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← Central Baptist Association

2024-12-31-accounts

Company Registration number: 04319194 (England and Wales) Charity Registration number: 1090606

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

MHA The Pinnacle 150 Midsummer Boulevard Milton Keynes Buckinghamshire MK9 1LZ

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

CONTENTS

Page
Legal and Administrative Information 2
Trustees' Report (Including Directors' Report) 3 - 6
Auditor's Report 7 - 9
Statement of Financial Activities - Current Financial Year 10
Statement of Financial Activities - Prior Financial Year 11
Statement of Financial Position 12
Statement of Cash Flows 13
Notes to the Financial Statements 14 - 24
The following pages do not form part of the statutory financial statements:
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 25 - 26

Page 1

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees Reverend M C Hider Moderator of the Trustees
Reverend L K Kerry Regional Ministry Team Leader
Reverend S J Carver Resigned 29 June 2024
Reverend T S Edworthy
Mr R D Farrant
Reverend D G Graham
Mrs B Griffiths
Reverend T L Haines
Mr F W Johnston
Mrs S M O'Shea
Mrs H A Taylor
Mr P E Walls
Reverend A M Wood
Company Secretary Reverend A J Openshaw
Regional Ministry Team Reverend L K Kerry Regional Ministry Team Leader
Reverend M Moody Regional Minister
Reverend A J Openshaw Regional Minister
Reverend N P Toseland Regional Minister
Charity number 1090606
Company number 4319194
Registered Office The Pinnacle
150 Midsummer Boulevard
Milton Keynes
Buckinghamshire
MK9 1LZ
Auditor MHA
The Pinnacle
150 Midsummer Boulevard
Milton Keynes
Buckinghamshire
MK9 1LZ

Page 2

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The trustees, who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their Annual Report and Financial Statements of the charitable company for the year ended 31 December 2024.

The Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with the provisions of "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice" applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2019)".

FINANCIAL REVIEW

During the year the overall funds of the Association increased by £308,444 (2023: £82,108). This includes net proceeds from the sale of redundant member church property amounting to £434,937 (2023: £226,466). Without these property sales the Association's funds would have decreased over the year by £126,493 (2023: £144,358).

At the end of the year, unrestricted reserves totalled £3,197,935 (2023: £2,902,552); restricted reserves totalled £287,887 (2023: £274,826); and endowment reserves totalled £105,315 (2023: £105,315).

Donations and legacies amounting to £240,683 (2023: £221,368) were received during the year. Member churches were supported by way of grants and loans during the year totalling £156,667 (2023: £131,046).

The Investment value gained £40,212 (2023: £38,202) during the year. The trustees consider this to be in line with objectives and expectations.

Reserves Policy and Risk Management

Projections indicate that, excluding receipts of proceeds from sales of redundant member church property, which it is not possible to forecast, the Association will be running at an annual deficit of the order of £250,000 for the foreseeable future.

Under these circumstances the trustees feel it is prudent to retain significant levels of reserves.

The trustees have considered the risks to which the charity is exposed given the anticipated operating annual deficit above and consider that the charity has sufficient reserves to mitigate these risks. The Association continues to aim to generate funds at a similar level to previous years, whilst acknowledging that receipts of proceeds from sales of redundant member church property are unpredictable. The Trustees will monitor the level of income as it arises in future years and respond appropriately.

Investment policy and objectives

The Association has adopted an investment policy designed to maximise annual capital growth whilst allowing relatively flexible access to funds, using stable and low risk institutions. Investments are held with CAF Bank, with the Baptist Union Corporation, and with a national investment house. All funds are administered under ethical investment policies.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing document

The Central Baptist Association ("The Association") is a company limited by guarantee which was incorporated on 8 November 2001. Its activities are governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association amended and adopted in June 2012.

Introduction and legal status

The Association is part of the family of Baptist organisations serving the needs of Baptist churches in Great Britain. The Association's particular focus is on churches in Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Northamptonshire.

The Association was registered as a charity in the United Kingdom on 14 February 2002 with charity number 1090606. The Association is affiliated to the Baptist Union of Great Britain.

Page 3

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

Objectives of the Association

The objects of the Central Baptist Association (CBA) are "the advancement of the Christian religion especially by the means of and in accordance with the principles of the Baptist denomination as set out for the time being in the Declaration of Principle of the Baptist Union of Great Britain."

On 31 December 2024 the Central Baptist Association comprised 143 (2023: 143) member churches and LEPs, with 8,048 (2023: 7,720) members served by 98 (2023: 98) ministers, lay pastors, ministers-in-training and youth ministers.

