Company Registration Number: 08331345 Charity Number: 1151387 The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital Annual Report and Unaudited Financial Statements for the financial year ended 31 August 2025
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital CONTENTS Page 3 Reference and Administrative Information Principal's Report Trustees' Annual Report Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities Independent Examiner's Report Statement of Financial Activities Summary Income and Expenditure Account Balance Sheet 4 6 - 9 10 11 12 13 14 Statement of Cash Flows 15 Notes to the Financial Statements 16-24 2
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustees Charity Number in England and Wales Company Registration Number Registered Office and Principal Address Independent Examiner Principal Bankers Solicitors Pension Administrators Janet Douglas Sue Radley Grace Reed Paula Riordan Matthew Smith Sue Harvey (Appointed 31 March 2025) 1151387 08331345 1 Bourne Street Wilmslow Cheshire SK9 5HD Steven Nixon BSc (Hons) FCCA Langers Chartered Certified Accountants 8-10 Gatley Road Cheadle Cheshire SK8 1PY National Westminster Bank PLC 4/6 Grove Street Wilmslow Cheshire SK9 1EE Sulta Corporate Risk Bailey Court Green Street Macclesfield Cheshire SK10 1JQ National Employment Savings Trust Riverside House Southwark Bridge Road London SE1 9HA 3
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) PRINCIPAL'S REPORT for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Overview of the Year 1am pleased to report that the charity has successfully delivered its objectives, providing an inclusive and broad curriculum of community-based adult education. Despite a challenging economic climate, the charity has achieved a prudent operating surplus. This surplus will be held in reserves to ensure long-term sustainability and to fund future community projects. Facilities and Community Impact While access to statutory government funding remains constrained, we have been successful in securing independent donations. These vital funds facilitated critical infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of new boilers and improvements to the Main Hall. Crucially, these improvements enabled us to expand our social impact. Throughout the colder months, the charity acted as a designated Warm Space', providing free hot meals and a heated environment to vulnerable members of our community. Furthermore, thanks to specific grant funding, we were able to host a Christmas Day lunch for isolated individuals who would otherwise have spent the festive period alone. Partnerships and Culture Our Community Café and Art Space continue to thrive as a central hub for the area. Beyond our own provision, our facilities facilitated the work of key local partners, including: OUR IMPACT: AT A GLANCE EDUCATION & SKILLS • Age UK Cheshire East • Bare Necessities Toiletry Bank • Cancer Research (Christmas Cake Sale) 3000+ 6650+ 99% Tuition Reported Learners Hours Improved Engaged Delivered Wellbeing COMMUNITY SUPPORT 120 Hot Meals Served (Warm Space) 12 Charities & Non-profits Supported 22 Christmas Day Guests leer vise Alone) CULTURAL VALUE 6 Major Art Exhibitions Hosted 30+ Local Artists Showcased • Carefound (Easter Social) • CHAW Neighbourhood • Cheshire & Wirral Partnership (Wellbeing Workshop) • Cheshire Constabulary (Cyber Crime Awareness) • Dementia Friendly Café • Learning Disability Partnership Board (Self-Advocates Group) • The Reader (Free Shared Reading Groups) • Transition Wilmslow (Lindow Moss Project) • Wilmslow Festival of Writing • Wilmslow Historical Society (VE Day Commemoration) • Wilmslow Town Council (Christmas Day Lunch) Our Gallery Space remained vibrant, hosting six exhibitions ranging from "Inspired by Lindow" to "Life Abstracted," showcasing both local and established artists. POWER OF VOLUNTEERING 100 7200+ £82,500 Decle tod otal Volunteers Volunteer Estimated Economic Hours value 4
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) PRINCIPAL'S REPORT for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Acknowledgements The educational and administrative teams have provided exceptional support to both the charity and one another. Their dedication ensured that the charity functioned and remained a pillar of support for the community during difficult times. I must also place on record my gratitude to our team of volunteers; our achievements would not be possible without their continued commitment and enthusiasm. Paula Riordan BSc MSc PGCE FRGS FSET FloL Principal STATEMENT OF SOCIAL VALUE & COMMUNITY IMPACT Beyond the Classroom: A Hub for Connection While our primary objective remains the provision of high-quality adult education, the charity has evolved into a vital 'Community Anchor Institution'. In a year characterised by the cost-of- living crisis, our impact has extended beyond the classroom and into the essential wellbeing of Wilmslow residents. Educational Outcomes & Wellbeing This year, we engaged 3,000+ adult learners in lifelong learning, delivering more than 6,650 hours of tuition across our broad curriculum. The impact of this provision extends far beyond skills acquisition; notably, more than 99% of our learners reported improved confidence or mental wellbeing, validating the critical link between adult education and public health. Tackling Social Isolation Loneliness is a significant determinant of poor health. Through our provision of a 'Warm Space', we provided a safe, heated environment for residents during the winter months, serving 120 hot meals to vulnerable community members. Furthermore, our Christmas Day provision ensured that twenty-two guests, who would otherwise have spent the festive period alone, enjoyed a hot meal in the company of others. Supporting the Wider Third Sector By maintaining our facilities to a high standard, the charity acts as an enabler for the wider