REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: |
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: |
| BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
| REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND |
| AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
| FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: |
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: |
| BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
| REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND |
| AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
| FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
Page |
Report of the Trustees | 1 | to | 8 |
Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities | 9 |
Report of the Independent Auditors | 10 | to | 12 |
Statement of Financial Activities | 13 |
Balance Sheet | 14 |
Cash Flow Statement | 15 |
Notes to the Cash Flow Statement | 16 |
Notes to the Financial Statements | 17 | to | 26 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of 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 |
Objectives and aims |
| The main purpose of the company is to stimulate and promote the use and scientific understanding of acupuncture as part of the practice of medicine for the public benefit. |
Public benefit |
| The Charities Act 2011 introduced the requirement for charities to show they provided public benefit. The trustees have reviewed the objects, goals, services and objectives of the charity in the light of this requirement and can confirm that British Medical Acupuncture Society serves the public benefit. This Trustees' Annual Report continues to evidence how the charity strived to meet need. |
FINANCIAL REVIEW |
Reserves policy |
| The Charity's policy for determining the level of cash reserves, which it is appropriate to maintain in order to meet its |
| needs effectively, is to maintain at least 1 year of costs, which exclude non-cash items (eg depreciation) and one off capital expenses in its reserves (excluding fixed assets). |
| The cash reserves at the end of this year was in excess of 1 year of costs as defined above. |
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT |
Governing document |
The company is limited by guarantee, having no share capital. It is a registered charity. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability of each member is limited to £10. The company was incorporated on 16 August 1996 and is bound by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. |
The Council of Management, a body of not less than five nor more than fifteen, two of whom must be trustees, control the company. Trustees and other members of the various committees are elected by a quorum of at least five Council Members from among the voting members of the society. All candidates for election must be proposed and seconded in writing to the secretary by a voting member. |
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS |
Registered Company number |
Registered Charity number |
Registered office |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
Trustees |
Mr D P Lawler |
Dr F Campos |
Dr E Y K Cheung |
Dr A Farrukh |
Ms C Gavins (resigned 28/08/2025) |
Mr N Rooney (resigned 01/02/2025) |
Dr A Kumar |
Mr S J Gilchrist |
Dr L J McAuley (resigned 12/11/2025) |
Dr M Bordbar Amirian (appointed 04/06/2025) |
Mr H Charafeddine (appointed 04/06/2025) |
Dr R K K Mann (appointed 04/06/2025) |
Company Secretary |
Auditors |
Chartered Accountants |
Statutory Auditors |
Darland House |
44 Winnington Hill |
Northwich |
Cheshire |
CW8 1AU |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
President's Report - Dr Federico Campos |
It has been a significant year for the British Medical Acupuncture Society, characterised by both achievement and reflection. As a Council, we have maintained strong engagement and oversight across all aspects of the Society's work, meeting regularly and working collaboratively to support its ongoing development. At the same time, we have experienced some changes in Council composition, with several resignations prompting us to think carefully about succession planning and how best to ensure continuity, diversity of perspective, and sustained leadership moving forward. |
Financially, the Society remains stable in the short term, supported by strong reserves and consistent income from our journal and investments. However, it would be remiss not to acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Over the course of the year, income has been lower than anticipated, largely driven by declining membership and reduced bookings on our foundation courses. Whilst costs have been carefully managed, and despite the resilience afforded by our reserves, it is clear that the current trajectory is not sustainable in the longer term. Rather than viewing this as a purely financial issue, Council has approached it as a strategic inflection point. It has prompted us to reflect on our purpose, our value, and how we position ourselves within an evolving healthcare landscape. |
Membership trends remain a central concern. The decline in doctor membership in particular is noteworthy and reflects broader systemic pressures, including the increasing difficulty of practising acupuncture within the NHS. At the same time, there are signs of opportunity, with stability in other professional groups and growth in areas such as chiropractic engagement. This invites us to think more broadly about who we are as a Society and who we serve. It challenges us to ensure that the way in which we meet our mission remains relevant, accessible, and clearly differentiated in an increasingly competitive environment. |
