Down Synorome Development Tryst ANNUA EPORT FEBRUARY1ST 2024_ JANUARY 31ST 2025 REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 08346182 REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER:1155830 IENGLAND & WALESI TRUSTEES Senay Smallwood Andrew Smallwood Guy Passey Joanne Pike
Table of Contents: Pages: 3-14 Report of the Trustees Pages: 15-29 Independent Examiners, report to the Trustees Statement of Financial Activities Statement of Financial Position Notes to the Financial Statements
REPORT OFTHE . TRIp&Es. IT /1 AMERICAN THE kl.
Executive Summary The Board of Trustees presents the annual report and financial statements for the fiscal year ending Januray 31, 2025, in compliance with the Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities (UK and Republic of Ireland's FRS 102, effective January 1, 2019). Strategic Objectives Deliver specialised, comprehensive support for children and young people with Down Syndrome and their families throughout the Sussex Sustain a flexible, independently funded, not-for-profit organisation accessible to all community members Set industry standards by developing innovative inclusive societal frameworks to creating a sustainable operation model.
Mission for the SEND Community We are committed to promoting optimal health, development, potential, and equal opportunity for individuals with SEND. We prioritise excellence in service delivery, wellbeing enhancement, and growth opportunities. Our comprehensive services include physical activities, music education, advisory support, educational resources, work experience, and research initiatives-serving both our local community and beyond. -' ¥Jr. strategic Growth Plan We aim to enhance program participation and capacity through strategic recruitment of qualified personnel, creation of new opportunities, and initiatives-particularly in Social and Learning Provision and supported living accommodation.
Immediate strategic prioiities RE Expand service capacity Enhance service quality Optimise operational efficiency Operational peifoimance Review Between February 2024 and January 2025, our performance metrics show effective delivery of aspirational activities. We prioritise children's perspectives regarding their developmental goals, supported by our professional staff's expertise. This approach positively impacts mental health outcomes, reduces social isolation, builds skills and independence, and improves resilience and relationships.
National Lottery Funding and university partnerships The National Lottery Reaching Communities grant continues to enhance our operational anagement and expansion of our ervices. Our 'Social and Learning Hub, at the Sussex Innovation Centre attracts many volunteer tudents and interns from Sussex and Brighton University, enriching their studies and our provision. We've had seven students on internships this year, an increase from last year's three. Our partnerships with university departments have led to more work experience for our young people and increased social opportunities. Jill I
IT supporknnr. , ,o',e leamlns di .FIPEftS.. pIp&Ks- 1111 careers That care campaign I50* With funding from a second National Lottery Reaching Communities grant for the Careers That Care campaign, community engagement activities are now available, including pop-up shops and work experience placements. Relish Food Trailer Iniative A hospitality food trailer named Relish was introduced on Sussex University campus, where bagels, coffee, and snacks are offered. This initiative enables young people to gain skills and raise community awareness. An additional site has been established at Brighton University campus. careers that care
I INK IIP Prnnr2m We've expanded beyond our core Down syndrome services to create LINK UP for individuals with other SEND needs, funded by Brighton & Hove City Council. Despite LINK UP'S growth, demand exceeds our capacity. We've thoughtfully integrated young people with various SEND needs into our Down syndrome sessions where appropriate, and transformed our hub provision into a comprehensive pan-disability service centre. 111111 Ildllbyurtation ano hoilslliy Our minibus assistance continues to benefit families, fostering independence among our children and young people. Our research into supported housing and funding options is an ongoing progressive piece of work. Growth and Sustainability Throughout this period, our organisation has experienced substantial growth while taking strategic measures to enhance our sustainability through the implementation of micro-business revenue streams. The positive financial trajectory we've maintained this year directly correlates with the favorable feedback received from families who benefit from our services. We have successfully expanded our workforce by increasing both volunteer participation and part-time staff recruitment, while maintaining productive professional relationships with our partners and generating consistent positive outcomes. Our Board of Trustees continues to provide essential leadership in the management and strategic direction of our charitable organisation, working collaboratively with partners to ensure ongoing success.
