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← Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

2024-12-31-accounts

2024

ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS

FINDON VALLEY FREE CHURCH (BAPTIST)

1 – 11 Lime Tree Avenue Worthing West Sussex BN14 0DJ

Telephone: 01903 873790

Website: www.fvfc.org.uk Office hours: Monday - Thursday 9am to 12 noon

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

CHARITY NUMBER 1052737

START OF FINANCIAL YEAR 01st January 2024

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR 31st December 2024

TRUSTEES Rev Alison L Moore - Minister Rosamund J Tolley - Deacon Christina J Hemsley - Deacon Iain M Taylor - Deacon Susan E Menday - Deacon (resigned 3/2/25) Peter L Hemsley - Deacon Colin M Ingrey - Deacon (completed term of office 31/12/24) Heather Ingrey - Deacon (completed term of office 31/12/24) G Michael Knowles - Secretary David S Tolley - Treasurer Norman Michell – Deacon (elected 19/11/24) David Rycroft – Deacon (elected 19/11/24) Susan Stone – Deacon (elected 19/11/24)

The Baptist Union of Great Britain

HOLDING TRUSTEES The Baptist Union of Great Britain GOVERNING DOCUMENT Standard Registration on the 08.02.1996 Church Rules as revised in 1969 and amended on the 25.11.2008.

OBJECTIVES The advancement of the Christian faith according to the principles of the Baptist denomination. The Church may also advance education and carry out other charitable purposes in the United Kingdom and/or other parts of the World.

REGISTERED ADDRESS 1 – 11 Lime Tree Avenue Worthing West Sussex BN14 0DJ

BANKING CAF Bank Ltd West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ INDEPENDENT Independent Examiners Ltd EXAMINER Unit 2, The Broadbridge Business Centre Delling Lane Bosham PO18 8NF

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We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power and the wonders He has done, So that the next generation would know them, Even the children yet to be born. Psalm 78:4-6

Contents

Annual Report for the year to 31st December 2024
Trustees Report 2024
Structure, Governance and the Management 4
Review of Financial Position 4
Reserves Policy 4
Risk Management 5
Activities 5
Church Mission Statement 5
Statement of Charity Trustees 6
Annual Accounts for the year to 31 December 2024
Independent Examiner’s Report 7
Statement of Financial Activities 8
Statement of Assets and Liabilities (Balance Sheet) 9
Notes to the Accounts 10-16
Church Ministries
Details of Church Ministries and related Charities 17-30
Summary of Safeguarding Statement 31

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

TRUSTEES' REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

The Charity Trustees present their report together with the financial statements for the year ended 31st December 2024.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the accounts and comply with the Church’s constitution, applicable law and the requirements of the Statement of Recommended Practice ‘Accounting and Reporting by Charities’ applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2015) and in accordance with charity law applicable in the UK.

We have also referred to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aims and objectives and in planning our future activities. In particular, Trustees consider how planned activities contribute to the aims and objectives that they have set.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

The Church is constituted under the Fuller Trust and the deeds are held by the Baptist Union of Great Britain.

The Charity Trustees, who meet formally once a month, manage the Church. Members, at their meetings held five times a year, vote upon all significant decisions. Trustees consist of the Minister, the Church Officers (Secretary and Treasurer) and up to nine Deacons. The constitutional governing body oft he Church is the Church members meeting, that appoints officers and deacons for up to three years. New Trustees are made aware of their responsibilities through publications provided by the Baptist Union.

The Church works together with the Baptist Union of Great Britain (BUGB), South Eastern Baptist Association (SEBA), and the Preschool Learning Alliance, all of whom provide advice and assistance as required.

Generally, funds are not canvassed for the work of the Church as it relies on the freewill offerings given by members, taking advantage of gift aid where the donor agrees. Appropriate charges are made for services provided to our ‘trading’ organisation (i.e. Preschool) and to the uniformed organisations and other groups that use our premises. Money is raised for other charities from time to time by holding envelope collections, concerts, coffee mornings, meals etc. Grants made to other charities are outlined in the accounts (note 4).

The salaried staff mentioned in Note 7, are supplemented on a regular basis by over 30 volunteers from the membership and congregation, in carrying out the work of the Church and its services to the community. Details about the role of volunteers and the nature of their contributions to the Church are shown through the reports of our organisations in the later pages of this report.

None of the Trustees or key management personnel receive any benefits for their services to the charity.

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL POSITION

The Trustees are satisfied with the overall financial position of the Church. A budget is established with tight control and monitoring procedures in place over incoming and outgoing resources. This year, because of the financial crisis in the country we set our budget to reflect how the cost of living might affect peoples’ giving. The budget therefore was set to give an excess of expenditure over income of £6,319 (on unrestricted General Funds only). Due to the generosity of our members and a legacy of £30,000 and also keeping a tighter grip on expenditure we ended the year with an excess of income over expenditure of £35,076 (on unrestricted General Funds only).

Generally, our clubs and organisations receive subs and pay incidental expenses. Most oft these organisations have rolled their accounts into the Church’s General Fund.

Preschool funding comes mainly from WSCC (West Sussex County Council) in the form of grants paid throughout the year and contributions from parents.

No funds are in deficit and the Trustees, therefore, do not feel that the Church is exposed to any major financial risk. There are no material uncertainties about the Charity’s ability to continue.

RESERVES POLICY

A Reserve Fund of £70,000 is held against unexpected large maintenance bills or a sudden drop in income. In addition, £7,000 is held by our Preschool should they run into difficulties. The Trustees and Management Committee of the Preschool review these figures annually. Free Reserves as represented by unrestricted net current assets were £131,809 at 31st December 2024.

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

RISK MANAGEMENT

Church monies are held in accounts with COIF and CAF Bank Ltd., as are the Preschool funds and all ancillary monies are held as treasury accounts in HSBC.

All major insurable risks are covered by a combined commercial insurance policy underwritten by Ansvar.

As members of the BUGB we have access to information and data covering government legislation and directives on charity matters (risk, employment, management, information technology and financial issues).

ACTIVITIES

The Trustees have complied with their duty as laid down in Section 4 of the Charities Act 2011 with regard to Public Benefit Entity guidance as published by the Charity Commission.

According to our constitution the purpose of our Church is the advancement of the Christian faith. We endeavour to do this under the direction of our mission statement:

CHURCH MISSION STATEMENT

We aim, under God's guidance and through the empowering of the Holy Spirit,

It has been said that a church exists for the benefit of its non-members. We believe there is much truth in this. Through the outworking of our mission statement and in all we do, we strive to share the good news of the Gospel with our worship, our witness and our work within the local community.

The Church premises are fully utilised throughout the week by an extensive variety of service hirers, including the local council for elections and the Residents Association(FVRA). These are shared in more detail through the reports of our organisations in the later pages of this report.

Substantial progress and development have been made to our website. This vital tool for calendars, activities and witness is a key source of reference.

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

STATEMENT OF CHARITY TRUSTEES (DEACONS) RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

Charity 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 its financial activities for that period, and adequately distinguish any material special trust or other restricted fund of the charity. In preparing those financial statements the Trustees are required to:

· State whether the policies adopted are in accordance with the appropriate SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice) on Accounting by Charities and the accounting regulations and with applicable accounting standards, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements: and

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records. These should disclose, with reasonable accuracy at any time, the financial position of the Church in such a way as to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the Trust Deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Church and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud or other irregularities.

