2025-03-31-accounts

Abundant life Christian centre

ANNUAL REPORT

31 MARCH 2025

Abundant life Christian Centre

TRUSTEES REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31[ST ] MARCH 2025

Charity Name: Abundant life Christian centre

Trustees

Leslie Roe, Ben Allsop, Tokkie Haywood, Carol Parsons, Heather Davies, Sharon Bettney Elizabeth Roe John Parsons

Holding Trustees

Property Trust, Assemblies of God

Principal Address Tibshelf Road Holmewood Chesterfield S42 5TA Independent Examiner Helen Pickering AATQB

Bankers Lloyds and Cooperative bank Chesterfield Charity Number 1052239

Body Entitled to appoint Trustees Church Council

Governing Document TRUST DEED DATED 30TH JULY 1993

Objects of the Charity: The advancement of the Christian Religion by the proclamation and furtherance of the Gospel of God concerning His Son Jesus Christ the Lord and the preaching and teaching of the Word of God by the Church in accordance with the Statement of

Fundamental truths of the Assemblies of God in Great Britain and Ireland as approved by the General Council from time to time (the Statement).

Such other charitable purposes as shall further the attainment of the above objects of the Church or any of them.

Such other charitable purposes as shall further the attainment of the above objects of the Church.

The furtherance of other charitable work of the Church which is consistent with the Statement.

The furtherance of the work of Assemblies of God in Great Britain and Ireland and the promotion of religious observance that manifest in the statement.

Trustee Appointment and Governance

Trustee Requirements and Appointment Process

In line with the requirements set by the Assemblies of God (AOG), the church must always have at least three trustees serving on its board. Among these trustees, it is mandatory that the senior minister

or senior leader is included. If a vacancy arises on the board, it is the responsibility of the senior minister or leader to nominate a candidate who demonstrates the necessary experience and dedication to fulfil the role effectively. Once a suitable nominee has been identified, the Church Council is responsible for considering and formally appointing this individual as a trustee, ensuring the board remains complete and capable of fulfilling its duties.

Trustee Responsibilities and Governance

The overall management and supervision of the charity are entrusted to a board of experienced trustees. This board assumes responsibility for safeguarding the church’s financial stability, ensuring that all resources are managed with due care and diligence. Beyond financial oversight, the trustees also provide essential professional and strategic advice, guiding the development of policies and supporting the effective running of the church’s affairs.

Importantly, none of the trustees hold any beneficial interest in the church. This approach is designed to ensure impartiality, maintaining the integrity of the board’s decisions. All actions and policies are directed exclusively towards achieving the charitable aims of the organisation, with the trustees acting solely in the best interests of the charity.

Recent Additions to the Trustee Board

During the current year, the charity has expanded its trustee board by welcoming two new members. The introduction of these trustees brings a wider range of skills and experience to the charity, reinforcing its commitment to strong governance and careful management.

Commitment to Social Inclusion and Community

Valuing Diversity at ALCC Family Church

ALCC Family Church is dedicated to promoting social inclusion and strives to embody the richness of its diverse, multigenerational congregation. The church opens its doors to all, fostering an environment in which every individual is welcomed and encouraged to feel valued and accepted within the community.

Acknowledgement of Service

Thanks to all. The Trustees, church council, department leaders and volunteers all give generously of their time and efforts in support of the Fellowship’s ministries and the advancement of the Gospel. Their commitment ensures the continued vitality and outreach of ALCC Family Church.

All the work at ALCC is conducted on a voluntary basis.

The leadership of the Church wishes to acknowledge the exceptional dedication of the volunteers and department leaders who serve across the many areas of our ministry. These individuals are deeply committed to caring for our community, striving to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives through

the expression of God’s love. Their steadfastness is reflected in their willingness to give freely of their time and personal resources, often going above and beyond in their service.

The Church is sincerely grateful for every volunteer’s contribution, recognising that their support is vital to the continuation and effectiveness of our work. Without their unwavering efforts, the activities and outreach of ALCC simply could not proceed. It is important to note that ALCC does not have any paid staff; all roles and responsibilities are fulfilled entirely by volunteers.

