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2024-12-31-accounts

Crohn’s In Childhood Research Association (CICRA)

REPORT & ACCOUNTS for the year ended 31 Dec 2024

Charity registration number 278212 (England and Wales) Charity registration number SC040700 (Scotland)

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees

Mrs M Lee MBE Mr G Lee Ms K Malloy Mr P Cooper Ms S Brown Mr S Coleman Mrs N Pitney-Hall Mr N Croft

(Appointed 14 September 2024)

Charity number (England and Wales) 278212 Charity number (Scotland) SC040700

Independent examiner

Hazel Day Nightingale House 46-48 East Street Epsom Surrey KT17 1HQ

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 6
Independent examiner's report 7
Statement of financial activities 8
Balance sheet 9
Notes to the financial statements 10 - 20

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Charities SORP "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)".

The Trustees are confident that during 2024 the objectives of the charity were met by continuing to fund research which increases knowledge and understanding of Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis, collectively known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Whilst seeking the cause and cure the charity continued to provide support and information for parents and children and continued to raise awareness amongst the general public of the devastating effect this condition continues to have on young lives.

Objectives and activities

The principal objects for which the Society is established are for the relief of persons suffering from, and to promote and advance public education and research into, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis and related disorders.

Public benefit

The trustees have referred to the Charity Commission's general guidance on Public Benefit when reviewing their aims and objectives.

Grant making policy

To meet one of its primary objectives, the Charity invests in medical research into the causes and treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis), particularly as it affects children and young adults. Applications for research funding are invited from relevant medical and scientific institutions and are then subjected to a rigorous peer review process, involving independent specialist referees and the CICRA Awards Advisory Panel. Typically, the research awards fall within four categories: 3-year Research Training Fellowships, 3- year PhD Studentships, 1-2 year research projects and grants for specific statistical projects related to IBD in childhood. Bursary grants to help with the costs of UK based health professionals and students in training (doctors, nurses and final year medical students) involved in IBD research, attending scientific/medical meetings. These are awarded at the discretion of the Trustees. Also awarded at the discretion of the Trustees, a small startup grant for young scientists/doctors in training, to carry out an innovative or pilot study.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Achievements and performance

Significant activities and achievements against objectives

Governance, Management & Human Resources

At the Annual General Meeting, held on Microsoft Teams on 14[th] September 2024:

CICRA’s staffing model in 2024 continued with 4 part time positions and the Sutton office open 4 days a week. Trustee Graham Lee took responsibility for the general office and support work, trustee Margaret Lee continued to be responsible for the research process and Trustee/Treasurer, Simon Coleman, continued to be responsible for financial affairs the day-to-day accounting and working with accountants Xeinadin London Limited. Other Trustees continued to undertake additional activities in connection with specific areas of work such as fundraising, information technology and representation on external committees.

The trustees held their committee meetings as a combination of online and face to face. We continued to see an increased workload due to the queries relating to the vulnerability of children with IBD plus the definite increase in the amount of children being diagnosed, and at an earlier age.

Research

The principal objective of the charity is to raise funds to maintain and expand a research programme to help bring about better treatments and quality of life for children and young adults with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Also, to discover, through good basic science, the cause and an eventual cure. Since its foundation in 1978 CICRA has funded 27 Training Fellowships, 24 PhD Studentships, 62 Research Projects and set up the first Paediatric Gastroenterology Laboratory in the UK.

During the period under review CICRA continued the funding of the following research

Year One of a three year CICRA fellowship with Dr James Ashton and the team at Southampton’s Children Hospital with Dr.Zachary Green taking up this paediatric clinical and research training.

Year One of a t hree year PhD studentship with Dr Mairi McLean at Dundee University. Billie Nuth was appointed in 2024 to look at injury and leakiness of the epithelial barrier in IBD to identify new knowledge of why IBD develops and identify new ways of treating this condition.

A one year Project Research Award was made to Professor David Wilson at Edinburgh University for the novel use of nationwide administrative health data and data-linkage to define UK paediatric IBD epidemiology, early life associations, course and educational attainment.

