REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130630
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
FOR
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
J W Hinks LLP Chartered Accountants 19 Highfield Road Edgbaston Birmingham West Midlands B15 3BH
ee
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Report oftheTrustees | 1to9 |
| Independent Examiner’s Report | 10 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 11 to 12 |
| Balance Sheet | 13 |
| Statement ofCash Flows | 14 |
| NotestotheFinancialStatements | 15to25 |
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
The Trustees present their report with the financial statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 August 2025. 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 (FRS 102) effective 1 January 2019 - (the Charities SORP (FRS 102)).
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
Purposes and aims
Four Oaks Methodist Church stands proudly at the crossroads of Four Oaks Road and the Lichfield Road as a gateway welcoming everyone to Four Oaks.
Our vision/mission statement is that we seek to be a beacon for Christ - radiating the love of God through worship, word and witness.
Our objectives and aims can be summarised as follows:-
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To promote religious activities and the name and beliefs of Jesus Christ.
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To showa love and care for the surrounding community.
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To advance the Christian faith in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of the Methodist Church.
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Any charitable purpose for the time being of any Connexional, District, Circuit, Local or other organisation of the Methodist Church.
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Any purpose for the time being of any charity being a charity subsidiary or ancillary to the Methodist Church.
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Worshipping God through prayer, song and other acts of worship.
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The organisation and resourcing of regular public acts of worship open to members of the Church and non-members alike. .
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The teaching of Christianity through sermons, courses and small groups.
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The resourcing of pastoral work including visiting the sick and bereaved.
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Hosting school visits to the Church to learn about Christianity.
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Promoting Christianity through the staging of events and services.
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Providing chaplaincy services to local schools, care homes and other institutions as appropriate and where able.
Ensuring 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 aim, objectives and activities remained focused on our stated purposes.
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 a We have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aims and objectives and in planning our future activities. In particular, the Trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives 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 regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the Charity should undertake.
Grant making
Four Oaks Methodist Church makes small grants to various organisations and individuals who support and deliver the Church’s objects.
Potential recipients of grants paid by Four Oaks Methodist Church are reviewed by the Trustees on a case-bycase basis depending upon the available resources of the Charity.
Safeguarding
Every person has a value and dignity which comes directly from the creation of male and female in God’s own image and likeness. Christians see this potential as fulfilled by God’s re-creation of us in Christ. Amongst 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 following principles:-
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The care and nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young people and adults.
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The safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and adults when they are vulnerable.
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The establishing of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is informed vigilance as to the dangers of abuse.
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A. The selection and training of all those with any responsibility within the Church, in line with Safer Recruitment principles, including the use of criminal records disclosures and registration with the relevant vetting and barring schemes.
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Respond without delay to every complaint made which suggests that an adult, child or young person may have been harmed, co-operating with the police and local authorities in any investigation.
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Seek to work with anyone who has suffered abuse, developing with them an appropriate ministry of informed pastoral care.
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Seek to challenge any abuse of power, especially by anyone in a position of trust.
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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 against a child, young person or vulnerable adult.
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In all of these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and recognised good practice.
Four Oaks Methodist Church commits itself to ensuring the implementation of Connexional Safeguarding Policy, Government legislation, guidance and safe practice in the Circuit and in the churches.
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 aTT Four Oaks Methodist Church commits itself to the provision of support, advice and training for lay and ordained people that will 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
Charitable activities How our activities deliver public benefit
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 recognises 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 beliefs.
Our main 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 year
Four Oaks Methodist Church has continued to meet its objective to witness to the Four Oaks community 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 (https://www.fouroaksmethodist.org.uk) and its associated Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/FourOaksMethodistChurch) have been updated and contain links and information on our ongoing activities. A new WhatsApp group has been formed that contains daily meditations and selected Church notices. The weekly Church notices are now sent by e-mail to Church members and other individuals 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 of the stronger churches in the Sutton Park Circuit. There are a number of house groups that meet regularly for bible study and fellowship. The Church has a strong pastoral team that is in regular contact with the wider Church family and delivers the monthly Messenger.
The Church continues to sponsor and support a full range of uniformed organisations including Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Rainbows, Brownies, Girl Guides 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 arounda series of interesting short biopics of attendees’ backgrounds and life experiences.
The Church held a well-attended community event on 8 May 2025 to commemorate the 80" anniversary of VE Day.
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
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In order to raise funds for the Organ Restoration Fund, the Church hosted two concerts during the year which raised £1,814 net of expenses; a “Classical Gala Evening” in October 2024 and “Songs from the Shows” in May 2025.
Four Oaks Methodist Church continues to support “Love in a Box” 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 shopping, 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 (fomcprayerline@qmail.com) has been established for those in need of comfort and support.
The Church family supports Birmingham City Missions and Erdington Food Bank with donations of food, money and help from volunteers.
