Charity ￿giStratIon number 516925
Company registration number 01934024 (England and Wales}
ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Trustees
A D Burke
R T Muspratt
R V Rishworth
C J Roderick
APWare
F C Hartshome
{Appointed 12 January 2023)
Secretary
T J Trumble
Charity number
516925
Company number
01934024
Registered office
Acom Venture Fami
Depot Road
Kirkby
Knowsley
Merseyside
L33 3AR
Independent examiner
Peter Alkinson
JS. Accountants & BusinessAdvisors Limited
James House
Stonecross Business Park
Yew Tree Way
Warrington
Cheshire
WA3 3JD
Bankers
National Westminster Bank PIC
Aintree Black Bull
Comer of Longmoor Lane and Cedar Road
Aintree
Liverpool
L9 OEG

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
CONTENTS
Page
Trustees report
Statement of trustees responsibilities
Independent examiner's report
10
Statement of financial activities
11
Balance sheet
12-13
Statemenl of cash flows
14
Notes to the financial statements
15-27

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
The Iruslees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2023.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 110 the
financial statements and comply with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act
2006 and 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities
preparing their accounts in accordan￿ with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic
of Ireland IFRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)".
Objectives and activities
Our Aim
To provide a high quality, affordable and inclusive resource for the local community-
We believe that everyone has a valued social role to play within their community and therefore we provide
opportunities for individuals with disabilities and young people to fvlly participale in the day to day running of the
farm.
Public Benefit
We review our aims, objectives, and aclivilies each year. We have referred to the guidan￿ contained in the
Charity Commission's Charities and Public Benefft document. All of our charitable activities focus on the
provision of skills development and recreational opportunities for persons designated as having speci81 needs
and the promotion of other charitable purposes for the benefit of the community.
A recent comment from a visitor which staled "Lovely few hours out and local to usl! Fanlastic to feed Ihe animals
and very good valLbe for money suggests that we are succeeding in providing public benefit.
This annual report sums up whal we have achieved and the outcomes of our work in the year lo 31 De￿mber
2023. It looks at the success of each key activity and the benefits which they have brought to those groups of
people which we are set up lo help.
A¢hievements & Perfonnance
a) Daytime Support Programme
One of the major ways we fulfil our aims is in the running of our very Su￿sSful daytime activities programme for
people with special needs. We currently provide 100 pla￿Men1S per week to 36 different individuals. This results
in us having a maximum of 20 individuals who we support attending the fami each day and ensures that each
individual gains maximum benefit from the time that Ihey spend here.
Most individuals now purchase the service through their personal budget. This is either done on their behalf by
the local authority via the Intemal Service Fund or by the individual themselves via a Direct Payment. However,
we still have seNice level agreements for the provision of community support setvices with several local
authorities.
This service continues lo be well attended and has been here for many years. This suggests that they are very
happy al Acorn.
The charity is well supported by its board of trustees and is led by a highly experienced and respected
management team.
Our daytime activities programme includes=
Horticufture
Horticultural activities range from the production and selling of bedding plants and hanging baskets to
maintaining the sensory garden, lawns, and flower beds.
Conservation aclivities include mainlaining the woodland walk. which is widely used by visitors as our ovefflow
car park is accessed through this area and the tree shelterbelt.

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Farrn Maintenance
Farm Maintenance tasks around the farm site include building animal shelters. repairing benches and picnic
tables, flagging, fencing, plumbing, and painting.
Anlmal Caro
Activities include, collecting and grading the eggs and feeding and mucking out the animals.
During school holidays additional activities include assisting in the small animal petting sessions and giving horse
rides to visitors to the farm.
Although we have these three specific daytime support programmes Acom Fam is a truly inclusive project.
Therefore, individuals with disabilities are involved in every aspect of running the fami on a daily basis.
Young People
We continue to enable young people to volunteer at the farm al weekends. Under Ihe supervision of the
Weekend Manager, they help to run the farm carrying out all the tasks from caring for the animals to helping with
horse rides and in the small animal petting area.
We have an average of eight young people who help out each day and a waiting list of those who would like to
volunteer. Taking on these responsibililies enables them to develop their self*steem and sense of pride in Iheir
community and consequently encourages them to become responsible citizens.
b) Plant Sales
We had another busy plant sales season. The high quality of the plants together with the competitive pricing and
outstanding customer service has led to a large number of customers retuming year after year. The success of
this enterprise is a credit to our Horticultural Unil Manager, Mike Taylor, and his team.
Although the vast majority of the plants are sold in the spring and summer we do have plants. tubs, baskets. and
perennials on sale throughout the year.