Renewal of a regular consumables grant to support the work undertaken in the Paediatric Gastroenterology Laboratory at St Bartholomew's & The Royal London Hospital.

Having funded the setting up of the UK Paediatric IBD BioResource involving specialist paediatric Gastroenterology centres around the UK, CICRA continued to support this project during 2024.

To ensure transparency and appropriate application of CICRA funds, the Trustees follow a strict Peer Review system using external referees from the UK and other countries, and their own appointed Medical Advisory Panel (MAP), all working in an honorary capacity. Based upon the recommendations of the Medical Advisory Panel the Trustees make the final decision and award the grants. This Peer Review applies to all applications for financial support with the exception of the very minor grants. Annual written reports are required for all awards and are reviewed by the Trustees and Medical Advisors. CICRA encourages the publication of both positive and negative research results.

CICRA continues to hold a Certificate of Good Practice from the Association of Medical Research Charities which enables the charity to use the AMRC 2020 audit logo to show that our process for granting awards is of a high standard.

This is a five year certification.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Information and Support

CICRA works with Regional Paediatric Centres, specialist units and also district general hospitals across the UK who treat children with IBD and who distribute 'Parent Packs' to the parents of newly diagnosed children.

CICRA works closely with Paediatric IBD specialist nurses at various paediatric gastroenterology units around the country, their regular contact with the young patients and families is vital and much appreciated.

CICRA 'Can't Wait' cards are available for children to help them explain their condition when in urgent need of a toilet.

The ePals scheme puts young IBD sufferers in contact with each other via e mail and is greatly valued by youngsters and their parents. Feedback received from parents highlighted the value of this scheme in enabling young people to share their experiences and realise that they are not alone.

“E-Pals came at just the right time for my son, as he was in hospital and desperate for something positive. Having contact from people who understood what he was experiencing was great. I want to say thank you - because that time in hospital was a very dark time for him and having contact with people lifted his spirits just when he (and I!) needed it”.

Two Family Information Days were held in 2024 with one in Manchester in July and another at The Royal School of Medicine in London in October.

“Amongst a lot of direct support to patients and families through online and telephone contacts CICRA also runs wonderful family days. Health professionals queue up to help these events and the feedback shows how effective and important they really are”.

Prof Nick Croft MBBS PhD FRCPCH

Demand for support grew again through 2024 as health services continued to be stretched and as the number of children and young people being diagnosed with IBD increased. Of concern is the continued unprecedented requests for support from parents of extremely young children with IBD. The support which CICRA offers remains a lifeline for many families and is recognised by both parents and professionals alike.

In 2024 35,419 support and information leaflets were distributed and 4531 families were supported.

Increasing awareness

Our Family Information Days provide opportunities to network and co-ordinate with healthcare professionals and policy makers as well as to learn about the latest developments in treatments and possible causes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, especially as it affects the young. Trustees play an active role in organising and attending these meetings. In 2024 Trustees and staff maintained contact with healthcare professionals and organisations and tuned in to many virtual meetings. It should be noted that Trustees do not receive any remuneration and only claim travel and budget style overnight accommodation expenses, in line with the charity's expense guidelines.

The CICRA newsletter compiled and edited by the trustees and staff, is one of the main vehicles, along with the website and social media, for publicising the effect that Inflammatory Bowel Disease can have on children, and for the public to become more aware of their needs.

CICRA continues to publish ‘easy to understand’ information booklets which are always in high demand. CICRA also offers information and support for parents regarding possible school problems and setting up an Individual Health Plan. This literature covers all ages plus information on what help is available during exam time.

CICRA continues to develop and improve its website, which contains many information resources, and maintains a social media presence, primarily on Facebook and Instagram.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Membership

CICRA does not charge a fixed membership fee as the Trustees continue to believe that all parents of children affected by Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis should have access to CICRA literature and information on their child's condition, regardless of their financial position but they invite members to make a donation as and when they wish or are able to do so. Membership is open to patients, parents, their families and friends, medical professionals and anyone interested in furthering the understanding of, and research into, inflammatory bowel disease in children and young adults.

