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2024-12-31-accounts

Charity numbers: 1183175 & SC049746

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

CONTENTS

Page
Reference and administrative details of the Charity, its Trustees and
advisers 1
Trustees' report 2 -19
Independent auditors' report on the financial statements 20 - 23
Statement of financial activities 24
Balance sheet 25
Statement of cash flows 26
Notes to the financial statements 27 -48

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Trustees Rajeevendra Kumar Mahapatra, Chair
Nicholas Reid, Treasurer
Dr Raj Armanani (elected 29 September 2024)
Prof Antoni Tuck Yin Chan, Trustee
Jo Davies (elected 29 September 2024)
Rachel Davis
Gillian Eames,Trustee(re-elected 29 September 2024)
Paul Curry, Trustee
Poppy Hocken, Trustee (retired 29 September 2024)
Claire Jeffries, Trustee
Dr Lesley Jane Kay, Trustee (re-elected 29 September 2024)
Hannah Elizabeth Bruce, Trustee (retired 29 September 2024)
Prof Hasan Imam Syed Tahir,Trustee
Alexia Katherine Dreese Granatt,Trustee
Charity registered
numbers
1183175 and SC049746
Principal office
Unit 6
Cambridge Court
210 Shepherds Bush Road
London
W6 7NJ
Independent
auditors
BKL Audit LLP
35 Ballards Lane
London
N3 1XW
Bankers
Barclays Bank UK Plc
1 Churchill Place
London
E14 5HP

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The Trustees present their annual report together with the audited financial statements of the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society for the year 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024.

Objectives and activities

NASS’ vision is as follows:

“ The future we want to create is one where every person with axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) has timely and effective diagnosis, treatment and care, is empowered to make informed health choices and feels part of a supportive community.”

NASS seeks to do this by:

In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit: running a charity (PB2)'.

a. Strategies for achieving objectives

In accordance with the provisions set out in its Constitution, the Trustees have adopted the following strategy for the period 2020 – 2024 to meet NASS’ principal objects:

To ensure that people with axial SpA receive timely diagnosis, effective treatment and care

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

To empower, inform and inspire people affected by axial SpA

To foster a connected and supportive community, raising axial SpA awareness everyday, everywhere

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

b. Activities undertaken to achieve objectives and achievements

The charity fulfils its objectives by:

c. Volunteers

NASS is heavily dependent on 250 volunteer members who provide support at branch level. Volunteer members are unpaid and NASS’ accounts do not reflect the value to NASS of the many hours work provided free to us. The Trustees are fully conscious of this value and recognise that the work of NASS would be considerably curtailed without the support provided by volunteer members.

Our NASS branches offer regular, physiotherapist-led group exercise for anyone living with axial SpA. They are subcommittees of NASS and are led by a committee usually comprising a Chair, Treasurer and Secretary. We support our branches with a suite of resources, regular promotion of their activities, online meetings and a named member of staff who is available Monday to Friday to help with any problems or issues.

d. Main activities undertaken to further the charity’s purpose for the public benefit

NASS provides public benefit by:

In so doing, NASS improves the lives of those affected by axial SpA, particularly in relation to their ability to contribute positively to the prosperity of their communities and the country as a whole.

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Achievements and performance

a. Summary

2024 was an impactful year for NASS. Despite having a reduced workforce (11.1 whole time equivalents), our activities, visibility and influence continued to be strong:

b. Key performance indicators

Performance against key indicators was as follows:

c. Review of activities

Reducing diagnostic delay

In 2020, respondents to our national consultation process – healthcare professionals (HCPs), professional bodies and patients – agreed that it should be possible for every person experiencing symptoms of axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) to receive a diagnosis within one year of symptom onset. 2021 we published a route map to achieve a Gold Standard time of one year.

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Starting from a current baseline average of 8.5 years, the achievement of this goal will require transformational change. This includes a significant increase in awareness of the condition among HCPs and the general public, a critical mass of clinical leaders who will improve health care performance in axial SpA, the widespread use of technology to ensure that axial SpA is higher within clinical reasoning and to support diagnosis, the routine use of pathways to ensure that patients are referred directly to rheumatology for assessment, and consistent use of agreed national protocols for imaging.

Above all, to attain such a dramatic change in time to diagnosis we must win hearts and minds, build a social movement of people who want to work with us to create change, and demonstrate proof of concept for our ideas.

2024 was the third full year of implementation of our route map.

Making the case for change

We continued to make the case for change through research and audit:

We strengthened our educational work with healthcare professionals:

We brought these results to the attention of Parliamentarians, policymakers and healthcare professionals:

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Society for Spondyloarthritis annual scientific meeting, the British Society for Rheumatology conference, the International Congress on Spondyloarthritides and the European Alliance of Associations in Rheumatology (EULAR) conference.

Raising public awareness about early diagnosis

Raising public awareness about axial SpA and inflammatory back pain is key to earlier diagnosis. We continued to run a national social media campaign featuring case studies of people living with axial SpA.

In addition, we launched a six-week public awareness campaign in Belfast, reaching almost 1,000,000 people through our social media campaign including 81% of 18-40 year olds, with almost 400 people completing the symptom checker. We then embedded the new collateral used for Belfast in the next phase of our national awareness campaign, reaching over 1,200,000 people in four months.

Since our awareness raising campaigns began in June 2021, we have reached 5 million people. Crucially, more than 35,000 people have completed our online symptom checker and started their journey to diagnosis.

We are seeing indications of a reductions in the time to diagnosis at UK level

The latest data from our ongoing patient survey indicate that in 2024 the average time to diagnosis from our participating sites has reduced to 7 ½ years. This suggests that our campaign, and the collective efforts of the HCPs working us, is having an impact at national level.

Improving healthcare quality across the patient pathway

In 2019 we established the Aspiring to Excellence programme. In partnership with the NHS Transformation Unit, we teach rheumatology teams the fundamentals of healthcare quality improvement and, through learning sessions, coaching and webinars, we encourage participating teams to share their experiences and data.

