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2025-03-31-accounts

LITTLE FISH THEATRE ANNUAL REPORT 2025

Little Fish Theatre creates original, bold, and compelling theatre and drama projects.

Through diverse, equitable partnerships, we design artistic activities that enhance young people’s life skills and critical thinking.

Our vision is to be a springboard for young artists, providing a sustainable cycle of transferable skills that empower them to uplift their underserved communities.

We actively advocate for positive social change at local, regional, and national levels.

We value curiosity, inclusivity, and integrity.

“The contribution of Little Fish to the young people in Peckham is priceless. The educational plays that you have provided are of immense value.

Although our school covers RSHE during tutor time, we can only allocate 30 minutes a week to it, and it is delivered in a classroom setting where teachers rush through PowerPoint slides to ensure that content is covered. This approach does not connect students to the issues, nor does it allow them to experience them in a more impactful and personal way. We believe that students learn best when they can identify with the characters and relate to the issues in a more realistic setting, and Little Fish’s approach addresses this need.

That’s why Little Fish’s contribution is invaluable to our students’ social, moral, personal and emotional education.”

Penelope Paraskeva-Alimiaga, Head of Drama, Harris Academy Peckham, Southwark

INTRODUCTION

BY DR AMANDA STUART FISHER, CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

This has been an exciting year of innovation and development for Little Fish Theatre. Successful funding bids have led to new, creative projects and talented new staff joining the company. As always, Little Fish have sought to reshape their creative and artistic work through meaningful dialogues with the young people with whom they work. This approach – which places young people centrally in the creative process – means that the concerns, interests and passions of young people inform the projects the company develops.

Little Fish has produced some truly extraordinary work over the year, with performances taking place in schools, pupil referral units and theatres. These projects have incorporated storylines that have moved seamlessly between young people’s ‘online worlds’ and explorations of their experiences ‘in real life’ on the streets, in schools and at home. Through playwriting projects, the company has supported young people to develop their own plays and tell their own stories. This also enabled participants to receive Arts Awards, providing external recognition for their amazing creative achievements.

Through its production work, this year Little Fish reached over 10,500 young people, including more than 9,700 through three major touring productions including ‘Cancelled’ and ‘Credible Witnesses’. The company also designed and delivered a series of highly successful, interactive healthy relationship programmes, as well as After School Clubs and Summer Programmes which supported over 325 pupils in their move to secondary school.

I was also very proud this year to be able to work alongside Little Fish as a researcher on the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)-funded ‘Credible Witnesses’ project, developed with Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. This initiative opened up critical questions about what happens when young people are disbelieved by the people who have power over their lives and how drama and theatre can address these injustices. The interactive production that developed out of this research toured schools in London and Oldham, inaugurating an exciting new collaboration with Oldham Theatre Workshop.

Looking ahead, Little Fish will continue to strengthen partnerships, expand outreach, and create new artistic work that reflects young people’s lives and the challenges and injustices they face. This includes the forthcoming ‘Voicing Masculinities’ project, which will build on the company’s commitment to support young men to question gender stereotypes and explore healthier, more inclusive identities.

This year has also been a time of deep challenge across the globe, with young people navigating a world marked by war, humanitarian crises and the rise of divisive ideologies. Against this backdrop, our Artistic Directors have participated in Global Fund for Children’s CEO Circle, a virtual community where leaders connect, share experiences and support each other in advancing the rights of children and young people. Through this exchange, Little Fish has continued to learn from new intercultural perspectives and to strengthen our understanding of how theatre can respond creatively and compassionately to the complex issues facing young people today.

The innovative work that Little Fish has developed this year, and the many young people who have engaged with these projects, represent an important beacon of hope. By engaging young people to think critically about the world in which they live, Little Fish are laying the ground for a new generation of change makers – and this is how change begins.

This exciting work would not be possible without the amazing staff and the wonderful young people with whom the company works. On behalf of the Co-Artistic Directors and Trustees, I would like to thank Little Fish’s brilliant staff team and all the young people, volunteers, creatives, partners and funders whose commitment makes the work of Little Fish Theatre possible. In a difficult funding climate, their support enables the company to remain resilient and financially secure.

Dr Amanda Stuart Fisher Chair of Trustees 2025

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OUR YEAR
IN NUMBERS
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OVER 10,500 YOUNG PEOPLE REACHED

“The boys fully engaged in the project and, as ever, Stuart and Leon did an outstanding job leading them through challenging topics in a way that made them really think. This project is sobeneficial to our boys, which is why we prioritised funding for it. We believe this could really benefit other schools. All our other staff were impressed with how engaged the students were and we hope this contributes to them leading healthy relationships in the future.”

