2025-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT 2025 The Parish of South Gillingham T8Jm Ministry Team Ministry in the Parish of South Gillingham Consolidated Annual Report 31st December 2025 'Building community, nurturing faith and growing disciples of Jesus Christ" Page l of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Parish of South Gillingham The Annual Report 2025 South Gillinghani Background.. The Pastoral Measure that established this Team Ministry in 1990 is legally termed the Benefice of South Gillingham. The style adopted by the Parish is The Parish of South Gillingham Team Ministry. Structure Governance and Management: The function and purpose of the PCC is outlined in the Church Representation Rules 2025. The Parish is served by four churches: St Matthew (Wigmore) St Peter (Bredhurst) All Saints, (Hempstead) St Paul (Parkwood) The Parish Office is situated at.. St Matthew's Church, Drewery Drive. Wigmore, Gillingham, Kent ME8 ONX. The Pastoral Measure allows for the cure of souls to be shared by the Rector, who is the incumbent of the benefice, and two Vicars and others authorised by licence or permission of the Bishop to serve as members of the Team. The PCC additionally employs a part-time Parish Administration Officer and two Clerical Assistants. South Gillingham's PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the clergy team in promoting in the Ecclesiastical Parish the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. Clergy Member: Reverend Pat Lenton de Dickin luntil July 2025] Readers.. Colin Brown, Geoff Hufton. Licensed Lay Minister and Anna Chaplain: Jennie Spalding Anna Friend: Maureen Cannon and Barbara Derham Licensed Lay Minister: David Till Membership: Members of the PCC are either ex officio or are elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules and the Parish Constitution. During the year 2025 the following served as members of the PCC: (a) From January 2025 to May 2025: Ex.officio Members: Clergy Member.. Reverend Pat Lenton de Dickin Page 2 of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Lay Ministsrfs Represontativo: Colin Brown Churchwarden5: Paul Bellerby (St Matthew) JIM Gillx)ume (All Saints,) Mlke Gurr (Sl Paul) Alan Wainwright (St Peter) Deanery Synod: Vacant Jim Gilboume Fretha Biggs Jane Stringer St Paul All Saints. St Matthew St Peter PCC Elected Membera: Andrew Mann- St Matthew (Vice Chair) stephen Manning - St Paul (Parish Treasurer) Liz Nicholas - SafeguardirvJ Officer (co-opted member) Valerie Jenson- St Paul Chiis Williams- All Saints, Janice Halcher- Sl Matthew Tracey Gurr- St Paul Dave Till - St Peter Mim Noble- St Peter (b) From May 2025 to December 2025 Ex-officio Members: Reverond Pat Lenton de Dickin [until July 2025] Lay Ministers, Representative= Colin Brown (Elected Lay Ministers, Representative. to the PCC) Churchwardens: Paul Bellerby (St Matthew) Jim Gilboume {All Saints,) Alan Wainwright (St Peter) Michael Gurr (St Paul's) Deanery Synod: Fretha Biggs Jane Stringer Jim Gilboume Vacant St Matthew St Peter All Saints, st Paul PCC Elected MemberJ: Andrew Mann- St Matthew (Vice Chair) stephen Manning - St Paul (Parish Treasurer) Liz Nicholas- Safeguarding Officer (co-opted member) Valerie Jenson- Sl Paul Chris Williams- All Saints. Janice Hatcher- St Matthew Tracey Gurr- St Paul Page 3 of 36 Path Anrrtwl Report FINAIZOZ5151

Dave Till- St Peter MiTn Noble- St Peter Members of Staff: Parish Administration offi￿r/PCc SecretarylElectoral Roll Officer- Vivien Fuller. Clerical Assistants - Alison Harding and Bethany Gurr. Committees" The PCC operates through a number of commttlees. which meet bel￿een fvll meetings ofthe PCC: Standing Commlttee: Operating in aCCo￿ance with The Church Representation Rules. It is empowered to act on a day-to-day basis between PCC meetings and has authoiity to make emergency decislons. The PCC is the governing body that endorses policy and emergency decisions. The PCC is jointly and severally liable for all financial decisions. The PCC del8gates consultative and advisory roles to the following (x)mmTttees: The PCC delegates to the four Districl Church Councils (DCCS) the day-to4ay running of Ihe four churches (spiritual. financial and buildings). Each District Church holds an Annual District Church Meeting at whlch a Church Wa￿len is nominated. The four nominations are put to the Annual Meeting of Parishioners for 61ection. At the same Annual Church Meeting an Assistant Warden is nominated together with nominations for Deanery Synod, joint DCCIPCC representatives. and PCC only representatives. Ballots are held ff necessary. With the ex￿ptIOn of those elected at the individual ADCMS to seNe only on their DCC, the nominations from each church go to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) where Ihe Church Wardens. Assistanl Wardens, Deanery syr￿ Representatives and PCC members are fomially elected. The DCCS contribute to the PCC account in agreed proportions the PCC administers all fees, the Parish share, administratorfs salary. housirvJ. slaff expenses and administrative expenses. Eloctoral Roll: There were 175 Parishioners on the Electordl Roll at the time of the Annual Meeting in 2025, made up as follows: St Matthew: 63 St Paul: 59 Sl Peter. 36 All Saints.: 17. Risk Management (Charltles Act 2011) Although the Parish is below the income limil Ihat requires it to legally produce a policy, the PCC has nevertheless detemllr￿d policies for such management and these are summarised below: Flnancial Risk: Members of Ihe PCC have signed the PCC Financial Liability Policy. The PCC will not enlertain any 'open' ￿sItIon for debts. which are not covered by promised pledges or other suitable guarantees by members of the church or other organisations or individuals. Page4 of96 Parlsh Report FINAL202515]

Operational and Statutory and Legal Risks: All churches have full insurance cover on buildings and employment and public liability cover. The PCC has adopted "The Proteclion and Safeguarding of Children and The Protection and Safeguarding of Adults when they are Vulnerable" Policy and Procedures, in liaison with Ihe Diocese of Rochester. Health and Safety policies are in place. Reserves Policy (Charities Act 2011) The PCC has established small Designated Reserves for Maintenance of Clergy Property, Replacement of Equipment, Training and Mission Work. The PCC also holds a reserve of £20,000 to cover unforeseen demands or shortfalls by the four Churches in the Parish. Apart from the on-going capital projects for individual churches, which are listed elsewhere in this report, the PCC has established a policy to hold unrestricted reserves at a level, which equates to approximately six months unrestricted expenditure. Whilst it has not been possible for individual Churches to attain such reserves at this time, such a policy remains the target. "Mission Statement" "Building Community, nurturing faith and growing disciples of Jesus Christ" Parish Review of the Year Our parish remains deeply committed to serving the needs of the community, but this does present 8 challenge during the interregnum. Rev'd Pat Dickin moved on from the Parish in July and with the considerable dedication of the Area Dean, visiting clergy, occasional preachers, lay readers. wardens, volunteers and office staff, it has been possible to open all four churches on every Sunday. apart from when we have a "Parish Service" where all four churches come together. Events continue to take place across the parish, this has only been made possible by working as a valued team, inevitably, some services and events have had to be postponed for the time being. We recognise the importance of Holy Communion, fellowship and mid-week services. We continue our strong connection to local schools and care homes. our ministry to the bereaved - this includes the well-received Bereavement Journey courses held during the year. We continued baptism preparation and services, marriage preparation and marriage seNices. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our Safeguarding and Health and Safety Teams who strive to ensure our churches are a safe environment for all. We are grateful for the ministry of Stephen and his team of treasurers, Gift Aid officer, Paulette and supporters, whose faithful service contribute to the life of the parish in ever increasing financial challenges. Page 5 of 36 Par15h Annual Report FINAL 2025151

