2025-03-31-accounts - Halton Speak Out CIO

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Halton Speak Out Annual

Report oS
• Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much" – Helen Keller.

2025

Content

Welcome and running order Page 2 A word from our chairperson- Ged Upham Page 3 Brookvale Community Centre Page 4 Brookvale Adult project Page 6 Brookvale Volunteers project Page 7 Brookvale Youth Project Page 9 Brookvale Know Your Neighbourhood Page 11

Hello and Welcome for Ged Upham- Chair of Trustee’s

For 27 years, Halton Speak Out has been dedicated to empowering people with learning disabilities in Halton, ensuring their voices are heard and valued. For the past 6 years, they have also proudly managed and supported the people of Brookvale , continuing their mission to create a community where everyone is respected, included, and able to speak up for themselves.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on those words: Halton Speak Out . They represent more than just a name — they capture the heart, the drive, and the passion of an organisation and the incredible people who work within it, tirelessly advocating for others and making a real difference every day.

And if we look closely at each letter in Halton Speak Out , we begin to understand what this organisation truly stands for:

H is for the Heart this organisation has, and for what it believes in.
A is for the Amazing work the team does for everyone they come into contact with.
L is for being ever ready to Listen and help wherever they can.
T is for the Trust of the people, earned over many years.
O is for the Opportunities they take and create to help others thrive.
N is for Nurturing —watching people and projects grow under their care.
S is for the Safe place people call Brookvale Community Centre.
P is for being Passionate about everything they do.
E is for the Enthusiasm that drives them forward.
A is for Advocating for others whenever it is needed.
K is for the Knowledge they hold about the people they support and how best to help them.
O is for every Opportunity they have taken to grow and improve their service.
U is for being truly Unique —you won’t find another organisation quite like it.
T is for being Tenacious , never giving up, no matter the challenges.

So, as you can see, spelling out Halton Speak Out tells the story of an organisation that is built on values, dedication, and care.

As Chair of the Trustees, I look forward to hearing about the projects, the staff, and the people whose lives have been touched by this work. I’m sure you’ll share my appreciation for the hard work, commitment, and heart that define the team here at Brookvale

Brookvale CommunityCentre - Yvonne Smallman -Centre Manager Introduction

Since commencing my post in December 2023, we have made great progress in various areas to enhance our Community Centre and ensure it remains at the heart of our community.

Footfall and Income Generation

Our main focus has always been to increase footfall and boost income for the Centre. The year 2024/2025 has not disappointed us, with an impressive 15.03% increase .

Key Drivers of Growth:

Enhanced Social Media Presence – Regular updates and targeted campaigns have raised our visibility.
Support for Community Groups – Engaging and assisting local groups has helped them expand their activities.
Room Hire Promotion – Improved marketing and accessibility, supported by the Know Your Neighbourhood grant, has driven demand.

Our commitment to outreach and community support has translated into real financial growth. These efforts not only boosted income but also strengthened our role as a vibrant hub for local engagement.The Café

The café continues to thrive, increasing footfall by providing good, wholesome food at affordable prices for our community.

Highlights include:

Children enjoying a special Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
Weekly Crochet and Knit & Natter groups, offering friendship and connection

The café has become a real social hub, bringing people together to enjoy food, laughter, and company.

Volunteers

Once again, volunteers have played a huge role in supporting the Centre. From painting and decorating both inside and outside, to welcoming new people and helping with events, their contribution has been invaluable.

We are also grateful to local companies who offered their time and resources to make our Centre a more welcoming place to be.

Activities & Events

The Centre has been buzzing with activities and events that bring people together, including:

Christmas Meal for Over 50s – A festive event with hampers, entertainment, and a wonderful sense of community spirit.
Youth Activities – Free sessions during school halfterms.
Monthly Bingo – Always popular, with Asda vouchers as prizes.
Christmas Market – Stalls, Santa’s Grotto (with free gifts for children), and festive fun supported by Area Forum funding.
Easter Event – Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, with eggs and photo opportunities.
Weekly Group Activities – Ongoing and growing, thanks to word of mouth and promotion.

Know Your Neighbourhood – National Lottery Project

We are delighted that Halton Speak Out has successfully secured a National Lottery bid to provide a variety of group activities for the community.