The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information included on the charity’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of the financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Signed on behalf of the Charity Trustees (Deacons),

Secretary

Treasurer

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT ON THE ACCOUNTS

Report to the trustees/members of Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist) on the accounts for the year ended 31st December 2024 set out on pages 8 to 16

RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF TRUSTEES AND EXAMINER

The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year (under section 144 (2) of the Charities Act 2011) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility:

BASIS OF INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S STATEMENT

My examination was carried out in accordance with General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the organisation and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S STATEMENT

  1. In the course of my examination, no matter has come to my attention which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect, the trustees have not met the requirements to ensure that:

  2. proper accounting records are kept (in accordance with section 130 of the Act); and

  3. accounts are prepared which agree with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Act; or

  4. to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Jackie Irvine-Smith Sign: Independent Examiners Ltd Unit 2, The Broadbridge Business Centre Date: 18th June 2025 Delling Lane Bosham PO18 8NF

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment TOTAL TOTAL
Notes Funds £ Funds £ Funds £ Funds £ 2024 £ 2023 £
INCOME
Income and Endowments from:
Donations and Legacies 2a 111,049 1,500 10,996 0 123,545 103,802
Preschool & Organisations 2b 0 3,900 79,270 0 83,170 73,521
Investments 2c 35,533 0 0 0 35,533 33,835
Charitable Activities 2d 0 3,121 902 4,023 1,575
Other Income 2e 480 0 0 0 480 159
TOTAL 147,062 8,521 91,168 0 246,751 212,892
EXPENDITURE
Expenditure on:
Preschool 3a 0 0 72,994 0 72,994 64,191
Organisations 3b 0 1,630 0 0 1,630 7,138
Charitable Activities 3c 113,137 13,780 17,088 0 144,005 136,876
TOTAL 113,137 15,410 90,082 0 218,629 208,205
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) BEFORE 33,925 (6,889) 1,086 0 28,122 4,687
INVESTMENT GAINS/(LOSSES)
Net gains/(losses) on investments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Release of Liability on Defined Benefit 0 0 0 0 0 0
Pension Scheme
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) 33,925 (6,889) 1,086 0 28,122 4,687
Transfers of Funds In (12,061) 4,066 7,995 0 0 0
Transfers of Funds Out 13,212 (2,496) (10,716) 0 0 0
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 35,076 (5,319) (1,635) 0 28,122 4,687
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS:
Total Funds Brought Forward 94,936 140,665 25,115 3,193,840 3,454,556 3,449,869
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 130,012 135,346 23,480 3,193,840 3,482,678 3,454,556

Movements on all reserves and all recognised gains and losses are shown above. All of the organisation's operations are classed as continuing.

The notes on pages 9 to 15 form part of these financial statements.

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment 31-Dec-24 31-Dec-23
Funds £ Funds £ Funds £ Funds £ Total Total
Note £ £
Fixed Assets
Land and Building 10, 11 0 0 0 3,193,840 3,193,840 3,193,840
Current Assets
Debtors Current 12 0 0 0 0 0 2,500
Account 629 13,803 0 0 14,432 38,361
Organisations' Bank 0 0 35,794 0 35,794 22,982
Deposit Account (CAF) 97,268 14,260 361 0 111,889 59,990
Deposit Fund (COIF) 37,000 107,000 0 0 144,000 144,000
Cash Organisations' 67 283 0 0 350 595
Cash 0 0 164 0 164 198
Total Current Assets 134,964 135,346 36,319 0 306,629 268,626
amounts falling due within
Creditors:		 13 (3,155) 0 (12,839) 0 (15,994) (4,016)
one
year
NET CURRENT ASSETS 131,809 135,346 23,480 0 290,635 264,610
less current liabilities
TOTAL ASSETS		 131,809 135,346 23,480 3,193,840 3,484,475 3,458,450
amounts falling due in
Creditors:
more thanone year 14 (1,797) 0 0 0 (1,797) (3,894)
NET ASSETS 130,012 135,346 23,480 3,193,840 3,482,678 3,454,556
Funds of the Charity
Unrestricted Funds 130,012 0 0 0 130,012 94,936
Designated Funds 16 0 135,346 0 0 135,346 140,665
Restricted Funds 15 0 0 23,480 0 23,480 25,115
Endowment 11 0 0 0 3,193,840 3,193,840 3,193,840
Total Funds 130,012 135,346 23,480 3,193,840 3,482,678 3,454,556

The financial statements on pages 7 and 8 were approved by the trustee, and authorised for issue on:

Date: …............09/06/25...............................................

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a. Basis of Preparation.

The accounts are prepared in accordance with the, Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (Charities SORP 2021), FRS102 and with the Charities Act 2011. Findon Valley Free Church is a registered charity, no. 1052737 and meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognized at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes.

b. Fixed Assets

Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £1,000. They are initially recognised at cost, or for donated assets, at a reasonable estimate of their value on receipt. The Church premises and Manse are owned by the Baptist Union Corporation as the Holding Trustees, with Findon Valley Free Church as the Managing Trustees. All additions to the fixtures, fittings and equipment are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the year of purchase. The only exception to this is that the photocopier (see note 13) is held on a lease agreement in order to give a continuous maintained service.

c. Debtors, Creditors Debtors (including trade debtors and loans receivable)

are measured on initial recognition at settlement amount after any trade discounts or amount advanced by the charity. Subsequently, they are measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be received. The charity has Creditors which are measured at settlement amounts less any trade discounts.

d. Tax Refunds on Gift Aid.

Gift Aid refunds of tax were claimed in January, April, July and October. Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme (GASDS) refunds were claimed in January, April, July and October.

e. Funds.

‘Unrestricted Funds’ represent monies available for the general purposes of the Church. ‘Designated Funds’ are set aside for purposes determined by the Trustees. ‘Restricted Funds’ are set aside for the purpose specified by the giver.

f. Incoming Resources.

Incoming resources are recognised in the accounts on an accrual’s basis. Recognition of Income These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when: - the charity becomes entitled to the income; - it is more likely than not that the trustees will receive the resources; and - the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability. Offsetting There has been no offsetting of assets and liabilities, or income and expenses, unless required or permitted by the FRS 102 SORP or FRS 102. Grants and Donations Grants and donations are only included in the SoFA when the general income recognition criteria are met (5.10 to 5.12 FRS 102 SORP). Gifts in Kind Gifts in kind for use by the charity are included in the SoFA as income from donations when receivable. Legacies Legacies are included in the SoFA when receipt is probable, that is, when there has been grant of probate, the executors have established that there are sufficient assets in the estate and any conditions attached to the legacy are either within the control of the charity or have been met. Government Grants The charity has not received any government grants in the reporting period. Volunteer Help The value of voluntary help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the Trustees’ annual report. Income from interest, royalties and dividends. This is included in the accounts when receipt is probable and the amount receivable can be measured reliably.

g. Resources Expended.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under appropriate natural category headings Liability Recognition Liabilities are recognised where it is more likely than not that there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to pay out resources and the amount of the obligation can be measured with reasonable certainty. Governance and Support Costs Support costs represent the cost of central functions, for example governance costs, payroll administration, information technology. Governance costs are those support costs which relate to public accountability of the charity and its compliance with regulation and good practice. Redundancy cost The charity made no redundancy payments during the reporting period. Deferred income One item of deferred income has been included in the accounts. Creditors The charity measures creditors at settlement amounts less any trade discounts.

h. Pensions.

