Charity registration number 1165164 (England and Wales)
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Patron Robert Voss CBE CStJ, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Trustees Susan Clark (Chair) Lyle Aitken (Treasurer) Adina Collins Meena Hansen Kate Holland-Hibbert Suzanne Langridge Chris Luff Simon Putman Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mel Boda Artistic Director Tom Billington Charity number 1165164 Principal address Ramillies The Green Sarratt Rickmansworth Hertfordshire WD3 6AY Independent examiner Gary Howard FCA Howard Wilson Chartered Accountants 36 Crown Rise Watford Hertfordshire WD25 0NE
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Trustees' report | 1 - 10 |
| Independent examiner's report | 11 |
| Statement of financial activities | 12 |
| Balance sheet | 13 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 14 - 26 |
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) constitution, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)".
Objectives and activities
Charitable objects
The charity's objects are to promote social inclusion for the public benefit by preventing people with learning disabilities from becoming socially excluded and assisting them to integrate into society in particular by providing them with opportunities to engage in music and performance.
Public benefit statement
The trustees have had due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit. Electric Umbrella reduces social isolation among learning disabled people, supports their participation in society, and promotes understanding, inclusion, and acceptance within the wider community.
The charity benefits learning disabled children and adults directly through participation in music, performance and creative programmes. The wider public benefits through education and community activities that challenge perceptions of disability and foster more inclusive, accepting communities
Members
Electric Umbrella continues to make a significant difference in the lives of its members , reducing social isolation while supporting wellbeing, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Members benefit from structured pathways for personal and musical development. Families also gain from the support networks and friendships formed, creating a wider community of connection, understanding, and shared experiences.
Impact on Members
Members report a consistently positive impact from attending Electric Umbrella.
Mental Health: Members say attending has improved or supported their mental health.
Community and Belonging: Members say Electric Umbrella gives them a community that they wouldn’t otherwise have, and helps them feel accepted and less isolated.
Other benefits include:
Confidence and Skills: Performing and participation boost confidence, self-esteem, social and life skills, and in some cases speech development.
Friendship and Community: Many describe Electric Umbrella as a community or family where they feel connected.
Enjoyment and Opportunity: Members value performing, singing, experimenting with instruments and having a safe, supportive space. Electric Umbrella members have countless high profile performance opportunities that they wouldn’t otherwise have access to.
Members often describe Electric Umbrella as “a place to be me” and “my happy place.”
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Member Achievement Awards
The Bronze, Silver, and Gold pathway formally recognises personal, social and creative development. It provides a structured way for members to track, celebrate and evidence their progress, making personal growth, skill development, and social participation visible and valued.
Bronze – Building Confidence and Connection recognises members developing the foundations of engagement by attending sessions regularly, meeting and connecting with new people, trying new activities and stepping into the spotlight for the first time. Achieving Bronze demonstrates growing confidence, forming friendships and taking meaningful steps toward belonging in the Electric Umbrella community.
Silver – Exploring Potential and Growing Independence celebrates members stepping further into their potential by exploring new ways to make music and express themselves, performing more regularly and sharing creativity with the group, developing musical and social skills through collaboration and supporting and encouraging other members. Silver shows increasing independence, stronger self-esteem and deeper connection to the community as members discover and share their abilities.
Gold – Leadership, Contribution, and Community recognises members who are role models within Electric Umbrella by leading activities and mentoring peers, sharing skills, confidence, and creativity and demonstrating sustained commitment and positive impact on the community. Gold demonstrates leadership, pride, and a strong sense of belonging. Many members currently at Bronze or Silver already show Gold-level skills, and the pathway provides a formal structure to recognise and celebrate these achievements.
Electric Umbrella became a Trinity College London recognised centre for delivery of their Award and Certificate in Music Development
In 2025, Electric Umbrella became a Trinity College London recognised centre for delivery of their Award and Certificate in Music Development. All 200 members can work towards certification. The programme will also be delivered in SEND schools where the charity runs long-term residencies. This reinforces structured musical development, enabling members and students to gain recognised qualifications, build confidence, and celebrate progress.
Engagement
Electric Umbrella offers a wide range of weekly activities, including paid and free sessions, choir, club nights, open mic nights, gigs, events, online broadcasts and hybrid opportunities. Attendance data shows high levels of engagement, with 80% of members attending multiple sessions per week , highlighting the charity’s role in reducing social isolation, building friendships and supporting wellbeing.
