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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Wilmslow

2023-12-31-accounts

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APCM Report 2024 (Period Ending 31[st] December 2023)

Two worshipping communities

Two big things in common

1. learning how to love God with all our hearts, 2. trying to love our neighbours at least as much as ourselves

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1

Pack Contents/Index

Pack Contents/Index
Pages Description
3 Meeting & Agendas
PLEASE NOTE
With the exception of Friends’ documents, all the following relate to the parish APCM agenda
4-6 Aims & Governance Notes
7-9 2 Minutes of Previous APCM
10 3a Electoral Roll
10-12 3b PCC Report
13-21 3c Finance Reports
22 3c Examiner Report
23 3e Diocese & Deanery Reports
24 3f Wardens Report
25 3g Food Friend
26 3h Neighbourhood Network
27 3i Magazine Report
28-31 3j Friends (will be referred to in earlier annual meeting for that group)
32 3k Churches Together Report
33-34 4 Safeguarding
35 6 Rector’s Report
Please note – any ‘non statutory’ reports not submitted at time of production of this pack will be
received and reported on but can only be offered verbally.

2

WILMSLOW PARISH

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

Sunday 14[th] April 2024 at 11.30am St Bartholomew's Church

St. Bartholomew’s, Wilmslow St. Anne’s, Fulshaw

Agenda for the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (Vestry Meeting)

  1. Welcome and introduction

  2. Appointment of clerk to the meeting

  3. Apologies for absence

  4. Minutes of the 2023 Meeting of Parishioners: (a) approval (b) matters arising

  5. Election of church wardens

Annual Meeting Friends of the Parish

Agenda for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM)

     1. Introduction

     2. Minutes of APCM 2023 and matters arising

     3. Annual Report for the year ended December 2023

           - a.  Electoral Roll Officer’s Report

           - b.  PCC Report (and church life reports)

           - c.  Financial Report for the year ended 31/12/23

           - d.  Buildings/Fabric Report

           - e.  Diocesan and Deanery Synod Reports

           - f.   Warden’s Report

           - g.  Food Friend Report

           - h.  Neighbourhood Network Report

           - i.   Magazine Team Report

           - j.  Friends of the Parish Report and Financial Summary

           - k. Churches Together in Wilmslow Report

     4. Safeguarding Policy Statement and Report

     5. Elections and appointments

  - a.  Overview of policy and procedure for elections/membership

3

Aims and Purposes

Wilmslow Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent, the Reverend Eddie Roberts, in promoting the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the four Wilmslow Parish church buildings: St Bartholomew’s Church, St Anne’s Church, the Parish Hall and St Anne’s Church Hall.

Objectives and Activities

The general functions of the PCC are stated with Section 2 of the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956.

During 2023 Wilmslow Parish continued to pursue the five marks of mission in line with Chester Diocesan policy:

1. To proclaim the good news of the Kingdom

2. To teach, baptise and nurture new believers

3. To respond to human need by loving service

4. To seek to transform unjust structures of society

5. To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and to sustain the life on earth.

The PCC adopted a different way of expressing those aims in 2023.

Two worshipping communities

Two big things in common

1. learning how to love God with all our hearts, 2. trying to love our neighbours at least as much as ourselves

In providing leadership to Wilmslow Parish, the incumbent and PCC give consideration to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the specific guidance to charities concerned with the advancement of religion.

The activities of the PCC are outlined in the report on pages 15-16

It is difficult to estimate the total volunteering time offered by many members of Wilmslow Parish but it amounts to well in excess of 150 hours in a typical month. We are grateful to all who do so much to contribute to the life of the church: the Churchwardens, PCC Secretary and Treasurer, the Friend so the Parish and Food Friend; those who help lead services, carry out children’s work, play music, do readings, intercessions, flowers, lay assist, act as sidespeople, count the money, garden, clean and provide welcome, hospitality and church sitting – and much more besides.

4

Achievements and Performance

See all additional reports

Finance, Giving and Fundraising

These continue to be challenging as our expenditure commitments continue to increase and prices for goods and services rise, with no comparable increase in the size of the membership or the income of the church. Regular giving enables us to meet our obligation to pay the parish share, and covers many of our other costs. The annual accounts have been approved by the PCC and are attached for your inspection.

Structure, Governance and Management

Wilmslow Parish PCC operates under the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 and the Church Representation Rules (2011 and 2022). The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All church members are encouraged to register on the electoral roll and stand for election to the PCC. Risk assessments are carried out as and when required and recorded in the PCC’s Risk Register.

Administrative Information

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Wilmslow St Bartholomew’s and St Anne’s is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2006) and a charity registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales.

Charity Registration Number: 1131056

It is part of the Diocese of Chester within the Church of England.

The correspondence address is

Parish Office, Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road, Wilmslow SK9 4AA

Incumbent: Revd Eddie Roberts PTO: Revd Canon Profession Roger Yates Revd Val Hollis Revd Georgina Watmore

Churchwardens: Jackie Watts

Caroline Lucas Deanery Synod Reps: Isobel Chetwood (also PCC Secretary) Barbara Foster ( To August 2022) Angela Philpott (From September 2022)

2 Vacancies until April 2023

5

Membership

Ex-Officio

Rev Eddie Roberts

Jackie Watts Caroline Lucas

Isobel Chetwood Angela Philpott

Elected members

Complete term of office in April 2024

Angela Philpott Ray Oates Phil Gaskell Ann Hodson

Complete term of office in April 2025

Julian Bowker (Treasurer) Jon Horne Martin Kinsey

Complete term of office in April 2026

Diana Smith Georgina Lewis Wendy Yates Nicky Cathery

Geoffrey Barton Heather Martin Oliver Ramsden

The Standing Committee

The Standing Committee is a sub-committee of the PCC as required by the Church of England. The Rector and Churchwardens are ex-officio. The additional members, elected by the PCC are Julian Bowker, Isobel Chetwood and Georgina Lewis

Bankers

NatWest Bank, Wilmslow, Cheshire

Independent Examiner: Patrick Tyrrell

Approved by the PCC:

and signed on their behalf by Jackie Watts Churchwarden

6

WILMSLOW PARISH

St Anne’s, Fulshaw and St Bartholomew’s, Wilmslow

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING SUNDAY 24[TH] MAY 2023 AT 12.30 pm St Bartholomew’s Parish Church

Present: Eddie Roberts, Roger Yates, Georgina Watmore, Val Hollis, Jackie Watts, Caroline Lucas, Isobel Chetwood, Phil Gaskell, Wendy Yates, Julian and Penny Bowker, Heather and Stuart Martin, Barbara Foster, Rod and Janet Franks, Flo Knowles, Martin Kinsey, Pamela Mellor, Georgina Lewis, Sue Bell, Ray Oates, Sheena Hatton, Grace Reed, David Robinson, Chris Stubbs, Marion and Sandy Nellies, Chris Read, Bob and Audrey Taylor, June Cooper, Shirley Baulkwill, Barbara Leader, Elaine Walker, Stephanie Byars, Oliver and Clare Ramsden, Geoffrey Barton, David Beton, Anne Aspinall, Susan Cooper, Eileen Macauley, Tim Harvey, Andy Watts, Ann Hodson, Lorraine Smith and Jean Davy.