These six-week courses give participants the chance to:

Learn new skills
Meet new people and combat loneliness
Boost their mental health and wellbeing

Every course has been well attended, and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many people have told us how much they’ve enjoyed learning, making friends, and feeling part of something special.

Conclusion

The Centre is making strong progress, and we remain committed to continuing our efforts to ensure Brookvale Community Centre is a welcoming venue for all.

Brookvale Community Centre is more than just a building— it’s the heartbeat of our

neighbourhood.

It’s where people come together to share laughter, learn new skills, support one another, and most importantly, feel that they truly belong

Adult Project - Sue Jones

For over 27 years, Halton Speak Out has supported self-advocates with learning disabilities, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs represented.

This year, we continued our strong presence on the Learning Disability Partnership Board,sharing real-life experiences from our self-advocates and the wider community. These contributions have highlighted both the challenges and successes of people with learningdisabilities, helping shape decisions that directly affect their lives.

We were especially proud to be part of developing the Adult Learning Disability Strategy for Halton. Our selfadvocates shared personal experiences of local services and supports,ensuring the strategy truly reflects the needs and aspirations of people with learningdisabilities.

Collaboration has been at the heart of our work. We partnered with organizations including Think Local Act Personal, People Power, ADASS, and Oxford Brooks University to co-produce solutions that make health and social care more personalised and responsive. Our work has taken us across the North West, strengthening networks and learning from other communities. These connections have helped us advocate more effectively for better services and Pr opportunities in Halton.

Alongside advocacy, we have continued to organize inclusive and fun activities that bring people together and create lasting memories. Highlights include:

Afternoon Teas: Friendly gatherings to chat, share experiences, and enjoy a welcoming environment.
Quizzes and Get Togethers: Fun, interactive sessions helping people connect and form friendships.
Disco Parties: A lively August event hosted by two selfadvocates as DJs, filled with music, dancing, and fun.

In summary, this year has been about empowering self-advocates, shaping local strategies, and building community connections. We remain committed to giving people with learning disabilities and/or autism a voice and supporting them to live fulfilling, independent lives.

Volunteer Project - Sam McClure, Amy Rotherham

Volunteer Engagement & Community Involvement

This year has been an inspiring one for our volunteer programme, with several positive developments aimed at supporting, celebrating, and empowering our dedicated team.

· Volunteer Identity & Recognition

To ensure every volunteer feels valued and part of the team, we introduced new Volunteer ID lanyards for all newcomers and updated badges for existing volunteers. This small but meaningful step has strengthened our sense of community and professionalism.

· Listening to Volunteer Voices

Feedback has been at the heart of our approach this year. After each Ella Show , volunteers were invited to share their experiences through post-event feedback forms . These insights have been invaluable in highlighting what works well and where we can improve.

In addition, a general volunteer feedback survey was introduced. This not only revealed areas where volunteers are keen to explore new opportunities, but also demonstrated the incredible impact volunteering has on individuals.

100% of our volunteers reported improvements in both their mental

health and confidence , with many also sharing how they have developed new skills. One volunteer summed it up beautifully:

“Being part of this team has changed my life. I feel more confident, happier, and I’ve learned skills I never thought I would.”

· Community Presence

We proudly represented our volunteering opportunities at several community events, engaging with local people and raising awareness about the vital role volunteers play in our work:

o Brookvale Makers Market

o Disability Awareness Day

o Summer Time Special

o Local Election Day

· Looking Ahead

To build on this momentum, we are

now seeking passionate individuals to join a new Fundraising Committee . Their efforts will be vital in helping us raise much-needed

funds to continue growing our work and supporting the volunteers who give so much.

Together, these initiatives have strengthened our volunteer community, celebrated their contributions, and laid the foundation for even greater impact in the year ahead.

Upcoming Projects & Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the progress made this year, it is clear that we have laid strong foundations to build upon—foundations that not only strengthen our organisation but also make a lasting difference in people’s lives. The impact of our volunteer programme has already shown how confidence, wellbeing, and skills can be transformed through meaningful opportunities, and we are committed to expanding this work in the year ahead.

