GEORGE'S ROCKST*RS ANNUAL REPORT 2025
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Contents
| Legal and Administrative Information | 3 |
|---|---|
| A message from our founders | 5 |
| 2025 Highlights | 6 |
| Who we help | 7 |
| Looking to the future | 11 |
| Financial Summary | 12 |
| Our 2025 Supporters | 26 |
| How you can help | 27 |
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Our inspiration
George was diagnosed with leukaemia at just 22 months old in November 2014. During his near five year battle he sadly relapsed four times and, after having all the treatments there were available, George passed away at home in August 2019 surrounded by his family.
George adored music and nature, had a huge zest for life, and an infectious smile and character. The charity was inspired by George’s experience with music therapy during intensive treatment at Bristol Children’s Hospital. Music therapy was the highlight of George’s week and gave a then four year old George a way to express his frustrations and fears of being in isolation in hospital.
Music therapy isn’t widely available in NHS hospitals, so George’s family set up the charity to bring music therapy to children in hospital, many of whom have serious or life limiting illnesses and disabilities and, like George, spend too much of their childhood in hospital.
“Where words fail, music speaks.” Hans Christian Anderson
Our Mission
Music is part of all of us – in our heartbeats and movements, our laughter, crying and singing. Music Therapy uses music to help children and their families live creatively and resourcefully in the face of illness, disability and trauma.
George’s Rockstars is on a mission to make children in hospital smile as much as George through the power of music therapy.
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George’s Rockstars (Charitable Incorporated Organisation)
Legal and Administrative Information
Charity Number: 1188730
Date of registration: 24th March 2020
Start of Financial Year: 1st January 2025
End of Financial Year: 31st December 2025
Trustees at 31st December 2025: Mark Robinson, Craig O’Shaughnessy, Daniel Ash, Nicola Caton, Dean Piper, Maisie Lawrence, Katie-Louise Biginton
Legal Status: Charitable Incorporated Organisation
Governing Instrument: CIO - Foundation Registered 24th March 2020
Objects: To relieve the needs of Children and Teenagers who are seriously ill or have a life limiting illness/condition by funding the provision of therapies and activities, in particular, but not limited to, Music Therapy in Hospitals in the United Kingdom or in a setting appropriate to their condition.
Correspondence Address: Sovereign House, 37 Middle Rd, Park Gate, Southampton SO31 7GH
Primary Bankers: Nat West PLC, 250 Bishopsgate, London EC2M 4AA
Independent Examiner: Ladies of Ledger Ltd
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A message from our Founders
This year, we have worked incredibly hard to bring even more music to even more children in hospital. Our music therapy service has continued to grow, and we are now supporting families in eight hospitals across Sussex, Hampshire and Dorset, as well as at a children’s respite home.
Since beginning in our first hospital in 2021, we have now delivered over 3,800 music therapy sessions, with 1,782 sessions provided this year alone. We are proud to be reaching more families every year.
In early 2025, we launched music therapy at Worthing Hospital, continuing the wonderful work started by Waves Music Therapy on Bluefin Ward. Thanks to the ongoing support of Teddy Rocks Festival, we were also able to expand into Dorset. In September 2025, we began sessions on Kingfisher Ward at Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester, a particularly meaningful development, as Ted Newton, in whose memory the festival was founded, spent a great deal of time on this ward during his treatment before sadly passing away at just 10 years old. In October, music therapy also began on the children’s wards at Poole Hospital.
We were delighted to start an exciting new partnership with Sebastian’s Action Trust, bringing music therapy to children with complex needs at The Bluebells, their incredible restorative break home near Basingstoke. Many of the children who visit The Bluebells are those we support during frequent hospital stays, making this partnership especially impactful.
Looking ahead, our major goal for next year is to double the number of music therapy sessions provided at our largest site, Southampton Children’s Hospital, to meet the huge demand from families and our NHS colleagues across all children’s wards there.
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To support our expansion, we have welcomed three new music therapists to our growing team. Mary-Clare now leads music therapy at Dorset County Hospital.
