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2022-12-31-accounts

Registered number: 04454591 Charity number: 1094992

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2022

MORACLE LIMITED CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS & REGISTERED AUDITORS 960 CAPABILITY GREEN, LUTON, ENGLAND, LUI 3PE

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

CONTENTS

Page
Report of Trustees 3 – 18
Independent Examiner’s Report 19
Statement of Financial Activities 20
Balance Sheet 21 – 22
Notes to the Financial Statements 23 – 33

Page 2 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT For the year ended 31 December 2022

The trustees who are also Directors of the Charity for the purposes of the Companies Act present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the period 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2022. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 and the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective January 2019) and comply with the charity’s governing document.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The Swiss Church is a Spiritual Home to the Swiss in the UK. As a Swiss Church , it is a member of the one universal, apostolic and holy Church of Christ. Its foundation is the word of God as witnessed in both the Old and the New Testament. The Swiss Church, affiliated to the Protestant Church in Switzerland (previously known as Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches) in Berne, adheres to its roots in the Swiss Reformation of the 16th Century. It strives to proclaim God’s word according to the principles set out by the Reformation, in particular by John Calvin and Huldrych Zwingli.

In their spirit, the Swiss Church encourages its members to actively explore the Christian faith and to find a personal belief based on reflection and experience.

It seeks to further and strengthen Christian love, solidarity, justice and truth. In ecumenical openness, the Swiss Church welcomes Roman Catholics and Christians of all other denominations .

As a Swiss Church founded by French speaking Swiss in the 18th Century and later united with the German-speaking congregation, it is a meeting place for all Swiss and friends of Switzerland from all walks of life. The Swiss Church seeks to contribute actively to the social life of the Swiss community in London and promotes cultural and social activities to strengthen friendship and understanding.

We believe that both aspects, its being a Church and its being a Swiss institution are inseparably intertwined and stimulate each other

As a Swiss Church in London it is our mission to reach out to the church’s local community in the Covent Garden/Holborn area and across the city, providing support for those most in need and fostering the dialogue between the Christian faith and the arts community. We strive toward building ever closer networks with local charities, churches and organisations to achieve the greatest possible impact

Present tasks, activities and groups in the Swiss Church include :

Page 3 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

Public benefit

In setting our objectives and planning our activities the board of trustees has given careful consideration to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit, and in particular, to its supplementary public benefit guidance on advancing religious education.

REVIEW OF ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

During 2022 the main focus continued to be on leading the church through the pandemic by minimising the financial impact, keeping staff in employment, providing spiritual support for the congregation throughout and maintaining the contact with our networks, all whilst keeping in mind our general objectives listed below:

• Make the Swiss Church better known among the Swiss in London, visitors and the local community as a spiritual home and a meeting place through traditional Swiss events and joint activities with the wider Swiss community.

With the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic affecting all areas of public and private life, the following objectives remained pressing:

•Close the £100k income gap due to the continuous halt of external hirings and events (main source of income)

•Increased fundraising activities, and maintain good contacts with donors.

Page 4 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Services, pastoral care and spiritual life

Services : Following the easing and then the lifting of Covid-19 related restrictions in March 2022, regular Sunday Services returned to the church in Endell Street, being held twice monthly, except for the summer break in August. On the first Sunday in the month services included Holy Communion, and singers from the Holborn Chamber Choir made up the choir. Until the start of her maternity leave in November, services were led by Rev Carla Maurer. After that Reverend Harry Ching led the services for the remainder of 2022. Numbers attending services varied and were generally lower than before the Covid-19 crisis.

Marriage s – Diane Chappalley and Oliver Wooley were married in the church on Saturday 3 September 2022.

On 8 August 2022 the church finally received confirmation from the General Register Office that it’s marriage licence authorisation had been extended to cover conducting same-sex marriage ceremonies. This brings the Swiss Church in London in line with the majority of cantonal churches in Switzerland who are members of the Evangelisch-reformierte Kirche Schweiz (Protestant Church in Switzerland).

Some of the Swiss groups and societies such as the Frauenverein, the Mothers’ Group and La Causerie met regularly online or in person at the Swiss Church.

Ecumenical relations: Rev. Carla Maurer attended meetings of the German speaking pastors and church workers in London (LoPA) and Minister meetings of the local churches. We continued to maintain friendly relations with the Dutch Church in London, the French Protestant Church in London, the German Church in London, and to share information concerning common challenges.

