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← Arts & Disability Forum

2025-03-31-accounts

Company registration number NI051776

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees

Ms C Smyth Ms M C Bacon Ms T Carlisle Ms H M F Slattne Ms A Doherty Ms N Heptonstall Mr A Bradley Mrs M Dempster O'Neil Mr P Fleming Ms C Herdman

(Appointed 4 June 2024) (Appointed 19 June 2024) (Appointed 24 June 2024) (Appointed 25 June 2024) (Appointed 19 July 2024) (Appointed 22 July 2024)

Charity number NIC101588 Company number NI051776 Registered office Third Floor 109-113 Royal Avenue Belfast BT1 1FF Independent examiner GMcG BELFAST Alfred House 19 Alfred Street Belfast BT2 8EQ Bankers Danske Bank Donegall Square West Belfast BT1 6JS Solicitors O'Reilly Stewart Solicitors 75-77 May Street Belfast BT1 3JL

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 5
Independent examiner's report 6 - 7
Statement of financial activities 8
Balance sheet 9 - 10
Notes to the financial statements 11 - 26

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.

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 company's Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activities

The objects for which the charity is established are to:

Provide an organisation led by disabled people to increase opportunities for disabled people to engage with the arts in Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland, working on a pan-disability basis.

Ancillary to the core object, is to provide opportunities, training and support to:

(ii) Promote use of arts by disabled people in support of initiatives aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of disabled people and as approved by the board.

The charity works collaboratively with arts funders, disabled, neurodiverse and D/deaf artists, arts companies, community groups, equality organisations, ethnic minority groups, LGBTQ groups and the mainstream arts sector, aiming to increase the quality and quantity of opportunities for D/deaf, disabled and Neurodiverse people to participate in arts and culture on their own terms.

Public benefit

The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the company should undertake.

Achievements and performance

Significant activities and achievements against objectives

University of Atypical for Arts and Disability (UofA), formerly known as Arts & Disability Forum (ADF) is a charity led by D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people to empower people of all ages work collaboratively with artists and arts sector to create positive change. The vision is of an inclusive artistic environment where D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people can be involved in the arts in any way they choose.

The work of the Charity continues to focus on:

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Achievements and performance

During the year to March 2025, UoA continued to develop blended delivery methods to engage with participants and audiences online.

Bounce Arts Festival in October 2024; programmed events in Belfast Derry City and Strabane District Council and Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

Visual arts included Artist in Residence for Bounce 2024: Brian Connolly who took over the Atypical Gallery from September to mid-October. Over 1000 visitors came to see Brian’s work. Father and son duo Peter and Steven Fleming present an experimental audio-sensory experience devised especially for Bounce 2024. The Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA) hosted De mo Neamhthoil, by artist Soso Ní Cheallaigh, through a mesmerising movement and film installation.

We welcomed artists from Ireland and Europe including theatre makers Jody O’Neill from Cork presenting her production ‘Yellow’ and Porcelain Delaney from Manchester performing her one-woman show ‘Toilet Paper Diaries’ in the Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast. Greek-British artist Mikhail Karikis joins the Void Gallery for the launch of The Weather Orchestra . Northern Lights present ‘All who are weary and heavy-laden, I will give you rest’ - a sound and movement performance with Amble Skuse from Scotland and Boško Begović, from Belgrade, in the Playhouse, Derry.

Local partners for Bounce 2024 included Rouge Encounters with a Physical Performance masterclass at Duncairn Arts Centre. Open Arts presented an array of choir and theatrical performances in the Crescent Arts Centre. An innovative Virtual Reality instrumental and sensory double-bill in the Sonic Arts Research Centre and Brain Injury Matters, showcased work developed in this partnership.

UoA partnered for the first time with the Seamus Heaney Centre at Queen’s University for a literary lecture and open mic afternoon for writers. The Queen’s Film Theatre hosted two films with associated talks. A Late lunch poetry event in the Playhouse introduced Nina Quigley and Elizabeth Mc Geown.

We engaged new and emerging artists through an exciting collaboration with Foyle Pride with Not Your Pity Party - an evening of unapologetically proud queer disabled art in partnership in the Nerve Centre, Derry. Comedian Ross Mitchell led six other comedians in the first ever all-autistic line up for a fantastic night in the Black Box.

