OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator.

2023-12-31-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 2023

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

CONTENTS

Page
Report of Trustees 3 – 17
Independent Examiner’s Report 18 – 19
Statement of Financial Activities 20
Balance Sheet 21 – 22
Notes to the Financial Statements 23 – 33

Page 2 of 34

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

TRUSTEES’ REPORT For the year ended 31 December 2023

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 2023 to 31 December 2023. 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 2015) 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 34

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

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

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 2023 the main focus continued to be the fulfilment of 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.

Page 4 of 34

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

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Services, pastoral care and spiritual life

Services: Sunday Services are 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. Reverend Harry Ching led the services until his resignation May 2023. Numbers attending services varied and were generally lower than before the Covid-19 crisis.

Finance

We welcomed Janice O’Brien to our team as our new Finance Officer in September 2023. She undertook a thorough review of our processes and applied her expertise to ensure that best practice in accounting and record keeping is assured.

The Trustees thank her for her invaluable contribution in the first period she was with us during 2023. 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

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Page 5 of 34

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

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 since 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 £18,000. A National Lottery Community Fund Grant also provided a further £3,200.

Swiss community

Some of the church groups (La Causerie, Frauenverein and Mothers Group) meet regularly in person at the church for their monthly gatherings.

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Page 6 of 34

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

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 in person to maintain longstanding relationships between Swiss migrants and offer assistance to the elderly. Rev. Harry Ching and Carla Maurer occasionally led prayer meetings and bible groups.

Office Administration and Venue Management

Venue Manager Emily Rose Simons left us in early 2023 and we welcomed Therese Theurillat in her place.

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.

Meetings with Camden Giving also progressed well.

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

Page 7 of 34

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

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Day to Day Records Management

On a daily basis the church office team, Consistoire and volunteers continued to 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

There was a broad range of organ and choral recitals accompanying our church services during 2023 and we thank Peter Yardley-Jones for his continued support and dedication to the Swiss Church in London.

Arts Committee:

Mary Branson and Julie Hoyle continued to co-chair the committee. Volunteer Arts Coordinator Diane Chappalley and Lizzy Drury 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.

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Page 8 of 34

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

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.

Venue and hirings

Venue Manager Emily Rose Simons left the Swiss Church in early 2023 and we thank her for her work and dedication.

A special thank you to all those groups and individuals that have hired our venue during 2023.

We however also offer a special thank you to Therese Theurillat who joined us in March 2023 and succeeded in renting out the Church for a spectacular Light show, entitled Genesis. This event alone resulted in an income of over £50,000 for the Swiss Church in 2023.

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

Page 9 of 34

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

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.

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 continues to act as trustee for Safeguarding and ensures the compliance of both staff, volunteers and Trustees.

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.

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

The following churches in Switzerland who financially supported the Swiss Church In London during 2023: Kirchgemeinde (parish churches): Sursee, Liestal-Seltisberg, Kilchberg ZH, Tablat-St.Gallen, Burg Stein am Rhein,

Page 10 of 34

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

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.

We thank the Evangelische Kirchengemeinde of Zürich for a special donation of 5,732.98 CH

We also thank The VEGSIL (Vereinigung ehemaliger Glieder der Schweizerkirche in London) for their continued support and donations of 4,966.07 CHF.

Unione Ticinese- we thank the Unione Ticinese for their continuing financial support and encouragement. Swiss Benevolent Society – we thank the Swiss Benevolent Society for their continued support and engagement.

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)

Emma Brown, Treasurer from 30 September 2022 resigned at the AGM in June 2023.

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE (CONTINUED)

Appreciation and Thanks

Rev. Carla Maurer, our Minister was absent on extended maternity leave from November 2022 through August 2023. On her return she continued with 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.

Page 11 of 34

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

We are most grateful to our team, Emily Rose Simons, Anina Smith, Therese Theurillat, 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.