Ministers, whether ordained or in training, are enrolled in the Ministerial Pension Scheme of the Baptist Union. The church pays contributions to the Baptist Pension Scheme under a defined contribution arrangement. The scheme is a multi-employer scheme and it is not possible to identify the assets and liabilities of the scheme which are attributable to the church. The church was paying contributions towards a deficit in the defined benefit scheme but since August 2022 this was cleared and deficit contributions are no longer payable (see Note 8). For other employees a NEST Pension is available.

i. Donations

It is our policy to give donations to help the ministerial colleges of the Baptist denomination, the outreach organisations of our denomination for both home and overseas and to assist Christian organisations with their work in humanitarian and relief work.

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

2. ANALYSIS OF INCOME Unrestricted Designated Restricted TOTAL TOTAL
Funds £ Funds £ Funds 2024 2023
£ £ £
a) Donations and Legacies
Donations and Gifts 493 0 10,041 10,534 8,520
Gift Aid Donations 45,164 0 0 45,164 41,362
Grants 600 0 0 600 0
Legacies 30,000 0 0 30,000 2,840
Gift Day 0 0 0 0 17,892
Cash Collections 8,234 0 0 8,234 13,250
Envelope Gift Aid 13,344 0 0 13,344 6,565
Tax Refund 13,214 1,500 955 15,669 13,373
111,049 1,500 10,996 123,545 103,802
b) Preschool and Organisations
Bookstall 0 164 0 164 214
Step Inside Coffee Shop 0 3,736 0 3,736 7,809
Pre-School:
Fees Vouchers 0 0 8,247 8,247 8,329
(WSCC) Bank 0 0 68,712 68,712 56,252
Interest O th er 0 0 696 696 199
0 0 1,615 1,615 718
0 3,900 79,270 83,170 73,521
c) Investments
Premises Letting 26,340 0 0 26,340 26,352
Bank Interest received 9,193 0 0 9,193 7,483
35,533 0 0 35,533 33,835
d) Charitable Activities
Ladies Breakfast 0 333 0 333 266
Open House 0 0 902 902 951
Messy Church 0 2,105 0 2,105 128
Men's Breakfast 0 120 0 120 230
Sunday School 0 563 0 563 0
0 3,121 902 4,023 1,575
e) Other Income
Catering 75 0 0 75 159
Sale of Equipment (chairs) 400 0 0 400 0
Photocopying 5 0 0 5 0
480 0 0 480 159

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

3. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE Unrestricted Designated Restricted TOTAL TOTAL
Funds Funds Funds 2024 2023
Notes £ £ £ £ £
a) Preschool 0 0 61,750 61,750 52,642
Salaries 0 0 2,534 2,534 5,612
Legal Use of premises 0 0 2,750 2,750 2,000
Other 0 0 5,960 5,960 3,937
0 0 72,994 72,994 64,191
b) Raising Funds- Organisations
Bookstall 0 130 0 130 791
Luncheon Club 0 0 0 0 40
Step Inside Coffee Shop 0 1,500 0 1,500 6,307
0 1,630 0 1,630 7,138
c) Charitable Activities
Gifts to Mission 4 2,050 0 15,944 17,994 10,639
Direct Church costs 5 106,977 10,604 472 118,053 121,449
Church support Organisations 6 0 3,176 672 3,848 1,577
Independent Examiners Fees FY 2022 0 0 0 0 900
Independent Examiners Fees FY 2023 (paid) 930 0 0 930 0
Independent Examiners Fees FY 2024 (accrued) 960 0 0 960 0
Professional Fees 2,160 0 0 2,160 2,231
Bank Charges 60 0 0 60 80
113,137 13,780 17,088 144,005 136,876
2024 2023
4.a) GIFTS TO MISSIONS Overseas General UK Total Total
£ £ £ £ £
From Restricted Mission Funds
BMS World Mission 3,182 0 0 3,182 2,678
Operation Agri 21 0 0 21 1,952
Baptist Home Mission 0 0 2,698 2,698 1,322
MAF 2,678 0 0 2,678 2,023
Release International 1,975 0 0 1,975 2,108
Links International 3,568 0 0 3,568 0
Christians Against Poverty 0 0 1,822 1,822 0
Turning Tides (Missions Other) 0 0 0 0 556
Total via Restricted Funds 11,424 0 4,520 15,944 10,639
2024 2023
Overseas General UK Total Total
£ £ £ £ £
From General Funds
Spurgeon's Childcare 0 0 350 350 0
Spurgeon's College 0 0 350 350 0
Littlehampton BC 0 0 1,000 1,000 0
Retd.Bapt.Ministers Housing 0 0 350 350 0
Total via General Funds 0 0 2,050 2,050 0
Total Giving to Missions 11,424 0 6,570 17,994 10,639

2024: This total represents 11.27% of total incoming resources budgeted(less Preschool & Gift Day)

2023: This total represents 10.78% of total incoming resources budgeted (less Preschool & Gift Day)

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

  1. DIRECT CHURCH COSTS
5. DIRECT CHURCH COSTS
5. DIRECT CHURCH COSTS Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Total
Fund Fund Fund 2024 2023
£ £ £ £ £
Salaries 48,044 0 0 48,044 45,029
Manse Utilities 4,815 0 0 4,815 4,407
Manse Repair & Maintenance Church 1,248 0 0 1,248 967
Utilities 18,476 0 0 18,476 17,450
Church Repair & Maintenance 5,410 4,000 300 9,710 3,590
Cleaning 1,047 0 0 1,047 633
Printing, postage, stationery 2,098 82 0 2,180 3,391
Subscriptions 1,762 0 0 1,762 3,677
Conf & Training costs 2,715 0 0 2,715 772
Equipment 4,407 510 113 5,030 23,374
Advertising & Publications 232 1,365 0 1,597 482
Telephone, computer, internet 1,818 0 0 1,818 2,267
Special Projects and Fellowship 12,812 147 0 12,959 13,777
Catering, gardening, flowers 2,033 38 59 2,130 1,504
Miscellaneous expenditure 60 22 0 82 129
Building 0 4,440 0 4,440 0
106,977 10,604 472 118,053 121,449
6. CHURCH SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Total
Fund Fund Fund 2024 2023
£ £ £ £ £
Open House 0 0 672 672 1,126
Messy Church 0 2,357 0 2,357 73
Ladies Breakfast 0 256 0 256 122
Men's Breakfast 0 230 0 230 256
Sunday School 0 333 0 333 0
0 3,176 672 3,848 1,577
7. EMPLOYEES RENUMERATION 2024 2023
£ £
Gross remuneration paid to all employees * 97,099 91,926
Total NIC Employer payments 6,197 5,170
NI allowance (5,647) (5,000)
Employer Pension Contributions 5,533 4,959
Pension Deficiency Payments to BU (note 8) 0 0
103,182 97,055
*This includes £5,069 SMP to a member of the Preschool in 2023. No
employee received emoluments in excess of £60,000 for the period.
Average number of paid staff were: 2024 2023
TOTAL TOTAL
Minister 1 1
Preschool staff (part time) 5 7
Administrator (part time) 1 1
7 9

Key Management Personnel: The Trustees and Minister are considered to be key management personnel. No trustees received renumeration. The amounts paid to key management personnel (including any accommodation allowance and employer pension contributions) were £43,905. Note: the Church policy is to provide the Minister with either an accommodation allowance or option to reside in a church property, in accordance with the TOA(Terms of Appointment) agreement, which is approved by the Baptist Union for all ministers.

