**Report of the Trustees and Unaudited Financial Statements** for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 for OPA Cancer Charity
**Davies Archytas Accountants Ltd Registered Company Number:** 14, The Oaks, Clews Road, Ce025388 (England And Wales) Redditch, Worcestershire B98 7ST **Registered Charity Number:** 1194327
OPA Cancer Charity
## Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
||Page|
|---|---|
|Report of the Trustees|1 to 6|
|Independent Examiner's Report|7|
|Statement of Financial Activities|8|
|Balance Sheet|9|
|Notes to the Financial Statements|10 to 13|
## OPA Cancer Charity
## Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
The Trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).
Our organisation is dedicated to raising awareness of oesophageal and gastric cancer and promoting early detection and treatment. In addition, we also focus on educating the public about acid reflux, which is a common condition that can lead to these types of cancers. This annual report outlines our progress and achievements in the past year.
## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES**
## **Objectives and aims**
In setting our strategies and plans, we have referred to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, including PB2 2 "Public benefit: running a charity'.
The OPA meets 3 of the 13 charitable purposes recognised by the Charities Act 2011:
the advancement of health,
the relief of those in need by ill health or disability,
the advancement of education.
All services provided to patients, families and carers are free of charge.
The OPA's objectives are defined in its Constitution as:
To alleviate or assist in alleviating the physical or mental distress of any persons affected in any way by oesophageal and gastric cancer and related conditions ("the Conditions") in particular but not exclusively by:
- 1) providing information to those affected by the Conditions.
- 2) raising awareness about the Conditions among those affected and the general public; and
- 3) promoting, encouraging, and collaborating with research projects associated with the Conditions.
Page 1
OPA Cancer Charity
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Significant activities**
In the past year, we have engaged in several key activities to advance our mission and meet our objectives:
## Raising Awareness:
We have spearheaded multiple awareness campaigns focused on oesophageal and gastric cancers, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment. Working with local health clinics and hospitals, we have educated the public on recognising the symptoms of these cancers and understanding the risks.
## Education for Health Professionals:
We have provided healthcare professionals with educational resources detailing the link between acid reflux and oesophageal and gastric cancer. In addition, we have raised awareness about acid reflux, its causes and effective management strategies.
## Support for Patients and Families:
This year, we have supported thousands of individuals affected by oesophageal and gastric cancer. Our services include personalised one to one buddy system, support meetings, a helpline and informative website to assist patients and their families in navigating the challenges they face.
## Key Statistics and Impact:
Oesophageal cancer remains the 7th leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the UK, there are around 8,000 oesophageal cancer deaths in the UK, that is 22 every day (2017-2019 CRUK), this means that one person will die every hour from this type of cancer.
Gastric/stomach cancer is the 14th most common cause of cancer death in the UK, there are around 4,200 gastric/stomach cancer deaths in the UK every year, that is 12 every day (2017-2019 CRUK).
Oesophago-Gastric cancer is the 5th most common cancer.
Since its founding in 1985, the OPA has been dedicated to assisting patients, caregivers and families by providing free publications, resources and access to one-on-one support through our helpline.
The OPA continues to operate without government funding and relies entirely on public donations and fundraising efforts. All of our resources and publications are offered at no cost to individuals, NHS Trusts, Macmillan, Maggie's centres, doctors surgeries and private clinics, as well as patients, carers and their families. We produce thousands of booklets and leaflets annually, reflecting the latest dietary advice and patient care pathways, created with the help of healthcare professionals. Additionally, we offer support meetings and one-to-one consultations for patients and caregivers, providing support.
Page 2
OPA Cancer Charity
## Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Achievement and performance** Achievements
This year, we have continued to provide individualised support through multiple channels, including our dedicated helpline, e-mail, website, social media platforms, virtual chat and the Health Unlocked Community forum. Our website and educational materials remain trusted resources for patients, caregivers, healthcare providers and organisations like Macmillan, Maggie's centres and NHS Trusts.
A key focus of the OPA's advocacy is the prevention of oesophageal and gastric cancer. Working with numerous organisations, we have prioritised the early identification and management of reflux symptoms. These symptoms, which can include persistent heartburn, regurgitation, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, chest pain, cough, asthma, nausea and shortness of breath are frequently present in individuals before a cancer diagnosis is made.
Through social media, we have worked to raise awareness of reflux symptoms, encouraging individuals to seek early evaluation and treatment, reinforcing the message: "Don't Ignore Acid Reflux and its Symptoms".
