1,330
Immersive Sensory Science
4,221
Work Inspiration Trips
4,929
Community Projects
10,500
Signs for Science
10,782
STEM Futures
70,252
180,290
TOTAL FUNDS
268,400
MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - PRIOR YEAR
At 1.1.2024
£
Unrestricted funds
General fund
71,634
Restricted funds
Lightyear Labs
13,426
Core Costs
71,233
SEN in STEM
-
Role Models
-
Immersive Sensory Science
4,255
Work Inspiration Trips
4,715
Community Projects
-
Signs for Science
-
STEM Futures
-
93,629
TOTAL FUNDS
~~165,263~~		 Income
Expenditure
£
£
111,132
(8,637)
29,960
(26,544)
69,710
(70,009)
3,800
(1,500)
4,100
(3,444)
12,700
(8,660)
6,500
(6,157)
1,400
(10,582)
-
(170)
-
(61,799)
128,170
(188,865)
239,302
(197,502)
Income
Expenditure
£
£
26,609
(10,133)
19,437
(21,582)
71,529
(77,267)
1,500
-
7,200
(5,870)
8,900
(8,934)
3,400
(3,186)
10,500
-
11,000
(218)
70,252
-
203,718
(117,057)
~~230,327~~
~~(127,190)~~		 At
Transfers 31.12.2025
£
£
(357)
190,248
(4,059)
10,638
-
65,196
-
3,800
4,110
6,096
-
8,261
306
5,578
-
1,318
-
10,612
-
8,453
357
119,952
-
310,200
At
Transfers
31.12.2024
£
£
-
88,110
-
11,281
-
65,495
-
1,500
-
1,330
-
4,221
-
4,929
-
10,500
-
10,782
-
70,252
-
180,290
~~-~~
~~268,400~~
11,281
65,495
1,500
1,330
4,221
4,929
10,500
10,782
70,252
180,290
~~268,400~~

General fund

The general fund is used for the administration costs of the charity.

Lightyear Labs

These funds provide virtual science workshops for disabled children.

25

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (CONTINUED)

Core costs

This funding covers core costs relating to developing the charity's future programmes.

SEN in STEM

This fund covers training and hosting inclusivity events in the STEM sector.

Role Models

This funding covers linking children with disabled professionals in STEM industries to inspire them to consider the industry as a career option.

Immersive Sensory Science

This fund is to offer accessible and interactive STEM experiences for disabled children to create a multi-sensory experience to STEM learning.

Work Inspiration Trips

This fund facilitates days where young adults and children can visit a STEM workplace to encourage them to explore the STEM industries as a career.

Community Projects

This fund supports a Young Peoples' Group to engage young people in STEM subjects.

Signs for Science

This fund is for a project combining resource development in British Sign language and Makaton.

STEM Futures

This fund supports the launch of the STEM Futures initiative aimed at transforming STEM education in Special schools.

26

LIGHTYEAR FOUNDATION LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

13. PRIOR YEAR FUND COMPARATIVES

Income from:
Grants and donations
Other
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
Charitable activities
Total expenditure
NET INCOME/
(EXPENDITURE) FOR THE YEAR
Net movement in the funds
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD		 Unrestricted
funds
£
24,405
2,204
26,609
184
9,949
10,133
16,476
16,476
71,634
88,110		 Restricted
funds
£
203,718
-
203,718
-
117,057
117,057
86,661
86,661
93,629
180,290		 31.12.2024
Total funds
£
228,123
2,204
230,327
184
127,006
127,190
103,137
103,137
165,263
268,400

27