## **Report of the Trustees and Unaudited Financial Statements**
For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
## **Contents of the Financial Statements**
For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
|Charity Information|3|
|---|---|
|Trustees' Annual Report|4|
|Independent Examiner’s Report|26|
|Statement of Financial Activities|28|
|Notes to the Financial Statements|29|
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## **Charity Information**
For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
Chief Executive Officer:
Joanne Duncan
Joanne Duncan Ryan O’Shea John Lee Hannah Beech Wendy Sparling (appointed 24th July 2024)
Trustees:
Wendy Sparling Colette Reid
Dedicated Safeguarding Officers:
Lancashire TAAG 5 Tennyson Avenue Chorley PR7 3HX
Registered Office:
Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO)
Charity Constitution:
1208161
## Registered Charity Number:
Bankers:
The Co-operative Bank PLC Virgin Money P.O Box 250 London St James’s Street Branch Skelmersdale 7 Gold Street WN8 6WT Northampton NN1 1EN
HYMK, Suite 404, Daisyfield Enterprise Centre, Appleby Street, Blackburn, BB1 3BL
Accountants:
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## **Trustees' Annual Report**
For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
## 1. Introduction
Message from the Founder and CEO
## Dear Supporters, Members, and Friends,
As we reflect on our first year as Lancashire TAAG CIO, and our twelfth as an organisation, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude. This year has been one of growth, resilience, and innovation. We have expanded our reach, changed our legal entity, registered for Gift Aid, developed new programmes, expanded are geographic area, started a charity lottery, digitised our membership and continued to provide crucial support to neurodiverse children and their families across Lancashire. We have also developed our 5-year strategic plan which reflects our aspiration to both strengthen and expand our organisation. Our mission remains steadfast: to create a supportive, inclusive environment where our members can thrive. Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue this journey together.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the trustees, committee members, volunteers, sponsors, donors and above all our members. Watching our members grow and flourish reminds us of, why we do this. Thank you all!
With grateful thanks, Joanne Duncan Founder and CEO, Lancashire TAAG
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## 2. About Lancashire TAAG
Our History
Lancashire TAAG was born out of the personal experiences of our founder, Joanne, who is a mother to two boys. As they grew, Joanne observed developmental challenges. Following diagnoses through CAMHS, which was prompted by the observations of a vigilant school healthcare practitioner, Joanne found herself in an overwhelming void. Lacking knowledge about Autism and ADHD, and with no further support available, she felt isolated and unsure of how to help her children.
Determined to find a solution, Joanne created a Facebook group for local parents in similar situations, offering a space for mutual support and understanding. Recognising the need for more structured activities, she successfully persuaded Chorley Council to fund the hire of Springfield Leisure Centre in Coppull. This enabled her to offer rebound therapy sessions, with qualified sports coaches working directly with the children. For two years, Chorley Council generously covered these costs, providing Joanne with the time to establish Lancashire TAAG as a charity and secure National Lottery funding.
Now, twelve years on, Joanne’s dedication remains unwavering. Lancashire TAAG has evolved from a small parent support group into a fully registered charity. This year marks a significant milestone as we transitioned from a charitable association to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), positioning us for further growth and expansion.
Today, our work is sustained through generous support from the National Lottery, Sport England, Chorley Council, South Ribble Council and Simple Life Homes and our own fundraising initiatives, including a charity lottery where supporters can win up to £25,000 in weekly draws. Through these efforts, Lancashire TAAG continues to provide essential services to families navigating the challenges of Autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions.
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## 3. Our Objectives and Activities
Lancashire TAAG is a registered charity dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals aged 5-25 through tailored sports, social activities, and community support. We strive to provide a safe and inclusive environment where children can engage in therapeutic activities, and parents can access support and guidance.
Our key objectives include:
- Providing accessible sports and recreational activities. Offering a supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals and their families.
- Expanding community engagement and partnerships.
Ensuring financial sustainability to maintain and grow our services.
## Activities Undertaken
During the reporting period, Lancashire TAAG:
- Delivered 46 weekly sports sessions, and 8 Monthly play sessions benefiting 140 participants.
- Hosted 3 special events, engaging over 100 attendees.
- Expanded our outreach with a new group for 5-11-year-olds, attracting over 50 new members.