non-profit sector. This year, we supported twelve local charities and non-profits by providing the physical infrastructure they require to deliver their own essential services. Cultural Enrichment Our gallery space continues to be a vibrant asset for the town. We hosted 6 significant art exhibitions, including the popular "Inspired by Lindow" series. These events provided 30+ local artists with a professional platform to display their work, ensuring that culture remains accessible to all in our community. The Economic Value of Volunteering the charity is powered by the community, for the community. We are supported by more than 100 dedicated volunteers. Collectively, they contributed 7,200+ hours of service this year. Based on current wage benchmarks, this represents a contributed value of approximately £82,500 to the local economy, a significant return on investment for our supporters. 5 ....
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 The trustees present their Trustees' Annual Report, combining the Directors' Report and Trustees' Report, and the unaudited financial statements for the financial year ended 31 August 2025. he Trustees present their annual report and accounts for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 which have bee repared in accordance with the Companies Acts 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and SORP (Statement of Recommende ractice tor Accounting and reporting by Charities) 2015 (as amended by the Bulletin issued in October 2018 an pplicable to all accounting periods beginning on or after 1st January 2019), (The SORP Mission, Objectives and Strategy Objectives Summary of The Guild for Lifelong Learning's objectives The memorandum and articles of association set out how the income and property of the charity are to be used to advance the charitable purpose. The objects of the charity are: (a) to promote the benefit of the inhabitants of Wilmslow and the neighbourhood together defined by the areas known as Wilmslow and Handforth and the civil parishes of Alderley Edge, Chorley and Mottram St. Andrew, without distinction of sex, sexual orientation, race or political, religious or other opinions, by associating together the said inhabitants and the local authorities, voluntary and other organisations in a common effort to advance education and to provide facilities in the interests of social welfare for recreation and leisure-time occupation with the object of improving conditions of life for the said inhabitants: (b) to establish, or secure the establishment of a community centre and to maintain and manage the same (whether alone or in co-operation with any local authority or other person or body) in furtherance of these objects; and (C) to promote such other purposes that are charitable according to the laws of England and Wales and for the benefit of the public as may from time to time be determined by the Trustees. A set of "Values and Aims" have now been established to compliment the "Vision and Mission" statements. The Guild has a Development and Strategic Plan which sets out the charity's ambitions to deliver its objectives. The plan is a living document and is reviewed and revised on a cyclical basis to ensure that key performance indicators remain SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-based). Structure, Governance and Management Structure The Guild for Lifelong Learning is a charity incorporated as a company limited by guarantee. The governing document is the memorandum and articles of association dated 14 December 2012, as amended on 5 January 2021 and 29 March 2021. The trustees of the charity are the directors of the company for the purposes of company law; throughout this report they are collectively known as the Trustees. Background to The Guild for Lifelong Learning In 1922 the Wilmslow Educational Society (WES) working in conjunction with the Workers Educational Association (WEA) organised their first series of lectures and in subsequent years the Religious Society of Friends kindly loaned their school room to the WES for some courses and the performance of plays. In the Spring of 1926, it was decided to form a new organisation which was separate from the WEA, it would be called the "Beacon Guild" and be based at Bourne Street. The new organisation published its first syllabus for the season 1926-27 and it grew steadily from its inception with the support of Wilmslow Society of Friends, Cheshire County Council and the Ministry of Education. The name of the charity changed to Wilmslow Beacon Guild in 1939 and to Wilmslow Guild in 1940. On 30 April 1963 the Guild was registered as a charity in accordance the Charities Act because this was a condition for funding by the Ministry of Education. The Guild, an unincorporated charity, continued to grow in both its provision and number of participants. In 2012 the Trustees decided, due to the size of the organisation, to change the legal status of the charity to an incorporated charity. Throughout the charity's existence its purpose has remained the same: to provide a centre in which men and women may find opportunities for enrichment of life through education, fellowship and co-operative effort for the welfare of the community. A resolution was passed on 5 January 2021 to change the name of the charity to The Guild for Lifelong Learning to provide a better explanation of the purpose of the charity; and to remove the geographical link to Wilmslow because the charity operates from community venues throughout East Cheshire and South Manchester. 6