The Children's Ministry Team led by Tracey, continues to thrive and supports families and schools locally. We have remained committed to meet human need with away giving including fortnightly collections of donations to Medway Food Bank and a food larder kept at St Matthew's for anyone in immediate need. We continue to build Communit￿ with a 'Place of Welcome" Thursday and Film Clubs at St Matthew's, Hubs at Bredhurst village hall and St Paul's, Parkwood. 8ereavement Journey Course at All Saints. Hempstead, all these events are supported by church volunteer members from across the parish, as we continue to provide safe, wami and welcoming environments to all. A year at a Glance: Sunday Services - Continue to take place every Sunday at 10.30am, fortnightly at 8.30am', children's outreach service continue on the 1S1 and 3rd Sunday of the month (during term time) at 3-4.30pm Midweek Services - continued with: Morning Prayer 9.30 every Tuesday at St Matthew's Holy Communion 9.30 every Wednesday at Sl Paul's Praise & Prayer 20.00 every 2nd Wednesday of the Month at St Matthew's Lunchtime Prayer 12 noon every 4th Thursday of the Month at St Matthew's Pastoral Ministry Carers, Coffee Morning - meets Monthly, every second Wednesday at 10.00-12 at Rainham Library. A well-attended group for carers to come together giving a chance to meet other carers in an infomial setting. Bereavement Journey Course - at All Saints, took place in February and September. The course is open to all who have lost a loved one and is intended to help those who have been bereaved whether recently or for many years. The Course is free and is run in small groups with qualified leaders. Funerals 21 Funerals and 11 interments took place within our churches and local crematoria. Continued support for families was offered through the annual Memorial and Thanksgiving seNice in November. Marrlage - Four Marriages were conducted and took place at St Peterfs, Bredhurst during the year. Baptism - 18 children brought by their families to our churches for baptism, following preparation which takes place at St Matthew's church on a Saturday moming with other couples. The preparation has been very well received and is supported by lay ministers and volunteers. Page 6 of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Home Groups - continue to flourish across the parish. Newsletter and community outreach - The Parish Newsletter "Keeping In Touch" continues to grow with ever increasing membership and is received and appreciated by many, either by post or email. We are grateful to Archie McLellan for compiling and conlinuing with its circulation. Grateful thanks to Helen Standing for delivering the newsletter to those who don't have access via the intemet. The Parish office continues to liaise with all members of the wider community. Parish office governance includes the co-ordination of weddings, funerals and baptisms and remain a priority including the day-to-day administration. We continue to support our five local schools with assemblies, lessons on a variety of topics, Experience Christmas, Experience Easter, and "It's Your move" workshops for year 6 classes as they transition to secondary school. This has been very well received by schools in our parish, we continue to forge positive relationships with all local schools in our area. Viv Fuller, Parish Administrator I PCC Secretary Deanery Synod Report The Deanery Synod met ￿l¢e in 2025" June and November. The meetings were facilitated by Terry Whittaker and led by the Area Dean Rev. Mike Nelson Having outlined at the last meeting of 2024 that the synod would be looking at the pastoral principles in depth,. here is a reminder of what they are'.- Acknowledging prejudice Casting out fear Speaking into silence Admitting hypocrisy Addressing ignorance

Paying attention to power Rev. Mike is keen to have someone come to speak to us at each session. Therefore in June 2025 we were joined by Rev, Ruth Bierbaum who talked on the 6th pastoral principle- paying attention to POWER, this was followed by a short talk from Kayleigh Ward on Eco Church and how to become one. Al the November meeting our speaker sadly had car trouble and could not attend. We therefore had a discussion led by rev. Nathan Ward on the meeting which took place at St Margaret's Church. Rainham on the meaning of all the flags attached to lampposts everywhere. Two more meetings have been planned for March and June 2026. Jane Stringer Deanery Synod Representative Page 7 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Children's Ministry Report Children and Family outreach continues to grow across the Parish with opportunities for further outreach to our young people. Toddler Groups Our parish toddler groups, Play and Chat 139 Coffee Morning and Sunbeams remain popular and meet during term time at three churches on different days each week. They provide a welcoming space for families and carers {see separate reports). In September, toddler group volunteers from across the parish joined together for breakfast at Dobbies generously paid for by the Diocese of Rochester. It was a great opportunity for us all to get together and talk about the different groups. Sunday and Worship Activities St Matthew's Sunday School continues during the moming service, and children also take part in All-Age Worship. Family Fun Seriices are held on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, 3'.00-4'.30pm at St Paul's Church. Attendance varies, with an average of around 35 children and adults. Some families are now also joining All-Age Worship at St Paul's. Four children from Family Fun were baptised with a diocesan video celebrating Family Fun baptisms being produced and shared (htt s.'Il outu.bel 18zrtGXvrk). Live Wires, a puppet-led service, takes place once a month at All Saints Church. 2025 EventslActivities Good Friday Families came and enjoyed participating in the Easter Story with activities taking you through from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. Experience Easter The 2025 Experience Easter sessions held at St Matthews were well received by the year 5 children and staff of Bredhurst School and Fairview School. A session for each class lasts about one and a half hours and concludes with a short talk at the end. Each church provided a willing band of volunteers for each of five stations per session to talk more about a particular aspect from the Bible story. Both Fairview and Bredhurst schools have signed up again for 2026 and Hempslead School Fairview school have signed up their 3 Year R classes to come to All Saints. One Way UK Puppet Training Workshop Part funded by the Diocese of Rochester, with attendees from across the Southeast, including our own parish, the workshop began with how to hold the rods, bring them up behind a screen and make them move to the wordslmusic script. Although this sounds straight forward, I can assure you it wasn'tl Harvest- School Assemblies These took place in Fairview and Parkwood Schools. A Harvest talk was also given to the Foundation Stage children at Parkwood School. Page 8 of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Team Bullders Hollday Club This took place f￿rn 21 Bt_ 23rd October at St. Paul's using Scripture Union's 2025 holiday dub material looking at being part of a team through the stories of Joseph, Moses and Jesus. It was atterKled by 35 enthusiastic primary aged children. It was great to see the children so engaged. l am grateful for the dedication and enthusiasm of all those involved in making the holiday club possible. The holiday club was followed up wth All Age Worship on the SuThJay incory)orating the holiday club theme which was attended by several of the families. It's Your Move Workshops It's Your Move - rnoviro onto secondary sclKX)l. is a Scripture Union devised workshop for Year 6 children, and a book is given to them lo take away (donated by our Parish). Workshops were delivered to Fairvlew, All Saints and Bredhurst schools, wtth the addition of ParkwDod SchoDI receiving just the book without a workshop. Lol Bear 7 Days to Save Christmas {held In SL Paul's Church) We were entertained by a cast of two with an interactive pantomime. In the show there were 7 themes or lessons the characters had to learn. Whilst the numbers of children were smaller than expected, this enabled every child to particlpate with instruments, dressing up and even joining in with the scriptl Sch¢)ol Chrlslmas Assemblles These took place in Parkwood ScTrv)ol. Exporlence Chrlstmas Both Fairview and Bredhurst Year 5 children came into St. Matthews agaln for Experienct Christmas. Christmas Services In December 2025, two Christingle and Nativty Se￿ICe8 were held at st. matthe￿8, a Christingle at All Saints. a Christingle and a Nativity service at Family Fun at St. Paul's and a Crib Servi￿ at St. Peterfs. The Posada In December. knitted figures of Mary, Joseph, and the donkey vlsited the homes of families who attend Family Fun in a Posada. Each family welcomed them and cared for them during their stay. The Posada bag included activities, a story, prayers, and chocolat81 Cheryl Trice from the di0￿Se gave a tslk to volunteers about the diocese 3-5- year strategy for children's and youth work. including exploring diocesan support. Parlsh Youth Group The Parish youth group continued to welcome youth from across the parish who also began to bring fiier¥Js. It is led by Helen Stockwell. assisted by David Cox. Numbers remain static. Rooted Junior The Rooted course using Scripture Union material took place from March - July as a weekly group for ￿11-Year-oldS offering a Spa￿ for children to engage with the Bible, ask questions and explore the differen￿ Jesus can make in Iheir lives. {It continues rK)w as a fortnightly group using Urban Saints Energize material) Pa80 9of36 PthhAnnual REport FINAL 2025 [51

l am continually grateful for the wonderful children's team and many others who enable all the children, youth and family work to continue, both in person, behind the scenes and prayerfully especially since we have been in interregnum. May God continue to bless this work and enable it to flourish both in our churches, communities and schools. Tracey Gurr, Children's Lead Toddler Groups 139 - St Matthew The 139 Toddler Group continues to be an enjoyable time for children and adults alike. This year particularly, the adults have formed good friendships and formed their own WhatsApp group. They have met up in school holiday times and give each other support and advice when needed. Numbers naturally fluctuate for many reasons, but we had 19 new children starting during the year, most 3 or under. The average attendance is around 12, slightly up from last year. Paul and Pearl Bellerby Sunbeams - All Saints, Sunbeams Baby and Toddler Music Group continues as an All Saints, community outreach project for pre-school children and their parentslgrandparentslcarers. SunbgAn4s We continue to welcome families on a Tuesday afternoon at 1.30 - 2.45pm. We sing nursery rhymes, play instruments and dance with scarves during term time. After music time the adults are offered a hot drink and children a packet of biscuits, this is an important time for socialising and there are books and toys put out for the children. The group is led by 2 volunteers.. Sarah Cross and Natalie Jarvis. This year we have welcomed on average 5- 8 families per week. In addition to our regular musical themes. which rotate every 7 weeks, we also held a Valentine's Party, Easter Story session, St George's Day celebration, musical Sports Day, Summer Party, Autumn Party, Christmas Party and the Nativity Story with Christmas Carols. We also celebrated Sunbeams, 16th Birthday in June which was a huge achievement made possible by the continued support of our volunteers. The group continues to provide a connection with local families and provide support to the community. Sarah Cross. Lead Volunteer Play and Chat- St Paul's Thursday morning Play & Chat attendance has dropped but we still have a good number of families attending, and sometimes up to 40 children. There has been a fairly regular turnover of children as several families left, with the children reaching school age, and a number of new families started since the beginning of Page 10 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

