Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

**Charity number: 1112606** 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **UNAUDITED** 

**TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** 

**FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

|**CONTENTS**||
|---|---|
||Page|
|**Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity, its Trustees and Advisers**|1 - 2|
|**Trustees' Report**|3 - 8|
|**Independent Examiner's Report**|9|
|**Statement of Financial Activities**|10|
|**Balance Sheet**|11|
|**Notes to the Financial Statements**|12 - 27|





Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **Trustees** 

P Waugh, Chairman 

C Seadon, Treasurer 

R McNaughton P Smithson M Brydon P W Errington 

P McQuillan (appointed 30 January 2024) 

## **Charity registered number** 

1112606 

## **Principal office** 

Bede Tower Burdon Road Sunderland SR2 7EA 

## **Accountants and Independent Examiners** 

Kinnair Associates Limited Chartered Accountants Aston House Redburn Road Newcastle upon Tyne NE5 1NB 

## **Bankers** 

Barclays Bank Plc Newcastle City Office Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4QL 

## **Solicitors** 

Lewis & Co 37 Brassey Avenue Hampden Park Eastbourne East Sussex BN22 9QD 

## **Staff team** 

J Robinson - Church Administrator (left March 2024) B McQuillan - Church Administrator R Adamkiewicz - Church Administrator J Gartland - Church Administrator (started April 2024) A Hedley - Cleaner 

Page 1 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **Leadership Team** 

A Laws G Foster D Johnson P Smithson H Yang M Brydon 

Page 2 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

The Trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements of the Charity for the year from  1 September 2023 to 31 August 2024.  These are prepared in accordance with the governing document and the recommendations of the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities, and comply with the applicable law. 

## **Objectives and activities** 

##  **Policies and objectives** 

The aims and objectives of the Charity, and the strategies and activities undertaken to achieve them are: 

To advance the Christian faith in accordance with the Statements of Beliefs appearing in the Trust Deed in Sunderland and in other parts of the United Kingdom or the world as the Trustees may from time to time think fit and to fulfil such other purposes which are exclusively charitable according to the law of England and Wales and are connected to the charitable work of the Trust. 

To relieve persons who are in conditions of need and hardship or who are sick and to relieve the distress caused thereby in the said location and in such parts of the United Kingdom or the world as the Trustees may from time to time think fit. 

The Charity seeks to make an impact in Sunderland and the North East region through the demonstration of Christian love in action. 

In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit: Running a Charity (PB2) and, in particular, the specific guidance on the advancement of religion. The Trustees also considered how the Charity had succeeded in delivering its aims, including public benefit, when reviewing the achievements for the year which are summarised below: 

- The continued development of a distinctive Christian lifestyle throughout the Fellowship; 

- Ongoing care for the sick, elderly and needy; 

- The operation of a Food bank during the week, to feed the needy. 

- The provision of meals on a weekly basis to the homeless and needy; 

- Generously support relief and development work overseas; 

- Encouraging acts of kindness; 

- Offering hospitality to overseas students, support and hospitality for asylum seekers and visitors to Sunderland; 

- Supporting children and families by providing ongoing support and training; 

- The continued development of outreach to the community through sports; and 

- The provision of pre-marriage counselling for couples. 

We, as Trustees, have fulfilled our duty to disclose information regarding public benefit in accordance with Section 17 of the 2011 Charities Act. 

Page 3 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

**TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **Achievements and performance** 

##  **Main achievements of the Charity** 

In its nineteenth year as an independent Charity and twentieth since its inception, our church continues to flourish. We are privileged to operate from Bede Tower, a former school in the heart of the city centre. The Vardy Foundation owns the premises, and Bethany City Church stands as its sole tenant. 

Bede Tower provides us with facilities that enable us to conduct a variety of Sunday morning services, one has a Chinese language translation provided to members from that community, includes engaging children's activities and education, and other services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our congregation. Additionally, we can host services on Sunday evenings. We attract an attendance of 200-250 adults and children throughout the entire building on a Sunday morning. 

Not only does Bede Tower serve as our church's home, but it also functions as a Christian Centre, serving the community seven days a week. We have an array of spaces and functionalities. The Theatre, a versatile area, accommodates a wide range of activities, including our Sunday worship. Moreover, we have a refectory, sports hall, soft play area, several meeting rooms, and offices, allowing us to host all church-related activities "in house" whilst providing services to our local community. 

