## **SEAS All Afloat (SAA) Trustees Annual Report 2025**
**Charity Number:** 1189761 **Financial Year:** April 2024 – March 2025 **Trustees Report:** Jan – Dec 2025
## 1. Structure, Governance and Management
## **Mission Statement:**
“For the public benefit in all of Wales to provide or assist in the provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure time activities for people of all ages with disabilities, their families and carers, and those in need through financial hardship or social circumstances with the object of improving their conditions of life, in particular by encouraging their participation in recreational sailing, water sports and outdoor activities”
SEAS All Afloat supports disabled and disadvantaged people, their families, and carers to access outdoor activities, particularly waterborne activities such as sailing, powerboating, and paddle sports. Initially operating in North Wales, the charity expanded across Wales following the merger with All Afloat.
## **Trustees**
The charity is governed by a Board of Trustees who meet regularly and are responsible for the strategic direction, governance and financial oversight of the organisation.
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Trustees during the year:
Richard Horovitz - Chair (retired December 2025) Jon Brookes, Petrina Blomeley, Lesley Sewell, Barry Hunter, Paul Airey, Phil Tilley.
Following an open recruitment process, Simon Humphries was unanimously appointed as Chair of Trustees with effect from 1 December 2025. During the year, Jon Gamon stepped down as a trustee.
[Simon Humphries pictured second from left].
**Management and Staff:** - Matt Beaumont, Operations Manager (part-time)
**Advisors:** - Karl Midlane, Paddlesports - Jon Gamon, Outreach
The charity is operated for, and guided by, the Welsh communities it serves. Feedback is gathered throughout the year using electronic surveys, informal discussion and an annual end-of-year ‘Wash-Up’ meeting. This feedback directly informs activity planning and future strategy. A summary of feedback from 2025 is included at the end of this report.
## 2. Objectives and Activities for Public Benefit
## Merger of SEAS Sailability and All Afloat
In 2025, SEAS Sailability and All Afloat formally merged to create SEAS All Afloat (SAA). The merger brought together two organizations with a shared commitment to inclusive sailing and outdoor activity, combining resources, expertise and volunteer networks.
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“Together, we are better positioned to grow our impact, expand opportunities and support our communities more effectively. Our commitment to participants, volunteers, supporters and partners remains unwavering.”
Existing programs continued throughout the year, with plans developed to expand activity provision, invest in equipment and create new access points across Wales.
[The Coulam V17 operated by SAA, named after the late CEO of RYA Cymru and founder of All Afloat].
## Key Activities and Events
During the reporting year (January 2025 – January 2026), SAA delivered a wide range of inclusive activities.
## **SEAS Evenings**
• 20 volunteer-led sessions at the Conway Centre, Port Dinorwic Sailing Club and Plas y Brenin • Over 300 participants attended (average of 30 per session)
## **Adventure Days**
• 6 inclusive outdoor adventure events • Average attendance of 20 participants per event
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- [A selection of SAA adventures during 2025].
SAA also provided technical advice and practical support to organizations seeking to improve inclusivity, including the Royal Welsh Yacht Club, Welsh Water, Plas y Brenin and Edsential (The Conway Centres).
The charity acted as a primary stakeholder in the development of new national guidance on the transportation of wheelchair users on small adapted recreational and commercial vessels. This project was led by Stehr Consulting in partnership with the Royal Yachting Association.
[SAA trained participants on their own adventure exploring LLynau Mymbyr supervised by Karl Midlane].
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The trustees extend their thanks to Plas Menai National Watersport Centre for the generous loan of the Cheverton motor launch Angharad while SAA’s own vessel undergoes refit. Thank you Plas Menai!