CICRA fundraising

Our income is reliant on applications to Trusts and fundraising and support from our members and supporters. The Trustees are very grateful for all the fundraising members undertake for the charity and the support received from Trusts and supporters.

Feedback from member:

“I have had Crohn’s disease for nearly 10 years now and CICRA have been with me from the start. They were so key to helping my family and I further understand the disease, as well as introducing me to others my age going through the same challenges. I cannot thank CICRA enough for the support they have given me over the years, which is why I had chosen to run for them and raise as much money as possible. Through the generosity of others, I managed to raise £500 including gift aid, which will go on to help support other children diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and make a real difference to their lives. “

Observations from top specialists in the UK:

CICRA is the only registered national charity dedicated solely to supporting families and funding research into Paediatric Gastroenterology and in particular Inflammatory Bowel Disease in children. Much has been discovered from research and improvements made in the management and treatment, but the cause of this life-long debilitating condition and especially the recent increase in babies and toddlers being diagnosed, still eludes the scientists.

“Without CICRA , Paediatric Gastroenterology in the UK would be very weak”

Links with other organisations

CICRA is a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC), the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the National Council for Voluntary Organizations (NCVO) and is registered with the Fundraising Regulator.

CICRA continues to work with BSPGHAN (British Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition), the BSPGHAN Public Patient Participation (PPP) representative and the five associated gastro charities and in particular Crohn’s and Colitis UK.

CICRA exchanges newsletters and information with the many national and international organizations dealing with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and responds to enquiries from overseas, sign posting also to sister organisations as appropriate.

Financial review

As of end of December 2024 the accumulated funds stood at £782,625 of which £734,531 represented unrestricted funds. Research commitments for future years and detailed in Note 25 to the accounts amount to £392,667 with a further £180,000 designated to future research and support. In the year under review there was £27,375 of legacy income, Trust income was £85,000, other activities and donations £182,657 and investment income £27,481. Of the £782,625 accumulated funds as at 31st December 2023, £389,474 is in Fixed Deposit Cash Funds. Other surplus funds are in accounts with CAF, COIF and NatWest.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Reserves policy

CICRA has no significant secure income, relying almost totally on voluntary contributions, donations, grants and fund-raising activities. In consequence the trustees believe that it is essential to have sufficient funds to ensure continuity in the event of a temporary reduction in income. The trustees have agreed a policy to hold reserves on deposit equal to a minimum of six months operational expenses and covering long term commitments. At the end of 2024 we estimate these to be £140,000. In addition to this we have £48,094 of funds restricted to specific projects and £392,667 for future research commitments. In addition we have £180,000 designated for future research and support. We continuously review our research programme to ensure that we are up to date with current findings.

Investment policy

The charity's constitution authorises the trustees to make and hold investments using the funds of the charity. There are no restrictions on the trustees' power to invest, although the trustees take appropriate advice before making any investments that carry more than a low degree of risk.

Major risks

The trustees continue to regularly examine the strategic, business and operational risks to which the charity is exposed, and confirm that they have put in place systems to mitigate those risks as far as they are able to do.

Plans for future periods

OUTLOOK

It remains apparent that the medical profession who support the charity in a number of ways are under increasing demands.

Alongside the need to ramp up research efforts, the Trustees are conscious of the need to increase CICRA’s support offering to meet unprecedented demand for support from concerned families. This is being driven partly by an increase in prevalence, and partly by over-stretched healthcare services being unable to provide the patient support that they would like to.

The CICRA Trustees will continue to review and manage the charity prudently during the ongoing cost of living challenges. They will do all they can to continue as far as possible with the research and support programmes planned.

At the present time the contribution that CICRA makes to the field of paediatric IBD remains as vital as ever. We believe that the surge in new IBD diagnoses creates an urgent need for further research and support, particularly for the very early onset cases which appear to show a huge increase over recent years.

Structure, governance and management

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes an unincorporated charity.