Howard Sheering, PHSE Lead, Kings Oak SEMH School, Greenwich

THEORY OF CHANGE

Our Challenge

Our Solution

How to reach all young people through the transformative power of theatre and community arts.

We co-create with young people and emerging artists from initial ideas through to performance and facilitation, producing high-quality work that meets professional artistic standards and speaks with authenticity and power.

How to enable young people to question their aspirations and beliefs, empowering them to develop both their social and personal life skills.

Community outreach – Multi-arts workshops with engaged and hard to reach young people exploring relevant issues of social justice, health and wellbeing. Touring productions with outreach – Bold, original, compelling theatre and workshops with young emerging artists under 26 years, and touring a diverse range of schools, youth venues and small theatre spaces. Research and training – Ongoing events and resources for young people, parents, carers exploring educational development themes.

How to inspire young people to become cultural consumers or creators, actively shaping a new social and political landscape.

  1. How to build progressive partnerships with emerging artists and local communities.

Our Outcomes

Our Core Beliefs

The assumptions that sit behind our theory of change:

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Transition After School Club Projects

Southwark ‘Learning 4 Life’ Summer Programme Bexley Clinical Commissioning Group and Integrated Care Board Medway Arts Council England

Through After School Club programmes, Little Fish’s arts practitioners have been busy working with young people across Medway, Southwark and Bexley to promote positive mental health, mindfulness, increase self-esteem, and improve confidence, before they transition from primary to secondary school.

A fun, safe space is created in each After School Club using drama, music, dance, art, games, and video to explore issues around anti-bullying, peer pressure, the dangers of vaping, alcohol and drugs, and other challenges faced when moving to secondary school.

These inspiring projects spark important conversations, promote creativity, develop skills in the arts, and support young people in their personal, social, and health education at key stage 2. The overall aim is to make sure that our participants have a positive start to secondary school with high attendance, in order to achieve their maximum potential.

Southwark Summer Programme video link:

https://youtube.com/video/MrGJDbA5TlA

“My son went into the programme concerned about secondary school and all the changes that lay ahead of him, and left confident and excited about it because of the work he was doing at the programme. He has grown in confidence and it also enhanced his interest in the arts (dancing / drama / acting).

My eldest son also attended the programme in

2018 and loved it as it helped to get him out of his shell as he was very quiet and reserved at the time.

On both occasions my children were happy, felt safe and I have had no concerns with staff or health and safety which makes me comfortable as a mother leaving them in the hands of Little Fish staff. The food provided is a great help as holidays can get expensive, so it was all truly appreciated.

A massive thank you to all involved who make this possible and please continue, so other children can enjoy the great Little Fish experience.”

Parent, Summer Programme, Rye Oak Primary School, Southwark

“I find making new friends very hard. On the first day, I asked to move groups because I felt shy and didn’t know anyone. By the end of the second day I made friends with three other girls in my group: one is going to my new secondary school and I am soooooo excited.”

Year 6 Student, John Donne Primary School, Southwark

“Your team delivered such important messages in a thoughtful, ageappropriate and creative way. It was clear how much care and professionalism went into the sessions, and we truly appreciated the energy, clarity, and sensitivity shown by all involved. We absolutely loved having you in school and would be delighted to welcome you back in the future should the opportunity arise, so please consider us again!”

Laureta Doci, Year 6 Teacher, St Stephens Primary School, Newham

“The Year 6 children at Hallsville found the online safety workshops incredibly informative and engaging! The content was presented clearly and effectively, making complex topics easy to understand. It’s so important to raise awareness about online safety especially with the children moving onto secondary school next year. The workshop leaders did an excellent job of empowering the children with practical knowledge through the interactive elements.”

Rashida Khanom, Year 6 Lead, Hallsville Primary School, Newham

Quotes from Year 6’s

“I feel more confident speaking about how I feel. The highlight for me was learning how to say No to people who might offer me bad things.”

Year 6 Student, English Martyrs Primary School, Medway

“At Little Fish, we always have fun and play games before we learn something important.”

Year 6 Student, St Pauls Primary School, Slade Green

“I am autistic and don’t always find it easy to take part, but I was happy that the activities were calm and we could speak to an adult if we found it hard to join in.”

