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2026-03-31-accounts

Impact Report 2026 CLUB SODA '

Contents

Section 1 - Section 2 - Section 3 - Section 4 - Section 5 - Section 6 - Section 7 - Section 8 - Section 9 - Section 10 - Section 11 - Section 12 - Section 13 - Section 14 - Section 15

Our Manifesto

We believe creativity isn’t just for some - it’s for everyone. At Club Soda, we know that music, media and nightlife can be powerful tools for selfexpression, connection, and change. But too often, disabled voices are excluded from these spaces. We’re here to change that.

We don’t just run workshops and events - we build a culture where learning-disabled and autistic people are at the centre of the action: creating, performing, leading and setting the tone.

Through our work, we:

Host brilliant nights out that are loud, proud, and radically inclusive.

Our vision is bold:

We’re not just here to take part. We’re here to change the scene.

Section 1.

About Us

Club Soda is a Croydon-based, disability-led charity where people with learning disabilities and/or autism shape their own creative futures. Through music, media and nightlife, we provide a bold, joyful alternative to isolation - creating opportunities to learn, perform, connect and be seen.

We support a growing community of learning-disabled artists, including:

The Carbonators – Croydon’s leading learningdisabled band, known for their high-energy performances and original music.

Transient Visitors – who fuse pop, rock, metal and electronic influences to create their own unique dark melodic sound.

Theophilus Ajayi Oluwafifehami – a gifted singersongwriter creating soulful, reflective pop with gospel influences.

Luminous Starchild – a multi-talented vocalist and writer, whose empowering lyrics and magnetic stage presence are gaining national attention.

We provide a bold, joyful alternative to isolation.

Section 2.

Our programmes include:

Soda Jam – playful music workshops for young people and adults starting out.

Soda Crew – weekly sessions for aspiring DJs and MCs. The Next Big Thing – a development programme for emerging artists aged 18–25.

Soda Beat & SoDaDa – inclusive gigs and cabaret nights where our members take the stage.

Gig Buddies Croydon – matching people with learning disabilities to volunteers to enjoy live events together. Leisure Link – monthly socials, bi-monthly magazine and regular podcasts by and for learning-disabled creatives.

We work with partners like Carousel, Croydon College and Brockwell Live to create ambitious work and platform disabled voices. At Club Soda, creativity isn’t a luxury - it’s a right.

Section 2.

Our Year in Numbers

Impact Area 2025–2026 Change from 2024–2025

Workshops 525 -34
Events 18 -24
Members 109 +2
Volunteers 36 -2
Face-to-Face Engagements 4,190 -47
Newsletter Subscribers 496 +40
Social Media Followers 3,283 -1,504
Funds Raised £111,609 -£159,228
Funds Spent £169,590 -£73,820
Income Earned by Club Soda Artists £1,740 -£160

2025/26 was a year of resilience and progress. Despite a challenging funding landscape, Club Soda continued to deliver creative opportunities that enabled learning-disabled and autistic people to connect, create and thrive. The figures above represent more than activity - they reflect confidence built, friendships formed, artists supported and a community growing stronger together.

Section 3.

The Need for Our Work

Too many disabled people are locked out of the cultural life of their own community.

The need for Club Soda’s work is both profound and growing. In Croydon alone, there are an estimated 8,000–10,000 people with learning disabilities and/or autism – many of whom face barriers to cultural participation, creative expression, and social connection. Too often, disabled people are excluded from the venues, events, and platforms that others take for granted. Many feel isolated, unwelcome, or invisible – especially in nightlife and cultural spaces.

We’re here to change that.

Club Soda puts disabled artists and audiences centre stage. Our work tackles:

Loneliness and lack of community

Low confidence, poor wellbeing, and lack of visibility

Research from our projects shows that when people take part in our music and media activities, they feel happier, more confident, and more connected.

But the need is not only social — it’s economic too.

Section 4.