Public Benefit

When planning our activities, we consistently refer to the guidance provided in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit. We ensure full compliance with the Charities Act, particularly when reviewing our aims and objectives prior to planning and developing our activities. Special attention is also given to the specific guidance concerning the advancement of religion, which informs our approach and ensures that all planned initiatives are in accordance with both legal and ethical requirements. This commitment helps us to maintain transparency and accountability in all that we do, and ensures that our work continues to provide genuine benefit to the public.

Mandate and Ministry Approach

ALCC Family Church’s mandate is firmly rooted in the Biblical principles found in The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) and the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39). Guided by a resolute leadership team, the church is dedicated to embodying these teachings in all aspects of its ministry. ALCC Family Church is intentional about making a positive impact on the local community, ensuring that every activity is underpinned by the core Biblical values of Fellowship, Worship, Discipleship, Pastoral Care, Outreach and Helps.

Core Areas of Ministry

• Fellowship: Creating a welcoming environment where relationships are fostered and individuals feel part of a caring church family.

• Worship: Engaging the congregation in meaningful worship experiences that honour God and strengthen faith.

• Discipleship: Supporting spiritual growth by providing teaching and guidance based on Biblical principles.

• Pastoral Care: Offering compassionate support and guidance to those in need within the church and wider community.

• Outreach and Helps: Reaching out beyond the church walls to assist and serve the local community through practical acts of kindness and service.

Governance and Management

The trustees and Church council hold the responsibility for making significant decisions concerning the development and realisation of the charity’s aims and objectives. Their duties include overseeing and managing all financial resources, ensuring that the organisation operates within its established guidelines and remains compliant with relevant regulations. Throughout the year, the trustees and council members fulfilled their governance role by convening six meetings, where they reviewed progress, addressed key issues, and made strategic decisions to support the charity’s mission.

Main Activities Undertaken for the Public Benefit

The church recognised that the needs within the community were significant. Many individuals experienced low self-worth, and a considerable number had endured abusive relationships. Poverty was a persistent challenge for numerous families, and a high proportion of the community consisted of one-parent households. In response to these pressing issues, the church focused its efforts on providing support and assistance tailored to address these specific challenges, aiming to uplift those struggling and foster a sense of belonging and hope within the local area.

Counselling and Mental Health Support Counselling services are available at Alcc .

At Alcc, we provide access to two qualified clinical and pastoral counsellors who are available to support members of the community free of charge. These counselling services are highly sought after and consistently in demand, reflecting the significant need within our community.

Mental health issues have increased , with rising cases of substance abuse, including both drug and alcohol misuse. Many individuals require ongoing support to address these challenges and find a path towards recovery and well-being.

We investigated and set up AA group , which now meets weekly at the church on Tuesday evenings. The popularity of this group is evident, as we currently have a waiting list for those wishing to attend.

Girl, chat a group which meets bimonthly.

Where women can come along and share their problems and encourage one another over coffee and cake. Counselling is available if necessary.

l, Chat

Girl, Chat is a supportive group that meets every month, providing a welcoming space for women within the community.

During these gatherings, women can share their experiences and discuss any challenges they may be facing. The group encourages members to offer one another support and motivation, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Meetings are held in a relaxed environment where coffee and cake are served, helping to create a friendly and informal atmosphere.

Counselling support is available to attendees if required, ensuring that those who need additional help can access professional guidance within a safe and caring setting.

Citizen’s Advice

Many of those who reach out to us face significant financial difficulties, including issues with debt and the ongoing cost of living crisis. In response to these needs, we now have an advisor present alongside the Living Hope food bank every Wednesday morning. This arrangement enables individuals to access expert guidance and support in managing their financial challenges. The advisor’s presence has already proven invaluable, offering practical help and making a positive difference for many members of our community.

Dynamite Club (Ages 5–11)

The Dynamite Club is a dedicated group for children aged 5 to 11, meeting every Friday from 18:00 to 19:15 during school term time. This special club is designed exclusively for kids, recognising the vital role that dynamic children’s activities play in fostering a sense of belonging for all.