Year 6 Student, Wainscott Primary School, Medway

“In drama, we have been using masks to express ourselves and create characters. It’s really good fun and it doesn’t matter how good you are.”

Year 6 Student, Pelham Primary School, Bexley

The Greenwich New Leaf and Peabody Housing projects have supported young women in leading healthy and safe relationships. These programmes prevent sexual violence and exploitation by using drama, role-play, and active learning to build self-esteem, develop confidence, and practice conflict resolution.

The projects continue to work closely with HER Centre who have a dedicated independent domestic and sexual violence advocate (IDSVA), providing lasting, meaningful support for the young women at most risk.

Through the ‘Embrace’ project, Little Fish has been continuing to support young men in pupil referral units, SEMH and mainstream schools in Greenwich and Southwark. Delivering early intervention projects to whole year groups, as well as working with smaller groups who are at risk of unhealthy sexual behavior and exploitation, has meant that we have reached a high number of young people.

The programme has successfully incorporated the basic concepts of ‘Motivational Interviewing’ into drama activities and group work. Our resource pack continues to successfully be used by professionals in educational settings.

“We appreciate that you tackled such important topics with our young men and you didn’t shut them down when they had questionable viewpoints. There are so many conflicting messages out there, that these spaces are vital to get discussions going.”

Harry Bailey, Assistant Principal, Harris Academy, Greenwich

“Drama is such a powerful tool to look at sensitive issues. Watching our boys go into role as perpetrators and victims to see how it feels to be involved in an unhealthy relationship, was fascinating and highly rewarding. Their reflections were complex, especially as the power of peer pressure really came though.”

Howard Sheering, PHSE Lead, Kings Oak SEMH School, Greenwich

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TOURING
PRODUCTIONS
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The company delivered three major touring productions across the year

‘Cancelled’ - A show for Year 9-11’s

Researched through drama workshops, residencies, and interviews with young men and women, complex stories came to light, which influenced the play’s narrative and structure.

‘Cancelled’ explores how young people who are still discovering themselves can take responsibility for their harmful mistakes in a 24/7 digital world. It looks at the complexities of teenage relationships and the impact of social media. Through music, media and participatory theatre techniques, the play is designed to engage Year 9 - 11 students in thinking critically about the worlds in which they live in and how to make positive choices.

Through two tours, over 7,800 young people were reached across Greenwich, Bexley, Newham, Croydon, Medway, Kent, and Southwark.

Production Show Reel

https://youtube.com/video/g7LtHewrXsQ

“The show aided the school in meeting our PSHE criteria around the idea of staying safe online. Not only did this educate students on the emotional, mental, and physical side of things but it covered the law too. The way in which this was done was incredibly powerful and generated discussions beyond the performance. It is vital that performances such as these remain funded to allow schools different ways of educating students and ensuring young people have a varied education.”

Luke Geary, Personal, Development and Wellbeing Lead, The Robert Napier School, Medway

“I was very surprised that the young people managed to sit throughout the entire performance. They usually cannot sit in an assembly even for 20 minutes, therefore the show was very engaging for them. I was impressed with how much the young people participated, they generally do not like to share their thoughts with others through fear of being judged. The content of the performance was very important and relevant to the young people’s day to day lives and I think it made them reflect on some of their behaviours. The set was great and the live stream added a touch of flair. The performers were all great too and we are just so grateful to you for coming in.”

Shona Phimister, Assistant Head, Curriculum and Inclusion, Newham Pupil Referral Unit

“The characters were so real. I was pleased that the female characters found a safe way to stand up for themselves. I really liked Bestie, whom many girls can relate to.”

Year 10 Student, Thomas Tallis School, Greenwich

“The music was sick. I really didn’t expect anyone to start rapping. It was very clever how they told the story through singing or spoken word rather than just reading a social media post.”

Year 9 Student, St John Fisher School, Medway

“As usual, you guys were LOVED by our students and staff! I have had multiple students tell me how much they enjoyed it.

Little Fish Theatre are invaluable to our school. The themes they address are vital for our students to be educated on, in order them to face the current climate of the world and Little Fish does this in a way that classroom learning cannot. The mix of drama with audience participation and time taken to educate students on the laws and guidelines surrounding these topics are achieved in the best balance. We have a number of students from deprived backgrounds, so trying to find the funds for experiences like these is impossible for the school as we cannot rely on a PTA the way other schools can, so the fact it is completely free is vital. Students learn a lot from these performances and some have felt empowered to disclose issues they are struggling with as a result of these shows and have been able to get the help they need.”