Singer Victoria Geelan, one of the 2023-24 DDASF recipients performed her new show Chasing Amy with Strange New Places, her punk band at the finale event of the festival.

The D’Oyly Trust enabled the commissioning of artists for Bounce 2024 including a collaboration between poet Alice Mc Cullough and pianist Ruth McGinley that showcased at the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre and performance artist Sinead O’Donnell who created a new work and masterclass event in the Black Box.

The Atypical Gallery featured a collaborative exhibition of work produced by recipients of DDASF awards in November; other exhibitors in the year included Steph Harrison, Vikki Patterson, Brian Connolly, Connection Arts, Scott Ramsey. Ulster University Arts Graduate Awardee Christine Kernohan was awarded a package of finance and practical support and mentoring by an experienced artist. Her exhibition took place in the Atypical Gallery.

International Residency for d/Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists was funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland though British Council funds. It was devised in response to the exclusion experienced by d/Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists when participating in international residencies. Northern Ireland artist Husk Bennet will begin a residency at the queer art collective Coven in Berlin, and Flax Arts Studios in Belfast hosted German artist Chris Yohei Tokunaga in February 2024.

Disability Pride Soirée took place in July, profiling LGBTQIA+ artists who also identify as Deaf, disabled or neurodivergent.

The Sign Language Development Programme funded by the Department for Communities, enabled the delivery of sign language classes, d/Deaf awareness training and interpreter costs across our Gallery and events programme.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Digital Horizon, funded by the Santander Foundation, continued into its final masterclass season in this period; as a flagship digitalisation and finance management support initiative. A series of masterclasses were programmed including; Four new Masterclass submissions were selected through an open call for delivery in period 2024/25.

The Arts and Disability Access Awards (ADAA) , a new incarnation of the scheme known as EASI. With improved programme offers in training and tailored support to arts, culture, and heritage organisations who want to make their activities more accessible. Designed and led by disabled people, it brings a wealth of experiential knowledge, and the freshest ideas about disability rights and accessibility for the arts. Six disabled and neurodivergent freelance Access Advisors were recruited and trained and engaged in the rolling out of this programme. Three core elements inc :

  1. Making the Arts Accessible Training.

  2. Access Audit and Improvement Plan.

  3. Accessibility Information Video.

International Residency for d/Deaf, disabled and neurodiverse artists: UofA working with partners in Germany and England continues to research a model of best practice for residencies for d/Deaf, disabled and neurodiverse artists.

Working with Videolabs in Brighton, UoA aimed to facilitate defined access requirements for many disabled artists who are often excluded from taking part in international residencies. During the year artist residencies were hosted by partners Coven in Berlin, and Flax art studios in Belfast.

Ledger Studio introduced as a much-needed resource for d/Deaf, disabled and neurodiverse audiences and artists. During the year, studio programming and use as a sectoral resource has proved successful. Going forward UoA anticipate potential business growth to augment income generation that will support the wider programming and overhead costs

UoA continued to support key organisations through strategic partnerships and the delivery of access support. We continued to implement the Arts Council of Northern Ireland Memorandum of Understanding for access services; rolled out two access support tenders for Belfast 2024 though Belfast City Council and adopted a Music Grants Programme from Belfast City Council to reach d/Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent musicians and audiences in Belfast.

Financial review

Strengthening the UofA financial position and procedures remains a priority. Results for the year are set out in detail on pages 8 to 26. The charity returned net income for the year of £51,213.

At 31 March 2025, the total funds of the charity amounted to £229,078 comprising restricted funds of £152,698 and unrestricted funds of £76,380.

Trustees rely on the unrestricted fund balance which is considered to be essential to provide sufficient funds to cover unforeseen costs and fulfill legal obligations of the charity if current levels of income are not maintained.

The charity continues to work closely with GMcG staff on payroll admin and the production of financial statements for the 2024-25 financial year.

