**Parish Church of St. John Baptist, Claines, Worcester Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Parochial Church Council for the year ended 31[st] December 2024** Parish Office, Claines Parish Hall, Cornmeadow Lane, **Table of Contents** Worcester WR3 7NY Tel: 01905 759702 email: claines.stgeorge@gmail.com 1 ## **Contents** |Introduction|p.3| |---|---| |Church Ofcers|p.3| |PCC Membership|p.4| |PCC Structure, Governance & Management|p.4| |Electoral Roll|p.4| |**Ministry Reports**|**p.5**| |Work of the Parish|p.5| |Churchwardens Report|p.7| |Financial Report|p.9| |Buildings Management Group (BMG)|p.10| |Health and Safety|p.11| |Safeguarding|p.11| |Data Protection|p.12| |**Activities of the Parish**|**p.14**| |Worcester Deanery Synod|p.14| |20/20 Vision Project|p.14| |Project Works|p.15| |Children’s Families and Youth Work|p.15| |Claines Community Café|p.17| |Eco Church|p.18| |Quest Bereavement Group|p.18| |The Worcester Foodbank|p.18| |Lunch in Company (LINC)|p.18| |Church Magazine|p.19| |Social Media|p.19| |Little Friends|p.20| |Mother’s Union|p.21| |Parish Music|p.22| |Spark to a Flame|p.23| |Bell Ringing|p.23| |Flower Guild|p.24| |Kingdom Arts|p.24| |Christian Aid|p.24| |The Children’s Society|p.25| |Legacies|p.25| |**Accounts**|**p.28**| |Reserves Policy|p.35| **Introduction** 2 The Parish Church of St John Baptist is part of the Diocese of Worcester within the Church of England. The correspondence address is Claines Parish Hall, Cornmeadow Lane, Worcester, WR3 7NY. The Parochial Church Council is a charity registered with the Charity Commission (Number 1130734). Members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) are either ex- officio or elected annually by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. ## **Church Officers** **Standing Committee: Priest in Charge** Reverend Sarah Carwardine from June 2024 **Churchwardens** Philip Kear and Annette Summers **PCC Secretary** Helen Fitzgerald **PCC Treasurer** Janet Wilson **Ministry Team: Priest in Charge** Reverend Sarah Carwardine from June 2024 **Associate Priest** Reverend Jennie Hayward **Associate Priest** Reverend Peter Davies **Licensed Lay Ministers** Jan Kear & Rachel Cramp **Authorised Lay Ministers** Paul Fulbrook, Ian Cramp & Phil Kear **Parish Administrator** Tammara Adams **Health & Safety Officer** Ian Cramp **Electoral Roll Officer** Julie Palmer **Data Protection Officer** Helen Fitzgerald **Safeguarding Officer** Lorraine Deeprose **Children’s Worship** Rachel Cramp **Independent Examiner** Tony Archer **Banks** Barclays Bank PLC, Worcester Lloyds, Worcester ## **PCC MEMBERSHIP at the end of 2023-2024 term** ## _**Ex-Officio**_ Reverend Sarah Carwardine Jo Siddles Philip Kear Annette Summers Chair from June 2024 Lay Chair- Acting Chair until June 2024 Churchwarden - Completed 13 years Churchwarden - Completed 3 years 3 Jan Kear LLM Since 2020 Rachel Cramp LLM Since 2023 _**Elected Members (up to 12)**_ Jo Siddles – 2016-2024 Janet Wilson - Treasurer since 2014 Helen Fitzgerald - Secretary since 2018 Laura Stevens since 2016 Lorraine Deeprose since 2018 Ian Townley since 2020 Julie Palmer since 2020 Judy Hooper 2020-2024 _**Deanery Synod Members**_ Paul Fulbrook since 2017 Ian Cramp since 2017 (& ALM since 2023) The appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and may stand for election to the PCC. The work of the PCC is carried out at regular meetings, throughout the year. In addition regular Standing Committee meetings have been held, comprising the Vicar or Chair, Wardens, PCC Secretary and PCC Treasurer. ## **PCC STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE & MANAGEMENT** The work of the PCC was also undertaken through meetings of various sub-groups: **Standing Committee Ministry Team 20/20+ Vision, Project Group Buildings Management Group Parish Magazine Committee** When they have met, these groups have provided regular reports to the full PCC meetings, in addition to reports from the Deanery Synod representatives. ## **ELECTORAL ROLL – Julie Palmer** The Church electoral roll is the register of electors for the parish. In the same way that being on the civic Electoral Roll allows you to vote in parliamentary and local elections and referenda, joining the Church Electoral Roll means that you can vote on Church matters, attend the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) and stand for election to the PCC. In 2025 the electoral roll has been completely refreshed, and everyone has been required to re-apply to be on the roll. At the time of the APCM there were 88 members on the roll, down from 126 members in 2023. ## **MINISTRY RERPORTS** ## **WORK OF THE PARISH- Reverend Sarah Carwardine** 2024 began with the church in vacancy and, as I understand it, run by a very capable team of people and supported by visiting clergy. It seems only right to begin this report by thanking the whole ministry team; Rev Peter, Rev Jennie, Phil & Jan and Ian & Rachel for continuing the ministry of the church in a period of vacancy so well. They were of course well supported, in particular, by churchwardens Annette & Phil, by Janet the treasurer and by the PCC secretary Helen Fitzgerald. Thanks is also extended to all the visiting clergy who supported the church during this time. 4 My licensing service was on 5[th] June at St George’s with a wonderful Joint Service of celebration on Sunday 9[th] June at Claines. Both of these services were so lovely, and I’d like to extend my personal thanks to all who worked to make the services what they were and all who came long to both. I received such a warm welcome from both churches as I began, and I have felt well supported through my first seven months in post. Thank you. ## **Working Together** A lent course and an advent course were run jointly across Claines, St George’s and St Stephens with each church well represented. These were good times of coming together, breaking down barriers more and pursuing God together. Once I was licenced, we began hold joint services when there was a 5[th] Sunday in a month. These have been uplifting times that we have shared together and they have been well received. Over the Christmas period Claines, St George’s and St Stephens united together along with other ecumenical churches to sing carols at care homes and sheltered accommodations, visiting Homenash House, Fernhill House, The Belmont, Noele Court, St Stephen’s, The Willows and Northwick Grange bringing much festive cheer to the community around us! Looking to 2025, we look forward to joining with St Stephen’s too for 5[th] Sundays as Rev Lindsey and I formally become associates in one another’s churches. ## **Children’s Work** Our monthly youth group has gone from strength to strength during 2024. There are 12 members of the youth group, and almost all attend every month. The group rotates around the churches and is leading the way in how we work together well. The success of the group is down to Helen Laird who worked so hard to make it happen, alongside Rev Lindsey, myself and the volunteers who have continued to support this work, Elisabeth, Becky and Rachel. Our Children’s, Youth and Family Worker Helen Laird felt the nudge of the Holy Spirit to apply for a job with the URC and left us on 30[th] November after being in post for 13months. We are so grateful for all that she accomplished in the time she was here and wish her well for her new post. We began the process to employ someone new quickly and managed to interview for the post in November. We changed the job title from ‘worker’ to ‘minister’ in recognition that it is an important ministerial role and are delighted that Heather Murphy will be joining us as our new Children, Youth and Families Minister in February 2025. Our schools work continued to flourish throughout the year with Helen and Rachel both regularly taking assemblies and Godly Play sessions at Claines School. Claines school come into the church regularly for different occasions and they are always well received, we love having the relationship with the school that we do and will be looking to strengthen that even more in 2025. Connections were also built and strengthened with the North Worcester Academy, The Grange and the River School during 2024. ## **Occasional Offices** Baptism and Wedding packs were redesigned, and once I was in post it wasn’t long before new enquiries came flooding in and previous enquiries waiting for a Priest began to clear. There had been 5 a bit of a lull in wedding ministry since covid, but with