Lauren Hall, Head of PHSE, St Catherine’s School, Bexley

“Cancelled” Production - Teacher Feedback Video

https://youtube.com/video/Ydh_lkMRhFE

A huge Thank You to the young people who shared their personal stories, beliefs, and opinions with the company to create this theatre piece. Your insight, creativity, and willingness to share valuable information has helped thousands of other young people.

‘Credible Witnesses’

A partnership project between Little Fish Theatre, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, and Oldham Theatre Workshop, reaching over 800 young people across London and Oldham.

‘Credible Witnesses’ is an AHRC-funded research project dedicated to exposing and challenging the testimonial injustices faced by young people when they are disbelieved by professionals due to their identity. Through drama and performance, the project empowers young people to articulate their lived experience, shape professional training, and push for better outcomes in youth services.

“I found it difficult thinking about some of my experiences. It was easier turning it into a rap, rather than talking about it.”

Year 9 Student, Cavendish Special Educational School, Southwark

“I didn’t know so many other people had experienced similar things to me.” Year 8 Student, Cavendish Special Educational School, Southwark

“It just shows how much adults need to listen. In Rory’s story, the doctor wasn’t taking her seriously. I think this happens a lot.”

Year 9 Student, Leigh Academy, Bexley

“It was both entertaining and incredibly powerful - a fantastic way to introduce some serious issues and themes, and it prompted lots of mature questions about the main characters. I think the lasting impact will be Bilal’s story and understanding what it must be like for young refugees coming to this country.”

Audience Member, Oldham Youth Council

THEATRE OUTREACH

Little Fish is committed to supporting and developing the next creative generation.

The company provided new opportunities for young people by embarking on its sixth Arts Council Arts Award programme, supporting 20 students at Leigh Academy in Bexley. Our workshop leaders guided the students through writing their first short plays.

Little Fish was delighted to take part in a charity event, showcasing its theatre work at Hackney Empire for Memories 2025. The annual event is a call for unity to end knife crime, and provides much needed funding to provide programmes of work for young people across London. It was wonderful to connect with young voices across, all of whom are passionate about making meaningful change.

Professional Training

The core team continue to sustain a strong relationship with higher education institutions including Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (RCSSD) and The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). Lectures and seminars delivered by Little Fish include playwriting, commissioning theatre for health promotion, using motivational interviewing within a group setting, writing funding applications, and equipping drama facilitators to safeguard themselves and others.

Little Fish continues to support students by hosting placement opportunities. This year, the company has been supporting Molly Wilson, a PhD student researching digital girlhood who examines how adolescent girls engage with modes of performative self-narration through social media platforms such as Tik Tok, Instagram and Snap Chat. Little Fish are excited to collaborate with Molly on her findings which will no doubt inform future work.

Development, Learning & Leadership

Now in their second year with Global Fund for Children’s CEO Circle, the Little Fish directors meet monthly with peers worldwide to exchange challenges, ideas and support. This has strengthened our global perspective on young people’s lives and contributed to the Centre for Effective Philanthropy article Embracing the Complexity of Social Change. The directors also delivered a training session on Voicing Masculinities from a global perspective, directly informing the recruitment and planning of our new three-year National Lottery funded project in Bexley.

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INVOLVING
YOUNG PEOPLE
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Little Fish places young people at the centre of every project. This essential part of the company’s methodology ensures authenticity as well as supporting the next generation of artists to emerge in the industry. This year, Little Fish has commissioned a new young writer and assistant director to provide a fresh perspective and ensure the work remains current.

Research sessions, development days and preview performances with young people are vital in creating new work, so we can ensure its relevance and emotional realism. Once on tour, questionnaires, focus group interviews, evaluations forms, and social media feedback are used to measure audience impact and inform future projects.

“I have taken part in group work to decide what the next Little Fish show should be about. As a Year 9, I gave my opinion on what age group should receive ‘Friction’, which is about online grooming and social media influencers. Me and my friends talked about what can happen online, especially in gaming and on chat forums.”

Year 9 Steering Group Student, Leigh Academy, Bexley

Young people are directly involved in the design and development of community and theatre outreach programmes. Each session contains agenda setting and debrief activities. This encourages young people to express any concerns and issues about the subject matter, providing a strong focus to the sessions.

Little Fish has a formal steering group for its projects, bringing together professionals from relevant local community organizations, parents, and participating young people. They provide feedback and guidance on the content and structure of the companies outreach work. Our showcases also provide an opportunity for the wider community to access the work and steer it towards the young people who most need it.

