Company registration number 07260299 (England and Wales)
Charity registration number 1137068 (England and Wales)
Charity registration number SC043186 (Scotland)
AUTISM VENTURES
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
AUTISM VENTURES
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Trustees
Mr N Grogan
Mr A Grainger
Mrs E V Slater
Mr M P Nash
Secretary
Mr A Grainger
Country of incorporation
United Kingdom
07260299
(England and Wales)
Charity registrations
England and Wales
1137068
Scotland
SC043186
Registered office
Sefton House
Bridle Road
Bootle
Merseyside
L30 4XR
Auditor
DSG Audit
Castle Chambers
43 Castle Street
Liverpool
L2 9TL
AUTISM VENTURES
CONTENTS
Page
Chairman's statement
1
Trustees report
2 - 5
Statement of trustees responsibilities
6
Independent auditor's report
7 - 9
Statement of financial activities
10
Balance sheet
11
Statement of cash flows
12
Notes to the financial statements
13 - 23
AUTISM VENTURES
CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 1 -

I am pleased to introduce the Autism Ventures Annual Report for 2025–2026. This year has been one of continued development and impact, with our social enterprises providing meaningful opportunities for young autistic people to build confidence, develop skills and take positive steps towards adulthood, further education and employment.

The level of support provided has remained strong, demonstrating both the continuing need for specialist provision and the dedication of our staff team. The positive response to our holiday workshops has also highlighted the importance of accessible, specialist activities for young people and their families during school holidays.

Across Autism Ventures, we have continued to invest in our services and facilities. Improvements at the WeGrow market garden, growth in veg box deliveries and the development of evening events at MeCycle show how our enterprises are evolving while remaining rooted in our core purpose: creating supportive, inclusive environments where autistic people can contribute, learn and thrive.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank our staff, volunteers, partners, schools, families and funders for their continued support. Most importantly, I want to recognise the young people who take part in our placements and activities. Their achievements, confidence and progress are the clearest measure of the value of our work.

Neil Grogan
Chair of Trustees
Date: 24 July 2026
AUTISM VENTURES
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 2 -

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2026.

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

Objectives and activities

The charity's purpose as set out in the objects contained in the company’s memorandum of association are:

“To promote the relief, personal development and education of children and people with an autistic spectrum condition. Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, the relief of unemployment in such ways as may be thought fit, including assistance to find employment”

The charity aims are:

- To encourage personal development, communication skills, self esteem and confidence amongst people with Autism Spectrum Conditions thereby increasing their employability.

- To aid transitions of individuals who have taken part in the charity’s work activities to help them access education, work training and employment opportunities should they wish to do so.

- To ensure that the people we support are fully included in their community through partnership working.

Public benefit

The trustees have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity’s aims and objectives and in planning its future activities.

The charity aims to work in partnership with all people we support, helping them to develop successful and independent communication skills, according to individual strengths, needs and preferences, within a total communication environment. Autism Ventures offers a learning opportunity to each person, addressing the areas of communication, social interaction and flexibility of thought, which has regard for their personal goals. It is the overall objective to make people feel good about themselves and raise their self esteem. This enables each individual to enjoy more successes at a level achievable for them and so take greater pleasure in life.

How our activities deliver public benefit

The charitable activities focus on meeting the needs of people with Autism Spectrum Conditions and are undertaken to further the charitable purposes of public benefit.

Autism is found in people of all ages, religions, countries and societies. Equal access to its services is an important issue for us. Autism Ventures has an equal opportunity policy and diversity statement, which ensures that the charity has a culture, which is reinforced via its robust training program, which ensures equality of access to the services by gender, disability and sexual orientation. We believe equal access to the services is vital to our success, and that successful outcomes must be shared by all communities that use the services.

AUTISM VENTURES
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 3 -
Achievements and performance

Although there has been a reduction in numbers of referrals from schools for young people to attend supported term time placements this year, 24, down from 29 last year, the number of hours we have supported remains. The number of schools using our services also remains at 9, but with an additional person who is home schooled this year.