Thousands of attendances occurred across the free online programme, with participants joining from across the UK. Local members attend in-person sessions in Hertfordshire and supplement these with online engagement to boost social interaction and participate independently from home. National members engage meaningfully online, building friendships and community and some travel to Hertfordshire for multi-day in-person experiences to deepen connections. National members span the UK including North and South Wales, Scotland, Norfolk, Birmingham and Devon.
In addition to regular sessions, Electric Umbrella performed at around 40 gigs and events during the year. The charity’s most significant milestone was its appearance on Britain’s Got Talent , performing Acceptance , an original song co-written with members and children from Sarratt School. Children from Sarratt School appeared on stage alongside members to showcase the charity’s education programme, demonstrating how music and creativity can change hearts and minds and represent the organisation’s values and impact.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Education
Between April 2024 and March 2025, Electric Umbrella reached more than 40,000 children and teachers across mainstream and SEND settings through a dynamic programme of visits, workshops, performances and digital engagement. This included over 200 school visits to primary schools, SEND schools, and colleges, delivering interactive, inclusive and creative musical experiences that supported confidence, communication, wellbeing and social connection.
Learning extended far beyond the classroom. The Music Machine online broadcast continued to grow, engaging children in over 400 classrooms across the UK and enabling pupils to sing, move, and connect together in real time.
Flagship Education Projects
Electric Umbrella Education Programme Development
The release of the Electric Umbrella Express album in September 2024 marked a milestone in the development of the education programme. The album brings together original songs created through Electric Umbrella’s work in schools and communities, carrying key messages of inclusion, kindness, acceptance and belonging. These songs are designed to live beyond the performances themselves, providing teachers with tools to spark conversations, reflection and shared learning.
A year-long residency at St Paul’s School, Chipperfield, Hertfordshire allowed Electric Umbrella to work consistently and deeply within one school community. This sustained relationship demonstrated the impact of long-term creative partnerships and informed the development of school workshops that build over time, creating stronger relationships, deeper engagement, and more meaningful outcomes for both pupils and Electric Umbrella members.
No Such Thing as Normal Day
In January, Electric Umbrella delivered its first national online schools assembly, reaching schools across the country with a powerful message of inclusion. Through music, stories, and shared participation, the project celebrated difference and encouraged young people to think differently about what “normal” really means.
Youth Music Partnership Project
Funded by Youth Music, Electric Umbrella partnered with Collett School, Pebble Brook School, Kisharon School, and West Herts College to support young people with additional needs in developing musical, social and leadership skills through collaborative songwriting, rehearsal and performance.
Original Music and Campaigns
Electric Umbrella continued to use original music as a tool for expression, advocacy and social change, releasing songs that amplified young voices and promoted messages of kindness, acceptance and belonging. Each project offered children and Electric Umbrella members opportunities for songwriting, recording, rehearsal and performance, supporting confidence, leadership, social connection and creative development. Together, these initiatives helped to challenge perceptions, promote inclusion and spark meaningful conversations in classrooms and communities.
Feedback from schools consistently highlights the impact of Electric Umbrella’s work on attitudes, understanding and inclusion. Teachers and school leaders reported meaningful changes in how pupils think about difference and belonging. One school reflected that “Electric Umbrella changed the way our students think about inclusion.” Another described the work as “the most joyful and inspiring assembly we’ve ever had.”
These responses demonstrate the effectiveness of Electric Umbrella’s education programme in changing hearts and minds, supporting citizenship and helping to build a more accepting and inclusive society.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Community
Electric Umbrella uses live gigs and partnerships to bring people together, strengthen communities, and promote social inclusion. Performances took place in collaboration with local venues, community groups, and creative partners , creating welcoming spaces where people of all abilities could connect, celebrate and participate.
These events introduced new audiences to Electric Umbrella and deepened relationships with existing supporters, schools and community organisations. Alongside generating income, many partners contributed inkind support such as venues, promotion and technical expertise, enabling more resources to be directed towards community impact.
A major highlight for the charity in 2025 was its appearance on Britain’s Got Talent , performing Acceptance , an original song co-written with members and children from Sarratt School . This was a significant decision for the charity, requiring careful consideration of resource and capacity, values and representation and risk management. Trustees concluded that Electric Umbrella had the expertise, staffing and governance structures to manage the opportunity effectively, and that the potential benefits outweighed the risks.
