REGisfERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130630 REPORT OF THE TRusfEES AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 FOR FOUR OAKS MEfHODIST CHURCH J W Hinks LLP CharteredAccountants 19 Highfield Road Ed8ba5ton Birmlngham West Midlands B15 3BH
FOUR OAKS MEfHODIST CHURCH CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Page Report of the Trustees Ito9 Independent Examlnerfs Report io Statement of Flnancial Activlties Ilto12 Balance Sheet 13 Statement of Cash Flows 14 Notes to the Financlal Statements 15to24
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 The Trustees present their report with the financial statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 August 2024. The Trustees have adopted the provisions of 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 IFRS 1021 effective l January 2019 - {the Charities SORP IFRS 10211. OBJECTIVES AND ACTivrriES Objectlves and aims Pur oses and aims Four Oaks Methodist Church stands proudly at the crossroads of Four Oaks Road and the Lichfield Road as gateway welcomlng everyone to Four Oaks. Our visionlmission statement is that we seek to be a beacon for Christ- radiating the love of God through worship. word and wltness. Our objectives and alms can be summarlsed as follows:_ To promote religious activltles and the name and beliefs of Jesus Christ. To show a love and care for the surroundln8 community. To advance the Christian f31th in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of the Methodist Church. Any charltable purpose for the time bein8 of any Connexional, District, Circuit, Local or other or8anisation of the Methodist Church. Any purpose for the tlme being of any charity being a charlty subsidiary or anclllary to the Methodist Church. Worshlppin8 God through prayer, song and other acts of worshlp. The organisation and resourclng of regular public acts of worship open to members of the Church and non-members alike. The teaching of Christianity through sermons. courses and small groups. The resourcing of pastoral work including visiting the sick and bereaved. io. Hosting school visits to the Church to learn about Christianity. ii. Promoting Christianity through the staging of events and services. 12. Provlding chaplaincy services to local schools, care homes and other institutions as appropriate and where able. Ensurin our work delivers our aims We review our aims, objectives and activities each year. This review looks at what we achieved and the outcomes of our work in the previous 12 months. The review looks at the success of each key activity and the benefits they have brought to those groups of people we are set up to help. The review also helps us to ensure that our alm, objectives and activities remained focused on our stated purposes. Page I
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 We have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aim5 and objectives and in planning our future activities. In particular, the Trustees consider how planned actlvltie5 will contribute to the aims and objective5 they have set. The focus of our work The focus of our work continues primarily to be the advancement of the Christian faith in the Four Oaks community in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of the Methodist Church. The Trustees have paid due re8ard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission In deciding what activities the Charity should undertake. Grant maklng Four Oaks Methodist Church make5 small grants to various organisations and individuals who 5UPPOrt and deliver the Church's objects. Potential recipients of grants paid by Four Oaks Methodist Church are revlewed by the Trustees on a case-bv- case basls depending upon the avallable resources of the Charltv. Safeguardlng Every person has a value and dlgnity which comes directly from the creation of male and female in God's own image and likeness. Christians see this potentlal as fulfilled by God's re-creatlon of us in Christ. Amon8St other things this implies a duty to value all people as bearing the image of God and, therefore, to protect them from harm. Methodist Connexional practice outlines commitment to the followin8 principles:. The care and nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young people and adults. The safe8uardin8 and protection of all children, young people and adults when they are vulnerable. The establishing of safe, caring communities which provlde a loving environment where there is informed vlgilance as to the dan8ers of abuse. The selection and tralning of all those wlth any responsibility within the Church, in line with Safer Recruitment principles, including the use of criminal records di5c105ures and registration with the relevant vettin8 and barring schemes. Respond without delay to every complalnt made which suggests that an adult, child or youn8 person may have been harmed, co-operating with the police and local authorities in any investigation. Seek to work with anyone who has suffered abuse, developing with them an appropriate ministry of informed pastoral care. Seek to challenge any abuse of power. especially by anyone in a position of trust. Seek to offer pastoral care and support, including supervision and referral to the proper authorities. to any member of our Church community known to have offended aBain5t a child, young person or vulnerable adult. In all of these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and reco8nised good practice. Four Oaks Methodist Church commits itself to ensuring the implementation of Connexional Safe8uardin8 Policy, Government legislation, guidance and safe practice in the Circuit and in the churches. Page 2