At Dynamite Club, children enjoy a variety of engaging activities together, including crafts, games, singing, and football. The sessions are structured to not only provide fun and excitement, but also to teach important Christian principles. These include caring for and respecting one another and the wider community, as well as working collaboratively as a team.

The club’s primary aim is to create a happy, friendly, and stimulating environment where children can have fun in a safe setting. While the children participate in their activities, parents are warmly invited to join for coffee, allowing them to connect with others while their children are engaged.

Dynamite Club is firmly established within the local community and schools and has been running successfully for many years.

Living Hope Charity Shop and Food Bank

Living Hope operates both a charity shop and a food bank, serving the local community in Holmewood. The charity shop, situated in Holmewood, opens its doors from Monday to Friday and sells donated clothing and bric-a-brac. All proceeds from these sales are used exclusively to purchase ambient foods for the food bank, which is based at the Abundant Life Christian Centre in Holmewood. The main objective of the shop is to raise essential funds to support the food bank, helping to redistribute food to those in need within the area.

The food bank assists individuals and families who are referred by a variety of sources, including Job Centres, Social Services (across all departments), schools, Citizens Advice Bureau (C.A.B.), Mat Teams, Women’s Aid, and social housing providers. Additionally, some people, facing particularly difficult circumstances, come directly to the food bank, unable to provide for their children due to unforeseen challenges in their lives.

The successful operation of Living Hope is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers. Over the past year, these volunteers have distributed thousands of parcels to those in need, working tirelessly and selflessly. Their commitment and hard work have been crucial in supporting vulnerable members of the community during challenging times.

MUNCHKINS

Munchkins is a welcoming group for young children and their mums, meeting every Tuesday morning from 09:15 to 11:00 during school term time. The sessions offer children the chance to enjoy a variety of activities, including soft play, crafts, engaging stories, singing, music and movement, and healthy snacks. While the children are happily occupied, mums have the opportunity to relax and catch up with one another over coffee and cake. Munchkins provides a beautiful space to meet other mums, fostering an environment of help, support, and encouragement. The group is very well attended and there is no charge for this service.

Men Talk Breakfasts

The Men Talk Breakfasts met quarterly throughout the year, providing a valuable opportunity for fellowship and connection amongst the men of the church. Due to their popularity and positive impact, there are hopes to increase the frequency of these gatherings in the coming year.

Each meeting features a full cooked breakfast, enjoyed in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie. After the meal, a member of the church typically shares part of their personal journey with Christ, offering encouragement and inspiration to those present. The sessions conclude with a time of prayer and reflection, allowing attendees to support one another spiritually.

These breakfasts have been well attended, with consistent numbers of 25 to 30 men participating in each session.

Intercessors/Soaking Prayer Group

The Intercessors/Soaking Prayer Group meets twice a week, specifically on Mondays and Fridays. Each gathering provides a dedicated time to spend in the presence of God, focusing on prayer and spiritual reflection.

During these sessions, members pray for requests submitted through our confidential private prayer line. All matters brought forward are handled with care and discretion as they arise, ensuring privacy for those seeking prayer support.

Prayer requests are received from both church members and individuals in the wider community who do not attend church. It is considered a privilege to pray for all those who reach out, offering spiritual support regardless of their background.

Pastoral Care Pastoral Visits

Throughout the year, pastoral visits have been made available to everyone who wished to access this service. These visits have played an important role in offering care and support to individuals according to their needs. By meeting with members of the congregation and the wider community, the pastoral team has been able to provide a listening ear, guidance, and encouragement during times of difficulty or transition. The commitment to pastoral care has ensured that those seeking help have received compassionate and thoughtful support tailored to their circumstances.

Ongoing Support for Romania and India

We have continued to support the work in Romania and the orphanage in India

Throughout the year, we have remained committed to supporting the vital outreach in Romania, as well as the orphanage in India. Emmanuel has kept us informed about the progress and impact of these ministries through regular video calls and personal visits, sharing encouraging updates that highlight the ongoing positive change in these communities.