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease - Awareness Week 2024
In November 2024, we held our fifth successful Acid Reflux Awareness Week, observed globally and aligned with Thanksgiving in the USA. With over 65 million people in the UK affected by reflux disease (1 in 10 of whom experience significant symptoms) we aimed to elevate awareness of this widespread condition. For many individuals, lifestyle changes and medications like omeprazole and lansoprazole provide relief, but for over 2 million people in the UK, these treatments are insufficient, making alternative options critical.
Our campaign focused on three key messages:
## 1) Understand the Symptoms
Reflux is more than just heartburn. We aimed to raise awareness of the wide range of symptoms associated with the condition.
## 2) Seek Professional Evaluation
For those whose symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes, we encouraged seeking diagnostic tests to assess the severity and develop personalised treatment plans.
## 3) Explore Treatment Options
We provided patients with information about the various treatment options available, empowering them to have informed conversations with their GPs or reflux specialists.
Our patron, Fiona Wade, has also been an invaluable advocate, sharing awareness videos and supporting our campaign.
We are looking forward to next year's initiative, with plans to build on the success and insights from 2024.
## **Winners of Healthcare Support NPO of the Year 2023/24 and Global Medical Awareness NPO of the Year 2023/24.**
"The judging panel was particularly impressed by the breadth of support offered to patients, carers and their families. The OPA Cancer Charity ensures its comprehensive range of support services are entirely free for patients and their families, as it guides them through the aftermath of diagnosis and is an encouraging, supportive figure during the challenging post treatment phase. One-to-one support, patient buddy services and support groups are the focal points of OPA's patient services, whilst its strong presence on social media acts as an encouraging online resource too. The dedicated support offered is personalised to each patient, with their specific requirements placed at the core of OPA's unwavering efforts".
We have increased our presence on social media platforms, creating a space to raise awareness about oesophageal and gastric cancer, acid reflux and related conditions. We also share patient stories, fundraising efforts and updates on news and events.
Page 3
## OPA Cancer Charity
## Report of the Trustees
## for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## New Website Launch - 2024
In 2024, we were excited to announce the launch of our newly redesigned website, "www.opa.org.uk”. This updated platform offers an enhanced user experience, making it easier for patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals and the public to access vital information about oesophageal and gastric cancer, acid reflux and related conditions.
The new site features a more intuitive design, improved navigation and a wealth of updated resources, including detailed guides on symptoms, treatments and support services. Additionally, the website is now mobile-friendly, ensuring that individuals can access crucial information on-the-go.
As we continue to grow, the new website will serve as a central hub for our awareness campaigns, fundraising initiatives and patient support services, ensuring that those who need it most can easily find the resources and assistance they require.
## Teddies and Mental Health
Throughout 2024, the OPA continued its beloved teddy program. Despite their simplicity, teddy bears have a significant positive effect on mental health and wellbeing.
These cuddly companions provide comfort, offering solace to individuals dealing with mental health challenges. The soft, reassuring presence of a teddy bear can help instil a sense of security and calm during stressful or anxious moments. Holding a teddy bear can alleviate feelings of isolation and serve as a tangible reminder of emotional support.
Additionally, teddy bears can provide a sense of purpose and responsibility, acting as a positive distraction from negative thoughts and emotions.
## **FINANCIAL REVIEW**
## **Financial position**
We recorded a (deficit) of £11k for the year ended 31 December 2024, however we recorded a surplus of £81k for the year ended 31 December 2023 and a surplus of £40k for the year ended 31 December 2022.
- 2024 income amounted to £241k which was £33k lower than the £274k recorded in 2023.
- 2024 expenditure amounted to £252k which was £59k higher than the £193k recorded in 2023.
## **Investment policy**
Our policy is to invest cash resources in a risk-free environment while seeking to maximise the return. For the year ended 31 December 2024 interest amounting to £9,430 was received in the year (2023 - £6,691).
## **Reserves**
We aim to hold sufficient reserves to allow our charity activities to continue even if there is a short-term reduction in our income.
We express our reserves in terms of months of expenditure. To reach our reserves figure, we take our total funds, subtract restricted and designated funds and compare this with our annual expenditure.
As of 31 December 2024, our unrestricted and undesignated funds amounted to £302k (2023 - £437k) and our expenditure for the year was £252k (2023 - £193k).
## **Designated reserve**
The charity maintains a designated reserve fund to cover contractual obligations. As of 31 December 2024, our designated reserve fund amounted to £120,000 (2023 - £Nil).
## **Risks**
Our main financial risk is an unexpected reduction in our income. We do not have investments that would traditionally be of high risk.