The “Purple Pound” , referring to the spending power of disabled people and their households, is estimated at over £274 billion in the UK. Yet too few venues and event spaces are accessible or welcoming to this audience. By creating safe, inclusive nightlife and cultural experiences, Club Soda enables our community to take part — and spend — in their local economy, contributing to regeneration and sustainability in Croydon’s creative and hospitality sectors.

£274 billion Purple Pound

“Coming to Club Soda was the first time I felt like people saw me for who I am – not just my support needs.” Club Soda Member

Section 4.

Soda Crew DJs

We’re making space for learning-disabled DJs in places where they’ve been excluded - and proving everyone wants them there.

Soda Crew is our flagship DJ training programme – a place where people with learning disabilities can master the decks, build confidence, and take centre stage. Throughout 2025/26, our DJs took their skills to new levels. Weekly workshops at Club Soda’s studio covered everything from beat matching and playlist building to stage presence and crowd interaction, making their sets more dynamic and accessible to wider audiences.

This year, Soda Crew DJs played across multiple stages – from inclusive cabaret nights and Soda Beat gigs to the Croydon Learning Disability Carnival on the High Street, where they brought the party to the heart of the community. These performances weren’t just about the music; they were powerful moments of visibility, joy, and selfexpression.

“Being on stage makes me feel powerful. I like getting the crowd dancing – it makes me feel proud.” Soda Crew DJ

Section 5.

We also introduced more peer-led mentoring, where experienced DJs supported newcomers – strengthening friendships and building a sense of shared leadership.

What’s more, Soda Crew DJs aren’t just shining at Club Soda events. They’re increasingly being booked to play at non-Club Soda affiliated venues and events, from community festivals like Croydon Pride to birthday parties and other club nights such as Blue Camel Club in Brighton and Orchard Hill’s regular club night in Sutton. This growing visibility shows that our artists are being recognised and celebrated well beyond our own platforms.

“I never thought I’d be DJing in front of that many people. I feel like a proper artist now.” – Soda Crew DJ

Section 5.

Soda Jam & Soda Jam Xtra

It starts with access and grows into confidence, skills, and community.

Soda Jam is our weekly creative music session for young people with learning disabilities. These workshops offer a fun, welcoming environment to explore instruments, play as a group, and develop songwriting, singing, and performance skills.

Each session is co-created with participants, making space for all experience levels and all musical styles - from noisy improvisation to quiet lyric-writing. With support from our experienced artist-educators, members grow in confidence, creativity, and connection.

In 2025/26, attendance continued to grow, and Soda Jam became a regular highlight in many young people’s weeks - helping them build friendships, express themselves, and feel seen.

Section 6.

Now in its second year, Soda Jam Xtra offers a progression route designed for people aged 25 and over who want to continue their music-making journey beyond Soda Jam. These more focused, smaller group sessions offer participants the chance to explore songwriting, beat-making, and music production in greater depth.

Together, Soda Jam and Soda Jam Xtra create inclusive musical spaces where people of all ages can find their voice, build skills, and be part of something joyful and creative.

“It’s the best part of my week – I feel like I can really be myself when I’m making music here.” Soda Jam participant

Section 6.

The Next Big Thing

When the music industry won’t open the door, we build a stage.

“The Best has given me the opportunity to perform in front of many people and have incredible experiences..” Cris

In its second year, The Next Big Thing became much more than an artist development programme - it helped define the future of Club Soda’s music offer. By combining regular workshops, tailored mentoring and real-world creative opportunities, the project created a clearer pathway for learning-disabled and autistic musicians to develop their skills, grow in confidence and perform in front of new audiences.

The programme reinforced what we’ve long believed: progression isn’t about reaching a single destination, but creating opportunities for people to keep developing as artists. The lessons learned through The Next Big Thing - from introducing Girls Jam to embedding personalised mentoring and access planning - are now shaping how we support musicians across all of Club Soda’s music programmes.

Section 7.