Apologies: Yvonne Warren, Patrick Tyrrell, Jean Parker, Diana and Richard Smith, Jon and Lynda Horne, Sheila Barton, Ann and Alan Brown and Alison Gosling.

Annual Meeting of Parishioners (Vestry Meeting):

  1. Eddie welcomed everyone to the meeting and opened with prayer.

  2. Clerk for the meeting: Isobel Chetwood was appointed.

  3. Minutes of the last Vestry Meeting: The minutes were accepted as a true record.

  4. Matters arising: None.

  5. Election of Churchwardens:

There were 2 nominations; Caroline Lucas and Jackie Watts and they were both therefore duly appointed.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM):

  1. Eddie welcomed everyone to the APCM for all those on the electoral roll.

Jackie was pleased to take the opportunity of thanking Roger Yates, Georgina Lewis and Val Hollis for their wonderful support during the interregnum. She presented a gift to each of them. Eddie stressed that we look forward to their continued presence and support.

  1. The minutes of the APCM 2022 were noted. The minutes were approved as a correct record.

Proposed: Phil Gaskell Seconded: Ann Hodson

Agreed unanimously, none against and no abstentions

7

  1. Annual Report for the year ended December 2022:

  2. a) Electoral Roll Officer’s Report

There are 216 on the Electoral Roll of which 59 live outside the Parish. 10 were added and 6 have been removed (4 of which are deceased and 2 have left the area).

The Reports were accepted and there were no questions or comments.

The Financial Report was noted and accepted. Julian advised that he is hopeful next year will be favourable. Eddie said that he had examined the accounts prior to his appointment and noted that we were “trading” at a loss with expenditure in excess of income in the region of £15K-£30K. We are fortunate to have significant reserves so have been able to balance the books however he feels stewardship does need to be looked at.

We are fortunate to have beautiful buildings in a good state of repair. Susan Cooper said there had been 25 visitors on Saturday many of whom had commented on how lovely St Bart’s is.

The report was noted. There were no questions or comments.

Acceptance of all reports:

Proposed: Phil Gaskell Seconded: Julian Bowker

Agreed unanimously, none against and no abstentions

  1. Safeguarding Policy Statement and Report

The Safeguarding Report was noted. Eddie emphasised that safeguarding is a central part of the church as we follow Jesus the Good Shepherd. He encouraged parishioners to look at the further information on https://www.churchofengland.org/media/11842 and if anyone has any concerns at all they should make them known.

Acceptance of Safeguarding Policy:

Proposed: Jackie Watts Seconded: Caroline Lucas

Agreed unanimously, none against and no abstentions

8

5. Incumbent’s Address:

As Eddie has only been in the parish for 3 weeks and the APCM covers the period before his arrival, he did not provide an address however he asked church members to consider 3 topics under the headings Hope, Fear and Dreams for the parish. It was clear that the priority is to grow a younger church and Eddie explained that this is the PCC’s job description. Members wish to encourage diversity and outreach. Finances are of course of concern and interestingly Clare Ramsden said that in Uganda she had noticed that people who have very little are happy to give joyfully. Eddie had been attracted to the post in Wilmslow because of challenges it presented and said his first 3 weeks had been “fantastic.”

  1. Elections and Appointments

a) Deanery Synod Election

There were 2 nominations received for the next 3 years. Isobel Chetwood and Angela Philpott were duly appointed. There are therefore 2 vacancies and Isobel encouraged members to think about stepping forward. After the meeting Anne Aspinall agreed to fill one of the vacancies.

Grace Reed has stepped down. The following members were elected to serve for the next 3 years: -

Georgina Lewis, Wendy Yates, Diana Smith, Nicky Cathery, Heather Martin, Geoffrey Barton and Oliver Ramsden.

Ex-Officio Members – Eddie Roberts, Jackie Watts, Caroline Lucas, Isobel Chetwood Angela Philpott and Anne Aspinall.

Flo Knowles is due to be licensed as a Lay Pastoral Worker in the autumn and also has a paid role and so Eddie has suggested that she takes a break from the PCC. Roger, Val and Georgina are PTOs (Ministers with Permission to Officiate) and as such are not elected onto the PCC. They can however be invited to be co-opted by the PCC so this will be taken forward at the first meeting.

Patrick Tyrrell is willing to stand as the independent examiner for 2023.

Proposed: Martin Kinsey Seconded: Phil Gaskell.

Agreed unanimously, none against and no abstentions

7. Any other business

There were no further items for discussion and the meeting closed with the Grace.

9

3a Electoral Roll Officer’s Report

There are currently 219 on the Electoral Roll of which 63 live outside the Parish.

10 were added

7 have been removed

( 5 of which are deceased, and 2 have left)

Please notify me of any alterations to your current details which may occur during the year.

Please continue to encourage any new regular members of the congregation to join the Electoral Roll so that they can be eligible to vote and be members of the PCC and Sidespersons.

Jill Dodson Electoral Roll Officer

3b PROCEEDINGS OF THE PCC 2023

The PCC met 9 times during 2023. Eddie Roberts was invited to attend the March meeting before his induction on 23[rd] April. The churchwardens assumed overall responsibility for the parish during the interregnum, supported by 2 representatives Diana Smith and Nicky Cathery. Following Eddie’s appointment at the end of 2022 we looked forward very much to him joining us in April. We were very grateful to Roger, Val and Georgina for their support during the interregnum.

Safeguarding remained a standing item on the PCC Agenda. The Diocese safeguarding portal changed, all members updated their profiles and completed the necessary training modules. Following the APCM in April the newly elected PCC members undertook the mandatory training and DBS check were completed. As a matter of good practice Food Friend helpers were encouraged to undertake the basis training. The Safeguarding action plan was progressed and the lone worker policy adopted, subject to regular review.

