TOGETHER TRUST charity Trustees, report and Financial statements Year ended 31 March 2025 Registered charity number 209782 Company registration number 00301722 The Together Trust A Company Limited by Guarantee
About the Together Trust Our aims and objectives We are one of the North West's leading disability charities. We help children, adults, parents, and carers. delivering individual care, support and education to thousands of people each year. For over 150 years, we have been championing and caring for people with disabilities, autism, and complex health needs. And providing life-changing support for looked-after children and care-experienced people. Our mission We are the Together Trust. We're here to champion the rights, needs and ambitions of the people we support- they are at the heart of everything we do. We stand by them, and we work together for change. Our vision A society where everyone thrives because they are valued within their communities. Our values We will always strive to be: Positive We take pride in celebrating the difference we make. Professional We act in a fair and respectable way that recognises our collective expertise. Passionate We encourage creative ideas and inspire one another. Supportive We are considerate and caring towards one another.
Contents Joint introduction from the Chair and Chief Executive.......................................... Report of the Board of Trustees.... Strategic Report..................................................................................................... What we do................................................................................................................... Our strategic aims....-.........-.......-.........-.........-......-.-................-......................-............. Ourstralegy map.......................................................................................................... Strategic achievements & perfomiance......................................................................... Financial review .15 Principal risks & uncertainties. Future plans................................................................................................................20 .19 Structure, governance and management...........................................................21 Envlronment and Suslalnablllty..........................................................................26 Streamlined Energy and Carbon RertIng ISECR)....................................................26 How we meet Sectlon 172 of the Companles Act 2006.....................................27 Slatement of Trustees, responslbllltles.... ..29 Independent audltor's report to the members of The Together Trust................30 Financial Statemenls...............................................................................................33 Reference & admlnlstratlve Inforniatlon................................................................62
Joint introduction from the Chair and Chief Executive It's a genuine privilege to be part of an organisation with over 800 amazing. passionate staff and volunteers who work lirelessly to make a real difference to the lives of others. In leading the Together Trust, we see firsthand the detemiination and incredible talents ofthe people we support- those who face addilional challenges in life, who inspire and have so much lo give. We believe we are a richer society because of our differences and all that makes us unique. Achievements There has been plenty to lebrate throughout the year. We continue to achieve good outcomes for the young people we support with long-term placement stability, good educational attainment and personal celebrations with many young people and services achieving awards. We have also extended our work expenences to enhance life skills and our campaign work, leading on making improvements to the longevity of placements in residential care, which seeks to improve the wellbeing and development of children in care up to the age of 18. We are incredibly proud of the achievements of the Together Trust over this past year. supporting over 3,100 children, young people, vulnerable adults and families across over 40 social care, special education, community and family support services. As a trusted partner, we have continued to work collaboratively with other charities and importantly. with the people we support to amplify their voice on policy matters such as the 'What Comes After Education, report, Volunteer Led Research and legislatlV8 and policy reform to ensure safe, regulated care. Our commitment to creating a society where P80ple thrive because they are valued in their communities remains. We stand by the people we support. Championing their rights, needs and ambitions, and providing person- ntred, tailored support to meet their needs, goals and ambitions. Throughout the year, we have cast our net wider to meet rising demand and have laid the foundations for further growth developing a new growth strategy focusing initially on growth and in time impact. We have also worked creatively to maximise fundraising opportunities amidsl a changing landscape; extending our funding base, supporters, local businesses and partnerships with the successful opening of an early intervention and prevention servi. This year has been a lime of significant change for the Charity. We said a fond farewell to Mark Lee, Chief Executive, and to Jill Sheldrake. Service Director, who collectively gave an incredible 38 years. service to the Togèther Trust and during that time led the Charily in going from strength to strength despite challenging times. We continue to invest in our staff and have once again achieved the Investors in People 'Gold Award,. Our commitment to being a Real Living Wage employer remains, as does our ambition to build an inclusive workplace working closely with our Staff Council and our four staff networks to further this aim. We welcomed new Trust leaders, including myself as a new Chief Executive, bringing renewed energy and focus lo all that we do. Throughout the year we have continued to deliver against the four slralegic aims in our Stronger Together Plan with a focus on delivering high quality, person-cenlred support, empowering people to make posilive progress, to organically and sustainably grow. and to listen to and develop our diverse lalented staff promoting equity, inclusivity and wellbeing. The wellbeing of our workforce matters. Throughout the year we have continued to enhance our wellbeing offer,. striking a balance between reactive. preventative and proactive support with further developments TOGETHER TRUST RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 charity
ahead, which includes compassionate leadership. Our learning offer has gone from strength to strength - nurturing talent, embedding inclusive learning principles and extending opportunities for our workforce to grow and develop. position on data and develop plans to become a more dala-driven, data mature charity- one that makes more informed decisions, leading to more effective working practiS. The impact of dimate change on the environment is an area of increasing COnrn. We have a role to play in helping to achieve environmental sustainability with those who are socially vulnerable- the very young, older people, those in poor health and low personal mobility are affected more than others. In the year ahead. we will seek to better understand and manage the impact of our activities on the environment and will develop a 10-year Estates & Environmental Sustainability Strategy. Our operating environment and the road ahead The uncertain and ever-changing environment in which we operate continues to be a challenge for the Trust, and the people we support. The Gost-of-living crisis remains, local authority funding continues to be squeezed and there is rising demand for support. Conflict and instabilily around the world bring further risk and uncertainty for the charity se¢lor. The world is moving at a pa, particularly in technology. Thank you We are moved and humbled by the incredible work of the Together Trust, the breadth of services we provide and the dedication of all who work here, our volunteers- including our Irustees. our partner's and generous donors. Thank you- with your support we continue to achieve a g3t deal and importantly make a real difference to the lives ofthe people we support. Working collaboratively and in partnership with other providers, more businesses, commissioners and funders is more important than ever. Working together lo innovate and grow, to raise awareness of the issues and causes that matter, raising much needed funds to address these, sharing skills and ideas to improve services and outcomes, or pooling funds to achieve economies of scale. will influence our thinking and approach as we begin lo lay the foundations for a new 5- year Strategic Plan for 2026 and beyond. Overall. the year ahead involves planning for the future- new leadership brings new ideas and an opportunity to build on the strong foundations of all the good work that has gone before. We have challenging yet ambitious and exciting times ahead and look fomard to expanding our reach and impacl in the years to come. Artificial Intelligen {All will become increasingly relevant to the way we work with many in the charity sector beginning to use Ihis technology. Al presents opportunilies - enabling greater independence for the people we support and improving working praclices to give more time lo what matters most. But Al also poses risks, so we need to continue to develop our approach in the future use and management of Al. We must understand our Gilèkn Gadduili Chair of Trustees Chief Executive 6&¢%S- M J D- TOGETHER TRUST RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 charity
Report of the Board of Trustees Strategic Report What we do Everyone deserves to lead 3 happy life- together. we make that possible Al the Together Trust, we deliver individual care. support and education services across the North West. We care for and champion the rights, needs and ambitions of care-experienced children and people with disabilities, au115m and mentsl health differences. Every year we support thousands of chil(Jren. young ppIe and adults lo lead happy, lulfilletl lives. In Ihg year lo 31 March 2025, the Toggther Trust provided over 40 Sla1 care. special education. community and family support services to over 3,1 children, young people. vulnerable adults and families, whose special needs fall within the areas of emotional, behavioural and social difficulties, physical disabilities, learning difficulties and autistic spectrum disorders. Like many other charities, demand for the majority of the Tnjst's services continues to grow. The Trust's 5ervice5 were Carried out, on the wtrK)le. on lhall of Iwal 8ulhorib"es. public sector bodies and service users in thè North West ol England and surrounding areas, though our onlin8 SUPPOrt presènce is devèloping. All Special Educational Services are Olsled regulated. Residential Care Services, along wrth Domiciliary Care and Community Support SerVeS. ale regulated by either Ihe Office for Standards in Education Iofstedl or the Care Quality Commission ICQCI. Durlng the reportlng perlod, the Together Trust's services were.. Spetialist Educational SÈrvi¢es Every young person deserves a chance lo learn and space lo thrive. That's why we break down barriers to education for all young people, helping them learn and grow al their pace, in our specialist learning environments in Greater Manche51er'. Inscape Hou86 Scho¢l- a non-maintsine(I speci81 school. Ihal meets the needs of children and young p8ople, agod 510 19 years, with autism swclwm condilions IASCI and related social communication drfficulties. Inscape Vocatlonal Collego- opened in September 2024, this college welcomes learneTS aged 1 &19 who would benefit from accessing a smaller post 16 provision specialising in working with learners with ASC and social, emotional and mental heatth ISEMHI needs. Brldge College- a specialist knrther education college thal supports students aged up to 25 years with learning difficulties and disabilities, complex needs, communication disorders and autism. Ashcroft S¢hool- this independent special sthool close(J in July 2024. Social & Therapy Care Services- Residential Care Services Everyone deserves a pla to call home - whether that's a place to call your own or sornewhere lo get safety, stsbility and SUPFK>rt. We work wrth children, young people and adults lo build a happy future. We have 12 Ofsled registered homes for Ghildren and young people, offering a mixture of." short break and respita sarvicès for childran with autism, lèaming and physical disabilitiès." mainstrèam homes lor lookèd after children in need of care and support, and- therapeuts'c IK>mes for IIK>ked after children in need of care, support and therapy including for those with complex aulism aThJ leaming disakn'lities. We have 1 CQC registered home for disabled adulls wNh complex heahh needs. TOGETHER TRUST RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 charity
Social & Therapy Care Services F05tering services We provide a Fostering service, with support and training, so our foster carers can provide safe, caring, nurturing homes for children who need them. Social & Therapy Care Services Domiciliary Care, Helping Families and Community Support Services We offer a iangg of llexible services for young people and adults wilh autism, a leaming disability or ¢ompl8x health needs. We put our ServIS at the heart of I(1 communities, making sure everyone has a chance to thrive - whether that is helping someone lo live independently. or creating spaces to learn. work and play. We have provided.. supported living services for adults wrth CoMeX needs across Botton. Manchester, SaKortl and Slo¢kport weekend club for young people with complex needs in Stockport evening youth activty clubs for young people with disabililieslavti5m in Stockport adult day services lor adults wilh complex needs at the Humphrey Booth Centre in Ordsall, Salford- community space for the people of Salford adult day services lor adults with complex needs al our Newbrityge community c8nlre in Stockport specialist Positive Behaviour Support services in SI(kpOrt and Salford SEND mediab'on and dispute resolution services in Blackburn with Da8, Bolton, Cheshire East. Cheshire Wesl & Chester, Manchester, Oldham. Sallord. Sl Helens, Stoke on Trent and Tellord & Wrekin SENO Information and Advice Service in Stockport and Tameside early Inlervenlion and prtrvenlion serVe in Manchester for children and young paopb with a diagnosis of 8ulism and leaming disabilib'es and their families Soclal & Th•rapy Care S•rvlce8- Cllnlcal serv5ces We have mUltdISCiplinary toams working in mainstream and SEND schools and college$ providing a wide range of therapy and iraining programmes including.. observation, assessment. individual and group interventions support to update and deliver on Educab'on and Healthcare Plan IEHCPI recommendations staff coaching and training sleep support speeth and language therapy and cttupali¢)nal therapy Our 8eneflciarle8- the people we 8UPPOrt Wg tske a proactsye approach to influ8ncing local, regional and national policy making. We work ck•sely wrth national organisations such as Ihe Disabled Children's Partnership, the Alliance for Children in Cafe and Care Leavers and the Children, and Young People's Mental Health Coalilion. to help the Pèople we support to influence luture policy and provision in a coordinated and impactful manner. The Charity works determinedly towards a brighter future for the people we support and their families and lo build communities where everyone feels valLJed and can thrive. The people we support tell us that they face daily discrimination, hardship and barriers in their lives. They continue lo find il drfficull lo access the support they need. We recognise the imFK)rtance of listening to arKI amplifying the views of the people we supwrt. sharing knowledge and raising awareness of the issues they face, and building collaborations wilh other organisalions across the sector to tackle those issues. Through these activities, the Board g8ins a comprehensive overview of the lanilsc8pe in which thè Trust operatès, whère fiJtLJre developments and trends are. and how we can increase our impact and soaal value. The Board acbvely engages with ils beneficiaries, both informally and formally, lo understand the impact of its ¢hantable a¢b"vib"es and the interests ol its beneficiaries. ¢)Jr aim is to be a trusted partner to the people we support and empower people to make positive progress lo influence our service development. camp8igns. future policy and provision. We conlinve lo work in partnership with charitable organisations and have strengthened our TOGETHER TRUST RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 charity
relationships with charities through partnership work including the publication of a powerful book 'Free Loaves on Friday" about the diverse experiences of the care system which saw contributions from several young people suppx)rted by the Together Trust. We were incredibly grateful lo be receiving hair the profits from the bo¢Jk along th our partner Article 39. 5t 8u5 Pull Fundraising Activities Our fundr8ising activities enable us to provid6 the people we support with so much MO than just the contracted minimum. Despite huge amounts of work by Ihe Fundraising team, this year has been particularty challenging. Nevertheless, we were delighted to once more have benefited from the support ol some fantastic ndividuals and organisations each svpwrting our work in a ran98 ol really helpful ways. 41 Notable contribub'ons were received from a diverse group of supporters, both long- stsnding r&l8lionships and friends lo th6 Charity. The Together Trust is extremely grateful lor the generous support received Irom a variety of individuals, community and corporate supporters, and grant-making tnjsts who have chosen to support our young people and families. Our special thanks also go lo our other key partners for their ongoing support throughout 2024125. who include.. Roughley's Bikers, L'oreal, Boohoo, The Booth Charitses. Hospital Salurday Fund, CRH Charitable Trust, John Homiman Children's Trust, Tha Broome Family Charitable Trust, High Lee House Charitable Trust and WNS Assistan. VVV.VT TO stival TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Volunteering The Charity aims to have an effective and inclusive volunteering programme that delivers tangible and valuable outcomes for our beneficiaries, supporting the delwery of the Trust's Stronger Together Plan. Overall. in addition lo govemor5 trustees freely given time, our fantssti¢ volunteers Contributed a total ol 3,310 regular hours. Their contribution equates to over £37,000 if valued in terms of the National Living Wage, however the ieal value of their wide-ranging expertise and deilication is immeasurable. An additional 551 hours was contributèd by ad-hoc volunl6èrs al 8vénls. The focus in 2024125 was on increasing the number of volunteer driverjourneys. These volunteers help our educational services by transporting students to work experience placements and excursions. SUPFK)rting school runs for residential services, as well as doiNJ fundraising collection and delivery trips. Across the year our volunteer drivers completed 489 journeys- a large increase from last year's 177 journeys. The great work of our volunteers saw them being nominaled for the Stockport Rocks Awards 2024. Our horti¢ullure enlhusiasl, Tom Hatton-Jon8s, was a finalist lor the Young Volunteer of the Year Award, while our Volunteer Drivers were contenders for the Volunteering Team of the Year Award. Tom has been praised as a dedicated horticulture enlhusi851 who cares for plants and nurtures our students with his wisdom and palience and his dedi¢ation and positive disrx)sits'on have transfom)ed our horticulture program al Bridge College. "Not only do our Volunteer Drivers provid8 vit81 transport. says Claire Jenkins, Volunteer Serv Manager, 'but their kindness, empathy, and humour mean their passengers, who sometimes struggle lo adjust to new people. feel reassured and look fomard to seeing them.. Yhere's such 8 leel-good f8¢tor that Me$ with volunteering. Getting Involved with the local communlly can make you feel $0 comp*te. Fomiing relationships with people you wouldn't nomially is such a Positive ihing to do and gives you something to get up for in the moming,. shares Tom. Other volunteering activrty included research f Together Trust's Campaigns team, with the publication ol the research paper"Exploring the Link Befv4een Poverty 8nd Children Entering Care in Eng18nd.. Insights from Our Research Volunleerf. This paper, published in October 2024, identified gaps in the existing literature, and proposed meaningful changes to improve ihe care system and address child poverty. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Our strategic aims Our strategic charitable aims ale set out in our four year Stronger Together Plan. OUT Stronger Together strategic aims are.. hkjh quality. r$an eenlred sy)rt. We adapt and evofv• to W• ar• a Intst•d partnw- w• p•W to mak• posrtiv• ress to infvence dtsvebwnent. eatroaigns, lulur• poky 5XOViSh rn•xknlse fiThhl3hy oppJrlynibes¥nd aknb to deffvigtre our social. environmental and e¢onG¥nic V¥t from everythiry that we (r fi•xibb•, tal•nt•d ar#J div•rn• trèat p•opl• •quit •prfl in¢$ety. They have £ar learnir#J •Thl devekjpmenl unities. W¢ listen to (wr WOl0r¢¢, bok after their w•knir¥J aThJ wot1E wth Staff C¢)uncl to •nJurn •ll•ctlvè erya9emenl Our strategy map The Board Is focused on Ils strategic long-term charitable aims as set otjt in its Stronger Together Plan. TOGETHER VTRUST Strategy map 2021122 - 2025126 Éty Is wbo•00•0iff •¥•wir4W•49 wehtty (Wvue5 ttshJi KkrttytCl¥efjrtffjeOne5s rotine ¢¢Jst•m• FU va1uetrt5ervestTh Tni# 05 Trry Ur#sta I1 s1(& (arnfflake Our WL5 IQ lupport wew10easb3IesS 0fr.lI WNI(e ¢- e dill .trk'¢. IThne rw Owrtaltranjtormxonasan Intwaipartotbusln•siwn TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Strategic achievements & performance The Trust renewed its comrnrtment to its 51r8legic plan, the Stroruer Together Plan, in 2022 when it updated the plan to 2025126. Thé plan builds on existing èxpertisè as well as cx>mmitting to innovative ways of improving how the Charily works. During 2024125, the Trust continued lo deliver resulls againsl its four key slrategic aims which were originally sel in 2017118. The Board monitors progress against strategic aims in the Stronger Together Plan by rneasuring key performance indicators IKPI) related to specific areas of our operations. as illustrated in our strategy map on the previous page. E8¢h Board subgroup. des¢nbed in the Slruclure. Governan¢e and Management section later in this report. elVeS KPIS latIr¥) to their spe¢ialist area either monthly or quarterly. Stronger Together Alm 1 Our needs led, community based, Integrated services deliver high4Juality, person<entred support. We adapt and •volv• to m••t thè Ilf•-long changlng n••ds of pèoplè and famllSè$. Our KPI results against Stronger Together Aim 1 Al 31 March 2025 all Trust services were giaded Good or Outs¢anding by OfsledlCQC. Service Occupancy- Placement Numbers- Target 100% 31 March 2025 31 March 2024 Community Services a¢hieving 8 minimum of 95% of ¢ontra¢i8d hours: 890 Cllnlcal Satvices 8chiavin9 a minimum 0195% 01 eontradgd hcwrs.. 9S% Average occupancy across all childmn's homes.. 99% Our progre$$ In 2024125 8oardlNorthamptonshire Children's Trust- Sleep Service- April 2025 to March 2026 STAR procurement - Provision of Short Breaks for Children & Young People with Disabilities in stockportrafford3mesldelRoChdalfj- February 2024 to August 2026 Liverpool City Council- Extension to Flexible Purchasing System for Schools Outreach PrtyJr8mme- April 2024 to March 2029 Stockport MBC- Extension lo Information, Advi¢e and Support Service IIASSI for SEND, Health & Social Cara contract- April 2024 for 12 months STAR Procurement- Extension to Greater Manchester Leaming Disability & Autism ProGuremenl Sy5tem- September 2024 to March 2025 Cheshire East Council- Extension to Mediation & Disagreement Resolulion Service contract- April 2025 to March 2026 Cheshire West & Chester Council- Extension lo Provision of SEND Me(Jiation Service contract- to March 2026 Mèmb&rship of North Wesl Flexible Pur¢hasing System for Residential, Fostering and SEND ServIS maintained Slockport MBC- Enhanced Therapies Service 1 year rwward from Seplemb8r 2024 We supported over 3,100 children, adults and families this year, whether it wa5 helping them learn morg, $1gep better, live well, have fun. gain $ki115, or relaxl As we reported last year, we took the diificult decision to close our Ashcroft education provision al Ihe end of the academic year in July 2024. Following Ihe decision. our focus In ils final lem w8s lo rninimise the impact on and priorilise the well-being of all Ashcroft students by working clo$gly wrfth pupils, families, carers and Local Authorities to look at individual support plans and best outcomes lo help with transitions. By the lime the school closed in July 2024, of the 48 sludenis. 42 were Confirmed lo be ¢onlinuing in education- the malty of whom were transferred to our Inscape House S¢h¢)ol and Inscape Vocational College service provisions. In addition, we were able lo find continued employmenl for many staff at alternative positions elsewhere within the Trust. In other areas of our service provision, we continued lo grow through wnning new contracts and eytended delivery of existing wntracls, joining (w reconfirming ts p)sition on a number of frameworks such as: Stockport MBC - FPS Agreement for the Provision of Day Opportunities- April 2025 to March 2029 NHS Northamptonshire Integrated Care TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Each year. we celebrate the fantsslic achievements of the peoplts we support and 2024125 w85 no drfferent. We hosted the annual A¢hievement Awards to celebrate our amazing young people. "Ftying down a ztp ITne. 30 ft in the air. watching one of our young people happily kick hi5 shoes off into the lake below us will be an abiding memory ror me," recalls Kevin. Inscape House School's collaboration with the restaurant Chain Gusto strives lo give auli$li¢ students a chance to prove themselves in the workplace but also motivate employers lo fosler a more inclusive environment and tackle preconceived notions and unconscious biases about 8ulism whi16 transforming aulislic people's lives. ¢)Jr day service. Newbridge Centre. in Stockport is a vitsl community hub supporting people with autism, leaming disabilities andlor complex health needs. 11 is an inclusive and creative day ¢trnlre. Al Newbridga. we support pèople to have a happy social life, helping them grow confidence, skills and self-esteem as part of a nuriuring community. Our students have been gaining valuable work experience to enhance their lrfe skills through the support of Gusto. After 8 weeks of learning the ins- and-ouls of working in a premium reslauranl. they were able lo lesl their knowledge on a practical day. They helped guests find their table, took orders. brought food, cleared tables, made drinks and morg. One of the students told us.. .1 really enjoyed Ihe last few weeks here, We have done all sorts- we've been in the kilchgn, leamed about serving and more. Today has been less stressful that I thought it would be." Our Bridge College students also gained valuable work experience and lrfe lessons at their supp)rted internship with Sodèxo. Being able lo access work experience programmes has a huge impact on our Students and is an nvaluable resource for our Education service. Our Special Edu¢alional Needs and Disabilities Infomiation Advice and Support team responded to over 1.400 SENDIASS enquiries this year. Our experienced team were able lo offer vital support lo parents and carers of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities togèth8r with advic8 and support directly to young Peop aged between 16 and 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Young people are able to access this service in their own right or with the support of their parenlg. In our Residential services. we were able to support our young people on a variety of holidays including trips lo Scotland where the children of one of our residential care homes look a trip lo a breathtaking outdoor activity ¢entre. The location of the holiday home is an ideal outdoor haven for autistic children. 11 has grown into a much- anticipated retreat lor the young people, who lovingly call il Iheir'Holiday House., and for two of them, il fggls likg a second home. Our Clinical Services have conts'nued iheir essential Sleep Services program, increasing the number of peop supported by over 8¥.. Poor sleep doesn't have to be a given and we have continued lo offer one-to-one sleep ¢lini¢s and online advi¢e. Our sleep pra¢titiongrs work with parents and carers to create personalised sleep plans for their child so everyone can get a good night's sleep. "Our children love to go there. It is a wonderful thing to provide our young people with the experience of anticipation, and we spend so ML lime in the build-up talking about what we did18sl time and what we will do when we get there. This year, one of the young people had a 474ay countdown to the leaving date... he even had a countdown lo picking up the minibus from Inscape.. shared Kevin Clarke. Registered Manager at Haines House. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
Stronger Together Alm 2 We are a trusted partner- w6 empower people to make posltlv• progrws to influence our sèThico development, campaigns. future policy and provision. Our KPI results towards Stronger Together Alm 2 People supported Number of people SLJPPOrt8d during the year 2025 3,100 2024 3.3SO -P/ts Our progrèss In 2024125 As we closed our Ashcroft Education provision during the year and 58w some con501id8lion of our Clinical Sorvi¢trs provision lo schools. the numbtsr ol people supported in 2024125 has seen some contraction this year. Exposing a hidden national crisis and Influèncèd natlanal polley dèbatè on ¢hlldr¢n'$ car• plac•mènts'. In April 2024, the Together Trusl's Policy & Campaigns team published a powerful opinion piece highlighting the emerging crisis of children being placed in illegal, unfegislered homes a¢ross the UK. Based on a Joint invesligation with The Guardian and The Observer, the article revealed that thousands of vulnerable children were being housed in unsafe 8nd unregulated settings due to 8 severe shortage of appropri81e placements. The piece called for ur9enl refomi and a coordinated nalional response from Ofsted, lh8 D8partm8nt for Education, and the Ministry of Justs'ce. This work significantly raised public and political awareness of the issue. This built on the appearance ol our Campaigning Manager, Lucy Croxlon, being invited lo glve evidence before a Westminster Select Committee, where she reinforced the need for legislative and policy refomi to protect children's rights and ensure they receive safe, regulated care. These efforts exemplify our role as a trusted partner- advocaung with evidence, empowering the voices of young people. and influencing decision-makers at the highest level lo create lasting change. However, wè have made adv8nces in other areas. ncluding the opening ol a new early intervention servi¢9 where we have slrenglhened our role as a trusted partner by working collaboratively with the Lal Authority and amplified the voices of the people we support. We focused on co-production - inviting children. young people, an(J families lo help shape our services. The result is a year of closer partnerships and empowgred individuals driving posilive chaThJe in t)lh our organisation and the widar sysl8m. Key achievements include.. Champlonlng Ilved exporlonco In pollcy.. We joingd lorcgs with fellow charity National Star to run a nationwide survey, gathering hundreds of young people's and families. views on the transition to adulthood. The findings, published as Whal Comes After Educatn? will help influence future policy and practice. In January 2025. students and 51aff from our schools and collège travelled lo Parliament to share their experiences at the launch ol this national post-educalion report. By speaking direcily to MPS, they ensured their firsthand insights would inform the government's recommendations on improving support for young people with disabilTties 18aving education. I these efforts have enhanced our reputation as a r8liabl8, valu6s4riv&n partnèr, with commissioners, charities, and communities increasingly looking to Work wilh us to Co-design solulions. By building trust and actively involving people in decision-m8king. we h3ve ensured that our services and campaigns in 2024125 We nol only for community bul also with our community. Empowerlng through volunteer4ed research-. Our volunteers play a crucial role in shaping services and campaigns. For example. Amber, a volunt8ér Rèsèarch Assistant, spènt the year investigating links between family povety and children entering care- work that"could be used lor change," as she describes. With guidance from our campaigns learn, Amber and others applie¢J their skills to dive into policy research and generalg evidence lor advocacy. This not only provided Amber with valuable experience but also gave the Trusl robust daia to Influen sector improvements. Such volunteer-driven research exemplilies how we empower indwiduals to contribute to serv dèvelopment and wid6r social change. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 10
Stronger Together Alm 3 We grow organically and sustainably to meet changing needs. We maximlse fundraising opportunltlas and aim to demonstrate our social, environmental, and economic value from everything that we do. Our KPI r•$ults toward$ Strong¢r Tog•th•r Alm 3 For the year ended 31 March 2025- Income from Charitsble activities Target £40.8m Aclual £40.7m12024- £38.1m) Fundraising donation income Target £0.3m Aclual £0.2m12024- £0.3m) Our progress in 2024125 D¢mon$tratlng $o¢lal valuo and Impa¢t'. We are committed to showing funders and the public the tangible social, environmental, and economic value created by their support. Throughout 2024125. we closely tracked the outcomes of our initiatives and shared the results. For 8xample, our 2024 Christmas appeal, boosted by a creative staff-led fundraiser where our HR team swapped their"Secrel Santa" gifts lor donations back lo the Trust. raised funds lo purchase essential gift vouchers for care leavers and families in need. Thanks to efforts lik8 these, over 80 young people and families had a brighter, less stressful winter, and a toial 01416 personalised presents were delivered across our services during the festive season. Each stalislic represents 8 life touched.. a young person feeling remembered and supported al Christmas, or a family r8li&v8d ol aconomic pr8ssur8. Over the pa51 year, we have pursued Ihoughtlul growth expanding our reach lo meel risin9 neèds while safegLJarding quality, sustainability, and our commitment lo social value. We recognise that growing our impact rnust go hand-in-hand with financial resilience and environmental responsibility. In 2024125 we stsrted on the p8lh ol developing our plans lo modernisè and scal8 our s8rvices by siarting lo develop new Fundraising Growth Strategies- making sure every effort Iranslales into real value for the people we support. Highlights of our activity in 2024125 includes.. Sustalnabltr sèrvlcè expanslon - Gui¢Jed by our ambitions to grow, we began laying the groundwork for growth in our educats'on, care, and therapeutic services. This year we mapped out major projects- such a5 new purpose-buitt schwl facilities and adijilion81 residential homes. Crucially, this gr¢)wth is being pursued in a measured and sustainable way.. we are Carefully planning phased development so that each new classroom or home is filled in line with demand and operated on secure funding. Our plans also embed innovation and environmental sustainability from the stsrt. For example, designing new builds with ec friendty features and inclusive, autism-friendly layouts that enhance both efficiency and the experience of those we support. By growing in a restrained, values• led manner, we are prepanng lo serve more people in the future without compromising on the high $18nd8rds of carg and education our communibgs trust us lo deliver. Maxlmlslng fundralslng opportunltl8s - Amid economic challenges nationwide. we worked creatively lo broaden our funding b8se and eng8ge supporters. Our fundraising team offered a wide range of ways for peop to get involved, from online initiatives to community evenis. Noiably, our accessible Join Together Festival returned in July 2024 as a family- frien¢Jly summer celebration - bringing together hundreds of attendees and local businesses in support of otjr cause. We also ran popular themed activities, all of which gave supporters fun and meaningful ways to conlribute. These efforts were backed by growing partnerships Wrth companies and granl-makers, from local firms to national brands. who chose lo invest in our mission. We also started to think about tho future and how we begin to focus our efforts on high-impact, inclusive fundraising opportunities, which not only raise vital additional income but also strengthen our community of sUPPOrters. New servlce provlslon- We have opened an earfy intervention and prevention serVe in Manchester for children and young people wrth a diagrbOSiS of autism and leaming disabilibes and their families. Opening haIaY through the year, this is a new seNice where, working in partnership with Manchester City Council, we have supported 23 individuals- providing vrt81 support to them and proving lo be 8 trusted p8rtner lo a Local Authority, enabling the provision of $t value care. We appty this outcomes-focused approach across all our aclivities. Whether it's a therapeutic program improving a child's communication skills or an efficiency change that saves funds. we aim lo capture and eommunic2te that impact. By èvidèn¢ing how "everything we do" ties back to positive sttial TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 11
outcomes, financial prudence. and even eco-frrendly practices. we give our slakeholdeT5 Confidence that their investment in the Tnjst yields real value. This year's successes- from fundraising toials lo lives changed- will inform how we allocate resources and set targets moving forward, ensuring we conlinLbe lo grow with purFK)se and 8ccounlability. However. in recognising the need lo do things ijifferenlly. this year we have tsken signrficanl steps lo transfomi h¢)w we approa¢h fundraising in the ftjture and have been developing a comprehensive fundraising strategy designed to ensure that our fundraising aclivities are sustainable, scalable, and capable of generating greater impact for the people we support. We know that ¢hildren's charibes Continue to receive significant public support, but our current fundraising income dS not yel reflect our ambition. Fundraising Activitie5 This year has been one of both challenge and reflection for our fundraising funcb'on. Against the backdrop of a rapidly changing charitable giving landscape and growing financial pressures on households. lundrai5irig has become more diffi¢ult than ever. National data published in the CAF UK Giving Report 2025 shows that fewer people are donating overall- with a third fewer young people giving than in 2017- while charities continue lo face rising costs. These trends have been fell across the sector, and the Trust is no exception. Thr(xJgh the implem8ntation of a new slratggy, we will be repositioning our fundraising efforts to better align with the needs and expectations of our supporters, the strengths of our organisation. and the opportunities emerging in the wider giving environment. Our new strategy will ensure that every pound raised goes further- enabling us lo campaign, innovate, and invest in support that goes beyond our core statutory provision. Despite these challenges, our fundraising team delivered a calendar of actsvitses that continued lo engage our community and bring in vital voluntary income. Events such as the Join Togelher Fe51iv81, Hallowgen Together, and our annual seasonal appeals remained popular, while online retail and supporter4ed campaigns helped extend our reach in an in¢reasingly digrtal environment. We would like lo thank all of our supporters who contributed throughout 2024125. Their generosity conlinues to make a meaningful differ8nc8, and w8 look forward lo sharing the positive impact of our new strategic direction in the years to come. Wè ar8 gratèlLJI lo all thosè who supported our mission- from long-standing funders and grant-making tnjsts to first-time donors and volunteers. Their generosity continues lo enhance the quality and scKJpe ol our charitable work. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 12
