The Deacon Foundation
Trustees’ Annual Report Charity Registration Number: 1206038 Reporting Period: 4 December 2023 – 1 October 2024
1. Objectives and Activities
Charitable Objectives
The Deacon Foundation was established to preserve and protect good health for the public benefit by contributing towards the reduction in suffering caused by Parkinson’s disease through the provision of grants, education and support to address the various issues those suffering from Parkinson’s disease may face, in particular but not exclusively in Africa.
Public Benefit
The trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty under section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit in carrying out the Foundation’s activities.
2. Achievements and Performance
During its first reporting period, the Foundation focused on establishing its presence and building awareness around its charitable mission. Key achievements included:
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Organising a series of book launch events aligned with the charity’s messaging;
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Undertaking film and book promotion to broaden public understanding of Parkinson’s disease;
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Conducting fundraising initiatives to support future programme delivery;
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• Delivering talks and public speaking engagements to increase awareness and promote early diagnosis, with a focus on the African context.
These activities laid the groundwork for the Foundation’s strategic plans and public profile in subsequent years.
3. Financial Review
Income and Expenditure
For the period ending 1 October 2024, the charity recorded:
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Total Income: £41,863
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of which £22,555 came from donations
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Total Expenditure: £4,777
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Charitable Activities Allocation: £19,308 (designated towards programme development and delivery)
Income was primarily raised through donations, book and media-related activities, and public fundraising efforts. Expenditure related mainly to charitable programme development and essential administrative functions.
Reserves
The charity retains a healthy financial position and plans to utilise its reserves in furtherance of its objectives over the coming year.
Independent Examination
As gross income for the year did not exceed the statutory threshold, an independent examination was not required, and the accounts were reviewed internally by the trustees.
4. Structure, Governance and Management
Trustees
The trustees during this reporting period were:
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Guy Deacon
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• Andrew Hartley • Ian MacFarlane-Bowman
There were no changes to the trustee board during the year. Trustees met periodically to review progress, monitor compliance, and guide the Foundation’s development.
Policy Development
During the period, the trustees adopted key internal policies to promote strong governance, accountability, and alignment with the charity’s values. These include:
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Internal Charity Financial Controls Policy and Procedures
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Trustee Conflicts of Interest Policy and Procedures
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Investing Charity Funds Policy and Procedures
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Campaigns and Political Activity Policy and Procedures
5. Plans for the Future
The Foundation’s key objectives for the next financial period include:
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Launching its flagship documentary film, aimed at raising global awareness of Parkinson’s disease;
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Identifying and partnering with trusted organisations in Africa to deliver targeted grant funding and localised support;
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Expanding public engagement and education efforts, through continued talks, media campaigns, and stakeholder outreach.
These efforts will further the Foundation’s mission to alleviate suffering and support those affected by Parkinson’s disease, particularly in under-resourced regions.
6. Declaration
The trustees declare that they have approved this report and have authorised it for issue.
Signed on behalf of the Board of Trustees by:
Ian MacFarlane-Bowman Trustee and Hon Sec. Date: 01 August 2025
The Deacon Foundation
Receipts and Payments Accounts
For the period 4 December 2023 to 1 October 2024
Receipts
| Receipts | |
|---|---|
| Category | Amount (£) |
| Donations | 22,555.00 |
| Fundraising and Event Income | 19,308.00 |
| Total Receipts | 41,863.00 |
Payments
| Payments | |
|---|---|
| Category | Amount (£) |
| Charitable Activities | 4,000.00 |
| Governance / Admin Costs | 777.00 |
| Total Payments | 4,777.00 |
Net Receipts / (Payments)
| Net Receipts / (Payments) | |
|---|---|
| Amount (£) | |
| Surplus for the Year | 37,086.00 |
Statement of Assets and Liabilities (as at 1 October 2024)
| Category | Amount (£) |
|---|---|
| Cash at bank and in hand | 37,086.00 |
| Other assets | 0.00 |
| Liabilities | 0.00 |
| Net Assets | 37,086.00 |
The Deacon Foundation
Charity Number: 1206038
Trustee Assurance Statement
For the period 4 December 2023 to 1 October 2024
As a trustee of The Deacon Foundation, I confirm that:
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I have reviewed the Receipts and Payments Accounts for the financial period ending 1 October 2024;
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The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Charity Commission’s guidelines for small charities operating on a receipts and payments basis;
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To the best of my knowledge and belief:
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a. The accounts accurately reflect the financial transactions and position of the charity during the period;
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b. All funds received have been applied exclusively towards the Foundation’s charitable purposes;
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c. The accounts are complete and free from material misstatement or omission;
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As the charity’s gross income for the period remained below the statutory threshold, an independent examination or audit was not legally required;
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The Board of Trustees is committed to maintaining appropriate financial oversight and transparency, and will continue to review its governance and financial policies as the Foundation grows.
Signed:
Name: Ian MacFarlane-Bowman Position: Trustee and Hon Sec. Date: 01 August 2025