Education continues to be at the core of our activity, and it is an area where our strengths are particularly evident. The quality of our teaching, the depth of our academic resources, and the credibility of our faculty remain highly regarded. Our journal continues to perform strongly, our webinars and online content have reached a wide audience, and our published materials continue to gain traction. However, the challenges in foundation course recruitment highlight the need to rethink how, where, and to whom we deliver education. Increasingly, we are exploring alternative pathways, including greater engagement with private practice, collaboration with educational institutions, and the development of new course formats that better reflect the realities of contemporary clinical practice. |
Externally, BMAS has remained active and engaged within the wider integrative medicine community. Our representatives have contributed to national and international discussions, participated in conferences, and explored opportunities for collaboration and research. These efforts are important not only for maintaining visibility, but for ensuring that medical acupuncture continues to have a voice within broader healthcare conversations. We have also contributed to policy discussions and regulatory developments, reinforcing our role as a credible and responsible professional body. |
Operationally, the Society has continued to function effectively, supported by a committed team who have navigated a number of transitions over the year. Developments in infrastructure, improvements in financial reporting, and decisions such as bringing social media management in-house all reflect a pragmatic and responsive approach to running the organisation. |
Perhaps most importantly, this has been a year in which we have collectively recognised that BMAS stands at a pivotal moment. The challenges we face are real, but they are not insurmountable. Indeed, they present an opportunity to reimagine what the Society can be. We are fortunate to have strong foundations, a respected academic profile, and a community of committed members. The task ahead is to build on these strengths with clarity of purpose and a willingness to adapt. |
As President, I see this as a moment of renewal. It is an opportunity to reaffirm our values, to broaden our reach, and to ensure that BMAS continues to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of medical acupuncture. This will require thoughtful leadership, open dialogue, and a collective willingness to embrace change. |
I would like to thank all members of Council, our committees, and our staff for their dedication and hard work throughout the year. Their commitment underpins everything we do. I would also like to thank our members, whose continued engagement and support remain essential to the Society's future. |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
As we look ahead, our focus will be on sustainability, relevance, and impact. With a clear sense of direction and a shared commitment to progress, I am confident that BMAS can not only navigate the challenges ahead, but emerge stronger and more resilient. |
Honorary Treasurer's Report - Sean Gilchrist |
Compared to the previous year, 2025 continued to be a challenging year financially with the Society seeing a small loss after depreciation of £25k. |
This does not change the overall financial strength of the Society which can still survive for two years on its cash reserves and three years if its fixed assets are realised. That assumes the Society is inactive - and there is no intention of that happening. |
In summary, income is broadly stable year on year at £412k (2024: £437k). The small decrease was primarily due to a decrease in the course income a reduction of £22k. Although the Foundation Course bookings were down year on year, the costs have been previously optimised and the course is now running as efficiently as it can. Income from the Journal's royalties is stable with a marginal increase of £4k this year. |
Encouragingly, costs decreased by 4% year on year to 437k down from £457k, reflecting the strong cost controls of the management team. |
The focus going forward is to grow through increasing membership numbers which have dropped year on year. This will ensure the ongoing financial viability and stability of the Society. |
Medical Director's Report - Dr Mike Cummings |
In 2025 we trained 115 healthcare professionals on the BMAS Foundation Course. This is significantly down on 143 in 2024 and has clearly reflected on our income from educational activities. Total bookings were just 122, which is also a significant reduction on 174 in 2024. |
By contrast, our journal Acupuncture in Medicine (masterfully helmed by David Coggin-Carr) had another successful year (see David's report) and the revenue from the journal increased by ~£7k to ~£229k, with the BMAS royalties (representing a 55% share of total revenues) coming in at ~ £126k. |
Membership numbers were around 1200 in December 2025, which is less than half of the historic peak in membership in December 2007 of 2654. |
Our finances are still healthy, and whilst we are recording a £25k deficit, similar to the £20k deficit in 2024, the reasons are different in 2025 and the forecast in 2026 is changing somewhat due to reduced expenses and a bump up in teaching activity. |
Overall the BMAS is still relatively secure, but I cannot say the same for the future of acupuncture in the NHS I'm afraid. |
Professional Services Committee Chair's Report - Dr Federico Campos |
Over the past year, the Professional Services Committee has focused on supporting the visibility, accessibility, and practical application of medical acupuncture within an evolving and increasingly competitive healthcare environment. This has been a year marked by both proactive initiatives and honest reflection, as we have worked to understand and respond to the challenges facing the Society. |