Stronger Together Alm 4 Our flexible, talented and diverse workforce treat people equitably and inclusively. They have clèar learning and development opportunities. We listen to our workforce, look after their wellbeing and work with our Staff Council to ensure effectivè engagement. Our KPI results against Stronger Together Aim 4 For the year ended 31 March 2025: Staff lurnov8r Target less than 20% Actual 18%12024- 22%) One year retention Target more than 80% Actual 87%12024 nlal Staff sickness absence Targel 4% or lower Actual 4%12024 5%) Our progress In 2024125 Workforce and Workforc• Engag•m•nt We have an ongoing focus on ensuring our policiès, procedures, processes and workspaces are inclusive and accessible, role modelling inclusive and compassionate behaviours, nurturing a diverse workforce at all levels that's reflective of the communities we 5UPPOrt. as well as cultivating an open and inclusive culture where &veryone feels sale, and a sense ol belonging. We are planning lo undertake an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion IEOII audit during 2025 as anolher method ol ensuring the views ol the workforce inform how we continue lo make improvements. The Trust takes great pride in its workforce. on whom it depends for the delivery ol its charitable objective5. Throughout the year, the Trusl employed over 800 people in the fields of care, education, communily, clinical, management and infrastructure support. The Trust started paying the Real Living Wage in 2020 and proudly became an accredited Real Living Wage employer in June 2022. The Trust continues to be committed to being a Real Living Wage employgr and to a Iransparent system lor pay and reward lo altract and relain staff. The Trust wll continue to gnsurg that Equity. Diversity and Inclusion IEDII is al Ihe forefront ol all service delivery and workforce Support. Inv08tSng Sn pPIt In 2021, the Trust was assessed at 'beyond the standard. lor Investors in People I'IIP-I and it achieved the prestigious 'Gold' award. We are delighted to say that we have again been awarded 'Goltl' for a secorKI time in 2024. The Trust regards the IIP standard as an effective way to benchmark performance and demonstrate excellence. The IIP framework is used lo support ongoing enhancements allgr lo the Together Trust's people 51ralegy. The Charity publishes ils gender pay report each year and a copy of th8 latest port Can be downloaded from our websile. The Trust has continued to work closely with its Staff Council. along with our four staff networks, which repsent the workforce and act as our workforce's voice. The Trust continues lo invest heavily in its learning and evelopmenl programme, giving our workforce the opportunity lo build their skills and capabililitrs. and providing them with clear pathways to grow and develop within the organisation. By embedding inclusivè leaming principles and championing equitable access to development. we actively support a flexible and diverse workforce that reflects the Gommunilies we Serve. Our lèaming offèr inclLJdès a bnd of mandatory, role- specific. and aspiralional development opportLJnities, which, as a result, ensures our workforce is not only highly skilled but also equipped with the knowledge and behaviours nee(led to create inclusive environments a¢ross all our services. The Trust is dggply committgd to Equty, Dwgrsty, and Inclusion IEDII. Our goal is to ensure thal everyone is treated fairly, equitably, and with respect. We want the Trust lo be a place where we all feel we belong an¢J can thrive. and we want to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supporteij. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 13
In recognition of our sustained investment arhd impact. we were selected 85 an Apprenb"ceship Employer of 2024, highlighting our ongoing commitment to nurturing talenl, developing capability, and building a workpla where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. The Trust is commTtted to creating a supportive and healthy work environment that bentsfils employees and the organisation. Aigned to enhancements we've made to our wellbeing strategy in line with extemal and internal trends, we have identified key actions aligned to four strategic areas 10 shift our approach from focussing on providing reactive support to also including prevèntativè and proactivè solutions. Dèveloping compassionate leadership across the Trust, as well as the enhancement ol suprK)rt to empower staff to feel more in control of their financial w8llbeing will increase in momentum in 2025126. Our dedicated volunteers have supported the Trust this yèar on 8 rÈgu18r basis in a variety of roles, from drivers, gardeners and sludent mentors to Trustees and Governors, plus many more ontroff or short temi arrang8menls. Where possible, volunteering outcomes h8ve been Ir8¢ked for the services supported. More information ¢an be found on their activity in the voILJnteering section of this reporl. Apprenticeship employer of the year 2024 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 14
Financial review Income 2024125 saw the Trust's in¢ome in¢rease by 7.00/0 fvom £38.5m in 2024 to £41.2m in 2025 with the main increase being in our Social & Therapy Care services where income increased by over £1.8m. This is due to irnproving levels of occupancy being achièved in our rèsidèntial homes, èxpansion of setvice provision in areas of OLJr Community & Personalisation services. along with the effects of some fee increases. With the majority of Trust income being from I1 authority fees for edtJ¢ation and care services provided, it is noted that authorits'es continue to face significant funding gaps and the financial outliY)k for the sector remains challenging, which highlights a premium being pul on continuing lo provide services whi¢h represent good valuo ff money to local authorities in the future. The Trust's services are essential for those who we support and the majority of people who receive our services require 8 funding decision from the responsiblè local authority or othèr such public agency. Most of the Trust's fees are received for services to individuals, although some services are purchased on a block contract basis by local authorities who wish lo ensure they have guaranteed access lo the Trust's seNi¢es as their provider ol choice. Our Edu¢abon service performed excgplionally well with a significant amount of change during the year. We were able to continue to support a number of students from our Ashcroft Service which was dosed during the year. by transrtioning them to our Inscape House School provision and limited the number ol redundancigs by transferring staff into vacancies within Inscape House School and Bridge College. The Trust reports net income for 2024125 of £1.4m which is up from a nel expenditure 01 £1.Om in 2023124. After Iranslers between funds and other gains and losses. there is an increase in funds of £1.5m compared to a reduction in funds of £1.5m in 2023124. Expenditure The Charity reports expenditure of £39.8m in the year compared to £38.8m in 2024 Ib8for8 exceptional costs), an increase o12.6°/.. This resulted in nel surplus of £1.3m Gompared to nel expendilvre. before exceptional Costs and gains and losses, ol £0.3m last year. This marks a considerable turnaround Irom last year which was impacted by the cIostJre of one of our Education services, and an actuarial loss r8lating to our closed, d8fin8d b8n8fit pension scheme. Of the lotal expenditure incurred, payroll costs amounted to £29.1m compared to £27.2m in 2024, an increase of 7.00/0. The average number ol employees during the year was 826 compargd lo 859 in 2024. a decrease 0133 in headcount year on year. mainly a$ a result of service Glosure within Educalion. Our charitable activities of Social & TPterapy Care S8rvicès continu8d to operatè in a particularly drfficult environment. Results however have marginally improved to a small surplus of £0.1m on income of £22.Sm compared to a deficit ol £0.1 m on income of £20.7m in 2024. Improvements have been made lo staff recruilmenl and retention which have impacted these results despite continued reliance on agency staff. Agency costs tlecre8sed in the year lo £1.7m compared 10 £2.Om in 2024, which is thg rgsult of a numbgr of factors including developing our PODI ol banking staff and focusing on recruitment and retention, although the conlinued dependency on agency staff is still keenly fell along wjth many other organisalions in the sector. Our charitable activities of Education seryices performed well overall through a challenging year of closing one service, with a surplus of £1.1 m on income of £18.3m compared to a deficit of £0.3m on income of £17.4m in 2024. Social & Therapy Care Services expenditure increased Irom £20.8m in 2024 to £22.4m in 2025, an increase of 7.7%, with Ihe growth in service provision and associated staffing resources therefore required. Fundraising incorne of donations. grants and gilts in kind. redu¢&d this ytrar and was £0.2m compared to £0.3m in 2024. The challenging environment is being particularfy fell in our Fundraising efforts and we are so grateful lo all of our donors who support us. There is further information about these earlier in this report. Education services expenditure contracted by a little under 3% from £17.7m (excluding exceptional cosisl to £17.1m, being largely impacted by the reduced number of education establishments. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 15
An actuari81 gain of £162.000 on the define(J benefit (final salary) pensK)n s¢heme Iwhi¢h has been closed to new members since 20001 has improved the overall surplus further following last years significant actuarial Ioss of £530.0110. mainly due lo the changes in financial assumptions used in thé valualion. The schèmè, however, remains in deficit. Final Salary Pension Scheme The T(¥Jether Trust is the employer sponsor of the Together Trust Defined Benefil pension scheme, which is a defined benefit pension plan. It closed to new members in 2000 and stopped the further accrual of benefits at this date. The Financial Reporting Standard IFRSI 102 valuation Frt)silion on 31 March 2025 shows a deficit of £514,000, compared with £724,000 in 2024. This deficit is recognised on the b818nce sheet and the movement has 18d lo 3 £162,000 a¢luarial gain in year as recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities. The reduction in the deficit was due to a combination of.. the membership experience since the last triennial valuation at 30 Sep 2021 has resulted in there being a gain. likely due lo members who may have passed away eadier than assumed a reduction in the value placed on liabilities, because of a higher discount rate used in thg calculations Iby 83 bps) due lo a rise in AA corporate bond yields. Although asset valu&8 also fell due to the matching strategy in place, Ih&s8 did not fall as much as the liabilities on an accounting basis. Investments Al 31 March 2025. Ihg value ol the investment portfolio increased by £38,OCK> from its 2024 value of £999,(NlO to its 2025 value of £1,037.000 through investment gains on assets held within the portfolKJ. Our Investment managers have been glven delegate(I responsibility to managè the investment portfolio in line th the investmenl policy and funds are invested in a well-diversified portfolio of UK and overseas equities. fixed interest inveslmenls, allernalive investments and cash. Our investment policy is to invest with the main purpose of ensuring the underlying security of the investment. while achieving long term returns from both generatson of income and capil81 growth. We seek to 8chieve our nveslmenl goals through a mix of low-risk and high-risk nveslments to achieve a diversified portfolio of investments at a suitsble risk level. The financial year end FRS102 valuation is different fvom Ihe kn'ennial actuarial valuation which was last 1mallY perfom)ed as at 30 Seplgmber 2021. The September 2021 valuation showed a defiat of £687.0, and a plan to eliminale the deficit was agreed by the paymenl of monthly ¢onlributions through lo 31 March 2027. 11 is the on-going Iriennial valuation that is used lo calculat8 thè payment ol additional pension contribubons and the deficit reduction plan will make sure Ihe deficit reduces over a number of years as addibonal pension contributions are paid. The pension scheme deficit is a long-lerm liability, where th8 payments required by thg Pgnsion deficit reduction plan will need to be met from lutura cash flows. The Trustees are committed to invesb'ng in a socialty responsible manner and expect the investment manager lo inlegralg environmental, social and governance IESGI considèrations into investment management processes and ownership practices. The Trust has specified ethical restrictions in Ihe management of the portfolio. The elhical investment policy precludes direct or in(Jirecl investment in companie$ in the alcohol, tobacco and arms industry. There is no prescribed level of income the portldio is required lo generate and our investment managers 8re mindful of the overall objeclNe of a totsl retum from income and capital growth. The next Iriennial valuation is currently taking place valuing the schome as al 30 Seplemb8r 2024. As detailed in note 28 of the financial statements, a review of hisloric scheme benefil changes is currently being undertaken which may, dependent on the outcome of the review, impact the future valuation of benefit obligalions and Ihe 30 September 2024 scheme valuaiion. The total return performance of the investments over the year was 5.26 /. 19.18 /0 in 20241, being impacted. particularfy around the year end by the changes in US trade poli¢ies. The ptrrfoman¢e of the portfolio is compared to the associated and relevanl blend of indices for the Investmenl Managers risk calegory profile which equales to a total return performance 013.4%111.22°kn in 20241. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 16
Reserves As 8131 March 2025, reserves tolalled £28.Om (2024 £26.5ml 8$ detailed by the funtl bal8n¢tss in the balance sheet on page 34. The Trust's reserves policy is based on a 8ssessmenl of the Trust's cash flow and t risks it facès. Thè Trust takes a prudènt vièw where, as a minimum, the level of cash reserves must not fall below £2.5m at each month end and it should hold cash reserves of at least six weeks expenditure al the year end. Of the £27.4m12024 £25.9ml unrestricted funds, £19.3m12024 £19.4ml is represented by fixed assets and 3 furthèr £4.1m12024 £4.1 ml has been designated to set aside funds towards investment plans and both are therefore not available as working caprtal. leaving £4.Om 12024 £2.4ml as free reserves. which is 81so summarised in th& balance slwt tsblg below. Restricted funds Restricted funds of £0.4 m12024 £0.4ml represent funds that have been given for particular purpose. The Trustees have no discretion lo realloc8le them for use other than for those lor which they wgrg given. Further details are set out in notg 22 of Ihe financial statements. 2025 2024 N8t CUTh8nt ass8t$ Less Icry-18nn creditors and prov15w)ns 11.2> 12.21 Endowment fund8 Endowment funds ol £0.2m12024 £0.2m) represent the value of donated investment assets. Only the income generated by Ihe fund can be expended. Further details are set oul in note 22 01 the financial slalemenls. Net reseryes Less: Restricted & designat8d funds 14.51 14.71 Fr•• rn80Th•8 Unrestricted funds General reserves of £16.7m12024 £15.1 ml are the part of the Charity's funds that are not restricted or designaled lo any particular purpose. Unrestricted available cash as al 31 March 2025 was £8.6m, against the equivalent of six weeks, worth of expenditure of £4.6m12024 unreslricled cash was £7.Om against £4.Sm of expendilurel. The revaluation reserve of £6.6m12024 £6.7ml 1$ the unrealised gain on our property portlolio. Designated funds 01 £4.1 m12024 £4.1 ml are funds that have been set aside for a specific purpose by the Trustees Ifurthèr dgtails of which are set out in note 22 of the financial stalements. The rev81u81ion reserve 8nd the design8ted funds are not readily available so are not included in the calculation of freely available general reserves. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 17
Fixed assets Changes in tangible fixed assets are summarised in the notes to the finan¢ial statements Isee note 14). Gorng concern We have de18iled above a review of the financial perfoman¢e of the Trust during the year and of its financial reserves position as at 31 March 2025. The financial statements have been prepared on a going concem basis which the Trustees consider to be appropriate for the trAh)wing rèasons. Fixed asset purchases during the year amounted to £1.1 m compared to £1.2m in 2024. A modest amount of investmènt was rèquirèd to our properties to accommodale an increase in student numbers on our Cheadle site. The Trust has prepared budgets and cash projections taking account of the impact on ils financi81 resources of the increase in employe<s national insurance Contributions, in¢aseS to the Real Living Wage, the resources required for capital expenditure, and ihe risks associated with being able to secure annu81 fee increases for its services. Further investments have b made in Property ronovalions and improvements at six ol our r8sidential properties. Improvements to a new leased propety for our day services provision along with ongoing routine works al each of our education establishments were also incurred. The Trustees have prepared cashflow forecasts for 8 pericmj of 81 le8s112 months from the dalo ol approval of these financial statements. The forecasts are prepared on a consetvalive basi$ and support that there are sufficient free reserves to provide cover lor any short term unexpected changes in income and expendllure. The level ol brought forward unreslri¢led reserves and available cash funds have been considered and we do not believe there are any material uncertainlies Ihat cast significant doubt over the Together Trust's ability lo continue in operation as a going concem for the foreseeable lulure. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 18
Principal risks & uncertainties The Trustees are responsible for ensuring effective risk management and ensuring that appropriate measures are in pla¢e to manage risks. On an ongoing basis risks are reported to every main Board meeting to keep the Trustees abreast and up to date with strategic risks and the actions being taken to mitigate these risks. We conts'nue to review our risks and our fisk handling methodology in order to improve the management and reporting of our strategic and wider operational risks. Below is a summary of our principal risks and the processes we have in place to manage them. Principal risk Management & mitigation What the Trust is doing to reduce the likelihood or minimise the act of these risks occurrin The Trust has established a robust accountability. conlrd and review frarnewotk invdving off¢ers and Tru51ees. We have robust safeguarding policie5 and procedu5 In place. induding Safer recruittnent. along with training for all of our staff. We have ¢ar safeguarding reptsitsng mechanlsms and ¢ondu¢l ffjviews and less$ leamed fr(m cases. Safeguarding failure Significant 5aleguardiThJ failu by the Trust Health & Saf•ty lolluro Significant h8alth and $8f8ty failure by th8 Trust We have dear heallh and safety poIleS aligned vAth legal and regulatory standards. W8 8n$ure that 811 key slaff have rde sp8cffic h881th and safety tr8iThing. Corporato governance. regulatory breach and ESG shortlall Failurè lo ensure thè Trust's governance arrangwnonls ar& effectiv¥ and robust. signiant non.¢omplian¢e or reguk810ry breach We hav8 8 bUsI gJV8m#rKe framework in pl8c8 whlch p8rfodic8lly revltswed lo trnsure &ffedivon&ss and alignmènt best pracuee. We have a Thjorous board structure lo review compliancè risks and maintain regulatory oversKJhl. We ensure mandatory training lor all staff on koy regulatory and compliance reqU1Ments, with dear polici8$ and com18n¢e ¢he¢ks lo assess adherence. E8tate OeterSoratlon The risk Ihal our 8slal8 15 not ad8qua181y maintained or 8velop8d Thg TNSI actively revi8ws its r850urce requirem8nts for its propety portfolio and its faeilities lo ensure thai il m88ts Health & Safety corn lance 5t8ndards and remains CCffiP8b'tive in Ihe future. Regular condition surveys are und•rt2ken initmally. and planrtèd m8ini•nènc* programmas 8r8 lolk)wed. Workforce Capacity, ¢apablllty & wellb•lng Misalignment of staff cap8bililies and the needs of Ihe Trust tether with the nsk of declining employee well-being Our worklorce is our most valuablè asset. We eW our pay and rewards package regularty in (Kder to stsy competrtive and retain our stsff abn9 th attrathng new tslenl. We remain committed lo bein9 a Real Living Wage employer. We have strong and comprehensive learning an¢1 development opwrtunilies available lo stsff. along wrth a defined wellbeing Strategy lo support staff health, engagement and retention. Flnancial vlability Failure lo effectively 8xplors diver51fication and growth oppX)rtun.eS or ensure the Trust's finanaal viabilty There 15 pressure on Securing annual fee increa5e5 to support increases in the Real Living Wage and olher cost increase5. parbcularfy the increase in naiional insurance contnbulion costs for 2025126. We ensure regular budget monitoring 5UPP)rts de¢isitsn tnaking. financial stability and early risk identification. We aim to mainlain reserves positK)n In order lo ensure Cotibnuity of servicts. We monitor oui financial performance continuously so that we ¢an adapl rdan and take prowtionale measures as requir8<1. Cyber $e¢urlty attack The risk that the Trust is sufy'ect to a successful and serious cyber s8curity attack and th8 irnpact Ihat this would have We have IT security ¢ontrds in place such as firewalls enabled on all nelworks, anti-vi )vare installed on all devises and two factor aulhenticali on al slaff alOunts and all third party SOfare providers. W8 have clear e5 and prOlUr8S for our slaff to folk)w such as not 811owing accounts or pa55words to be Shad. We have Cyber Essentials accreditation and we conducl annual penetration te5tiw on our networks. Al Staff com Jele man¢Jatory trainiThJ on data protectK)n an¢J IT security. Service di$wption Unable to effedively respond lo a significant service disrupl'on We have resr ppa and availaUe to support responding to diswptson and perfomi risk assessments for infrastrUdre, IT and servi resilience. Transfonnation failure Unable to achieve transformation of Ihe Trust ital or other We hav8 regular risk ass8ssments infrastructure, IT and s8rvu r8s11i8n(. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 19
