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2026-02-28-accounts

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Solihull & District Hebrew Congregation Trustee’s Annual Report and Accounts

For the year ended 28th February 2026

Registered Charity No. 1100938

HOLDING TRUSTEES

Mr Jon Gouldman Mr Malcolm Hyams Dr Gerald Langman

Solihull and District Hebrew Congregation Registered Charity No. 1100938

3 Monastery Drive Solihull West Midlands B91 1DW 0121 706 8736 office@solihullshul.org

BANKERS

Lloyds Bank PLC The Priory Queensway Birmingham B4 6BP

MINISTER

Rabbi Yehuda Pink

PRESIDENT

Barclays Bank PLC 25 High Street Coventry, CVl 5QZ

Mr J Gouldman

MEMBERS OF COUNCIL

Mrs M Bateman Mr M Hyams Dr G Langman Mrs A Stone Mr G Stone Ex officio: Mr J Gouldman

TSB Bank 134 New Street Birmingham B2 4NS

Trustees

The Trustees named on page one have served throughout the year unless indicated otherwise.

Appointment of Trustees is governed by the Constitution of the charity. The Board of Trustees is authorised to appoint new Trustees to fill vacancies arising from resignation or death of an existing Trustee.

The Constitution authorises the Trustees to make or hold investments in the general funds of the charity.

Description of Organisation

The Solihull and District Hebrew Congregation was founded in 1963 and was registered with the Charity Commission on 28th November 2003 under registration number 1100938. The constitution was last updated and modified on 3rd September 2015.

Constitution and Charitable Objects

The Charity is a registered charity governed by its constitution. The formal objects of the Charity, as set out in its governing document, are:

i. The advancement of the Jewish religion, including the provision and maintenance of a place of orthodox Jewish worship.

ii. The advancement of education for adults and children in the heritage, culture and language of Judaism.

iii. The relief of those in need by reason of youth, age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship, or other disadvantage through the provision of welfare and social support.

Public Benefit and Inclusion

The Trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty under the Charities Act 2011 to have regard to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit (PB1, PB2, and PB3) when exercising their powers and planning future activities. We operate an open-door policy across all our activities, warmly welcoming both members and individuals with no formal affiliation. Further details illustrating how our work delivers tangible public benefit, particularly in fostering community cohesion, are provided throughout this report.

Funding and Financial Policies

The primary policy of the Charity remains focused on securing sustainable funding streams and financial support to ensure the ongoing viability and purposeful expansion of our charitable activities. The Charity’s principal sources of income comprise members’ subscriptions, voluntary donations andl grants generously received from charitable trusts.

Reserves

The trustees regularly review the free reserves available to meet day to day expenses. Funds that are received for a specific purpose are ring-fenced for that purpose. We currently have three restricted reserve accounts. The Coventry Burial Fund which may only be used for the costs of burial of people enrolled in the fund, the Building Fund to cover the costs of planned refurbishment and any emergency repairs and the Eric Samuels Legacy Fund. The trustees have identified a target of free reserves equal to six months operating expenses to ensure that any short term downturn in income will not cause undue harm to the day to day operations of the charity and to allow an

orderly winding up of affairs should the charity no longer be viable. We currently have £79,500 of free reserves this is slightly higher than last year and we will continue to work to gradually raise our free reserves to the target level of six months operating expenses.

Fund Raising

The charity’s fundraising is primarily carried out by the Rabbi through direct approaches to individuals and other charitable trusts. The Charity has signed up to the Fundraising Regulator to ensure that we follow best practice. In 2025-26, the fundraising objectives were met. No complaints were received about the nature of fundraising carried out on behalf of the Charity.

Grants were received from the following Charitable Trusts and foundations. Heart of England Community Foundation, Solihull Metropolitan Council Household Support Fund, The Baron Davenport Foundation, The J Davies Charity, The We Are All Making A Difference Trust, Birmingham Jewish Community Care, The CST on behalf of The Governments Jewish Community Protective Security Fund, The Warwickshire Free Masons Charity, Centre for Community Excellence, The Harbour Foundation, Edward Cadbury Charitable Trust, William Cadbury Charitable Trust.

The Trustees are grateful to all the benefactors whose generous contributions remain an important element in the ability of the charity to continue its work.

Changes in policy:

The Charity’s policies have remained the same throughout the year.

Organisational structure and Management of the Charity

The Management of the Charity is vested in the Council which is comprised of five members elected for a period of two years. The members of the council have experience in a wide variety of fields and posses a broad range of knowledge and expertise that is of great help in the management of our affairs. The management members are elected by the membership in General Meeting. The members of the Council give their time freely and receive no remuneration or other financial benefits.

To assist in the smooth running of the charity there are a number of sub-committees that report back to the council and help them oversee certain aspects of the charity’s work. The membership of the sub-committees reflects the particular skills that members of the Council can bring to the work of the charity. These sub-committees report back with their recommendations to the full meeting of the Council.

The Trustees and the Rabbi meet regularly to discuss any relevant matters and to determine which matters need to be placed before Council, and to keep the Council informed of all matters concerning the charity. The Council meet together as a body bi-monthly and are responsible for all decisions taken in relation to the running of and activities provided by the charity. The day-to-day management of the Community Centre and projects are delegated to staff.