28 young people attended our externally funded (and therefore free to access) holiday workshops which is a good development following last year’s pilot. Feedback was very positive. This was provided as we have learned that many families and young autistic people need specialist activities during school holidays.

We value the contribution autistic people make in our workplace and whilst promoting this to others we also employ autistic people within our team.

Each enterprise within Autism Ventures is regulated through the Sefton quality assurance framework for Alternative Provision, enabling us to provide additional assurances to schools in relation to our high standards of practice, safeguarding, reporting and recording.

We have made good progress upgrading facilities at the WeGrow market garden site with new polytunnels, chicken coop and packing areas. Income from veg box deliveries has increased sharply this year and we have moved the delivery service online.

We have had good success hosting evening events at MeCycle and have seen income increase sharply as a result.

Performance that demonstrates our specialism

Supported work placements within Social Enterprise during term time are designed to complement a young person’s education, often enabling or supporting the young person to navigate their transition into adult life, college or employment.

The work placement meets the needs of the young people we support because of the time and expertise we put into the assessment, alongside the young person, family and school. The successful work placement can provide the opportunity to support a young person’s wellbeing and overall Quality of Life

The benefits and outcomes for young people include:

- A positive impact on attendance;

- Increased confidence and self-esteem;

- A sense of purpose. The recognition of a job well done, increase in self-belief and ability to achieve;

- Increased engagement;

- Successfully working alongside others; and

- Creating connections with other young people and colleagues.

Financial review

Income was £953,398 (2025: £871,216) for the year which included a donation of £31,734 (2025: £129,244) from Autism Initiatives (UK) and £110,556 (2025: £53,301) from Autism Initiatives Group. Resources expended were £953,398 (2025: £871,216) for the year. For the year ended 31 March 2026 Autism Ventures has reported a surplus of £nil (2025: £nil).

Principal source of funding

The principal source of funding for the charity, aside from trading profits is grant and donation income, details of which can be found in the notes to the accounts.

Reserves policy

It is the policy of the charity that unrestricted funds, excluding fixed assets, which have not been designated for a specific use should be maintained at a level equivalent to between two and three months of expenditure. This is to allow the charity to be managed efficiently, and provide a buffer for uninterrupted services.

AUTISM VENTURES
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 4 -

At 31 March 2026 , free reserves amounted to £58,751 (2025: £55,622). This remains below the trustees’ target level of two to three months’ expenditure; however, the trustees are satisfied that the charity has sufficient resources to meet its current obligations. The level of reserves is monitored regularly and the trustees intend to strengthen reserves over time where possible. In reaching this conclusion, the trustees have also considered the continuing support available from Autism Initiatives Group and Autism Initiatives (UK).

Risk policy

The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.

Plans for future periods

We continue to fundraise to improve and upgrade the last of the facilities on the We Grow site to increase capacity and provide greater opportunities for young autistic people.

The summer placement scheme was very successful again this year and we are making plans to develop and grow this further. We will apply for more funding to achieve this.

We plan to further develop an evening offer at MeCycle to increase income. Events include craft, music and reading/poetry evenings.

Structure, governance and management

Governing document

Autism Ventures is a company limited by guarantee and is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association incorporated 20th May 2010. Autism Ventures is registered with the Charities Commission, number 1137068 and with the office of the Scottish Charity Registrar, number SC043186.

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:

Mr N Grogan
Mr A Grainger
Mrs E V Slater
Mr M P Nash

Membership

Autism Initiatives Group is the sole member until such time as the subscriber appoints other members, goes into liquidation or is subject to receivership.

Trustee body

There are currently four trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purpose of company law) who oversee the activities of the charity. Trustees give their time voluntarily and receive no benefits from the charity. Trustees work within the code of conduct and good practice as set out by the Charities Commission.