This enterprise is run parallel to the horticultural daylime programme.
c) Livestock
The farm's livestock continue to be a major attraction for everyone involved. including our visitors.
During the year eight larnbs were bom to our ewes which induded two sets oflriplets and a set oftwins.
Pearl the pygmy goat gave birlh to twins, male and female. We ran a 'name the kid. competition through our
Facebook page and the winner received a family pass to the fa￿. They are called Benny and Bella.
Kathy the Saddleback sow gave birth lo a litter of eight piglets in June. They were a multitude of colours including
ginger, black and white in a range of designs including plain, spots and stripes! Watching them play provided
much joy to all who saw them.
Lola and Jimmy. the horses, continue lo put plenty of smiles on little faces every weekend and during school
holidays when they give horse rides to visiting children.
The meerkats continue to be very popular. and they keep us busy filling in the holes they have dug.
Our four miniature Southdown Sheep are back enjoying going out to schools as part of our Animobile project,
where we bring the fami to those who don't always get the opportunity to visit.
Our neighbour Stuart Baldwin from Sed Services bought us two Alpacas in February. They are called Elvis and
Emie and are a great addition to the fami. All the visitors love them, and they are real characters!
We bought two Steers from market in June. We ran a 'name the steers, ￿mpetitiOn through our Facebook page
and the winner received a family pass lo the farm. They were named Angus and Ferdinand.

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
We also acquired three Jacob and one Herdwick Sheep to join our breeding flock. Their names are Jasmine,
Jesse, Jorgi, and Bea.
All the animals on the fami are cared for during the week by the people who we support and at the weekends by
our young volunteers.
The animal sponsorship scheme which we operate continues to be popular and helps us to offset the cost of
keeping Ihe animals. Sponsors are rewarded with a certificate, a visitorfs pass to the fami. a photograph of Iheir
animal, birthday and Christmas cards and a mention on the Roll of Honour on our website. We have extended
the scheme to enable sponsors lo add the cost of a bale of hay or straw or a bag of animal feed onto their
sponsorships.
d)Visitor Facilities and Attractions
Horse Rides
This activity is very popular wth visitors. Our horses give rides every weekend aftemoon throughout the year as
well as every afternoon during school holidays. Bookings may also be made by groups during term time. During
the period we were open Ihe horses have given rides to 8.349 children.
Small Anlmal Pettlng Sesslons
This attraction continues to be extremely popular wilh many repeat wsitors. Over 22,626 people attended
sessions during the period covered by this report. Activities include stroking a rabbit, guinea pig and a pet rat,
holding a bantam hen and playng with Toby. Teddy, and Paddy the pygmy goats. The petting area is open to
visitors every weekend and bank holiday and every day during school holidays.
e) Educational services
All the activities below are promoted and delivered by our Education Worker, Marie Moulsdale.
School WisitslGuided Tours
We hosted 1.847 visitors from 42 establishments which indude mother and toddler groups. nurseries. and
primary schools.
Incubator Hire
We have five incubators available for hi￿ to schools and other registered groups. We supply the whole package
including incubator, brooder, fertile eggs. and feed. We are able lo take Ihe resullanl chicks back where the hens
join our laying flock producing free range eggs for sale in our shop. The incubators were hired out a total of eight
times over the four-rnonth period and one dozen eggs were distributed to a childminder with their own incubalor.
Anlmoblle (Moblle Fami Unlt)
This is a hugely successful project whereby we take a selection of the farm animals out to groups in the
community who would otherwise have difficulty accessing our services. These include children's centres, nursery
schools, residential and nursing homes, and community fun days as well as mainslream and special schools.
The selection of animals laken includes a goat, sheep, hen, duck, rabbit, guinea pigs and pet rats. Lambs, goat
kids, ducklings and chicks are also taken when available. Over the period covered in this report, the Animobile
made 42 visils seeing a lotal of 2,963 people. Demand for this service always eX￿e￿5 the number of sessions
which we are able to deliver during our peak season.

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Anirnal Handling Workshops
This topic is appropriate for secondary school pupils studying animal-based courses.
Each group of students participates in an animal handling workshop which can include working with the horses,
sheep, and goats.
The horse workshop entails leaming about health and safety around horses before grooming and tacking up Lola
and Jimmy and leading them around the arena.
The sheep workshop enlails the students safely fftting the hamess and lead rope on to the sheep and individually
walking them around the field in a controlled manner. They then muck out the sheep shed and using teamwork
herd the sheep into the shed.