Following the reopening of the Church premises, many external organisations returned to meet at the Church including: -
- e =The Tudor Club e a Punjabi-speaking club and luncheon group e = Art for Life - a popular art class e the Sutton Coldfield Wind Orchestra e anumber of choirs and dance groups e =a “Tiny Talk” baby signing group e “Moo” music and dancing for toddlers e anumber of counselling 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 Methodist 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 initial five-year appointment on 31 August 2021 but accepted an invitation to extend her appointment for a further five years. Deacon Marilyn has had a really positive influence on the church with her friendly outgoing manner and many people have benefited from pastoral visits and her friendship. The Trustees are delighted that Deacon Marilyn will continue to bless us with her care and ministry.
The Methodist Connexion appointed Reverend Nick Jones as Circuit Superintendent of the Sutton Park Circuit on 1 September 2023 and gave him pastoral responsibility for Four Oaks with effect from 1 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-Church
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 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 grade 2 listed building which restricts the nature of alterations that we can make to it. Nevertheless, during the year the Church achieved a “Bronze Eco-Church Award” for the work that it has done to date. The Church also held an outdoor community “Eco Service” and has raised money to twin toilets in developing countries.
This eco committee has already identified ways of managing and reducing our energy consumption and are investigating the replacement of our gas boilers with a more environmentally friendly solution.
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Financial review
Financial position
(e) Income trends Church income is primarily drawn from the Sunday collections, standing orders and the associated Gift Aid tax credit, supplemented by lettings income from Wesley Cottage and room rental fees paid by external users of our Church building.
Unrestricted Church income totalling £202,959 for the year ended 31 August 2025 (2024 - £169,509) increased by £33,450 or 19.7% compared to the year ended 31 August 2024 due mainly to a £22,255 refund of a Pension Fund Contribution made in November 2021 and a £5,537 increase in rental income.
Restricted Church income totalling £56,342 for the year ended 31 August 2025 (2024 - £33,889) increased by £22,453 due to two legacies received in the year of £26,652 and grants and donations received of £28,862 for the Organ Restoration Fund.
fe) Expenditure trends The circuit assessment of £76,208 (2024 - £72,579) due to the Sutton Park Circuit continues to be our single largest item of unrestricted expenditure, amounting to 38% (2024 — 39%) of total unrestricted expenditure for the year ended 31 August 2025. A significant amount of the Circuit assessment is used to pay the District Assessment, stipends and costs related to ministers and deacons.
The total unrestricted expenditure of for the year ended 31 August 2025 was £202,662 (2024 - £184,080) which was an increase of £18,582 or 10% compared to the previous year. This increase in costs was due to higher expenditure on property maintenance and general inflationary increases in other cost areas. The cost of repairs and maintenance to the Church premises increased by £12,487 to £35,565 (2024 - £23,078) because of emergency repairs to the heating system and the routine repainting of the meeting rooms. The Church has continued to save money on its energy costs by its decision to move the Sunday worship services into the large hall during the winter months.
fe) Fund balances As at 31 August 2025 the unrestricted net assets of Four Oaks Methodist Church, including designated funds, amounted to £60,678 (2024 - £68,290), giving approximately 4 months cover for normal expenditure (2024 - 4 months).
As at 31 August 2025 the restricted net assets of Four Oaks Methodist Church amounted to £121,235 (2024 - £64,369) which largely relates to the balance on the Redevelopment Fund of £40,477 and the Organ Restoration Fund of £73,079. The funds held in the Redevelopment Fund have been retained to be used for future capital expenditure at the Church. The Church started an Organ Restoration Fund in 2023 to finance the future cost of the refurbishment of the historic Church organ which is estimated will cost £90,000.
Endowment funds amounted to £42,043 as at 31 August 2025 (2024 - £41,172).
Investment policy and objectives
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 risks.
The Church has invested a total of £42,043 as at 31 August 2025 (2024 - £41,172) in funds managed by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes which aims to manage the funds and obtain good 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 months (2024 — 4 months) average expenditure. This should be sufficient to meet any unforeseen item of major expenditure on the Church building and/or be able to continue funding, in the short-term, planned activities in the event of any inability to raise the full expenses including the assessment due to the Circuit.
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Going concern
The Coronavirus pandemic forced the closure of the Church premises for much 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. The Church was therefore able to operate on a more normal basis during the year ended 31 August 2025.
The large increases in energy costs that began in 2022 are an ongoing concern. The Church continues to monitor the situation closely and has 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 activities for the foreseeable future. The Trustees have, therefore, considered that it is appropriate for the financial statements to be prepared on the going concern basis.
Future plans
The Church premises currently remain fully open for worship and external activities. However, we continue to closely monitor the Coronavirus situation and are aware of the need to abide and respond promptly to any changes in Government guidelines. In the meantime, the Church will continue to reach out and support the wider community through worship, prayer and practical support where needed.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing document
Four Oaks Methodist Church is an unincorporated charity which achieved charitable status on 21 July 2009 (registered number 1130630).
