REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 00795584 (EnglaDd and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER.. 228634 Report of the Trustees and Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2021 for The Multiple Sclerosis Research And Relief Fund Peier Weldon & Co. Lid 87 Station Road Ashington Northuinberland NE63 8RS The Muliiple Selerosis Research And Relief Fund Contents of the Financi&l Stalement$ for the Ye#r Ended 31 March 2021 Page Chairman's Report 2021 Report of the Trustees Independeni Examiner's Report Statement of FinanciAI Activities Balgn¢e Sheet Notes to the Financial Siatement8 10 to 19 Det*iled Sta¢emen¢ of Financial Activities 20 to 22 The Multiple Selerosis Rese2rch And Relief Fund Chairnian's Report 2021 for the Year Ended 31 Marcb 2021 The past year is one the Chariry and indeed the entire world has not seen or experienced before. It has been virtually impossible to bc proactive in Any aspeci of the operations and running of the Charity. Our main priority as Trusiees of MSRRF has been to react io quicklv changing situations and restrictions in th¢ b¢$¢ interests of the Charity, our staff and our many Poicnlially vulnerable service users. Social distsncing restrictions onl>" allow¢d the trustees to phwsically meet once during the year, but regular electronic communi¢ations have been ulilised whenever required. Following Covid protection regulations. services wcrc 5uspcndcd at thc commcnccment of IoLkdown in March 2020. They recommcnccd in the following Sepiember under Ihe conditions required by the Government. Regrettabl), we had lost seven of our fitness and therapy team who had understandably taken up etnployment elsewhere, and we thank them for thcir cfforts whilst with us, and wtsh them well for the future. Services were again curtailed in DecemiKr due io the pandemic and resumed as soon as we were able to. Essential rcpairs to Benmar House were undertaken whi15t the building was not in use. Whenevcr possible, work has continued on the new premises at Ashington. The financial uncertaintics arising from the Covid pandemic has resulted in the decision being tsken ￿ shelve the hydrotherapy pool project for the foreseeablc futurc, but to continu¢ m.ith the s¢tting up of a physiotherapy centre. We are also evaluating a piece of equipment ￿,hiCh simulates the benefiis provided by a hydrotherapy p(M)l. The Trusiees and staff have managed the Charity's affairs prudcnil!. and sensibl5' during the pandemic, ¢n5ur¢ that MSRRF has a fruitful future and can continuc the high level of carc offcred and provided to all our service users. As always, it remains for me to thank everyone involved with the Chariry for their considerable and much appreciated efforts ovcr the past y¢ar. Paul Atkinson Chairnian Page I The Multiple Sclerosis Research ADd Relief Fund Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2021 The iruste¢s who are also dIreC￿rS of the charity for the purtK)ses of the Compani¢s A¢t 2006. present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 7021. The trusiees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Stafrmenl of Recommeiided Practice applicablc to charities preparing their accounts in accordance Th'ith the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS I O?) (effective l January 2019). ORIECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Objectives and aims To provide support. counselling and training io the sufferers and carers of multiple selerosis in the Morpeih area. Thc trustecs Confim) ihai they have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Coinmission's general guidance on public benefit when reVie￿ing the Trusi's aims and objectives and in planning fuiure acliviii¢s and setting the grdnt making policy for the year. To advance educ&iion and training of the communiiy in the sympiom& types. causes, diagnosis at)d treatment of multiple sclerosis. FINANCTAL REVIEW FinanciAI Review During the year ended 31 ￿ March ?021 ihe net assets of the Multiple Sclerosis Research And Relief Fund increased by £467.354 from £?,543,788 to £3.011.142. The company had an increase of net incoming resources of £137,341 and an increase in gains on investm¢nts of £330,013. Th¢ balance sheet of 3 Isi March 2021 ¢ontinu¢s to show a robusl position with net current assets of £334.593. Investment policy and objectives The Charity maintains a high level of risk free liquid funds on deposit at any point in time. Surplus funds are managed by professional investment advisors on a low risk basis with regular comprehensive Inonitoring and feedback as to p¢rforman¢¢ and stral¢gy.Inv¢siments are mad¢ ￿1th1n an ¢thical framework sct by th¢ board. Reserves Policy The Trustees have given careful consideraiion to the current and future needs of the Charity's beneficiaries; the risks and oppurtuniti¢s association with the nom?01 running of ihe Charity's affairs and have formulmlcd a reserves policy accordingly. At 31 st March 2021, Ihe Charitv had reserves of £3.011.142 of which £100,590 constituted Restricted Funds. Of Unrcslricled Funds Consiiluling £2.910,552, £520.339 were lied io freehold property at the year end (2020.. £2.433,336 of which £541,909 was tied to freehold property). The balance remaining comprises General funds of £2.390,213 which are available as working capitRI to develop the charity irkcluding where appropriate further property acquisitions. STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENr GoverniDg documellt The charity is controlled by its goveming documenL a deed of trus( and ¢onstitut¢s a limit¢d ￿Mpany, limited by guarantee, as defined by th¢ Compani¢s Act ?006. Page 2 The Multiple Selerosis Research And Relief Fund Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2021 Structurey governance aDd managemellt The Multiple Sclcrosis Regeai'ch and Reliet- Fund is a charitable cotnpany litnited by guarantee and Complies with the Companies Act ?006 and the SORP. InLorporated on I I tli Mar¢h 1964 and registered as a charity on 13th Junc 1969, thc company was established under a Memorandum of Association. which established the objeLtives and powers of the Charitable company and is gov¢m (1.2741 (1.278) (1,278) TOTAL FUNDS 419,4?1 1683,5521 {228,580) {49?711) A current year 12 months and prior year 12 Inontl)s combined pusilion is us tollows.. Net movement in funds Transfers between funds At 3113121 At 114119 Unrestricted funds General lund 2.924,769 120,439) 2,910.552 Re8¢ri¢¢ed funds Carers Art Class Speiialis¢d Physiotherapy Equipment 4,753 2,747 104,•30 {4) 11.274) 13.640) (4,749) (1,473) 100,590 111,730 14.918) (6,22? 100,590 TOTAL FUNDS 3.030,499 (25,357) 3,011,142 Page 17 continued... The Multiple Sclerosis Re8e#rch And Relief Fund Notes to the Fin2nei21 StatemeDts- continued for tbe Year Ended 31 Mar¢h 2021 15. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued A current year 12 months and prior ycar 12 months combined net movement in funds. included in the above are as tollows.. Incoming resources Resources expended G#ins And Movement losses in funds Unrestrieted funds General tund 847,066 (968,938) 101.433 (20.439) Restricted funds Carers Art Class Specialised Physiotherapy Equipment {4) (1.274) 13.640) (4) {1.274) {3.6401 14,9181 (4,918) TOTAL FUNDS 847,066 (973.8561 101,433 (25,357) Restricted Funds Carers The Carers f'und was s¢1 lip following con5uliaiion will) people atfe¢Ted by Multiple Sclerosis. Enabled by generous tunding; a suppun gruup is to b¢ launLhed to give Larers A break I'roin Laring. The aiin being that IliL groLlP can reduce the sen8e of isolaiion and meet other carers so that they can r¢¢eive suppurt and reas5uran¥¢. Carers will attend Mindt'ulness Giuup S¢ssiL)iis between July 2017 and July 2018, with at leasi 48 cai'ers being able to hav¢ a¢cess to the service during (his period. Art Class The Art Class fund provides various Llasses froin paiiiting to cake decorating. The purpos¢ of the classes is to enable service users to socialise And enjoy activities (ogether. Specialiscd Physioiherapy Eqiiipment The Sp¢Lialised Physiotherapy Equipment fund is to t'urther develop tl)e range ol. services offered lo users. Cla55 Iquipment Followin&y an exti'en)ely gen¢i'ous donation from a local Louncillor we have been ablc to purchase 2 x spinning cycles and I x recuinbent cycle, as wcll as other smaller pieces of gyin ¢quipsnent, to enable the Lh&rity to provid¢ trcc ot iharge LyLling classes for people with MS and thcir primary carers. Page 18 ¢ontinued... Tbe Multiple Selerosis Research And Relief Fund Notes to the Financial Statements- continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2021 16. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES There were no relatcd party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2021. PA8e 19 The Multiple Sclerosis Research And Relief Fund Detailed StstemeDI of Fingn¢ial Activities ror the Year Ended 31 Mareh 2021 2021 2020 INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS Donations and legAeies Donations Legacies 30,331 255,456 255,139 285,787 327.607 Otber tradlng Actlvities Fundi'aisingy evenis 16.225 18,187 Investment income Other fixed asset invcsi- Fll Deposit account interesl 57,709 74 70.841 786 57.783 71.627 Charit*ble activities Jos¢ph Strong Frazer Trusl Hedley Denion Charithble Trusi Northumberl&nd County Council 1,000 1,000 39,500 39,500 2.000 Other income HMRC JRS income 28,350 Total incoming resources 427,645 419,421 EXPENDITURE Ralsing donAtions And leggcies Wages Fundraising 10,278 570 32.452 15,036 10,848 47,488 Investment man*gement costs Portfolio manag¢m¢nt 9,415 7.682 Charitable Ac¢ivi¢ies Wages CatTied forward 59.817 59,817 44,785 44,785 This pagc does noi forni part of the stsrutory finan¢ial statements Page ?0 The Multiple Sclerosis Research And Relief Fund Detailed Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2021 2021 2020 Cbaritable activities Brought forward Rent and rates Insurance LighL heat and water Telephone Print, postage and siaiionery Sundries Service User Repairs and maintenance Computer costs Contracts Travel expens¢s Cosi of Trustee's meetings Refreshm¢nts and entertaining Therapist fees An class costs Carerfs group Voicc MS Southside House Grants to individuals 59,817 2,255 5,540 5,847 3,553 1,639 353 203 19,517 2.984 7,460 844 10 58 32,235 44,785 6,741 6,070 10,005 3,321 1.659 615 11,796 24,377 2,075 3,725 2,510 2.063 221,367 1.274 130 46,330 77,183 3,640 15,75? 161,707 466,143 Support costs Other Wages Pensions Rent and rates Insuran¢e Light and heat Telephone Postage and stationery Sundries Training Repairs and maintenance Contracts Computer cxp¢nses Travel expenses Cost of Trustees, meetings Bank charges Irrecoverable V A T Carried fonvard 44,550 2,902 966 2,375 1,461 1,523 702 71,598 2,536 2,602 2,501 1.423 711 263 8,365 2,241 332 100 10,459 1,352 585 279 277 395 25,854 125,098 89 10,030 75,799 This page does not forni part of the slatutory tinancial statements Pagy¢ ? I The Multiple Sclerosis Research ADd Relief Fund Detailed Statemellt of Financial Aclivities for tbe Year Ettded 31 Mar¢h 2021 2021 2020 Other Brought forward Depreciation of tsngible fixed assets 75,799 23.697 125,098 25.781 99.496 150,879 Governance costg Legal and protessional fees Accounlancy fees Loan 2,IY)6 6,489 253 2,924 8,436 8,838 11,360 Total resources expended 290.304 683,552 Net ineomel(expenditure) before Ellllls and 1058es 137,341 {264.131) Realis¢d recognised gAill8 alld los Realised gainsl(losse$) on fixed asset inveslments 330.013 {228.580) Net incom¢l{expendilure) 467,354 {492,711) This page does noi form part of th¢ sthill￿ry financial sthtements ## ANNUAL REPORT FINANCIAL YEAR 2020 – 2021 INCLUDING COVID-19 RESILIANCE PLANS ## CONTENTS Contents ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2 Chairman’s Report 2020 ......................................................................................................................................................................... 1 Objectives and Activities ......................................................................................................................................................................... 2 Our Vision ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 2 Our Mission ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 2 Our Values ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 2 Service Provision Review ........................................................................................................................................................................ 9 Service Development ............................................................................................................................................................................ 13 Volunteers and Friends of MSRRF ........................................................................................................................................................ 16 Grant Report ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Fundraising Report ............................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Research Opportunities ........................