Charity Governance Code

The Charity Governance Code was significantly refreshed in November 2025, moving from seven principles to a single, scalable framework structured around eight core principles. The Trustees and Council have carefully reviewed each of these updated principles to ensure that the Charity’s current governance structure satisfactorily addresses them, identifying areas for ongoing enhancement where appropriate

Risk Management and Child Protection Policies

The trustees have examined the major strategic, business and operational risks that the charity faces and confirm that systems have been established to enable regular reviews to be carried out so that the necessary steps can be taken to lessen these risks. All our policies have been reviewed this year and where necessary updated to ensure that they comply with legal requirements and our operational realities.

In particular, insurance cover is in place and the finances of the charity are kept under review. Appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, supported by regularly reviewed policies, are made for all those who work with children or other vulnerable groups within the Community Centre. All volunteers who work with children or vulnerable adults undergo training and hold certificates confirming that they have received the level of training appropriate to their work.

The charity has appointed a suitably trained member of staff to act as Senior Safeguarding Officer for both children and vulnerable adults.

All new employees and volunteers are given an induction into the charities policies and procedures and existing employees and volunteers all undertake an annual review of all policies that are applicable to them. Copies of all are policies are kept in a folder that is available for public inspection in the office of the Community Centre.

Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities

The Trustees are required under the Charities Act 2011 and the constitution of the charity to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of its income and expenditure for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

(a) Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently.

(b) Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent.

(c) Prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue its operations.

(d) Prepare the financial statements in accordance with applicable UK Accounting Standards (including Financial Reporting Standard 102) and the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities (Charities SORP).

Review of Activities

We have continued to work in accordance with the stated aims of the charity, which are promoting Jewish worship, education, community welfare and social support.

Our activities can broadly be divided into two categories: those that service the religious and spiritual needs of our members and those of a cultural and social nature, which are non-denominational and open to all.

Our community welfare and social support activities are entirely non-denominational and are kept distinct from our religious operations.

To safeguard this distinction, we maintain separate bank accounts for these distinct activities, which are overseen by a separate management committee and managed by their own treasurer. As all operations fall under the main charity mandate, each of these groups reports back regularly to the Trustees.

The Trustees have reviewed the objectives and activities of the charity to ensure they continue to reflect our aims. In carrying out this review, the Trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit, specifically guides PB1 (The Public Benefit Requirement), PB2 (Running a Charity), and PB3 (Reporting).

Finances

Our accounts are prepared on an accruals basis and consolidate the main Synagogue account with the separately managed Ladies Guild, Tzedokah Fund and Thursday Club. This structure enables the different areas of the charity’s work to be clearly identified.

The charity effectively broke even during the year. Total income was £218,225 and expenditure was £218,410, resulting in a small deficit of just £185, compared with a surplus of £551 in the previous year.

Our income continues to be well diversified. Membership subscriptions of £22,037 represented only around 10% of total income, with the balance coming from donations, Gift Aid, grants, the Kol Nidrei Appeal, bank interest, rental and advertising income and other activities. Unrestricted donations increased significantly during the year from £28,934 to £58,979, helping to offset the reduction in grant income.

At the year end, total bank and cash balances across the charity were £245,201. This figure should not, however, be confused with free reserves. It includes restricted funds, funds held for specific purposes and money required for existing commitments and planned expenditure. After taking these into account, the Trustees have calculated the charity’s free reserves at £79,500. This represents the funds genuinely available for general charitable purposes and provides an important financial cushion against unforeseen expenditure or fluctuations in income.

The Trustees continue to take a prudent approach to the management of reserves, with funds held in secure interest-bearing bank accounts. The Coventry Burial Fund remains a separate long-term commitment and is valued in the accounts at £48,886.

The Thursday Club, through which we undertake much of our non-denominational social and welfare work, recorded a deficit of £16,886. This was principally due to the substantial reduction in government funding following the ending of the Household Support Fund. Government restricted grants fell from £68,373 to £7,393, while charitable trust funding also reduced. Despite this, donations to the Thursday Club increased from £9,951 to £19,481 and support from charitable trusts and other funders enabled us to continue providing essential services to elderly and vulnerable members of the community.

The Kol Nidrei Appeal remains an important source of income, raising £10,917 during the year. Rental income also increased to £13,200, providing a valuable additional income stream. We continue to maintain relationships with former members and friends of the community who have moved away from Solihull but retain a connection with the Congregation.

We have continued to invest in reducing the running costs of the Community Centre. Energy efficiency measures including solar panels, cavity wall insulation and a new water boiler have already contributed to a reduction in gas, electricity and water costs from £11,349 to £8,019. These measures will provide continuing financial and environmental benefits.

The Tzedokah Fund remains financially strong, ending the year with £55,668 in bank and cash funds, while the Ladies Guild held £1,159. The Tzedokah Fund continues to support both specific charitable purposes and general charitable giving, including assistance to individuals and other

organisations.

Our financial position is also supported by the significant assets held by the charity. The Community Centre is recorded in the accounts at £330,351 and fixtures and fittings at £150,000. The Trustees have not commissioned a professional valuation and the property therefore continues to be shown at cost. The Trustees consider its current market value to be approximately £1.2 million.

Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on maintaining financial stability while developing new and sustainable sources of income. A particular area of focus is legacy giving. Our community has a long history and many members and supporters have maintained a strong connection with the Congregation over many years. We are therefore increasingly encouraging supporters to consider remembering the Congregation in their wills. We believe that a successful legacy programme can make a significant contribution to the long-term financial security of the charity and help ensure that Jewish communal life in Solihull continues for future generations.

The ageing profile of our community therefore presents not only a consideration for the future but also an opportunity to develop this important source of long-term funding. Importantly, membership subscriptions currently represent only a small proportion of our overall income, so changes in membership numbers are not in themselves expected to have a major impact on the charity’s financial position.

Our financial strategy is consequently focused on maintaining appropriate reserves, continuing to diversify our income, developing legacy giving, strengthening relationships with donors and charitable trusts, increasing Gift Aid where possible and controlling operating costs. We will continue to monitor expenditure carefully while ensuring that financial considerations do not prevent us from delivering the services and activities that are central to our charitable objectives.

Overall, the Trustees are satisfied that the charity is in a stable financial position. The year ended with an almost exactly balanced result, significant cash reserves across the different funds, valuable community assets and a diversified income base. While prudent financial management remains essential, we believe that the measures we have put in place, together with the continued generosity of our supporters and the growing emphasis on long-term sources of income such as legacies, provide a strong foundation for the future.

We remain committed to ensuring that the charity’s resources are used responsibly and effectively and that Solihull and District Hebrew Congregation continues to provide a vibrant religious, social and charitable centre for the community for many years to come.

Area of Operation

As the closest organised Jewish community with the services of a Rabbi, we are frequently called upon to provide support to Jews across a wide geographical area. In addition to Solihull, this includes Coventry, Leamington, Malvern, Ross-on-Wye, Stratford-uponAvon, Warwick and Worcester, together with numerous smaller towns and villages across the region.

Our activities and services are open to all, regardless of whether they are formally affiliated with the Solihull

The Mayor of Solihull & Mayor of WMCA with Rabbi & Rebbetzen Pink at Solihull Menorah Lighting

Jewish Community. We are also regularly called upon to assist Jewish visitors to the area, including business people and tourists, providing them with a local point of contact and access to Jewish religious, pastoral and community support. Review of Activities

Community Cohesion

Our Community Centre continues to be used by a range of community groups and organisations throughout the year. We remain registered with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council so that, if required, the Centre can be made available to the authorities in an emergency for accommodation, office space or other community needs. We have continued our programme of refurbishment and improvements to ensure that the Centre remains a welcoming, safe and well-maintained facility for all who use it.

With the help of a grant from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), we have refurbished our cloakroom facilities, including a new accessible toilet and baby-changing area. These improvements have made the Community Centre more accessible and welcoming for disabled visitors and much more family-friendly for young parents.

We were also delighted to welcome a group of employees from Birmingham Airport who generously donated a day’s volunteering to help improve our grounds. They painted the gates, tidied and replanted the garden area and worked on the pond, creating a more attractive and peaceful space where visitors can sit and relax. We are extremely grateful for their hard work and for the support they have given to our community.

Rabbi Pink continues to play an active role in the wider community, serving as Chaplain and participating in advisory and community forums involving local hospitals, prisons, SACRE, Solihull Faiths Forum, the Safer Solihull Board, the CPS Hate Crime Panel and Birmingham International Airport’s Multi-Faith Support Team. This work helps to ensure that the needs of the Jewish community are understood by local organisations and public services while also strengthening relationships between the different communities across Solihull. Rabbi Pink again played a central role in the National Holocaust Memorial Day Service organised by Solihull Council.

We were delighted to hold our annual public Menorah Lighting during Chanukah with the participation of the Mayor of Solihull. The event has become an important part of the civic calendar, promoting freedom of religion, mutual respect and tolerance and providing an opportunity for the Jewish community to celebrate Chanukah publicly alongside the wider community.

Volunteers from Birmingham Airport redoing our pond area

Rabbi Pink has continued to maintain a close working

relationship with West Midlands Police and local neighbourhood policing teams, working with them on initiatives to address racist behaviour and promote community safety. Our annual Civic Service also provides an opportunity to thank Councillors, Council staff, NHS workers and members of West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service for their service to the community.

The Stanley Middleburgh Library continues to be well used. We are particularly grateful to our team

of volunteers who have helped make the library accessible to those who are unable to visit in person by delivering books and other items to people’s homes.

Our Judaica store continues to provide a valuable local resource for both Jewish and non-Jewish visitors, offering books, cards and other items relating to Judaism together with knowledgeable advice. It is also a useful resource for local schools seeking materials to support their Religious Education teaching.

We remain proud to be part of the Solihull Foodbank Network, enabling us to work alongside other local organisations supporting individuals and families experiencing hardship. This partnership strengthens our ability to respond to local need and contributes to our wider commitment to supporting the community beyond our own membership.

Communications and PR

Our newsletter, Hakol, continues to play a valuable role in communicating our activities and services to members and supporters. During the year we expanded Hakol into a full-size A4 glossy magazine, providing greater scope to showcase our activities, share community news and provide useful information. Graham Stone, our Advertising Manager, has continued to develop advertising revenue, helping to ensure that the magazine remains largely self-funding. Hakol is now distributed to approximately 350 families.