A central theme throughout the year has been the need to strengthen engagement with both current and prospective members. Early in the year, there was cautious optimism, with encouraging booking trends and a strong social media presence. However, as the year progressed, it became clear that this visibility was not consistently translating into course bookings or sustained growth. This prompted a more critical evaluation of our outreach strategies and how effectively we are communicating the value of BMAS training. |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
One of the most significant developments has been the decision to move away from externally managed social media. While the Society maintained a strong online presence, the cost of outsourcing this function was not justified by the outcomes in terms of engagement and recruitment. Bringing social media activity in-house has allowed for a more flexible, authentic, and responsive approach, with an emphasis on timely, relevant, and accessible content. There has also been a clear recognition that engagement is not solely about content creation, but about active participation, and members are now being encouraged to interact with and amplify posts to extend their reach organically. |
Alongside this, the Committee has explored a range of alternative promotional strategies. These have included identifying new advertising platforms, considering more direct engagement within clinical environments such as hospitals, and encouraging grassroots dissemination of materials such as posters and digital resources. There has also been interest in leveraging professional networks, including links with general practitioners, anaesthetists, and other healthcare professionals, as well as exploring opportunities through conferences and professional events. While some of these initiatives are still in development, they reflect a broader shift towards more targeted and community-driven engagement. |
The Committee has also given considerable attention to the changing demographics of those engaging with BMAS training. It is increasingly clear that the Society serves a wider range of healthcare professionals than in the past, and this has prompted reflection on how best to tailor both our messaging and our educational offer. Particular consideration has been given to engaging nurses and advanced nurse practitioners, although this remains an area where demand has not yet reached a level sufficient to support dedicated courses. More broadly, there has been recognition that different professional groups may require different pathways into acupuncture training, and this will be an important area for future development. |
In parallel, the Committee has continued to support the development of professional networks within the Society. There has been ongoing discussion about the role of regional groups, particularly in the context of increasing use of online platforms, which has reduced the relevance of geographically based meetings. At the same time, there has been growing interest in Special Interest Groups, with areas such as palliative care and cancer already demonstrating strong engagement. Proposals for new groups, including one focused on women's health, have been explored, although these will require further capacity and leadership to develop fully. |
Financial considerations have remained closely linked to the Committee's work. It has been clear throughout the year that declining membership and reduced course bookings are having a direct impact on income, and this has reinforced the need for cost-conscious decision-making. At the same time, the Committee has been mindful of the importance of maintaining investment in activities that support long-term growth and visibility. This balance between sustainability and strategic investment has been a recurring theme in discussions. |
Taken together, the work of the Professional Services Committee this year reflects a period of transition and adaptation. While some of the challenges we face are external, including wider changes in healthcare systems and professional practice, there is also a clear opportunity for the Society to evolve in how it engages, communicates, and supports its members. |
As Chair of the Professional Services Committee, I see this as an opportunity to build a more connected, visible, and responsive Society. Our focus moving forward will be on strengthening our reach, refining our messaging, and ensuring that BMAS remains both relevant and accessible to a broad and diverse professional audience. |
I would like to thank all members of the Committee for their insight, energy, and commitment over the past year. Their contributions have been invaluable in helping to shape the direction of this work. |
Competence, Accreditation and Examining Board - Simon Coghlan |
It has been encouraging to see a strong number of CMA and DipMedAc applications over the past year from a range of medical and allied health disciplines. |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
However, a clear issue has emerged with CMA submissions. Many applicants do not appear to have read, understood, or followed the submission guidelines closely enough. As a result, at least 50% of CMA submissions are rejected at the initial stage and returned with feedback, asking applicants to bring the work up to the minimum standard required for assessment. Similar issues are seen in DipMedAc submissions, although the rejection rate is lower. This is to be expected, as DipMedAc applicants have already completed the CMA and should therefore be more familiar with the required standards and expectations. |