The worship patterns were discussed at the meetings. Ash Wednesday, Mothering Sunday and the Easter services were covered by Roger and Val. Eddie settled into the parish very quickly and was greatly encouraged by the warm welcome extended to him and his family. He is keen that his “job description” should come out of the parish profile and during the year the PCC supported the development of worship with greater use of the screens in both churches. The hymn books, communion prayer booklet and paper copies of the service complemented the on-screen version so parishioners can follow the service according to their preference. The PCC approved the purchase of additional screens for both churches and this work is ongoing. Since his arrival there has been a strong sense that there is a joyful atmosphere in both churches, a greater footfall generally and a return of those people who had drifted away. Attendance at both churches remained strong, even during August. Feedback was mainly positive although Eddie is sensitive to the fact that inter-generational worship will not be to everyone’s taste and he is keen to develop a pattern that connects with people of all ages. He stressed that traditional hymns will always be included in our worship. Choral Evensong has been well supported and midweek services were reinstated at both churches each week linking with other activities (Food Friend and the Connect groups). The prayer list was re-designed with prompts and individual requests being refreshed every month or so. The PCC agreed to support the costs of developing the children’s area and buying resources to make this a welcoming space.

The Bible Course started in October with a good attendance. The success of this will be built on with regular courses in 2024; Lent - Peter Grieg’s book God on Mute – Engaging the Silence of Unanswered Prayer and after Easter moving to Jesus Shaped People.

10

The congregation were able to join in the splendour of the King’s Coronation as TV licensing rules relaxed enabled the service to be screened in full. A special CofE liturgy for the Sunday Service was used and prayer booklets were available to cover the period from Easter Monday until Coronation Day.

The PCC approved various fabric matters during the year. The Fabric Committee continued to meet regularly to consider any issues with both churches, the halls and the grounds. The gardening team carried out topple testing and problems with the sound system in St Bart’s were noted. There had been some complaints about the cleanliness of the parish hall which were addressed. Jon organised the Second Saturday Squad with the first meeting on 8[th] July managing a list of maintenance jobs for all buildings and grounds. The boilers were serviced and ongoing monitoring of their performance noted. There was discussion about the storage and insurance for the silverware as the bank indicated they will no longer keep these for us. Tree surveys were carried out in both churches, risk assessments done and plans for remedial work outlined. The memorial stone was cleaned and a new application form drawn up with the pricing structure amended to include the ongoing costs of cleaning. There was agreement to purchase a new lawnmower. A new boiler was installed in the Parish Hall.

The Finance Report was presented and reviewed at each meeting. The Parish Share was noted, the insurance costs and the DBF fees approved for 2023. The year end accounts were approved by the PCC to go forward to the APCM. The PCC approved the changes to bank signatories and the Finance Committee welcomed Andy Watts.

The HR contract with SAS Daniels was terminated in January 2023 and recruitment to the vacant office admin post put on hold until Eddie joined us to enable the scope of the job to be established. ChurchSuite, Share Point and Circle Loop were demonstrated and there was agreement to purchase these IT systems. There was discussion about the best and most cost effective way of covering the admin and church administration roles and a job description was drawn up. It was agreed to offer Flo a 12 month fixed term contract as Communications and Support Officer which she accepted. Thanks were expressed to Jackie and Isobel for their hard work in the office and to Caroline for her ongoing practical support since Helen left. All members received training on ChurchSuite which has now become embedded in our church administration function. There was a PCC strategy meeting on 5[th] August which was well supported and our minds were clearly focused on the important job of future planning by the provision of bacon and sausage sandwiches!

The Friends of the Parish fundraising and social events were noted. It was agreed to have a flag flown all the time at St Bart’s.

Weddings, baptisms and funerals were covered by Roger, Georgina and Val until Eddie’s arrival. It was noted that in the early part of his ministry there were a large number of baptisms. The PCC fully supported the proposal to ensure that the church is as child friendly as possible for the first important step in a journey. Flo, Caroline and Angela are part of the team welcoming families to baptism. The number of funerals slowed down from the initial number. A new information pack was developed for weddings and enquiries continued during the year.

Food Friend was open regularly with revised opening times running alongside Saturday morning coffee and midweek worship at St Bart’s. There were a growing number of clients including Ukrainians and the warm space continued to attract visitors throughout the winter months. A full review of FF was planned and it was hoped this would result in connections with other agencies.

Flo completed her Lay Pastoral Worker Training and we were delighted to celebrate her licensing on 7[th] October with a Harvest Thanksgiving service and supper.

11

It was pleasing to note the progress of St Anne’s School. The PCC approved the purchase of 25 Bibles for Year 6 pupils. There were a number of school carol services in December and strengthening of relationships with other local schools.

The minutes from Churches Together in Wilmslow meetings were noted and joint activities such as the Lent lunches and the Harvest Appeal had all gone well. Ian Smart was welcomed as the new minister at the Methodist Church and we said a fond farewell to Kirsty Thorpe who retired from the URC.

Eddie, in his first year with our PCC, has encouraged members into a conversation where we rethink ministry and mission together in a very collaborative way. He has been keen to remind us of the job description we gave him in the Parish Profile, to imagine the steps which might be required to grow out congregations younger to see ourselves as agents of change as well as stewards of all that God has given us.

Isobel Chetwood PCC Secretary

12

3c Financial Review for 2023

The consolidated Parish accounts are presented on the “accruals” basis.

Unrestricted Funds.

Income.

Total unrestricted income was £198,768, a 3% increase from the £192,478 in 2022, despite the earlier year having had the benefit of a one-off donation of £18,750. The main reason why income held up so well was a big increase in Parish Hall bookings (up by £13,455).

The total unrestricted income included some £79,190 from planned voluntary donations through standing orders and envelopes - more or less unchanged from the equivalent figure for 2022. A further £20,169 was obtained from Gift Aid.

Expenditure

Unrestricted costs decreased from £184,511 to £180,349 .

This was largely due to the absence of an Administration Manager for the first part of the year, and to the departure of the curate and the Parish Hall caretaker part-way through 2022, neither of who were replaced. Maintenance costs were reduced by an offset of £5,080 – being a donation received from The Friends of the Parish in respect of the redecorating of the exterior of St Anne’s Church in 2022.

The bulk of the £180,349 cost (i.e. £179,287) was spent on Christian ministry, including the contribution to the diocesan parish share of £85,485, which largely provides stipends and housing for the clergy.

As at 31[st] December 2023 the Parish only had one full-time employee.

Restricted funds.

Grants and donations of £8,280 were received, of which £4,837 related to our Food Friend food bank, and £3,443 related to the activities of the Friends of the Parish (who raise funds for the maintenance of the church buildings, halls and fittings). Expenditure of £19,594 was incurred by these funds, including the £5,080 provided by The Friends for redecorating, mentioned above.

Overall position.

The net movement on Unrestricted Funds was a surplus of £18,419, and on Restricted Funds there was a deficit of £11,314. Taken with a small investment gain of £108, the total fund balances increased to £917,179, of which £352,229 is Unrestricted.

Reserves Policy

The PCC retained £242,805 of its excess cash balances in short-term deposits of up to a year’s duration. These are reviewed on an annual basis.