The trustees ("The Council") comprise representatives elected from churches in membership with the Association together with the regional minister team leader, in accordance with the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

The Association is staffed by the regional ministry team. comprising Revd Lisa Kerry (Team Leader), Revd Andrew Openshaw (Company Secretary), Revd Mary Moody and Revd Nathan Toseland, with part time administrative and secretarial support. They are assisted by a part time Safeguarding Officer as well as other non-remunerated staff.

Operations

The Council (the board of trustees) met throughout the year.

The current trustees will continue to serve until their terms of office expire in accordance with the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

At its meetings, the council received reports from the regional ministry team and in so doing monitored the work of the Association and the staff's contribution to the fulfilment of the objectives of the Association.

Financial statements were presented at each meeting, approving income and expenditure statements and proposals for payments from both the unrestricted and restricted funds.

Reports and recommendations from a group of elected individuals were discussed and, where appropriate, grants and loans to member churches and individuals were agreed, having due regard to the conditions pertaining to particular restricted funds.

The council continued to implement and review the Association's strategy 'Walking together in Ministry and Mission' in order to effectively fulfil the objects of the Association and review progress made towards achieving the targets agreed.

Major risks have been reviewed and systems or procedures have been established to manage those risks.

Restriction of operations

The Association is operated exclusively for its charitable purposes and does not operate for the purpose of carrying on a trade or business for profit.

The Association's assets may be utilised only in pursuance of its objectives. Neither the trustees nor any other organisation or private individual receive any dividend or any other distribution from the assets or earnings of the Association. No person receives any payment or benefit from the Association in respect of expenditure incurred in relation to matters falling outside its objectives.

Page 4

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

Trustee Recruitment, Induction and Training

The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law and are known as members of the Board of Trustees. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association the members of the Board of Trustees are elected to serve for a period of three years after which they must be re-elected at the next Annual General Meeting.

Aside from the regional ministers, all members of the Board of Trustees give their time voluntarily and receive no benefits from the charity. Any expenses incurred on behalf of the charity are set out in note 7.

New trustees are sought on the basis of their ability to add value to the Association and to maintain a balanced governing body. Once appointed, training is given to ensure a full understanding of the work of the charity is obtained.

Public Benefit

The trustees, having due regard of guidance published by the Charity Commission on public benefit, continue to provide public benefit by seeking to advance the Christian religion and practice according to the principles of the Baptist denomination.

Resourcing

Churches in membership of the Association donate funds for the benefit of Home Mission activities throughout Great Britain. In common with all the regional associations, the Association channels these donations (amounting to £279,810 (2023: £258,585), of which £16,383 (2023: £40,340) was payable at the year end), through to the Baptist Union, from where they are distributed back to the various associations according to an agreed formula. The funds thus received by the Association are used to support the Association's member churches. In part this is by way of the regional ministers, who provide advice and support to member churches and their ministers.

As a member of the Baptist Union, the Association's policies are designed to be commensurate with those of the Baptist Union. Nationally recommended remuneration is adopted for the Associations' regional ministers.

The Association continues to seek ways to use its funds to support member churches. In particular:

Several member churches are supported by regular monthly grants towards their on-going running costs. This support amounted to some £124,000 in the year (2023: £110,000); and

Grants were made to a number of member churches, totalling £32,000 (2023: £20,000), towards a variety of different projects.

The Association forecasts that the ongoing costs of its ministry plus the financial support provided to member churches will exceed its incoming resources (apart from any arising from the sale of redundant member churches, which cannot be predicted) for the foreseeable future.

Advancement of the Christian Religion

The Association, through its staff team, has continued its role in assisting local churches in their understanding of and involvement in the advancement of the Christian religion and its application to the benefit of their local communities and the wider world. This has involved the encouragement and promotion of local partnerships with the Baptist Union of Great Britain, BMS World Mission and other agencies; the provision to churches of assistance in management matters, fundraising and grant applications; the development of local supportive networks and ecumenical relationships; as well as preaching and teaching by staff members in a variety of churches.

The Association continues to be actively represented and involved in both denominational and ecumenical committees and bodies.

Page 5

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

Education and Training

The Association held its Annual General Meeting and Assembly in June 2024.

Other training events included seminars for those responsible for the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults in local churches. Our regular programme of annual conferences for ministers continued.

The Association has continued in partnership with Regent's Park College Oxford.