Community and Outreach Work

The community programme is aimed at the Sunday congregation, Swiss people living in London, and the community in the locality of the church.

Breakfast on the Steps (BOS) took place each Tuesday morning -frequented mainly by people affected by homelessness and other vulnerable and disadvantaged people from the local community. Volunteer Andreas Feller, with his background in hospitality, led the

Page 5 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

running of Breakfast on the Steps together with his core team of volunteers (Robert Kaufeler, John Burley, Francois Colavecchio, Hannah Jowitt) and members of the team. Hairdressers Jake Fox and Bence provided monthly free haircuts. Robert Kaufeler and John Burley cooked a monthly hot breakfast . Demand for the service increased significantly during 2022. Often up to 60 guests were served each week

Andreas also raised significant funds to secure the running of BoS, e.g. by participating in the Big Give Christmas Matched Funding Challenge which raised over £12,000. A National Lottery Community Fund Grant also provided a further £3,200.

Swiss community

Some of the church groups (La Causerie and Frauenverein) began to meet regularly again in person at the church for their monthly gatherings, whilst The Mothers Group continued to meet online.

Page 6 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

In December, several Swiss families came together for a Family Christmas Afternoon, including Swiss food and drink singing of Swiss carols, reading of the Christmas story, and a special visit from Samichlaus (Swiss Santa). The event was led and organised by our Swiss Community Events Co-ordinator Therese Theurillat

The following platforms continued to be in use to socially connect:

The Swiss Church Mothers Group (Muttergruppe) continued to meet monthly on Zoom to maintain longstanding relationships between Swiss migrants and offer assistance to the elderly. Rev. Carla Maurer occasionally led prayer meetings and bible groups.

Office Administration and Venue Management

Venue Manager Emily Rose Simons continued in her post as Venue Manager enabling a smooth transition after the lifting of Covid restrictions.

Hirings picked up again from April onwards but were lower than expected in the second half of 2022.

Fundraising

Rev. Carla Maurer maintained her fundraising activities in Switzerland and in the UK, though grant income was harder to obtain.

Volunteer coordinator Andreas Feller supported the church with fundraising for the Breakfast on the Steps homeless outreach programme. Funding was obtained from the Big Give Christmas Challenge Matched Funding Campaign, from the National Lottery Community Fund, and from individual parishes of the reformed churches in Switzerland.

Page 7 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Day to Day Records Management

On a daily basis the church office team, Consistoire and volunteers continued see the positive impact of the new data management system that was introduced in 2021. Information is easily accessible for everyone involved with appropriate levels of access assigned according to specific job roles to conform to data protection requirements.

Historic Archives Records Management

The Consistoire recognised that the absence of a record management policy puts at risk the archive and handing down of information for future generations. There is also no complete list of the church’s historic archives which are located in three different places. The Consistoire is acutely aware that more time and resources will need to be devoted to preserving documents, and that specific grant funding will be needed to support work on this important task.

Cultural Events:

Organ Recitals, concerts and music

In March Fiona Bruce and Peter Yardley Jones gave a piano concert for International Piano Day. In April, Lukas Hasler a young and highly regarded Austrian organist, gave an organ concert. The Knabenkantorei Basel Boys’ Choir also performed in April

Arts Committee:

Mary Branson and Julie Hoyle continued to co-chair the committee. Volunteer Arts Coordinator Diane Chappalley joined the Art Committee and the co-chair team to support the chairs with the admin. Lindsey Wiercioch continued as Volunteer Arts Community Coordinator, establishing links between the arts programme and the community. AC’s ability to plan ahead, putting strategies in place and discussing concerns with a member of the team on a regular basis, improves the Swiss Church’s visibility as an Arts church and builds on its popularity.

Page 8 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Artist in Residency: The Artist in Residency programme continued.

Ballet Gala: Ruth Gordon and Lukas Angelini organised a fundraising ballet gala to celebrate the dance community, and raised funds for the church’s arts programme.

Communication

The Swiss Church News appeared three times during the year, in print and electronically, reaching about 1,800 readers.

The electronic newsletter was sent out at the beginning of each month, to announce events.

The Swiss Church is active on social media (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and announces events on various Swiss community Facebook pages to reach out to the wider Swiss community in London. The social media outreach has improved.

