Charity Number 1175033
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
| CONTENTS | Page | |
|---|---|---|
| -Legal and Administrative | 1-3 | |
| Notes to the Accounts | 4-13 | |
| Financial information and Statement of assets | 14-15 | |
| Income and Expenditure | 16-17 | |
| Trustees | Natalie Burns | |
| Pauline Edge | ||
| Carole Burns | ||
| Freddy Carpen-Jukes | ||
| Mary Angela Heatherington | ||
| Jane Alison Owens | ||
| Helen Turner | ||
| Chairperson | Natalie Burns | |
| Vice Chairperson | Pauline Edge | |
| Treasurer | Carole Burns | |
| Secretary | Helen Turner | |
| All Trustees held position throughout the year unless otherwise noted. | ||
| Charity number | 1175033 | |
| Activity Address | Woodhouse Stables | |
| School Lane | ||
| Rainhill | ||
| L35 6NW |
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
TRUSTEES REPORT
The Trustees present their report, together with the financial statements of the Charity, for the year ended 31 March 2025 . This report outlines the Charity’s activities, achievements, governance, and financial performance during the period, and sets out the plans and priorities for the year ahead.
Chairperson’s introduction
It is with great pleasure that I introduce our Annual Report for the year. This report sets out, for all our volunteers, supporters, funders, and members of the public, the continued achievements and growth we have experienced over the past 12 months. It also offers an insight into our future direction and the developments we are committed to pursuing.
Over the past year, we have strengthened our services, expanded participation, and invested in the facilities that underpin the quality and safety of our work. These achievements reflect the dedication of our team, the passion of our volunteers, and the generosity of those who support us. Together, we have continued to create meaningful opportunities for our participants and to build a resilient foundation for the years ahead.
As we look forward, our focus remains on delivering high-quality, inclusive activities that respond to community need, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Charity. We remain committed to innovation, accessibility, and the wellbeing of everyone who engages with our work.
On behalf of the Trustees, I extend heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed to our progress this year. Your support makes our mission possible, and we are deeply grateful.
Introduction
The achievements of the Charity over the past year have continued to be exceptional. East Liverpool RDA has adapted, grown, and responded to the needs of the community, strengthening its position as a valued and trusted local asset.
We remain committed to our core message: IT’S WHAT YOU CAN DO THAT COUNTS.
East Liverpool Riding for the Disabled is a Merseyside-based Charity working within the local community to provide therapeutic, educational, and wellbeing-focused opportunities through horses. We support children and adults with a wide range of disabilities and health conditions across the Merseyside area, offering meaningful experiences that promote confidence, connection, and personal growth.
As a truly voluntary organisation, we are led by volunteers and funded by the generosity of individuals, supporters, funders, and charitable trusts. Every achievement is made possible through the kindness of our community and the dedication of our participants, who contribute so much to the life of the Charity.
East Liverpool RDA brings together individuals, carers, and families from diverse backgrounds, offering a safe and supportive space away from the challenges they face in daily life. Our sessions help riders and participants develop social and interactive skills, but above all, they bring enjoyment, fulfilment, and a sense of belonging.
These sessions also provide carers and families with valuable respite from the demands of caring for someone living with disability, offering moments of relief, connection, and shared joy.
The Charity operates from a sole-use property that has been adapted to meet our needs, ensuring a safe, accessible, and welcoming environment for all who visit.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Aims and Purpose
To provide the opportunity for disabled children and adults to benefit from the positive experience of horse riding, horse contact, care and stable management.
Our priority is to improve lives, promote wellbeing and enhance the health of those in our area who would most benefit from what we are able to offer.
Objectives and Activities
The Charity’s primary objective is to provide safe, inclusive, and high-quality equine-assisted activities that improve the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of children, young people, and adults.
Our work is grounded in the belief that meaningful interaction with horses build confidence, resilience, communication skills, and a sense of belonging for individuals facing a wide range of challenges.
Participants frequently experience profound, often immeasurable improvements in patience, self-discipline, self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth through their connection with horses.
To achieve this objective, the Charity delivers a programme of activities designed to meet the needs of participants with diverse abilities, backgrounds, and support requirements. These activities include:
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Ridden sessions that develop balance, coordination, core strength, reflex acceleration and confidence.
