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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of St Olave, Hart Street And All Hallows Staining, With St Catherine Coleman

2024-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31ST DECEMBER 2024

St Olave Hart Street 8 Hart Street London EC3R 7NB

020 7488 4318 www.saintolave.com admin@saintolave.com

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REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

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Contents table:

▪ Administrative Information 4
▪ APCM Agenda 6
▪ Minutes of APCM 7
▪ Rector’s Review 13
▪ Hon. Secretary’s Report 15
▪ Electoral Roll Report 19
▪ Fabric Report 20
▪ City of London Deanery Synod Report 21
▪ Finance Report 23
▪ Accounts for 2024 24
▪ Music Report 35
▪ Lunchtime recitals 36
▪ Mission Action Plan (MAP) 2023 - 2026 37
▪ Community and Charities 38
▪ Safeguarding Report 39

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

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Administrative Information

St Olave Church is situated in the Ward of Tower in the City of London. It is part of the Diocese of London within the Church of England. The correspondence address is St Olave, 8 Hart Street, London EC3R 7NB.

Its full title is “The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Olave, Hart Street and All Hallows Staining, with St Catherine Coleman”. The Parochial Church Council (“PCC”) became an individually registered charity in 2009 under Charity Number 1130893.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

St Olave PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church: pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has maintenance responsibilities for the church building in Hart Street, London EC3.

The average weekly attendance at the Sunday service is 25 this includes both attendees via Zoom and in church. This number increased at festivals and the various special services conducted on for various organisations, including livery companies and the Corporation of Trinity House. There were two weddings in 2024.

The average weekly attendance at the Tuesday lunchtime service was 18.

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STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church

Representation Rules. All church attenders are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.

PCC members who have served in 2024 until the date this report was approved are:

Incumbent: The Revd Canon Arani Sen (until 31/01/2025) Churchwardens: Mr Graham Mundy (St Olave, Hart Street)

Ms Penny Ritchie Calder (St Olave, Hart Street) Mr Richard Bucknall (All Hallows Staining)

Mr Brian Grumbridge (St Catherine Coleman)

Hon Secretary: Ms Oliva Whelan

Hon Treasurer: Mr Graham Mundy Deanery Synod Representative: Mr Graham Mundy Safeguarding Officer: Ms Rina Wood

Director of Music: Mr Colin Spinks

Administrator: Miss Georgia St Prix

Parochial Church Council Members: The Rev’d Arani Sen (Chair)

(Until 31/01/2025)

Mr Graham Mundy (Lay Chair and Hon Treasurer)

Ms Olivia Whelan (Hon Secretary)

Ms Penny Ritchie Calder (Children’s Champion)

Mr Brian Grumbridge Ms Rina Wood (Safeguarding Officer)

Mr Richard Bucknall

Mr Thomas Matchett

Ms Olushola Oguntimilehin

Attending when appropriate: Director of Music

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ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING Including the Annual Vestry Meeting of St Olave, Hart Street and All Hallows Staining with St Catherine Coleman Sunday 11th May 2025

  1. Welcome and prayer

  2. Apologies for absence

  3. Annual Vestry Meeting: i. Minutes of 2024 Vestry Meeting ii. Election of Churchwardens

  4. Annual Parochial Church Meeting i. Minutes of the 2024 APCM

ii. Reports (received en bloc): a) Rector’s Review b) Honorary Secretary's Report c) Electoral Roll Report d) Fabric Report e) City Deanery Synod Report f) Finance Report g) Accounts h) Safeguarding Report i) Community and Charities Report j) Music Report k) Lunchtime Recitals Report iii. Appointment of the Independent Examiner iv. Election of Verger v. Election of Sidesmen Election of lay members of the PCC

  1. First Meeting of the PCC: a)Elections: i. Lay Vice-Chair ii. Hon Secretary iii. Hon Treasurer iv Safeguarding Officer v. Children’s advocate v. Electoral Roll Officer b) Adoption of Church of England Safeguarding Policy

  2. Any Other Business

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Minutes of APCM 2024

Minutes of APCM 2024 Annual Parochial Church Meeting Including the Annual Vestry Meeting of St Olave, Hart Street and All Hallows Staining with St Catherine Coleman

Sunday 28th April,2024 at 12.00pm Held in person and on Zoom

Present: The Reverend Arani Sen, (Chair)

Graham Mundy, Hon Treasurer

Rina Wood, Penny Ritchie Calder, Tom Matchett, Olushola Oguntimilehin, Richard Bucknall, Alison Sen, Paul Hammond, Benjamin White, Iris White, Josephine Mursoi David Moonie, Adrian Klos, Nicholas Dykes, Darren Rockford-Murphy, Debbie Westwood. On Zoom: Sheila Halley

1. Welcome and Prayer

Revd. Arani Sen opened the meeting with prayers. As Olivia Whelan could not attend because of flight delays, it was agreed unanimously by the meeting that PRC would take the minutes in her absence.

2. Apologies for absence

Apologies were received from Dr Jim Harris, Colin Spinks and Olivia Whelan. Dr Harris had sent a message of greeting to all present.

3. Annual Vestry Meeting

i. Minutes of the 2023 Annual Vestry Meeting

Tom Matchett proposed and Rina Wood seconded that the minutes of the 2023 Annual Vestry Meeting be approved, and they were unanimously agreed by all present.

ii. Election of Churchwardens

AS thanked the churchwardens Graham Mundy, Penny Ritchie Calder, and Richard Bucknall for their service over the last year.

The following churchwardens were elected to serve:

For St Olave Hart Street, Graham Mundy (proposed by Penny Ritchie Calder and seconded by Tom Matchett); Penny Ritchie Calder (proposed by Graham Mundy and seconded by Richard Bucknall), for All Hallows Staining, Richard Bucknall (proposed by Nick Dykes and seconded by Graham Mundy), for St Catherine Coleman, Brian Grumbridge (proposed by David Moonie and seconded by Sheila Halley).

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AS expressed his pleasure at Brian Grumbridge’s election and congratulated the churchwardens on being duly elected. He thanked them for their help in the life of the church.