Looking forward, our focus will be on continuing to grow, innovate, and create even more pathways for people to flourish . With the dedication of our volunteers and the support of our community, we are well positioned to enhance our reach, provide new opportunities, and further improve the lives of those we serve.

Building Together: Community Engagement & Transformation

Over the past two years, we have worked hand-in-hand with our community to not only strengthen engagement but to create something truly special—a sense of shared ownership and pride in our building and gardens.

Through open conversations, calls for support, and collaborative action, our community has stepped forward with generosity, creativity, and determination. Together, we have begun the journey of refurbishing our building and transforming the gardens into welcoming, vibrant spaces. What once were ordinary grounds are now alive with planting pots, flowers, and greenery that brighten our surroundings and uplift the street image for everyone who passes by.

This has been more than just a refurbishment—it has been a movement of people coming together, giving their time, skills, and passion to create something lasting. The gardens and outdoor spaces are no longer just “ours” as an organisation; they now belong to the community . Residents and volunteers alike are using, caring for, and enjoying these areas, making them a true reflection of what happens when people unite with a shared vision.

We also note that the current post of Volunteer Coordinator is due to conclude on 31st October 2025 . This presents both > a moment of transition and an opportunity to review, strengthen, and evolve our volunteer programme so that it continues to thrive well into the future.

Together, we are building not just projects, but possibilities—creating lasting change that empowers individuals, enriches communities, and inspires hope for the years to come.

Brookvale Youth Project. Jack Hampson

How Our Youth Engagement delivers and Exceeds our Goals

My role involves delivering a range of interconnected programmes, which together create a cohesive network of opportunities for young people, directly supporting our funders’ objectives of engagement, skill development, and community belonging.” Zz.)=f maTal2 =
Total Engagements: 753 young people – some through one-off activities, others through regular participation
Our Youth Group: Consistent group of 7 (Ages 10-14), build upon and bring a new generation to continue the council that was set and created in 2022.
Alignment with Funder’s Goals:

Strong foundation and the building blocks in “Amplifying Youth Voice, Build Friendships and create community Belonging” (Brookvale Community Centre, 2022)

Figure 1:

Figure 2: A Web of Youth Engagement and Community Impact

Our Outcomes and Achievements Presently

Young people thrive and most importantly enjoy creating from scratch (Bath Bombs, Sewing) – Soft Skills
Trail and put out sport this summer at the centre – well received, allowing for the continued during upcoming events.
Young Council, supported the community centre’s work massively: 98 hours of Volunteering (Aug24Apr25)
Residential and trips (Menai – where we saw laughter, smiles and stories to tell.
Evaluation: These experiences, have strengthened trust in the young people we engage with, Numbers are key, but sometimes the stories you get are just as important – it tells you why

Challenges & Lesson’s Learned

Areas of Improvement:

Strengthen our social media presence for our youth project’s – trialled through our upcoming Dance Programme (Promotional video)
Explored reasons for the drop-off in numbers in 11-14 age group
Refocus meal programme to Brookvale Primary School
Key Takeaway: Success needs persistence and flexibility

Upcoming Projects (2025-2026)

Planned initiatives:

6-week youth dance programme with an intergenerational link
Plan & run another trip to Menai
Collaborate closely with the development manager through funding bids
Meal Programme funded by the Police Crime Commissioner(Yr 5-6)
More youth-led projects + Youth leadership focus
Mentoring youth into training, volunteering and employment pathways

Community Impact: The voice of the young people

Special Achievement:

Planning & Delivering of Menai – laughter, skills and the friendships made was amazing to witness
Personal stories you make with the children or the children have with their peers

Know your Neighbourhood. Lynne Hall

Funded by the National Lottery’s Know Your Neighbourhood Fund programme, the initiative launched in 2023 and will conclude in October 2025. The centre was commissioned to deliver inclusive events that promote learning, wellbeing, social connection, and the formation of new community groups.

To date, a diverse programme of free activities has been successfully delivered, including:

· Beginners computer courses, two Jo Cox Foundation events

· Yoga events, floristry events, sewing events salsa, fitness Pilates, Latin & ballroom dance, arts & crafts, dancersise, crochet, sign language, mindful miniatures

Two independent groups have emerged so far—The Bobbin Along Club (sewing) and Crafty Crochet, now self-sustaining and contributing to the centre’s income through room hire. These models offers a promising blueprint for future initiatives. A third group Mindful Miniatures is also in the process of becoming self-sustaining.