## **All Afloat Activity Sessions**
North Wales
During 2025, SAA delivered 16 half-day sessions from its primary base at the Conway Centre. Beneficiaries included:
• Ysgol Aberconwy – Tegfan Neurodiversity Unit: 1 fully funded session (10 participants) • Denbighshire Youth Services – “Skittles” Group: 1 partially funded session (10 participants) • Ysgol Gogarth ALN School: 8 fully funded sessions (40 participants) • SAA volunteer-supported sessions: 6 sessions (30 participants)
All sessions were delivered by professionals who had received inclusivity training and guidance from SAA.
South Wales
SAA funding supported South East Wales Adoption Service to deliver inclusive dinghy sailing for adopted children receiving post-adoption support due to identified additional needs.
Working in partnership with Llandegfedd Lake, the program included taster sessions followed by RYA Level 1 dinghy sailing courses. Engagement was strong, with 18 young people aged 9–17 taking part, and several achieving their RYA Level 1 qualification.
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Feedback from parents highlighted increased confidence, resilience, self-esteem and willingness to try new challenges.
[Participants from the Denbighshire youth service ‘Skittles’ group].
## Additional Programs and Training
## **Disability Sport Wales** _**Insport**_ **Series**
Supported activities at Plas Menai, enabling children from 5 local schools to try powerboating and kayaking.
## **Volunteer Training**
11 powerboat instructors trained - 2 volunteers completed Level 3 Disability Awareness - 8 volunteers completed SAA induction and rescue techniques training and 3 completed first aid training.
[Volunteer induction training]
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## Change in Operating Model
During 2025, SAA developed and implemented its own operating procedures for activity sessions. Previously, SEAS Evenings and Adventure Days were delivered by the Conway Centre, with volunteers assisting under the Centre’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and insurance.
Under the new model, the charity now directly oversees all activity sessions and holds the relevant insurance. The Conway Centre continues to provide logistical and safety support. This change strengthens governance, ensures consistent safeguarding and safety standards, and allows SAA to expand activities with confidence across Wales.
## Awards and Recognition
- RYA Cymru Impact Awards:
- Richard Horovitz and Jon Gamon for work with SEAS Sailability
- Petrina Blomeley for work with All Afloat
- Môn Actif Diversity and Inclusion Award 2025
## ● RYA Unsung Hero Award 2026:
- Petrina Blomeley for outstanding voluntary contribution to sailing for work with All Afloat
- The Francis Elkin National RYA Individual Award 2026:
- Richard Horovitz and Jon Gamon recognizing outstanding voluntary contribution to sailing
- Finalist for the RYA Affiliate Awards 2026 (to be announced Feb 2026).
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[SAA receiving the Môn Actif Diversity and Inclusion Award 2025]
## 3. Financial Review
The charity’s financial position remains strong, reflecting careful management and continued support from funders, donors, and partners.
## **Income and Funding Sources**
Employment of the Operations Manager has been supported by National Lottery funding. Although this grant ceased in November 2025, reserves have been maintained to cover the role for a further year. The charity intends to apply for additional funding to continue supporting this position as SAA expands across Wales. - All Afloat transferred its funds during the merger, contributing £23,368 to support ongoing projects.
Donations from businesses and individuals during the year totaled approximately £7,000. Special thanks are extended to the family and friends of Tony Pierce for their generous contributions in his memory, and to the Leonard Leity Stoate award. - More recently, SAA received a £2,000 grant from Môn Actif to support volunteer training ahead of the next season.
## **Assets**
The Conway Centre donated the Cheverton launch to the charity. This vessel, a favorite among participants and volunteers, is currently undergoing a major refit by a local boat builder. The refit will include a new Beta Marine engine, generously supported by Stuart Marine.
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[The SAA motor launch undergoing refit at Gallows Point]
## **Financial Management**
The charity has no debts or funds that are materially in deficit. All trustees act in a voluntary capacity and receive no remuneration or other material benefits for their services.
Trustees continue to manage the charity’s funds prudently, ensuring that sufficient reserves are maintained to safeguard employment and support ongoing and future projects.
