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Trustee Annual Report and Financial Statements For the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 Charity Number: 1191073

CONTENTS PAGE

Legal and Administrative Information Statement of the Chair of Trustees Trustees’ Report

Legal and Administrative Information For the year ended 31 March 2024

ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Trustees:

J Bowman (appointed 28th August 2020)
E B N Charvet (appointed 28th August 2020)
R H Hamlin (appointed 4th August 2022)

Chair:

E B N Charvet (appointed as Chair: 1st April 2022)

Charity Number:

1191073

Company Number:

CE023729

Registered Office:

48 Frobisher Road London N8 0QX

Bankers:

Lloyds Bank, 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN

Independent Examiner:

Claire Hazell Community Accountant Community360

Address:

Winsley's House, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1UG

Company Number: 04426567 Charity Number: 1092567

Accountant:

Annemarie Rigby Simply Consults

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

I am very pleased to bring you the 2023/24 Forever Colour Children’s Hospice (FCCH) Annual Report and Financial Statement.

To Our Valued Supporters,

As we reflect on another year at Forever Colours Children’s Hospice, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for what we have achieved together. This year, we have continued to support babies, children, and young people through some of their most challenging moments, offering compassion, care, and a safe space for all.

Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to deliver vital services, including family support, sibling groups, therapeutic play sessions, and parent coffee mornings. We have witnessed the transformative power of community fundraising, which has enabled us to extend our reach and provide more opportunities for family days and activities.

It has been a privilege to witness the resilience and strength of the families we support, alongside the extraordinary efforts of our staff and volunteers. I would like to extend my deepest thanks to every member of our Forever Colours family staff, volunteers, supporters, and fundraisers for making our work possible. Together, we are making a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.

With your continued support, I am confident we can achieve even more in the year ahead.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Ed Charvet

Chair of Trustees Forever Colours Children’s Hospice 04/02/2025

The Trustees present their annual report, along with the financial statements of The Charity, for the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTORS

Dear Supporters,

This year at Forever Colours has been one of growth, resilience, and unwavering dedication . Our team has provided not only essential care but also moments of joy and connection for families navigating the most challenging circumstances.

From our Family Support Workers attending child protection and child-in-need meetings to our Play Specialists ensuring every child experiences happiness and creativity, every service we provide is designed with the family at its heart.

Our Family Days, Parent Groups, and Sibling Groups have created spaces where families can connect, share, and find strength together. The incredible response to our Coffee Mornings has reinforced the importance of simple, supportive moments of togetherness.

We have also been overwhelmed by the generosity of our community. Fundraising efforts have not only provided crucial financial support but have also strengthened the bond between Forever Colours and the wider community.

While we are proud of the progress we’ve made, we remain acutely aware of the challenges ahead. With your help, we will continue to develop and expand our services , ensuring that no family faces their journey alone.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners . Your unwavering support has made a world of difference to the families we serve.

Together, we continue to ensure that every family feels supported, valued, and empowered throughout their journey with Forever Colours.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we are making a lasting difference.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES FOR PUBLIC BENEFIT

Forever Colours Children’s Hospice is committed to improving the lives of children, young people, and their families who face life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. Our work is guided by statutory and sector regulations and overseen by the Charity Commission.

This report demonstrates how we have delivered public benefit through our charitable aims. In fulfilling these objectives, the Trustee Board and Founding Directors have ensured compliance with public benefit requirements, following the Charity Commission’s guidance under The Charities Act 2011 .

1. Supporting Children and Young People with Life-Limiting and Life-Threatening Conditions

We aim to promote and facilitate, for the public benefit, the relief, treatment, and care of children and young people (aged 0-18 years) in the UK who have life-limiting and/or life-threatening conditions. Our approach is comprehensive and active , ensuring these children live as fulfilling lives as possible from initial diagnosis through to treatment, recovery, or end-of-life care .

We achieve this by:

a. Ensuring open and honest communication with children and young people regarding decisions about their care.
b. Addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs to enhance their quality of life.
c. Relieving and managing distressing symptoms through palliative and supportive care.
d. Providing short breaks and respite care for children and families.
e. Supporting mental well-being through therapeutic interventions.
f. Organising play schemes and family events to foster joy and connection.

2. Supporting Children and Young People with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)

We also support children and young people (aged 0-18 years) in the UK who have profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) . Our goal is to offer respite care, education, training, and advice , enabling these children to live fulfilling lives .

We achieve this by:

a. Encouraging open communication with young people regarding their care.
b. Addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
c. Relieving distressing symptoms through holistic care approaches.
d. Providing short breaks and respite care .
e. Supporting mental well-being through therapeutic services.
f. Organising play schemes and events for children and their families.

3. Supporting Families, Carers, and Parents

We recognise that the challenges faced by families of children with life-limiting conditions or profound disabilities can be overwhelming. Therefore, we provide holistic support to parents, carers, and families by:

a. Facilitating open and honest communication regarding the provision of care.
b. Supporting physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
c. Relieving distressing situations by offering tailored support.
d. Offering respite care to temporarily relieve families of care responsibilities.
e. Providing advocacy services to alleviate financial hardship and emotional strain.
f. Organising inclusive play schemes and family events , fostering connections between parents, siblings, and carers.

4. Bereavement Support for Families

We provide compassionate support to families who have suffered the loss of a child or young person (aged 0-18 years) in the UK. Our bereavement services ensure families receive the care, guidance, and advocacy they need during this difficult time.

This support includes:

a. Encouraging open discussions about after-death care and raising awareness about decision-making.
b. Addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of grief.
c. Helping families manage and process grief through professional support.
d. Providing mental well-being support through counselling and therapy.
e. Offering financial advocacy services to reduce economic strain on bereaved families.
f. Assisting in the provision of respectful and compassionate after-death care .

Commitment to Public Benefit

Forever Colours Children’s Hospice remains dedicated to ensuring that no family faces their journey alone . Every service we provide aligns with our mission to bring comfort, dignity, and joy to children, young people, and their loved ones.

We continue to adhere to Charity Commission regulations and The Charities Act 2011 , ensuring that our work remains transparent, impactful, and beneficial to the public .

