2023-08-31-accounts

ANNUAL REVIEW Trustee Report & Accounts 2022 - 2023

CONTENTS

03 Message from the chair and the chief executive

18 Staff

20 Financials

04 About Henshaws

29 Independent auditor’s report

06 Specialist college

32 Statement of financial activities

08 Arts & crafts centre

33 Balance sheet

10 Sight loss support

34 Statement of cash flows

12 Hints and tips

35 Notes to the financial statements

14 Fundraising

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO AND CHAIR

2022-23 was a year of change for Henshaws with a new Chair of Trustees and CEO taking over, along with several new appointments to the Board and Executive Leadership Team. By year-end, we had a strong team in place, ready to advance the charity's strategic development. Despite the challenging economic environment, financial performance was solid with a net income of £0.5m.

Henshaws Specialist College retained its overall Good rating with Outstanding in Personal Development after an Ofsted inspection in May. With 81 students enrolled, they achieved 94% of their educational targets and 58 of our students completed 2,427 hours of work experience.

We relaunched our Patrons and Ambassadors programme and, since the year end, we are delighted that one of our Ambassadors, Clare Granger has accepted the position of President.

Our many successes are due to the dedication, commitment, experience and sheer hard work of our staff. We believe our workforce should reflect the people we support and the values we uphold. 14.25% of our staff members have a disability and as an employer we endeavour to go beyond the scope of the Equality Act whenever possible.

Our Arts and Crafts Centre's Artmaker community grew by 10%, with enhancements including a new multisensory workshop, café redecoration, and horticulture space development.

The Sight Loss Support Team (formerly Community Services) in Greater Manchester and Merseyside supported 2,965 individuals, a 32% increase from the previous year. MBA students from Alliance Manchester Business School evaluated our First Steps CVI service, finding that for every £1 invested, it generates £13 in economic benefit.

The people we support are at the heart of what we do. Cameron, a Henshaws College graduate, and his father James completed a 100-mile cycling challenge, raising £1,465 and winning the Fundraiser of the Year title at the Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards. We are proud of Cameron and grateful to James for his ongoing support as one of our Ambassadors.

Our marketing team’s strategic use of social media reduced posts by 73% but increased engagement per post by 293%. Our website had 116,000 users, 114,000 video views, and 91,000 social media engagements.

Although 2022-23 was a stable year for Henshaws, we anticipate challenges ahead with increasing pressure on Local Authority funding and rising costs. We will focus on working with partners to ensure our services remain cost-effective and continue to provide high-quality support, information, and guidance. With our dedicated team, Henshaws will continue to exceed expectations.

The fundraising team’s first Summer Ball raised £18,000, and our ever-popular Golf Day raised £16,000. With support from corporate donors like Barratt Developments, our Specialist College now has a new outdoor classroom for the Forest School.

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Sally Daniels
CEO
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Alistair How
Chair or Trustees
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ABOUT HENSHAWS

Who We Are

Henshaws is a charity that has been helping people living with sight loss and a range of other disabilities for over 180 years.

Our Mission

We believe that, wherever they are, everyone has the right to an independent and fulfilling life. Our support, advice and training enables people and their families to build skills, develop confidence, help each other and look forward to a more positive future.

Our Values

We strive to improve quality of life, increase independence and reduce the social isolation of those affected by sight loss and other disabilities. We work at the heart of the community – creating long-lasting and real change through education, community support, and enterprise.

How We Support

Our dedicated staff and volunteers are the fuel of the organisation; they provide support, advice and training, enabling people and their families to build skills, develop confidence, help each other and look forward to a more positive future.

Our Impact

We work throughout the North of England and our places include a Specialist College, Community Centres and an Arts & Crafts Centre. We support disabled people to be part of their local community. We are continually using technology to support more people, wherever they are, online.

AT A GLANCE..

94 %

15,000 interventions offering information, advice, and guidance.

23,879

of Henshaws Specialist College students reached their education targets.

artmaker sessions completed at Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre.

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SUPPORTING PEOPLE LIVING
WITH SIGHT LOSS AND A RANGE
OF OTHER DISABILITIES TO GO
BEYOND EXPECTATIONS.
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SPECIALIST COLLEGE

Our Specialist College in Harrogate is a place of transformation. We offer a tailored educational, learning, and care experience for young adults aged 16-25 with disabilities, helping them exceed expectations and achieve their personal goals.

Our dedicated in-house clinical and therapy teams support each student's educational journey. Our extensive facilities, including a swimming and hydrotherapy pool, enhance our vibrant learning environment.

Additionally, we provide innovative programmes for students beyond 25 years old or those without an Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP), ensuring continued support and growth.

Our approach empowers students to lead the lives they choose, fostering friendships, enhancing independence, discovering their communicative abilities, preparing for employment, and boosting their health and well-being.

DURING 2022 - 2023

CURRICULUM AREAS:

Social and Creative Learning:

1,500

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24
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Building communication skills and meaningful relationships.

students accessed hours of speech off-campus work and language experience support provided

Living and Work:

Teaching teamwork, problemsolving, and effective communication for post-college life.

157 WHAT WE 99 full day (24 hr) respite care ACHIEVED 1:1 student stays provided wellbeing to students sessions

Skills for Life:

Practical English, maths, and communication skills for daily independence.

Health and Wellbeing: Promoting a healthy lifestyle and empowering informed choices.

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2,427

students accessed on hours of campus work completed work experience experience

Students engage in various sessions, including Functional Skills, ICT, Work Experience, PSHCE, Volunteering, and more, for holistic personal and professional development.

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CASE STUDY:
THOMAS' DAILY BADGE
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ARTS AND CRAFTS CENTRE

We've made significant improvements to our facility, including a charming café redecoration and renovated accessible toilets. With a generous donation from LNER, we launched a Multisensory Workshop, enriching experiences through tactile activities. Our Print Workshop has also evolved with a new Press, fostering higherquality productions and enhancing our Artmakers' skills.

As the year ends, we're excited to highlight the remarkable growth and innovation at Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre, where creativity and community thrive.

Our Artmakers community has grown by 10%, fostering new talents and broadening artistic horizons. Additionally, we've seen a remarkable 75% increase in community events, reinforcing our Centre as a vibrant hub for local engagement.

As we reflect on a year of artistic achievement and community integration, Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre remains a beacon of inspiration. We're excited to build on this success, embracing innovation and growth for a future filled with continued impact.

Our dedicated volunteers have contributed 454 hours this year, earning nominations for four prestigious community awards. Their passion sustains daily activities and enhances our impact, recognised through nominations like Volunteer of the Year and Knaresborough in Bloom.

WHAT WE ACHIEVED

OUR CENTRE IMPROVEMENTS

We have embarked on a comprehensive journey of enhancement and modernisation. Throughout this year, our efforts have been concentrated on several key areas, each aimed at enriching the experience of our Artmakers and furthering our mission of inclusivity and accessibility.

CAFE

REDECORATED Infusing it with fresh aesthetics and a welcoming ambiance.

LAUNCH OF MULTI-SENSORY WORKSHOP

Designed to engage and inspire individuals of all abilities.

TOILETS RENOVATED Ensuring the highest standards of functionality, and accessibility.

DEVELOPMENT OF HORTICULTURE WORKSHOP SPACE

Promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and connection with nature.

NEW PRINT PRESS IN PRINT WORKSHOP

Cutting-edge equipment empowering Artmakers to explore their creative potential.

CASE STUDY: HOLLY'S HIDDEN TALENTS

Holly, a recent Artmaker, discovered her passion for painting after turning to arts and crafts due to physical limitations. Despite initial uncertainty, she found joy in painting, particularly inspired by a Knaresborough river scene. With support from the Centre, Holly not only honed her artistic skills but also learned to play the electric guitar. Lizzie, a workshop leader, praised Holly's progress in communication and money-handling skills, highlighting her talent in painting and singing. Holly's story showcases the power of self discovery and the supportive environment at Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre.

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SIGHT LOSS SUPPORT

This past year has been one of significant achievements and broadened impacts, touching the lives of adults, children, young people, and their families, as well as the professionals who support them.

Our commitment remains firm to providing a comprehensive suite of services, and we've pushed forward with our strategic initiative to reach and help more people more frequently. Key to this has been our investment in real-time data collection, which not only demonstrates the effectiveness of our interventions but also informs our ongoing decision-making processes.

As a result, we have reached more individuals than ever before, including a record number of new service users, while simultaneously enhancing the overall impact of our support.

In response to the pervasive cost of living crisis, which disproportionately affects those with sight loss, we've dynamically expanded our services to meet changing needs both on a macro and micro level.

This year, we also partnered with MBA students from Alliance Manchester Business School to evaluate our First Steps CVI service. The findings were remarkable: for every £1 invested, the service generates £13 in economic benefits. This underscores the tangible, positive impacts our work has on individuals and the broader economy—contributions that are especially crucial in today's challenging economic landscape.

FEEDBACK: Our ability to monitor and understand the impacts of our services in real-time has been crucial. Feedback from those we've assisted has been overwhelmingly positive:

Information

• 90% have better access to information and support for their daily and future needs

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90%
7%
91%
38%
84%
83%
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a significant rise from 7% pre-service.

Support

91% have established a robust support network

up from 38% before joining Henshaws.

Wellbeing

84% reported improved emotional wellbeing.

Confidence

83% now feel more independent and confident.

SPECIAL INITIATIVES:

• THE CVI PATHWAY: Integral to the sight loss journey, this pathway begins with our supportive Eye Clinic Liaison Officer service immediately post-diagnosis, continuing with ongoing support through the First Steps CVI service. A year after joining, 94% of service users understand how to find further support, enhancing their independence.

• DIGITAL ENABLEMENT: We've expanded our digital services in Greater Manchester, helping people with sight loss navigate and engage with the digital world effectively. Our initiatives in Wigan and Bury, in partnership with local organisations, exemplify our commitment to enhancing digital accessibility.

• MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT: Addressing the rise in mental health concerns, particularly among those with sight loss, we've expanded our counselling services, supported by generous donations, to provide crucial emotional support.

• SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES: As leaders in the North West for sight loss services for children, young people, and families, we've seen remarkable growth in this area. Our services, ranging from life skills to recreational activities, have not only educated but also boosted confidence and social interaction among young participants.

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STRATEGIC INSIGHTS

Over the past year, our average impressions per social media post has increased by 346% and we have boosted the average engagement per post by 293%

This remarkable improvement in our engagement metrics demonstrates our focus on quality over quantity in our digital communications strategy. By concentrating on creating more impactful and meaningful content, we've managed to increase viewer interaction and maintain a strong presence with fewer posts. This strategy not only reflects our commitment to efficiency but also underscores our dedication to providing valuable, relevant content that resonates deeply with our audience.

As we continue to unify our social media channels under one cohesive Henshaws voice, these metrics are invaluable. They show that our approach to sharing a unified, powerful message across all platforms is more effective, allowing us to reach and engage our community more profoundly than ever before.

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91,315
116,006 ENGAGEMENTS
USERS OF THE
ON SOCIAL
WEBSITE
MEDIA
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As a freely accessible online hub on our website, Henshaws Hints and Tips is dedicated to disseminating our deep reservoir of knowledge and expertise to those affected by sight loss and other disabilities.

These tools are designed to empower you with information on a range of topics from assistive technologies and daily living tips to specific advice tailored for children and their families.

Our Hints and Tips serves as a vital resource, enabling us to reach a broad and dispersed audience in a cost-effective manner, while still providing the rich, personal support and expertise available through our First Step contact centre and local hub activities.

Whether you are someone experiencing sight loss, a supportive friend or family member, or a professional in the field, our Hints and Tips offers an extensive library filled with blogs, eBooks, videos, and downloadable resources.

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downloadable resources. local hub activities.
1,865 3.7 MIL
THIS YEAR'S TOP CONTENT SHARES OF IMPRESSIONS
VIDEOS ON ON SOCIALS/
GENERATING
YOUTUBE YOUTUBE
EYE CARE: Tips for administering eye drops for those with Glaucoma. ALMOST
COMMUNICATION TOOLS: Introduction to Makaton signs for 'Hello' 94,000
and 'Goodbye'.
VIEWS IN
ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES: Navigating accessible cash machines.
TOTAL
CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES: Engaging activities for kids with visual
impairments.
TECHNOLOGY TUTORIALS:ASSISTIVE DEVICES: Understanding what desktop magnifiers do and how bone Using voice control to operate your TV. 114,479 5,463
conduction headphones can benefit people with sight or hearing loss. VIDEOS HOURS OF
VIEWED VIEWING
SAFETY TIPS: Safe road crossing techniques for the visually impaired.
CULINARY SKILLS: Best practices for presenting food to someone with sight loss.
MOBILITY AIDS : Guidance on using different types of white canes.
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THIS YEAR'S TOP CONTENT

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SUPPORTERS

In our annual review, we take a moment to acknowledge the remarkable strides and accomplishments that have been made, all thanks to the generosity of our donors. Your unwavering belief in our mission serves as a constant source of inspiration, propelling us to continually dismantle barriers and foster inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive and reach their fullest potential.

BELOW IS JUST SOME OF THE WAYS WE HAVE BEEN SUPPORTED THIS YEAR:

4,000 DRINKS SERVED AT BEER FEST

£16,000 RAISED BY OUR CHARITY GOLF DAY

£18,000 RAISED BY OUR SUMMER BALL

CAM'S TANDEM

Father and son James and Cameron inspired us all after taking on 100 miles of tandem cycling as part of our annual Henshaws Hundreds challenge.

Cameron, a recent graduate of Henshaws College, has autism and is non-verbal, requiring round the clock 1 to 1 care. He needs assistance dressing himself, with personal care, and almost every aspect of his life. James completely understands the transformative powers of Henshaws College where Cameron lived during the week and the Arts & Crafts Centre where Cameron regularly visits.

James and Cameron took on the incredible challenge of cycling 100 miles in June , which is the most that both of them had ever cycled before! They smashed their challenge and raised an incredible £1465 for Henshaws, leading on to them scooping Fundraiser of the Year at the Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards.

THANK YOU!

As we reflect on the past year's achievements, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the all the people who donated to Henshaws. Your donations make a profound impact on the lives of people with disabilities and it’s only with your kindness and generosity that we can make these positive changes .

BARRATT DEVELOPMENTS YORKSHIRE EAST

This year our College received a £25,000 donation from local housebuilder, Barratt Developments Yorkshire East, to fund the creation of a new outdoor classroom to support our Forest School. The new classroom encourages an active lifestyle through outdoor learning. Natural resources are used to promote investigation, imagination, and creativity. The beautiful 22ft yurt - complete with wood burning stove - provides a fully accessible space 365 days of the year, so the students can continue to learn outdoors, whatever the weather.

TOGETHER, YOU HAVE RAISED OVER £1.09 MILLION!

BRITISH AIRWAYS

The course teaches a level of problem solving, communication skills and sighted guiding. In addition to funding our work, BA employees chose to donate to Henshaws through their Crowdfunder page and they have volunteered and taken part in our events. This partnership continues to grow through BAs commitment to creating a better world and we’re looking forward to working together over the next year.

Our partnership with British Airways (BA) is helping to create a ‘better world’ for people with visual impairments. BA have helped fund Visual Impairment Awareness Training (VIAT) to help schools, public spaces and offices to become more inclusive. The training is designed to develop an understanding of the needs of visually impaired people, and provide practical solutions which can be implemented straight away.

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COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

If our fundraising falls below the standard you expect, or you wish to make a formal complaint about our fundraising, you can do so by contacting any member of staff by e-mailing [e-mail]. uk or by writing to us.

We will acknowledge and make an initial response to any complaints we receive within five working days, and a full response within 30 days if your complaint requires further investigation. If you are not satisfied with the response you receive, we ask that you contact our Director of Fundraising, Stephen Tongue, in writing at the address on page 55.

If you complaint is about fundraising activities and we are unable to resolve it to your satisfaction, you can raise it with the Fundraising Regulator by visiting their website, by telephoning 0300 999 3407, or by writing to Fundraising Regulator, Eagle House, 167 City Road, London, EC1V 1AW or e-mailing complaints@ fundraisingregulator.org.uk

PATRONS AND AMBASSADORS

This initiative is crucial for strengthening our connections with supporters who share our unwavering commitment to inclusivity. By offering enhanced engagement opportunities and hosting exclusive events, we are broadening our network. This expansion enables us to amplify our impact, building greater awareness and support. Together, we can drive lasting, meaningful change for individuals with disabilities.

PRESIDENTS:

AMBASSADORS:

Martin Mann We would like Mike Raine to thank our Nicci Boardman Presidents, Sally Bennett Patrons and Sid Hines Ambassadors Jane Warrington-Smith for all they do. Stefan Andrusyschyn Denise Leigh

Clare Granger Debbie Williams Sir Warren Smith Gary Nash Graham Dixon PATRONS: Ellie Dixon Rob Northfield James Love Dave Steele Dominic Walker (The Blind Poet) Kimberley Peet Rory Hoy

VULNERABLE SUPPORTERS

Henshaws fundraising team are sensitive to signs that may indicate an individual is in vulnerable circumstances, and may need support to make an informed decision about donating. If we reasonably believe an individual lacks the capacity to make that decision alone, then that donation will not be taken, or will be returned.

Safeguarding training is a mandatory requirement for the team and Henshaws is registered with the Fundraising Regulator and we abide by the code of fundraising practice.

We didn’t receive any complaints about our fundraising in 2022-23 and we did not employ any third party organisations to act on our behalf.

We strive to continuously improve our fundraising and welcome any feedback from our donors and supporters.

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STAFF

Henshaws flourishes thanks to the dedication, commitment, and wealth of experience embodied by our exceptional staff. As a mindful and disability-confident employer, we prioritise the holistic wellbeing of our team members, empowering them to exceed expectations. We have a culture of inclusivity and support, valuing each individual and encouraging them to realise their full potential.

Henshaws offers a variety of flexible working patterns to all employees, such as term-time-only arrangements and compressed hours, acknowledging that staff have responsibilities and commitments outside of work. We are committed to providing a flexible work environment to promote a work life balance where possible, to enable staff to live a full and satisfying life.

We also offer a range of family friendly initiatives to support those with caring responsibilities including up to three paid days off per year for unforeseen emergency issues and one personal wellbeing day.

Through ongoing initiatives and tailored support, we are dedicated to creating an environment where innovation thrives, collaboration flourishes, and every team member feels empowered to make a meaningful impact.

GENDER PAY GAP REPORT

In 2023 Henshaws had a 3.7% pay gap, this means that for every £1 a male employee earns, a female employee earns 96p. This is better than the national average, which is 14.3% , due to our inclusive, fair and quantifiable job evaluation process and our commitment to supporting staff to maintain a good work life balance. Even though our gap is smaller than the national average, we continually strive to improve and eradicate any gaps.

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WHAT WE
ACHIEVED
disabled workforce
14.25%
Gender Pay gap
3.7%
10+ year of service
12.05%
73.15% Female staff
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STAFFING METRICS STAFFING METRICS

Achieving Pay Equity Despite challenges, Henshaws proudly maintains a mere 3.7% pay gap , demonstrating our commitment to equitable compensation for all employees.

Empowering Diversity With a workforce comprised of 73.15% females , Henshaws celebrates diversity and gender equality in the workplace.

Celebrating Loyalty

A remarkable 12.05% of our workforce boasts over a decade of dedicated service, reflecting our employees' loyalty and satisfaction.