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Finance ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 28 ## CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 2020 The past year is one the Charity and indeed the entire world has not seen or experienced before. It has been virtually impossible to be proactive in any aspect of the operations and running of the Charity. Our main priority as Trustees of MSRRF has been to react to quickly changing situations and restrictions in the best interests of the Charity, our staff and our many potentially vulnerable service users. Social distancing restrictions only allowed the trustees to physically meet once during the year, but regular electronic communications have been utilised whenever required. Following Covid protection regulations, services were suspended at the commencement of lockdown in March 2020. They recommenced in the following September under the conditions required by the Government. Regrettably we had lost seven of our fitness and therapy team who had understandably taken up employment elsewhere, and we thank them for their efforts whilst with us, and wish them well for the future. Services were again curtailed in December due to the pandemic and resumed as soon as we were able to. Essential repairs to Benmar House were undertaken whilst the building was not in use. Whenever possible, work has continued on the new premises at Ashington. The financial uncertainties arising from the Covid pandemic has resulted in the decision being taken to shelve the hydrotherapy pool project for the foreseeable future, but to continue with the setting up of a physiotherapy centre. We are also evaluating a new piece of equipment which simulates the benefits provided by a hydrotherapy pool. The Trustees and staff have managed the Charity's affairs prudently and sensibly during the pandemic, to ensure that MSRRF has a fruitful future and can continue the high level of care offered and provided to all our service users. As always, it remains for me to thank everyone involved with the Charity for their considerable and much appreciated efforts over the past year. ## **Paul Atkinson Chairman** 1 ## OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES ## **Purpose of the Charity** MS Research and Relief Fund (MSRRF) is a UK registered charity established in 1964 to provide a range of services to people whose lives have been affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS). ## **Our Vision** To actively involve all people in improving the quality of life of people affected by Multiple Sclerosis. ## **Our Mission** Working with Service Users to make the best possible use of funds entrusted to us towards improving the quality of life of people affected by Multiple Sclerosis, and by researching potential advancements in our knowledge and treatment of the condition. ## **Our Values** Good and responsible stewardship. Transparency across the board. Participation across the board. Treating everyone equally as individuals. Honesty. Mutual trust. ## **Charity History** Robert Walker founded Multiple Sclerosis Research and Relief Fund in 1964. Its work principally involved funding research into MS and providing specialist equipment for people with MS. In 2005 MS Master Centres, “a sister charity”, was “wound up” and its assets, services and responsibilities were transferred to MSRRF. In addition the Charity’s grant service, which awards financial assistance to help people affected by MS to pay for services and equipment they require due to MS, was also expanded and continues to this day. In September 2006, in consultation with Service Users, MSRRF’s Development Plan was created. The aim of the Development Plan was to increase Complementary Therapy and Fitness provision at Benmar House, Morpeth and to identify other outreach venues which may enable the Charity to provide similar services for people with MS throughout the North East of England. During financial year 2016/17, following an evaluation of services and a staff review, work began on a Service Development and Fundraising Plan. Trustees identified the need for a reliable and sustainable income stream to maintain MSRRF’s existing service provision as well as ensure the Charity’s continued growth. MSRRF purchased South Side House in July 2017, work has progressed on gaining planning permission for a Physiotherapy Centre, with the redevelopment commencing in October 2019. ## **Covid-19 pandemic** The pandemics impact on the global financial markets resulted in a substantial reduction in MSRRF’s income revenue. The Charity was still required to meet all regular overheads associated with both Benmar House and South Side House throughout the pandemic and sadly staff redundancies were necessary. In March 2020, following Government guidelines, MSRRF suspended all services due to the Covid-19 pandemic, work also ceased on the construction of our Physiotherapy Centre project. A small staff team continued to work throughout the pandemic, considering financial assistance, financial administration of the Charity, ensuring MSRRF was Covid Secure in order to open as soon as it was safe to do so and continued to work on the planning and programming of the new Physiotherapy Centre. In September 2020, Benmar House re-opened to provide services to people with MS. The service was reduced as a result of the measures required to make Benmar House Covid Secure. All group exercise classes could not recommence and only relaxation classes took place. For the remainder of the year, these reduced Services were offered as and when the Government restrictions were lifted sufficiently to allow 3 for gym and therapies to take place. No outreach services were provided as many of the facilities MSRRF hire were not open or were not Covid Secure. ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** Throughout this Annual Report we have noted how we plan to move forward following the Covid-19 pandemic. These initial plans are highlighted at the end of the relevant sections and are continuously under review as the route out of the pandemic changes, but give an indication as to how we hope to proceed and make the Charity a success post Covid. ## **Reference and Administrative Details** |**Charity name**|**The Multiple Sclerosis Research and Relief Fund**| |---|---| |**Registered charity number**|228634| |**Head office address**|The Multiple Sclerosis Research and Relief Fund
Benmar House
Choppington Road
Morpeth
Northumberland
NE61 2HX| |**Contact details**|Telephone
01670 505 829
Fax:
0191 247 5816
Web:
www.ms-researchandrelief.org
E-mail:
info@ms-researchandrelief.org| |**Trustees**|Paul Atkinson, Chairman
Margaret Sharp
Kevin Carr
Margery Tate
Barbara Ellis
Peter Dawson| **----- Start of picture text -----**
Trustee appointments None
**----- End of picture text -----**
|**Trustee appointments**|None| |---|---| |**Trustee resignations**|None| ||| |**Patrons**|Dr Martin Duddy
Dr Joe Guadagno
Mr John Pryce Jones
Mrs Anne Wafula Strike MBE
Mrs Marjorie Walker, Founder of the Charity’s widow| ## **MSRRF Staff, Benmar House** |**Employed Staff**|Appleton, Jon
Fundraising Officer,_made redundant August 2020_
Blythe, Gillian
Receptionist
Charlton, Diane
Charity Manager
Clark, Tania
P/T
Service Development Officer
Davidson, Deborah
P/T
Therapist and Fitness Team Lead
Dunn, Amy
Assistant Manager
Harris, Sara
P/T
Fundraising Coordinator,_made redundant July 2020_
Reed, John
P/T
Caretaker| |---|---| |**Staff changes**|Appleton, Jon
Fundraising Officer_, made redundant August 2020_
Harris, Sara
P/T
Fundraising Coordinator,_made redundant July 2020_| 5 **----- Start of picture text -----**
Self-employed Staff Barrell, Amanda Tai Chi Instructor, resigned during this year
Berry, Jamie Therapist and Fitness Instructor
Bloomfield, Sean Therapist, resigned during this year
Dickinson, Margaret Therapist
Gray, Denise Therapist, resigned during this year
Howe, Michelle Therapist
Hurst, Carolyn Yoga, Pilates and Fitness Instructor