In 2024, cohorts three and four continued with their projects, alongside learning sessions, webinars and coaching from our partners at NHS Transformation Unit. We welcomed the National Clinical Director for MSK with NHS England, and the NHS Executive MSK Lead (Wales) to our Celebration Event which showcased the work of the teams and our Champions in Primary Care. We showcased all of the projects on our website and several of the teams also presented their work at the British Society of Rheumatology conference and at the British Society for Spondyloarthritis Annual Scientific Meeting.

In 2023 we began an ambitious long-term initiative to create a Gold Standard in Treatment and Care for Axial SpA. In 2024, we appointed leads to the workstreams, both lived experience and HCPs. We issued a call for evidence from people with axial SpA and HCPs, encouraging them to share their positive experiences of treatment and care and examples of best practice and novel interventions. This included a targeted campaign for those with lived experience, and a variety of ways to respond for all parts of the community including online surveys and interviews.

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Helping people to live well with axial SpA

Axial SpA is a condition that requires a great deal of information, support and guidance for people to manage their symptoms effectively and ensure optimal long-term outcomes. There are few formal patient education programmes for axial SpA and many people report feeling isolated and have never met anyone else with the condition. NHS backlogs and the rheumatology workforce crisis are such that this need is ongoing.

Helpline

We supported 5,700 enquiries in 2024, a 14% increase on 2023. This seems to be related in part to NHS staffing shortages and the workload in rheumatology departments, with callers reporting long waits for appointments and calls to department helplines resulting in a lack of response. Additionally, our self-management programme has increased our visibility and encouraged people to be in contact.

The NASS Helpline is often the only place people can turn to for help and support and we responded to 85% of queries within 1 working day and a total of 97% within 2 working days. The worsening economic situation has also led to more people seeking our help with disability benefits. We supported 299 people with claims which we predict will result in people receiving £1.4 million in disability benefits.

NASS Branches

We have 68 branches meeting face to face for gym and/or hydrotherapy sessions. We are very pleased to report that 39 of these branches are able to offer hydrotherapy. Nine currently offer online sessions, including our all-UK online branch.

We created a NASS Affiliated Group programme. Our branches are sub-committees of NASS and are structured so that a committee of volunteers run the branch and manage the finances. This structure did not suit everyone and therefore we introduced NASS Affiliated Groups so we could bring in groups who run differently but still offer regular affordable exercises sessions targeted at people with axial SpA. We currently have two affiliated groups and hope to be able to expand this further.

Overall, branches are in a relatively stable situation. Most that were working to return to operation post-COVID are now back and, for the most part, services are running smoothly. While low numbers may be a challenge with some branches, in other areas there are now waiting lists, especially for hydrotherapy.

We supported all branches in logistical conversations with hospitals, health professionals and venues and with promotion of their branch.

- Supported self management programme

We support people through education and empowerment, and by creating a supportive community, we aim to reduce the isolation of people with axial SpA.

In developing our self-management work, we held consultations with patients and healthcare professionals, which identified that our supported self-management programme should: empower patients with axial SpA to live well with their condition; be co-designed with people living with axial SpA and healthcare professionals; be easily accessible; reduce isolation; and leave a legacy.

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Our supported self-management programme comprises:

In 2024, we ran eight online sessions in partnership with 26 NHS rheumatology departments, reaching 236 people living with axial SpA. We commenced regional pilots in Northern Ireland, Wales, and England with support from The National Lottery Community Fund.

We ran seven webinar sessions with over 50,000 views. The My AS, My Life webpages were visited nearly 18,000 times. We continued to get excellent engagement with the live sessions, and the video library is an excellent resource to signpost people to. Sessions covered: information about the condition; tips for daily life with axial SpA; exercise taster sessions; research into exercise; getting the most out of medical appointments; travelling; university life; work; and medication during pregnancy.

We launched two new Your SpAce modules on making medication decisions and navigating appointments. Your SpAce is aimed at people at the start of their axial SpA journey, as well as those who are struggling, and people who feel isolated. It was developed in collaboration with people with axial SpA and HCPs. The new modules comprise eight videos and five downloadable resources. In 2024, we sent promotional packs to 99 rheumatology departments containing posters to display in clinics and promotional postcards to hand to patients.

In 2024, the Your SpAce videos were watched 11,000 times and webpages visited 23,000 times.

We presented the results of the first three Your SpAce modules at EULAR Congress in Vienna and it was awarded best abstract in the People with Arthritis and Rheumatism in Europe Category.

As part of Your SpAce we developed a safe space for people to meet and share experiences and ask questions through our online meetups. In 2024, we ran 10 on-line meetups, with 366 attendees. We presented the results at the BSR Conference in an oral abstract presentation.

Since the Self-management Programme started in 2020, to the end of 2024 we:

Information provision

193 packs of guidebooks were sent to NHS Hospitals in 2024 (up from 122 in 2023) comprising over 10,500 information guides. Our guides and the additional posters and flyers we provide are an important introduction both to axial SpA and to NASS for people diagnosed with the condition. We continued to update the website information on a rolling basis.

Raising the profile of axial SpA within Government

In 2019 we worked with Parliamentarians to create an All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on axial SpA with the aim of providing national level oversight of the implementation of NICE Guideline 65 concerning the diagnosis and treatment of spondyloarthritis. In 2024 we put the APPG meetings

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

on hold, partly for financial reasons and partly because of the inevitable turbulence created by the General Election.

Nevertheless, we supported a Westminster Hall debate on employment and MSK health and held a policy roundtable to explore opportunities to promote axial SpA in the context of the new government’s proposed NHS 10-year plan in England.

In Wales we worked with the MSK clinical lead, MSK Strategic Network Manager and Rheumatology Lead and are a member of the Low Back Pain Pathway group.