Embracing Inclusivity

At Henshaws, inclusivity is paramount, as evidenced by our workforce where 14.25% of staff proudly identify as disabled, showcasing our dedication to fostering an environment of accessibility and support.

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31.55
365 43 165
AVERAGE
AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE
WORKING
HEADCOUNT STAFF AGE FULL TIME
HOURS PER
EMPLOYEES
WEEK
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REVIEW
Trustee Report
& Accounts
2022 - 2023
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strategic review

The Trustee Board undertakes an annual rolling strategy review each year.

Eight key development objectives form the basis of the current strategy, and they are expressed through an annual update of the Business Plan. This details how the strategy will be implemented and is presented to the Trustee Board in each year along with the supporting budget.

The Strategic Objectives for Henshaws are:

1. Provision of an excellent service.

2. Development of the appropriate services for the present and future agendas.

3. Development of financially stable services.

4. Proactive development of services.

5. Development of a responsive provision for clientele needs.

6. Development of a flexible planned response to changes in the external commercial environment.

7. Development of the staffing structure to include improved recruitment, retention and training of all staff.

8. Maximisation and development of resources for present and future opportunities.

For the year 2022-2023 the college was operating under the assumption that the long-term plan was to switch to lower student numbers with higher clinical needs. This strategy proved effective in the current financial year resulting in exceeding budget and generating a surplus.

Although financially successful, the Trustee Board have since recognised the high-risk nature of this strategy and made the decision to move away from the recruitment of more clinically complex students and to refocus the college on its traditional educational base.

Beyond the College the Arts and Crafts Centre continues to grow, and we are now fundraising for new workshops. The longer-term strategy is to develop the site and increase the capacity for Artmakers. Sight Loss Support continues to expand the number of visually impaired individuals they reach while also improving the cost per user.

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legal & administrative information

The Charity’s name is Henshaws Society for Blind People, and its registered charity number is 221888. It was founded in 1837 and registered as a charity on 14 April 1980.

The Charity is governed by the following trust documents: (i) a Charity Commission Scheme dated 18 September 2000; (ii) resolutions of the members of the Charity dated 18 September 2012; and (iii) a Charity Commission Scheme dated 28 February 2013.

The sole trustee is Henshaws Society for Blind People Trustee Limited, company number 8313313. The company was incorporated on 29 November 2012 under the Companies Act 2006 as a private company limited by guarantee. It is governed by its Articles of Association, with its sole purpose being to act as corporate trustee of the Charity.

The Charity and Trustee’s registered office together with details of the Trustee Board of Directors, Charity Senior Management Team and principal advisors are shown on page 55.

Charitable objects and public benefit

The Trustee has considered the question of public benefit and is satisfied that all the Charity’s charitable service delivery is for public benefit as defined by charity law (section 17 of the Charity Act 2011) and Charity Commission regulations.

The objects of the Charity are:

(a) the relief of people who are blind or visually impaired (which shall be the principal object);

(b) the relief of people with other disabilities; and

(c) the relief of the families and carers of blind or visually impaired people and other people with disabilities principally, but not exclusively, by providing services, care, facilities, support, advice, education and training.

Governance and management

The Trustee acts for and in the name of the Charity. The Trustee retains ultimate control over all aspects of the Charity’s work and ensures that its financial and legal responsibilities are properly fulfilled. The Trustee’s Board of Directors consists of up to 20 Directors and comprises the Chair, Treasurer and other elected Directors.

financial review

(i) Operational performance

The Charity continues to provide high quality, essential services to a range of people with visual impairment and other needs. These services are vital, most of the fees are paid by local authorities. Whilst there are advantages in terms of continuity of income, there are some difficulties given the pressure on local authority finances.

Housing and Support Services income fell from £283k in 2022 to £233K in 2023, while expenditure increased from £208k to £244k. The supported living resulted in a loss this financial year due to renovations and changes that had to be made to the properties when the local authorities designated them as “HMOs” (houses of multiple occupancy). Now that the changes have been made this area will produce a surplus for future years. We are also exploring options to expand our supported living offer with other properties within the portfolio.

College income increased by £1,635k to £9,264k because of an increased number of higher clinical need students who attract a higher fee. Costs of operating the College rose to £8,649k, an increase of £434k over the previous year resulting in a surplus of £614k for the financial year. Pressure on staff rates of pay remains high, as the cost-of-living crisis put pressure on employee wages and inflation has driven a significant increase in the national living wage.

Income at our Arts & Crafts Centre in the year was £1,308k, while costs of £1,053k resulted in a surplus of £255k. This is a significant turnaround from previous years and the result of a thorough operational review. Fees and costs were reviewed, and a new management structure was implemented. Workshops are regularly at capacity and a plan to expand the site is underway.

Sight Loss Support (Formerly known as Community Services) continued to deliver and develop its excellent and innovative services. They now reach more users than ever before and do so at a lower cost per user. The net cost of delivering sight loss support in the year was £829k. Fundraising generated total income of £1,096k, a decrease of £45k, whilst costs associated with fund raising increased by £4k. The fundraising landscape is very competitive, and it was a challenging year for the fundraising team. There are long term projects underway by the team such as the arts and crafts expansion that should see results soon.

Trustee board members are recruited through an open process of selection and are appointed for a period of three years, after which they may stand for re-election for a second term. The Charity has purchased indemnity insurance regarding liability in respect of negligence, default and breach of duty or trust other than that caused by wilful or criminal actions.

All board members give their time voluntarily and receive no benefits from the Charity (any expenses reclaimed are set out in note 5 to the accounts).

New board members receive a Trustee handbook and undergo an induction process to brief them on their legal obligations and responsibilities, the work of the Charity and the sector in which it operates. The Trustee Board undertakes an Annual Skills Audit and members are asked to identify any training needs, which are addressed either by in-house training sessions or by encouraging them to attend appropriate external training events.

There are five sub-committees with clear terms of reference approved by the Board. These are the Business, Investment & Finance Committee, Risk & Audit Committee, Governance Committee, People & Reward Committee and the College Governing Board. There are also other sub-groups which act in an advisory capacity to the Trustee Board.

Day to day responsibility for the management of the Charity rests with the Chief Executive, who is directly accountable to the Trustee Board. The Senior Management Team of the Charity is detailed in Note 5 and on page 55. Accountability and Authority levels are clearly defined in the Charity’s Corporate Governance Documents, which are reviewed on an annual basis.

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financial review

(ii) Investment performance

The investment portfolio is managed Rathbones, performance of this portfolio is monitored by the Business, Investment & Finance Committee throughout the year.

At 31 August 2023 our investment portfolio stood at £2,197k of which £313k were restricted funds. Investment income for the year was £90k and there was a net reduction of £1,078k in portfolio value. Of this reduction £1,000k was due to the repayment of a loan which was taken out against the portfolio.

Balance sheet

Total funds as of 31 August 2023 were £6,279k (2022: £5,749k). There was a £1,000k swing in the fixed assets and liabilities totals due to re-paying the loan against the investment portfolio. The total outstanding pension liability is now £2,134k (2022: £2,209k) and is due to be revalued again in 2024.

Cash at Bank and in hand was £910k while loans totalled £584k.

(iii) Financial outlook

The trustees recognise the significant work carried out by management in delivering a satisfactory financial performance in a difficult year. The excellent work carried out will continue, as will the development of the methods of delivery for our services. We aim to continue working collaboratively with our stakeholders for the benefit of our service users and to secure our financial viability.

Demand for our services remains strong and we aim to provide this cost effectively whilst maintaining quality and being paid appropriately.

financial review

Risk management

The Trustee has overall responsibility for establishing and maintaining the Charity’s system of internal control and for reviewing its effectiveness. The system of internal control is designed to manage key risks and to provide reasonable assurance that planned business objectives and outcomes are achieved. It also exists to give reasonable assurance about the preparation and reliability of financial and operational information and the safeguarding of the Charity’s assets and interests.

In meeting its responsibilities, the Trustee Board adopts a risk-based approach to internal controls and all major risks that the Charity is exposed to have been identified, reviewed and procedures have been established to manage those risks.

Processes in place regarding risk management and internal control include the following:

• A comprehensive risk management framework, which consists of a top-down risk review by the Trustee Board via the Risk & Audit Committee and a bottom-up review by individual functions.

• The Risk & Audit Committee receives an annual report on the effectiveness of controls from the external Auditor.

The principal risks and uncertainties to which the Charity is exposed are:

• Safeguarding vulnerable service users. Robust systems are in place to ensure that vulnerable people using our services are in a safe environment.

• Health & safety. We undertake to give our staff and service users a safe working environment. This includes the provision of quality training as well as the development of a culture of risk awareness and management.

• Income generation. The Charity is faced with a challenging economic climate as much of its income is linked to local authority provision, which is itself under increasing financial pressures. Income levels are continually monitored and there is ever increasing focus on maintaining and enhancing sources of income.

• Cash flow risk. The cash forecasting for 2022-23 was favourable meaning the risk of being unable to meet obligations was reduced. This allowed for some strategic decisions to be made; these included the full repayment of a loan held against the investment portfolio and partial repayment of a loan held against the college site. An improved cash position also allowed funds to be placed on deposit to generate additional interest income.

Fundraising management

Our fundraising strategy and activities reflect our organisational values and is reviewed regularly to ensure it is meeting the needs of the organisation and using resources efficiently and ethically for sustainable income growth. Our relationship with our supporters is very important to us and we monitor feedback and take complaints seriously.

We occasionally work with professional fundraisers and commercial organisations. All contracts and partnerships are subject to due diligence and close management. External partners receive regular training and shadowing visits from the fundraising team. Henshaws is a member of the Fundraising Regulator and follows the Fundraising Code of Practice. We also take our responsibilities to protect vulnerable people seriously and follow the Institute of Fundraising guidance on treating donors fairly, and make sure all our agency partners are fully aware of our policies.