With plenty of space and resources at our disposal, we are continually expanding our repertoire of youth, adult and family activities. Bede Tower embodies our commitment to nurturing and strengthening our congregation, providing a supportive environment for all age groups. 

We are grateful to all who have contributed to the growth and vibrancy of our church. We look forward to the future and are eager to create even more meaningful experiences for our community. 

Our facilities offer a multitude of benefits, serving as a catalyst for positive change and community engagement. 

## These benefits include: 

- Permanent Base: Our facilities provide a permanent home for all church activities, ensuring stability and continuity in our mission. 

- Room for Expansion: With ample space, we have the opportunity to expand and develop the work of the church, accommodating the evolving needs of our congregation and community. 

- Relationship Building: Our premises serve as a place where meaningful relationships and friendships can be fostered, encouraging connection and a sense of belonging. 

- Close Collaboration: We actively collaborate with local communities, forge partnerships and working closely with them to address shared concerns and promote positive change. 

- City Centre Location: Situated in the city centre, our church enjoys a higher profile, allowing us to reach a wider audience and extend our impact. 

- Shared Resource: Our premises serve as a valuable resource that can be shared with other local groups and organizations, promoting collaboration and community cohesion. 

- Central Hub: Being centrally located, our church acts as a convenient and accessible hub for important community services, such as the Food Bank, enabling us to provide essential support to those in need. 

- Revenue Generation: We generate revenue by renting out rooms, allowing us to sustain and enhance our community initiatives and services. 

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Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **Achievements and performance (continued)** 

The church fellowship remains committed to making a significant impact on the City of Sunderland. We engage in various programs and initiatives designed to meet the needs of the community, including: 

- Toddler Group for young children 

- A food bank 

- Youth Groups catering to different age ranges 

- Soul Kitchen, providing support to the homeless and lonely 

- Alpha Courses and Marriage Preparation programs 

- Outreach efforts within the Sunderland community 

We are grateful for the support we have received, including funding from Sunderland City Council, enabling us to continue our community support and outreach. 

To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, we prioritise safeguarding. All helpers engaging in youth work and vulnerable adult programs have undergone Safeguarding training and DBS checks. Our Charity is fully compliant with good practice guidelines. 

Bethany City Church actively collaborates with other church groups in the region, working together to provide tangible support and assistance to those in need. Several church members are involved in external ministries aimed at helping individuals facing difficulties, particularly related to drugs and excessive alcohol consumption. The Food Bank, operated three times per week from our centre, remains an integral part of our support system. 

Together, we strive to make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities in Sunderland and the wider region. 

## **Financial review** 

##  **Overview** 

Incoming resources for the year amounted to £330,129 (2023: £320,159) and resources expended were £309,970 (2023: £260,505). The Charity held balances at 31st August 2024 of £333,316 (2023: £313,157) comprising £325,122 (2023: £311,193) unrestricted funds and £8,194 (2023: £1,964) restricted funds. Fund balances are to be carried forward for the future fulfillment of the Charity's objectives, see note 18 for more details. 

##  **Going concern** 

After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. 

Page 5 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

##  **Reserves policy** 

The Trustees have reviewed the level of reserves held by the Charity and aim to maintain reserves above the level of 12 weeks typical expenditure. 

## **Structure, governance and management** 

##  **Constitution** 

Bethany City Church Sunderland is a registered charity, number 1112606, and is constituted under a Trust deed dated 14th November 2005. 

##  **Methods of appointment or election of Trustees** 

The governing body of the Charity is the Board of Trustees, which currently comprises seven members. 

The Trustees who acted during the year and up to this report are shown on page 1. 

##  **Organisational structure and decision-making policies** 

The Trustees have full financial and legal responsibility for the activities of the Charity. Day to day management of the Charity has been delegated to the full time staff and leadership team (as shown on page 1) who are jointly responsible for the work of the church and the objectives of the charity and work within approved guidelines and budgets. 

The Charity is not affiliated under a wider network and is a member of the Evangelical Alliance. 

The Charity is not a subsidiary to any other charity or organisation. 

##  **Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees** 

The Charity has an induction programme in place as directed by the Charities Commission with input from legal advisors for the appointment and training of new trustees. 

##  **Related party relationships** 

The Trustees are not aware of any related party for which disclosure is considered to be made. 

##  **Financial risk management** 

The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the Charity is exposed, in particular those related to the operations and finances of the Charity, and are satisfied that systems and procedures are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks. 