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Four Oaks Methodist Church commits itselfto the provision of support, advicÈ and training for lay and ordained people that wlll ensure people are clear and confident about their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults who may be vulnerable. Achievements and performance Choritable activitie5 ow our activities deliver ublic beneflt In setting our objectives and planning our activities the Trustees have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit, including the guidance on public benefit and fee charging. The Church recognlses that it remains an ongoing struggle to increase or even stabilise church membership In a context of rapid national decline. Our focus this past year, now the Covid pandemic is in the past, has been to reengage with both the wider congregation and also the surrounding Four Oaks community by offering a range of activities for people of all ages and belief5. Our maln activities and who we try to help are described below. The Charity's activities continue to focus on our aim to advance the Christian faith in the Four Oaks community in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of the Methodist Church. Review of the ear Four Oaks Methodist Church has contlnued to meet Its obJectlve to wltness to the Fouroaks communlty through the many activities that are regularly. held on Church premises. The Church has responded to changing circumstances by embracing new technologies to maintain contact with the Church family and with the wider community. The Church website (htt www. ourooksmethodist.or .ukl and it5 associated Facebook page I www. ocebook.com FourOt7k5MethodistChurchl have been updated and contain links and information on our ongoing activities. A new WhatsApp groups have been formed that contalns daily meditations and selected Church notices. The weekly Church notlces are now sent by e-mail to Church member5 and other indlviduals on request. All of these modern digital ways of communication allow us to share resources and links to worship services, worship at home notes, the weekly lectionary readings and the Methodist Prayer Handbook. We have also been able to start using some of the extensive AV facilities more for the benefit of the members and also those groups that utilise the premises Four Oaks Methodist Church has a large and active membership and is one ofthe stron8er churches In the Sutton Park Circuit. There are a number of house groups that meet regularlyfor bible study and fellowship. The Church has a strong pastoral team that is in regular contact with the wider Church family and deliver5 the monthly Me55enger. The Church continues to Sponsor and support a full range of uniformed organlsations including Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Rainbows, Brownies, Girl Guide5 and Focus Explorer Scouts. There is also a popular Baby and Toddlers group. There is a regular service held on a Wednesday morning which is well attended. A considerable amount of outreach continues to take place with elderly people within our local community particularly aimed towards those who live alone and have few regular visitors. These activities include a monthly Luncheon Club, a Monday Fellowship meeting, Ladies, Friendship Club. and the Flower Guild. A popular monthly Men's Fellowship Group is centred around a series of interesting short biopics of attendees, backgrounds and life experiences. The Saturday morning "Drop-ln Cafe attrarts 10 to 20 people which offers a bacon or sausage butty, tea and coffee and an opportunity to have a chat. On the back of this initiative, the Family Table Tennis club has 8rown which has proved popular with young and old alike. Page 3
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 In order to raise funds for the Organ Restoration Fund, the Church hosted three concefts,. a 'Musical Evening" in October 2023, "The Vincents" in December 2023 and a "60's Sing-along evening in April 2024. Four Oaks Methodist Church continues to support "Love in a BOW where shoeboxes are filled with small items for children of all ages living in poor areas locally and nationally. We continue to support local, national and international charities. We have not forgotten those who do not have ready access to the internet and our pastoral team is in regular contact by phone with people who may be stuck at home alone. Practical help with shoppin& collecting prescriptions and transport for visits to doctors and hospitals have all been freely given and copies of the weekly notice sheets are delivered by a group of volunteers. We are mindful of the benefits of regular prayer and a dedicated prayer line been establlshed for those in need of comfort and support. omc ra erline muil.coml has The Church famlly supports Birmingham Clty Missions and Erdlngton Food Bank wlth donatlons of food, money and help from volunteers. Followlng the reopenin8 of the Church premises, many external or8anlsatlons returned to meet at the Church includlng: The Tudor Club Seasons Art - a popular art class a number of choirs and dance groups "Moo" music and dancing for toddlers a Punjabl speaking club and luncheon group the Sutton Coldfield Wind Orchestra a 'Tiny TGlk" baby signin8 group a number of coun5elling and support groups The Church continues to seek out opportunities to serve the wider Four Oaks community whenever it can. Staff changes It is the tradition in the Methodlst Church for Presbyters and Deacons to be appointed for an initial period of five years with the option for this to be extended by up to a further five years. Deacon Marilyn Slowe completed her inltial five-year appointment on 31 August 2022 but accepted an invitation to extend her appointment for a further five years. Deacon Marilyn has had a really positive influence on the church wlth her friendly outgoing manner and many people have benefited from pastoral visits and her friendshlp. The Trustees are delighted that Deacon Marilyn will continue to bless us with her care and ministry. After our previous mlnlster left in 2022, Reverend Freddy Takavarasha, a retired mlnlster originally from Zimbabwe, agreed to become our mlnlster for a two-year perlod. His minlstry blessed many people, and we consider ourselves fortunate to have found the right person at the rl8ht time. He retired on 31 August 2024. The Trustee5 would like to thank him for his pastoral care and ministry and wlsh hlm well for a lon8 and healthv retirement. The Methodist Connexion appointed Reverend Nick Jones as Circuit Superintendent of the Sutton Park Circuit on I September 2023 and gave him p35toral responsibility for Four Oaks with effect from I September 2024. The Trustees look forward to working with Reverend Nick Jones in the coming years as he leads the ministry and pastoral team at Four Oaks. Eco<hurch The Methodist Connexion is committed to completely negating the amount of greenhouse gases that it produces to net zero by 2030. In order to achieve this objective. the Church has set up a committee to look at how Four Oaks Methodist Church can become an Eco-church. This will be a major challenge as the Church premises are a 8rade 2 listed building which restrict5 the nature of alteration5 that we can make to it. This eco committee has already identified way5 of managing and reducing our energy consumption. Page 4