In addition, Team Romania returned with a detailed and uplifting report, further demonstrating the significance and effectiveness of the work being carried out. It is truly a privilege to be involved in such remarkable and meaningful efforts, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to these transformative projects.

Ministry and Community Engagement

Continued Worship and Teaching

The Church’s ministry has continued throughout the year with regular services of worship, preaching, and teaching. These activities have formed the core of our spiritual life, ensuring that the congregation remains connected and nurtured in faith.

Community-Based Initiatives

Alongside our regular services, a variety of community-based efforts have taken place. These have included Messy Church, community barbecues, Mothering Sunday celebrations, family services, Sunday lunches, Pea Pie Suppers, firework displays, film nights, parties, and a range of festive events such as Christmas carol services, Christmas parties, and buffets. Each event has provided opportunities for fellowship, celebration, and outreach within our local community.

Encouraging Participation and Inclusivity

The trustees are delighted by the attendance at all these community-focused events. We are encouraged by the progress made in reaching every age group in our local community, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and engagement with people from all walks of life.

Commitment to Public Benefit

The trustees confirm that they have paid due regard to Charity Commission guidance on public benefit in deciding what activities to undertake. This ensures that all efforts and initiatives remain aligned with our mission and responsibilities as a charitable organisation.

Media Use and Communication

The Church has embraced a change in culture and has developed a strategy for raising awareness of the Church and its purpose through modern media and technology.

Online Services

Our recorded services go out on face book every Sunday.

We have many people watching our services on a regular basis which is very encouraging.

Church Website and Social Media

The Church has also embraced the use of social media, and the Church wants to make use of social networking sites. Our website has been given an overall this year

Child Protection and Safeguarding of Vulnerable Individuals

The Church remains fully committed to fulfilling its responsibilities regarding child protection and the safeguarding of vulnerable individuals. In accordance with this commitment, all necessary Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks have been reviewed during 2024/25 to ensure compliance and uphold the highest standards of safety for everyone involved in our activities.

Food Safety Compliance

ALCC Church continued to uphold its commitment to food safety standards throughout the year. The Church maintained full compliance with all relevant regulations, ensuring that all food handling and preparation activities consistently met the required health and safety guidelines. This ongoing adherence reflects the Church’s dedication to the wellbeing of its members and the wider community.

Related Party Transactions

The Church confirms that there have been no payments made to any trustee. This ensures transparency and demonstrates a commitment to good governance and the avoidance of conflicts of interest within the organisation.

Membership

We are pleased to report that Membership again this year, has increased in all departments We have seen an, increase in the numbers of people visiting the church with many becoming regular attenders and some of those becoming actively involved in leadership positions in the church.

Church Building

Looking ahead, the Church is planning to redecorate certain areas within the building. This initiative will help to maintain and enhance the overall environment for both members and visitors, ensuring the facilities remain welcoming and comfortable.

In addition, arrangements are being made to address the car park, which is in need of repair. The necessary works are scheduled to take place next year, with the intention of improving safety and accessibility for everyone who uses the Church premises.

Reserves Policy

The Church closely monitors its income and expenditure throughout the year to ensure that reserves remain at a level deemed appropriate. This process is carried out in line with the guidance provided by the Charity Commission. By maintaining careful oversight of financial activity, the Church aims to secure its financial stability and ensure that sufficient reserves are available to support ongoing operations and future commitments.

Strategic Development and Succession Planning

The Trustees remain firmly committed to the ongoing strategic development and succession planning necessary to secure the long-term future of both the Church and the Charity. This commitment underpins all efforts to ensure continued growth, sustainability and effective governance for years to come.

Leadership Development

The Church Council is proactively engaged in planning for the future by seeking to train, develop and introduce new leaders and volunteers from within the existing membership. This approach not only strengthens the organisation but also ensures that leadership is representative of the Church community. Succession planning remains a key priority, as does preparation for the eventual recruitment of a full- or part-time pastor when required.

Succession Strategy

The strategy in place is designed to create a natural pathway for succession and to serve as a contingency plan as current leaders approach retirement. By cultivating new leaders and volunteers, the Church is building resilience and capacity for future transitions in leadership.