all the enquiries that came in in 2024 it seems it may just be picking back up again now, which is really exciting. Baptism enquiries are also slowly picking up and I’m so deeply grateful to the Mother’s Union who are so supportive at the baptisms we do – thank you so much! We supported many bereaved families through our funeral ministry during the year, and of course we sadly lost Harry Sansome this year. It was a privilege to take such a special service as we said our farewells to him. Jean Smallwood also passed away and there was a memorial service held for her in Claines. ## **Worship** I have been truly blessed to arrive and to find such talented musicians at Claines and would like to extend special thanks to Vanessa who arranges our organists, leads the music group and the choir. I’ve been so impressed by all that she does and have personally found her so very helpful. A big thank you to Simon Taranzuk and Robin Walker too who are such talented organists and play for us regularly. Café Church is a newer form of church, but one that reaches children and families in a way that maybe a traditional Sunday Service doesn’t, and I’m so delighted to see how well this is run. The Café Church team do such a great job, so thank you to all those who’ve been involved in this; although I don’t get to come along often, I hear about it every month and I’m so pleased with how it’s going. Sunday worship that happens in the church comes in wide variety from the traditional communion to the devotions at dusk. Each form of worship is valid in its own right and each gives us that time with God that we all need. I’m enormously grateful to the ministry team who run so many of these services and enable everyone to meet with God in the space we have in different and creative ways. ## **Thank you!** I couldn’t list all the people I’d like to thank, it would fill a book already, but I am so, so grateful to everyone who serves our church in anyway, there is a whole army of people who keep this church running and half of them you wouldn’t even know about. My deepest thank you to everything that you do and the part you play for our community, it is really appreciated. ## **Looking to the Future** 2025 will be an exciting year for us and I’m eagerly anticipating all that God might have planned for us! I’m looking forward to working more closely with Rev Lindsey and to Heather starting in post. I’m also very much looking forward to our PCC away day in March as Claines and St George’s, and I’m excited to start discerning God’s vision for us as Churches. ## **CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT- Phil Kear and Annette Summers** 2024 has been another busy year for us all at Claines. During the first half of the year, we remained in interregnum. The support we received by visiting clergy during this period towards services was tremendous and included a visit from Bishop John to Café Church. Our own ministry team worked to ensure we provided our scheduled services and with the professional support from Tam in the office managing all additional requests. We thank them all. It was wonderful news to announce that we had appointed our new vicar, Sarah Carwardine, and we all enjoyed her licensing at St George’s in June followed by a joint communion service at Claines the following Sunday. It has been lovely to continue these joint services with St George’s regularly. We look forward to Lindsey Coulthard, the vicar from St Stephens who will be licensed to Claines and St Georges and sharing services with the congregations of all three churches in the future. 6 We held a wonderful community fundraising event in July which brought so many residents from the local area into church and helped to raise our profile which we are certainly looking to build on in 2025. The church buildings require consistent maintenance if they are to be useable and provide a valuable resource for all our community. Maintenance fell behind during covid and we are now trying to catch up. Obviously, we can only manage this when we have the funds available and why fundraising is very important, and we all have a part to play and support this. Your support could be through events, but we should all consider our regular giving, donations and future legacies. The church has also experienced vandalism and damage and we would ask all members of the community to be vigilant and if you see any suspicious activity around the church buildings to report it immediately to the police. The PCC works with the priest in the mission of the church and are consulted about all the work we undertake within the parish. This year we have several members retiring and we would love to invite you to consider joining us and supporting YOUR church. ## **Inventory** This has been checked and found to be in good order. ## **Fabric, Fixtures, Fittings and Furniture** All relevant checks have been carried out. The temporary removal of some pews to create the gathering area has been made a permanent fixture and we continue working towards the completion of the kitchen area in 2025. The Medieval Tiles removed in 2023 have been cleaned and are being framed and a faculty is being arranged for them to be hung back in the church in 2025. ## **Churchyards** Muddy Boots have continued to strim and mow the churchyard. Andrew Johnson and Steve Taylor have provided their services as Sexton, and we are very grateful for their continued support. ## **Parish Giving** We had a strong Parish Giving Scheme from the beginning, this has been affected by the general economic situation, but the uptake of new members is not keeping pace with the loss of members. We cannot sit back, and the Parish Budget needs to balance. The focus for 2025 will be to strengthen our regular giving and raise the funds to maintain our buildings. We have enjoyed superb controls on the finances by our treasurer, Janet Wilson, and we thank her for her hard work over the years as she retires from her position at the APCM. ## **Thanks** We are so lucky in Claines to have many volunteers who carry out their duties, without whom we would be unable to function. Thank you to all who give their time to support the church and for all those working in the background that are not seen. Special thanks are due to the following: - - Tammara Adams our Parish Administrator who provides invaluable support across so many areas of our work. - Julie Palmer for arranging the monthly rota and also our Electoral Role Officer - Organists, music group, band and choir who bring such wonderful music to our church and community. - Duty Warden’s, servers, readers, Intercessors, sides people and refreshment team for their diligence at all our services. 7 - Those that act as vergers’, cleaners, flower arrangers’, bellringers, Mother’s Union members at Baptisms, those that open and close the church daily and those fulfilling other roles across our church, its grounds, and buildings. We are so grateful to all that volunteer as without you our church could not operate. We would also like to acknowledge our Ministry Team. We are blessed to have such a strong group that support us in all areas of worship as well as meeting the needs of the congregation. **Thank You** ## **Quinquennial Inspection- Ian Cramp** It is a requirement that an inspection of the church and its grounds takes place at intervals of 5 years to ensure that the building is in good condition and to identify any remedial works that need to be undertaken in order to keep it in good condition is especially important with Heritage Buildingsour church is Listed 2* (among the top 5% of important buildings in the United Kingdom). The inspection was undertaken in 2023 by an experienced architect approved by the Diocesan Advisory Committee as having the appropriate expertise for listed buildings and their methods of construction. This identified a number of issues with the church and, thankfully, most are of a minor nature. However, it is necessary to continue to ensure that the church is maintained in good condition and it is thanks to those who have done this in previous years that our church does not require major expenditure. Fundraising is taking place in order to provide the money necessary to complete this important work. ## **Church Buildings- Ian Cramp** As well as undertaking minor works in church, the Building Management Group have continued to look after the other church properties- the Parish Hall, the Institute and Institute House. These provide income for the church. However, the