The performance was strategically significant. It aligned with the charity’s ambition to become a nationally recognised organisation, increased the charity’s profile and visibility, showcased the impact of the education programme with children performing on stage alongside members, and provided a platform to promote the online members programme. Through this exposure, Electric Umbrella strengthened its role as a model for inclusion, demonstrating to audiences, partners, and schools how learning disabled people can contribute meaningfully to creative and community life.
The charity’s performance received Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer , securing Electric Umbrella a place in the semi-final of Britain’s Got Talent in April 2025 . This represents a brilliant opportunity to showcase the work of our members and the impact of our education programme to a national audience. It allows us to further promote inclusion, demonstrate the talent and creativity of learning disabled people, strengthen engagement with schools and communities, and raise the charity’s profile to attract new supporters and partners.
Electric Umbrella Member Programme
Electric Umbrella offers a wide range of activities to support learning disabled members in developing skills, confidence, and social connections.
Face-to-Face Programme – membership fees apply
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Face the Music: weekly group music sessions led by session leaders and musicians.
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Feel the Music: a quieter version of Face the Music sessions.
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Big Yellow Choir: inclusive weekly choir.
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Crew Days: some members can spend additional days each week at Express (mainstream primary schools), Music Machine (SEND settings), or Little Brollies (children aged 0–5), where members and musicians lead workshops and performances.
Face-to-Face Programme – free
- Open Mic Night: monthly live open mic night for members.
Online Programme – membership fees apply
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Cyber Sessions: online equivalent of Face the Music sessions.
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Big Yellow Choir: online equivalent of the weekly face-to-face choir.
Online Programme – free
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EUTV: weekly online show each Monday evening with featured guests, online club nights, and music.
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Singalong: weekly online singalong each Friday afternoon.
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Open Mic Night: monthly online open mic night.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Supporters and Partnerships
Electric Umbrella is supported by a growing network of partners who share its commitment to inclusion and community engagement. Our sessions are run from premises at the Marlowes Shopping Centre in Hemel Hempstead, provided to us free of charge, which allows more resources to be directed to programmes and members. In addition, the charity benefits from a 100% business rates exemption from Dacorum Borough Council, further supporting our financial sustainability and enabling continued investment in inclusive music and performance activities.
Key corporate partners, including Barratt Homes, Welcome Break and Warner Bros , provided financial contributions, practical support and opportunities that extended the charity’s reach and impact. A wide range of individual supporters, local businesses, and community partners also contributed through donations, sponsorship, and in-kind support.
The charity continues to strengthen partnerships with local charities, SEND schools nationally and Hertfordshire mainstream schools. It works closely with Watford Borough Council to promote inclusion across the borough.
Electric Umbrella is privileged to have Robert Voss, Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire , as Patron. He has played a key role in championing and promoting the charity across the county.
Staff and Volunteers
Electric Umbrella employs 19 staff , including 1 full-time and 18 part-time, as well as 3 part-time freelancers. The team comprises the founders, Head of Operations, Head of Education, Head of Finance, thirteen delivery staff across Music and Education, a Member Development administrator, two part-time choir leaders and a parttime freelance Head of Strategy, Communications and Partnerships.
Volunteers are vital to Electric Umbrella’s work. This includes a volunteer Data Protection Officer , who manages GDPR compliance and IT needs, and a volunteer fundraiser who has supported grant income. Volunteers contribute weekly to programmes, online sessions, live performances, album recordings and behindthe-scenes operations.
Staff and Volunteer Development
Electric Umbrella invests in the development of its staff and volunteers, providing training, mentoring and opportunities to build new skills in music, performance, safeguarding and inclusive practice. Safeguarding is a core priority for the charity. All staff and volunteers receive mandatory safeguarding training, and policies are regularly reviewed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of members and participants. The charity has clear reporting procedures, risk assessments for all activities and a dedicated safeguarding lead to oversee compliance and support.