4. Annual Church Meeting of St Olave Hart Street

i. The minutes of the APCM of 30 April 2023 were presented to the meeting for approval. This was proposed by PRC and seconded by TM. No other matters arising. AS will sign and file them accordingly.

ii. Reports

a) Rector’s Review and Mission Action Plan

AS summarized his review. He highlighted the Mission Action Plan, which was a central part of the church’s work going forward. He referred to several very successful events, including the Bishop of London’s lecture in May and the Pepys evening in July. More recently, for inclusion in the next report, was the visit by HRH The Princess Anne for the service commemorating the Re-hallowing of the church 70 years ago, followed by reception at Trinity House which was much enjoyed by all.

In terms of the fabric of the building, AS said the next priority was improving access. A new quinquennial architect was about to be approved for appointment, chosen for her experience and creative thinking.

He thanked TM for all his work on the new website, which was much easier for HH to update. He also thanked RW for her work on safeguarding, and Jim Harris and Alison Sen for their invaluable contribution to the spiritual life of the church. Everyone coming into the church felt a sense of welcome and sanctuary. AS and the PCC had been looking at the Grow course, and bible study groups had proved very interesting. Good links with the livery companies had been maintained.

AS thanked HH for all her work over the year and noted with pleasure that she had got married in the church last autumn.

He said he was grateful for everyone’s support over the year, especially given his dual role within the diocese.

b) Hon Secretary’s Report

AS thanked OW in her absence for her report. PRC gave an update on fundraising and planning for the reinstallation of the Capponi/Van Thielt ledger stone. It was hoped that the project would be completed by the end of the year. AS thanked her for her work on this.

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The Barker & Bewley Trust award to a promising physics pupil at the City of London Academy in Southwark would be awarded for the third year running after AS’s reintroduction of the prize.

No questions were asked in relation to the report. RB proposed a vote of thanks to OW for her work as Hon Secretary, seconded by DW.

c) Electoral Report

GM reported that the electoral roll stood at 66 persons. This included four taken off because they were being ordained, which would have represented an increase of two overall on the 2023 figure of 68.

d) Fabric Report

There were no comments on this report. AS noted, that it was encouraging that the church was now deemed watertight after repairs were completed.

e) City Deanery Synod Report

AS thanked GM for the report. GM explained that this synod provided a layer of church governance above the PCC but below the Diocesan Synod. He found the meetings very interesting. The new Area Dean – the Rector of St Botolph’s Aldgate – had just taken up her post.

f) Finance Report and Accounts

GM noted that the accounts had been prepared and audited as usual. Following the Archdeacon’s visitation and examination of the accounts the previous year, some reserves had been moved to different funds. There had been a loss of £15,000 on two funds, but this had been offset by an increase in the value of investments so overall there was a surplus of £13,000. However it was still important to continue to increase income and control expenditure.

TM asked how much had been collected through the parish rates. GM reported that the total of £30,000 was down in comparison with past years. He explained the historical background to the levying of rates in parishes, now only done in the City of London and a few other areas. Rate demands (with specific wording which could not be adapted) were sent out to all businesses in the parish, but these could not be enforced. There was a discussion about how to increase contributions. TM recommended adding a page to the new website explaining what the parish rate is and what it helps to support, so that potential contributors could be directed to this information which could not be included in the rate letters.

AS reminded the meeting that donations were given this year by the church to Suited & Booted, Tearfund and the Children’s Society.

PRC proposed a vote of thanks to GM for all his work, seconded by RW.

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g) Safeguarding Report

RW reported that the safeguarding policy and dashboard were in place and up to date, and the PCC had undertaken the appropriate training. The PCC had also had a useful discussion about vulnerable adults to ensure that there was a full understanding of responsibilities in this regard. RW regularly attended diocesan drop-in safeguarding meetings.

There had been one incident of which the PCC was made aware (not disclosed at this meeting for confidentiality reasons). This had now been dealt with using the correct protocols and procedures.

The safeguarding policy would be reviewed and ratified at the next PCC meeting (June) for the next 12 months.

A vote of thanks was proposed to RW for her work on safeguarding. This was proposed by GM and seconded by RB. Thanks were also given to PRC for her work as Children’s Advocate and DBS administrator.

h) Community and Charities Report

In addition to donations given by the church mentioned in (f) above, AS expressed his thanks for donations of Pot Noodles for the homeless in the area. The Four Seasons Hotel had generously given good quality unclaimed clothing to be forwarded to Suited & Booted and Dress for Success.

RW thanked Alison Sen for the volunteering work she undertook, teaching English to those who worked shifts in the area and wished to improve their grasp of the language.

i) Music Report (and Recitals)

TM thanked CS for this report and expressed his pleasure at the very high standard of music achieved in the church. The re-hallowing service and CS’s new anthem were a particular highlight and gave much joy to those who attended.

AS proposed a vote of thanks to CS for all he does for the musical life of the church, and to the choir. Proposed by TM and seconded by PRC.

The meeting also expressed its thanks to MG and RC for organizing such successful and high quality recitals.

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j) Appointment of Auditor - the Independent Examiner

The appointment of Zachary Ramsden of Perry’s Audit Ltd was proposed by GM, seconded by RB and unanimously accepted by all.

iii. Election of Verger

There was no verger to elect, but AS wished to express his thanks to Paul Hammond for his offer to verger at special services, and to Iris White for serving.

iv. Election of Sidespersons

There were no formal appointments to be made but the matter will continue to be reviewed. The role is to welcome people to the church. Volunteers would be most welcome.

v. Election of lay members of the PCC

The following were elected:

Olushola Oguntimilehin (proposed by DM and seconded by RB) Olivia Whelan (proposed by GM and seconded by RB) Rina Wood (proposed by DM and seconded by RB) Tom Matchett (proposed by GM and seconded by RB)

AS thanked the PCC for their service. GM thanked AS and

Alison Sen who continued to lead the church in an exemplary fashion, endorsed unanimously by all present.

The meeting closed with the Grace.

5. Meeting of the Parochial Church Council of St Olave Hart Street. Sunday 28 April 2024 at 1.05

Present: AS, GM, PRC, RB, PRC, RW, TM, SO

1. Election of PCC lay vice chair

Lay Vice Chair, GM was proposed by RB and seconded by OO. Elected unanimously.