We also strengthened outreach to younger musicians under 18 through schoolbased workshops and performances, laying foundations for future engagement.

“I’ve started to learn music production. I can now do basic recording and know how to operate Logic.” Filipe

“After the Performance Masterclass I feel much more confident in my stage presence and what to say.” Anu

“They absolutely loved it! It was so good, the students were so engaged, and everyone wants to attend your weekly sessions.” Frances Mckay, teacher

Section 7.

Why this matters

The learning-disabled musicians we mentor are not just creative - they’re ambitious, driven, and full of potential. But the music industry has historically failed to make space for artists like them. That’s where Club Soda steps in. We act as a rare bridge between talent and opportunity - a launchpad where emerging artists can build the confidence, skills, and visibility they need to thrive.

In 2026/27, we’ll take this to the next level. We’ll build stronger links with music industry professionals, programmers, and promoters to ensure our artists don’t just have a stage - they have a future.

“I’ve always wanted to be seen as a real artist. The Next Big Thing made me feel like I am.” TNBT artist

Section 7.

Soda Beat

Our artists belong on the big stage - and so does our audience.

Soda Beat is our flagship live music series, bringing the full energy of Club Soda to audiences across Croydon. These events celebrate two distinct but equally powerful parts of our live music offer:

Soda Beat Club Nights at Boxpark Croydon – high-energy, inclusive dance nights powered by our talented learning-disabled DJs.

Soda Beat Gig Nights at Stanley Arts – showcase events featuring our bands, emerging solo artists, and guest performers from across the learningdisability music scene.

These nights aren’t just about performance - they’re about participation, representation, and joy. They put disabled artists centre stage and draw audiences from across Croydon and beyond to experience the incredible talents of our musicmakers and DJs.

Section 8.

Soda Beat continued to showcase the extraordinary talent of learning-disabled musicians and DJs. Every event demonstrated that accessibility and artistic excellence go hand in hand, creating unforgettable nights where disabled artists headline rather than simply participate.

Soda Beat is more than just a gig - it’s a celebration of inclusive culture and a brilliant night out for everyone.

“Club Soda is an example of how to bring disabled musicians into mainstream venues and make those venues accessible places to be. What’s great about Club Soda is that the gigs aren’t just accessible but fantastic nights out.” Paul Hawkins, Head of Volunteering and Skills Development at Attitude is Everything

Section 8.

Gig Buddies Croydon

Everyone deserves a social life.

Gig Buddies Croydon is now in its 7th year - and the impact just keeps growing. This pioneering project pairs adults with learning disabilities with volunteer buddies who share their interests, enabling them to go to gigs, festivals, theatre shows, and other cultural events together.

At its heart, Gig Buddies is about friendship and inclusion. It’s about making sure people can live the kind of social life they want - filled with fun, freedom, and new experiences. Over the past year, we’ve:

Supported 20 active matches

The community spirit of Gig Buddies goes beyond the events. We’ve seen new friendships grow, people take more risks, and confidence levels soar - all while challenging stereotypes of what learning-disabled people can do and enjoy.

“The project has given me the chance to do things that I wouldn’t have done by myself like go to the theatre and try spray painting. I can call her my Gig Buddy and friend too; I enjoy every single thing I do with her.” Gig Buddy participant

Section 9.

“Reflecting on the past year, Gig Buddies has once again been a cornerstone of joy in my life. My buddy and I have ventured on numerous adventures, including an unforgettable camping festival and we had the pleasure of seeing IDLES perform at Alexandra Palace. Another year of friendship, learning, and personal growth. We're both immensely grateful for the Gig Buddies community.” Volunteer

Section 9.

Leisure Link / Soda Mag

When information is accessible, lives change.