For 2024-25 the principal funder was the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, with core and programming grants from exchequer and lottery funds, and Belfast City Council, Multi Annual funding and Capacity Programme support. Arts Council of Northern Ireland also sustained funding for the d/Deaf and Disabled Artists Support Fund.

Major risks

Risk management is addressed within the UofA Risk Management Strategy. The organisation has also established systems to mitigate significant risks to potential business and operational risks which the charity may face.

Senior staff supported by directors continue to review the major risks which the charity faces and believe that maintaining unrestricted reserves at the required levels to finance working capital and continue the charity’s activities on a short-term basis, combined with annual review of the controls over key financial systems, will sustain resources for adverse conditions.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Staffing updates

The new Business Development Manager Laura Bradley, commenced the role the first week in April 2024. Recruitment for new staff roles took place in April-June 2024 including: Neave Wright, Creative Programming Officer (Arts Council of NI funding); Jonathan Mitchell, Access and Inclusion Manager (Paul Hamlyn Foundation funding); Sheena Kelly, Community Engagement Manager (Belfast City Council funding). The National Lottery Communities Fund supported the recruitment of a Volunteer Coordinator role and Cinzia Savonitti was selected for this role in October 2024

Freelance contracts for Finance, Administration and Marketing were extended.

Plans for future periods

There remains a focus on the need to diversify income streams. Exploring additional funding and business opportunities for unrestricted earned income. This includes increasing income through the Ledger Studio and through increasing income through the AADA scheme.

Moving forward the priority is to develop to sustain key roles including the Business Development Manager and Access and Inclusion Manager.

Structure, governance and management

The Arts and Disability Forum is the legal name of the organisation that operates as University of Atypical for Arts and Disability, and is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity. The Charity is established under a memorandum of association which outlines core objectives and power. The Charity is governed by a voluntary board of Directors who operate in accordance with the Articles of Association.

Collectively board members are proficient in core governance skills: HR, accountancy, specialist areas of disability arts, marketing and product development, online education methodologies, access consultancy and disability rights.

During the year the day to day running of the organisation was designated to Chief Executive Edel Murphy.

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:

Ms C Smyth
Ms I Obrolchain Carmody (Resigned 26 June 2025)
Ms M C Bacon
Ms T Carlisle
Mr R D Woodcock (Resigned 22 July 2024)
Ms H M F Slattne
Ms A Doherty (Appointed 4 June 2024)
Ms N Heptonstall (Appointed 19 June 2024)
Mr A Bradley (Appointed 24 June 2024)
Mrs M Dempster O'Neil (Appointed 25 June 2024)
Mr P Fleming (Appointed 19 July 2024)
Ms C Herdman (Appointed 22 July 2024)
Ms A Rashid (Appointed 23 July 2024 and resigned 1 June 2025)

Recruitment and appointment of trustees

The board consists of 10 current directors. The Board can pass an ordinary resolution to appoint new Trustees. To address any skills gap the organisation continues to liaise with external partners such as Arts and Business to attract new Trustees. Formal recruitment to the board is carried out in accordance with the Articles of Association.

The CEO Edel Murphy created a new Board Recruitment pack and 7 board members were co-opted to the Board in May-July 2024.

ARTS ARTS & & DISABILITY[DISABILITY] FORUM[FORUM]

TRUSTEES' TRUSTEES' REPORT[REPORT] (INCLUDING (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' DIRECTORS' REPORT) REPORT) (CONTINUED)[(CONTINUED)] FOR FOR THE THE YEAR YEAR ENDED ENDED 31[31] MARCH MARCH 2025 2025

Small Small companies companies exemption exemption The The report[report] of[of] the the directors[directors] has[has] been been prepared prepared taking[taking] advantage advantage of[of] the[the] small[small] companies’[companies'] exemption[exemption] of[of] section section 415A[415A] of of the the Companies Companies Act Act 2006. 2006.

The The trustees' trusteeS report[report] was was approved approved by[by] the[the] Board Board of[of] Trustees. Trustees.

Ms Ms C[C] Smyth Smyth Director Director

Date: . Date: aalwileors.t....

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ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT

TO THE TRUSTEES OF ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

| report on the financial statements of the company for the year ended 31 March 2025, which are set out on pages 8 to 26.