1. We regularly receive positive feedback from parentslcarers and this is always welcome. New families attend as a result of word of mouth. The Wednesday group had to cease in September because of a lack of demand. Two volunteers transferred to the Thursday group, but unfortunately one became seriously ill and has since gone on long term sick leave. We now have six volunteers. The 2025 Christmas Party proved popular again, being attended by lots of children. The price for each child was still £3. This covered the cost of food, refreshments and sundries, like wrapping paper and Chrislmas decorations. The children at the party had dancing, with bubbles coming out and down from a bubble machine on the balcony. It proved to be very popular. A present for each child (a Christian book) was paid for by the church. We also gave each child a small bar of chocolate. Once again, Roy was great as Father Christmas, with all the children being enthralled to see him. A lot of hard work goes into the organisation of the party. in the weeks beforehand and on the day itself. Thanks are due to all the volunteers. We shall probably need to increase the price for the 2026 party as prices generally have risen so much. Craft activities, at no extra charge, are run on the last day of each term by Kate, one of our regular volunteers, and are popular with both adults and children alike. We still charge £2 per family per session, which is excellent value for money. When a child minder brings five or six children (as has happened occasionally) we have charged them as two families. The child minders seemed to accept this as reasonable. Play & Chat continues to be very popular, with both adults and children. We pray it can continue lo provide a valuable service to the community, and bring people into the church. As always, we would love to have more volunteers. Derek Murrayi Thursday Play & Chat Leader and Volunteer Live Wires Puppet-Led Service - All Saints, Auntie Martha continues to be the head of the family, Bluey's jokes are ever popular and we now have a Canadian Rev Bev (sometimes). Many thanks to Natalie.. We have benefited from Dave and Sarah Till's support and leadership of the Live Wires Services . Grandpa's (i.e. Linda) Bible Stories have proved very popular with lots of Cheering for Jesus and booing for the Baddies in the Bible, i.e. Herod and the Pharisees etc. It is a new format, putting the Bible stories of Jesus at the heart of the sessions with family values and moral issues relating to bible stories being ably led by Kathie (i.e. Auntie Martha.> The engaging and lovable Bluey, who everyone loves. is very ably played by Trevor. We hope to improve more over the next year. But we could not stage Live Wires without the help and support over every member of our congregation. From Chris and Jim erecting the set to Anna and Elaine overseeing refreshments. Thank you to all. Page 11 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

And another thank you to Natalie, who also runs our craft sessions after the Puppets go home. Linda Crawford. Lead volunteer Safeguarding Safeguarding Is Everybody's Business in the Parlsh of South Gillingham. 1. In June 2025,1 will have held the post of Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) for four years. I was recruited in accordance with Safer Recruitment Guidance, including the provision of references and a formal interview process. The interview panel consisted of the then Incumbent, Brian Senior, and two Churchwardens. Following a short handover from the previous post holder, I was issued wilh a copy of the Parish Safeguarding Handbook, which has remained my guiding document throughout my time in office. pari sa uarding srfeguordin9 [e-mail] [e-mail] National and Church Context During my tenure, the safeguarding culture within the Church, both nationally and locally. has undergone significant change. Key developments include.. The Wilkinson Report (2023) The Jay Report: Future of Safeguarding (February 2024) The resignation of the Archbishop {November 2024) A wider acknowledgement of the Church's historic failures in supporting Survivors of Abuse As a result of these developments, safeguarding has shifted from being viewed as an "add-on" to becoming a core element of all church activity and governance. 2. Safeguarding Systems and Oversight The introduction of the Diocesan Safeguarding Dashboard, which monitors activity levels, groups, clubs, and risk assessments, has been instrumental in ensuring that volunteers are supported appropriately and that participants are protected. The Parish Volunteer Handbook, launched in May 2025, clearly sets out the process for becoming a volunteer. The PCC approved the application of Safer Recruitment procedures for all new volunteers from Autumn 2025. A parish-wide Volunteer Celebration was held at St Paul's in May 2025. Over 60 volunteers attended, supported by refreshments provided by St Petef s, demonstrating the Parish's appreciation of volunteer commitment. Page 12 of 36 Parish knnual Report FINAL 2025151

1. Volunteers and Safer Rocruitsnent Across the Parlsh, there are current]y: 113 volunteers Undertaking 53 distlnct roles Operating across multiple churches Active seven days a weeK mornings. aftemoons, and evenings This level of commitsnent from volunteers. alongside the worf( of the PCC and DCCS, is fundamental to sustaining parish lrfe. It is therefore essential that robust safeguarding systems are in place to ensure volunteors are themselves safe and well-supported. 57 indlvlduals have been a&sessed under DBS regulatlons All volunteers working with chlldren. young paople, and vulnerable adults have been approprialely vetted
2. Personnel Hub and Admlnistratlon The recent Introduction of the Personnel Hub has enabled the Parish to benchmark its safeguarding perf0mlan￿ against National Standards. Due to increased administrative requirements, an additional administrator was appointed, with dedicated time allocated to safeguarding administration. This has placed the Parish in a strong position. providing confidence that safeguarding perfomiance aligns with requir￿ standards. The Hub is able to generate detailed reports for the PCC and Churchwardens. enabling clear oversight of parish strengths and areas for improvement. Previously. this administrative role was undertaken voluntarily by Gill Rose. The PCC'S decision to recognise the role as a paid posltion demonstrates a clear commitment to embedding safeguarding at the heart of patish lrfe.
3. Safeguarding Training The Personnel Hub records safeguarding training levels across the Parish. Currently: 356 individuals have complet￿1 safeguardiTrJ training Training levels include: •> Basic +> Foundation Leadership
4. Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse
5. Safer Recruitment An area of particular focus is Awareness of Domestlc Abuse. The Diocese revised the Safeguarding Training Matrix in September 2025. expanding the Page 13 of 36 PorfshAnrn￿l Report FIIiIL 2025 ISI

number of roles requiring this training. While this presents a challenge, it is a key priority for 2026. 6. Audit Readiness and Future Confidence l am confident that when the Diocese is audited in July 2027, the Parish of South Gillingham will be able to clearly demonstrate that.. Robust safeguarding systems are in place Volunteers are appropriately recruited, trained, and supported Evidence is available to support compliance with National and Diocesan Standards New Safeguarding Structure In January 2026 the Safeguarding Structure programme board produced a report on the proposed changes and a vision for a new charity provisionally named The Independent Safeguarding Authority. A vision for a new charity, provisionally named as the Independent Safeguarding Authority. This charity will be an operationally independent organisation, led by a majority-independent non-executive Board. Executive functions of the charity will be led by a Chief Safeguarding Officer, whose operational safeguarding responsibilities will be a protected function of the charity and not subject to Board discussion or determination. Next steps and implementation The task now will be to turn the ideas set out in this paper into practice. The broad timetable for implementation begins 2026 and aims to be completed by 2028. There is a general synod paper available please see link below= htt s'.Ilwww.churchofen land.or laboutl overnancel eneral-s nodl sessionsl eneral-s nod-februa -2026#na rou Acknowledgements I would like to thank everyone across the Parish of South Gillingham for their continued support and commitment to safeguarding over the past year. This collective effort has ensured that safeguarding is embedded into all aspects of parish life. Liz Nicholas. Safeguarding Officer Health and Safety Health and safety across the parish is the responsibility of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) who appoint an individual with the necessary competence to take the lead on these matters. This person then advises the H & S representatives in the four churches and the wider congregations via Keeping in Touch. Page 14 of 36 Parlsh Annual

The H & S officer in each church is appointed by the DCC and helshe will make sure that the church is well maintained in regard to health and safety issues and that any defects are remedied quickly. They will also review the fire risk assessment annually and put it on the church log. Health and safety is very much a team effort and in each church there will also be people responsible for the actual maintenance of the church and its grounds and all will work with Ihe Churchwarden who ultimately has the overall responsibility for H & S matters as one of their responsibilities is the maintenance of the fabric of the church. The parish has 13 health and safety policy documents. The first was created in 2016. All documents have to be approved by the PCC and they are produced or revised as a result of guidance issued by HSE or Ecclesiastical Insurance. The documents which have been produced over the years are -

Health and Safety Policy and Guidance (the core document)

Working at Height and the Safe Use of Ladders

Fire Safety Law and Procedures for Fire Risk Assessment

Fire Safety Technical Guide

Candlelit SeNices and the Safe Use of Votive Candles

Events Out of Doors

Manual Handling

Personal Safety and Lone Working

Guidance on preventing Slips and Trips

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH)and the

Safe Use and Storage of Hazardous Materials

Food Safety and Food Hygiene

IncidentlAccident Reporting and

First-Aid Provision

2025 saw the end of a major revision of the first 12 documents and a new document produced on First Aid Provision. The master documents are stored in St Matthew's Church with copies available in all our churches. My thanks go to all the volunteers who have responsibility for either health and safety issues or the maintenance of our churches and grounds. Your work is very much appreciated. Valerie Jenson Lead for Health and Safety, in the Parish of South Gillingham Building Reports St Peter's Church 1. Annual inventory of articles appertaining to the church carried out. 2. CCTV operational throughout most of the year. 3. Church insurance policy renewed with Ecclesiastical January 2025 4. County Fire Protection annual maintenance check 27.03.25 Page 15 0136 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