The goat workshop entails looking at the different b￿ed$ of goat that we have on the fami. Safe and appropriate
ways of handling and restraining them are demonstrated and practised. A foot trimming demonstration is also
given.
Each group is given information about the animals they are working with and encouraged to ask questions.
Farrn themed Activity Days
We held six 'Farm Experience Days. and three 'Horse Days, this year. They were attended by 92 young people
who thoroughly enjoyed themselves. as well as leaming new skills.
fj Events
Halloween
This year we held our daytime event on the Friday of Halloween. Aclivilies included Halloween themed games..
Feed the ghost,. Witches Broomsticks., Pin the nose onto the Skeleton- and Splat the ral. We also held a fancy
dress competition. The lambing shed was converted into a fabulous spooky Haunted House with real live 'ghosts'
and ghoulsl The event was a huge success with 513 people attending. We were greatly helped on the day by a
team of corporate volunteers from cl￿p. friends, and family of Acom Fami's Staff.
Christmas Grotto
This was open for three weeks in the lead up to Christmas for pre-booked school visits and also over a weekend
for visitors to the farm. The lambing shed was transfo￿ned into a magical grotto by fami staff and volunteers. The
grotto proved popular once again with 286 Children visiting from eight schools and nurseries during the week.
Over the weekend 207 children came lo see Father Christmas and re￿1ve a present.
g} Vlsltors
We had another successful year in terms of visitor numbers. During the hvelve-month period covered by this
report we welcomed 84,195 visitors to Ihe fam).
h) Awards
We have been re-awarded the Visit Britain- accreditation as a Quality Assured Visitor Attraction-, receiving an
overall score of 76 /0 which was an increase (up from 7390) from our last inspection. In 2024 the fam was named
the mosl cost effeclive fam to visit in England, (x)ming fifth overall.
i) Local Fundraising
Our supporters continue lo fundraise for us and Lady Derby who is our Patron conlinues to support us yearly.
Also, during the year Ihree intrepid members of our staff dimbed the Yorkshire three Peaks and raised over
£3,000 which was a fantastic achievementl
j) Trading Company
Acorn Fam Trading Company continues as a thriving operalion. The shop and café who trade through this
company have both had a busy summer.
However, during busy periods both the kitchen and café area slruggle lo cope with the volume of customers due
to insufficient seating in the café area and lack of workspace in the kitchen. Similady. the shop can get very
congested.

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
k) Risk Management
The trustees have conducted a review of the major risks to which the charity is exposed. This has led to the
implementalion of a number of policies including the Reserves Policy, which states that in order to safeguard the
future of the fami we will hold in reserve six months of resources expended.
Inlemal risks are minimised by the implementation of additional policies including Policy and Practi￿ on
Paymenls, Banking and Custody Procedure, Payroll Financial Procedure, Capitsl Purchases Policy, and Asset
Control.
Procedures are in place to ensu￿ compliance wlh health and safety of staff, people we support, volunteers and
visitors. These include a comprehensive set of risk assessments. The implementation of safeguarding policies for
both Vulnerable Adulls and Children ensure that we deal wtlh any safeguarding issues which may arise in a
consistent manner. All policies are reviewed on a regular basis by the trustees.
Staff Team
Permanent Staff.
Name
ob title
Hours
racy Trumble
Rebecca Little
Mike Taylor
Craig Ellingham
Marie Moulsdale
acant
ane McKillop
anela Radilova
Lisa Hughes
Lisa Gunn
acant
ue Rowan
Lynn Fitzpatrick
al Kell
Marta Silva
o Mountain
Megan Roberts
Hannah Duddle
Hannah Maudsley
al Kelly
ennifer Hardie
Erin Rhead
my Martlew
uzanne Austin
Donna T
Chelsea Trusdale
Fam Manager
Deputy Mana
er
Horticultural Unit Manager
Farm Maintenance Worker
Education Worker
dministrative Assistant
afe Manager
eekda
Cafe Assistant
hop Worker
Fam Animal Supervisor
Fami Assislanv Driver
ardenerlsupport Worker
eekend Manager (Job Share)
eekend Mana
er (Job Share
eekend Cafe Team Leader
eekend Café Assistant (Job Sha￿)
eekend Cafe Assistant (Job Share}
eekend Shop Worker
eekend Animal Petting Area Supervisor
undayl School holiday Horse Ride Supervisor
aturday Horse Ride Supervisor
eekend Horse Ride Helper
eekend Horse Ride Helper
Fam Assistant
leaner Iweekda
leaner (weekends)
37.5
37.5
15
11
12
12.5
10
rer

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Seasonal staff:
Name
Hollie Langley
Charlotte Wallwork
Emma Walsh
Edwina Johnson
Billy Halligan
Holly Fitzpatrick
ue Rowan
Helen Corrin
Christelle Wintersdroff
ob title
eekend Admissions Kiosk
Pettin
Area (School Holida
dmissions Kiosk (School Holidays)
Horse Rides (School Holidays)
Horse Rides (School Holidays)
Horse Rides (Sch(K)l Holidays)
Plant Production Assistant {Weekdaysl
eekend Plant Sales Assistant
lant Sales Assistant (Weekdays)
Hours
11.5
30
10
10
10
15.5
4.25
Staff Developments
Acom Farm conlinues to succeed largely through the high level of commitment shown by the staff team, who are
always willing to tum their hand lo whatever needs doing.