Ongoing support is provided by the regional ministry team for ministers that are newly accredited by the Baptist Union of Great Britain and recommendations are made by the Association's Ministerial Recognition Committee to the Baptist Union of those seeking to be trained as Baptist ministers or youth specialists.

Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities

The trustees (who are also the directors of Central Baptist Association for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) including Financial Reporting Standard 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland".

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

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

In so far as the trustees are aware:

Auditor

The auditor, MHA, previously traded through the legal entity Macintyre Hudson LLP. In response to regulatory changes, Macintyre Hudson LLP ceased to hold an audit registration, with the engagement transitioning to MHA Audit Services LLP.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on 12 June 2025 and signed on its behalf by:

R D Farrant BSc AKC FCA - Trustee 12 June 2025

Page 6

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

AUDITOR'S REPORT

TO THE TRUSTEES OF CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Central Baptist Association (the 'Charitable Company') for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Charitable Company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the Trustees' Report, other than the financial statements and our Report of the Independent Auditors thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual Report

Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

Page 7

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Trustees' Report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities on page 6, the trustees (who are also the directors of the Charitable Company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the Charitable Company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the Charitable Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditors' Report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design

procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' Report.

Page 8

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and its members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Elizabeth Newell BA (Hons) FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)

for and on behalf of

MHA

Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditors Milton Keynes, United Kingdom

June 26, 2025

MHA is the trading name of MHA Audit Services LLP, a limited liability partnership in England and Wales (registered number OC455542).

Page 9

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Current financial year
Notes
Income and Endowments from:
Donations and legacies
Other trading activities
3
Investment income
4
5
Total Income
Expenditure on Charitable activities
Revaluation of investment property
6
Transfers between funds
Net incoming resources
Total funds at 1 January 2024
Total funds at 31 December 2024
Sale of redundant member
church property
Net incoming resources before
transfers
Gains on investment assets		 Unrestricted funds
2024
£
240,683
36,120
33,335
434,937
745,075
497,904
8,000
40,212
295,383
-
295,383
2,902,552
3,197,935		 Restricted
funds
2024
£
-
-
14,201
-
14,201
1,140
-
13,061
-
13,061
274,826
287,887		 Endowment
funds
2024
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
105,315
105,315		 Total
2024
£
240,683
36,120
47,536
434,937
759,276
499,044
8,000
40,212
308,444
-
308,444
3,282,693
3,591,137		 Total
2023
£
221,368
33,676
42,677
270,888
568,609
513,703
(11,000)
38,202
82,108
-
82,108
3,200,585
3,282,693

The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derives from continuing activities.

The Statement of Financial Activities complies with the requirement for an Income and Expenditure Account under the Companies Act 2006.

Page 10

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Prior financial year
Notes
Income and Endowments from:
Donations and legacies
Other trading activities
3
Investment income
4
5
Total Income
Expenditure on Charitable activities
Revaluation of investment property
Gains and losses on investment assets
6
Transfers between funds
Net incoming resources
Total funds at 1 January 2023
Total funds at 31 December 2023
Sale of redundant member
church property
Net incoming resources before
transfers		 Unrestricted funds
2023
£
221,368
34,332
29,602
270,888
556,190
512,588
(11,000)
38,202
70,804
-
70,804
2,831,748
2,902,552		 Restricted
funds
2023
£
-
(656)
13,075
-
12,419
1,115
-
-
11,304
-
11,304
263,522
274,826		 Endowment
funds
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
105,315
105,315		 Total
2023
£
221,368
33,676
42,677
270,888
568,609
513,703
(11,000)
38,202
82,108
-
82,108
3,200,585
3,282,693		 Total
2022
£
267,438
84,983
22,896
198,288
573,605
341,660
142,000
(102,952)
270,993
-
270,993
2,929,592
3,200,585

The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derives from continuing activities.

The Statement of Financial Activities complies with the requirement for an Income and Expenditure Account under the Companies Act 2006.