The Crohn's in Childhood Research Association (CICRA), an unincorporated charitable association, is registered in England & Wales under Charity Number 278212 and in Scotland under Charity Number SC040700. CICRA is governed by an amended constitution adopted at the Annual General Meeting on 14 October 1989.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were: Mr G Lee (Chair) Mrs M Lee MBE (Resigned 14 September 2024) Mrs C Malloy Ms K Malloy Mr P Cooper Ms S Brown Mr S Coleman Mrs N Pitney-Hall Mr N Croft (Appointed 14 September 2024)

Recruitment and appointment of trustees

The board of trustees shall be not less than six and not more than twelve members of the Association elected at the Annual General Meeting. The trustees have the power to co-opt members to fill a casual vacancy or as an addition to the existing trustees. One third of the members of the Board shall retire each year in order of seniority but may be eligible for re-election

The Trustees meet on average every six weeks and are responsible for determining policies, the budget and overall management of the charity. The small staff team and office volunteers are responsible for undertaking the day-to-day running of the Association, carrying through the policies, budget and day to day administration as determined by the Board of Trustees. As well as representing the charity at medical meetings some Trustees continue to actively assist in the office and in the organisation of events.

Induction and training of new trustees

New Trustees co-opted during the year, or elected at the AGM, are given an induction course by the Chair outlining the objects as set out in the Constitution, the roles of the other Trustees, the present financial standing of the charity and its commitments. Trustees are asked to take on or share responsibility for overseeing a certain aspect of the charity i.e. research, finance, communication technologies, outreach and support, etc.

Risk management

The trustees continue to regularly examine the strategic, business and operational risks to which the charity is exposed, and confirm that they have put in place systems to mitigate those risks as far as they are able to do.

The Trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

..............................

Mr G Lee Trustee 

13 September 2025

Date: .............................................

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT

TO THE TRUSTEES OF CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Crohn's in Childhood Research Association (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the charity you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. You are satisfied that the financial statements of the charity are not required by charity law to be audited and have chosen instead to have an independent examination.

I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements carried out under section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. In carrying out my examination I have followed the requirements of Regulation 11 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 and the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act 2011.

Independent examiner's statement

Since the charity has prepared its financial statements on an accruals basis and is also registered in Scotland, or the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000, the independent examiner must be a member of a body listed in Regulation 11(2) of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 and section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of UK, which is one of the listed bodies.

Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared the financial statements in accordance with the relevant version of the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their financial statements in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has now been withdrawn. I understand that this has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.

Hazel Day Nightingale House 46-48 East Street Epsom Surrey KT17 1HQ Date: ............................

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Unrestricted Unrestricted Restricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Unrestricted Restricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds funds
2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023
Notes £ £ £ £ £ £
Income from:
Donations and legacies 3 183,165 64,100 247,265 216,371 46,749 263,120
Other trading activities 4 20,392 - 20,392 22,515 - 22,515
Investments 5 27,481 - 27,481 21,980 - 21,980
Total income 231,038 64,100 295,138 260,866 46,749 307,615
Expenditure on:
Raising funds 6 64,209 - 64,209 77,103 - 77,103
Charitable activities 7 146,521 35,232 181,753 93,299 80,517 173,816
Total expenditure 210,730 35,232 245,962 170,402 80,517 250,919
Net income 20,308 28,868 49,176 90,464 (33,768) 56,696
Transfers between
funds (2,226) 2,226 - - - -
Net movement in
funds 10 18,082 31,094 49,176 90,464 (33,768) 56,696
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 January
2024 716,449 17,000 733,449 625,985 50,768 676,753
Fund balances at 31
December 2024 734,531 48,094 782,625 716,449 17,000 733,449

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024 2023
Notes £ £ £ £
Fixed assets
Investments 15 389,474 370,969
Current assets
Stocks 16 3,154 3,623
Debtors 17 38,851 36,779
Cash at bank and in hand 389,427 350,572
431,432 390,974
Creditors: amounts falling due within 18
one year (38,281) (28,494)
Net current assets 393,151 362,480
Total assets less current liabilities 782,625 733,449
The funds of the charity
Restricted income funds 20 48,094 17,000
Unrestricted funds 21 734,531 716,449
782,625 733,449

13 September 2025 The financial statements were approved by the trustees on .........................

.............................. Mr G Lee Trustee

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

Crohn's in Childhood Research Association is an unincorporated charity governed by a deed of trust.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Charities SORP "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)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a statement of cash flows.