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Flnancial review Finonciol position Income trends Church income 15 primarily drawn from the Sunday collections, standing order5 and the associated Gift Aid tax credit, Supplemented by lettings income from Wesley Cottage and roorn rental fees paid by external users of our Church building. Unrestricted Church income totalling £169,509 for the year ended 31 August 202412023 £168.2561 increased by £1,253 or 0.7% compared to the year ended 31 August 2023 due to a small £1,420 increase in rental income. Restricted Church income totalling £33,889 for the year ended 31 August 202412023 £719) increased by £33,170 due to the generous donations received in response to the Organ Fund Gift Day Appeal. Expenditure trends The circuit assessment of £72,57912023 - £67,203) due to the Sutton Park Circuit continues to be our single largest item of unrestricted expenditure, amounting to 39%12023 - 42%) of total unrestricted expenditure for the year ended 31 August 2024. A significant amount of the Circuit assessment is used to pay the District Assessment. stipends and costs related to mlnisters and deacons. The total unrestrlcted expenditure of for the year ended 31 August 2024 was £184,08012023 - £158,812) whlch was an increase of £25,268 or 16Yc compared to the previous year, This Increase in costs was due to inflationary increases in most cost area5. The Church ha5 cor)tinued to save money on its ener8Y Costs by Its declsion to move the Sunday worshlp services into the large hall during the winter months. The cost of repair5 and maintenance to the Church premises Increased by £5,125 to £23,078 (2023 £17,9531 because of work carried out to Wesley Cottage to address damp issues. Fund balances As at 31 August 2024 the unrestricted net assets of Four Oaks Methodist Church, including designated funds, amounted to £68,29012023 - £83,467), giving approximately 4 months cover for norrnal expenditure12023 - 6 months). As at 31 Au8USt 2024 the restrlcted net assets of Four Oaks Methodist Church amounted to £64,36912023 £33.6681 whlch largely relates to the remaining balance on the Redevelopment Fund of £20,628 and the Organ Fund of £36.333. The funds held in the Redevelopment Fund have been retained to be used for future capital expenditure at the Church, The Church started an Or8an Fund in 2023 to finance the future cost of the refurbishment of the hlstoric Church organ which is estimated wlll cost £90,000. Endowment funds amounted to £41,172 as at 31 August 202412023 - £38,585). Investment policy ond objertive5 The Charity's Trustees will continue to explore and consider appropriate ways of investing reserves in such a way as to increase income without exposing the Charity to undue rlsks. The Church ha5 invested a total of £41,172 as at 31 August 2024 (2023 £38,585) in funds managed by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes which aims to manage the funds and obtain 8ood returns on these investments whilst making Sure that the investments are in line with the moral and ethical teaching of the Methodist Church. Reserves policy The reserves policy for the Circuit is to hold a minimum sum equivalent to 4 months12023 - 4 months) average expenditure. This should be sufficient to meet any unforeseen item of major expenditure on the Church building andlor be able to continue funding, in the 5hort-term. planned activities in the event of any inability to raise the full expenses including the a55e55ment due to the Circuit. Page 5
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Going concern The Coronavirus pandemicforced the c105ure of the Church premises for rnuch of 2020 and the first half of 2021. Following the easing of Government restrictions, the Church premises were re-opened in June 2021 and worship services recommenced. Despite the emergence of the Omicron v3riant, the Church was therefore able to operate on a more normal basis durin8 the year ended 31 August 2024. The large increases in energy costs that began in 2022 are an ongoing concern. The Church continues to monitor the situation closely and h35 taken steps to actively manage its energy usage. Consequently, the Trustees are of the opinion that the Charity will be able to maintain its current activitie5 for the foreseeable future. The Trustees have, therefore, considered that It is approprlate for the financial statements to be prepared on the going concern basis. Future plans The Church premlses currently remain fully open for worshlp and external activities. However, we continue to c105ely monitor the Coronavirus sltuation and are aware of the need to ablde and respond promptly to any changes in Government guidellnes. In the meantime. the Church will continue to reach out and support the wider community through worship, prayer and prartical support where needed. 5TRucfuRE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMEMr Governln8 document Four Oaks Methodist Church is an unlncorporated charlty which achieved charltable status on 21 July 2009 (registered number 11306301. Four Oaks Methodist Church is governed by a Deed of Union dated 1932 and by the Methodist Church Act 1976. Detailed governance arrangements are outlined within the Constitutional Practice and Dlscipllne of the Methodist Church by order of the annual conference ICPDI. Recrultment and appolntment of new Trustees Trustees must be Members of the Methodist Church and are recruited to reflect the diver51ty of the Church's activities Within the local community. Appolntment as a trustee follow5 informal meetings with the current Trustees. Or8anisatlonal structure The members of Four Oaks Methodist Church Council consist of the Charlty's Tru5tee5 which comprlse the Church office holders, Mlnisters and representatives appointed by the Church at the Annual Church Meetin8. The Charity Is or8anised so that its Church Council meets regularly to manage its affalrs and formulate policy. Day to day management of the Church is undertaken by the Church Leadership team alon8 Wlth the Mlnlsters. Induttlon and trainln8 of new Trustees Arange ofguidance produced by Methodist Connexion tosupporttheeffective running ofthe church. specifically the leaflet *he Role of a Trustee in the Methodist Church" is given to all new church Trustees as part of their induction as a trustee. Page 6