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Governance Organisational Structure The Trustees are responsible for policy matters and the overall direction of the charity and have absolute discretion in applying its funds for the furtherance of the objects of the charity. The Board reviews all of the policies of the Guild on a cyclical basis. None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the charity, nor receives any remuneration, other than the Principal who is an ex-officio trustee. Each Trustee guarantees to contribute £1 in the event of winding up. The Board of Trustees meets six times a year for ordinary meetings in addition to the annual general meeting. The Board of Trustees may also invite other individuals as appointed to advise and report, but only the Trustees have voting rights. The Finance Committee, which reports to the board, meets prior to the board meetings to review: budgets, investments, financial performance and controls, the financial implications of any special initiatives, risk management and to finalise the audited accounts and annual report for the approval of the Board of Trustees. Remuneration for all staff is reviewed and agreed annually by the Remuneration Committee, advised by the Principal. The Board of Trustees delegate responsibility for all operational matters of the charity to the Principal. The trustees are very gratetul to the Principal, her hard work and dedication had been exceptional; she ensured the charity continued to operate throughout the year delivering its services to maintain social cohesion and reduce social isolation. Recruitment, election and training of trustees least three and no more than twelve trustees. retiring Trustees are eligible for re-appointment. Trustees are selected on the basis of their specialist skills and knowledge that is relevant to the Guild. New trustee induction is undertaken on a one-to-one basis when they are elected. They are briefed on their legal obligations under charity and company law, the content of the memorandum and articles of association, the charity structure and decision-making processes, recent activities and financial performance and plans. There is formal training for trustees as required. Risk management The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed and are satisfied with the systems and procedures that are in place to manage and mitigate these. Detalled consideration of risks is delegated to the Finance Committee, assisted by the Principal. A formal review of The Guild's risk management processes and the risk register is undertaken as part of the cyclical policy review undertaken by the Board of Trustees. Review of Activities, Achievements and Performance The 2024/25 academic year marked the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Guild and the programme has continued to develop with a greater and more diverse curriculum than in previous years. During the 2024/25 academic and financial year the Guild: • expended more than £566,569 in the day-to-day cost of providing education and leisure-time occupations • continued its long-term partnership with The Rossendale Trust, a registered charity for adults with learning disabilities • continued its long-term partnership with Mentell, a registered charity for mental health • continued its long-term partnership with Bare Necessities Toiletries Bank, a registered charity for hygiene poverty • continued its long-term partnership with Chelford, Handforth, Alderley Edge and Wilmslow Care Community, a collaboration of local GP practices, community services, council services, public health, Healthwatch, voluntary and other third-party organisations working together to improve health and wellbeing for our local community. • continued its long-term partnership with Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 7
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Financial Review Total income of £599,319 was generated with the bulk of this (£578,360) by way of fees from members participating in the Guild's programme of courses and activities, the direct cost of which was £492,223. After overheads (including 'Governance' £3,000), total costs were £579,932 resulting in an overall surplus of £19,387. The trustees have allocated the following funds: Strategic Reserve at £80,000; Building Repair Fund £50,000; and Land and Building Fund £250,000. They are satisfied that the charity has assets available to adequately fulfil its obligations. However, the charity no longer has available the reserves to fund the establishment of operations in suitable premises when the lease on 1 Bourne Street expires in 2061. Financial Results At the end of the financial year the charity has assets of £625,663 (2024 - £598,949) and liabilities of £210,727 (2024 - £203,400). The net assets of the charity have increased by £19,387.| Financial Position Availability and adequacy of assets of each of the funds The board of trustees is satisfied that the charity has assets available to adequately fulfil its obligations in respect of the Restricted Revenue Funds (£8,220) and Strategic Reserve (£80,000). As a result of the financial impact of the pandemic the charity no longer has available reserves to fund: a) major repairs to the current buildings (current allowance £50,000); and, or, b) the establishment of operations in suitable premises when the lease on 1 Bourne Street expires in 2061 (current allowance £250,000). The board of trustees know that the available reserves need to grow substantially to safeguard the future of the charity. Investment policy and investment objectives. Under the memorandum and articles of association, the charity has the power to invest in any way that the trustees see fit, providing that such powers of investment are only exercised for the purpose of attaining the objects of the charity and in a manner that is legally charitable. The current investment objective is to maximise income yield while maintaining the value of capital in real terms. The Finance Committee monitors performance and reports to the Board of Trustees on a regular basis. Members of the Finance Committee have background experience and knowledge of finance. An independent investment advisor assists the Trustees when necessary. Principal