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2. Election of PCC hon treasurer

Honorary Treasurer, GM was proposed by RB and seconded by TM. Elected unanimously.

3. Election of PCC hon secretary

Honorary Secretary, OW was proposed by PRC and seconded by RW. Elected unanimously.

4. Election of Safeguarding Officer

Safeguarding Officer, RW was proposed by OO and seconded by GM. Elected unanimously.

5. Election of Children’s advocate

Children’s Advocate, PRC was proposed by RW and seconded by RB. Elected unanimously.

6. Election of Electoral Roll Officer

Electoral Roll Officer, GM was proposed by TM and seconded by RB.

7. Any Other Business

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Rector’s Annual Report 2024

The highlight for me in 2024 was the 70th anniversary of the re-hallowing of St Olave’s on 9 April 2024, following extensive war damage. This was a very special celebration, giving thanks to God for His faithfulness. We were delighted that the Master of Trinity House, HRH the Princess Royal, was

able to take part, as well as the Master Clothworker, and the Norwegian Military attaché. It was a wonderful celebration followed by a reception at Trinity House. Many distinguished guests attended, including the Alderman and councillors, and many church members.

Worship on Sundays and Tuesdays has been encouraging, as new people are welcomed. The congregations saw a number of new people join in 2024. I am encouraged by much spiritual growth. A very successful ALPHA course was held over the summer in the rectory, led by Alison and myself.

There was a very joyful confirmation service, led by the Bishop of London, at St Olave’s in October 2024. There were 3 people confirmed, Daryl, John and Laurielle. Debbie was also received into the C of E.

In 2024, we held some very special and successful events, as part of our mission. In May, Rev Alex Volossevich and Brian Grumbridge, author of the Church history, gave a very successful talk on the church windows.

There is high quality worship, music, liturgy and preaching. I am grateful to Dr Jim Harris, who brings many unique gifts in preaching and ministry. Alison Sen has contributed a great deal to ministry at St Olave’s and is a constant support to me. Rev Alex Volossevich’s ministry is appreciated, celebrating and preaching on Tuesdays.

The high-quality midweek concerts have continued growing, organised so skilfully by Michael Gammie and Richard Ciecierski. I often attended and made strong connections with attendees. This has been rewarding, as several concert- goers have attended services.

Sunday Worship and special services have been enhanced by the good quality musical leadership of the Director of Music, Colin Spinks, the regular choir, and the cantors. The St Olave’s singers have gone from strength to strength in numbers and in repertoire.

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In June, St Olave’s was able to welcome the Master, HRH The Princess Royal, the Deputy Master and the brothers and staff of Trinity House, to celebrate Trinity tide. My strong chaplaincy connection with the Clothworkers, Trinity House, the Environmental Cleaners Tower Ward Club and the Pepys Club, leading services, attending dinners and engaging in pastoral support has continued. In December at St Thomas Eve I was made a Clothworker, a great honour.

Tom Matchett has completed a new website; we are very grateful to him for all the work he has put into this. This is an excellent means to communicate the presence of St Olave digitally and keep people up to date with all that is going on, in worship, history, music and events.

I thank Iris for her role serving at Holy Communion. The churchwardens and PCC have been a great source of support. Special thanks must go to Olivia Whelan for her efficient minute-taking and preparation of papers for meetings. The PCC appointed Sarah Khan as the new QI in June, she shows great creativity. Disabled access will be a priority as well as being more ecological.

Rina Wood does an excellent job as safeguarding officer, ensuring records and training are up to date, to keep all safe and flourishing.

Huong Hoang left as administrator after more than 6 years. She is greatly missed as she accomplished so much. We are pleased that Georgia St Prix was appointed the new administrator from September who brings her own skills to the role.

With great sadness, I left my post after Christmas 2024 to be appointed Senior Chaplain and Chancellor of the Pro-Cathedral of Holy Trinity Brussels. Alison and I were very touched by the kindness of the congregation and livery companies as we said goodbye. It has been a wonderful time of ministry for us at St Olave’s, despite the pandemic, and we are grateful to God for the way the church has grown, and how there is such a loving sense of community.

I express thanks to the PCC, churchwardens and all members and associates for kindness, deep friendships and support.

Rev Canon Arani Sen Rector 2024.

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Hon Secretary’s Report 2024

GOVERNANCE

During 2024 the PCC met on five occasions.

The Finance and General Purposes committee (F&GP), reporting to the PCC on financial and organisational matters, also met five times. In 2024, Parish Rates were levied at the same rate as for 2023. The church benefitted from the rates demands being sent out early, before Huong Huang left her position. By September 2024, the target to receive £39,000 in parish rates had been achieved, a real improvement on the

previous year. Donations and collections were below expectations, which the PCC believed to have been exacerbated by the unreliability of the card donation reader. 2024 also saw additional expenses relating to the 70[th] Anniversary celebration of the church’s re-hallowing. The church’s financed benefitted from the award of £10,000 from the ecclesiastical insurance relating to the fraud by Claude Royce 7 years previously and a payment of £1,600 for the license fee for the scaffolding.

There were no circumstances requiring the Standing Committee to meet.

The F&GP committee, acting as trustees of the Barker and Bewley Trust, continued to support the education of students engaged in technical crafts within the City of London. The trust holds modest sums for use in encouraging the education of students engaged in a technical craft within the City of London. Following discussions with the City of London Southwark Academy the trustees once again agreed a prize of £250 per annum to be granted to a student from a deprived background who had demonstrated exceptional work in physics and, in this case, had been offered a place at Oxford University.

The PCC meetings were chaired by Rev’d Arani Sen. All F&GP meetings were chaired by Mr Graham Mundy and both the PCC, and the F&GP were supported by Ms Huong Huang and then by Ms Georgia St Prix.

All meetings were held over Zoom, with the exception 11[th] November, which was held inperson at the rectory.