Ongoing Projects

The Know Your Neighbourhood programme continues through October 2025, with further opportunities for groups to become independent and operate from the centre. To support long-term sustainability, we’re helping emerging groups with financial setup, insurance, funding applications, and access to sustainability advice. Upcoming activities include pastel painting, yoga and line dancing.

Feedback has been gathered throughout the initiative and as we approach its conclusion, we’re consolidating insights focused on success stories, overall impact, group sustainability, and future funding and partnership opportunities.

Upcoming Projects (next year)

Over the coming year, I’ll prioritise increasing income for the centre through a diverse mix of revenue streams, not just room hire, but also grants, fundraising events and strategic partnerships. This is about reinvesting in our community and ensuring longterm sustainability. Key actions include:

· Maximising space usage by reviewing underused areas and adapting them for a wider range of activities

Engaging local groups and businesses with affordable, flexible hire options to attract workshops, clubs, training, and social events
Launching community-led fundraising initiatives such as events and sponsorship

· Pursuing grant funding to support growth and impact

Community/Member Projects

We’ve successfully achieved our intended outcomes from the Know Your Neighbourhood initiative by enhancing skills and learning, improving mental and physical wellbeing and strengthening community bonds through new friendships and shared experiences

Going forward we will continue to deliver events that genuinely reflect our community’s interests and needs, keeping the centre active, visible and welcoming. We’ll consult widely and co-create activities with local people and groups, encouraging shared ownership and participation. These events will strengthen our role as a vibrant hub while raising our profile and deepening connections with our community.

Special achievements or things we were most proud of

The feedback collected to date has shown us how important these events have been for our community. 89.7% of people have told us they have made new connections or friendships through attending our centre.

Feedback received and has been profound, there are so many I could share but here are a few:

“I have met a smashing bunch of people, feel welcome and relaxed. Coming here takes my mind off things worrying me at home. Also I feel supported in learning new sewing skills and don’t worry about making mistakes and being judged”.

“The group has made me feel accepted and would love to continue with the friendships I have made. I often have felt isolated and alone, but this has been so good for me socially. The tutor was also really good, patient, helpful, informative and really down to earth. I will definitely be looking out for future events”.

“Having found the community centre, I would l definitely love to attend other courses, activities. I think Lynne and Yvonne are very welcoming and make you feel so comfortable about trying new activities. I am new to the centre and think it is a great place. I have signed up for pilates and will keep an eye open for any other activities that interest me”

Halton Speak Out CiO

Charity number 1170145

Annual Report and Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 March 2025

Halton Speak Out CiO

Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 March 2025

Contents	Page
Trustees' report	2
Examiner's statement	3
Statement of financial activities	4
Balance sheet	5
Notes to the accounts	6 to 8

Prepared by the Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service

Halton Speak Out CiO

Trustees' report

The trustees during the year were:

Name

Mr Gerard Upham Mr Kenneth Williams Mrs Sheila Maloney Mrs Lynne Melarangi Mr Colin Rotherham

Method of appointment

Appointment of trustees is governed by the constitution of the charity. The executive committee of trustees is authorised to appoint new trustees to fill vacancies arising through the resignation or death of an existing trustee.

Principal address

Higher House Northwich Road Brookvale Runcorn WA7 6PE

Bankers

CoOperative Bank PO Box 250 Skelmersdale Lancashire WN8 6WT

Governing document

The charity is a charitable incorporated organisation registered on 14th November 2016.

Objects of the organisation

For the benefit of the public, the relief and support of children and adults with learning and other disabilities includiing persons who are vulnerable, by the provision of advocacy and like support services, training, educational and other services designed to relieve their condition, and to allow them to take their full place in society.

The provision of facilities which will enable them to take part in the dramatic and visual arts, including the provision of training, education, practical demonstrations and participative learning.