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Rachel brings music therapy to Poole Hospital.
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Willow has joined us for sessions at The Bluebells.
We have also welcomed our first student Music Therapist, Lucy, who is working alongside Louise providing sessions on the children’s kidney dialysis unit at Southampton Children’s Hospital.
Our fantastic trustees, along with our brilliant treasurer, John, have continued to guide and champion our mission. Huge thanks to Craig, Daniel, Dean, Mark, Maisie, Katie and Nicola for their dedication, passion, and hard work, helping George’s Rockstars go from strength to strength and enabling us to reach more children each year.
I am incredibly proud of the impact we are having for so many children during frightening and traumatic times, bringing smiles, comfort, and joyful memories to children like George, and to their families. We are so excited for 2026, with even more expansion ahead. None of this would be possible without everyone who donates, volunteers, abseils from dizzying heights, hosts gigs, or supports us in any way. From all of us at George’s Rockstars: you all rock. Thank you — from the bottom of our hearts.
Amy O’Shaughnessy Co-founder and George’s Mum
2025 Highlights
297 days of 6 Therapists Music Therapy across 8 hospitals & a respite home 908 children engaging in Music Therapy for the first time 4 amazing music festivals with our friends from Rocksteady Music School 2173 Music Therapy sessions offered 778 children receiving ongoing music therapy support
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Who we help
Jacob
“Jacob, a 13-year-old with complex needs, spends a lot of time in hospital. During his inpatient stays he is away from his familiar surroundings and routine, as a result struggles with anxiety and isolation. The music therapy sessions have helped him express fear, frustration, and sadness in a safe space as well as give him the opportunity to have fun and be playful. The music therapy provides vital emotional support and opportunity for self-expression that makes such a difference to his often long hospital stays.” Louise- Music Therapist
Aria
“Aria, aged 11, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma earlier this year. When I met her when she was anxiously waiting for surgery, she was so surprised and excited to see the musical instruments on the ward and wanted to start playing immediately. The music provided a distraction from the upcoming procedure and she became totally involved in playing the instruments and being creative, she was then in a much better psychological place when the nurses came to take her to theatre.
Aria has continued to have music therapy during her frequent stays in hospital. She has used song writing as a way to process her emotions and feelings whilst undergoing chemotherapy and also express her hopes for the future.
At times she has wanted to join in with group music therapy sessions with other patients on the unit, and this has enabled her to connect and share experiences with other young people going through a similar experience.
More recently Aria has had to be in protective isolation and to help try and keep Aria safe, her parents only wanted the essential medical team to go into her room, this meant that I wasn’t able to go in and see her for music therapy. However, we continued our sessions on-line. This meant that during a time when Aria felt particularly lonely, scared and at times really unwell the support from music therapy was able to continue and provide some comfort, connection and joy. Music Therapy has enabled Aria to have positive experiences whilst in hospital and has given her something to look forward to during her long inpatient stays.” Louise - Music Therapist
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Isla
“Since being diagnosed with neuroblastoma, Isla has spent a lot of time in hospital, both at QA, Portsmouth and on Piam Brown Ward, Southampton. Being in hospital has been really anxiety provoking for Isla, particularly near the start of treatment. The chemotherapy made her feel so unwell and she really struggled with losing her hair.
She has felt very isolated being away from home, family and friends. When I first met Isla she was so overwhelmed by the intense emotions she was experiencing she would hardly talk at all, however she was able to engage in the music therapy. Isla would play the instruments and become totally absorbed in the music we were making together. Over the months that I have been seeing Isla, she has grown in confidence and has become much chattier, though we still spend lots of time playing the instruments together. Isla’s music can sometimes be very quiet, tentative and sad but at times she can be much louder and express some of the anger and frustration that she has been experiencing. Music Therapy has given Isla the opportunity to process all those difficult emotions without having to use words.” Louise- Music Therapist
“We aren’t local and attended Dorset hospital with our son whilst on holiday. The music therapist was amazing with all of us. Our son enjoyed it so much, he asked to stay!! There is no music therapy at our local hospital in Leicester. Our eldest son has spent a lot of time in hospital and this service would have made the world of difference to him and us. I actually felt very emotional when we left because I saw how things cold have been. As a parent when your child is unwell, you want someone to see them as a child and during the music therapy our son was just that, rather than a patient.” Feedback from parent at Dorset County Hospital
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Finn
“I have been working in Basingstoke Hospital with a 3-year-old oncology patient, Fin (name changed to protect confidentiality). Fin has been in and out of hospital for the last five months. He is frightened whenever someone enters his room, having undergone numerous procedures. After some gentle reassurance that I would not be touching him and that he remained in control, he agreed to engage in music therapy.