Page 4
## OPA Cancer Charity
## Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **FUTURE PLANS**
Looking ahead, The Charity's aims for 2025:
1) To expand and enhance support for patients, raise awareness and actively contribute to research on oesophageal and gastric cancers and their treatments.
2) To further develop and enhance services for patients, carers and their families.
3) To lead a national initiative, to educate the public about reflux disease, its potential consequences and available treatment options.
4) To amplify the voice of patients in shaping and monitoring research programs, ensuring their needs and experiences are central to research development.
2025 OPA Cancer Charity Activities
## Increase Awareness:
In 2025, we will focus on expanding our awareness campaigns and broadening our outreach to connect with a larger and more diverse audience. We aim to engage more individuals and raise awareness of oesophageal and gastric cancer, acid reflux and related conditions.
## Education:
Expanding our educational initiatives is a top priority in 2025. We will continue to provide up-to-date information for both healthcare professionals and the public, ensuring they are informed about the latest advancements in the detection and treatment of oesophageal and gastric cancer. Additionally, we will promote awareness of new diagnostic testing options for acid reflux, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and treatment options.
## Support for Patients:
We will continue our one-to-one support services, including personalised assistance through our helpline and online platforms. Our new website will evolve as a key resource, offering a range of information and helping to connect patients with the support they need. By enhancing our online support tools and resources, we aim to ensure that patients and families have access to the assistance they require, whenever they need it.
## Conclusion:
In the past year, we have made significant progress in raising awareness about reflux disease, oesophageal and gastric cancer and the importance of early detection and treatment. We remain committed to these goals as we move forward in 2025, continuing to offer essential support to individuals and families affected by these cancers. Our focus on awareness, education and patient support will guide our activities, as we work to improve outcomes and quality of life for those impacted by these conditions.
**Our message remains clear and consistent: 'Together we can make a difference’.**
Page 5
OPA Cancer Charity
## Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document**
The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust and constitutes an incorporated charity.
The OPA is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation from 1 January 2022, registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales (number 1194327).
The Committee meets at least twice, and usually six times, a year, but trustees are in frequent contact by phone or e-mail at other times.
## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS**
## **Registered Company number**
CE025388 (England and Wales)
## **Registered Charity number**
1194327
## **Registered office**
Unit 4 Bordesley Hall Farm Barns Storrage Lane Alvechurch B48 7ES
## **Trustees**
J Campolini Chair S Brinkworth G Fullarton P Wright L Hamper
## **Independent Examiner**
Davies Archytas Accountants Ltd 14 The Oaks Clews Road Redditch Worcestershire B98 7ST
## **Bankers**
HSBC 34 Poplar Road Solihull B91 3AF
**Patrons** Fiona Wade
Approved by order of the board of trustees on 20 May 2025 and signed on its behalf by:
J Campolini - Trustee
Page 6
## Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of OPA Cancer Charity
## **Independent examiner's report to the trustees of OPA Cancer Charity ('the Company')**
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2024.
## **Responsibilities and basis of report**
As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act').
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.
## **Independent examiner's statement**
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:
1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or
3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Daryl Davies FCCA
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
Davies Archytas Accountants Ltd 14 The Oaks Clews Road Redditch Worcestershire B98 7ST
20 May 2025
Page 7
## OPA Cancer Charity
## Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
|Unrestricted
funds
Notes
£
**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM**
Donations and legacies
2
227,913
Investment income
3
9,430
**Total**
237,343
**EXPENDITURE ON**
Raising funds
45,432
**Charitable activities**
Patient Support Booklets
43,412
Newsletters and Mailshots
7,951
Awareness/Reflux
18,955
Patients Meetings and Events
18,627
Help Line
24,836
Grants
70,368
Bed Wedges
14,488
Support Group Development
8,329
**Total**
252,398
**NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)**
(15,055)
**RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS**
Total funds brought forward
436,594
**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**
421,539|Restricted
funds
£
4,000
-
4,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,000
45,427
49,427|31.12.24
31.12.23
Total
Total
funds
funds
£
£
231,913
267,687
9,430
6,691
241,343
274,378
45,432
34,757
43,412
33,251
7,951
6,084
18,955
14,500
18,627
14,250
24,836
19,000
70,368
53,835
14,488
11,084
8,329
6,333
252,398
193,094
(11,055)
81,284
482,021
400,737
470,966
482,021|
|---|---|---|
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 8
## OPA Cancer Charity
|Balance Sheet
31 December 2024
Unrestricted
funds
Notes
£
**CURRENT ASSETS**
Cash at bank
421,860
**CREDITORS**
Amounts falling due within one year
6
(321)
**NET CURRENT ASSETS**
421,539
**TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT**
**LIABILITIES**
421,539
**NET ASSETS**
421,539
**FUNDS**
7
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
**TOTAL FUNDS**|Restricted
funds
£
49,427
-
49,427
49,427
49,427|31.12.24
Total
funds
£
471,287
(321)
470,966
470,966
470,966
421,539
49,427
470,966|31.12.23
Total
funds
£
513,143
(31,122)
482,021
482,021
482,021
436,594
45,427
482,021|
|---|---|---|---|
The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 December 2024.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for
- (a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and
- (b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 20 May 2025 and were signed on its behalf by:
S Brinkworth - Trustee
J Campolini - Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 9
OPA Cancer Charity
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES**
## **Basis of preparing the financial statements**
The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
## **Income**
All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
## **Expenditure**
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, 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 accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
## **Taxation**
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.