1. The planning application for the external work for the remaining legacy projects 3 and 4 (water supply for internal tea station at the back of the church and changes to the toilet building} that was submitted to Maidstone Borough Council in December 2024 was approved. Throughout the year the services of D. C. Hudson have produced plans for the pewsltea station inside (Legacy Project 31 and storagelrefreshment facility outside (Legacy Project 4). These have gone to tender and we expect the work to commence early 2026.
2. Further work had been carried out on the sound system by Seccomgroup {new hand mic, lectem mic and guitar cable). Problems with feedback appear to have been eliminated by not using the altar and pulpit microphones in favour of the personal mic.
3. In line with recommendations in the Quinquennial report the Chapel extemal door was as repaired in March and the caen tabling stone on a buttress replaced in September.
4. Non-regulation festive ornaments, other adornments and dead flowers regularly removed from the churchyard. Graveyard waste soil is periodically removed by Reynolds Grab Service from whom we also purchase topsoil to replenish Ihe graves that have subsided.
5. New lock fitted to outside toilet door following vandalism 14.8.25.
6. Barming Pest Control contract renewed September 2025. Regular visits in place. Their advice was sought to deal with a wasp infestation Sepuoct 2025.
7. Shrublwildflowerlbulb area in far comer of the churchyard has ongoing care and development
8. Portable electric appliance check 6.11.25.
9. Nave ceiling repair carried out over two weeks December 2025, cost £3000. £2,750 was recovered by insurance claim.
10. Annual boiler seNice 3.12.25
11. Organ was seNiced 11.12.25
12. Extensive general maintenance tasks, too numerous to mention, are carried out weekly throughout the year by the Wednesday Maintenance Team, who are predominately not members of the church. Without this team the church and surrounding area would not be maintained. Cost of the many repairs they carry out would further impact on a declining budget. The contribution this team make to St Peterfs should never be taken for granted. We give each of them our heartfelt thanks. Alan Wainwright, Churchwarden St Paul's Church During 2025, a comprehensive programme of maintenance, safety checks, and improvements was carried out to ensure the church premises remained safe, efficient, and well-maintained. Major Works & Compliance The principal project this year was the full replacement of fluorescent lighting with modern LED fittings. improving energy efficiency and reliability. The work was completed by Townend Electrical Services and included additional fittings in the Page 16 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

stairwell and disabled toilet. marking ￿MpletiOn of the lighting upgrade. A fiJll Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) was conducted by CPA Property Services, and annual fire extinguisher servicing was CQTnpleted by Country Fire Protection Ltd. Buildlng Repairs & Improvements RoLrtine repairs and upgrades were uThJertaken IhrougfK)Ut the year. including.. Installation of additional office sockets and a new stairwell phone with P3wer supply. Boiler servicing and fitting of a new expansion pressure vessel. Repairs to door handles. locks. toilet ffttlngs, tap covers, arKI flush mechanisms. Re-bonding carpet tiles in the hall and other areas. Securing shelving and cupboard racking. Malntenance of plumbing fixtures. including leak repairs, sink sealing, descaling the um, and clearing blockages. Replacement of alann battery 8fKI dock battery. Improvements to emergency lighting arKI fire door mechanisms. Safety & Preventative Maintenance Regular inspections and preventative wod( included: Cleaning gutters and clearing the car parl( drain. Weekly fir8 alami testlng and inspection of fire exits. Routine checks for leaks, building damage. and safety hazards. ClearirYJ and Se￿icIng urinals arKI plumbing systems. Stabilising fixtures and removing sharp ￿1ge8 where necessary. Grounds & External Maintenance Ongoing grourKls maintenance ensured the church exterior remained tidy and safe: Car park sweeping and removal of debris (approx. 45 large bags). De-weeding and sweeplng block paving paths. Regular grass cutling durlng the growing season. Pruning shrubs. maintsining garden beds, and planting donated bulbs. Window and door glass cleaning every two rThJnths. High-level gutter cleaning annually. Cl&anlng & Waste Management 32 bags of litter collected from church grounds. 26 bags of intemal waste removed, with additional disposal by user groups. Page 17 of 36 Amual Rep)rt FINAL ZO2515]

Kitchen sink blockages cleared and guidance signage installed. Routine Weekly Duties Regular weekly tasks included building checks, fire safety testing, inspection for leaks or damage, and ensuring the premises were secure and powered down when vacated. Overall The year focused on improving energy efficiency, maintaining safety compliance, and addressing routine repairs promptly. Continued preventative maintenance and grounds care have helped preserve the building and provide a safe, welcoming environment for all users. Prepared by Dave Larkin and Mike Gurr, Churchwarden All Saints, Church General maintenance tasks for the building continued throughout the year, including the management of the church gardens. A local gardener was asked to ome fortnightly, until the end of October, to keep the grounds well looked after, and maintain the smart and welcoming image of the church. A garden fund was set up to encourage church members to support, with small donations on a regular basis. Also, the installation of an outside tap was provided by a local plumber, free of charge, which helped to water the garden area during a very dry summer period. Towards the end of the year, a building survey was undertaken to help the church understand if there were any important andlor urgent matters that needed attending to. Although no urgent issues were identified, once the full report is received, the church will be able to schedule when these matters can be budgeted for and undertaken. The church continued to be well cleaned and maintained throughout 2025, ensuring the building remains a welcoming. warm and safe venue for all church users, visitors and users. Jim Gilbourne, Church Warden St Matthew's Church St Matthew's Church and Community Centre buildings are overall in good order. and no significant leaks were reported this year. It is anticipated that the aging felt remaining on our larger church roofs may need attention in the not too-distant future and at considerable cost. Maintenance tasks to keep the church grounds and Garden of Rest tidy continued. The main maintenance tasks of grass cutting, path weeding and clearing the roofs and hoppers of debris continued. An evening to cut shrubbery and weed paths also took place. Inspections of our fire alarm system and fire extinguishers are carried out by professional contractors. The church Lightening Conductor received a qualified pass at its 5-yearly inspection. A Quinquennial Inspection carried out in August confirmed that most of the significant recommendations from the previous report had been addressed, and it identified no currenl causes for concern. Page 18 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

The Church received a national Bronze Award as an Eco Church and aim to progress to Silver in due course. Further efforts continue to reduce our energy-related carbon footprint, consumption, and associated costs through careful and proactive management. In October we entered a new energy supplier with greener 3-year fixed tariff deals for both electric and gas. This is expected to keep our costs down over the period. An overhead infra-red suspended heater was fitted in the Transept so smaller gatherings could take place there without the need to heat the whole church. An Energy Audit was commissioned to see what other improvements could be made. A Fifty-one-page comprehensive Action Plan report has been received with multiple options and some specific recommendations for consideration over a five-year period. Paul Bellerby, Church Warden 'The fabric, goods and omaments in our care are in good order. The Log Book and Property Registers are up to date for St Matthew's, St Paul's and St Peter's. All Saints, are in the process of updating their Logbook and Terrier. Wardens, Reports St Paul's Church The District Church Council met regularly through 2025 to support the mission and ministry of St Paul's within the Parish of South Gillingham. Meetings were marked by prayer, collaboration and a shared commitment to building community, nurturing faith, and growing disciples of Jesus Christ. I would especially like to thank the many people that contribute to the life and Tnission of St. Paul's. WorshTP, Ministry and Pastoral Care The DCC oversaw a full pattern of worship and seasonal services, with the support of the licensed lay ministers and clergy from our parish and clergy ILLMS from outside the parish which made this possible. Christmas and Patronal celebrations were well received, with feedback shaping future planning, including a preference for an aftemoon or evening Carol Seryice. The parish gave thanks for the ministry of Rev Pat Dickin, whose final service at St Paul's in July was a significant moment in the life of the church. Following her departure. responsibilities were redistributed among the Parish Church Wardens and the greater Team to ensure continuity of pastoral care, services, communications, and safeguarding oversight. Pastoral care continued and the church responded sensitively to incidents requiring first aid or emergency services, reviewing procedures to ensure clarity of address details and availability of trained First Aiders. Children, Youth and Families Children's ministry continued to flourish, with Family Fun gatherings, the Rooted Junior Course, Youth Group activilies, and the October Holiday Club taking place at St. Paul's. Four children from Family Fun were baptised, and the parish strengthened links with local schools through "It's Your Move" workshops, with Page 19 0136 Par15h Annual Report FINAL 2025151