## Our Vision
To be a leading charity in the Northwest, providing unparalleled support, resources, and opportunities for neurodiverse children and their families.
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## **Public Benefit Statement for Lancashire TAAG**
Lancashire TAAG is committed to ensuring that all our activities and services provide a clear public benefit, in accordance with our charitable objectives. Our primary focus is to support neurodivergent children, young people, and their families by providing affordable, accessible, and inclusive activities that promote physical, social, and emotional well-being.
Our weekly sessions, such as TAAG Tigers for younger children (5-11), are intentionally kept at a low cost (£5 per child) to ensure accessibility for families who may already face financial challenges. Similarly, our Wednesday evening sports sessions are provided at just £4 per hour, significantly below the typical cost of similar activities elsewhere.
Where possible, Lancashire TAAG secures grant funding to further reduce costs for beneficiaries, ensuring that economic barriers do not prevent participation. For example, our outdoor and special events—such as our subsidised trip to Blackpool Sandcastle—demonstrate our commitment to affordability. A typical family of four would pay around £130 for this experience, but through successful grant applications, Lancashire TAAG was able to offer the trip, including food, for just £30 per family.
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The trustees regularly review the affordability and accessibility of our services, considering feedback from families and the financial sustainability of the charity. Where fee-based services exist, these are priced at a level that prioritises inclusivity while covering essential costs. Trustees remain committed to seeking additional funding streams to further subsidise costs and expand access to our activities, ensuring that Lancashire TAAG continues to deliver meaningful public benefit to those who need it most.
Beyond direct support to beneficiaries, Lancashire TAAG has contributed to wider societal benefits by promoting inclusivity in sports, reducing social isolation, and providing parents and carers with essential support networks. The charity’s advocacy has raised awareness of the needs of neurodivergent individuals, fostering a more understanding and inclusive community.
## 4. Key Achievements and Performance in 2024/25
Lancashire TAAG is a registered charity dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals aged 5-25 through tailored sports, social activities, and community support. We strive to provide a safe and inclusive environment where children can engage in therapeutic activities, and parents can access support and guidance.
Organisational Growth and Development
Converted to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO): Lancashire TAAG successfully transitioned to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, ensuring greater legal protection and governance flexibility. This new legal entity allows the charity to enter formal agreements and employ staff.
Trustee Changes and Skills Audit: This year, we welcomed three new
trustees who bring fresh perspectives and expertise to our board, while one long-standing trustee retired. A comprehensive skills audit was conducted to align our governance with the charity's strategic goals, highlighting strengths in areas such as project management, safeguarding, and charity governance.
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## **Expansion of Services**
## **Commissioned a Climbing Wall**
**01**
We re-commissioned an indoor climbing wall, at the leisure centre we regularly use, expanding our range of physical activities and providing new challenges for our members.
**02**
## **Funded New Coaches and Therapists**
With the support of grants and fundraising, we funded three new indoor climbing coaches and rebound therapists, ensuring our sessions are led by highly qualified professionals.
**03**
## **Junior Committee Established**
Our Junior Committee was launched in October, empowering young members to have a say in the charity’s activities and decision-making processes.
**04**
## **Parent Support groups**
We were able to offer parent support groups and learning seminars, thanks to partnering with Aspiris Education. These seminars are not only available to parents but also are open to health and educational professionals.
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## **Enhanced Infrastructure Digital and Payment Systems**
## **New Website**
We launched a revamped, user-friendly website designed to enhance accessibility, provide up-to-date information, and strengthen our connection with members and supporters.
## **Social Media Expansion**
Our digital presence grew with the re-launch of our Facebook and Instagram pages, alongside the introduction of a LinkedIn page, broadening our engagement with the community.
## **Ticketing and Payment Platforms**
We registered with Ticket Source to streamline bookings for outdoor activities and our new TAAG Tigers event. Additionally, we integrated Stripe to manage online sales, donations, and deposit payments for major outdoor events
## **Gift Aid Implementation**
We successfully established a Gift Aid system, enabling us to reclaim tax on eligible donations and significantly boost our funding capacity
## **Direct Debit and Card Payment Solutions**
We partnered with GoCardless to offer families a Direct Debit option, allowing them to spread the cost of subsidised trips with small, regular monthly payments. PAYA Card Services was also introduced to facilitate seamless donations via debit or credit card. The system automatically logs gift aid for future payments, significantly reducing the administrative workload.