The webpage is regularly updated. Colin McIntyre and Therese Theurillat are in charge of content with the support of Rev Carla Maurer.

Reports appear on the regional pages of the ‘Swiss Review’ which is sent out to Swiss living abroad. Organ recitals and art events are published on various cultural platforms.

Rev Carla Maurer continued to produce new episodes for her podcast ‘More Tea, Vicar’ in collaboration with the platform reflab.ch by the Church of Zurich.

The outreach work of Breakfast on the Steps featured in a radio reportage on one of Switzerland’s main radio stations (SRF 1) and on the reformiert.ch website

Venue and hirings

Venue Manager Emily Rose Simons developed a new deposit system for large hirers for more financial stability and predictability. She also redesigned the Staff Attending role into the new Venue Assistants role to include providing venue support for community programs. She improved training sessions and drafted a job description for new recruits, and compiled an informative building guide.

Page 9 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

The collaboration between Minister and Venue Manager was also redesigned in order to reduce the Venue Manager’s community involvement and refocusing the role on the time-consuming admin side in order to make the role more manageable. Swiss community events were managed by Therese Theurillat to increase focus on this important area of the work of the church.

Building maintenance

Regular maintenance of the church building and fabric was carried out in accordance with the yearly plan, and additional remedial work undertaken as required. In October 2022 the five-year specialist report was received from Whitworth specialist surveyors. It categorized all work required to be undertaken under five headings, from urgent to desirable. The necessary spending required has been incorporated into the annual budget and financial projections.

The façade of the church will be repainted in 2023, and grant funding sought to cover the costs.

Health and Safety and Food Hygiene

The SCL continues to use the ThirtyOneEight organisation, for training of trustees, staff, and volunteers. ThirtyOneEight also provides DBS services for the SCL. Katrin Frey was continues to act as trustee for Safeguarding in October 2020 and attended several online Safeguarding courses. .

Trustee Cecile Mistry oversees the food hygiene measures. Several members of staff and volunteers completed the Food Safety Certificate.

Maintenance of the Manse (also known as the Vicarage)

Refurbishment of the bathroom and kitchen continued at the at the Manse at 1 Womersley Road, N8 9AE. Electrical wiring was upgraded, various white goods that had come to the end of their life were replaced. Some windows were also replaced.

Relationship with Switzerland

Partner churches in Switzerland:

A number of churches in Switzerland confirmed their ongoing financial support to further the work of the Swiss Church.

Page 10 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

The following churches in Switzerland who financially supported the Swiss Church In London during 2022: Kirchgemeinde (parish churches) : Sursee, Liestal-Seltisberg, Kilchberg ZH, Tablat-St.Gallen, Burg Stein am Rhein, Cantonal Churches- Kanton Zug, Kirche des Kantons St. Gallen, Landes Kirche Aargau, Synodalverband Bern-Jura, Evangelische Kirche Schweiz.

We are very grateful to our sister churches for all the support that we have received.

VEGSIL: The VEGSIL (Vereinigung ehemaliger Glieder der Schweizerkirche in London) donated 3,096 Swiss Francs to the Swiss Church in London. The 2022 Annual General Meeting of VEGSIL meeting took place in Cham, canton Zug on 23 October 2022. Consistoire member Katrin Frey attended the weekend celebrations on behalf of the Swiss Church in London. We thank Vegsil for its continued support.

Unione Ticinese- we thank the Unione Ticinese for their continuing financial support and encouragement.

People

Minister

Reverend Harry Ching, an ordained Minister of the Church the England with considerable experience in serving international congregations in the United Kingdom was appointed Interim Minister in November 2022 to cover Reverend Carla Maurer’s maternity leave absence. We thank him for all his work.

Consistoire (board of trustees):

Barbara Wachter resigned from the Consistoire on 30 September 2022, having relocated to New York to take up a post at the United Nations Organisation there.

Emma Brown a qualified Accountant, joined the Consistoire on 18 May 2022 with a view to becoming Treasurer, and Marco Mambelli resigned from the Consistoire on 30 September 2022 following his relocation to Dubai, at which stage Emma Brown assumed sole responsibility as Treasurer.

Page 11 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Appreciation and Thanks

Rev. Carla Maurer, our Minister continues to guide the church with the constructive support of the Consistoire. Her dedication and tremendous efforts, in guiding the Swiss Church in London for a decade of tremendous changes is hugely appreciated.