Increaseo Beneficiaries Key Achievements February1, 2024 Janurary 31 2025 We extended our help to more children and young people, from 122 last year to 147 between February 2024 and January 31, 2025. Staff Prowth We maintained our team of 4 full-time staff, expanded part- time staff by 3, added student interns, and increased our volunteers and paid bank staff. program Expansion We increased the number of live activities and were able to offer 2,046 hours of activities during this period. a significant increase from last year's 840 hours. Short Breaks Programs The introduction of day-long activity camps for our children and young people has been welcomed by both CYP and their families, offering extended short breaks and time away from home outside of education. The LINK UP provision for CYP with other disabilities in the City of Brighton & Hove has also been in high demand, dramatically increasing our reach to more families in need. Tne social ano Learning HUD project Offers work experience opportunities including our Postal Service, Horticulture Work Experience Service, sports theory and practical skills coaching program, and hospitality training. This expansion of services has been made possible through increased funding and partnerships, leading to signif icant growth in our reach and impact. Physical Activity Programs We continue to offer live bespoke physical activity sessions both indoor and outdoor, including: Multi-sports and basketball at local leisure centers Multi-sport in open public parks Forestry activities and sport at Bushy Wood. Hailsham Assisted cycling, kayaking, SUP Equine therapy Swimming sessions
To provide a meaningful challenge for our hub students, our lead teacher organised a three-day expedition involving kayaking and camping along the River Wye. Four young people participated, accompanied by staff members and a parent. This demanding experience proved exceptionally rewarding for all involved, demonstrating significant success and impact. Given its positive outcomes, the lead teacher is planning a similar expedition for 2026.
A(l(litional Programs an(1 Services AIioiD Music Music sessions are offered at Small Pond Studios in Brighton, utilising New Rock Generation's Write, Record & Perform curriculum. This initiative has achieved notable success this year, with students preparing for a final musical performance scheduled for the end of July. Minious Trips ano social We have reduced these activities as parents requested longer day camps during holidays, KOPthough we have still managed a few trips. Based on participants, interests, we've organised trips to bowling alleys, cinemas, pizza restaurants, parks, karaoke bars, concerts, and farms. Cnnsultancv We continue to provide consultancy to parents and schools on best practices for supporting children and young people with Down syndrome. Itnershibo dlid community xisting partnerships are being maintained and new collaborations have been established. These include: an equine therapy program in cooperation with Plumpton Equine Centre Swimming sessions with Wave Leisure The Social and Learning Hub providing young people aged 16-25 with opportunities to develop life skills, participate in foundation learning, and obtain work experience Ongoing engagement with departments at the University of Sussex focusing on awareness and educational experiences Partnership with the University of Brighton resulting in an increased number of opportunities
Fundraising Thanks to partners and funders like the National Lottery Reaching Communities grant, our income has grown. Anticipating future funding cuts, we are prioritising sustainable efforts. Surveys from children, young people, and their families remain 100 % positive.
Positive Outcomes for Chiltlren an Young people Mental Health Children and young people attending weekly sessions show marked improvements in: Confidence and relationships Mental Health and adapatability Sensory regulation and motor skills Additionallly 90 % of parents observe these positive changes at home. Increased Fitness The fitness improvements in our cohort have helped reduce the risk of obesity. Diverse ODDortunities Our extensive programs broaden experiences and enhance children and young people's skills, fostering inclusion and reducing isolation. They: Enjoy time with friends Anticipate activities Improve well-being and fitness Expect regular opportunities Offering vital short breaks and work-related opportunities, our young people are empowered to strive for greater independence and fulfilled lives, and their parents and carers are supported. ruiui¥ ri iui Iii¥b We aim to expand annually, however, with the growth of our services, demand also increases resulting in waiting lists. The rise in participant numbers requires us to implement additional processes, protocols, and policies. These enhancements will support our expansion plans. Our goal is to provide exceptional services, broaden DSDT'S impact, and assist more children and young people by giving them a platform to express their needs. We remain committed to keeping the views, wishes, and feelings of the children, young people, and families we serve at the forefront of our future provision development.