## **Text Donation Facility**
We teamed up with DONR to introduce a text-to-donate option, making it even easier for supporters to contribute. By texting TAAG to 70450, donors can give £5, which is charged directly to the bill payer’s mobile account.
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## **Operational Tools and Resources**
## **CRM and Software Solutions**
We secured a charitable license for Monday.com, which now serves as our Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, simplifying and streamlining our administrative processes. Microsoft also generously donated 10 licenses for Office 365 Business Edition, enhancing our ability to collaborate and present information effectively
## **Innovative Fundraising**
To diversify our funding streams, we launched our own charity lottery in collaboration with the AllWeathers Lottery. This initiative provides a fun way for supporters to contribute, with 50% of the proceeds benefiting the charity. Funds raised are ring-fenced for the Committee and Junior Committee to plan and execute memorable activities for our members.
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## **Outdoor Activities and New Initiatives**
## **TAAG Tigers:**
A new group for 5–11-year-olds in a play centre in Walton-le-Dale. This new venue serves as a purpose to attract members who may be too young to attend our regular events but also increase events across the region, therefore expanding our reach to families
## **Expanded Outdoor Activities**
Our outdoor programmes now include canoeing, paddleboarding, and Rock and River activity park, providing diverse recreational opportunities for our members and their families. We had an organised trip for a mini-curling experience and a buffet and bowling day out. A memorable day at Blackpool Sandcastle Waterpark was also kindly funded by Simple Life Homes, creating lasting memories for all involved.
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## **Calvert Lakes**
We have been lucky enough to secure a donation, which has allowed us to provide families a subsidised weekend away at the Calvert Lakes recreational centre in Keswick.
## **Tough Swampy**
This was a fun and muddy activity which was great fun for both members, families and spectators
## **Run the Lights**
Another memorable occasion with volunteers, members and families running either 5K or 10K. A few days after the event, another runner noticed our TAAG logo T-shirts, tracked the charity down and sent us a lovely photograph of a family enjoying the fun and running. This event alone, raised over £2000!
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## **Outcome Measures and Feedback**
Our recent feedback survey highlighted the positive impact Lancashire TAAG has on the children, young people, and families we support. Lancashire TAAG's initiatives have significantly improved social connections and emotional well-being for most of our participants.
## **Here are the key findings**
83% of parents observed that their child had formed more connections or friendships since joining TAAG.
80% of parents noticed improvements in their child’s physical skills, including coordination, strength, and balance.
70% of parents reported feeling more confident in supporting their child’s needs after attending TAAG sessions.
100% of parents stated that joining TAAG has had a positive impact on their family overall.
83% of parents observed that their child’s resilience and coping skills have increased.
80% of parents noted progress in their child’s teamwork and problemsolving abilities.
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50% of parents saw their child’s confidence, focus, and anxiety levels improve.
These results underscore the meaningful difference we make in the lives of neurodivergent children and their families. Thank you to all the parents who participated in the survey and for your ongoing support.
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## **Strategic Partnerships and Networking**
**Developed New Third-Party Contacts:** This year, we expanded our network by engaging with potential investors, stakeholders, and regional charities. We established valuable connections with Child and Family Wellbeing Services, family hubs, and other organisations, creating a robust collaboration network that will enhance service delivery and support.
**Partnerships and Collaborations** We continued to build partnerships with local businesses, schools, and healthcare providers, enhancing our ability to serve our community. Notably, we partnered with Aspris Education, allowing us to offer specialised education and support for families of children with neurodivergent conditions.
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## **Volunteers**
- Expansion: Our volunteer team has grown significantly, now boasting 20 dedicated individuals whose contributions are essential to our weekly sessions and fundraising efforts.
- Recruitment: We actively seek to expand our volunteer base by engaging with 6th form colleges and universities, welcoming new members who are passionate about our mission.
- Training & Development: All our volunteers undergo enhanced DBS checks and receive comprehensive training in first aid and safeguarding, with regular updates to ensure they are fully equipped for their roles.
- Recognition: We’ve secured a partnership with Room 2 Reward, allowing us to nominate outstanding volunteers for a complimentary 1 or 2-night hotel stay as a token of our appreciation for their exceptional service.