Future plans Capital investment- We are looking al Tnajor Infrastructu projects starting with our education services with detailed planning, procurement and govemance structures in place to ensure delivery. The Together Trust continues to evolve and grow to meet the changing needs of the people we suptK)rt. Our ambition is to grow in the future and this growth will enable us lo deliver improved outcomes for even more young people and adults with complex needs, whilst ensuring the Trust operates with long-lerm financial sustsinability. Digital and estates planning- We are developing two maiot long-term strategies- a fivé-year Digital Transforniation Strategy and a ten-year Estates and Facilities Strategy- lo underpin servi¢tr delivery and resilience. As our new leadership team embeds itself, it sees 2025126 as an opportunity to lay the foundations for an exciting fvture. Workforce and lead•rshlp.' W8 are investing in stralegic workforce and succession planning in key 8re8s. alongside inilialives lo embed compassionate leadership. support staff wellbeing, and further embed equity, diversty, inclusion. and belonging. Our new Executive Twst Leadership Team have been setting their priorib'es for 2025126 which include developing a new five-year strategy for beyond 2025126 including seeking to grow our services recognising the growing and unmel needs across education, care and clinical seThices. Systems and gov•rnanc•: We are aiming to enhance internal systems. improve our performance reporting, and strengthen governance and assurance across 811 services and functions. Our Strateglc Fo¢u$ Arga8 We plan lo focus on five strategic service areas.. specialist education children's residential homes and fostering community and personali5alion care services clinical services.. and fundraising Taken together, these priorities represent 8 whole-Trusl effort to prepare for the next phasè of our joumey. By clarifying direction, investing in infrastructure, developing our people, and slrenglhening our systems, we aim lo ensure the Tmsl is equipped and energised lor the lulure. Each area is grounded in strong existing demand. Clear alignment with our charitable mission. and the potential to generate both social impact and financial Sustainability. How we'll deliver To realise these ambitions, we are further strengthening the already solid foundations ol the Trust. With ¢omp8ssionale leadership, enhanced governance, and more robust ways of working, we arg positioning the Charity lo be able to move fotward with confidence and purpose. Our commitment to digital transformation and improving data quality will enable evidence-based decision-making across the organisalion. We remain committed lo maintaining strong reserves and securing new income through caprtal fundraising, building capacity in our services and strengthening our trusted partnerships. Above all. our dedicated staff and volunteers are central to delivering impacfful outcomes every day for the people we support. Our approach is not simpty lo expand. but lo evolvfr. This focused approach in each strategic serwce area allows us to grow with purpose, while remaining agile and responsive. Together, these strategic focus areas fom) the backbone of a modern and resilient charity- one that 1$ ready to grow in a way that is sustainable, peop centred, and driven by need. Laying the groundwork for change To ensure we are ready lo deliver on our ambitions. the Executive Trust Leadership Team ITLTI has identified a sel ol key priorities for Ihe 2025126 year ahead. These priorities are designed lo lay strong and lasting foundations- strategically, operationally. and culturally. Our commitment to impact As we Icx)k to the future, we remain steadlasl in our commitsnent to ensuring every person we support has the opportunity to thrive. Our plans are bold because ihe needs are urgent and growing. Wrth the right partnerships, investment, and Collective resolve, we believe the Together Trust is ready to grow, adapt, and evolve to meet the needs and aspirations of more people than ever before. The arèas of focus a wid8-ranging but intedinked and reflect our commitment to deliver meaningfvl, wel governed growth with people at the centre. Strategi¢ ¢laTity.' We are developing a new five-ye8r strategy for beyond 2025126, complete with a clear delivery roadmap. supported by robust KPIS and market insight. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 20
Structure, governance and management Public benef it The Trustees have tsken into account the Charty Commission's general guidanGe on the provision of public benefit when reviewing OLJr aims and objectives and planning future activities which are set out in this report. The Trustees always ensure that the activities undertaken are in line with the ch8ritsble obiecb.ves and aims of the Together Trust. Charity objects Together Trust 15 the working n8me of The Together Trust I'the Trust. or the Charity"l. Originally founded in 1870, it is now a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee, which is governed by its Articles of Association. Together Trust serves children. young people, adults, 8nd families whose speci81 needs fall thin the areas of emotional, behavioural and social difficulties, physical disabililies, learning disabilities and autism. The summary of the Charity s Strategic Plan and the analysis of the achievements lo date as shown in Ihe Strategic Achievements and Performance se¢b"¢x) of this report. logelher with mortr details of ihe Charity's services set out in the'what we do,. section demonstrate how the Charity has sought to fulfil Its principal charitable objective which is to give aid. as5151ance and care lo thos& with disabilitsos or in need. The Charity's objects Ipurposes} are.. lo give aid, assistance, 8nd care to those with disabilities or in need, including to Children andlor young persons,. and to promote the educatson. training and advancement In life ol those with dis8bililies or in need, including that of children andlor young Pgrsons. Access to all Together Trust services is based on an objective assessment of need by Trust staff andlor a commissioning local authority and is not based on financial ability lo pay. In the case of Independent Advice and Support Services and Independent Supporter Servicgs, any pargnvlggal guardian whose child attends school in the area that the service operates in may have access lo these services. The Trust's work reflects the main themes and ideas thin Department lor Education plans and the direction of current and futur& adult social Ca and health provlslon, Most ol the Trust's services are based in the North West of England and surrounding areas. however, the Charily accepts referrals from all parts of the UK. Statutory and Regulatory The Together Trust's subsidiaries, as listed in note 15 to the financial statements, have not traded during the yeai, have no income and bore no expendilurg. Members Any person who is appointed as a Trustee will automatically, by virtue of that appointrnenl. become a Member. No person other than a Trustee may be admitted as a Member. There 8re currently 13 registered Members. The interests ol the Trust and its Members are aligned th the comrnon purpose of carrying out the objects of the Charity. There are Conflicts of Interest and Grft in Kind policies in place for Members, Trustees and Governors to manage any actual and perceived confiicts that might arise. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 21
repc%ts. accounts and meeting minutes. Trustees are given information on their roles and resrK>nsibilities and undertake toining Courses relevant to their roles, including mandatory safeguarding training. The Board of Trustees (Non-executive) Trustees are Directors of the company for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006. The Articles of Association slate that there shall be 8 Board of Trustees la Board of Diredorsl which shall consist of not less than five members. There is no maximum number. Terms of Offi are for three year5, but Trustees can be reappoirhted for two further lems up lo maximum of nine years. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the governance and strategy of the Trust. Governance handbooks for Trustees support the Trust's Articlès by setting out thé policiès, procedures and practices the Board and our Governing Bodies adopl in the fulfilment of their resw)nsibility for the activities of the Trust and are provided lo e8¢h on induction lo the Trust. Our Trustees who served during the year Geoff Durbin Marcell Edwards Anthony Famworth Norah Flood Giles Gaddum Maria Greenwood (resigned 17 June 20241 Jane Grime Michael Henshaw Roger Horne lan Johnson Simon Lees-jones {deceased 8 October 20241 Gani Martins Tristan Morris (resigned 16 July 20241 Rebekah Pierre Steven Pitt Dil81 R8n8singhe (resigned 8 NOVemr 20241 Jane Walapu 17 Trustees served during this year. We said goodbye lo three Trustees, 811 of whom endèd their Irtjstèèships during the reporting period and the Board would like to thank Maria Greenwood, Oilal Ranasinghe and Tristan Morris, for their service as Tnjstees. Simon Lees-Jones was a dedicated long serving member of the Board who sadly passèd away in 2024 and who will be Sofely missed. The 8oard is currently made up of 13 Truslees comprising a mix of professional and lived experience. Trustees are recruited from a numbgr of sources. ncluding personal rgcommendations, Council for Voluntary Services organisalions across Grgaler Manchester. Reach volunteering website and social media. The Board has defined (he skill profiles required and actively seeks to establish a diversily of backgrounds and experience of its memb8rs. The Board looks at skills gaps as well as the tems of office of current Trustees lo inlom succgssion planning. The Board hokls responsibility for agreeing Ihg strategic direction of the organisation. setting the budgetary frarnework. and deciding upon major undertakings. A Scheme of Delegation, approved by the Board. is in place that sets out in detail the matters and powers delegated lo the Chief Executive. Thè Chief Executiv8 r8POrts fully to the Trustees at each Board meeting and to the Chair on a regular basis. This allows the Board lo monitor prryJress in a well informed and incMental manner and to agree any strategic or budgetsry adjuslmenls which may cOMe necessary in the year. The Charity seeks lo secure ils future govemance responsibilities by an a¢tive Trustee Govemance Subgroup which is responsible lor recruiting Trustees. New Trustees bring knowledge and abilities to the Char(ty that have been derived from various perspectives including business and commerce or professional, occupational, charitsble or livèd exp8ri8nce. Delegation in other areas is mapped in a Scheme of Delegatson which sets out the powers and lunthons of the Board and its subgroups 8ntJ details responsibility and accoLJntability in a Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed IRACII framework. Prospective Trustees are invited to submit an application and are subsequently shorUisle¢J and interviewtrd by members of the Board. They arg made aware of their responsibilities and are required to provide two refeeS who a contacted before appointment. All Trustees are checked via the Disclosure and Barring Service IDBSI. The Trustees havg the benefit of a qualifying third- paty indemnity provision as defined by section 234 Companies Act 2006. The Charity purchased and maintained throughout the year directors, and offir5. liability insurance in respect of itself and its Trustees. During induction, new Trustaes meet the Executive Directors and are given asS to a secure online platform which coniains governance documents. relevant policies and procedures, and previous TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
The Trust's Leadership Team (Executive) The Together Trust Fostering Panel- the panel is an independent body and is made up of people with a range of skills, knowledge and experien¢e and includes staff members from ihe Trust's fostering agency. Some panel members have a professional background in child or social care, and others have direct experience with the fostèring procèss. OLJr panèl MemrS also h8V& access to legal and rnedical advice should they need it as well as each other's skills and expertise. The panel reports lo the Board on an annual basis. Under the Scheme of Delegation, reswnsibility for the operational managernent of the Charity is delegated to the Chief Executive. The Chief Executive is assisted in the operational managemènt of the Charity by Operational Directors who logether form the Trust Leadership Team and are our Key Management Personnel. Each Director has responsibilrty for an area of the Charity's activib'es. resources. performance. and operations. The panel considers fostering applications and makes recommendations about the suitability of applicanis. This also includes making recommendations about the number, age range and background5 of the children placed with Together Trust foster carers. During the year the Trust welcomed a new Executive Trust Leadership management team as a result of changes in the Key Management Personnel. The current Execub've Directors are listed in the Reference and Adminislralive Information section at the end of this report. Board Subgroups The Board has ensured that each of its subgroup'$ terms of authority and reference and strategic theme restx)nsibilities are in lin& with the Ch8rily'8 stralegi¢ plans and reflecl Ihe Charity Govemance Crxle. All subgroups monitor and evaluate relevant KPIS to help drive continuous improvement with focused plans to address areas requiring improvement. The subgroup terms also ensure each area of activity supports the Trust's commitment lo social value and improved gqubty, diversity and in¢lusion for governance, the workforca. and the p8opl8 the Charity supports. Each svL%Jroup receives updal&s on performance, evalualion. and risk In core areas ol operational and infrastructure services at thg Charity. Remuneratlon of the Executlve Trust Leadershlp T•am The pay and remuneration of Key Managemenl Personnel is considered by the HR & OD subgroup who are advised by the Trust's Head of Organisalional Development. The evaluation of a role lor Leadership pay scale remunerabon purpos8s usas a mixture of National Joint Council and Hay job evaluation melhodologies. which 1$ also independently reviewed by an external consultant adviser. Groups that report to the Board The Trust aims lo ensure the Charity's values are reflected in all our work and Ihal the ethos and the culture of the organisation underpins the delivery of all activities. The Board maintains sevgral Trust88-led, special purpose subgroups and $¢hool and college goveming bodies that undertake Specific tasks which conlribvle lo the Charity's governance and operation lo meet the alms wrthin the 'Stronger Together, plan. They meet regularfy and report to the Board to assist Ihe Board with ils function, decision-making and continued improvement. The Board receives reports from each subgroup in line wilh the organisation's planning and performance management cycle. Governance Subgrtsup The stjbgroup megts quarterly to assist the Board lo oversee the methods by which the Board, subgroups and governing bodies monitor and share progress lo ensure supportiv8, effe¢tive, and inclusive governance. Th& group is assisted by th8 EDI Govemance Steering Group to ensure ihe recruitment of Trustees and Govemors, their training. SponsIbl11b&s and Ihtr proper arrangements of supervision and appraisal Iwh8re relevanll are in place and follow best practice. School and College Gov8ming Bod1- Each governing body has its own cons(i(utM)n approved by the Board. The Board appoints Trustees lo be the Chair and Vice Chair of each governing body. Trustees who served as 8 Chair to a Trust eduGation governing body during the rep¢x1ing perirxl were.. The Trust aims to create an environment where divergent views are welcomed and individuals feel confident sharing their ideas. To achieve this, trust and mutual respect is essential - both between Board members and between the Trustees and the Executive Team and wider workforce. Bridge Collègè- Rogèr Horne Inscape House School- Giles Gaddum TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 23
EDI Governance Steering Subgroup The subgroup reports lo the Govern8nce Subgroup and oversees the strategi¢ approa¢h to building a more equitable and diverse organisational governance culture, ensuring equity, diversity and inclusion IEDII principles are embedded to help deliver the best possible oulcomos for Ihg pèopKg we supp¢yl. This enables Trustees to broaden their knowledge and awareness of issues relating to the 8¢tivilies of the workfor¢e and for the people who use the Charity's services. The aim is to promote positive working relationships between Trustees and our workforce. Human Rèsoureès and Organlsatlanal Dwèlopmènt (HR & ODI Subgroup The subgroup meets regularly to ensure that the Trust can attract, retain and motivate the highest calibre of staff to delwer value for money for the Charty's beneficiarie5. The Subgroup asSIsts the Board lo oversee the approach lo an effgctive People Strategy including fair pay and reward for all staff including key management personnel. Finance & Audit Subgroup The subgroup meets six times a year to infomi the Honorary Treasurer and the Chair of Trustees of the financial position and performance of the Charity. It scrulinises thg annual budg$l prior to Board approval and ¢onsiders any special issues th financial implications that are io be reported to the Board. The subgroup ensures our staff have clear leaming and development opportunities and supports staff with the day-to-day challenges they lace in work and outside. We know that the Trust can be a challenging working environmenl and resilience is important for all. The subgroup ensures effective staff engagement and that the outcomes from staff surveys are received and acled urx)n. The subgroup also review5 funding Strategy. growth plans and matters in respect ol the Charity's pension schemes. 11 ensures thal third paty partners and suppliers are prured in line with policy and the Trust conducts its business in commercially responsible way to achieve maximum positive impact for e£•mmunilies, people and Ihe environmenl. The subgroup is responsible for the appointment and removal ol the external auditor, the ongoing relationship and liaison with the auditor and for monitoring management's responsiveness lo external audf( findings and recommendations. The subgroup oversees the Charity's approach to workforce equity, diversity and inclusion. effectiv8 en9agement with and development of the Staff Council and ensures safer recruilmenl procedures operate effectively. Digital Subgroup The subgroup meets quarterly to oversee how technology can reach and support our workforce and the people we support with the aim ol delivering practical. efficient and ¢osl-effective solulion5.11 oversees how the Charity creates culture in which digital Can flourish and Ihe accountabilities for digital developmenl within the Charity ensuring thal, where possible. digital is an integral part of business design. The subgroup also ensures that the Charity con aitract. relain and motivate high levels of volunteers and oversees 8Xt8mal accreditation of HRrtraining-related standards including Investors in People which we have been awarded the Gold Stsndafd. Supporting People Subgroup The subgroup meets six limes a year and has resnsIbIlity for overseeing and advising Trustees lo ensure the Together Trust is aligned lo the needs of the people it supports and commissioners. It also reviews how the Charity conlinuously improves and addresses the needs of ihe people and families who use its services. The group monitor5 and evalu8les all relevant quality improvement and most regul810ry activity in services. It oversees parti¢ipati(>n, ¢o-produ¢tion and cusiomer engagemenl, aiming to create accessible and regular programmes of effective communication, impact and social value reporting to our external stakeholders. 11 oversees campaigns, advoca¢y and participation 8nd extemal accreditation ol customer relationship standards ensuring results are acled upon effecbvely. We lake a digit81-led approach, 8nd our aim is to shara laaming to enab our workforce and th people we support to.. Develop Ihe right skills required to use technology effectively and safely Make it easier to communicate with the Trust Explore how technology can encourage ndependence and wellbeing Ensure effective informab.on management and compliance ieports.ng including GDPR Service Visitor Subgroup A programme of visits aims to ensure that all the Together Trust operations and central supp¢)rt strrvices will be visited by Trustees at lea51 on¢x in each financial year. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