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 Discipline of the Methodist Church by order of the annual conference (CPD). .
Recruitment and appointment of new Trustees
Trustees must be Members of the Methodist Church and are recruited to reflect the diversity of the Church’s activities within the local community. Appointment as a trustee follows informal meetings with the current Trustees.
Organisational structure
The members of Four Oaks Methodist Church Council consist of the Charity’s Trustees which comprise the Church office holders, Ministers and representatives appointed by the Church at the Annual Church Meeting.
The Charity is organised so that its Church Council meets regularly to manage its affairs and formulate policy. Day to day management of the Church is undertaken by the Church Leadership team along with the Ministers.
Induction and training of new Trustees
A range of guidance produced by Methodist Connexion to support the effective running of the church, specifically the leaflet “The Role of a Trustee in the Methodist Church”, is given to all new church Trustees as part of their induction as a trustee.
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
aTT
Key management remuneration In the Trustees' opinion, the key management personnel of the Charity responsible for the direction, control, running and operation of the Charity on a day-to-day basis consists of the Church Council
Key management personnel — Church Council in most instances, all Trustees give their time voluntarily 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 statements.
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 parties
Four Oaks Methodist Church is part of the Sutton Coldfield Circuit which is part of the West Midlands 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 Missions.
Risk management
The Trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the Charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
The Trustees have examined the major strategic, business and operational risks that the Charity faces and confirm that systems have been established to enable regular reports to be produced so that necessary steps 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.
Fundraising
The majority of our income comes from voluntary donations from our membership and from other supporters. Through the fundraising efforts of our members and supporters we are generating 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 is 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 commit 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.
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
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REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Registered Charity number
1130630
Registered office 155 Lichfield Road Sutton Coldfield B74 2UU
Trustees and Key Lay Workers
Ministers
Reverend Nick Jones (appointed 1 September 2024) Deacon Marilyn Slowe
Centre Manager and Lay Worker
Peter Cashmore
Church Treasurer
David Bowater
Church Stewards
Janet Darke (resigned 31 August 2025)
Lynette Jones Julie Anne Read
Sue Stewart (appointed 1 September 2024) Angela Constantine (appointed 1 September 2025) Glyn Constantine (appointed 1 September 2025)
Church Safeguarding Co-ordinator
Anne Thompson (resigned 13 January 2025) Sue Denning (appointed 13 January 2025)
Sutton Park Circuit representatives Reverend Nick Jones Deborah Majola
Church representatives (other members of the Church Council) Annette Ashford (appointed 17 September 2024) Peter Johansen Madeline Ballantine (resigned 17 September 2024) Diana Bosman Jane Angela Cliff (resigned 27 February 2024) Sue Hayden Bill Humpherson Tom Carolyn Humpherson
Peter Johansen Carolyn Nicholl Jane Sweetman Rodney Thompson (resigned 13 January 2025) Marion Watts Tom Watts Rachel Williamson
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Ce
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS (continued)
Independent examiner
PE Smith ACA
J W Hinks LLP Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors 19 Highfield Road
Edgbaston Birmingham West Midlands B15 3BH
Bankers HSBC plc Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church 67 South Parade Methodist Church House Sutton Coldfield 25 Tavistock Place B72 1PA London WC1H 9SF
Investment manager
The Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes Central Buildings
Oldham Street
Manchester
M1i1JQ
Approved by order of the Church Council on 27th January 2026 and signed on the Church Council’s behalf by:
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Me
Trustee
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
| report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 August 2025 which are set out on pages 11 to 25.
Responsibilities and basis 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 2011 (‘the Act’).