FINANCIALS

FINANCIALS For the year ended 31[st] March 2025

Expenditure Direct Charitable Activity £272,761 Support Costs and Governance £9,617 Expenditure Total £282,378 Income Trusts and Foundations £209,642 Statutory £110,709 Other £46,756 Income Total £367,107

PRINCIPAL SUPPORTERS

STAFF, VOLUNTEERS AND TRUSTEES

TRUSTEES

Suha Al-Khayyat (Artistic Director), Sheryl Malcolm, Ben Miles, Lucinda Seddon, Cleve Jackson and Dr Amanda Stuart Fisher (Chair)

Suha Al-Khayyat

Cleve Jackson

Sheryl Malcolm

Ben Miles

Dr Amanda Stuart Fisher

Lucinda Seddon

VOLUNTEERS

Cara Crosbie, Ruby Campbell

CONSULTANT

Isobel Hawson

CREATIVES

Thank you to all our wonderful creatives

Elle Delaney, Frances Stone, Effie Ansah, Aaron Cadogan, Josh Loki, Rhiannon Barker, Dr Claire MacNeil, Anna Chesner, Bryn Jones , Andrew Sova, Sioned Jones, Darren Carr, Amaarah Roze, Leon Wander, Yasmin Dawes, Sophie Carty, Stuart Morris, Tessa Gaukroger, Kate Duffy-Syedi, Phyllida Hickish, Eve Bradshaw, Mel Campbell, Matilda Bungard, Jordan John, Farah Najib, Muhammed Adil, Tito Williams

Aaron Cadogan: Tito Williams: Effie Ansah: Frances Stone: Musican and Actor and Rapper Actor, Facilitator, Actor, Facilitator, Actor Writer, and and Project Director Manager

Elle Delaney: Musician, and Facilitator

Leon Wander: Dr Claire MacNeil: Stuart Morris: Actor and Actor, Writer, Dancer, Teacher, Facilitator and Facilitator and Facilitator

LITTLE FISH THEATRE

The Forum At Greenwich, Trafalgar Road, London, SE10 9EQ Tel 020 8269 1123

www.littlefishtheatre.co.uk info@littlefishtheatre.co.uk x, formerly twitter @littlefishtheat instagram @littlefishtheat

Charity No. 1179172

Little Fish Theatre

Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31st March 2025 Company Number: 6600652 Charity Number: 1179172

Frank S Lachman 31 Fairview Way Edgware Middlesex HA8 8JE

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees Annual Report Year ended 31st March 2025

The trustees, who are also directors for the purposes of the Companies Act, have pleasure in presenting their report and the financial statements of charity for the year ending 31st March 2025.

Reference and administrative details

Charity Number 1179172 Company Number 6600652

Principal Office: The Forum at Greenwich, Trafalgar Road, Greenwich SE10 9EQ

Bankers: NatWest Bank plc - 2 Greenwich Church Street, London SE10 9BQ Examiner Frank Lachman 31 Fairview Way, Edgware, Middlesex HA8 8JE

Directors and Trustees

The board of Trustees at 31[st] March 2025 were :

Suha Al-Khayyat Sheryl Malcolm Ben Miles Lucinda Seddon Amanda Stuart-Fisher Cleve Jackson

Structure, Governance and Management

Governing document

Little Fish Theatre is a company limited by guarantee governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association amended on 5th April 2018 in order to apply for Charitable Status. The company was registered as a charity on the 12th July 2018. The company was incorporated on the 22nd May 2008.

Recruitment and Appointment of new Trustees

All trustees are identified and nominated by the existing trustees. The chair of the board of trustees is nominated by the board of trustees. Trustees are invited based on their working expertise and experiences, and their background.

One third of trustees stand down in rotation at The Annual General Meeting and are eligible for re-election unless it is decided that a vacant office will not be filled.

Trustees Induction and training

New trustees are invited to observe meetings, meet the management team, see the company perform and are invited to join the board, following a trustee vote. The company has a trustee code of conduct and job descriptions for the roles of chair and trustee. New board members follow an induction programme assisting them with their understanding of the organisations charitable activities and programmes of work.

Page 1

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees Annual Report Year ended 31st March 2025

Organisation

The governing body of Little Fish Theatre is the board of trustees

The board meets quarterly and the members annually at the AGM. The board of trustees make major strategic decisions and have responsibility for the business and financial performance of the charity.