Fin particularly enjoys the Odd Ball, a musical device that allows him to use an iPad to control sounds the ball makes, allowing him choice. In an environment where he has little control over what happens to his body, music therapy becomes a space where Fin is the conductor. He decides what sounds are played, how fast, how loud, and how the session unfolds.
Fin’s parents are active participants in his sessions, picking up the ball when he bounces it around the room, bringing the energy needed to lift Fin’s mood. Together, they create rare moments of joy and play in an otherwise overwhelming hospital experience. His mum shared that music therapy is “the only time he smiles” during his hospital stays.
Fin currently will not interact with anyone else in the hospital other than the music therapist, as this is the only time he feels completely safe. For his parents, witnessing Fin smile, laugh, and take the lead offers comfort and reassurance in a time filled with uncertainty. These sessions provide a crucial sense of normality within the medical environment. Music therapy has become a vital and consistent source of safety, control and connection for Fin and his family during an otherwise difficult and unpredictable time in the hospital.” Sarah - Music Therapist
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James
“At just 7 months old, James and his mum were unexpectedly transferred to the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital from their local hospital, over an hour away. This sudden move meant leaving James’ older sister at home in the care of Grandma. James was facing multiple complications, including a virus, the need for oxygen, and the fitting of a stoma bag. His hospital stay extended over four months.
Understandably, James’ mum was finding the situation incredibly difficult. When the music therapist first met them, she was deeply appreciative of the support being offered but found it hard to fully engage in the sessions with James at that time.
Over the following weeks, the music therapist gradually built a relationship with both James and his mum, gently encouraging play, interaction, and helping his mum to see what James was still able to enjoy and participate in, even while seriously unwell. As James’ condition allowed, the sessions shifted focus toward developmental play, physical milestones, and building connection through music. On some days, sessions simply offered Mum a much needed moment of respite, a chance to get a coffee or have a shower, while the therapist engaged James in meaningful musical play that encouraged rolling, reaching, and grasping, all of which he clearly enjoyed.
Joint sessions with the physiotherapy team allowed the therapist and Mum to continue supporting James’ physical and developmental skills in a collaborative way. When James was medically stable, sessions took place on the floormat, creating valuable opportunities for close interaction between Mum and James, while also working towards their shared goals.
As the end of James’ hospital stay approached, the music therapist supported Mum in preparing for the transition home and thinking ahead to the next steps for their family. Mum later reflected on how significant the music therapy had been, not only for James’s development and engagement, but also as a vital emotional support for her, particularly during the early weeks and the many ups and downs they faced together.” Natasha - Music Therapist
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Our Impact
Feedback
“Louise was amazing. My daughter loved the music therapy! She felt brave enough to ask to play with different instruments and Louise was so adaptable and followed her lead. My daughter's mood lifted, she tried to sing along and I saw the first genuine smiles since we came into hospital. The whole session was a wonderful distraction from the stress of being in hospital. She has been admitted into hospital several times and this is the best thing we've experienced. Thank you so much!” Parent
“Louise was amazing. My daughter loved the music therapy! She felt brave enough to ask to play with different instruments and Louise was so adaptable and followed her lead. My daughter's mood lifted, she tried to sing along and I saw the first genuine smiles since we came into hospital. The whole session was a wonderful distraction from the stress of being in hospital. She has been admitted into hospital several times and this is the best thing we've experienced. Thank you so much!” Parent
“Natasha is a really professional one, I can't tell you how much I appreciate her time and active participation at each time.