Responsibilities and basis of report As the charity trustees (and also the directors of the company for the purposes of company faw) you are 2006.responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act

Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law, and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner's report

| have examined your charity accounts as required under section 65 of the Charities Act and my examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission for Northern ireland under section 65(9)(b) of the Charities Act. The examination included a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as charity trustees concerning any such matters.

My role is to state whether any material matters have come to my attention giving me cause to believe:

OT -619 Alfred Street 4o Crescent Business Park PORTADOWN Alfred House Century House 17 Mandeville Street BELFAST BT2 8EQ LISBURN Craigavon DX3910 NR Belfast 50 BT28 2GN BT62 3PB Tel: +44 (0)28 9031 1113 Tel: +44 (0)28 9260 7355 Tel: +44 (0)28 3833 2801 Fax: +44 (0)28 9031 0777 Fax: +44 (0)28 9260 1656 Fax: +44 (0)28 3835 0293 Chartered Accountants | Registered Auditors CharteredTax Advisors | Forensic Accountants Corporate Finance Advisors GMcG is a trading name of GMcG Group Limited. Reg No: Nlo§9660. List of Directors available at registered office egistelwonheroITIAG®0. con: A Worldwideit wor! Allareee Insti afinf CharteredaAccountants in Ireland™

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ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

Independent examiner's statement

Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. | can confirm that | am qualified to undertake the examination because | am a registered member of Chartered Accountants Ireland which is one of the listed bodies. | have completed my examination and have no concerns in respect of the matters (1) to (4) listed above and, in connection with following the Directions of the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, | have found no matters that require drawing to your attention. MRet FCA

GMcG BELFAST

Alfred House 19 Alfred Street Belfast BT2 8EQ

Dated: 2411) (2025.

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ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
Notes
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
2
-
-
Charitable activities
3
-
436,033
Other trading activities
4
4,554
-
Investments
5
934
-
Other income
6
13,054
-
Total income
18,542
436,033
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
7
2,984
400,378
Total expenditure
2,984
400,378
Net income
15,558
35,655
Transfers between
funds
(21,611)
21,611
Net movement in
funds
9
(6,053)
57,266
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 April 2024
82,433
95,432
Fund balances at 31 March
2025
76,380
152,698		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
-
20,000
-
436,033
-
371,050
4,554
3
354
934
660
-
13,054
76,433
-
454,575
97,096
371,404
403,362
76,378
324,403
403,362
76,378
324,403
51,213
20,718
47,001
-
-
-
51,213
20,718
47,001
177,865
61,715
48,431
229,078
82,433
95,432		 Total
2024
£
20,000
371,050
357
660
76,433
468,500
400,781
400,781
67,719
-
67,719
110,146
177,865

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

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
13
Current assets
Debtors
14
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
15
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due after
more than one year
16
Net assets excluding pension liability
Net assets		 2025
£
10,798
286,235
297,033
(85,273)		 £
17,318
211,760
229,078
-
229,078
229,078		 2024
£
11,922
220,334
232,256
(63,880)		 £
21,989
168,376
190,365
(12,500)
177,865
177,865

ARTS ARTS & & DISABILITY DISABILITY[FORUM] FORUM BALANCE BALANCE SHEET[SHEET] (CONTINUED)[(CONTINUED)] AS AS AT AT 31[31] MARCH MARCH 2025 2025

2025
2025		 2024
2024
Notes
Notes		 £ £ £ =
The funds ofthe company
The funds ofthe company
Restricted income funds
Restricted income funds		 19
19		 152,698
152,698		 95,432
95,432
Unrestricted funds
Unrestricted funds		 76,380
76,380		 82,433
82,433
229,078
229,078		 177,865
177,865

The The company company is[is] entitled entitled to[to] the[the] exemption exemption from from the[the] audit[audit] requirement requirement contained contained in[in] section section 477 477 of of the the Companies Companies Act Act 2006, 2006, for for the the year year ended ended 31[31] March March 2025. 2025.