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Key management remuneration In the Trustees, opinion, the key management personnel of the Charlty responsible for the direction, control, running and operation of the Charity on a day-to-day basis con51Sts of the Church Councll Ke rnana ement ersonnel- Church Council In most instance5, all Trustees give their time voluntarlly and receive no benefits from the Charity. Any expenses reclaimed from the Charity or remuneration received by Trustees from the Charity are set out in the notes to the financial statement5. Remuneration for staff is reviewed annually and normally increased based upon the position of the Charity's finances and the cost of living in general. The Church subscribes to the principles set out by The Living Wage Foundation. Related partie5 Four Oaks Methodist Church is part of the Sutton Coldfield Clrcuit which is part of the Blrmingham District and is also accountable to the Methodist Conference. The Internal organisations linked to the church are the Monday Fellowship, the Flower Guild, the Ladies, Friendship Club, the Luncheon Club and Home Mlsslons. Rlsk management The Trustees have a duty to Identify and review the risks to which the Charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error. The Trustees have examined the major strateglc, business and operational rlsks that the Charity faces and confirm that 5VStems have been established to enable regular reports to be produced so that necessary step5 can be taken to lessen these risks. Income and expenditure are monitored and compared with the approved annual budget after at least every 3 months to detect trends as part of the risk management process and to avoid unforeseen calls on reserves. Fundralsln8 The majority of our income comes from voluntary donatlons from our membershlp and from other supporters. Through the fundraising efforts of our members and supporters we are 8enerating the financial resources to enable us to provide our services. The Church Council is deeply committed to building relationships and trust with our members and supporters and 15 committed to the strengthening of oversight and assurance concerning our fundraising efforts and in ensuring compliance and best practice in these areas. We are particularly aware of the need to protect vulnerable individuals in any fundraising we undertake. Our vulnerable persons, policy sets out the standards we commlt to meet. We continue to be committed to addressing any expression of dissatisfaction on the part of our members and supporters to examining ways to Improve the levels of our service to them. Page 7
FOUR OAKS MEfHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Charlty number 1130630 Registered offlce 155 Lichfield Road Sutton Coldfield B74 2UU Trustees and Key Lay Workers Minister5 Reverend Freddy Takavarasha Iretired 31 August 20241 Reverend Nick Jones lappointed I September 2024) Deacon Marilyn Slowe Centre Mana er and La Peter Cashmore Worker Church Treasurer David Bowater Church Stewards Annette Ashford Istepped down 31 Au8U5t 2024) Janet Darke Lynette Jones Julie Anne Read Chris Shaw (stepped down 31 August 20241 Sue Stewart (appointed I September 20231 Church Safe uardin Anne Thompson Co-ordinator Sutton Park Circuit re re5entatives Reverend Nick Jone5 (appointed I September 20231 Deborah Majola Church representatives (other members of the Church Councll) Annette Ashford lappointed 17 September 2024} Peter Johansen Madeline Ballantine (resigned 17 September 2024) Carolyn Nicholl Diana Bosman Linda Revell (resigned 12 May 20241 Angela Cliff Margaret Shaw (resigned 25 January 20241 Angela Constantine Jane Sweetman Glyn Constantine (appointed 17 September 20241 Rodney Thompson Sue Hayden Marion Watts Bill Humpherson Torn Watt5 Carolyn Humpher50n Rachel Williamson Jenny Jeffries {resi8ned 12 May 20241 Page 8
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TrUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS (contlnued) Independent examiner P E Smith ACA J W Hinks LLP Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors 19 Highfield Road Edgbaston Birmingham West Midlands B15 3BH Bankers HSBC plc 67 South Parade Sutton Coldfield B72 IPA Central Flnance Board of the Methodist Church Methodist Church House 25 Tavlstock Place London WCIH 9SF Investment manager The Trustees for Methodlst Church Purposes Central Buildings Oldham Street Manchester Ml IJQ Approved by order of the Church Councll on 13th January 2025 and signed on the Church Council's behalf by: Pet Tru Johan tee Page 9
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH I report to the charity trustees on my examlnation of the accounts of the charlty for the year ended 31 August 2024 which are set out on pages 11 to 24. Responsibilities and basls of report As the Charity's trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 20111'the Act'l. I report in respect of my examlnation of the charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carryin8 Out my examination I have followed all the applicable Dlrections glven by the Charity Commission under section 145{5llbl of the Act. Independent examlner's statement I have completed my examination. I conflrm that no material matters have come to my attention in connectlon wlth the examination 8ivin8 me cause to believe that in any material respect: accountlng records were not kept in respect of the charlty as required by sectlon 130 of the Act; or the accounts do not accord with those records; or the accounts do not comply wlth the applicable requlrements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities IAccounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the account5 give a 'true and fair view, which is not a matter considered 05 part of an independent examlnation. I have no concern5 and have come across no other matters in connection with the examinatlon to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Peter Smith ACA J W Hinks LLP Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors 19 Highfield Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 3BH 13 January 2025 Page 10