Financial Review The Trustees report the year ended with total reserves of £69,799, of which £25,197 was unrestricted and £44,602 was restricted. Given the nature and scale of the charity's activities and due to there being no assured future funding, the Trustees consider it prudent to hold unrestricted reserves of £15,000 to cover basic operational costs for 2 months. Signed Name Joanna Pike Position: Chairperson Date: 6/10/25
Independent Exami port to us
Down Syndrome Development Trust Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Down Syndrome Development Trust For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 January 2025. Responsibilities and Basis of Report As the charity trustees of the Company (and also its directors 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 Art"}. Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Art 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 ('the 2011 Act,). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 14J(J) (b) of the 2011 Act. Independent Examiner's Ststement Since the Company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed rny examination. I confirm that no Matters have come to ffly attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe.. l. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or 2. the accounts do not accord with those records: or 3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view, which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or 4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordan with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Prattice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). 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. Caroline Clarke ACA Date 13 October 2025 Clarke + Wells Ground Floor 66 High Street Lewes East Sussex BN7 IXG
Statement of Financial
Down Syndrome Development Trust Statement of Financial Activities (including Income and Expenditure Account) For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 2025 2024 Unrestricted Restricted funds funds Total funds Total funds Notes INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM: Donations and legacies Charltable activities: 94.114 229.429 323.543 178,192 Operations 5.043 5.043 327 99.157 229,429 328.586 178,519 EXPENDITURE ON: Charitable activities- Operations Communication Sports Education Family Support Music Social Development (67.385) (86,648) (154,033) (109,028) (15,901) (15,901) (22,052} (19,283) (13,365) {32.648) 141,851} (306} (60,685) {60.685) (5,650) (7.489) (7,489) (1,415} (37,227) (37.227) 119,779} { 102.569) {205.414) (307.9831 (200,081) NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (3,412) 24,015 20,603 (21,562} NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (3,412) 24,015 20,603 (21,562) RECONCILIATZON OF FUNDS: Total funds brought forward 28,609 20,587 49,196 70,758 TOTAL FUNDS CARIUED FORWARD 16 25.197 44,602 69,799 49,196 The notes on pages 7 to 13 form part of these financial statements.
Down Syndrome Development Trust Comparative Statement of Financial Activities (including Income and Expenditure Account) For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 2024 Unrestrlcted Restrlcted funds funds Total funds Notes INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM: Donations and legacies Charitable activities: Operations 35,876 142,316 178,192 327 327 36,203 142,316 178,519 EXPENDITURE ON: Charitable activities: Operations Communication (14.169) {94,859) (109,028) {9,276) (12.776) (22,052) {6,287) {35,564) (41,851) (306) (306) (5,650) (5,650) (JYJ) (1.022) (1,415) {2,118) { 17,661) 119,779) Sports Education Family Support MUSIC Social Development (38.199) (161,882) (200,081) NET EXPENDITURE { 1.996) {19,566) {21,562) NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS: { 1.996) {19,566) 121,562) Total funds brought forward 40.153 70.758 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 16 28,609 20.587 49,196 The notes on pages 7 to 13 form part of these financial statements.
Statement of ition,.
Down Syndrome Development Trust Balance Sheet As At 31 January 2025 2025 2024 Unrestricted Restrirted funds funds Total funds Totsl funds Notes FIXED ASSErs Tangible Assets io 10.555 8,290 18.845 8,074 10.555 8,290 18.845 8,074 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Cash at bank and in hand li 1.625 25,633 1.625 61.945 1,625 50,583 36,312 27,258 36,312 63,570 52,208 Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year 12 (5,615) (5.615) (3,592) NET CURRENT ASSETS (LIABILITIES) 21,643 36,312 57,955 48,616 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABIUTIES 32.198 44.602 76,800 56,690 Creditors: Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year 13 (7,001) (7.001) {7,494) NET ASSETS 25,197 44,602 69.799 49,196 FUNDS OF THE CHARITY Restricted Funds 44.602 25,197 20,587 28,609 Unrestricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS 16 69.799 49,196 For the year ending 31 January 2025 the charitable company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companie5 Act 2006 relating to small companies. The members have not required the charitable company to obtain an audit in accordance with sertion 476 of the Companies Act 2006. The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the reqU1ments of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts. These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provi5ion5 applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime. On behalf of the board th Mrs Joanna Pike, Chairperson Dated: 6 October 2025 The notes on pages 7 to 13 form part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Financial J/