Once the basic submission requirements are met, the overall standard is generally fair to good, with a small number of excellent submissions. The most common weakness is inadequate description of local and general safety aspects. Another common weakness is failure to give a clear account of treatment dose in line with STRICTA guidelines. |
Both CMA and DipMedAc submission guidelines are provided to applicants during the administrative process before submission but there appears to be scope to make these guidelines more visible and easier to access. It may also be helpful to introduce a mandatory acknowledgement step, such as a tick box or declaration confirming that the applicant has read the relevant guidance before submitting. This may help reduce the number of rejected submissions and improve the efficiency of the review and assessment process. |
Over the past 12 months, there has been a clear increase in the use of AI tools to assist with submissions. In most cases, AI appears to have been used as a drafting or editing aid. In a small number of cases, however, the written submission appears to have been generated almost entirely by AI. This is a concern for assessors, as overreliance on AI may weaken the learning process and reduce genuine thinking, reasoning and reflective practice by the applicant. I have been in discussion with Mike Cummings about the need for an AI usage policy to guide applicants and discourage sole reliance on AI in preparing CMA and DipMedAc submissions. |
At oral assessment, both at CMA and DipMedAc level, a clear gap may at times be seen between the quality of the written submission and the applicant's actual knowledge and clinical understanding of acupuncture where AI has been used too heavily. |
Overall, the main issue appears to be not applicant ability, but insufficient engagement with the submission requirements at the outset. Making the guidance clearer, reinforcing the expected standards, and introducing a clear AI usage policy may help improve submission quality and strengthen the assessment process. |
I would like to thank all members of the Board for their continued commitment to maintaining the high standards that the BMAS represents in acupuncture education. |
Education Committee Chair's Report - Dr Federico Campos |
Over the past year, the Education Committee has continued to play a central role in supporting the core mission of the Society: the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based education in medical acupuncture. This has been a year of both consolidation and reflection, during which we have maintained the strength of our educational output while also confronting important questions about its future direction. |
At the outset of the year, the education programme was performing well, with a full schedule of practical courses planned and early signs of strong engagement. There was a renewed emphasis on face-to-face teaching, including the delivery of fully in-person courses and successful specialist courses such as electroacupuncture, which demonstrated the ongoing demand for hands-on, clinically focused training. However, as the year progressed, a more challenging picture emerged. |
Across successive meetings, the Committee noted a consistent decline in bookings for the foundation course. By the end of the year, it was evident that far fewer practitioners had been trained compared to the previous year. Whilst future bookings appeared broadly stable, the overall trend has been a cause for concern and has prompted a deeper reflection on how we engage prospective learners and position our educational offer within an increasingly competitive landscape. |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
Rather than viewing this solely as a challenge, the Committee has approached it as an opportunity to rethink and evolve. There has been a clear recognition that the traditional model of delivery may need to adapt to meet the changing realities of clinical practice and professional development. In this context, we have explored a number of potential avenues for innovation, including the development of shorter introductory or "taster" courses, particularly within NHS settings, to stimulate interest in acupuncture. |
At the same time, there has been a strong and consistent message from Committee members about the enduring value of face-to-face learning. While online and modular courses continue to provide flexibility and a steady income stream, there is a shared view that practical, in-person teaching remains essential, both for skill acquisition and for fostering professional connection and identity. This balance between accessibility and depth will be an important consideration as we shape future programmes. |
A key strategic priority throughout the year has been the development of partnerships with educational institutions. There have been ongoing efforts to establish teaching clinics and collaborative programmes with a number of organisations. While progress has been slower than hoped in some areas, these discussions represent an important step towards embedding medical acupuncture within broader educational frameworks and creating more structured pathways for training and clinical practice. |
Linked to this, the Committee has also considered the longer-term evolution of BMAS qualifications. Discussions have explored the potential for a university-validated Masters-level programme, balanced against the desire to preserve the distinct identity and independence of the BMAS Diploma. This reflects a broader strategic tension between standardisation and uniqueness, and it is an area that will require careful thought as we move forward. |