Risks and Uncertainties The tenure of premises for the charity to deliver its programme of activities is considered to be a risk. The lease on • Bourne Street, the primary site for delivery of the programme, will expire in 2062. The Trustees have decided that the quisition of permanent premises for the charity to deliver its charitable purpose is a key strategic objective to ensu e future of the charity. The building at 1 Bourne Street is a modular system built using timber framed constructic dating from 1962. It was constructed in accordance with the lease and is currently considered practical and economic o maintain in accordance with the lease for the remainder of the term. The building, whilst fit for purpose, will require ngoing maintenance and repair as well as internal remodelling to ensure that it functions well for the delivery of the charity's objectives. The key priorities are as follows: The key priorities are as follows: The trustees of The Guild have a clear plan for the future of the charity. However, the timing of the implementation of the plan is subject to the circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The trustees intend to steadily expand the provision of activities offered by the charity to deliver its objects during the next five years. This will be achieved by working in partnership with other charities, Cheshire East Council and the Department for Education. It is the trustees' intention to increase the number of courses, clubs and societies delivered; and to offer this expanded provision in a way that is accessible to a larger proportion of the adult population. There will be an expansion of face-to-face learning in the East Cheshire and South Manchester areas as and when community venues become available. 8
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Trustees The trustees who served throughout the financial year, except as noted, were as follows: Janet Douglas Sue Radley Grace Reed Paula Riordan Matthew Smith Sue Harvey (Appointed 31 March 2025) In accordance with the Constitution, the trustees retire by rotation and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election. Compliance with Sector-Wide Legislation and Standards The charity engages pro-actively with legislation, standards and codes which are developed for the sector. The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited subscribes to and is compliant with the following: The Companies Act 2006 : The Charities SORP (FRS 102) Fundraising The charity has engaged in small scale and one-off fundraising activities since its inception. Provision of activities has expanded in recent years and this has caused the charity to seek more funding to enable it to deliver its objectives. The charity now raises funds from a broader spectrum of sources; from large grant awarding bodies to small-scale giving by individuals. The charity has undertaken a number of income-generating activities which subsidise the cost of the educational programme. These activities alone do not generate sufficient funds to sustain the charity's programme. As such, the charity is indebted to the generous individuals and organisations who provide donations and grants to support work in the furtherance of its charitable objectives. Role of volunteers The Guild is supported by approximately 100 volunteers who assist with the administration of the charity; the running of the groups, clubs and societies; the maintenance of 1 Bourne Street; the marketing of the charity; fundraising for the charity and exhibitions of the students' Art and Craft work. Public benefit In setting their objectives and planning their activities the Trustees have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit and specific guidance on the advancement of education for public benefit. Subsidies are applied to all the charity's activities. The purpose of the entire programme of activities is the advancement or education in conjunction with the maintenance and improvement of health and wellbeing. No students are excluded due to financial circumstances; concessions and waivers are granted for students in financial need. Approved by the Board of Trustees on 8 Decembe- 2025 and signed on its behalf by: Janet Douglas Trustee base Douglas 9
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 The trustees, who are also directors of The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited for the purposes of company law, are responsible for preparing the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations. Company law requires the trustees as the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the trustees have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law) including FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" Section 1A (Small Entities). Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the surplus or deficit of the company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to: select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently; make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; • state whether the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the relevant financial reporting framework, identify those standards, and note the effect and the reasons for any material departure from those standards; and • prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The trustees confirm that they have complied with the above requirements in preparing the financial statements. ne trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain th arity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enab nem to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible fo afeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of frau Approved by the Board of Trustees on 8 December 2025 and signed on its behalf by: Janet Douglas Janet Dinglas Trustee 10