All staff are encouraged to undertake training relevant to their role.
m) Trustees
We are always keen to welcome new tnjstees on to the board which meets quartedy. Our aim is to recruit
trustees who are able to complement the skills and experience of our existing board.
In line with our Memorandum and Articles of Association the trustees may appoint any interested party as a
member of the board either to fill a casual vacancy or by way of an addition to the board. Any member so
appointed shall retain their office only until the next AGM. but they shall then be eligible for re-election. The
current members of the board of trustees are..
Chris Roderick
Andrew Ware
Fiona Hartshome
Ray Muspratt
Pauline Burrows
Bob Rishworth
Aiden Burke
Chairperson
Vice Chairperson
Treasurer
Trustee
Trustee - resigned
Trustee
Trustee
n) Site Developments
Site Reconfi
uration and fundraisin
We have exciting plans for the farm which includes the building of an amazing purpose-built farm hub. This will
include a new and enlarged café and shop so we can provide high quality food. drink. and products to our visitors
in a relaxing atmosphere. Our new building will also include a community hub, a space for Ihe individuals and
young people who run our fami and upgraded offices. Our ambition is for it to be a great space to meet, learn,
relax, work and play, whilst giving the visitors to our fami a perfect day out and the animals who call it home the
best environment we can.
If you visit the farm. you may have already seen the initial work on this project. We have new padd(Kks and
shelters for our animals. However. we cannol do this on our own and are currently undertaking a major
fundraising campaign to enable us to realise the hub of our dreams.

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Financial review
Income from charitable activities and other trading activities decreased to £653k {2022'. £706k). Expenditure for
the year increased to £478k {2022.' £445kl, resulting in a net surplus before inveslment gainsllosses of £175k
12022.. £262k). Unrealised investment losses of £97k {2022.' £136k} were inCu￿ed in the year.
Reserves Policy
The Acom Fam Board of Trustees re¢xJgnises the need to hold ￿ServeS to allow for unforeseen circumstances
which could result in a substantial drop in income. These could indude..
1. A global pandemic.
2. A lack of funding could cause local authorities to teminate the contracts which they have wtth us for the
provision of day services for people with disabilities.
3. A fire, flood or similar incident could result in business intemjption whilst repairs are underway.
4. Severe weather could result in damage to the farm buildings making the site unsafe for visitors until repairs are
undertaken.
5. Outbreak of animal disease (e.g. Foot and Mouth, e.coli) which could result in the compulsory closure of the
farm for a period of time.
6. Outbreak of food poisoning which could result in the closure of the café andlor dairy whilst investigations by
the Environmental Health Office are undertaken.
Addilionally, Ihe reserves would allow for Unfo￿Seen capital works or purchases which may be required to
ensure the safety of the fami site le.g. replacement of unsafe animal housing or to replace faulty tools and
equipment).
To cover such eventualilies, the trustees believe that Acom Venture Association needs to hold in reserves 6
months of resources expended and have maintained this position throughout the year.
The actual level of free reserves held is stated in our annual accounts.
SITUCture. governance and management
The Association is a charitable company limited by guarantee. incorporated on 26 July 1985 and registered with
the Charity Commission on 4 March 1986.
The Association was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers
of the charitable company and is govemed under its Articles of Association.
The charity is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital.
The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law. and who served during the year and up
to the date of signature of the financial statements were..
A D Burke
P L Burrows
R T Muspratt
R V Rishworth
C J Roderick
APWare
F C Hartshorne
(Resigned 12 January 2023)
{App)inted 12 January 2023)

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
We are always keen lo welcome new trustees on to the board which meets quartedy. Our aim is to recruit
trustees who are able to complement the skills and experience of our existing board.