The Committee has also been mindful of the changing professional landscape. There is increasing diversity in the backgrounds of those engaging with medical acupuncture, and this has prompted discussion about whether course content and structure should be reviewed to better accommodate a wider range of experience and clinical contexts. At the same time, efforts have been made to expand outreach to different professional groups, with the aim of broadening participation and increasing visibility. |
In parallel with these developments, the Committee has maintained its focus on academic standards and integrity. The growing use of artificial intelligence in academic work has been recognised as both an opportunity and a risk. It has been agreed that while assistive use of such tools may be acceptable, the generation of content through artificial means raises important ethical concerns. As a result, consideration is being given to strengthening declarations of originality to ensure that BMAS maintains the highest standards of academic credibility. |
The Committee has also remained attentive to the broader global context of acupuncture education. Discussions following international engagement have highlighted potential opportunities for collaboration with institutions abroad, including the possibility of formal partnerships to support mutual learning and the global promotion of medical acupuncture. |
Taken together, the work of the Education Committee this year reflects a period of transition. While we continue to deliver a high-quality educational programme, it is clear that we must also adapt to a changing environment. This will require not only operational adjustments, but also a clear strategic vision for how BMAS education can remain relevant, distinctive, and impactful in the years ahead. |
As Chair of the Education Committee, I see this as an opportunity to build on our strengths while embracing thoughtful innovation. Our aim is not simply to increase numbers, but to ensure that those who train with BMAS receive an educational experience that is rigorous and clinically meaningful. |
I would like to thank all members of the Committee for their ongoing commitment and insight. Their contributions are central to the continued success and evolution of BMAS education. |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
Journal Editor's Report - David Coggin-Carr |
In 2025, Acupuncture in Medicine saw its impact factor rise slightly to 2.6 (up from 2.4) with the release of the Journal Citation Reports for 2024, and it climbed two places to #20 (out of a total of 45 journals) in the Integrative & Complementary Medicine category, remaining in the second quartile. We had a total of 1624 citations across a wide range of medical journals, the top three of which were Frontiers in Neuroscience, Medicine and Frontiers in Neurology. With respect to published articles, the majority of submissions came from China (n=88), followed by the USA (n=13) and South Korea (n=9). In terms of specific organisations, this year's top contributors were Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, with n=14, n=12 and n=10 submissions, respectively. Our five-year impact factor is currently 2.6, which shows our stability. |
AUDITORS |
The auditors, Murray Smith LLP, will be proposed for re-appointment at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. |
Approved by order of the board of trustees on |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
| The trustees (who are also the directors of British Medical Acupuncture Society for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). |
| Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law, the trustees have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). |
| Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those 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; |
| - | prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business. |
| The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. |
| In so far as the trustees are aware: |
| - | there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company's auditors are unaware; and |
| - | the trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information. |
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS TO THE MEMBERS OF |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
Opinion |
| We have audited the financial statements of British Medical Acupuncture Society (the 'charitable company') for the year ended 31 December 2025 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Cash Flow Statement and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). |
| In our opinion the financial statements: |
| - | give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 December 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended; |
| - | have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and |
| - | have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. |
Basis for opinion |
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. |
Conclusions relating to going concern |
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. |
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. |
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. |
Other information |
The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report, other than the financial statements and our Report of the Independent Auditors thereon. |
Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. |
In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. |
Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 |
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: |
- | the information given in the Report of the Trustees for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and |
- | the Report of the Trustees has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. |
