Trustees’ Annual Report
For the year ended 31/03/2025.
1. Reference and Administrative Details
Charity name: Lancashire Spitfires Powerchair FC
Charity registration number: 1206707
Principal address:
33 Gregory Fold, Rossendale BB4 4JW
Trustees serving during the year:
Carly Jones, Nigel Parkinson, Simon Thorpe and Derek Whittle
2. Structure, Governance and Management
Governing document
The charity is governed by its constitution and operates as a non-profit organisation.
Trustee appointment and recruitment
The trustees are family members of players involved in the team. The charity does not actively recruit trustees. Trustees are appointed based on their involvement with, and commitment to, supporting the players and the running of the charity.
Management of the charity
The charity is managed by the trustees, who are responsible for decision-making and the day-to-day running of activities. Trustees meet informally and communicate regularly.
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The Chair and one trustee oversee the arrangement of training venues, league participation, and general management of the team. The Chair attends training sessions and matches as availability allows.
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One trustee manages the storage, charging, maintenance, and transportation of players’ powerchairs and attends every training session and match. This trustee also assists, with support, in hoisting players into their chairs.
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Other trustees attend training sessions and matches and provide assistance and support to players where required.
All trustees act in a voluntary capacity and receive no remuneration.
3. Objectives and Activities
Objectives
The charity’s objective is to benefit individuals with physical disabilities by providing opportunities to participate in powerchair football in a supportive, inclusive environment. The charity aims to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, and create a sense of community and enjoyment for its members.
Activities
During the year, the charity: - Held powerchair football training sessions every two weeks - Enabled players to practise football skills, drills, and match play - Participated in approximately five league games, held in Liverpool - Provided and maintained powerchairs to enable participation
The charity places greater emphasis on participation, enjoyment, and community than on competitive success.
Some players were initially provided with older donated powerchairs, which are limited in speed and comfort and are no longer fit for purpose. While some players have since been able to purchase or obtain funding for modern powerchairs, others still rely on older equipment. The charity therefore continues to fundraise to replace outdated powerchairs and improve safety and accessibility.
In addition to sporting activities, the charity also: - Holds an annual presentation event, where players are recognised for their participation and achievements with certificates and trophies and organises a Christmas party to provide a social opportunity for players and families and to strengthen the sense of community within the club.
4. Achievements and Public Benefit
Achievements
During the year, the charity successfully: - Maintained regular training sessions - Enabled players with significant physical disabilities to take part in organised sport - Supported participation in league matches - Recognised players’ involvement and achievements through an annual awards presentation - Provided social events, including a Christmas party, to encourage inclusion and community engagement - Continued to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for players and families
Public benefit
The trustees confirm that they have had regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.
The charity provides public benefit by: - Improving physical and mental wellbeing through regular activity - Reducing social isolation for disabled individuals - Encouraging confidence, teamwork, and social inclusion - Making a specialist sport accessible to those who would otherwise be unable to participate - Creating opportunities for social interaction and celebration through community events
5. Financial Review
Financial position
The charity’s income for the year did not exceed £10,000.
Total income: £6582
Total expenditure: £5539
Reserves policy
The charity maintains a small level of reserves to meet ongoing running costs, including venue hire, equipment maintenance, and league participation. Due to the charity’s size, reserves are kept at a minimum and reviewed regularly by the trustees.
Financial controls
The trustees are responsible for ensuring proper financial records are kept and that the charity’s funds are used solely to further its charitable objectives.
Debts and liabilities
At the end of the financial year, the charity had no material debts or liabilities.
6. Funds Held as Custodian Trustee
The charity does not hold funds as a custodian trustee on behalf of any other organisation.
7. Trustees’ Responsibilities Statement
The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom accounting standards.
8. Approval
This report was approved by the trustees and signed on their behalf.
Name: _Carly Jones________ Position: Trustee
Date: _26/12/25________