We also produce a community calendar in partnership with Chabad of Solihull, which, together with Hakol, is distributed to approximately 350 families. The calendar provides a useful source of information about Jewish dates, activities and events taking place throughout the year.

We have continued to increase the number of members and supporters receiving information electronically, helping to reduce stationery and postage costs while also reducing the environmental

impact of our communications. We continue to maintain personal contact with elderly members of the community who are unable to venture out, through regular telephone calls and visits.

Our weekly email bulletin is received by an increasing number of members and friends and our website is regularly updated with information about our activities and services. Our social media presence, including Facebook and X, provides another important way of reaching the wider community. We continue to receive enquiries as a result of people finding us through our website and online presence.

Our activities have continued to receive coverage in local and national media in the UK and, on occasion, internationally. This provides valuable opportunities to highlight the work of the Congregation and raise awareness of the Jewish community in Solihull and the wider region.

Improving our Green Credentials

Following an energy audit of our Community Centre, we have continued to implement measures to reduce our energy consumption and environmental impact. The major solar panel installation was completed in the previous year and is now contributing to lower energy costs and a reduced carbon footprint.

There remains some work to complete, including the final phase of the LED lighting programme and some outstanding insulation work. We would also like to install an additional battery to increase the amount of solar energy that can be stored and used within the building.

We hope to secure grant funding during the coming year to enable these remaining improvements to be completed. This will allow us to make even better use of the solar installation, further reduce our reliance on purchased energy and continue Disabled Facilities being refurbished to improve the environmental performance of our Community Centre.

We are grateful for the funding already received which has enabled us to make these improvements and remain committed to making the Centre as energy efficient and environmentally sustainable

as possible.

Cheesecake ready for distribution

needed to celebrate the festival were delivered by our wonderful team of volunteers to families across the region. We also held festive meals at our Community Centre, including a record number attending our Pesach Seder.

None of this would have been possible without the tremendous voluntary contribution of Rebbetzen Dinie Pink, whose dedication enables us to provide high-quality communal events at a fraction of the cost that would otherwise be required.

Religious & Educational Services

We hold regular prayer services that are open to anyone who wishes to attend, irrespective of affiliation.

Every event in the Jewish calendar was marked with a communal activity. During the year, 250 boxes of Shmurah Matzah, 250 cheesecakes ahead of Shavuos, 250 Rosh Hashanah boxes containing honey cake, apples and honey, and 250 Chanukah kits containing all the items

Chanukah Boxes being packed

We were extremely fortunate to once again retain the services of Chazan Zali Rodal, ably assisted by Daniel Littlestone, for the High Holy Days. Their melodious singing and lively tunes contributed greatly to the atmosphere and enjoyment of the services.

Education continues to be a central part of our work, with learning opportunities available for people of all ages and levels of knowledge throughout the week. Our regular programme consists of a range of faceto-face classes, providing accessible opportunities for people at different stages of their Jewish learning.

The week starts with Bagels, Lox & Torah at 10.00am on Sunday morning, a 30-minute breakfast and discussion exploring an issue of Jewish law or tradition. The session is open to both men and

women and is particularly suitable for those unable to attend weekday classes.

Other regular learning opportunities include the Retired Gentlemen’s Shiur on Tuesday morning, the Ladies Discussion Group on Wednesday morning, a Jewish Philosophy Shiur for Ivrit speakers on Wednesday evening and Torah and Tea every Saturday morning. Together these provide a variety of opportunities for people of different ages, backgrounds and levels of Jewish knowledge.

A number of people have also taken the opportunity to arrange one-to-one learning with Rabbi Pink. Teaching Torah remains at the heart of a Rabbi’s role and Rabbi Pink is always happy to make time for anyone wishing to deepen their knowledge and understanding of Judaism. We believe that providing accessible opportunities for personal learning is an important part of our role as a community.

Anthony Grossman speaking to the Pre-Pesach London Trip

Social Activities

The Functions Committee coordinates the social functions organised by the community and also works to ensure that maximum use is made of our Community Centre by other groups and organisations in the area.

Our pre-Pesach trip to London, hosted by Paul and Koti Kay, was once again a highlight in our social calendar. We were pleased to welcome Anthony Grossman of Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP as our guest speaker, providing an interesting and informative addition to the day.

Mid Summer Concert with the Shabbaton Choir

We also held a very successful Mid-Summer Concert featuring the Shabbaton Choir, accompanied by a magnificent salt beef lunch. The event was a sell-out, with over 100 people attending, including members of Cardiff Synagogue and visitors who travelled from as far afield as Manchester. The event demonstrated the continuing ability of our community to attract people from well beyond Solihull and provided

an excellent opportunity to strengthen our links with neighbouring communities.

We also held well-attended family events ahead of Purim and Rosh Hashanah, providing

Opportunities for children and families to come together and celebrate the festivals in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.

Chanukah once again provided a particularly extensive programme of activities. We held Chanukah parties at Silverstone Court and at the Solihull Thursday Club, bringing the festival to elderly residents and members of the wider community. Our annual public Menorah Lighting in Solihull was attended by the Mayor of Solihull, while we also held our first ever Menorah Lighting in Ross-on-Wye, extending our reach into another part of the region. A car Menorah Parade added another highly visible element to the celebrations, helping to bring the message and celebration of Chanukah to the wider community.