She really knows what and how we stimulate my daughters legs and all body movements to improve it and encourage her to practise and use her full body. Every session as a mum, I was learning a lot from Natasha, and I can see that her knowledge of how to impact my daughters life. Many thanks for George's rockstars and Natasha!” Parent
“We are desperate to have Natasha for more days!! She has such a positive impact on our patients and she is only here one day a week so lots of patients miss out on the benefits of music therapy!” Staff at Royal Alexandra Hospital, Brighton
“We loved it! Our therapist, Louise, only played for 5 minutes before sending Tilly to sleep! Tilly was engaged and responding well, and the therapist altered the volume/tempo to match Tilly's breathing or heart rate, very impressed, it sounded beautiful” Parent
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Our Impact
Our parent outcome measure survey found
100% of parents surveyed would like more music therapy for their child.
96.5% of parents found that music therapy helped improve their child’s mood while in hospital. 96.5% of parents found that music therapy provided comfort for their child while in hospital. 96% of parents said that music therapy helped to distract their child from pain or discomfort. 100% of parents said that music therapy provided an opportunity for play during their child's hospital stay.
100% of parents said that music therapy made hospital and easier/ happier place for their child.
96% of parents said that music therapy helped with their child’s level of anxiety of being in hospital.
89% of parents said that music therapy helped reduce their child’s level of isolation.
97% of parent’s said that music therapy also help to reduce their own stress levels.
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Looking to the future
2026 is already shaping up to be an even bigger year, with even more music reaching children in hospitals!
We are excited to be expanding our music therapy support at Southampton Children’s Hospital. Due to high demand from families, NHS colleagues, and the hospital charity, we will be doubling the number of music therapy days at Southampton. This will allow us to support children and families across the specialist wards, no matter their diagnosis.
We’re also delighted to welcome our second student music therapist, Alfie, to the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton, where he will work alongside our lead music therapist, Natasha. We will also be continuing to support our first student, Lucy on her placement working with children on dialysis at Southampton Children’s Hospital!
Don’t miss out on these exciting developments and more! Keep up to date by following our socials or signing up to our newsletter on our website.
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Trustees Report
For year ending 31st December 2025
Objectives and Activities
To enhance the wellbeing of children and teenagers who are seriously ill or have a life limiting illness/condition by providing therapies and activities, in particular, but not limited to, music therapy in hospitals in the United Kingdom or in a setting appropriate to their condition.
At the date of this report, the charity had a full time charity manager, part time fundraiser and six selfemployed music therapists providing sessions in hospitals in Winchester, Portsmouth, Basingstoke, Brighton, Worthing, Dorchester, Poole and 5 wards at Southampton Children hospital.
All monies raised for George’s Rockstars are donations from fundraising activities, donations, grants or from the sale of merchandise.
The trustees confirm that they have considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.
Financial Summary
During the financial period of the report, the charity raised £215,829 through fundraising events, financial grants, donations and legacy gifts.
The main fundraising events were the annual Christmas tree collection organised by a trustee which raised £5359.89 in donations to the service. Our annual live music fundraiser for George’s birthday in January raised £293. We also took part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge for the first time raising an amazing £18,879.75
There were numerous sponsored events including the Spinnaker Tower abseil which raised £10,654.98, the Dragon Boat race for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month which saw our team raise £562.50, and the Great South Run raised £1996.25 in October. We also had three amazing brave skydivers who raised £2636.25. Our first ever London marathon runner raised an amazing £1670 for his efforts. The annual Adored Festival in memory of music lover Mark Rogers raised £875.
The charity has been supported by several local organisation’s fundraising efforts including a gig by professional covers band the Strand which raised £1527, Katies Music Quiz ongoing support through their monthly quiz raised an amazing £3029.30. The Cleveland Bay pub in Chandler’s Ford hosted a family fun day raising £1669 and medical staff from Queen Alexandra hospital raised £885 by participating in the Blenheim Triathlon.