Page 6 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **Plans for future periods** 

We are still in a period of transition whilst we search for a new pastor. Our increased level of funds as a consequence of reduced payroll costs in the interim will provide us with the means to carry out building repairs and improvements as well as protect us against any future unforeseen building repairs that have been increasing in cost and frequency in recent times. 

Our premises continue to serve as a stable foundation for our current activities, while also providing an opportunity to develop new initiatives that align with the charitable objectives of our church. Situated in the city centre, Bede Tower acts as a bridge between a relatively deprived community and a more prosperous one. This unique positioning not only allows us to engage in community-based work but also fosters partnerships with likeminded organisations. 

As a charitable organisation, we manage our church activities with utmost dedication. However, we recognized the need for a separate business model to effectively carry out certain activities within Bede Tower. To address this, we established Bede Tower Ltd as a trading entity that operates within the premises. Bede Tower Ltd is a company limited by shares, with Bethany City Church as the sole shareholder. It operates under the guidance of its own Board of Directors, overseeing its strategic operations. Any profits generated by Bede Tower Ltd are gifted to Bethany City Church to support its charitable objectives. 

## This approach offers several benefits: 

- Focus on Core Work: By separating business management from the church's primary work, we ensure that our attention remains on fulfilling our mission without distractions. 

- Supporting Charitable Work: Through appropriate business opportunities, we can generate resources that directly support the charitable endeavours of Bethany City Church in Sunderland. 

- Liability and Risk Protection: The separation of business activities through Bede Tower Ltd helps safeguard the charitable organization from potential liabilities and risks associated with trading operations. 

- Effective Partnership Working: This model enables us to form effective partnerships with other organizations, fostering collaboration and maximizing our impact in the community. 

The Leadership Team's primary focus lies in nurturing the growth of our congregation, restoring those who are not regular attendees, deepening the spiritual lives of those who are part of the church, and reaching out to the community in Sunderland with the message of Jesus, both in words and through practical acts. Our overarching objective remains to ‘build a community whose aim is to live and love like Jesus and get the people of Sunderland into heaven’. 

Page 7 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

**TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **Statement of Trustees' responsibilities** 

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). 

The law applicable to charities in England & Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to: 

- select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; 

- observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP (FRS 102); 

- make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 

- state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards (FRS 102) have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; 

- prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Charity will continue in business. 

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 

Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees on 24 June 2025 and signed on their behalf by: 

**P Waugh Chairman** 

Page 8 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Bethany City Church Sunderland ('the Charity')** 

I report to the charity Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 August 2024. 

## **Responsibilities and Basis of Report** 

As the Trustees of the Charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). 

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act. 

## **Independent Examiner's Statement** 

Since the Charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of The Institution of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies. 

Your attention is drawn to the fact that the Charity has prepared the accounts in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: 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) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been withdrawn. 

I understand that this has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2015. 

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

1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity as required by section 130 of the 2011 Act; or 

2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or 

3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. 

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

This report is made solely to the Charity's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Charity's Trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent Examiner's Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charity and the Charity's Trustees as a body, for my work or for this report. 

Signed: Dated: 24 June 2025 Mai Mak FCA 

## **Kinnair Associates Limited** 

Page 9 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

|**Note**<br>**Income from:**<br>Donations and legacies<br>3<br>Charitable activities<br>4<br>Investments<br>5<br>Other income<br>6<br>**Total income**<br>**Expenditure on:**<br>Charitable activities<br>7<br>**Total expenditure**<br>**Net movement in funds**<br>**Reconciliation of funds:**<br>Total funds brought forward<br>Net movement in funds<br>**Total funds carried forward**|**Restricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**6,230**<br>**-**<br>**-**<br>**-**<br>**6,230**<br>**-**<br>**-**<br>**6,230**<br>**1,964**<br>**6,230**<br>**8,194**|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**233,215**<br>**18,913**<br>**3,734**<br>**68,037**<br>**323,899**<br>**309,970**<br>**309,970**<br>**13,929**<br>**311,193**<br>**13,929**<br>**325,122**|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**239,445**<br>**18,913**<br>**3,734**<br>**68,037**<br>**330,129**<br>**309,970**<br>**309,970**<br>**20,159**<br>**313,157**<br>**20,159**<br>**333,316**|_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_247,335_<br>_14,434_<br>_962_<br>_57,428_<br>_320,159_|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||_260,505_<br>_260,505_|
|||||_59,654_|
|||||_253,503_<br>_59,654_<br>_313,157_|



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

The notes on pages 12 to 27 form part of these financial statements. 