Enjoying the Pre Rosh Hashana Fun Day

Our Loaves of Love challah baking sessions, led by Rebbetzen Dinie Pink, have continued throughout the year. One of the aims of the project is to share the loaves with people who are unable to access fresh bread themselves, combining community participation with practical support for those in need.

We strive to be a caring and welcoming community, enjoying the social aspects of Jewish life while ensuring that our activities are open and accessible to as many people as possible.

The Thursday Club

The Thursday Club is the vehicle through which we deliver our non-denominational social welfare programmes. These activities are open to all, irrespective of whether or not they are members of the Jewish community.

Our weekly lunch club provides senior citizens with a freshly prepared, nutritious meal, an opportunity to meet friends and develop new relationships and a programme of activities and talks. During the year we welcomed a range of guest speakers, including the Mayor of Solihull and David Rees Jones of the Alzheimer’s

Society, as well as classes, gentle baking sessions i n c l u d i n g technology and many elderly and unable to leave but Not Alone freshly prepared visits to people in

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organising quizzes, art exercise, cookery and and talks on subjects budgeting, home safety, energy saving.

We have found that vulnerable people are their homes. Our Home programme provides meals and volunteer their own homes.

Volunteers visit people region and provide support, whether that a freshly cooked prescriptions or spending time with otherwise be isolated. directed by Rabbi and has operated every week April 2020. During the 12,912 freshly cooked programme began, our driven more than 48,000

throughout the practical and social means delivering meal, collecting shopping or simply someone who may The programme, Rebbetzen Pink, without fail since year we supplied meals. Since the volunteers have miles delivering

meals and providing support, including 9,658 miles during the year.

We are extremely grateful to our volunteers, whose dedication makes this programme possible. The support received from Solihull Council through the Household Support Fund has also enabled us to provide assistance to people in particular need. As this funding has reduced significantly, we have had to manage the programme carefully while continuing to protect our core services.

We have been particularly grateful for the support received during the year from Heart of England Community Foundation, Harbour Foundation, the Baron Davenport Foundation, Birmingham

Adrienne Langman

Jewish Community Care, the Edward Cadbury Charitable Trust, Warwickshire Freemasons, We Are All Making A Difference, the William Cadbury Charitable Trust and the J Davies Charity. Their support has helped us to continue our work with elderly and vulnerable people at a time when government funding has reduced significantly.

We work closely with other agencies, including Birmingham Jewish Community Care and Age UK, to ensure that users of our services are signposted to other sources of specialist support where appropriate. We have also developed close links with Birmingham Jewish Housing Association and remain grateful to Phil Linz, its Chairman, for his support.

The Thursday Club provide a valuable c o m p a n i o n s h i p , practical support for and vulnerable our region. We have invest in equipment that we can meet for freshly prepared for those attending and those receiving home.

The Thursday Club continues to source of provide a valuable c o m p a n i o n s h i p , activity and practical support for many elderly and vulnerable people in our region. We have continued to invest in equipment to ensure that we can meet the demand for freshly prepared meals, both for those attending the Club and those receiving meals at home. We remain members of the Solihull Foodbank N e t w o r k , which brings t o g e t h e r o r g a n i s a t i o n s s u p p o r t i n g p e o p l e e x p e r i e n c i n g f o o d insecurity. We also work with Neighbourly, which c o n n e c t s charities with local businesses and has enabled us to receive regular surplus food from Sainsbury’s in D o r r i d g e and Aldi in Solihull. We are extremely grateful to the volunteers who collect these donations each week. We have also r e c e i v e d valuable donations of food from Chevingtons Cheese and H Gross Butchers. With the continuing increase in the cost of food and other raw materials, this support makes a significant contribution to our ability to continue providing meals and other services.

The Thursday Club’s funds are managed separately from the main Synagogue funds, ensuring that money raised specifically for the Club is used to support its activities. The Club ended the year with income of £48,799 and expenditure of £65,685, reflecting the significant reduction in grant funding during the year.

None of our work would be possible without our dedicated team of volunteers, many of whom are not members of the Solihull Jewish community. We are enormously grateful for the time, energy and commitment they give throughout the year. Particular thanks are due to our caretaker and security officer, Eric Harrison, who consistently goes above and beyond in his service to the community.

Spotlight on Our Volunteers: Carl Spiegel

Every successful community relies on the dedication of volunteers who give their time, energy and kindness simply because they care. This year, we are proud to shine our Volunteer Spotlight on Carl Spiegel, whose contribution to our community has become almost a full-time job in itself.

Although retired, Carl seems to have little intention of retiring from helping others. He gives an extraordinary amount of his time to the community and is always ready to step in wherever he is needed. With a heart of gold and a joyful, contagious personality, Carl has a remarkable ability to lift the spirits of those around him.

Nowhere is too far for Carl to drive if someone needs help. Whether it is delivering a food parcel, taking something to someone who cannot get out, visiting someone who is lonely or simply being there for someone who needs a shoulder to cry on, Carl can be relied upon. His willingness to help is matched by the warmth and good humour he brings to everything he does.

His contribution does not stop with the Home but Not Alone programme. Carl regularly helps to serve and wash up at the Thursday Club, assists with gardening and takes on countless other jobs, many of which happen quietly behind the scenes. If something needs doing, Carl is usually one of the first people to volunteer.