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financial review

Treasury management and investment powers and policy

Under the Charity Scheme, the Trustee may make any kind of investment that it could make if it were absolutely entitled to the assets of the Charity, subject to the exercise of a duty of care and having regard to the approved standard investment criteria. Within the powers of delegation, the Trustee Board may also authorise one or more persons to exercise all or any of their delegable functions as their agent. Delegable functions include any function relating to the investment of assets belonging to the Charity. Treasury management is defined as the management of the Charity’s cash flows, its borrowing and its investments, the management of the associated risks and the pursuit of the optimum performance or return consistent with those risks.

There are four principles of treasury management that drive the policy.

• Compliance – with statute, regulation and best practice

• Security – of financial assets

• Liquidity – adequate to meet financial obligations

• Effectiveness and efficiency – in the use of financial resources

The Charity has recognised that its cash and reserves should be allocated in a manner consistent with these principles.

In deciding where to invest surplus funds the Charity’s objective is to get a reasonable return at an acceptable level of risk. The balance between capital growth and income will be determined in accordance with the needs of the Charity using a range of investments that are permitted for charity holdings. The Charity has split its portfolio of investments between investment managers who manage the funds on a discretionary basis in accordance with investment guidelines that are reviewed annually by the Business, Investment & Finance Committee.

Should liquid funds be available, the Charity operates an approved list of deposit takers for cash not immediately required.

Funds set aside in investments are viewed as long-term holdings and over time it is expected that a rate of return above inflation will be achieved on these assets.

Reserves policy

The Charity Commission use the term reserves to describe that part of a charity’s income funds that is freely available for its general (unrestricted) purposes. “Reserves” are therefore the resources the charity has or can make available to spend, for any or all of the charity’s purposes, once it has met its commitments. More specifically they define “reserves” as income which becomes available to the charity and is to be expended at the Trustee’s discretion in furtherance of any of the charity’s objects (sometimes referred to as “general purpose” income); but which is not yet spent, committed, designated or invested in fixed assets.

This definition of reserves might more commonly be referred to as free reserves.

When the Trustee Board reviewed the Charity’s reserves policy and level of reserves, they concluded that it was not appropriate to set their free reserves level purely by reference to a period of time of ongoing operations, as some 90% of our income comes from contracted fees and grants from a wide spread of statutory funders, which to some extent mitigate our exposure.

The Trustee Board acknowledged, however, that there was a more significant degree of uncertainty about the remaining income, which comes mainly from fundraising and time limited funding, and that some sources of income are especially vulnerable to changes in government legislation, policies and priorities.

financial review

Reserves policy – continued

In reviewing the reserves policy the Trustee Board aims to ensure that the Charity is able to continue to provide all services for a period of at least twelve months, in the event of a significant proportion of income not being realised. All sources of income were reviewed and individual risk factors assigned to take account of the following factors:

• The source of the income

• The predictability of the income based on historical information and experience

• The certainty of anticipated increases in fee levels

• The size of the area of operation (e.g. bed numbers in a residential scheme)

• Demand for the service and the nature of that demand (ongoing, periodic, annual etc.)

• Any known or anticipated changes in funding legislation

In addition, the Trustee Board has concluded that the Charity should also keep available as free reserves amounts relating to a deficit for the year ahead.

In applying the risk factors shown above to the Charity’s anticipated income, the Trustee Board have concluded that a level of free reserves of £1.0 million would provide them with the safeguards they need to be able to guarantee continuity of services during periods of instability, uncertainty or change.

As at 31 August 2023 under the Charity Commission’s guidance, the free reserves are calculated at

£0.8 million (2022: (£0.2m)).

This position is a significant improvement over previous years and reflects the hard work the charity has put in to managing its finances.

Remuneration policy

The People and Reward Committee oversee the remuneration and benefits structure for staff, including key management personnel, and ensure that the pay framework operates within the required remit. Pay scales are monitored regularly with market comparators. The Committee considers feedback from the annual staff survey, supports HR processes and considers any major proposed changes to HR policies.

Staff liaison

The Henshaws Employee Forum (HEF) is used to discuss employment matters, working practices and strategic issues of employment with staff and to share business information. Recommendations from the HEF are considered by the Charity’s Senior Management Team and are implemented when appropriate and beneficial.

Going concern

The Trustee Board has reviewed the Charity’s financial position considering the levels of reserves, amounts receivable, the annual and financial plans, together with its systems of financial risk management.

The Board believes that the cash balances along with the borrowing facilities are adequate to meet its ongoing financial needs and that the Charity can manage operational and financial risk satisfactorily. Accordingly, they have reasonable expectation that sufficient resources are available to continue in operational existence and therefore continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the annual financial statements.

Summary

The Charity’s achievements this year have only been possible through the generosity of our donors, funders, volunteers, supporters and the dedication and commitment of Henshaws’ management and staff. Thank you very much to everyone who supported us this year

Alistair How - Chair 17 June 2024

Nikki Bishop - Chair of BIFC 17 June 2024

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statement of responsibilities of the trustee

The Trustee is responsible for preparing the Trustee’s Report and Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Charity law requires the Trustee to prepare financial statements for each financial year, which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the Charity for that period. In preparing those financial statements the Trustee’s Board of Directors is required to:

• (a) Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

• (b) Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP (FRS 102);

• (c) Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

• (d) State whether applicable accounting standards have been followed subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

• (e) Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to assume that the Charity will continue in business.

The Trustee is responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and to enable it to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, the provisions of the Trust Deeds and with Accounting & Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). The Trustee is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud or other irregularities.

The Board of Directors is responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ legislation in other jurisdictions.

Approved by the Trustee Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by

Alistair How - Chair 17 June 2024

Nikki Bishop - Chair of BIFC

17 June 2024

independent Auditor’s Report to the trustee of Henshaws Society for Blind People

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Henshaws Society for Blind People “the charity” for the year ended 31 August 2023 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and the notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies in note 1. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

• give a true and fair view of the state of the charity’s affairs as at 31 August 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources for the year then ended;

• have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and

• have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) 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 independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustee's use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustee with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustee is responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

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independent Auditor’s Report to the trustee of Henshaws Society for Blind People

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:

• the information given in the trustee’s report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial statements; or

• sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or

• the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or

• we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Responsibilities of the trustee

As explained more fully in the Statement of responsibilities of the trustee set out on page 28, the trustee is responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustee determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustee is responsible for assessing the charity’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 trustee either intends to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit

of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The specific procedures for this engagement and the extent to which these are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

The extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud

Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows:

independent Auditor’s Report to the trustee of Henshaws Society for Blind People

The extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud continued

We assessed the susceptibility of the charity’s financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:

• making enquiries of management as to where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud, their knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud.

• considering the internal controls in place to mitigate risks of fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations.

To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:

• performed analytical procedures on income and salaries to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships.

• tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions.

• assessed whether judgements and assumptions made in determining the accounting estimates set out in note 1 were indicative of potential bias.

• investigated the rationale behind significant or unusual transactions.

There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of noncompliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the trustee and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.

Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustee, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustee those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustee as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Beever and Struthers

Beever and Struthers

Statutory Auditor

One Express

1 George Leigh Street Manchester M4 5DL

• the engagement partner ensured that the engagement team collectively had the appropriate competence, capabilities and skills to identify or recognise non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

• we identified the laws and regulations applicable to the charity through discussions with the trustee and other management, and from our knowledge and experience of the charity sector.

• we focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a direct material effect on the financial statements or the operations of the charity, including the Charities Act 2011, taxation legislation, data protection, anti-bribery, employment, environmental and health and safety legislation.

Beever and Struthers 28 June 2024

• we assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through making enquiries of management and inspecting legal correspondence.

• identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team regularly and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit.

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statement of financial activities for the year ended 31 August 2023

Note Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Total funds funds funds 2023 2022 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Income from: Charitable activities: Education & training services 10,573 - 10,573 8,451 Housing & support services 233 - 233 283 Community services 71 40 111 208 10,877 40 10,917 8,942 Donations and legacies 791 305 1,096 1,141 Other trading activities 124 - 124 113 Investments 78 12 90 77 Other 2 - 2 - ~~Total income~~ ~~2~~ ~~11,872~~ ~~357 ~~ ~~12,229~~ ~~10,273~~ Expenditure on: Charitable activities: Education & training services 9,654 116 9,770 9,116 Housing & support services 244 - 244 208 Community services 698 243 941 829 10,596 359 10,955 10,153 Raising funds 462 - 462 458 Other 3 - 3 37 ~~Total expenditure~~ ~~3~~ ~~11,061~~ ~~359~~ ~~11,420~~ ~~10,648~~ Net income / (expenditure) before gains on investments 811 (2) 809 (375) Net (losses) / gains on investments (72) - (72) (240) Transfers between funds - - - - Gains on revaluation of fxed assets 63 15 78 121 Actuarial (losses) / gains in respect of pension schemes (285) - (285) (1,106) Gains/losses on sale of fxed assets - - - 3 ~~Net income / (expenditure) - movement in funds~~ ~~4a~~ ~~517~~ ~~13 ~~ ~~530~~ ~~(1,597)~~ Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 4,844 905 5,749 7,346 ~~Total funds carried forward~~ ~~5,361~~ ~~918~~ ~~6,279~~ ~~5,749~~

All gains and losses recognised in the year are included in the Statement of Financial Activities. The notes on pages 35 to 55 form an integral part of the financial statements. All income and expenditure relates to continuing operations.