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS TO THE MEMBERS OF |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
Matters on which we are required to report by exception |
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Report of the Trustees. |
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: |
- | adequate accounting records have not been kept or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or |
- | the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or |
- | certain disclosures of trustees' remuneration specified by law are not made; or |
- | we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or |
- | the trustees were not entitled to take advantage of the small companies exemption from the requirement to prepare a Strategic Report or in preparing the Report of the Trustees. |
Responsibilities of trustees |
As explained more fully in the Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities, the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. |
In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. |
Our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements |
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue a Report of the Independent Auditors that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. |
The audit procedures designed to identify irregularities included: |
- | Enquiry of management and those charged with governance around actual and potential litigation and claims |
- | Enquiry of company staff with responsibilities for compliance matters to identify any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations |
- | Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations |
- | Auditing the risk of management override of controls, including through testing journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, and evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business. |
There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and, the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we would become aware of it. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery, intentional misrepresentations or through collusion. |
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Report of the Independent Auditors. |
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS TO THE MEMBERS OF |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
Use of our report |
This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. |
for and on behalf of |
Chartered Accountants |
Statutory Auditors |
44 Winnington Hill |
Northwich |
Cheshire |
CW8 1AU |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
2025 | 2024 |
Unrestricted | Restricted | Total | Total |
fund | fund | funds | funds |
Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ |
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM |
Donations and legacies | 2 |
Charitable activities | 4 |
Other income | 165,728 | - | 165,728 | 159,250 |
Investment income | 3 |
Total |
EXPENDITURE ON |
Raising funds | 5 |
Charitable activities | 6 |
Other income | 7,697 | - | 7,697 | - |
Total |
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) |
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS |
Total funds brought forward |
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD | 1,236,692 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY (REGISTERED NUMBER: 03238938) |
BALANCE SHEET |
31 DECEMBER 2025 |
2025 | 2024 |
Notes | £ | £ |
FIXED ASSETS |
Tangible assets | 11 |
CURRENT ASSETS |
Stocks | 12 |
Debtors | 13 |
Investments | 14 |
Cash at bank |
CREDITORS |
Amounts falling due within one year | 15 | ( | ) | ( | ) |
NET CURRENT ASSETS |
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES |
NET ASSETS |
FUNDS | 18 |
Unrestricted funds | 1,176,486 |
Restricted funds | 60,206 |
TOTAL FUNDS | 1,236,692 |
| These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime. |
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
CASH FLOW STATEMENT |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
2025 | 2024 |
Notes | £ | £ |
Cash flows from operating activities |
Cash generated from operations | 1 | (3,343 | ) | 48,971 |
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities | (3,343 | ) | 48,971 |
Cash flows from investing activities |
Purchase of tangible fixed assets | - | (549 | ) |
Cash into current asset investments | (348,124 | ) | (85,701 | ) |
Net cash used in investing activities | (348,124 | ) | (86,250 | ) |
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period | (351,467 | ) | (37,279 | ) |
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period | 640,849 | 678,128 |
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period | 289,382 | 640,849 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATEMENT |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
1. | RECONCILIATION OF NET EXPENDITURE TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Net expenditure for the reporting period (as per the Statement of Financial Activities) | (25,007 | ) | (19,826 | ) |
Adjustments for: |
Depreciation charges | 13,859 | 13,946 |
(Increase)/decrease in debtors | (1,801 | ) | 44,855 |
Increase in creditors | 9,606 | 9,996 |
Net cash (used in)/provided by operations | (3,343 | ) | 48,971 |
2. | ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET FUNDS |
At 1.1.25 | Cash flow | At 31.12.25 |
£ | £ | £ |
Net cash |
Cash at bank | 640,849 | (351,467 | ) | 289,382 |
640,849 | (351,467 | ) | 289,382 |
Liquid resources |
Deposits included in cash | - | - | - |
Current asset investments | 85,701 | 348,124 | 433,825 |
85,701 | 348,124 | 433,825 |
Total | 726,550 | (3,343 | ) | 723,207 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
1. | ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
Basis of preparing the financial statements |
The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) '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)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. |
Income |
Income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. |
Subscriptions |
Income in respect of subscriptions is accounted for on an accruals basis. |
Courses and conferences income |
Income from courses and conferences is accounted for on an accruals basis with adjustments being made for income received in advance. |
Expenditure |
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, 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 accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. |
Tangible fixed assets |
| Tangible assets are depreciated on a straight line basis over their estimated useful lives, at the following rates: |
| Acupuncture equipment 25% |
| Office equipment 15% |
| Computers 25% |
| Freehold property 2% |
Stocks |
| Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items. |
Taxation |
| The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities. |
Fund accounting |
| The society has two types of fund for which it is responsible and which require separate disclosure. These are as follows: |
| a) Restricted funds |
| Donations received which the donor earmarks for specific purposes. Such purposes are within the overall aims of the organisation. Each year the society allocates 1% of the total subscriptions received during the year to the restricted fund. |
| b) Unrestricted fund |
| Funds which are expendable are at the discretion of the trustees in the furtherance of the objects of the charity. |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
1. | ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued |
Donations |
| Donations received from members are accounted for in the year they are received and allocated to a restricted or unrestricted fund subject to the donor's wish. |
| Grants payable |
| Grants payable are accounted for in the year they are due for payment. All grant applications are reviewed by the committee and then allocated accordingly. |
| Cash and cash equivalents |
| Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and call deposits, and other short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value. |
| Trade debtors |
| Trade debtors are amounts due from customers for merchandise sold or services performed in the ordinary course of the business. |
| Trade debtors are recognised initially at the transaction price. A provision for the impairment of trade debtors is established when there is objective evidence that the company will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. |
| Trade creditors |
| Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Accounts payable are classified as current liabilities if the company does not have an unconditional right, at the end of the reporting period, to defer settlement of the creditor for at least twelve months after the reporting date. If there is an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least twelve months after the reporting date, they are presented as non-current liabilities. |
| Provisions |
| Provisions are recognised when the company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation; and the amount has been reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses. Provisions are measured at the present value of management's best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, and are discounted to present value where the effect is material. |
| Employee benefits |
| (a) Wages and salaries and annual leave |
| Liabilities for wages and salaries and annual leave are recognised and are measured as the amount unpaid at the reporting date at current pay rates in respect of employees' services up to that date. They are expected to be settled within one year. |
| (b) Pensions |
| The company makes contributions to employees' pension schemes. The amount charged to the profit and loss account in respect of pension costs and the post-retirement benefits is the contributions payable in the year. Differences between contributions payable in the year and contributions actually paid are shown as either accruals or prepayments in the balance sheet. |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
2. | DONATIONS AND LEGACIES |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Donations and gifts |
3. | INVESTMENT INCOME |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Investment income | 13,426 | 11,625 |
4. | INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Courses and conferences | 100,434 | 122,993 |
Subscriptions | 106,726 | 115,009 |
Certificates | 2,831 | 2,445 |
Teaching clinic | 22,797 | 25,514 |
Other income | 165,728 | 159,250 |
398,516 | 425,211 |
5. | RAISING FUNDS |
Other trading activities |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Fundraising and publicity | 31,317 | 35,122 |
6. | CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS |
Staff costs | Depreciation | Other costs | Total 2025 | Total 2024 |
£ | £ | £ | £ | £ |
Course and conferences | 192,111 | - | 22,213 | 214,324 | 223,020 |
Office costs | 104,445 | - | 68,851 | 173,296 | 180,343 |
Other costs | - | 13,859 | 4,153 | 18,012 | 18,207 |
296,556 | 13,859 | 95,217 | 405,632 | 421,570 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
7. | NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) |
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting): |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Depreciation - owned assets |
Auditors' remuneration | 5,056 | 4,770 |
8. | TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS |
No remuneration was paid to the trustees during the year. Lecture fees totalling £1,480 (2024: £2,960), was paid to the trustees. |
The charity is controlled by the Council of Management. |
Trustees' expenses |
| There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 December 2025 nor for the year ended 31 December 2024. |
9. | STAFF COSTS |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Wages and salaries |
Social security costs |
Other pension costs |
296,556 | 285,584 |
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows: |
2025 | 2024 |
Administration |
The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was: |
2025 | 2024 |
£100,000 - £110,000 | - | 1 |
£110,000 - £120,000 | 1 | - |
1 | 1 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
10. | COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES |
Unrestricted | Restricted | Total |
fund | fund | funds |
£ | £ | £ |
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM |
Donations and legacies |
Charitable activities |
Other income | 159,250 | - | 159,250 |
Investment income |
Total |
EXPENDITURE ON |
Raising funds |
Charitable activities |
Total |
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) | ( | ) | ( | ) |
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS |
Total funds brought forward | 1,197,462 | 59,056 |
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD | 1,176,486 | 60,206 | 1,236,692 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
11. | TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS |
Freehold | Acupuncture | Office | Computer |
property | equipment | equipment | equipment | Totals |
£ | £ | £ | £ | £ |
COST |
At 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025 |
DEPRECIATION |
At 1 January 2025 |
Charge for year |
At 31 December 2025 |
NET BOOK VALUE |
At 31 December 2025 |
At 31 December 2024 |
12. | STOCKS |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Stationery and journals | 3,845 | 3,845 |
13. | DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Trade debtors |
Prepayments and accrued income |
14. | CURRENT ASSET INVESTMENTS |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Other | 433,825 | 85,701 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
15. | CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Trade creditors |
Social security and other taxes |
Other creditors |
Accruals and deferred income |
16. | LEASING AGREEMENTS |
Lessee - land and building |
Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows: |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Within one year | 3,875 | 7,750 |
Between one and five years | - | 3,875 |
3,875 | 11,625 |
Lessor - rental agreement |
Minimum lease receipts under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows: |
2025 | 2024 |
£ | £ |
Within one year | 4,175 | 4,175 |
Between one and five years | 4,175 | 8,350 |
8,350 | 12,525 |
17. | ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS |
2025 | 2024 |
Unrestricted | Restricted | Total | Total |
fund | fund | funds | funds |
£ | £ | £ | £ |
Fixed assets | 433,227 | - | 433,227 | 447,086 |
Current assets |
Current liabilities | ( | ) | ( | ) | ( | ) |
1,150,412 | 61,273 | 1,211,685 | 1,236,692 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
18. | MOVEMENT IN FUNDS |
Net |
movement | At |
At 1.1.25 | in funds | 31.12.25 |
£ | £ | £ |
Unrestricted funds |
General fund | 1,176,486 | (26,074 | ) | 1,150,412 |
Restricted funds |
Restricted Fund | 60,206 | 1,067 | 61,273 |
TOTAL FUNDS | (25,007 | ) | 1,211,685 |
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: |
Incoming | Resources | Movement |
resources | expended | in funds |
£ | £ | £ |
Unrestricted funds |
General fund | 410,875 | (436,949 | ) | (26,074 | ) |
Restricted funds |
Restricted Fund | 1,067 | - | 1,067 |
TOTAL FUNDS | ( | ) | (25,007 | ) |
Comparatives for movement in funds |
Net |
movement | At |
At 1.1.24 | in funds | 31.12.24 |
£ | £ | £ |
Unrestricted funds |
General fund | 1,197,462 | (20,976 | ) | 1,176,486 |
Restricted funds |
Restricted Fund | 59,056 | 1,150 | 60,206 |
TOTAL FUNDS | 1,256,518 | (19,826 | ) | 1,236,692 |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
18. | MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued |
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: |
Incoming | Resources | Movement |
resources | expended | in funds |
£ | £ | £ |
Unrestricted funds |
General fund | 435,716 | (456,692 | ) | (20,976 | ) |
Restricted funds |
Restricted Fund | 1,150 | - | 1,150 |
TOTAL FUNDS | 436,866 | (456,692 | ) | (19,826 | ) |
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows: |
Net |
movement | At |
At 1.1.24 | in funds | 31.12.25 |
£ | £ | £ |
Unrestricted funds |
General fund | 1,197,462 | (47,050 | ) | 1,150,412 |
Restricted funds |
Restricted Fund | 59,056 | 2,217 | 61,273 |
TOTAL FUNDS | 1,256,518 | (44,833 | ) | 1,211,685 |
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: |
Incoming | Resources | Movement |
resources | expended | in funds |
£ | £ | £ |
Unrestricted funds |
General fund | 846,591 | (893,641 | ) | (47,050 | ) |
Restricted funds |
Restricted Fund | 2,217 | - | 2,217 |
TOTAL FUNDS | 848,808 | (893,641 | ) | (44,833 | ) |
BRITISH MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE SOCIETY |
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued |
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 |
19. | RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES |
20. | SHARE CAPITAL AND MEMBERS LIABILITY |
The company is limited by guarantee. In the event of a company being wound up, the liability of each member is limited to £10. |
21. | RESTRICTED FUND |
The Research fund account holds £61,273 as at 31 December 2025. This fund can be used for research into any aspect of the use of acupuncture. |