King, Beryl Therapist, Stress Management Instructor
Logan, Amanda Therapist, resigned during this year
McGorrell, Lee Therapist and Fitness Instructor
McKenna, Shelly Therapist and Fitness Instructor
Morgan, Jonny Fitness Instructor
Robson, Nikki Therapist and Fitness Instructor, resigned during this year
Philipson, Carol Therapist and Reiki practitioner
Ross-Knight, Joanna Therapist and Fitness Instructor
Taylor, Christine Therapist
Twaites, Hayley Therapist
Unwin, Sarah Fitness Instructor, resigned during this year
Wood, Helen Pilates and Fitness Instructor, resigned during this year
Volunteers Dowson, Sue Patron Liaison Officer
Marshall, John Therapist
Contracted Staff Davidson, John Red Hill – IT Consultant
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **Outreach Staff** Whilst we have not been in a position to hold any outreach facilities this financial year, the following tables provide the Self-Employed staff who were going to and we believe are still available to work for MSRRF as and when the respective facilities are able to re-open. ## **Belmont Parish Hall** ||**Self-employed Staff**|Coats, Diane
Yoga Teacher
Wood, Elaine
Fitness Instructor| |---|---|---| ## **Berwick Infirmary** ||**Self-employed Staff**|Bush, Amy
Therapist
Gallon, Caroline
Therapist
Gunn, Mary
Therapist
Hunter, Helen
Physiotherapist| |---|---|---| ## **Hilton Newcastle Gateshead** ||**Volunteers**|Grieveson, Amanda
Therapist
Harris, Katanya
Therapist| |---|---|---| ## **Leadgate Community Centre** ||**Self-employed Staff**|Ellis, Jason
Physiotherapist
McKenna, Shelly
Fitness Instructor
Newton Paull, Carlee
Therapist| |---|---|---| ## **Meadowfield Leisure Centre** ||**Self-employed Staff**|Ellis, Jason
Physiotherapist
McGorrell, Lee
Therapist
McKenna, Shelly
Fitness Instructor| |---|---|---| 7 ## **Sacriston** **Self-employed Staff** Newton Paull, Carly Therapist McCourt, Katie Therapist **Walkergate Park Self-employed Staff** Berry, Jamie Therapist Dickinson, Margaret Therapist ## **Walkergate Park** _MSRRF were informed that the room which was used at Walkergate Park Hospital would not be available for the outreach provision, as all rooms were now required by the hospital for their services during the pandemic._ ## **Self-employed resignations** Sadly the Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on all Self-Employed people and unfortunately some who worked at MSRRF, have had to seek new employment opportunities. We thank all of the Self Employed staff who have worked for the Charity and wish them well in their new ventures, the following provides a list of those who have resigned over the year. Barrell, Amanda Yoga teacher Bloomfield, Sean Therapist Gray, Denise Therapist Logan, Amanda Therapist Robson, Nikki Therapist and Fitness Instructor Wood, Helen Pilates and Fitness Instructor Unwin, Sarah Fitness Instructor ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** The Charity plans to recruit new self-employed staff to replace those who have recently resigned as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition to this, extra staff will also be required who can train alongside existing Gym and Therapy staff, in preparation for staffing South Side House. MSRRF will follow up on existing contacts with Colleges and Universities, in order to find new Gym and Therapy staff, whilst advertising the job opportunities in social media platforms. ## SERVICE PROVISION REVIEW During the financial year 2020/21 MSRRF have facilitated services **free of charge** for people affected by MS, as and when Government regulations have allowed. The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in three national lockdowns with all but essential services permitted to operate and when Northumberland was in Tier 4 (Dec 2020), we were also required to stop gym and therapy sessions. Benmar House had to undergo changes to ensure it was Covid Secure before each period of operation, as well as the man hours required to consider and implement the necessary changes, there was a financial cost for the materials and equipment required. _“Thanks for your continued hard work in these troubled times, its very much appreciated”_ The Charity has been constantly under review as the pandemic and global situation changed, these reviews have resulted in many staff changes throughout the entire financial year, making use of the Governments furlough scheme in all of its guises, this has enabled the Charity to protect jobs, where possible. ## **Covid-19 but we are still here for you!** During the local and national lockdowns MSRRF were acutely aware that our Services Users may feel isolated and alone, which has a significant impact on mental health and in turn on MS symptoms. During each lockdown, the staff who were still working prepared newsletters which were sent to all Service Users of the Charity, keeping them all up to date with work that was being carried out by the Charity so we could operate as soon as it was safe to do so. Feedback from Service Users was positive regarding these newsletters and many of their friends and family donated to the Charity as a consequence. ## **2020/2021 Service Provision** When Benmar House was required to close and Government guidance was provided to make the service Covid-19 Secure, all services were reviewed and many changes had to be made to both Benmar House and the services that could be permitted to take place. _“You are all angels at work, thank you”_ 9 Benmar House was open Monday to Friday with Complementary Therapies and Gym appointments available from 10:00 to 16:00 Monday to Thursday and 10:00 to 15:00 on a Friday. The shorter hours provided staff with the opportunity to clean the building thoroughly and prepare the rooms for appointments. During periods of lockdown, many Service Users contacted MSRRF to see if and when appointments would be available as they had missed their therapies and gym sessions. When services were permitted the appointments were fully booked, although it should be noted that a small number of Service Users did not wish to attend until the pandemic was over or they had received a vaccine. During the previous year, MSRRF worked in partnership with an MS Specialist Nurse and a Continence Specialist Nurse who attended Benmar House at least once per month to confidentially meet people with MS, by appointment only. During 2020/21, no nurse appointments were available at Benmar House, as the NHS suspended all bookings and we understand that the nursing team provided remote / virtual appointments for people with MS. Against all the odds and during a period of significant disruption, MSRRF did manage to provide some of our Services to people with MS and their primary carer, the following table provides a summary of these for 2020/21. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Relaxation
Dates Therapies Gym Total
Classes
7th September – 15th October 228 195 7 430
5th Oct – 15th Oct 140 99 6 245
9th December – 18th December 99 89 - 188
Total 467 383 13 863