What makes Carl particularly special is not simply the amount of time he gives but the way in which he gives it. His enthusiasm is infectious and his ability to make people smile is as valuable as the practical help he provides. He has become someone whom people know they can turn to, whether they need practical assistance, companionship or simply someone to listen.

Carl represents everything that is best about volunteering. He gives generously of his time without seeking recognition and demonstrates every day that a caring community is built through individuals who are willing to look out for one another.

On behalf of the Trustees and the entire community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Carl Spiegel for his extraordinary commitment, his endless willingness to help and the joy and kindness he brings to everything he does. We are incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our volunteer team. Tzedokah Fund

Tzedokah Fund

The Tzedokah Fund continues to play an important role in supporting both individuals in need and the wider activities of our community. The need for financial assistance has never been greater and we have been successful in increasing the level of donations received, enabling us to respond to

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more requests for help.

During the year the Fund provided thousands of pounds in interest-free loans to individuals experiencing temporary financial difficulties. It also helped to finance special community events and programmes and supported improvements to our facilities, including the refurbishment of the Community Centre and the expansion of the Stanley Middleburgh Library.

These projects were made possible through donations received specifically for these purposes, ensuring that funds were used in accordance with the wishes of donors. The Tzedokah Fund also continues to make charitable payments to individuals and organisations where there is a genuine need.

At the year end, the Tzedokah Fund held £55,668 in bank and cash funds and continues to be managed separately from the main Synagogue account.

We are grateful to all those who have contributed to the Fund. Their generosity enables us to provide practical assistance to those facing financial difficulty while also supporting projects that enhance the life of the wider community.

Summary of our achievements

We have continued to develop and expand our activities, particularly in the areas of social welfare, adult education and social cohesion, while maintaining our wide range of religious, educational, cultural and community activities. Our work now reaches well beyond our formal membership, with many of our programmes open to the wider Jewish and local community.

Our social welfare work has continued to grow, with the Thursday Club, Home but Not Alone programme and wider community support providing practical assistance, companionship and social opportunities for elderly and vulnerable people. During the year we provided 12,952 freshly cooked meals and continued to work closely with other community organisations and agencies to support those in need.

We have also continued to develop our adult education programme, communal celebrations and activities, while extending our reach across the wider region. Our Chanukah programme, community events and activities for children and families have helped strengthen relationships both within our community and with Jewish communities further afield.

We have made effective use of volunteers across all areas of our work. The dedication of our volunteers enables us to deliver a far greater range of services and activities than would otherwise be possible and allows us to respond quickly to the needs of individuals and families.

With the support of donations and grants, we have continued to improve and refurbish our Community Centre, including improvements to facilities used by elderly and disabled people. We have also continued to invest in energy efficiency, helping to reduce our running costs and environmental impact.

Overall, we believe that the Congregation is in a stable and healthy position. Our diversified income, prudent financial management, committed volunteers and strong support from members, donors and charitable foundations give us confidence that we can continue to meet the needs of our community and further develop our activities in the years ahead.

Plans for the Future

Our plans for the coming year are focused on building on our achievements while continuing to respond to the needs of our community.

The Trustees remain committed to ensuring that the Congregation continues to be a vibrant centre for Jewish life in Solihull and the wider region and to providing meaningful religious, educational, social and welfare services to all who seek our support.

The financial summary of the last financial year ended 28th February 2026 is attached.

This report was approved by the Trustees on 24/08/2026 and signed on their behalf.

Gerald Langman

Malcolm Hyams

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION

Registered Charity Number : 1100938

Accounts

28 FEBRUARY 2026

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT ON THE ACCOUNTS OF THE SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

I report on the accounts for the year ended 28 February 2026 set out on pages 2 to 9.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees 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 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to an audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to :

Basis of independent examiner's statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with general directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes 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 statement below.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I can confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements :

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Richard Gold FCA Independent examiner For and behalf of Barnett Ravenscroft Limited Charterd Accountants

13 Portland Road Edgbaston Birmingham B16 9HN

24 June 2026

Page 1

28 FEBRUARY 2026

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION SUMMARISED PROFIT AND LOSS FOR THE YEAR ENDED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION
SUMMARISED PROFIT AND LOSS FOR THE YEAR ENDED
INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT		 28 FEBRUARY 2026
INCOME
Subscriptions
Kol Nidrei Appeal
Unrestricted Donations
Bank Interest
Gift Aid
Resticted Donations
Activities
Unresticted Grants
Resricted Grants
Operating activities to generate funds
Functions and Fundraising
Sale of Judaica
Rent Received
Advertsing Income
Total Income
EXPENDITURE
Charitable Activities
Ministerial and Religious Expenses
Chazan Expenses
Subscriptions, Printing and Advertising
Cost of Judaica
Affiliated Fees
Catering, Function and Charitable Activities
Support Costs
Refurbishment and Maintenance
Energy improvement works
Ceiling repairs
Equipment
Cleaning and Gardening
Telephone, Internet and Postage
Insurance
Costs of Fundraising
Motor, Travel and Volunteer Expenses
Gas, Electricity and Water
Administration and Secretarial Costs
Salaries
Libary Fund
Training
Accountancy fees
Bank Charges
Security Costs
Burial Fund
Charitable Payments
Gifts and Presentations
Total Expenditure
(Deficit)/Surplus in year		 2026
Total
22,037
10,917
58,979
8,305
20,287
9,286
800
14,600
56,530
201,741
190
857
13,200
2,237
16,484
218,225
11,069
11,790
2,117
3,148
355
50,053
78,532
27,921
-
-
2,892
6,450
4,284
3,431
60
2,175
8,019
( 1,887)
34,024
542
463
4,212
243
34,374
175
12,300
200
139,878
218,410
(185)		 2025
Total
23,662
11,496
28,934
7,167
19,225
17,072
4,075
4,100
109,025
224,756
9
2,530
12,665
1,420
16,624
241,380
12,266
5,500
640
3,377
385
54,358
76,526
5,551
57,732
4,493
13,878
8,672
4,299
3,252
50
1,164
11,349
( 4,770)
31,955
-
-
4,132
102
9,006
4,175
9,138
125
164,303
240,829
551