In line with our Memorandum and Artides of Association the tnjstees may appoint any interested paty as a
member of the board either to fill a casual vacancy or by way of an addition to the board. Any member so
appointed shall retain their office only until the next AGM. but they shall then be eligible for re-election.
None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the company. All of the trustees are members of the company
and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up.
All trustees have completed a Dedaration of Confidentiality and a Dedaration of Commitment and Eligibility to be
a trustee having regard to Section 72 of the Charities Act.
We have in place a number of policies relevant to the trustees which help to ensure that governance of the
charity is perfomied to the highest standard. These include a Trustee Recruitment Policy, a Conflicl of Inleresu
Loyalty Policy, a Register of Interests and a Trustee Code of Practice.
Small companies provisions
This report has been prepared in accordan￿ with the special provisions relating to small companies wilhin Part
15 of the CompaniesAct 2006.
The Iruslees report was approved by the Board of Trustees.
C J Roderick
Trustee
Dated: 4 June 2024

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
The ITuslees, who are also the directors of Acom Venture Association for the purpose of company law, are
responsible for preparing the Trustees Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and
United Kingdom Accounting Standards {United Kingdom Generally A￿pted Accounting Practice).
Company Law requires the trustees lo prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair
view of the stale of affairs of the charity and of the incoming reSoU￿S and application of resources. including the
income and expenditure, of the charitable company for thal year.
In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to=
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently.,
observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP-
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent-
state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures
disclosed and explained in the financial statements- and
prepare the financial statements on the going con￿rn basis unless it is inappropriate lo presume that the charity
will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at
any lime the financial position of Ihe charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the
Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for takin9
reasonable steps for the prevenlion and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Acom Venture Association (Ihe charity)
for the year ended 31 December 2023.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the Iruslees of the charity {and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for
the preparation of the financial statements in accordance wilh the requirements of the Companies Act 2006
Ilhe 2006 Act).
Having salisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity are not required io be audited under Part 16
of Ihe 2006 Acl and are eligible for independent examination. I report in respect of my examination of the
charity's financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act). In carying
out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under
section 145{5)(bl of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Since the charity's gross income ex￿eded £250.000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in
section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member
of the ICAEW, which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confinn that no matters have come to my attenlion in connection with the
examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act,. or
the financial statements do nol accord with those records.. or
the financial stalements do not comply with Ihe accounling requirements of seclion 396 of the 2006 Act
other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as
part of an independent examination; or
the financial statemenls have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the
Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities
preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and
Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
I have no concems 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.
PeterAlkinson F.C.A
JS. Accounlants & Business Advisors Limited
James House
Slonecross Business Park
Yew Tree Way
Warrington
Cheshire
WA3 3JD
Dated.. .J.uD..F.IQ.14....
10-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
STATEMENT OF FINANCIALACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
Total
2023
Total
2022
Notes
Income from:
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Other income
7.447
346,643
268.065
30,576
279
7,447
346,643
268,065
30,576
279
60,767
309,443
290,827
45,422
Tolal income
653.010
653,010
706,459
enditure on:
C05t of generating funds
6.120
6,120
11,195
Charitable activities
465.689
6,012
471,701
433,580
Tolal expenditure
471.809
6,012
477,821
444,775
Net incoming resources before
galnslllosses} on Investmonts
181,201
16,012)
175,189
261,684
Net gainslllosses) on investments
12
(96,8191
{96,819) {136,103)
Net movement in funds
84,382
16,012}
78,370
125,581
Fund balances at 1 January 2023
2,254,539
257,450
2,511,989 2,386,408
Fund balances at 31 December 2023
2,338,921
251,438 2,590,359 2,511,989
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account
under the CompaniesAcl 2006.
11

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
BALANCE SHEET
AS A T 31 DECEMBER 2023
2023
2022
Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
Investments
14
15
942,403
1,282,019
968,826
1,357,488
2.224,422
2,326,314
Current assets
Debtors
Cash at bank and in hand
16
23,500
365.349
32,457
171,956
388.849
204,413
Credltors: amounts falling due withln
one year
17
(22.9121
{18,738)
Net current assets
365.937
185,675
Total assets less current liabilities
2.590.359
2,511,989
Funds of the charlty
Restricted funds
Unrestricted funds - designated
General unrestricted funds
18
19
251.438
257,450
2,000,000
338.921
1,875,000
379,539
Total unrestricted funds
2.338.921
2.254,539
2.590.359
2,511,989
12-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)
AS A T 31 DECEMBER 2023
The company is entitled lo Ihe exemption from the audit requirement contained in seclion 477 of the Companies Act
2006, for the year ended 31 December 2023.