Social media

We continued to reach and engage broader audiences on social media, creating a sense of community and sharing stories about people’s experiences of life with axial SpA. We supported World AS Day, World Arthritis Day, Bone and Joint week and Pride Month.

Following cost reduction measures in 2023, we operated without any communications staff in 2024. Consequently, we lost followers on some channels, although we were able to grow our followers on Facebook and YouTube, as follows:

Membership

Our members are the lifeblood of NASS. Membership increased by 6% in 2024 from 4,100 to 4,324 with re-engagement with lapsed members and the implementation of a membership retention plan. We improved the welcome pack and offered exclusive content including two new members only webinars, with 400 attendees in total.

d. Factors relevant to achieve objectives

Our income was higher in 2024 than 2023 (despite one pharmaceutical partner ending their support) and our expenditure reduced, reflecting the impact of the cost reduction measures put in place in 2023. As a consequence, our overall financial position stabilised.

We continue to have excellent relationships with a wide range of healthcare professionals, professional bodies, health consortia and other charities, all of which has enriched our work and strengthened its impact.

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

e. Fundraising activities and income generation

Raising funds for NASS

Thank you to everyone who supported us in 2024 by donating or fundraising. We don’t receive public funding and couldn’t do our work without the generosity of our supporters. The money we raise ensures that we’re here to transform axial SpA diagnosis and care, and offer practical support and advice to anyone affected by the condition.

At the national level we met 92.7% of our total income budgeted target and our income in 2024 amounted to £874,158 (£873,253 in 2023). Income at branch levels amounted to £179,640 in 2024 (£154,399 in 2023)

In 2024 our income generation activities included:

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

We would also like to thank the following companies that supported us in 2024:

Any relationship NASS has with a pharmaceutical company is underpinned by the following principles:

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Fundraising responsibly

We rely on the generosity of our donors and fundraisers to do our life-changing work and have processes and policies in place to ensure that we fundraise responsibly.

f. Investment policy and performance

To minimise the risk of potential loss of funds and maintain financial security, a portion of our funds is held in cash within a reputable bank.

Additionally, the charity has made strategic investments in two properties we own which provide a consistent and reliable source of income for our charitable initiatives.

All investments are carried at market value.

Financial review

The year saw a modest increase in total income to £1,053,798 (2023: £1,027,652) and a reduction in total expenditure to £1,090,496 (2023: £1,158,200), narrowing the deficit to £36,698 (2023: £140,980). This improvement reflects the continued impact of the cost control measures introduced in 2023 and demonstrates a more sustainable trajectory as we head into the 2025– 2029 strategic period.

a. Going concern

After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Further details regarding the adoption of the going concern basis can be found in the accounting policies.

The charity's trustees closely monitor its reserves. To ensure adequate cash reserves, the Board of Trustees decided to take out a loan against the properties owned by NASS. The loan increased the charity's liquidity and its free cash reserves.

b. Reserves policy

The charity's funds at the end of the reporting period are as follows: Unrestricted funds: £691,070 Restricted grants: £78,832 Branch funds: £231,873

NASS holds two investment properties valued at £655,000 which are not used for direct charitable purposes but from which NASS derives rental income. These properties have an associated bank loan with total outstanding balance of £295,395 (45% LTV), of which £27,950 is due within 12 months.

Our readily available unrestricted reserves ("free reserves") amount to £331,465 (2023: £372,950), which represented seven months of actual operating costs.

This is calculated by taking our unrestricted funds (£691,070) and deducting the net book value of our investment properties after accounting for associated loans (£655,000 - £295,395 = £359,605). NASS must raise income each year from voluntary sources and total income is likely to fluctuate from year to year. As a general policy, we aim to hold 6-9 months of free reserves. This working capital protects the continuity of our core work, that is, work not funded through restricted income. Core work includes our information and support service, awareness raising, campaigning and policy influencing, and the work of our branches across the UK. We have chosen a reserves level of 6-9 months having considered the level of predictability in our income sources and the extent to which our cost base is flexible or committed. Our largest income sources (legacies and grant funding from pharmaceutical companies) come at irregular intervals, and the majority of our costs are committed, principally in the form of the staff who deliver our charitable objectives.

c. Material investments policy

The Charity holds two properties that are rented out to private tenants. Properties were chosen as a reliable source of income for the Charity and the expected income is set at £34,000 per annum. Both properties are let to private tenants.

d. Principal risks and uncertainties

The Trustees have adopted appropriate policies necessary to limit or mitigate the risks faced by NASS. The principal risks are:

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

In the course of 2024, one pharmaceutical partner discontinued their funding. All remaining relationships were reviewed to ensure continued alignment with NASS’s policy on independence, transparency and public benefit. The Trustees are satisfied that editorial oversight, campaigning priorities and policy engagement activities remained wholly independent and were not influenced by any external funding arrangement

NASS has a safeguarding policy and set of procedures applicable to beneficiaries, staff, trustees and volunteers. Staff are trained in safeguarding and NASS branches have a training resource. The safeguarding policy and procedures are reviewed on an annual basis.

e. Financial risk management objectives and policies

Effective management of financial risk is a high priority. Given the importance of accurate financial projections and reporting, we have taken a comprehensive approach to ensure that we consistently maintain a high standard in all aspects of financial management. It includes implementing robust budgeting and costing methods, adhering to donor imposed restrictions, maintaining strong financial systems and controls, regular reporting and ensuring adequate reserves and cash flow management. We also conduct regular audits and financial reviews to maintain transparency and accountability. We have a range of policies and procedures to achieve these objectives. We employ processes and controls to guarantee accurate financial forecasting and reporting. We follow a welldefined procedure for expenditure approval, ensuring that any spending is fully authorised, and documented accordingly. Furthermore, we take great care to keep detailed records of all restricted funds, which helps to ensure complete transparency and accountability in their utilisation.