The board of trustees support the management team of Artistic Directors Alex Cooke and Suha Al-Khayyat

Risk Management

The management team undertake a robust process of business risk assessment at regular intervals, and report any identified risks to the board of trustees at trustee meetings. The board monitor, review and manage these risks as appropriate. Currently identified main areas of risk are: artistic mentoring, succession planning and finances.

Objectives and activities

The trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty to have due regard to the guidance, as laid out by the Charity Commission, on public benefit when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives, planning future activities and in the exercising of powers.

Little Fish creates original, bold, and compelling theatre and drama projects. Through diverse, equitable partnerships, we design artistic activities that enhance young people’s life skills and critical thinking. Our vision is to be a springboard for young artists, providing a sustainable cycle of transferable skills that empower them to uplift their underserved communities. We actively advocate for positive social change at local, regional, and national levels. We value curiosity, inclusivity, and integrity.

Achievements in the year

In 2024/2025 Little Fish Theatre continued to support underserved young people through the transformative power of theatre & community arts. It continued to support young people who have been disproportionately affected by the legacy of COVID-19 and the cost-of-living crisis.

Highlights from Little Fish’s 2024/2025 programme included:

Page 2

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees Annual Report Year ended 31st March 2025

Reserves Policy

The charity retains sufficient reserves to fund projects that they have committed to. They also kept sufficient funds in case of shortfall in funding to subsidise projects. As well as their commitment to their work, the charity holds funds that in the event of loss of significant funding they could continue to operate whilst new funders are found or in the event that is not possible to wind down the charity in an organised manner.

As at the 31st March 2025 the company held £225,868 (2024: £291,351) Restricted funds and £220,853 (2024: £70,641) Unrestricted funds.

The Charity's policy is to invest, and reinvest as they mature, surplus funds in interest bearing accounts for periods of 6, 12 or 18 months. At 31st March 2025 the following were the invested funds.

Aldermore Bank plc £85,000
OakNorth £64,619
Hampshire Trust Bank £185,322

Going concern

The directors confirm that it is appropriate for these accounts to be prepared on a going concern basis. They also confirm that the company will be able to continue on a solvent basis for at least the 12 months from the date of this report.

Company Law which is also applicable to charitable companies in England and Wales requires the directors, who are also trustees of the company, to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the results of the company for that year.

In preparing those financial statements, the directors/trustees are required to:

select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;

make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; and

state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.

Director's Responsibilities

The directors/trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

In accordance with company law, as the company's directors we certify that:

so far as we are aware there is no relevant audit information of which the company's examiner is unaware:

as the directors of the company we have taken all the steps that we ought to have taken in order to make ourselves aware of any relevant information and to establish that the company's examiner are aware of that information.

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Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees Annual Report Year ended 31st March 2025

Independent Examiner

A resolution will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting that Frank Lachman be re-appointed as Independent Examiner to the charity for the ensuring year.

The financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, 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 2022).

By order of the directors

Amanda Stuart-Fisher

19th June 2025

Page 4

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee Year ended 31st March 2025

Independent Examiner's Report on the Accounts

On accounts for the year ended 31st March 2025 set out on pages 6 to 11.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under the Charities Act 2011 (the Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

The charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 and I am qualified to undertake the examination being a qualified member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants In England and Wales.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the accounts.

Independent examiner's statement

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

Frank S Lachman Chartered Accountant Independent Examiner

31 Fairview Way Edgware Middlesex HA8 8JE

Page 5

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee Statement of Financial Activity For the Year Ended 31st March 2025

Note
Income from
Donations and Legacies
2
Investment income
Total income
Expenditure on
Charitable activity costs
Total expenditure
Net income/expenditure
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
Transfers
Total funds carried forward
9
5		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted Restricted
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
2025
2024
181,128
165,912
347,040
94,981
30,909
125,890
20,067
-
20,067
5,702
-
5,702
201,195
165,912
367,107
100,683
30,909
131,592
50,983
231,395
282,378
207,939
22,784
230,723
50,983
231,395
282,378
207,939
22,784
230,723
150,212
(65,483)
84,729
(107,256)
8,125
(99,131)
70,641
291,351
361,992
177,897
283,226
461,123
-
-
-
-
220,853
225,868
446,721
70,641
291,351
361,992

The statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

Page 6

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee Balance Sheet For the Year Ended 31st March 2025

Note
Fixed assets
Current assets
Debtors
6
Cash at bank and in hand
Total current assets
Current liabilities
Creditors - amounts falling due within one year
Total current liabilities
Net current assets
Net assets
The funds of the charity
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total charity funds
7
8
9		 30,427
569,267		 2025
7,658


439,063		 18,112
506,482		 2024
1,500


360,492
599,694
160,631		 524,594
164,102
160,631 164,102
446,721 361,992
220,853
225,868		 291,351
70,641
446,721 361,992

For the year ended 31 March 2025 the company was entitled to exemption under section 477(2) of the Companies Act 2006.