| report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination | have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
| have completed my examination. | confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
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accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or 2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or
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the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts givea ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
| have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Peter Smith ACA
J W Hinks LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors
19 Highfield Road
Edgbaston Birmingham B15 3BH
27 January 2026
Page 10
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
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STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Notes to|Designated|
|the|—_ General Fund|Funds|Restricted|Endowment|Total|
|Accounts|(Unrestricted)|(Unrestricted)|Funds|Funds|2025.|
|£|£|£|£|£|
|Income|
|Offerings|56,171|289|56,460|
|Legacies|26,652|26,652|
|Donations|and|grants|28,862|28,862|
|Gift|Aid|13,551|539|14,090|
|Interest|and|investment|income|6,174|943|7,117|
|Income from|investment|properties|8,225|8,225|
|Internal|organisations|11,280|11,280|
|Other|charitable|income|4|107,558|107,558|
|Total|income|202,959|-|56,342|943|260,244|
|Expenditure|
|Circuit|assessment|76,208|76,208|
|Grants and|donations|2,342|2,342|
|Property|maintenance|7|35,565|1,270|36,835|
|Insurance,|utilities|etc.|30,817|30,817|
|Office|expenses|8|9,365|9,365|
|Other|expenditure|9|40,299|115|134|40,548|
|Internal|organisations|8,066|ee|8,066©|
|Total|charitable expenditure|202,662|:|1,385|134|204,181|
|Gains/(losses)|on|monetary|
|investments|10|62|62|
|Gains/(losses) oninvestment|
|properties|a|
|Net (expenditure)|/income|297|-|54,957|871|56,125|
|Transfers|between|funds|11|(1,909)|1,909|
|Other|gains/(losses)|ee|
|Net|movementin funds|(1,612)|-|56,866|871|56,125|
|Total|funds|brought forward|18|62,290|6,000|64,369|41,172|173,831|
|Total funds|carried forward|18|60,678|6,000|121,235|42,043|229,956|
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Notes to|Designated|
|the|— General Fund|Funds|Restricted|Endowment|Total|
|Accounts|(Unrestricted)|(Unrestricted)|Funds|Funds|2024|
|£|£|£|£|£|
|Income|
|Offerings|51,587|51,587|
|Donations|and|grants|9,088|27,965|37,053|
|Gift|Aid|14,477|5,924|20,401|
|Interest|and|investment|income|3,900|997|4,897|
|Income from|investment|properties|8,955|8,955|
|Internal|organisations|6,578|6,578|
|Other|charitable|income|4|74,924|74,924|
|Total|income|169,509|-|33,889|997|204,395|
|Expenditure|
|Circuit|assessment|72,579|72,579|
|Grants and|donations|3,791|3,791|
|Property|maintenance|7|23,078|3,724|26,802|
|Insurance,|utilities|etc.|28,591|28,591|
|Office|expenses|8|7,165|7,165|
|Other|expenditure|9|41,940|70|110|42,120|
|Internal|organisations|7|6,936|6,936|
|Total|charitable expenditure|184,080|-|3,79440|187,984|
|Gains/(losses)|on|monetary|
|investments|10|1,700|1,700|
|Gains/(losses) oninvestment|.|
|properties|
|Net (expenditure)|/income|(14,571)|-|30,095|2,587|18,111|
|Transfers|between|funds|11|(606)|606|-|
|Other|gains/(losses)|-|
|Net movementin funds|(15,177)|-|30,701|2,587|18,111|
|Total funds|brought forward|18|77,467|6,000|33,668|38,585|155,720|
|Total funds|carried forward|18|62,290|6,000|64,369|41,172|173,831|
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FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
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BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Notes|to|Designated|
|the|GeneralFund|Funds|Restricted|Endowment|Total|Total|
|accounts|(Unrestricted)|(Unrestricted)|Funds|Funds|2025|2024|
|£|£|£|£|£|£|
|Fixed|Assets|
|Church|building|and|other|property|.|-|
|Investment|properties|;|;|
|Investments|42,043|42,043|41,172|
|Total Fixed Assets|-|-|-|42,043|42,043|41,172|
|Current|Assets|
|Debtors|and|prepayments|12|17,301|24,000|41,301|26,023|
|Loans|by the|Church|-|-|
|Investments|with|TMCP|-|-|
|Central|Finance|Board|Deposits|22,784|6,000|97,235|126,019|73,799|
|Cash|at|Bank|and|in|hand|35,777|35,777|46,417|
|Total Current Assets|75,862|6,000|121,235|-|203,097|146,239|
|Current|Liabilities|
|Creditors|(due|in|under|1|year)|15|15,184|15,184|13,580|
|Grants’|payable|within|2025-26|-|-|
|Total Current Liabilities|15,184|-|-|-|15,184|13,580|
|Net Current Assets/(liabilities)|60,678|6,000|121,235|-|187,913|132,659|
|Long Term|Liabilities|
|(due|after|more than|one|year)|
|Grants|payable|after|2025-26|.|=|
|Loans|to|the|Church|-|-|
|Net Assets|60,678|6,000|121,235|42,043|229,956|173,831|
|Funds|of the|Church|
|General|Fund|(Unrestricted)|16.1|60,678|60,678|62,290|
|Designated|Funds|(Unrestricted)|16.2|6,000|6,000|6,000|
|Total|Unrestricted Funds|60,678|6,000|-|-|66,678|68,290|
|Restricted|Funds|17|121,235|121,235|64,369|
|Endowment|Funds|17|42,043|42,043|41,172|
|Total Funds|60,678|6,000|121,235|42,043|229,956|173,831|
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Signed
David Bowater Church Treasurer
27 January 2026
Page 13
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Total|Total|
|2025|2024|
|£|£|
|Cash from|operating|activities|
|New|cash|generated/(used)|in|operating|activities|26,238|696|
|Cash|flows from|investing|activities|
|Dividends,|interest and|rents from|investments|15,342|13,852|
|Proceeds from|the|sale|of|property,|plant and|equipment|-|-|
|Purchase|of|property,|plant|and|equipment|-|-|
|Purchase|of|intangible|assets|-|-|
|Proceeds from|the|sale|of|investments|-|-|
|Purchase|of|investments|-|-|
|Other|-|-|
|Net cash|provided|by investing|activities|15,342|13,852|
|Cash|flows from|financing|activities|
|New|borrowings|-|-|
|Repayment|of borrowings|-|-|
|Net cash|used|in|financing|activities|-|-|
|Change|in cash and|cash|equivalents|in the|reporting|period|41,580|14,548|
|Cash|and|cash|equivalents|at the|beginning|of the|reporting|period|120,216|105,668|