ABOUT US

OUR VISION AND MISSION

Forever Colours Children’s Hospice is a family-focused, community-based children’s hospice in Buckinghamshire. We provide compassionate care and support to babies, children, and young people with life-limiting conditions, life-threatening illnesses, and profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) as well as their families. Founded in 2018, Forever Colours offers a holistic approach to care , ensuring that every child and family receives the tailored support they need. Our services include:

Play Specialism
Signposting and Advocacy
Sibling and Parent Support
One-to-One Assistance
Group Days Out
End-of-Life and Care after Death

At Forever Colours, we prioritise family-centred care , wrapping our services around the whole family. We exist to provide what families need, when they need it , whether that means assisting with complex medical paperwork, offering bereavement support, or enabling a child to enjoy a fully accessible, supported day out .

OUR CULTURE AND VALUES

At our Annual General Meeting (AGM) , the values of Forever Colours Children’s Hospice were carefully considered and agreed upon to reflect our mission and service provision:

Family – Supporting families, ensuring they never feel alone.
Community – Creating strong connections between families, professionals, and local networks.
Child-Centred – Placing the needs and wishes of children and young people at the heart of everything we do.
Holistic – Providing care that addresses emotional, physical, and social well-being.

Commitment to Leadership, Governance & Training

Forever Colours is committed to delivering high quality, person-centred care through strong leadership, management, and governance .

To ensure continuous improvement, we prioritise:

Ongoing staff and volunteer training
Regular supervision, coaching, and appraisal
Continuous review and adaptation of care practices

The Trustee Board and Directors work collaboratively to maintain the charity’s strategic direction. Key policies— including Safeguarding, Lone Working, and Whistleblowing —are regularly updated to reflect best practices. It is imperative that our Trustees fully understand the operational and compassionate nature of our work . Our commitment to safe, inclusive, and effective care is at the forefront of our leadership approach.

CARE & STRATEGIC DIRECTION

Since our inception, Forever Colours has been dedicated to identifying gaps in children’s hospice care and developing services that truly meet families' needs , rather than duplicating existing provisions.

We believe every family should have the right to choose how they receive care, from diagnosis through to afterdeath support. To ensure this, we:

Develop bespoke care plans based on family and child-reported outcomes.
Adapt our services to evolving needs , providing practical and emotional support at every stage.
Prioritise open and honest conversations about end-of-life care, ensuring families feel empowered to make informed decisions.

End-of-Life & Bereavement Support

At Forever Colours, we recognise the deeply personal and sensitive nature of death and dying . Our approach is compassionate, family-centred, and tailored to individual needs .

One key aspect of our service is the Cold Blanket Loan Programme . Given the limited after-death care options in hospitals and home settings across Buckinghamshire , this essential resource allows families to spend precious time with their child after passing.

GROWTH & IMPACT

This year, Forever Colours Children’s Hospice has continued to expand , responding to an increasing number of referrals. We are proud to report that demand for our services has exceeded initial projections , and despite our growth, we have maintained our high standard of care .

Since our early days as a small hospice-at-home service , we have evolved into a leading provider of holistic, specialist paediatric hospice care in Buckinghamshire.

As we move forward, our goals include:

✅ Extending our reach to support more families in need.
✅ Ensuring every child with a life-threatening condition has access to quality care .
✅ Building new partnerships with care providers, charities, and medical professionals.

Our mission remains clear: to offer exceptional care that allows children to live well and experience a dignified death , ensuring families are never left to navigate their journey alone.

OUR CARE

Supporting Families and Children

This year, Forever Colours Children’s Hospice has provided compassionate, holistic care to 150 babies, children and young people, and supported over 300 siblings and 300 parents, grandparents, or carers. Our services continue to evolve to meet the growing needs of families facing life-threatening and life-limiting conditions, ensuring that they receive the support they need when and where they need it.

FAMILY SUPPORT

A Lifeline for Families

As we enter a new year, Forever Colours remains a vital support system for families navigating the challenges of caring for a child with a life-threatening or life-limiting condition. Our Family Support Worker is the first point of contact for families referred to our service, offering a welcoming and compassionate approach from the very beginning.

Following an initial assessment, we determine each family's immediate needs, whether it’s signposting, advocacy, or simply being a listening ear. Our Family Support Team works closely with families in the community and at home, providing ongoing support until the young person reaches 19 years of age, or up to three years postbereavement.

The primary aim of our Family Support Service is to build resilience and empower families. Recognising that each family’s journey is unique, we tailor our care to their individual circumstances, ensuring a flexible and responsive approach that adapts as their needs evolve.

Meeting Growing Demand

With an increasing number of family referrals, we have introduced a scoring system to assess each family's level of need. This has enabled us to respond more effectively, ensuring support is prioritised appropriately. Families turn to us for help with a wide range of challenges, from practical support, such as liaising with landlords or applying for grants, to emotional support during some of life’s most difficult moments. Whether over the phone or in person, our Family Support Workers offer guidance, reassurance, and advocacy when it’s needed most.

Collaboration with Other Professionals

At Forever Colours, we believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with other organisations to provide the best possible support. A key part of this work involves attending Children in Need (CIN) meetings, which play a crucial role in developing coordinated care plans for children and families facing significant challenges. By actively participating in these meetings, our Family Support Worker ensures:

The family’s emotional, practical, and holistic needs are understood.
Their voices are heard in decisions about their child’s care.
Seamless communication between families and professionals.
Tailored support plans are developed in collaboration with social services and healthcare providers.

Making a Difference

This year, our involvement in CIN meetings has strengthened our partnerships with local agencies, ensuring a more holistic and coordinated approach to care. A key example of this impact was our support for a family at risk of having their child placed into care. Through close collaboration with social workers, we helped create an action plan that enabled the child to remain within the family home, offering additional services to support them through a challenging period.

A Parent’s Testimonial

"Forever Colours’ Family Support Service has been a lifeline for us. From the very first moment we reached out, we felt heard and understood. The support we received was not only practical but also deeply compassionate, helping us navigate through some of the toughest times in our lives. We never felt alone - our Family Support Worker was always there, offering guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. This service has truly empowered us, and we’re incredibly grateful for the care and support we’ve received."

COMMUNITY SUPPORT INITIATIVES

Coffee Mornings: A Safe Space for Connection

Our weekly Coffee Mornings continue to be a valued part of our support services, providing a welcoming environment for families. Held every Friday morning at a local café in Milton Keynes, these informal drop-in sessions have become a vital space for parents and caregivers to:

Build friendships and share experiences.
Access emotional support in a relaxed setting.
Connect with the Family Support Team for advocacy, guidance, and resources.