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE GUILD FOR LIFELONG LEARNING LIMITED I have examined the financial statements of the charity for the financial year ended 31 August 2025, which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Summary Income and Expenditure Account, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and the related notes. This report is made solely to the charity's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. My work has been undertaken so that I might compile the financial statements that I have been engaged to compile, report to the Board of Trustees that I have done so, and state those matters that I have agreed to state to them in this report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity's members, as a body, for my work, or for this report. Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner The charity's trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this financial year under Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and that an independent examination is required It is my responsibility to: examine the financial statements under section 145 of the Act; • follow the procedures laid down by the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) of the Charities Act 2011; and • state whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basis of independent examiner's report My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the financial statements presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the financial statements and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair' view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. Independent examiner's statement In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect: accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006 • the financial statements do not accord with those accounting records • the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act • the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the methods and principles of the 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 (FRS102) • there is further information needed for a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention shoul e drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reaches Steven Nixon BSc (Hons) FCCA LANGERS Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors 8-10 Gatley Road Cheadle Cheshire SK8 1PY Daro: I1/12/2025. 11
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds Notes 2025 2025 Income Donations and legacies Charitable activities Adult education Other trading activities Investments Other income Total income Expenditure Raising funds Charitable activities Total Expenditure Net income/(expenditure) Transfers between funds let movement in funds fo he financial yea Reconciliation of funds Total funds beginning of the year Total funds at the end of the year 3.1 3.2 3.3 14 1,323 578,360 1,549 8,414 2,803 592,449 321 566,248 566,569 25,880 - 25,880 380,836 406,716 6,870 : 6,870 13,363 13,363 (6,493) (6,493) 14,713 8,220 Total Unrestricted Funds Funds 2025 2024 € 8,193 578,360 1,549 8,414 2,803 599,319 321 579,611 579,932 19,387 19,387 395,549 414,936 2,695 522,300 4,163 7,939 3,021 540,118 494 548,643 549,137 (9,019) (9,019) 389,856 380,837 he Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the financial yea Il income and expenditure relate to continuing activitie Restricted Funds 2024 4,329 : 4,329 Total Funds 7,024 522,300 4,163 7,939 3,021 544,447 11,188 11,188 (6,859) - (6,859) 21,571 14,712 494 559,831 560,325 (15,878) (15,878) 411,427 395,549 The notes on pages 16 to 24 form part of the financial statements 12
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) SUMMARY INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Gross income Statement of Financial Activities Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 2025 E 2024 592,449 6,870 Total income Total expenditure Net income/(expenditure) 599,319 599,319 (579,932) 19,387 544,447 544,447 (560,325) (15,878) The charity has no recognised gains or losses other than the surplus and cash flows for the financial year. The results for the financial year have been calculated on the historical cost basis. The notes on pages 16 to 24 form part of the financial statements 13
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital Company Number: 08331345 BALANCE SHEET as at 31 August 2025 Fixed Assets Tangible assets Current Assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Notes 8 2025 € 299,480 2024 311,897 Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Net Current Assets Total Assets less Current Liabilities 10,188 315,995 326,183 (210,727) 115,456 414,936 9,506 277,546 287,052 (203,400) 83,652 395,549 Funds Restricted trust funds Designated funds (Unrestricted) General fund (unrestricted) Total funds 14 8,220 380,000 26,716 414,936 14,712 380,000 837 395,549 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006. For the financial year ended 31 August 2025 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006; and no notice has been deposited under section 476. The trustees confirm that the members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the financial year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006. The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for ensuring that the charity keeps accounting records which comply with section 386 and for preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity as at the end of the financial year and of its profit and loss for the financial year in accordance with the requirements of sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charity. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime and in accordance with FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland", applying Section 1A of that Standard. Approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 8 December 2025 and signed on its behalf by Janet Douglas at Doctor Trustee / The notes on pages 16 to 24 form part of the financial statements 14
