EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
CONTENTS AND CHARJTY INFORMATION
CONTENTS
PAGE
Report of the Trustees
Independent Examinerfs Report
ststement of Financial Activities
Balance Sheet
Statement of Cash Flows
io
Notes to the Accounts
TRUSTEES
Andrew Wade
Eli7abeth Powncy (resigned 30104123)
Sean Fountain
Alan Brand
John Goddard
Fiona Heddle (moderdtor) (resigned 30111123)
Vicky Baker
Sandra Crawford
Benjamin Plallt
Richard Lewis (Treasurer)
Adrian Ward
Binny Jatchander (appointed 23105123)
Paul Smith (appointed 18109123)
David Mayne (appointed 01111123)
COMPANY SECRETARY
Hayley Beckett
RBGIONAL MINISTERS
Elizabeth Powney (resigned 30104123)
Graerne Ross (resigned 10110123)
Claire Blatchford
Gale Richards
David Mayne
REGISTERED OFFICE
2 Buchattsn Gardens
Wi¢kford
SS12 9QB
COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER
4221429
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER
1089795
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER
Ian Shipley FCCA
For and on behalf of:
Prenti8 & Co LLP
Chartered Accountants alld Independent Examiners
115¢ Milton Road
Cambridge, CB4 IXE
BANKERS
CAf Bank Ltd
25 Kings Hill Ave
Kings Hill
West Malling
Kent
ME19 4JQ
Shawbrook
Lutea House
Warley Hill Business Park
Brentwood
Essex
CM13 3BE
Baptist Union Corporation Limited
Baptist House
PO Box 44
129 Broadway
Didcot OXI18RT
Lloyds Bank PIC
13 Cornhill
Ipywich
Suffolk
IPI IDG

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE I
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
The Trustses. (who are also directors of the charity for the puLTroses of the Co]npgnies Act), present their annual
ieport together with the financial statement5 of the charity for the year ending 31 De¢ember 2023 which are also
prepared to meet the requirements for a diroctor5' report and accounts for Compallies Act purposes.
The fmancial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006, the Memorandum and
Articles of Associatson, and Accounting ¥nd Reporting by Charities., Statffiient of RecomrneDded Practice
app]icable to charities preparing their arwunts in accord¥nce with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in
the UK and Repub]ic of Ireland (FRS 102) (Second ¢dition, ¢ff¢ctive l January 2019).
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
The Trustees believe that advanceTnent of the Christian faith, partiwlarly a5 expressed through tbe Baptist
movement, is of public benefAt as it encourages social cohesion, provides an ethical framework for life and works
itself out in the sacrificial giving of flfftds, tirn¢ and effort by church m¢mbers and attenders for the good of their
own community and beyond.
As part of their work and witoess, the Baptist Churches in membership with E￿tern Baptist Association deliver a
wide variety of activities which benefit the general public, These activities include,. -
promoting the study of religious teachings, prnctices, and scriptures
support of religious office holders e.g., mtnistcrs, deacons and elders of member churches.
promoting prayer, praise and provision of training events.
pastoral support to ministers and church congregations.
contributing to the spiritual and moral education of children and young people and the provision of training to
comply with the legal Tequirements regarding safeguarding.
The Mission Statement of the Eastern Baptist Association is..
"Giowing healthy churches in relationship for God's mission in the East of England"
This mission statement ts actively facilitated and fulfilled through eight areas of focus, we realise that each year w¢
do not expect to fully succeed in inLplemonting all eight areas but rather focus on two or tbrge areas eaGh year. The
eight areas of our strate￿ are:
Growing Godly leaders.
Stewarding shared resources.
Enabling relevant trainillg.
Encouraging healthy churches.
Exploring fruitful partnership5.
Sharing inspirational ideas.
Offering apostolic leadcrship.
Advocating transfornLational justice
Below are some specific examples of how in 2023 some of our eight areas of tocus have been achieved:
Diversity, Equality and Justice reJn&ined high on the Association's priority list tbrougbout 2023. Baptists Together
launched a training video series for Ministers titled "l am because you are" this focused on justice issues. AS an
association we took this resource and used it provide opportunities for ministers and leaders to gather and reflect
together on the content of the material. The work amongst female leaders and ministers ha8 continued and groups
have met in person and online to encourdge each other and Pray for one alloth¢r,
The BUEN network that focuses on encouraging churches to ¢ngag¢ with enviromnental issues has ci)ntinued to
meet online througbout the year, it is hoped that in 2024 more churches can encouraged to engage with thes¢ issues.
ACHtEVEMENTS, PERFORMANCE AND DEVELOPMENTS
2023 has been a year of transltion and change, the year started with Revd Gale Richards on sabbatical retumillg in
eaTly March. Revd Beth Powney retired from the team leader position in April. On the second attempt the EBA
appointed a new team leader, this wasn't without challenges and has thrown up questions around tho process of
appointing Regional Ministers, these questions have also occurred in other Baptist Associations and a CTOSS Baptist
group has been fomied to reflect on what this process should be going forward.