Venue Hire

Page 12 of 34

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

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Income

The income from church related activities for the year was £216,603 compared to £ 199,466 in 2022. Of these, 51% (52% in 2022) was generated through donations. As in previous years, donations are backbone of the church’s income and during the year we saw a 6% increase in donations received (£110,334 compared to £ 104,119 in 2022).

Expenses

Total expenditure in conjunction with church related activities were £ 252,607 excluding £ 25,098 worth of depreciation and governance costs, compared to £ 206,336 in 2022.

Summary

The overall net loss, after accounting for depreciation, is circa (£61,102)) compared to loss of (£41,778) in 2022. 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 £6,396 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 34

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

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

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 committed to supporting the Mission of The Swiss Church in London remains a key focus of the Consistoire.

Postscript: With the announcement received shortly before the end of December 2023 that the Rev Carla Maurer intended to resign and return to Switzerland, the Trustees have also implemented a plan to seek either an Interim or permanent Minister from Switzerland to ensure the continuity of our Mission as a spiritual Home to the Swiss in London and the United Kingdom and to offer uninterrupted religious services to our congregation in London and beyond.

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Page 14 of 34

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

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

Mr Niccolo Aliano (since Jan 2023) Mrs Emma Brown (since May 2022) Treasurer (October 2022 to July 2023) Ms Jenny Breitschmid Volunteer Coordinator (since Jan 2021 to July 2023) Mr Daniel Everett President (since November 2023) Ms Katrin Frey Safeguarding (since Jan 2021) and Vice President (Nov 2023) Mr Philip Maillardet Archives (since May 2009) Mrs Cecile Mistry Catering and Congregation (since November 2008) Mr Colin McIntyre (April 2021 to Mar 2023) Ms Lindsey Wiercioch Arts (since October 2023)

MINISTER Rev. Carla Maurer (since June 2013) – return from Maternity August 2023 Rev. Harry Ching Maternity Cover C Maurer (November 2022 to May 2023)

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Andreas Feller Breakfast on the Steps (since January 2021)

VENUE MANAGER Emily Rose Simons (until March 2023) Therese Theurillat (since March 2023 - )

OFFICE AND FINANCE ADMINISTRATOR

Anina Smith (since December 2014 to Oct 2023) Janice O’Brien (since September 2023)

Office Administration

Ryan Moshwe (since March 2021)

TREASURER

Emma Brown (since October 2022 to July 2023)

OBSERVER from The SWISS EMBASSY

Thomas Wagner (since July 2022; ex officio member of the Consistoire)

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

Page 15 of 34

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

CHARITY NUMBER 1094992

COMPANY NUMBER: 04454591

REGISTERED OFFICE 79 Endell Street London

WC2H 9DY

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

COMPANY SECRETARY (Acting) Mr Yvon Tse (since February 2019 to September 2023)

Cornelius Stassen Inside Accounting Limited 1 Princes Close London Sw4 0LG

BANKERS

HSBC Bank PLC 117 Great Portland Street London W1W 6QJ

UBS 100 Liverpool Street London EC2M 2RH

PostFinanceSwiss Post Verarbeitungszentrum CH-3040 Bern

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

Page 16 of 34

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

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. They are also responsible for safeguarding the

TRUSTEES’ REPORT (CONTINUED) For the year ended 31 December 2023

Page 17 of 34

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

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

Inside accounting were appointed in November 2023. A resolution will be proposed at the annual general meeting for the re-appointment of Cornelius Stassen, Inside Accounting.

APPROVAL

This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on 29 September 2023 and signed on its behalf by:

Daniel Everett, President

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE SWISS CHURCH IN LONDON

Page 18 of 34

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

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 203 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

Cornelius Stassen Inside Accounting Limited

Date: 30 July 2024

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

(Incorporating income and expenditure account)

Page 19 of 34

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

For the year ended 31 December 2023

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
£
74,452
106,269
-
180,721
-
149,274
149,274
31,448
(68,566)
(36,836)
1,575,365
1,538,247		 Restricted
Funds
£
35,882
-
-
35,882
-
128,432
128,432
(92,550)
68,566
(24,369)
12,508
(11,476)		 2023
Total
£
110,334