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for ensuring that the charity keeps accounting records which
comply with section 386 of the Act and for preparing ffinancial slatements which give a true and fair view of the state
of affairs of the company as at the end of the financial year and of its incoming resources and applicalion of
resources, including its income and expenditure, for the financial year in accordance with the requirements of
sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to
financial statements. so far as applicable to the company.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question
in accordance with section 476.
These financial slatements have been prepa￿d in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject
to the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 4 June 2024
C J Roderick
Trustee
Company Registration No. 01934024
13-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
2023
2022
Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
24
187,711
179,915
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed
assets
Investment income received
(16.123)
{369,340)
17.872
3,933
310
Net cash generated froml(used in)
investing activities
5.682
1369,0301
Net cash used in financing activities
Net increasel(decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents
193,393
{189,1151
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
171,956
361,071
Cash and cash equlvalents at end of year
365,349
171,956
14-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Accounting policies
Charity information
Acom Venlure Association is a private company limiled by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The
regislered Offi￿ is Acom Venture Fami, Depot Road, Kirkby, Knowsley, Merseyside, L33 3AR.
1.1 Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of
Association, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and
Republic of Ireland" {"FRS 102.1 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). (effective 1 January 20191. The
charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The financial statements are prepared in sterfing. which is the fijndional currency of the charity- Monetary
amounts in these financial slatements are rounded lo the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to reflecl certain
financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2 Going concem
At the time of approving the financial slatements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity
has adequate resources to continue in operational existen￿ for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees
continue to adopt the going COn￿M 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 charilable
objectives.
Designated unrestricted funds relate to funds that the trustees have designated for a particular project within
the the objectives of the charity.
Restricted funds are subject to specific condilions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The
purposes and uses of the restricted fvnds are sel out in the notes to Ihe financial ststements.
1.4 Income
Cash donations are recognised on re￿ipl. Other donations are recognised On￿ the charity has been nolified
of the donation, unless perfomiance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in
relation lo donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise rf the charity has been notified of an impending distribution,
the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the atnount is not known, the legacy is treated as a
contingent asset.
Other Irading income is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or re￿1vable and represents
amounts receivable for goods and ServI￿S provided in the nomial course of business, net of discounts.
15-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.5 Expenditure
Expenditure, including irrecoverable VAT is recognised on the accrual basis.
In particular, the policy for including items within costs of generating funds is as follows-
Charitable aclivilies comprise those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of ils activities and services
for its beneficiaries. It indudes both the costs that can be allocated directly to such aclivilies and those costs
of an indirect nature necessary to support them.
All costs are allocated between the expenditure categories of the Statement of Financial Activities on bases
designed to reflect Ihe uses of particular resour￿$. Costs relating to a particular activity are allocated directly,
while others are apportioned on an appropriate basis.
1.6 Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost, net of depreciation
and any impaiment losses.
Depreciation is recognised so as lo write off the cost of assets less their residual values over their useful lives
on the following bases=
Long leasehold land and buildings
Renovations
Outbuildings and paddocks
Fixtures, fittings and equiprnent
Motor vehicles
Play equipmenl
Over the temi of the lease
20% per annum straight line basis
100/0 per annum straight line basis
20°A per annum straight line basis
25¥/0 per annum straight line basis
Over 15 years
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is detemined as the difference between the sale
proceeds and Ihe carying value of the asset. and is recognised in the statement of financial aclivities.
1.7 Fixed asset investments
Listed 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
incomel{expenditure) for the year. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred.
Investments in subsidiaries are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost less any
accumulated impaiment losses. The investments are assessed for impaimenl at each reporting date and
any impairment losses or reversals of impairment losses are recognised immediately in net incomel
(expenditure) lor the year.
A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the charity- Control is the power to govem the financial and operating
policies of the entity 50 as to oblain benefits from its activities
1.8 Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting end dale, the charity reviews the carying amounts of its langible assets to delemine
whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impaimient loss. If any such indication
exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to detemine the extent of the impaiment
loss (if any).
1.9 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand. deposits held at call with banks. other short-temi liquid
investments wilh original malurilies of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown
wiihin borrowings in current liabilities.
16-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
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 instnjments are recognised in the charity's balance sheel when the charity becomes paty to the
contractual provisions of Ihe instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when
there is a legally enforceable right lo sel off the recognised amounts and there is an intention lo settle on a
net basis or to realise the asset and setue 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 constilutes a financing iransaction, 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.