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 Cash flows from operating activities Net movement in funds Adjustments for: Depreciation Interest receivable and similar incom nterest pavable and similar expense Movements in working capital: Movement in debtors Movement in creditors Cash generated from operations Interest paid Net cash generated from operating activities Cash flows from investing activities Interest received Payments to acquire tangible assets Net cash generated from investment activities et increase in cash and cash equivalent: ash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the yea Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year Notes 10 2025 19,387 12,417 (8,414) 23,390 (682) 7,327 30,035 30,035 8,414 8,414 38,449 277,546 315,995 2024 (15,878) 12,055 (7,939) 42 (11,720) (4,246 2,915 16,953 (42) 16,911 7,939 (6,146) 1,793 18,704 258,842 277,546 15
The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 1. GENERAL INFORMATION 2. functional currency of the charity. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES he tollowing accounting policies have been applied consistently in dealing with items which are considere laterial in relation to the charity's financial statement Basis of preparation he financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis under the historical cost convention nodified to include certain items at fair value. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance witt 102", applying Section 1A of that Standard. As permitted by the Companies Act 2006, the charity has varied the standard formats in that act for the atement ot Financial Activities and the Balance Sheet. Departures from the standard formats are to comp ith the requirements of the Charities SORP and are in compliance with section 4.7, 10.6 and 15.2 of th Statement of compliance The financial statements of the charity for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 have been prepared on the going concern basis and in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) "Accounting ano Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland FRS 102", applying Section 1A of that Standard. Fund accounting The following are the categories of funds maintained: Restricted funds Donors. Such purposes are within recoveral objectives or be a for particular purposes, as specied by the Unrestricted funds Unrestricted funds consist of General and Designated funds. • General funds represent amounts which are expendable at the discretion of the board, in furtherance of the objectives of the charity. - Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that the board has, at its discretion, set aside for particular purposes. These designations have an administrative purpose only, and do not legally restrict the board's discretion to apply the fund. Income Income is recognised by inclusion in the Statement of Financial Activities only when the charity is legally entitled to the income, performance conditions attached to the items) of income have been met, the amounts involved can be measured with sufficient reliability and it is probable that the income will be received by the charity. Income from charitable activities Income from charitable activities include income earned from the supply of services under contractual arrangements and from performance related grants which have conditions that specify the provision of particular services to be provided by the charity. Income from government and other co-funders is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to the income because it is fulfilling the conditions contained in the related funding agreements. Where a grant is received in advance, its recognition is deferred and included in creditors. Where entitlement occurs before income is received, it is accrued in debtors. Grants from governments and other co-funders typically include one of the following types of conditions: • Performance based conditions: whereby the charity is contractually entitled to funding only to the extent that the core objectives of the grant agreement are achieved. Where the charity is meeting the core objectives of a grant agreement, it recognises the related expenditure, to the extent that it is reimbursable by the donor, as 16
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 income. •Time based conditions: whereby the charity is contractually entitled to funding on the condition that it is utilised in a particular period. In these cases the charity recognises the income to the extent it is utilised within the period specified in the agreement. In the absence of such conditions, assuming that receipt is probable and the amount can be reliably measured, grant income is recognised once the charity is notified of entitlement. Grants received towards capital expenditure are credited to the Statement of Financial Activities when received or receivable, whichever is earlier. Expenditure those functions that assist the work of the charity but cannot be attributed to one activity. Such costs are allocated to activities in proportion to staff time spent or other suitable measure for each activity. Tangible fixed assets and depreciation Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost or at valuation, less accumulated depreciation. The charge to depreciation is calculated to write off the original cost or valuation of tangible fixed assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives as follows: Long leasehold property Plant and machinery Fixtures, fittings and equipment : Straight line over life of lease Straight line over 3 years 20% Straight line Leasing Rentals payable under operating leases are dealt with in the income and expenditure account as incurred over the period of the rental agreement. Debtors Debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due. Income recognised by the charity from government agencies and other co-funders, but not yet received at financial year end, is included in debtors. Cash at bank and in hand Cash at bank and in hand comprises cash on deposit at banks requiring less than three months notice of withdrawal. Taxation and deferred taxation No current or deferred taxation arises as the charity has been granted charitable exemption. Irrecoverable valued added tax is expensed as incurred. Pensions The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity. Annual contributions payable to the charity's pension scheme are charge o the income and expenditure account in the period to which they relate