The impact has been profound, with families expressing how much they appreciate the sense of community. By fostering peer support networks, we help families feel less isolated and more empowered in their journeys.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Coffee Groups

This year, we have expanded our ASD Coffee Group, which now plays an integral role in our service provision. This dedicated space allows parents and carers of children with profound and multiple learning disabilities to connect, share advice, and find support among peers facing similar challenges.

The group has been incredibly well received, helping families:

Feel less isolated in their experiences.
Access tailored resources and advice.
Build stronger support networks.

We are committed to growing this initiative, ensuring that families of children with complex needs continue to receive the support they deserve.

SPECIALIST PLAY: SUPPORTING CHILDREN THROUGH PLAY

The Power of Play

Specialist play is at the heart of the holistic care we provide at Forever Colours. Play is a powerful tool for:

Emotional expression – Helping children process feelings of fear, anxiety, and grief.
Resilience-building – Supporting children in developing coping mechanisms.
Social connection – Encouraging interaction with peers and family.
Creating joy and normalcy – Bringing moments of happiness during difficult times.

Therapeutic Play Sessions

This year, we have delivered over 200 one-to-one play sessions, using a range of therapeutic activities tailored to each child's needs. These sessions have included:

Sensory play – Engaging children in touch, sound, and movement-based activities.
Art and storytelling – Encouraging self-expression through creativity.
Music based activities – Using rhythm and sound to aid communication and relaxation.

A key element of our work has been supporting children through grief and difficult emotions. Our play sessions offer safe spaces for children to explore their feelings in a way that feels natural to them.

Family-Focused Play

Recognising the importance of shared experiences, we have also facilitated family-inclusive play sessions. These activities strengthen family bonds and ensure that siblings and parents feel included in their child’s journey. This year, we hosted several themed events, including:

Seasonal celebrations
A summer festival
Holiday gatherings

These events provided opportunities for children and families to create cherished memories together, celebrating joy despite their challenges.

Impact and Feedback

The feedback from families has been overwhelmingly positive:

Parents have shared how play sessions have helped their children process emotions constructively.
Siblings have expressed feeling valued and included, reducing feelings of isolation.
Our team has witnessed firsthand how play fosters emotional resilience, growth, and connection.

At Forever Colours, we remain committed to ensuring that every child we support, has the opportunity to play, express, and experience moments of happiness, no matter their circumstances.

LOOKING AHEAD

As we move forward, Forever Colours Children’s Hospice remains dedicated to expanding and improving our services. Our family-centred approach ensures that every baby, child, and young person with a life-threatening or life-limiting condition receives the compassionate, tailored support they deserve. We will continue to:

Strengthen partnerships with care providers and charities.
Expand our reach to support more families in need.
Enhance our holistic care through innovative and family-led services.

With continued support, we will ensure that no family facing a child’s diagnosis, end-of-life journey, or bereavement has to navigate it alone.

IMPACT STORY

Finding Healing Through Play: O’s Journey

Meet O , a 7-year-old girl who, earlier this year, was struggling to cope with the devastating loss of her younger sister. Once a joyful and lively child, O became withdrawn, anxious, and emotionally distant in the wake of her bereavement. Her parents, grappling with their own grief, felt helpless as they watched their daughter retreat further into herself.

When O and her family were referred to Forever Colours Children’s Hospice , her parents were uncertain about how to help their daughter process such complex emotions. They knew she needed a safe space to express herself, understand her grief, and begin to heal, but they weren’t sure where to start. That’s when Specialist Play became a turning point for O.

From her very first session, O was introduced to sensory play, art, and memory-making activities , each carefully designed to help her process her grief in a gentle, supportive way. One of the most meaningful activities for her was creating a memory box filled with special items that reminded her of her sister, a tangible way to honour and cherish their bond. Through arts and crafts , O found a way to express the sadness and confusion she had previously kept bottled up.

As the weeks passed, O’s confidence in her ability to cope began to grow . She started opening up, using play and art to express emotions she couldn’t yet put into words. Slowly but surely, her joy and playfulness began to return .

"The Specialist Play sessions have been life-changing for O. It’s been incredible to see her open up and start expressing her feelings in a way we never thought possible. The memory box activity allowed her to honour her sister, and through play, she found a way to cope with her grief. It’s been such a relief to see her slowly regain her joy and playfulness, and we’ll always be grateful for the support we’ve received."

O’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of Specialist Play , demonstrating how the right support can help children navigate grief and find hope again.

EVENTS

This year, Forever Colours has continued to create meaningful and memorable experiences for families through our Family Days, Parent Groups, and Sibling Groups. These events have become integral to our service offering, providing much-needed opportunities for families to connect, share experiences, and enjoy quality time together in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Family Days

Our Family Days have been incredibly successful, offering a wide range of fun and engaging activities for all ages. From festivals and soft play sessions to parties, crazy golf, and karaoke nights, these events have given families a chance to bond, relax, and make lasting memories. With consistently high attendance, families have shared how much they value these opportunities to connect with others in similar situations. The positive feedback we’ve received highlights the powerful impact these events have, not only providing a break from daily stresses but also building a strong sense of community.

Parent Groups

Our Parent Groups continue to thrive, offering a safe space for parents and caregivers to share their experiences, exchange advice, and receive emotional support. Whether through casual meetups or more structured discussions, these groups have become a vital resource for families to connect with one another and access guidance from our team. Parents have expressed appreciation for the supportive atmosphere, where they can openly discuss their challenges and triumphs without fear of judgment.

Sibling Groups

The Sibling Groups have been another standout feature this year. These groups are specifically designed to give brothers and sisters of children with complex needs a space of their own, allowing them to relax, have fun, and connect with others who understand their experiences. Through themed activities, outings, and games, the Sibling Groups have created a space where siblings feel valued and supported. Many siblings have shared how much they appreciate having a chance to share their feelings and make new friends.

Impact and Looking Ahead

The high attendance across all these events is a testament to their positive impact. By offering a variety of fun, interactive, and inclusive activities, Forever Colours has fostered a strong sense of community among the families we support. These events not only provide opportunities for relaxation and fun but also help reduce isolation, build lasting friendships, and strengthen the support networks that families rely on.

We are incredibly proud of the success of these initiatives and are excited to continue expanding and enhancing these groups and events in the coming year. Our aim is to ensure that all families have access to the support and enjoyment they truly deserve.