Derecognition of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognised only when the contraclual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or
are settled, or when the charity transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of
ownership lo another enlty, or rf some significant risks and reward5 of ownership are retained but control of
the asset has transferred to another paty that is able to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party.
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are inilially 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 classtfied as payable
within one year are not amortised.
Debt inslruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effeclive interest rate method.
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or servi￿$ 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
re￿ived.
Terminalion benefils are re(x)gnised immediately as an expense when the chartty is demonstrably committed
to temiinate the employment of an employee or to provide temiination benefits.
1.12 Retirement benefits
Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.
17-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Donations and legacies
2023
2022
Donations, legacies and gifts
7,447
60,767
Donations and gifts
Gift aid
Donations
881
6.566
34,441
26,326
7,447
60,767
Charilable activltles
2023
2022
Daytime activities programme
Product sales
Educational income
Other income
236,937
78,693
29,327
1,686
215,640
62,444
29,439
1.920
346,643
309,443
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
346,643
For the year ended 31 December 2022
Unreslricled funds - general
309,443
Other trading activities
2023
2022
Sponsorship
Admission charges
Horse riding charges
Petting pavilion charges
Room hire
1,322
204,374
21,185
38,402
2,782
829
228,380
17,554
40,534
3.530
Other Irading aclivilies
268,065
290,827
All income for both years relate to unrestricted general funds.
18-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Investments
2023
2022
Income from listed investments
Interest receivable
26,643
3,933
45,112
310
30,576
45,422
All costs for both years relate to unrestricted general funds.
Other income
2023
2022
Net gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets
279
All income for both years relate to unrestricted general funds.
Cost of generating funds
2023
2022
Fundraisin
and ublicit
Other fundraising costs
Investment management administration costs
827
5.293
265
10.930
6.120
11.195
All costs for both years relate to un￿Stricted general funds.
19-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
Charitable activities
2023
2022
Staff costs
Deprecialion and impairrnent
Costs of activities in furtherance of the charity's objectives
Indirect employee costs
Premises costs
General adminislralive costs
Professional fees in support of charitsble activities
Direct employee costs
Govemance costs
294,784
24,953
57,880
1,219
52,167
18,512
15,863
2,547
3,776
288,579
20,273
65,716
2,116
33,869
14,081
1,622
3,995
3,329
471,701
433,580
Analysis by fund
Unreslricled funds - general
Restricted funds
465,689
6,012
471,701
For the year ended 31 December 2022
Unrestricted funds - general
Restricted funds
429,115
4,465
433,580
Independent examiner remuneration
Fees payable to the independent examiner
2023
2022
Independent examiner review of the annual accounts
2,100
2.000
Non-audit services
All other non-independent examiner services
1,395
1,329
10 Trustees
None of the trustees lor any persons connected with them} received any remuneration or benefits and there
were no other transactions with the trustees during the year.
-20-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
11 Employees
Number of employees
The average monthly number of employees during the yearwas=
2023
Number
2022
Number
Charitable activities
29
24
Employment costs
2023
2022
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs
274,788
14,658
5,338
263,764
18,834
5,981
294,784
288,579
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,IXIO or more.
12 Nel gainslllossesl on investments
2023
2022
Revaluation of investments
196,819)
1136,1031
13 Taxation
The charity is exempt from taxalion on its activities because all its income is applied for charttable purposes.
21

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
14 Tangible fixed assets
Long Outbuildings
leasehold land arKI paddocks
and buildings
Fixtures. Motor vehicle5
fittings and
equipment
Total
Cosl
At 1 January 2023
Addilions
Disposals
1.064.429
15,489
(17.572)
582.328
116,433
634
(300)
15,490
1.778,680
16,123
{17,8721
At 31 December 2023
1.062.346
582,328
116,767
15,490
1.776,931
Depreciation and impairnient
At 1 January 2023
Depreciation charged in the year
Eliminaled in respect of disposals
104,789
19.443
(234)
578,417
1.565
113.416
1,687
(45)
13,232
2,258
809,854
24,953
(2791
At 31 De￿mber 2023
123,998
579.982
115,058
15,490
834,528
Carrying amount
At 31 De￿mber 2023
938.348
2.346
1,709
942,403
At 31 De￿mber 2022
959.640
3.911
3,017
2,258
968,826
15 Fixed asset investments
Listed
Other
investments investments
Total
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2023
Valualion changes
Income
Management fees
1.357,487
{96,819)
26,643
(5,293)
1,357,488
{96,8191
26,643
{5.2931
At 31 December 2023
1.282,018
1.282,019
Carrying amount
At 31 De￿mber 2023
1,282,018
1,282,019
At 31 December 2022
1,357,487
1,357,488
2023
2022
Other investments comprise..