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIA TION
PAGE 2
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
The EBA will wait for these reflections before making progress on any changes it ne¢ds to make to the process.
The new team leader started in November. In October Revd Graeme Ross left EBA to return to church mini8ty
and in November Mrs Diane Forsyth Tetired as Safeguarding LeaLL At this time the trustees will not be appointing
any other Regional Ministsrs. At the end of 2023 an advert is live for a new Safeguarding Lead with the hope of an
appointtnent ID early 2024. At the conclusion of 2023 the EBA team ronsisted of Revd David Ma5￿c a5 Te￿ll
Leader, R¢vd Galo Rirhards and Revd Claire Blatcbford as regional ministers. Mrs Juli¢ Eady continue5 as
Finance officer, Mrs Hayley Beckett &8 Association Secretary.
]n septsMb￿ at our AGM Revd Athian Ward wa5 elected to Serve a full terni a5 a trustee following his iDteTiDI
appointsnent earlter on in the year. In November Revd Fiona Heddle resigned as Moderator. Th¢ truste¢5
appointsd Mr Andrew Wade to serve as int¢rim moderator ulltil the next AGM.
The trustee board fmishe4J 2023 as below,
Mr Andrew Wade- Interim Moderdtor
Mr Richard Lewis - Troasurer
Revd Adrian Ward - Finance and Administration,
Revd JoFJn Goddard- Ministy,
Mr ikndrew Wade - Cornrnunication,
Mrs Vicky Baker- Children alld Families and safeguarding trustee
Revd Sean Fountaill- Healthy ChuTch¢s
Revd Alan Brdnd- Justice Trangforn￿tion
Revd SandTa Crawford as a co-opted member (until January 2024)
Mr Benjamin Plant as a co-opted member (until September 2024)
Mr Binny Jaicbander as a co-opted member (until May 2025).
Revd Paul Smith as a co-opted member (until September 2023)
Revd David Mayne (RMTL) as an ex-officio Jnember of council.
The membership of the Association at the end of 2023 was J71 churches. This includes the resignation of
Mundesley Free ChurdL the closure of More21ife church and a successful membethip application of Church @the
Megacentre.
Finance
Th¢ EBA provide two full time and one half time Regional Ministers for the Association despite the continued
baclcdrop uf falling income from the main income source. While tbe EBA would like to provide 3.5 Regional
MinisteTS. the current f￿anCIal sith8tion does not allow it. Resources expended on charitable activities were
£376,914 (2022: £334.195) including governance. £117,137 (2022: £113,694) was awarded in Home Mission
grants.
Princi
al Fundin
Sources
The charity's main Source of incon)e are the payments from the Baptist Union for both Operational Fuuding gnd
Mission Payments which are calculated according to a ￿nding forniula whieh is applied to the total amount
received by the BU for Home Mission fro]n churches. Further income is received from investments, rental income
and preaching fees.
Princi
alEx
enditure
The majority of expenditure is directly related to the provision of from 1.5 to 2.5 Regional Ministers which Louncil
consider the minin]um llceded to service the needs of all EBA churches over such a vast area. Provision includes
amounts to mailltain the propety portfolio to a good standard of repair. The Regional Ministry team is supported
by a Company Secretary for goven)ance issues, and a Finance Officer. We also employed an EBA Safeguarding
Officer for 12 - 15 hours per week until November when she retired. We are not actively seeking a new EBA
Safeguarding Officer.
Loans to churches have now discontinued. The year end amount owed by four churches was £15,291 (2022..
£24,791).

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 3
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
The Ministers Training fund and Lay Ministy Training fund support Bu￿ary application3. In 2023 thirt¢
Bursry grants were awarded worth £4,112. The New mission initiative fund provid¢d one proj¢rt gr8Dt to R￿eW
Wellbeing of £5,000.
Total fimds at the year end incEuding unrestricted, re5trictsd and designated funds were £2,121,474 {2022..
£2,219,707). EBA had a deficit of £98,233 (2022: sU￿lUS £80,311). Total cash held #t the year end is £273,754
(2022: £360,334) for all funds.
Going forward we projert a Gen¢r¥41 fund budg¢t for 2024 witb a deficit of £108,00, which is to say £2,083 every
week. We consider tbis n¢Gessary and appToprÉ3te to 5UPPQrt the work of the Association and in funding in
particular two and a half Region81 Ministor5. W¢ projeGt and support similar annual deficits in subsequent years
but recognise that this use of reserves to cover ongoing shortfalls has the following implications, Reserves spent in
this way cannot then b¢ us¢d to fund other adivities and projects now or in the future. In the long tern] it can take
many years to rebuild reserves, again reducing futUTe possibilities and unless the funding structure for Associations
is significantly revise& or other income 8treams can be developed, at the level of expenditure non-capital assets
rescrves available for ongoing deficits and not requir¢d foT other PUTposes will be gxhausted by the end of 2025.
Fund Raisin
The Charity does not actively fundraise but does receive from time-to-time u]L801irited gifts and donations from the
general publiG. The Trustees do not employ professional or outside agellcies to fithise on its behalf and as such
does not ronsider it necessary to be part of a voluntary scbeme or standaTd. Following a change in BU guidelin¢s,
EBA 15 exploring ways to raise fLmds specifically for our own purposes.
Matters
The Cornpany Secretary and the Treasurer together with the Finauce and Administration Task Group oversee the
prop¢rty portfolio for the EBA. The Thetford house continues as the RM n)anse for area I, which is let out. The
Wickford PToperty (Buchanan Gardens) is the RM manse for area 3. The RM n)anse in Earls Colne, under the
ternls of the fI[￿lce arrangement for associations the BU are giving the EBA a supporting manse allowan¢¢ of
£1,693 (2022.. £1,551) per month. Tho supporting rent allowance is now at market rats. This Earls Co]ne mange
wo are seeking to sell to help fund the puwhase of a new manse in Shoeburyness.
A new build propety at Firethorn Cour¢ Ely was pur¢h&sed at a cost of £395K to accommodate the new part time
RM. Cash reserY¢s were used to support this purchase. The Melville Drive propety tenancy ceased in August
2022 and this propety was p]anned to be sold to offset the Ely PUTchase. However, market fluctuations, caused us
to re-rent it out from January 2023 to generate income to support rninisty and governance costs. This manse
continu¢s to be let OUL though with the intention to sell if and when finances require it. For our new RMTL, we are
seeking to buy a new nianse ill Sboeburyness, funded by the sale of the Earls CoJn¢ manse. Lastly, the EBA is
expect¢d to receive a part share in a forniey cburch manse ill Harold Hill, pending completion of the leEal processes.
The location and expected part ownership of this m&nse makes it unsuitable for EBA pury)oses and there is an
expectation to sell it soon as practical. Moving forward, all properties continue to be reviewed annually io maintain
the five-year plan for routine maintenance and planned refurbisbment of the five EBA properties.
Governance
At the start of 2023 the Charity Risk Assessment was reviewed, tbe section added which relates to the pandemic
was updated but remains as part of the assessment.
Ministerial Su
ort
The minister's conference was held in March at High Leigh Conference Centre. Our guest speaker Revd Ken
Benjamin from the London Centre for Contemporary Christianity (LICC) leading the sessions. The conference also
provides opportunity for worship, prayer and networking. The Regional Ministers make it a priority to keep in
contact with ministers from across the association via phone call, zoom calls and where possible in person. Jn
addition, the regional team offer preaching engagements and also provided a number of pre-recoided services on
our YouTube channel for churches to make use of plus extra resources at Easter.
Within EBA therc are a number of ministers who work in chaplaillcy roles within healthcare, education, the arn]ed
forces, th¢ workplace and prisoJs, over the course of 2023 we have developed a new network of people in these
ministy situations for mutual support. We also aim to offer an in-person session at the minister's conference 2024.