"The Family Days have been such a highlight for us this year. We've had so much fun at the festivals, crazy golf, and karaoke nights. It’s not just about the activities; it’s the feeling of being part of a community. We’ve made friends, shared laughs, and felt so supported. Thank you for creating such amazing memories for our family."

"As a parent, it can sometimes feel isolating, but the Parent Groups have been a lifeline. The chance to connect with others who truly understand our journey has been invaluable. We’ve shared advice, supported each other, and even found new ways to handle the challenges we face. It’s a group we look forward to every time."

"The Sibling Group has been a game-changer for our children. They look forward to it every time, knowing they will have fun, meet new friends, and talk about things they might not otherwise share. It’s so important for them to feel supported too, and this group has been a wonderful way for them to relax and connect."

OUR FUNDRASING

This year, Forever Colours has made significant strides in diversifying our income streams and strengthening our financial framework to ensure the long-term sustainability of our critical services. Our fundraising activities have not only grown substantially compared to previous years but have also benefited from improved financial controls, refined management structures, and a more diversified approach to generating income. Key Strategic Developments and Achievements

Restructured Income Generation and Management:

We have restructured our income generation staffing and refined our overall management structure. This has led to a more focused and agile fundraising approach, supported by the increased involvement of our accountant and the establishment of a fortnightly income generation trustee sub-committee. These measures ensure regular strategic oversight and help guide our financial and fundraising strategies.

Enhanced Financial Controls:

Our financial management processes have been strengthened through the use of Xero for monthly budgeting and financial reporting. This system has enabled us to closely monitor our cash flow, maintain streamlined operating costs, and secure significant cost savings compared to previous years—all while ensuring that our service provision remains at expected levels.

Diversification of Income Streams:

We have achieved a dramatic improvement in the diversification of our fundraising efforts. Our strategy has expanded to include a broader mix of funding sources:

Corporate and Business Giving: We have seen increased contributions from the corporate sector.

Trusts and Foundations: Our enhanced pipeline and the appointment of an experienced commission-based application professional have opened up new opportunities in this area.

Special Events and Community Fundraising: Our events portfolio has grown, with more independent events on the calendar and strong foundations being set for community-led initiatives—such as a summer fete and additional golf days. These events have not only boosted revenue percentages from previous years but also significantly enhanced our community engagement and reputation.

Digital Fundraising: Innovative digital platforms have further diversified our income sources, ensuring that pledged income continues to reach our accounts despite the inherent challenges of forecasting in a new income risk profile.

Streamlined Expenditure and Cost Efficiency:

Operating costs remain closely managed and continue to reflect the cost-saving measures implemented earlier this year. Our streamlined expenditure strategy has ensured that increased fundraising activity does not result in higher overall costs. This disciplined financial approach has contributed to maintaining a lean operating base while meeting the growing needs of our service provision.

Strengthened Governance and Future Pipeline:

The Trustee Board has been strengthened, ensuring that our fundraising and financial strategies are well-aligned with the charity’s long-term goals. Regular monthly financial reporting, combined with strategic Trustee and Director meetings, has enhanced our ability to manage liquidity and forecast future needs. As a result, our pipeline of fundraising opportunities for 2024 has improved markedly, positioning us for continued growth and financial resilience.

Key Partnerships:

Throughout the year, we have also seen an increase in diversified funding routes, with a stronger network for future financial support. Our community fundraising efforts have grown, and our reputation in the sector has significantly improved. Centricus remains a vital Founding Partner, and we deeply value their ongoing commitment to our mission.

Looking Ahead

Our enhanced fundraising framework anchored by robust financial controls, diversified income sources, and strong governance positions Forever Colours to continue its critical work well into the future. We remain committed to building long-term partnerships and exploring innovative approaches that will further strengthen our financial foundation, ensuring that every family we support receives the highest quality of care now and in the years to come.

Spotlight on Centricus – Founding Partner

After many years of generous support, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Centricus, our Founding Partner, once again this year. Their steadfast commitment and consistent contributions have been instrumental in enabling us to deliver high-quality care to the children, young people, and families we serve. Centricus' support goes beyond financial contributions; it has helped enhance our profile within the community and foster greater collaboration across our initiatives.

We deeply value our ongoing partnership with Centricus and recognise their critical role in our mission. Their backing has not only provided us with the means to maintain and expand our services but also reinforced our commitment to sustainable and compassionate care. We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration and are immensely grateful for the trust and support Centricus has shown throughout the years.

OUR MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Across the UK, there remains a notable lack of awareness regarding children’s palliative care and the vital support available for babies, children, young people, and their families. In a sector where sensitivity, compassion, and authenticity are paramount, our charity has made it a priority to enhance the visibility of Forever Colours through a comprehensive marketing programme.

Our Strategic Approach

To ensure that our message resonates within the UK palliative care and children’s hospice sector, we have developed a multi-faceted strategy that includes:

Social Media Growth:

Increasing our social media following to build a community of engaged supporters, while sharing authentic stories that highlight the individual journeys of the families we support.

Enhanced Digital Presence:

Driving increased traffic to our website by ensuring our content is both informative and compassionate, tailored to the needs of families and healthcare professionals seeking guidance in challenging times.

Improved Engagement:

Focusing on boosting our social media engagement rate through targeted, sensitive messaging that invites dialogue and shares real-life experiences from those impacted by our work. Media and Influencer Collaborations:

Securing features on radio, in the press, and via social media influencers known for their credibility in health and community sectors. These partnerships help amplify our message and reach wider audiences.

Building Our Brand with Authenticity

While we have made commendable progress in raising brand awareness, we recognise that further advancement is needed to meet our broader objectives. As a small charity, we are grateful to have established a logo that forms the foundation of our visual identity. However, we are currently endeavouring to cultivate a comprehensive brand identity that will elevate our standing, bolster our reputation, and foster greater recognition within our community and beyond.

Our future plans include:

Hiring a dedicated Marketing and Communications consultant to refine our strategy and ensure our messaging remains both compelling and sensitive.
Launching a targeted brand awareness campaign that centres on real-life stories and holistic care activities, thereby fostering trust and connection.
Collaborating with expert consultants to develop materials that reflect our ethos, including distributing leaflets to communities, families, and healthcare professionals.
Developing comprehensive fundraising materials, launching an online newsletter, creating new website pages, and introducing a new role within our Marketing and Communications team.