Page 10 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 AUGUST 2024** 

||||**2024**|**2024**|_2023_|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||**Note**||**£**||_£_|
|**Fixed assets**||||||
|Tangible assets|12||**31,361**||_35,152_|
|Investments|13||**100**||_100_|
||||**31,461**||_35,252_|
|**Current assets**||||||
|Debtors|14|**9,693**||_9,489_||
|Cash at bank and in hand||**293,794**||_269,928_||
|||**303,487**||_279,417_||
|Creditors: amounts falling due within one||||||
|year|15|**(1,632)**||_(1,512)_||
|**Net current assets**|||**301,855**||_277,905_|
|**Total assets less current liabilities**|||**333,316**||_313,157_|
|**Net assets excluding pension asset**|||**333,316**||_313,157_|
|**Total net assets**|||**333,316**||_313,157_|
|**Charity funds**||||||
|Restricted funds|17||**8,194**||_1,964_|
|Unrestricted funds|17||**325,122**||_311,193_|
|**Total funds**|||**333,316**||_313,157_|



The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on 24 June 2025 and signed on their behalf by: 

## **C Seadon Treasurer** 

The notes on pages 12 to 27 form part of these financial statements. 

Page 11 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

**NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **1. General information** 

Bethany City Church Sunderland is a registered charity, (registration number 1112606). The registered office address of the Charity is Bede Tower, Burdon Road, Sunderland, SR2 7EA. 

## **2. Accounting policies** 

## **2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements** 

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: 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 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011. 

The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair' view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair' view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP (FRS 102) published in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn. 

Bethany City Church Sunderland meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy. 

The Charity has taken advantage of the exemption within the Charities Act 2011 not to prepare group accounts being parent of a small group. 

The financial statements are presented in pounds Sterling and rounded to the nearest pound. 

## **2.2 Going concern** 

The Trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties concerning the Charity's ability to continue as a going concern nor any significant areas of uncertainty that affect the carrying value of assets held by the Charity.  For this reason, the accounts continue to be prepared using the going concern basis. 

## **2.3 Income** 

All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. 

Collections and donations are recognised when received. 

Planned giving receivable under Gift Aid is recognised only when received. 

Income tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is not recognised until such claims that are made have been approved by HM Revenue and Customs and the amount receivable can be quantified with reasonable certainty. 

Grants and legacies to the Church are accounted for as soon as the Charity is notified of its legal entitlement, the amount due is quantifiable and its ultimate receipt by the Charity is reasonably certain. 

Page 12 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

**NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **2. Accounting policies (continued)** 

## **2.3 Income (continued)** 

Gifts in kind and donated services and facilities are recognised at fair value at the point of receipt where the benefit to the Charity is reasonably quantifiable and measurable. 

Funds raised by events are accounted for gross. 

## **2.4 Expenditure** 

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use. 

Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Charity's objectives, as well as any associated support costs. 

All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT. 

## **2.5 Interest receivable** 

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited. 

## **2.6 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation** 

Tangible fixed assets costing £250 or more are capitalised and recognised when future economic benefits are probable and the cost or value of the asset can be measured reliably. 

Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working condition should be included in the measurement of cost. 

At each reporting date the Charity assesses whether there is any indication of impairment. If such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined to be the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. An impairment loss is recognised where the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount. 

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives. 

Depreciation is provided on the following bases: 

- Plant and machinery two - ten years straight line Motor vehicles - two - ten years straight line 

Page 13 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

**NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **2. Accounting policies (continued)** 

## **2.7 Investments** 

Investments in subsidiaries are valued at cost less provision for impairment. 

## **2.8 Debtors** 

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due. 

## **2.9 Cash at bank and in hand** 

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account. 

## **2.10 Liabilities and provisions** 

Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance Sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. 

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide. 

## **2.11 Financial instruments** 

The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. 

## **2.12 Pensions** 

The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the year. 

## **2.13 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 Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes. 

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The costs 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. 

Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund. 