Collaborative budgeting methods are also used to ensure our financial management practices are practical and efficient. These policies and practices reflect our commitment to sound financial management, compliance, transparency, and accountability.

f. Principal funding

In 2024 NASS received its funding from various sources, with a notable distinction between income generated at the national level (83%) and that at the branch level and designated for their specific use (17%). 89% of branch income came from subscriptions, 3% from donations and legacies and 7% from fundraising activities.

At the national level, our income for 2024 was diversified across various categories. The majority of our funding originated from grants provided by pharmaceutical companies (38%), designated for specific projects (restricted), along with a contribution towards general operational expenses. Other sources of income were as follows:

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Structure, governance and management

a. Constitution

The charity is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation and was registered with the Charity Commission in April 2019. The rules and regulations of the CIO are set out in its Constitution, adopted by the Board of Trustees on 14 September 2019.

b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees

The governing body of NASS is a Board of Trustees consisting of elected Trustees. Only members of NASS may be appointed as Trustees and the maximum number is twelve.

At every annual general meeting of the members of NASS, one third of the charity trustees shall retire from office. The charity trustees to retire by rotation shall be those who have been longest in office since their last appointment or reappointment. If any trustees were last appointed or reappointed on the same day those to retire shall (unless they otherwise agree among themselves) be determined by lot. The vacancies so arising may be filled by the decision of the members at the annual general meeting; any vacancies not filled at the annual general meeting may be filled by the charity trustees. Such persons shall retire at the conclusion of the next annual general meeting after the date of their appointment, and shall not be counted for the purpose of determining which of the charity trustees is to retire by rotation at that meeting.

The members or the charity trustees may at any time decide to appoint a new charity trustee, whether in place of a charity trustee who has retired or been removed in accordance with clause 15 (Retirement and removal of charity trustees), or as an additional charity trustee, provided that the limit specified on the number of charity trustees would not as a result be exceeded.

The Chair and Treasurer are approved by the Board and selected from among the trustee group. Their term of office as Chair and Treasurer is consistent with their term of office as a trustee. In advance of each AGM members of NASS are widely encouraged to nominate a fellow member as Trustee.

On appointment, new trustees are asked to spend a half day in the NASS central office for a briefing with the Chief Executive and staff to understand how the society works. Formal training is provided when required.

c. Organisational structure and decision-making policies

The Trustees meet quarterly to review matters of policy and to make appropriate judgements, directions and decisions on CIO issues. Trustees delegate authority on some matters to a Finance and General Purposes Committee consisting of the Chair, the Treasurer, up to three appointed Trustees and the Chief Executive and Head of Finance and Administration. This Committee meets four times per year. NASS also has a Medical Advisory Board which acts in advisory capacity only. Day to day management of NASS is undertaken by the Chief Executive and their staff. The trustees consider the Chief Executive and management team as comprising the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing and running and operating the charity on a day to day basis.

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

d. Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees

All new trustees receive an induction programme which includes the organisation’s structure, scheme of delegation, NASS constitution, strategic plan, business plan and budget, trustee code of conduct and CC3, The Essential Trustee . Periodic training is provided (e.g. how to read management accounts).

e. Pay policy for key management personnel

Every three years we commission external HR consultants to undertake independent benchmarking of all roles. The last review was in November 2022. Our medium term aim is to pay at the midpoint. The pay of the Chief Executive is reviewed annually by the trustees.

f. Related party relationships

There are no related party relationships. NASS is a member of various umbrella groups, including the Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Alliance, The Axial SpA International Federation, National Voices, the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, the Disability Benefits Consortium and the Prescription Charge Coalition and The Alliance (Scotland). Our membership of these bodies does not impact on the operating policies adopted by the charity.

g. Financial risk management

Further to the risks identified above, in 2025 trustees will be asked to approve an updated risk management strategy.

h. Trustees' indemnities

NASS holds Trustee Indemnity insurance through Markel UK, providing cover with a limit of 1 million pounds against any wrongful act claim made against a Trustee.

Plans for future periods

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Our priority areas for 2025 are:

Statement of Trustees' responsibilities

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England & Wales and Scotland requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) and the provisions of the Memorandum of Association. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Disclosure of information to auditors

Each of the persons who are Trustees at the time when this Trustees' report is approved has confirmed that:

Auditors

The auditors, BKL Audit LLP, have indicated their willingness to continue in office. The designated Trustees will propose a motion reappointing the auditors at a meeting of the Trustees.

Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by:

Rajeevendra Kumar Mahapatra

Date: 18/07/2025

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (the 'Charity') for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the Statement of financial activities, the Balance sheet, the Statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

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NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY (CONTINUED)

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the Annual report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) require us to report to you if in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the Trustees' responsibilities statement, the Trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the Charity's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the Charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and under the Companies Act 2006 and report in accordance with the Acts and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Page 21

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY (CONTINUED)

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditors' report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. This risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs (UK), we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:

Page 22

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY (CONTINUED)

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the Charity's trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and in accordance with 10 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charity and its trustees, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

BKL Audit LLP

BKL Audit LLP

35 Ballards Lane

London

N3 1XW

Date:

BKL Audit LLP are eligible to act as auditors in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 23

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Note
Income from:
Donations and legacies
3
Other trading activities
4
Investments
5
Other income
6
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
Charitable activities
9
Total expenditure
Net
(expenditure)/income
before net losses on
investments
Net losses on
investments
Net
(expenditure)/income
Transfers between
funds
19
Net movement in
funds
Reconciliation of
funds:
Total funds brought
forward
Net movement in funds
Total funds carried
forward		 Restricted
funds -
Branches
2024
£
166,681
12,165
-
794
179,640
315
187,752
188,067
(8,427)
-
(8,427)
(2,890)
(11,317)
243,190
(11,317)
231,873		 Restricted
funds - All
other
2024
£
356,992
-
-
-
356,992
-
341,021
341,021
15,971
-
15,971
99
16,070
62,762
16,070
78,832		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
350,642
125,170
41,354
-
517,166
150,867
410,541
561,408
(44,242)
-
(44,242)
2,791
(41,451)
732,521
(41,451)
691,070		 Total
funds
2024
£
874,315
137,335
41,354
794
1,053,798
151,182
939,314
1,090,496
(36,698)
-
(36,698)
-
(36,698)
1,038,473
(36,698)
1,001,775		 Total
funds
2023
£
868,724
99,270
35,625
24,033
1,027,652
123,807
1,034,393
1,158,200
(130,548)
(10,432)
(140,980)
-
(140,980)
1,179,453
(140,980)
1,038,473

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

The notes on pages 27 to 48 form part of these financial statements.