balance sheet at 31 August 2023

Note Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Total funds funds funds 2023 2022 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Fixed assets Tangible fxed assets 6 4,992 495 5,487 5,543 Investments 7 1,884 313 2,197 3,275 ~~Total fxed assets~~ ~~6,876~~ ~~808~~ ~~7,684~~ ~~8,818~~ Current assets Consumable Stock 37 - 37 - Debtors 8 1,649 - 1,649 681 Cash at bank and in hand 800 110 910 1,125 2,486 110 2,596 1,806 Liabilities Creditors: Amounts due within one year 9 (1,283) - (1,283) (2,003) ~~Net current assets/ (liabilities)~~ ~~1,203~~ ~~110~~ ~~1,313~~ ~~(197)~~ Total assets less current liabilities 8,079 918 8,997 8,622 Creditors: amounts falling due after 10 (584) - (584) (664) more than one year ~~Net assets excluding pension liability~~ ~~7,495~~ ~~918~~ ~~8,413~~ ~~7,958~~ Defned beneft scheme liability 16 (2,134) - (2,134) (2,209) ~~Total net assets~~ ~~5,361~~ ~~918~~ ~~6,279~~ ~~5,749~~ Funded by: Unrestricted funds 5,729 - 5,729 5,323 Revaluation reserve 1,766 - 1,766 1,731 Pension reserve (2,134) - (2,134) (2,209) Total unrestricted funds 12a 5,361 - 5,361 4,844 Restricted funds - 423 423 425 Revaluation reserve - 495 495 480 Total restricted funds 12b - 918 918 905 ~~Total funds~~ ~~12~~ ~~5,361~~ ~~918~~ ~~6,279~~ ~~5,749~~

The financial statements on pages 35 to 55 were approved by the Board, and authorised for issue, on 17 June 2023 and were signed on its behalf by:

Alistair How- Chair Nikki Bishop - Chair of BIFC 17 June 2024 17 June 2024

The notes on pages 35 to 55 form an integral part of the financial statements.

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notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

statement of cash flows for the year ending 31 August 2023

Total funds Total funds 2023 2022 Note £’000 £’000 Cash fows from operating activities Net cash (used in) operating activities a 182 (279) Cash fows from investing activities Dividends, interest and rents received from investments 89 76 Interest paid (124) (54) Purchase of tangible fxed assets (288) (196) Purchase of long term investments (692) (467) Sale of tangible fxed assets - 325 Sale of long term investments 1,697 417 ~~Net cash provided by / (used in) investing activities~~ ~~682~~ ~~101~~ Cash fows from fnancing activities Repayment of borrowing (79) (84) ~~Net cash (used in) fnancing activities~~ ~~(79)~~ ~~(84)~~ Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period 785 (262) Cash and cash equivalents brought forward 125 387 ~~Cash and cash equivalents carried forward~~ ~~b~~ ~~910~~ ~~125~~ Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash fows from operating activities Net movement in funds 530 (1,598) (Gains) /Losses on investments 72 240 (Gains) /Losses on property revaluations (78) (18) Actuarial losses / (gains) in respect of pension schemes 285 1,106 Defned beneft pension costs less contributions payable (360) (485) Depreciation 486 525 Loss on disposal of tangible fxed assets - (3) Donations of materials not expended 15 - Dividends, interest and rents receivable from investments (89) (76) Interest payable 125 54 Decrease /(increase) in stock (37) - Decrease/(increase) in loans (79) Decrease /(increase) in debtors (968) 258 (Decrease)/ increase in creditors 280 (281) ~~a~~ ~~182~~ ~~(279)~~ Analysis of cash equivalents Cash at bank and in hand 910 1,125 Bank overdraft & facilities - (1,000) ~~b~~ ~~910~~ ~~125~~

1 Accounting policies

The principal policies of the Charity as a public benefit entity as defined by charity law and Charity Commission regulations, are as follows:

a) Basis of accounting

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis, under the historical cost convention, as modified by the recognition of certain financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) – (Charities SORP (FRS 102)) and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). They also meet the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.

b) Going Concern

The financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis, which is considered to be appropriate in the context of the Charity’s ability to meet its obligations as they fall due, in the period of twelve months following the date of approval of these financial statements. In this consideration, the Charity’s asset position, the level and profile of its liabilities and the Charity’s ability to determine the level of charitable services delivered, have been taken into account.

c) Tangible Fixed assets and depreciation

i) All expenditure above £1,000 for the acquisition, enhancement, production and installation of fixed assets and all fixed assets received by way of donations are capitalised.

ii) Tangible fixed assets, other than residential properties, are stated in the balance sheet at cost less depreciation and impairment, or at estimated value at the date of donation less depreciation in respect of donated assets.

iii) Residential properties are recorded in the balance sheet at open market values, with their values being reviewed on an annual basis. Any changes in the values of the properties are reflected in the Statement of Financial Activities in the year they arise.

iv) Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost or valuation of tangible assets over their estimated useful lives on a straight line basis at the following rates:

Non Residential Properties 4% per annum Residential Properties 2% per annum Motor Vehicles 25% per annum Computer Equipment 33.33% per annum Furniture, Fixtures & Fittings 10% - 20% per annum

v) Assets in the course of construction are stated at cost. They are not depreciated until complete.

The notes on pages 35 to 55 form an integral part of the financial statements.

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notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

d) Investments

Long term investments in stocks, shares and related products are stated at their market value at the Balance Sheet date as a reasonable measure of fair value. Unrealised gains and losses arising on the revaluation of investments are, together with the realised gains and losses arising on the sale of investments, shown in the notes to the Statement of Financial Activities as net gains/(losses) on investments. Listed investments may fluctuate in value and are subject to a risk profile set and reviewed by the Trustee Board.

e) Taxation

The Charity benefits from various exemptions from taxation afforded by legislation and is, moreover, not liable to corporation tax on income or gains falling within those exemptions. Recovery is made of tax deducted from income and from receipts under Gift Aid. The Charity is also able to partially recover some VAT expenditure. Expenditure subject to VAT that is not recoverable is recorded in the accounts inclusive of the VAT.

f) Stock

Stock is stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value on a first in first out basis.

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

j) Income continued

Investment income is recognised when the Charity’s entitlement is irreversible. Legacies are deemed receivable when sufficient information has been received to enable the Charity to reliably measure the amount receivable and when receipt is probable. Gifts-in-kind of material goods or professional services are, however, recognised as income and expenditure (via depreciation if capital goods or services) and any associated conditions noted.

k) Expenditure

Expenditure has been charged on the accruals basis and such charges include value added tax where appropriate.

Any redundancy and termination costs are recognised when they are contractually due.

l) Cost of charitable activities

Costs of charitable activities comprise all costs identified as wholly or mainly attributable to achieving the charitable objects of the Charity. These costs include staff costs, wholly or mainly attributable support costs, an apportionment of general overheads and governance costs. The apportionment is based on several factors including numbers of staff, levels of income and direct cost and complexity of the activity.

g) Debtors

Debtors include amounts owed to the Charity for the provision of goods or services or amounts the Charity has paid in advance for the goods or services it will receive. Debtors are stated in the balance sheet at the amount which is considered to be recoverable within 12 months from the balance sheet date.

h) Creditors

A liability is recognised for the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as an advance payment for goods or services it must provide. For creditors due for settlement in more than one year, the amount is discounted for the time value of money where material.

i) Financial instruments

The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Other than investments which are stated at fair value as noted above in 1d) these are initially recognised at transaction value and may be subsequently measured at their settlement value.

j) Income

Income represents:

i) income from appeals and fundraising, including donations and legacies

ii) fees and other income from education and training services iii) fees and other income from housing and support services

iv) grants and other income from community services

All income is recognised in the SOFA when the Charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and amounts can be measured reliably. Where terms and conditions have not been met or uncertainty exists as to whether they can be met then the income is not recognised but deferred as a liability until it is probable that the terms or conditions imposed can be met.

m) Costs of raising funds

Fundraising costs include the salaries and overheads of the staff who directly undertake fundraising activities, plus other direct costs and allocated support and governance costs.

n) Governance and support costs

Governance and support costs include the direct costs of administering the Charity. Support costs represent the central services provided, including the cost of maintaining facilities shared by all or most of the Charity.

Support Service costs consists of the following: Management, Finance, Human Resources, Property Services, IT, Maintenance and Marketing. These costs are allocated out to service areas, on an agreed basis of apportionment relating to total income and expenditure, payroll costs, use of IT and floor space occupied, depending on relevance to the activity. They are included in the charitable activities costs reported in the Statement of Financial Activities.

o) Pensions

The Charity contributes to various pension schemes. The assets of each scheme are held separately from those of the Charity in independently administered funds. Defined benefit schemes:

The contributes to the Teachers Pension Scheme at the advised rates. As it is not possible to separately identify the assets and liabilities of the Teachers Pension Scheme, it is accounted for as if it were a defined contribution scheme. The contributions to the scheme are charged to the SOFA as they occur.

The Charity participates in the Social Housing Pension Scheme (SHPS), a defined benefit multiemployer pension scheme administered by TPT Retirement Solutions (TPT) to which the future accrual was closed at March 2013. Scheme assets are measured at a fair value.

Scheme liabilities are measured on an actuarial basis using the projected unit credit method and are discounted at appropriate high quality corporate bond rates. The net surplus or deficit, adjusted for deferred tax, is presented separately from other net assets on the balance sheet. A net surplus is recognised only to the extent that it is recoverable by the Charity.

Interest on the scheme liabilities and the expected return on scheme assets are included net in expenditure. Re-measurements are reported in other comprehensive income.

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notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

o) Pensions continued

Further disclosures in this area are included in note 16.

Defined contribution schemes:

Contributions to these schemes are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities as they are paid and allocated in line with individual staff costs of employment.

p) Leases

Tangible fixed assets held under finance leases and the related lease obligations are recorded in the Balance Sheet at the fair value of the leased asset at the inception of the lease. The excesses of the lease payments over the recorded lease obligations are treated as finance charges which are amortised over each lease term to give a constant rate of charge in the remaining balance of the obligations.