Independent examiner

on behalf of:

Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service

St Maries Lugsdale Road Widnes WA8 6DB

Halton Speak Out CiO

Independent examiner's report on the accounts of Halton Speak Out CiO for the year ended 31 March 2025

I report on the accounts for the year ended 31st March 2025 set out on pages 4 to 8

Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and the examiner

As the charity's trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts; you consider that the audit requirement of section 43(2) of the Charities Act 1993 does not apply. It is my responsibility to examine the accounts using procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission and to state whether 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 Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as 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 statements below.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:

q to keep accounting records in accordance with section 41 of the Act; and

q to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with the accounting requirements of the Act

have not been met; or

2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Jane Williams MAAT

Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service

St Maries Lugsdale Road Widnes WA8 6DB

29th September 2025

Halton Speak Out CiO Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 March 2025

Notes 2025 Unrestricted funds £ Incoming Resources Grants and donations (2) 40 Other Income - Centre Café & Room Hires 140,904 Bank Interest Received - Total incoming resources 140,944 Resources expended Salaries and NICs (3) 72,994 Payroll fees 245 Consultancy 1,227 Sundry expenses 348 Equipment 3,152 Rent & Premises Costs 57,825 Postage, Stationery & Telephone 501 Insurance 2,040 Website, Advertising & Publicity 648 DBS Checks 94 Volunteers - Training 60 Café Supplies 21,120 Information & Resources 2,235 Project costs 3 Governance Costs - Independent Examination & Accountancy 315 Professional fees 2,584 Administration 15 Total resources expended 165,406 Net incoming / (outgoing) resources (24,462) Transfers between funds 164,296 16,433 Fund balances carried forward (4) 156,267 Fund balances brought forward	2025 Restricted funds £ 169,612 - - - 169,612 98,104 771 11,121 1,378 5,427 - 1,399 - 216 100 - 137 - - 8,813 - - - 127,466 42,146 (164,296) 177,796 55,646	2025 Total funds £ 169,652 - 140,904 - 310,556 171,098 1,016 12,348 1,726 8,579 57,825 1,900 2,040 864 194 - 197 21,120 2,235 8,816 315 2,584 15 292,872 17,684 - 194,229 211,913	2024 Total funds £ 157,412 1,730 116,260 -
			275,402
			160,653 1,053 13,735 116 12,244 33,930 130 1,949 43 424 623 58 17,626 1,161 - 300 1,528 -
			245,573
			29,829 - 164,400
			194,229

Halton Speak Out CiO

Balance sheet

as at 31 March 2025

2025 Unrestricted Fixed Assets £ Tangible Assets (5) - Total fixed assets - Current Assets Debtors and prepayments (6) - Cash at bank and in hand (7) 156,267 Total current assets 156,267 Current liabilities: amounts falling due within one year Creditors and accruals (8) - Total current liabilities - Net current assets / (liabilities) 156,267 Total assets less current liabilities 156,267 Creditors: amounts falling due after one year - Net assets 156,267 Funds Restricted Funds Unrestricted funds 156,267 Total Funds 156,267	2025 Restricted £ - - - 55,646 55,646 - - 55,646 55,646 55,646 55,646 55,646	2025 Total £ - - - 211,913 211,913 - - 211,913 211,913 211,913 55,646 156,267 211,913	2024 Total £ -
			-
			- 194,229
			194,229
			-
			-

			194,229

			194,229



			194,229
			177,796 16,433
			194,229

Approval of the accounts

The annual report and accounts were approved at a meeting of the Trustees held on 29th September 2025

Ged Upham on behalf of the Trustees

Halton Speak Out CiO

Notes to the accounts

for the year ended 31 March 2025

1 Accounting Policies

a Basis of accounting

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (The Charities SORP).

b Income

Donations and legacies are accounted for when received by the charity. Other income is accounted for on an accruals basis as far as is prudent to do so.

c Grants

Revenue grants are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities on receipt, subject to any required conditions being met or services being provided. Capital grants are recognised on receipt in the Statement of Financial Activities. This policy has been adopted to give a true and fair view as recommended by the SORP.

d Tangible Fixed Assets

Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £250.

Rates of depreciation: Fixtures and fittings: 25% reducing balance Equipment: 25% reducing balance

e Pensions

Contributions are charged when they become due in accordance with the scheme rules.

f Fund accounting

Funds held by the charity are either:

Unrestricted general funds

These are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds

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

Designated funds

These are funds set aside by the trustees out of unrestricted general funds for specific future purposes or projects.