skill base required for working in Listed buildings is different and more costly than for normal properties. ## **FINANCIAL REPORT- Janet Wilson** ## **Overview** In another year of changing circumstances and pressure of rising prices, we successfully paid our portion of the Ministry Share (£42,255) in full. The income from The Parish Giving Scheme and Standing Orders remained stable but at a reduced level from 2023. Income increased slightly from casual gift aid, cash collections and the card reader. ## **Income** - **Voluntary Income** : Slightly decreased compared to last year, primarily due to general reduced giving. - **Donations:** Considerably increased in 2024. - **Card Payment Machine** : Continues to be well-used, aiding our cash collections. - **Legacies** : Received contribution from Anthony Leeson - **Additional Contributions** : Magazine Fund, The Hall and Institute Fund and LinC each contributed towards church funds. ## **Expenditure** Our general expenditure was well-controlled, with significant costs attributed to: - Energy - Insurance - Alarm System 8 ## **Building Work** Outstanding costs from phase 1 include heating and the restoration/display of medieval tiles. Funding is also available for phase 2, including removal of additional pews to facilitate the installation of kitchen facilities. ## **Children's Minister** The Diocese continues to cover 80% of the costs for our Children's Minister. The remaining 20% is shared equally between Claines, St George’s, and St Stephen’s from General Funds. A huge thank you to everyone for their ongoing financial support and involvement. Your gifts make a real difference to the life of the church. ## **BUILDINGS MANAGEMENT GROUP (BMG)- Ian Cramp** There have been a number of challenges and issues during the last 12 months. Despite these, we have maintained the Hall and Institute in good condition and ready to serve their many users in the community. This has taken a significant amount of time and effort by the Building Management Group (BMG) and we are grateful to them for their hard work. Their efforts have also meant that the letting charges have been kept to a minimum, despite those factors such as energy and maintenance costs which have been increasing considerably throughout the year. The biggest outgoing cost continues to be energy. ## **Maintenance** We have been actively involved in the maintenance of our buildings. As part of this, we have undertaken works ourselves, if possible, and carefully monitored expenditure on contractors. An important part of maintenance has been cleaning and we have tried to maintain good standards. Further lighting replacement took place in the entrance lobby, the toilets and kitchen. ## **Institute House** We have carried out all required tests and inspections for Institute House and are very pleased with the positive way the tenant is caring for the property. ## **Occupation** Thanks to hard work by Katrina Boucher, the Hall is well occupied during most periods of the week and we have been successful in attracting a number of new bookings, despite the current poor financial climate, however, party bookings have reduced. There is more availability in the Institute and we will be working to increase the number of hirers. It is felt that the Hall is more popular with groups in view of its better location in the centre of population. We believe that both venues offer good value for money. ## **BMG Committee** We thank the BMG committee who work extremely hard to ensure good standards in all our premises. We are also very grateful to committee member Dilwyn Price who has made further generous donations to the Hall on behalf of the Community Café. We really appreciate the hard work by others on the committee especially Katrina Boucher, the Hall and Institute Manager. We are very grateful to Gordon Smith for his practical help in many ways, including redecorating the Hall kitchen, even though he is not a committee member. 9 Finally, please can we ask you to use our buildings whenever you can. A number of varied activities take place in them that should appeal to everyone. ## **HEALTH AND SAFETY- Ian Cramp** The church has been used for a number of events during 2024 when large numbers of people have been present. There have been no health and safety issues despite the buildings having uneven floors and being surrounded by paths and walkways of various levels. We have not had any incidents in the Hall or Institute. For large events, risk assessments are prepared in advance in order to ensure, as far as possible, the safety of those using the building. We continue to regularly inspect all equipment necessary for use in the event of an emergency. ## **SAFEGUARDING- Lorraine Deeprose** ## **Safeguarding Report** First of all - a very big thank you to the magnificent team of volunteers and paid roles at St John Baptist Claines - who serve both our local and church community – and a personal thanks from me for getting their DBS applications completed, going online and registering with the Government Update Service and for completing the appropriate training. Over the last few years safeguarding has become a priority in all faith communities – not least the Church of England, who now prescribe the way we recruit, check, train and support everyone working in a volunteer/paid role in or on behalf of the church. This in the normal run of things is what is being done - - Safeguarding is an item on all PCC agendas as is this report for the APCM. - Volunteers/paid roles with a direct contact with children or vulnerable adults must be police checked (DBS) and these are rechecked every 3 years. - All volunteers/paid roles are expected to sign up to the Government Update Service. This means a DBS application does not have to be done again, but the volunteer/paid role is reminded by the Update service to renew their registration every year. This then enables the PSO to check annually through the online system that they have not been involved in the harm of any child, young person or vulnerable adult and can continue in their role within our church. - Everyone is expected and encouraged to complete safeguarding training at a level conducive with the level of their responsibilities and these must be renewed every 3 years. Helpfully, much of this training is now available online. 10 - The Parish Dashboard is kept up to date with relevant information as to what is happening within our church. - All groups & activities that come under the umbrella of the church are complying to all polices, practices and expectations regarding safeguarding. Keeping all those they come into contact with safe from harm. It is my wish for St John Baptist Claines that whilst we continue to maintain good practice in terms of safeguarding practice, policy and procedure we also develop an even stronger culture of safeguarding so that everyone who has contact with us feels safe, respected and cared about and that we are seen as a church for whom safeguarding is at the forefront of all aspects of our work and mission. ## **ADDENDUM TO APCM – SAFEGUARDING REPORT April 6th 2025** ## **Safeguarding Statement** To the best of our understanding, the PCC of St John Baptist Claines, Worcester have complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have due regard to the House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults). In 2024 we conducted the following: - 30 new DBS processed (this was due to a number of DBS checks being over 3 years old). Total people with an up-to-date DBS = 35 - Number of DBS applications that required referral to DSA/ADSA = 0 - Number of DBS that have lapsed without renewal = 0 - Number of people who have attended training = 30 - Any advice sought from DSA/ADSA this year and any actions as a result? **Yes - advice was sought regarding a variety of safeguarding general questions.** - Are there any safeguarding agreements in place in the parish? **No** - Have there been any serious incident reports made to the Charity Commission? **No** - Sharing of updates from PSO network meetings? Or training events? **PSO submits reports on network meetings and training she and others attended at PCC meeting** - Any policy changes/new statements added/new Diocesan/National policies adopted? **1. Safeguarding is on the agenda at every PCC meeting.** **2. We include a report in the Church Annual Report’s, and** **3. This Addendum will be incorporated in every year’s Annual report** - Completion of toolkit/take up of Dashboard? **Yes, St John Baptist Claines is Green across Level 3 Dashboard** - Highlights of Parish action plan? **To check compliance of all parish activities taking place.