A big thank you to Barbara Wachter for her valuable contribution as President of the Steering Committee in support to the Consistoire during the challenging time as a result of the pandemic.

We are most grateful to our team, Emily Rose Simons, Anina Smith, Ryan Moshwe and Andy Palfreyman and (freelance graphic designer) James Rasa and our Director of Music and Organist Peter Yardley-Jones, for their work for our Church. Their dedication is most appreciated.

We thank Rupert Ackroyd our caretaker, for all he does to maintain our historic church building. His specialist practical skills and technical knowledge are invaluable.

We are grateful to all the churches in Switzerland who have so generously supported us.

We much appreciate the support from individual donors and contributors, in the UK, Switzerland and throughout the world, and thank them for their continued invaluable support.

We are indebted to all the volunteers who are the heart and soul of the Swiss Church community, especially to the team of Farrell Associates and other volunteers who make Breakfast of Steps happen, hair stylist Jake Fox, the Art Committee, the Sunday Monday Service team, especially Cecile Mistry and the kitchen team, as well as Fernande Kunz for providing the floral arrangements.

Page 12 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED)

For the year ended 31 December 2022

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Income

The income from church related activities for the year was £199,466 compared to £208,992 in 2021. Of these, 52% (79.7% in 2021) was generated through donations. As in previous years, donations are backbone of the church’s income and unfortunately during the year we saw a 38% reduction in donations received (£104,119 compared to £166,644 in 2021).

Expenses

Total expenditure in conjunction with church related activities were £207,029 excluding £34,214 worth of depreciation and governance costs, compared to £158,046 in 2021.

Summary

The overall net loss, after accounting for depreciation, is circa (£41,778) compared to income of £16,500 in 2021. The ending balance of the building fund is nil in both years. The performance of the church has been underpinned by a foreign exchange gain of £41,056 arising as a result of the appreciation in the value of the financial assets held in Switzerland.

Unrestricted reserve

It is the policy of the Swiss Church to maintain an Unrestricted Reserve. This is intended to enable the Swiss Church to cope with the unforeseen, which might otherwise affect the organisation's ability to continue our activities. In practice, the Trustees consider that holding unrestricted reserves equivalent to six to twelve months’ core costs, excluding those funds represented by fixed assets, and should provide sufficient resources to respond to unexpected adverse changes in the Charity's funding or activities. This is equivalent to between £100,000 and £200,000 based on current costs.

This policy will be reviewed annually, when setting budgets, to check if it is still relevant, or if changing circumstances require a modification.

Investment Policy

Investments may only be made after prior approval from the Consistoire and must be made only in the name of the Swiss Church in London .

.

Page 13 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

The Trustees are committed to further implement the Business Concept Plan and, as a result, to strengthen the positive relationship with the Swiss community in London as a whole, while expanding the mission activities into the wider local community. The Trustees are also determined to both broaden and deepen the relationship with various Swiss Parishes and Cantonal Churches.

In view of the financial independence of the Church, the Trustees are committed to broaden the sources of revenues by reviewing the letting strategy and intensifying fundraising activities.

We are currently working towards a more effective governance structures with each member of the Consistoire having specific duties and responsibilities assigned. This should allow for both informed and swift decision-making.

Recruiting more Trustees including a Vice-President remains one of our main targets for the coming year.

Page 14 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Directors and trustees

The directors of the charitable company (the charity) are its trustees for the purpose of charity law. The trustees and officers serving during the year and since the year end were as follows:

TRUSTEES

Mrs E Brown (since May 2022) Treasurer (since October 2022) Ms J Breitschmid Volunteer Coordinator (since Jan 2021) Ms K Frey Safeguarding (since Jan 2021) Mr P. Maillardet Archives (since May 2009) Mr Marco Mambelli Treasurer (since September 2017 to September 2022) Mrs. C. Mistry Catering (since November 2008)

Colin McIntyre (since April 2021) Barbara Wachter (since November 2019 to September 2022)

MINISTER

Rev. Carla Maurer (since June 2013) Reverend Harry Ching (November 2022) COMMUNITY OUTREACH Andreas Feller Breakfast on the Steps (since January 2021) VENUE MANAGER Emily Rose Simons (since March 2019) OFFICE AND FINANCE ADMINISTRATOR Mrs Anina Smith (since December 2014) Office Administration Ryan Moshwe (since March 2021)