Page 11

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

Notes
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible Assets
10
1,979,047
Investments
11
870,236
2,849,283
Current assets
12
2,500
12
21,951
974,915
999,366
Liabilities
13
48,704
Net current assets
950,662
Total assets less current liabilities
3,799,945
13
(208,808)
Provisions for liabilities and charges
14
-
Total net assets
3,591,137
The funds of the charity
15
Unrestricted funds
2,865,775
332,160
Restricted funds
287,887
Endowment funds
105,315
Total funds
16
3,591,137
Revaluation reserve -
Unrestricted
Cash at bank and in hand
Debtors falling due after one
year
Debtors falling due within one
year
Creditors: Amounts falling due after
one year
31 December 2024
Creditors: Amounts falling due
within one year		 £
£
1,967,596
830,024
2,797,620
7,500
24,724
744,262
776,486
75,919
700,567
3,498,187
(215,494)
-
3,282,693
2,578,392
324,160
274,826
105,315
3,282,693
31 December 2023

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 12 June 2025 and were signed on its behalf by:

R D Farrant BSc AKC FCA - Trustee

12 June 2025

Page 12

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

Note
Cash flows from operating activities:
17
Cash flows from investing activities:
Dividends, letting income and interest from investments
Sale of redundant member church property
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of borrowing
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 2024
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 2024
Donation to BUGB of 50% of sale proceeds of a redundant
property
Net cash provided by (used in)
operating activities		 2024
£
47,536
434,937
-
(4,853)
(23,002)		 2024
£
(223,965)
477,620
(23,002)
230,653
744,262
974,915		 2023
£
42,677
270,888
(44,422)
(1,202,887)
(21,190)		 2023
£
(167,197)
(933,744)
(21,190)
(1,122,131)
1,866,393
744,262

Page 13

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

1 GENERAL INFORMATION

Central Baptist Association is a charity limited by guarantee and incorporated in England and Wales. The address of the company’s registered office is First Floor North, 40 Oxford Road, High Wycombe, HP11 2EE. The registered number is 04319194. The principal activities of the charity are as disclosed within the Report of The Trustees on pages 3 to 6.

The liability of each member is limited to an amount not exceeding £10.

The financial statements are presented in Sterling (£), the functional currency of the charity. Amounts are rounded to the nearest pound.

2 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

2.1 Basis of preparation

The financial statements of the charitable company have been prepared under the provisions of The Charities SORP (FRS 102) "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice" applicable to charities preparing the accounts in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 102: "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with the exception of investments which are included at market value.

The trustees have reviewed the substantial capital resources available and consider that the Association has adequate funds in place to continue operating for the next twelve months. These financial statements have therefore been prepared on the going concern basis.

2.2 Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the Association has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably.

2.3 Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category.

2.4 Allocation and apportionment of costs

Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings, they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with use of the resources.

2.5 Tangible Fixed Assets

Land with a cost of £34,775 (2023: £34,775) is not depreciated.

Freehold buildings are not depreciated. The trustees consider that the high standard of regular maintenance and repair ensures the residual value of freehold buildings will exceed its cost or valuation and hence any depreciation charge is unnecessary.

Investment property is recorded at fair value, with any change in value being recorded in the profit and loss account.

Depreciation on all other tangible assets is provided at 25% of book value per year so as to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset over its estimated useful life.

2.6 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

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

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

The areas where estimation has been applied are in calculating depreciation, impairments and provisions. Although these areas are subject to judgement, the estimates used are not considered to be subject to material fluctuation.

Page 14

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

2.7 Taxation

The Association is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

2.8 Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Included within unrestricted funds are designated funds, where funds that have been ear-marked by the trustees for particular purposes. These funds can however be redesignated at any time at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the Association. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. The majority of the Association's restricted funds are available to churches for capital projects by way of grants or loans.

Permanent endowment funds represent funds that are held on trust to be retained for the benefit of the Association as capital funds and may not be expended. Income arising on these funds is transferred to an expendable restricted fund.

2.9 Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments are stated in accordance with the provisions of Section 11: "Basic Financial Instruments" and Section 12: "Other Financial Instrument Issues" of FRS 102.

Financial instruments are classified and accounted for, according to the substance of the contractual arrangement, as either financial assets, financial liabilities or equity instruments. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the company after deducting all of its liabilities.

2.10 Grants and donations

Grants and donations received are credited to the statement of financial activities as received.

2.11 Investments

Investments are initially recognised at fair value which is usually the transaction price (excluding any transaction costs). Subsequently, investments are measured at fair value through the statement of financial activities except for those shares which cannot be publicly traded or where fair value cannot be reliably measured.

If reliable measurement of fair value cannot be obtained or this measure is no longer available, the investment’s value is stated as the fair value at the last point at which a reliable measurement was obtained. These instruments are then recognised at that valuation, less impairment, until a reliable measure of fair value becomes available.

2.12 Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

Defined contribution scheme

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for the benefit of its employees. Contributions payable to the charity’s pension scheme are charged to the statement of financial activities in the period to which they relate.