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Financial Summary
Support from local music festivals raised £859 from Wickham Festival’s signed guitar raffle and £1,624 from the Victorious festival donation.
We also continued to apply for financial grants. We continued to received support from Global’s Make Some Noise in the second year of their support. The Hollick Family Foundation donated £10,000 towards Brighton based music therapy, The Shanly Foundation donated £2,000, the Samuel Gardener Memorial Fund donated £750, National Lottery Awards for All donated £19,948, The LFT Charitable Foundation donated £200, Arnold Clark donated £750 and the Morrisons Foundation donated £3450 towards music trolleys and instruments for Dorsets hospitals. We also received £30,000 in funding for Brighton hospital music therapy through a very generous legacy gift via Sussex Law.
We grew our corporate fundraising securing a charity partnership with the Logical Group and growing our Headliners, companies that sponsor music therapy sessions each month, welcoming support from Casemates Studios, TurboCam, Knight Consulting, Viking Prints, Starfish people and a WPA consultant.
This fundraising has enabled the charity to expand to cover three more hospitals this year and sessions at the Bluebells with further expansion planned for 2026 subject to financial review.
Moving forward next year we are looking to diversify our fundraising streams to include grants and corporate partnerships to ensure a sustainable future of the services we provide and help with future service growth to meet demand.
Financial Review
The charity holds its reserves according to policy with an additional balance from fundraising during COVID 19 when service provision and associated costs were limited.
The charities reserves policy is to hold 6 months of current service provision to safeguard our service for our beneficiaries.
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Trustees' Responsibilities
[The Charities Act 2011 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 CIO and of the surplus (deficit) of the CIO for that period.
In preparing those financial statements the trustees are required to:
Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently.
Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent.
Prepare financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to
presume that the trust will continue in existence.
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records, which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the CIO.
They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the CIO and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Approved by the Trustees on: 3.9.2026
Signed on their behalf by Trustee:
Printed Name: Mark Robinson, Chair
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities for year ending 31st December 2025
| INCOMING RESOURCES | Unrestricted | Restricted | Total 2025 | Total 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Income from generated funds | ||||
| Grants, Legacies and Donations | 112,070 | 68,535 | 180,605 | 137,953 |
| Activities for Generating Funds | 33,839 | 33,839 | 30,652 | |
| Interest Income (Interest) | 1,385 | 1,385 | 1,448 | |
| TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES | 147,294 | 68,535 | 215,829 | 170,053 |
| RESOURCES EXPENDED | ||||
| Cost of Generating Funds | ||||
| Cost of Charitable Activities 3a | 141,073 | 37,916 | 178,989 | 127,003 |
| Independent Examiners Fee 3b | 234 | - | 234 | 180 |
| TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED | 141,307 | 37,916 | 179,223 | 127,183 |
| NET INCOMING (OUTGOING) RESOURCES |
5,987 | 30,619 | 36,606 | 42,869 |
| Funds Brought Forward | 113,213 | 32,360 | 145,573 | 102,704 |
| TOTAL FUND CARRIED | 119,200 | 62,979 | 182,179 | 145,573 |
| FORWARD |
Movements on all reserves and all recognised gains and loses are shown above. All of the organisations operations are classed as continuing.