This focus strengthens confidence, improves consistency and ensures all team members can contribute effectively and safely, supporting a collaborative organisational culture.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Fundraising Achievements
Electric Umbrella is grateful for the generosity of individuals, families, and community groups who raised £58,721 during the year. Charity partnerships, corporate events, and gigs generated £110,486 , with key contributors including Barratt Homes (£52,570), Welcome Break (£27,500), VWV, Warner Bros, Mad Squirrel, Irwin Mitchell, and White Productions . Corporate partnerships also provided in-kind support, including during the Britain’s Got Talent event.
Grants totalling £219,148 were awarded, of which £127,148 were restricted and £92,000 unrestricted.
Grant funders included:
Hertfordshire Community Foundation, Hertfordshire County Council, National Lottery Grant, Watford & Three Rivers Trust, Shoresh Charitable Trust, Garfield Weston Foundation, West Herts Charitable Trust, AD Charitable Trust, The Barratt Foundation, The Seneca Trust, D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, Boltini Trust, Meeting Needs and The National Foundation for Youth Music.
These funds have been instrumental in sustaining and expanding Electric Umbrella’s inclusive music and performance programmes , reaching more members, children, and communities across the UK.
Financial review
Income : Total income for the year was £772,650, a decrease of £123,577 from the previous period (2024: £896,227). The decrease year on year is predominantly due to the termination of our Instruments for Change project in the previous year.
In 2025 income was split as follows:
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member activities income (40% of total income) increased by £13,972
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donations, fundraising and corporate income (22% of total income) increased by £53,573
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grant income (28% of total income) decreased by £78,393
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trading income from instruments and merchandise decreased by £116,574
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all other income including gigs and schools (10% of total income) increased by £3,895
Of the grant income, £127,148 was restricted (2024: £102,541).
Expenditure : Total expenditure for the year was £679,404 which was a decrease of £98,223 on the previous period (2024: £777,627). Of that expenditure, £121,032 was paid out of restricted grants received in the year. The decrease year on year is related to the costs saved from terminating our Instruments for Change project the previous year.
Our biggest cost is our staff. We started the year with 17 members of staff on the payroll (1 full time and 16 part time) and ended the year with 19 members of staff (1 full time and 18 part time). Our membership is continuing to grow and the additional staff recruited in the year reflect this trend.
Reserves : At the year end the charity carried forward a balance of £335,468 on unrestricted funds (2024: £242,222) and £0 on restricted funds (2024: £0), as well as a balance of £55,460 of deferred grant income in Accruals and Deferred Income (2024: £25,830). Total unrestricted funds are the equivalent of 4.9 months of running costs.
We delivered a surplus of £93,246 in the year. Although the termination of our Instruments for Change project resulted in a drop in income, it also reduced our costs. We were able to successfully retain members when the project closed and extended our music session provision across the week.
As well as increasing income streams through extending our member activities, we also focused on fundraising efforts to enable Electric Umbrella to deliver its ambitious plans and build reserves.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Reserves policy
The Trustees have agreed a policy whereby funds not committed or restricted by the charity should be maintained at a level sufficient to pay staff and running costs for a minimum of three months and up to six months. Our current reserves level meets this minimum threshold; on 31st March 2025 we held 4.9 months of running costs in unrestricted reserves.
This policy allows for a reduction of income or lack of fundraising success during any particular year whilst allowing the charity to continue its activities at the current level for three months. The Trustees have carried out a risk profile on the income and expenditure streams which indicate we have successfully diversified income streams through crew days, corporate partnerships and seeking core costs grants. Electric Umbrella’s main committed expenditure is for staff and venue costs.
We strive to maintain an increasingly diverse stream of income to reduce risk of reliance on one or two sources.
The principal sources of income are:
Member fees Gigs/shows Grants and Trusts Corporate partnerships Individual giving Merchandise sales Schools programme (Express & Music Machine)
Risk management
Risk factors and review
The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks. All sessions, crew days, and events are risk assessed, and we update all our policies and procedures on a rolling basis . Safeguarding is a core focus of our risk management. All activities involving members and children are conducted under strict safeguarding policies, with mandatory training for staff and volunteers, clear reporting procedures and oversight from a designated safeguarding lead. These measures ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants while minimising risk to the charity.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Looking Forward
The trustees look ahead with confidence and ambition. Building on the momentum of Britain’s Got Talent and the growth of the education and online member programmes, Electric Umbrella will continue to expand its reach while maintaining the quality, safety, and inclusivity of its work. Over the coming year the charity will develop a digital education platform to enable its education programme to have national reach and impact, ensuring schools across the UK can access high quality, inclusive resources and creative learning experiences.