Rentals payable under operating leases are included in total expenditure in annual instalments over the period of the leases.

q) Fund accounting

Fund accounting distinguishes between two primary classes of fund: those that are unrestricted in their use, which can be spent for any purposes of a charity, and those that are restricted in use, which can only be used for a specific charitable purpose.

Restricted funds are either (i) endowment funds or (ii) other restricted funds. Endowments are either permanent or expendable.

Endowments and other restricted funds are disclosed separately in the financial statements and are subject to specific restrictions imposed by the donor or by the nature of the appeal or grant.

The restricted funds comprise of assets that have been given to the Charity subject to certain conditions. They include cash donations and legacies and investments given for a specific purpose, and buildings that have been funded from specific bequests until such buildings are complete then they are transferred to unrestricted funds.

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

2 Income

Total Total year endedyear ended Fees Grants Legacies Other 31 Aug 202331 Aug 2022 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Unrestricted funds Charitable activities: Education & training services 10,308 135 - 130 10,573 8,451 Housing & support services 202 - - 3 1 233 283 Community services - 19 - 52 71 120 10,510 154 - 213 10,877 8,854 Donations & legacies - 192 108 491 791 809 Other trading activities - - - 124 124 113 Investments - - - 78 78 67 Other - 2 - - 2 - ~~10,510~~ ~~348~~ ~~108~~ ~~906~~ ~~11,872~~ ~~9,843~~ Restricted funds Charitable activities: Community services - 40 - - 40 88 Donations and legacies - 147 - 158 305 332 Investments - - - 12 12 10 ~~-~~ ~~187~~ ~~-~~ ~~170~~ ~~357~~ ~~430~~ ~~Total Income~~ ~~10,510~~ ~~535~~ ~~108~~ ~~1,076~~ ~~12,229~~ ~~10,273~~

The Trustee Board may exercise its discretion to set aside part of an unrestricted fund for designated purposes. Designated funds may also be used where donors have expressed a preference without imposing a trust. The funds so designated remain unrestricted since the Trustee can remove the designation at any time.

r) Accounting judgements and assumptions

Certain judgements and assumptions are made in the preparation of the financial statements. The matters considered above, particularly depreciation rates and asset values as well as the recognition of income and liabilities, are considered to be the most important in understanding the judgements that are involved in preparing the financial statements and the uncertainties that could impact the amounts reported.

s) In-kind donations

In-kind donations of non-cash goods or services from donors are recorded as donation income upon receipt. They are valued at market value. If the goods are distributed to a third party, this is reflected as a corresponding expense. If the goods are retained, this is reflected as a corresponding asset.

39

38

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

3 Expenditure

Analysis of expenditure

Other Total Total Staff Other direct Depreciation Governance support year endedyear ended costs costs charges costs costs 31 Aug 202331 Aug 2022 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Unrestricted funds Charitable activities: Education & training services 5,551 1,771 409 20 1,903 9,654 9,038 Housing & support services - 134 58 - 52 244 208 Community services 457 161 1 - 79 698 463 6,008 2,066 468 20 2,034 10,596 9,709 Donations and legacies 292 84 - - 84 460 458 Other trading activities - 0 - - - 0 5 Investments - 5 - - - 5 29 Others - - - - - - 3 ~~Total unrestricted expenditure~~ ~~6,300~~ ~~2,155~~ ~~468~~ ~~20~~ ~~2,118~~ ~~11,061~~ ~~10,204~~ Restricted funds Charitable activities: Education & training services - 116 - - - 116 78 Community services 189 34 - - 20 243 366 189 150 - - 20 359 444 ~~Total restricted expenditure~~ ~~189~~ ~~150~~ ~~-~~ ~~-~~ ~~20~~ ~~359~~ ~~444~~ Total expenditure 6,489 2,305 468 20 2,138 11,420 10,648 Reallocation per note 3a 1,513 587 18 - (2,118) - - ~~Expenditure after reallocation~~ ~~8,002~~ ~~2,892~~ ~~486~~ ~~20~~ ~~20~~ ~~11,420~~ ~~10,648~~ ~~of support costs~~

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

3(a) Analysis of support costs

Education & Housing & training support Community services services services Fundraising Total £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Finance 312 6 13 28 359 CEO/Management 225 2 16 14 257 Marketing 154 2 11 10 177 Information technology 276 - 37 17 330 Human resources 275 - 22 15 312 Property services 90 26 - - 116 Management 222 16 - - 238 Facilities 349 - - - 349 ~~Unrestricted function/activity~~ ~~1,903~~ ~~52~~ ~~99~~ ~~84~~ ~~2,138~~

3(b) Analysis of governance costs

	Total Total year endedyear ended 31 Aug 202331 Aug 2022 £’000 £’000 Legal & professional - - Audit fees 20 20 Trustee costs - 1 ~~Total governance costs~~ ~~20~~ ~~21~~

41

40

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

4(a) Net income / (expenditure)

This is stated after charging:

	Total Total year endedyear ended 31 Aug 202331 Aug 2022 £’000 £’000 External Auditors’ remuneration (excluding VAT): Audit fees 19 18 Other fnancial services 1 2 ~~20~~ ~~20~~ Depreciation 486 525 Operating leases 114 116 Gain on disposal of fxed assets - 3

4(b) Operating Leases

The Charity holds properties and office equipment under non cancellable operating leases.

At 31 August 2023 the Charity had total future minimum lease payments under these leases as follows:

	2023 2022 Land and buildings £’000 £’000 Leases expiring not later than one year 102 98 Leases expiring later than one year and not later than fve years 307 385 Leases expiring later than fve years 897 933 ~~1,306~~ ~~1,416~~

5 Staff costs and employee benefits

	Total Total year endedYear ended 31 Aug 202331 Aug 2022 £’000 £’000 Wages and Salaries 7,100 6,823 Social security costs 595 568 Defned contribution pension scheme costs 216 160 Defned beneft pension scheme costs 45 53 Other benefts 32 51 Redundancy and severance pay 14 6 ~~8,002~~ ~~7,661~~

During the year there were redundancy payments of £13,971 paid to 2 employees.

2023 2022 The average number of employees and supply workers during the year: 366 384 2023 2022 £’000 £’000 Agency staff costs: 677 549 Neither the Board of Directors nor persons connected with the received any remuneration or other benefts. 2023 2022 £’000 £’000 Key management personnel: Emoluments for that group of employees 373 305 Employers National Insurance contributions 46 38 Employers pension contributions 8 15 ~~427~~ ~~358~~

Key management personnel are defined as the members of the Executive Leadership Team: Chief Executive, Director of Community Services, Director of Education and Care, Director of Fundraising, Director of Finance & Resources and People Director.

The number of employees whose emoluments exceeded £60,000 was:

	2023	2022
£60,001 - £70,000	1	2
£70,001 - £80,000	2	-
£80,001 - £90,000	1	-
£90,001 - £100,000	-	-
£100,001 - £110,000	-	-
£110,001 - £120,000	-	1

43

42

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

6 Tangible fixed assets

Land and buildings Fixtures, Non fttings Residential residential plant & Assets under housing housing vehicles construction Valuation Cost Cost Cost Total £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Cost At 31 August 2022 2,609 10,418 3,501 29 16,557 Additions - 63 281 8 352 Transfer on completion - - 29 (29) - Disposals - - (16) - (16) Revaluation 31 - - - 31 ~~At 31 August 2023~~ ~~2,640~~ ~~10,481~~ ~~3,795~~ ~~8~~ ~~16,924~~ Depreciation At 31 August 2022 - 7,807 3,207 - 11,014 Charge for year 52 314 120 - 486 Disposals - - (16) - (16) Revaluation (48) - - - (48) ~~At 31 August 2023~~ ~~4~~ ~~8,121~~ ~~3,311~~ ~~-~~ ~~11,436~~ ~~Net Book Value at 31 August 2023~~ ~~2,636~~ ~~2,360~~ ~~484~~ ~~8~~ ~~5,487~~ ~~Net Book Value at 31 August 2022~~ ~~2,609~~ ~~2,611~~ ~~294~~ ~~29~~ ~~5,543~~

7 Investments

Investments are stated at market value at 31 August 2023 and are held by nominee companies on behalf of the Charity

Unrestricted Restricted Total £’000 £’000 £’000 Market Value 31 August 2022 2,850 424 3,273 Additions 692 - 692 Disposals at market value (1,697) - (1,697) Revaluation loss - unrealised (0) (8) (8) Revalution gain/(loss) - realised (5) (5) Movement within investment portfolio (59) - (59) ~~Market Value 31 August 2023~~ ~~1,780~~ ~~416~~ ~~2,197~~ Total Total Unrestricted Restricted 2023 2022 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Investments comprise: Listed investments 1,780 416 2,197 3,190 Cash in bank - - - 85 ~~1,780~~ ~~416~~ ~~2,197~~ ~~3,275~~ Historic cost 1,675 294 1,969 2,859

Historical cost of residential properties before valuation

	Net book Cost Depreciation value £’000 £’000 £’000 At 31 August 2022 801 (401) 400 Additions - - - Disposals - - - Charge for year - (25) (25) ~~At 31 August 2023~~ ~~801~~ ~~(426)~~ ~~375~~

45

44

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

8 Debtors

	2023 2022 £’000 £’000 Trade debtors 1,138 315 Other debtors 7 5 Prepayments and accrued income 503 361 Other taxation 1 - ~~1,649~~ ~~681~~

9 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

	2023 2022 £’000 £’000 Trade creditors 469 280 Loans 88 88 Other loan - 1,000 Special purpose funds held 14 12 Other creditors 101 91 Other taxation 127 120 Accruals and deferred income 484 412 ~~1,283~~ ~~2,003~~

10 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year

	2023 2022 £’000 £’000 Loan 584 664 ~~584~~ ~~664~~

Loan

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

11 Deferred income

Deferred income relates to fee income where terms and conditions have not been met at the balance sheet date, or where some uncertainty exists as to whether they can be met. In these instances income is not recognised, but deferred as a liability until it is probable that the terms or conditions imposed can be met.