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Notes to Designated the General Fund Funds Arrounts Iunrestrlrtedl {Unrestslctedl Restricted Endowment Funds Funds Totsl 20Z4 Inwme Offerlngs Donatlons and 8rants Gift Aid Interest and investment income Income from investment properties Internal organisatlons Other charltable Income Total Income 51.587 9,088 14,477 3.9CN) 8.955 6,578 74,924 169,509 51.587 37,053 20NOI 4,897 8,955 6,578 74,924 204,395 27,965 5,924 997 33,889 997 Expendlture Clrcult assessment or share Grant5 and donations Property malntenance Insurance, utilities et¢. Office expenses Other expenditure Internal organisatlons Tot•1 charltable expendlture Galns1llos5e51 on monetarv investments Gains/llossesl on investment properties Net lexpendlture) /lncome Transfers between fund5 Other galnslllossesl Net movementln funds Total funds brought forward Totsl funds carrled forward 72,579 3,791 23,078 28,591 7,165 41,940 6,936 184,080 72,579 3,791 26,802 28,591 7,165 42,120 6.936 187.984 3,724 70 iio 3.794 iio io 1,700 1.700 {14,5711 16061 30,095 606 Z,587 ,iii li {15,1771 77,467 62,290 30,701 33,668 64,369 2,587 38,585 41,172 18,111 155,720 173,831 18 18 6,OCNJ 6,IXIO Page 11
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL AcfviTIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023 Notes to Deslgnated the General Fund Funds A0rrtS {Unr•strlcted} IUnre5tr1rted} Re5trlrted Endowrnent Funds Fund5 Totsl Z023 Income Offerings Legacies Donatlon5 and grants Gift Ald Interest and Investment income Income from Investment propertles Internal organlsations Other charltablè Income Total Income 61.447 1,027 61A47 1,027 715 14,225 3,230 9,540 5,680 73,n3 169,S87 715 14,221 2,618 612 5.680 73,723 168,256 719 612 Expendlture Circuit assessment or share Grants and donatlons Property malntenance Insurance, utlllties etc. Office expenses Other expendlture Internal organlsations Total charltsble expendlture {L055esll8ains on monetary Investrnents Galnslllossesl on Investment properties Net (expendlture) lineorne Transfer5 between funds Other galnslllossesl Net movementln funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carrled forward 67,203 1,243 17,953 26,043 6,832 34,545 4,993 Is812 67,203 1.243 32,401 26,043 6032 34,676 4,993 173391 14,448 20 iii 14,468 iii io {9091 1909) 113,7491 1,275 (4081 {4,713) li 11,2751 8,169 69,298 77.467 112,4741 46,142 33,668 14081 38,993 38,585 {4,713) 160.433 155,720 18 18 6,000 6.000 Page 12
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH BALANCE SHEEr FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Notes to Deslgnated the General Fund Funds Restrlcted Endowment Total accounts Iunrèstrictédl Iunrestrictedl Funds Funds 2024 Total 2023 Fixed Assets Church building and other propertv Investment propertles Investments 41,172 41.172 41,172 41,172 38,585 38,585 Total Flxed Assets Curr¢nt Assets Debtors and prepayments Loans by the Church Investments wlth TMCP Central Flnance Board Deposlts Cash at Bank and In hand Total CurrentAssets Current Llabllltle$ Creditors Idue in under I yearl Grants payable within 2024-24 Total Current Llobllltles Net CurrentAssets/(IlobllltiesJ 12 26,023 26,028 18B59 17,799 32,048 75,870 6,000 50.000 14.369 64,369 73,799 46A17 146,239 72,780 6,WO 124,027 15 13,580 13,580 6,892 13,580 62,290 13,580 132,659 6,892 117,135 6,000 64,369 Long Temi Llabllltles (due after more than one yearl Grants payable after 2024-24 Loans to the Church Net Assets 62,290 64,369 41,172 173A31 155,720 Funds of the Church General Fund Iunrestrlctedl Deslgnated Funds Iunrestrlctedl Total Unrestrlrted Funds Restrlcted Funds Endowment Funds 16.1 16.2 62,290 62,290 77,467 6,OlJO 83.467 33.668 38,585 155.720 6,000 62,290 68.290 64,369 41,172 41,172 41.172 I7331 17 17 64,369 Totol Funds 62.290 6.OlXJ 64,369 Si8ned David Bowater Church Treasurer 13 January 2025 Page 13
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Total Total 2024 2023 Cash from operating activities New cash generated/lusedl in operating actlvltles 696 (3,8981 Cash flows from Investlng artlvltles Dlvldends, Interest and rents from investments Proceeds from the sale of propèrtV* plant and equlpment Purchase of property. plant and equlpment Purchase of Intanglble assets Proceeds from the sale of investments 13.852 12,770 Purchase of Investments Other Net cash provld•d by In¥ertlng actlvltles 13,852 12,770 Cash flows from flnanclng actlvltles New borrowings Repayrnent of borrowlng5 Net cash used In flnanclng activltles Change In cash and cash equlvalents In the reportln8 perlod Cash and cash equlvalents at the beginning of the reportlng period Cash and cash equlvalents •t the end of the reportlng period 14,548 105,668 120216 8,872 96,796 IOS,668 conclllatlon of net In ome to net cash flow f Net income/lexpenditurel for the reportlng perlod las per statement of flnanclal activitie51 eratln activEti 18,111 14.7131 Adjustments for. Depreciatlon and amortlsatlon charges Proflt on the sale of flxed assets Los5 on the sale of flxed assets IGalnsl/losses on Investments Dlvldends, Interest and rent5 from Investments Ilncreaselldecrease In stocks Ilncreaselldecrea5e In debtors Increase / Idecrea5el in creditors 12,5871 113,8521 408 112,7701 17,6641 6,688 8,083 5,094 Net cash used in operatlng activities 696 130981 Anal 515 of cash and cash e ulvalents Cash In hand 46,417 73,799 120,216 32,888 72,780 105,668 Short term deposlt (less than 3 months) Total cash and cash equlvalents Page 14
FOUR OAKS MEfHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Accountlng framework and accountlng policies Accountlng framework The financial statements of the Charity. which is a public benefit entity under FR5 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP {FRS 1021 "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice appllcable to charitles preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 (effective l January 20191" Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland". Publlc benefrt entlty Four Oaks Methodist Church {FOMC} meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and Ilabilities are Initially recognised at historlcal cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accountlng policy notes below. 111 Basls These accounts have been prepared on the basis of hlstorical cost except that investments are shown at their market value at the end of the year, on the accruals basis to show a true and fair view of the Church's financial position and artivities. Iv Content The financial Information presented is relevant, reliable, comparable and complete. Where estlmates are used these are based on experlence, research and judgement. The accounts are expressed in £ Sterling, rounded to the nearest pound. Goin8 concern Based on the monetary assets and human resources available on 31 August 2024, the Trustees belleve that the Church is a going concern. vl Income recognltlon Income is brought Into account when it is more Ilkely than not that the economic beneflt of the income wlll accrue to FOMC. No attempt Is made to measure the value of services donated by volunteers. Individual amounts categorised as Other Choritable Income in the SOFA will be shown separately If they are considered material. In accordance with the Charities SORP {FRS 102), the time of volunteers is not recognised. Further information on this matter is provided in the Trustees, Annual Report. Expendlture This is recognised when a Ilability is incurred, or a constructive obligation arises, that result5 in the payment being unavoldable. Liabilities are recognised as soon as an outflow of economic benefit is considered more likely than not under the legal or constructive obligation committing the Church to pay out resources. viii Grants Grants are recognised in full when the award is made once the Church accepts that there is a legal or constructive obligation to make the payment and that such payment is probable. Page 15