Trustees are appointed by the Board in accordance with the company’s Articles of Association. New trustees are selected having regard to the skills, experience and knowledge required by the charity, and are provided with appropriate information on the charity’s activities, governance arrangements, responsibilities and regulatory obligations.

AUTISM VENTURES
TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 5 -

Executive management

The Chief Executive of Autism Initiatives Group has global responsibility for all group operations, including the implementation of the policy and strategic direction of the organisation. The Chief Executive is the interface between the governance and management functions of the organisation.

The Chief Executive has an executive management team with all directors having specific responsibilities in their own area that they form the executive group advising on the corporate and strategic direction of the organisation, reporting directly to the Chief Executive.

Organisational structure

The parent charity, Autism Initiatives Group provides a team of executive staff to manage the day-to-day operations of Autism Ventures and to report to the Board of Trustees.

Risk management

The trustees have a risk management strategy that comprises of:

- A yearly review of the risks that the charity may face.

- A system of establishing the high risk factors and a procedure to mitigate the risk.

- The implementation of procedures designed to minimise any potential impact on the charity should those risks materialise.

This work is ongoing and the particular formulation of the risks identified through the procedure allow for the contingency plans to be drawn up through the identified risk procedure, the main focuses being corporate risk. The charity also has a robust risk management procedure that looks at the direct risks faced by the individuals that are supported directly by the charity.

Auditor

In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that DSG Audit be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting.

Disclosure of information to auditor

Each of the trustees has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audit, but of which the auditor is unaware. They have further confirmed that they have taken appropriate steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information.

Small company provisions

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees r eport was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Mr N Grogan
Mr A Grainger
Trustee
Trustee
24 July 2026
AUTISM VENTURES
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 6 -

The trustees, who are also the directors of Autism Ventures for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

- select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

- observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;

- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

- state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and

- prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

AUTISM VENTURES
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS AND TRUSTEES OF AUTISM VENTURES
- 7 -

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Autism Ventures (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2026 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and the 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, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (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 March 2026 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, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and regulation 8 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 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 Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity 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 charity’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 other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. 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. 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 course of 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.

AUTISM VENTURES
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS AND TRUSTEES OF AUTISM VENTURES
- 8 -

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

-

the information given in the trustees r eport for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared, which includes the d irectors' r eport prepared for the purposes of company law, is consistent with the financial statements; and

-

the d irectors' r eport included within the trustees r eport has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the d irectors' r eport included within the trustees r eport.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:

-

adequate and proper 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 prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies' exemptions in preparing the trustees report and from the requirement to prepare a strategic report.

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the s tatement of trustees r esponsibilities, the trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose 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 charity’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.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and under the Companies Act 2006 and report in accordance with the Acts and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

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 an auditor's report 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 extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

AUTISM VENTURES
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS AND TRUSTEES OF AUTISM VENTURES
- 9 -
Capability of the audit in detecting irregularities, including fraud

Based on our discussions with the charity’s management and the Trustees, we identified that the following laws and regulations are significant to the entity:

• Those laws and regulations considered to have a direct effect on the financial statements include UK financial reporting standards and Charity Law.

• Those laws and regulations for which non-compliance may be fundamental to the operating aspects of the charity and therefore may have a material effect on the financial statements include compliance with the charitable objectives, public benefit, fundraising regulations, safeguarding and health and safety legislation.

These matters were discussed amongst the engagement team at the planning stage and the team remained alert to non-compliance throughout the audit.

Audit procedures undertaken in response to the potential risks relating to irregularities (which include fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations) comprised of: inquiries of management and the Trustees as to whether the entity complies with such laws and regulations; enquiries with the same concerning any actual or potential litigation or claims; inspection of relevant legal correspondence; review of Trustee meeting minutes; testing the appropriateness of journal entries; and the performance of analytical review to identify unexpected movements in account balances which may be indicative of fraud.