  1. DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PENSION SCHEME OR DEFINED BENEFIT PENSION PLAN

The Church is a participating employer in the Baptist Pension Scheme ("the Scheme"), which is a separate legal entity administered by the Pension Trustee (Baptist Pension Trust Limited). The assets of the Scheme are held separately from those of the Employer and the other participating employers. Our current Minister is part of the Baptist Pension Scheme under the Defined Contributions (DC) Scheme.

The Scheme, previously known as the Baptist Ministers' Pension Fund, started in 1925, but was closed to future accrual of defined benefits on 31 December 2011. Prior to this date the main benefit provided through the Defined Benefit (DB) Plan was a pension of one eightieth of final minimum pensionable income for each year of pensionable service together with additional pension in respect of premiums paid on Pensionable Income in excess of Minimum Pensionable Income. Since 1 January 2012, benefits have been provided through a Defined Contribution (DC) Plan.

A formal valuation of the DB Plan as at 31 December 2019 was carried out by a professionally qualified Actuary using the Projected Unit Method. At the valuation date the market value of the DB Plan assets was £298 million, whilst the level of assets needed to pay benefits was £316m, giving a deficit of £18m (equivalent to a past service level funding of 94%). The Church and the other participating employers in the DB Plan were collectively responsible for funding this deficit.

The Trustee and the Baptist Union agreed that direct recovery contributions would reduce to £1 per month for each employer from the August 2022 payment until June 2026. However, this was superseded in November 2024. The Trustees of the scheme entered an agreement with the insurance company Just Retirement Limited (“Just”) in 2022 to secure DB Plan members’ benefits. In November 2024 the DB Plan benefits were transferred over to Just and therefore the Trustees of the Deficit Recovery Contributions (DRC’s) ceased the collection of the £1 per month at the end of October 2024, The direct debits for these payments have been cancelled and DB Plan employers no longer have any further responsibility towards the DB Plan.

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

  1. TRUSTEES (DEACONS) REMUNERATION & EXPENSES AND OTHER RELATED PARTIES

A. Moore (Trustee) and her spouse R. Moore received renumeration for their Minister and Church Administrator role respectively, see below. As explained in the key management personnel section above, the Church has a commitment to pay the Minister a housing allowance and contribution to utility bills, see below. No other transactions took place between other trustees and related parties in the financial year (2023: Nil)

2024 2023
£ £
Gross salary of Minister (A. Moore) 28,608 26,500
Gross salary of Church Administrator (R. Moore) 7,992 7,200
Employer's NI contribution for Minister 2,693 2,402
NI Allowance (2,478) (2,402)
Employer's Pension contribution for Minister 4,612 4,408
41,427 38,108
Accommodation allowance for Minister 11,797 12,186
Contribution to Utility bills and Insurance for Minister 7,103 7,416

Findon Valley Free Church relies on the provisions contained in clauses 20 and 23 of the governing document to remunerate the Minister (also a Trustee) and connected person to a Trustee for work undertaken.

10. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Church & Manse Church & Manse Church & Manse
Freehold Freehold Fixtures, Total
Land Buildings Fittings, &
Equipment
£ £ £ £
Cost 01-Jan-24 1,596,920 1,596,920 0 3,193,840
Additions 0 0 0 0
Cost at 31-Dec-24 1,596,920 1,596,920 0 3,193,840
Accumulated depreciation 01-Jan-24 0 0 0 0
Charge in the year 0 0 0 0
Total depreciation 31-Dec-24 0 0 0 0
Net Book Value 31-Dec-24 1,596,920 1,596,920 0 3,193,840
Net Book Value 31-Dec-23 1,596,920 1,596,920 0 3,193,840

The ownership of the Church and Manse is vested in the Baptist Union Corporation as Custodian Trustees (and beneficial owner) to Findon Valley Free Church (FVFC), which is the managing Trustee. FVFC has full use of the property and does not envisage the sale of the properties. The Church and Manse are maintained by FVFC, but not owned by it.

The freehold land and buildings have historically been shown as a combined figure. For clarity, in this financial year, the building portion of the freehold, estimated at half of the total, is now shown as a separate element to the land element. Land is not depreciated. No depreciation is currently provided on buildings, as the current estimated residual value of the properties is not less than their carrying value and the remaining useful life of these assets currently exceeds 50 years, so that any depreciation charges would be immaterial.

The amount of £3,193,840 stated above represents the insurance value at January 2021, plus a small percentage adjustment as recommended by the insurer to reflect ensuing year fluctuations. The Trustees believe this to be a fair representation of the fair value on the open market, based on their best estimate thereof.

An impairment review is carried out each year end and any loss identified included in expenditure for the year.

The buildings and contents are insured by FVFC up to a loss limit of £4,052,249 and £150,818 respectively as at 15th January 2024. This will cover the full cost of repair and replacement as assessed by the insurance company.

11. ENDOWMENT FUND

The Endowment Fund consists of all the Freehold Land and Buildings, including the manse, held in trust for the Church by the Baptist Union Corporation Ltd (BUC), and represented by Fixed Assets.

12. DEBTORS Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Total
Fund Funds Funds 31-Dec-24 31-Dec-23
£ £ £ £ £
Preschool (Internal Fund) 0 0 0 0 2,500
0 0 0 0 2,500

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

13. CREDITORS AND ACCRUALS: Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Total Total
AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR Fund Funds Funds 31-Dec-24 31-Dec-23
£ £ £ £ £
Preschool (Internal Fund) 0 0 0 0 2,500
FVRA Arts & Crafts 25 0 0 25 25
Rowland Singers 75 0 0 75 75
Photocopier Lease agreement 1,795 0 0 1,795 1,416
Mission Partners 0 0 0 0 0
Independent Examiners Fees 1,260 0 0 1,260 0
Deferred Income (13a) 0 0 12,839 12,839 0
3,155 0 12,839 15,994 4,016

13.a) DEFERRED INCOME £ Deferred income brought forward 1st January 2024 0 Utilised in the year 0 Receipts in 2024 in advance for 2025 12,839 Deferred income as at 31st December 2024 12,839

Deferred income represents funding received in advance for 2025.

14. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE IN 14. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE IN Unrestricted Designated Restricted Total Total Total
MORE THAN ONE YEAR Fund Funds Funds 31-Dec-24 31-Dec-23
£ £ £ £ £
Photocopier Lease agreement 1,797 0 0 1,797 3,894
1,797 0 0 1,797 3,894
15. RESTRICTED FUNDS Balance at Balance at
Current Year 31.12.23 Transfers Receipts Payments 31.12.24
£ £ £ £ £
Open House 208 0 902 (672) 438
Tuesday Luncheon Club 4,066 (4,066) 0 0 0
Kitchen Equipment Reserve 233 0 0 (172) 61
Organ Refurbishment 600 0 0 (300) 300
Preschool Loan (2,500) 2,500 0 0 0
Preschool 21,404 (5,000) 79,270 (72,993) 22,681
Organisation 1,650 (1,650) 0 0 0
Missions (546) 3,664 7,436 (10,554) 0
Links International 0 916 2,651 (3,567) 0
Christians Against Poverty 0 915 909 (1,824) 0
25,115 (2,721) 91,168 (90,082) 23,480
Balance at Balance at
Previous Year 31.12.22 Transfers Receipts Payments 31.12.23
£ £ £ £ £
Open House 383 0 951 (1,126) 208
Tuesday Luncheon Club 4,106 0 0 (40) 4,066
Bookstall 796 (796) 0 0 0
Step Inside Coffee Shop 2,019 (2,019) 0 0 0
Kitchen Equipment Reserve 233 0 0 0 233
Organ Refurbishment 600 0 0 0 600
Preschool Loan (5,000) 2,500 0 0 (2,500)
Preschool 20,097 0 65,498 (64,191) 21,404
Organisation 1,650 0 0 0 1,650
Missions 0 2,800 7,293 (10,639) (546)
24,884 2,485 73,742 (75,996) 25,115
Restricted funds are represented by:
31-Dec-24 31-Dec -23
£ £
Cash at bank and in hand 36,319 27,615
Creditors (12,839) (2,500)
23,480 25,115

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024

  1. DESIGNATED FUNDS Current Year
16. DESIGNATED FUNDS 16. DESIGNATED FUNDS Balance at Balance at Balance at Balance at Balance at
Current Year 31.12.23 Transfers Receipts Payments 31.12.24
£ £ £ £ £
Men's Breakfast 415 0 120 (230) 305
Ladies Breakfast 289 0 333 (255) 367
Bookstall 219 0 164 (130) 253
Step Inside Coffee Shop 3,521 (2,496) 3,736 (1,500) 3,261
General Reserve(Contingency) 70,000 0 0 0 70,000
Building Fund 8,702 0 0 (8,440) 262
Messy Church 824 0 2,105 (2,357) 572
Sunday School 138 0 563 (353) 348
Outreach 55,173 0 0 (1,635) 53,538
Gift Day 1,384 0 1,500 (510) 2,374
Tuesday Luncheon Club 0 4,066 0 0 4,066
140,665 1,570 8,521 (15,410) 135,346
Previous Balance at Balance at
Year 31.12.22 Transfers Receipts Payments 31.12.23
£ £ £ £ £
Men's Breakfast 441 0 230 (256) 415
Ladies Breakfast 145 0 266 (122) 289
Bookstall 0 796 214 (791) 219
Step Inside Coffee Shop 0 2,019 7,809 (6,307) 3,521
General Reserve(Contingency) 60,172 9,828 0 0 70,000
Building Fund 7,486 1,500 0 (284) 8,702
Messy Church 486 0 1,058 (720) 824
Sunday School 225 0 0 (87) 138
Outreach 56,144 0 285 (1,256) 55,173
Gift Day 0 0 18,966 (17,582) 1,384
125,099 14,143 28,828 (27,405) 140,665
Designated funds are represented by: Designated funds are represented by:
31-Dec-24 31-Dec-23
£ £
Cash at bank and in hand 135,346 138,165
Debtors 0 2,500
135,346 140,665
The fund transfers in Transfer Transfer Transfer Transfer Reason
2024 represent: In Out
£ £
Restricted Tuesday Luncheon Club 0 (4,066) To correct the allocation from restricted to designated fund (4,066) To correct the allocation from restricted to designated fund (4,066) To correct the allocation from restricted to designated fund
Designated Tuesday Luncheon Club 4,066 0
Restricted Organisations 0 (1,650) In 2011, the Genesis, Flower Fund, Middleground, Ladies Breakfast, Art Club were closed (1,650) In 2011, the Genesis, Flower Fund, Middleground, Ladies Breakfast, Art Club were closed (1,650) In 2011, the Genesis, Flower Fund, Middleground, Ladies Breakfast, Art Club were closed (1,650) In 2011, the Genesis, Flower Fund, Middleground, Ladies Breakfast, Art Club were closed
General Unrestricted Fund 1,650 0
Restricted Pre School Loan 2,500 0 To reflect the 2024 Preschool loan repayment 0 To reflect the 2024 Preschool loan repayment 0 To reflect the 2024 Preschool loan repayment
Restricted Pre School 0 (2,500)
Restricted Pre School 0 (2,500) To reflect the 2023 Preschool loan repayment (2,500) To reflect the 2023 Preschool loan repayment (2,500) To reflect the 2023 Preschool loan repayment (2,500) To reflect the 2023 Preschool loan repayment
Designated
General		 Step Inside Coffee Shop
Unrestricted Fund		 0
4,996		 (2,496) To correct the allocation from designated to general unrestricted fund
0		 (2,496) To correct the allocation from designated to general unrestricted fund (2,496) To correct the allocation from designated to general unrestricted fund
General Unrestricted Fund 0 (5,495) To top up restricted expenditure shortfall from general fund (5,495) To top up restricted expenditure shortfall from general fund (5,495) To top up restricted expenditure shortfall from general fund
Restricted Missions 3,664 0
Restricted Links International 916 0
Restricted Christians Against Poverty 915 0
18,707 (18,707)
  1. RISK ASSESSMENT

The trustees actively review the major risks which the charity faces on a regular basis and believe that maintaining the free reserves stated, combined with the annual review of the controls over key financial systems carried out on an annual basis will provide sufficient resources in the event of adverse conditions. The trustees have also examined other operational and business risks which they face and confirm that they have established systems to mitigate the significant risks.

18. RESERVES POLICY

The trustees have considered the level of reserves they wish to retain, appropriate to the charity's needs. This is based on the charity's size and the level of financial commitments held. The trustees aim to ensure the charity will be able to continue to fulfil its charitable objectives even if there is a temporary shortfall in income or unexpected expenditure. The trustees will endeavour not to set aside funds unnecessarily.

19. PUBLIC BENEFIT

The charity acknowledges its requirement to demonstrate clearly that it must have charitable purposes or ‘aims’ that are for the public benefit. Details of how the charity has achieved this are provided in the Trustees report. The trustees confirm that they have paid due regard to the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit before deciding what activities the charity should undertake.

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

DETAILS OF SIGNIFICANT ACTIVITIES MINISTER’S REPORT 2024

As we entered 2024, dare I say there was a feeling of optimism as we launched year one of our five-year plan to become a Community Hub. We agreed on the name The Hub @ Findon Valley Free Church, and we have launched several new initiatives within the church building, under this banner. A committee has been created chaired by Rich Moore, to continue developing the structure of the Hub and assist in the fulfilment of our plans over the next 4 years.

We have increased the Coffee Shop to run over two days, Active Worthing, the Resident’s Association, local History group, exercise class, young carers group, Art group, Cubs and Beavers, ballet, are all now operating weekly under the banner of the hub and have been received well by the community. We were also blessed to be awarded the Warm Space grant to support heating the main church during some of these activities.

We hosted our first Christmas market within the church building, in partnership with the Resident’s Association and were delighted by the turn out. We continue to develop and build our relationships with local outside agencies, such as the doctor’s surgery, the local Primary school, FVRA, Coffee Camp, All Saints Church and the Local PCSO.

As we enter 2025, we aim to strengthen these relationships and develop the life of the church within the community.

Our motto text for the year comes from Ephesians 3:18-19 ‘And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.’

These verses have formed the basis for everything we do, that through our times of worship, service, and outreach all might come to know the vast love of Jesus.