13

Parochial Cfrwrch co￿¢11 of SL Barthol0rne￿s, Wilm51thv srATEMETrrr OF FINANaAL ACTIVITIES Fortheyear e￿IlrE 31 December 21T23 Unre5trKted TOTAL X123 TOTAL 2022 fund5 fuTh45 Ncte IN(OME ANDENDCAVMEP¥ts Vobjntary Ir￿Cr￿e ActNrtE5 forgenerntingfund5 Ir￿C￿e frcffl irNestments thurch 21al 21bl 114.790 2,696 4.170 77.112 6.726 1,554 121516 4.250 4.170 77,112 141.694 5,591 2.526 62.588 21dl TOTAL IKOME I￿.768 8.280 207.(￿8 212.399 EIPENDrfuRE co￿ of ger￿r￿nE funds Church Church expenses Ma1￿ captsl e￿ndtUre ctherexpEndtu 3(al 3(bl 3cl 3(dl 3el 847 IC6,683 72.604 1,074 13,170 5,350 1,921 119,853 77.954 1,145 120,213 82,995 215 215 TOTAL EXPEPa)ftURE 18J,349 19,594 199,943 2Cbl,352 INC(WIEnEIPENDrruRE) BEFORE IN￿ESTMENT6AlNs 18,419 111,3141 7,105 8,047 GAINS C4 IPNESTMEP¥ts INCCthIEnE)QENDrruREI 18,419 111,3141 7,213 8,110 TRANSFERS BEDAffN FUNDS hfT MO1￿MENt IN FUNDS 18.419 lll.3141 7,213 8.110 Trtal fLnds troLEhtforward 333.810 ,427 519,728 909,966 901,856 T(rt￿ FuTh4s Girried f￿rd 352,229 45,113 SI9￿6 917,179 9(PJ,966 14

BALANCE SHEEfAT31 DECEMBER 2023 Ta￿tle 514 51 5t6549 521,769 521.9 5L9J37 31ZO 523W7 523.164 614 61¥ 61t4 9,121 312,505 IQD 197 239270 alba￿ ard n hanl 27 OtL t7.875 27,238 4.1 149 40t,693 396.S cfqdtsTh.anYMmtsfairy cth 7571 7>71 .ias 519 39IJ22 386P)2 519W7 17.B75 Z7,138 45.113 917A79 CTe0ty5.aff￿faIry TOr￿NErA￿ St9ts37 392 17.8 27 14B 45.1 917 PARSH thos 519W7 SI9￿7 5L9.729 330.1 3,02L 56A27 unytr(T DES"g￿ted 3,621 5&21 45A13 I￿& t7.875 27,238 45,113 5L9J37 351 17.ll .23B 45.IL 917 15

Parochial Church Council of St. Bartholomew’s, Wilmslow NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 December 2023

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Parochial Church Council of St Bartholomew’s, Wilmslow (PCC) is a public benefit entity within the meaning of Financial Reporting Standard 102. The Financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church of England Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations’ “true and fair view” provisions. As with last year, they have been prepared under FRS102 (2016) as the applicable accounting standards and the 2016 version of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by the Charities (SORP(FRS102)).

ASSETS

Consecrated and benefice property

In so far as consecrated and benefice property of any kind is excluded from the statutory definition of “charity” by Section 10(2)(a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011 such assets are not capitalised in the financial statements.

Moveable church furnishings

Insufficient cost information is available to capitalise these assets, but, in any case, all items are included in the Church’s inventory. The policy for future purchases is to capitalise them at cost and depreciate them over their useful economic life.

Tangible fixed assets for use by the charity

There are two Anglican churches within the Parish: the Parish Church of St. Bartholomew’s and the daughter church of St Anne’s. In accordance with church legislation, the PCC is responsible for the upkeep of these buildings but does not own them. Accordingly, these church buildings are not included in these financial statements. The PCC does own the Parish Hall and St Anne’s Hall and these are shown under Fixed Assets in the Accounts.

Apart from these buildings, tangible fixed assets have historically been written off in the year of purchase. The policy for the future is to capitalise them if they can be used for more than one year, and cost in excess of £1,000. They will be valued at cost or else, for gifts-in-kind, at a reasonable estimate of their open market value on receipt. Depreciation will be calculated to write off the capitalised cost of fixed assets (less their currently anticipated residual fair value) over their estimated useful lives as follows:

Investments

Investments quoted on a recognised stock exchange or whose value derives from them are valued at market value at the year end.

Short term deposits

These are the cash held in various deposit accounts and at the bank.

Short term deposits

These are the cash held in various deposit accounts and at the bank.

FUNDS

Restricted Funds

These are income funds that can only be spent on the restricted purposes for which they were raised: the £27,238 held by “Food Friend” can only be used for local food relief, and the £17,876 held by “Friends” can only be used for the replacement or refurbishment of Wilmslow PCC property. Unrestricted Funds

These represent the remaining income funds of the PCC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the PCC

16

I INCOPKPll4D ENDOWMENrs Apstritte￿ FL￿5 Fr?nts FoodFrnd Toial TOTAL 10 TOT nts 2 lal V(rfLmary IrK(ThE ned¥MnK. 69.487 20.169 9.703 9.605 2.9￿ I 725 512 72.387 20,89a 11.959 9,605 73.845 20.711 .021 7,015 Tax rpThwle 725 2.256 1.744 Colttiorts Gift DJy5 5.826 145 7C 6.671 Lezxi 114.79D 1.889 4.837 6.726 121.516 141.594 2 Ibl Actibitie5 knpnerir¥furK15 Parsh m¥azire 60D 2.(f36 1.696 1.971 3.620 5.591 1.554 1.554 1.554 1,554 3.650 4.150 Divid￿￿ DnCOIF fund BJrt dwitrtve5t 35 4,134 4.170 35 2.491 2.525 4.134 4.170 2 Idl Ir￿nC*MCh Ktfvittes F￿5fr£￿￿￿￿1rv andfu￿r¥S Chwth Halb (hwth Hire PAx>k5ts11 Parsh m¥azire15aTe51 17.807 56.688 1.385 17,807 56.688 17.913 42.B20 670 ID4 1.082 62.488 1.232 77.112 1,232 77.iu 198.763 3,443 4.837 207,048 21Z,399 17

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STAFF COSTS

In 2023 the PCC employed one person on a part-time permanent basis (3 in 2022), and also a number of occasional organists and a choir leader, who were paid according to the number of services and practices they officiated at.