**----- End of picture text -----**
The following graphs show the number of Service User appointments that were able to take place at Benmar House, along with an annual comparison over the previous five years and the sudden drop due to Covid 19 in March 2020. 11 ## **Benmar House Group Activities** The group activities which were able to take place during 2020/21, were limited to small relaxation classes, as these did not involve any movement which increases exhalation, the upstairs gym was used to enable social distancing during the classes. MSRRF was able to provide classes during September and October 2020 providing 13 relaxation appointments. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, MSRRF were unable to facilitate any carers or art groups and the Voice MS group were not able to meet at Benmar House. It is hoped that these groups will all resume when we can offer our full range of services again. ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** All activities which take place at Benmar House have been reviewed before we re-opened in May 2021. Sport and Complementary Therapies along with Gym appointments are now offered and we are considering how we may be able to offer Covid secure exercise classes in the rooms we have available. All group activities will need to be reviewed to determine if we have sufficient room to accommodate larger groups in a socially distanced way, to minimise the risk to both attendees and staff at Benmar House. ## **Outreach facilities** No outreach facilities were offered during 2020/21, as all venues were required to close in March 2020. ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, MSRRF were required to stop all services, including our Outreach provisions. As the country tentatively moves towards a new normal, we are looking at ways in which we can offer our services throughout the North East again. We are in the process of reviewing all Outreach provisions, both the locations / facilities where they take place and the services offered and this may result in some changes to our provisions. Only when we are certain that we can provide Covid-19 Secure Outreach provisions will we be re-opening in any location. ## SERVICE DEVELOPMENT ## **Benmar House** The forced closure of Benmar House to services provided an opportunity to undertake a number of upgrades of Benmar House which minimised any disruption to Service Users. During the first lockdown, a new fire system and automatic front door were installed and were fully operational prior to the lockdown being lifted in August 2020. The building has been deep cleaned during each lockdown, to ensure the Service could be provided as soon as the Government restrictions were eased. Whilst not development per say, during each lockdown a small core team of staff continued to work, ensuring all statutory building checks were undertaken and the garden was maintained. ## **South Side House** In March 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown, the construction works at South Side House had to halt. Work has commenced with regards to the submission of documents to Northumberland County Council for the discharge of planning conditions; building control; and amendment to the existing planning permission, with all relevant permissions granted, as follows: - Discharge of planning conditions 3 and 4, 20/8/2020; - Building Control approval, 19/1/2021; and - Non-material amendment application, 7/9/2020. Additional security arrangements were implemented during the first lockdown as there would be no contractors at South Side House and the alarm does not currently have an electricity supply. Visits by MSRRF staff were increased and in addition Delta One Security visited the site twice per week to ensure there has been no damage or theft. During the first lockdown, the Government did permit contractors to work on building sites, if the site was made Covid-19 Secure. White Knight Maintenance carried the works necessary for the construction to continue, with the electrical 1[st] fix and the fire system 1[st] fix now complete. 13 ## **SOUTH SIDE HOUSE DEVELOPMENT CHANGES AS A RESULT OF COVID-19** ## **TRUSTEE ANNOUNCEMENT** You will not be surprised to learn that MSRRF have been affected along with virtually everyone else, by the Covid-19 pandemic. It is now quite a while since we bought South Side House to convert into a Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy Centre, and whilst we were committed to meeting the very substantial cost of the project, the economic uncertainties both currently and for the foreseeable future, have forced us to re-evaluate our spending plans. As responsible and diligent trustees, we have always vigorously protected the long term future of MSRRF when approving budgets and spending plans. The upgrading of South Side House has already required substantial investment and we are pleased to be able to let you know that we are going ahead with the development of the Physiotherapy Centre. Sadly, at this present time, however, we feel that the very high cost of buying, fitting and operating a hydrotherapy pool is too risky a venture, and instead, we are looking at the feasibility of installing a new and exciting piece of equipment which simulates the benefits of a hydrotherapy pool, is much more accessible and does not require the use of water. We know that substantial funds have been raised for the pool project and we can assure everybody who has helped that every penny raised will be used to benefit people affected by MS, hopefully the future provision of a pool being part of our services. The proposal will create new employment opportunities for a physiotherapist, physiotherapist assistants and Charity staff, who will be located at the Centre. When fully operational it is anticipated that the Centre will provide weekly physiotherapy sessions for people with MS. Research has shown that physiotherapy can prolong the mobility of people with MS, which is one of the aims of the Charity. Indicative costs regarding building and external works have been received. It is anticipated that the redevelopment of South Side House to provide a state of the art Physiotherapy Centre will cost in in the region of £250,000. ## **Tania Clark** ## **Service Development Officer** ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** There is an increase in urgency relating to the development of the physiotherapy centre as during the latter Covid-19 lockdowns physiotherapy was still permitted to operate. As such MSRRF would have been able to offer some services to people with MS, if the centre had been completed. As no one knows if or when there might be another lockdown, it is imperative that the new centre is operational as soon as possible so we can continue to support people with MS even during a pandemic. It is hoped that the Covid-19 pandemic will not have had a detrimental impact on local and national grant funding streams and sponsorships which MSRRF may be able to access. 