The subgTOUP also ensures that the Charity's complaints policy is transparent. well-publici5ed and effe¢tive, and that complaints are handled constructively, impartially and deall with following a pre-agreed timeline. Fundraising All Trustees are aware of the Charity Commission guidance CC20. The Fundraising Department works closely with the Trust's Information Governance Manager, who oversees dats protection compliance for the Charity, to ensure best practice is embedded in all that we do including. bul not limited to. our Fundraising datsbase which is administered in the Fundraising Department and the ¢onlinuan¢e of permission- based communications with individual suptx)rters. Safeguardlng Scrutlny Subgroup The subgroup has lead responsibilty for effective governance of safeguarding at the Trust. This is achieved by scrutiny of operational actions and quality assurance ol safeguarding standards and procassès at the Charity. The daY-ldaY operational safeguarding responsibility is held with the designated safeguarding officer for the Trust who is also the Service Director. There have been no formal complaints concerning our funijraising practices during the reporting ptrriod and the Trust actively promotes a Complaints and Complimènts Policy. The subgroup scrulinises leadership activity in respect of adherence to adopted saleguarding policies and procedures. is informed ol safeguarding incidences at the Trust and scrutinises the management of risk. 11 ensures safeguarding policitss 81 the Together Trust comply th local and national safeguarding sland8rds. The subgroup maintains an overview of key pfjrformance indicators. The group works wth Ihe Safeguarding, Learning & Development F¢yum. which reports diredy into the subgroup. The Charity is registered with the Fundraising Regulator. The Together Trust does not engage in 18ce-Io-f8ce fundraising. telephone fundraising or direct mail campaigns. There were no licensed slreel collections in the reporting period. Hoalth and Safety, Rlsk & Envlronm8nt Subgroup This subgroup ensures that appropriate health ar 88fely processes are in place lo ensure a sale working gnvironmenl which meets all legal r8quirements, including consultation arrangements. It ensures business continuity plans are reviewed regularly and agrees and monitors an organisalional approach lo environmental impact. The subgroup also oversees the development of the Trust's property portfolio and 8nsur8s that it is fit for purpose, including compliance with ihe Disability Discriminats'on Acl IDDAI. and monitors the effeclivene5s of the Charity's approach lo risk management. The Health and Safety Committee of this subgroup is made up of representatives from across the Charity who meet on a regular basis to promote efficient health and safety policies and methods 8¢ross all areas. The Together Trust is a registered member of the Contractors Health and Safety Scheme under which its health and safety practice is reviewed each year. The Charity also subscribes lo The Royal Society for the Prevention of AIdentS IRoSPA}, for external guidance and 8dvi¢e where requirod. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 25
Environment and Sustainability Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) The Board is focused on ts long-term and strategic charitable aims as set out in the Stronger Together Plan described in the Strategic Report section of this report. We are committed to moving the Trust to more sustainable practices and we continue lo review otjr operab'onal environmènts lo identify areas for development and improvement. One of the aims of the Health and Safety, Risk and Environment Subgroup is to agree and monitor an organisalional approach lo environmental impact. This subgroup also oversees the devèlopment of the Trust's property portfolio to ensure that it is fit for purpose while being as green and sustainable as cost effectively possible. The tsble below summaries our energy usage and emissions for the year. 2Q25 2024 The information and dal8 to calculate energy usage is taken from mgler readings for gas and electricity and from fuel card readings lor the Trusl fleet of vehicles. Employee business mileage claims have been used to calculate the energy usage ol the 'grey' flèèt. where employees uso their own vehicles lor Trust business purposeg. Total Energy Consumpbon ITECI Ikwhl 3.872,258 3,742,822 Carbon EmissKJns Ilonnes of ¢athn dioxide) 598.8 594.4 Annual quantity ol carbon emissn$ resuibng from,. transport aclivilies. including the grèy1188t, and tha usa of gas I fu81 conversions to kwh and CO2 8missions data have been calculated in line with UK Government environmental reporting guidance, using UK Government Green House Gas IGHGI conversion factors for company reporting. 587.8 573.1 - E18Ctriaty usage 21.2 The environmen181 impact of the Trust's a¢tivrtles has marginally Increased with an increase in carbon emissions ol only 0.4Yo12024 a decrease of 11.1%). Total 596.8 594.3 Int•n5ity rafr'o.. Avèrage in0$ of carix)n emissh)ns por empltsyeo Iionne5 of carbon dioxide per employee) Our consumption of energy has increased by 3.5% in the year due lo incrtrased activity wilh Ihe opening ol a n8w service. how&ver our emissions from Ihat usage has increased by only 0.4°/.. The most significant impact has been our continued renewal of energy contracts to zero carbon supplies together witt) an increase in fleet of ele¢tri¢ vehi¢1g$. We continually review our property portfolio across the Trust. We have continued the process of invesling in the transition to more use of electric vehicles and have installed electric vehicle charging points al a further4 of our residential homes. We conlinue lo review our fleet of vehicles and forni plans on how we can transilion to a greener fleet. We have introduced the use of fleet performance telematics lo support our fleet becoming more sustainable and improvéd porfoimancè with diiver fgedba¢k and training. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumb8r209782 26
How we meet Section 172 of the Companies Act 2006 This section of the Report describes how the Direclors have had regard to the matiers set out in seclion 172111 lal to (fl, and forms the Directors. statement required under section 414CZA. of the Companies Act 2006. al The likely consequences of any decision in Ihe long term The Trustees are responsible for the Trust's strategy and overall direction. Our Stronger Together Strategic Plan establishes an approach to achieve our vision of a society where everyone thrives because they are valued within their communities. The long-lerm sustainability of OUT operating model is regularly reviewed lo enable change where required 10 achieve our goals. The Trustees recognise that the long-term SUC$$ of the Together Trust is dependent on having re9ard to the interests of its stakeholders who indude Iho people we support, their families, carers, commissioners. our workforce and our regulators and the Trustees consider the likely long lerm consequences of key decisions taken througho the year taking into accounl Ihe impacl on key stakeholders. Chjr HR & OD Subgroup oversees effective workfor¢tr engagement and that the oul¢omes from staff and volunteer surveys are received and acted upon. This group also oversees the organisation's approach to Workfor equity, iversity 8nd Inclu510n and rnonilors and evaluates all levant KPIS with focused plans to address areas requirin9 improvement. The Trust seeks to listen, understand and act upon our stairs views through ils Staff Council. The Stsff Council is an elected group ol ¢olleagu8s Irom across all our s8rvi¢es who meet on a quarterly basis. The meetings are chaired by the Chief Execulive and have Trustee attendance. As a consultative body for employees. 115 role is to ensure that. as slralegy is developed and plang are implemenled, Stsff Council represenlalives help lo ¢ommtJni¢ate and engage belter with our workforce. They review how successfully initiatives have been delivered. bl The interes15 of the company's employees Our staff are the force that enable us to deliver our charitable objectives and we lake greal pride in our workforce. We are proud lo have such a wonderful. dedicated team ol caring staff who are passionatg aboLJt what thgy do. We strive lo maintsin effective employee engagement and information on how we do this an be found in the Strategic Achievements aThJ Performance section which seis out our progress towards our Stronger Togelher Aim 4 which relates lo our worklorce. Jr wthforce can access an employ88 assistance service which is a free and confidential support programme to help support stsff and volunteers In many aspecls of their lives, in and out of the workplace. The Tru51 is committed lo improving the he8llh and wellbeing of its workforce and continues lo champion a number of mentsl health and wellbeing initiatives to enable staff to feel supported both at work and home. Over 50 mental health firsl aiders in our workforce offer initial support for mental he8llh and wellbeing through non-judgemental listening and guidance. All mgmb8rs of th8 workforcè ar8 also abla to SgW- refer lor support from Able Futures, who give guidance from a mental health specialist lo help staff learn coping mechanisms, build resilience, access therapy or work with Ihtr Charity lo make adjus¢ments to help mentsl health at work. Our pay and reward structure aims to tat all staff in an equal, fair and consis(enl manner, and at a level to recruit and relain the necessary calibre ol staff. The Trusl makes substantial provision for the qualification, Iraining and development of Pis staff and volunteers. We are committed to working wilh all colleagues lo support their developmenl needs and provide a variety of events, training. and role speoific qualrficalions. We offer a wide variety of learning and development opportunities to support organisational, team and individual developmenl linked lo achieving the very best outcomes for the people we support. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 27
cl The need to foster the COTnpany's business relationships with supplier5. Customers and olhers The Truslees recognise ihat the success ol Ihe Together Trust is dependent on our relationships th our stakeholders who include those who comrnission our services, our suppliers. our foster carers 8nd OLJr règulators. Devdoping positivè and effective relationships fomis a vital role in our ability to deliver our ServIS to the pee that we support. dl The impact of the company's operations on the community and the environment Wè continuè to takè a strategic approach to thè implementation of so¢ial value measurement and repcxting. both as an organisation and through its conlracts, which measure and report our overall sccial footprint. The Charity is already delivering Sla1 value.. however. f( needs lo improve dats caplure and reporting to its stakeholders to improve impact, evidence social value delivery and support it in developing a stronger and more robust approach to bidding. The Charity continues to build upon the activities previously undertaken lo estsblish a structured proGess for target settlng, measurement and contract managemenl ol the social, economic and environmental impacts of each Prect from bidding, project management through to completion. The Trust's procurgmenl policy has been developed to help the Trust achieve best value in the use of limited resources, supporting the Trust in achieving its overall aims and objectsves. It also supports addressing the requirements of the Ch8rily Governance Code and the 2010 Bribery Act by gmphasising the responsibility of all staff involved to conduct procurement legally and ethically, as well as securing value lor money. Al procurement activity adheres lo the following key principles.. transpar¢n¢y- ¢lear procedures lo followed and evldence of adherence re18ine(I lor audit equal treatm•nt- for all polential suppliers to ensure a level playing field, no favouritssm and best value is obtained Soclal valut- wherever possible we ende8vour lo source potential suppliers from Ihg local area where this Can be justified in terms of best value andlor social value Safoguardlng standards - suppliers will be required to follow Ihe Trust's safeguarding stsndards where applicable Cxjr Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting repcKt in the Environmenl & Sustainability section of this report details our regard of the impact of our opèrations on the community and the ènvironment. el The desirability of the company in maintaining a repiitation foT high standards of business conducl The Trust recognises its responsibility to ensure ts activities are undertaken in accordance with regulatory requirements and best pracb'ce. As registered Charity, the Directors. responsibility also exlends lo ensuring that the affairs and objectives of the Tnjsl are managed in a way that enhances public trust and support. The Trust is wulaled by the Charity Commission and the Board receives regular updates on legal, regulalory and compliance matters when il meets. 8oard subgroups receive More frequent updates in line with their specialisms. Ovr partnerships with local authorib'es and other funders are extremely important to us and we work closely with our commissioners agreeing lair value for our services and aim to work collaboratively th them. Trust procurement pdicy and practi5 follow the reqviremenls of the Ch8rity Govern8n¢e Code. the 2010 Bribery Act. and the Modern Slavery Act 2015 by taking a zero tol8ran¢è approach towards fraud, bribery and corruplion and emphasising the respK)nsibility of all staff involved lo conduct procurefflenl legally and ethically, as well as securing value for money. The 8oard recognises the imwrtance of open and honest dialogue with regulators who include Ofsled and the Care Quality Commission and continue lo work with regulators lo provide the best possible out¢omes for the people we support. fl The need to act fairly as beeen members of 11)e company The Tnjst is a Tegislered charity and a company limiled by guarantee. 11 does not have shareholders and ils members are limited lo the Trustees of the Company. The Trust has a conflict of intérèst poli¢y which Tmstees must follow. Al Trustees receive the same infomiation about the stralegy, operational activities and finances of the Trust and have an equal vote in decision making. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 28
Statement of Trustees, responsibilities The Truslees Iwho are also Directors of the Charity for the purposes of company lawl are responsible for preparing the Trustees. Annual Rew)rt and the financial statements in 8ccordance with applicable18w and Unrted Kingdom A¢counting Stsndards IUnite(I Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including FRS102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland.. The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company'5 website. Legislation in the United Kingdom 9oveming the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may drffer Irom legislation in other ju¥isdictions. In so far 8$ thè Trustees are aware.. there is no relevant audit inlomation of whi¢h the charitable company's auditor is unaware., and the Trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken lo make themselv89 aware of any rtrlevanl audit information and lo establish that the auditor is aware ol that inf¢ymation. Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year, which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the ncoming resources and 8pplic8ts.on of resources. including the income and expenditure, ol the Chariiable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required lo.. Audltor RSM UK Audil LLP was reappointed during the year and has expressed their willingness lo continue in office as auditor and a resolution to reappoint RSM UK Audit LLP as auditor will be proposed. select suitable accounting policies and then app them consistently. observe the methods and principles in Ihe Charities SORP. makejudgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. slate whether applicable UK Accounting Stsndards have been followed., and prgparg thg financial stst8ments on the going concern basis unless it 1$ inappropriate lo presume Ihal Ihe Charity will continue in business. The Rep1 of the Board ol Trustees, which includes the Strategic Report and the Directors, Rew)rt 8$ rèquired by company18W, W8S approved by the Board and signed on rts behalf by The Trustegs are responsible for keepiThJ adequate accounting records which disclose. with reasonable accuracy al any lime, ihe financial posrtion ol the chariiable company and enable them lo ensure that the financial stslemenls comply with the Companie5 Act 2006. The Trustees are also responsible for safegLJardingthe asseis of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection offraud and other irregularits'es. Giles Gaddum Chair of Board of Trustees 14 November 2025 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Independent auditor's report to the members of The Together Trust Opinion We have audited the finan¢ial ststements of The Together Trust Ithe 'charitable company'l for the year ended 31 March 2025 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities (including the Income and Expenditure Accounll, the Balance Sheet, the Cash Flow Statement and notes lo the financial statements. including signrficanl accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdorn Accounting Stsndards, including FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practicel. Conclusions relating to going concern In auditing the finan¢ial statements, we have concluded that the trustees, use of the going concem basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial slalemenls is appropriate. 8a5ed on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncsrtainlies relating to events or conditions that, indivmjually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company s ability lo continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial stat8mènts arè aulhorisèd for iSSU8. In our opinion the financial slalemenls.. give 8 true and fair view of the stale of the charitable company's affairs as al 31 Marth 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resou$, including its income and expenditure, for the year Ihen ended., have been properfy pfepared in accordance with Unlled Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice". and have been prepad in accordance with the requiremgnls of Ihe Companies Acl 2006. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this Othèr Infomiatlon The other inlomialion comprises the information included in th8 Report of tho Board ol Trustees other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Report of thg Board of Twstees. Otjr opinion on the financial statements does not cover the oth8r information and, expt to the extent oiherwise explicAIIy stated in our report, we o not express any form of assurancè conclusion theieon. Basis for opinlon We conducted our audit in accordance wilh International Stsndards on Auditing IUKI IISAS IUKII and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are ndependent of the charitsble company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit ol the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in ac¢ordan¢e th these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for OUT opinion. Our SponsIbl11ty is lo read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the olher information is materially inconsislent with the financial ststements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appears to be materi811y misstatèd. If we idèntify such matèrial inconsislencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise lo a material misstatement in the finan¢ial statements themselves. 11, based on the work we have perfom)ed. we conclude that there is material misstalement of this other information. we are required lo report that faGt. We have n(Ahing lo report in this regard. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companie5 Act 2006 In our opinion, based on th8 work undertaken in the course of the audit= the information given in the Tnjstees, Report, which includes the Directors, Report and the Strategic Report prepared for the purposes of company law, for the financial year for which the financial slalemenls are prepared is consistenl with the financial statements; and the Directors, Report and the Strategic Report included within the Trustees. Report have been prep8re(I In accordance with applicable legal rgquiremenls. In preparing the financial stslements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charilable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend lo liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternalive bul lo do so. Audlto¢s r•sponslbllltl•$ for th• audlt of th¢ financlal stat•m&nts Our objeclives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial ststements 8$ 8 whole are free from malèrlal misstalemenl, whether due lo fraud or error, and lo issue an auditor's repDrt that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance bul is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accord8nce with ISAS IUKI will always detect 8 malerial misstatement when11 exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material il, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users tsken on the basis of these financial stal8men¢s. Matters on whlch we are requlred to report by exception In the light ol the knowledge 8nd understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtsined in the Course of the audit, we have nol identified material misstalemenls in the Directors. Report or the Strategic Report included within the Trustees, Report. We have nothlng to report In respect of Ihe following mattgrs wh9re th9 Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion.. adequate accounting records have not been kept. or returns adequale for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us.. or the financial sl8lem&nts are not in agreement with the accounting records and retums., or certain disclosures of trustees. remuneraii'on specified by law are not made,. or we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audil. The •xtent to whlch th• audit was considered capable of detecting irrngularltles, includlng fraud Irregularities are instances of non-compli8nce with laws and f8gulalions. The obj8Ctives of our audil are to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding compliance with laws and regulations thal have a direct effect on the determination of material amounts and disclosures in the financial stslemenls, lo pèrfom audit procedures to halp idents'ty instances of non-compliance with other laws and regulations that may have a material effect on Ihe financial siatements, and lo respond approprialely lo identified or suspected non- Compliance with laws and regulations identified during ihe audit. In relation lo fraud, the objectives of our audit are io i¢Jentify an¢J assess the risk of material misstatement of the finan¢i81 stslemtrnts due lo fraud, lo obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud through designing and implementing appropriate resFK>llse5 and lo respond appropriately to fraud or suspectsd fraud identffigd during the audit. Responsibilities of trustees As explained more fully in the Slalemenl of Trustees, responsibilities set out on page 29. the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable cornpany for the purposes of company lawl are responsible for the preparation of the financial stslements an for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the truslees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material rni55ts1emenl. whether due lo fraud or orror. However, it is the primary responsibility of management. with the oversight of those charge(I with govemance. to ensure th81 the entity's operations are ¢ondu¢ted in aordan¢e with the provisions of laws and regulalions and for the prevention and detection of fraud. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 31
In identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud, the audit engagemenl leam.. obiained an understanding of the natu of the sector, including the legal and regulatory framework that the charitsb ompany operates in and how the ¢haritsble company is complying with the legal and regulatory framework., inquired of management, and those charged with governance. about their own idenlificalion and assessment ol the risks of irregul8rilie5. including any known actual, suspected or allègèd instances of fraud., discussed matters about non-compliance with laws and regulations and how fraud might occur including assessment of how and where the financi81 slalements may be susceptitrAe to fraud. A further description of our responsibilities lor th8 audil of the financial stalements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at hitp.'Ilww.frc.ofg.uklauditorsresponsibililies. This description forms part of our auditor's Use of our report This report is made solely to the charitable company s members, as a bcyjy, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest exlenl perrnitted by law, we do not a¢¢epl or assume r&sponsibility lo anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work. for this report, or lor the opinions we have fomed. As a result ol these procedures, we consider the most significant laws and regulations that have dire¢l impact on the financial slaltrments are FRS 102, Chariligs SORP IFRS 1021. Companies Act 2006, Charities Act 2011, and the charitable company's governing document. We performed audit procedures lo detect non- compliances which may have a material impact on the financial stslemenls which included reviewing thè financial stal8ments including the Trustees. Report and rernaining alert to new or unusual transactions which may not be in accordance with the goveming documents. Lawa /hslesby Laura Ingl•sby FCA Senlor Statutory Auditor For and on b&halfof RSM UK AUDIT LLP, Slalulory Auditor Charter8d A¢countsnts. 14th Fthr 20 Chapel Streel Liverpo The most significant laws and regulations that have an indirect impact on the financial statements are the Olsled Education Inspectson Framework under the Educats'on Act 2005 las amended), Keeping Children Sale in Education under thg Education Act 2002 and other safegLJarding regulations, Care Qualiiy Commission ICQCI regulations, and ihe UK General Data Protection Regulations IUK GDPRI. We performed audit procedures to inquire of rnanagernenl whether the charil8ble company is in compliance with these law and regulations and inspected correspondence with regulalory aulhorib'es. L3 9AG Dated.. 1411112025 The audit engagement team identified the risk of management override of controls as the area where the financial statemenis were most SUSptib1e to material misstatement due to fraud. Audit procedures perfomied included but were not limited to testing manual joumal entries and other 8djuslmenls, ev81u8ling the bu5ine5S rationale in relation to significant, unusual transactions and Iransaclk)ns entered into outside the normal course of business and challenging judgments and estimates. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 32
Financial Statements Statement of financial activities Statement of financial activities for the year ended 31 March 2025 (including incLJme and expenditure account) Unr85tricted Funds 2025 £'ooo Restricted Endowment Funds Funds 202S 2025 £'ooo £'ooo Totsl Funds 2025 £'ooo Total Funds 2024 £'ooo Note In¢omo from: Donations Charitable activib'es Investments Other 96 40,703 219 129 11 225 40,714 219 294 38,087 116 Total Incomè 41,020 140 41.160 38,505 Exp¢ndltur• on: Raising ftjnds Charitable actiVi8S Charitable activrties- Exceptional costs Total Expendlture 307 39,365 309 39.516 284 38,485 1S1 10 805 39,672 152 39.825 39,574 Ng1 gains on investments 15 25 62 Not IncoMel(expendl1O> forthè yèar 1,370 {121 1,360 11,0071 Transfers between funds 12} Other recognl8ed galnslllossesl Actuarial gainlllossl on defined benefit pension scheme 24 162 162 15301 Net movement in funds 1,530 1101 1,522 11,5371 Re¢on¢iliation of funds Total fLJnds brought foMard N$t movement of funds in the year 25.905 1,530 168 26,459 1.522 27.996 11,5371 1101 Total funds carrled forward 22 27,435 376 170 27.981 26,459 There were no other recognised gains or losses other than those listed atr%)ve and the net incomellexpenditurel for the year. Al income and expenditure derive from continuing aclivthes. Sg9 note 23 for ¢omparative Statement of Financial Actiwti&s analysed by funds. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Balance sheet As at 31 March 2025 Note 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Fixed assets Tangible assets Investments 14 15 18,439 1,037 18,382 999 19,476 19,381 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 16 4.554 8.934 4.673 7.385 13,488 12.058 CrltOrs. Amounts falling due within one year 17 13,8091 12,7661 Not curront ass•ts 9,679 9.292 Total as8•ts less current Ilabllltl•s 29,155 28.673 Cr•dltor8'. Amounts falling due after more than one year 18 15681 16431 Provisions for liabilities 20 {921 18471 Pension deficit 24 15141 17241 Not assets 27,981 26.459 Funds of the ¢harlty Unreslricled funds.. General Revaluation rèserve Designated 16,683 6,633 4,119 15,038 6,739 4,128 27,435 376 170 25,905 386 168 Restricted funds Endowment lunds Tatal eharliy funds 22.23 27,981 26,459 These financial ststgmgnts on pages 33 10 61 of The Togelher Trust (registed number 3017221 wgre approved and aulhorised for issue by the Board of Trustees on 14 November 2025. They were siqned on its behaff by.. Gllès Gaddum Chair of Trustees Anthony Farnworth Honorary Treasurer TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Cash flow statement For the year ended 31 March 2025 Note 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Net cash flow from operating activities Net movèmont in funds 1.522 11,5371 Adjustments for.. Depreciation Gains on investments Inwme from investments Profil on Ihg sale of fixed assels Interest receivable Interest payable IDecreaselTincre8se in debtors Increase In creditor5 IDecreaseYincrease in provisions Net movement of pension service cost Net cash oufflow from defined benefit scheme p8nsion contributions Pension scheme aelu8rial loss 1,070 251 1251 121 11941 42 119 1,041 17551 905 1621 1211 181 1951 45 11,4951 246 99 12171 12191 11621 2,583 530 Net cash flows frt)m operating aetivltl•s 17631 Cash flows from Inv•8tlng actlvbtl•s Inlgresl received Income from investrnents Proceeds from the sale of property. p18nl 8nd equipment Purchase of propety, plant and equipment Pr888 from sale of investments Purchase of investments 87 21 25 11 {1,1361 53$ 15491 11,1891 120 134 Net cash flows from Inv•8tlng actlvltles 19301 11,0871 Cash flows from Ilnanclng actlvbtles Interest paid Repayments of borrowings Not cash flows from flnanclng aetl¥ltl•s 1421 1621 1451 60 11051 Nel increaselldecreasel in Cash in thè year 1,549 11,9551 Cash at the beginning of the year 7.385 9,340 Cash at the end of the year 19 8,934 7,385 See note 19 for the anatysis of changes in net debt. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 35
Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 Maich 2025 Charity and company information The Together Trust. 8 public b8nefrt entity. is incorporated in England and Wales as a company limited by guarantee not havin9 a share capital. The members of the company are the Trustees and the Current Trustee5 are named on page 62. In the event ol the Charity being wound up. the liability in respect of the guaranlee is limiled to £1 per member. The company is a registered charity and has no liabilty to corporation lax on ils charitable activities. The registered office Is given page 62. Going concern The financial ststements h8ve been pared on a going ¢on¢ern basis. The Trustees have prepared budgets and projeclions which indicate that, taking account of the impact on cash levels and financial resource5 of the increase In the Charity's pay and reward offer lo staff, th8 resources it devotes to recruitment, ¢api181 and funds expenditure and the risk of being able to secure annual fee increases for its services, the Charity Is able lo continue as a going concern and maintain sust8inable cash reserves for the foreseeable future. Therefore. the Trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis ol accounting in preparing these financial statements. The Trustees have Considered a pariod in excess of twelve months from the dale of the approval of Ihese financial statements in making their assessmenl. Accounting polScies Basi5 of preparation Th8 financial statèments have b99n prepared under the historical cost Convention, with the exception of listed investments and d8rivalives which are held 81 fair value. Fund accounting General funds are nstrIcte(j lunds whlch are available for use at the discretion of tho Trustees in furtherance of the general objecb'ves of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purp05es, although in pracliee they may represent the funding of fixed assets. The financial $tatemgnts have also been prepared in accordance with the Siatemenl of Recommended Practice Accounting and Reporting by Charities ISORP 20191" 8ppli¢able lo charitlgs preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021, effective 1 January 2019, and the Companies Act 2006. Designated funds comprise unrestricted lunds Ihat have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes, including the development fvnd described below. The aim and use of ea¢h dgsignated ftjnd is sgt t in the notes to the financial statements. The financial siatements are presented in Sterling, which is the functional currency of the Charity. Monetary amounts in Ihese financial ststeffjents are rounded lo the nearest one thousand sterting pounds. The purpose of the development fund reserve is to earmark funds lo provide for ongoing maintenance, repair and refurbi5hmenl of tho Together Trust homes and sch(K>ls, in compliance with standards set by inspecting bodies such as the Care Quality Commission ICQCI nd the Office for Standards in Education IOFSTEDI. The age and fabric of thè èstablishmènts nacèssitate constant repairs, which have been highlighted by comprehensive surveys carried out by an appointed architect and reviewed annually. The programrne for refvrbishment for any new financial year is specthed prior to the previous year end. Group financial statements The Chanty is exempl from the requirement lo prepare Consolidated financial statémènts by virtue that all subsidiary undertakings may be excluded from consolidation as they are not material and have not operated in the financial year. These financial stslements therefore present information about the Charity as an individual undertaking rather than as a grDUP- TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 36
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 2. Accounting policies (continued) Fund accounting Icontinuedl The revaluation reserve arose when fixed assets were revalued, prior to the adoption of FRS102, al a value higher than their previous carrying value and the incrèas6 in v8lLJ8 is accountèd for within the revaluation reserve. It lomis part of unrestricted funds. Donaled goDds and services are included at the lower of their value to Charity and their estimated market value. No amount Is included lor services donated by voluntèèrs. Thè full valuè of leasèhold peppercom rent is not valued due to the prohibitive cost of doing so. Income from fundraising activities is included in donats"ons. Restricted funtls are funds which are to be US9d by th8 Charity lor particular purposes as specified by the donor. The costs of administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The purpose of each restricted fund is set out n the notes to the financial ststemenls. Fees invoiced in advance of services provided are carried forward as deferred income unts'l the service is delivered. Expenditure Expenditure is recognised when there 1$ constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party, il Is probable that settlement will be required and the amounl of the obligation can be measured reliably. Endowm9nt funds are a fomi of restricled fund where the assets are required to be invested or retained for actual use rather than expended. An endowment funtl where there is no power lo Convert the capital into income is known as a p8rmanent endowment fund which musl generally be held indefinitely. Expenditure is dassifi8d under th8 following activity headings.. Expenditure on raising funds are those costs incurred in allracting voluntary income and those incurred ingenerallng fundraising income Charitablè 8xpenditure includgs 811 expenditure associated with activities directly attributsble lo the Service delivery of the Charity's charitable objectives. in respect of residential. respile. outreach, educational, fostering and social work services Support costs are costs of those functions that assist the work of the Charity but do not directly undertake charrtable a¢livitlgs. Support ¢osts include Central head office Costs (for example finance. human resources and g0Veman c05ts1 and have been allocated to chartsble activity ¢osls on a basis Consistent with income. Expendable endowment is an endowment lund where the Trustees have the power lo convert the assets li.e.land, buildin9S, investments or cashl inlo expendable income. The Charity holds permanenl and expendable endowrnenl funds. The ptrrmanenl funds are not considereij lo be material. Income Income is recognised when the Charity has enlillemenl lo the funds, any performance conditions attached lo the inGome have been met (generally by delivery of ¢ontra¢ted services), it is probable that the income will be received and the amounl can be measured reliably. Income from grants includes grants where èntitlement to funding is subject to specific performance conditions. Perforniance conditions may be stipulated expliciuy by ihe funder or may be implicit as per the Charity's funding proposal. Income is deferred when the funder has imposed Conditions. which mLJSt be met before the Charily has uncondilional entitlement or the funder has specified the funds can only be utilised in future accounting periods. Operating lease agreements Renials applicable to operating leases, where substsntl8lly all of the benefits and risks of (kwnèrship remainwith thè lèssor, are charged against income on a straight line basis over the period of the lease. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 37
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 2. Accounting policies Icontinuedl has accounted for its contributions to the s¢heme a5 if il was a defined Contribution scheme. Trustees The Trustees have elected that the Charity 8pply a policy of non-remunerabon f Trustees, excluding out ol pocket expenses. T8ngTble fixed assets The Iransilional arrangements of FRS 102 We adopted on transition to FRS102 to Irèe28 the tangiblè fixed assets valuation of freehold and leasehold properties as deemed cost. and hence tangible fixed assets are staled al deemed cost (being 2014 market value ntrl ol depreciation lo the adoption of FRS 1021 less depre¢iation and any provision for impaimient. Costs of maintenance are charged lo the Statement of Financial Activities as they are Incurred. Assets below a value of £2,S)O are not capitalised. Employee benefits For defined benerrt schemes. the amounts charged lo the Statement of Financial Activities are the current service costs and gains and losses on settlemenis and curtailments. They are included as part of staff costs. Past service costs are recognised immediately in the Slalemenl of Financial Aclivilies. The interest cost and the expecled return on assets are shown as a net amount of other finance gains or losses. Dopreciation is provided on 8ach tangible fixed asset, other Ihan freehold land which is not depreciated. at rates calculated lo wrile-off the c051. less its eslimaled residual value, on a slraighl line basis over the useful economic life of that asset as fdlows.. Actuarial gains and losse5 are rec(xJnised immedi81ely in the Stslemenl of Financi81 A¢tivilies. Pgnsion scheme assets are measured at fair value and liabilities are measured on an actuarial basis using the projected unil method and discounted at a rale equivalent lo the current rale of relum on 8 high-quality corporate bond of equivalent currency and tèm to thg scheme liabilities. The actuarial valuations are obtained at least triennially and are updated al each balance sheet dale. The resulting defined benefit assetor liability is presenlgd separatgly after other nel assets on the face of the balance sheet. The Trust recognises a plan surplus as a defined benefit plan asset only lo the extent that it IS able lo recover the surplus either through reduced contributions in the future or through refunds from the plan. Properties- buildings 2% . 30/0 pa Properties- improvements 6%-20%pa Leasehdd propety improvamants over the life of lease Molor vehicles 20°A pa Ancillary equipment 20¥0 pa Impaimienl reviews are condu¢led when events and changes in arcumstances indicate that an impairmenl may have occurred. If any asset is found lo have a C'n9 valve higher than ils recoverable amount, it is written down accordingly. For defined contribution schemes, Ihe amount charged lo the Statement of Financial Activities in respect of pension costs is the contributions payable in the year. Differences beeen conlributsons payable in the year and conlributions actually paid are shown as either accwals or prepayments in the balance sheet as appropriate. Investment assèts Investments are included on the balance sheel at fair value as measured by middle market price values at the year end. The Trustees do not Consider there 19 be any material difference in the valuation as measured by bid price. Movements in values during the year are included in the Statement of Financial Activities for any alised 8nd uniealised gains and losses. The Trust participates in the Teachers. Pension Scheme, which is a defined benefit scheme. The Chanty Is unable to identtfy its share of the undertying assets and Iiabilrties of the scheme and therefore has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS 102 and TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 2. Accounting policies {continuedl Financial assets and liabilities at amortised cost Trade and all other debtors linduding a¢¢rued income) which are receivable within one year are initially measured at the transaction pri and subsequently measured al amortised cosL being the transaction price less any amwnts settlèd and any impairmènt losses. Liabilities are recognised where the Charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of lunds to a third paty and the amount due to settle the obligalion can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are Tecognised at their settlement amount. A provision for impairment of trade debtors is eslablished when there is objective evidence that the amounts due will not be collected according lo the original terms of the contract. Impaimient losses are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities for the excess of the carrying value of the trade debtor over the present value of the future Cash flows dis¢ounl&cl using th8 original effective interest rate. Subsequent r8versals of an impairment loss that objectively relate lo an evenl occurring after the irnpairment loss was recognised. are recognised immediately in Statement of Financial A¢livities. Provisions Provisions are recognised when the Charity has an obligation at the reporting date as a result ol a pasl 8venl which it is probable will result in the transfer of economic benefits and that obligation can be estimated reliably. Provisions are measured at the best eslim81e of the amounts required lo setde the obligation. Whe the effect ol the time value ol money is material. the provision is based on the present value ol those amounts. discounted al the pre-tax discount rat6 that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of tha discount is recognised within interesl payable and similar expenses Trade. all other creditors (including accruals) payable within one year that do not constitute a financing Iransath'on are initially measured al the transaction price and subsequenuy measured al amortised cost, being transaction pricg less any amounts Settled. Financial instrumonts The Charity ha5 elected lo appty the provisions of Sects'on 11 '88sic Financial Instruments, and Section 12 '01her Financial Instrurnenis Issues, of FRS 102. in full, to all of its financial instruments. Where the arrangement with a creditor conslitules a financing Iransaclion, the creditor is initially measured al the present value of futur8 payments discounted at a market rate ol interest for a similar instrument ar subsequently measured at amortised cost, being Ir8nsaclion price185s any amounts settled and the cumulab've amortisation lusing the effective intgrgst method) of any difference between the amount al initial recognition and the maturity am(t. The effective interest rale is the rale that dIunts eslimaled fulurtr cash payments to the carrying amount of the financial liabilty. Recognition and MeasUrent offinanual nstruments Financial assets and linancial liabilitj'gs are recognised when the Charity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the inslrumenl. ClassifiGation of fin8nGial instruments Financial instruments are ¢lassified as liabilities and equity instruments accordiThJ to the substance ol the conlractual arrangements entered into. An equty instrument is any contract th81 eviden5 8 residual interest in the assets of the Charity after deducting all of its liabilities. Borrowings are initially recognised at the transaction price. including Irans8Gtion cos15 (unless the arrangement ¢onstitutes, in effe¢l, a financing transaction, in which case it is initially recognised at the present value of future payments discounted at a market rate of interest lor a similar debt instrumenll and subsequendy measured at amortised ¢ost using the effective interest method. Interest expense is recognised on Ihe basis of the effective interest method and is included in interest payable and other similar expenses. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 39