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 4
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEARENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
In addition we also have 8evoral ministers working outside of traditional church in moro pioneering ways and the
team are looking at the ways in which w¢ support and connect these with us and with each other.
Aibnini5tration and Ci)mmuniration
The Association uses a v￿lety methods of electronic communication rnothods, including a weekly PTayeT focus sent
out by email, a Mailchimp rnonthty bull¢tin, up until October the association also prnduced a weekty thought due
to capacity this was ended ill October. We also have a presence on Facebook as both a pag¢ and a community
oup which facilitates ¢hurch¢s sharing events with other Churches. It was hoped that in 2023 the w¢b8it¢ could be
updated but due to a number of contrli )uting factors this has been d¢layed and will be looked at again 2024.
Church Su
ort
The association continues to support ¢huTthes when looking for a new minister and support churches who are not in
a fn]ancial position to have a rninistsr. The association also provides support for chwches in developing policAes
that chwcbes, as 'excepted charities, are required to have. 2023 has secn a slight inGreose in Ghurches facing
financial difficulties and the team support the church leaders in making difficult deci510ns,
The association continues to Work alongside the national Baptist Union in the recognition of people displaying
gkills and calling to take on the role of Minister.
During 2023 the committee met with 13 candidates. two of whom were recoJ)n]ended onto training at college, eight
were atfmed as a Nationally Recognised ministsrs now renamed as Recogllised Local Ministers, one went forward
to the national residential selection conference, one who was seeking Baptist recognition as a preacher having
served a8 a Methodist lay preacher and one who was seeking a transfer of their accreditation from ov¢rsea8
Baptigt Union.
The Home MAssion grants commAttee considered applications from nine churthes and six special ministries. Each
application is considered on its own merit and if successful grants are awarded measured by an active mission
action plan. The grdnts conmiittee submitted its recommendations to the trustees and awarded grants to eight of the
nine churches and all six of the special ministries these recommendations were agreed. The giving by churthes to
Home Mission (the Baptist Family national appeal) is decreasing Ye￿ on year and this will eff￿t the ability of the
EBA to give grants to churches. The Iwstees conlmissioned a report into the resilience and sustainability of Home
Mission Grants, the report was received, and recommendations rnade to the trustees for consideration. In
November the tswstees initially accepted thr¢e of the reconynendations which will lead onto a new way of offering
grants. During early 2024 this will be worked on and launched in the thture.
The Association recognises that churchcs look outside of their local area and often to other parts of tho worm to
support organisations and individuals working with people or groups in other countries.
Ecumenical
The regional staff continue to relate to ecumenical strnctures in the region within the counties where they are based.
Revd Gale Richards was appointed chair of Cambridgeshire Churches Together and was an ecumenical caDnon at
Ely Cathedral. Further Ecumenical work is supported by Denominational officers in the coullties. This work is
P8rticularly important where Baptists are parts]er5.
Risk Assess]nent
An annual risk assessment continues to t￿e place in the areas required by the Charity Commission. This ig
completed at the beginning of each year.
Serious Incidents
There are no serious incidents that the Regional Ministerslcouncil are aware of that require reporting. There have
been no significant events affecting the Association's f]noncial position since the end of the year. The trnstees are
aware of the current f￿anCIal position and are taking steps to discuss and implement ways foThvard. There are no
commitments or guarantees Tequiring disclosure.