Defined benefit scheme

The charity operates a defined benefit plan for the benefit of former employees. A liability for the charity’s obligations under the plan is recognised net of plan assets. The net change in the net defined benefit liability is recognised as the cost of the defined benefit scheme during the period. Pension plan assets are measured at fair value and the defined benefit obligation is measured on an actuarial basis using the projected method.

Page 15

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

3
Other trading activities
Letting income
Preaching, training and directory fees
Conference fees and donations
Sponsorship
4
Investment Income
Interest receivable
Letting income
Dividends receivable		 Unrestricted
2024
£
16,984
8,936
7,700
2,500
36,120
Unrestricted
2024
£
13,992
18,542
801
33,335		 Restricted
2024
£
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
2024
£
13,543
658
-
14,201		 Unrestricted
2023
£
16,200
10,937
7,195
-
34,332
Unrestricted
2023
£
10,730
18,071
801
29,602		 Restricted
2023
£
(656)
-
-
-
656
-
Restricted
2023
£
13,075
-
-
13,075

5 Sale of redundant member church property

Two member churches (2023: two) were sold during the year. Each sale was managed by the Baptist Union Corporation, who distributed a share of the net proceeds to CBA, in accordance with normal arrangements.

6
Net Incoming resources before transfers
Auditor's fee
Grant Funding To Third Parties:
Home Mission funding to member churches
Other grants to member churches
Support for other organisations
Net Incoming resources are stated after
charging:		 Unrestricted
2024
£
18,642
123,719
31,808
6,250
161,777		 Restricted
2024
£
-
-
1,140
-
1,140		 Unrestricted
2023
£
11,880
110,073
19,858
9,599
139,530		 Restricted
2023
£
-
-
1,115
-
1,115

Page 16

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

7 Trustees' Remuneration and benefits

During the year trustees received remuneration, had pension contributions paid on their behalf by reason of their employment, and were reimbursed in respect of travel, telecommunications and office expenses incurred in the normal course of the Association's activities, as follows:

2024
Revd L K Kerry:
Remuneration
58,040
Pension contributions
4,765
Reimbursed
4,412		 2023
55,100
4,423
7,505

During the year six other trustees were paid £1,102 (2023: £1,136) for travel expenses incurred in the normal course of Association activities.

8 Transactions with Related Parties

There were no transactions with related parties, other than remuneration as shown in note 7, during the year (2023: nil).

9 Employees

Number of employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:
Regional ministers
Administrator
Safeguarding Officer
Employment costs in the year were:
Wages and salaries
Housing costs
Social security costs
Employer contributions to defined contribution pension schemes		 2024
4
2
1
7
2024
£
154,079
36,000
9,743
18,212
218,034		 2023
4
1
1
6
2023
£
148,121
36,000
8,600
16,115
208,836

No employees received emoluments (excluding pension costs) in excess of £60,000.

Key Management Personnel

No individual is able to make decisions on behalf of the Association without the approval of the trustees as a whole and accordingly there are no key management personnel.

Page 17

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

10 Tangible Fixed Assets Investment
Property		 Freehold Land
& Property
Office
Equipment		 Total
£ £ £ £
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024 381,000 1,584,932 2,419 1,968,351
Additions - - 4,853 4,853
Revaluations 8,000 - - 8,000
At 31 December 2024 389,000 1,584,932 7,272 1,981,204
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 January 2024 - - 755 755
Depreciation charged in the year - - 1,402 1,402
At 31 December 2024 - - 2,157 2,157
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2024 389,000 1,584,932 5,115 1,979,047
At 1 January 2024 381,000 1,584,932 1,664 1,967,596
At 31 December 2024, the trustees revalued the investment property, taking into account open market conditions. The historical cost of this
investment property was £56,839 (2023: £56,839).
11 Investments Listed
investments
Unlisted
investments		 Total
£ £ £
Valuation at 01 January 2024 813,999 16,025 830,024
Increase in the year 40,212 - 40,212
Valuation at 31 December 2024 854,211 16,025 870,236
12 Debtors 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023
Amounts falling due after more than one year £ £
Loans to member churches 2,500 7,500
Amounts falling due within one year £ £
Loans to member churches 17,500 17,500
Other debtors 586 418
Prepayments 3,865 6,806
21,951 24,724
13 Creditors 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023
Amounts falling due within one year £ £
Loans 6,541 6,443
Trade creditors - -
Social security and other taxes 3,311 3,018
Other creditors 19,420 52,949
Accruals and deferred income 19,432 13,509
48,704 75,919
Amounts falling due after more than one year
Loans (of which £176,951 (2023: £184,114) is repayable after more than five years) 208,808 215,494

Page 18

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

14 Provision for liabilities and charges

The Association 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.