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Unridden sessions focused on horse care, groundwork, sensory interaction, and emotional regulation.
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Therapeutic and wellbeing-focused programmes tailored for individuals with additional needs, neurodiversity, mental health challenges, or caring responsibilities.
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Community engagement activities , including volunteering opportunities, open days, and partnerships with schools, carers’ organisations, and local services.
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Skill-building and progression pathways , enabling participants to work towards personal goals, structured awards, and increased independence.
The Charity also works to maintain and develop its facilities to ensure a safe, accessible, and welcoming environment for all participants, volunteers and those who use our facilities. This includes ongoing investment in our horses, equipment, and arena, as well as the training and development of staff and volunteers.
Through these activities, the Charity aims to:
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Increase access to equine-assisted opportunities for individuals who may otherwise face barriers.
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Promote physical and emotional wellbeing through structured, supportive engagement with horses.
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Strengthen community connections and reduce isolation.
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Provide a nurturing environment where participants and volunteers can grow in confidence, develop new skills, and experience positive achievement.
The Trustees remain committed to ensuring that all activities are delivered safely, ethically, and in line with the Charity’s values, safeguarding responsibilities, and long-term strategic aims.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Participants of Tea with a Pony enjoying time in the sun.
Volunteers
Volunteers are at the heart of East Liverpool RDA. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment shape every session, every achievement, and every moment of joy experienced by our participants. The impact they create reaches far beyond the arena—it touches families, strengthens our community, and ensures that equine-assisted activities remain accessible to those who benefit most.
The Power of Volunteering at East Liverpool RDA
Our volunteers support the Charity in countless ways, including:
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Assisting with ridden and unridden sessions
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Supporting participants with additional needs
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Caring for our horses and maintaining their wellbeing
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Preparing the arena and equipment
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Helping at events, open days, and fundraising activities
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Providing administrative and behind-the-scenes support
Their contribution ensures that every participant receives a safe, welcoming, and enriching experience.
Impact on Participants
The presence of volunteers directly enhances the quality of our sessions. Through their support, participants experience:
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Increased confidence and self-esteem
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Improved communication and social interaction
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Greater independence and emotional regulation
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A sense of belonging and connection
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Opportunities to achieve personal goals and celebrate success
Volunteers help create an environment where participants feel valued, supported, and empowered.
Impact on Families and Carers
Volunteers also play a vital role in supporting families and carers. Their involvement enables:
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
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Respite from the demands of caring
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Reassurance that loved ones are safe, supported, and understood
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Opportunities for families to connect with others facing similar challenges
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A shared sense of community and relief
For many carers, the time their loved one spends at East Liverpool RDA is one of the few moments they can pause, breathe, and regroup.
Impact on the Charity
The Charity simply could not operate without volunteers. Their contribution:
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Increases the number of sessions we can offer
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Enhances safety and participant support
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Reduces operational costs, allowing more funds to be directed to frontline delivery
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Strengthens community engagement and awareness
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Ensures the sustainability of our mission
Every hour volunteered is an investment in the wellbeing of our participants and the future of the Charity.
Training, Support and Development
We are committed to ensuring that volunteers feel confident, valued, and supported. Our training programme:
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Covers safeguarding, equine handling, disability awareness, and session support
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Is reviewed regularly based on volunteer feedback and participant needs
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Ensures volunteers have access to all relevant policies and procedures
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Includes direct support from Trustees with safeguarding responsibility
This commitment ensures that volunteers can carry out their roles safely, effectively, and with pride.
A Community Built on Kindness
East Liverpool RDA is a truly voluntary organisation, powered by people who give their time, energy, and heart to help others. Their impact is immeasurable, and the Charity is deeply grateful for everything they do.
Our volunteers change lives—one session, one smile, one moment of connection at a time.
Volunteer Statement
Although I was already a volunteer, I never imagined becoming a coach. Stepping into the role felt far outside my comfort zone, but I am so glad I took that leap and began training as a coach. Although I ride a horse, I never thought I would be passing that skill on and helping others learn to ride. It has become one of the most rewarding experiences of my life — watching riders build confidence, self-esteem, independence, and core strength, and ultimately achieve their dreams and goals.