The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be maintained by the charity.

1.4 Income

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.5 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

1.6 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Leasehold improvements 20% Straight line Fixtures and fittings 20 - 33% Straight line Computers 33% Straight line

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.7 Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments are initially measured at transaction price excluding transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.

1.8 Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replacement cost and cost.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

1.9 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.10 Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.11 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.12 Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

3 Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds funds
2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £ £ £
Donations and gifts 183,165 64,100 247,265 216,371 46,749 263,120

4 Income from other trading activities

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Other income 20,392 22,515
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Deposit account interest 8,976 7,408
Schroders Fixed Interest account 18,505 14,572
27,481 21,980

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

6 Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Fundraising and publicity
Trustees' expenses 413 417
Postage and stationery 7,858 8,394
Office costs 18,523 18,767
Outsourcing 3,036 2,924
Advertising 5,663 6,227
Other fundraising costs 6,196 7,661
Staff costs 18,968 29,061
60,657 73,451
Trading costs
Merchandise (including Christmas cards) 3,552 3,652
Total costs 64,209 77,103

7 Expenditure on charitable activities

**Research ** **Research ** Support and Support and Total **Research ** **Research ** Support and Support and Total
information information
programme programme
2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £ £ £
Direct costs
Grant funding of
activities (see note
8) 44,776 - 44,776 42,685 - 42,685
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Support 7,960 114,424 122,384 8,097 109,066 117,163
Governance 7,297 7,296 14,593 6,984 6,984 13,968
60,033 121,720 181,753 57,766 116,050 173,816
Analysis by
fund
Unrestricted funds
- general 39,877 106,644 146,521 40,516 52,783 93,299
Restricted funds 20,156 15,076 35,232 17,250 63,267 80,517
60,033 121,720 181,753 57,766 116,050 173,816

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

8 Grants payable

8 Grants payable
Research Research
2024 2023
£ £
Grants to institutions:
Other 44,776 42,685
-
9 Support costs allocated to activities
2024 2023
£ £
Staff costs 35,689 28,631
Trustees' expenses 3,721 3,756
Office costs 33,919 34,496
Marketing and advertising 19,250 12,014
Family meetings 10,608 18,237
Legal fees 50 55
Postage and stationery 14,594 15,589
Outsourcing 4,554 4,385
Governance costs 14,592 13,968
136,977 131,131
Analysed between:
Research 15,257 15,081
Support and information programme 121,720 116,050
136,977 131,131
10 Net movement in funds 2024 2023
£ £
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the independent examination of the charity's financial
statements 3,000 6,080

11 Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year.

A total of £4,134 (2023: £4,173) in expenses was reimbursed to Trustees during the year. These Trustees carry out tasks in furtherance of the charity's objectives on an expenses only basis and these costs have been allocated as appropriate to Research, Support & Information and Cost of Generating funds.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

12 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2024 2023
Number Number
Administration 4 3
Employment costs 2024 2023
£ £
Wages and salaries 63,433 62,856
Other pension costs 966 682
64,399 63,538

There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.

13 Taxation

The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.

14 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets
Leasehold Fixtures and Computers Total
improvements fittings
£ £ £ £
Cost
At 1 January 2024 3,850 27,805 21,351 53,006
At 31 December 2024 3,850 27,805 21,351 53,006
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024 3,850 27,805 21,351 53,006
At 31 December 2024 3,850 27,805 21,351 53,006

Carrying amount

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

15 Fixed asset investments
Schroders
Fixed Deposit
account
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024 370,969
Additions 18,505
At 31 December 2024 389,474
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024 389,474
At 31 December 2023 370,969
16 Stocks
2024 2023
£ £
Finished goods and goods for resale 3,154 3,623
17 Debtors
2024 2023
Amounts falling due within one year: £ £
Prepayments and accrued income 38,851 36,779
18 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024 2023
£ £
Other taxation and social security 556 402
Trade creditors 22,567 21,753
Other creditors 225 128
Accruals and deferred income 14,933 6,211
38,281 28,494
19 Retirement benefit schemes
2024 2023
Defined contribution schemes £ £
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes 966 682