** - How many children’s/adult activities are taking place in the parish? **7 adult/5 children’s** - Any new ones planned? **We are currently working with the CYFM and new groups/activities are in the pipeline.** - **We currently don’t have defined role description for those working with vulnerable adults and children. The Diocese has templates for most roles within the church, we will be carrying out additional work to produce specific job descriptions for every role.** ## **Parish Safeguarding Polices** Our Safeguarding Policies are reviewed on an annual basis by the PCC. All policies were reviewed and agreed this will take place at our first PCC meeting after the APCM. All our policies are displayed in every church venue, along with ‘Who’s Who’ poster for Safeguarding, plus useful websites and contact details for anyone who needs help, support, isolated or feeling vulnerable. 11 ## **DATA PROTECTION-Annette Summers** There have been no instances of data breaching. Good GDPR practice is followed. **REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31[ST] DECEMBER 2024** Signed on behalf of the Trustees …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………… Rev. Sarah Carwardine Date …06.04.25…………. 12 ## **ACTIVITIES OF THE PARISH** ## **WORCESTER DEANERY SYNOD- Paul Fulbrook** Deanery Synod has met 3 times this year. On each occasion we are at a different venue. This serves two purposes. The first is the opportunity to visit the very varied locations of parishes in our Deanery and also to ensure not every Synod member has a distance to travel each time. The first Synod was an opportunity to meet the new Arch Deacon - Mark Badger. He encouraged us to think about mission with a particular focus on engaging with people moving into new housing developments but also thinking about how we connect with new people moving into existing homes in our parishes. As groups from different churches we were encouraged to look at what our churches currently offer and where there are openings to extend our welcome beyond the church setting. The aim is to bring people gradually into contact with the church and faith by using experiences and settings where they feel more comfortable. At our second Synod meeting we were invited to bring our Treasurers along. Quite often issues involving finance are discussed at Diocese level without the impact of everyday, individual parish life being articulated. This meeting was used to discuss the issues faced by us as parishes which were then presented to the Diocesan Officers for them to understand our concerns. Our final meeting had two guest speakers. Rev Kim Brown has been appointed to help develop New Worshipping Communities. She has a wealth of experience and provided many resources and ideas that parishes can build into current parish activities. She is willing to help all churches wanting support to develop their interaction in communities. The second speaker was the Rev Duncan Hutchinson who has launched the ‘Church and School Partnership Award’ in our Diocese. An extra event, organised by Rev Paul Wilcox, was a Deanery Prayer event. It was held on September 11[th] , offering prayer stations linked to praying for different aspects of our Deanery life. The detail that was put into the evening was excellent but unfortunately very few non-clergy attended. This was a shame as the quality of what was offered was excellent. Elizabeth Fleming and Nick Stephens ## **20/20+ VISION PROJECT- Ian Cramp** In 2023 we reported that the majority of the 2020 project had been completed. This has comprised the construction of two toilets in the vestry together with reordering of the space to allow new storage and cupboards to be installed. Since then we have been making full use of the new facilities as well as the improved storage in the vestry. The toilets and drainage system are much appreciated and work well. The vacancy meant that the majority of those managing the project were required to assist with the running of the church but the appointment of Rev. Sarah has meant that work can resume on the few outstanding issues. The medieval tiles on the wall of the North porch had been carefully removed and stored before work commenced in forming an arch into what would become the accessible toilet. Work has now taken place to restore them and enable them to be presented in the best possible way and it is planned to mount them on two panels at the rear of the nave once a faculty has been obtained to do so. ## **PROJECT WORKS- Ian Cramp** During the year, the faculty permitting us to permanently remove a few pews from the North West corner of the church was approved and it is planned to use some of them to form the outside of a 13 catering unit. We have found that the meeting area created by the removal of these pews has worked extremely well and provides a comfortable space for gathering after services and also for some meetings. It also forms a useful area when music is provided by the Instrumental Group. Work has proceeded with the design of this area to accommodate a catering unit to serve light refreshments, storage (we can never have enough!) and flexible seating space. The architect developed plans during the year and it is hoped to apply for a faculty in Spring 2025. As part of our inclusive church policy, it is also hoped to remove a pew at the junction of the nave and transept to allow persons in wheelchairs and motorised scooters to be closer to the front of the church. Minor modifications to the threshold step at the South door will be made to improve access. Competitive quotations have been obtained for a new public address system and video facilities although it is likely that only the public address system will be installed in 2025. During the year we have experienced issues with the tower clock. The manufacturers have advised that the motor is at the end of its working life (it was installed in 1947) and parts are no longer available. Additionally, someone has to manually reset the mechanism following a power cut, of which there have been several during the year. We are very indebted to Derry Clifford and members of his family who in August undertook a sponsored parachute jump to raise the money needed to replace the motor. Many of you will know that Derry has significant experience in clocks of all types and has been appointed the clocks advisor to Worcester Diocesan Advisory Committee. ## **CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND YOUTH WORK- Rachel Cramp and Rev Sarah Carwardine** Helen Laird had been employed as the Children’s, Youth and Families Worker since September 2023. By the beginning of 2024 Helen was very actively involved in many aspects of Children, Youth and Families work and in local schools, and during the year there were many changes. Rev Sarah Carwardine joined us in June and then in November we wished Helen Laird a fond farewell as she moved on to a new job. 2024 was a very busy year! A new worshipping community called ‘Gather’ was started, and once a month children and families were invited after school, into church for a story, song, prayer, activities and hot chocolate and toast! Whilst the numbers remained small, those that came really enjoyed the sessions, but this finished in July. In church Helen continued to place photocopies of age-appropriate materials into church, to link to the Lectionary, which children could use, and themed bags of stories and activities were available for use in the Children’s Worship area or in pews with parents. Children happily set up the Children’s altar on Sundays and we looked forward to our purpose made altar being completed, also occasionally Godly Play stories were told in church. 14 **Little Friends Toddler Group** continued their wonderful sessions, led by Heather Murphy and an organising Group. A prayer box for Little Friends and Little Fish was placed in the foyer of the Hall. **Little Fish** was held on the third Tuesday of the month in Claines Parish Hall, from 10 am until 11.30 am and aimed at pre-school children and led by Helen Laird, Rachel Cramp LLM, Kathy Hathaway and the team. The children came along with a parent or carer to join in with songs, prayers and an interactive Bible Story, enjoy creative activities and enjoy a drink and a biscuit. The Easter and Christmas sessions were held in Claines Church. During 2024 we learned about Jesus’ life, and how Jesus is our friend and teaches us to be kind and caring. We learned about Lent, Easter, Advent and getting ready for Christmas. Other topics included Harvest time and the Lost Sheep and we finished the school year in July with a joint session with Little Friends, and held a ‘Big Picnic’ and looked at the story of the Feeding of the 5000. _**We are always happy to welcome new children and very much appreciate the help and support of the mums, grandparents and carers of our Little Fish.