Marketing and Communications Highlights

Digital Growth and Engagement: We continue to monitor and report increased traffic to our website and social media platforms, reflecting growing interest and engagement within our community.
Innovative Campaigns: Our winter campaign has successfully raised awareness and stimulated community engagement. In this initiative, Next generously donated clothing and provided staff for our Winter party, while children created heartfelt Christmas cards. This collaborative effort not only bolstered the festive spirit but also showcased the genuine support and creativity of our community.
Event-Based Engagement:
The ‘Together We Climb’ challenge event campaign has been instrumental in uniting supporters and driving community-led fundraising efforts.
Call to Action for Community Fundraising: Our dedicated call-to-action pages on both our website and social media channels encourage the public to organise community events and directly support our cause—for instance, by match funding our T(h)rueYou Transformative Coaching Sessions.
Consistent Branding:
We continue to work on our branding and ensure brand continuity across all channels, reinforcing our commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care and building a recognisable identity that resonates with our audiences.

PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVES

Our work at Forever Colours is greatly enriched by the diverse range of partnerships we have formed across the UK. These collaborations not only contribute vital financial support but also help raise awareness of children’s palliative care and extend our reach within the community. We are proud to have worked with a number of outstanding partners, whose involvement has had a significant impact on our fundraising efforts and community engagement.

Key Partnerships Include:

Stoke Park Golf Club:

Our partnership with Stoke Park Golf Club has played a key role in boosting our profile and community engagement.

High-Profile Events and Collaborations:

We have attended prestigious events such as Boodles and have enjoyed successful collaborations with event providers. Our involvement in landmark occasions – such as those organised by EventExec—has enhanced our brand recognition and attracted new supporters.

Innovative and Community-Led Fundraising:

Collaborations with forward-thinking companies like Tryka Light Company and using innovative social media platforms such as for raffling holiday homes, events and cars, have allowed us to explore fresh fundraising opportunities. These initiatives are complemented by our annual Ousebank House Summer Fete, a cherished community event that consistently drives engagement and support.

Local and National Organisations:

We are grateful for the ongoing support from organisations such as the Buckinghamshire Lottery, which has helped reinforce our community connections. Additionally, our partnerships with The Masons, City Cruises (for our Charity Boat Cruise on the Thames), Race Nights, and Legends Golf events held at venues like The Belfry and Burhill have enriched our event portfolio and expanded our fundraising channels.

Community and In-Kind Support:

Our portfolio also features dynamic initiatives such as Quiz Nights and Karaoke Nights, which both foster community spirit and raise essential funds. Support from partners like Barber Charvet and The Greyling Foundation has been invaluable, and we are grateful for the generous coaching donations and contributions from Next (clothing store). We are also thankful for the generous support from Cafe Espresso MK1, who have hosted our coffee mornings, organised community events, assisted with fundraising, and contributed by collecting presents and raffle prizes.

Impact and Benefits:

These partnerships have enabled us to:

Enhance our fundraising outcomes through increased income from diversified events.
Access in-kind resources and expertise, which reduce costs and improve event quality.
Expand our network of supporters, bolstering our overall community presence.
Raise the profile of children’s palliative care in a competitive and sensitive market.

By working closely with our partners, Forever Colours continues to deliver innovative, community-focused initiatives that not only generate vital funding but also foster a supportive environment for the families we serve. We are immensely grateful for these collaborations and look forward to building on these successes in the future.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Income

At the start of the financial year, we presented a business case to the Trustees emphasising the imperative to continue to diversify our income streams, and they supported our ambitious sustainability plans. While our fundraising events have maintained a similar structure to the previous year, primarily relying on our Founding Partner, Centricus, the increased diversity of income streams, including trust applications and community events, has been encouraging to both Directors and Trustees. We anticipate the most significant growth in income over the coming year. Although government or commissioned income has not yet been established, it remains a priority for the charity.

Streamlined Expenditure and Cost Efficiency

Reserves Policy

It is the policy of the Directors and Trustees to maintain a minimum of three months’ reserves to ensure the continuity of our operating activities. At the time of signing the statutory accounts, the Trustees considered the level of reserves to be adequate for the charity's current needs. In light of the wider economic challenges anticipated in the UK, including the cost-of-living crisis, the Trustees believe that maintaining our current level of unrestricted free reserves is prudent. The Reserves Policy is reviewed annually, taking into account the charity’s plans and the broader economic context, and the Trustees remain committed to adjusting the policy as necessary to ensure ongoing service delivery.

Financial Sustainability and Going Concern

We are deeply grateful for the continued generosity of our supporters, whose contributions have been vital to our financial sustainability. The Trustees approved an investment in our Fundraising Team to further support the diversification of income. Despite a challenging economic outlook characterised by high inflation and rising costs, we continue to monitor our cash flows closely and conduct sensitivity analyses to ensure that sufficient working capital is available for our short-term needs. Based on our current financial resources and the promising pipeline of fundraising activities planned for the year ahead, the Trustees are confident that we have the financial capacity to meet our future operating requirements, and therefore, the charity remains a going concern.

Risk Management

Forever Colours has developed a robust formal risk management process through the combined efforts of the Trustee Board, the Founding Director Team, and the respective Sub-Committees. This process encompasses both strategic and operational risks. The Trustees review all significant risks and their mitigation measures throughout the year and are satisfied that our systems are effective in managing these risks to an acceptable level.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Constitution

Forever Colours Children’s Hospice is a registered charity (number 1191073) and is constituted under a Trust Deed. Method of Appointment or Election of Trustees

The management of the Charity is the responsibility of the Trustees, who are elected and co-opted under the terms of the Trust Deed.

Future Outlook

Following approval from our Board of Trustees, we have allocated designated funds to invest in new income generation strategies—reinforcing our commitment to a secure financial foundation that will support exceptional care and long-term growth. This year, our key focus has been diversifying income streams by exploring new fundraising avenues, corporate partnerships, grants, social enterprise opportunities, and expanding our events portfolio.

We have also forged promising partnerships with local businesses and organisations that not only raise funds but boost community awareness. In parallel, we are enhancing our digital fundraising platform to enable innovative contributions.

Although diversifying income streams is gradual, early indicators are encouraging, and we anticipate broader income opportunities to further support and expand our core services.

Amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, it is vital to integrate economic challenges into our planning. With rising financial pressures on families and increasing demand for specialised care, external support is critical to bridging our funding gap.