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 2. A¢¢ounting poli¢ies {¢ontiTrvedl 3. Crltlcal accounting judgements and key $our¢e$ of estimation un¢ortainty Trade investments are equity investments over which the Charity has no significant influence. joint control or control and are inrtially measured al Iran58clion price. Transaction price includes Ir8ns8Ction costs, èxcèpt whèrè trade investments are measured at lair value through profit or loss when transaction costs are expensed to profil OT loss as incurred. Trade investments are measured al fair value through profil or10s5. or cost less impairment if fair value Cannot b8 measured reliably. The lair value ol trade investments quoted on a recognised stock exchange is the quoted bid price. In the applicats'on of the Charity's accounting policies, which are described in note 2, the Trustees are required to make judgements. eslirnales and assufflptions about the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on hisloric418xperienc8 and other laclors that are considered to be relevant. A¢lual results may differ from these estimates. Derecognillon of financi818ssets and liabilities A financial a$t is dgr8cognis8d only when the Contractual rights to cash flows expire or are $8llled. or subslanlially all the risks and rewards of ownership are transferred 10 8nolher party. or il some Ibul not subslanlially all) risks and rew8rds of ownership are retained but control of the asset has transferred lo another party Ihal is able to sell the a5sel in 115 entirety to an unrelated third party. The eslimales and underlying assumptions 8re reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions lo accounting eslimal&s are recognised in the period in which the eslimale is revised if the revision affects only that period.or in the period of the revision and future periods il the revision affects both current and future periods. In respect of the defined benefit pension scheme, the Charity has an obligation lo pay pension benefits to certain former employees. The cost ol these benefi15 and Ihe present value of the obligation depend on a numberof factors Including life expectancy, salary increases, asset valualions and the discount rate on corporate bonds. The Trustees estimate these factors in determining the nel pension obligation in the balance sheet. The assumptions refle¢¢ historical expèrience and current trends as set out in note 24. A financial li8bility lor p8rt Ihereofj is derecognised when the obligats'on specifie(l in the contract is discharged. can¢elled or expires. Derivative financial inslrumenls The Charity uses derivative financial instruments lo reduce exposure lo inleresl rale movemenls. Th8 Charity does not hold or issu8 derivative financial instruments for speculative purpx)ses. Derivatives are initially recognised at lair value al the dale 8 derivative conlr8cI Is enlere(l into an(J are subsequently remeasure(I lo their fair v81ue al each rèporting dale. The restjlting gain or loss is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities immediately. Provisions such as for dilapid8tlon costs involve assumptions and estimation techniques. These are based on the experience and knowledge of management and evidence from the outcomes occurring after the year end. Other than the above, the Trustees do r1 consider there are any other critical judgements or sources of eslimalion urLGertainty requiring disGlosure. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial staternents for the year ended 31 March 2025 4. Analy$l$ of Ineom¢ from donatlon$ 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Donations 225 294 5. Analysls of Income from charltable actbvtties 2025 £'ooo 22,460 18,254 2024 £'ooo 20,692 17,395 Soci81 & Therapy Care Services Educational sgrvices 40.714 38,087 6. Analys1$ of Incom¢ Ir¢m Inv•$tm•nts 2025 £'ooo 25 194 2024 £'ooo 21 95 Investment InMe Bank interest 219 116 7. Analy$l8 of other Inm¢ 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Nel gain on disposal oi fixed assets 8. Analy$l$ of expendltur• on ralslng funds 2025 £'ooo 228 2024 £'ooo 189 Stsff and rglated costs Service provision costs Service adrninistration costs 10 16 35 Other service costs 37 44 309 284 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 41
Notes to the financial staternents for the year ended 31 March 2025 9. Analy$l$ of èxpéndlturè on ¢harltable a¢tlvitl¢$ Social & Therapy Care Services 2025 £'ooo 16,095 Expendltur• Education Services 2025 £'ooo 11,109 1.091 767 Totsl 2025 £'ooo 27,204 1.931 1,$84 1.313 1.600 5.884 Staff and related costs Premises costs Service provision costs Service adminislr8lion Costs Other service costs Head Office support costs (note 111 817 670 719 3.224 881 2.660 22,365 17,1 $1 39,516 Social & Therapy Care Servi 2024 £'ooo 15,024 Exptndltur• Education Services 2024 £'ooo 11,860 1.216 Total 2024 £'ooo 26,884 2,020 1,537 1,148 1,423 5,473 Staff and related costs Premises costs Service provision costs Service administration costs Other service costs Head Office support cosis Inole 111 771 631 658 2,939 517 765 2,534 20,827 17,658 38,485 Total expenditure comprises direct costs incurred in Ihe delivery of Trust services and Head Office support costs which are apportioned be88n services. Direct costs include all direct staff, premises and service provision in the day-to4ay delivery ol Ihe service. It also includes other costs relaled to the provision of the service al each location such 89 insurance, depyeciation and interest. 10. Prlor year exceptlonal costs During the prior year, the Charity made a provision loialling £805,000 for the costs associated with the closure of one of ils educational services. The costs provided related primarily to operalional losses to be incurred while the obligation to deliver services continued through lo ils conclusion. along with the cost ol staff redundancies of £189,000. The Trustees consKlered these costs to be exceptional due lo their non-recurring nature and significant impact on the financial results of Ihe Charity for the prior year. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 11. Analy$l$ of Head Offl¢o $upport ¢ost$ Soclal & Thernpy Care Services 2025 £'ooo 1,783 196 716 212 317 Education Servlces 2025 £'ooo 1,471 161 592 175 261 Total 2025 £'ooo 3,254 357 1,308 387 578 Stsff & related costs Premises costs Office administration costs Governance costs Other costs 3,224 2,660 5,884 Social & Therapy Care Services 2024 £'ooo 1,533 218 815 154 219 Education Services 2024 £'ooo 1,323 187 702 133 189 Total 2024 £'ooo 2,856 405 1,517 287 408 Staff & relatèd costs Premises costs Office administrati costs Governance costs Other costs 2,939 2,534 5,473 Head Office support costs allocatlon Therg is a Head Offi¢e function, which provKles all the supporl services of the Trust's aclivilies. Th&se services include Communications and Mark6ting, Business Development. Finance, Human Resources & Organisational Development, IT services and Facilities Managemenl and the services of the Executive Directors. Cost recovery apportionment is based on (he level of income for each of the services. 12. Nèt ineomellexpenditurn) for th* yèar Net incomellexpenditurel for the year 1$ stated after GhargiW{¢reditingl'. 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Auditor's remuneration audit other audit S8rvices non-audit services Interest paid on bank loan Inltrrest received on interest rats swap contracts Depreciation of owned assets Rental under operating leases 47 60 62 53 181 905 155 1101 1.070 156 Thesè costs inclLJd8 Cgntral hea¢J offi¢e costs wherg appIlble and have been allo(3ted to activity ¢osts on a basis consistent with income. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 13. Analysis of staff costs and the cost of key management personnel The average number of stsff employed during the finanal year, excluding relief and bank supply staff, amounted to.. Headcount 2025 Number 2024 Number Social & Therapy Care services stsff Educalion services staff Fundraising and Support slaff 441 297 88 454 319 86 826 859 The aggregate staff èmployment eos15 were.. 2025 £'ooo 24,403 2.410 2.089 171 29,073 2024 £'ooo 23,038 2,202 1.887 99 27.226 Wages and salaries So¢i81 security costs Pension- defined contribution schemes Pension- defined benefit scheme operating costs During the yèar the Trust incurred redundancy costs of £26.00012024 £201.0001. Although the Trust maintains a pwl ol bank relief and supply staff to cover unforeseen absences, where this is insLJfficient to meet operational nggd, agen slaff are gngaged in the short term. In addilion lo th8 above staff ost$, agency costs for the year were £1,673.00012024 £2.018.0001. In addition lo the above staff costs, foster carer fees amounted lo £827,00012024 £1,057,thJOI. Employee emoluments over £60.000 The number of employees whose emolumenis. excluding pension contributions and employer's national insurance conlribulions. bul including benefiis in kind, were in excess of £60,000 was.. 2025 Numb•r 2024 Number £60,00110 £70,000 £70,001 to £80,000 £80,001 to £90.000 £90.00110 £100.000 £100,001 to £110,000 £120,001 to £130,000 £130,001 10 £140,000 Of the above 20 employees12024 1013 employees12024 1} were accruing pension benefits under a defined benefit pension scheme. The key management personnel are detailed on page 23. The lotal remuneration (including pension conlributs'ons and employers. national insurance contribLrtionsl of the key management personnel of the Trust for the year totalled £752,00012024 £548,000). Trustees, remuneration None of the Trustees re1ve any remuneration for their services to the Trust. During the year. no Trustees received reimbursement of expenses {2024 £nill. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 14. Tanglbl• fixèd a$$èt$ Land and Property Buildings Improvement £'ooo £'ooo 23.007 1.281 997 Motor Vehicles £'ooo 1.343 Ancillary Equipment £'ooo 371 43 Total Cost Al 1 April 2024 Additions Disposals At 31 March 2025 £'ooo 26,002 1,136 11631 26,975 1163} 1.270 24,004 1.287 414 Depreciation At 1 April 2024 Charge lor Ihtr year On dispos81s At 31 Mar¢h 2025 5.165 874 1.268 909 145 {154 900 278 47 7,620 1,070 11541 8.536 6,039 1,272 325 N•t book value At 31 March 2025 17.965 15 370 89 18.439 Al 31 March 2024 17.842 434 93 18,382 The Ireehold and leaseholtl properties were professionally valued on 31 March 2014 and this became the deemed cost on Ir8nsilion lo thg accounting sl8ndard FRS 102. Included within land antj buildings abovg is a long1ga$ghold property with a ng1 book value of £4,443,00012024 £4,473,000). The Charity pays a peppercorn rent for the related land. Certain property is pledged as security on the Charity's bank loan. The nel book value of these propertie5 IS £4,443,00012024 £4,473,000). The comparable amounts lor fixed assets included above at a valuation detemiined according to the hlstorfcal cost accounting rules are.. Land and Buildings £'ooo Cost 16,700 Accumulated Depreciation 5,443 Nel book value at 31 March 2025 11,257 Net tN)ok value at 31 March 2024 11,1 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 14. Tangiblè Fixed assets Icontinuedl Llst of charltable propertles: Prop•rty Do$¢rlptlon Choadle Campu$. Schools Hill The main adminislralive centre for the Charity. The site is also home to Inscape House School which is a school for young people aged S - 19 years with aLbbsm. Property held on long lease as a specialist further education college for 51udenls up lo 25 years old wrth learning difficultie5, disabilities and comtAex needs. communicatson disorders and aub.sm A 5 bedded residential service accommodating chIldn and young people Brldge College Corbar Crosskeys A 2 bedded residential servicE accLJmmodating children and young people Greg A resi¢Jential Property which is being prepared for Serv Halnes Hou80 A 5 bedde¢J residential service Inscape House V¢¢•tional Coll•g•, A$hton- Undèr-Lyne education service for leamers aged 1&19 who would benefit from accessing a smaller post 16 provision specialising in working with learners wth Aulism Speclrum CditiOn IASCI and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health ISEMHI needs. A 6 bedded residential service accommodating children and young people Leryn M•rldlan A 5 bedded Short break service lor young people with autism N•wbrldg8 A specialist day servKe provi$w)n N¢rv•nt A specialist Iherapeulic re*den1181 provision for Iwo young people P•arc• Lodg• A 5 bedded propety for disabled ywThJ pgoplg aged 16 to adulthood P•ndlobury Hous• A shared care servicefor upto 6 young people with autism and behavioural Pocket Nook A 4 bedded service for children and young people with autism and other special requirements Swann A 4 bedded service for chil¢Jren an¢J ywng people Ventnor A 3 bedded service for children and YThJ people Woodland$ A 5 bedded short break service for disabled young peOe TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 15. Inv•$tm¢nt$ Llstèd Investments 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo UK listed investments 1,037 999 Movem8nt in markgt value 2025 £'ooo 999 549 15351 25 2024 £'ooo 924 Al stsrt of year Additions Disposal proceeds Nel invtsslmenl gains Movement in cash held by investment managers 11201 62 Al end of ygar 1.037 Market value is analysed beeen.. Investments 1.022 15 Cash held by investment managers 16 1.037 Unlisted investments The company's investments al the balance sheet date in the share caprt81 of comp8nles Include the followlng,, Subsldlary: Together (Trading) Limited Country of incorporation.. England and Wales Dale of In¢orporalion.. 3 March 2005 Nature ol business.. Dormant Numberof£1 ordinary$h¥r¢$ 111000A holding) BGWS (Trading) Limited Country of incorporation.. England and Wales Date of Incorporats'on.. 1 Seplember 2005 Nature of bu5ine5S.' t)ormanl Numberof£1 ordlnary shares 11100% holdlngl Boys and Girfs Weware Society Limited Country of incorporation.. England and Wale5 Date of incorporation.. 6 May 2LNJ5 Nature of business- Dormant Limited by guarantse None of these companies has traded during the year12024 doTmantl and they are not consolidated in the financial statements of The Together Trust on the grounds of immaleriality. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 47
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 16. Debtors Amounts falling due within one year 2025 £'ooo 3.219 1.319 16 2024 £'ooo 3,899 435 339 Trade debtors Prepayments and accrued income Other debtors 4.554 4,673 17. Cr•ditors.' Amounts falling du• within on• year 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo 61 541 743 487 522 412 Bank loans Trade creditors Accruals Deferred income Taxation and social $o¢urity Other creditors 1,306 500 409 1,104 426 3,809 2,766 Dof•rr&d Income movement 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo 100 11001 487 Balance al start of year Amount rele8sed in the year Amount deferred in the year 1487 Balance al end of year 409 487 Dgferrgd incomg ¢omprisgs in¢ome rgcgivgd or invoiced in adva of servicg dglivory. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial staternents for the year ended 31 March 2025 18. Crodltors.. Amount$ falling du• aftèr mor¢ than on¢ year 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo 629 14 Bank loans Fln8nci81 deriv8live5 Isee note 251 643 The bank loan is repayable as follows.. 202$ £'ooo 2024 £'ooo 61 64 203 362 Payable within one year Payable belween 1 and 2 years Payable between 2 10 5 years Payable after 5 years 209 289 628 690 The bank loan matures on 310ecember 2033 and is secured on certain propety (see note 141 with a debenture dalgd 26 Novembgr 2021. Interest is payable al a variable rale of UK base rale plus 2.25% on the principal amount. Interest payable in the year was £49,00012024 £53.0001. The Trust is a party lo an interest fate swap eonlract in relation to 8 financial deriv81ive lo manage ilg exposure lo the risk of interest rale variation. Under this swap contract, the Charity has agreed lo exchange the difference belwegn fixed and floating rale inlgresl amounts. This allows the Charity lo miligale the risk of changing interest rates and cash flows on (he variable rale debt held. See note 25 for further details. 19. Analy$l$ ol Changes In net debt Falr value At the Move end of m¢nt$ the y¥ar £'ooo £'ooo At the Start of Ihe year £'ooo Cash- flows £'ooo Noto Cash 7.385 1.549 8.934 Bank loans falling due within one year 17 {61) {31 1641 Bank loans falling dve after more than one year 19 (629) 65 15641 Interest rate swap 25 {14) 10 141 6,681 1,611 8,302 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 20. Provi$l¢n for Ilabllltl¢$ Servl¢e Closurn Dilapidations £'ooo Total £'ooo £'ooo At 1 April 2024 42 805 847 Amount providad in ygar 43 43 Amount ulilised in year 17981 17981 At 31 March 2025 85 92 Al 31 March 2024 42 805 847 The dilapidations provision represents the eslimaled costs of payments required lo make good leased property upon the 18rminalion of the lease. These costs are exp8cled lo be settled within the next two years. The Service Closure provision relates to the cost of closing one of the education services. Amounts provided for included the cost ol redundancy, the cosl of completion ol onerous conlracts and the impairment of fixed assets. The remaining provision is expecied to be settled within 12 monihs. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 21. Comparative stat•m•nt of financial activities Unrestricted Funds 2024 £'o Restricted Endowment Funds Funds 2024 2024 £'ooo £'oc Total Funds 2024 £'ooo Total Funds 2023 £'ooo Note In¢omo from: Donations Charitable acts'vits'es Investments Other 179 38,084 116 115 294 38,087 116 231 33,375 146 Total Income 38,387 118 38.505 33,753 Expendlture on- Raising funds Charitable acbvib'es Charitable activikn'es EXpIlon8l costs Total •xp•ndltur• 281 38.376 226 33,844 38.485 10 805 39,462 111 39.$74 34,070 Nel gainl$sS) on nv8stmènts 15 12 62 1661 Not l¢xp•nditur•Nln¢¢m• for1 year 11,0251 11 11,0071 13831 Transfers b9tW8gn funds 198} other rocognlsod gainslllossesl Actuarial loss on deline benefit pension scheme 24 1530) 15301 12771 Other gains 109 N•t movèmént In fund$ 11,4571 1911 11 11,5371 15511 Reconclllatlon of funds Total fLJnds brought forward Net movement of funds in the year 27,362 11.4571 477 1911 157 11 27,996 11,5371 28,547 15511 Total funds carried forward 22 25.905 26.459 27,996 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 51