**_ We would like to say a _**huge special thank**_ **you** to Mothers’ Union members, Annie Ray, Jane Saint and Pat Price who help in the kitchen and join in the sessions. **POG (Path of God) The Joint churches Youth Group** has continued to meet monthly, moving around the three churches in turn: Claines, St George’s and St Stephen’s. The numbers of young people has been growing and everyone enjoys the range of themes, games and activities and the lovely food they share, s’mores being a particular favourite! Helen Laird, Becky Lowe and Elisabeth Witter have led these sessions with support from Rev Sarah, Rev Lindsey and Rachel. **Junior Bishop** was once again re-instated this year, with a Junior Bishop, supported by his Junior Chaplain in post for Advent. They undertook many roles, including reading from the bible, preparing and reading prayers and the Junior Bishop reflected on his own faith; a courageous thing to do, especially during the teenage years **Schools work** has been very important during the year, with young people coming into church for a range of activities, from Claines Primary, North Worcester Primary Academy and The Grange. Claines School regularly hold services in church and Helen and Rachel have taken Godly Play stories into school to support the curriculum and also take assemblies. Rev Sarah has welcomed parents and children to school once a week when she is on the gate. There were many other times of worship: a lovely Remembrance Service was held, with large numbers of the Uniformed Groups in church, an Eco Christingle was held in church when we welcomed the support of the Guides and a busy, fun Crib Service was held. Both Claines Posada and the Diocesan Posada travelled around both church and school families. 15 _**STOP PRESS** – We are delighted to announce that Heather Murphy has been appointed as the new Children, Youth and Families Minister for the three churches and will take up her post in February 2025._ ## **CLAINES COMMUNITY CAFÉ- Jane Saint and Annie Ray** We are pleased to report that 2024 was another successful year for the café with those attending each week numbering between 40 and 50. We are so grateful to all our regular helpers whether they bake, serve, welcome, keep the tea flowing, set up, clear up, wash up or manage our funds. Four members of the team were honoured to be invited to the Mayor’s inaugural banquet in September in recognition of our contribution to the community. We were also fortunate to receive a grant from the Mayor which funded a coach trip to Evesham Vale Country Park. This was a great success and much enjoyed by all. Another coach trip is planned. This year we have gradually introduced a few extra attractions; live music afternoons, a quiz, a visit from fire safety officers and of course our Christmas party which was again a joyful event with live music and dancing, Father Christmas and gifts for all.We have managed to keep our charges modest (£2 for tea and cake) and still contribute to Worcester Foodbank, Dementia UK and The Salvation Army. We have maintained the defibrillator and replaced café and hall equipment as necessary. We are at the Parish Hall from 2 - 3.30 every Tuesday. Everyone is welcome. We are always on the lookout for newcomers and will make sure they are introduced to others. Thank you to all who attend the café for their loyal and cheerful support. ## **ECO CHURCH- Ian Cramp** Since obtaining our Silver Eco- Church award in 2022, we have been continuing to look at ways in which we can reduce our impact on the planet. We have been looking closely at energy costs and obtaining the best tariffs in all our buildings. This is not an easy task with so much uncertainty in the energy marketplace. We have also looked at reducing the amount of energy we use and when we use it. The biggest problem we face is in the Hall and Institute where one hirer might feel that the room is too hot, so they open all the doors and the next group to enter finds that it is then too cold! We installed a remotely operated thermostat so that the Hall temperature could be easily controlled. This has led to significant energy savings. We are working towards the Gold standard for Eco-Church. However, to do this we will need to spend money on, among other things, better insulating our buildings and funds are likely to be an issue. We are investigating the possibility of grants for the Hall and Institute. ## **QUEST BEREAVEMENT GROUP- Tricia Greenwood** The group is for someone who has lost a loved one and can chat to others in a similar position. The numbers have stayed at a steady 15 including. We meet every third Thursday of the month for tea and cake. 16 Unfortunately we did not have outings in 2024 and they were certainly missed. We will rectify this for 2025! We did have our Christmas Meal at the New Inn which was well accepted. They look after us very well. If you are interested in joining the group or having a chat please contact Trish for more details. 01905 28580 ## **THE WORCESTER FOODBANK- Lyn Crowther** At both churches we support Worcester Foodbank by giving a regular supply of both food and essential household goods. Financial support is also given from church funds and from individuals. Both churches give support from volunteers either working in the warehouse or as delivery drivers. December 2024 saw record numbers needing the services of the Foodbank as well as during peak times of the year such as school holidays. The increased opening times of 2022 have continued into 2024 and it looks as if they will be needed for the foreseeable future. The premises are being extended into the former salon services in the near future which will give much needed increased capacity. In the meantime, our regular giving of food, goods, time and money are essential to the ongoing work of the Foodbank here in Worcester. A heartfelt thanks to you all. ## **LUNCH IN COMPANY (LINC)- John Brady** Linc lunch has been running for quite a few years now and continues to take place on the second Saturday of every month providing a meal and a good chat for those who attend. Meals range from Shepherd’s pie, to pork chops in cider, to lasagne, to chicken chasseur, to …. well, you name it. A popular meal is the succulent spring lamb that has become a must for every Eastertide. Puds are equally good and nearly always with custard plus our Christmas meal is really not to be missed. We were, again, very grateful to St Georges’ for allowing us to use the Magdalene room for a yummy fish and chip supper. It is nice to get away from our usual Church Hall venue to somewhere different, once a year. Sadly, as is the case every year, some of our regulars are no longer with us. We wish those who have moved away or are unable to come along due to ill health some good dinners, wherever they are. Hopefully you may be able to join us again in the future. It is always good to have people return for the occasional meal. As always, thanks should also be expressed in this report, to the members of the team who provide LINC lunches, that is, Jane and Simon Saint, Matt and Laura Stevens, Ian Townley, Jan Kear, Pat Harris, Alan Long, Anne Ray and myself. We all feel that providing LINC lunches is a very rewarding experience. If you would like to help in the future, please get in touch with any of those mentioned. New helpers would be most welcome Finally, we would welcome any new diners to our lunches and our company. If you are on your own then please do get in touch with us, or the vicar, and we will get back to you. John Brady ## **CHURCH MAGAZINE- Pat Oddy** As usual, we have produced 10 magazines in the year to December 2024. Four of them had 40 pages and the other six had 36. Each issue contained about 31 advertisements, which helps to defray the cost of printing. Fortunately we receive interesting articles from our readers which is very reassuring, and means that we usually have no trouble in filling the number of pages available each month! The articles entitled ‘Parish Personalities’ seem to have been popular with readers, but less popular when we descend on a possible contributor to reveal all. Once you put pen to paper you will find that 400 words+ and two photos is not much to ask and one or two memorable reminiscences will soon fill the space. We are particularly interested in contributions from those who have lived in Claines for all (or most of) their lives and who can write about the Claines of their youth. Stories about the personalities of the past, particularly those who made a contribution to the life of Claines Parish Church are top of our list. If you have a possible story but really need some advice, please speak to the editor as ‘ghost writers’ are available! 