One moment will stay with me forever. I had a rider who couldn’t walk unaided. She rides our smallest pony, Buttons. One particular day, her mum brought her for her riding session, and just before they were leaving, she asked her daughter to show me something. Her mum stepped a little way ahead, and then, to my absolute amazement and delight, my rider began walking unaided towards her. The tears rolled down my face. With the help of Buttons, she had built the core strength, independence, and confidence to take those steps — and in that moment, she took her own leap forward.
I love being at the stables with the horses, surrounded by wonderful volunteers and incredible participants, each with their own goals, dreams, and unique connections with the horses. Being part of their journeys is a privilege, and every day reminds me why I volunteer.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Our Community Easter Fundraising Event
Easter Fundraising Event
May Bank Holiday Gala Fundraising Event
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Structure, Governance and Management
East Liverpool RDA was established in 2017 registered with the Charities Commission of England and Wales and we adopted the Articles of Management recommended by RDA National Office at our inaugural meeting on 1st July.
The Registered Charity no. is: 1175033.
East Liverpool RDA Group is a Member Group of the Riding for the Disabled Association. The RDA National is registered as a Charitable Company Limited (no:5010395) by Guarantee governed by a Memorandum and Articles of Association and registered charity number 244108.
The Charity is governed by a Board of Trustees who are responsible for ensuring that the organisation operates in accordance with its charitable objectives, complies with relevant legislation, and maintains high standards of governance, safeguarding, and financial stewardship. The Trustees meet regularly throughout the year to review performance, monitor risk, and set the strategic direction of the Charity.
The Charity is constituted as a not-for-profit organisation and operates in line with its governing document. The Trustees have overall responsibility for policy development, oversight of financial management, and ensuring that the Charity’s activities deliver clear public benefit.
Trustee Recruitment, Induction and Training
Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Charity’s governing document. New Trustees are provided with an induction that includes an overview of the Charity’s work, safeguarding responsibilities, financial procedures, and governance policies. Ongoing training is encouraged to ensure Trustees remain informed about regulatory requirements, best practice, and developments within the equine-assisted activity sector.
Management and Operational Delivery
Day-to-day operations are managed by delegated individual members of the Committee and the Charity’s staff team, supported by volunteers who play a vital role in delivering sessions, caring for the horses, and assisting with events and fundraising. Staff and volunteers work within established policies and procedures covering safeguarding, health and safety, data protection, equality, and risk management.
The Trustees delegate operational responsibilities to staff while retaining oversight through regular reporting, financial monitoring, and review of key performance indicators. This ensures that activities are delivered safely, effectively, and in line with the Charity’s values and strategic aims.
Risk Management
The Trustees maintain a risk register that is reviewed regularly to identify, assess, and mitigate risks across all areas of the Charity’s work, including safeguarding, finance, operations, and governance. Appropriate controls and procedures are in place to manage these risks, and the Trustees remain committed to continuous improvement in this area.
Safeguarding and Welfare
Safeguarding is central to the Charity’s work. Policies and procedures are reviewed regularly, and staff and volunteers receive appropriate training to ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants.
The welfare of the horses is also a core priority, with ongoing investment in care, training, and facilities to ensure high standards are maintained.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Achievements and Performance
Over the past year, the Charity has continued to strengthen its services, expand participation, and invest in the facilities that underpin the quality, safety, and accessibility of our work.
The period has been marked by meaningful progress across programme delivery, infrastructure development, and community engagement.
Programme Delivery and Participant Impact
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The Charity delivered a wide range of ridden and unridden equine-assisted sessions , supporting children, young people, and adults with diverse needs.
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Participants demonstrated improvements in confidence, communication, emotional regulation, physical coordination, and resilience , reflecting the therapeutic value of structured interaction with horses.
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The expansion of unridden activities enabled greater accessibility for individuals who may not be ready or able to ride, ensuring that more people could benefit from our services.
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Feedback from participants, families, and partner organisations highlighted increased self-esteem, independence, and social connection , reinforcing the Charity’s impact on wellbeing and inclusion.
Growth in Participation
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The Charity increased the number of sessions available, allowing more individuals to engage regularly in equine-assisted activities.
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A broader variety of session types—therapeutic, educational, wellbeing-focused, and skills-based— supported personalised progression and greater choice for participants.