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIA TION
PAGE 5
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEARENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND fvLANAG.EMENT
Governhng Document
Eastem Baptist Association is a company lllnited by guaTantee with charitable status whith is governed by a
Memoralldum and Articles of Association.
Appolntment ol Truste￿ (also known as CounLfit members)
The following revis¢d process for appointing Council members agreed at the EBA Assen]bEy ill June 2008:
Council will include the leaders of up to 10 Task Groups witb the following remits OT such aktsrnative or
additsonal remits as shall be determined by Council from tirne to tirne:
Administration
Missioll Strategy
Finance
World Mission
Ministry
Young People
Mission Re8ourcing/Social Action
Nommations for leaders of the Task Groups will be sought from the memb¢r Chu￿he5 of the Association.
A Nominating Group appointed by the Council will nominate a leader for each Task OTOUP and will
present the names of the nominees to the member Churches for appointtnent at the Association's Anllual
General Meeting. Any person thus appointed as a Task Group leader will be oligible for re-appointment
unless that person has, inlln¢diately before such re-appointsnent, a]r¢ady sorvod three consecutive periods
of office.
2. The appointment of Task Group leaders will take effect for a terni which expires at the third Annual
General Meeting following their appointment. However, two of the Task Group leaders appointed by
Tnember Churches for the r￿St time will be appointed for two years, tbree for tl)ree years and two for four
yeaTS.
3. The Council will be entitled to fill any vacanLy for a Task Group leader which occurs during a ternL of
appointmenL A person filling that vacallcy will seTve until the next Annual General Meeting of the
Association.
4. Council will include the Moderator and Treasurer of the Association who will be appointed by a majority
vots at a GgneTal Meeting of the Association following nomination by the Council.
Trustee induction and training
The Trustces s¢ek to ensure that procedur¢s ar¢ in pla¢¢ for Trustec induction and training by ref¢rence to guidance
published by the Ch￿lty Commission,
Organi5ational Structure
The ch￿lty ha5 a Council who meet a minimum of four times a year and are responsible for its strategic direction
and policy. Regional millisters are appointed by thc TTUStee8 to rnanage th¢ day-to-day operatlolls of the charity.
Risk Management
Ill ling with the requiremellts of the Charity Commission a risk assessment has been undertaken. A Charity Risk
Assessm¢nt 18 undertaken in October each year, and a report subniitted to Council. There were no issues arising.

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 6
ACCOUNTS FOR THB YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
REPORI, OF THB TRUSTEES
STATEMENf OF TRUSTEES, IiESPONSIBILITIES
Th¢ TrL￿e¢S (who are a]so directors of Eastern Baptist Associatlon for the purposes of ci)mpany law) are
responsible for pr¢paTing tho TA￿te¢s, Report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law and Unltsd
Kingdom Accounting Stalldards (Unitsd Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practic¢).
Company law and charity law require the Thiste¢s to prepa￿ aGGounts for each fjnanctal ycaT which gRv¢ a true and
fair vi¥w of the stat¢ of affairs of the Gbaritsble Qompany and of the surplus or deficit of tho thaTitable company for
that perioLt
In preparlns those accounts, the Trnst¢¢s are required to..
(i) Select suitsblo a¢¢ounting policies and apply them collsistently?
(ii) Obsorve the m¢thods and Principles of th¢ Chatitics SORP.
(iii) Make judgements and ¢stimates that are r¢asonabl¢ alld prudent.
(iv) Stst¢ whether applicable UK accounting sttKndards have b¢¢n followod, subject to ally material departures
disclosed attd oxplained in the fthanGial statements.
(v) Prepare the accounts on tbe gofng wncern basls unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will
continue In oper84tlon.
The Tntst¢¢s are responsible for ke¢ping adequato a￿OUntIng records that di8¢lose with re&8onable accur&cy ttt any
time, Ibo finanrial position of the ¢haritabl¢ company and enable them to ensur¢ that th¢ accounts comply with the
Compallie8 Act 2006. They ￿¢ also responsible tor safeguarding the assets of the charitable ¢ompany w]d h6n¢e for
tsktng reasonable steps for the prevention and detsction of fraud and other irregularities.
'this report was approved by the Board of Trust¢¢s and signed on its behalf.
Rlchard LewAS
Trustee
14-

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 7
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
INDEPENDENT EXAI￿INER's REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the S￿t￿ellt of
FinanGial A¢tivitie5, the Balance SheeL the Statemellt of Cash Flows and the related notes.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND BASIS OF REPORT
As the Trustees of the charlty (and also its directors for the puryose of company law) you aTe responsil)le
for tho preparation of the accounts in arrordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('tbo 2006 ACV).
Having been satisfied that tho acwunts of the charity are not requir¢d to be audited under Pt,16 of the 2006 Act
and aTe eligible for independent examinatio￿ I report in re8p¢ct of my examination of your charity's accounts as
carried out Under s,145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the'2011 Ace). In carying out my examination I have followed
the Directions given by the Charity Commission under s.145(5)(b) of the 2011 ACL
rNDEPENDENT EXAM. INER'S REPORT
Since th¢ chaTity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner rnust be a member of a body listed m $.145
of the 2011 Act. I confirni that l am qualifjed to undertake the examination because I am a member of the
Association of Chartcred Certified Accountants which is one of the listed bodies.
I have cornpleted my examination. I confirm that no rnatteTS have come to my attenti4)n in connection with the
examination giving me cause to b¢lieve.'
(l) accounting records were not kept in Tespect of the charty as required by $.386 of the 2006 AGt'
(2) the accounts do not accord with those aG¢ounting records.,
(3) the acGouDts do not comply with the accounting requirements of s.396 of the 2006 other than any
requirement that the accounts give a YTue and faiT' view which is not a matter considered as part of an
independent examination. or
(4) the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the method8 and principles of the Statement of
Recommended practice for accounting and reporting by GhaTities (applicable to charities preparing
their accounts in accordance with. the F-inancial Reporknng Standard applicable in the UK ond Republic
of Ireland (FRS 102)).
I have no Concerns and have come ￿rosS no other matters in Connection with the exarnination to which attention
should be Ib7wn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to b¢ rea¢bed.
IAN SHIPLEY FCCA
FOR AND ON B.EHALF OF.,
PRENTIS & CO LLP
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS &
INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS
115c Milton Road
Cambridge
CB4 IXE