Page 24

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

Note
Fixed assets
Investment property
15
Current assets
Debtors
16
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within one
year
17
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due after more
than one year
18
Total net assets
Charity funds
Restricted funds - Branches
19
Restricted funds - All other
19
Unrestricted funds
19
Total funds		 39,832
640,653
680,485
(66,265)		 2024
£
655,000
655,000
614,220
1,269,220
(267,445)
1,001,775
231,873
78,832
691,070
1,001,775		 38,565
802,951
841,516
(162,614)		 2023
£
655,000
655,000
678,902
1,333,902
(295,429)
1,038,473
243,190
62,762
732,521
1,038,473

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by:

................................................ Rajeevendra Kumar Mahapatra (Chair of Trustees) Date: 18/07/2025

The notes on pages 27 to 48 form part of these financial statements.

Page 25

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Dividends, interests and rents from investments
Proceeds from sale of investments
Net cash provided by investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
The notes on pages27to48form part of these financial statements		 2024
£
(203,652)
41,354
-
41,354
(162,298)
802,951
640,653		 2023
£
99,248
35,625
11,568
47,193
146,441
656,510
802,951

Page 26

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1. General information

The National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society is a CIO incorporated under articles of association dated 29th April 2019 in England & Wales with charity registration number 1183175. It was subsequently registered with the Scottish Charity Regulator on 19th November 2019 with Scottish charity registration number SC049746.

2. Accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended).

National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society 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.

2.2 Income

All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

The recognition of income from legacies is dependent on establishing entitlement, the probability of receipt and the ability to estimate with sufficient accuracy the amount receivable. Evidence of entitlement to a legacy exists when the Charity has sufficient evidence that a gift has been left to them (through knowledge of the existence of a valid will and the death of the benefactor) and the executor is satisfied that the property in question will not be required to satisfy claims in the estate. Receipt of a legacy must be recognised when it is probable that it will be received and the fair value of the amount receivable, which will generally be the expected cash amount to be distributed to the Charity, can be reliably measured.

Grants are included in the Statement of financial activities on a receivable basis. The balance of income received for specific purposes but not expended during the period is shown in the relevant funds on the Balance sheet. Where income is received in advance of entitlement of receipt, its recognition is deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Where entitlement occurs before income is received, the income is accrued.

Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.

Other income is recognised in the period in which it is receivable and to the extent the goods have been provided or on completion of the service.

Page 27

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.3 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Expenditure on raising funds includes all expenditure incurred by the Charity to raise funds for its charitable purposes and includes costs of all fundraising activities events and non-charitable trading.

Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Charity's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.

Grants payable are charged in the year when the offer is made except in those cases where the offer is conditional, such grants being recognised as expenditure when the conditions attaching are fulfilled. Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year end are noted as a commitment, but not accrued as expenditure.

All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

2.4 Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.

2.5 Debtors

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

2.6 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

Page 28

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.7 Liabilities and provisions

Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably.

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.

Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Statement of financial activities as a finance cost.

2.8 Financial instruments

The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

2.9 Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements. Due to the significant nature of branches on the accounts, the Restricted branch fund is displayed separately throughout the accounts.

Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.

3. Income from donations and legacies

Donations
Legacies
Charity grants
Subscriptions		 Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2024
£
6,016
-
-
160,665
166,681		 Restricted
funds - All
other
2024
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
£
48,992
139,920
-
102,838
308,000
24,000
-
83,884
356,992
350,642		 Total
funds
2024
£
194,928
102,838
332,000
244,549
874,315

Page 29

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

3. Income from donations and legacies (continued)

Donations
Legacies
Charity grants
Subscriptions		 Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2023
£
12,393
1,000
-
129,551
142,944		 Restricted
funds - All
other
2023
£
9,500
100
356,456
-
366,056		 Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
137,086
78,343
63,288
81,007
359,724		 Total
funds
2023
£
158,979
79,443
419,744
210,558
868,724

Charity grants includes Pharmaceutical Industry grants of £334,000 (2023: £419,744).

4. Income from other trading activities

Income from fundraising events

Fundraising events
Fundraising events		 Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2024
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
£
12,165
125,170
Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2023
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
£
9,767
89,503		 Total
funds
2024
£
137,335
Total
funds
2023
£
99,270

Page 30

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

5. Investment income

Rental income
Bank Interest
Rental income
Bank Interest		 Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
34,450
6,904
41,354
Restricted
funds -
Branches
2023
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
£
-
31,985
156
3,484
156
35,469		 Total
funds
2024
£
34,450
6,904
41,354
Total
funds
2023
£
31,985
3,640
35,625

6. Other incoming resources

Other Income
Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2023
£
Other Income
1,532		 Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2024
£
794
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
22,501		 Total
funds
2024
£
794
Total
funds
2023
£
24,033