bookings already secured for 2026. A diocesan video celebrating Family Fun baptisms was produced and shared. Cheryl Trice from the diocese gave a session about the diocese 3-5-year strategy for children's and youth work, including exploring diocesan support and the potential recruitment of a youth worker. A sensory area in church was also proposed to support children with additional needs. Thanks to the children team that facilitate this area of the churches mission. Safeguarding Safeguarding remained a standing priority. Training coverage improved, safer recruitment procedures were reviewed, and volunteer handbooks were issued. Helen Jones stepped down as Safeguarding Officer during the year, and the DCC recorded its thanks for her long seNice. Gill Rose is now doing this role. Risk assessments including those for lone working and pastoral visiting were reviewed and updated. Finance The Treasurer reporied regularly on the church's financial position. Challenges included delays in paymenls from lettings organisations and technical issues with CAF Bank. The DCC monitored cash flow carefully, delaying the LED lighting project until funds were available. Parish Share contributions were reviewed, with St Paul's agreeing a monthly pledge for 2026. The year-end financial position for 2025 can be summarised as Income £64,926.46 and Expenditure £64,287.04, giving a small surplus of £639.42. Mission giving continued, with nominated charities including Cancer Research UK, Medway Foodbank, and Support & Action to End Domestic Abuse (SATEDA). Premises and Fabric Significant attention was given to the building and grounds. Work arising from the previous quinquennial inspection continued, with the completion of the replacement of fluorescent lighting with modern LED fittings, improving energy efficiency and reliability. The overhanging council-owned tree remained unresolved despite repeated contact. The DCC discussed future projects including replacement chairs, carpet renewal, and the creation of an accessible emergency exit path., grant funding options will be explored once the written report from Ihe 2025 Quinquennial Report is received from the surveyor. I would like to thank Dave (and Helen) Larkin who undertake most of the maintenance work at St. Paul's Health & Safety Incidents were recorded and reviewed, with appropriate reporting to insurers and RIDDOR where required. Weekly fire alami tests continued. The DCC noted the need for ongoing First Aid provision and training opportunities. Community and Fellowship The Volunteer Appreciation Day was warmly received, and the church hosted a range of social events including Pat's leaving celebrations and a Harvest fish-and-chip lunch. Members of the DCC also supported the Archdeacon's Visitation service held at St Paul's. Mike Gurr, Churchwarden Page 20 of 36 Parlsh Annual RÈport FINAL 2025151

The Monday Hub: St Paul's Church The Monday Hub is a parish activity but is recognised as part of the Christian outreach of St Paul's Church, particularly reaching oul to the Parkwood community. It is open to everyone and its aim is to provide a place where people can meet in a safe environment and make new friends. This was the Hub's 15th year. Our membership has stabilised and we have 45 regular members. Although our programme remains broadly similar to previous years we seem to have squeezed more into this year. In March we had a raffle for Christian Aid which raised £78 and then had our Lent lunch which raised a further £268. We enjoyed hot cross buns in April and then in May celebraled VE Day with bunting, entertainment by Two in Hamiony. a quiz on the Second World War and home-made cakes. In June we had a talk by Sophie Day, the Fraud Prevention Officer attached to Kent police on how to prevent fraud and scams and all the members were given a leaflet on how to stay safe. At the end of the month we had our Wimbledon sweep (a raffle for the seeded players) with home-made strawberry muffins. In August the bunting came out again for VJ Day which we celebrated with a quiz on the war wilh Japan and more home-made cakes. Also in August we had a talk by Janet Garnons-williams about SATEDA (Support and Action to End Domestic Abuse) which is a charity St Paul's is supporting this year. September and earfy October were busy in that we were wrapping and filling shoe boxes on behalf of the parish for Blythswood Care. This year we filled 140 shoe boxes, donated £85 towards transport costs and raised a further £65 for a sponsored knit which also supported the cost of transporting the lorries to Kosovo. Late in October the Hub had an event supporting Fair Trade. This included a raffle which included fair trade items and a fair trade linked quiz. We were also pleased that June Cox was able to come and talk about the Bredhurst Church village shop. the items they sold and the chartties they supported. The Hub celebrated its 15th birthday on 10 November with Trevor Styles providing the entertainment and it was another opportunity for home-made cakes. Later in November we had a sale with Penny Picozzi selling gifts for both children and adults on behalf of the church and the Hub and St Margaret's Church selling craft items. Half of all the proceeds went to St Paul's. Our Christmas lunch was on 8 December. We started with bucks fizz and then the 56 members sal down to a lunch of turkey and ham, new potatoes. coleslaw and salad followed by a raspberry roulade, tealcoffee and chocolates. Members also enjoyed Christmas carols, a Christmas quiz and a free raffle. The Monday Hub can only be run with a dedicated team of volunteers. My very grateful thanks go to the planning team - Wendy Keast (the deputy leader of the Hub), Sally and Derek Murray. Colin and Jackie North, Trish Clark and Mary Conroy (who also oversees all our foodie events). Special thanks also go to Page Zl of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Christiane Spencer who does our refreshments and Andrew Long who helps put out the tables and chairs. We could not manage without this team. Valerie Jenson Leader Monday Hub St Peter's Church 1. The terrier (a list of land belonging to the church), the inventory and logbook of alterations, additions and repairs are up to date. Development of the remaining two legacy projects has continued throughout the year with plans being agreed and pul out for tender. We expect the work to be completed in the first half of 2026. 2. The pattern of services remained unchanged. Each month there is one 8.30 am BCP service, and at 10,30am a communion service, one All Age Worship and two Morning Worship services. There is also one Evening Quiet Service offered by Reader Colin Brown on the fourth Sunday of each month. Parish services or a "adapted" MW service may be held on the fifth Sunday of the month. All the usual Lent, Easter, Mothering Sunday, Harvest and Christmas services took place. This pattern was interrupted for three weeks in October due to two wasp nests in the bellcote, and again in November when the nave ceiling plaster above the organ was repaired. We were privileged to hold the Parish Christmas Day service at st Peterfs with the Bishop of Tonbridge, the Rt Rev Simon Burton-Jones presiding. Fifty-seven people attended. During 2025 there have been three funerals and seven interments of ashes. Four couples have been married in the church and two baptisms were held. In July the Parish said goodbye to our Team Vicar. Rev'd Pat Dickin who was taking up a new position in Birmingham. She gave us her heart and her commitment to maintaining the viability of the parish during the interregnum was incredible and, following the start of the interregnum. her increased presence at St Peterfs for regular services was very much appreciated by the congregation. The upkeep of services is maintained on a weekly basis. The church was cleaned monthly with at least three 'Big Cleans, included. Thank you to all those who set time aside to help with those. 3. St. Petef s Church have continued to support the school throughout the year, with more involvement be￿een the school and the church community. Meetings have taken place between Lesley, Miriam, Alan and the School Head and Deputy Head to discuss how to best involve the school into church events and how to support the school. The relationship feels much more cohesive and it has helped to build and strengthen links between the school and church. The children have once again taken part in events in school as well as at both St. Peter's and St. Mathew's church.. year 6 children participated in the Experience Easter and Christmas events at St. Matthew's church. These are events the children all thoroughly enjoy and get so much from them. Page 22 of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

The children created pew decorations for Mothering Sunday, Harvest and Chrtslmas. In retum they were delighted with the message the congregation wrote on them. The school community gathered at St Peterfs before the end of the Christmas Tem to sing ￿r0[S and allow the children the time arKI opportunity to reflect. Mim's support (the children particulaTly enjoyed Rudolph) was very much appreciated. The children benefrted from attending the Bredhurst Hub and the interaction wth the local community, vistting the village hall. readiThJ with and chatting to residents. Following the closure of Hub we will look to other ways to re-establish this link. Mrs Carey has continued to regularty play the organ at St. Peterfs Church when needed. and members of the church have continued to be grateful to her for giving up her time in this way, supporting the local community. The school is now advertising church events in their school newslett&r to ensure the school community are kept uwjated on church events and actiwties. Unfortunately, not having have a member of the local clergy on our govemiro body means they are missiTrJ this voice and support wtthin our goveming body once again and also do not hav8 a member of the church team take worship in school. St Peterfs has three Licensed Lay Ministers and six others qualified to lead setvices andlor preach that contribute to the Parish rota. Both Colin and Jennie conduct funerals (Jennie also runs a Bereavement Joumey course) and both take Holy Communion when requested in homes. Holy Communion is also offered on a monthly basis into Admiraty Care. Hawthome Manor and Osbem Manor. Jennie and Maureen take a monthly Sunday Service In Admiralty Care with a further shortened service with a craft activty and sing-along. bolh are well received. Jennie, Mareen and Barbara are involved in Anna Chaplaincy. St Peterfs has kn Home Groups: Colin leads a Zoom meeting on a Monday evening and Maureen holds an aftemoon session on Tuesday. Maureen continues to Co-ordinale Carerfs Coffee moming monthly held at Ralnham Library: the attendance is usually between 17 and 28 persons, with the same volunteers from across the Parish. Dave leads the All-Age Worship Team. Unfortunately, Bredhurst Hub had its last meeting in November after seven years of monthly meetings. This was predominately due to rising (x)sts and lack of involvement from the local community such that it was felt to have run its ￿Urse. Throughout the year, the Wednesday Maintenance Team, who are predominately not members of the church. tum up weekly to help to share time together as they help with chores that contribute to the care and rnaintenan￿ of the church and surrounding area. Extenslve general Maint0nan￿ tasks, too nUme￿uS to menlion, redu￿ the impact on our P4e 23 of 36 Parish Annual Rewt RNAL2025 ts1