BASTEiiN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 9
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YBAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
BALANCE SHEEr
2023
2022
Not¢g
FIXED ASSBTS
Tanglble fixed assets
Inveytsnents
1,460,120
380,204
1,470.120
380,204
TOTAL FIXED ASSETS
,840,324
,850,324
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
Cash at bank alld ill hand
20,316
273,754
27,731
360.334
TOTAL CURREKf ASSETS
294,070
388,065
LIABILITIES
Creditor5: amounts falling due
wIthiD one year
io
12,920
18,682
NET CURREvf ASSETS
281,150
369,383
NET ASSETS
2,121,474
2,219,707
ThE FUNDS OF THE CHARITY
Unrestrided Income Funds
Design*ed Income Funds
Restrlctod In¢ome Funds
1.955,324
57,666
108,484
2,015,442
62.666
141,599
12
TOTAL CHAKtTY FUNDS
2,121,474
2,219,707
ITh¢ trusteees consAder that th¢ ¢haritabl¢ wmpally is entitled to exemption from the requirement to have an audit under th¢
provisiolls ofsection 477(1) of tha Companies Act 2006. Members hava not requlred the charitable CoMp￿Y under Section
476 of the Compon1￿ Aot 2006, to obtsin audit for the year ended 31 December 2023. The dire¢tors acknowl¢dge their
ITSPDll5ibilities for ensuring t1￿1 the oharitabl¢ company keeps accoLmthg record8 which ¢omply with S¢otioll 386 and 387
of the Companics Act 2006 and for preparing fjnaucial statements whiob give a t￿£ and fair view of tb¢ state oEaffairs of
the clwrltable compally as at 31 December 2023 and of its deficit for the year then ended in ac¢ordance with the
reqllirements of Section 396 and which otbenvlge Comply with the requirements of the Act rolating to the fitsauoial
ststen]¢nts as faT as applicable to th¢ charitable cornpany,
The financial 8tatemeDts, which have been prepared in 8CCOTdance witll the special provisions ￿latillg to compallies
subject to the small companies regim¢ within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006, were approved by the board on
201
and signed on it behAI£.
Richard Lewis
Th￿tee
The nots$ on pag¢s I I to 21 form part of these fJnattGial stthm¢nts.

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCJATION
PAGE 10
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR EJIDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
2023
2022
Notes
CASH FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net cash used in operating actRviti45
16
(138,921)
11,836
Cash floiys from Investlng aetlvttles
Dividends, interest and rents
Purchase of fixed asset
52,341
34,729
(355,500)
Net cash provlded by investing activities
52,341
(320,771)
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
(86,580) (308,935)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the yea[
360,334
669,269
Cash and cash equivalen15 at the end of the year
273,754
360,334

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGEII
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
ACCOUNTtKG POLICIES
BASIS OF PREPARATION OF ACCOUNTS
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at
cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notes to these financial statements. The
fmancial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Rccommended Practice
(SORP) "Accouuting and Reporting by Charities" prep&ring their accounts in accordance with the
Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of freland (FRS 102) Second editio
Issued October 2019, the Charities Act 201 I The Companies Act 2006. The financial statements
have been prepared on a going concern bas1S.
(a)
The Trustees are of the viow that they hold sufficient liquid assets to meet operating costs in the medium
tern]. Thg principle uncertainties are the future upkcep ¢osts of the properties.
The charity constitutes a public benefit as defmed by FRS 102.
The accoullts are presented tn sterling, the Gharity's functional currenGy.
(b)
FUND ACCOUNTING
Ullre8tricted Funds
are avatlable for use at the discretion of the Council of the Association ill
furtherance of the objectives of the Association
are funds set aside by tbe Association in order to undertake specific projects,
or equalise allticipated major expenditure on maintenance of fixed assets in
future years.
are monies subject to regulation by the donors of the funds as to their use.
Designated Funds
Restricted Fund5
COME
]n¢ome is recognised in the year in which the charity As entitled to the r¢ceÈpt, and the amount can be
meiisured with reasonable certainty. InGorn¢ is only defcrred when the charty has to fulfil condition8
bcfoTe becorning entitled to it Dr where the donor has specified tbat the income is to be expended in
a fvture year.
(d)
EXPENDITURE
Expenditure is included on an acmls basis at the time a liability is inGUTTed. VA T is r¢port¢d as part
of the expenditure to which it relates.
(e)
OPERATING LEASES
Rentals applicable to operating lea8es where substantially all of the benefits and risks of ownership
rcmain with the lessor, are chaTged against Ancorne as Incu￿¢d.
(fj
OPERATING PROPERTIES
The Trustees recognise 4 properties as operating properties. They have been initially recognised
at cost aud the building proportion is depreciated over l 00 years.
INVESTMENT PROPERIY
The trustees recognise propcty 40 Melville Drive as an invesknent propety. This is revalued on a
yearly basis using a third party source. The difference between the properties value at the yeaT end
is adjusted througb the statement of fJnaDcial activities.