Soda Mag is Club Soda's community-led arts, culture and lifestyle magazine. It celebrates creativity, champions accessibility, and provides a platform for learning disabled voices through reviews, interviews, features, experiences and recommendations. Together, the magazine, podcast, workshops and socials help people build skills, share their experiences and influence a more inclusive cultural sector. This year saw the project evolve from Leisure Link into the newly rebranded Soda Mag, marking an exciting new chapter while continuing to put people with learning disabilities at the heart of everything we do. We believe that when stories are accessible, communities become more connected.

Section 10.

This year:

Funding from Adobe, Bailey Thomas, Croydon Loves You

Ultimately Soda Mag, is a creative platform that amplifies the voices of people with learning disabilities, builds confidence and skills, and helps shape a more accessible and inclusive cultural landscape through lived experience.

Section 10.

“Since joining Leisure Link, my anxiety has gone down, and I feel much happier. I’ve even got a job now and go to social events where I help represent Croydon Mencap.” Member and contributor

“I like reviewing gigs and talking about health because I want to help people with the same challenges I’ve had.” Podcast guest, board member, and contributor

Section 10.

Case Study: Steph’s Story

Steph is a passionate podcast contributor and a long-time supporter of Leisure Link. Through her involvement, she has interviewed guests, reviewed events, and even co-hosted a podcast episode about staying healthy and managing anxiety. Steph says being part of Leisure Link has helped her feel more confident, both socially and emotionally.

Her creative contributions have inspired others, and Steph now helps shape future content through our advisory board. Her story shows how accessible media platforms can give disabled people the tools to lead, share, and support others.

“I used to feel nervous talking in groups, but now I love being part of the podcast. I want to help other people like me know they’re not alone.”

Section 10.

Partnerships

We’re not doing this alone - and that’s the point. Strategic Partners – Driving sector change

At Club Soda, we know real change is powered by collaboration. Our strategic partnerships go beyond event delivery - they help us push boundaries, influence the sector, and champion access and inclusion in the arts.

Together we formed Fuse , a powerful collaboration combining Club Soda’s music expertise, SLiDE’s inclusive dance practice, and Turf’s artist development platform, MOSS. Through SoDaDa , our quarterly inclusive cabaret, we’ve created a space where learningdisabled artists can lead, perform, and shine.

As a national campaign partner, Stay Up Late is integral to our Gig Buddies project. They support our work on social inclusion, coproduction, and the right to party - proving nightlife should be accessible to everyone.

Our creative collaborators from Brighton have supported our DJs and artists at inclusive events, helping to expand our reach and raise the profile of learning-disabled talent across the Southeast.

These festival partnerships take our artists to major stages and audiences.

Through campaigns like ‘Partying in Plain Sight,’ we champion inclusive nightlife and shape wider perceptions about disability in cultural spaces.

Section 11.

Local Partners – Making it happen in Croydon

We’re proud to work with a brilliant network of local venues and arts organisations that help us turn ideas into action and performances into unforgettable moments.

London Mozart Players

Croydon Music & Arts

This collaboration enables cross-genre artistic exchange, positioning our members on professional concert stages, and providing our audiences with high-quality inclusive programming.

Helps us expand access to formal music education opportunities and supports performance-ready environments for our emerging musicians.

Fairfield Halls, Stanley Arts,

Croydon College

Boxpark & Riff Raffs

Together we launched our Media Team , supporting students and young disabled people to co-produce Leisure Link magazine and podcast. It’s more than media - it’s about developing real skills and real confidence.

By embedding our events in landmark local venues, we normalise inclusive performance and expand public access to disability-led arts.

“This collaboration directly advances Club Soda’s mission of raising awareness and challenging perceptions around disability in the creative industries.” Head of SEN, Croydon College

Section 11.

Our Vision: 2025–2029

We’ve come this far. Let’s go further.

At Club Soda, we believe everyone deserves access to creativity, connection, and celebration. Our community brings together people with learning disabilities, emerging artists, and audiences of all kinds to share in joyful, inclusive cultural experiences. Over the next four years, Club Soda is committed to growth, inclusivity, and long-term sustainability. Our plan is bold and community-driven, shaped by what our members, artists, and partners have told us matters most.