No members have required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The directors acknowledge their responsibility for:

i. ensuring the company keeps accounting records which comply with section 386; and

ii. preparing accounts which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company as at the end of the financial year and of its profit and loss for the financial year in accordance with the section 393, and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act relating to accounts, so far as applicable to the company.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime, and constitute the annual accounts required by the Companies Act 2006 and are for circulation to members of the company.

Approved by the directors on 19th June 2025 , and signed on their behalf by Amanda Stuart-Fisher

Amanda Stuart-Fisher

Page 7

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to The Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31st March 2025

1 Accounting Polices

(i) The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 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 2022) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

Little Fish Theatre meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s).

(ii) Income

Income is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the items of income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. Income from grants, whether capital or revenue grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants has been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred.

(iii) Expenditure

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis. Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party. It is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Costs are allocated to a category either because such costs are directly incurred in relation to such category, or because they are support costs in respect of which an apportionment has been made between the categories.

Support costs consist of infrastructure costs for salaries, premises, office administration. Such costs are apportioned on a reasonable and consistent basis to the various categories with a view to determining, as accurately as possible, the total resources expended for each category. The basis of apportionment used is either a function of staff time applied to a given activity, or an estimate of the proportion of costs associated with the same, or a combination of both.

Direct and Support costs are separately shown by natural classification in Note 5 to these accounts for each category of cost.

(iv) Taxation

The company as a registered charity (number 1179172) is exempt from taxation on most investment income insofar as it is applied for charitable purposes. The company is also exempt from taxation on capital gains.

(v) Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

(vi) Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

(vii) Fixed assets

Depreciation is provided at the following rates:

Motor vehicle

20% straight line basis

Page 8

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to The Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31st March 2025

2 Donations and Legacies

Grants and donations
D'Oyly Carte
Southwark Family Early Help
London Borough of Newham
Comic Relief
Awards for All
Arts Council England
National Lottery
Royal Borough of Greenwich
New Leaf
Global Fund for Children
Peabody Trust
L & G Placemakers
Groundworks
BVSC
RCSSD
Food and Fun Southwark
Youth Futures
Kings Oak
NHS South East
Sundry
Theatre Tax Relief
Deferred grants brought forward
Deferred grants carried forward		 Restricted Unrestricted
Restricted
Unrestricted
Funds
Funds
2025
Funds
Funds
2024
6,000
-
6,000
-
-
-
-
45,592
45,592
18,414
-
18,414
-
46,120
46,120
-
-
-
899
-
899
-
-
-
11,397
-
11,397
-
-
-
59,799
-
59,799
-
58,433
58,433
37,220
-
37,220
-
-
-
-
8,000
8,000
-
10,720
10,720
-
11,500
11,500
-
-
-
6,100
-
6,100
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,800
3,800
-
-
-
-
2,485
2,485
-
-
-
8,095
-
8,095
-
15,200
15,200
-
17,800
17,800
-
47,527
47,527
-
-
-
10,997
-
10,997
4,400
-
4,400
20,000
-
20,000
-
-
-
-
3,800
3,800
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
11,500
11,500
-
9,500
9,500
-
7,023
7,023
-
-
-
-
2,520
2,520
-
-
70,500
83,689
154,189
70,500
64,389
134,889
(57,000)
(89,800)
(146,800)
(70,500)
(83,689)
(154,189)
165,912
181,128
347,040
30,909
94,981
125,890

3 Net incoming Resources

Net (outgoing)/incoming resources are stated after
charging:
Wages
Social security costs
Pension contributions
Freelance fees
Management
Freelance
Examiner's fee
4 Employees		 2025
2024
3,850
3,650		 2025
2024
3,850
3,650
78,790
78,124
3,206
2,931
11,994
1,917
112,651
90,497
2025
2024
206,641 173,469
No.
No.
2
2
31
29
33
31

No employee earned more than £60,000 during the year (2024 Nil) .