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 12
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
DEPRECIATION
Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed &ssets at rates c￿cUlated to wrAte off the cost less estimated
residual value of ¢ath asset over its expected usefill life as follows:
@)
Office and computer equipment
Operating property
200/0 straight line basis
20/0 on propety Gosts only
The charity has a policy to writ¢ off any capital items which Gost l¢ss than £500 in the yeaT iD which the
expense is incurred.
(i)
DEBTORS
Debtors aTe iecognised at the settlement amount due after any discount offered.
Prepayments valued at the amount pr¢paid net of any trade discounts thle.
(i)
CREDITORS
Cr¢ditors and provision8 are Tecognised where the chaTity has a Present obligation resulting from a past
event that WAII probably result in the transfer of funds to a third paty and the amount due to settle the
obligation can be measured OT estin￿ted reliably. Creditors and provisions are Jonllally recognised at
their settlement amount atter a]lowing any trade discounts due.
The pension scheme was bought out in the year ended 31 December 2023. Therefore no pension
provision has arisen in the year.
GRANTS AND DONATIONS - CURRENT YEAR
2023
Total
Fullds
Unrestricted Dgsignated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Baptist Union Grants
Other grants and donations
Preaching fees and expenses
Ministers Conference
Training courses
98,349
3,550
6,393
11,350
14,350
90,783
1,565
189,132
5,115
6,393
11,350
14,350
133,992
92,348
226,340
GRANfs AND DONATIONS - PRIOR YEAR
2022
Total
Fuuds
Unrestrictsd Designat
Funds
FLLnds
Restricted
Fullds
Baptist Union Grants
Other grants and donations
Preaching fees and expenses
MinistsTS Confor¢n¢e
Training courses
140,147
71,726
9,307
9,840
9,830
129.367
9,528
32
269,514
81,254
9,339
9,840
9,830
240,850
138,927
379,777

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 13
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
INVESTMEKr rNCOME. CURRENT YEAR
2023
Total
Fund5
Unrestricted Desi￿ated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Bank interest
Baptist Insurance Company
Propety rental
11,422
801
40,118
11,422
801
40,118
52,341
52.341
INVESTMENT INCOME. PRIOR YEAR
2022
Total
Funds
Unrestricted Dosignated
Funds
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Bank interest
Baptist Insurance Company
Propety rental
6,566
801
27,362
6,566
801
27,362
34,729
34,729

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 14
ACCOUKFS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
CHARITABLE ACTtVITIES . CURRENT YEAR
2023
Totsl
Funds
Unrestricted Designated R¢strirted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Ministy
employrnent costs
expenses
Baptist deficit pension adjustment
Safeguarding OfficeT
Safeguarding officer expenses
Manse regular expenses
One off Manse expenses
Manse rental
Manse repairs/serviceslrental
Mission
Establishn]ent
MiDiStern conf¢rence
Other expenditure
EBA Assembly
Depreciation
101,723
18,293
(12)
7,8l6
1,198
11,176
8,640
3,984
7,319
6,926
17,694
14,580
3,999
442
10,000
101,723
18,293
(12)
7.816
1,198
11,176
8,640
3,984
7,319
129,563
17,694
14,860
10,320
442
10,000
5,000
117,637
280
6,321
213,778
5,000
124,238
343,016
Support Costs
2023
Total
Funds
Ullrestrictsd Desi￿ated Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
CoMp￿Y secretary's salary
Company 5ecretaryHs expenses
Independent examiner's fe08
Legal and statutory payments
24,503
4,614
1,886
2,895
24,503
4,614
1,886
2,895
33,898
33,898
Total Charitable Activities
247,676
5,000
124,238
376,914

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 15
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES - PIUOR YEAR
2022
Total
Funds
UrLrestricted Designatsd Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Ministy
employmont costs
expenses
Baptist deficit pension adjustsnent
Safeguarding Officer
Safcguuding Officer expenses
Manso regular expenses
One off Manse expenses
Manse rental
Manse repairslserviceslrental
Mission
Establis]llllent
Ministers confeTence
Other expenditure
EBA Assembly
Youth expenses
Depreciation
119,387
23,488
(55,392)
5,807
317
9,343
9,717
2,670
3.095
7,409
15,627
12,102
3,702
437
204
7,630
119,387
23,488
(55,392)
5,807
317
9,343
9,717
2,670
3,095
138,002
15,627
12,102
11,099
437
204
7,630
12,144
118,449
7,397
Support Costs
165,543
12,144
125,846
303,533
2022
Total
Funds
Unrestricted Designated
Funds
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Company 5ecretatys salary
Company secretatys expenses
Independent ex8miner's fees
Legal and statutory payments
22,374
2,998
1,770
3,520
22,374
2,998
1,770
3,520
Total Charitable Activitie8
30,662
30,662
196,205
12,144
125,846
334,195
TRUSTEE AND STAFF REMIJNERATION
The staff costs were:
T￿￿te¢S (Regional Millisters) and support staff
Salaries
Social security costs
Pension costs
2023
2022
117,488
4,716
11,826
128,109
6,238
13,220
134,030
147,567
Average weekly number of staff employed during th¢ year..
Full time
Part tirne
David Ma￿]e is a Regional Minister and also a trustee of the Association.
Clare Blatchford and Gale Riclwds are Regional Ministers and not Trustees.