We aim to connect more people

Because too many learning-disabled people are still excluded from social and cultural life. By forging links with care homes, support settings, and isolated individuals, we’re creating real pathways into community, creativity, and belonging.

→ We’ll reach 50% of people in Croydon’s supported living homes by 2029, supported by improved outreach, a relaunch of our magazine and podcast, and a bigger volunteer team that reflects Croydon’s diversity.

Section 12.

We aim to champion diverse voices

Because learning-disabled people deserve to see themselves represented on stage, on air, and behind the scenes. We’re amplifying these voices not just for visibility - but to drive lasting change in how society sees and hears them.

→ We’ll support 25 learning-disabled artists annually with creative development and mentorship and deliver a UK-wide tour in 2026 that celebrates our artists on national stages.

We aim to grow a movement for change

Because inclusion doesn’t happen by accident. It takes partnerships, advocacy, and persistence. Through campaigning, collaboration, and culture, we’re shifting perceptions, raising expectations, and building a louder, more visible movement for creative equity.

→ By 2029, we’ll create 10 new Gig Buddy matches per year, form 10 new organisational partnerships, and build a financial reserve that sustains our impact long-term.

Our leadership will grow too. We’ll recruit more trustees - including learning-disabled young people - and ensure every team member has access to training each year.

With creativity and community at the heart of everything we do, this plan will help us build a more inclusive cultural future - locally and nationally.

Section 12.

Keeping creativity affordable

Affordability is one of the biggest barriers to cultural participation for people with learning disabilities. Since becoming a charity in 2019, Club Soda has proudly kept all our entry fees and workshop costs at £5 or less, with many events and opportunities completely free for those on low incomes.

This commitment to low-cost access isn’t just about inclusion — it’s about equity. We know that rising living costs and over a decade of austerity have made it even harder for disabled people to access arts, culture, and community spaces. By keeping our pricing low and continuing to subsidise many of our members, we’re making sure money is never a barrier to participation.

At the same time, we’re helping to unlock the “Purple Pound” — the £274 billion spending power of disabled people and their households. When our members take part in Club Soda gigs and events hosted in mainstream venues, they’re not just included — they’re contributing to the local economy.

By supporting members to enjoy safe, fun nights out, we’re enabling them to spend their money with confidence — in spaces that value their presence and meet their access needs.

Inclusive culture benefits everyone. Keeping it affordable is how we make it work.

Section 12.

Our 4-Year Plan Looking Ahead:

Our priorities are shaped by what our members tell us matters most: more opportunities to create, connect, and be seen. To bring our vision to life, we’ve set out a bold but achievable four-year strategy focused on growth, inclusion, and sustainability. These targets will guide our work through to 2029, ensuring our programmes stay impactful, accessible, and grounded in the voices of the people they exist for. We’ll report on our progress each year in our Impact Report.

Audience growth

Stronger partnerships

Section 13.

Creative opportunities

Support 25 learning-disabled artists each year with workshops, mentoring and exposure. Make 10 new Gig Buddy matches annually.

Engage over 500 unique participants per year.

Better promotion

Sustainable future

Secure sponsorships through our magazine and podcast.

Leadership for change

Recruit young and diverse trustees, including those with lived experience of disability. Champion intersectional inclusion and invest in training – so 100% of staff develop professionally every year.

We’ll share our progress on these goals in future reports - and we’ll continue to listen, adapt, and grow alongside our brilliant community.

Section 13.

Our Finances

2025/26 was a challenging but important year for Club Soda. Our income reduced to £111,609 as we navigated a temporary gap in major grant funding, making this one of our most financially demanding years since becoming a charity. Thanks to the continued support of our longstanding funders, alongside new partners who recognised the value of our work, we were able to continue delivering high-quality programmes for our community.

We spent £169,590 during the year, drawing on reserves that had been carefully built up over previous years to protect our services and maintain momentum. This financial resilience meant we could continue supporting learning-disabled artists and audiences without significant disruption.