For any month, each employer in the Scheme pays contributions as set out in the Schedule of Contributions in force at that time.

The scheme is considered to be a multi-employer scheme as described in Section 28 of FRS 102. Because it is not possible to attribute the Scheme's assets and liabilities to specific employers, the scheme is accounted for as if it were a defined contribution scheme.

The Regional Ministers are eligible to join the Scheme.

From January 2012, pension provision is being made through the Defined Contribution (DC) Plan within the Scheme. In general, members pay 8% of their Pensionable Income and employers pay 6% of members’ Pensionable Income into individual pension accounts, which are operated and managed on behalf of the Pension Trustee by Broadstone Corporate Benefits Ltd. In addition, the employer pays a further 4% of Pensionable Income to cover Death in Service Benefits, administration costs, and an associated insurance policy which provides income protection for Scheme members in the event that they are unable to work due to long-term incapacity. This income protection policy has been insured by the Baptist Union of Great Britain with Aviva Limited.

Benefits in respect of service prior to 1 January 2012 are provided through the Defined Benefit (BD) Plan within the Scheme. The main benefits for pre-2012 service were a defined benefit 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. The Scheme, previously know as the Baptist Ministers' Pension Fund, started in 1925, but was closed to future accrual of defined benefits on 31 December 2011.

A formal valuation of the Defined Benefit (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 marked value of the DB Plan assets was £298 million, whilst the level of assets needed to pay benefits was £316 million, leaving a deficit of £18 million ( equivalent to a past service funding level of 94%). The Association and other participating employers in the DB Plan are collectively responsible for funding this deficit.

In addition to the contributions to the DC Plan set out above, where a valuation of the DB Plan reveals a deficit the Trustee and the Council agree to a rate of deficiency contributions from churches and other employers involved in the DB Plan. Following the 2019 valuation a Recovery Plan was signed in September 2020 under which deficiency contributions are payable until June 2026. These contributions were broadly based on each employer's membership at 31 December 2014 and increase annually in line with increases to Minimum Pensionable Income as defined in the Rules.

On 30th June 2022 the Baptist Pension Scheme signed an agreement with the insurance company Just Group (“Just”) to secure DB Plan members’ pension benefits. Just are now providing financial backing for all pensions provided through the Scheme’s DB Plan and following this transaction, the Scheme no longer has a shortfall. An updated Recovery plan was then signed in August 2022 under which recovery contributions from each participating employer in the DB Plan reduced to £1 per month from August 2022.

The agreed Revised Schedule of Contributions was confirmed and agreed in December 2023 with the Pension Actuaries and the Pension Regulator who have confirmed that that there is now no longer a deficit, and so pension provision is no longer required.

Pension contributions made to the scheme were:

Pension contributions made to the scheme were:
Employee
Employer		 2024
£
15,820
18,213
34,033		 2023
£
14,051
16,116
30,167

Page 19

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

15 Funds

The Association has the following funds:

Unrestricted Funds

General Fund For general purposes CBA Loan Fund For making loans to member churches NNB Capital Account For making grants to churches and individuals NNB Christchurch Manse Fund For the provision of monies to purchase Manses NNB Emmanuel Manse Fund For the provision of monies to purchase Manses NNB Roade Manse Fund For the provision of monies to purchase Manses Team Leader's Confidential Fund For use by the Team Leader for confidential pastoral expenditure

Revaluation Reserve - Unrestricted

NNB Christchurch Manse Fund

Investment property revaluation

Restricted Funds

Beds Ridgmont Building Fund Bierton Land Trust Fund Bucks Baptist Youth Fund Bucks Ford Chapel Trust Fund Denton Baptist Church Fund Ford Manse Trust Fund Herts Capital Building Fund Herts Well Wisher Fund NNB Guilsborough Trust NNB Parker Gray Fund

For the provision of loans to churches in Bedfordshire For the upkeep of the burial ground at Ford and support of churches in the vicinity For the support of work with young people associated with churches in Buckinghamshire. For loans or grants to churches For religious and other charitable work of Northamptonshire Baptist churches.