Down Syndrome Development Trust Notes to the Financial Statements For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 l. General Inforniation Down Syndrome Development Trust is a company limited by guardntee, incorporated in England & Wales. registered number 08346182 and registered charity number 1155830. The registered office is 2. Accounting Policies 2. 1. Basls of Preparatlon of Flnanclal Statements The financial statements have been ppared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) "Accounting and Reporting by Charities- Statement of Reconmended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102) (effective I January 2019)" Financial Reporting Standcrd 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Iroland" and the Companies Art 2006. The charitable company is a Public Benefit =ntity as defined by FRS 102. 2.2. Incoming Resources Income is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any perfomiance conditions attached to the income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and that the amount can be measured reliably. Income from government and other grants. whether'capital. grants or'revenue, grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amovnt can be measured reliably and 15 not deferred. Income Ceived in advance of the provisioi of a specified service is deferred until the criteria for income recognition are met. 2.3. Resources Expended Liabilities are recognised as resources expended when there is a legal or constructive obligatlon committing the Charity to the expenditure. Resources expended include attributable VAT which cannot be recovered. Resources expended are allocated to the particular activity where the cost relates dirertly to that activity. However. the Cost of overall direction and administration on each attivity, comprising the salary and overhead costs of the central function, is apportioned on a basis which is an estimate. based on the proportion of cost of eath activity to the total cost of all activities. 2.4. Tanglble Flxed Assets and Depredatlon Tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. Depreciation is provided at rdtes calculated to write off the cost of the fixed assets. less their estimated residual value. over their expected useful lives on the foll(xving bases- Plant & Machinery Motor Vehicles Computer Equipment 25% Reducing Balance 250h Reducing Balance 33% Straight Line 2.5. Cash and Cash Equlvalents Cash and cash equivalents are basic financ1 assets and include cash in hand and deposits hel,J at call with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments -hat mature in no more than three months from the date of acquisition and are readily convertible to a known amount ?f cash with insignificant risk of change in value. arKJ bank overdrafts. 2.6. Taxation The charity is exempt from tax as all its income is charitable and applied for charitable purposes. 3. Income from Donations and Legacies 2025 Unrestrirted Restricted Total funds funds funds Donations and gifts Grants 52,086 42.028 52,086 271,457 229.429 94,114 229.429 323,543
Down Syndrom• D•valopm•iit Triirt Ilot•s to th• Flnanclal Statements (ContInu) For The Y••r End 31 J•nu•ry 1025 2024 fvnd• 35.626 142.566 142.316 )5?6 142.316 178,192 201S Chdk cldr Chdrert m Pleéd 3,000 5.000 19,000 ESCC Short BreahJ G•rf4d Weston l•tJonal LThy Cxhw Sfflthll Grn SuSg•X Uruw•rsKw of Sussex 6•ly Th¢nK Found•ti 19.(KK I90 1,728 13.5 78.004 37.098 ,000 7.200 11,000 10.000 41,313 4.5SI 2.2SO 5231 36.170 10.5 12.¢ 10.0 41,323 4,551 2.2SO 5.231 8H(X Ty Tru%¢ Chk•w Collrf• A*lJ FoundJllon 7,000 10,000 42.028 229,429 271.457 2024 1,500 5.000 10,000 5,000 I,oDo 10,850 10.000 66.215 14,953 9,948 8,100 Ch4k cliff Chlldr io.oc Kloirnicrt 10,850 Gvftdd W•rton rybol Lrftwy Cxher Srn•ll Grw Sussex Comrnlmlty FThNMl•t UnLv•rvty of Susmx y lou•d•ti 66.215 14.953
Down Syndrome Development Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 BHCC Toy Trust Chichester College Axis Foundatior) The Truemark Trust The Foyle Foundation Savoy Educational Trust 142,566 142,566 Net Income/(Expenditure) The net incomellexpenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting): 2025 2024 Depreclation of tanglble fixed assets - owned 6,283 3,321 5. Analysis of Expenditure 2025 Activitles undertaken dirertly Support Costs {see rote 6) Total Operations Communication 124,519 15.901 32,648 60.685 7,489 37.227 29,514 154,033 15,901 32,648 60.685 7,489 37,227 Sports Family Support Music Social Development 278,469 307,983 2024 Artivities undertaken dlrectly Support costs (see note 6) Totsl Operation5 Communlcation 90.307 22,052 41,851 306 18,721 109,028 22,052 41.851 306 Sports Education Family Support Music Social Development 5,650 1.415 19,779 5.650 1,415 19,779 181,360 18.721 200,081