106,269
-
216,603
-
277,706
277,706
(61,102)
-
(61,102)
1,587,874
1,526,772		 2022
Total
£
104,119
95,347
-
199,466
-
241,243
241,243
(41,777)
-
(41,777)
1,587,873
1,587,873

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 34

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

BALANCE SHEET As at 31 December 2023

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		 2023
2022
£
£
£
£
-
385
88,055
90,501
1,031,953
1,060,616
1,120,007
1,151,502
9,515
3,391
439,911
473,950
449,427
477,341
(42,764)
(40,968)
406,662
436,373
1,526,670
1,587,874
(11,860)
12,508
418,522
423,863
1,120,008
1,151,502
1,526,670
1,587,874		 2023
2022
£
£
£
£
-
385
88,055
90,501
1,031,953
1,060,616
1,120,007
1,151,502
9,515
3,391
439,911
473,950
449,427
477,341
(42,764)
(40,968)
406,662
436,373
1,526,670
1,587,874
(11,860)
12,508
418,522
423,863
1,120,008
1,151,502
1,526,670
1,587,874
1,151,502
436,373
1,587,874
12,508
423,863
1,151,502
1,587,874

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 2021 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for:

Page 21 of 34

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

BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)

As at 31 December 2023

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 2015).

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

........................................... Philippe Maillardet Trustee

.............................................. Daniel Everett President

Page 22 of 34

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

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the year ended 31 December 2023

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

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 2015), 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 34

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 2023

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:

 Fixtures & fittings - 33% straight line  Office equipment - 33% straight line  Building improvement - over 50 years

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 2015).

Page 24 of 34

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 2023

2.
DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
UK members and friends
Collections church service
Switzerland donations
New Individual gift aids
3.
OTHERTRADING ACTIVITIES
Church lettings
Other Income
Tax recovery		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
28,910
2,103
43,439
-
74,452
Unrestricted
Funds
£
92,740
12,491
1,038
106,269		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
11,625
24,257
35,882
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-		 Total
2023
£
28,910
2,103
55,064
24,257
110,334
Total
2023
£
92,740
12,491
1,038
106,269		 Total
2022
£
28,274
752
51,960
23,133
104,119
Total
2022
£
50,581
41,056
3,710
95,347

Page 25 of 34

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 2023

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
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
Total
2023
£
-
-		 Total
2022
£
-
-
-
-
-
Total
2022
£
-
-

Page 26 of 34

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 2023

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
Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
-
4,958
-
2,901
-
18,774
102,287
-
5,095
-
-
50,057
-
13,228
-
3,851
-
6,479
-
4,081
1,369
-
2,986
-
1,411
-
7,525
574
3,502
-
-
21,829
-
-
-
1,700
25,098
-
149,274
128,432		 Total
Total
2023
2022
£
£
4,958
4,562
2,901
2,538
18,774
7,566
102,287
83,618
5,095
4,222
50,057
39,519
13,228
11,407
3,851
5,177
6,479
5,135
4,081
4,662
1,369
2,075
2,986
2,701
1,411
1,515
8,099
6,382
3,502
4,397
21,829
15,912
-
-
1,700
4,950
25,098
34,906
277,706
241,243

6b. SUPPORT COSTS IN FURTHERANCE OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITY

Bank charges & currency exchange
loss
Depreciation – Building & Organ
Depreciation – Others
Governance costs		 (6,396)
31,494
-
-
25,098		 -
-
-
-
-		 (6,396)
31,494
-
-
25,098		 692
31,109
705
2,400
34,906

Page 27 of 34

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 2023

7. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) FOR THE YEAR

This is stated after charging:

This is stated after charging:
Total Total
2023 2022
£ £
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets 25,098 31,814
Independent examination fees - 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:

Staff costs were as follows:
Total
2023
£
Wages and salaries
98,247
Social security costs
4,040
Pension costs
5,095
107,383
The average number of full-time equivalent employees during the year was as follows:
2023
Charitable activities
3.0		 Total
2022
£
81,567
2,051
4,222
87,840
2022
3.0