FOUR OAKS MEfHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 ix VAT Since the Church is not VAT registered, all input VAT is charged wlth the expense5 to which it refers except for some qualifying expenditure where the input VAT can be recovered under the Listed Places of Worship Scheme. Tangible f ixed as5et5 These are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and individually cost at least £1,000. xi Investments The investments of FOMC are held by the Trustee5 for Methodist Church Purposes ITMCPI as custodian trustees. The valuations, at market value, are those provided by TMCP. The unrealised gains arising on investment5 at the end of the year are shown in the SOFA and in Note 18 below. Surplus cash fund5 are held on deposit with the Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church. xil Recelvables and Payables; Bank and Cash Debtors are stated at the amounts owed to the Church or prepaid. Creditors are initially recognised at settlement amount after any trade discounts, where normal credit terms apply, or amount advanced to the Church. Subsequently creditor5 that are current liabilities are measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be paid, The liquid funds of bank balances and deposit account balances are shown at the realisable values. Fund accountlng Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectlves at the discretion of the Trustees. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the object5 of the Charlty- Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. Further explanations of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements. xiv Penslons costs and other post-retirement benefits Contributions to the personal pension schemes of certain employees are charged to the Statement of Flnanclal Activities in the period in which they relate. The assets of these personal pension schemes are held separately from those of the Charity In Independently administered funds. xv Employee beneflts When employees have rendered service to the Charity, short-term employee benefit5 to which the employees are entitled are recognised at the undi5counted amount expected to be paid in exchan8e for that service. The c05t of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's service5 are received. Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the Charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits. xvi Flnancial instruments The Charity only has financial assets and liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Financial assets, other than investments, and financial liabilities are initially measured at transaction price (after including/deducting transaction costs) and subsequently held at amorti5ed cost less any impairment, Critical accounting judgements and estimates In the application of the Charity's accounting policies, the Trustees are reqtjlred to make judgements. estimates and assumption5 about the carrying amount of asset5 and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and underlying assumption are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimate5 are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods Page 16
FOUR OAKS MEfHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 2 Glossary of terms CFB: Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church manages a Comrnon Deposit Fund and a series of pooled investment funds for Method15t entities in Great Britaln and provides investment advice to those entities Church: a group of member5 from fewer than 10 to more than 300 Circuit: a group of Methodist Churches near each other, typically between 10 and 30 CMTF: Circult Model Trust Fund Connexlon: The Methodist Church in Great Britain which includes the Head Office at Methodist Church House, all Methodist Districts, Circuits and Churches in Great Britain Distrlct: a group of contiguous Circults, usually between 15 and 30 FOMC: Four Oaks Methodist Church 1.the Church") FRS: Financlal Reporting Standard NEST: National Employment Savings Trust SOFA: Statement of Financial Activities SORP: Statement of Recommended Practice TMCP: Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes, the le8al owner and Custodian Trustee of all Methodist Model Trust property, including Legacies, Endowments and Accumulated Funds 3 Trustees Payments to Trustees It Is Church pollcy to offer to reimburse members and Trustees for expenditure properly incurred In carrying out their duties. All expenditure is fully receipted and reimbursed at cost. One of theTrustees is an employee of the Church12023: onetru5tee} and recelved remuneration of £26.146 {2023: £25,654}. Expense5 have been reimbursed to 11 (2023: 9) Trustees who, in aggregate, have received the sum of £5,41512023.' £8,752) during the year. Other charltsble Income The Church uses its premises for other activities which generate income for charitable purposes. including letting its premises out to both Church groups and the wider community. This generated income as follows: 2024 2023 Room lettings Weddin85, Baptism5 & Funera15 Concert5 Miscellaneous income Total Other Charftable Income 70.510 1,570 2,564 280 74.924 69,090 3,473 1,160 73,723 Page 17