Page 31

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

7. Expenditure on raising funds

Fundraising trading expenses

Expenditure on raising donations and legacies
Staging fundraising events
Fundraising for membership
Staff remuneration
General fundraising expenditure
Allocated centrally incurred fundraising and governance
costs
Expenditure on raising donations and legacies
Staging fundraising events
Fundraising for membership
Staff remuneration
General fundraising expenditure
Allocated centrally incurred fundraising and governance
costs		 Restricted
funds -
Branches
2024
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
£
-
4,024
315
8,606
-
956
-
71,460
-
38,726
-
27,095
315
150,867
Restricted
funds -
Branches
2023
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
£
-
7,444
718
2,235
-
936
-
66,281
-
21,964
-
24,229
718
123,089		 Total
funds
2024
£
4,024
8,921
956
71,460
38,726
27,095
151,182
Total
funds
2023
£
7,444
2,953
936
66,281
21,964
24,229
123,807

Page 32

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

8. Analysis of grants

Grants, Empower, Inform and Inspire
Grants, A Connected and Supportive Community
Grants, Empower, Inform and Inspire		 Grants to
Institutions
2024
£
-
Grants to
Institutions
2023
£
1,003
-
1,003		 Grants to
Individuals
2024
£
250
Grants to
Individuals
2023
£
179
300
479		 Total
funds
2024
£
250
Total
funds
2023
£
1,182
300
1,482

9. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities

Summary by fund type

Every Patient Every Time
A Connected and Supportive Community
Empower, Inform and Inspire		 Restricted
funds -
Branches
2024
£
-
187,752
-
187,752		 Restricted
funds - All
other
2024
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
£
293,178
158,474
-
56,643
47,843
195,424
341,021
410,541		 Total
2024
£
451,652
244,395
243,267
939,314

Page 33

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

9. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities (continued)

Summary by fund type (continued)

Every Patient Every Time
A Connected and Supportive Community
Empower, Inform and Inspire		 Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2023
£
-
151,884
-
151,884		 Restricted
funds - All
other
2023
£
345,248
64,676
45,590
455,514		 Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
189,381
63,291
174,323
426,995		 Total
2023
£
534,629
279,851
219,913
1,034,393

10. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Every Patient Every Time
A Connected and Supportive Community
Empower, Inform and Inspire		 Activities
undertaken
directly
2024
£
351,814
229,288
181,724
762,826		 Grant
funding of
activities
2024
£
-
-
250
250		 Support
costs
2024
£
99,838
15,107
61,293
176,238		 Total
funds
2024
£
451,652
244,395
243,267
939,314
Every Patient Every Time
A Connected and Supportive Community
Empower, Inform and Inspire		 Activities
undertaken
directly
2023
£
445,170
263,757
161,836
870,763		 Grant
funding of
activities
2023
£
-
1,182
300
1,482		 Support
costs
2023
£
89,459
14,912
57,777
162,148		 Total
funds
2023
£
534,629
279,851
219,913
1,034,393

Page 34

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

10. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of direct costs

Staff costs
Other staff costs
Courier & distribution of materials
Literature, brochures and information
Promotion of activities and materials
Organising professional events
External technical providers
Attending professional events
Branch network expenditure
Staff costs
Other staff costs
Courier & distribution of materials
Literature, brochures & information
Promotion of activities and materials
Organising professional events
External technical providers
Attending professional events
Branch network expenditure		 Every
Patient
Every Time
2024
£
262,810
7,387
2,518
4,738
5,957
23,503
28,721
16,180
-
351,814
Every
Patient
Every Time
2023
£
235,262
10,045
1,835
7,494
2,348
99,275
87,237
1,674
-
445,170		 A
Connected
and
Supportive
Community
2024
£
33,780
978
4,155
4,184
-
-
-
-
186,191
229,288
A Connected
and
Supportive
Community
2023
£
40,892
1,264
3,791
4,500
54,797
6,219
2,391
-
149,903
263,757		 Empower,
Inform and
Inspire
2024
£
164,094
420
1,808
14,356
562
484
-
-
-
181,724
Empower,
Inform and
Inspire
2023
£
152,275
804
2,841
4,590
808
343
175
-
-
161,836		 Total
funds
2024
£
460,684
8,785
8,481
23,278
6,519
23,987
28,721
16,180
186,191
762,826
Total
funds
2023
£
428,429
12,113
8,467
16,584
57,953
105,837
89,803
1,674
149,903
870,763

Page 35

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

10. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of support costs

Staff costs
Other staff costs
Premises costs
Travel & accomodation expenses
IT and Communications
Office costs
Insurance, legal & professional
Other support costs
Bank charges & interest
Governance costs		 Every
Patient
Every Time
2024
£
35,738
5,055
13,474
1,389
12,124
2,179
10,043
545
12,998
6,293
99,838		 A
Connected
and
Supportive
Community
2024
£
4,594
1,385
1,733
178
1,558
280
1,291
1,631
1,672
785
15,107		 Empower,
Inform and
Inspire
2024
£
22,314
2,231
8,413
867
7,570
1,360
6,270
341
8,116
3,811
61,293		 Total
funds
2024
£
62,646
8,671
23,620
2,434
21,252
3,819
17,604
2,517
22,786
10,889
176,238

Page 36

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

10. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)

Analysis of support costs (continued)

Every
Patient
Every Time
2023
A Connected
and
Supportive
Community
2023
£
£
Staff costs
38,666
6,444
Depreciation
159
27
Other staff costs
1,996
333
Premises costs
7,239
1,206
Travel & accomodation expenses
796
133
IT and communications
12,425
2,071
Office costs
2,409
402
Insurance, legal & professional
11,910
1,985
Other support costs
669
112
Bank charges & interest
7,427
1,238
Governance costs
5,763
961
89,459
14,912
11.
Auditors' remuneration
Fees payable to the Charity's auditor for the audit of the Charity's annual
accounts
Fees payable to the Charity's auditor in respect of:
All non-audit services not included above		 Empower,
Inform and
Inspire
2023
£
24,972
103
1,290
4,674
514
8,025
1,556
7,692
432
4,797
3,722
57,777
2024
£
10,500
3,500		 Total
funds
2023
£
70,082
289
3,619
13,119
1,443
22,521
4,367
21,587
1,213
13,462
10,446
162,148
2023
£
9,000
3,000

Page 37

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

12. Staff costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes		 2024
£
432,110
42,183
58,754
533,047		 2023
£
409,135
39,509
60,339
508,983

The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows:

2024 2023
No. No.
Employees 12 12

The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:

2024 2023
No. No.
In the band £100,001 - £110,000 1 1

Key management personnel consists of the CEO, Head of Information and Support Services, Head of Policy and Health Services and the Head of Finance and Administration. The total employee remuneration and benefits of the key management personnel of the Charity were £288,381 (2023: £259,185).