To address rising referrals and evolving family needs, we have outlined key plans for service expansion next year. Our strategy includes broadening our range of inclusive, innovative care services and increasing volunteer support to enhance our impact.

Navigating today’s economic climate requires a holistic approach to income generation. In addition to traditional fundraising, our focus will include:

Community Engagement and Media Initiatives: Showcasing our Care Team’s work, engaging with local media, and creating an annual appeal film.

Partnerships and Corporate Support: Expanding our network of local and corporate partners for additional funding and collaborative opportunities.

Targeted Fundraising Campaigns: Developing new strategies to build awareness and support from the community.

As a developing charity, we remain committed to setting realistic, adaptable objectives. By continuously assessing our approach and listening to family feedback, we will refine our services to meet evolving needs.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises transformation and growth. We will focus on scalable solutions that allow us to reach more families while maintaining our high standards of family-centred care. Through thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and unwavering commitment, we will continue to ensure that the children, young people, and families we serve have access to the care and support they deserve.

Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year that give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity, its incoming resources, and the application of those resources, Including its income and expenditure for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
Observe the methods and principles of the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) (FRS 102)
Make reasonable and prudent judgements and accounting estimates;
State whether applicable UK Accounting Standards (FRS 102) have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
Prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis, unless it is inappropriate to assume that the Charity will continue in business.

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that sufficiently explain the Charity’s transactions and accurately disclose its financial position. This enables the Trustees to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, and the provisions of the Trust Deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and taking reasonable steps to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.

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

Ed Charvet

Chair of Trustees

Forever Colours Children’s Hospice

04/02/2025

Page 22

Page 23

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

Charity number 1191073

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

CONTENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

	Page
Independent Examiners Report	1
Statement of Financial Activities	2
Balance Sheet	3
Notes to the financial statements	4 - 9

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

I report on the accounts of Forever Colours Childrens Hospice for the year ended 31 March 2024 which are set out on pages 2 to 9.

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 (2) of the Charities Act 2011 (The Act) but that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,
To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act, and
To state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner’s Statement

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

Independent examiner’s statement

In the course of my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; or
the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or
the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of the accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 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.

I 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.

Shelley Marie-Rudling FMAAT AATQB for and on behalf of: Community360

Date 04/02/2025

Winsley’s House, High Street, Colchester, Essex

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

	Note	Unrestricted	Restricted	2024	2023
		Total	Total	Total	Total
		£	£	£	£
Incoming resources
Donations & legacies	2	163,289	-	163,289	152,230
Income from charitable activities	3	35,112	-	35,112	39,431
Total income		198,401	-	198,401	191,661
Expenditure
Raising funds	4	10,850	-	10,850	14,911
Charitable activities	5	235,272	-	235,272	218,968
Total resources expended		246,122	-	246,122	233,879
Net income/(expenditure)		(47,721)	-	(47,721)	(42,218)
Reconciliaton of funds:
Total funds brought forward		19,454	-	19,454	61,672
Net movement in funds		(47,721)	-	(47,721)	(42,218)
Funds at 31 March 2024		(28,267)	-	(28,267)	19,454

Notes on pages 4 to 9 form part of these financial statements

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 8 Current assets Debtors 9 Cash at bank and in hand Current liabilities Creditors, amounts falling due within one year 10 Net current assets Net assets Funds Unrestricted funds 11 Restricted funds 11	2024 2024 Total Total £ £ 3,224 - 33,503 33,503 (64,994) (31,491) (28,267) (28,267) - (28,267)	2023 2023 Total Total £ £ 4,850 1,504 23,958 25,462 (10,858) 14,604 19,454 19,454 - 19,454	2023 2023 Total Total £ £ 4,850 1,504 23,958 25,462 (10,858) 14,604 19,454 19,454 - 19,454
			14,604
			19,454
			19,454 -
			19,454

These accounts were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by :

Signed E B Charvet (Chair of Trustees)

Date 4th February 2025

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

1. General information

Forever Colours Children's Hospice is a charity registered in England, with registration number 1191073. The charity's registered address is 48 Frobisher Road, London, N8 0QX. The principle activity of the charity is to promote and facilitate the relief, treatment and care of children and young persons living in the UK with life-limiting and/or life threatening conditions.

2. Accounting Policies

Basis of the preparation of the accounts

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement on Recommended Practise applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019). (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Rebulic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair' view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair' view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP (FRS 102) published in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.

Forever Colours Children's Hospice meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

Going concern

The Trustees assess whether the use of going concern is appropriate, i.e. whether there are any material uncertainties related to events and conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the Charity to continue as a a going concern. The Trustees make this assessment in respect of a period of at least one year from the date of authorisation for issue of the financial statements, and have concluded that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for at least the next financial year.

The trustees continue to monitor the going concern on a regular basis due to the level of creditors to ensure there are sufficient incoming funds to meet commitments and to complete charitable activities.

Incoming resources

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

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

Expenditure

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

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

Expenditure cont.

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

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

All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

Cash flow statement

The Trustees have taken advantage of the exemption in Financial Reporting Standard 1 (revised) from including a cash flow statement in the financial statements on the grounds that the company is small.

Depreciation

Tangible fixed assets costing £500 or more are capitalised and recognised when future economic benefits are probable and the cost or value of the asset can be measured reliably.

Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at costs. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working condition should be included in the measurement of cost.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following bases:

Fixtures and fittings -20% Computer equipment -20%

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.

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 of less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

Liabilities and provisions

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

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

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

Financial instruments

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

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

Pensions

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the year.

Fund accounting

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

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

Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the Trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

There are no critical accounting estimates or judgements in the financial statements.

2. Donations & legacies

Donations & legacies
Donations Grants Total Total 2023	Unrestricted 2024 £ 135,289 28,000	Restricted 2024 £ - -	Total 2024 £ 135,289 28,000	Total 2023 £ 123,000 29,230
	163,289	-	163,289	152,230

	152,230	-	152,230

3. Income from charitable activities

Unrestricted 2024 £ 22,668 12,444	Restricted 2024 £ - -	Total 2024 £ 22,668 12,444	Total 2023 £ 4,324 27,707
35,112	-	35,112	32,031

32,031	-	32,031

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

4. Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted 2024 £ 10,850	Restricted 2024 £ -	Total 2024 £ 10,850	Total 2023 £ 14,911
10,850	-	10,850	14,911

14,911	-	14,911

5. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities

Unrestricted 2024 £ 235,272	Restricted 2024 £ -	Total 2024 £ 235,272	Total 2023 £ 218,968
235,272	-	235,272	218,968

211,568	7,400	218,968

6. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Activities undertaken directly 2024 £ 197,143	Support costs 2024 £ 38,128	Total 2024 £ 235,272	Total 2023 £ 218,968
197,143	38,128	235,272	218,968

185,622	33,346	218,968

Staff costs Depreciation Equipment Total 2024	Total 2024 £ 193,813 1,626 1,704	Total 2023 £ 175,495 1,626 8,501
	197,143	185,622

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 #REF!