TREASURER

Mrs Emma Brown (since October 2022) Marco Mambelli (since September 2017 to September 2022) OBSERVER SWISS EMBASSY

Mrs Manuella Ferrari (since October 2018 to June 2022; ex officio) Mr Thomas Wagner (since July 2022; ex officio)

Page 15 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

CHARITY NUMBER 1094992

COMPANY NUMBER 04454591

REGISTERED OFFICE

79 Endell Street London WC2H 9DY

COMPANY SECRETARY (Acting)

Mr. Yvon Tse - since February 2019

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

Morlai Kargbo, FCCA Moracle Limited Chartered Certified Accountants & Registered Auditors 960 Capability Green, Luton, England, LU1 3PE

BANKERS

HSBC Bank PLC 117 Great Portland Street London W1W 6QJ

UBS 100 Liverpool Street London EC2M 2RH

PostFinanceSwiss Post Verarbeitungszentrum CH-3040 Bern

Page 16 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Constitution and organisational structure

The Swiss Church in London is a Charitable Company limited by guarantee and is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association adopted on the 5[th] June 2002. The Swiss Church in London was founded in 1762. The company commenced operations on 1 January 2003 when it took over all activities of the Unincorporated Association with the same name. The Consistoire (Voluntary Board of Trustees) oversee the activities and are accountable for the way the resources are used. The Trustees meet every two months, or more or less often if they so decide. The members who served on the Board throughout the year under review are named under Legal and Administrative Information.

The Consistoire is the Governing Body of the Swiss Church in London and administers and manages the Swiss Church in London, its property and its internal and external affairs in accordance with the Memorandum and Articles of Association. The Consistoire makes all major decisions; certain powers of delegation are granted to the Minister, as well as to special task groups and individual members of the Consistoire.

Recruitment and appointment of new trustees

The appointment and removal of Trustees is decided by a majority of votes. At every Annual General Meeting, one-third of the Trustees shall retire from office. The retiring Trustees shall be eligible for reelection.

Induction and training of new trustees

Induction of Trustees takes place through one to one sessions with the Chair. If needed, additional training is arranged.

Risk management

The Trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES

In preparing these 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.

Page 17 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

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.

So far as each of the Trustees is aware at the time the report is approved:

INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS

A resolution will be proposed at the annual general meeting for the re-appointment of Morlai Kargbo, Moracle Limited, Chartered Certified Accountants & Registered Auditors.

APPROVAL

This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on 31 May 2023 and signed on its behalf by:

Yvon Tse, Acting Company Secretary

Page 18 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON For the year ended 31 December 2022

I report on the financial statements of The Swiss Church in London (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON) for the year ended 31 December 2022 which comprise of the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet and the related notes.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees (who are also the directors for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year (under Section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is required to:

I read the Trustees’ Report and consider the implications for my report if I become aware of any apparent misstatements within it.

Basis of the independent examiner's report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records.

It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters.

The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view ' and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statements below.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

have not been met; or

(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached

Morlai Kargbo, FCCA Moracle Limited, Chartered Certified Accountants & Registered Auditors 960 Capability Green, Luton, England, LU1 3PE

Date: 31 May 2023

Page 19 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (Incorporating income and expenditure account) For the year ended 31 December 2022

Note
Income:
Donations and Legacies
2
Other trading activities
3
Income from
Charitable activities:
4
Advancing the Christian faith
TOTAL INCOME
Expenditure:
Raising funds
5
Charitable activities:
Advancing the Christian faith
6
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
BEFORE TRANSFERS
Transfers between funds
NET INCOME AFTER TRANSFERS
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED
FORWARD
13		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
77,694
95,347
-
173,041
-
139,295
139,295
33,746
(65,899)
(32,153)
1,607,518
1,575,365		 Restricted
Funds
£
26,425
-
-
26,425
-
101,948
101,948
(75,523)
65,899
(9,624)
22,132
12,508		 2022
Total
£
145,137

95,309
-
199,466
-
241,243
241,243
(41,778)
-
(41,777)
1,629,650
1,587,873		 2021
Total
£
166,644
42,348
-
208,992
-
192,523
192,523
(16,469)
-
(16,469)
1,613,181
1,629,650

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

The Notes form part of the financial statements.