13. Trustees' remuneration and expenses

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2023 - £NIL) .

During the year ended 31 December 2024, expenses totalling £ 58.95 were reimbursed or paid directly to 1 Trustee (2023 - £103.99 to 1 Trustee) . Expenses in both years related to travel expenses.

Page 38

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

14.
Tangible fixed assets
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024
At 31 December 2024
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024
At 31 December 2024
Net book value
At 31 December 2024
At 31 December 2023
15.
Investment property
Valuation
At 1 January 2024
At 31 December 2024		 Office
equipment
£
18,073
18,073
18,073
18,073
-
-
Freehold
investment
property
£
655,000
655,000

Investment property comprises residential flats let. The fair value of the investment property has been arrived at on the basis of a valuation carried out by an independent valuer with reference to market evidence of transaction prices for similar properties and a formal valuation made post the year end. The valuation was made on an open market value basis.

Page 39

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

16. Debtors

Due within one year
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income		 2024
£
13,404
13,129
13,299
39,832		 2023
£
21,057
6,410
11,098
38,565

17. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

Bank loans
Trade creditors
Other taxation and social security
Accruals and deferred income		 2024
£
27,950
19,876
4,659
13,780
66,265		 2023
£
3,532
97,757
5,557
55,768
162,614

18. Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

2024 2023
£ £
Bank loans 267,445 295,429

19. Statement of funds

Statement of funds - current year

Balance at
Balance at 1 31
January Transfers December
2024 Income Expenditure in/out 2024
£ £ £ £ £
Unrestricted funds
General Funds - all funds 732,521 517,166 (561,408) 2,791 691,070

Page 40

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19. Statement of funds (continued)

Restricted Funds - Branches

Restricted Funds - Branches
Branches
Restricted funds - All other
Branch Development Fund
Fergus Rogers Fund
Aspiring to Excellence
Cimzia Select Programme
Ophthalmology /
Gastroenterology project
Self Management Programme
Gold Standard Delay to
Diagnosis
APPG
Round Table
Health Inequalities
Total of funds		 243,190
Balance at 1
January
2024
£
10,740
1,752
8,611
150
18
18,072
13,271
688
7,110
2,350
62,762
1,038,473		 179,640
Income
£
-
-
96,000
-
-
48,992
212,000
-
-
-
356,992
1,053,798		 (188,067)
Expenditure
£
(842)
(250)
(96,670)
-
-
(46,750)
(188,440)
(736)
(7,110)
(223)
(341,021)
(1,090,496)		 (2,890)
Transfers
in/out
£
111
-
-
(60)
-
-
-
48
-
-
99
-		 231,873
Balance at
31
December
2024
£
10,009
1,502
7,941
90
18
20,314
36,831
-
-
2,127
78,832
1,001,775

Page 41

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19. Statement of funds (continued)

Branch Network Funds

The Branch Network Funds support the local activities of NASS Branches, which offer regular physiotherapy or hydrotherapy sessions led by qualified instructors. Each Branch raises its funds and decides how to utilise them for specific activities. In the event of a branch ceasing operations, any remaining funds will be reclassified as unrestricted funds. A portion of these funds may be directed into the Branch Development Fund, to support our branches' continuous growth and development.

Branch Development Fund

The Branch Development Fund is created through donations from local NASS Branches. It aims to ensure the establishment and promotion of all Branches, and it provides start-up grants to new Branches and funds for ordering promotional materials such as posters and leaflets.

Fergus Rogers Fund

The Fergus Rogers Fund was established in memory of Fergus Rogers to assist people with axial SpA in purchasing specific items that can improve their quality of life. It is used to provide support for those in financial need to obtain essential items recommended by their healthcare professionals.

Aspiring to Excellence Fund

The Aspiring to Excellence Fund supports a multi-year quality improvement program to transform healthcare for people with axial SpA. The fund facilitates strategic partnerships between NASS, BRITSpA, and the NHS transformation unit, bringing together rheumatology teams and service improvement experts. It is utilised for various activities, including recruitment to the program, learning sessions, online coaching, podcasts, and the development of an audit tool to track the time to diagnosis.

Ophthalmology / Gastroenterology Project Fund

The Ophthalmology/Gastroenterology Project Fund supports the Gold Standard time to diagnosis program and its efforts to improve the identification and referral of suspected axial SpA in Ophthalmology and Gastroenterology. It finances the involvement of clinical associates from both specialities in gathering intelligence and understanding the current landscape. Additionally, the fund covers the development of educational materials, audits, posters, surveys, and policy reports.

The Self-Management Programme

The Self-Management Fund covers the costs of NASS's Supported Self-Management Program, which equips people with axial SpA with the skills and tools to manage their symptoms confidently. It supports various aspects of the program, including online resources, self-management sessions, and regional events held in conjunction with local NHS rheumatology departments.

Delay to Diagnosis - Gold Standard Fund

The Delay to Diagnosis - Gold Standard Fund is utilised to implement The Gold Standard Time to Diagnosis program for axial SpA. It supports various activities such as producing campaign impact reports, conducting economic analysis, delivering landscape reports, reviewing the use of MRI in diagnosis, and running public awareness campaigns.