The The trustees trustees acknowledge acknowledge their their responsibilities responsibilities for for ensuring ensuring that that the[the] charity charity keeps keeps accounting accounting records records which which comply comply with with section section 386 386 of of the the Act Act and and for for preparing preparing financial financial statements statements which which give give a a true true and and fair fair view view of of the the state state of of affairs affairs of of the the company company as as at at the the end end of of the the financial financial year year and and of of its its incoming incoming resources resources and and application application of of resources, resources, including including its its income income and and expenditure, expenditure, for for the the financial financial year year in in accordance accordance with with the the requirements requirements of of sections sections 394 394 and and 395 395 and and which which otherwise otherwise comply comply with with the the requirements requirements of of the the Companies Companies Act Act 2006 2006 relating relating to to financial financial statements, statements, so so[far] far as as applicable applicable to[to] the[the] company. company. The The members members have have not[not] required required the the company company to[to] obtain[obtain] an an audit[audit] of[of] its its financial financial statements statements for for the the year year in in question question in in accordance accordance[with] with section section 476. 476.

to to These These the the small small financial financial companies companiesstatements statements regime. regime. have have been been prepared prepared in[in] accordance accordance with[with] the the provisions[provisions] applicable applicable to to companies companies subject subject

The The financial financial statements statements were were approved approved by by the[the] trustees trustees ON on ..........c:cc:ceseeeeee .

Ms C Smyth
Ms C Smyth
Director
Director		 Director
Director

Company Company registration registration number number N1051776 NI051776 (Northern (Northern Ireland) Ireland)

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ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

Arts & Disability Forum is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in Northern Ireland. The registered office is Third Floor, 109-113 Royal Avenue, Belfast, BT1 1FF.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the company's governing document, the Companies Act 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 company is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

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

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. 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 company 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.

1.4 Incoming resources

Income is recognised when the company 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 company 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 company 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.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies (Continued)

1.5 Resources expended

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.

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 allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the company and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Governance costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the company and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Charitable activities and Governance costs are costs incurred on the company's operations, including support costs and costs relating to the governance of the company apportioned to charitable activities.

Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure arose.

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:

Fixtures and fittings

25% per annum reducing balance

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 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the company reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.8 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.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies (Continued)

1.9 Financial instruments

The company 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 company's balance sheet when the company 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 company’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.10 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 company is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.11 Retirement benefits

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

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2 Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2025 2024
£ £
Grants - 20,000
Grants
Santander general increase - 20,000
- 20,000

3 Income from charitable activities

Gallery &
General
Bounce Arts
Festival
2025
2025
£
£
Performance related
grants
405,036
23,764
Less: deferred income
16,733
(9,500)
421,769
14,264
Analysis by fund
Restricted funds
421,769
14,264		 Total
Gallery &
General
Bounce Arts
Festival
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
428,800
332,709
11,800
7,233
31,541
(5,000)
436,033
364,250
6,800
436,033
364,250
6,800		 Total
2024
£
344,509
26,541
371,050
371,050

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

3 Income from charitable activities (Continued)

Performance related grants analysis

Arts Council
Santander Foundation
Belfast City Council
Future Screen
Bodyshine
Halifas Urban Survival
Heritage Lottery
Architecture
Paul Hamlyn
The Goethe Institut
Other		 Gallery &
General
Bounce Arts
Festival
2025
2025
£
£
113,606
-
-
-
156,154
10,264
21,038
-
-
-
-
-
19,988
-
90,000
-
-
13,500
4,250
-
405,036
23,764		 Total
2025
£
113,606
-
166,418
21,038
-
-
19,988
90,000
13,500
4,250
428,800		 Gallery &
General
Bounce Arts
Festival
2024
2024
£
£
130,160
5,000
50,000
-
63,200
6,800
21,273
-
19,166
-
19,866
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
29,044
-
332,709
11,800		 Total
2024
£
135,160
50,000
70,000
21,273
19,166
19,866
-
-
-
29,044
344,509

All income from charitable activities in the current and prior year relates to restricted funds.