No instances of material non-compliance were identified. However, the likelihood of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is limited by the inherent difficulty in detecting irregularities, the effectiveness of the entity’s controls, and the nature, timing and extent of the audit procedures performed. Irregularities that result from fraud might be inherently more difficult to detect than irregularities that result from error. As explained above, there is an unavoidable risk that material misstatements may not be detected, even though the audit has been planned and performed in accordance with ISAs (UK).

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of P art 16 of the Companies Act 2006, and to the charitable company’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Regulation 10 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company’s members and trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s 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, the charitable company’s members as a body and the charitable company’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Jean Ellis BA FCA CTA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of DSG Audit, Statutory Auditor
Chartered Accountants
Castle Chambers
43 Castle Street
Liverpool
L2 9TL
24 July 2026
AUTISM VENTURES
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
(INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 10 -
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2026
2026
2026
2025
2025
2025
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
3
146,714
75,571
222,285
182,545
69,823
252,368
Charitable activities
4
731,113
-
731,113
618,848
-
618,848
Total income
877,827
75,571
953,398
801,393
69,823
871,216
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
5
877,827
75,571
953,398
801,393
69,823
871,216
Total expenditure
877,827
75,571
953,398
801,393
69,823
871,216
Net income and movement in funds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 April 2025
63,656
-
63,656
63,656
-
63,656
Fund balances at 31 March 2026
63,656
-
63,656
63,656
-
63,656
AUTISM VENTURES
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 MARCH 2026
31 March 2026
- 11 -
2026
2025
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
9
4,905
8,034
Current assets
Stocks
10
15,013
17,025
Debtors
11
35,828
115,219
Cash at bank and in hand
148,647
75,865
199,488
208,109
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
12
(140,737)
(152,487)
Net current assets
58,751
55,622
Total assets less current liabilities
63,656
63,656
Income funds
Unrestricted funds
63,656
63,656
63,656
63,656

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

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 24 July 2026
Mr N Grogan
Mr A Grainger
Trustee
Trustee
Company registration number 07260299
AUTISM VENTURES
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 12 -
2026
2025
Notes
£
£
£
£
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
20
72,782
(67,914)
Net cash generated from investing activities
-
-
Net cash generated from financing activities
-
-
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
72,782
(67,914)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
75,865
143,779
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
148,647
75,865
AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 13 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

Autism Ventures is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Sefton House, Bridle Road, Petersfield House, Bootle, Merseyside, L30 4XR. The principal activities of the charity are disclosed in the Trustees' report.

1.1
Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006, the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) 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)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

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

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

1.2
Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for at least 12 months from approval. The trustees consider that it is appropriate to prepare the accounts on a going concern basis as the charity will be able to meet its liabilities as they fall due, due to the continuing support of the Autism Initiatives Group. 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

All incoming resources are included in the SOFA when the charity is legally entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy.

The specific policies used are as follows:

- Donations are included when the monies have been received. Donations received for the general purpose of the charity are included in unrestricted funds. Donations which have been received for specific projects are included in restricted income.

- Grants are treated as restricted funds if they are for specific purposes. All grants are included when the charity is entitled to the monies.

- No amounts are included in the financial statements for services donated by volunteers.

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 14 -
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.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to that category. Restricted expenditure is set against restricted income.

The specific bases used are as follows:

- Charitable expenditure comprises direct expenditure in the furtherance of the charity’s objectives.

- Governance costs include those incurred in the governance of its assets and are associated with constitutional and statutory requirements.