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 5 Salarle5 and associated costs Gross salaries paid to two12022-23.' two) employee5 were a5 follows: 2024 20Z3 Gr055 pav Employer's National Insurance contributions Less: Employment Allowance Employer's pension contributions to deflned contribution schemes Apprenticeship levy Total staff costs 29,890 2,353 12,3531 29,674 2,335 12,3351 1,494 143 1,490 129 31.527 31.293 Total weekly contractual hours for 2 staff 42 42 No employees recelved employee benefits that totalled more than £60,000. There Is no accrual for holiday pay as it is immaterlal,. the holiday year ends on 31 August. All staff are paid at or above The Living Wage. One of the two employees were engaged as Four Oaks Centre Manager and the other was enga8ed part-tlme as Secretary to the Church. The Pre5byter5 and Deacons who served the Church during the year were engaged bv the Methodist Church - Birmingham (Sutton Parkl Circuit, not by Four Oaks Methodist Church. 6 Penslons Under the Auto Enrolment regulatlons set out by the Pension Regulator, all employees of FOMC are auto-enrolled into an employer pension scheme. subject to eligibility. The Auto-Enrolment staging date for the Church was Aprll 2021. The Church has chosen a defined contribution pension scheme adminlstered through the National Employment Savings Trust INESTI and makes employer contrlbutions at or above the leve15 required by law. The pension arrangements for Presbyters and Deacons who served the Church durlng the year are provided through the Connexion and are funded by contributions made by the Birmingham (Sutton Park} Circuit. The pensions are provided through two schemes: The Methodist Ministers, Pension scheme I'MMPS") and The Pen5i0n and Assurance Scheme for Lay Employees ofthe Methodist Church I'PASLEMC"). Following an actuarial valuation, the two schemes had an estimated combined surplus of £45.7m as at 31 August 2023 and therefore the Connexion has agreed to return the voluntary contributions made by churches in 2022 to the Pension Reserve Fund. Subsequently, the Church received a refund of £22,255 in October 2024. 7 Property malntenance 2024 2023 Maintenance of Church and Halls Maintenance of Church Cottage Property Malntenance (General Fund) Hall Development Project (Restricted Fund) Total Property Maintenance 10,967 12,111 23,078 3,724 26,802 15,020 2,933 17.953 14,448 32,401 Page 18
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 8 Omce expenses (General fund) 2024 2023 Println& postage and stationery Telephone and broadband Staffing and expenses Bank charges Examiner's fees Total charge to General Fund 999 480 4,304 542 840 7.165 397 427 4,560 608 6,832 9 Other expendlture 2024 2023 Church activities Caretaker / Cleanln8 Costs Concert expenses Cholr and music costs 1,801 31,920 936 2,338 29,843 7,283 41.940 70 iio 2,364 34.545 20 iii Total char8ed to General Fund Other (charged to Restricted Fund) Other {charged to Endowment Funds) Total 42,120 34,676 io Investment management Durlng the year the Church paid £110 to TMCP as admlnistratlon costs on the endowment funds held.12023 £llll. The sum of £110 was levled at 0.2Yo on the value of the funds at the end of the year. The sum of £1,70012023 - £909 lossl represents an unrealised gain In the Invested funds of the Endowment Funds. More information can be found in Note 16 Endowment Funds. li Transfer between funds The Church has a historic Needham and Beard organ thatwas installed in 1914 and 15 in need of a major overall that could cost up to an estimated £90,000. An Organ Fund of £1,975 was created in 2023 and a Gift Day Appeal was held in 2024 which raised £33,686. inclusive of the associated Gift Aid, which was transferred to the Oran Fund together with other specific donations and the net proceed offunds raised through concerts. £10012023- nil) was transferred from the General Fund to the Benevolent Fund. Page 19
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 12 Debtors and prepayments All sums shown as debtor5 on I September 2023 were received during the following year. All 5um5 paid in advance on 15eptember 2023 were for attivities that have been held durin8 2024. Similarly, it is experted that payments in advance on I September 2024 will be expensed in 2024-25. Debtors were made up as follows: 2024 2023 Trade debtors 795 Prepayments and accrued Income Gift Aid tax and VAT receivable Circuit assessment paid in advance Insurance paid in advance Pre-paid gas Room lettings Total (net) 11,295 6,351 6,147 5,163 6,048 5,983 2,230 26,023 370 18,359 13 Trustees for Methodist Church Purpose$ The fund5 that support the Church's Endowment Funds are held by TMCP in Investment Fund5 Trustees Interest Funds on which interest is credited to the accounts each month. These are regarded a5 medium- and long-term investments. TMCP Is the legal owner and Custodian Trustee of all Methodist Model Trust property, including Legacies, Endowment5 and Accumulated Funds. Trust property is held for and on behalf of local Managing Trustees who are responslbleforthe day-to-day management oftrust property. TMCP ensure that, through provldingguidance and acting under their direction, the Managing Trustees comply with charlty law and Methodist law and pollcy as determined by the Methodlst Conference. 14 Central Flnance Board {CFB) and Cash at Bank The Church ha5 one current account at HSBC plc, an authorised institution. The sum5 held on those accounts are immediately available. In addition, the Church has one deposit account at CFB, a common deposit fund. Interest is earned on these accounts and credited monthly; the sums deposited can be withdrawn without notice and without loss of interest. These sums are viewed as being liquid. Page 20
FOUR OAKS MEfHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 15 Creditors and accrued expenses 2024 2023 Creditor5: Bank charges Building repairs & maintenance utilities Audit and examinerfs fee Total 13 11,800 570 840 5,475 564 840 13,210 6,892 Accruals: PAYE and pension contrlbutions Taxation and Social Security Other accruals 370 370 Total 13,580 6,892 Maturity analysls of basic flnanclal Instruments Accrued at I Sept 2023 Accrual made In year Accrued at 31 Aug 2024 Paid in year Trade credltors Bank char8es Building repalrs and malntenance Utilities Audit and examlner's fee PAYE and pension contribution5 Taxation and Social Security Other accruals Total 13 5,475 564 840 1131 14,7751 1564) 1840) ii,ioo 570 840 11,800 570 840 370 12,880 370 13,580 6,892 (6,192) It is expected that all sums accrued on 31 August 2024 will be paid durlng the year to 31 August 2025. 16 Unrestrltted Funds 16.1 General Fund- balonce £62290 on 31 August 2024 (2023.. £77,467J The purpose of the fund is for use at the discretion of the Trustees in the furtherance of the general objectives of the Church and which have not been designated for other purposes. The general reserves policy of FOMC is to keep the undesignated general-purpose reserves at a level of no less than four months and no more than six months of our'normal expenditure in any one year. Page 21