Analysis of support costs Total 2024 £ Advertising 978 Family days/packs - Entertainment 5,220 Computer costs 8,062 Travel expenses 6,212 Subscriptions 1,471 Clothing costs 305 Bank charges 92 Printing, posting & stationery 591 Insurance 2,076 Rent 1,941 Phone & internet 2,450 Accountancy 7,375 Consultancy 750 Other staff costs 40 Sundry expenses 412 DBS costs 153 Total 38,128 7. Staff costs 2024 £ Wages and salaries 176,181 Social security costs 12,976 Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes 4,035 193,192 The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows: 2024 No. Employees 6	Total 2024 £ 978 - 5,220 8,062 6,212 1,471 305 92 591 2,076 1,941 2,450 7,375 750 40 412 153	Total 2023 £ 1,320 6,418 3,317 7,316 4,140 1,459 1,485 46 703 - - - 7,060 - - - 82
	38,128	33,346
	2024 £ 176,181 12,976 4,035	2023 £ 161,236 10,606 3,653
	193,192	175,495
		2023 No. 6

No employee received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in either year.

Remuneration paid to Key Management Personnel during the period was £65,119 (2023: £90,069).

Trustees' remuneration and expenses

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

During the year ended 31 March 2024, no Trustee expenses have been incurred (2023 - £NIL)

Fixtures & fittings £ 7,630 -	Computer equipment £ 499 -	Total £ 8,129 -
7,630 3,162 1,526	499 117 100	8,129 3,279 1,626
4,688	217	4,905
2,942	282	3,224
4,468	382	4,850

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

9. Debtors Due within one year Other debtors 10. Creditors; amounts falling due within one year Other taxation and social security Pension fund loan payable Other creditors Accruals and deferred income 11. Funds 01/04/23 £ Unrestricted funds General fund 19,454 Restricted funds - - Total restricted funds - Total funds 19,454 10. Analysis of net assets between funds Tangible fixed assets Current assets Creditors due within one year Total funds	Income £ 198,401 -	Expenses £ (246,122) -	2024 £ -	2023 £ 1,504
			-	1,504
			2024 £ 64,046 - 198 750	2023 £ 7,858 - - 3,000
			64,994	10,858
			Transfers £ - -	31/03/24 £ (28,267) -
-	-	-	-	-
19,454	198,401	246,122 -	-	28,267 -
			Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 3,224 33,503 (64,994)	Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 4,850 25,462 (10,858)
			(28,267)	19,454

Pension commitments

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held seperately from those of the Charity in an independently adminstered fund. The pension cost charge represents contibutions paid by the Charity to the fund and amounted to £4,035 (2023: £3,653). At the period end, an amount of £0 (2023: £NIL) was payable to the fund and is included in creditors.

11. Related party transactions

The charity received total unrestricted donations from the Trustees of £0 (2023: £1,225). The Charity also received grants totalling £12,000 (2023: £12,000) from The Barber Charvet Trust, with which the Charity has one Trustee in common, E B V Charvet.

There were no outstanding balances owing between related parties and the Charity at 31 March 2024.

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

Charity number 1191073

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

CONTENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

	Page
Independent Examiners Report	1
Statement of Financial Activities	2
Balance Sheet	3
Notes to the financial statements	4 - 9

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

I report on the accounts of Forever Colours Childrens Hospice for the year ended 31 March 2024 which are set out on pages 2 to 9.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

It is my responsibility to:

Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,
To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act, and
To state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner’s Statement

Independent examiner’s statement

In the course of my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; or
the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or
the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of the accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 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.

I 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.

Shelley Marie-Rudling FMAAT AATQB for and on behalf of: Community360

Date 04/02/2025

Winsley’s House, High Street, Colchester, Essex

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

	Note	Unrestricted	Restricted	2024	2023
		Total	Total	Total	Total
		£	£	£	£
Incoming resources
Donations & legacies	2	163,289	-	163,289	152,230
Income from charitable activities	3	35,112	-	35,112	39,431
Total income		198,401	-	198,401	191,661
Expenditure
Raising funds	4	10,850	-	10,850	14,911
Charitable activities	5	235,272	-	235,272	218,968
Total resources expended		246,122	-	246,122	233,879
Net income/(expenditure)		(47,721)	-	(47,721)	(42,218)
Reconciliaton of funds:
Total funds brought forward		19,454	-	19,454	61,672
Net movement in funds		(47,721)	-	(47,721)	(42,218)
Funds at 31 March 2024		(28,267)	-	(28,267)	19,454

Notes on pages 4 to 9 form part of these financial statements

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 8 Current assets Debtors 9 Cash at bank and in hand Current liabilities Creditors, amounts falling due within one year 10 Net current assets Net assets Funds Unrestricted funds 11 Restricted funds 11	2024 2024 Total Total £ £ 3,224 - 33,503 33,503 (64,994) (31,491) (28,267) (28,267) - (28,267)	2023 2023 Total Total £ £ 4,850 1,504 23,958 25,462 (10,858) 14,604 19,454 19,454 - 19,454	2023 2023 Total Total £ £ 4,850 1,504 23,958 25,462 (10,858) 14,604 19,454 19,454 - 19,454
			14,604
			19,454
			19,454 -
			19,454

These accounts were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by :

Signed E B Charvet (Chair of Trustees)

Date 4th February 2025

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

1. General information

2. Accounting Policies

Basis of the preparation of the accounts

Going concern

Incoming resources

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

Expenditure

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

Expenditure cont.

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

All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

Cash flow statement

Depreciation

Tangible fixed assets costing £500 or more are capitalised and recognised when future economic benefits are probable and the cost or value of the asset can be measured reliably.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following bases:

Fixtures and fittings -20% Computer equipment -20%

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.

Cash at bank and in hand

Liabilities and provisions

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

Financial instruments

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

Pensions

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the year.