4 Income from other trading activities

Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds funds
2025 2025 2025 2024 2024 2024
£ £ £ £ £ £
Other income 4,554 - 4,554 3 354 357

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

5 Investments

**Unrestricted ** Unrestricted
funds funds
2025 2024
£ £
Bank interest received 934 660
Other income
**Unrestricted ** Unrestricted
funds funds
2025 2024
£ £
Other income 13,054 76,433

6 Other income

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

7 Expenditure on charitable activities

Gallery &
General
Bounce Arts
Festival
2025
2025
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
148,068
-
Depreciation and impairment
5,520
-
Artist grant payments
21,830
-
Artists' costs
42,770
15,460
Other charitable expenditure
112,937
22,419
331,125
37,879
Share of support and governance costs (see note 8)
Support
29,114
-
Governance
5,244
-
365,483
37,879
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
2,984
-
Restricted funds
362,499
37,879
365,483
37,879		 Total
Gallery &
General
Bounce Arts
Festival
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
148,068
113,995
-
5,520
7,046
-
21,830
20,030
-
58,230
33,799
10,376
135,356
158,257
25,878
369,004
333,127
36,254
29,114
27,100
-
5,244
4,300
-
403,362
364,527
36,254
2,984
76,378
-
400,378
288,149
36,254
403,362
364,527
36,254		 Total
2024
£
113,995
7,046
20,030
44,175
184,135
369,381
27,100
4,300
400,781
76,378
324,403
400,781

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

8
Support costs allocated to activities
Insurance
Printing, postage & stationery
Heat & light
Telephone
Rent
Bookkeeping
Governance costs
Analysed between:
Gallery & General
9
Net movement in funds
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the independent examination of the charity's financial
statements
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets		 2025
£
2,647
270
698
1,110
16,229
8,160
5,244
34,358
34,358
2025
£
2,975
5,520		 2024
£
2,308
311
971
744
15,086
7,680
4,300
31,400
31,400
2024
£
2,850
7,046

10 Trustees

During the current and prior years, none of the directors (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or reimbursement for expenses.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

11 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
Remuneration of key management personnel
The remuneration of key management personnel was as follows:
Aggregate compensation		 2025
Number
6
2025
£
137,991
7,532
2,545
148,068
2025
£
33,565		 2024
Number
4
2024
£
109,865
2,528
1,602
113,995
2024
£
31,309

12 Taxation

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

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

13
Tangible fixed assets
Cost
At 1 April 2024
Additions
At 31 March 2025
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2024
Depreciation charged in the year
At 31 March 2025
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024
14
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year:
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
15
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Notes
Other taxation and social security
Deferred income
17
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Accruals
16
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
Notes
Deferred income
17		 Fixtures and
fittings
£
129,416
848
130,264
107,426
5,520
112,946
17,318
21,989
2025
2024
£
£
200
200
10,598
11,722
10,798
11,922
2025
2024
£
£
2,318
952
43,994
38,727
27,752
12,453
2,674
2,839
8,535
8,909
85,273
63,880
2025
2024
£
£
-
12,500		 Fixtures and
fittings
£
129,416
848
130,264
107,426
5,520
112,946
17,318
21,989
2025
2024
£
£
200
200
10,598
11,722
10,798
11,922
2025
2024
£
£
2,318
952
43,994
38,727
27,752
12,453
2,674
2,839
8,535
8,909
85,273
63,880
2025
2024
£
£
-
12,500
130,264
107,426
5,520
112,946
17,318
21,989
2024
£
200
11,722
11,922
2024
£
952
38,727
12,453
2,839
8,909
63,880
2024
£
12,500

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

17
Deferred income
Other deferred income
Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:
Deferred income is included within:
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Movements in the year:
Deferred income at 1 April 2024
Released from previous periods
Resources deferred in the year
Deferred income at 31 March 2025
18
Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes		 2025
£
43,994
2025
£
43,994
-
43,994
51,227
(46,227)
38,994
43,994
2025
£
2,545		 2024
£
51,227
2024
£
38,727
12,500
51,227
115,268
(77,768)
13,727
51,227
2024
£
1,602

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

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

19 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.