[An evening event at SAA]
## 4. Plans for the Future (2026)
The trustees are confident that the current reserves are sufficient to support a further year of activities across Wales. During 2026, the charity will:
- Maintain and grow delivery of SAA sessions at the Conway Centre.
- Identify and work with interested partners — including Welsh Water, Llangedfedd Sailing Club, Gresford Sailing Club, The Outdoor Partnership, and Cardiff Yacht Club — to support the creation of other SAA-type community groups across Wales.
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- Seek additional funding to support the continued employment of the Operations Manager and a second member of staff to be employed to deliver All Afloat outreach.
- Expand the All Afloat program, increasing access to sailing, paddle sports, and other outdoor activities for disabled and disadvantaged participants.
- Continue to develop volunteer training and engagement to maintain high-quality, safe, and inclusive activity sessions.
- Invest in equipment and vessels, including completing the refit of the Cheverton launch with the new Beta Marine engine.
- Develop a new website and communications system
## 5. Risk Management and Safeguarding
SEAS All Afloat recognises that outdoor adventurous activities carry inherent risks. To mitigate these risks, the charity:
- Follows industry good practice and adheres to the guidance of relevant National
- Governing Bodies, including the **Royal Yachting Association (RYA)** and **Paddlesport Cymru** .
- Employs knowledgeable and current staff, including the Operations Manager, and is supported by experienced trustees.
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- Maintains a set of **Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)** for all activities, which are reviewed annually.
- Provides comprehensive training for volunteers, including powerboating, disability awareness, rescue training, and first aid.
Volunteer capacity is monitored closely. While numbers are currently sufficient, expansion could be limited by available volunteers. The charity is actively exploring advertising, recruitment, and training initiatives to address this.
## **Safeguarding**
All activities operate under strict safeguarding policies. - During the year, one safeguarding incident was reported to the RYA safeguarding team and addressed through a disciplinary panel. - Trustees and staff are committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants.
**6. Participant and Volunteer Feedback (2025)**
## **Introduction**
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This report summarises feedback gathered from participants and volunteers of SEAS All Afloat (SAA) (Charity No. 1189761) during 2025. Feedback was primarily collected through an electronic questionnaire, available at:
https://www.cognitoforms.com/SEASAllAfoat/ SEASAllAfoatAnnualFeedbackQuestionnaire
Responses were received from both participants and volunteers, representing a wide - range of age groups, socio economic backgrounds, and individuals with diverse physical and mental health needs. This diversity provides a broad and representative insight into the experiences of those engaging with SAA’s activities.
In addition to the online questionnaire, informal feedback was gathered throughout the year during sailing sessions and activities. The questionnaire was also shared via SAA’s social media channels and the volunteer WhatsApp group to encourage wide participation. Further qualitative feedback was collected during a dedicated ‘Wash Up’ event held on 7 December 2025 at the Men Cap Mon Hub in Llangefni, Anglesey.
Collectively, this feedback plays a vital role in evaluating SAA’s activities. It supports reflection on what is working well, identifies challenges, and highlights areas for development. The findings from the 2025 feedback will directly inform future planning, service delivery, and continuous improvement, ensuring that SAA remains responsive to the needs of participants and volunteers.
## **Summary of Key Themes and Headline Findings**
Overall feedback from 2025 was highly positive. Participants and volunteers consistently - reported that SAF provides a welcoming, supportive, and well organised environment, with strong perceived benefits for wellbeing, confidence, and social connection.
Several clear themes emerged across responses, relating to what works well, personal impact, volunteer experience, and areas for development. These themes are outlined below.
## **What Worked Well**
Respondents highlighted a number of strengths in SAA’s delivery and approach. Key themes included:
-
- · A friendly, inclusive, and non judgemental atmosphere
- Supportive staff and volunteers who help people feel safe and welcome
- Well-organised sessions with clear communication and accessible locations
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- Opportunities to spend time on the water in a relaxed and supportive setting
The majority of respondents reported that sessions were easy to access and that they felt adequately supported during activities. Many commented positively on the balance between structure and flexibility, allowing individuals to engage at their own pace.