Down Syndrome Development Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 6. Support Costs 2025 Operations General administration Depreciation Governance costs 22,331 6,283 900 29,514 2024 Operatlons General administration 14,440 3,321 960 Depreciation Governance costs 18,721 7. Independent Examiner's Remuneration 2025 2024 Independent examination of the financial statements 900 960 8. Stsff Costs Staff costs were as follows= 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Other pension costs 206,822 3.076 136,563 4,078 209,898 140,641 No employees received employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) ft)r the reporting perioc of more than £60,000. 9. Average Number of Employees Average number of employees during the year was: 17 (2024- 23) 10. Tangible Assets Plant & Machinery Motor Vehicles Computer Equipment Total Cost As at l February 2024 Additions 19. 140 6.000 2,693 21,833 17,054 11.054 As at 31 January 2025 11,054 25.140 2,693 38,887 .CONTINUED Page 10
Down Syndrome Development Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 Depreclatlon As at l February 2024 Provided during the period 11.066 3.519 2.693 13,759 6,283 2.764 As at 31 January 2025 2.764 14.585 2,693 20,042 Net Book Value As at 31 January 2025 8.290 10,555 18,845 As at l February 2024 8,074 8,074 11. Debtors 2025 2024 Due wlthln one year other debtors 1,625 1,625 12. Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year 2025 2024 Trade creditors 860 860 Other creditors 2,697 259 460 Taxation and social security Accruals and deferred income 963 1,799 1,309 5,615 3,592 13. Creditors: Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year 2025 2024 Other loans 7,001 7,494 14. Loans An analysis of the maturity of loans is given below: 2025 2024 Amounts falling due between one and five years: Other loans 7,001 7,494 15. Pension Commitments The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charitable company in an independently administered fund. During the year the charge to the statement of fironcial artivities in respect of defined contribution schemes was £3.076 {2024.. £4.078)_ At the balance sheet date contributions of £NIL were due to the fund and are included in creditors. Pdge 11
Down Syndrome Development Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 16. Movement in Funds Asati February 2024 Asat31 January 2025 Income Expenditure Unrestricted funds General: General unrestritted fund Restricted funds 28,609 99,157 (102,569) 25,197 National Lottery Social and Learning Going Places Sports Uni Hub 20.587 58.205 8,285 66,105 13.365 25,272 8,600 36.247 13,350 {75.933) (7,213) {57.811) {13,365) (25.272) 18,600) 19.731) 17,489) 2,859 1,072 8,294 Uni intern funding Microbusiness project Youth Music 2Yr Project 26,516 5,861 Total restricted funds 20.587 229.429 (205,414) 44,602 Total funds 49,196 328,586 (307,983) 69,799 Asati February 2023 Asat31 January 2024 Income Expenditure Unrestricted funds General- General unrestricted fund 30,605 36,203 {38, 199) 28,609 Restricted funds National Lottery Going Places Sport5 Uni Hub Uni intern funding Chalk Cliff Trust Children in Need Garfield Weston 18,163 66,216 9,550 {63.792) (9.550) (3,038) (5.019) (8,361) (5,094) 117.030) iio,000) 111.249) 123,749) (5,000) 20,587 3.038 2,119 261 2,900 8.100 5,000 10.000 10,000 9,502 16.048 5,000 7.030 General Restritted Sussex Community Foundation The Edward Gostling Foundation 1,747 7.701 Total r•strictad fund 40.153 142.316 (161.882) 20,587 Total funds 70.758 178,519 (200,081) 49,196 Pdge 12
Down Syndrome Development Trust Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For The Year Ended 31 January 2025 17. Transactions with Trustees Name of trustee Legal authority Remuneration Penslon Contributions 2025 Total Senay Smallwood Regulatory l)ody permission 35,520 876 36,396 During the previous year the following trustee5 have been paid remuneration or have received other benefits from the charity or a related entity.. The Managing Director, Senay Smallwood, is responsible for the day to day management of the Charity as delegated by the Board of Trustees and receives remuneration for work. Remuneration is paid for employment by the Charity and not for being a trustee. The Charity sought permission frcm The Charity Commission to do this and the Articles of Association were amended on 22nd January 2014 accordingly. No trustee expenses have been incurred. 18. Related Party Disclosures There have been no related party transattions in the reporting period that require disclosure, except f)r those disclosed in the Transactions with Trustees note. 19. Company limited by guarantee The company is limited by guarantee and has no ¢hare capital. Every member of the company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the company. in the event of a winding up, such an amount as may be required not exceeding £1. Pdge 13