Page 14 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **3. Income from donations and legacies** 

|General collections<br>Premises collections<br>Gift aid tax refunds<br>Designated gifts<br>Designated gifts<br>Grants<br>General collections<br>Premises collections<br>Gift aid tax refunds<br>Designated gifts<br>Legacies<br>Grants|**Restricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>-<br>113,963<br>480<br>-<br>-<br>30,715<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>88,537<br>5,750<br>-<br>6,230<br>233,215<br>_Restricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_Unrestricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_£_<br>_-_<br>_117,814_<br>_480_<br>_-_<br>_-_<br>_31,180_<br>_-_<br>_86,276_<br>_-_<br>_5,000_<br>_6,585_<br>_-_<br>_7,065_<br>_240,270_|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**113,963**<br>**480**<br>**30,715**<br>**-**<br>**88,537**<br>**5,750**<br>**239,445**|
|---|---|---|
|||_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_117,814_<br>_480_<br>_31,180_<br>_86,276_<br>_5,000_<br>_6,585_<br>_247,335_|



Page 15 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **4. Income from charitable activities** 

|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>Events income<br>18,913<br>_Unrestricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>Events income<br>_14,434_|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**18,913**|
|---|---|
||_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_14,434_|



## **5. Investment income** 

|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>Bank interest receivable<br>3,734<br>_Unrestricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>Bank interest receivable<br>_962_|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**3,734**|
|---|---|
||_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_962_|



Page 16 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **6. Other incoming resources** 

|Sundry income<br>Sundry income|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>68,037<br>_Unrestricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_57,428_|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**68,037**|
|---|---|---|
|||_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_57,428_|



## **7. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities Summary by fund type** 

|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>Direct costs - Activities<br>309,970<br>_Restricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_Unrestricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_£_<br>Direct costs - Activities<br>_12,347_<br>_248,158_|**Total**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**309,970**|
|---|---|
||_Total_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_260,505_|



Page 17 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **8. Analysis of expenditure by activities** 

|Direct costs - Activities<br>Direct costs - Activities<br>**Analysis of direct costs**<br>Staff costs<br>Premises costs<br>Youth group activities<br>Sunday school<br>Church resources and events<br>Donations|**Activities**<br>**undertaken**<br>**directly**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>213,709<br>_Activities_<br>_undertaken_<br>_directly_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_193,723_|**Support**<br>**costs**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>96,261<br>_Support_<br>_costs_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_66,782_<br>**Religious**<br>**activities**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>57,326<br>50,377<br>965<br>390<br>23,207<br>81,444<br>213,709|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**309,970**|
|---|---|---|---|
||||_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_260,505_|
||||**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**57,326**<br>**50,377**<br>**965**<br>**390**<br>**23,207**<br>**81,444**<br>**213,709**|



Page 18 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **8. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)** 

## **Analysis of direct costs (continued)** 

|Staff costs<br>Premises costs<br>Youth group activities<br>Sunday school<br>Church resources and events<br>Donations|_Religious_<br>_activities_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_70,321_<br>_34,515_<br>_1,914_<br>_523_<br>_16,513_<br>_69,937_<br>_193,723_|_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_70,321_<br>_34,515_<br>_1,914_<br>_523_<br>_16,513_<br>_69,937_<br>_193,723_|
|---|---|---|



## **Analysis of support costs** 

|Depreciation<br>Telephone<br>Repairs and maintenance<br>Stationery and printing<br>Course expenses<br>Motor expenses<br>Sundry expenses<br>Insurance<br>Governance costs|**Religious**<br>**activities**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>11,159<br>4,852<br>53,089<br>2,373<br>535<br>818<br>10,774<br>11,029<br>1,632<br>96,261|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**11,159**<br>**4,852**<br>**53,089**<br>**2,373**<br>**535**<br>**818**<br>**10,774**<br>**11,029**<br>**1,632**<br>**96,261**|
|---|---|---|



Page 19 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **8. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)** 

## **Analysis of support costs (continued)** 

|Depreciation<br>Telephone<br>Repairs and maintenance<br>Stationery and printing<br>Course expenses<br>Motor expenses<br>Sundry expenses<br>Insurance<br>Governance costs<br>Loss on disposal of fixed assets|_Religious_<br>_activities_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_11,607_<br>_4,689_<br>_21,499_<br>_2,977_<br>_31_<br>_1,125_<br>_13,514_<br>_9,470_<br>_1,512_<br>_358_<br>_66,782_|_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_11,607_<br>_4,689_<br>_21,499_<br>_2,977_<br>_31_<br>_1,125_<br>_13,514_<br>_9,470_<br>_1,512_<br>_358_<br>_66,782_|
|---|---|---|



Governance costs comprise above comprise accountancy fees of £1,632 (2023: £1,512). 