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 INCOME 3.1 DONATIONS AND LEGACIES 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds € 1,323 937 2025 2024 Donations individually less than £1,000 Dancester Airpor rare than 21,000 CVS Grant Access to Work Grant Cheshire East Borough Council Grant Wilmslow Town Council Grant 2,260 1,323 1,233 4,200 500 6,870 1,233 4,200 500 8,193 2,360 1,000 2,004 : 7,024 Restricted in prior period; Donations individually less than £1,000 - £665; Manchester Airport Grant - £2,664; CVS Grant - £1,000. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES 2025 2024 Adult education: Classes & Courses Clubs & Societies Cafe Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds € 497,439 42,736 38,185 : 578,360 497,439 42,736 38,185 578,360 445,197 40,988 36,115 522,300 All prior period unrestricted. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2025 2024 Sundry sales and sponsorship Income from letting and licensing of property for non charitable purposes 514 1,035 : 514 1,035 1,783 2,380 1,549 1,549 4,163 All prior period unrestricted. INVESTMENTS Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds Bank interest 8,414 2025 € 8,414 2024 7,939 All prior period unrestricted. OTHER INCOME Other income Unrestricted Restricted Funds € Funds 2,803 2025 2024 2,803 3,021 All prior period unrestricted. 18
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 4. EXPENDITURE 4.1 RAISING FUNDS Direct Costs Other Costs 4.2 4.3 Fundraising expenses Support Costs € 321 All prior period unrestricted. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Direct Costs Other Costs Support Costs Courses costs Groups, Clubs & Societies Costs Gross wages & salaries Employers NI Defined contribution pension costs Training Travel & subsistence Staff benefits DBS checks Rent Rates and water charges Light, heat & power 26,36 0,80 5,166 293,666 12,877 8,005 leaning & sundrie MRC interes Depreciation & amortisatior Grants to Entities Governance Costs (Note 4.3) 6,000 492,223 4,051 187 711 391 80 5,019 11,652 19,234 1,844 2,791 7,893 4,736 4,376 7,773 12,417 1,233 3,000 87,388 2025 € 321 2025 130,308 3,554 5,166 293,666 12,877 5,085 8,701 4,051 187 711 391 80 5,019 11,652 19,234 1,844 2,791 7,893 4,736 4,376 7,773 12,417 7,233 3,000 579,611 2024 494 2024 135,530 26,885 2,260 8,010 285,568 13,910 4,187 9,220 3,241 44 566 545 40 6,627 12,840 12,586 1,691 2,176 7,484 4,187 42 672 6,561 12,055 2,904 559,831 Restricted expenditure; Course costs - £5,001 (2024 £1,795); Groups, Clubs & Societies Costs - £738 (2024 EO); Gross wages & salaries - £0 (2024 £5,438); Employers NI - £0 (2024 £125); Defined contribution pension schemes - £0 (2024 £39); Training - £460 (2024 €480); Premises repairs, renewals & maintenance - £5,931 (2024 £3,310); Grants to Entities - £1,233 (2024 £O). GOVERNANCE COSTS Direct Other Costs Support Costs 2025 2024 € independent examination ter fees : 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 2,760 144 2,904 All prior period unrestricted 19
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 4.4 SUPPORT COSTS Cost of Charitable Governance Raising Activities Costs Funds 321 84,388 3,000 2025 2024 5. 6. Support NET INCOME Net Income is stated after charging/(crediting): Depreciation of tangible assets Operating lease rentals Independent Examiner's remuneration: - independent examination services - tax advisory services INVESTMENT AND OTHER INCOME Sundry income Bank interest 87,709 2025 12,417 80 3,000 2025 2,803 8,414 11,217 74,755 2024 12,055 40 2.780 2024 73,039 10,960 EMPLOYEES AND REMUNERATION Number of employees The average number of persons employed (including executive trustees) during the financial year was as Engaged on charitable activities The staff costs comprise: Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs 2025 Number 35 2025 293,666 12,877 5,085 311,628 2024 Number 31 2024 285,568 13,910 4,187 303,665 No Trustees received expenses in the year. 20
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Cost At 31 August 2025 At 31 August 2025 Vet book value it 31 August 2029 At 31 August 2024 9. DEBTORS Trade debtors Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 10. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash and bank balances Cash equivalents 11. CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year Trade creditors Taxation and social security costs Other creditors Accruals and deferred income: Pension accrual Other accruals Long leasehold property Plant and machinery Fixtures, fittings and equipment € 370,911 20,429 30,981 73,687 7,901 81,588 19,809 620 20,429 16,928 3,896 20,824 289,323 297,224 620 10,157 14,053 2025 100 50 10,038 10,188 2025 115,973 200,022 315,995 2026 1,615 4,541 1,524 819 202,228 210,727 12. Total 422,321 110,424 12,417 122,841 299,480 311,897 2024 9,506 2024 134,620 142,926 277,546 2024 2,505 682 195,417 203,400 Deferred income relates to classes, courses, clubs and societies in the next academic year. PENSION COSTS - DEFINED CONTRIBUTION The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. Pension costs amounted to £5,085 (2024 - £4,187). Unpaid contributions outstanding at 31 August 2025 amounted to £819 (31 August 2024 - £682).