	Balance as at Prior year Balance as at 31 Aug 2022 released Additions 31 Aug 2023 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 College fees 289 (289) 236 236 Housing and support fees 8 (8) - - Community services income - - 18 18 ~~Total~~ ~~297~~ ~~(297)~~ ~~254~~ ~~254~~

12 Reserves

a) Funds reported under FRS 102

Unrealised gain/ SHPS Balance (loss) on Unrealised defned as at revaluation (loss) beneft Balance 31 Aug Incoming of tangible /gain on provision Amounts as at 2022 funds fxed assets investment movement expended 31 Aug 2023 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £'000 £’000 £’000 (i) Unrestricted Funds 4,844 11,872 63 (72) (285) (11,061) 5,361 (ii) Restricted Funds (Note 12b) 905 357 15 - - (359) 918 ~~Total~~ ~~5,749~~ ~~12,229~~ ~~78~~ ~~(72)~~ ~~(285)~~ ~~(11,420)~~ ~~6,279 ~~

The bank loan is secured by charges on the Charity’s properties and is repayable in instalments at varying rates of interest due as follows:

	2023 2022 £’000 £’000 Due in less than one year 88 87 Due between one and two years 89 88 Due between two and fve years 495 576 ~~672~~ ~~751~~

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46

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

12 Reserves – continued

b) Restricted funds: Movement in the year

Unrealised gain/(loss) Balance Revaluation Balance as at Incoming of Tangible Amounts as at 31 Aug 2022 Funds Fixed Assets expended 31 Aug 2023 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 Ashton Under Lyne District 69 6 - - 75 Fund For The Blind BBC Children in Need 23 29 - (26) 26 Ref 2021-2364/NO Bolton Council 2 14 - (16) - Counselling Service Bolton Council Department 2 47 - (49) - of People Services Bolton Society for 2 4 - - 6 Blind People College Outdoor Classroom - 11 - (4) 7 College Sensory Room Fund 26 - - - 26 GMCVO - 9 - (4) 5 HSBC Arts & Crafts Centre 25 - - (25) - Garden Capital Appeal HSBC Arts & Crafts Centre Yurt Grant - 20 - - 20 L&Q Foundation - 48 - (45) 3 Liverpool Children's Services 12 5 - (17) - Morton International - 3 - - 3 Children's Christmas Party Powell Family Foundtion - 31 - - 31 Revaluation Reserve Fixed Assets 480 - 15 - 495 Sight Support Oldham 236 6 - (56) 186 Tameside Council 25 - - (25) - Tameside Sight Services 2 - - (2) - The National Lottery 1 - - (1) - Community Fund - Pathway To Wellbeing Wolfson Foundation Donation - 50 - (50) - Various Small Capital Projects - 74 - (39) 35 ~~Total~~ ~~905~~ ~~357~~ ~~15~~ ~~(359)~~ ~~918~~

Restricted funds are funds subject to specific trusts which may be declared by the donor, or with their authority (e.g. in a public appeal) but still within the objects of the Charity. Restricted funds may be restricted income funds, which are expendable in furtherance of some particular aspect of the objects of the charity, or they may be capital funds, where the assets are required to be invested, or retained for actual use, rather than expended.

Ashton-under-Lyne and District Funds for the Blind relate to assets donated by that charity to continue work in Ashton-under-Lyne and district.

BBC Children in Need reference 2021-2364/NO relates to a grant donated by the charity for the 'I Can Do It' project in Greater Manchester.

Bolton Council Counselling Service relates to a local authority grant provided to fund counselling services in the Bolton area.

12 Reserves – continued

Bolton Council Department of People Services relates to a local authority grant provided to continue work in the Bolton area.

College Sensory Room Fund was an anonymous donation to create a sensory room in Henshaws College.

GMCVO relates to a grant funded through Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership to deliver outbound support to visually impaired people.

HSBC Arts & Crafts Centre Garden Capital Appeal relates to funds received from HSBC for the development of a horticulture workshop at the Arts & Crafts Centre.

HSBC Arts & Crafts Centre Yurt Grant relates to funds received from HSBC to build a Yurt to be used as an outdoor classroom at the Arts & Crafts Centre.

L&Q Foundation relates to a grant donated by the Grant Funder to support Visually Impaired People in Trafford.

Liverpool Children's Services relates to funding received from multiple sources through a Henshaws appeal to support visually impaired children in Merseyside.

Morton International reserve is a donation received to fund children's Christmas parties in Greater Manchester. Powell Family Foundation relates to a grant donated by the Grant funder for a children’s project in Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

Sight Support Oldham funds relate to assets donated by that charity to continue work in Oldham.

Tameside Council relates to assets donated by that charity to continue work in Tameside.

Tameside Sight Service fund relates to assets donated by that charity to continue work in Tameside.

The National Lottery Community Fund - Live Life, Go Further relates to assets donated by that charity to continue working with children in the North West.

The Wolfson Foundation fund relates to a donation by the charity to install a new energy efficient boiler at the Arts & Crafts Centre.

Various Small Capital Projects are funds received to purchase multiple small capital projects with individual costs <£12k.

13 Subsidiary companies

Henshaws Society for Blind People has two wholly-owned subsidiary companies, Henshaws Enterprises Limited and Sight Loss Innovation Limited. Neither company is a charity. Henshaws Enterprises Limited was formed on 27 August 2009 with a paid up ordinary share capital of £1. Sight Loss Innovation Limited was formed on 31 May 2017 with a paid up ordinary share capital of £100. Neither company traded during the year ended 31 August 2023, nor did they incur any liability or enter into any commitment.

Henshaws Enterprises Limited was dissolved on 17 October 2023 and Sight Loss Innovation Limited was dissolved on 3 October 2023.

14 Fidelity insurance

The Charity provided fidelity insurance for its Trustee Board of Directors and officers until 28 February 2023 when the cover was reviewed and not renewed.

15 Capital commitments

15 Capital commitments
Capital expenditure that has been contracted for	2023	2022
but has not been provided for in the fnancial statement.	£'000	£'000
	nil	19

16 Pension obligations

16.1 Defined benefit schemes

The Charity offers one defined benefit scheme, the Teachers' Pension Scheme. The defined benefit scheme for Social Housing Pension Scheme (SHPS) was closed to new entrants as at 31 March 2013.

The assets of these schemes are held in separate trustee administered funds and the respective pension providers have provided the following disclosure statements:

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48

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

16.1a) Teachers’ Pension Scheme

The Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS or scheme) is a statutory, unfunded, defined benefit occupational scheme, governed by the Teachers’ Pensions Regulations 2010 (as amended), and the Teachers’ Pension Scheme Regulations 2014 (as amended). These regulations apply to teachers in schools and other educational establishments, including academies, in England and Wales that are maintained by local authorities. In addition, teachers in many independent and voluntary-aided schools and teachers and lecturers in some establishments of further and higher education may be eligible for membership.

(i) The Teachers’ Pension budgeting and valuation account

Although members may be employed by various bodies, their retirement and other pension benefits are set out in regulations made under the Superannuation Act (1972) and Public Service Pensions Act (2013) and are paid by public funds provided by Parliament. The TPS is an unfunded scheme and members contribute on a ‘pay as you go’ basis – contributions from members, along with those made by employers, are credited to the Exchequer under arrangements governed by the above Acts.

The Teachers’ Pensions Regulations 2010 require an annual account, the Teachers’ Pension Budgeting and Valuation Account, to be kept of receipts and expenditure (including the cost of pension increases). From 1 April 2001, the Account has been credited with a real rate of return, which is equivalent to assuming that the balance in the Account is invested in notional investments that produce that real rate of return.

(ii) Valuation of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme

As a result of the latest scheme valuation employer contributions were increased in September 2019 from a rate of 16.4% to 23.6%. Employers also pay a charge equivalent to 0.08% of pensionable salary costs to cover administration expenses.

The most recent valuation was published in October 2023

A copy of the latest valuation report can be found by following this link:

https://www.teacherspensions.co.uk/news/employers/2019/04/teachers-pensions-valuation-report.aspx

(iii) Scheme changes

In December 2018, the Court of Appeal held that transitional protection provisions contained in the reformed judicial and firefighter pension schemes, introduced as part of public service pension reforms in 2015, gave rise to direct age discrimination and were therefore unlawful. The Supreme Court, in a decision made in June 2019, have rejected the Government’s application for permission to appeal the Court of Appeal’s ruling. The case will now be referred to an Employment Tribunal for a decision regarding the remedy which will need to be offered to those members of the two schemes who were subject of the age discrimination.

Since then, claims have also been lodged against the main public service schemes including the TPS. The Department has conceded those in line with the rest of the government. In July 2020 HM Treasury launched a 12-week public consultation which will provide evidence to support the delivery of an appropriate remedy for the affected schemes, including TPS.

A final remedy will be determined once the results of the consultation are established.

In December 2019, a further legal challenge was made against the TPS relating to an identified equalities issue whereby male survivors of opposite-sex marriages and civil partnerships are treated less favourably than survivors in same-sex marriages and civil partnerships. The Secretary of State for Education agreed not to defend the case. In June 2020, the Employment Tribunal recorded its findings in respect of the claimant. DfE is currently working to establish what changes are necessary to address this discrimination.