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CHURCHWARDENS

At the APCM which was held on Sunday 28[th] April 2024, the following were proposed and seconded for election as Churchwardens:

Graham Mundy: St Olave Hart Street Penny Ritchie Calder: St Olave Hart Street Richard Bucknall: All Hallows Staining Brian Grumbridge: St Catherine Coleman Lay Members of the Parochial Church Council of St Olave Hart Street The following were re-elected: Lay Vice Chair: Graham Mundy Honorary Secretary: Olivia Whelan Honorary Treasurer: Graham Mundy Safeguarding Officer: Rina Wood Children’s Advocate: Penny Ritchie Calder

The following members were re-elected to the PCC; Olushola Oguntimilehin and Thomas Matchett

VACANCY, INTERREGNUM AND APPOINTMENT OF A NEW RECTOR

The Rev’d Arani Sen announced his resignation in 2024. His last service at the church was Christmas Day 2024. The Section 60 notice could only be issued after his departure. After this announcement, the Bishop, Archdeacon and the Dean of Mission met with the PCC to guide them through the vacancy process, emphasising the chance for a church to grow through such a vacancy. There was a discussion of measures to be taken to avoid the shrinking of the congregation during the interregnum period. Before his departure, the Rev’d Arani Sen noted the importance of embedding the Mission Action Plan into the PCC’s work going forward and for the PCC to pray together regularly for guidance in their work.

Services will continue as normal during the interregnum, arranged first by Arani himself and then by the Church Wardens, supported by Laura, the Area Dean and Katherine, the Archdeacon. Alex Volossevich will kindly provide support for Tuesday and Sunday services. The PCC recognised the need to stay united and to focus on welcoming newcomers to the church and ensuring that the congregation do not drift apart.

CHANGES TO THE PATRONAGE TRUST

The right to appoint the rector in the Church of England is a right that can be held privately and in St Olave’s case, is held by the Patronage Trust, an arrangement dating back hundreds of years.

The Patronage Trust needed to be updated in preparation for its work appointing a new rector. Three members, Rev’d Arani Sen, Mark Magnacca and Tom Cleeve were removed. They were replaced by Dr. Carolyn Boulter, as the Clothworker’s representative. Thomas Matchett volunteered to join the Trust and was approved unanimously by the PCC.

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NEW ADMINISTRATOR

Ms Huong Huang resigned her post in early 2024 and was succeeded by Ms Georgia St Prix. Georgia is now working 5 days a week for the church.

APPOINTMENT OF A VERGER

The PCC voted unanimously to approve Paul Hammond as temporary verger, with a view to being confirmed in the role in future on the receipt of references and a satisfactory background check.

SAFEGUARDING

The safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults remains a high priority for the PCC. Rina Woods is the Safeguarding Officer, whilst Penny Richie Calder remains the Children’s advocate. The latest Diocese of London’s Safeguarding Policy was adopted during the year and the PCC’s policy remains posted on the church’s website. The poster from the National Safeguarding Board is displayed in the church. The use of the online safeguarding dashboard simplified the co-ordination of safeguarding measures.

All DBS checks were requested and received as necessary and leadership training was arranged for Church Wardens as a new requirement. The PCC ensured that the names of safeguarding officers for associated groups, such as the Slavic Church, Hanover Choice and the archaeological society were added to the central record.

A safeguarding audit was conducted in 2024, with the Diocese Safeguarding Officer expressing satisfaction with the work done by St Olave’s.

BUILDINGS AND FABRIC OF THE CHURCH

Having interviewed three candidates for Quinquennial Inspector, Sarah Khan was selected, standing out due to her experience, creative ideas, sensible reassurances and lower fees. The PCC voted unanimously to appoint her, pending DAC approval. Following this appointment, some internal works were put on hold as it was expected that the disabled toilet and access to the building would be the church’s next priority.

Following a previous electrical inspection, the PCC appointed Fitzgeralds to undertake necessary and urgent repairs to the church’s electrics. The cost of £7,700 was approved by the PCC, with the VAT reclaimable under the grant scheme. In 2024 it was also necessary to install new electric meters in the Pepys Vestry to the serve NETS, the telecoms provider. The PCC passed a resolution to petition the Consistory Court for a faculty to approve the installation of a cabinet in the Pepys vestry to house the new meter.

It was noticed that the lock on the bell tower door was broken, with the door scraping at the base and no longer closing properly. A quote was received from Between Time for a like-tolike replacement, repair and painting of the door. An application was made to the Archdeacon to replace the lock, repair the door and repaint it in the same colour.

In 2024 the PCC also passed a resolution to petition the consolatory court for a faculty to approve the retiling of the floor and walls of lavatory in the Pepys vestry and to install new toilet fittings, a new sink and water heater and to repaint the plasterwork. A cost estimate was procured from Fitzgeralds and sent to the Archdeacon for permission. Funds were received from the Fabric Fund to pay for the work. The Archdeacon asked for more details

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on why the work is necessary, as they are concerned that this is very close to the historic vestry.

In 2024 progress was made on the restoration of the Van Thielt/ Capponi memorial. Further funds were raised, leaving the project £5000 short of the total £26,000 cost of the works. Two resolutions were passed, to provide the remainder of the cost for the memorial from PCC funds if necessary and to apply for a faculty for the reinstallation of the Capponi ledger stone. By November 2024, the faculty had been resubmitted with the additional load bearing information and further investigations were made into the status of insurance while the works will be carried out.

The PCC is participating in the Square Mile Churches project, which funds City churches for sustainability efforts, including energy and community audits. The project will help with disabled access and toilet facilities. The PCC voted unanimously to support this initiative.

WEBSITE

Thomas Matchett completed the building of a new website for the church, providing a website that is easier to edit, and which enables the sharing of content via social media and for the making of online donations. The migration to the new website took place in April 2024.

CARD READER FOR DONATIONS

The finance advisor to the Two Cities Churches recommended a new card reader to facilitate digital giving, as the old reader was non-functional due to poor internet signal. Having viewed various options, the PCC voted to proceed with the Payaz system which offers low fees and offline compatibility. Since the installation of the new machine, card donations have greatly increased.