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 13. RESERVES At the beginning of the year Surplus/(Deficit) for the financial year At the end of the year FUNDS 14.1 RECONCILIATION OF MOVEMENT IN FUNDS At 1 September 2023 Movement during the financial year At 31 August 2024 Movement during the financial year At 31 August 2025 14.2 ANALYSIS OF MOVEMENTS ON FUNDS Balance 1 September 2024 Restricted funds Residential Courses Cafe Space and Equipment Fund Youth Mental Health First Aid Fund Manchester Airport Tables Fun lewellery Torch Func Computer Hardware 12,603 289 460 1,354 14,713 Unrestricted funds Land & Buildings Fund Strategic Reserve uilding Repair Fun restricted Gener: Total funds 250,000 80,000 50,000 836 380,836 395,549 2025 € 395,549 19,387 414,936 Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 389,856 21,571 (9,019) (6,859) 380,836 14,713 25,880 (6,493) 406,716 8,220 Income Expenditure Transfers between funds ... 740 400 1,233 6,870 4,994 460 1,354 4,177 738 400 1,233 13,363 : - 592,449 599,319 : 566,569 (566,569) 579,932 • I I D 2024 411,427 (15,878) 395,549 Total Funds 411,427 (15,878) 395,549 19,387 414,936 Balance 31 August 2025 € 7,609 289 297 - 8,220 250,000 80,000 50,000 26,716 406,716 414,936 Unrestricted Revenue Funds These funds are held for the meeting the objectives of the charity, and to provide reserves for future activities. and, subject to charity legislation, are free from all restrictions on their use Designated Revenue Funds The trustees have designated three funds Land & Buildings Fund. Funds designated for the provision of land and buildings to enable the future operation
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 of the charity. The was no movement in this fund during the year and the balance in the fund at 31 August 2025 was £250,000 (2024 £250,000). Strategic Reserve. Funds designated to assist the Guild to be run down and wound up in an orderly and responsible fashion in the event of the guild being financially unable to continue. There was no movement in this fund during the year and the balance at 31 August 2025 was £80,000 (2024 £80,000). Building Repair Fund. Funds designated for major building repairs. There was no movement in this fund during the year and the balance at 31 August 2025 was £50,000 (2024 £50,000). Restricted Funds Residential Courses Donation of £13,707 received from The Lamb Guild of Holly Royde on their cessation for the provision of residential courses. 14.3 Café Space and Equipment Fund Grants received towards the provision of communal area and equipment for the Community Cafe. Youth Mental Health First Aid Restricted grant of £2,053 for the provision of youth mental health first aid courses. Manchester Airport Community Trust Tables Fund Restricted grant of £2,664 towards the purchase of tables. Jewellery Torch Fund Restricted donations towards the purchase of a torch. Computer Hardware Fund Restricted grant towards the upgrade of computer hardware. Slab Roller Fund Restricted donations towards the purchase of a slab roller. Christmas Meal Fund Restricted grant and donations towards the hosting of a Christmas Lunch. Ballet Mirror Fund Restricted donations towards the purchase of a mirror. Access to Work Fund Restricted grants towards employment of an individual under the Access to Work Scheme. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BY FUND Fixed assets - charity use Current assets Current liabilities Total Restricted trust funds 8,220 8,220 Unrestricted designated funds Unrestricted general funds 242,157 57,323 299,480 299,480 137,843 180,120 317,963 326,183 (210,727) (210,727) (210,727) 380,000 26,716 406,716 414,936 23
continued The Guild for Lifelong Learning Limited (A company limited by guarantee, not having a share capital NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the financial year ended 31 August 2025 15. STATUS 16. The charity is a company limited by guarantee not having a share capital. The liability of the members is limited. very member of the company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the company in the event of its being vound up while they are members, or within one financial year thereafter, for the payment of the debts an abilities of the company contracted before they ceased to be members, and the costs, charges and expense † winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such amount as ma be required, not exceeding £ 1. POST-BALANCE SHEET EVENTS There have been no significant events affecting the Charity since the financial year-end. 17. HIGHER PAID STAFF AND TRUSTEE REMUNERATION Number of employees in band £90,001 to £100,000 2025 1 Contributions for the provision of money purchase pension Number of employees for whom contributions under money purchase pension schemes are accruing Trustees remuneration - gross remuneration - the Principal Trustees remuneration - employers pension contributions - the Principal 2,586 2024 1 2,57 1 92.,45₴ 2,586 95,038 € 90,150 2,511 92,661 18. NO RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS There were no transactions with related parties in the year, except with regard to trustees' remuneration, which are fully disclosed in notes above