For the upkeep of the burial ground at Ford and support of churches in the vicinity For the funding of grants for growth and mission For the purchase of book tokens for ministers and lay preachers in Hertfordshire For the support of churches in Northampton For the provision of grants and loans to small churches in Northamptonshire

Endowment Funds

Bierton Land Fund Denton Baptist Church Fund Ford Chapel Fund Ford Manse Fund

Non-expendable. Income is restricted as above. Non-expendable. Income is restricted as above. For new land or buildings Non-expendable. Income is restricted as above.

Page 20

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

15
Funds (CONTINUED)
Movement in Funds
Unrestricted Funds
General Fund
CBA Loan Fund
NNB Capital Account
NNB Christchurch Manse Fund
NNB Emmanuel Manse Fund
NNB Roade Manse Fund
Team Leader's Confidential Fund
Revaluation Reserve - Unrestricted
NNB Christchurch Manse Fund
Restricted Funds
Beds Ridgmont Building Fund
Bierton Land Trust Fund
Buckinghamshire Baptist Youth Fund
Bucks Ford Chapel Trust Fund
Denton Baptist Church Fund
Ford Manse Trust Fund
Herts Capital Building Fund
Herts Well Wisher Fund
NNB Guilsborough Trust
NNB Parker Gray Fund
Endowment Funds
Bierton Land Fund
Denton Baptist Church Fund
Ford Chapel Fund
Ford Manse Fund
Total Funds		 At 1 January
2024
£
2,123,574
192,195
2,328
56,925
139,353
50,208
13,809
2,578,392
324,160
92,950
9,386
497
77,328
1,395
21,575
2,439
8,612
59,758
886
274,826
34,775
10,635
23,375
36,530
105,315
3,282,693		 Net
Movement in
funds
£
275,149
6,158
83
4
6,039
1,196
(1,246)
287,383
8,000
2,680
1,083
18
4,364
522
2,518
106
(851)
2,590
31
13,061
-
-
-
-
-
308,444		 At 31 December
2024
£
2,398,723
198,353
2,411
56,929
145,392
51,404
12,563
2,865,775
332,160
95,630
10,469
515
81,692
1,917
24,093
2,545
7,761
62,348
917
287,887
34,775
10,635
23,375
36,530
105,315
3,591,137

Page 21

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

15 Funds (CONTINUED)

Incoming Resources
£
Unrestricted Funds
General Fund
730,685
CBA Loan Fund
6,158
NNB Capital Account
83
NNB Christchurch Manse Fund
4
NNB Emmanuel Manse Fund
6,039
NNB Roade Manse Fund
1,196
Team Leader's Confidential Fund
910
745,075
Revaluation Reserve - Unrestricted
NNB Christchurch Manse Fund
-
Restricted Funds
Beds Ridgmont Building Fund
2,680
Bierton Land Trust Fund
1,083
Buckinghamshire Baptist Youth Fund
18
Bucks Ford Chapel Trust Fund
4,364
Denton Baptist Church Fund
522
Ford Manse Trust Fund
2,518
Herts Capital Building Fund
106
Herts Well Wisher Fund
289
NNB Guilsborough Trust
2,590
NNB Parker Gray Fund
31
14,201
Net movement of funds
included in the above		 Resources
Expended
£
(495,748)
-
-
-
-
-
(2,156)
(497,904)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(1,140)
-
-
(1,140)		 Gains and
losses
£
40,212
-
-
-
-
-
-
40,212
8,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Transfer
between funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Net
Movement in
Funds
£
275,149
6,158
83
4
6,039
1,196
(1,246)
287,383
8,000
2,680
1,083
18
4,364
522
2,518
106
(851)
2,590
31
13,061

Page 22

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

16 Analysis of Net Assets by Type of Fund
Current financial year
Fixed assets
Tangible Assets
Investments
Current assets
Debtors falling due after one year
Debtors falling due within one year
Cash at bank and in hand
Liabilities
Creditors falling due within one year
Creditors falling due after one year
Total net assets
Prior financial year
Fixed assets
Tangible Assets
Investments
Current assets
Debtors falling due after one year
Debtors falling due within one year
Cash at bank and in hand
Liabilities
Creditors falling due within one year
Creditors falling due after one year
Total net assets		 Unrestricted
Funds
31 Dec 2024
£
1,944,272
870,236
2,500
21,951
616,488
(48,704)
(208,808)
3,197,935
31 Dec 2023
£
1,932,821
830,024
7,500
24,724
398,896
(75,919)
(215,494)
2,902,552		 Restricted
Funds
31 Dec 2024
£
-
-
-
-
287,887
-
-
287,887
31 Dec 2023
£
-
-
-
-
274,826
-
-
274,826		 Endowment
Funds
31 Dec 2024
£
34,775
-
-
-
70,540
-
-
105,315
31 Dec 2023
£
34,775
-
-
-
70,540
-
-
105,315		 Total Funds
31 Dec 2024
£
1,979,047
870,236
2,500
21,951
974,915
(48,704)
(208,808)
3,591,137
31 Dec 2023
£
1,967,596
830,024
7,500
24,724
744,262
(75,919)
(215,494)
3,282,693