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 16.2 Other Designated Funds- balance £6,000 on 31 August 2024 (2023.. £6.0001 Designated funds comprise a maintenance reserve to provide for the future maintenance need5 of the Church. 17 Restrlrted Funds- bqlance £64,369 on 31 August 2024 (2023.. £33,668J Endowment Fund5- balance £41,172 on 31 August 2024 (2023.. £38.585J Thechurch R&*velopment Projectwas a large-scaleprojertto refurbish the Church premisesto make them fit for purpose for the 21" century. The Church redeveloped all of its community rooms and believes that the new and much improved facilities wlll help to achieve its mission to be a beacon of Christ in the local area. The balance on this fund on 31 August 2024 was £20,62812023'. £24.3511. The Redevelopment Project ha5 now been completed and all costs discharged. The funds raised by the Redevelopment Appeal exceeded the costs incurred by the project and therefore, in agreement with the prlncipal donors, the balance of the fund 15 to be retained to be used for future capital expenditure at the Church. The Church has established an Organ Fund to meet the future cost5 of refurbishln8 the Church organ. At 31 August 2024 the balance on th5s fund was £36,33312023: £1,976). The Capltal Fund was establlshed to provlde income to support the upkeep of the Church's buildings and facilities. Some of this fund 15 included in Central Finance Board deposit5 (balance £7,300, 2023: £7,300) and the remainder is in endowment fund5 (balance £18,740, 2023: £17,765). C T Avery and Samuel A Wood Trusts were established by bequests to support the on8oin8 work of the Church. The balances of these funds are shown in note 18 below. 18 Summary of movements on slgnlficant individual funds Current year movement in funds Balance at 1-5ep-2023 Income Expendlture Transfers Galnsl Losse5 Balance at 31-Au8-2024 Fund General Fund Property Maintenance (Designated) Total unrestrlcted funds Church Development Project Organ Fund Capital Fund Sm311 Funds1<£500 each) Total restrlcted funds Capital Fund CT Avery- Trust A CT Avery- Trust B Samuel A Wood Trust Total endowment fund5 Total Fund5 77,467 6.000 169,509 1184,0801 16061 62,290 6,000 83,467 24.352 1,975 7,300 41 33,668 17,765 4,123 1,649 15,048 38,585 155,720 169,509 (184,080) 1606) (3,7241 68,290 20.628 36,332 7,300 109 64,369 18,741 4.442 1.777 16,212 41.172 173,831 33,851 506 38 33,889 938 1701 (3,794) 1511 1121 {41 1431 997 {iioi 204.395 (187.9841 loo 606 89 12 319 128 1,164 1,700 1,700 43 Page 22
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Comparatives for movement in funds Balance at 1-5ep-2022 Income Expenditure Transfers Gainsl Lo55es Balance at 31-Aug-2023 Fund General Fund Property Malntenance (Designated) Total unre5trlcted funds Church Development Project Organ Fund Capital Fund Sm311 Funds1<£500 each) Total restricted funds Capital Fund C T Avery-Trust A C T Avery- Trust Samuel A Wood Trust Total endowment funds Total Funds 69,298 6,000 168.256 1158,812) {1,2751 77,467 6,OCrf) 75.298 38,781 168,256 (158,812) 11,2751 19 114,4481 700 83N67 24,352 1,975 7,300 41 33,668 17,765 4,123 1,649 15,048 38.S85 155,720 1,275 7,300 61 46,142 17,249 4,306 1,722 15,716 38,993 160,433 {201 (14,468) {491 1121 151 45 1451 612 {iiii 169.587 (173,3911 719 550 1,275 15 11831 {731 16681 (909) 19091 12 A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months cornbines position as follows Balan at Income Expenditure Transfers Gainsl l-Sep-2022 Losses Balance at 31-Au8-2024 Fund General Fund Property Maintenance IDesignatedl Total unrestrlcted funds Church Development Project Organ Fund Capital Fund Srnall Funds1<£500 each) Total restrlcted funds Capital Fund C T Avery- Trust A C T Avery- Trust Samuel A Wood Trust Total endowment funds Total Funds 69,298 6,000 337,765 1342,8921 11,8811 62,290 6,0¢)0 75,298 38,781 337,765 {342,892) (1,8811 19 118,1721 34,551 68.290 20,628 36,332 7,300 109 64.369 18,741 4,442 1,777 16,212 41,172 173031 1,781 7.300 61 46.142 17,249 4,306 1,722 15,716 38,993 160,433 38 34,608 1,488 24 {901 (18,2621 iiooi 124} {9} 88 188) 1,609 1221) 373.982 (361,375) loo I81 104 136 55 496 791 791 Page 23
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 19 Connected organlsatlons and related parties All of the Church Trustees are members of the Church or Trustees of another Church in the Circuit. Connected organlsatlons include the Methodist Connexion, Circuits and Churches withln the District, other Methodist Districts in Great Britain, the Methodist Ministers, Children's Relief Association, CFB and TMCP. All of these entities have their own trustees or directors and autonomous administration such that FOMC has no significant influence over any of them, nor they over FOMC. They are, therefore, not considered related partles. Payments totalling £2,79312023'. £1,100) were made to J. Cashmore for work ¢arrled out on the Church Premises. J. Cashmore is theson of Peter Cashmore. one oftheTrustees, and is therefore a related party. These payments were approved independently by the Church Treasurerand Chairman ofthe Finance and Property Committee. There were no other related party transactions which are not otherwise disclosed in these accounts with the exceptlon of donations received from Church members in connection with the Church Organ Fund and Redevelopment Projects. These amounted to £33,851 during the year ended 31 August 202412023 - £19). 20 Volunteer contrlbutlons Every entity Iconnexion, District, Circuit, and Church) wlthin the Methodist Church of Great Britain 15 heavily reliant on volunteers who contribute their skills, time and money In the furtherance of the work of the Church. Principally this contribution is by the Stewards asslstlng with the services of the Church and servlng on committees of the Church that deal with mission, property and finance. We are grateful to all of them for their help and commitment. zi Capital commltments and contlngent Ilabilities There were no capltal commitments or contingent Ilabilltles at the year-end {2023 - £ nlll. 22 Events after the reportlng perfod There were no events after the year end. 23 Operatln8 Lease lessee-commltments The Church had no commitments for leasing obli8ations at the year-end12023 - £ nill. 24 Independent examiner During the year the Church re-appointed JW Hinks as Independent Examiner. Their fee for the year is £840 including VAT12023- £8401. Page 24