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities for year ending 31st December 2025
| FIXED ASSETS | Unrestricted | Restricted | Total 2025 | Total 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - | - | |
| Tangible Assets | ||||
| - | - | - | - | |
| Investments | ||||
| - | - | - | - | |
| TOTAL FIXED ASSETS | ||||
| CURRENT ASSETS | ||||
| - | - | - | ||
| Debtors & Prepayments | ||||
| Cash in Bank and in Hand | 124,994 | 62,979 | 187,973 | 148,990 |
| TOTAL CURRENT ASSESTS | 124,994 | 62,979 | 187,973 | 148,990 |
| Creditors and Accruals | ||||
| Creditors: Amounts falling due | 5,794 | 5,794 | 3,417 | |
| within 1 year | ||||
| NET CURRENT ASSETS | 119,200 | 62,979 | 182,179 | 145,573 |
| TOTAL ASSETS Less current liabilities |
119,200 | 62,979 | 182,179 | 145,573 |
| Creditors falling due in more | - | - | - | - |
| than 1 year | ||||
| NET ASSETS | 119,200 | 62,979 | 182,179 | 145,573 |
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities for year ending 31st December 2025
| Funds of the Charity | Unrestricted | Restricted | Total 2025 | Total 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Funds | 119,200 | 119,200 | 113,213 | |
| Restricted Funds | 62,979 | 62,979 | 32,360 | |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 119,200 | 62,979 | 182,179 | 145,573 |
3.9.2026 Approved by the Trustees on: Signed on their behalf by Trustee: Printed Name: Mark Robinson, Chair
Note to the Accounts: Prior Year Adjustments
During the preparation of the 2025 financial statements, a review of earlier annual reports identified inconsistencies in the Total Funds Carried Forward and in the allocation between unrestricted and restricted funds. These issues resulted in incorrect opening balances for subsequent years. The 2024 figures have therefore been re‑worked to ensure accurate fund balances and correct year‑on‑year reporting. As a result, the comparative 2024 figures shown in this report differ from those published in the 2024 Annual Report. The revised figures represent the accurate and reconciled financial position required for the preparation of the 2025 accounts.
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities for year ending 31st December 2025
NOTES TO THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparation & Assessment of Going Concern
Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised
at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notes. The financial
statements have
been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by
Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the
UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2015) - (Charities SORP - FRS102) and
the
Charities Act 2011.
The Charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS102. Assets and liabilities are initially
recognised at historical cost unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes.
Assessment of Going Concern
Preparation of the accounts is on a going concern basis. The trustees consider that there are no material
uncertainties about the Charity’s ability to continue as a going concern.
Incoming Resources
Recognition of Incoming Resources
These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when:
the charity becomes entitled to the resources;
the trustees are virtually certain they will receive the resources; and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities continued for year ending 31st December 2025
NOTES TO THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
Incoming Resources with Related Expenditure
Where incoming resources have related expenditure (as with fundraising or contract income) the incoming resource and related expenditure are reported gross in the SOFA.
Grants & Donations
Grants and Donations are only included in the SOFA when the charity has unconditional entitlement to the resources.
Tax Reclaims on Donations & Gifts
Incoming resources from tax reclaims are included in the SOFA at the same time as the gift to which they relate.
Contractual Income and Performance Related Grants
This is only included in the SOFA once the related goods or services have been delivered.
Gifts in Kind
Gifts in kind are accounted for at a reasonable estimate of their value to the charity or the amount actually realised. Gifts in kind for sale or distribution are included in the accounts as gifts only when sold or distributed by the charity. Gifts in kind for use by the charity are included in the SOFA as incoming resources when receivable.
Donated Services & Facilities
These are only included in incoming resources (with an equivalent amount in resources expended) where the benefit to the charity is reasonably quantifiable, measurable, and material. The value placed on these resources is the estimated value to the charity of the service or facility received.
Volunteer Help
The value of voluntary help received is not included in the accounts.
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities continued for year ending 31st December 2025
NOTES TO THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
Investment Income
This is included on the accounts when receivable.
Investment Gains & Losses
This included any gain or loss on the sale of investments and any gain or loss resulting from revaluing investments to market value at the end of the year.
Expenditure Liabilities
Liability Recognition
Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to pay out resources.
Accountancy Costs
Included costs of preparation and examination of the statutory accounts.
Grants with Performance Conditions
Where the charity gives a grant with conditions for its payment being a specific level of service or output to be provided, such grants are only recognised in the SOFA once the recipient of the grant has provided the specified service or output.
Grants Payable without Performance Conditions
These are only recognised in the accounts when a commitment has been made and there are no conditions to be met relating to a grant which remain in control of the charity.
Investments
Investments quoted on a recognised stock exchange are valued at market value at the year end. Other investment assets are included at trustees' best estimate of market value.