By the end of the year, our persistence had paid off. We secured significant new multi-year investment, including funding from the National Lottery Community Fund and Arts Council England, providing a strong foundation for the future. While this year’s figures reflect a period of transition, they also demonstrate Club Soda’s resilience, careful financial management and the confidence that funders continue to place in our vision.

Income Sources (2025/26)

Expenditure (2025/26)

Grants funding – £95,686 Programme delivery – £17,702 Donations – £6,142 Staff salaries – £138,674 Earned income – £9,781 Studio hire and equipment – £13,214

We are currently working towards building a financial reserve to help safeguard our future and ensure we can respond flexibly to new opportunities and challenges.

Section 14.

Thank You

Everything we achieve is made possible by the people who believe in our mission. To our members, artists, volunteers, partners, funders and supporters—thank you for helping create opportunities, champion talent and build a more inclusive cultural sector. We couldn't do it without you.

With special thanks to our 2025/26 funders:

CLUB SODA

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDED 31 MARCH 2026

Registered Charity No. 1183211

CLUB SODA

Trustees

Terry Andrew Smith - Chair Sedley Wilson Yasmin Louise Clark Chetna Kapacee Andrew Slegg Paul Barnard Caroline Dodd

Registered Charity 1183211

Registered Address

Turf Projects, Units 46-47, Trinity Court (Ground Floor), Whitgift Shopping Centre, Croydon, CRO 1UQ

Independent Examiner

Brian Dorgan 117 Clockhouse Road Beckenham, United Kingdom BR3 4JY

CLUB SODA

Contents of the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

Section Page
Report of the Trustees 1-3
Independent Examiner's Report 4
Statement of Financial Activities 5
Balance Sheet 6
Cash Flow Statement 7
Notes to the Financial Statements 8-14

CLUB SODA

Report of The Trustees to 31/03/2026

The Trustees present their annual report together with the unaudited financial statements for the year ended 31st March 2026. The Trustees confirm that the Annual Report and financial statements of the charity comply with the current statutory requirements, the charity's governing document and the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

The trustees who held office during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were as follows:

Terry Andrew Smith - Chair Sedley Wilson Yasmin Louise Clark Chetna Kapacee Andrew Slegg Paul Barnard Caroline Dodd

Objectives and Activities

Club Soda works with people who have learning disabilities and autism. They deliver workshops in music making and DJing and produce live events which showcase the talents of members and other artists with learning disabilities and autism. Gig Buddies Croydon and Soda Mag are projects run by Club Soda that aim to improve access to leisure and entertainment opportunities for people with learning disabilities.

Mission

Club Soda's mission is to create exciting social and creative music opportunities for people with learning disabilities. We are led by a vibrant and dedicated pool of artists, creatives and campaigners, who break boundaries and stereotypes to create a society where people with learning disabilities are happy, social, creative and valued. We support people to learn Dling and music-making and deliver popular live events which give a platform to our artists and opportunities for young people.

Gig Buddies Croydon is a project that matches adults with learning disabilities to volunteers who have similar interests, to go to events together that they both love. It began as a practical alternative to inflexible support, ensuring that people with learning disabilities don't miss out on a social life by enabling them to make new friends in their community. Gig Buddies is about empowering people, building friendships, and giving people choice in how they want to live their lives.

Soda Mag provide extensive information about leisure, arts and sport related opportunities in Croydon and beyond. It is viewed as a key tool that can be used to give people the essential opportunities to be fully included in the Croydon community, doing things they really enjoy and that help their health and well-being.

Page 1

CLUB SODA

Report of The Trustees to 31/03/2026

Financial Review

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 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 total Income for the year was £111,609. The total Expenses for the year were £169,590, giving a deficit for the year of £57,980.

Reserves Policy

It is the policy of the charity to keep a minimum of £36,000 in reserves in case the charity is forced to close. This sum represents the grand total of 1 month's salary for all staff working for the charity.