Page 23

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

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

17
Adjustments for:
Depreciation of office equipment
Revaluation of investment property
(Gains)/losses on investments
Dividends and interest from investments
Loan interest
Investment letting income
Income from sale of redundant member church property
Decrease in debtors
(Decrease)/increase in creditors
Net cash (used in) operating activities
18
Cash at bank and in hand (no notice)
Notice deposits (3 months)
Total cash and cash equivalents
19
Analysis of changes in net debt
Loans Falling due within one year
Loans Falling due after between one and five years
Loans Falling due after more than five years
Total net debt
Donation to BUGB of 50% of sale proceeds of a redundant
property
Net incoming resources for the year (as on the Statement of
Financial Activities)
Reconciliation of net income to net cash flow from operating
activities
Analysis of cash and cash equivalents		 2024
£
1,402
(8,000)
(40,212)
(28,336)
16,414
(19,200)
(434,937)
-
7,773
(27,313)
At 1 January
2024
£
6,443
31,380
184,114
221,937		 2024
£
308,444
(532,409)
(223,965)
31-Dec-24
£
588,478
386,437
974,915
New Loans
£
-
-
-
-		 2023
£
555
11,000
(38,202)
(24,606)
16,245
(18,071)
(270,888)
44,422
1,513
28,727
Cash Flows
£
98
476
(7,163)
(6,589)		 2023
£
82,108
(249,305)
(167,197)
31-Dec-23
£
373,876
370,386
744,262
At 31
December
2024
£
6,541
31,856
176,951
215,348

20 Operating Leases

Two properties, for the use of two of the regional ministers, are leased to the Association. Total minimum future lease payments as at 31 December 2024 are £36,000 (2023: £36,000), all due within one year.

Page 24

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Incoming Resources from:
Donations and legacies
National Core Funding
Donations & Legacies
Other trading activities
Letting income
Preaching and training fees
Ministers' Conference fees and donations
Sponsorship
Investment income
Interest
Letting income
Dividends received
Income from sale of redundant member church property
Total incoming resources		 2024
£
236,868
3,815
16,984
8,936
7,700
2,500
27,535
19,200
801		 2024
£
240,683
36,120
47,536
434,937
759,276		 2023
£
202,467
18,901
15,544
10,937
7,195
-
23,805
18,071
801		 2023
£
221,368
33,676
42,677
270,888
568,609

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 25

CENTRAL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Expenditure on charitable activities
Member church support
HM Funding
Grants and donations
Ministry
Meetings
Training
Support for Other organisations
Staff costs
Wages and salaries
Property leaseback
Pension contributions
Social Security
Travel and subsistence
Removal expenses
Staff conferences and training
Property costs
Loan interest
Rent
Council Tax and Water
Insurance
Repairs and Maintenance
Administration costs
Telecommunications
Postage and stationery
Ministers' Conference
IT and computer costs
Other expenses
Subscriptions
Publicity
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Office Costs
Legal and Professional Fees
Bank Charges
Total expenditure on charitable activities
Revaluation of investment property
Gain / (Loss) on investment assets
Net incoming/(outgoing) resources
Auditor's / Independent examiner's
remuneration
Donation to BUGB of 50% of sale proceeds of
a redundant property		 2024
£
123,719
32,948
5,482
4,552
1,259
6,250
154,078
36,000
18,213
9,743
15,416
-
6,609
-
16,414
-
15,866
3,672
893
4,366
271
10,709
517
-
890
62
1,402
2,948
8,003
120
18,642		 2024
£
499,044
8,000
40,212
308,444		 2023
£
110,073
20,115
4,612
-
3,592
9,599
148,121
36,000
16,116
8,600
15,924
4,925
5,909
44,422
16,245
10,960
14,127
3,212
743
3,511
162
9,797
512
741
1,046
375
555
4,047
7,702
80
11,880		 2023
£
513,703
(11,000)
38,202
82,108

This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements

Page 26