15 ## VOLUNTEERS AND FRIENDS OF MSRRF MSRRF has a number of volunteers and friends who have worked with the Charity for a number of years and we appreciate all that they do and the impact their work has for the Charity, further details are provided below. - **John Marshall** has been volunteering for over 10 years and provides therapies to services users every Tuesday at Benmar House. - **Susan Dowson** continues to be our liaison with the Charity’s patrons. - **Brenda Charlton** helps at fundraising events held by MSRRF. - **Julie Office** volunteered to help at MSRRF Golf Day. - **Sybil and Alan Rayson** , who supply hampers throughout the year - including Easter - that raise hundreds of pounds towards the Charity’s work. - Thanks also to all the self-employed staff and Trustees who volunteered time to help support our fundraising events. - Staff and self-employed staff who help maintain the garden at Benmar House. ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** It is our hope that volunteers and friends to the Charity will enhance the amazing work MSRRF does to support people with MS both locally and nationally. Plans are in place for a new volunteer led hub within Benmar House as part of our Covid-19 resilience plans. ## **Corporate and Community Friends of the Charity** - **Bazzar Group** , corporate donor. - **Printed.com** for printing of promotional and fundraising materials at no cost to MSRRF. - **Claire McCabe** , Relationship Manager for the North East England Chamber of Commerce, reduction in subscription due to Covid-19. - **John Beynon,** a Conservative Councillor for Stobhill. - **Mark Burdett,** NC Insurance. - **David Nicholas Construction Ltd,** made Benmar House secure following break in. - **AJ Glazing,** re-glazed the broken window unit following Benmar House break in. - **RM Plumbing and Heating** , undertook many plumbing and general DIY projects throughout Benmar House. ## GRANT REPORT MSRRF has continued to provide a Grant Funding Service throughout 2020/21, which is open to people affected by MS anywhere in the UK. MSRRF receive and welcome applications for financial assistance from individuals with MS and groups representing people with MS, with applications received from all over Great Britain and Northern Ireland. MSRRF maintained their financial assistance to people with MS throughout the entire pandemic, as people with MS still continued to require aids and adaptations as a result of their diagnosis. We did see a reduction in applications, however it was evident that the amount of assistance requested did increase during the year. ## **Individual Grant Applications** In the past financial year April 1[st] 2020 - March 31[st] 2021 inclusive, the Charity received 38 grant applications. MSRRF offer grants for aids and adaptions, equipment and respite care to people affected by MS throughout the United Kingdom, helping people from Penzance to John O'Groats - and beyond - live their lives. The following table provides the amount of financial assistance allocated for each of the three funding categories. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Grants
Aids & adaptions £12,150.00
Respite £0
Other £ 2,379.50
TOTAL £14,529.50
**----- End of picture text -----**
The table shows that £2,379.50 was allocated towards the cost of “other” items, this includes but is not limited to cookers, washing machines and flooring. 17 MSRRF can provide shortfall funding to people with MS who have applied to the MS Society for a grant and in 2020/21 there were 2 applications awarded in partnership with the MS Society. During this year and as a direct result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the MS Society made the decision to pause their national grants programme for 2 to 3 years. It should be noted that some of the local branches throughout the UK have continued to award financial assistance, but only when their funds allow. The MS Society’s decision has had an impact on MSRRF, due to the level of assistance requested and the lack of opportunities for joint awards. Unfortunately, this has resulted in a number of applications being denied / withdrawn as the applicants were not able to raise the full funding for their goods / services. From the 38 grant applications received, 9 were declined as they did not meet our grants criteria, for example as they were for holidays, retrospective or for goods / services not associated with MS with 0 applications were withdrawn. The financial assistance helps people in a wide range of ways and not just in the purchase of the item. We have assisted people in continuing their employment (purchase of IT and other equipment, assistance with mobility vehicles), helped them continue to live in their family homes (stair lifts, wet rooms, new flooring) and allow people to live independent lives (mobility scooters, eating aids, rise and recliner chairs), as well as funding vital respite care. ## **2019/2020 Accrued grants** 27 applications totalling £17,409.81 were carried over from the previous financial year 2019/20. Sixteen of these applications totalling £9,290.00 were subsequently withdrawn, one application was declined and one application is being accrued into 2021/22. ## **Group Applications** We received no grant applications from groups during the past financial year April 1st 2020 - March 31st 2021 inclusive. ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** MSRRF wish to continue to provide financial assistance to people with MS throughout the UK as much as possible. However, the decision of the National MS Society to suspend all grant funding has had a significant impact on the level of assistance that is now being requested. MSRRF is a small charity with limited financial resources, as such a review of the financial assistance that can be provided will now need to be undertaken in order that we can continue to offer some assistance to those who have a greater need for our help / support. The financial review will consider the level of assistance that can be offered, the range of items which can be considered by the grants team and the assessment criteria which is used to determine the need for assistance. The new criteria may also consider the location of the person with MS, to ensure that we support people nationally not just those in the North East. ## FUNDRAISING REPORT Over the past year, MSRRF has benefitted enormously from direct donations to the Charity, we would like to thank **Bazaar Group** , a soft furnishings company based in Cramlington, Northumberland, who have, despite the Covid-19 pandemic, continued their corporate relationship with MSRRF with a regular Direct Debit donation. We would like to thank Printed.com, for their continued support with our marketing and Covid-19 materials. MSRRF has again benefitted greatly from subscribing to the online fundraising platforms JustGiving and VirginMoneyGiving. In addition, MSRRF now subscribes to the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) and we hope to benefit further from this relationship. ## **Charties Trust** During the financial year 2020 – 2021, **£60.00** was received from Charities Trust, a leading donations management organisation committed to growing charitable giving. Charities Trust provide a number of services including pay roll giving, we are awaiting further information regarding how this year’s money has been raised and how MSRRF can use this platform to raise future funds. ## **Benevity** During the financial year 2020 – 2021, **£90.02** was received from Benevity, a software company that powers corporate giving, volunteering, and grant-making solutions for hundreds of Fortune 1000 companies from around the globe. 