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

Halton Speak Out CiO

Notes to the accounts continued

for the year ended 31 March 2025

2 Grants and Donations Grants Halton Borough Council: Adult Project Carers Breaks Youth Engagement HBC 24 Halton 50 HBC 24 Christmas HBC Residential The National Lottery Funding The Police & Crime Commissioner Talles TNL: Know Your Neighbourhood In Your Hands Your Housing Cleaning Ella Youth Fund ASDA Community Fund Donations 3 Staff costs and numbers Gross salaries Other Wages Social security costs Employer pension	2025 Unrestricted funds £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 40 40	2025 Restricted funds £ 48,118 1,272 - 7,872 574 657 500 75,952 - - 11,248 - 16,019 7,000 400 - 169,612	2025 Total funds £ 48,118 1,272 - 7,872 574 657 500 75,952 - - 11,248 - 16,019 7,000 400 40 169,652 2025 £ 130,717 37,974 2,314 94 171,098	2024 Total funds £ 55,500 2,544 6,600 - - - - 68,525 4,968 1,000 13,293 1,171 3,811 - - -
				157,412
				2024 £ 120,704 36,639 2,901 409
				160,653

The average number of employees during the year was 4.8 FTE (2024:4.8)

4 Restricted funds summary Balance b/f £ Adult Project 80,298 Children & Young Peoples Prog (4,037) Carers Breaks 3,788 24 Grant - 50 Grant - 24 Christmas - HBC Residential - The Steve Morgan Foundation 4,891 Steve Morgan: Kops & Kids 590 Talles 129 TNL: Know Your Neighbourhood 8,410 In Your Hands 176 Your Housing Cleaning (4,339) Brindley 63,336 Police & Crime Commissioner 5,489 The Community Foundation 169 Ella Together Youth Fund - ASDA - Torus Foundation 99 HBC: Youth Engagement 1,393 The National Lottery Fund 17,404 177,796	Incoming £ 48,118 - 1,272 7,872 574 657 500 - - - 11,248 - 16,019 - - - 7,000 400 - - 75,952 169,612	Outgoing £ 28,471 - 7 7,812 574 570 395 4,917 612 129 7,618 - 10,995 620 59 - 197 - 99 892 63,499 127,466	Transfers £ (99,945) 4,037 - - - - - 26 22 - (1,422) - (685) (62,716) - - (579) (400) - (501) (2,133) (164,296)	Balance c/f £ - - 5,053 60 - 87 105 - - - 10,618 176 - - 5,430 169 6,224 - - - 27,724
				55,646

Transfer of funds relate to expenditure in previous year unaccounted for and include contributions towards rent building & running costs.

Halton Speak Out CiO

Notes to the accounts continued

for the year ended 31 March 2025

5 6 7 8	Tangible assets Cost At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 Depreciation At 1 April 2024 Charge for year At 31 March 2025 Net book value At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024 Debtors and prepayments Debtors Prepayments Cash at bank and in hand Bank Current a/c Creditors and accruals Accruals Other Creditors	Fixtures & Computers & Fittings Equipment £ £ 2,769 5,592 - - 2,769 5,592 2,769 5,592 - - 2,769 5,592 - - - - 2025 £ - - - 2025 £ 211,913 211,913 2025 £ - - -	Total £ 8,361 -
			8,361
			8,361 -
			8,361

			-

			-
			2024 £ - -
			-
			2024 £ 194,229
			194,229
			2024 £ - -
			-

9 Trustee remuneration and expenses

No trustees received any remuneration or expenses during the accounting period to 31st March 2025.

10 Related party transactions

Owing to the nature of the charity's activities and the composition of the board of trustees (being drawn from local statutory and voluntary organisations) it is inevitable that transactions will take place with organisations in which a trustee may have an interest. All transactions in which a trustee may have an interest are conducted at arm's length and in accordance with the charity's financial regulations and expenditure procedures.