|Cash and|cash|equivalents|at the end|of the|reporting|period|161,796|120,216|
|Reconciliation|of net|income|to|net|cash|flow from|operating|activities|
|Net|income/(expenditure)|for the|reporting|period|
|(as|per statement|of financial|activities)|56,125|18,111|
|Adjustments|for:|
|Depreciation|and|amortisation|charges|-|-|
|Profit|on|the|sale|of fixed|assets|-|-|
|Loss|on|the|sale|of fixed|assets|-|-|
|(Gains)/losses on|investments|(871)|(2,587)|
|Dividends,|interest|and|rents from|investments|(15,342)|(13,852)|
|(Increase)/decrease|in|stocks|-|-|
|(Increase)/decrease|in|debtors|(15,278)|(7,664)|
|Increase|/ (decrease)|in|creditors|1,604|6,688|
|Net cash|used|in operating|activities|26,238|696|
|Analysis|of cash|and|cash|equivalents|
|Cash|in|hand|35,777|46,417|
|Short term|deposit|(less than|3|months)|126,019|73,799|
|Total|cash and cash|equivalents|161,796|120,216|
----- End of picture text -----
Page 14
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1 Accounting framework and accounting policies
i Accounting framework The financial statements of the Charity, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) “Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)”, Financial Reporting Standard 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland”.
ii Public benefit entity Four Oaks Methodist Church (FOMC) meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes below.
iii Basis These accounts have been prepared on the basis of historical cost except that investments are shown at their market value at the end of the year, on the accruals basis to showa true and fair view of the Church’s financial position and activities.
iv _ Content The financial information presented is relevant, reliable, comparable and complete. Where estimates are used these are based on experience, research and judgement. The accounts are expressed in £ Sterling, rounded to the nearest pound.
Vv Going concern Based on the monetary assets and human resources available on 31 August 2025, the Trustees believe that the Church is a going concern.
vi —_— Income recognition
Income is brought into account when it is more likely than not that the economic benefit of the income will accrue to FOMC. No attempt is made to measure the value of services donated by volunteers.
individual amounts categorised as Other Charitable 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.
vii Expenditure This is recognised whena liability is incurred, or a constructive obligation arises, that results in the payment being unavoidable. 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 METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
ix VAT
Since the Church is not VAT registered, all input VAT is charged with the expenses to which it refers except for some qualifying expenditure where the input VAT can be recovered under the Listed Places of Worship Scheme.
x Tangible fixed assets
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 Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP) as custodian trustees. The valuations, at market value, are those provided by TMCP. The unrealised gains arising on investments at the end of the year are shown in the SOFA and in Note 18 below.
Surplus cash funds are held on deposit with the Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church.
xii Receivables 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 creditors 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.
xiii Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the Trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the Charity. 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 Pensions costs and other post-retirement benefits
Contributions to the personal pension schemes of certain employees are charged to the Statement of Financial 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 benefits
When employees have rendered service to the Charity, short-term employee benefits to which the employees are entitled are recognised at the undiscounted amount expected to be paid in exchange for that service.
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services 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 Financial 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 amortised cost less any impairment,
xvii Critical accounting judgements and estimates In the application of the Charity’s accounting policies, the Trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.
The estimates and underlying assumption are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates 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 METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 a
2 Glossary of terms
CFB: Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church manages a Common Deposit Fund anda series of pooled investment funds for Methodist entities in Great Britain and provides investment advice to those entities
Church: a group of members from fewer than 10 to more than 300
Circuit: a group of Methodist Churches near each other, typically between 10 and 30
CMTF: Circuit Model Trust Fund
Connexion: The Methodist Church in Great Britain which includes the Head Office at Methodist Church House, all Methodist Districts, Circuits and Churches in Great Britain
District: a group of contiguous Circuits, usually between 15 and 30
FOMC: Four Oaks Methodist Church (“the Church”)
FRS: Financial Reporting Standard
NEST: National Employment Savings Trust
SOFA: Statement of Financial Activities
SORP: Statement of Recommended Practice
TMCP: Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes, the legal owner and Custodian Trustee of all Methodist Model Trust property, including Legacies, Endowments and Accumulated Funds
3 Trustees
Payments to Trustees
It is Church policy 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 the Trustees is an employee of the Church (2024: one trustee) and received remuneration of £28,379 (2024: £26,146). Expenses have been reimbursed to 11 (2024: 11) Trustees who, in aggregate, have received the sum of £5,501 (2024: £5,415) during the year.