Page 20 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

BALANCE SHEET As at 31 December 2022

Note
FIXED ASSETS
9
2011& 2021 Fixtures & equipment
2009 Church organ
2009 Building improvement
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
10
Cash at bank and in hand
CREDITORS:Amounts falling due within
one year
11
NET CURRENT ASSETS
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
12
Restricted funds
Unrestricted - General funds
- Designated funds		 2022
2021
£
£
£
£
385
1,090
90,501
92,947
1,060,616
1,089,278
1,151,502
1,183,315
3,397
5,816
473,943
493,246
477,340
499,062
(40,969)
(52,727)
446,371
446,335
1,587,873
1,629,650
12,508
22,132
423,863
424,203
1,151,502
1,183,315
1,587,873
1,629,650		 2022
2021
£
£
£
£
385
1,090
90,501
92,947
1,060,616
1,089,278
1,151,502
1,183,315
3,397
5,816
473,943
493,246
477,340
499,062
(40,969)
(52,727)
446,371
446,335
1,587,873
1,629,650
12,508
22,132
423,863
424,203
1,151,502
1,183,315
1,587,873
1,629,650
1,183,315
446,335
1,629,650
22,132
424,203
1,183,315
1,629,650

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 December 2022.

The trustees have not required the charitable company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for:

Page 21 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED) As at 31 December 2022

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small charitable companies and with the Financial Reporting Standard 102, Section 1A (effective January 2019).

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 31 May 2023 and were signed on its behalf by:

........................................... Yvon Tse Company Secretary (Acting)

.............................................. Mrs Emma Brown Treasurer

The notes form part of the financial statements.

Page 22 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the year ended 31 December 2022

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

1.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective January 2019), Charities SORP FRS 102 and the Companies Act 2006. The particular accounting policies adopted are described below.

1.2 Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the company and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors which have been raised by the charity for particular purposes. The cost of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

1.3 Incoming

Gifts in kind donated for distribution are included at valuation and recognised as income when they are distributed to the projects. Gifts donated for resale are included as income when they are sold. Donated facilities are included at the value to the company where this can be quantified and a third party is bearing the cost. No amounts are included in the financial statements for services donated by volunteers.

1.4 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised on an accrual basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates. Support costs which cannot be directly attributed to particular projects are apportioned in proportion to the direct staff cost allocated to the project. Governance costs, which form part of Support costs include expenditure on the governance of the charity and its assets and are primarily associated with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Charitable expenditure consists of all expenditure relating to the objects of the Charity. All costs are directly attributable to the activities under which they have been analysed.

Page 23 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

1.5 Tangible fixed asset and depreciation

All assets costing more than £200 are capitalised.

Depreciation is provided using the following rates and bases to reduce by annual instalments, the cost less estimated residual value, of tangible assets over the estimated useful lives:

The Building improvement is now being depreciated as the building being put into use.

1.6 Foreign currencies

Assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rate ruling on the date of the transaction. Exchange differences are taken into account in arriving at the net income/ (expenditure) result.

1.7 VAT

The charity is not registered for VAT and its expenses are therefore inflated by VAT which cannot be recovered.

1.8 Cash flow

The financial statements do not include a cash flow statement because the charitable company, as a small reporting entity, is exempt from the requirement to prepare such a statement under the Financial Reporting Standard 102 Section 1A (effective January 2019).

Page 24 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

2.
DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
3.
OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
Church lettings
Other Income
Tax recovery
UK members and friends
Collections church service
Switzerland donations
New Individual gift aids		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
50,581
41,056
3,710
95,347
Unrestricted
Funds
£
43,073
1,360
8,327
24,934
77,694
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
50
3,242
23,133
26,425		 Total
2022
£
50,581
41,056
3,710
95,347
Total
2022
£
43,073
1,410
11,579
48,069
104,119		 Total
2021
£
49,785
558
96,606
19,695
166,644
Total
2021
£
41,416
1,155
(223)
42,348

Page 25 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

4. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

-
Advancing the Christian faith

Services and parish events
Swiss church news
Youth work
Cultural events
5.
COST OF RAISING FUNDS

Other fundraising and
publicity costs		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
Unrestricted
Funds
£
-
-		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-		 Total
2022
£
-
-
-
-
-
Total
2022
£
-
-		 Total
2021
£
-
-
-
-
-
Total
2021
£
1,962
1,962