Page 2

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

28 FEBRUARY 2026

RECEIPTS
Synagogue
Page 3
Ladies Guild
Page 4
Tzedokah
Page 5
Thursday Club
Page 6
PAYMENTS
Synagogue
Page 3
Ladies Guild
Page 4
Tzedokah
Page 5
Thursday Club
Page 6
Net (outflow)/inflow of funds		 2026
Total
109,661
3,807
55,958
48,799
218,225
109,553
4,519
38,653
65,685
218,410
(185)		 2024
Total
76,018
3,741
43,150
118,471
241,380
76,956
3,370
37,604
122,899
240,829
551

Within the parent charity there are a number of subsidiary activities that operate independently of the main account with their own bank account and treasurer. Namely, Ladies Guild, Tzedokah Fund, and Thursday Club. The detailed analysis of these accounts is attached on pages 5 to 7

The accounts are prepared on the accruals basis.

Page 3

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
RECEIPTS
Subscriptions
Gift Aid
Kol Nidrei Appeal
Bank Interest
Donations
Operating activities to generate funds
Functions and Fundraising
Sale of Judaica
Rent Received
Advertising Income
Restricted Grants
Total Receipts
PAYMENTS
Charitable Activities
Ministerial and Religious Expenses
Chazan Expenses
Subscriptions, Printing and Advertising
Cost of Judaica
Other Salaries
Community Activities
Costs of Fundraising
Support Costs
Community Centre Refurbishment and Maintenance
Cleaning and Gardening
Telephone, Internet and Postage
Insurance
Gas, Electricity and Water
Gifts and Presentations
Accountancy fees
Bank Charges
Security Costs
Burial Fund
Affiliated Fees
Travel Expenses(see note 3 below)
Administration and Secretarial Costs
Total Payments
Net Surplus/(Deficit) in year
Transfers
Bank and Cash Funds last year end
Bank and Cash Funds this year end		 2026
Total
22,037
8,286
10,917
8,305
595
50,140
90
857
13,200
2,237
43,137
59,521
109,661
11,069
11,790
2,117
3,148
26,523
490
60
55,197
6,865
1,968
4,284
3,431
1,255
200
2,106
243
34,374
175
355
987
(1,887)
54,356
109,553
108
5,120
8,696
13,924		 2025
Total
23,662
9,088
11,496
7,167
1,579
52,992
9
2,530
12,665
1,420
6,402
23,026
76,018
12,266
5,500
640
3,377
24,786
866
50
47,485
2,149
1,964
4,299
1,252
2,270
125
2,066
102
9,006
4,175
385
( 58)
1,736
29,471
76,956
( 938)
( 6,433)
16,067
8,696

Notes

  1. Kol Nidrei Appeal is an annual appeal held on the Jewish New Year

  2. Chazan is a cantor hired to help run the Jewish New Year Services

Page 4

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION LADIES GUILD - INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED

28 FEBRUARY 2026

RECEIPTS
Donations and Fundraising
Gift Aid
Total Receipts
PAYMENTS
Function Costs
Waitressses and Cleaning
Total Payments
Net Surplus/(Deficit) in year
Transfers
Bank and Cash Funds last year end
Bank and Cash Funds this year end		 2026
Total
3,201
606
3,807
3,881
638
4,519
( 712)
347
1,524
1,159		 2025
Total
2,990
751
3,741
3,004
366
3,370
371
( 2,378)
3,531
1,524

Note

The Ladies Guild is a seperately managed subsidiary of the main charity whose purpose is to support the social and cultural activites of the community.