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 16
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YBAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
TRUSTEE AND STAFF REMUNERATION continued
No member of staff received remuneration of Jnore than £60,000 duTing the year.
Four regional Ministers live in propertios wholly owned by the Association. The Baptist Union pays market
rent to the Association to cover the Station Road Manse.
Expenses totalli-ng £4,028 (2022: £7.566) were reimburged to the Trustee5 (regional Ministers and other
Trustees.
Th¢ Trust¢¢s consider they are the key management and the Regional Ministers are remunerated. The total
cotnpensation received by key management including benefits is £39,308 (2022: £36,703).
NET INCOME FOR THE YEAR
2023
2022
Net income for the year 15 Stated aftor tharging,.
Indepcndfflt examinevs fees
1,886
1,770
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS - CURRENT YEAR
oirice and
computer
equipment
Opernting
PTOPgrty
Total
COST
Balance at l January 2023
Disposal
3,779 1,499,950
(3,779)
1,503,729
(3,779)
Balance at 31 December 2023
1,499,950 1,499,950
DEPRECIA TION
Balance at l January 2023
Depreciation charge
Bliminated depreciation
3,779
29,830
10,000
33,609
10,000
(3,779)
(3,779)
Balance at 31 December 2023
39,830
39,830
NET BOOK VALUE at 3 l Decernber 2023
1,460,120
1,460,120
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS - PRIOR YBAR
Office and
computer
equipment
OpcTating
properly
Total
COST
Balance at l January 2022
Additions
3,779 1,144,450 1,148,229
355,500
355,500
Balance at 31 Decellther 2022
3,779 1,499,950 1,503,729
DEPRECIATJON
Balance at l January 2022
Dcpreciation charge
3,779
22,200
7,630
25,979
7,630
Balance at 31 December 2022
3,779
29.830
33,609
NET BOOK VALUE at 31 December 2022
1,470,120
1,470,120

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 17
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
Book Value Book Value
asat
as4t
3111212023 3111212022
OPERATING PROPERTY NET BOOK VALUE
46 Churchill Roa4 Thetford
2 Buchanan Gardens, Wickford
17 Station Road
16 Fir¢thorn Cowt
241,720
345,100
481,400
391,900
243,150
347.480
484,720
394,770
1.460,120
1,470.120
INVESTMENTS . CURRENT YEAR
Freehold
Property
Unlisted
investment
Total
Market valu¢ at l Jalwary 2023
377,000
3.204
380204
Market value at 31 Deo¢mber 2023
377,000
3,204
380204
INVESTMENTS . PRIOR YEAR
Freehold
Property
Unlisted
investment
Total
Market value at l January 2022
377,000
3,204
380204
Market value at 31 December 2022
377,000
3,204
380,204
Unlisted invest￿ellt
2023
2022
Baptist Insurance Company shares
LA)8n fund
General fund
801
2.403
801
2,403
3,204
3,204
DEBTORS.. Due within one year
2023
2022
Loans to Churchgs
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments
15291
420
2,920
1,685
24,791
420
2,520
20,316
27,731
io
CREDITORS: Due within one year
2023
2022
Trdde payables
Accruals
Deferred income
1,572
1,560
15,550
1,730
11,190
12,920
18,682

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 18
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
ii.
DESIGNATED FUNDS
. CURRENT YEAR
Brought
forward
Carried
Income Expenditure
Movement
Transfers
Mission
62,666
(5,000)
(5,000)
57,666
62,666
{5,000)
(5,000)
57,666
DESIGNATED FUNDS
. PIUOR YEAR
Br()ught
forward
Carried
forward
Income ExpenditUT
MoveD]ent
Transfers
Pension Reserve Fund
Pion¢¢r
Mission
200,003
5,000
67,892
(200,003)
(5,000)
6,918
(12,144) (12,144)
62,666
272,895
(12,144) (12,144)
(198,085)
62,666
12.
RESTRICTED FUNDS
Brought
forward
Carried
forward
Income Expenditure
Movement
TTaDs£ers
Home Mission Fund
Southminster FuDd
Lay Ministry Fund
Ministers, Benevolent Fund
Ministers Training Fund
83,491
39.143
9,425
3,451
6,089
90,783
345
(117,637) (26,854)
(1,169)
(824)
(765)
(765)
(1,116)
104
(3,551)
(3,551)
(1,050)
55,587
38,319
8,660
3,380
2,538
J,220
(175)
141,599
92.348
(124,238) (31,890)
(1,225)
108,484
RESTIUCTED FUNDS
- PRIOR YEAR
Brought
fonvard
Carried
forward
IllWn￿ Expenditure Movom¢nt
Transfcrs
Home Mission Fund
Southrninster Fund
Lay Ministy Fund
Ministers, Benevolent Fund
Ministers Trnining Fund
61,457
51,600
1,654
3,566
9,782
137,229
284
(115,195)
(5,100)
22,034
(4,816)
83,491
39,143
9,425
3,451
6,089
(7,641)
7,77]
460
(131)
1,414
(1,989)
(3,562)
(575)
(3,562)
128,059
138,927
(125,846)
13,081
459
141,599

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 19
ACCOtJNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
12,
DESCRIPTION OF RESIRICTED FUNDS
Home Mission Fund - support grants to EBA churches or to special ministries
Soutbminster Fund - traitjing for mclltQTS of n¢wly accredited millisters, gatherings for leaders of small
churches.
Lay MiniBtry Training - training and support for non-ministerial leaders.
Ministers Benevolent Fund - support for chwch pastors wheT¢ f￿ancIal need arises.
Ministers Training Fund- combined Accredited Ministsrs Fund Bursary Fund in 2016.
13.
ANALYSIS OF KET ASSETS
. CURRENT YEAR
Unrestrithd Designatsd Restrictrd
Funds
Funds
Funds
Total
Funds
Tangible fixed 93sets
Investments
Nct current assets
1,460,120
379,403
115,801
1,460,120
380.204
281,150
801
56,865
108,484
1,955.324
57,666
108,484 2,121,474
ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS
. PIUOR YEAR
Unrestricted Designated Restrictsd
Funds
Funds
Funds
Total
Funds
Tangible fixod assets
Invesl]ncnts
Net current ￿set5
1,470.120
379,403
165,919
1,470,120
380,204
369,383
801
61,865
141,599
2,015,442
62,666
I41,599 2,219,707
14.
LIABILITY OF THE MEMBERS
The Association is limited by guarantee. In the event of the Association being wound up, the
liability of the members is limited to £10.
15.
RELATED PARTIES
During the ycaT ther¢ were no Telated paty transactions.
16.
RECONCILIATION OF NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS TO NET CASH FLOW FROM
OPERATtNG ACTIVITIES
2023
2022
Net income for the reporting p￿10d as per SOFA
Adjustments foT:
Dividends, interest and rents from inveslments
Depreciation
De¢r¢￿e in debtors
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
Increasel(decrease) in pension provision
(98,233)
80,311
(52,341)
10,000
7,415
(5,762)
(34,729)
7,630
6,560
15,464
(63,400)
Net &8sh used in operating actAVlties
(138,921)
11,836