Electric Umbrella will build on its national profile to deliver larger and higher profile gigs, grow strategic partnerships, and lead campaigns with key partners that promote inclusion and social change. The charity will also continue to release new singles and albums, using original music as a powerful tool to challenge perceptions, amplify learning disabled voices, and build a more accepting society.
The trustees remain committed to ensuring that Electric Umbrella is financially sustainable, well governed, and able to deliver meaningful impact for learning disabled people, their families, and the wider community for many years to come.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Structure, governance and management
Nature of governing document and how we are constituted
Electric Umbrella is a foundation Charitable Incorporated Organisation governed by its foundation CIO constitution and registered with the Charity Commission on 14 January 2016.
Trustees
The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:
Lyle Aitken Tony Bernstein (resigned 22nd May 2024) Dave Carey (resigned 10th November 2025) Susan Clark (appointed 1st July 2024) Adina Collins Meena Hansen Kate Holland-Hibbert Suzanne Langridge Chris Luff Simon Puttman (appointed 16th September 2024) Sarah Thompson (resigned 10th November 2025)
Recruitment and appointment of trustees
New Trustees are invited onto the Board by the existing Trustees, having been made aware of the aims and scope of the charity and of their duties and responsibilities as trustees. The Trustees reflect the needs of the charity and they offer a wide range of skills and experience.
Organisational structure
Day to day operations are delegated to the CEO, Melanie Boda who reports to the Trustees who meet at least 6 times per year.
Induction and training of trustees
The Chair of the board of Trustees meets each new trustee to provide Trustee induction. New trustees undertake a rigorous interview process. The CEO provides a guided tour of all services, information on the history of the organisation and current operations.
The charity Trustees make available to each new charity Trustee, on or before his or her first appointment:
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a copy of the current version of our Constitution; and
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a copy of the CIO’s latest Trustees’ Annual Report and Statement of Accounts
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a copy of the Charity Commission's guide "The Essential Trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do" (CC3); and
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a copy of the Charity Commission's "Charity Trustee Welcome Pack"
The trustees have successfully participated in the Better Boards training conducted by Hertfordshire Community Foundation.
Relationship with wider network
Electric Umbrella have excellent and numerous partnerships with other charitable organisations, and musicians across the industry that we continue to grow and develop. These relationships are developed through collaboration on our albums and delivery of our online programmes. Key partners over the year have included Mencap, Williams Syndrome Foundation, Emmaus, Sunnyside Rural Trust, Hertfordshire Community Foundation, Watford Pump House Theatre, Watford Borough Council, Dacorum Borough Council, Marlowes Shopping Centre and a wealth of both SEND and mainstream schools across the country.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Statement of trustees' responsibilities
The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in England and Wales 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 charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that year.
In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:
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select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for keeping sufficient accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.
I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Board of Trustees to extend huge thanks to the members, staff, volunteers, supporters, ambassadors, advisors, the wider Electric Umbrella community and our Patron, The Lord-Lieutenant Robert Voss CBE CStJ for all their support and hard work - without each of you Electric Umbrella would not be the success it is today.
S Clark
Susan Clark
Chair of Trustees
Dated: 26 January 2026
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Electric Umbrella (the charity) for the year ended 31 March 2025.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the trustees of the charity you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011.
I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements 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 Charities Act 2011.
Independent examiner's statement
Since the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000, the independent examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. I confirm that I 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.
Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared the financial statements in accordance with the relevant version of the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their financial statements in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has now been withdrawn. I understand that this has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
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1 accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Charities Act 2011.
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2 the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
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3 the financial statements do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of financial statements set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the financial statements give a true and fair view, which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
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 financial statements to be reached.