## **9. Independent examiner's remuneration** 

||**2024**|_2023_|
|---|---|---|
||**£**|_£_|
|Fees payable to the Charity's independent examiner for the preparation and|||
|independent examination of the Charity's annual accounts|**1,632**|_1,512_|



## **10. Staff costs** 

|Wages and salaries<br>Social security costs<br>Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes|**2024**<br>**£**<br>**54,793**<br>**(52)**<br>**2,585**<br>**57,326**|_2023_<br>_£_<br>_65,769_<br>_1,287_<br>_3,265_|
|---|---|---|
|||_70,321_|



Page 20 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **10. Staff costs (continued)** 

The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows: 

||**2024**|_2023_|
|---|---|---|
||**No.**|_No._|
|Charitable objectives|**4**|_4_|



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

Remuneration and benefits received by staff key management (as distinct from Trustees who are volunteers) including employer's national insurance and pension contributions amounted to £nil (2023: £21,885) for the year. 

## **11. Trustees' remuneration and expenses** 

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits _(2023 - £NIL)_ . 

During the year ended 31 August 2024, no Trustee expenses have been incurred _(2023 - £NIL)_ . 

Page 21 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **12. Tangible fixed assets** 

|**Cost or valuation**<br>At 1 September 2023<br>Additions<br>At 31 August 2024<br>**Depreciation**<br>At 1 September 2023<br>Charge for the year<br>At 31 August 2024<br>**Net book value**<br>At 31 August 2024<br>_At 31 August 2023_|**Plant and**<br>**equipment**<br>**£**<br>**108,000**<br>**7,370**<br>**115,370**<br>**83,642**<br>**8,848**<br>**92,490**<br>**22,880**<br>_24,358_|**Motor**<br>**vehicles**<br>**£**<br>**11,565**<br>**-**<br>**11,565**<br>**771**<br>**2,313**<br>**3,084**<br>**8,481**<br>_10,794_|**Total**<br>**£**<br>**119,565**<br>**7,370**<br>**126,935**|
|---|---|---|---|
||||**84,413**<br>**11,161**<br>**95,574**|
||||**31,361**|
||||_35,152_|



Page 22 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **13. Fixed asset investments** 

|**Cost or valuation**<br>At 1 September 2023<br>At 31 August 2024<br>**Net book value**<br>At 31 August 2024<br>_At 31 August 2023_|**Investments**<br>**in**<br>**subsidiary**<br>**companies**<br>**£**<br>**100**|
|---|---|
||**100**|
||**100**|
||_100_|



## **Principal subsidiaries** 

The following was a subsidiary undertaking of the Charity: 

|**Name**||**Company**|**Registered office or principal**|**Principal activity**|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||**number**|**place of business**||
|Bede Tower|Limited|08685582|Bede Tower, Burdon Road,|Conference|
||||Sunderland, SR2 7EA|organisers|
|**Class of**|**Holding**||||
|**shares**|||||
|Ordinary|100%||||



The financial results of the subsidiary for the year were: 

|**Name**|**Income**|**Expenditure**|**Profit/(Loss)**|**Net assets**|
|---|---|---|---|---|
||**£**|**£**|**/ Surplus/**|**£**|
||||**(Deficit) for**||
||||**the year**||
||||**£**||
|Bede Tower Limited|**68,151**|**(68,149)**|**2**|**100**|



Page 23 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **14. Debtors** 

|**Due within one year**<br>Other debtors<br>Prepayments and accrued income<br>**Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year**<br>Accruals and deferred income|**2024**<br>**£**<br>**3,218**<br>**6,475**<br>**9,693**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**1,632**|_2023_<br>_£_<br>_3,269_<br>_6,220_|
|---|---|---|
|||_9,489_|
|||_2023_<br>_£_<br>_1,512_|



## **15. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year** 

## **16. Financial instruments** 

||**2024**|_2023_|
|---|---|---|
||**£**|_£_|
|**Financial assets**|||
|Financial assets measured at fair value through income and expenditure|**293,794**|_269,928_|



Financial assets measured at fair value through income and expenditure comprise bank balances. 