Balance at
1 April 2023
£
Gallery & General
8,715
ACNI Equipment Grant
-
BCC Aytypical Music Award
-
BCC Capacity Grant
-
Bounce Arts Festival
-
DFC Deaf Coms
-
Deaf & Disabled Arts Support Fund
-
Body Shine EU Fund
9,595
Halifax
-
BCC Phase 2
-
USK B Council
-
Santander UK Foundation
13,953
EASNI
-
P Hamlyn/ Studio BOI
-
Awards for all
1,939
Artist residency
6,905
Future Screens Grant
7,324
Blue Print
-
48,431		 Movement in funds
Income
Expenditure
£
£
128,350
(75,600)
2,206
(2,575)
-
-
50,000
(46,938)
7,154
(36,254)
22,255
(20,272)
25,000
(17,819)
19,166
(6,789)
4,825
(4,433)
-
-
19,866
(15,742)
50,000
(46,301)
-
(3,945)
-
-
10,000
(10,868)
(691)
(6,406)
21,273
(18,424)
12,000
(12,037)
371,404
(324,403)		 Transfers
Balance at
1 April 2024
£
£
(8,853)
52,612
369
-
-
-
(2,670)
392
29,100
-
-
1,983
(2,200)
4,981
(21,972)
-
1,500
1,892
-
-
52
4,176
-
17,652
3,945
-
-
-
500
1,571
192
-
-
10,173
37
-
-
95,432		 Movement in funds
Income
Expenditure
£
£
136,803
(124,573)
4,522
(4,522)
25,500
(28,422)
50,629
(43,446)
14,264
(36,659)
7,983
(7,078)
-
-
-
-
-
-
26,196
(20,094)
-
-
37,500
(33,725)
71,780
(33,540)
29,133
(37,101)
9,994
(9,559)
690
(2,167)
21,039
(19,492)
-
-
436,033
(400,378)		 Transfers
Balance at
31 March 2025
£
£
2,798
67,640
-
-
2,922
-
(3,734)
3,841
22,395
-
-
2,888
(4,981)
-
-
-
(1,892)
-
-
6,102
(4,176)
-
(2,000)
19,427
(4,000)
34,240
12,802
4,834
-
2,006
1,477
-
-
11,720
-
-
21,611
152,698		 Transfers
Balance at
31 March 2025
£
£
2,798
67,640
-
-
2,922
-
(3,734)
3,841
22,395
-
-
2,888
(4,981)
-
-
-
(1,892)
-
-
6,102
(4,176)
-
(2,000)
19,427
(4,000)
34,240
12,802
4,834
-
2,006
1,477
-
-
11,720
-
-
21,611
152,698
152,698

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

20 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 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2024 resources expended 2025
£ £ £ £ £
General funds 82,433 18,542 (2,984) (21,611) 76,380
Previous year: At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2023 resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £ £
General funds 61,715 97,096 (76,378) - 82,433

21 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
At 31 March 2025:
Tangible assets
2,302
15,016
Current assets/(liabilities)
74,078
137,682
76,380
152,698
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
At 31 March 2024:
Tangible assets
1,967
20,022
Current assets/(liabilities)
80,466
87,910
Long term liabilities
-
(12,500)
82,433
95,432		 Total
2025
£
17,318
211,760
229,078
Total
2024
£
21,989
168,376
(12,500)
177,865

22 Contingent liabilities

A portion of grants received may become repayable if the charity fails to comply with the terms of the letter of offer.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

23 Explanatory notes to the funds

Unrestricted funds

General fund

This fund is expendable at the discretion of the directors. It is used to finance capital investment and working capital. As anticipated in recent years, the level of funding received continues to fluctuate. The general fund will therefore be essential to finance working capital and ensure that the charity can continue its activities in the short term and fulfil its legal responsibilities to employees and creditors.

Restricted funds

Gallery and General Running Costs

Principal funding received from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland's Annual Support for Organisations programme. This is for a pre-agreed programme of activity. Mainly funding designated to general running costs, staffing and atypical gallery costs. Atypical is the only gallery of its kind in Ireland, dedicated to showcasing artwork produced by disabled artists. Funding covers installation costs, exhibition promotion, material, access and communication support, information in alternative formats.

ACNI Health and Safety Capital Programme

Awarded to assist arts organisations reopen creative spaces safely by funding the purchasing of equipment and/or minor works required to address health and safety issues created as a result of the pandemic or that have been an outstanding maintenance issue.