The remuneration of the above permanent employees can be analysed as follows –

2023 2022 £ £ Gross Pay 11101 20510 Employer Pension Contributions 725 618 National Insurance contributions NIL NIL Totals 11826 21128 These costs are allocated to the following funds – Unrestricted funds 3827 13113 Restricted fund (Food Friend) 7999 8015 Totals 11826 21128

18

S F￿E0ASSErs FroÉFK)Id laThJ & buildings St Bart's St Anno's Tctsi FLrnituro & OMCÉ oquipmknt St Bart's St Anno's Total Grand Tctal 5 la TAN13BLE Cost ttAt l January 2023 425.000 93.549 518.549 47.045 10.000 57.045 575.594 Dispos•ls Lfjt1c￿s at cost At 31 Ccembor 2023 42S,000 93,549 $18,$49 47.04S 10,000 57.04S 575,594 DeprecAt l January 2023 43,610 10,000 S3,610 S3,610 Withjrawn on dispe￿IS Chargo fortheyear 21S 21S 21S At 31 L(ember 2023 43,82S 10,000 S3,825 S3,825 8oAt l January è)23 425,000 93,549 518,549 3.435 0 3,435 521,984 At 31 E*cember2023 425,000 93,549 518,549 3.220 0 3,220 521,769 FreeholLI Land ané Buildng5 are bytsE Diocese of Che5rer ￿ behalf l￿the parith as a custodian ljustee. 19

5(bl INVEStMENT ASSETS COIF" Valuation at ljanuary X123 i.L80 Disposals Additionsat cost Gai nlloss on revaluati on i n year Valuation at 31 De￿mber 2023 1.288 COI F= COI F Charities I nvestment Fund 65 i ncome shares cURR￿T ASSETS Unrtrstrfctod R&strlrt•d Funds FriwMJs Food FrieThJ Totsi 2023 Tthal 2022 ToL)I 6 lal DebtLYS Tax rÈttsvÈra>lÈ IrtsurantÈ wÈM￿mS paid in lvant Othèr I￿oM& attruod Othor Costs propad 6.601 165 197 362 6,963 5.788 1.087 2.575 1.074 10.524 1.470 1.050 9.121 1.470 1.050 9,483 165 197 362 61bl Short-term dq)osits and Cash at Bank Depos￿ 3ccouThts United Trwt B￿k amwhire 8ank Tl Kn£dom 8¥nk T&ath#s' Bu1ildi￿ S£tioty Bank att￿nts- Natwost Ppal 84,210 64.656 73.939 84210 84.656 73.939 83,459 83,617 71,993 104.471 182 17.710 26.661 44.371 148J43 182 146.543 262 Cash in hnd 380 380 27.041 44.751 380 392210 307 386,382 347.458 17,710 Total CUrr￿t xsets 356,580 1?,875 27,239 4S,113 401,693 396.￿6 CUftR￿T L￿BliMEs Total FriÈnds Fo(*J FriÈTrTotsi 2023 2022 cr0d1t￿S Costs accrukd 7.571 7,571 7.571 7,S71 3.461 3,461 20

PMIARYOF FiThID PM)VEMEN15 St BJt'5 &StAnnE' Land & &Ji4Yirk25 and Irr￿StM￿lts F￿￿tts& scholarthip FoDd Frnd Bal an￿￿t l r￿L￿ry 2023 IntDtnv¥ re50urce5 519.729 330,189 198.768 1180.3491 3,621 56.427 8.280 119.59ai 207.048 1199,9431 In¥e51mEntgain5 Balanc•3t 31 DOC￿b¥tr 2023 519.837 348.608 3.621 45.113 917.179 VWARYOFASSEf5 ￿ FIJ40 _+L Tar<Ib￿fiX¥j ￿Sets Inves1r￿ntI￿edOI5et5 Curroita55ets Curroit knabl￿ti￿ at 31 DpcvrlJer 2023 518.549 1.288 3,220 521,769 1,288 401,693 571 917 179 352,959 7.571 3.621 45,113 519.837 45.113 21

Parochial Church Council of St. Bartholomew’s, Wilmslow INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT

Independent Examiner’s Report to the Trustees

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Parochial Church Council for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet and the related notes

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”). The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under the Charities Act 2011, s.144(2) (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’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 which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

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.

Patrick Tyrrell FRSA FCMA “Craigmore” 35 Handforth Road Wilmslow Cheshire SK9 2LX

28[th] March 2024

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3e Diocesan and Deanery Synods Report

Diocesan Synod

There were 3 Diocesan Synod Meetings in 2023 in March, June and November. The March meeting noted the challenge of reaching carbon net zero. Nick Rank has retired from his architectural practice and has a new role with the DAC. The new role of Diocesan Safeguarding Officer was noted. +Mark gave an update on Living in Love and Faith (LLF) and +Julie the safeguarding update. There are 2.5 new safeguarding posts. The review of the admission to children to communion before confirmation was noted and agreement that this fosters discipleship and encourages families. The lower age limit of 8 in the original guidelines has been removed. The formal process for accepting children must be followed. +Mark reported on the progress of the Vision Process. The Vision cafés had gone well and the results are being collated. At the June meeting congratulations were offered to Ian Bishop following his appointment as Bishop of Thetford. The main business was for the synod to agree the Diocesan Vision following the Casting the Net Wide consultation process. +Mark encouraged PCCs to discuss 4 key questions; Is this a step of faith? Is this locally transformative? Where is the hope or joy? What might we imagine together? The overarching question should be Does this make a difference to the 1.5 million? The November meeting covered progress of the Diocesan Vision and the thorny issues of LLF. The annual budget was noted. There was an update on net zero and the next steps to be taken as the consultation process is complete. A small development team will draw up a strategy to be taken forward.

Deanery Synod

There were 2 Deanery Synod Meetings in March and November. At the meeting in March it was readily acknowledged that LLF is a “hot topic” having been discussed at length over 3 days at the Diocesan Synod. There was discussion how the Deanery Synod now moves forward bearing in mind 5 guiding principles that +Mark had outlined; accuracy, trust, unity, kindness and being fruitful. Parishes were reminded to include their energy footprint information with APCM returns. Unconscious bias training has been delayed but will be rolled out in the summer. The CMS electronic year book training due to start in June and parishes to nominate 3 people to have access. At the November meeting Keith Davies from Christian Solidarity Worldwide gave a thought provoking account of Christians throughout the world who are persecuted for their faith. It was noted that online safeguarding training for PTOs is available and must be completed or they will be unable to officiate. There was discussion about whether there is a need for the Diocese to offer training for Church Wardens. Richard Walker has been appointed as the new DDO (Bishop’s advisor to the Diocese). There are fewer people coming forward for lay ministry and only 6 people were ordained the Diocese recently. If parishes have visiting clergy and preachers from outside the Diocese to lead worship they l need to obtain permission from the Bishop. Ian Blay thanked all those for their support over the last 7 years as Rural Dean as he handed over to Paul Deakin. Ian will continue as Chapter clerk.

Isobel Chetwood Angela Philpott Deanery Synod Representatives

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3f Warden’s Report for APCM – April 2024

This time last year we had just welcomed Eddie to Wilmslow. We are so pleased he has joined us and we’ve had a busy and exciting year. We are thankful for the continuing ministry help from Roger and Val in particular and also Georgina.