THE HISTORY OF ST OLAVE’S

The 9[th ] of April 2024 marked seventy years since the church was finally reopened following the expensive damage incurred during the Second World War. A special service was conducted on that date, with The Princess Royal, Sir Timothy Lawrence, the Norwegian Defence Attaché, the Archdeacon and members of Trinity House and the Clothworkers in attendance. The event was a resounding success and a credit to the Rev’d Arani Sen and to Graham Mundy’s efforts in planning. Original music for the event was written by Colin Spinks.

Brian Grumbridge and Alex Volossevich also gave talks on the history of the church and on the church windows, which were very well received.

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

From the summer of 2024 until Arani’s departure, an Alpha course was run in the rectory on Tuesday with 8 attendees. The group remain keen to pursue a fellowship group and will do this in a more informal manner in 2025.

On the 20[th of] October a confirmation service was held for 3 candidates, attended by Bishop Sarah Mulally, followed by a bring-and-share lunch. St Olave’s were pleased to note that this was the second year running where there had been confirmations.

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Electoral Roll Report.

At the time of the Annual Meeting in 2024 there were 66 names on the electoral roll.

In 2025 the electoral roll was renewed in accordance with the church representation rules, all existing names were removed from the roll and a completely new roll created.

The new roll contained 38 names and was published on 20[th] April 2025.

All but one of the members of the electoral roll reside outside of the parish.

Graham Mundy Electoral Roll Officer April 2025

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Fabric Report 2024

QUINQUENNIAL REPORT

Following work in 2023 to ensure the building remains watertight, planning continued for remaining priorities, including those identified since the QI report:

APPOINTMENT OF QUINQUENNIAL ARCHITECT

Following a formal interview process a new Quinquennial Architect, Ms Sarah Khan of Roger Mears Architects, was appointed in May 2024. The PCC looks forward to working with her, particularly in order to improve access into and within the church.

WEBCAM

The webcam system was monitored throughout the year to ensure that satisfactory livestreaming and/or recording could be achieved. The age and thickness of the stone walls has an impact on the quality of the Wi-Fi signal which can sometimes affect reception.

RESTORATION AND INSTALLATION OF CAPPONI/VAN THIELT LEDGER STONE

There was progress on this project as sufficient funding was confirmed in 2023/24. Structural tests were carried out on site in July 2024 by Swantest, under instruction from The Morton Partnership (structural engineers), to ensure that proposed location on the north wall of the church was strong enough to take the weight of the stone and fixings. A faculty for the restoration and installation of the stone was subsequently granted following an application made after these tests in July 2024. By the end of the period of this report the PCC was in a position to formally commission the specialist restoration firm, Cliveden Conservation, and to arrange transport of the stone from its secure storage location to their premises to enable work to begin. It is hoped that the stone (and replica of the reverse alongside) will be installed by mid-2025.

ANNUAL SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Annual maintenance of all the fire extinguishers and the annual electrical appliance testing (PAT) was completed. The church boiler was checked and serviced. Additional annual maintenance carried out included:

Overall, the church remains in a good condition with no urgent works outstanding.

Penny Ritchie Calder – Churchwarden

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City of London Deanery Synod Report

The first meeting of the Synod in 2024 was held at St Botolph without Bishopsgate on 5[th] February and was attended by the Lord Mayor Alderman Michael Mainelli. The main topic for discussion was a presentation on the ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence as seen from a Christian perspective. The guest speaker was Dr. Malcom Brown, the Director of Misson and Public Affairs for the Church of England.

Following the presentation the Lay Chair, Mr Rory Anderson, presented the Lord Mayor with a copy of the King James Bible, comparing the spread of the New Testament throughout the then known World with the modern-day growth of digital currencies and blockchain. In his response the Lord Mayor thanked members of Synod for their generous gift and quoted two past US presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Regan, who emphasised the importance of a thorough grounding in Holy Scripture, with the former describing it as being more important than a college education.

Finally, Synod bade farewell to the Area Dean, the Revd Katherine Hedderly, who was leaving the Deanery to take up a new post as Archdeacon of Charing Cross.

The Summer Meeting of the Synod took the form of a joint garden party with members of the Westminster Synod held in the grounds of the Mater’s residence in the Temple. At this meeting members of Synod said farewell to the outgoing Lay Chair, Mr Rory Anderson, who was standing down after many years of loyal service and elected Mr Alexander Rayner to serve in this office for the remainder of the triennium.

The final meeting of 2024 was held at St Andrew by the Wardrobe, with the main topic for discussion being the ecumenical use of the City Churches. The first presentation was by Ms Sarah Alder on the Taize service at All Hallows by the Tower. This was followed by a joint presentation by Fr Jack Noble, from St Giles Cripplegate, and Mr Martin Pendergast, from St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, on the partnership between their churches and Wesley’s Chapel and the Leysian Mission. Next came a presentation by Assistant Pastor Sebastian Matzer from St Annes’s Lutheran Church, which meets at St Mary at Hill, and finally Fr David Ramzy spoke on the work of the Coptic Orthodox Church which meets at St Andrew by the Wardrobe. Fr Luke Miller, the Archdeacon of London, then spoke on the procedural arrangements for setting up such partnerships and the circumstances when a licence under faculty would be required. This was followed by a question-and-answer session.

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

22

Finally, the Synod Treasurer gave a presentation on the Synod finances and the City Churches Burial Ground Fund.

Graham Mundy - Synod Representative - April 2025

Mission Action Plan (MAP) 2023 - 2026

A new Mission Action Plan was launched at the APCM.

Here is a summary:

Our Mission – what are we about?

St Olave’s Church is one of the few surviving mediaeval buildings in London

encompassing a rich history and many links to historic City organisations. This is our mission; we are called to be:

A sanctuary:

A place of grace:

A wellspring:

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

23

Finance Report for the Financial Year Ending 31st December 2024

The outturn for the financial year ending 31st December 2024 reflects a positive net movement of funds of £44,050 (£13,097) with an operating surplus of £31,019, against a deficit of £20,093 in 2023, with the difference being made up by a surplus on the revaluation of the investment portfolio of £13,031 (£33,190).

Total incoming resources were £252,189 (£185,563) an increase of 26% on 2023 in part financed by a 48% increase in the Parish Rate and a near 24 per cent increase in parish giving and other voluntary donations.