17 The talent in the pews is amazing with gardeners, poets, puzzle solvers, cooks and writers, and we are delighted to hear from them all; thank you for your continued support, and I hope anyone else who is inspired will put pen to paper – you do not have to be a computer genius! This year we have been pleased to welcome the Reverend Sarah to our production team and are grateful to her for stepping up so quickly to writing the ministerial letters at the front of the magazines. We are also grateful to all the organisers who have provided us with details of events in good time to encourage maximum support, especially for fund-raising events for church. Sadly, this year we have lost a number of our long term subscribers to the magazine, which has reduced the number we print, but we still make sure that there are plenty for sale in church each month. If this is how you prefer to obtain your copy, would you please be kind enough to put your £1 payment in one of the brown envelopes available on the table, before placing this in the safe on the pillar by the South door, so that we can calculate how many we have sold. It is helpful to be able to balance the number we need with the number we get printed. Meanwhile, we are hugely grateful to all those who deliver the magazines each month – and moreover collect in the annual subscriptions – they do a wonderful job and once again in 2024 were entertained to strawberries and fizz in July. ## **SOCIAL MEDIA – Rachel Cramp** Throughout 2024 Social Media has remained an important way to communicate with the congregation and wider parish, especially very active Facebook account. the We currently have 1516 followers on the Claines Church Facebook site, 75% women and 25% men; 27% of the current audience are aged 35-44, 17% aged 45-54 and 22% aged 65+, but 34% are in the 25-34 and younger age group – so reflecting an intergenerational audience. Half of our followers are from Worcester and Fernhill Heath, with others from elsewhere in Worcestershire, further afield and overseas. The most popular posts include photographs and links. There has again been an increase on the Claines Parish Hall and Institute site, up to 567 followers, 86% women and 14% men; 39% are aged 35-44, 24% aged 45-54, 14% aged 55-64 – 23% younger or older than the categories given. Hirers of the Hall and Institute appreciate being able to place ads and updates on their classes, which they really appreciate. 77% of the audience are from Worcester and Fernhill Heath. Last year we explained there were concerns about ‘X’ and how it was being run. Whilst we had approximately 500 followers, it had been largely dormant for a year. Worcester Diocese, and many clergy moved from ‘X’ to Blue Sky. It had been useful for networking, but many Dioceses, individuals and groups had left. It was decided to close the Claines Church X account, and during 2025 we plan to explore other options that might be useful for networking in the future. We would like to thank our ‘Zoom drivers’; all who contribute to the Facebook sites and Rachael Wilson who looks after our Claines Church website: https://claineschurch.co.uk ## **LITTLE FRIENDS- Heather Murphy** During 2024, Little Friends continued to be led by a committee of volunteers in accordance with our constitution. The committee currently consists of: Chair - Heather Murphy Secretary - Ally Craven Treasurer - Julie MacRae Additional parent volunteers regularly help us to set up, pack down and oversee our facebook page. The Mothers Union continues to support us by serving refreshments, and two volunteers from Claines Church help us do the heavy lifting. Overview: Little Friends meets Tuesday mornings (excluding the third Tuesday of the month) during term time from 10am-11.30am at Claines Parish Hall on Cornmeadow Lane. We support and run in 18 conjunction with Little Fish. We primarily communicate via Facebook and email claineslittlefriends@gmail.com. We charge £1.50 per family with 50p for each additional child. Funds continue to be managed in a sub-account of Claines church. Our intention is to provide a safe, inclusive, nurturing stay and play session for children aged birthschool and their families/carers. We have a strong understanding of the EYFS Development Matters curriculum and provide activities and resources to stimulate babies and children in attendance. A strong focus is on growing relationships, supporting parents and carers, building community and links to Claines Church. Some of the toys/activities available each week include: a train set, dolls house, car garages, home corner, dressing up, ride on toys, slide, puzzles, duplo, mega bloks, baby toys. We also set up crafts, messy play, water play, painting and malleable activities such as play dough or jelly. We have a book corner with a library system allowing families to borrow books. As well as using the hall, we use the outdoor paved area and during good weather broaden out onto The Patch. A "family style dining snack table" is set up with free, healthy food for children. Hot drinks, biscuits and toast are provided for adults. Each session ends with a story, nursery rhymes and bubbles. Feedback forms were sent out at the end of the academic year. We had a high response with extremely positive and encouraging comments. Numbers: During 2024, the average number of children per session was 30. This means that the hall has been very busy as each child is accompanied by parents and/or carers. For health and safety reasons, during wet weather our maximum number of children is 34. This does mean that on occasion, we are forced to close our doors and families are unable to join our session. However, during dry months, The Patch can be used. With the additional space we are able to admit more families. Our busiest sessions during May and July had 40 children in attendance. Christian Ethos: During the autumn term, we collected baby clothes, toys and equipment for Grow Baby Growbaby International Children's Supplies Charity This was very successful and we filled a van with donations of clothing and equipment for babies and children in Worcester. An Easter bake sale, Christmas card project and plant sales collectively raised £151.20 for Worcester Neonatal Unit Worcs Neonatal Unit Fund . We continue to collect stamps for the charity Kicks Count. Your Baby's Movements Matter. Kicks Count is the UK's leading baby movement campaign, keeping mums and babies safe. For the second year, we collected items for the Foodbank during Harvest and to mark Mothering Sunday we blessed the women with daffodil posies. Families were given a “nativity scene advent calendar” which included daily bible verses. Easter story booklets were handed out. Parents/carers going through difficult times or big “life moments” are given flowers. A prayer post-box is accessible during sessions. A breast-feeding support worker now attends most sessions and can offer feeding advice to new mums. It continues to be a privilege to chair Little Friends. Please continue to pray for our group, for our volunteers and families. Thank you to all our 2024 Little Friends volunteers - Ally, Jules, Lou, Chloe, Alice, Sarah, Sarah J, Haimisha, Eva, Pav, Lynne, Jane, Annie, Pat, Rob, Derry and Helen. Thank you ## **MOTHER’S UNION - Jan Hayden and Rachel Cramp** 19 Our members can be found in all aspects of church life and include welcomers, Bible readers, intercessors, vergers, choir members, musicians in the church music group, members of the Flower Guild and Licensed Lay Ministers. Members also support Little Friends, Little Fish, LINC, Café Church and the Community Café. Members have a special ministry at baptisms, supporting clergy, welcoming and looking after the congregation and undertaking readings. Claines Mothers’ Union continues to increase its membership