4 Other charitable 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:
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Room lettings | 76,047 | 70,510 |
| Weddings, Baptisms& Funerals | 4,136 | 1,570 |
| Concerts | 1,909 | 2,564 |
| Pension Fund refund | 22,255 | - |
| Miscellaneous income | 3,211 | 280 |
| TotalOtherCharitableIncome | 107,558 | 74,924 |
Page 17
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Te
On 9 November 2021, the Church made a voluntary donation to the Connexion’s Pension Reserve Fund of £20,500. Following the latest pension scheme valuation, the Connexion has decided to return the voluntary donations together with interest and the Church received a refund of £22,255 on 7 October 2024.
5 Salaries and associated costs
----- Start of picture text -----
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Gross salaries paid to two (2023-24: two) employees were as follows:|2025|2024|
|£|£|
|Gross|pay|34,509|29,890|
|Employer's|National|Insurance contributions|3,097|2,353|
|Less:|Employment Allowance|(3,097)|(2,353)|
|Employer's|pension|contributions to|defined|
|contribution|schemes|1,726|1,494|
|Apprenticeship|levy|W720|143|
|Total|staff costs|36,407|31,527|
|Total weekly|contractual|hours for 2|staff|42|42|
----- End of picture text -----
No employees received employee benefits that totalled more than £60,000. There is no accrual for holiday pay as it is immaterial; 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 engaged part-time as Secretary to the Church. The Presbyters and Deacons who served the Church during the year were engaged by the Methodist Church — Birmingham (Sutton Park) Circuit, not by Four Oaks Methodist Church.
6 Pensions
Under the Auto Enrolment regulations 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 April 2021. The Church has chosen a defined contribution pension scheme administered through the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) and makes employer contributions at or above the levels required by law.
The pension arrangements for Presbyters and Deacons who served the Church during 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 (“MMPS”) and The Pension and Assurance Scheme for Lay Employees of the Methodist Church (“PASLEMC”). Following an actuarial valuation, the two schemes had an estimated combined surplus of £45.7m as at 31 August 2024 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 on 7 October 2024.
7 Property maintenance
----- Start of picture text -----
||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|2025|2024|
|£|£|
|Maintenance|of Church|and|Halls|31,920|10,967|
|Maintenance|of Church|Cottage|3,645|12,111|
|Property|Maintenance|(General|Fund)|35,565|23,078|
|Hall|Development|Project|(Restricted|Fund)|1,270|3,724|
|Total|Property|Maintenance|36,835|26,802|
----- End of picture text -----
Page 18
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
8 Office expenses (General fund)
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Printing, postage and stationery | 480 | 999 |
| Telephone and broadband | 651 | 480 |
| Staffing and expenses | 6,873 | 4,304 |
| Bank charges | 521 | 542 |
| Examiner’s fees | 840 | 840 |
| Total charge to General Fund | 9,365 | 7,165 |
| Otherexpenditure | ||
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Church activities | 2,907 | 1,801 |
| Caretaker /Cleaning Costs | 34,028 | 31,920 |
| Concert expenses | - | 936 |
| Choir and music costs | 3,364 | 7,283 |
| Totalcharged toGeneral Fund | 40,299 | 41,940 |
| Other (charged to Restricted Fund) | 115 | 70 |
| Other (charged toEndowment Funds) | 134 | 110 |
| Total | 40,548 | 42,120 |
9 Other expenditure
10 Investment management
During the year the Church paid £134 to TMCP as administration costs on the endowment funds held. (2024 - £110). The sum of £134 was levied at 0.2% on the value of the funds at the end of the year.
The sum of £62 (2024 - £1,700 gain) represents an unrealised gain in the invested funds of the Endowment Funds. More information can be found in Note 16 Endowment Funds.
11 Transfer between funds
The Church has a historic Needham and Beard organ that was installed in 1914 and is in need of a major overhaul that could cost up to an estimated £90,000. An Organ Refurbishment Fund was created in 2023 and a Gift Day Appeal was held in 2024 which raised £33,686, inclusive of the associated Gift Aid. Further donations and grants of £28,862 were received in 2025 which was transferred to the Organ Refurbishment Fund together with other specific donations and the £1,814 net proceed of funds raised through concerts.
Enil (2024 — £100) 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 2025
a
12 Debtors and prepayments
All sums shown as debtors on 1 September 2024 were received during the following year. All sums paid in advance on 1 September 2024 were for activities that have been held during 2025. Similarly, it is expected that payments in advance on 1 September 2025 will be expensed in 2025-26.
Debtors were made up as follows:
| Debtors were made up as follows: | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Trade debtors | - | |
| Prepayments and accrued income | ||
| Gift Aid tax and VAT receivable | 4,902 | 11,295 |
| Circuitassessment paid in advance | 6,350 | 6,351 |
| Insurance paid in advance | 5,595 | 6,147 |
| PAYE refund due | 254 | - |
| Room lettings | - | 2,230 |
| Other debtors | 200 | - |
| Total (General Fund) | 17,301 | 26,023 |
| Organ Refurbishment Fund donations (Restricted Fund) | 24,000 | - |
| TotalDebtors | 41,301 | 26,023 |
13 Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes
The funds that support the Church’s Endowment Funds are held by TMCP in Investment Funds Trustees Interest Funds on which interest is credited to the accounts each month. These are regarded as medium- and long-term investments.