Structure, Governance and management

a. Constitution

The charity is registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation with registered charity number 1183211.

b. Method of appointment or election of Trustees.

Apart from the first charity trustees, every trustee must be appointed for a term of 3 years by a resolution passed at a properly convened meeting of the charity trustees. In selecting individuals for appointment as charity trustees, the charity trustees must have regard to the skills, knowledge and experience needed for the effective administration of the CIO.

c. Organisational Structure and decision making

The Chair of the board continues to successfully lead the charity.

d. Risk Management

The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those related to the operations and finances of the charity and are satisfied that systems and procedures are in place to mitigate all exposure to the major risks.

Page 2

CLUB SODA

Report of The Trustees to 31/03/2026

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 including FRS 102.'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland'.

Company law requires trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are required to:

a. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;

b. state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable 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 charitable company and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

No Funds are held by a custodian Trustee

This report was approved by the Trustees on [DATE TO BE APPROVED] and signed on their behalf by:

Chair__________

Page 3

CLUB SODA

Independent Examiner's Report for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

Responsibilities and basis of report

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the charity are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. that the accounts do not accord with the accounting records; or

  2. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

  3. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with Financial Reporting Standards applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Brian Dorgan 117 Clockhouse Road Beckenham, United Kingdom BR3 4JY

Page 4

CLUB SODA

Statement of Financial Activities for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

(Incorporating Income and Expenditure Account)

Note
Income from:
Grants and Legacies
2
Other charitable trading activities
3
Total Income
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
4,5,6
Total Expenditure
Net movement in funds
Fund balances at 31st March 2025
Fund balances at 31st March 2026		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total 2026
Total 2025
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
£
8,686 93,142 101,828 260,041
9,781 - 9,781 10,796
18,467 93,142 111,609 270,837
43,160
126,430
169,590
(243,410)
43,160
126,430
169,590
(243,410)
(24,692)
(33,288)
(57,980)
27,427
66,524 54,842 121,366 93,939
41,832 21,554 63,386 121,366

All disclosures relate only to continuing operations.

There are no recognised gains or losses other than the net incoming resources for the year.

Page 5

CLUB SODA

Balance Sheet at 31st March 2026

Note
Cash in Bank
8
Fixed term savings account
8
Total Current Assets
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES
TOTAL NET ASSETS
Charity Funds
Restricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Total Charity Funds		 2026
£
27,386
36,000
63,386
63,386
63,386
63,386
21,554
41,832
63,386		 2025
£
121,366
-
121,366
121,366
121,366
121,366
54,842
66,525
121,366

For the year ended 31 March 2026 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

The members have not 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 complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and for

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees and authorised for issue on [DATE TO BE APPROVED] and were signed on their behalf by:

Chair

Page 6

CLUB SODA

Cashflow Statement for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

Note
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Change in cash in the reporting period
Cash at the beginning of the reporting period
Cash at the end of the reporting period		 2026
2025
£
£
£
£
(57,980)
27,427
-
-
-
-
(57,980)
27,427
121,366
93,939
63,386
121,366

Page 7

CLUB SODA

Notes to the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Company information

Club Soda is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), published in January 2019. The Charitable Company is a public benefit entity for the purposes of FRS 102 and therefore the charity also prepared its financial statements in accordance with the 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 (The FRS 102 Charities SORP published in January 2019), the Companies Act 2006 and the Charities Act 2011.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest pound.

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.

The company has unrestricted net assets of £41,833 of which £36,000 has been designated. The directors consider that the company's reserves will be sufficient to cover deficits that may result from unanticipated costs of projects.

On this basis, the directors consider it appropriate to prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis.

1.2 Income

All income is recognised once the company has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation. Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.

1.3 Expenditure

Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the company and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Support costs are allocated on a percentage basis as detailed in note 7.