Welcoming New Leaders

As part of this initiative, the Church has welcomed Ben Allsop as an Associate Leader at ALCC. Ben’s contribution has already demonstrated significant value to the Church’s operations and community. His ministerial training is scheduled to commence next year, and the Church will provide financial support for the cost of his course on a 50/50 basis.

Future Recruitment Plans

Looking ahead, the Church is planning to recruit further new leaders during the 2025/2026 period, continuing the commitment to renewal and development within the leadership team.

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBLITES

Charity law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each year fiscal year which give a true and fair view of the state of the affairs the charity and the surplus or deficit of the charity for that period. In preparing those financial statements they are required to:

Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; making judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; prepare the financial statements on an ongoing concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 and the governing document of the charity. They are also responsible for the safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for prevention of fraud and other irregularities.

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above. Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees.

Signature(s) E Roe Full name(s) Elizabeth Roe Position Chair, Date 2/7/25

Signature(s) L Roe Full name(s) Leslie Roe Position Senior Leader Date 2/7/25

Abundant life Christian Centre 1052239 FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts ae ~~Se~~

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the ALCC for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Responsibilities and basic of report

As the charity trustee you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (the Act).

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts conducted under section 145 of the Act and in conducting my examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiners statement

I have completed my examination.

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

1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by section 130 of the Act; or

2. the accounts do not accord with those records.

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

Nane Helen Pickering AATQB Date 28/6/2025 Signature Helen Pickering Helen Pickering AATQB Address 6 Cemetery Road Chesterfield Derbyshire.

ABUNDANT LIFE CHRISTIAN CENTRE ACCOUNTS YEAR END 31MARCH 2025

CHARITY NUMBER 1052239 EXPENDITURE INCOME 11. TITHES 36409. BANK CHARGES 81 OFFERINGS 12

PROPERTY TRUST 310 MIT 30 CESS PIT 108 9.1 6 CATERING 247 4.9 6 CLEANING MATERIALS/disp 491 .33 COMPUTER 92. 00 COPYWRITE 239 .00 ELECTRICITY 399 1.8 8 EQUIPMENT 422 .77 FLOWERS 181 .94 GARDEN 464 .46 GRENKE LEASING COPIER 100 4.8 1 COPYS 289 .64 MISSIONS 463 2.0 0 INTEGRA INSURANCE 130 8.1 7 MINISTRY GIFTS 294 0.9 8 MISC 241 3.9 2 NEDDC REFUSE 357 .76 OUTREAC 633 .22 REPAIRS 560 .07 STATIONARY 194 .46 TELEPHONE WIFI 420 .44 38 One 271 .16 WATER RATES 405 .51 WEBSITE 611 .00 WORSHIP MEDIA 269 .93 WIFI 542 .85 COMPASSION 64 VINTAGE HUB 704 .38 TOTAL 274	INTEREST GIFT AID TOTAL	291.57 4012.1 3 . 40712. 82

23. 61

LIVING HOPE RENT 650 0.0 4 SHOP INSURANCE 374 .5 VAN 215 6.2 7 TAX FOR CABIN 247 .00 UTI. WAREHOUSE 229 6.6 2 FOOD 448 6.2 8 EQUIPMENT 648 .07 GIFT 102 .7 MUSIC LIC 154 .36 CATERING 621 .95 DRAINS 247 STAFF INSURANCE 65. 23 MISCELLANOUS 51 TOTAL 179 51. 02 AT THE BANK ABUNDANT LIFE 01-Apr-24 BAL ANC E 380 8.3 3 245 04. 65 TOTAL 283 12. 98 LIVING HOPE 109 68. 5 TOTAL 392 81. 48	LIVING HOPE SHOP INCOME GRANT REIMBURSED DRAINS TOTAL EXPENDITU RE 31-Mar-25 -30277.33 -17951.02 -48228.35	17713. 23 600 247 18560. 23 INC OME AT THE BANK 31- Mar- 25 01- Apr- 25 407 12.8 2 387 48.4 7 185 60.2 3 115 77.7 1 592 73.0 5 503 26.1 8