TMCP is the legal owner and Custodian Trustee of all Methodist Model Trust property, including Legacies, Endowments and Accumulated Funds. Trust property is held for and on behalf of local Managing Trustees who are responsible for the day-to-day management of trust property. TMCP ensure that, through providing guidance and acting under their direction, the Managing Trustees comply with charity law and Methodist law and policy as determined by the Methodist Conference.
14 ‘Central Finance Board (CFB) and Cash at Bank
The Church has one current account at HSBC plc, an authorised institution. The sums 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 METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
15 Creditors and accrued expenses
| 2025 | 2024 | 2024 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||||||||
| Creditors: | |||||||||
| Bank charges | 5 | - | |||||||
| Building repairs& maintenance | 11,800 | 11,800 | |||||||
| Utilities | ; | 1,714 | 570 | ||||||
| Audit and examiner’s fee | 840 | 840 | |||||||
| Total | 14,359 | 13,210 | |||||||
| Accruals: | |||||||||
| PAYE and pension contributions | - | - | |||||||
| Taxation and Social Security | - | - | |||||||
| Other accruals | 825 | 370 | |||||||
| 825 | 370 | ||||||||
| Total | 15,184 | 13,580 | |||||||
| Maturityanalysis ofbasicfinancial | financial | instruments | |||||||
| Accrued at | Accrual | made | Accrued at | ||||||
| 1 Sept2024 | Paid in | year | In year | 31Aug | 2025 | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | ||||||
| Trade creditors | |||||||||
| Bankcharges | - | - | 5 | 5 | |||||
| Building repairs and maintenance | 11,800 | - | - | 11,800 | |||||
| Utilities | 570 | (570) | 1,714 | 1,714 | |||||
| Auditand examiner’s fee | 840 | (840) | 840 | 840 | - | ||||
| PAYE and pension contributions | - | - | - | - | |||||
| Taxation and Social Security | - | - | - | - | |||||
| Other accruals | 370 | (370) | 825 | 825 | |||||
| Total | 13,580 | (1,780) | 3,384 | 15,184 |
It is expected that all sums accrued on 31 August 2025 will be paid during the year to 31 August 2026.
.
Page 21
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 a
16 Unrestricted Funds 16.1 General Fund — balance £62,678 on 31 August 2025 (2024: £62,290)
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.
16.2 Other Designated Funds — balance £6,000 on 31 August 2025 (2024: £6,000) Designated funds comprise a maintenance reserve to provide for the future maintenance needs of the Church.
17 Restricted Funds — balance £121,235 on 31 August 2025 (2024: £64,369) Endowment Funds — balance £42,043 on 31 August 2025 (2024: £41,172)
The Church Redevelopment Project wasa large-scale project to refurbish the Church premises to 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 will help to achieve its mission to be a beacon of Christ in the local area. The Redevelopment Project has 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 principal donors, the balance of the fund is to be retained as a Development Fund to be used for future capital expenditure at the Church. During 2025 a legacy of £21,120 was received and added to the Development Fund in line with the donor’s wishes. The balance on the Development Fund on 31 August 2025 was £40,477 (2024: £20,628).
The Church has established an Organ Refurbishment Fund to meet the future costs of refurbishing the Church organ. During the year a specific legacy of £5,532 was received which, together with other donations (including the associated gift aid) and grants of £29,401 was added to the Organ Refurbishment Fund together with the net proceeds of concerts held during the year of £1,813 (2024: £1,718). As at 31 August 2025 the balance on this fund was £73,079 (2024: £36,333).
The Capital Fund was established to provide income to support the upkeep of the Church’s buildings and facilities. Some of this fund is included in Central Finance Board deposits - £7,300, (2024: £7,300) and the remainder is in endowment funds - £19,570 (2024: £18,740).
CT Avery and Samuel A Wood Trusts were established by bequests to support the ongoing work of the Church. The balances of these funds are shown in note 18 below.