Page 5

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION

THURSDAY CLUB - INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 28 FEBRUARY 2026

RECEIPTS
Donations
Gift Aid
Unrestricted grants received
Restricted grants reveived (from Charitable Trusts)
Restricted grants received (from Government Funding) *
Hall Hire
Operating activities to generate funds
Meals Provided
Total Receipts
PAYMENTS
Charitable Activities
Cost of Catering
Lecture fees and Zoom
Activities
Support Costs
Equipment and Repairs
Energy improvement works(see note 4 below)
Ceiling repairs
Advertising
Gas, Electricity and Water
Insurance
Cleaning
Training Cost
Volunteer Expenses
Management and Administration Costs
Salaries
Accountancy
Administration Costs(see note 5 below)
Total Payments
Net (Deficit)/Surplus in year
Transfers
Bank and Cash Funds last year end
Bank and Cash Funds this year end		 2026
Total
19,481
1,475
14,350
6,000
7,393
100
48,799
-
48,799
35,014
246
8,559
6,764
-
3,844
463
1,188
7,501
2,106
65,685
( 16,886)
( 626)
42,273
24,761		 2025
Total
9,951
1,797
4,100
34,250
68,373
-
118,471
-
118,471
32,311
-
162
6,829
57,732
4,493
-
9,079
2,000
6,342
-
1,222
7,169
2,066
( 6,506)
122,899
( 4,428)
( 15,369)
62,070
42,273

Notes

This fund was set up under the auspices of the parent charity, Solihull and District Hebrew Congregation to carry out its non demominational work (primarily social activities and welfare support) for vulnerable or elderly people.

1. Unrestricted - May be used to support any activities of the Thursday Club.

  1. Restricted - Must be used for a specific activitiy as per the restriction of the organisation making the grant.

  2. Fundraising fees refers to the hosting, commission and credit card fees deducted by the crowd funding platform that we use for public fundraising.

  3. Energy costs relate to energy efficency works carried our which include the installation of solar panels, a new water boiler, cavity wall insulation etc. these costs have been covered by government funding.

  4. The Thursday Club administration costs for the year show a negative figure due to timing differences on release of grant monies at the start of the current year with certain costs covered by the grant incurred in the prior period.

Page 6

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION TZEDOKAH FUND - INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED

28 FEBRUARY 2026

RECEIPTS
Gift Aid
Donations Restricted
Donations Unrestricted
Grants
Activities
Total Receipts
PAYMENTS
Charitable Activities
Charitable Payments
Community Centre Refurbishment
Library Fund
Total Payments
Net Surplus/(Deficit) in year
Transfers
Bank and Cash Funds last year end
Bank and Cash Funds this year end		 2026
Total
9,920
9,286
35,702
250
800
55,958
10,422
12,300
15,389
542
38,653
17,305
( 9,121)
47,484
55,668		 2025
Total
7,589
17,072
14,414
-
4,075
43,150
18,015
9,138
10,451
-
37,604
5,546
580
41,358
47,484

Note

Tzedakah means charity. This account handles both donations made for specific charitable purposes in line with the wishes of the donor (restricted funds) such as the library fund, building fund and donations made for general charitable use, examples of this are grants made to organisations such as soup kitchens or youth clubs who have appealed to us for charitable funding or interest free loans to people suffering temporary financial difficulty.

Page 7

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

28 FEBRUARY 2026

CASH FUNDS

CASH FUNDS
Notes
Bank Accounts :
Synagogue
Cambridge and Counties Bank
United Trust Bank
Thursday Club
Ladies Guild
Tzedokah Fund
Assets Retained for Charity's own use :
Community Centre
Fixtures and Fittings
Torah Scrolls
Stock and Equipment
Loan - Repayable within 12 months
Accounts Receivable
Other Debtors		 2026
13,924
81,561
68,128
163,613
24,761
1,159
55,668
245,201
2026
330,351
150,000
56,000
536,351
6,000
8,110
800
34,697
585,958		 2025
8,696
83,653
68,732
161,081
42,273
1,524
47,484
252,362
2025
330,351
150,000
56,000
536,351
6,000
5,850
1,561
5,741
555,503

The trustees have not had the synagogue and community centre professionally valued and is shown at cost. They consider the current market value to be £1,200,000.

Liabilities :
Accounts Payable
Grants Outstanding
1
Halifax Credit Card
Wages and PAYE
Accruals
Coventry Hebrew Congregation Burial Fund
2		 2026
5,968
-
327
2,683
22,605
48,886
80,469
750,690		 2025
2,371
4,000
239
600
894
48,886
56,990
750,875

J. Gouldman

G. Langman

Signed on behalf of the trustees on 24 June 2026

Notes

  1. This refers to grant funding that has been received however the project to which the funding relates is still ongoing this funding will be spend before the project ends.

  2. The Coventry Burial Fund is estimated at current prices plus 4.5% p.a for inflation in respect of 13 living members whose ages range from approximately 60 to 90 Membership of the burial fund excludes any payments due to Coventry City Council who are the owners of the cemetery.

Page 8

SOLIHULL AND DISTRICT HEBREW CONGREGATION FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

28 FEBRUARY 2026

SHEDULE OF GRANTS RECEIVED

SHEDULE OF GRANTS RECEIVED 2026 Total Amount Purpose Jewish Community Protective Security Grant 35,429 Security CCE - Office of the Chief Rabbi 5,708 Community Activties Solihull MBC 2,000 Security Solihull MBC - Household Support Fund 7,393 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly Heart of England 6,000 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly Harbour Foundation 2,000 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly Baron Davenport 2,000 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly BJCC 2,500 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly Edward Cadbury Charitable Trust 4,000 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly Warwickshire Freemasons 1,500 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly We Are All Making A Difference 1,250 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly William Cadbury Charitable Trust 750 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly J. Davies Charity 600 Work with Vulnerable and Elderly

71,130

Page 9