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## 5. Financial Overview
|**Income and Expenditure**|||
|---|---|---|
|**Total Income:**||£60,765|
|**Total Expenditure:**||£39,387|
|**Surplus/Deficit:**||**£21,378**|
|**Restricted Funds:**||**£4,334**|
|**Reserves:**||£17,044|
||**Sources of Income**||
|**Grants: £17,305**|||
|**Grants: £17,305**||
|---|---|
|Local Government|£5,305|
|Simple Life Homes|£6,000|
|Foyle Foundation|£5,000|
|ASDA Foundation|£1,000|
|**Donations: £8,500**||
|Blackburn Chemicals|£3,000|
|YAPP|£3,000|
|Nat West Charities Trust|£500|
|A J Cornall|£500|
|Mayfield House School|£500|
|Co-op Food Group|£500|
|Arnold Clark|£500|
|**Sponsorships: £469**||
|R & W Livesey|£469|
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## **Other Income: £34,353**
Fundraising Events Member Core Activities Lancashire TAAG (1157535)
£17,147 £4,412 £12,794
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## **Financial Review**
In the past year, Lancashire TAAG has maintained financial stability through a combination of grant funding, donations, and fundraising efforts. A significant portion of income came from grants, including funding from the YAPP Charitable Trust, The Foyle Foundation and Local Government, which have supported core costs and programme delivery. Additional income was generated through ticketed events, members’ kind donations, and corporate sponsorships, such as Simple Life Homes.
Expenditure was primarily allocated to venue hire, sports coaching, and activity costs to ensure the continuation of accessible sessions for neurodivergent children and young adults.
Looking ahead, the charity remains committed to diversifying income streams, applying for additional grants, and strengthening community partnerships to support its expanding services and ensure long-term financial resilience.
## **Use of Funds**
Our funds were primarily used to support our weekly sessions, outdoor activities, and the expansion of our services. We also invested in new equipment for our sports and therapy sessions, ensuring our members have access to the best possible resources.
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## **Trustee Expenses and Gift Aid Contributions**
In line with charity regulations, trustees are entitled to claim reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses incurred in the course of their duties, such as mileage to meetings and stationery costs. During the reporting period, the trustees agreed to formally submit eligible expenses, and, in a generous act of support, each trustee donated the reimbursed amount back to the charity. This approach has enabled Lancashire TAAG to claim Gift Aid on these returned donations. As a result, these kind contributions alone have generated an additional £500 in Gift Aid income for the charity.
## **Reserves Policy**
Lancashire TAAG maintains a reserves policy to ensure financial stability and continuity of services. Reserves are unrestricted funds available for charitable purposes, excluding restricted grants and designated funds. Given that a majority of our income comes from grants, we hold reserves to cover unexpected costs (contingency), short-term cash flow needs, planned commitments, legal obligations, and, if necessary, managed closure. Our target is to maintain three months’ worth of unrestricted funds as reserves, which equated to approximately £6,000 in 2024/25.
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## 6.Structure, Governance, and Management
## **Governance Structure**
**01**
Lancashire TAAG operates as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) under registration number 1208161, with governance provided by a Board of Trustees.
**02**
## **Trustee and Volunteer Engagement**
5 trustees oversee strategic direction and financial management.
20 volunteers actively support service delivery.
All volunteers have completed safeguarding training to ensure compliance with funding requirements.
**03**
## **Risk Management**
Key risks and mitigation strategies include:
Financial Sustainability: Diversifying income streams. Operational Capacity: Expanding volunteer training and recruitment. Safeguarding Compliance: Ensuring all volunteers complete required training.
## 7. Future Plans
## **Expansion of Outdoor Activities:**
We plan to further expand our outdoor offerings, including more specialised programmes and events that cater to the diverse interests of our members.
## **Securing a New Site:**
As our membership grows, we are actively seeking to secure new sites that will allow us to continue expanding our services and reach even more families in need.
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## **Create a Young Adult Group**
Recognising the lack of support for young adults, we have expanded our upper age limit from 18 to 25. Many of our members, upon turning 19, faced a sudden loss of services. To bridge this gap, we are in the process of establishing a Young Adult Support Group, set to launch Summer 2025. This initiative will be led by a dedicated Young Adult Committee, empowering participants to plan and engage in activities that promote social connection, independence, and well-being.