We enjoyed the Advent groups which have now become ‘Connect Groups’, of which there are four meeting regularly. Remembrance Sunday was well attended in church and outside in the Memorial

Gardens. Services at Christmas brought big congregations and there was a great atmosphere for the crib services where a some of us dressed up. There were a number of school services.

We were able to visit 5 local care homes for Christmas services and are planning the same over Easter. The Hawthorns and Wilmslow Manor also have regular monthly visits for Holy Communion, and we visit people at home on request.

We were sorry to lose Tim Harvey at the beginning of the year and have been thankful for the band of organists who have filled the rota. We are advertising for a replacement.

The PCC had some new members and we are very grateful for all the help and support we have had from them. There are some gaps to be filled and we would love some new faces to join the team. Do please consider if you could be a part of us.

The administration is mainly being carried out by Flo and Jackie (with a lot of help from Andy) and with help from Caroline and others. The various roles are being discussed to find the best way to cover them in the future.

There are many volunteers who cover gardening, coffee making, keeping the church open, repairing, flower arranging. We have a band of people who are part of the Second Saturday Squad and a number of small and not-so-small jobs have been tackled in St. Anne’s, St. Bart’s and in both halls.

A new boiler was installed in the Parish Hall but it is pleasing that a number of smaller jobs have been completed by ourselves.

We have conducted several funerals and baptisms and there are some weddings in the pipeline. It would be lovely to have more help in the baptism team.

We are looking forward to a busy and vibrant future.

Jackie Watts and Caroline Lucas

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3g Food Friend APCM Report 2024

Below are the figures since we changed our opening times to an hour on a Tuesday and an hour on a Saturday, commencing January 2024.

TUESDAYS: 4, 8, 5, 8, 4, 3,10, 3, 5, 9 - Total 62 SATURDAYS: 8, 10, 10, 6, 10, 3, 7, 0, 6, 4, 8 - Total 75

Deliveries outside hours since January start: Approx. 10

The usual regulars have continued to come, unaffected by the change in times, and we have had some newcomers, especially from the Ukraine and via Wilmslow High School and Cheshire East referrals.

We have helped 3 homeless people.

Sheena Hatton, Ann Hodson, Christine Little and Ray Oates continue to volunteer covering the new hours between them. To date, Flo has always been on site too. Saturdays are working well with those on the rota for Open Coffee & Church mucking in too. Some clients are sitting down to chat over a drink too. This has not been established so well on Tuesdays yet.

We also have a volunteer (Maddy) with SEND who collects food from our donation point at Sainsbury’s and delivers to church.

We still collect from Waitrose in Alderley Edge too, and continue to shop for extra supplies online from Waitrose. (This was the instruction when the food provision project was established fully in 2014 with a view to keeping it local, for convenience with Waitrose so close to church and due to the funding etc we have received from them on numerous occasions).

Food donations are down from church congregation members, but otherwise remain steady with good support from local individuals and businesses. We have had to shop which is usually the case at this time of year, but supplies will likelybe renewed again around Harvest especially with the support of local schools.

Julian will have the figures, but I am guessing monetary donations are also down, especially since the ‘high’ of Covid.

We continue to share any of our excess stock with other charitable causes.

Flo Knowles

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3h Neighbourhood Network Report for APCM April 2024

We currently have 20 people on the Neighbourhood Network team who keep in touch with members of our congregations. Details are currently being updated on Church Suite. We are happy that our congregations are growing and we make sure that new people are included as soon as possible. We sent parish Christmas and Easter cards which is a good way to keep in touch with those who can’t always come to church. I know everyone enjoys being included.

We had our usual Christmas and Easter Tea parties which continue to be well attended and enjoyed by many people. We were entertained by Diana and Rosemary on the piano and it was good to see many conversations taking place – it’s a very relaxed time and a good chance to chat to someone you may not have had the opportunity to meet properly before.

It’s so encouraging to see new people coming to church. Do remember to notice if this happens – I know some of you are really good at welcoming visitors and we often hear feedback saying how welcomed they have felt.

Saturday mornings at St. Bart’s and Thursday mornings at St. Anne’s are also seeing new faces which is very encouraging. Thank you to all who help in any way.

Jackie Watts – NN co-ordinator

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3i Magazine Team Report 2023

The Parish Magazine continues to be published digitally and this has proved to be a great success. In particular it has enabled us to use much more colour in the magazine so making it more attractive for our readers as well as widening our readership.

There are those who prefer a printed copy or who cannot access the online issue. Accordingly we continue to print a number of copies - currently around 120 per month - for them and for visitors to the churches. The Magazine is also published on our Parish website. During the course of the year it was decided that as the Magazine is a form of Outreach that it should be freely available to all. Accordingly there is no longer a charge made for the printed copy of the magazine. The online version, which has more colour than the printed one, will continue to be sent out to everyone as now. Magazine donations are very welcome.

We thank those who deliver copies of the magazine to members of the congregation who do not have access to the online magazine.

During 2023, in addition to the Clergy Comment and our regular features, we published a series of articles on Food in the Bible. There was also an informative and varied series of articles on interesting churches visited by our readers both in this country and abroad. We also featured regular updates from our Churchwardens, music updates and reports from St Anne’s School as well as reports from various church activity groups and the Friends. In addition we printed interesting occasional articles, poems and photographs all generously written or provided by members of the congregations.

Thank you to all our contributors. We love to receive your articles, reports, photographs and drawings and we are lucky to have so many talented artists, photographers and writers in our parish. Do please keep sending us your contributions.

Thank you to Jean Parker who kindly sends out the timely reminders for articles and to Isobel Chetwood and Yvonne Warren who print and coordinate the paper copies of the magazine each month.

Advertising

Isobel Chetwood looks after the ads very competently. Having done this job for many years it is a job she would love to hand over to someone else. Is there anyone out there who would like to assist us in this way? – it is not an unduly onerous task.

As well please do support the local businesses who advertise with us.

Distribution

Thanks to Wendy and Roger Yates for co-ordinating the distribution of the magazines.

We would love to hear from you with ideas and suggestions for future magazines – and, of course, articles and pictures too. In particular we would welcome Questions for Eddie or any Church officer as part of our new Q & A series. These can be on any church or church related topic.

Magazine Team

Wendy Yates, Diana Smith, Jill Dodson, Isobel Chetwood, Jean Parker, Ann Hodson

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3j Friends of the Parish of Wilmslow Chair’s Report 2023

The Friends of the Parish of Wilmslow have held 4 meetings during the year and were delighted to welcome Eddie Roberts to our AGM in April just 3 days after he was officially inducted as Rector and President of the Friends.