Page 26 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

6. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS


Services and parish events
Swiss church news
Cultural events
Staff costs
Pension
Maintenance
Church cleaning
Council tax
Insurance
Heat, water and light
Printing, post and stationery
Telephone
Staff Attendance
Other expenses
Legal and professional fees
Support to Local Community
New Swiss community
Support Vulnerable Homeless
Support costs(see note 6b)		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
83,618
4,222
-
-
-
-
-
2,075
2,701
1,514
3,279
6,980
-
-
-
34,906
139,295		 Restricted
Funds
£
4,562
2,537
7,566
-
-
39,519
11,407
3,333
5,918
4,662
1,062
-
-
521
-
15,911
-
4,950
-
101,948		 Total
2022
£
4,562
2,537
7,566
83,618
4,222
39,519
11,407
3,333
5,918
4,662
3,167
2,701
1,514
3,800
6,980
15,912
-
4,950
34,906
241,243		 Total
2021
£
4,330
3,709
4,007
86,678
4,217
23,364
4,194
2,966
5,414
3,735
455
2,347
1,265
3,409
6,563
1,122
-
270
34,477
192,523

6b. SUPPORT COSTS IN FURTHERANCE OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITY

Bank charges & currency exchange
loss
Depreciation – Building & Organ
Depreciation – Others
Governance costs		 692
31,109
705
2,400
34,906		 -
-
-
-
-		 692
31,109
705
2,400
34,906		 324
31,109
644
2,400
34,477

Page 27 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

7. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) FOR THE YEAR

This is stated after charging:

his is stated after charging:
Total Total
2022 2021
£ £
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets 31,814 31,753
Independent examination fees 2,400 2,400

During the year, no Trustees received any benefits in kind (2021 - Nil). During the year, no Trustees received any reimbursement of expenses (2021 - Nil).

8. STAFF COSTS AND NUMBERS

Staff costs were as follows:

Total
2022
£
Wages and salaries
81,567
Social security costs
2,051
Pension costs
4,222
87,840
The average number of full-time equivalent employees during the year was as follows:
2022
Charitable activities
3.0		 Total
2021
£
84,351
2,328
4,217
90,896
2021
2.0

The average number of full-time equivalent employees during the year was as follows:

No employee received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in either year.

Page 28 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

9. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS


Cost
At 1 January 2021
Additions
At 31 December 2022
Depreciation
At 1 January 2021
Charged in the year
At 31 December 2022
Net Book Value
31 December 2022
31 December 2021		 Building
improvement
£
1,433,160
-
1,433,160
343,882
28,664
372,546
1,060,616
1,082,278		 Charity
organ
£
122,299
-
122,299
29,352
2,446
31,798
90,501
92,947		 Furniture,
fixtures &
equipment
£
2,820

-
2,820
1,730
704
2,433
386

1,090
 Total
£
1,558,279
-
1,558,279
374,963
31,814
406,777
**1,151,502 **
1,183,315

The original cost and improvements to Vicarage were not capitalised because the Vicarage is considered to be historic, inalienable and the costs are not available. The users of the accounts are principally the members of the Church. The trustees consider the carrying out of professional valuation to this asset at a value in the accounts is considerable compared to the limited additional benefit derived by the users of the accounts.

10. DEBTORS

Debtors and prepayments
Accrued income		 Total
2022
£
1,771
1,626
3,397		 Total
2021
£
,1,664
4,152
5,816

Page 29 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

11. CREDITORS – AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

1. CREDITORS – AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Deferred Income
Other Creditors
Trade Creditors
Accruals
 2022
£
15,000
(6,260)
4,905
27,323
40,968		 2021
£
15,000
6,826
5,265
25,636
52,727

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (CURRENT YEAR)

RESTRICTED FUNDS

Building fund
Cultural fund
Youth work
Support fund
Mobility fund
Business concept plan
New Pastoral		 Brought
Forward
£
-
11,639
8,824
83
1,045
541
-
**22,132 **		 Incoming
resources
£
-
3,510
19,854
-
-
-
3,061
26,425		 Resources
expended
£
(65,899)
(7,566)
(18,972)
-
-
-
(9,511)
(101,948)		 Transfers
between
Funds
£
65,899
-
-
-
-
-
-
65,899		 Carried
Forward
£
-
7,583
9,706
83
1,045
541
(6,450)
12,508