Page 22
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
a
18 Summary of movements on significant individual funds
Current year movement in funds
| Current year movement in funds | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balanceat | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Gains/ | Balanceat | |||
| Fund General Fund PropertyMaintenance (Designated) Total unrestricted funds |
1-Sep-2024 £ 62,290 6,000 68,290 |
£ 202,959 - 202,959 |
£ (202,662) - (202,662) |
£ (1,909) - (1,909) |
Losses £ - - - |
31-Aug-2025 £ 60,678 a 66,678 |
||
| Development Fund | 20,628 | 21,119 | (1,270) | - | 40,477 | |||
| Organ RefurbishmentFund Capital Fund Small Funds(<£500each) Total restricted funds |
36,332 7,300 109 64,369 |
34,934 - 289 56,342 |
(95) - (20) (1,385) |
1,909 - 1,909 |
- - - - |
73,080 7,300 378 121,235 |
||
| CapitalFund | 18,741 | 870 | (61) | - | 20 | 19,570 | ||
| CTAvery—TrustA CTAvery—TrustB SamuelAWoodTrust |
4,442 1,777 16,212 |
14 6 53 |
(14) (6) (53) |
- - - |
8 3 31 |
4,450 1,780 16,243 |
; | |
| Totalendowmentfunds | 41,172 | 943 | (134) | - | 62 | 42,043 | ||
| TotalFunds |
Comparatives for movement in funds
| Balance at | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Gains/ | Balance at | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fund | 1-Sep-2023 £ |
£ | £ | £ | Losses £ |
31-Aug-2024 ae: |
| General Fund | 77,467 | 169,509 | (184,080) | (606) | - | 62,290 |
| Property Maintenance (Designated) Total unrestrictedfunds |
6,000 83,467 |
- 169,509 |
- (184,080) |
- (606) |
- - |
6,000 68,290 |
| DevelopmentFund Organ Refurbishment Fund Capital Fund SmallFunds(<£500each) |
24,352 1,975 7,300 41 |
- 33,851 - 38 |
(3,724) - - (70) |
- 506 - 100 |
- - - - |
20,628 36,332 7,300 109 |
| Total restrictedfunds | 33,668 | 33,889 | (3,794) | 606 | - | 64,369 |
| Capital Fund | 17,765 | 938 | (51) | - | 89 | 18,741 |
| CTAvery—TrustA CTAvery—Trust B SamuelAWoodTrust |
4,123 1,649 15,048 |
12 4 43 |
(12) (4) (43) |
- - - |
319 128 1,164 |
4,442 1,777 16,212 |
| Totalendowmentfunds TotalFunds |
38,585 997 [155,720 |
204,395 | (110) (187,984) |
- - |
1,700 1,700 |
Page 23
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combines position as follows
| Balanceat | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Gains/ | Balance at | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Sep-2023 | Losses | 31-Aug-2025 | |||||
| Fund GeneralFund PropertyMaintenance (Designated) |
£ 77,467 6 000 |
£ 372,468 - |
£ (386,742) - |
£ (2,515) - |
£ - |
||
| Total unrestricted funds | 83,467 | 372,468 | (386,742) | (2,515) | - | 66,678 | |
| Church Development Project | 24,352 | 21,119 | (4,994) | - | - | 40,477 | |
| Organ Refurbishment Fund Capital Fund Small Funds(<£500 each) |
1,975 7,300 41 |
68,765 - 327 |
(95) - (90) |
2,415 - 100 |
- - - |
||
| Total restrictedfunds | 33,668 | 90,231 | (5,179) | 2,515 | - | 121,235 | |
| Capital Fund | 17,765 | 1,808 | (112) | - | 109 | 19,570 | |
| CTAvery—TrustA | 4,123 | 26 | (26) | - | 327 | 4,450 | |
| CT Avery—Trust B SamuelAWood Trust |
1,649 15,048 |
10 96 |
(10) (96) |
- - |
131 1,195 |
1,780 16,243 |
|
| Totalendowmentfunds | 38,585 | 1,940 | (244) | - | 1,762 | 42,043 | |
| TotalFunds |
Page 24
FOUR OAKS METHODIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
19 Connected organisations and related parties
All of the Church Trustees are members of the Church or Trustees of another Church in the Circuit.
Connected organisations include the Methodist Connexion, Circuits and Churches within the West Midlands 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 parties.
Payments totalling £416 (2024: £2,793) were made to J. Cashmore for work carried out on the Church Premises. J. Cashmore is the son of Peter Cashmore, one of the Trustees, and is therefore a related party. These payments were approved independently by the Church Treasurer and Chairman of the Finance and Property Committee.
There were no other related party transactions which are not otherwise disclosed in these accounts with the exception of donations received from Church members in connection with the Church Organ Refurbishment and Development Funds. These amounted to £56,053 during the year ended 31 August 2025 (2024 - £33,851).
20 Volunteer contributions
Every entity (Connexion, District, Circuit, and Church) within the Methodist Church of Great Britain is 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 assisting with the services of the Church and serving on committees of the Church that deal with mission, property and finance. We are grateful - to all of them for their help and commitment.
21 Capital commitments and contingent liabilities
There were no capital commitments or contingent liabilities at the year-end (2024 - € nil).
22 Events after the reporting period
There were no events after the year end.
23 Operating Lease lessee-commitments
The Church had no commitments for leasing obligations at the year-end (2024 - £ nil).
24 Independent examiner
During the year the Church re-appointed JW Hinks as Independent Examiner. Their fee for the year is £840 including VAT (2024 - £840).
Page 25