The Friends have put their culinary expertise to good use during the year; catering for Eddie’s induction on 23[rd] April, the Wychcraft Band concert on 8[th] July and the farewell service for Ian Bishop on 23[rd] July. We are beginning to get something of a reputation!

Saturday 4[th] December saw the return of the Friends Christmas Market following the success of last year’s event. We were very grateful to everyone who supported this event in any way at all and were overwhelmed with donations for all the different stalls. Our friends and church family were most generous in their support for the raffle and Tim and the choir sang beautifully. The kitchen was a hive of activity with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and cakes at one end and hot dogs and mulled wine at the other. The chocolate fountain was a new addition to our fund raising efforts.

We were delighted to have taken £1,514.71 and with our expenses of only £105.45 we raised the magnificent sum of £1,409.26 which is only £115.00 less than last year. The expenses accounted for only 0.07% of the total money raised and clearly demonstrates how incredibly generous everyone had been in supporting this event.

The 200 club continues to be a fun way of raising funds for the Friends with the monthly draw and prize of £60.00. In 2023 we had two lucky winners for the Coronation and the Christmas draw so paid out £840.00 in prizes.

During the year, as the Treasurer’s report outlines, we have paid for the cost of decorating St Anne’s and also repairs to their notice board. We are working closely with the PCC to identify expenditure that falls within the remit of the Friends and will be funding projects into 2024.

The committee are always happy to welcome new members as we plan for future events. My thanks go to the committee for all their hard work and commitment which will ensure that we preserve the heritage of our beautiful churches for many years to come.

Isobel Chetwood

Chair – Friends of the Parish of Wilmslow

Committee:

Rev Eddie Roberts (President) Richard Smith (Treasurer) Jean Parker Jill Palmer Ann Hodson Phil Gaskell Joel Millett Ray Oates

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3k The Friends of the Parish of Wilmslow

Financial Summary for 2023

This report should be read in conjunction with the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 December 2023 and the Chair`s Report for 2023.

The fundraising events continued in 2023. On 2nd December 2023, a Christmas Market was held at the Parish Hall which raised a gross sum of £1,514.71. An additional sum of £40 received in January 2023 appears in the accounts which is a delayed payment from the previous Christmas Market in December 2022. The net sum raised for The Friends was £1,409.26 after deduction of expenses. The membership subscriptions to The Friends and to 200 Club have been maintained and 200 Club draw has continued each month.

In February 2023, The Friends paid for the cost of decorating at St Anne`s in the sum of £5,080.

In May 2023, The Friends paid for the cost of repairs to the noticeboard at St. Anne`s in the sum of £161.

These respective payments appear in the Income and Expenditure Account.

The Friends of the Parish of Wilmslow Bank Accounts

The Friends have two separate bank accounts with NatWest Bank in Wilmslow. They are:

· Wilmslow PCC – Friends, which is the general account into which subscriptions are paid. On 31 December 2023 the balance of the account was £10,143.18

· Wilmslow PCC- Friends Festival Account into which the 200 Club subscriptions are paid and from which the monthly prizes are withdrawn. On 31 December 2023 the balance of the account was £7,566.55

· The combined balances were £17,709.73 on 31 December 2023

These are both current accounts and do not accrue any interest.

Income

· £1,744.00 received in subscriptions.

· £80.00 received from Flag flying donations.

· £1,514.71, the gross sum raised at the Christmas Market

The income for the year was £3,443.71.

Expenditure

· £5,080 for the cost of decorating at St Anne`s

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· £840.00 for the 200 Club monthly draw prizes. There were 14 draws this year. In addition to the usual monthly draws, there was an extra one in May 2023 to celebrate the King`s Coronation and an extra one in December 2023 to celebrate Christmas.

· £105.45 for the Christmas Market expenses.

· £20.69 for a gift to a longstanding member of the Committee, Barbara Foster, to mark her retirement.

The expenditure for the year was £6,315.13.

The deficit of income over expenditure for 2023 was £2,871.42. The main reason for the swing from surplus to deficit during the year was increased expenditure, mainly on the decorating costs at St. Anne`s. The overall funds held by the Friends decreased by the same amount, namely £2,871.42, from £20,581.15, the opening balance on 1 January 2023, to £17,709.73 the closing balance on 31 December 2023.

Richard Smith

Honorary Treasurer

19th January 2024

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WllrnknwPCC FrknthoftheParfth ACC￿￿￿&jmrnary20IJ 2023 1023 Incarn• EwondlbJr• a0￿￿8 Iwce Friertdscurietstkt￿nt 13562.6U 2055.71 5475.13 -3419.42 Friends Festwèl CU￿ntA¢Count 7018.55 1388.LXJ B40. 7566.55 548.LKI 10581.is 344>71 63JS.iJ 17709.73 4871.41 u￿4t 10501.15 177Q9.73 2871A2 ImlmlDw P¢C Prknd¥ ofth• P•rl¥h InGorn••nd t¥p•ndllur• AGcount 202J Ex￿n￿lI￿r 3S6.00 £ És.oD 3L StAnne'sOe<or8ting<05tS StBirf514otkeboaid Aewl STknhÈ'sBthlÈr r￿natIOnS undfvrth P(C￿stBal￿$lltlI WundPCC In5re(llimre￿leT L7UI 2mClubPrizEs Fund ri151n￿￿￿5lffl1smIrke1 L554.71 £ 20.69 £ Booktokenifftl¥oLthI m1scdl￿l0uJ..POffi￿MYJ1 65.55 ChTrstMis￿￿teIp￿￿seS 105.45 £ 10799 I354￿ £ 131a 2￿c￿b￿ati￿s iorALIIICOME FOR TPff YEA 3)40.70 7tsrALEXPEND￿U￿E FOR THEIEAH 6315.13 £ 1317JX YEAROPEP41t4G DALINCE5 VEARCL051NGPNLV4CES (urrentA(Eount Fest￿a￿*￿ 15562fA) £ 12JW36 6A76 CuThElltAc(aunt 10.143 Is £ 7.56&55 t 13 7.01 To 17.709 F3 £ 20.￿1.15 TOT 24m4. 31

3k CHURCHES TOGETHER IN WILMSLOW – 2023

The CTiW group met 3 times with members from the Wilmslow churches: St Bart’s, St Anne’s, the United Reformed, Wilmslow Methodist Church, St Teresa’s, Norcliffe Chapel, Wilmslow Life Church, Wilmslow Quakers and Dean Row Unitarian Church.