declining budget. Fifteen members of the team enjoyed a very sociable Christmas dinner at The Hamw, Lidsing. 4. Safeguarding training is logged on the Diocesan Hub which is managed by the parish office. Lesley Wainwright is encouraging those who need to update training or take part in Basic Training for the first time. The following training needs outstanding are, 1 person Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse and 4 people to renewlcomplete Basic or Foundations training. This is extremely encouraging. The aim for 2026 is to be completely up to date. 5. There have been a number of fund-raising events through the year. A successful Lent Breakfast was held in Bredhurst Village Hall and £250 donated for Christian Aid. Perhaps the most novel was filling Smartie Tubes with 20p coins (£600), whereas the quiz night (£745) and music night (£870) hosted by St Paul's were more fun and engaging. In September the church was open to welcome participants of Ride and Stride for Friends of Kent Churches. £590 was raised for FKC, with £295 coming back to St Peter's. 6. Despite the official farewell to our wonderful florist team who stood down at the end of 2024 Hazel Scott has continued to ensure Sl Peteff s looks beautiful throughout the year. 7. The DCC continue to meet bi-monthly to consider the organisation, safety and finance of the church and have a packed agenda. The lack of appointments to the roles of church Safeguarding Officer, Health and Safety Officer and DCC Secretary continues to stretch other roles, particulady that of the Churchwarden (who by choice chooses to continue also being Church Treasurer) and potentially leaves the church vulnerable with regard to longer term stability. 8. Thank you to all church members and community volunteers. Much of the work takes place unseen and covers a wide range of jobs that require a high degree of thought and commitment to properly maintain the church building, content and grounds. In the church building and mainlenance report there is a comprehensive list of general maintenance tasks that are carried out weekly throughout the year. It is a wake-up call to work that is required on a regular basis. This is true of every facet of church life and indeed, the act of giving our time as part of our Christian ministry can take rnany practical forms beyond preaching, leading, and providing guidance or pastoral care. As I write this reporl (and hopefully you read it) I pray that as we continue to look to God for support and guidance during the interregnum, and the difficult times it brings. I pray that he helps us to look inwards to see if we can give a bit more of ourselves but that we are also strong enough to look outwards because I believe Ihat what we can do for God's mission also helps to ensure our church remains strong in fellowship and our readiness for our next incumbent. Alan Wainwright, Churchwarden Page Z4 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL Z025151

All Saints, Church Throughout 2025, the parish was in interregnum. without a Rector and for the second half of the year, without a Team Vicar. This meant that. by working even more closely together as a parish and drawing on resources across the diocese, All Saints, continued to provide weekly Sunday services and continued to offer a similar array and variety of activities and outreach to the community. At Christmas, All Saints, provided a Carols by Candlelight service, as well as a Christingle service, which were both very well attended. For the 5th year running, All Saints, hosted the Scripture Union course, called "It's Your Move" for those young people from Hempstead Junior School who were moving on to Secondary school in September. It was held in June on one morning, with 3 different classes coming every hour. The staff and students really enjoyed their time in the church, and all went away with a free 'guidebook', full of useful information about the move to secondary school. Also, several classes from the Hempstead schools came to All Saints, to learn more about the church, as a building and as a place of worship. Rev Pat Dickin enabled the young people, and their teachers, to understand how the church came to Hempstead, and what is the meaning behind the different areas of the building. and its fixtures and fumishings. Food for Thought, an outreach project to the community, continued for part of the year, enabling both church and un-churched people to share a simple meal with a short gospel message. Thank you again to Stephen Manning, and Trevor and Elaine Cant for continuing to lead this initialive, as well as the other volunteers from the church. Jennie Spalding led two more Bereavement courses in the church on Monday afternoons. Jennie was well supported by several volunteers in the parish. Several individuals, who had suffered a bereavement recently. certainly benefited from their time on the course. Safeguarding remains a priority for All Saints, Church in Hempstead, within the parish of South Gillingham. We are committed to the safeguarding, care, and nurture of all people within our church community, including children and vulnerable adults. Our safeguarding practices follow the policies and guidance of the Church of England, particularly those outlined in 'Promoting a Safer Church. The PCC has formally adopted the Church of England Safeguarding Policy. The policy is reviewed and reaffimied by the PCC annually. A copy of the policy is.. Displayed on the church noticeboard Available on the church website Page 25 of 36 Pari$h Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Held in the church office The church leadership continues to promote a culture of vigilance, transparency, and accountability. Safeguarding training remains a requirement for those in relevant roles within the church. Training completed in the past year includes.. Basic Awareness Training Foundation Training Leadership Training Several volunteers completed online training modules, and records are maintained by the Parish Safeguarding Officer. Although no longer directly involved, All Saints, supported the Hempstead Village Fayre Group (HVFG), by allowing the church to be used for committee meetings. The church had a stand at the Summer Fayre on the third Sunday in May on Hempstead Playing Fields, whilst also hosting the Christmas Fayre in late November, with Hempstead Village Hall Livewires. our ministry to young children and their parents, held just a few services and grateful thanks to Linda CrawFord and Kathie Clarke for their dedication to this initiative. Sarah Cross maintained her Sunbeams group for pre-school children on Tuesdays, with the more musical 'Time to Shine, on Tuesday and Thursdays mornings. Although not directly seen as outreach by the church, these groups allow the church to be used by young mums and their pre-school children on a regular basis. All Saints, continued with weekly hosting for choir groups - Hamiony singers and the ME7 Choirs. These groups performed Mo concerts each during the year, which were well supported by local people, with funds being raised for the church and other local charities. The Hempstead Players perfomed ￿0 productions in the church in 2025. A Showcase in May, which entertained audiences with variety of short plays, sketches and songs. In October. a full-length comedy play, called "Old Actors Never Die, they simply lose the plot" also filled the church for o very amusing performances. Jim Gilbourne, Churchwarden St Matthew's Church It has been a very busy year for all our churchwardens, but particularly since the Rev Pat Dickin left the Parish in August. We have had to take on many additional responsibilities for the life of the Parish, which we could not have managed without so much prayer and support from our congregations. Page 26 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Looking back over the year, we can see agaln how faithfully God has cared for st Matthew's. HIS prowsion has met our financial, splritual, and practical needs, often in ways that have su￿rised and encouraged us. For all of this, we have evary reason to be thankful. Our pattem of ServI￿S across the Parish has largely been maintained, though we now hold joint Parish services for each church's Patronal Festival and on most fifth Sundays. We have beneffted greatly from the minlstry of lay-trained péop.le from othèr churchés in the-Pansh. as well as from a range of visiting speakers. We are rrnst grdteful loo for the incumbent and retired priests who come to preach andlor preside at our Holy Communion services. Attendance at Sunday moming services have remained steady at around 50. This yearwas the 60th Anniversary of the church m￿tIng in Drewery Drive. We welcomed back formerTeam Rectors Brian Senior and Chris Butt and their wives, as well as a number of fonner members who had moved away from the area. Special displays recorded the lrfe of the church and people who have shaped the lrfe of the church over the years. There was also a humorous concert by the Good Gnu's. The four churches joined togetherfor our Parish Patronal Servi￿ wlth Sandra Mccalla, the new Archdeacon of Rochester preaching and presiding at Holy Communion. Christmas and Easter services. and Chrislingles were well atteThJed but a bit lower than previous years. Regrettably, due to continually very low numbers, St Matthews 8:30am Holy Communion Service ￿ased. St Matthews is a very welcoming and safe place for our (x)ngregations and those who come to any of the ser¥ices or actlvities organised by the church. Our huge thanks go to Hannah Willson, our Safeguarding Officer for ensuring all our safeguarding training and other requirements are kept up to date and for helping people who needed help with their training online. We contlnue to have an excellent relationship wrth FaiNiew Primary school and have many opportunities to engage with the Children and sow seeds of falth. These include Experience Christmas & Easter, lessons. church visits and 'lt's your Move, for year 6 leavers,. These are always very much appreciated by children and teaching staff alike. Our regular outreach activities have continued. with Film Club. Place of Welcome, Knit & Natter and 139 Coffee Moming all having steady attendances. Thursday Club numbers have increased significantly. and the second Christmas Wreath Making Workshop had neady 50 attenders. Some of those attending these activities now come to church. The 2025 Quinquennial Report on the fabric of church reported no significant problems. The community centre has very high usage but too appears in good order. We are especially grateful to Andy Mann for regulady cutting all the Page Z7 of 36 Pjrtsh Annual Report HNAL Z025151