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCLITION
PAGE 20
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
17.
PENSION SCHEME
The Charity is an etnployer participating in a pension scheme known as the Baptlst Pension Scheme ("tbe
scheme"), which is a separate l¢gal entity athnlnistered by the Pension Trustee (Baptist Pension Trust Limited).
The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the employer and the other p￿Acr@&t1llg employers.
The scheme, previousty kn0V￿ as the Baptlst Ministers, Pension Fun¢ 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
th¢ Defin¢d Benefit (DB) Plan a pension of one eightieth of final pensionable i￿ome for each year of
pensionable service together with additional pen510n in respect of premiurns paid on pensionable income in
excess of minimurn pensionable inc0￿e.
FroJD January 2012, pension provision is being made through the Defmed Contriliution (DC) plan within the
scheme. In gelleraL mernbers pay 8 % of their pensionable income and employers pay 6 % of members,
pensionable income into individual pension accounts. which are operated and managd on behalf of the
Pension Trustse by Broadstone Corporate Benefits Ltd. In addition, the employer pays a furtber 4Yo of
pensionable income to cover Death in Service Benefits, administration costs, and an associated insurdnce
policy which wovides illcome proteGtion for scheme membeJ3 if they are unablo to work due to long-tcrni
incapacity. This income protsction policy has been insured by the Baptist Ullion of Great Britain with Aviva
Linited. (Memb6r5 of the Basic Section pay reduced contributions of 50/0 of pensionablc income, and their
employers also pay a total of 50/0).
The scheme is considered to be a multi-employeT scheme as descriTred in Section 28 of FRS 102. Because it
is not possible to attributs the scheme's assets and liabilities to specific employer5, the scheme is accounted
for &5 if the scheme was a defined contribution scheme.
The Ministers are eligible to join the scheme.
Actuarial valuatfton as at 31 De¢ember 2019
A fornial valuation of the DB plan as at 31 December 2019 was C￿rIed out by a professionally qualified actuary
Using the PTojected unit method. At the valuation date the market value of the DB plan assets was £298 rnillion,
whilst the level of assets needed to pay benefits was £316 million, giving a deficit of £18 million (equivalent to
a past service fL￿dIng level of 94 %). The Charity and the other participating employers in the DB plall are
collectÈvety responsiblo for funding this deficit,
The key financial assumptii)DS underlying the valuation were as follows:
Type of assumption
RPI pri¢¢ inflation assumption
CPI price infiation ￿sumPtion
Minimum pensionable income increase adjustment (above CPI)
Pre-retirement asslllned investment retL￿lls (gilt yield plus 1.750/0 pa)
Post retirement assumed invesknent retums (including benefits matcbed by the insurance policy)
(gilt yield plus 0.5 pa)
Millimum pensionable incorn¢ inGrea5es (CPI plus 0.5 %
Deferred pension increases (based on RPI)
Pre ApTiI 2009
Post April 2009
Pension increases
Based on CPI with an annual floor of OYO and annual cap of 5¥0
Yo p.a.
3.20
2.70
0.50
2.95
1.70
3.20
3.20
2.50
2.70

EASTERN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
PAGE 21
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS
17.
PENSION SCHEME- continued
Mort￿lty is assumed in accordance with 800/0 of the S3NA standard mortality table. Future improvements
projected from 2013 in line with the "CM12019 projection with a long-tern] rate of improvement of1.750/0 P.
for males and 1.50/¢ p.a. for f¢rnal¢s with the corc sn]oothing pardmeter and with additional initial mortality
improvernent factor A-0.50/0.
The next actuarial valuation of the DB plan within the sohejne is due to take pl&ce not later as at 31
December 2022.
Recovery Pl&n
In addition to the contributions to the DC plan set out above, where a valuation of the DB plan reveals a deficit
th¢ Trustee and the Council a￿¢ to a rate of deficiency contributions from churches and other employers
involved in the DB plan. Following the 2019 valuation a recovery plall was signed in Septsnther 2020 ￿der
which deficiency contributions are payable until June 2026. These contributions were bro&dly b&8ed on each
employeT'S n]embership at 3 1 December 2014 and increase annually in line with increasEs to rniniDJum
pensionable income as defmed in the Rules.
On 30 June 2022 the Baptist Pension Scheme signed an agreement with the insurdnce company Just Group
("Just") to secure DP plan members, pension benofits, Just are now PToviding fll]ancial backing for all pensions
providgd through the scheme's DB plan and following thig transaction, the scheme no longer has a shortfall.
An updated recovery plan was thon signed in August 2022 under which Tecovery contributions trom each
participating employer in the DB plan reduced to £1 per Month from August 2022.