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 22. Movémènt on fund$ 1 April 2024 £'ooo Gains & 110s$0$1 £'ooo 31 March 2025 £'ooo Incom8 £'ooo Expenditure £'ooo Transfers £'ooo Unrestrlcted General Ravaluation reserve Dosignaled 15,038 6,739 4,128 41,020 139.6691 110 11061 16.683 6.633 4,119 Unrestrl¢t¢d funds 25,905 41,020 139,6721 121 27,435 Ro$trl¢t¢d funds 386 140 {1521 376 Endowment funds 168 170 26,459 41.160 139,825} 187 27.981 1 April 2023 £'ooo Gains & IIOs5esl £'ooo 31 March 2024 £'ooo Income £'ooo Expenditure £'ooo Transfers £'ooo Unreslricled General Revaluation reserve Designated Unreslricled funds 16,108 6,845 4,409 38,387 {39.2721 {480) 295 11061 1911 98 15,038 6,739 4,128 (1) 139.4621 27,362 38,387 1480) 25,905 Rgslricled funds 477 {981 386 Endowment funds 157 {1) 12 168 27,996 38,505 139,5741 1468 26,459 Unre$tri¢ted Designated Funds Dgsignaled funds have bgen set aside to support the investments requirgd to a¢hievo our corporalg stralegy, in particular to supwrt digital transfomiation. our propety portfolio and its associated review. It is anlicipaled that this strategy will result in significant outlay being made over the course of around the next five years. These funds comprise". a development fund which was establishe(J to ring-fen¢e furKJs for the maintenance of the Charity's homes and schools in compliance wilh standards set for the ServIS by inspecting bodies. This expenditure Is expected lo be incurred on an ongoing basis. service Iransfomalion re-dtrvelopmenl ftjnds established lo ring-fence funds for the delivery of the Trust's service innovation plans, property review and digital investment. The timing of this expenditure being incurred is over a period of a number of years. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 22 Mov•m•nts on funds (Contlnu) Restricted Funds 1 April 2024 £'ooo 31 March 2025 £'ooo Income £'ooo Expenditure Transfers £'ooo £'ooo Education fund Bridge Transitional fund Eyegaze Technology fund Other 96 26 210 96 1261 11261 140 226 386 140 {152) 376 1 April 2023 £'ooo 31 March 2024 £'Doo Income £'ooo Expenditure £'ooo {21 Transfers £'ooo Education fund Bridgè Transitional lund Eyegaze Technology fund Other 96 26 210 26 92 325 1091 1981 477 118 1981 386 Edu¢atlon fund- funds from (L0rate supporters allocated to S¢IfiC projects for education serv provision Brldge Transltlonal fund- Ihls Is 8 fund for Bridge College, tr*ing grant monies from Central Government lo enable Colleges lo develop allemative income streams. Eyègaz¢ Technology lund- this was a fund lor our Clinical Services service being various grant monies received lo enable the purchase of digital assistive technology lo support young people with conditions thal impact on speech inlelligibilily and condilions Ihal impaci direct access to technology. Oth¥r- This preSentS a number of indwK1ual service funds, generally estsblished Irom donations restricted for use by a particular service. Transfers from restricied to unreslricted funds represents. where pemiitted. ihe transfer of funds which remain unspent following compbelion ol Ihe specific projects to which they related. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 22 Mov•m•nts on funds (Contlnu) Endowment Funds 1 April 2024 £'ooo 108 60 Gains & {loss8s1 £'ooo 31 March 2025 £'ooo 110 60 Incom• Expondltur• £'ooo £'ooo Transf•r$ £'ooo Jubileè Trust Fund Other funds 168 170 1 April 2023 £'ooo 101 56 Gains & Ilossesl £'ooo 31 March 2024 £'ooo 108 60 IncL)me Expenditure Transfers £'o £'ooo £'ooo Jubilee Trust Fund Other funds 157 12 168 Jubll8• Trust Fund This fund forms part of the Charity's inveslment portlolio and. as a permanent endowmenl fund, the restrictions on capital and use of income musl be lollowed and spent in a¢wdan¢e with the Jubilee Trust Fund objects. The Tog81her Trust is the sole truslee of the Juts'lee Trust Fund and the two charities are linked with The Tcgelher Trust being the reporting Charty for th. Other Funds These are 8xp8ndable endowment funds hold by thg Charity to ba us8d in accordanc8 With th8 individual fund objects. These funds are as follows.. Hoyer Trust Fund Thomas Hunt Trust Fund William Melland Trust Fund Ragged & Industrial Trust Fund Ann Slreel Wardle Trust Fund Harold Grimshaw Tnjsl Fund TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 23. Analysls of as$8ts and Ilabllltles lan funds Unrestricted 2025 £'ooo 18,439 867 4.554 8.558 13,809) 15681 {921 15141 27.435 Restricted 2025 £'ooo Endowment 2025 £'ooo Total 2025 £'ooo 18.439 1.037 4.554 8,934 13,8091 15681 192} 15141 27.981 Tangible fixed assets Inveslrnents Debtors Cash Current liabilrties Long term liabilities Provisions Pension deficit 170 376 Total net assets 376 170 Unreslricted 2024 £'ooo 18,382 831 4.673 6,999 12,7661 16431 18471 17241 25,905 Restricted 2024 £'o Endowment 2024 £'oco Total 2024 £'ooo 18,382 999 4,673 7,385 12,7661 16431 18471 17241 26,459 Tangible fixed assets Invgslmen¢s Debtors Cash Current liabilities Long term liabilities Provisions Pension deficit Total ng1 assgls TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 24. P8nslons Together Trust Final Salary Scheme The Charity operates a defined benefit scheme the Together Trust final salary scheme. The provider and 8dminislralor of the s¢h8me is The Pensions Trust. The scheme was Closed lo ntrw entrants and lo future a¢¢rual when it became 'paid up. with effed 31 March 2(K)O. This scheme is a separate Trusiee adminislered lund holding the pension scheme assets to meet long-term pension liabilities. An actuarial valuation was carried out as al 30 September 2021 by a qualified actuary, independent of the scheme's sponsoring employer. Scheme liabilities have been based on liability information as at 30 September 2021 updated lo 31 March 2025 by a qualrfied actuary, indepondenl of the scheme's sponsoring employer. The major assumptions use<1 by the a¢luary ar$ shown below. The most recent completed actuarial valuation showed a defiat of £687,000 as at 30 September 2021 (the 30 September 2024 actuarial valuation is currently being evaluated). The Together Trust has agreed with the scheme. Trustee that it would aim to eliminate the deficit over a period of 5 years and 6 months by the payment of annual contributions of £148.000 Ipayable monlhlyl in respect ol the deficit. Payments began on 1 April 2023 and continue lo be made. In addilion, and in acwrdance with the actuarial valuation. the Charity agreed with the Scherne Trusteg that il would pay £63,01)D p8r annum up to 31 March 2023 and £69.000 per annum ihereafter, increasirE by 3¥0 per annum each 1 April, lo meet expenses of the Scheme and levies to the Pension Protection Fund. The amount included in the balance she81 arising from the Trust's obligations in respect of th8 defined benefit scheme Is as follows.. 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Fair value ol scheme assets Present value of defined benefit obligations 5,794 16,3081 6,395 17,1191 Def5cit Sn plan and net liability recognised In the balance sheet 15141 17241 Reconciliatson of opening and closing balances ol the scheme assets and liabilities Pre$¢nt value of s¢hemo Scheme assets 1885 s¢hemo Falrvalu of s¢h•mo assets £'ooo 6.395 11381 304 15811 219 14051 'ooo 17,1191 £'ooo 17241 11381 1331 162 219 Scheme ass8tsllliabiliti8sl at start of year Expenses Interest incornellcosll Acluari8111055llgain Contributions paid by the employer Bgnefils paid and 8Xn$8$ 13371 743 405 S¢heme asset$llliabilitie$) recognised at end of year 5.794 16.3081 15141 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 24. Pensions Icontinued) The actual retum of the plan assets over the reporting period was a105s of £277,00012024 a loss of £156,LK)01. The analysis of assets held was as follow5= 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Asset Category Equity Bonds Property Cash Other LDI Liquid alternalwes Private credit 19 4,051 725 150 307 1,112 21 10 2,102 696 217 809 1,965 Total assets 5,794 6,395 Amounts recognised in the Statement of Financial Activib'es in respect of the defined benefit scheme are as follows.. 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo Expens8s Interest income on assets Interesl cost on defined benefit obligalK)n 11381 304 13371 1871 324 13361 Net ¢o$t r•¢ognl¥ed wlthln n¢t ¢xpendlture forthe year 1991 Return on stheme assets (excluding amounts included in net interest costl- loss Experience gains and losses arising on the scheme liabilitses- gainlllossl Effects of changes in the demographic and financial assumptions underlying the present value of the scheme liabililie5- gain 15811 128 615 14801 1571 Totsl 8¢tuarial gainslllosse$l 162 15301 Total cost relating to defined benefit 5¢heme recogni5ed in the Statement of Finaneial AetivitiÈs 16291 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782 57
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 24. Pensions (continued) Assumptlons The key assumptions used in the actuarial vahJatw)n were.. 31 March 2025 31 March 2024 o per annum.. Discount rate Inflation IRPII Inflation ICPII lowancè for revaluation of tlelerred pensions of RPI or 5% p.a. if less Allowance for pension in payment increases of CPI or 5°k pa il less lowance for pension in paymenl increases of CPI or 3% pa il less 5.70 3.13 4.87 3.19 2.89 3.19 2.82 2.26 3.13 1.92 2025 2024 Percentage of maximum allowance kn comrnutation of pension for cash al rèliremenl 75% 75% The mortality assumptlons adopted impty the following life expectancles on reliremenl: Life expe¢tsn¢y at age 85 (number of years) 2025 2024 Retiring today. Males Females 21.3 23.6 21.2 23.8 Retiring in 20 years.. Males Females 22.8 25.2 25.1 TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBter9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 24. Penslons l¢ontinuedl The Charity has participated in 212024 21 pension sthemes for its slaff and these are described below. 111 Tea¢h•rs' Penslon Scheme The Trust part1Pate$ in the Teachers. Pènsion S¢hem& ITPS). The Teachers, Pension Scheme is a statutory, contributory, deffined benefit scheme. governed by the Teachers. Pensions 2014. Membership is automatic forteachers in schools and other educats'onal establishmenis. All teachers have the option to opl-oul ofthe TPS following enrolmenl. The TPS is an unlunded scheme and members contribute on a 'p8y as you go, b8sis- these contributions along with those m8tJe by employers are crediteij lo the Exchequer. The Trust has a¢¢ounted lor ils Contributions lo the scheme as if il were a defined contribution scheme. The Trust has sfjl out bglow the information availab on Ihe sch8. The Government Actuary, using normal actuarial principles, conducts a formal actuarial review of the TPS in accordance with the Public Service Pensions Ivaluations and Employer Cost Capl Directions 2023 Ithe Directionsl published by HM Treasury every 4 years. The aim of the review is to specify the level of future conlribulions. Actuari81 scheme valuations are deptrndenl on assumptions about the value ol future costs, Ihtr design of benefits and many other laclors. Thg lalgst acluarial valuation of the TPS was carried out as al 31 March 2020 in a¢cordan¢e with the Directions and Ihe Employer Contribution Rate was assessed using agreed assumptions in line with the Directions and was accepted al the original assessed rate as there was no cost control mechanism breach. The valuation report was published by the Department for Education on 28 October 2023. The key elements of the valuation are.. lolal s¢hemg liabili11gs lor service (the ¢api¢al sum needed at 31 March 2020 to mo01 the stream of fulurg cash flows in respect of benefits eamedl of £262 billion; value ol nob'onal assets lestimated future contributsons together with the proceeds from the notional investments held 81 the valuation dale) 01 £222 billion., notional past service deficit of £39.8 billion12016 £22 billion),. and discount rale is 1.7% in excess of CPI {2016 2.4% in excess of CPI) Ithis change has had the greatest rinancial signifinCe). As a result of the valuatson, new employer contribLrtion rates have been set at 28.60% of pensionable pay from 1 April 2024 until 1 April 2028 Iccffjpared lo 23.68% under the previous valuation including a 0.08¥o administration levyl. A full copy of the valuation report and supp(Mb'ng dments can be found on tho Teachers. Pension Scheme website www.teachers nsions.co.uk. The TPS is a rnulli-employer pension scheme. The Trust is unable to identfy its share of the underlying assets and liabilities of the scheme. Accordingly. Ihe Trust ha5 laken advantage of the exemption in FRS 102 and has accounted for its contributions to the scheme as if rt were a defined contribution scheme. The Trust has set out above the information available on the scheme and the implications for the Trust in temis of the anticipated contribution rates. The employer pension contribution ¢x)5ts paid to the TPS in the year amounted lo £888.00012024 £816,000) and have bgen re¢ognised in the Slattrmenl of Financial Athitses as an expens& wrth £74.000 12024 £62.0001 outstanding at the balan¢e sheet date. The liability and expense have been allocated in fvll to unrestrirted funds. The allocation of the expense to activities is explained in note 9. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 {111 Group Personal Pension Plan The Charity also provides eligible stsff the opportunity lo ¢ontribulo to a ptrrsonal pension through a Group Personal Pension Plan. which is a defined contribution scheme. It is made available to all stsff excluding those eligible for the Teachers, Pension Scheme. Provision of Ihe scheme is made through pension provider Standard In the year ended 31 March 2025 the employer pension contributions payable in respect of staff participating in the Group Person81 Pension Plan were £1,201.00012024 £1,088.000} with £99,00012024 £93.0001 outstanding al Ihg balan¢9 sheet dale. 25. Derlvatlve financlal Instruments The following tsble dglails the nolional principal amounts and remaining temis of inleresl rat8 swap contracts oulslanding as al the rek)Orting dale.. Outstandlng contracts- rnceive floating pay fixed contrncts Avera conlract Intèrest rate Notional Princi I valu8 Falr valuo 2025 2024 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'oci) 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo ears + 4.21 4.21 772 836 14 The Trust Is party lo an Intergst rale swap contracl in relalion lo a financial derivative lo manage Ils exposure lo the risk of int¢re$t rate variation. The interesl rate swap ntract expires on 31 Mah 2031. The fair value of the derivalive is calculaled by discountiThJ ihe future cash flows io the maturity date of 31 March 2031. The produ¢l give5 the Trust increased Certainty over future Costs and eash flows, and the liability should be cOnsered within the context ol the lenglh ol the loan peritxj and interest rates existing when the loan agreement was made in Decemb&r 2010. The interesl rate swap settles on a quarterly basis. The floating rate on the interest rale swap is baséd on UK base rate. The Trust sellles the difference belween the fixed and floaling interest rate on a net basis. Gains of £10,000 12024 £8,000) in respect of the interest rdle swap contract have been recognised in the Slalemenl of Financial Activities. 26. Related party transactlons No Trustee received payment for professional or other services supplied lo the Charity during the year12024 £nill. There were no other related party IransactKJn5 during the current or prior year that require disclosure. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782
Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 27. Flnan¢lal ¢ommitmont$ Oporating lèase commltm•nts The total future minimum lease paymenis under mn-cancellable operaling leases were.. Land & Building5 2025 2024 £'ooo £'o(xi Other 2025 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo due within one year duè batweèn one and five years 15 61 100 22 26 48 28. Contlngent Llabllltiès In 2021. the Charity was infom)ed by The Pensi$ Twst that some benefit changes in regard to the final salary- based pansion schame, which closed lo nèw members in 2000, may nol have been in accordance with the scheme rules. The Pensions Trust has sought court direcbon in relation lo this, the outcome of which is expected lo be known later in 2025. If the Court directs these changes were made in a way not permitted by the scheme rules, then this would give rise lo addilional pension liabilities for the Charity in the future. which the Scheme's Actuary has estimated lo be in the region of £6.1m. This figure is estimated on 8 non-8¢counling basis, using actuarial assumptions derived using the Trustee's Technical Provisions basis as at 30 September 2021. where this relates to service prior to the dale of change and has been calculated from the preliminary results of the actuarial valuation as al 30 Seplembef 2021 allowing lor mafkel ¢(ditionS at Ihat date. The actuarial valuabon for the Scheme as al 31 March 2025 identified a deficit of £514,000 performed under FRS102 and makes no allowance for any additional liabilities which may arise followng the Court's decision. As the out¢ome of Ihg case is awaited land the outcomg may subsequently be subject to app881l, no obligation of a liability has arisen as a result of the past benefit Changes and therefore no amounts are provided for. In the event of an adverse ruling, the precise impact on the income stalement and balance sheet will be assessed and a payment plan would be agreed wilh the Trustee ol The Pensions Trust with payments made, as normal, over number ol years. The above details are disclosed as a contingent liability in order lo provide stakeholder5 with information about the potential imp8Ct of this matter. In 8 further conne¢t8d matter, the Charity is aware that. in 2024, the Court of Appeal upheld the decision in the Virgin Media vs NTL Pension Trustees 11 Limti8d case. Th8 decision puts into question tha validily of any amendments made in respect oflhe rules of a conlracted-out pension scheme between 6 April 1997 and 5 April 2016. The judgment means that some historic amendments affecting s.912BI rights could be void if the neGe5S8ry aGtu8ri81 Gonfirm8lion under s.37 of the Pen5i0n Schemes Ad 1993 was not obtsined. The impact of this matter, rf any, along with the Court case in rèspect of the benèfit ¢hangÈs review, will be considerèd by the s¢heme Trustees when the outcome of the benefits review court case is known. Since the year end. on the 5 June 2025, the Government announced its intention lo introduce legislats'on to give affecled pension schemes the ability to retrospectively obtain wntten confirmation ihat historical benefit changes mel the necessary stsndards. H¢)wever, details of the legislation have not been announced. Subject to the Scheme Trustee being able to Comply wrth the legislation and the pension schemeobtaining the required written a¢tuarial confirmations, the Trustees do not expect th6 valuation ol the scheme Ihabilities to cthangè in resCt ol this matt6r. 29. Ultlmate controlllng party The Ch8rrty is under the control of ils Members arbd there is no ultimate controlling paty. The Members, as Charity Trustees, have control of the Charty and there is no one individual Controlling party. TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 61
Reference & administrative information The Nonoxecutive and Execub've leadership. as at the dale ol this rew)rt, are set oul below-. Board of Trustees INon4x¥¢utiv¢l Trust LeadershipTeam (Exècutlvèl Principal Professional Advisèr6 Chair Giles Gaddur Chi&f Exècutive Melanie Dunn Banke Barclays Bank PLC 3 Hardman Street Spinningfields Manchester M3 3HF Vice Chair Norah Flood Service Director Sara Mdridge Lead Honorary Treasurer Anthony Farnworth Commercial rectOr Dr Paul Jarvis Investmenl Managers Brewin Oolphin Limrted 1 The Avenue Spinningfields Square Manchester M3 3AP Assistant Honorary Troasurgr lan Johnson People and Culture Director Roland Guy AssoGiale DiTr¢tor of Finance Clare Morrissy Geoff Durbln Marcell Edwards Jane Grime Michael Hgnshaw Roger Horne Gani Martins Rebekah Pierre Steven Pitt Jane Walapu Ls>g&l Advisers Trowers & Hamlins LLP 55 Princess Street Manchester M2 4EW Audilor RSM UK Audit LLP 141n Floor 20 Chapel Street Liverpool L3 9AG HR & Health & Safety Advisers The Royal Society for the Prevention ofAccidents IROSPAI 28 Calthorpe Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 1RP Charity n&me.' The Together Trust Charity gIStratIon number.. 209782 Company registration number. 00301722 Registered OffiGe.' Together Tnjst Centre Schools Hill Cheadle Cheshire SK8 1JE Telephone.. Email.. Website.. 0161 283 4848 enquiries@logethertrust.org.uk wvM.togeihertmst.org.uk TOGETHER VTRUST charity RegBtgr9d thatitynumber209782 62
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'TOGETHER VTRUST charitP Disability, specialist education and care
TOGETHER VTRUST charity The Together Trust Together Trust Centre Schools Hill, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 1JE 0161283 4848 enquiries@togethertrust.org.uk A digital copy OF this publication can be downloaded at togethertrust.org.uklwhat-we-do