Gary Howard FCA
Howard Wilson Chartered Accountants 36 Crown Rise Watford Hertfordshire WD25 0NE 26 January 2026
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Notes £ £ Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies 3 261,207 - Charitable activities 4 370,585 127,148 Investments 5 2,055 - Other income 6 11,655 - Total income 645,502 127,148 Expenditure on: Raising funds 7 70,803 476 Charitable activities 8 487,569 120,556 Total expenditure 558,372 121,032 Net income 87,130 6,116 Transfers between funds 6,116 (6,116) Net movement in funds 9 93,246 - Reconciliation of funds: Fund balances at 1 April 2024 242,222 - Fund balances at 31 March 2025 335,468 - |
Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2024 2024 £ £ £ 261,207 310,684 - 497,733 483,002 102,541 2,055 - - 11,655 - - 772,650 793,686 102,541 71,279 71,726 6,225 608,125 596,639 103,037 679,404 668,365 109,262 93,246 125,321 (6,721) - - - 93,246 125,321 (6,721) 242,222 116,901 6,721 335,468 242,222 - |
Total 2024 £ 310,684 585,543 - - |
|---|---|---|
| 896,227 | ||
| 77,951 699,676 |
||
| 777,627 | ||
| 118,600 - |
||
| 118,600 123,622 |
||
| 242,222 |
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 MARCH 2025
| Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 13 Current assets Stocks 14 Debtors 15 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 16 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities The funds of the charity Unrestricted funds 20 |
2025 £ 824 26,922 330,962 358,708 (86,492) |
£ 63,252 272,216 335,468 335,468 335,468 |
2024 £ 741 56,359 191,774 248,874 (79,594) |
£ 72,942 169,280 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 242,222 | ||||
| 242,222 | ||||
| 242,222 |
The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 26 January 2026
S Clark
Susan Clark Trustee
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
1 Accounting policies
Charity information
Electric Umbrella is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).
1.1 Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's CIO constitution, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletin 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.
The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2 Going concern
At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
1.3 Charitable funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.
Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
1.4 Income
Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Cash donations are recognised on receipt. All other income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, otherwise the income is deferred until the performance conditions have been fulfilled. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
1.5 Expenditure
Expenditure is included in the Statement of Financial Activities on an accruals basis inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.6 Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
Fixtures and fittings 33% straight line Motor vehicles 25% straight line
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.
The trustees have a policy not to capitalise individual asset purchases costing less than £1,000.
1.7 Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
1.8 Stocks
Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replacement cost and cost.
Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.
1.9 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
1.10 Financial instruments
The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Basic financial assets
Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
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ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.11 Employee benefits
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
1.12 Retirement benefits
Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.
2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements
In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.
3 Income from donations and legacies
| Unrestricted | Unrestricted | |
|---|---|---|
| funds | funds | |
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Donations and gifts | 169,207 | 115,684 |
| Grants | 92,000 | 195,000 |
| 261,207 | 310,684 |
- 16 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| Income from donations and legacies Grants The Barratt Foundation The Seneca Trust Garfield Weston Foundation Betty Messenger Charitable Foundation Foyle Foundation Chapman Charitable Trust Arabella Duffield Income from charitable activities Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 £ £ Charitable Activities Session and choir fees 309,281 - Events and gigs 9,067 - Education programme income 48,536 - Grants income - 127,148 Instruments and merchandise sales 3,701 - 370,585 127,148 |
Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds 2025 2024 £ £ (Continued) 37,000 - - 100,000 30,000 30,000 - 25,000 - 38,000 - 2,000 25,000 - 92,000 195,000 Total Unrestricted Restricted Total funds funds 2025 2024 2024 2024 £ £ £ £ 309,281 295,309 - 295,309 9,067 25,698 - 25,698 48,536 41,720 - 41,720 127,148 - 102,541 102,541 3,701 120,275 - 120,275 497,733 483,002 102,541 585,543 |
Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds 2025 2024 £ £ (Continued) 37,000 - - 100,000 30,000 30,000 - 25,000 - 38,000 - 2,000 25,000 - 92,000 195,000 Total Unrestricted Restricted Total funds funds 2025 2024 2024 2024 £ £ £ £ 309,281 295,309 - 295,309 9,067 25,698 - 25,698 48,536 41,720 - 41,720 127,148 - 102,541 102,541 3,701 120,275 - 120,275 497,733 483,002 102,541 585,543 |
|---|---|---|
| 195,000 | ||
| Total 2024 £ 295,309 25,698 41,720 102,541 120,275 |
||
| 585,543 |
3 Income from donations and legacies
4 Income from charitable activities
- 17 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| 4 | Income from charitable activities | (Continued) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance related grants analysis | |||
| Charitable | Charitable | ||
| Activities | Activities | ||
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| The National Lottery Community Fund | 9,990 | 10,000 | |
| Seneca Trust | 15,000 | - | |
| Hertfordshire Community Foundation | 59,812 | 40,882 | |
| Watford Cultural & Development Grant | - | 10,000 | |
| The National Foundation for Youth Music | 12,500 | - | |
| The D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust | 4,830 | - | |
| Boltini Trust | 10,000 | - | |
| People's Postcode Lottery | - | 22,653 | |
| Other | 15,016 | 19,006 | |
| 127,148 | 102,541 | ||
| 5 | Income from investments | ||
| Unrestricted | Unrestricted | ||
| funds | funds | ||
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Interest receivable | 2,055 | - | |
| 6 | Other income | ||
| Unrestricted | Unrestricted | ||
| funds | funds | ||
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Net gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets | 11,655 | - |
- 18 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| 7 8 |
Raising funds Unrestricted Restricted Total Total funds funds 2025 2025 2025 2024 £ £ £ £ Fundraising and publicity Marketing and Website costs 64,747 476 65,223 71,359 Other fundraising costs 6,056 - 6,056 6,592 70,803 476 71,279 77,951 For the year ended 31 March 2024 Fundraising and publicity 71,726 6,225 77,951 Expenditure on charitable activities Charitable Activities Charitable Activities 2025 2024 £ £ Direct costs Staff costs 431,218 516,874 Depreciation and impairment 27,394 30,130 Session and choir costs 30,292 31,781 Event costs 39,672 37,878 Arena costs 16,686 34,271 Equipment purchases 19,588 10,179 Insurance 3,545 3,250 Travel 6,766 2,036 Office costs 4,632 3,328 Legal and professional costs 3,234 5,000 Other costs 1,007 3,346 Governance costs 850 785 Bank charges and other finance costs 2,618 4,572 Vehicle costs 20,623 16,246 608,125 699,676 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 487,569 596,639 Restricted funds 120,556 103,037 608,125 699,676 |
|---|---|
- 19 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| 9 | Net movement in funds | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||
| The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting): | |||
| Fees payable for the independent examination of the charity's financial | |||
| statements | 800 | 750 | |
| Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets | 27,394 | 30,130 | |
| Profit on disposal of tangible fixed assets | (11,655) | - |
10 Trustees
None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year.
11 Employees
Number of employees
The average monthly number of employees during the year was:
| Direct charitable work Employment costs Staff costs and leaders fees Social security costs Other pension costs |
2025 Number 16 2025 £ 393,766 30,444 7,008 431,218 |
2024 Number 22 |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 £ 473,245 34,526 9,103 |
||
| 516,874 |
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more.
12 Taxation
The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.
- 20 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| 13 Tangible fixed assets Fixtures and fittings £ Cost At 1 April 2024 4,794 Disposals - At 31 March 2025 4,794 Depreciation and impairment At 1 April 2024 2,885 Depreciation charged in the year 1,349 Eliminated in respect of disposals - At 31 March 2025 4,234 Carrying amount At 31 March 2025 560 At 31 March 2024 1,909 14 Stocks Finished goods and goods for resale 15 Debtors Amounts falling due within one year: Trade debtors Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 16 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Notes Other taxation and social security Deferred income 17 Other creditors Accruals |
|
|---|---|
- 21 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
| 17 | Deferred income | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Other deferred income | 62,892 | 57,960 | |
| Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows: | |||
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Deferred income is included within: | |||
| Current liabilities | 62,892 | 57,960 | |
| Movements in the year: | |||
| Deferred income at 1 April 2024 | 57,960 | 35,908 | |
| Released from previous periods | (57,960) | (35,908) | |
| Resources deferred in the year | 62,892 | 57,960 | |
| Deferred income at 31 March 2025 | 62,892 | 57,960 | |
| 18 | Retirement benefit schemes | ||
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| Defined contribution schemes | £ | £ | |
| Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes | 7,008 | 9,103 |
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.