The group discussed a range of issues relating to Wilmslow and the wider community, including support for refugees and asylum seekers. The Lent Lunches are coordinated through CTiW and as has become our tradition we met at Dean Row raising £1,400 for Christian Aid with gift aid added to the total. CTiW supported Christian Aid week in May which focused on Malawi. There was a street collection and a Just Giving page. Christian Aid continue to explore different ways of raising money without door to door collections. The Harvest Appeal for 2023 was for Wilmslow Youth. The monies raised were match funded and donated during the Big Give Week. A grand total of £18K+ was raised overall and will be used to fund the Drop In Café for young people. This is the front door which helps to build relationships as young people find the surroundings a comfortable and safe environment. Helen Battilana from Wilmslow Wells for Africa was welcomed to the June meeting and was delighted to report that WWfA celebrate 40 years since they began and noted that Saturday 8[th] June 2024 will see a variety of events to mark this special occasion. It was agreed that we should choose this for our 2024 appeal. There were Christmas carols at the Artisan Market in December.

Reports are received from the churches at each meeting. We said goodbye to Rev Kirsty Thorpe who retired in July with her last service on 30[th] July. This was well attended and we are most grateful for everything she has done for CTiW down the years. Rev Eddie Roberts was inducted as Rector of Wilmslow Parish in April and was welcomed to the group.

Isobel Chetwood Secretary – Churches Together in Wilmslow

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4 SAFEGUARDING POLICY PROMOTING A SAFER CHURCH

The following policy was agreed at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on 24[th] May 2023.

In accordance with the Church of England Safeguarding Policy our church is committed to:

The Parish will:

Each person who works within this church community will agree to abide by this policy and the guidelines established by this church.

This church has appointed Diana Smith as the Parish Safeguarding Officer.

Incumbent: Revd Eddie Roberts

Churchwardens: Jackie Watts & Caroline Lucas

Date: 14 April 2024

Further information and the Parish Safeguarding Handbook can be found at

https://www.churchofengland.org/media/11842

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Safeguarding Report for 2023

The PCC has complied with its duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have regard to House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).

Safeguarding means the steps that the Church takes to create and maintain a safe environment for all and, in particular, for children, young people and vulnerable adults. As a Parish we are committed to encouraging an environment where all people, but especially those who may be at risk for any reason, are able to worship and follow their faith journey in safety. A copy of our Parish Safeguarding Policy which was accepted at last year’s APCM on 14th May 2023 is attached. This Policy is reviewed on at least an annual basis.

During the year all our activities and procedures were reviewed from a safeguarding point of view to ensure that all documentation and processes are kept up to date in line with guidelines set out by The Church of England and Diocese of Chester. This review is an ongoing process and particularly relevant as new activities may begin.

During the course of the year two safeguarding concerns were referred to the Diocesan Safeguarding Team which were then handled independently by them. There were also a couple of internal matters of concern recorded where no further action was required.

All PCC members have completed or are in the process of completing or renewing the required Safeguarding Training modules provided by the Diocese comprising Basic Awareness, Foundation and Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse. Others have completed Leadership and Safer Recruitment and People Management courses as required. A Lone Worker Policy was adopted by the PCC during the year. Preparation of a Safeguarding Action Plan is underway.

DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) documentation and processes are under ongoing review to ensure that all checks have been made as required and procedures are kept up to date. During the year people in visible positions within the church - e.g. Food friend helpers and home visitors - were encouraged to increase their awareness of Safeguarding matters and procedures by undertaking Basic Safeguarding Training and as a matter of good practice Basic DBS checks were obtained.

Our Safeguarding contact details and safeguarding information is reviewed regularly to ensure that up to date information is displayed on our Parish website and in Parish buildings.

Diana Smith

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6 Rector’s Report

Sisters & Brothers

While I was in post for the APCM held in 2023, this one is my first really. The period that we are reflecting on as we meet is the calendar year of 2023, but it is difficult to do that and so much of what I say stray into the first part of 2024. I am sure that’s not going to confuse things too much!

Before I go any further, it is important to pause and to give thanks. It is a biblical practice (I Col 1:3-8) and it is right for so many reasons. Firstly, for the welcome, encouragement and friendship that we have received since arriving in Wilmslow, we are grateful. For the ministry that we share together, thankful. For all that the future holds, thankful again. We belong here now, and it would be impossible to name, individually, all of the people who have contributed to making Wilmslow home for us.

Now onto business! Many of you will not have seen the job description for the new Rector but I have plucked a few things out of it to use as a framework to ‘report’ on. Some of the priorities went straight to the top of list for attention in Year One - some I knew would take us a little longer and perhaps require additional resource. Whilst the job description was originally mine, it is one that I always came to share with you and it might be useful to check see what, under God, we have achieved together. I have gathered some themes under the categories of discipleship, mission & evangelism and stewardship.

Discipleship

Sunday mornings are always very important when we attempt to attend to atmosphere and develop an environment where existing people want to spend time together in worship. Even more important as we think about welcoming and encouraging new people.

Working with and within the proper constraints of the traditions we have shared and enjoyed, we think that we detect a mood change. Whilst people still express regrets around things of the past, we see people enjoying each other’s company and there is a sense that fellowship is deepening. Personally, I have been blessed by the openness of the people inside the church family and outside of it. You will all be better judges of whether our church congregations are where you would want them to be that I ever could be but it feels as though we have made progress.

What we can say with confidence is that there is hard evidence of congregation growth in numbers. Overall, our attendance statistics are now higher than they were pre-pandemic. We can also say with confidence that encouraging people in their discipleship is happening with a well-formed small group structure – with one long-standing group and four new groups, around 40 people meet regularly to pray, study and discuss.

Mission & Evangelism

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In Wilmslow, we have been worshipping in a particular ‘central’ and Eucharistic style which is quite common in rural and semi-rural areas of the country. In a town like Wilmslow, that is probably not and easy ‘landing place’ for the young professionals and families who make up the younger end of the demographic. The absence of any significant children’s work is also a challenge for growing the church younger. Whilst those are some of the challenges, we have made some progress. We have developed children’s areas in both churches. We have made some tweaks to the way we worship to make service a little more contemporary. We have changed the way that we do baptisms and have seen some good progress in our relationships with schools. At St Bart’s in particular, we have some younger families who are becoming slightly more regular in attendance. We have a long way to go but we have made some progress and the next PCC voted in at the APCM will pick up conversations about how we spend our money wisely to meet some of these church growth objectives.

Stewardship

This is another area where we did a lot of early work. Administrative and communications systems (SharePoint, ChurchSuite and new website) were early pieces of work. Newsletters and prayer lists were rethought and rolled out. We committed to a part time, fixed term post for communications and administration which is due to be reviewed alongside other priorities and objectives.

Through Spring 2024, we will start to look at stewardship – our time, our treasure and our talents. We will think about all that God has given us and the ways in which we are invited to respond. Financial stewardship is an important concern as we ensure that the mission of the parish is properly supported by our giving to the work but so too are days like the day in Harvest when we celebrated t God calling people from our membership (Flo in that case) into different forms of ministry.

There’s so much more I could say but for the ways in which you have served and blessed me and each other, I go back to 1 Col 1 and want to say thank you!

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