Page 24 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **17. Statement of funds** 

## **Statement of funds - current year** 

|**Unrestricted funds**<br>General Funds - all funds<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Food bank<br>**Total of funds**<br>**Statement of funds - prior year**<br>_Balance at_<br>_1 September_<br>_2022_<br>_£_<br>**Unrestricted funds**<br>General funds<br>_225,284_<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Premises fund<br>_22,177_<br>Food bank<br>_6,042_<br>Sunderland City Council -<br>'Footy Jam'<br>_-_<br>Empower<br>_-_<br>_28,219_<br>**Total of funds**<br>_253,503_|**Balance at 1**<br>**September**<br>**2023**<br>**£**<br>**311,193**<br>**1,964**<br>**313,157**<br>_Income_<br>_£_<br>_313,094_<br>_480_<br>_3,965_<br>_620_<br>_2,000_<br>_7,065_<br>_320,159_|**Income**<br>**£**<br>**323,899**<br>**6,230**<br>**330,129**<br>_Expenditure_<br>_£_<br>_(248,158)_<br>_(1,684)_<br>_(8,043)_<br>_(620)_<br>_(2,000)_<br>_(12,347)_<br>_(260,505)_|**Expenditure**<br>**£**<br>**(309,970)**<br>**-**<br>**(309,970)**<br>_Transfers_<br>_in/out_<br>_£_<br>_20,973_<br>_(20,973)_<br>_-_<br>_-_<br>_-_<br>_(20,973)_<br>_-_|**Balance at**<br>**31 August**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**325,122**|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||**8,194**|
|||||**333,316**|
|||||_Balance at_<br>_31 August_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_311,193_|
|**Unrestricted funds**<br>General funds<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Premises fund<br>Food bank<br>Sunderland City Council -<br>'Footy Jam'<br>Empower<br>**Total of funds**|||||
|||||_-_<br>_1,964_<br>_-_<br>_-_<br>_1,964_|
|||||_313,157_|



Page 25 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **17. Statement of funds (continued)** 

## **The Bethany City Church Premises** 

This fund was created to raise finance towards the costs of either the fitting out of a building or purchase of equipment and resources for use by the church in either a permanent or temporary home. The church occupies the premises of Bede Tower and the premises fund is now held for repair of Bede Tower. 

## **Food Bank** 

Grants were received from Sunderland City Council, Neighbourly and Asda towards the running costs of a food bank to serve the needs of families and individuals who for whatever reason are struggling to feed themselves. 

## **Empower** 

The grant from Empower was a warm space grant to help with heating bills. 

## **Sunderland City Council - 'Footy Jam'** 

This grant given by Sunderland City Council was designated to be used to support the holiday club for children 'Footy Jam' which the church organised in August 2023. 

## **18. Analysis of net assets between funds** 

## **Analysis of net assets between funds - current period** 

|Tangible fixed assets<br>Fixed asset investments<br>Current assets<br>Creditors due within one year<br>**Total**|**Restricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>-<br>31,361<br>-<br>100<br>8,194<br>295,293<br>-<br>(1,632)<br>8,194<br>325,122|**Total**<br>**funds**<br>**2024**<br>**£**<br>**31,361**<br>**100**<br>**303,487**<br>**(1,632)**<br>**333,316**|
|---|---|---|



## **Analysis of net assets between funds - prior period** 

|Tangible fixed assets<br>Fixed asset investments<br>Current assets<br>Creditors due within one year<br>**Total**|_Restricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_-_<br>_-_<br>_1,964_<br>_-_<br>_1,964_|_Unrestricted_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_35,152_<br>_100_<br>_277,453_<br>_(1,512)_<br>_311,193_|_Total_<br>_funds_<br>_2023_<br>_£_<br>_35,152_<br>_100_<br>_279,417_<br>_(1,512)_<br>_313,157_|
|---|---|---|---|



Page 26 



Docusign Envelope ID: B045E443-AF41-41DA-88EA-3738FDE88274 

## **BETHANY CITY CHURCH SUNDERLAND** 

**NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024** 

## **18. Analysis of net assets between funds (continued)** 

## **19. Pension commitments** 

The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the group in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the group to the fund and amounted to £3,586 (2023 - £3,265). No contributions were outstanding at the year end (2023: £nil). 

## **20. Related party transactions** 

The Charity has not entered into any related party transaction during the year, nor are there any outstanding balances owing between related parties and the Charity at 31 August 2024. 

Page 27