Halton Speak Out CiO

Charity number 1170145

Annual Report and Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 March 2025

Halton Speak Out CiO

Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 March 2025

Contents	Page
Trustees' report	2
Examiner's statement	3
Statement of financial activities	4
Balance sheet	5
Notes to the accounts	6 to 8

Prepared by the Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service

Halton Speak Out CiO

Trustees' report

The trustees during the year were:

Name

Mr Gerard Upham Mr Kenneth Williams Mrs Sheila Maloney Mrs Lynne Melarangi Mr Colin Rotherham

Method of appointment

Principal address

Higher House Northwich Road Brookvale Runcorn WA7 6PE

Bankers

CoOperative Bank PO Box 250 Skelmersdale Lancashire WN8 6WT

Governing document

The charity is a charitable incorporated organisation registered on 14th November 2016.

Objects of the organisation

The provision of facilities which will enable them to take part in the dramatic and visual arts, including the provision of training, education, practical demonstrations and participative learning.

Independent examiner

on behalf of:

Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service

St Maries Lugsdale Road Widnes WA8 6DB

Halton Speak Out CiO

Independent examiner's report on the accounts of Halton Speak Out CiO for the year ended 31 March 2025

I report on the accounts for the year ended 31st March 2025 set out on pages 4 to 8

Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and the examiner

Basis of Independent examiner's report

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:

q to keep accounting records in accordance with section 41 of the Act; and

q to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with the accounting requirements of the Act

have not been met; or

2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Jane Williams MAAT

Greater Merseyside Community Accountancy Service

St Maries Lugsdale Road Widnes WA8 6DB

29th September 2025

Halton Speak Out CiO Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 March 2025

Notes 2025 Unrestricted funds £ Incoming Resources Grants and donations (2) 40 Other Income - Centre Café & Room Hires 140,904 Bank Interest Received - Total incoming resources 140,944 Resources expended Salaries and NICs (3) 72,994 Payroll fees 245 Consultancy 1,227 Sundry expenses 348 Equipment 3,152 Rent & Premises Costs 57,825 Postage, Stationery & Telephone 501 Insurance 2,040 Website, Advertising & Publicity 648 DBS Checks 94 Volunteers - Training 60 Café Supplies 21,120 Information & Resources 2,235 Project costs 3 Governance Costs - Independent Examination & Accountancy 315 Professional fees 2,584 Administration 15 Total resources expended 165,406 Net incoming / (outgoing) resources (24,462) Transfers between funds 164,296 16,433 Fund balances carried forward (4) 156,267 Fund balances brought forward	2025 Restricted funds £ 169,612 - - - 169,612 98,104 771 11,121 1,378 5,427 - 1,399 - 216 100 - 137 - - 8,813 - - - 127,466 42,146 (164,296) 177,796 55,646	2025 Total funds £ 169,652 - 140,904 - 310,556 171,098 1,016 12,348 1,726 8,579 57,825 1,900 2,040 864 194 - 197 21,120 2,235 8,816 315 2,584 15 292,872 17,684 - 194,229 211,913	2024 Total funds £ 157,412 1,730 116,260 -
			275,402
			160,653 1,053 13,735 116 12,244 33,930 130 1,949 43 424 623 58 17,626 1,161 - 300 1,528 -
			245,573
			29,829 - 164,400
			194,229

Halton Speak Out CiO

Balance sheet

as at 31 March 2025

2025 Unrestricted Fixed Assets £ Tangible Assets (5) - Total fixed assets - Current Assets Debtors and prepayments (6) - Cash at bank and in hand (7) 156,267 Total current assets 156,267 Current liabilities: amounts falling due within one year Creditors and accruals (8) - Total current liabilities - Net current assets / (liabilities) 156,267 Total assets less current liabilities 156,267 Creditors: amounts falling due after one year - Net assets 156,267 Funds Restricted Funds Unrestricted funds 156,267 Total Funds 156,267	2025 Restricted £ - - - 55,646 55,646 - - 55,646 55,646 55,646 55,646 55,646	2025 Total £ - - - 211,913 211,913 - - 211,913 211,913 211,913 55,646 156,267 211,913	2024 Total £ -
			-
			- 194,229
			194,229
			-
			-

			194,229

			194,229



			194,229
			177,796 16,433
			194,229

Approval of the accounts

The annual report and accounts were approved at a meeting of the Trustees held on 29th September 2025

Ged Upham on behalf of the Trustees

Halton Speak Out CiO

Notes to the accounts

for the year ended 31 March 2025

1 Accounting Policies

a Basis of accounting

b Income

Donations and legacies are accounted for when received by the charity. Other income is accounted for on an accruals basis as far as is prudent to do so.

c Grants

d Tangible Fixed Assets

Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £250.