Total Resources Expended increased from £205,656 to £221,170 and increase of £15,514 or approximately 7.1% which is above the Retail Price Index rate of inflation for the year at 3.7 %. This is mainly represented by increases in the Common Fund and church running costs together with the cost of the celebrations to mark the seventieth anniversary of the re-hallowing of the church after the bomb damage suffered during the last war.

The Funds balance carried forward as at 31st December 2024 increased to £1,102,337 (£1,058,287) which represents retained income and the gains resulting from the revaluation of our investment portfolio of £13,031 (£33,190).

Whilst the overall surplus for the year of £31,019 is an improvement over the previous year the deficit on our general fund of £21,752, albeit, offset by income from the designated funds, means that it is important that the PCC continues to keep a close eye on income and expenditure over the forthcoming year.

*Figures in brackets (2023)

Graham Mundy – May 2024 Hon Treasurer

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

24

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT EXAMINER TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST OLAVE, CITY OF LONDON

I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 1 to 6.

Responsibilities and basis of report

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

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

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I 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:

  1. 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

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Date: 2[nd] May 2025

Steve Hale FCCA FCA

for and on behalf of Perrys Audit Ltd Chartered Accountants Churchdown Chambers Bordyke Tonbridge Kent TN9 lNR

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

25

Parochial Church Council of St Olave, City of London Statement of financial activities

For the Year ended 31 December 2024

Note
Income from:
Donations
2(a)
Charitable Activities
2(b)
Investments
2(c)
Other
2(d)
Total income
Expenditure on:
Charitable Activities
3(a)
Generation of voluntary
income
3(b)
Fund-raising trading
costs
3(c)
Governance Costs
3(d)
Total expenditure
Net Income/
(Expenditure)
Transfers
Gains(losses) on
revaluation of fixed asset
investments
4(b)
Net Movement in Funds
Total funds brought
forward
Total funds carried
forward		 Unrestricted
Funds
Designated
Funds
Restricted
Funds
TOTAL
2024
TOTAL
2023
£
£
£
£
£
131,078
24,645
155,723
105,505
55,036
55,036
44,949
4,406
36,491
533
41,430
35,109
190,520
36,491
25,178
252,189
185,563
201,488
8,898
210,386
200,034
2,000
2,000
2,000
5,472
5,472
430
3,312
3,312
3,192
212,272
8,898
221,170
205,656
(21,752)
36,491
16,280
31,019
(20,093)
1,550
11,481
13,031
33,190
(20,202)
47,972
16,280
44,050
13,097
121,998
880,055
56,234
1,058,287 1,045,190
101,796
928,027
72,514
1,102,337 1,058,287

The notes on pages 3 to 6 form part of these accounts

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

26

Parochial Church Council of St Olave, City of London Balance Sheet at 31 December 2024

2024
Unrestricted Designated Restricted TOTAL TOTAL
Funds Funds Funds 2024 2023
Note £ £ £ £ £
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible 4(a) 1,906
Investments 4(b) Investments 4(b) 120,397 891,536 1,011,933 998,902 1,011,933 998,902
120,397 891,536 1,011,933 1,000,808 1,011,933 1,000,808 1,011,933 1,000,808
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors 5 20,986 20,986 15,537
Cash at bank and in hand 4,521 72,514 77,035 50,091
Inter Fund Loan (36,491) 36,491
(10,984) 36,491 72,514 98,021 65,628
LIABILITIES
Creditors - amounts falling due 7,617 7,617 8,149
in one year 6
Net current assets less current (18,601) 36,491 72,514 90,404 57,479
liabilities
TOTAL NET ASSETS TOTAL NET ASSETS 101,796 928,027 72,514 1,102,337 1,058,287 1,102,337 1,058,287 1,102,337 1,058,287
PARISH FUNDS
Unrestricted 7 Unrestricted 7 101,796 101,796 121,998 101,796 121,998
Designated 928,027 928,027 880,055 928,027 880,055
Restricted 72,514 72,514 56,234
101,796 928,027 72,514 1,102,337 1,058,287 1,102,337 1,058,287 1,102,337 1,058,287

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

27

Parochial Church Council of St Olave, City of London

Notes to the financial statements

for the year ended 31 December 2024

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the SORP (FRS 102).

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets, which are shown at market value. The financial statements include all transactions assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church

groups that owe their main affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Funds

Restricted funds represent (a) income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest, and (b) donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not necessarily invest separately for each fund. Where there is no separate investment, interest is apportioned to individual funds on an average balance basis.

Unrestricted funds are general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes.

Incoming resources

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognized when received. Tax refunds are recognized when the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Dividends are accounted for when receivable, interest is accrued. All other income is recognized when it is receivable. All incoming resources are for accounted gross.

Resources expended

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognized when it is incurred and is accounted gross.

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

28

Fixed assets

Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011.

Movable church furnishings held by the rector and church wardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the church's inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For anything acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statements. Subsequently no individual item except for the rectory carpets and curtains purchased in 2005 and computers purchased in 2006 has cost more than £1,000 so all such expenditure has been written off when incurred. The PCC does not own any freehold land or buildings.

Equipment used within the church premises is depreciated on a straight-line basis over four years.

Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £500 or less are written off when the asset is acquired. Investments are valued at market value at 31 December 2024.

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

29

Parochial Church Council of St Olave, City of London

Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024

2. INCOMING RESOURCES Unrestricted UnrestrictedDesignated Designated Designated Restricted Restricted Total Total
Funds Funds Funds #024 2023
E £ E 3 E
2(a) Voluntary Income
Planned Giving including tax 23,121 23,121 23,121 19,366 23,121 19,366
recoverable
Collections and wall box donations Collections and wall box donations 3,029 3,029 815
Church rate 44,770 44,770 44,770 30,081 44,770 30,081
Grants & Donations 42,180 42,180 24,645 66,825 49,898 24,645 66,825 49,898 24,645 66,825 49,898
Miscellaneous Income 17,978 17,978 17,978 5,345 17,978 5,345
131,078 131,078 24,645 155,723 105,505 24,645 155,723 105,505 24,645 155,723 105,505
2(b) Activities for generating funds
Rental Income - Hire of church and Rental Income - Hire of church and 10,848 10,848 10,848 12,966 10,848 12,966
Church hall
Fund-raising events
Net Fees - Mast in Tower 19,017 19,017 19,017 18,986 19,017 18,986
Church yard overhang licence (St 25,171 25,171 25,171 12,997 25,171 12,997
Catherine)
55,036 55,036 55,036 44,949 55,036 44,949
2(c) Income from Investments
Dividends and Interest including tax 4,406 36,491 533 36,491 533 41,430 35,109 41,430 35,109
recoverable
4,406 36,491 533 36,491 533 41,430 35,109 41,430 35,109
2(d) Other income
Hall compensation
Total Incoming Resources 190,520 190,520
36,491		 36,491
25,178		 25,178
252,189		 252,189
185,563