1.6
Tangible fixed assets

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

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

Leasehold improvements
Over the life of the lease
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
33% reducing balance
Motor vehicles
33% 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 charity 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
Stocks

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

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

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 15 -
1.9
Cash and cash equivalents

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

1.10
Financial instruments

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

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

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

Basic financial assets

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

Derecognition of financial assets

Financial assets are derecognised only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are settled, or when the charity transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another entity, or if some significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained but control of the asset has transferred to another party that is able to sell the asset in its entirety to an unrelated third party.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are 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 p aymen ts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

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

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

Derecognition of financial liabilities

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

1.11
Employee benefits

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

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

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
1
Accounting policies
(Continued)
- 16 -
1.12
Retirement benefits

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

1.13
Leases

Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives received, are charged as an expense on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

2
Critical accounting estimates and judgements

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

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

3
Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2026
2026
2026
2025
2025
2025
£
£
£
£
£
£
Donations and gifts
146,714
-
146,714
182,545
3,056
185,601
Grants
-
75,571
75,571
-
66,767
66,767
146,714
75,571
222,285
182,545
69,823
252,368
Donations and gifts
Autism Initiatives (UK)
31,734
-
31,734
129,244
-
129,244
Autism Initiatives Group
110,556
-
110,556
53,301
-
53,301
Other
4,424
-
4,424
-
3,056
3,056
146,714
-
146,714
182,545
3,056
185,601
Grants
Charitable trust income
-
75,571
75,571
-
66,767
66,767
-
75,571
75,571
-
66,767
66,767
AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 17 -
4
Income from charitable activities
Total
Total
2026
2025
£
£
Sale of goods
731,113
618,848
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
731,113
618,848
5
Expenditure on charitable activities
Total
Total
2026
2025
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
579,381
527,461
Depreciation and impairment
3,129
3,649
Purchases for resale
218,228
188,976
Insurance
5,988
6,204
Repairs and renewals
21,673
11,337
Utilities
15,094
16,469
Cleaning and maintenance
10,932
11,592
Bank charges
10,917
8,995
Local fundraising expenditure
14,578
22,728
Growing business expenditure
1,198
1,078
Vehicle and transport costs
3,848
4,749
Office costs
5,899
7,053
Rent and rates
50,550
47,335
Legal and Consultancy
3,818
2,216
Miscellaneous costs
8,165
11,374
953,398
871,216
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
877,827
801,393
Restricted funds
75,571
69,823
953,398
871,216
6
Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or reimbursed expenses in the year.

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 18 -
7
Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2026
2025
Number
Number
Administration
20
16
Managers
3
3
Total
23
19
Employment costs
2026
2025
£
£
Wages and salaries
526,909
484,598
Social security costs
43,136
34,736
Other pension costs
9,336
8,127
579,381
527,461
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
Remuneration of key management personnel

The parent charity, Autism Initiatives Group, provide the key management staff. No charge is made for this.

8
Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects.

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 19 -
9
Tangible fixed assets
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures, fittings & equipment
Motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2025
94,055
5,581
9,650
109,286
At 31 March 2026
94,055
5,581
9,650
109,286
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2025
91,561
2,209
7,482
101,252
Depreciation charged in the year
1,112
1,395
622
3,129
At 31 March 2026
92,673
3,604
8,104
104,381
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2026
1,382
1,977
1,546
4,905
At 31 March 2025
2,494
3,372
2,168
8,034
10
Stocks
2026
2025
£
£
Finished goods and goods for resale
15,013
17,025
11
Debtors
2026
2025
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
11,089
13,461
Amounts owed by fellow group undertakings
22,906
99,826
Other debtors
-
99
Prepayments and accrued income
1,833
1,833
35,828
115,219
AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 20 -
12
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2026
2025
£
£
Other taxation and social security
35,084
29,621
Deferred income
87,912
56,096
Trade creditors
11,191
13,490
Amount owed to parent undertaking
-
39,173
Amounts owed to fellow group undertakings
-
7,974
Other creditors
3,590
2,009
Accruals
2,960
4,124
140,737
152,487
13
Deferred income
2026
2025
£
£
Other deferred income
87,912
56,096

Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:

2026
2025
£
£
Deferred income is included within:
Current liabilities
87,912
56,096
2026
2025
£
£
Movements in the year:
Deferred income at 1 April 2025
56,096
84,043
Released from previous periods
(54,485)
(49,072)
Resources deferred in the year
86,301
21,125
Deferred income at 31 March 2026
87,912
56,096
14
Retirement benefit schemes
2026
2025
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
9,336
8,127