Feedback strongly suggests that SAA’s values of inclusion, kindness, and respect are consistently reflected in practice.
_“No one is made to feel disabled at the sessions, I trust the people at SEAS, they make me feel safe.”_
## **Impact on Wellbeing and Personal Outcomes**
A significant theme across responses was the positive impact of SAA participation on wellbeing. Reported benefits included:
- Improved mental health and reduced stress
- -esteem
- · Increased confidence and self
- A sense of achievement from learning or trying something new
- Greater connection to nature and the marine environment
- Reduced feelings of isolation through shared experiences
Being outdoors and on the water was frequently described as calming, uplifting, and therapeutic. For some respondents, SAA sessions provided a rare opportunity to access activities they would not otherwise feel able to take part in.
These outcomes strongly align with SAA’s charitable objectives of improving wellbeing and widening access to adventurous outdoor experiences.
_“Fresh air and adventure! It’s like nothing else available to me nowadays. I sailed when I was younger but can’t any more. I feel safe but independent… it’s relaxing. And fun.”_
## **Volunteer Experience**
Feedback from volunteers was also overwhelmingly positive. Volunteers reported that:
- They felt valued and appreciated by SAA and participants
- They understood their roles and felt supported
- Volunteering with SAA was rewarding and meaningful
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Many volunteers highlighted the satisfaction of helping others access the water and witnessing the positive impact on participants’ confidence and wellbeing. The strong sense of community within the volunteer group was frequently cited as a key strength.
Clear communication and informal peer support were noted as important contributors to a positive volunteering experience.
_“Meeting and sharing through a common goal with the aim of providing an enjoyable experience for all people.”_
## **Accessibility and Inclusion**
Responses reflected a wide range of backgrounds, needs, and lived experiences. Most respondents indicated that SAA successfully reduces barriers to participation through:
- Flexible delivery
- Supportive staff and volunteers
- A culture that encourages participation without pressure
Some respondents identified ongoing barriers such as transport, confidence, or health-related challenges. However, feedback suggests that SAA’s approach helps to minimise these barriers wherever possible.
## **7. Demographic Overview of Survey Respondents**
A total of 65% of respondents identified as volunteers, with 12% identifying as both participants and volunteers. The remaining 24% identified as participants only. SAA continues to actively encourage participants to take on volunteer roles to support others, in line with its ethos.
## **Gender Breakdown**
- 65% male
- 26% female
- The remainder preferred not to specify
## **Age Distribution**
- Under 18: 12%
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- 18–24: 9%
- 25–34: 9%
- 35–44: 9%
- 45–54: 18%
- 55–64: 21%
- 65–74: 15%
- 75 and over: 9%
## **Geographical Breakdown**
Respondents primarily came from Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey, with an approximately equal distribution. In previous years, participation was predominantly from Anglesey, indicating a broadening geographical reach.
## **Family Participation**
- 67% attended with family members
- 25% attended with carers
- The remaining respondents attended with friends
## **8. Access to Sessions**
Accessibility remains a key focus for SAA:
- 86% of respondents found sessions easy to access
- SAA continued to offer sessions without the need for prior invitation or booking
The main access issue identified remains the distance and steepness of the hill between the dock and the Conway Centre car park. The SAA Operations Manager has successfully negotiated closer parking with the National Trust and secured use of an accessible golf buggy for the 2026 season.
_“Distance between dock and parking… people should be informed of the distance in disability terms, not able_ - _bodied terms.”_
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## **Sources of Information**
Participants and volunteers reported learning about SAA through:
- Recommendations from friends and family (most common)
- Online information
- Trustee and staff referrals
Several respondents noted that they were previously unaware of SAA until informed directly by others. While SAA’s online presence continues to grow, there were suggestions - for increased community based promotion, including posters and leaflets in local hubs and supermarkets.