## **Fund accounting**
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
The charity maintains a designated reserve fund to cover contractual obligations.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.
## **2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES**
|Donations
Gift aid
Legacies
Grants
Grants received, included in the above, are as follows:
Grants|31.12.24
£
160,835
821
7,307
62,950
231,913
31.12.24
£
62,950|31.12.23
£
137,489
2,260
61,443
66,495|
|---|---|---|
|||267,687|
|||31.12.23
£
66,495|
continued...
Page 10
OPA Cancer Charity
## Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **3. INVESTMENT INCOME**
|**INVESTMENT INCOME**|||
|---|---|---|
||31.12.24|31.12.23|
||£|£|
|Interest|9,430|6,691|
## **4. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS**
There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 December 2024 nor for the year ended 31 December 2023.
## **Trustees' expenses**
Trustee expenses for the year ending 31 December 2024 amounted to £584 (2023 - £658).
## **5. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES**
|Unrestricted
funds
£
**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM**
Donations and legacies
256,687
Investment income
6,691
**Total**
263,378
**EXPENDITURE ON**
Raising funds
34,757
**Charitable activities**
Patient Support Booklets
33,251
Newsletters and Mailshots
6,084
Awareness/Reflux
14,500
Patients Meetings and Events
14,250
Help Line
19,000
Grants
53,835
Bed Wedges
11,084
Support Group Development
6,333
**Total**
193,094
**NET INCOME**
70,284
**RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS**
Total funds brought forward
366,310
**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**
436,594|Restricted
funds
£
11,000
-
11,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
11,000
34,427
45,427|Total
funds
£
267,687
6,691
274,378
34,757
33,251
6,084
14,500
14,250
19,000
53,835
11,084
6,333
193,094
81,284
400,737
482,021|
|---|---|---|
continued...
Page 11
## OPA Cancer Charity
## Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **6. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR**
||31.12.24|31.12.23|
|---|---|---|
||£|£|
|Credit card|321|548|
|Accrued expenses|-|30,574|
||321|31,122|
## **7. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**
|**Unrestricted funds**
Other
Designated reserve
**Restricted funds**
Other
**TOTAL FUNDS**
Net movement in funds, included in the above are
**Unrestricted funds**
Other
**Restricted funds**
Other
**TOTAL FUNDS**
**Comparatives for movement in funds**
**Unrestricted funds**
Other
**Restricted funds**
Other
**TOTAL FUNDS**|At 1.1.24
£
436,594
-
436,594
45,427
482,021
as follows:|Net
movement
in funds
£
(15,055)
-
(15,055)
4,000
(11,055)
Incoming
resources
£
237,343
4,000
241,343
At 1.1.23
£
366,310
34,427
400,737|Transfers
between
At
funds
31.12.24
£
£
(120,000)
301,539
120,000
120,000
-
421,539
-
49,427
-
470,966
Resources
Movement
expended
in funds
£
£
(252,398)
(15,055)
-
4,000
(252,398)
(11,055)
Net
movement
At
in funds
31.12.23
£
£
70,284
436,594
11,000
45,427
81,284
482,021|
|---|---|---|---|
continued...
Page 12
OPA Cancer Charity
## Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
## **7. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued**
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
|**Unrestricted funds**
Other
**Restricted funds**
Other
**TOTAL FUNDS**|Incoming
resources
£
263,378
11,000
274,378|Resources
Movement
expended
in funds
£
£
(193,094)
70,284
-
11,000
(193,094)
81,284|
|---|---|---|
## **8. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES**
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Page 13