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Partnerships with schools, colleges, carers’ organisations, and community groups strengthened referral pathways and widened access for those who may otherwise face barriers.
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Collaboration with local authorities expanded further through the delivery of Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) provision, enabling the Charity to support local families and young people as part of a wider community initiative.
This growth demonstrates the increasing recognition of the Charity’s impact and the value of equine-assisted activities within the community.
Competitions
This year, several of our Participants had the exciting opportunity to compete at a Regional Show, taking part in both dressage and countryside challenge events. Their involvement showcased not only their developing skills but also their confidence, determination, and connection with the horses.
Our volunteers played an essential role throughout the preparation and competition process. From grooming and tacking up to supporting riders in the warm-up and in the arena, their dedication ensured that every participant felt safe, supported, and ready to perform at their best.
We were delighted that a number of our participants achieved first and second places at the Regional Show. These outstanding results qualified them to compete at the National Championships in Hartpury, Gloucestershire , a prestigious event held over four days and attended by riders from across the country.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Representing the Charity at a national level is a remarkable achievement for our participants, volunteers, and horses. Their success reflects the hard work, resilience, and teamwork that define East Liverpool RDA, and we are incredibly proud of everyone involved.
National Championships at Hartpury Dressage Class
National Championships at Hartpury Countryside Challenge Class
National Championships at Hartpury Placed First in Dressage Class
Riding Session
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Mark one of the Participants’ Dad completing a charity ride From Lands End to John O’Groats 980 miles
Beavers 5[th] St Helens based in Rainhill enjoying a pony experience session.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
SUMMER FUN - Holiday Activities and Food (HAF)
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Plans for the Future
Looking ahead, the Charity is committed to building on the progress made this year and continuing to expand the reach, quality, and impact of our equine-assisted activities. Our plans for the coming period focus on strengthening service delivery, enhancing accessibility, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
1. Expanding Programme Capacity
The Charity intends to increase the number and variety of sessions available, including both ridden and unridden activities. This will enable more children, young people, and adults to benefit from equine-assisted opportunities, particularly those who face barriers to participation in mainstream services.
2. Developing New Therapeutic and Wellbeing Pathways
We plan to introduce additional structured programmes tailored to individuals with neurodiversity, mental health challenges, physical disabilities, and caring responsibilities. These pathways will support personal progression, emotional regulation, and improved wellbeing.
3. Strengthening Partnerships and Community Engagement
The Charity aims to deepen relationships with schools, colleges, local authorities, carers’ organisations, health and social care partners, and community groups. These partnerships will help widen access, improve referral routes, and ensure our services reach those who will benefit most.
4. Continued Investment in Facilities and Horse Welfare
Building on the success of the new riding arena, the Charity will continue to invest in its facilities, equipment, and horses to ensure a safe, accessible, and high-quality environment. Planned improvements include enhancements to sensory spaces, stable areas, and participant facilities.
5. Volunteer and Staff Development
We will continue to invest in training and development opportunities for staff and volunteers to maintain high standards of safeguarding, equine care, and programme delivery. This includes strengthening induction processes and expanding specialist training.
6. Financial Sustainability and Fundraising
The Charity will focus on diversifying income streams, strengthening relationships with charitable trusts, and increasing community fundraising. This will support the long-term sustainability of our services and enable continued investment in programme growth and facility development.
7. Enhancing Monitoring and Evaluation
To demonstrate impact and support future funding, the Charity plans to further develop its monitoring and evaluation processes. This will help capture participant outcomes, track progression, and evidence the therapeutic value of our work.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Reserves Policy Statement
The Charity aims to maintain a level of reserves that ensures both its financial stability and its ability to respond proactively to emerging needs and opportunities.
The purpose of holding reserves is to:
a) Protect financial viability
Safeguard the Charity against unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances that may result in a short-term reduction in income, ensuring continuity of core operations and the protection of beneficiaries.
b) Support innovation and strategic development
Enable the Charity to initiate new and innovative pilot projects that align with its charitable objectives. These pilots allow the Charity to test approaches, demonstrate impact, and secure external funding for long-term sustainability. To meet these aims, the Charity will endeavour to generate and maintain unrestricted reserves equivalent to at least 20% of its annual turnover. This level is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains appropriate to the scale, complexity, and risk profile of the Charity’s activities.