- 22 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
19 Restricted funds
The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.
| At 1 April | Incoming | Resources | Transfers | At 31 March | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | resources | expended | 2025 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Hertfordshire County Council | - | 900 | (900) | - | - |
| Shoresh Foundation | - | 1,500 | (1,500) | - | - |
| The Graham Rowlandson Foundation | - | 25,500 | (25,500) | - | - |
| The Boltini Trust | - | 10,000 | (10,000) | - | - |
| West Herts Charity Trust | - | 6,116 | - | (6,116) | - |
| The National Lottery/Awards for All | - | 9,990 | (9,990) | - | - |
| Watford & Three Rivers Trust | - | 1,500 | (1,500) | - | - |
| Youth Music | - | 12,500 | (12,500) | - | - |
| Seneca Trust | - | 15,000 | (15,000) | - | - |
| Meeting Needs | - | 5,000 | (5,000) | - | - |
| Hertfordshire Community Foundation - User Voice | - | 6,000 | (6,000) | - | - |
| Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Music Machine | - | 10,000 | (10,000) | - | - |
| Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Quercus | - | 5,000 | (5,000) | - | - |
| Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Member Development Programme | - | 13,312 | (13,312) | - | - |
| The D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust | - | 4,830 | (4,830) | - | - |
| - | 127,148 | (121,032) | (6,116) | - |
- 23 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
19 Restricted funds
(Continued)
| Previous year: | At 1 April | Incoming | Resources | Transfers | At 31 March |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | resources | expended | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Percy Bilton Grant | - | 5,106 | (5,106) | - | - |
| Watford Palace Theatre | - | 10,000 | (10,000) | - | - |
| Hertfordshire County Council | - | 6,900 | (6,900) | - | - |
| HCF - Rowlandson Grant | - | 24,344 | (24,344) | - | - |
| Peoples Postcode Lottery | - | 22,653 | (22,653) | - | - |
| The National Lottery/Awards for All grant | - | 10,000 | (10,000) | - | - |
| Minibus fund | 6,304 | - | (6,304) | - | - |
| Meeting Needs | - | 5,000 | (5,000) | - | - |
| Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Quercus Grant | 417 | - | (417) | - | - |
| Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Member Development Programme | - | 12,538 | (12,538) | - | - |
| Other funds | - | 6,000 | (6,000) | - | - |
| 6,721 | 102,541 | (109,262) | - | - |
- 24 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
19 Restricted funds
(Continued)
Hertfordshire County Council relates to locality grants which were awarded to support the running of our Electric Umbrella Express Programme.
Shoresh Foundation awarded us a grant towards the costs of our Schools Express Programme.
The Graham Rowlandson Foundation (via Hertfordshire Community Foundation) awarded us a grant towards salary costs for our Primary Education Programme.
The Boltini Trust awarded a grant to fund one of our Music Practitioner’s salaries for 2 days a week.
West Herts Charity Trust awarded a grant to help replace our written off minibus.
The National Lottery Awards for All was a grant awarded to fund weekly online programme, our fortnightly Open Mic nights and our quarterly Club Nights for the year.
Watford & Three Rivers Trust awarded a grant to fund our Shine a Light schools visits to specific schools from January to March 2025 in the lead up to our Shine a Light event in June 2025.
Youth Music have awarded a two year grant to fund our Music Machine programme in four SEND settings, starting in January 2025.
Seneca Trust awarded a grant to cover the costs we incurred during the Britain’s Got Talent audition weekend in Blackpool.
Meeting Needs awarded a grant to fund our Express schools visits from January to March 2025 in the lead up to the Shine a Light event in June 2025.
Hertfordshire Community Foundation - User Voice is a grant to fund two days a week of the member development staff for six months in the year.
Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Music Machine is a grant to fund an extra day a week of the Music Machine work in SEND schools for six months in the year.
Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Quercus a warded a grant for the Express Schools Programme within Watford mainstream primary schools.
Hertfordshire Community Foundation - Member Development Programme awarded a grant for a fourth year for our Member Development Programme.
The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust awarded a grant to fund the Big Yellow Choir for the year.
Transfers relate to grants used towards the cost of fixed assets acquired and capitalised in the year.
- 25 -
ELECTRIC UMBRELLA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
20 Unrestricted funds
The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.
| At 1 April | Incoming | Resources | Transfers | At 31 March | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | resources | expended | 2025 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General funds | 242,222 | 645,502 | (558,372) | 6,116 | 335,468 |
| Previous year: | At 1 April | Incoming | Resources | Transfers | At 31 March |
| 2023 | resources | expended | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General funds | 116,901 | 793,686 | (668,365) | - | 242,222 |
21 Related party transactions
There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2024 - none).
- 26 -