and meets regularly to enjoy fellowship locally and within the Deanery and Diocese by attending numerous joint meetings and Acts of Worship. We hold regular fund-raising events throughout the year to help fund the various projects/programmes Mothers Union support across the World. We begin our meetings in prayer and our programmes are very diverse from talks such as “The Malvern Water Cure” to craft evenings, musical evenings and times when we get out and about visiting places of interest or learning about our own town, for example by undertaking a history walk around Worcester. In December Gwen Clifford stepped down as Branch Co-Ordinator to take on the role of Vice President of the Worcester Diocese Mothers’ Union, with a particular responsibility for the Southern Archdeaconry. We all wish Gwen well in her new role. We extend our continued thanks to the clergy, the church congregation and all in the community who support us in prayer, and who care for our work. ## **PARISH MUSIC - Vanessa Gunter** The church musicians have been as busy as ever and it has been another rewarding year. It has been lovely to welcome Charlotte and Kathy to the church choir. Their enthusiasm and hard work is infectious and they have helped to swell and strengthen our wonderful soprano line. Throughout 2024, the choir have regularly sung services on the 4[th] Sunday of each month, with many members also opting to join forces and sing on the 2[nd] Sunday as well. These monthly appearances are an important part of our ministry, and we are very grateful for the chance to use our voices to lead worship in this way. We have enjoyed the opportunity to sing at additional services throughout the year, with extra appearances around Easter and Christmas allowing us to explore seasonal music in more depth. The Carol Service at Claines on 22[nd] December was a real highlight. The choir worked incredibly hard to 20 prepare for this and, from our opening carol, ‘People look East’ to the closing ‘Cowboy Carol’ and ‘Hark the Herald’, there was something for everyone. The instrumental group have been hard at work this year too, playing on the 1[st] Sunday of the month and continuing to enjoy exploring new repertoire. This is an incredibly hardworking and committed group of musicians, and they continue to delight the congregation each month. A highlight of 2024 was the opportunity to join forces with the musicians at St George’s for the licensing of Rev. Sarah Carwadine, at the beginning of June. It was wonderful to collaborate in this way, and we hope that there will be many more opportunities to do this in the future. Our regular organists, Simon Taranczuk and Robin Walker, and teenage organ scholar Rory Woodward leave many of us in awe and filled with wonder when they bring their talent to play for us. All in all, music is in a great place at Claines at the moment and we are looking forward to seeing what 2025 will hold. ## **SPARK TO A FLAME – Ann Sansome** 2024 started with several new singing members who have faithfully served throughout the year. We have enjoyed another year of leading worship at the monthly Cafe Church expanding our repertoire of songs and hymns. We have also started to meet once a month, as often we can, to meet and sing for an hour one evening. Anyone is welcome to join us for a short time of worship preparing for the next Cafe Church but enjoying a time of fellowship and worship along the way. In December the band led worship at the annual Christingle and Crib Services which were again attended by lots of families and young people. We are always looking to add to our group of singers and any instrumentalists would be very welcome to join us. It is a privilege to serve our community by leading worship. as ## **BELL RINGING - Martyn Hills** Claines is in the same position as many churches with bells; ringing is largely achieved by bell ringers coming together from different churches, this can be challenging when service times coincide. On a more positive note, a band to ring the bells can usually be arranged for couples choosing to get married at Claines. Leaving through the South door to the sound of the bells is a very memorable finale to the church element of the day. Occasionally visiting bands come to ring but requests are falling in line with declining numbers of ringers. It's great to still be able to ring to celebrate special occasions; Remembrance Day and the Carol service were supported with ringers from the Cathedral. ## **FLOWER GUILD - Pat Harris** 21 The flower guild work to produce beautiful and much appreciated flower arrangements for regular services throughout the year; they are in keeping with the church calendar. Special events, such as Christmas and Easter are marked with extra displays. There were only two weddings in church in 2024; we were able to put flowers in church as a welcome. Our Plant sale in May did excellently and boosted our funds. The Guild would appreciate another volunteer to organise running the plant sale in 2025. ## **KINGDOM ARTS - Alex New & Sue Ashby-Davies** It has been another full and exciting year at Kingdom Arts. We are grateful to God for what he has taught us, for the people who have joined us in this special community and for the support and encouragement we receive from one another. After a time of worship, we share the theme for the morning. This always guides our thoughts and fashions our creative activities. This year we are looking at the work and lives of some Christian artists and also the stories behind some of the 20[th] Century Christian Martyrs depicted in stone statues at Westminster Abbey. Ater being creative for the morning we have a time of sharing and it is wonderful to hear from people what they have learnt during this time or what God may have put on their hearts to share. The creative writing that people produce is very special and a very encouraging and exciting part of the morning. Do look at the website and see what is produced each month. (kingdom-arts.co.uk) This year in November, we celebrated the start of our 10[th] year of Kingdom Arts. We exchanged surprise gifts together to mark the occasion. Everyone was encouraged to bring something they had made, stitched, painted or written to give away. What lovely surprises we had! None of this would happen without the support, love, hard work, commitment and encouragement of the amazingly gifted team. Each member willingly and tirelessly brings their own unique gifts and talents. Barbara and Bob, Clive and Lyn, Jan Butterworth, “Coffee maker” Pam, Trevor, Margaret Stokes, Carolyn. Our morning would not be complete without the delicious soup lunch that our “Super Chef” Jan Kear makes. We are also grateful to David Moore, from St Peters, Ipsley, who helps lead our Worship every month. We look forward to all that this year may bring to us as we journey together in the creative community that is Kingdom Arts. ## **CHRISTIAN AID - Alison Clarke** ‘Everyone is equal in the sight of God.’ ‘The unstoppable power of hope’ is how Christian Aid sums up its mission in this 80[th] anniversary year of its work. Events are being planned nationally and locally to mark this special year. As a Christian Aid Emergency Church, St George’s is able to respond quickly in times of need. In October 2024, with need horrendously increased in Gaza, you donated generously to Christian Aid’s Middle East Crisis appeal. In May at St George’s, our invited speaker at our Christian Aid Week Café Church was Batanai Padya (church engagement and fundraising officer for CA in the Midlands). We focussed on Burundi, where we learnt about Aline, victim of an abusive marriage and torn from her children. We learned how, with Christian Aid’s help, she was able to acquire new skills, make a fresh start and welcome back her children. Your prayers, gifts and campaigning make such a difference. At Claines your church collection raised £86.50. Thank you! At St George’s we raised £750.67 through a folk concert and church collection. Thank you! To get involved with Christian Aid activities or to find out more, please speak to Alison Clarke clarke.alison@gmail.com 22 ## **THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY- Julie Palmer** The Church of England Children’s Society began in 1881. Edward Rudolf, a young Sunday school teacher and civil servant in South London, saw the effects of poverty on the children and decided to do something about it. It is a national charity working to transform the hopes and happiness of young people