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

30

3.RESOURCES EXPENDED

3(a) Church Activities

3(a) Church Activities
Ministry: Diocesan Parish share
81,900 81,900 78,000
Ministry: Service and other costs 27,545 27,545 22,608
Church running costs and 60,707 8,898 69,605 60,947
maintenance
Depreciation 1,906 1,906 1,907
Rectory, refurbishment and upkeep 355 355 390
costs
Office costs and legal and professional 29,075 29,075 34,932
fees
Grant to Barker and Bewley charity 1,250
201,488 8,898 210,386 200,034
3(b) Generation of Voluntary Income
Church Rate & Licence Costs 2,000 2,000 2,000
3(c) Fund-raising trading costs
Cost of Events 5,472 5,472 430
5,472 5,472 430
3(d) Governance Costs
Independent Examination 3,312 3,312 3,192
3,312 3,312 3,192
Total Expenditure 212,272 8,898 221,170 205,656

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

31

Parochial Church Council of St Olave, City of London Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024

4. FIXED ASSETS Rectory
4(a) Tangible curtains and Church TOTAL TOTAL
carpets Equipment 2024 2023
£ £ £ £
Cost
At 1 January 2024 6,500 25,022 31,522 31,522
Additions at Cost
At 31 December 2024 6,500 25,022 31,522 31,522
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024 6,500 23,116 29,616 27,709
Charge for Year 1,906 1,906 1,907
At 31 December 2024 6,500 25,022 31,522 29,616
Net Book Value
At 1 January 2024 1,906 1,906 3,813
Net Book Value
At 31 December 2024 1,906
Unrestricted Unrestricted Designated Designated
TOTAL		 TOTAL
4(b) Investments
 Funds Funds 2024 2023
£ £ £ £ £
Market Value 1 January 2024 118,847 880,055 998,902 955,506 955,506
Additions at Cost
Disposals Revaluation
surplus
1,550 11,481 13,031 33,190
Market Value 31 December 120,397 891,536 1,011,933 988,696 1,011,933 988,696 1,011,933 988,696
2024
5. DEBTORS TOTAL TOTAL
2024 2023
£
 £
Tax Recoverable 362
Light & Heating 20,416 13,089
Church Building Hire 570 1,792
VAT recoverable on Church Building 294
15,537

2.0,986

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

32

Parochial Church Council of St Olave, City of London

Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024

6. LIABILITIES

6. LIABILITIES 6. LIABILITIES
Accounts and Independent Examination Fees
Clergy Expenses
Mast Income in Advance
Mission Pastoral
Church Maintenance
Music
7. FUNDS
Fund Movements
1.1.24
Income Expenses Gains
£
£
£
£
General Fund
121,998
190,520 (212,272) 1,550
Designated Funds
Hall compensation fund
480,055
19,654
6,263
Long term mission fund
400,000
16,837
5,218
880,055
36,491
11,481
Restricted Funds
Fabric Fund
3,911
Joint Ministry project with
All Hallows by the Tower
and
St Mary-at-Hill
2,000
Music fund
755
Lady Holfords Charity
Fund
162
Relief for the Poor
600
Clothworkers fabric fund 38,135
Capponi Memorial fund
548
11,350 (3,504)
Barker and Bewley
educational prize
326
533
(250)
Sheepfold fund
20
Homeless Project fund
200
Building Fund
9,577
149
(1,748)
Ropes and Bells fund
3,396
(3,396)
Vestry toilet fund
5,750
Accessibility fund
4,000		 2024
2023
£
£
3,312
3,228
140
4,305
4,305
125
236
115
7,617
8,149
Transfers 31.12.24
£
£
101,796
505,972
422,055
880,055
36,491
11,481
3,911

2,000
755
162
600
38,135
548
11,350 (3,504)
326
533
(250)
20
200
9,577
149
(1,748)
3,396
(3,396)
5,750
4,000
928,027
3,911
2,000
755
162
600
38,135
8,394
609
20
200
7,978
5,750
4,000

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

33

Total funds 56,234
25,178 (8,898)
72,514
1,058,287 252,189 (221,170) 13,031
1,102,337

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

34

Parochial Church Council of St Olave, City of London

Notes to the financial statements

for the year ended 31 December 2024

2024 2023
8. SERVICE AND OTHER COSTS £ £
Choir and Music 19,444 17,134
Regular Religious Service Costs 328 312
Clergy Expenses 2,157 1,438
Mission 1,616 2,724
Mission and Charitable Giving 4,000 1,000
22,608
27,545
9. STAFF COSTS 2024 2023
£ £ £ £
Salaries 19,125 25,836
Employers pension Contribution 449 580 580
19,700 26,416

10. TRUSTEES

None of the Trustees have been paid any remuneration or received any other benefits from the Charity. (2023 -none).

11. RELATED PARTIES

There have been no transactions with persons or entities that are closely connected to the charity or its trustees (2023 - none).

12. GOING CONCERN

The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the ability to continue as a going concern.

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

35

Music Report

The musical life of St Olave’s continued to consolidate through 2024, both in terms of quality and outreach

Music at the main Sunday Eucharists is maintained by a regular team of 5 Choral Scholars, the bass role being shared by Henry Page and Nic Walker alongside longstanding tenor Nick Dykes, alto Ruth Elleson and soprano Toni Smart. My thanks to all of them for their loyalty and commitment to edifying the worship of the church in a friendly, relaxed and supportive environment. We also continue to develop a list of regular deputies, all of whom have made excellent contributions.