Page 42

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19. Statement of funds (continued)

APPG (All Party Parliamentary Group) for Axial Spondyloarthritis Fund

The APPG Fund is established to oversee the implementation of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines for Spondyloarthritis and its Quality Standard. It supports the functioning of the parliamentary group. It is used to conduct meetings, national inquiries, and parliamentary receptions to engage with MPs on axial SpA NHS services.

NASS Voices

The NASS Voices Fund supported regional events to facilitate interactions between local people with axial SpA and their rheumatology healthcare professionals. It helped cover the costs of venue payments and other expenses for organising these events. This fund was closed in 2023.

Round Table

The Round Table Fund supported wider policy work and national discussions on axial SpA in the UK. Although there was no activity in 2022, the fund was carried forward to continue its purpose in 2023. The Round Table meeting took place in 2024 and the fund has since been closed.

Health Inequalities Fund

The Health Inequalities Fund finances a qualitative study focusing on people's experiences with axial SpA through the lens of sex, gender, and gender identity. It covers expenses related to recruitment for focus groups and data collection.

Cimzia

The fund's purpose is to provide one-year free NASS membership for eligible patients living with axial spondyloarthritis.

Page 43

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19. Statement of funds (continued)

Balance at
1 January
2023
£
Income
£
Unrestricted
funds
General Funds -
all funds
770,477
507,197
Restricted
Funds -
Branches
Branches
265,269
154,399
Balance at
1 January
2023
£
Income
£
Restricted
funds - All
other
Branch
Development
Fund
7,992
-
Fergus Rogers
Fund
2,052
-
Aspiring to
Excellence
42,234
121,000
Cimzia Select
Programme
150
-
Ophthalmology /
Gastroenterolog
y project
855
-
Self
Management
Programme
21,067
40,962
Gold Standard
Delay to
Diagnosis
35,316
177,694
APPG
517
26,400
NASS Voices
3,493
-
Statement of funds - prior year		 Expenditure
£
(550,084)
(152,602)
Expenditure
£
(1,335)
(300)
(154,623)
-
(837)
(43,957)
(199,739)
(26,229)
(9,113)		 Transfers
in/out
£
15,363
(23,876)
Transfers
in/out
£
4,083
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
5,620		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
(10,432)
-
Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Balance at
31
December
2023
£
732,521
243,190
Balance at
31
December
2023
£
10,740
1,752
8,611
150
18
18,072
13,271
688
-

Page 44

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19. Statement of funds (continued)

Statement of funds - prior year (continued)

Round Table
Health
Inequalities
Total of funds		 Balance at
1 January
2023
£
11,900
18,131
143,707
1,179,453		 Income
£
-
-
366,056
1,027,652		 Expenditure
£
(3,600)
(15,781)
(455,514)
(1,158,200)		 Transfers
in/out
£
(1,190)
-
8,513
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
-
-
-
(10,432)		 Balance at
31
December
2023
£
7,110
2,350
62,762
1,038,473

Page 45

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

20. Summary of funds

Summary of funds - current year

General funds
Restricted funds-Branches
Restricted funds		 Balance at 1
January
2024
£
732,521
243,190
62,762
1,038,473		 Income
£
517,166
179,640
356,992
1,053,798		 Expenditure
£
(561,408)
(188,067)
(341,021)
(1,090,496)		 Transfers
in/out
£
2,791
(2,890)
99
-		 Balance at
31
December
2024
£
691,070
231,873
78,832
1,001,775

Summary of funds - prior year

General funds
Restricted
Funds-
Branches
Restricted funds		 Balance at
1 January
2023
£
770,477
265,269
143,707
1,179,453		 Income
£
507,197
154,399
366,056
1,027,652		 Expenditure
£
(550,084)
(152,602)
(455,514)
(1,158,200)		 Transfers
in/out
£
15,363
(23,876)
8,513
-		 Gains/
(Losses)
£
(10,432)
-
-
(10,432)		 Balance at
31
December
2023
£
732,521
243,190
62,762
1,038,473

21. Analysis of net assets between funds Analysis of net assets between funds - current period

Investment property
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Creditors due in more than one year
Total		 Restricted
Funds -
Branches
2024
£
-
231,873
-
-
231,873		 Restricted
funds - All
other
2024
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
£
-
655,000
78,832
369,780
-
(66,265)
-
(267,445)
78,832
691,070		 Total
funds
2024
£
655,000
680,485
(66,265)
(267,445)
1,001,775

Page 46

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

21. Analysis of net assets between funds (continued)

Analysis of net assets between funds - prior period

Investment property
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Creditors due in more than one year
Total		 Restricted
funds -
Branches
2023
£
-
243,190
-
-
243,190		 Restricted
funds - All
other
2023
£
-
62,762
-
-
62,762		 Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
655,000
535,564
(162,614)
(295,429)
732,521		 Total
funds
2023
£
655,000
841,516
(162,614)
(295,429)
1,038,473

22. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities

Net expenditure for the period (as per Statement of Financial Activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
(Gains)/losses on investments
Dividends, interests and rents from investments
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities
23.
Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
Cash in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents		 2024
£
(36,698)
-
-
(41,354)
(1,267)
(124,333)
(203,652)
2024
£
640,653
640,653		 2023
£
(140,980)
332
10,432
(35,625)
3,899
261,190
99,248
2023
£
802,951
802,951

Page 47

NATIONAL AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS SOCIETY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

24. Analysis of changes in net debt

Cash at bank and in hand
Debt due within 1 year
Debt due after 1 year		 At 1
January
2024
£
802,951
(3,532)
(295,429)
503,990		 Cash flows
£
(162,298)
(24,418)
27,984
(158,732)		 At 31
December
2024
£
640,653
(27,950)
(267,445)
345,258

Page 48

NASS Annual Report and Accounts YE2024

Final Audit Report 2025-07-25

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"NASS Annual Report and Accounts YE2024" History

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