Financial Review
The Charity receives no government core grants, service level agreements, or contracted income to support its revenue costs. Instead, it relies on fundraising, public donations, contributions from riders, and grants from small and medium-sized charitable trusts.
Throughout the year, the Charity has continued to focus on increasing participation and developing its facilities to ensure it remains responsive to industry needs and community demand.
Total income for the financial year was £115,705.22 , with the main sources being Ride Sessions, fundraising activities, and other horse-related programmes.
The significant increase in income over the past two financial years reflects the Charity’s concentrated efforts to replace and upgrade essential facilities. The completion of the new riding arena last year represents the most substantial fundraising achievement since the Charity was founded, and it is a facility of which the Trustees and team are extremely proud.
With this major capital project now complete, the Charity has focused during this financial year on expanding the number and variety of sessions available to participants, including both ridden and unridden activities. This has enabled more individuals to benefit from the Charity’s services and has strengthened the overall impact of its work.
Staff remuneration is reviewed annually, considering performance and benchmarked against average earnings. Remuneration is set to ensure fairness, competitiveness, and the ability to attract and retain staff with the appropriate skills, experience, and values required by the Charity.
The Trustees wish to express their sincere thanks to our participants for their continued support.
The Trustees also extend their gratitude to all Funders for their ongoing commitment, which has been vital to the Charity’s achievements this year.
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
ASSETS 2024 –2025
| ASSET | VALUE |
|---|---|
| 2 Temporary Wooden Stables | £ 628.00 |
| 2 ponies | £ 820.00 |
| 2saddles | £ 480.00 |
| Overhead hoist | £ 160.00 |
| Renault Horsebox | £ 940.00 |
| Stables Mats | £ 110.00 |
| Horse shower | £ 40.00 |
| Travel Hoist | £ 1875.00 |
| Weighbridge | £ 137.00 |
| Horse | £ 1125.00 |
| Pony | £ 450.00 |
| Laptop | £ 139.00 |
| Solar Lights | £ 647.00 |
| Solarium | £ 568.00 |
| Stables | £ 2500.00 |
| stable mats | £ 165.00 |
| stable mats | £ 186.00 |
| Mud Mats | £ 543.00 |
| Storage Container | £ 250.00 |
| Pony | £ 1,000.00 |
| Carriage | £ 250.00 |
| Tack | £ 250.00 |
| Angled Metal feed bins | £ 600.00 |
| Mud Mats | £ 424.00 |
| Saddles | £ 1225.00 |
| TOTAL | £ 15512.00 |
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
Income and Expenditure
| Income and Expenditure Income Donations/memorial donations/legacies Fundraising/Grants/Refunds Riding Sessions Horse Sponsorship Other horse associated activities Total Income Expenditure Rent and Utilities Clothing/uniform/hats Charity Expansion Equipment Feed/Bedding Health:farrier/vets/dentist/physio/ Tack Telephone/technology/website/computers Vehicles: Fuel/tax/maintenance Volunteer expenses Yard & Field Maintenance Training Centre awareness/fundraising activities Equipment for other horse related activities Husbandry Hay & Forage Muck trailer/waste removal Office/membership/insurance/DBS checks Other ride/horse associated activities Staff salaries Uniform Bank Charges Worming programme Total Expenditure Surplus |
2025 2024 £ £ 9,217 13,338 62,901 118,631 27,266 20,329 390 1,265 15,931 8,757 115,705 163,320 24,000 24,000 - - - - 2,067 4,002 10,840 11,553 3,246 4,831 - 4,100 924 373 3,325 1,542 529 551 3,964 - 122 960 4,517 3,939 1,774 - - 181 7,095 4,960 4,300 1,360 1,490 2,928 2,092 42,846 35,430 41,842 1,279 1,470 480 - 131 654 107,605 152,092 8,100 10,228 |
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I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
EAST LIVERPOOL RIDING FOR THE DISABLED
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accounting records were not kept in accordance with Section 130 of the Charities Act 2011 ("the Act")
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the account do not accord with the accounting records
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Signed ………………………………………………… 28th January 2026 Name: Peter McDonald Date ……………………………… FCA