Unrestricted Funds
These funds can be used for the general objectives of the charity as set out in the trustees report. The movements of the unrestricted funds are given in the SOFA
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities continued for year ending 31st December 2025
NOTES TO THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
Restricted Funds
These funds are where the donor has specified a purpose for the donation made. These restrictions often arise as a result of appeals for special offerings for specific purposes.
Designated Funds
These funds are funds set aside by the trustees out of unrestricted general funds for particular purposes or projects.
Fixed Assets
Fixed Assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £1,500. They are valued at cost or, if gifted, at the value to the charity on receipt.
Depreciation Expense
Depreciation is calculated at a rate to write off the cost of tangible fixed assets over their estimated useful lives.
The rates applied are as follows:
Fixtures, Fittings & Equipment 25% Straight Line Basis
2. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
The CIO held no fixed assets during this or the previous financial period.
The annual commitments under non-cancelling operating leases and capital commitments are: 31st December 2024 - none
31st December 2025 - none
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities continued for year ending 31st December 2025
NOTES TO THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
| 3. RESOURCES EXPENDED | Unrestricted | Restricted | Total 2025 | Total 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| a. Cost of Charitable Activities | ||||
| Activities & Events | 14,994 | 14,994 | 28,813 | |
| Charity Payroll Costs | 58,380 | 58,380 | 35,207 | |
| Marketing Costs | 2,259 | 2,259 | 1,208 | |
| Accountancy Fees | 569 | 569 | 247 | |
| Music Therapy Costs | 64,287 | 37,916 | 102,203 | 61,400 |
| Sundry Expenses | 585 | 585 | 129 | |
| 141,073 | 37,916 | 178,989 | 127,003 | |
b. Governance Costs
| Independent Examiners Fee | 234 | 234 | 180 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 234 | - | 234 | 180 |
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities continued for year ending 31st December 2025
NOTES TO THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
4. STAFF COSTS AND NUMBERS
The Charity employed 2 members of staff during this financial year ( 2025: 2 ).
5. TRUSTEE REMUNERATION & BENEFITS
None of the trustees have been paid any remuneration or received any other benefits from an employment with their charity or a related entity.
6. RISK ASSESSMENT
The Trustees actively review the major risks which the charity faces on a regular basis and believe that maintaining the free reserves stated, combined with the annual review of the controls over key financial systems carried out on an annual basis will provide sufficient resources in the event of adverse conditions.
The Trustees have also examined other operational and business risks which they face and confirm that they have established systems to mitigate the significant risks.
7. RESERVES POLICY
The Trustees have considered the level of reserves they wish to retain, appropriate to the CIO's needs. This is based on the CIO's size and the level of financial commitments held. The Trustees aim to ensure the CIO will be able to continue to fulfil its charitable objectives even if there is a temporary shortfall in income or unexpected expenditure. The Trustees will endeavour not to set aside funds unnecessarily.
8. PUBLIC BENEFIT
The CIO acknowledges its requirement to demonstrate clearly that it must have charitable purposes or ‘aims’ that are for the public benefit. Details of how the CIO has achieved this are provided in the Trustees report. The Trustees confirm that they have paid due regard to the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit before deciding what activities, the CIO should undertake.
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George’s Rockstars Statement of Financial Activities continued for year ending 31st December 2025
INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS REPORT ON THE ACCOUNTS
Report to the trustees/members of George's Rockstars on the accounts for the year ended 31st December 2025.
Respective Responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
-
examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act.
-
follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act.
-
state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of independent examiner's statement
During my examination, no matter has come to my attention which gives me reasonable cause to believe that the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act, have not been met.
Date: 02/09/2026
Reviewer: Bethany Jones
For: Ladies of Ledger Ltd
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Thank you for your support!