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 34

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 2023

9. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Cost
At 1 January 2022
Additions
At 31 December 2023
Depreciation
At 1 January 2022
Charged in the year
At 31 December 2023
Net Book Value
31 December 2023
31 December 2022		 Building
improvement
£
1,433,160
-
1,433,160
372,545
28,664
401,209
1,031,951
1,060,615		 Charity
organ
£
122,299
-
122,299
31,798
2,446
34,244
88,055
90,501		 Furniture,
fixtures &
equipment
£
67,026
-
67,026
66,642
385
67,026
0
385		 Total
£
1,622,485
-
1,622,485
470,985
31,494
502,479
1,120,006
1,151,500

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
2023
£
9,515
-
9,515		 Total
2022
£
1,764
1,626
3,391

Page 29 of 34

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 2023

11. CREDITORS – AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

1. CREDITORS – AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Deferred Income
Other Creditors
Trade Creditors
Accruals		 2023
£
23,919
(5,131
4,751
8,963
42,764		 2022
£
15,000
(6,260)
4,905
27,323
40,968

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
£
-
7,583
9,706
83
1,045
541
(6,450)
12,508		 Incoming
resources
£
10,089
1,837
23,956
-
-
-
-
35,882		 Resources
expended
£
(78,656)
(18,774)
(21,829)
(1,700)
-
-
(7,859)
(128,817)		 Transfers
between
Funds
£
68,566
-
-
-
-
-
-
65,899		 Carried
Forward
£
-
(9,354)
11,833
(1,617)
1,045
541
(14,309)
(11,860)

Page 30 of 34

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 2023

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (CONTINUED)

UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

General funds
Designated funds:
Building fund-building
& organ
SUMMARY OF FUNDS
Restricted funds
Unrestricted funds		 Brought
Forward
£
423,863
1,151,502
1,575,365
Brought
Forward
£
12,508
1,575,365
1,587,873		 Incoming
resources
£
180,721
-
180,721
Incoming
Resources
£
35,882
180,721
216,603		 Resources
Expended
£
(117,780)
(31,109)
(148,889)
Resources
Expended
£
(128,817)
(148,889)
(277,706)		 Transfers
between
funds
£
(68,566)
-
(68,566)
Transfers
between
Funds
£
68,566
(68,566)
-		 Carried
Forward
£
423,863
1,120,393
1,538,632
Carried
Forward
£
(11,860)
1,538,632
1,526,772

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 34

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 2023

12B.MOVEMENT IN FUNDS (PRIOR YEAR)

RESTRICTED FUNDS

Building fund
Cultural fund
Youth work
Support fund
Mobility fund
Business concept plan		 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

UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

Brought
Forward
£
General funds
424,203
Designated funds:
Building fund-building
& organ
1,183,315
1,607,518
SUMMARY OF FUNDS
Brought
Forward
£
Restricted funds
22,132
Unrestricted funds
1,607,518		 Incoming
resources
£
173,041
-
173,041
Incoming
Resources
£
26,425
173,041		 Resources
Expended
£
(107,483)
(31,813)
(139,295)
Resources
Expended
£
(101,948)
(139,295)		 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

Page 32 of 34

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

1,629,650 199,466 (241,243)

1,587,873

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

For the year ended 31 December 2023

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

Fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities		 General funds
2023
£
-
461,287
(42,764))
418,523		 Designated
funds
2023
£
1,120,006
-
-
1,120,006		 Restricted
funds
2023
£
-
(11,860)
-
(11,860)		 Total
funds
2023
£
1,120,006
449,427
(42,764)
1,526,670		 Total
funds
2022
£
1,151,502
477,340
(40,969)
1,587,873

13B.ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS (PRIOR 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

14. OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENTS

There were no lease commitments at the end of the year 2023 nor for 2022.

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.

Page 33 of 34

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

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 34 of 34