19 ## **AmazonSmile** AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for people to support a charity every time they shop at Amazon, at no cost to them. When people shop at AmazonSmile, they find the exact same prices, selection and shopping experience as amazon.co.uk, with the added bonus that AmazonSmile donates a portion of the purchase price to their selected charity. MSRRF is a registered charity with AmazonSmile and receives a donation of 0.5% of the net purchase price (excluding VAT, returns and shipping fees) of eligible purchases. MSRRF occasionally remind people of this method of raising funds through our social media platforms. During this financial year MSRRF has received **£497.15** of donations through AmazonSmile. ## **PayPal Giving** PayPal Giving Fund helps people support their favourite charities online and helps charities raise funds through PayPal, eBay and other technology platforms. During this financial year MSRRF did not receive any donations from PayPal Giving Fund, however MSRRF have now registered with them in order to start benefiting from this new fundraising opportunity. ## **Easyfundraising** During 2020, MSRRF registered with Easyfundraising UK, which is the UK’s biggest charity fundraising site. Easyfundraising turns everyday online shopping into donations for Charities, at no cost to the purchaser. The donation per purchase is generally be between 0.5% and 10%. Some retailers - including insurance and broadband providers - will pay a flat fee which can be in the £100s. Using Easyfundraising means that we will have a steady stream of donations coming throughout the year. It’s an effortless way of raising funds consistently alongside all our other fundraising initiatives. To date we have 51 supporters of the Charity and have raised **£245.93** . ## **‘In Aid of’ Events** The Charity has been fortunate to have a number of supporters who have raised significant funding through in-aid-of events, a selection of these being highlighted below. - **Lyndsey Bush.** In September 2020, Lyndsey took part in the Virtual Great North Run in memory of her uncle, and MSRRF Patron, Neil Black, raising a total of **£1,408.43.** - **David Chappell** took part in the 2.6 Challenge raising **£433.75** . - **Lee McGorrell** undertook a number of running challenges raising **£132.50.** - **Olivia Ball** ran 5k and collected sponsorship money totalling **£375.50.** - **Elizabeth Gagie** ran the virtual Great North Run and raised **£50.00.** - **Imogen Carlson,** ran the Month of Miles challenged, beating her fundraising target with a total of **£640.00.** - **Sarah White** took part in the 2.6 challenge and raised **£24.75.** - **Andrea Louise** took part in the 2.6 challenge and raised **£159.70.** - **Sean Bloomfield.** Following his successful 2018 and 2019 series of self-set challenges, Sean decided to set himself a new challenge of 20 different events across the year, 20in20. Sean took part in events with MSRRF, including the Mad March Mare, Virtual Great North Run and 2.6 Challenge, found events to enter himself, including running the 100 mile St Oswald’s Way in 29 hours!!!. Over the course of the year, Sean raised **£3,327.86** for MSRRF. - **Joanna Ross-Knight** cycled 46 miles as part of the Prudential MyRideLondon raising **£681.25** . - **Lesley Stewart** regularly gives MSRRF the profits from her hand made card sales, raising over **£200** and Lesley also took part in the 2.6 Challenge raising a further **£1,300.00.** - **Sven Schierig** took part in the Dog & Rabbit Half Marathon raising **£1,954.25.** - **Dawn Walker** who Hoola Hooped in March and has raised **£468.75** to date. 21 ## **MSRRF Events** In addition to providing increased stewardship for people fundraising in aid of MSRRF, the Charity was only able to organised one fundraising event this year. ##  **MSRRF Golf Day** 2020 saw our Charity golf day being held at Arcot Hall, Cramlington for the fifth consecutive year, due to Covid-19 restrictions our usual tried and tested format with an 18 hole, shotgun start round followed by hot food and charity auction and raffle had to be revised. Participants were given individual tee times, a raffle and silent auction were available in the club house at the start of the day, with a hot drink and snack provided at the 9[th] hole, the event raised a profit of **£1,841.35** for MSRRF. ## **Sponsored Events** The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on charities, with the UK charity sector predicting an estimated £10 billion funding gap and many charities facing closure. This impacts all sectors of society – from children to the elderly – as well as the vital work in areas such as palliative care, serious diseases, research, mental health, housing support, food supplies and countless others that charities support. However, a number of virtual events did take place and MSRRF marketed these events on our social media platforms and these were successful with many people taking part in the events and raising funds, these are detailed below. ## **2.6 CHALLENGE - £3,167.45** The Covid-19 pandemic had a catastrophic effect on all Charities with the cancellation of thousands of events and the loss of income through fundraising events. All people had to do is dream up an activity based around the numbers 2.6 or 26 that suited their skills and complete it on Sunday 26 April – when the 40th London Marathon would have taken place. The activities could have been something as simple as pledging to run or ride 2.6 miles as daily exercise, holding the plank for 2.6 minutes, to gardening for 26 minutes. There were no rules – apart from the following Government guidelines on how to exercise safely during lockdown. ## **MyRideLondon - £680.57** My Prudential RideLondon built on the success of The 2.6 Challenge. Prudential RideLondon is the world’s greatest festival of cycling, over seven years it has inspired hundreds of thousands of people to take up cycling or cycle more often and has raised more than £77 million for thousands of charities. The eighth edition was due to take place on the weekend of 15 and 16 August 2020 and feature four mass participation events: the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 19, 46 and 100 sportives, plus Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle: the free event that invites cyclists of all ages and abilities to pedal round eight miles of traffic-free roads in central London. While the Covid-19 pandemic meant the festival couldn’t go ahead they wanted to keep the wheels moving and celebrate the event weekend by encouraging even more people to get on their bikes and explore new ways of travelling and exercising in a socially distanced world – and help save the UK’s charities in the process. MSRRF joined in the campaign and promoted it through our social media channels, many Service Users, staff and self-employed members of staff took part, raising vital funds during a difficult time for all Charities. ## **Appeals** Covid-19 meant that we have needed to review the way we provide services to be Covid-19 Secure. In August 2020 MSRRF published a Facebook Campaign, using an Amazon wish list, asking people to donate a new microfiber towel to the Charity. The campaign was a great success and 50 towels were donated saving the Charity approximately **£500.