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

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 21 -
15
Restricted funds

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

Movement in funds
Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2024

Income

Expenditure

Balance at
1 April 2025

Income

Expenditure

Balance at
31 March 2026
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
Me-Cycle: Other Grants and Donations
-
13,375
(13,375)
-
15,125
(15,125)
-
WeGrow: Other Grants and Donations
-
9,000
(9,000)
-
27,086
(27,086)
-
Florence Trust
-
46,385
(46,385)
-
33,360
(33,360)
-
Southport Cafe Grants
-
1,063
(1,063)
-
-
-
-
-
69,823
(69,823)
-
75,571
(75,571)
-

MeCycle: Other Grants and Donations – a number of grants and donations received from various charitable trusts and donors towards the work of the Me-cycle social enterprise. Monies received in the year included grants from Sefton CVS, Liverpool City Region Fund (Big Bike Revival) and the Postcode Lottery.

WeGrow: Other Grants and Donations - grants and donations received from charitable trusts and donors towards the work of the WeGrow social enterprise. Monies received in the year included grants from the Postcode Lottery, GM Morrison Trust, Community Foundation for Merseyside and Merseyside Police Support Southport Participatory Budget.

Florence Trust - donated significant grants for future developments of the current and potential future social enterprises. During the year £33k (2025: £46k) was allocated against core and capital costs for the development of the MeCycle and WeGrow enterprises with the agreement of the Trust.

Southport Cafe Grants - donations received and spent in the previous year contributing towards cafe improvements.

In addition to the above, grants were received during the year from the Florence Trust, Eleanor Rathbone Trust, PH Holt Foundation and Sefton Mental Health which have been deferred.

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 22 -
16
Unrestricted funds

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

At 1 April 2025
Incoming resources
Resources expended
At 31 March 2026
£
£
£
£
General funds
63,656
877,827
(877,827)
63,656
Previous year:
At 1 April 2024
Incoming resources
Resources expended
At 31 March 2025
£
£
£
£
General funds
63,656
801,393
(801,393)
63,656
17
Controlling party

At the year end, the ultimate controlling party was Autism Initiatives Group, a company incorporated and registered in England and Wales. The registered office is Sefton House, Bridle Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L30 4XR. Autism Initiatives Group prepares consolidated financial statements which include Autism Ventures.

18
Operating lease commitments
Lessee

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

2026
2025
£
£
Within one year
22,000
22,000
Between two and five years
12,833
34,833
34,833
56,833
19
Related party transactions

Autism Ventures is a subsidiary of Autism Initiatives Group, its ultimate controlling party.

During the year the charity received donations from group entities and had balances outstanding with fellow group undertakings. Key management personnel are provided by Autism Initiatives Group. Further details are disclosed elsewhere in the notes to the financial statements.

There were no additional disclosable related party transactions during the year (2025: none).

AUTISM VENTURES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2026
- 23 -
20
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
2026
2025
£
£
Surplus for the year
-
-
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
3,129
3,649
Movements in working capital:
Decrease in stocks
2,012
5,347
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
79,391
(36,721)
(Decrease) in creditors
(43,566)
(12,242)
Increase/(decrease) in deferred income
31,816
(27,947)
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
72,782
(67,914)
21
Acknowledgements

Autism Ventures is extremely grateful to all of our funders and donors who have generously given grants and donations to support our work over the last year. Each donation is generous in its own right and can provide valuable support to us and the people we support, parents and other care professionals. In particular we would like to thank:

Florence Trust

Sefton CVS

Liverpool City Region Fund (Big Bike Revival)

Postcode Lottery

GM Morrison Trust

Community Foundation for Merseyside

Merseyside Police Support Southport Participatory Budget.

Eleanor Rathbone Trust

PH Holt Foundation

Sefton Mental Health

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