Any impact of these events will be taken into account when the next scheme valuation is implemented. This is scheduled to be implemented in April 2023, based on April 2020 data.

b) Social Housing Pension Scheme

Present values of defined benefit obligation, fair value of assets and defined benefit liability

~~31 Aug~~ ~~31 Aug~~ ~~2023~~ ~~2022~~ ~~£’000~~ ~~£’000~~ Fair value of plan assets 8,743 10,330 Present value of defned beneft obligation (10,877) (12,537) ~~Defcit inplan~~ ~~(2,134)~~ ~~(2,207)~~ ~~Defned beneft liability~~ ~~(2,134)~~ ~~(2,207)~~ Reconciliation of opening and closing balances of the defned beneft obligation ~~Period Ended~~ ~~Period Ended~~ ~~31 Aug 2023~~ ~~31 Aug 2022~~ ~~£’000~~ ~~£’000~~ Defned beneft obligation at start of period 12,537 17,183 Expenses 16 17 Interest expense 533 286 Actuarial (gains)/ losses due to scheme experience 178 1,824 Actuarial losses/ (gains) due to changes in demographic assumptions (29) (216) Actuarial losses/ (gains) due to changes in fnancial assumptions (1,848) (6,026) Benefts paid and expenses (510) (531) ~~Defned beneft obligation at end ofperiod~~ ~~(10,877)~~ ~~12,537~~ Reconciliation of opening and closing balances of the fair value of plan assets ~~Period Ended~~ ~~Period Ended~~ ~~31 Aug 2023~~ ~~31 Aug 2024~~ ~~£’000~~ ~~£’000~~ Fair value of plan assets at start of period 10,330 15,616 Interest income 447 264 Experience on plan assets (excluding amounts included in (1,984) (5,524) interest income) - gain Contributions by the employer 462 504 Benefts paid and expenses (510) (531) ~~Fair value ofplan assets at end ofperiod~~ ~~8,745~~ ~~10,329~~

The actual return on the plan assets (including any changes in share of assets) over the year ended 31 August 2023 was (£1,537k) (2022: £5,260k).

Defined benefit costs recognised in statement of financial activities

	~~Period Ended~~ ~~Period Ended~~ ~~31 Aug 2023~~ ~~31 Aug 2022~~ ~~£’000~~ ~~£’000~~ Expenses 16 17 Net interest expense 86 22 ~~Defned beneft costs recognised in statement of fnancial activities~~ ~~102~~ ~~39~~

51

50

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

b) Social Housing Pension Scheme continued

Defined benefit costs recognised in statement of financial activities

~~Period Ended~~ ~~Period Ended~~ ~~31 Aug 2023~~ ~~31 Aug 2022~~ ~~£’000~~ ~~£’000~~ Experience on plan assets (excluding amounts included in (1,984) (5,524) interest income) - (loss) Experience gains and losses arising on the plan liabilities - (loss) (178) (1,824) Effects of changes in the demographic assumptions underlying the 29 216 present value of the defned beneft obligation - gain Effects of changes in the fnancial assumptions underlying the 1,848 6,026 present value of the defned beneft obligation - gain ~~Total actuarial gains and losses (before restriction due to~~ ~~(285)~~ ~~(1,106)~~ ~~some of the surplus not being recognisable) - loss~~ ~~Total amount recognised in other comprehensive income - loss~~ ~~(285)~~ ~~(1,106)~~

Assets

~~31 Aug~~ ~~31 Aug~~ ~~2023~~ ~~2022~~ ~~£’000~~ ~~£’000~~ Global Equity 641 1,442 Absolute Return 153 238 Distressed Opportunities 295 473 Credit Relative Value 294 455 Alternative Risk Premia 121 250 Emerging Markets Debt 65 263 Risk Sharing 597 663 Insurance-Linked Securities 117 378 Property 411 415 Infrastructure 946 1,166 Private Debt 394 384 Opportunistic Illiquid Credit 413 529 High Yield 17 138 Opportunistic Credit - 30 Cash 65 12 Corporate Bond Fund - 415 Long Lease Property 271 365 Secured Income 403 444 Liability Driven Investment 3,526 2,361 Current Hedging 4 (110) Net Current Assets 12 19 ~~Total assets~~ ~~8,745~~ ~~10,330~~

b) Social Housing Pension Scheme continued

Key assumptions

	~~31 Aug 2023~~	~~31 Aug 2022~~
	~~% per annum~~	~~% per annum~~
Discount Rate	5.50	4.34
Infation (RPI)	3.28	3.49
Infation (CPI)	2.80	3.03
Salary Growth	3.80	4.03
Allowance for commutation of pension for	75% of max	75% of max
retirement cash at	allowance	allowance

The mortality assumptions adopted at 31 August 2022 imply the following life expectancies:

	~~Life expectancy~~	~~Life expectancy~~
	~~years at age 65~~	~~years at age 65~~
	~~31 Aug 2023~~	~~31 Aug 2022~~
Male retiring in 2023	21.0	21.1
Female retiring in 2023	23.4	23.7
Male retiring in 2043	22.2	22.4
Female retiring in 2043	24.9	25.2

16.2 Defined contribution schemes

The Charity also contributes to two defined contribution schemes up to a current maximum of 3% of gross salary. Total contributions of £177k (2022: £139k) were made to the schemes during the year and the average number of Charity staff who were members of these schemes during the year was 289 (2022: 264).

17 Related party transactions

The Charity received donations from 8 (2022:5) directors of the Trustee Board amounting to £2,164 (2022: £1,780).

18 Voluntary income and income from trusts and grants

Details of voluntary income generated by the fundraising team, appears on page 39. This income has been received from individuals, groups, companies and charitable trusts, who all receive written acknowledgements.

None of the fair values of the assets shown above include any direct investments in the employer’s own financial instruments or any property occupied by, or other assets used by, the employer.

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52

notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023

trustee board of directors and the executive leadership team

Donations

We’d like to thank all our donors for their valued contribution. We’d also like to thank all those people who left a gift in their will to Henshaws. The following grant makers, organisations and individuals had a significant impact in generating voluntary income for Henshaws in 2022-23 with donations in excess of £5,000:

Ainscough Training Services

Banks Community Fund Barratt Developments Plc Charitable Foundation BBC Children in Need The Beatrice Laing Trust Bolton CVS The Booth Charities British Airways The Broome Family Charitable Trust C R H Charitable Trust Cargill David Lister Charitable Trust Esprit Facilities GMCVO The HRH Group HSBC

JMW Solicitors LLP L&Q Foundation LNER Customer & Community Investment Fund M&G Community Fund The Powell Family Foundation R.U.B. White Charitable Trust The Screwfix Foundation Shepherd Building Group Sovereign Health Care Charitable Trust Tesco Bags of Help Thomas Pocklington Trust The Ulverscroft Foundation The Wolfson Foundation The Zochonis Charitable Trust

The following Directors have served on the Board of Henshaws Society for Blind People Trustee Limited during the course of the year and served at the date of signing this report, unless otherwise stated:

Board of Directors

Ambassadors

Alistair How, Chair (from 1 January 2023) Sally Bence, Vice Chair (Chair until 31 December 2022) Christine Oates Richard Platt Sarah C Greensides Nicola M Bishop Jonathan M H Oxley Radhika M Rangaraju Marie Rayner (until 16 February 2024) Patrick Moran (until 28 November 2022) Janet Hartas (appointed 8 March 2023) Christopher Revett (appointed 6 March 2023) John Sole (appointed 3 March 2023, until 16 February 2024)

Debbie Williams Gary Nash Graham Dixon Ellie Dixon James Love Dominic Walker Kimberley Peet Rory Hoy Martin Mann Mike Raine Nicci Boardman Sally Bennett Sid Hines Jane Warrington-Smith Stefan Andrusyschyn Denise Leigh

Executive Leadership Team

External Auditors

Nick Marr, Chief Executive (until 31 December 2022)

Beever and Struthers, One Express, 1 George Leigh Street, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 5DL

Sally Daniels, Director of Finance & Resources (until 31 December 2022),

Interim CEO & Director of Education & Care (appointed 1 January 2023, until 30 September 2024) Chief Executive Officer (appointed 1 October 2024) Stephen Tongue, Director of Fundraising Anna Lodge, People Director (until 13 January 2023)

Bankers

Barclays Bank plc 25 James Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QX

Tom Harte, Charity & Commercial Director Benjamin Gray, Director of Finance & Resources (appointed 9 January 2023) Amanda Bennett, People Director (appointed 15 May 2023) Michelle Allison, Director of Education & Care (appointed 8 January 2024, until 26 April 2024)

Investment Advisers

Rathbone Brothers Plc 1 Curzon Street, London, W1J 5FB

Sarasin & Partners 100 St Paul’s Churchyard, London, EC4M 8BU

President

Sir Warren Smith KCVO, KSTJ, JP Clare Granger (appointed December 2023)

Solicitors

Flint Bishop LLP, St Michael's Court, St Michael's Lane, Derby, DE1 3HQ

Patrons

Rob Northfield David Steele (The Blind Poet)

Registered Office

4A Washbrook House, Lancastrian Office Centre, Talbot Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 0FP

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Get involved

As a local charity we rely on generous people, organisations and communities to be able to continue to offer support to those most at risk of isolation.

This year saw 131 businesses support us through staff fundraising, sponsorship or corporate donations. 1,522 individuals supported us by taking part in Fundraising events, or by making a donation. 36 community groups and schools showed their support and 63 grant giving bodies supported a range of projects of all sizes. We were also notified that 11 generous supporters left us a gift in their will.

We are hugely grateful for their support to Henshaws; every donation truly does have an impact on someone's life.

We have plenty of challenge events taking place throughout the year. For more information on events, appeals and volunteering opportunities, please visit our website.

email [e-mail]

henshaws.org.uk

0300 222 5555

ANNUAL REVIEW Trustee Report & Accounts 2022 - 2023

ANNUAL REVIEW

Trustee Report & Accounts 2022 - 2023

ANNUAL REVIEW Trustee Report & Accounts 2022 - 2023

ANNUAL REVIEW Trustee Report & Accounts 2022 - 2023