A highlight for me this year, has been the Alpha group, it is such a privilege to be a part of people’s journey to faith. This year we had 8 join us on the course, and after 6 weeks of meeting together, the group wanted to continue and so we will carry on into the new year.

Other Worship growth highlights include a Week of Prayer and Fasting, Worship Extra, Introduction of new Prayer meetings, Easter Services, Harvest service followed by church lunch, development of homegroups. Mission Weeks with guest speakers. Men and ladies’ breakfast, Remembrance service and expanded Christmas services.

As you read this report, I pray that you are as encouraged as I am. There are lots of positive things happening in the life of FVFC, not least of which is the numerical growth of the church. I thank all those involved in helping us to continue to reach out to each other and to those who are in contact with us, though various ways, with the love of God. I thank you for all your hard work and sacrificial giving, for your prayers and support over the past 12 months. I thank you for the love you demonstrate as a fellowship.

Allie

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

SECRETARY’S REPORT 2024

It was again another busy year for the Church. We were especially blessed to see new folk coming along and playing an active part in the fellowship.

We remember those who went to be with the Lord this year. We give thanks for the lives of Win Barnard, Anne Fellows, Sheila Michell and Peter Gander.

Colin and Heather Ingrey stepped down from their roles as Deacons, as they came to the end of their second term of serving. It is with gratitude to them both for their work and service to the fellowship over these past six years. In November Sue Stone, Norman Michell and David Rycroft were elected on to the Diaconate. I’d like to thank all the Deacon’s for all their hard work and dedication this year.

The year had several social events including Shuffleboard, a trip for brunch at Spring Gardens, later in the year a Curry Evening at the Shaz, finishing with Skittles at the Black Horse. Myself, my wife Caroline, John and Sue Menday have now stepped down from running the Social Committee. We felt that it was the right time for us to step back and for new people to come in with new ideas. I know you would join me in thanking Caroline, John and Sue for their many years of arranging activities which have been much appreciated by the fellowship.

We launched into our Christmas Season with the Ladies Craft Evening, which again proved really popular. Ladies from Open House, Messy Church, PreSchool and the community attending. This seems to have become a permanent fixture in the diary. The year concluded with the Christmas Dinner, which was as popular as ever.

The Christingle Service was well supported as was the Carol Service, with over 200 attending, and the Family Service on Christmas Day.

We give thanks for Allie and Rich for their faithfulness to the fellowship. Thank You to Allie for her leadership, pastoral care and hard work over the year. We pray a blessing for her and Rich in the coming year.

Romans 8:28 MSG

Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.

Michael Knowles

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Open House (Parent and Toddler Group Ministry) Annual Report 2024

Once again, we had another special year at Open House in 2024 with many families joining us each week. We meet every Tuesday during Term time between 10.30am to 12 noon and have a busy morning of activities for the children including Play inside and outside, Craft, Refreshments and Song time. We have had wonderful opportunities of sharing Gods love with the families through chatting to them; through the services that we hold twice a term; and by teaching them Christian songs every week suitable for the little ones to learn and understand. Each week I take in my CD Player with the Backing Tracks, and it’s now known as ‘Big God!!’ Yes, their favourite is ‘Our God is a great Big God’ and they will ask for it sometimes instead of singing Nursery Rhymes!

The Themes for the services this year started with the story of Creation in February. The children had built up an amazing Frieze during the weeks before and helped to complete it during the service. A similar thing happened for the Easter service with the children building up the story during Craft time, and then helping me to finish it off during our Easter service. Needless to say that we had another very popular Easter Bonnet Parade before the service. At May Half Term I told the story of Jonah; at the Summer Service I told the story of when Jesus calmed the storm. At Harvest time we received filled Shoeboxes back from some of the families and my theme for that service was building our lives on the rock of Jesus. We ended the year with the Church Nativity a few Sundays before Christmas when the Sunday School children joined us. And then we finished the term with the Christmas Service and party and a visit from Father Christmas. It has been really lovely to have Pre-school to join us for each of our services. They also shared the hatching of the little chicks earlier on in the year!

A huge and heartfelt thank you to the Team: Linda Connelly, Sue Menday, David Rycroft (who joined us during 2024) and Christine Worsfold, who tirelessly and prayerfully give of their time and talents each week. Sadly David Fairs has had to step down for the time being due to health issues.

Please continue to pray for this Ministry as we seek to reach out to all these families week by week, and please do join us for our twice a term services in the church when you are able. Thank you!

Christine Fairs

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Preschool Report 2024

A review of the past year shows a very strong performance.

Mrs Rosie Rolf has joined the Management Committee which has overseen progress on a number of fronts:

We are now on a very sound financial footing

Fewer staff changes have improved our programming and continuity with our children. With a view to the future, we have taken on an Apprentice

Numbers of children has been encouraging

We have made positive progress on a wide range of training avenues raising the qualifications gained by staff

2024 Highlights have included: Ducklings project Outing to Findon Vale Garden Centre New sand pit in our garden (thanks to David Rycroft) Christmas Igloo project

As we strive to continually improve, we are looking at extending our opening hours and are adapting to the needs of our increasing numbers of under 3’s.

Becky Harding and Iain Taylor

Messy Church 2024

Messy Church has had a successful year.

We have been blessed with another grant from Green Hills, the continued support of Coffee Shop and the church members.

The sessions have taken on a solid structure, which has helped the children and parents become confident within the setting. Many of those attending don’t come to church and so we have worked hard as a team to establish further contact with them outside of the sessions by inviting them to other events the church is organising, and we were encouraged to see many of them at our Easter and Christmas services and social evenings. The volunteers have been such a blessing and have worked very hard at building relationships with the families attending. Numbers continue to hold, we often see new families, and in the summer we were able to run FVFC Kids again, with many families returning and bringing their friends.

We continue to sow seeds of faith into their lives praying that in time we will see many of these families coming to faith, in the meantime we watch and wait.

Allie Moore

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

FVFC Kids 2024 - Messy Summer - Pirates

This summer we hosted our second week of fun during the summer holidays. Our theme this year was Pirates sailing the 4 Seas, searching for the lost treasure the light of the world. The memory verse this year was John 8 ‘I am the light of the world anyone who follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’

We introduced small groups at the start of the sessions each day where the children listened to a bible story and answered questions to win team points. This change in the program worked really well and allowed the children the opportunity to talk more openly about who Jesus is and His love for us.

We had on average 60 children each day, and many of the families from last year returned, but we also had many new families.

A couple of quotes from the families-

A huge thank you for an absolutely outstanding summer club last week. Hamish and I only made the Friday, but WOW: what a spectacular event. Congratulations to all involved. We were blown away. I wanted to also pass on the amazing news that we bought a friend with us, a Hungarian lady new to the area and her 2 year old. She was moved to tears on the way home with the kindness shared. She has since asked me for the links to the worship songs taught and has been asking many questions about the Holy Spirit. The family have never been to church before. I hope you can be super proud of this :-)

Well done team!”

“Wow, what can I say...such a fabulous week which was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated by so many. I and I know so many others, are super grateful for all your hard work and efforts to make this week happen so thank you so very much. The crafts were all so well thought out, the layout of each day worked perfectly, having some time having a cuppa was appreciated and all the other amazing activities on offer were fab. I know our friends who came all commented on how amazing the energy was from every volunteer and the real sense of community compared to other church events they have attended elsewhere so this is credit to all of you, you are all amazing. Allie and Tish, as always...your entertainment on stage was incredible, never change!” God was so good to us throughout this event, and it was a huge success not least because of the dedication of the volunteers that helped each day, thank you.