** 23 ## **Corporate Fundraising** Due to Covid-19, MSRRF were not able to attract or promote corporate sponsors during this financial year. Monthly donations were however still received from **Bazaar Group** and **UNW** made a payment of £8,757.48 from previous years fundraising, the payment was delayed due to Covid-19. ## **Additional Corporate Donations** **Waitrose** – general donation - **£333.00** **Normedica** – donated 90 bottles of hand sanitiser **BannerBuzz** – donated a banner for use at events **DiscountDisplays** – donated an A Board pavement sign ## **Special Thanks** - To the family and friends who have kindly donated funds towards the work of MSRRF at loved ones funerals or donated money in memory, including: **Martin Fiddles, Sue Haines, Mrs G M Thompson’s mother, Neil Black (patron), Lynn Dodds and Mavis Smith.** - **Peter McTiernan** raised money in memory of **Fay McTiernan £1,261.59.** To everyone who continued to send the Charity a regular gift via direct debit or standing order during the Covid-19 pandemic, in addition to those who also gave generously including: - Mr Cook from Rothbury, for his **£400** donation - Mr J and Mrs J G Davison’s donation of **£400** ## **Incoming Grants** MSRRF made a number of grant applications to our local authority and other grant giving organisations, £42,000 was secured via grants during this financial year and the successful grants were: - **Joseph Strong Frazer Trust** made a donation of £1,000. - **Northumberland County Council** , Covid-19 Discretionary Grant Fund award of £25,000 October 2020. - **Northumberland County Council** , Local Restrictions Support Grant award of £2,000 January 2020. - **Northumberland County Council** , Local Restrictions Support Grant award of £9,357, 14 February 2020. - **Northumberland County Council** , Local Restrictions Support Grant award of £3,143, 6 March 2021. - **Northumberland Estates,** made a donation of £500, restricted to outreach provisions. - **Kenneth Barge Memorial Trust** made a donation of £1,000. A grant application was submitted to **The Postcode Neighbourhood Trust** , in August 2020, unfortunately this application was not successful. Two grant applications were made and approved during this financial year, however the funds were not received until April 2021, these are: - **Community Chest,** award of £2,873.00, for physiotherapy equipment and chairs. - **Cllr John Beynon, Small Members Scheme** , award of £2,019.87. ## **Legacies** During 2020/21 MSRRF received **£255,455.68** of funding from Legacies. The Charity remains very grateful to all benefactors who have willed legacies or made donations which will continue to have a positive impact on and secure the delivery of services for years to come. 25 ## **Changes to MSRRF Fundraising Team** In July and August 2020, Fundraising Officer Jon Appleton and Fundraising Coordinator Sara Harris were sadly made redundant, due to the large financial losses to the Charity as a result of the pandemic. Both members of staff had been placed on furlough as a result of Covid-19 and during this period it was decided that their positions were no longer viable as the scope of the Charity’s fundraising has had to shift from organising and running events to promoting virtual events. ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** Now that the country is tentatively moving towards a new normal, there are increasing opportunities to carry out fundraising, whether this is through MSRRF events or through supporters raising funds doing “in aid of” events which are increasingly going ahead now. However, due to the reduction in employed staff and in particular the loss of the fundraising team, a review of how we can raise vital funds will need to be undertaken. MSRRF believes that there may need to be shift in how we fundraise in the future, for instance more work will need to be done with regards to social media, legacies and with corporate contacts, in order to minimise the impact this new but vital work will have on the existing staff team. With regards to MSRRF events, it is hoped that volunteers will be able to be recruited to organise and run any event which is organised by the Charity, in order to minimise the demand on staff time. The planned volunteer hub will be used as a tool to recruit more volunteers for these vital roles. ## RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES No research projects were undertaken during the Covid-19 pandemic and no future opportunities were identified, due to the lack of facilities being permitted to be open. ## **Future research** MSRRF continues to be extremely interested in supporting research opportunities when its limited funds allow. ## **Covid-19 resilience plan** MSRRF is looking to the new physiotherapy centre to provide new research opportunities. New equipment has been identified which may be used as a replacement for the conductive education programme which was previously provided by Percy Hedley. 27 11 FINANCE INCOME 2020/21 Legacies. £255.456.LXI Donations, £30,331.00 Fundraising / Donations, £16,225.00 Investments, £57,709.00 Interest received, £74.00 HMRCJRS, £28,350.00 Covid19 grant, £39,500.00 FUNDRAISING, LEGACIES AND DONATIONS 2020/21 Legacles, £255,456. Fundraising / Donations, £16,225.00 Donations, £30,331.00 29 **Financial Review 2020/21** During the year ended 31st March 2021 the net assets of the Multiple Sclerosis Research and Relief Fund increased by £467,354 from £2,543,788 to £3,011,142. The company had a decrease of net incoming resources of £137,341 and an increase in gains on investments of £330,013. The Balance Sheet of 31st March 2021 continues to show a robust position with net current assets of £334,593. **Diane Charlton Charity Manager** More information on MSRRF, our services and news of what’s going can be found on our website, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages at: Website: www.ms-researchandrelief.org Facebook: @MSResearchandReliefFund Instagram: msrrfcharity Twitter: @MSRRFcharity ## MS Research and Relief Fund A Registered Charity, No. 228634 A company registered as The Multiple Sclerosis Research and Relief Fund in England, No. 795584 Registered Office, Benmar House, Choppington Road, Morpeth, Northumberland NE61 2HX VAT Registration No. 733 9173 23