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

19 Retirement benefit schemes

(Continued)

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

20 Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

At 1 January At 1 January Incoming Incoming Resources Resources Transfers Transfers At 31
2024 resources expended December
2024
£ £ £ £ £
Support meetings - 10,250 (4,350) 1,100 7,000
Family Days 12,000 1,000 (9,126) 1,126 5,000
Research grants - 47,850 (20,156) - 27,694
Parenting Packs - 5,000 - - 5,000
Global Make Some Noise 5,000 - (1,600) - 3,400
17,000 64,100 (35,232) 2,226 48,094
Previous year: At 1 January Incoming Resources Transfers At 31
2023 resources expended December
2023
£ £ £ £ £
Support meetings 25,768 14,500 (40,268) - -
Family Days 16,000 7,500 (11,500) - 12,000
Research grants - 17,250 (17,250) - -
Parenting Packs 9,000 2,499 (11,499) - -
Global Make Some Noise - 5,000 - - 5,000
50,768 46,749 (80,517) - 17,000

Support Meetings

This fund represents amounts donated to CICRA towards the cost of the Support Meetings held.

Research Grants

This fund represents amounts donated to CICRA towards the cost of Research Grants.

Parenting Packs

This fund represents amounts donated to CICRA towards the costs of providing parenting packs.

Global Make Some Noise

This fund represents amounts donated to CICRA by the Global Make Some Noise Charity towards the cost of the website and digital material.

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

21 Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

At 1 January Incoming Incoming Resources Resources Transfers Transfers At 31
2024 resources expended December
2024
£ £ £ £ £
Designated fund 428,875 - - (36,208) 392,667
Research and Support 140,000 - - 40,000 180,000
General funds 147,574 231,038 (210,730) (6,018) 161,864
716,449 231,038 (210,730) (2,226) 734,531
Previous year: At 1 January Incoming Resources Transfers At 31
2023 resources expended December
2023
£ £ £ £ £
Designated fund 85,096 - - 343,779 428,875
Research and Support - - - 140,000 140,000
General funds 540,889 260,866 (170,402)
(483,779)		 147,574
625,985 260,866 (170,402) - 716,449

Research and Support Designated fund

During the previous year the trustees designated funds towards providing Support and Research into Crohns.

22 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds
2024 2024 2024
£ £ £
At 31 December 2024:
Investments 389,474 - 389,474
Current assets/(liabilities) 345,057 48,094 393,151
734,531 48,094 782,625

CROHN'S IN CHILDHOOD RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

22 Analysis of net assets between funds

Analysis of net assets between funds (Continued)
Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds
2023 2023 2023
£ £ £
At 31 December 2023:
Investments 370,969 - 370,969
Current assets/(liabilities) 345,480 17,000 362,480
716,449 17,000 733,449

23 Operating lease commitments

Lessee

At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

2024 2023
£ £
Within one year 39,500 39,500
Between two and five years 23,000 62,500
62,500 102,000

24 Related party transactions

There were no related party transactions for the years ended 31 December 2024 or 2023, apart from the reimbursement of expenses to Trustees as disclosed in note 12.

25 Financial Commitments

The Charity has future grant commitments already entered into and spread over the year to 31st December 2025 totalling £171,867. These multi-year grants are reviewed annually and payments for second and subsequent years are only made upon receipt of satisfactory progress reports. Consequently, the trustees do not consider it appropriate to make provision for these commitments in the financial statements.

Existing research commitments:
Grant awarded to: Dr James Ashton
Grant awarded to: Dr Mairi McLean
Grant awarded to: Professor David Wilson
Laboratory consumables grant: Prof. Ian Sanderson, Barts & the Royal London Hospital
The timing of the above commitments is as follows:
Grant Commitments 2025
Grant Commitments 2026
Grant Commitments 2027		 £247,916
£88,168
£49,383
£7,200

£392,667
£171,867
£125,907
£94,893