Notes
Investments in subsidiaries
22
-22-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
16 Debtors
2023
2022
Amounts falling due within one year:
Trade deblors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
13,961
6,860
2,679
18,460
12,042
1,955
23,500
32,457
17 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023
2022
Other taxation and social security
Trade creditors
Accruals and deferred income
2,705
6,801
13,406
737
1,674
16,327
22,912
18,738
18 Restricted funds
The reslricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on Irusl
subject to specific conditions by donors as lo how they may be used.
At 1 January
2023
Resources
expended
At31
December
2023
Restricted funds
Farm building refurbishment
1,174
256.276
{817}
15,195)
357
251.081
257.450
16,012)
251,438
Prevlous year:
At 1 January
2022
Resources
expended
A131
December
2022
Restricted funds
Farni building refijrbishment
2.176
259,739
11,002)
13,463}
1.174
256,276
261,915
14,465}
257,450
The reslricled and farm building refurbishment funds relate to fixed assets Ihal were boughl using restricted
income with the annual depreciation charge of these assets being allocated against the brought forward
balance.
-23-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
19 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 fvnds by the trustees for specific purposes.
Al 1 January
2023
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
Gains and
losses
At31
December
2023
Farm building
refurbishment
fund
General funds
1,875,000
379,539
125,000
(125.000)
2,000,000
338,921
653.010
(471.8091
(96,819)
2.254,539
653.010
{471.809)
(96,819)
2,338,921
Prèvious year: Al 1 January
2022
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
Gains and
losses
A131
December
2022
Fam building
refurbishment
fund
General funds
1,750,000
374,493
125,000
(125.000)
1,875,000
379.539
706.459
{440.3101
(136,103)
2.124,493
706.459
{440.3101
(136,103)
2.254,539
-24-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
20 Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted
funds
2023
Restricted
funds
2023
Total
2023
Fund balan¢es at 31 December 2023 are represented by:
Tangible assets
Inveslments
Current assetsl(liabilities)
690.965
1,282,019
365.937
251,438
942,403
1,282,019
365.937
2.338.921
251,438
2.590,359
Unrestricted
funds
2022
Restricted
funds
2022
Total
2022
Fund balances at 31 December 2022 are represented by:
Tangible assets
Investments
Current assetsl(liabilities)
711,376
1.357.488
185,675
257,450
968,826
1.357,488
185,675
2.254.539
257,450
2,511,989
-25-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
21 Related party transactions
Rernuneration of key management personnel
2023
2022
Aggregate compensation
60,515
84,289
Transactions with related parties
During the year the charily entered into the following transactions wilh relaled parties..
Gift Aid
2023
2022
Entities over which the entity has control. joinl control or significant influence
881
34,441
881
34,441
The following amounts were outstanding at the reporting end date..
Amounts owed by related
parties
2023
Balance
2022
Balance
Entities over which the entity has control. joint ujntrol or signtficant influence
6.860
12.042
-26-

ACORN VENTURE ASSOCIATION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
22 Subsidiaries
These financial statements are separate charity financial stalemenls for Acom Venture Association.
Consolidated financial statements are not prepared as the parenl company and its subsidiary is considered a
small group.
Details of the charity's subsidiaries at 31 December 2023 are as follows-
Name of undertaking
Registered
office
Natu￿ of business
Class of
shares held
°A Held
Direct Indirect
Acom Venture Trading Co. As per parent
Ltd
company
Cafeteria ServI￿S and the saleordinary
of gtfts
100.00
The aggregate capital and reserves and the result for the year of subsidiaries excluded from consolidation
was as follows..
Narne of undertaking
ProfiU(L(vJs) Capital and
Reserves
Acom Venture Trading Co.
Ltd
135
23 Control
The charity is controlled by the Iruslees.
24 Cash generated from operations
2023
2022
Surplus for the year
78,370
125,581
Adjustments for=
Investment income recogni5ed in statement of financial activities
Gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets
Fair value gains and losses on investments
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
Investment management fees deducted from portfolio
(30,576)
{279}
96,819
24,953
5,293
{45,4221
136,103
20,273
10,930
Movements in working capital-
Decreasellincreasel in debtors
Increaselldecreasel in creditors
8,957
4,174
{6,9431
{60,6071
Cash generated from operations
187.711
179,915
25 Analysis of changes in net debt
The charity had no material debt during the year.
-27-