grassed areas and for fixing many of the problems that arise from our two large buildings. We experimented by having a maintenance evening rather Ihan being on a Saturday morning. This had a good attendance and so will be repeated again. There were several fund-raising events through the year. notably a Plant Sale and an Elton John tribute act. Financially, we rely heavily from the income generated from both regular and occasional hiring of the Community Centre. Huge thanks go to Jackie Wright our Booking Secretary who patiently deals with all our Occasional Let hirers and enquirers. St Matthew's District Church Council (DCC} meets every two months to guide both the spiritual focus and the practical running of the church. The Council currently has nine members who share responsibility for decision-making and oversight of our church life. I have thanked a few people already but there are so many more people to thank for supporting the day to day running of the church, its services, our outreach and the pastoral care which is often unseen. We are deeply grateful to Geoff Hufton-not only for his faithful preaching and leadership across so many of our services. but also for stepping in to lead the key services and events of Remembrance, Experience Christmas, Easter, and the Christingle services. Looking ahead, the Diocese will be advertising again for a Team Rector after Easter. As we continue through this period of waiting, we must be persistent in prayer and steadfast in supporting the life of our churches and for all who carry responsibilities among us. We trust that, in God's time, he will call the right person to lead our Parish into future opportunities and growth. Finally, I can report that the Church Log Book of alterations, additions and repairs is up to date and that the Communion silver is all accounted for and in good order. Paul Bellerby, Churchwarden Treasurers Reports St Paul's Church- Treasurers Report 2025 has been a year when, as a church, we can thank the Lord for all his provision and while this report will cover key income and expenses do not hesitate to ask me questions at any time. Key income figures for 2025 The total income received by the church in the year 2025 was £64,926.46. This has been a decrease from 2024 of £8,354.54 as the total income in 2024 was £73,768.73. The difference is partly due to a decrease in numbers of people giving to the church and a slight decrease in Church Lettings. We have also received gift aid on our giving which is closely monitored by a member of St Page 28 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Matthew's for all the churches in the Parish. This year tt amounted to £5,920.08. This gFft aid amount is additional to the gtft aid received by members who have changed from Standing Order lo the Parish Gift Aid Scheme. Stsnding Order6 and the Parish giving scheme monthly amount combined was £2,521.11 this was very similar to 2024 of £2,492.50 per month but with fewer giving so thank you to all who have increased thelr giving. The plate averaged £247 per month, this was a decrease from 2024 of £339 per month. Church hall lettings, overthe year raised £14,897.25 some £5,000 lower than 2024 at £20.000 forthe year but still higherthan the 2023 amount of £12,000. Key expendlture for 2025 The total expenditure for the year was £64.287.04 a reduction of some £5,000 from 2024 of £69,416.89. Through yourgenerous gFving as a thurch. forthe yearwe have been able to glve to the Parish £42.000, this is the same amount as 2024. This amount contributes to the ongoing costs of the Parish covering the runniThJ costs for our vicars, legal advice and many more areas in the diocese of the Church of England. As a church we have given away to charlties 10 % of the amount calculated from the giving in members Envelopes, Standing Orders, and offerings to the 3 nominated charities agreed at the last ADCM meeting. The agreed nominated charities for 2025 were: Cancer Research UK Support & Action (to end Domestic Abuse) Medway Foodbank Each charity nominated re￿iVed a sum of £l.000, emails of thanks have been received. Alongside the designated 'Away Giving, amount. other charities have benefrted, receiving donatlons from the Hub and specFfic donations you as members have identffied. In total a sum of £3.285.00 has been given to various charities as 'Away Giving,. During 2025 the church had to change energy supplier as the previous contract expired. There have been some issues with the change over, but these have now been resolved. The total cost for the utility seTvices in 2025 is shown in the table below and ￿mpared to previous years, totals. Energy bills are being monltored closely and each month estimates produced are very close to the invoices received. This has helped to produ￿ accurate predictions for energy usage throughout the year. Below are the utility costs for the last five years as a com arison. 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025. Electricity £725.74 £1246.31 £1,141.60 £1,977.65 £1.061.17 Gas £1665.12 £2402.11 £2.730.99 £2946.03 £2,200.03 Water: £348.10 £581.00 £626.67 £919.02 £836.00 Page 29 of 36 Parfsh Annual Rèport FINAL 2025151

'Electricity and gas bills have taken time to sort out so part of Ihe payment made at the start of 2026 reflects the end of year in 2025 The following two pie charts give an oveNiew of key items of income and expenses for the church as a percentage of the total budget for the year. St Paul's Church - Income 2025 Parish Giving 12% Loose Plate Standlng Ord8r8 34% Glft Ai layand Chat IPT 296 9% St Paul's Church - Expenditure 2025 are ch nance nc88 Away G 5% balance 9% le8ners ctrlclty Salary 8%1111 2% at Page 30 of 36 Parlsh AThnual Report FINAI 2025151

The church allocates a small amount of income each month as a precautionary measure should an emergency occur in the church building requiring major repairs. There are three additional accounts, these are as follows: Church Repair Fund £12,465.77 Diocese Project and Development Account £ 3,821.47 Diocese Deposit Account £ 1,084.47 We thank the Lord for his continued blessing on this church as overall the church ended 2025 with a surplus budget. Thank you for all your support to your church and community enabling St Paul's church to demonstrate another year of the love of God to those living in the area. Mark Johnson, St Paul's Treasurer All Saints, Church, Treasurers Report All Saints, Church ended the year with a £1649 surplus although the DCC has yet to agree on the 2025 away giving allocation to charity {s)of £1000. The church repair fund stands at £4151 but this will reduce once the surveyors bill is received for the inspection recently undertaken. Although quite popular, Food for Thought ceased being organised due to the amount of work involved. After the reconstruction of the car park in 2024 it was decided to engage a gardener to maintain the front garden I lawn. This has been successful and a Garden Fund was opened for donations. At the year the fund had a balance of £623 but was awaiting some invoices from the gardener (now received). The heating and lighting fund has also been successful with a current balance of £749.87 which will be used over the next few months. The contract with Total Energy ceased in September and All Saints transferred to a new supplier (Smartenergy.) The transition has not been smooth, and problems are still ongoing with getting invoices etc. The church still supports Interserve and welcomed representatives last year describing their work and support., both spiritual and practical that they offer to the people they serve in that country. They also send a fairly regular Newsletter. In return, a few of All Saints. congregation support them by sending donations totalling £60 per month via Interserve. Unfortunately, it dropped to £50 per month during 2025, but All Saints, is still sending £60 per month. All sources of income were less than 2024 resulting in a drop of £3,577. The Parish Giving scheme was launched and thank you for the two of you who have signed up to it- it is working very smoothly. Finally. a couple of heartfelt thankyou's, firstly to all the visiting clergy, readers and all those visiting the church to take services, who are entitled to claim expenses, but don't- your sacrifice is much appreciated. Secondly a big thank Pa8e al of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

you to all of you who help to bring money into the church by organising events, faithfully, counting the money and looking after the church equipment to ensure that it is always ready and available. Stephon Manning All Saints, Treasurer St Matthew's Church & Community Centre, Treasurers Report The year ended by showing a surplus of £10,221 which is mainly the result of a decrease in expenditure of £20,000. However, except for the Thursday Club all sources of income were less than 2024 and no legacies were received. The Parish Giving scheme was launched during the year with now 17 people signed The DCC agreed that the Annual Away Giving of £6000 should be tailored to 6 organisations. £500 Poverty & Hope Appeal + £500 Medway Food Bank £1,250 Church Army. but specifically to go to the Chatham Centre of Mission. £1,250 Sat-7.UK £1,250 Friends of the Holy Land. £1,250 Open Doors UK & Ireland. During the year other donations totalling £432 was sent to RBLI to commemorate VE & Remembrance Day. The Christingle Services raised £325 for the Children's Society. Dharma Jyothi received £467.50 which has been sent out. Also, with Infant Mary a £100 donation was sent out in May, but both charities will no longer be supported by St Matthews and they have been notified. In August, Cakes for Good Causes raised money for 4 charities". Music Man £203.50, More Than Words £310, Friends of the Holy Land £160 and Foodbank £183.40 Income from Community Centre Lettings fell slightly from £40,944 to £39,151. Thursday Club continues to thrive with a healthy bank balance of £9,314. The target of paying the Indicative Offer pledge of £78,726 for 2025 was not possible to keep. so the decision was taken to commit to sending £4,275 per month (£51,300 pa} which was achieved. Energy costs dropped by £1,828 to £7,166. Donations to the heating fund totalled £664 which was much appreciated. St Matthew's has Net Assets of £70,239 of which £17,016 is restricted and a thank you to all who have helped contribute in so many ways to ensure that the finances of St Matthew's remain positive. P?ge 32 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