Fund accounting

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

Critical accounting estimates and judgements

There are no critical accounting estimates or judgements in the financial statements.

2. Donations & legacies

Donations & legacies
Donations Grants Total Total 2023	Unrestricted 2024 £ 135,289 28,000	Restricted 2024 £ - -	Total 2024 £ 135,289 28,000	Total 2023 £ 123,000 29,230
	163,289	-	163,289	152,230

	152,230	-	152,230

3. Income from charitable activities

Unrestricted 2024 £ 22,668 12,444	Restricted 2024 £ - -	Total 2024 £ 22,668 12,444	Total 2023 £ 4,324 27,707
35,112	-	35,112	32,031

32,031	-	32,031

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

4. Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted 2024 £ 10,850	Restricted 2024 £ -	Total 2024 £ 10,850	Total 2023 £ 14,911
10,850	-	10,850	14,911

14,911	-	14,911

5. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities

Unrestricted 2024 £ 235,272	Restricted 2024 £ -	Total 2024 £ 235,272	Total 2023 £ 218,968
235,272	-	235,272	218,968

211,568	7,400	218,968

6. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Activities undertaken directly 2024 £ 197,143	Support costs 2024 £ 38,128	Total 2024 £ 235,272	Total 2023 £ 218,968
197,143	38,128	235,272	218,968

185,622	33,346	218,968

Staff costs Depreciation Equipment Total 2024	Total 2024 £ 193,813 1,626 1,704	Total 2023 £ 175,495 1,626 8,501
	197,143	185,622

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 #REF!

Analysis of support costs Total 2024 £ Advertising 978 Family days/packs - Entertainment 5,220 Computer costs 8,062 Travel expenses 6,212 Subscriptions 1,471 Clothing costs 305 Bank charges 92 Printing, posting & stationery 591 Insurance 2,076 Rent 1,941 Phone & internet 2,450 Accountancy 7,375 Consultancy 750 Other staff costs 40 Sundry expenses 412 DBS costs 153 Total 38,128 7. Staff costs 2024 £ Wages and salaries 176,181 Social security costs 12,976 Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes 4,035 193,192 The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows: 2024 No. Employees 6	Total 2024 £ 978 - 5,220 8,062 6,212 1,471 305 92 591 2,076 1,941 2,450 7,375 750 40 412 153	Total 2023 £ 1,320 6,418 3,317 7,316 4,140 1,459 1,485 46 703 - - - 7,060 - - - 82
	38,128	33,346
	2024 £ 176,181 12,976 4,035	2023 £ 161,236 10,606 3,653
	193,192	175,495
		2023 No. 6

No employee received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in either year.

Remuneration paid to Key Management Personnel during the period was £65,119 (2023: £90,069).

Trustees' remuneration and expenses

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

During the year ended 31 March 2024, no Trustee expenses have been incurred (2023 - £NIL)

Fixtures & fittings £ 7,630 -	Computer equipment £ 499 -	Total £ 8,129 -
7,630 3,162 1,526	499 117 100	8,129 3,279 1,626
4,688	217	4,905
2,942	282	3,224
4,468	382	4,850

FOREVER COLOURS CHILDREN'S HOSPICE

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

9. Debtors Due within one year Other debtors 10. Creditors; amounts falling due within one year Other taxation and social security Pension fund loan payable Other creditors Accruals and deferred income 11. Funds 01/04/23 £ Unrestricted funds General fund 19,454 Restricted funds - - Total restricted funds - Total funds 19,454 10. Analysis of net assets between funds Tangible fixed assets Current assets Creditors due within one year Total funds	Income £ 198,401 -	Expenses £ (246,122) -	2024 £ -	2023 £ 1,504
			-	1,504
			2024 £ 64,046 - 198 750	2023 £ 7,858 - - 3,000
			64,994	10,858
			Transfers £ - -	31/03/24 £ (28,267) -
-	-	-	-	-
19,454	198,401	246,122 -	-	28,267 -
			Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 3,224 33,503 (64,994)	Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 4,850 25,462 (10,858)
			(28,267)	19,454

Pension commitments

11. Related party transactions

There were no outstanding balances owing between related parties and the Charity at 31 March 2024.

2024-04-05-accounts

CONTENTS PAGE

ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Trustees:

Chair:

Charity Number:

Company Number:

Registered Office:

Bankers:

Independent Examiner:

Accountant:

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

To Our Valued Supporters,

Dear Supporters,

1. Supporting Children and Young People with Life-Limiting and Life-Threatening Conditions

2. Supporting Children and Young People with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)

3. Supporting Families, Carers, and Parents

4. Bereavement Support for Families

Commitment to Public Benefit

ABOUT US

OUR VISION AND MISSION

OUR CULTURE AND VALUES

Commitment to Leadership, Governance & Training

CARE & STRATEGIC DIRECTION

End-of-Life & Bereavement Support

GROWTH & IMPACT

OUR CARE

Supporting Families and Children

FAMILY SUPPORT

A Lifeline for Families

Meeting Growing Demand

Collaboration with Other Professionals

Making a Difference

A Parent’s Testimonial

COMMUNITY SUPPORT INITIATIVES

Coffee Mornings: A Safe Space for Connection

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Coffee Groups

SPECIALIST PLAY: SUPPORTING CHILDREN THROUGH PLAY

The Power of Play

Therapeutic Play Sessions

Family-Focused Play

Impact and Feedback

LOOKING AHEAD

IMPACT STORY

Finding Healing Through Play: O’s Journey

EVENTS

Family Days

Parent Groups

Sibling Groups

Impact and Looking Ahead

OUR FUNDRASING

Restructured Income Generation and Management:

Enhanced Financial Controls:

Diversification of Income Streams:

Streamlined Expenditure and Cost Efficiency:

Strengthened Governance and Future Pipeline:

Key Partnerships:

Looking Ahead

Spotlight on Centricus – Founding Partner

OUR MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Our Strategic Approach

Social Media Growth:

Building Our Brand with Authenticity

Marketing and Communications Highlights

PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVES

Stoke Park Golf Club:

High-Profile Events and Collaborations:

Innovative and Community-Led Fundraising:

Local and National Organisations:

Community and In-Kind Support:

Impact and Benefits:

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Income

Streamlined Expenditure and Cost Efficiency

Reserves Policy

Financial Sustainability and Going Concern

Risk Management

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Constitution

Future Outlook