Participants also requested a clear **‘What to expect on your first visit’** information resource to reduce anxiety around initial attendance.
_“Better advertising, hand out leaflets would be great.”_
## **Support at Sessions**
Feedback regarding support during sessions was overwhelmingly positive.
_“The adults I take to the sessions are treated with respect and patience and always have a great session.”_
Some respondents highlighted the need for increased awareness of hidden and non-visible disabilities, particularly around communication styles.
_“I am non_ - _verbal and have limited understanding of spoken language… it can be stressful when too much language is used.”_
## **Barriers to Attendance**
Consistent with previous years, several barriers to attendance remain:
- Limited availability of carers, particularly for those in shared supported housing
- Lack of access to transport
- Illness or concerns about health
_“Sometimes I have difficulties getting there as I live so far away… if I could get there I would be there every time.”_
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## **10. What Participants Enjoy Most**
Participants most valued:
- Being on the water and the associated sense of freedom
- The accessibility of activities regardless of physical ability
- The strong social and community atmosphere
Responses highlighted adventure, enjoyment, and wellbeing benefits, alongside the importance of supportive relationships and a safe learning environment.
_“It helps my mental health massively.”_
_“The SEAS gang make him feel welcome and everyone is friendly.”_
## **11. Suggestions for Improvement**
Suggestions focused on accessibility, communication, and program development. These included:
- Continued improvements to physical access and surfaces (slipway)
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- · Increased session frequency and year round provision
- Greater variety of venues and activities
- Enhanced volunteer training and clearer communication
- Improved awareness of non-visible disabilities
Despite these suggestions, many respondents reaffirmed SAA as a highly valued and inclusive organisation.
_“An amazing place for inclusivity.”_
## **12. Feedback from All Afloat Events**
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SAA delivered several outreach sessions with schools and youth organisations. Feedback from staff and participants was consistently positive, highlighting teamwork, - - confidence building, enjoyment, and high quality instruction.
Participant feedback included:
_“Today was 10/10!”_
## _“The instructors were amazing.”_
During the past year, All Afloat funding enabled SEWAS to deliver inclusive dinghy sailing opportunities for adopted children from South East Wales who were receiving postadoption support due to identified additional needs.
Many of the young people had experienced early trauma and neurodevelopmental conditions, and feedback from parents highlighted significant benefits including increased confidence, self-esteem, resilience, social skills and willingness to try new challenges.
Parents consistently praised the quality of instruction, organisation of sessions and the positive emotional impact on their children, with some young people expressing interest in progressing to further sailing qualifications.
_‘L loved his experience sailing this summer it gave him confidence and he wants to go again._
_The team were amazing with L and he responded really well to each and every one involved. To see our son smiling and happy was the best feeling and he was so proud of himself that he gained a qualification. What an amazing service that L was offered thank you very much.’_
## **13. Conclusion and Recommendations**
Feedback from 2025 provides strong evidence that SAA delivers meaningful and positive outcomes for participants, volunteers, and partner organizations. Participant and volunteer voices consistently highlight SAA as a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that improves wellbeing, confidence, and access to adventurous activity.
Looking ahead, SAA should:
- Expand feedback collection across all Welsh delivery locations
- Use feedback to support integration following the charity merger
- Continue investing in accessibility and communication
- Strengthen outreach and community awareness
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- Develop volunteer training and progression pathways
By building on existing strengths and responding proactively to identified challenges, SAA - is well placed to continue delivering high quality, inclusive provision while supporting sustainable growth across Wales.
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Charity Name: SEAS All Afloat No: 1189761
Receipts and payments accounts CC16a
For the period 1st April 2024 31st March 2025
To
from
Section A Receipts and payments
Unrestricted Restricted Endowment
Total funds Last year
funds funds funds
to the nearest £ to the nearest £ to the nearest £ to the nearest £ to the nearest £
A1 Receipts
- - - - -
Donations 3,332 - - 3,332 5,361
Grants - 43,697 - 43,697 40,586
Bank Interest 770 - - 770 752
- - - - -
- - - - -
- - - - -
- - - - -
Sub total (Gross income for
AR) [ 4,102 ] 43,697 - 47,799 46,699
A2 Asset and investment sales,
(see table).