Page 30 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (CONTINUED)

UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

General funds
Designated funds:
Building fund-building
& organ
SUMMARY OF FUNDS
Restricted funds
Unrestricted funds		 Brought
Forward
£
424,203
1,183,315
1,607,518

Brought
Forward
£
22,132
1,607,518
1,629,650		 Incoming
resources
£
173,041
-
173,041
Incoming
Resources
£
26,425
173,041
199,466		 Resources
Expended
£
(107,483)
(31,813)
(139,295)
Resources
Expended
£
(101,948)
(139,295)
(241,243)		 Transfers
between
funds
£
(65,899)
-
(65,899)
Transfers
between
Funds
£
64,899
(65,899)
-		 Carried
Forward
£
423,863
1,151,502
1,575,365
Carried
Forward
£
12,508
1,575,365
1,587,873

SUMMARY OF FUNDS

Much against our historic policy of not valuing the church building, accounting rules – FRS 15: Tangible Fixed Assets requires us to capitalize the majority of the renovation project expenses which represent improvements to the building or are tangible assets like a new dishwasher. Going forward, this means that the renovation expenses, and especially the long-term improvement expenses, will only gradually be depreciated in our books. The long-term improvements designated fund will be depreciated over 50 years. This long-term improvement fund does not represent money available for future improvements, but represents capitalized expenditures that will be annually depreciated over 50 years to reduce these capitalized assets.

Page 31 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

12B. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (PRIOR YEAR)

RESTRICTED FUNDS

RESTRICTED FUNDS
Brought
Forward
£
Building fund
-
Cultural fund
14,624
Youth work
2,704
Support fund
83
Mobility fund
1,045
Business concept plan
541
18,997
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
Brought
Forward
£
General funds
379,763
Designated funds:
Building fund-building
& organ
1,214,421
1,594,184
SUMMARY OF FUNDS
Brought
Forward
£
Restricted funds
18,997
Unrestricted funds
1,594,184
1,629,650		 Incoming
resources
£
-
962
10,919
-
-
-
11,881
Incoming
resources
£
197,111
-
197,111
Incoming
Resources
£
11,881
197,111

**208,991 **		 Resources
expended
£
(34,579)
(3,947)
(4,799)
-
-
-
(43,325)

Resources
Expended
£
(117,444)
(31,754)
(149,198)
Resources
Expended
£
(43,325)

(149,198)
(192,523)		 Transfers
between
Funds
£
34,579
-
-
-
-
-
34,579
Transfers
between
funds
£
(35,227)
648
(34,579)
Transfers
between
Funds
£
34,579
(34,579)
-		 Carried
Forward
£
-
11,639
8,824
83
1,045
541
22,132
Carried
Forward
£
424,203
1,183,315
1,607,518
Carried
Forward
£
22,132
1,607,518
1,629,650

SUMMARY OF FUNDS

Page 32 of 33

THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON (L’EGLISE SUISSE DE LONDRES) (SCHWEIZERKIRCHE IN LONDON)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2022

13. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS (CURRENT YEAR)

Fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities		 General
funds
2022
£
387
464,832
(40,969)
424,250		 Designated
funds
2022
£
1,151,115
-
-
1,151,115		 Restricted
funds
2022
£
-
12,508
-
12,508		 Total
funds
2022
£
1,151,502
477,340
(40,969)
1,587,873		 Total
funds
2021
£
1,183,315
499,062
(52,727)
1,629,650

13B. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS (PRIOR YEAR)

Fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities		 General
funds
2021
£
1,090
476,930
(52,727)
425,293		 Designated
funds
2021
£
1,182,226
-
-
1,182,226		 Restricted
funds
2021
£
-
22,132
-
22,132		 Total
funds
2021
£
1,183,316
499,062
(52,727)
1,629,650		 Total
funds
2020
£
1,214,421
445,615
(46,855)
1,613,181

14. OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENTS

There were no lease commitments at the end of the year 2022 nor for 2021.

15. SHARE CAPITAL

The Swiss Church in London is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. Each member is liable to contribute a sum not exceeding £1 in the event of the charity being wound up.

16. TAXATION

The charity is not liable to tax on its charitable grants, donations or fee income earned in the course of its charitable activities, so long as the income is applied for the purposes of its charitable aims.

Page 33 of 33