facing abuse, exploitation and neglect. It supports them through their most serious life challenges and campaigns for the big social changes that will improve the lives of those who need hope most. More details on the work of the Children’s Society can be found on their website. In 2024 Claines Church raised £317.69 for the Children’s Society. - £240.20 was raised via the box collections and - £77.49 was collected at the Christingle Service. I have now completed my time as the Children’s Society Coordinator for Claines. Thank you so much to everyone who has donated time and/or money to the charity, your support has been very much appreciated. ## **LEGACIES - MAKING A LASTING DIFFERENCE** Only five per cent of people in the UK have left a gift for a charity in their will, and yet legacies are the largest single source of income for many charities in this country today. Once you have provided for your family and friends, leaving a gift to Claines Church will ensure that our work can continue for many years to come. Legacies have over the years, and thanks to the generosity of those who have made bequests, contributed greatly to the work and mission of Claines church. The PCC appreciates all bequests both large and small. There are many types of gifts that can be made: _**Pecuniary legacy**_ – a cash gift of any size. _**Specific legacy**_ – items of value such as property, a car or jewellery. _**Residuary bequest**_ – balance of your estate after all debts, taxes, expenses and other legacies have been paid. All legacies are tax free. If you make such a gift in your will, its value will be deducted from your estate before inheritance tax is calculated. If you are thinking about leaving a legacy or have already remembered us in your will, we would love to talk to you about it; everything you say will be treated in the strictest confidence. We would then have the opportunity to thank you for your generosity. When considering leaving a legacy, we recommend that you consult a Solicitor who will be able to give you specialist advice according to your own individual circumstances. **----- Start of picture text -----**
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St John Baptist Claines PCC ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2024 ttwrtyt-.I'. 1&2011 r* 3. Ihe (J F•Tnhll Trltraih IIR3 7UQ 25 PCC of St John Bapt1•( Clalnas stat•m•nt ol Flnanclal A¢tMtkn for th• yw •nd•d 318t D•¢omb•r 2024 R•Bl¥tf*tsx No 113Q734 nd 2023 Not• INCOIING RESOIIRCES vol￿ A¢tibitsBforgwf81k¥J furv IncoTh lrnm Invest￿t Inc(Th Church activltho othgr hK¢mlry ra50urces TOTAL I4COII*IG RE*￿IAtE3 11 22 13 775 3.033 7.100 2.029 32.320 6,1 10,185 422 913 79,87T 52.344 3.316 57284 14.C44 211,1)0 718 5,213 16 117,410 8J,381 RE8OURCÈ8 EXPENDED rA wwaUngfurvJs 216 487 67,952 1.072 n7 49.232 218 216 161 42,837 dlrwlty to Ihe ¢lyxth Church M¥￿8ft￿nt ad￿￿nIstr￿ TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED 30.488 141.C65 101672 92,542 196, 37.351 NET INCOIIIIWIOUTOOIMQI RE•OURCES 11# 12,1 711 T MOVEMEMf Ipi FLVILMI 44711 14387 eALANCES BIIOUOHT FOThARDAT 1STJANU 23,888 Y.371 81.766 1￿,821 124,435 BALAMCE8 CARAÈO FOIiWAfiD AT 318T DECEIIBER 24131 1MSJJ 1)9,12Z Balance Sh•ot at 31•t Decom￿r 2024 2024 2023 FIXWA•8E78 4.114 4,362 S¢oc* Shcrft8rn1 Cuh 8t Wk In l¥nd 8,718 1,591 77.076 18.283 145.19) 118193 YEAR A88Ef8 20,780 188,533 1J1822 u￿51r1Et￿l DpivJnal•J 24,1 70,4KI 21085 34,371 %#,J33 1J9,822 proygd PCC w ...... ... ......... 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ActMtS05 dlr•ctly rdBlln9 to tl¥twth of th Chwch As 013191 2024 £30,fY)) la)23 £&3.c￿l ol w alctakn W boen ow $horofor 21)24 £42,25513J23 £40,242). An 8mtytht fA £12,W12023 £7.2421 and ré¢J in hll l>th th• 4th Fefywy d&8d11￿. b￿*)Ce ef£nl12023 r6m*ned W#KI. Flx•d a••ots ConsecTthI of is amdud￿frUrn by &W2K81 ofth• Ch8¢th• 1993. vat40 tbJrth I￿1 bythe Vl(xr and on tru8t l¢r Ihe PCC. st￿ wlwch r•wNr• lor 8r6 8ccoMW for 8s inall8n*4& wci)8rty unb8s& ttonsgGr*ed. Thy Ilsled In th8 thJFth'8 In aTrJ can bp l 01 rO85cwb￿ lsml. Fcf hallenatla Fytprtywlrnd pr&y lo 2003 Ihere kn Insufflclanl cest rfwmatb￿ 4vwt4ble #nd thoreforo assets ar8 Thjl valu&J Sn acc(Kfftts. Iton$ acqUIr￿ $M*• 151 Jar￿ry 2LNJ3 be cyitsliwj arvj deprnci81ed in llctounts cy4er Ihelr currently e9llmj￿a y￿Ul •¢ononN¢ lifv a streiyhl lin baeN. PJI exp8n¢*uJre Irthrr•J in thè yew on cimecr8ted inth¥tyJud i1w￿ £l,(OJ or c•) fv rew ofmty8t4• chL¥r* lurthshrys 8cquKgJ belore Isl Janw 2ts)318 irfr. Olh•r flxlw•, ffttbng• and offic• •qulpm•rt E(pJipmenl used t￿Irth prom￿061$ dew8cLthJ on a Iln¢ bad8 ow4 ￿￿. il•￿ gwlwtht a pw¢haM fv of kns6 than £1.OCQ w1056 ara vThltt8n cl1wh￿ V*88881 N aL4Llr@d lh• PLv¢hased In 207J t* ¢8prncbat•d at 5% cft • t*818, Curr•Trt a*￿ts Stock rw95enl6 and aid & V81U￿ at the c4 cA)8t r* v4uo. Arnwnt5 lo th& PCC al 31st l)eceth are shc**m as d8btcrfs ￿8S amtxjrts th81 mqy pr¢J¥e uncc41gdablB. term depwts I￿￿*1¢ on d•p)g11 CBF CIK¥th of Enwland d8pw"I fund. 27 PCC of St John BaptlsL Clalnes Nots¥ to Financial Slatemonts F•rih•>wr•ndvd 31•tD•uThb•r2024 G•Mrnl D￿￿1•0 R•Btrlol•d Tthl Trf•l I IMCOWW3 AE80LWICE8 Fl•nn•l grfta*J•tTr* >7￿29 10,849 3,521 3.505 547 4.206 610 1.500 52.715 56,1111 2.883 4¥2 7,1111 10,1 718 913 J.311 ChIldr￿5 Wuk 32.th) 4,191 75,e47 Hw59. Hal In5Utthe leMryi Wodthng &¥J lunwa f••A 7th117 S213 40,169 5.213 79,877 32,￿0 11 57. JndrylrK¢4Th F¢r¢•B 8.811 3,m 8.811 11,597 14IM4 TOT￿lIcI)MING RESOURCE8 70.110 IA3S1 4•h*) 205.Q2a ?11 3. RESOURCES EYPENDED 21$ 216 211 216 151 151 487 42255 42JS5 Cawgy•yrths 1J 13.584 1,740 lJ,S 13,•93 178$ P•ith 2,248 1.168 Pwith Hal IroUII¢ 181 2.018 32352 72 141,01S •.782 C1(tyJ 102,672 17.952 42,e37 444 1J.W 218 14,J70 218 1.072 91542 T07•LIIESOUft¢ES EXPENDED 49,232 JTJ51 168.310 1•&680 28 PCC of Sl John Baptist, Clalne• Notes to the Flnanclal Statements Ftsrth•y•Ar￿•d 31At DK•mb•r 2024 XEDA88Ers Totsl C08T t318iDèt•nber2024 DEPREeiATrON 1,596 char￿10rth¥ y 218 218 14 NET BOOK VALUE As at 31st De¢enty 2024 144 s al 31st Dgcombw 20 Thg PcCd￿S havg a forud0ft￿f￿61 (Y oftr* hal I￿￿ut0 PCCconBwhrJ thBtth• ¢ow (rfAve 1.061 B1 M&intenllnreddyJrchh•rd 1.2B1 Iss 11307 12.ft08 61.772 113 7.117 150 67.421 YTh P￿tab￿lI￿r JL*b8è Fund ckngyD￿￿•tIOn￿ Fun Ca 2,113 238 3fvS3 731 2.173 23 1051 C8f 32.318 2.462 30237 Ttstsi r••trf¢W 81. 37,351 P89•8 30 PCC of St John Baptlst. Claines Notès to th• Flnanclal Statéménts Forth•)*r•rMl•d 31•t D•c•m￿rI024 e. MINISTRY SHARE As8131sl December 2024 £30,￿{202) £&I,CWldwr*kxalon h•d ba￿ ￿. ¥h•re for3)24 was £42255120rJ £402421. kn ￿*￿￿trAt122551202s £7.2421 w8$ prothd for*bJ In • b8for8thè4th Febrvaty dtr&*in8. td8tKeof tnl 120T3 £nll uThp8￿. 9. TRU8T8 AMD OTHeA ACCOUIITS Ever ￿nce we ar￿nL% to ¢cryly *ith tho newt•>k&Jn5 have rertheJ hi swnr(*ryth muwgmgnt ot onTnwl• wqowtodwith th• Church on p¥. T*wg acrouDW b88n In•nWy 0¥Am1￿. alne3 Fund Ifur thp berb2nlolth2 Chwch HdlloI£￿ll2DyJ £25.1eoi Intheowrth of EnOw¥l Invostm8ni Fund fdkn￿ryj io Ham w¥J Insbtuie duT*ig yew. Instslut8 Furwts rf£1,B61 at 31st D￿rrthr 2(Q412023£1,4931. £ThI12￿ £10.3991 Chunthof ErrJwLI Im¢strwl FLthI fc4kMr¥ a tr**fertothe Ham * Inslttrte i*ar. EW WhinfiBhafu CIMKch Trust £2.9428t 31st Downbw 2024120rJ £2.8781 In lh& COIF thrf16&8 Fuxj. Marun Ch¥lty£2.541 at 31st Do£*n￿2024￿20t3 £2.4351 & E3.91612023 £3,8XJI. 31 St John Baptlst - Reserves Policy The Charity Commission requires the Church to be accountable for all the moneythat comes into rts hands. The Eeneral alm Is to expend its funds for the purposes of the Church rather than put them aslde for some unspecified future purpose. The various fvnds held by St John Baptist and for which the PCC is responsible are set out on page 6 of the Annual Accounts General Fund The need for a policy for this fund is to ensure that the level of balances is adequate, but not too high. to ensure the Church's viability and future. It is considered that the ideal balance to aim for is between 33% and 50% of our annual turnover. Part of thls balance would be for an adequate working balance. The remainder would provide a cushion for a sudden reduction in income or a large item of expenditure such as an urgent bulldlng repair or equipment replacement. With an annual tumover of about £70,000 these parameters indicate that a reasonable balance would be between £23.100 and £35,0￿J. Our balance as at 31st December 2024 wa5 £24.138: the lower end of the range. MonltOrin8 of FurKIs This is done by the PCC In March when the annual accounts are considered. Janet Wllson Church Treasurer 96 32