Allie

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Annual report for Live Wires (Sunday School) 2024

2024 was a very positive year with more children coming regularly and consistently. The children are between 5 and 11 years and we have them in the one group. Tish and Sue Menday usually do the teaching, with Rosamund stepping in if we are both away. Rosamund and Mandy Austin regularly help, and we are assisted by some of the Mums/ Grans. This year we have been able to cover the holidays, so that parents don’t have to come out each week. We are very grateful for this faithful service.

Over the year the children have gelled together, and we have built up a good relationship with them. They respond well to questions and feel comfortable enough to ask things themselves and discuss. We vary our teaching style to keep the children engaged. The children are also happy to pray out loud with some taking part in church. The children are also given a Memory verse each week. We are grateful to the church that we were able to purchase new Bibles which the children enjoy using.

One series this year was looking at Emotions, through studying Bible characters. This was an excellent series and got the children thinking. Since Covid, schools are saying they are seeing more mental health concerns, so it was good to look at it from a Christian perspective.

At Easter we were joined by quite a number of children from the community as we had a family service and Easter egg hunt. The children were each given a bag to decorate and the verse John 3 v 16 to stick on.

For Christmas the children were filmed talking about the Christmas story and the film was shown at the Carols by Candlelight and Christmas day services.

The children also did a banner at the beginning of the year based on the church motto verse which was displayed at the front of church.

I would again ask you all to pray for our families and the challenges they all face.

Sue Menday

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Annual report for Switch (Youth Church) 2024

In 2024 we continued to see fluctuating numbers come along on a Sunday morning. We found that even with just one or two young people we had good times of sharing and feel we've built up a good relationship with them. Caroline and Michael Knowles do the teaching; towards the end of the year we were joined by Tricia Burbridge and Tina Hemsley who were happy to take the class once a month. We are very grateful to Tricia and Tina and their willingness to help.

Our format is, we start the morning with a drink and biscuits and chat about how their week has been. We then spend about 15-20 mins exploring different stories/characters. They are confident in reading out loud from the bible which is lovely to see and which they are very good at! We then finish off with something fun, a game or wordsearch/puzzle.

Our topics that we have looked at through the year were;-

What is the Kingdom of God?

How young people can make a difference, looking at previous members of youth church who have gone onto do mission work.

Through different bible characters we've looked at, kindness, handling stress, happiness and joy.

In August we had a young lady join us for a few weeks who wanted to learn more about the bible.

We decided to do "Youth Alpha" which was an excellent series and which we looked at up to Christmas.

Please continue to pray that we'll see new young people come along, youth attracts youth!

Caroline Knowles

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

1st Findon Valley Scout Group 2024

During the year we have seen an increase in numbers in Beavers and Cubs but the Scout section has decreased as there were fewer young people to move on.All Sections have had new Leaders join during the year. Once again, it’s been a busy year.

Beavers have enjoyed a variety of activities: hikes, den building, visits to the beach as well as crafts, cooking and working for badges. Also visits from the Police and Ambulance and to the Lifeboats.

Cubs are now meeting weekly – they have worked for several badges throughout the year including Hobbies, Collector, Science, DIY and International .In March we held the Annual Ready Steady Cook competition when each Six cooked a 3 course meal for guests.

In the summer term, both Beavers and Cubs enjoyed a morning’s paddleboarding at Southwater.

The Cubs had their Annual Camp at Bentley Copse in Surrey and enjoyed many activities including crate stacking, zip wire, fire lighting and hikes. Scouts had a packed programme of water activities in the Summer including paddleboarding, rafting and Pulling Boat. As usual they attended a water activity weekend on the Thames in London and held a Summer Camp at Broadstone Warren.

During Troop meetings they have enjoyed a wide range of activities including fun evenings, cooking and learning many new skills.

As usual the year ended with the Christingle Service where Beavers and Cubs again sang carols.

As ever I am grateful to Leaders and Trustee Board members for their continued support during the year. I continue to be extremely proud to lead such a dedicated, hardworking team who every week provide exciting opportunities for the young people and put the Fun into Scouting.

Janet Chapman - Group Scout Leader

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Coffee Shop 2024

The past year has been a busy time at Coffee Shop.

We regularly serve between 30 and 40 customers each week, with lots of chatting and laughter filling the morning. There is always someone available to pray with anyone feeling in need of prayer or encouragement.

In September, as part of the Hub incentive, we opened the Coffee Shop on a Wednesday morning too with the aim of introducing different activities and visitors. We have crafts, jigsaws and games available with visits from the Community Police Officer and the local Social Prescriber.

On our last morning before Christmas Don Woods kindly provided one of his famous and delicious Christmas cakes which everyone enjoyed, and Barbara and John kindly entertained us with Christmas carols and songs.

We are especially pleased that several new people have visited Coffee Shop for the first time and returned regularly, and links with other Church activities have been forged. We are very pleased that we have been able to donate £2500 to the church's charities this year.

Once again I would like to extend my grateful thanks to all the volunteers, including Allie and Richard, who so cheerfully give up their time to help and to those who generously provide the cakes. We all feel it is a joy and privilege to serve our Lord and the Church through this ministry.

Rosamund Tolley

Ladies’ Breakfast Ministry 2024

The Ladies Breakfast meetings continue to flourish. We have on average 36 ladies who attend our breakfast.

We have just increased the price to £5.50 due to the increased cost of food.

We provide a buffet breakfast which is self service and eat as much as you would like and a combined men’s/ladies breakfast was arranged for the 21st September which was buffet and cooked breakfast.

Some of the ladies attending the breakfast are church members and some of them are our customers from the church Coffee Shop, but we are seeing new faces at each event.

We have a speaker at most meetings. This year we had:TURNING TIDES - VICKY BLAIR - CHRIS CHATFIELD FROM COMPASS TRAVEL & MEMBERS OF OUR GOSPEL GROUP CHRISTMAS CONCERT AND TALK.

We give to the speakers a donation in the region of £25 - £40 for the charity of their choice. Financially we remain in credit and have a healthy balance.

Carole Walsh

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Men’s Breakfast Ministry 2024

We started the year with a breakfast at the Downlands Carvery, who always provide a very good all you can eat breakfast for under £10.

In June we welcomed Janay who came to talk to us about his ministry in India.We also enjoyed a lovely cooked breakfast made possible using our well-equipped kitchen, and our talented team of cooks.

In September we arranged a combined men’s/ladies breakfast with a cooked breakfast and buffet style continental. The speaker was Chris Chatfield from Compass Travel. Chris brought with him Francis who talked to us about his charitable work.

In 2024 we again saw numbers around the 15 to 20 guys attending the breakfast, and were encouraged by the number of folk who introduced their friends to come along to the breakfasts.

We ended the year with a return to the Downlands Carvery.

Michael Knowles

Home Groups 2024

Homegroups meet during the 2nd and 4th weeks of each month. Two meet on a Tuesday evening and the other two meet during the day depending upon venue/leader.

Our studies focus on the Minister prepared notes which have allowed us to dig deeper on sermon series that have included ‘how we can thrive’, ‘the uniqueness of Jesus’ and ‘a vision for a different kingdom’. We are currently looking into the book of Matthew.