Adrian Hanson
Mark Needham Amelia Leroy Maureen Lee Alannah Jeffries WPA Mandy Tourle - Cognitive Law AMFA Financial Advisers Michelle Lynch - AMFA Andreas Nest - Action Coach Mitie Teddy Rocks Festival Tesco Stronger Starts Angela Luxmoore Nicola Grimson Tiny Engines Web Design Alisah O’Shaughnessy Patrick McShee - We Love Your Becca Wilson Office Verity Stokes Victorious Festival Beverley O'Shaughnessy Paul Hill - Everyday Waltham Gas Services Bamboo Finance Hypnotherapy Wickham Festival Bluewall IT Noyce Financial Will Carter Cathy Birch Paul Lees - One Box of Fudge Casemates Studios Paul McNeil Chris Stoner Palm Bay Guitars Plus a huge thank you to everyone Christina Thornton Paula Cairns who has taken part in or attended one of our many fundraising events Curdridge Primary School Phill Bagnall throughout the year. Damian Chapman- CRS Insure Piper Tree Services Darin Clay Rhianna Wilson David Hider Rock Steady Music We couldn't do it without you! Dennis McSweeney The Rogers Family E-Propulsion Room 8 Hair and Beauty Elizabeth Howe Sandra Lowe Gaynor King Sam Larkin Gary Parker Sally Poundal Irwin Mitchell Sean Logan - Viking Prints Ian Knight- Knight Consulting Simon Caton Jane Davies Sir Joseph Paxton Pub - Jeanette St Ledger Titchfield Common Justin Neale Solent Breezes Holiday Park Julie Brealey Southern Ska Collective Jo Atkinson Starfish People Karen Kneller Steven Hensahw Katie's Music Quiz Sussex Law Laura Horton Tanya Mapp Lazlo Maros Tom Bax Lizzi Humphreys The Loving Family
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Our 2025 Supporters
This year we have been honored to received such amazing support from some fantastic organisations including
A growing number of businesses have begun supporting our work to have a huge impact for children in hospital. Massive thanks to the following companies for your continued support.
Tiny Engines Web Design
We would also like to give a special thank you to Jane and Steph and all the players of Katie’s Music Quiz who have continued to support us through their fantastic event for 3 years now raising over £8000!
This year we have grown our corporate support significantly through our Headliners sponsorship programme. Our Headliners sponsor sessions every month making a huge difference to children and their families at the most traumatic times in hospital.
We would like to give huge thanks to Paul McNeil, Beverley O’Shaughnessy, Tanya Mapp, Elizabeth Howe, Verity Stokes, Chris Stoner, Jo Atkinson, Andreas Nest, Adrian Hanson, Paula Cairns, Laura Horton Cathy Birch, Rebecca Bartlett, Phillipa Ambrose, Estee Barrett Mark Needham, Stephen Henshaw, Eve and Andi Loving,
Sandra Lowe, Samantha Larkin, Tom Bax, Alisha O’Shaughnessy and Jeanette St Ledger for continuing to support our work through their monthly ICON donations.
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How can you help?
There are so many fun ways to help fund music therapy for children in hospital and the more funding we receive the more hospitals we can offer music therapy to and more children will benefit from music therapy while living in the face of illness, disability and trauma. From bake sales, sponsored walks, runs or swims to big challenges and live music events, there are so many ways to support George’s Rockstars!
Events
Check out our website https://georgesrockstars.com/events/ for our upcoming events or get in touch if you have a fundraiser you would like to do for us!
Merchandise
We have a range of George’s Rockstars merchandise! From t-shirts and hoodies to lanyards, bags for life and more! If you would like to purchase merchandise or have some to sell at your event please email us at info@georgesrockstars.com.
Become an ICON!
For as little as £2 per month (less than a coffee!), you can make a child like George smile in a time of health crisis and isolation. Many children with serious illness spend far too much of their childhoods in hospital and often do not have access to emotional and psychological support to help them process and cope with the impact of illness and disability. Your support can make that change!
Make your business a George’s Rockstars Headliner!
Local companies and businesses can make a huge impact on children in hospitals through music. Whether it is through being the company charity of the year to one-off fundraisers or team building days to volunteering opportunities to give your team an engaging and meaningful workplace. For more details, drop our co-founder Amy an email on amy@georgesrockstars.com
www.georgesrockstars.com
info@georgesrockstars.com
Registered Charity No. 1188730