## 8. Our Heartfelt Thanks to Our Supporters
We are deeply grateful to our supporters, volunteers, and partners. Your generosity, time, and dedication empower us to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of neurodiverse children and their families.
We sincerely appreciate the contributions of:
Robert Fisher Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP Councillor Alex Hilton Councillor Beverly Murray John Holland Michael Beech Warren Livesey Lianne Corless Chris Lofthouse Simple Life Homes Sport England Chorley Council The Foyle Foundation YAPP Charitable Trust Mayfield House School Aspiris Education Asda Room to Reward The Co-operative Store Arnold Clark South Ribble Council Lancashire County Council HYMK Blackburn Chemicals
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## 9. Contact Information
**Address:** Lancashire TAAG, 5 Tennyson Avenue, Chorley, PR7 3HX
**Email:** info@taaglancashire.co.uk
**Website:** www.taaglancashire.co.uk
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## **Testimonials**
“I was so averse to looking for a support group as I resisted against accepting that was the world I was in. So silly. I struggled on, taking the pain of all the horrible things that happened to us at ‘normal’ clubs and then finding TAAG was the best thing that could have happened to us. It’s great to see others feel the same “
“Whilst thankfully (& touch wood) my life is hugely better than it was, TAAG has played the biggest role in just keeping me going when things have been extremely tough. I’m very grateful. I don’t quite know where I’d be without this support.”
## **Approval Statement**
This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on 9 June 2025, and signed on their behalf by:
## JOANNE CHRISTINE DUNCAN
Chair of Trustees
Lancashire TAAG – Empowering Neurodiverse Children and Their Families Since 2012
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## **Independent Examiners’ Report To The Trustees**
For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025, which are set out on pages 18 to 19
## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner**
The trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The trustees consider that the audit requirement of Section 144(1) of the Charities Act 2011 (the Act) does not apply, and that there is no requirement in the governing document for an audit. As a consequence, the trustees have elected that the financial statements be subject to independent examination.
## **Basis of independent examiner’s report**
I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. In carrying out my examination, I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the Act, which set out the duties of an independent examiner. An independent examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records.
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It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and, consequently, no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’.
## **Independent examiner’s statement**
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect:
a. Accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by Section 130 of the Charities Act 2011;or
b. The accounts do not accord with those records; or
c. The accounts do not comply with the requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set.
the accounts do not comply with the requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set
To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of.
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 financial statements to be reached.
HYMK Limited Suite 404,
Daisyfield Business Centre
Appleby Street Blackburn
BB1 3BL
This report was approved by the board of trustees on 9 June 2025
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## **Statement Of Financial Activities Including Income And Expenditure Account**
For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
## **Income and endowments from:**
Donations and legacies 60,627 Other trading activities Investments Other 137.92 Total 60,765
## **Expenditure on:**
Charitable activities (33,164) Support Costs (6,222.45) Total (39,387) **Net income/(expenditure)** 21,378
## **Reconciliation of funds:**
Total funds brought forward 0 **Total funds carried forward** 21,378
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## **Notes to the**
## **accounts**
For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
## 1. Accounting Policies
These accounts have been prepared on a receipts and payments basis in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 and follow the model set out by the Charity Commission for CIOs with income under £250,000.
## 2. Fund Accounting
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general
Restricted funds are funds subject to specific conditions imposed by donors or grant funders.
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3. Analysis of Receipts
Unrestrict ed Restricted
Source Total (£)
Funds (£) Funds
Donations 8,000 500 8,500
Grants 11,000 6,305 17,305
Fundraising events 17,147 17,147
Sponsership 469 469
Member Core Activites 4,412 4,412
Lancashire TAAG (1157535) 12,794 12,794
Bank Interest 138 138
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## 4. Trustee Remuneration and Expenses
Trustees received expenses amounting to £1,996, properly authorised and recorded.
## 5. Staff Costs
The charity employed 0 staff during the year. Total staff costs were £0. No employee received more than £60,000.
## 6. Reserves and Fund Balances
Unrestricted funds: £17,044
Restricted funds: £4,334
Total funds carried forward: £21,378
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