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CLUB SODA

Notes to the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Charitable activities and Governance costs are costs incurred on the company's educational operations, including support costs and costs relating to the governance of the company apportioned to charitable activities.

1.4 Interest Receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the company; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the Bank.

1.5 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.

1.6 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.

1.7 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 company 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.

1.8 Financial instruments

The company 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.

1.9 Pensions

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable.

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CLUB SODA

Notes to the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

2. Income from Grants and Legacies

Grants Received / Funding
Membership Fees
Total grants
Donations
Total Grants and Legacies		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2026
2026
2026
2025
£
£
£
£
2,544
93,142
95,686
244,195
3,490 -
3,490
2,862
6,034
93,142
99,176
247,057
6,142 -
6,142
12,984
12,176
93,142
105,318
260,041

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CLUB SODA

Notes to the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

3. Income from other charitable trading activities

Performance Income
Sales
Total other charitable trading activities		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2026
2026
2026
2025
£
£
£
£
4,069 -
4,069
2,222 -
2,222
6,291 -
6,291
10,796

4. Direct costs

Direct Expenses
Direct Wages
Equipment
Advertising and Marketing
Total
Audit & Accountancy Fees
General Expenses
Insurance
IT Software and Consulting
Payroll Costs
Pension Costs
Rent
Staff Training
Telephone & Internet
Travel- National
Venue Hire
Total
5. Support costs		 Total
Total
2026
2025
£
£
- 6,951
70,210 82,520
1,311 4,849
4,040 -
75,561 94,320
Total
Total
2026
2025
£
£
1,248 1,261
6,133 6,143
729 657
1,172 2,248
68,464 121,537
2,044 2,579
3,628 3,816
144 -
618 633
1,574 1,298
8,275 8,918
94,029 149,089

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CLUB SODA

Notes to the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

6. Staff costs

Wages and salaries
Other pension costs
Contractor Costs
Total staff costs		 2026
2025
£
£
138,674 211,008
2,044 2,579
140,718 213,587

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

Average number of employees - Direct charitable work
Average number of employees - Administration
Total		 2026
2025
No.
No.
1
1
1
1
2
2

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CLUB SODA

Notes to the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

Fund
Designated funds
Designated minimum reserve
Designated artistic reserve
General Funds
General unrestricted funds
Total unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
ACE
Adobe
Amplify
Baily Thomas
City Bridge
CVA
Fuse
Jack Petchey
LBC
London Catalyst
National Lottery
NHS
Telus
Youth Music
Total restricted funds
Unallocated current-year activity
Total of funds
7. Summary of Funds - current year		 Balance at
01/04/2025
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
in/out
Balance at
31/03/2026
£
£
£
£
£
12,000 - - 24,000
36,000
- - - - -
12,000 - - 24,000
36,000
54,525
18,467
(43,160)
(24,000) 5,833
54,525
18,467
(43,160)
(24,000)
5,833
66,525
18,467
(43,160) -
41,832
- -
(11,635) -
(11,635)
18,678 16,400
(34,726) -
352
- - - - -
- 12,000
(7,310) -
4,690
- 9,833 - -
9,833
- 500 - -
500
- - - - -
- 900
(29) -
871
- 4,714 - -
4,714
- 3,230 - -
3,230
- -
(40) -
(40)
20,871 -
(24,203) -
(3,332)
- 15,000
(2,379) -
12,621
15,294 30,565
(46,108) -
(249)
54,843
93,142
(126,430) -
21,554
- - - - -
121,367
111,609
(169,590) -
63,386

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CLUB SODA

Notes to the Financial Statements for the 12 Months Ended 31st March 2026

8. Cash in Bank

Cash at bank and in hand
Fixed term savings account
Total		 2026
2025
£
£
27,386 121,366
36,000 -
63,386 121,366

9. Pension commitments

The charity operates a defined contributions pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charity to the fund.

10. Liability of members

The company is limited by guarantee and the liability of members . At 31 March 2026 there are 7 members.

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