Belfast City Council

The Cultural Multi-annual Grant from the Belfast City Council , supports the comprehensive programme of activity to Deaf disabled and neuro-diverse people including exhibitions, performances, artists talks, virtual gallery and studio tours. Funding sourced from Belfast City Council Capacity Grant to facilitate Staffing and programme development to extend outreach and impact of the programme.

Belfast City Council Festival Grant

Designated to support Bounce Festival 2024 along with The D’Oyly Trust award which enabled the commissioning of artists for Bounce 2025 including developing artistic collaborations at Roe Valley & Black Box.

Department of Communities – SPLG

Funding to support Deaf Community inclusion is the Arts Sector across N Ireland.

Deaf Disabled Artist Support Fund (DDASF) Grant Scheme

Arts Council of Northern Ireland(ACNI) award sustains the practical support dedicated to increasing skills, experience and opportunities for disabled artists living in Northern Ireland and working in any art form. Finance support is distributed by University of Atypical on behalf of funding partners to compliment the Arts Council's own funding schemes to support individual non-disabled artists. Grant decisions are made by an independent panel, of UofA Trustees and individuals withrelevant expertise and overseen by an Arts Council representative.

Paul Hamyln Foundation

Financial support University for Atypical’s significant influence in facilitating positive change in the arts sector in Northern Ireland. The Grant is part of the Arts Access and Participation Fund ;To support core costs, contribute to staff costs, alongside new project development costs for the Ledger Studio Arts and Disability Access Awards including fees for training, access advisors and access costs.

Bank of Ireland

Begin Together Arts Fund in partnership with Business to Arts for ‘The Ledger Studio Bespoke Arts Studio space for the Arts and Disability Sector.

Halifax Foundation

Award for a new Career Advisor support scheme, to offer practical support initiative for artists.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

24 Explanatory notes to the funds (continued)

Santander UK Foundation LTD

Three year Funding programme from Santander UK Foundation Ltd supports ‘Digital Horizon’ a professional development initiative; aiming to create opportunities for d/Deaf, Disabled and Neurodiversity artists pursue new ambitions through the use of digital technology to assist them throughout their career.

Body Shine

This EU partnership grant addresses the act of body shaming. Through an international programme of activities, programme participants are supported to reflect on societal and fashion influences through art, society, cultural knowledge. Equipping people with the confidence to accept themselves and the "diversity" of others

Awards

for

All

Community Fund Grant for a volunteer training programme focusing on enabling people with Disabilities and Deaf Community to learn new skills and engage with their peers and community. Aiming to formalise and support UofA volunteers through a robust programme of training and practical support.

Artist in Residence Fund

This represents project funds secured from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland for a visual arts residency and exhibition at the Atypical Gallery

Future Screens NI Covid19 Recovery Programme

Ulster University -DFC partnership grant, designated for a new Access and Inclusion Assistant post as part of a three-year award for an Employment and Skills Initiative, aiming to address labour market barriers faced by individuals due to the pandemic and with a particular focus on job roles to boost the Arts Sector.

Blue

Print

Financial support secured from an ARTS and Business. This capacity building programme aims to support small arts organisations invest in the development of innovative income generation strategies. UofA Proposal to Blueprint will focus on the new Ledger Studio and EASI (equality access standards initiative) aiming to strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Urban Survival Kits

EU funding for the Urban Survival Kits programme; UofA was lead partner on a trans-national learning initiative exploring how Adults With Disabilities (AWD), and neurodiversity, can be supported with their local, national and international travel needs. USK builds on the European Disability Strategy 2010-2020 and removes barriers in physical infrastructure; accessibility of information, and creates effective communication tools.

Transfers

During the year, transfers were made between restricted funds to cover deficits arising on certain projects, and from unrestricted funds to restricted funds where income was insufficient to meet related expenditure. Income received to the Gallery & General Fund also included contributions towards office and administration costs associated with the charity’s premises.

ARTS & DISABILITY FORUM

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

25 Operating lease commitments

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

2025 2024
£ £
Within one year - 45,342

26 Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2024 - none).