The full time Scholars were supplemented by additional professional singers on the occasions of Easter Day, Patronal Festival and Remembrance Sunday. We are also grateful to the 5[th] Sunday Singers for their contributions on those occasions when there are 5 Sundays in a calendar month; and to the Hanover Choir, who use the building for rehearsals on Thursday evenings, and have gained in confidence, providing music on 3 Sundays per year.

A particular highlight was the service in April to mark the 70[th] Anniversary of the reConsecration of the church. An enlarged choir of 10 professional singers combined with our resident St Olave’s Singers for the first performance of “When the builders laid the foundation of the Temple” specially composed for the occasion by the Director of Music. As has become traditional, all the groups involved at St Olave’s, both amateur and professional, combine forces for our “end of term” celebrations at the Patronal Festival in July

The St Olave’s Singers, the long standing voluntary choir who meet regularly on Tuesday lunchtimes, continues to flourish, although further work needs to be done to ensure numbers continue to grow. The Singers provide music for a number of midweek services through the year, such as Candlemas, Ash Wednesday, the Pepys Club Service, Trinity House, Harvest, and the Corynthians Remembrance service, as well as several Carol Services.

A range of professionals singing as the St Olave’s Choral Scholars have performed at a number of other venues in the City, such as St Katharine Cree, St Andrew by the Wardrobe, and St Dunstan in the West, an important additional layer to our outreach which I hope we can develop. It was unfortunate that we were unable to do any carol singing at local hotels this year, and hopefully this can be rectified in 2025.

Weekly recitals, organised by Michael Gammie and his team, on Wednesday, and occasional Thursday, lunchtimes, continue to flourish. These concerts are such an important part of the church’s outreach, and enjoyed by so many, both performers and audience members and I express my thanks to Michael and his colleagues for all their work on this.

Colin Spinks - Director of Music

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

36 —

LUNCHTIME RECITALS

Lunchtime recitals went from strength to strength during 2024. Altogether, 190 musicians performed in 85 recitals to over 3,000 people, in a wide variety of groups

of instruments, although solo piano recitals did still form a substantial percentage. Again we saw some amazingly talented young musicians from the Royal Academy of Music, the Royal College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music in addition to other colleges in the UK and Europe. One highlight was a recital by a leading baritone from the La Scala Milan Opera School.

Our audience gave us excellent feedback as to the value of the recitals in the troubled world in which we now live. We particularly value the close relationship we have with the students from the Harp department at the Guildhall School who have been organising two recitals each year for nearly twenty years. Much work is involved in organising and running these recitals and a big thank you is due to the team and in particular Richard Ciecierski.

Our Bösendorfer piano is being well maintained by our excellent tuner and technician and has stood up well to some ferocious playing notably from Tessa Uys and Ben Shoemann who performed Beethoven’s Choral Symphony in the Schwarwenka arrangement for four hands!

We owe a debt of gratitude to Canon Arani Sen for all his support and encouragement and making the lunchtime recitals very much a part of the work of St.Olave’s. His vision was to see the recitals as a core part of the mission of the church, and during his tenure as rector, his vision has been a great success.

Michael Gammie Recital Director

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

37

Mission Action Plan (MAP) 2023 – 2026

A new Mission Action Plan was launched at the APCM. Here is a summary:

Our Mission – what are we about?

St Olave’s Church is one of the few surviving mediaeval buildings in London encompassing a rich history and many links to historic City organisations. This is our mission; we are called to be:

A sanctuary:

A place of grace:

A wellspring:

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

38

Community and Charities

In 2024 our parish community and congregation continued donating items to be distributed via charities.

Throughout the year there were collections for and donations made to Tear Fund, the Children’s Society, Suited & Booted and Dress for Success.

We continue to provide pastoral care and pot noodles to people in need in the parish.

Throughout 2024 we worked in partnership with St Katherine Cree to provide English lessons to members of the Spanish and Portuguese speaking community working in and around the City.

All of us in the City can make a difference.

Graham Mundy – May 2024 Hon Treasurer

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

39

Safeguarding report May 2025

In accordance with the House of Bishops’ Policy Statements ‘Promoting a Safer Church’ (2017) and ‘Protecting All God’s Children’ 4th edition (2010) and the Diocesan Safeguarding Policy ‘Promoting a Safer Diocese’ (2018) the PCC agreed to commit to:

The safeguarding officer keeps up to date with issues in the Church of England and the local communities via a safeguarding Newsletter and press releases sent by the Diocese. She regularly attends the drop-in sessions facilitated by the Diocesan Safeguarding Team (DST). Information is then shared regularly with the PCC.

Since January 2025 we have had a vacancy and are in the process of recruiting a new incumbent. The church wardens had a meeting on 17th March with the diocesan Safeguarding advisor to ensure we understand our roles and responsibilities during the vacancy.

Safeguarding is a standing item on the agenda of the PCC and the F&GP. At the PCC meeting in June 2024 the PCC agreed and signed the Safeguarding policy.

Penny Ritchie Calder remains the Children’s Advocate and DBS administrator. Our new administrator supports with the administration of the central record and is based at the Parish office. We also use the dashboard in line with the requirements of the diocese.

DBS

Penny Ritchie Calder administers the DBS process. The PCC follows the safer recruitment guidelines. All information regarding DBS is held confidentially and remains private.

Training requirements

Safeguarding training records have been updated. Certificates and completion dates are now held at a central record. There are three levels of training that have been identified for PCC members, all delivered online by the Church of England. All PCC members are expected to complete the foundation course (C0), church wardens, safeguarding officer and children’s advocate are expected to complete the C0 as well as intermediate course. Clergy and lay ministers attend the leadership course. The safeguarding officer has now completed the Leadership course and the churchwardens, clergy, lay minister have all attended domestic abuse training.

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

40

Safeguarding Concerns

There have been two safeguarding incidents where advice was sought from the Diocesan safeguarding team – the issues have now been resolved.

Rina Wood – May 2025 Safeguarding Officer

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893

41

St Olave Hart Street

8 Hart Street London EC3R 7NB www.saintolave.com Registered Charity Number 1130893

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1130893