Homegroup dynamics are always interesting. They are a place where we can learn from each other, enjoy Christian fellowship and deepen friendships as well as better understand the previous weeks sermon! We hope to introduce two new groups after Easter – please contact the Church Office for more details.

Iain Taylor

Pastoral 2024

It has been another busy year, regularly visiting and calling about 24 people.

Unfortunately, there have been a number of bereavements this year, and we hope we have been able to give some support at a difficult time. The aim from visits and phone calls is to offer company, support, encouragement and a listening ear. We continue to give lifts when we are able, to church events and medical appointments.

The team is very small, and we always need more helpers. If you would like to join the team, please see John Menday. For those who do help I wish to thank them for their hard work. It is much appreciated.

John Menday

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Alpha 2024

This autumn we hosted another Alpha course, using the Alpha film series. We had 8 sign up to the course and over the 6 weeks this reduced to 6. The group was made up of non-Christians, those who had walked away from their faith and those very new to the faith.

The group gelled really well over the 6 weeks, and as Christmas approached, we felt the course should continue in the new year. So, we agreed to host a further 6 weeks.

The group has been a huge source of encouragement, and growth to those attending and to us leaders.

We continue to pray that we will see people coming to faith for themselves and that they may experience the love of God to such an extent that it would have a lasting transformative effect in their lives.

Allie

1-3-5 Hub Report 2024

The hub has been progressing well throughout 2024, with several activities now up and running.

On Monday morning, Worthing active run an exercise group which is well attended and on Tuesday, morning, Sarah Jennings runs a popular Fitness Class for all ages.

The Coffee Shop on Wednesday morning was launched in Sept and despite a slow start, now has regular people attending both from the church and from outside.

We have begun looking into bringing in other services/speakers to the Coffee Shop. So far, these include the local Social Prescriber, Prostrate Cancer Support, PCSO, CAP and a Digital Clinic. Dates have been booked for some of these services to attend the Coffee Shop during early 2025.

We are also planning to set up groups within the Wednesday Coffee Shop and it was agreed that in the new year we would start a Meet and Make group as well as an NCT Bumps and Babies group. We were also going to look into the possibility of starting a Bereavement support group sometime in early 2025.

We agreed that new signage would be required on the outside of the church to identify that we are The Hub at FVFC. This has now been organised and will be going up in February 2025.

Chris Cattermole

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Missions 2024

We commit to tithe our income in support of 5 missions.

BMS and MAF are long established international supported agencies and are well known to us. Home Mission focuses on SEBA (relatively local church support) activities.

CAP and C4GP are new for 2024. C4GP is run by Ashley Trask who we got to know when he represented Release. His focus now is supporting specific needs within the Church in Pakistan

CAP is a national institution that focuses upon helping folk who experience challenges in the managing of their finances. This may well be something we get involved with as our Hub activities develop.

We need to be ever mindful of how we support our persecuted brothers and sisters.Release brings us information and focus for our prayers.

Please be encouraged to stay informed, continue to pray and continue to give – for we are all the body of Christ.

Iain Taylor

BMS Birthday Scheme 2024

The Birthday Scheme is a great way to get involved in supporting BMS World Mission’s health and medical ministries around the world.

This ministry continues to be a positive way of giving annually as we celebrate our birthdays. The BMS are grateful for those who are part of the scheme.

By making a donation on your birthday you can support the work of World Mission in a real and practical way.

Anyone can join on their birthday. Members receive a BMS birthday card from their Birthday Scheme Secretary, along with a gift envelope which they use to make a donation. This is then placed in the weekly offering; all the donations are forwarded to BMS.

If you would like to join the scheme or to know more, please contact myself.

Caroline Knowles

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Bookstall 2024

Bookstall Account.

The Bible Notes ministry has undergone change this year as Chapel Gifts are no longer able to supply the Bible Notes. We are thankful for all their care for us through many years. As a result I have been accessing the notes online via the re-vived.com website at present.

Those wishing to use Every Day with Jesus can access this daily online via the Waverley Abbey website. No charge is made for this service although a donation is welcomed towards their important work.

Are you able to structure a regular quiet study time for yourself? There are many and various notes available according to people’s preferences and age groups.

If you would like advice, please do contact Mary Knight, who will be more than happy to guide you to suitable Bible Reading Notes / provide sample materials or other books as required or which websites to access online.

Although separate now, please don’t forget there is a Church Library with a wide variety of Christian material, with many very good “reads”.

Mary Knight

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Blythswood Care – Shoe Box Appeal 2024

Thank you all for your continued support for the Blythswood Care Shoe Box Appeal over the past year. It has been so encouraging to know that so many of you knitted scarves, hats, gloves, and blankets, collected items for the Boxes, made monetary donations and most importantly prayed for this work.

FVFC was once again the Collection Point for the Shoe Boxes and we are very grateful to Allie and the Deacons for allowing us to use the church premises for this project.

The two Collection Days at the end of October were very happy days meeting folk from other churches and sharing stories of how their churches are supporting the Appeal. It was also good to have Mackenzie to help load the Van with the Boxes!

The final total that we collected at FVFC from this area was as follows: 686 Boxes, 20+ Blankets and over £570 in donations. We exceeded last years total of Boxes!

We hope and pray that we can exceed this years total, so keep knitting and collecting items for the 2025 Appeal and look out for those bargains once again!

Please contact me if you would like to know more about Blythswood Care and The Shoe Box Appeal.

Thank you!

Christine Fairs and Val Wilkins

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Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Summary of Safeguarding Policy Statement

Safeguarding Children, Young People and vulnerable adults at Findon Valley Free Church (Baptist)

Our Vision

The vision statement of Findon Valley Free Church is Love God, love each other, make disciples. In fulfilling this vision, we:

Welcome children and adults at risk into the life of our community

Run activities for children and adults at risk

Make our premises available to organisations working with children and adults at risk

Our Safeguarding Responsibilities

The church recognises its responsibilities in safeguarding all children, young people and adults at risk, regardless of gender, ethnicity or ability.

As members of this church, we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protection and safekeeping of all associated with the church and will pray for them regularly. In pursuit of this, we commit ourselves to this policy and to the development of sound procedures to ensure we implement our policy well.

Prevention and reporting of abuse

It is the duty of each church member to help prevent the abuse of children and adults at risk, and the duty of each church member to respond to concerns about the well-being of children and adults at risk. Any abuse disclosed, discovered or suspected will be reported in accordance with our procedures. The church will fully co-operate with any statutory investigation into any suspected abuse linked with the church.

Safer recruitment, support and supervision of workers

The church will exercise proper care in the selection and appointment of those working with children and adults at risk, whether paid or voluntary. All workers will be provided with appropriate training, support and supervision to promote the safekeeping of children and adults at risk.

Respecting children and adults at risk

The church will adopt a code of behaviour for all who are appointed to work with children and adults at risk so that all children and adults are shown the respect that is due to them.

Safer working practices

The church is committed to providing an environment that is as safe as possible for children and adults at risk and will adopt ways of working with them that promote their safety and well-being.

A safer community

The church is committed to the prevention of bullying. The church will seek to ensure that the behaviour of any individuals who may pose a risk to children, young people and adults at risk in the community of the church is managed appropriately.

Policy and procedures

A copy of the policy statement will be displayed permanently on the noticeboard in the foyer and on the notice board outside the church office.

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