Page 9

Notes to The Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31st March 2025

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee

5 Charitable activity costs

Charitable activity costs
Salaries and freelance fees
Props, costumes and show purchases
Venue and rehearsal space
Set design
Temporary staff and recruitment
Motor, travel and subsistence
Rent and utilities
Telephone
Overheads, consultancy and sundry
Research and training
Bank charges
Insurance
Examiner's fee
Depreciation
Total 2025		 Support and
Governance
costs
Charitable
Activity
Costs
Charitable
Activity
Costs
Total 2025
Unrestricted
Restricted
Unrestricted
-
192,868
13,773
206,641
-
1,604
-
1,604
-
3,251
-
3,251
-
3,906
-
3,906
-
406
-
406
-
23,298
-
23,298
-
-
14,738
14,738
-
-
2,937
2,937
1,784
559
9,918
12,261
-
1,176
-
1,176
568
-
-
568
-
4,327
-
4,327
3,850
-
-
3,850
3,415
-
-
3,415
9,617
231,395
41,366
282,378
As at 31.3.2024
Additions
Disposals
As at 31.3.2025
Depreciation as at 31.3.2024
Depreciation charge for the year
Disposal
As at 31.3.2025
7 Debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
Other debtors
Salaries and freelance fees
Props, costumes and show purchases
Venue and rehearsal space
Set design
Temporary staff and recruitment
Motor, travel and subsistence
Rent and utilities
Telephone
Overheads, consultancy and sundry
Research and training
Bank charges
Insurance
Examiner's fee
Depreciation
Total 2024
6 Fixed assets
Net book value		 Support and
Governance
costs
Charitable
Activity
Costs
Unrestricted
Restricted
-
13,255
-
2,038
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,477
-
1,900
-
-
-
3,918
-
196
832
-
-
-
3,650
-
1,500
-		 Charitable
Activity
Costs
Total 2024
Unrestricted

160,214
173,469

920
2,958
3,003
3,003
3,981
3,981
223
223

9,472
10,949

9,114
11,014
1,550
1,550

10,065
13,983

1,343
1,539
-
832
2,072
2,072
-
3,650
-
1,500
5,982
22,784
201,957
230,723
31.3.2024
31.3.2025		 7,500
9,573
(7,500)
9,573
6,000
3,415
(7,500)
1,915
2025
2024
29,140
17,786
1,287
326
Motor Van
7,658
1,500
30,427
18,112

Page 10

Little Fish Theatre Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to The Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31st March 2025

8 Creditors - Amounts falling due within one year

Deferred grants
Social Security and other Taxation
Other creditors
Accruals		 146,800
154,189
3,478
1,776
6,503
4,487
3,850
3,650
2025
2024		 146,800
154,189
3,478
1,776
6,503
4,487
3,850
3,650
2025
2024
160,631 164,102

9 Reconciliation of Movement in Funds

Restricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Analysis of Net Assets between Funds
Restricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds:
Designated Funds		 Balance at
31 March
2024
291,351
70,641
Income
Expenditure Transfers
Balance at
31 March
2025

165,912
231,395
-
225,868
201,195
50,983
-
220,853
Income
Expenditure Transfers
Balance at
31 March
2025

165,912
231,395
-
225,868
201,195
50,983
-
220,853
Income
Expenditure Transfers
Balance at
31 March
2025

165,912
231,395
-
225,868
201,195
50,983
-
220,853
Income
Expenditure Transfers
Balance at
31 March
2025

165,912
231,395
-
225,868
201,195
50,983
-
220,853
361,992 367,107
282,378
-
446,721
Fixed Assets
Net Current
Assets
Total 2025
Total 2024
-
225,868
225,868
291,351
7,658
153,195
160,853
10,641
-
60,000
60,000
60,000
7,658 439,063 446,721 361,992

10 Analysis of Net Assets between Funds

Designated funds are to cover the costs of a fundraisers salary for two years.

11 Trustees

During the year the Trustees received the following remuneration. These were authorised by the Charity Commission and the other Trustees

2025 2024
Pension Pension
Salary Payments Freelance Salary Payments Freelance
A Cooke 47,425 5,072 - 42,743 1,095 -
S Al-Khayyat 29,515 6,165 18,682 30,003 712 16,140

Other payments were made to Trustees as reimbursement for expenses

2025 2024
Amanda Stuart-Fisher - 30
Cleve Jackson 450 63
A Cooke 208 38
S Al-Khayyat 1,782 2112
Lucinda Seddon - 13

Page 11