- - - -
- - - - -
Sub total - - - - -
Total receipts 4,102 43,697 - 47,799 46,699
A3 Payments
- - - - -
Charitable Activities 2,287 460 - 2,746 2,163
Centre Services 3,424 3,539 - 6,963 7,602
Salaries - 25,788 - 25,788 7,426
- - - - -
- - - - -
- - - - -
- - - - -
- - - - -
Sub total [ 5,710 ] 29,787 - 35,497 17,192
A4 Asset and investment
purchases, (see table)
Assets per below 824 329 - 1,153
- - - -
Sub total [ 824 ] 329 - 1,153 -
Total payments 6,535 30,116 - 36,651 17,192
Net of receipts/(payments) - 2,433 13,581 - 11,148 29,507
A5 Transfers between funds - - - - -
A6 Cash funds last year end 28,814 36,453 - 65,267 35,760
Cash funds this year end 26,381 50,034 - 76,415 65,267
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CCXX R1 accounts (SS)
11/12/2025
1
|**Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at**|**Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at**|**the end of the period**||
|---|---|---|---|
|**Categories**
Signed by one or two trustees on
behalf of all the trustees
**B5 Liabilities**
**B3 Investment assets**
**B2 Other monetary assets**
**B4 Assets retained for the**
**charity’s own use**
**B1 Cash funds**|**Details**
**Details**
**_Total cash funds_**
(agree balances with receipts and payments
account(s))
Bank Balance
**Details**
**Details**
Freezer
Tablet
McConks Paddleboard
Acer Laptop
Brought forward
Suzuki DF5AS Outboard Engine
Buffalo Barbeque
**Details**
Signature|**Unrestricted**
**funds**
**Restricted**
**funds**
**to nearest £**
**to nearest £**
**-**
**-**
**26,381**
**50,034**
**-**
**-**
**26,381**
**50,034**
OK
OK
**Unrestricted**
**funds**
**Restricted**
**funds**
**to nearest £**
**to nearest £**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**Fund to which**
**asset belongs**
**Cost (optional)**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**Fund to which**
**asset belongs**
**Cost (optional)**
**-**
Unrestricted
**269**
Unrestricted
**195**
Unrestricted
**360**
Restricted
**329**
**-**
Unrestricted
**1,282**
Restricted
**684**
**-**
**Fund to which**
**liability relates**
**Amount due**
**(optional)**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
Print Name|**Endowment**
**funds**
**to nearest £**
**-**
**-**
**-**|
||||**-**|
|||||
||||**Endowment**
**funds**
**to nearest £**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**Current value**
**(optional)**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**Current value**
**(optional)**
**-**
**216**
**156**
**346**
**268**
**-**
**643**
**155**
**-**
**When due**
**(optional)**
Date of
approval|
CCXX R2 accounts (SS)
11/12/2025
2
## **Independent examiner's report on the accounts**
**Section A Independent Examiner’s Report**
**Report to the trustees/** SEAS All Afloat **members of On accounts for the year** 31[st] March 2025 **Charity no** 118961 **ended (if any) Set out on pages** Sheet 1 and 2 of the Receipts and payments accounts (CC16a) for the period 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31 / 03 / 2025
**Responsibilities and** As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation **basis of report** of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
**Independent** I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have **examiner's statement** come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
- accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or
- the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
**Signed:** A Peters **Date:** 16/12/2025 **Name:** Andrew Peters **Relevant professional qualification(s) or body** ACCA **(if any): Address:** Clear Accounting Unit 22, Rossmore Business Village Ellesmere Port, CH65 3EY
1
**October 2018**
**IER**