Also, a thank you to all the money 'counters" who faithfully do it week in week out and get it rTghtll It is much appreciated as we progress along the vaiious changes in the way we handle and bank our money. stephen Manning. Parish Treasurer St Peter's Church, Treasurers Report Our total income from all sources, through the year (listed in the Budget 202512026 Table 1.) was £27,178.92. Please note this did not include Church Shop (see Church Shop report Agenda Item 6.2). Our total expenditure (which includes non-payment of the parish share for three months) in the Table 2 was £41,223.74. Please note this does not include expenditure on projects which is taken from the appropriate designatedlrestricted funds. The expenditure for 2025 therefore exceeded income by £14,044.82. On the same basis the projected budget for 2026 shows a predicted overspend of £6,709. This includes all twelve arish share ments. BUDGET 202512026 TABLE 1. INCOME Proposed Budget 2025 Actual Budget 2025 Proposed Budget 2026 0110 WEEKLY ENVELOPES 0201 STANDING ORDERS 0301 PLATE COLLECTIONS 0302 WEDDING COLLECTIONS 0304 BAPTISM & THANKSGIVING 0550 DONATIONS 0601 GIFT AID PAYMENTS IN 0902 BIKE RIDE 0903 CHRISTMAS FAIR 0904 SUMMER FETE 0905 HARVEST SUPPER 1020 BANK & DIOCESE INTEREST 1101 FEES FOR WEDDING AND FUNERALS 1402 INCOME FROM pcc... 1404 OTHER INCOME Sum-u Totals 4400 3223 2400 13400 13695 14040 1300 1889 1884 50 50 2591 4500 1926 590 2500 100 215 215 100 641 545 3500 210 1250 1450 52 697 27178.92 1450 ments 1000 29650.00 600 23634.00 Page 33 0136 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

BUDGET 202512026 TABLE 2. EXPENDITURE Proposed Budget 2025 Actual Budget 2025 Budget 2026 1770 COSTS OF FEIES & OTHER EVENTS 1771 WLLAGE HALL HIRE 1860 AWAY GIVING ST PETERS -1910 PARISH SHARE- 2171 CHILDRENS WORK 2260 UPKEEP OF SERVICES 2261 CHURCH PUBLIC LICENCES 2265 ORGAN & PiANO TUNING 2266 VERGER FEES 2268 CHOIR FEES 2270 UPKEEP OF CHURCH GROUNDS 2330 CHURCH MAINTENANCE 2331 CHURCH CLEANING 2360 ADMIN 2401 CHURCH RUNNING- ELECTRIC 2420 CHURCH RUNNING- WATER 2430 CHURCH RUNNING- OIL 2701 CHURCH MAJOR REPAIRS CHURCH RUNNING- INSURANCE 300 295 2000 21410- 1890 -21-408- -16056- 400 1887 240 240 200 500 1887 8147 17 50 100 50 100 1297 131K) 2W 179 200 700 1501 800 20 1965 1955 Totals 29650.00 41223.74 30343.00 IncomelEx endlture Varlanco Regular Giving Income from collections at services (plate, envelopes and SUMUP) plus regular giving by standing orders totslled £18,807 compared with £20.461 in 2024. Utilities Our expenditure on electricity. water and oil totslled £2,977, compared with £2,166 in 2024. Parish Share Our Parish share commitment for 2025 was £1,784 per month, a total Of 21.408 for the year. We were unable to pay the Parish Share for OCtO￿r. November and December so our total payments for the year were short by £5,352. Our proposed Parish Share for 2026 is £1784 per month, the same as for 2025. Based on the projected budget full payment is likely to be challenging. 14044.82 4709.00 Page 34 of 36P•klshAnnual Report FINAL Z02515]

Away Giving 2025 Beneficia to date Demelza Christmas Card 2024 Lent Breakfast Christian Aid Poverty & Hope Appeal Ride & Stride Remembrance Da RBL Motor Neurone Disease 21To ether The Le ros Total 62.00 250.00 180.00 295.00 97.00 321.00 321.00 321.00 1,847 Mission Church Funds 30 December 2025 IncomelDebit Accruals -10,660.00 +10,711.53 Balance for 2026 CommonlGeneral Fund, Transfer from Diocese accounts to offset designated expenditures TOTAL 7159.46 -3,500.54 +10,711.53 ** 7159.46 51.53 7,210.99 °Common/General Fund is held in a CAF Bank account and covers day to day transactions. The account includes £10,660 Church Shop funds which are shown as a debit accrual as funds will be used for church shop away giving in January. ' Money owed to the Common/General Fund from Di0￿san accounts where funds gain quarterly interest. Shown as an income acGrual for transfers made into the CAF account in January to offset previous year expenditure from designated funds. Diocesan Accounts End of 2025 Accrued Debt to Common Fund 4.416.10 Balance for 2026 Projects & Preserrfation Quinquennial 0.00 Churchyard 547.01 Legacy 5.748.42 Total 10,711.53 £19, 711. 53 is to be transferred from Diocesan accounts to offset expenditure in other funds. 18,582.70 14,166.60 2142.62 3847.62 41,410.21 2,142.62 3,300.61 35,661.79 P38e 35 of 36 Parish Annual Report FINAL 2025151

nificant ex Date 24-Mar 16-A 29-Se 24-Nov 27-Nov 01-Dec 2025 enditures 2025 Reason Cha el Door Re air DH 4 Interim Account for Le Buttress DH 5 Interim Account for Le Re laster of Ceilin DH 6 Interim Account for Le ac Pro'ect General Maintenance of Church and Grounds £2,750 claimed on insurance To note: Full accounts are being prepared for the PCC and auditors by the Parish Treasurer Stephen Manning. l am prepared to continue my role as Honorary Treasurer for the near future. Alan Wainwright. St Petsr's Honorary Treasurer Maintenance & Pro'ects enditure 450.00 583.44 3692.16 2,865.60 3000.00 1,109.04 1,886.93 ac Pro ect ac Pro'ect Signed: Mr Andrew Mann Vlce Chair of the Parochial Church Counc?I Page 36 of 36 Parlsh Annual Report FINAL 2025151

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CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGIAND AND WALES Independent examinerfs report on the accounts Sècllon. A Inilependent Examinorfs Report Report to th9 tsueo member8 of Charlty NgJl)8 Tho Parlsh of Soulh GNtWm On acc¢)unt8 for tho year ended 31 Dacanbor 2026 Charlty no Ifan 1130544 Set out on Me8 41to51 l ￿port to th& tNStees on my ex￿natIC￿ of Ihe aCco￿ts of tha above (Ihe Tru8f) for the year 8rhJ8d 3111212025 R05ponsibllltles and basls of report As the d￿ritIS trLtstaa4 are responsiJl8 for the preparatlon of the accounts In a¢(xxdance with the reqiir43ments of ￿ Charilias Act 2011 (°Ih8 Acr I report In respect of my6xwninati(x) of Trust'8 accounts carrl8d out der sedkn 145 of the 2011 Act and kn wrylro wt my examlnatlon. I have followed 811 the 8pkll(%bl8 Dlr8dkTh glv8n by thg Charlty CommlsBI undersec4K)n 145(5Xb) of tha A Independent The (hTiWs exceeded £250.0(N) and l am quaKflod to 8xaminerfs slatoment undertake ex8m1nall￿ by belng a qualified member of The As60claUon of Chartered Certlfl&l A￿ntants. I Pove rmpleted my examlnatth. l (xxth that no material mattets have Come to my attentlon kn fx)nnadion WFth the examhation vlhlch gives me cause to befievo that in. any materfal tEspect the accountlng r8(x)rds were not kept in accordan￿ wlth 88cth)n 130 of the Chariues Art or a¢(¥Junls (Id not accord ith Ihe accounling records; or the acfX)unts IM not corroly ¥vllh the appllcable requirements co￿*MIng the fomi of acc#xJnts sot out In tha ChaTttles (Accounts and Rep￿ts) ReguLqtions 2008 0tt)er than any requlr8menl that the a(£ounts give a Iru& arKI fairf view which is not a malter consid￿￿ a8 part of an Independent examination. I havo no CA)n￿￿ aThl have wme acr058 no other matter8 k) connectlon wlth th8 examinat[￿ to which attentk)n should be drawn In thls r6pori In ordgr lo enable a pr(4)eA￿VIe[standIng of tha accounts to be reached. 041C612026 Name: Adam Rèlwant professlonal alMcatlon(s) or body 01 arly): FCCA ACA IER Oct 201B

Addr898: JAD Assockqtes knmit8d 4 Bloor8 L8n8, Raknh KenL ME8 7EG Sectlon B Dls¢losui'e Onty cfjmplete ￿ the examinar needs to highlNJht materlal matters of Conc￿ (see CC32, IndepwKlenl examirAtion of dlrection8 and guidance for exanmners). Glw hre brfof dotall8 of any Items that tho examlnar wlshes t disdo8e. IER Oct 2018