Rates of depreciation: Fixtures and fittings: 25% reducing balance Equipment: 25% reducing balance

e Pensions

Contributions are charged when they become due in accordance with the scheme rules.

f Fund accounting

Funds held by the charity are either:

Unrestricted general funds

These are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds

Designated funds

These are funds set aside by the trustees out of unrestricted general funds for specific future purposes or projects.

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

Halton Speak Out CiO

Notes to the accounts continued

for the year ended 31 March 2025

2 Grants and Donations Grants Halton Borough Council: Adult Project Carers Breaks Youth Engagement HBC 24 Halton 50 HBC 24 Christmas HBC Residential The National Lottery Funding The Police & Crime Commissioner Talles TNL: Know Your Neighbourhood In Your Hands Your Housing Cleaning Ella Youth Fund ASDA Community Fund Donations 3 Staff costs and numbers Gross salaries Other Wages Social security costs Employer pension	2025 Unrestricted funds £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 40 40	2025 Restricted funds £ 48,118 1,272 - 7,872 574 657 500 75,952 - - 11,248 - 16,019 7,000 400 - 169,612	2025 Total funds £ 48,118 1,272 - 7,872 574 657 500 75,952 - - 11,248 - 16,019 7,000 400 40 169,652 2025 £ 130,717 37,974 2,314 94 171,098	2024 Total funds £ 55,500 2,544 6,600 - - - - 68,525 4,968 1,000 13,293 1,171 3,811 - - -
				157,412
				2024 £ 120,704 36,639 2,901 409
				160,653

The average number of employees during the year was 4.8 FTE (2024:4.8)

4 Restricted funds summary Balance b/f £ Adult Project 80,298 Children & Young Peoples Prog (4,037) Carers Breaks 3,788 24 Grant - 50 Grant - 24 Christmas - HBC Residential - The Steve Morgan Foundation 4,891 Steve Morgan: Kops & Kids 590 Talles 129 TNL: Know Your Neighbourhood 8,410 In Your Hands 176 Your Housing Cleaning (4,339) Brindley 63,336 Police & Crime Commissioner 5,489 The Community Foundation 169 Ella Together Youth Fund - ASDA - Torus Foundation 99 HBC: Youth Engagement 1,393 The National Lottery Fund 17,404 177,796	Incoming £ 48,118 - 1,272 7,872 574 657 500 - - - 11,248 - 16,019 - - - 7,000 400 - - 75,952 169,612	Outgoing £ 28,471 - 7 7,812 574 570 395 4,917 612 129 7,618 - 10,995 620 59 - 197 - 99 892 63,499 127,466	Transfers £ (99,945) 4,037 - - - - - 26 22 - (1,422) - (685) (62,716) - - (579) (400) - (501) (2,133) (164,296)	Balance c/f £ - - 5,053 60 - 87 105 - - - 10,618 176 - - 5,430 169 6,224 - - - 27,724
				55,646

Transfer of funds relate to expenditure in previous year unaccounted for and include contributions towards rent building & running costs.

Halton Speak Out CiO

Notes to the accounts continued

for the year ended 31 March 2025

5 6 7 8	Tangible assets Cost At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 Depreciation At 1 April 2024 Charge for year At 31 March 2025 Net book value At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024 Debtors and prepayments Debtors Prepayments Cash at bank and in hand Bank Current a/c Creditors and accruals Accruals Other Creditors	Fixtures & Computers & Fittings Equipment £ £ 2,769 5,592 - - 2,769 5,592 2,769 5,592 - - 2,769 5,592 - - - - 2025 £ - - - 2025 £ 211,913 211,913 2025 £ - - -	Total £ 8,361 -
			8,361
			8,361 -
			8,361

			-

			-
			2024 £ - -
			-
			2024 £ 194,229
			194,229
			2024 £ - -
			-

9 Trustee remuneration and expenses

No trustees received any remuneration or expenses during the accounting period to 31st March 2025.