# **Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton** **Annual Report and Financial Statements** **Year ending 31 December 2022** Charity number 1131636 Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **Contents** |Parochial Church Council|1| |---|---| |Annual Report|2| |Independent Examiner’s Report|5| |Statement of Financial Activities|6| |Balance Sheet|7| |Notes to the financial statements|8| Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **Parochial Church Council** |**Vicar:**|Rev Alison Sowton (from 20thOctober 2022)| |---|---| |**Independent Reporting**|David Oakensen,| |**Accountants:**|William Price & Co,| ||Chartered Accountants,| ||Suite 9, Westbury Court,| ||Church Road,| ||Bristol| ||BS9 3EF| |**Bankers:**|HSBC| ||11 Canford Lane| ||Westbury-on-Trym| ||Bristol| ||BS9 3DE| _1_ ## Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 The Parochial Church Council present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022. The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations’ ‘true and fair view’ provisions, together with FRS102 (2016) as the applicable accounting standards and the 2016 version of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP(FRS 102)). ## **Charitable Status** The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a corporate body established by the Church of England under the PCC Powers Measure. The PCC was registered as a charity in 2009, with charity number 1131636, having previously been an excepted charity. The PCC members have complied with the duty in section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission. ## **Aims and Purposes** The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also maintains the Tithe Barn in accordance with its aims and objectives, making it available for the purposes of St Mary’s and for the use of the inhabitants of all ages with the object of improving the conditions of life for the Inhabitants. ## **Objectives and Activities** St Mary’s Church, Shirehampton, provides Church of England services and religious activities for all ages, including outreach into the community via work with youth and the elderly. We run a youth group, dance classes, a Mothers’ Union branch, a Mental Awareness Group branch and host a ‘Goldies’ singing group. In addition we hold various social activities during the year. ## **Structure, governance and management** Members of the PCC are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. During the year, the following served as members: Vicar: Rev Alison Sowton Appointed 20[th] October 2022 Wardens: Anne Ford Richard Powell Deanery Synod Representatives: Shemma Laws Health & Safety Officer – Church Kathryn Mwakijungu Elected Members: Pat Davidson Tim Forder Electoral Roll Officer Philip Fowler Treasurer & Data Protection Officer Colin Godfrey Appointed 15[th] May 2022 Richard Griffiths Resigned 15[th] May 2022 Doug Jennings Sarah Parry Reid Secretary Tony Symons Health & Safety Officer – Tithe Barn Safeguarding Officer (not in PCC) Claire Staynings From 1[st] March 2022 _2_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **Standing Committee:** This is the only committee required by law. It has the power to transact the business of the PCC between meetings, subject to any directions from the Council. ## **Financial Review** Income at £128,625 (2021: £140,382) was higher (2021: lower) than expenditure of £121,247 (2021: £155,420) to give net income of £7,378 (2021: £15,038 net expenditure). Conditions eased in 2022 where we were able to bring back more of our events and reintroduced open plate collections at our services. Some coffee mornings were transferred to the Tithe Barn during the winter months, due to lower energy consumption at the smaller space, a decision made in the face of significantly increased energy costs. Although donations decreased compared to 2021, we were able to open the Tithe Barn for events and parties throughout the year, and we opened for coffee mornings all year. Returns on investments continued to bring in valuable income. We continually review costs to minimise impacts of price increases where appropriate. We are grateful to our church family and local community for your continued support. Giving to missions/charities from general funds totalled £3,300 (2021: £3,300). The amount paid to the Diocese for parish and ministry costs was £35,575 (2021: £59,660). Restricted income exceeded restricted expenditure by £745 (2021: £10,732 expenditure exceeded income), partly due to receipt of a £2,494 grant towards increased energy costs having been received in December 2022, which will be spent during 2023. The loss on revaluation of shares held as endowment funds was £91,750 (2021: £92.254 revaluation gain). The Charity Commission approved a scheme allowing us to sell shares to the value of £109,000 to partly fund the purchase of the Tithe Barn, on the condition these shares would be purchased back until the full number of shares were reinstated. At 31 December 2022 the total market value of the amount remaining to be paid was £65,391. The full amount is to be repaid by 2033. ## **Reserves Policy** The PCC aim to maintain reserves in unrestricted funds at a level that will allow sufficient funds to be available to pay for charitable activities as they arise and also to ensure that support and governance costs can be met as they fall due. The balance held as unrestricted funds at the year-end was £460,145 (2021: £453,512). Where possible, we maintain reserves to cover, as a minimum, identifiable repair and maintenance costs relating to the fabric and furnishings of St Mary’s, three months’ parish share payments and 25% of the amounts required from fund raising to cover general expenditure. We have estimated net expenditure on fabric and furnishings for 2023 at £3,000, parish contributions to the Diocese for three months total £11,250 and £2,000 is required to cover any shortfall in fundraising. ## **Investments** The Bristol Diocesan Board of Finance Ltd, as custodial trustees, hold CBF Ltd shares on our behalf in both the Bernard Salmon and Napier Miles Trusts. In addition, 404 CBF shares are held in respect of the Ecclesiastical and nonEcclesiastical Charities. _3_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **PCC Responsibility for the Financial Statements** The law requires the PCC to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Parish and of its income and expenditure for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the PCC is required to: - Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently. - Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. - Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless this is inappropriate. The PCC members are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Parish and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the relevant legislation. They are also responsible for safeguarding assets of the Parish and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. ## _Alison Sowton_ Approved by the PCC on 24[th] April 2023 and signed on their behalf by Rev Alison Sowton (Vicar) _4_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **Independent Examiner’s Report to the PCC of the Parish of St Mary, Shirehampton, Bristol.** I report on the accounts of the church for the year ended 31 December 2022 which are set out on pages 6 to 14. ## **Respective Responsibilities of PCC and Examiner** The PCC is responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The PCC considers that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to: - Examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; - To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act); and - To state whether particular matters have come to my attention. ## **Basis of Independent Examiner’s report** My examination was carried out in accordance with the general directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. ## **Independent examiner’s statement** In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: 1. Which give me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements - a. To keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and - b. To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or 2. To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. ## _David Oakensen_ David Oakensen FCA William Price & Co Ltd Westbury Court, Church Road Westbury-on-Trym BS9 3EF Date: 24[th] April 2023 _5_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **Statement of Financial Activities** |**Unrestricted**
**Restricted Endowment**
**Total**
**funds**
**funds**
**funds**
**2022**
**2021**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**|**Unrestricted**
**Restricted Endowment**
**Total**
**funds**
**funds**
**funds**
**2022**
**2021**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**| |---|---| |**Notes**|| |**Income and endowments from:**
Donations and legacies
Income from charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Other income
**Total income**
2
**Expenditure on:**
Raising funds
Expenditure on charitable activities
Other expenditure
**Total expenditure**
3
**Net (expenditure) /income before gains and**
**transfer**
Gains on investment assets
**Net movement in funds**
**Total funds brought forward at 1 January**
**2022**
**Total funds carried forward at 31 December**
**2022**
10|74,332
2,869
—
77,201
95,014
11,647
—
—
11,647
9,135
10,031
—
—
10,031
6,099
20,546
—
—
20,546
19,697
9,200
—
—
9,200
10,437| ||**125,756**
**2,869**
**—**
**128,625**
**140,382**
316
—
—
316
9
111,310
2,124
—
113,434
147,914
7,497
—
—
7,497
7,497| ||**119,123**
**2,124**
**—**
**121,247**
**155,420**| ||**6,633**
**745**
**—**
**7,378**
**(15,038)**
—
—
(91,750)
(91.750)
92,254| ||**6,633**
**745**
**(91,750)**
**(84,372)**
**77.216**| ||**453,512**
**13,917**
**774,522**
**1,241,951**
**1,164,735**| ||**460,145**
**14,662**
**682,772**
**1,157,579**
**1,241,951**| All incoming resources and resources expended derive from continuing activities. Notes 1 to 10 form part of these financial statements. _6_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report and Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 **Balance sheet** ||**2022**
**2021**
**£**
**£**
369,361
376,858
687,772
779,522
**1,057,133**
**1,156,380**
10,342
7,533
96,936
82,603
**107,278**
**90,136**
(6,832)
(4,565)
**100,446**
**85,571**
**1,157,579**
**1,241,951**
460,145
453,512
14,662
13,917
682,772
774,522
**1,157,579**
**1,241,951**| |---|---| |Notes
**Fixed assets**
Tangible assets
5
Investments
6
**Current assets**
Debtors
7
Cash at bank and in hand
**Liabilities**
Creditors: Amounts falling due in one year
8
**Net current assets less current liabilities**
**Total net assets less liabilities**
**Represented by**
Unrestricted funds
10
Restricted funds
10
Endowment funds
10
**Total Funds**|| Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 24[th] April 2023 ## _Alison Sowton P M C Fowler_ Rev Alison Sowton Vicar P Fowler Treasurer Notes 1 to 10 form part of these financial statements. _7_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **1 Accounting Policies** ## **Basis of preparation and assessment of going concern** The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations’ ‘true and fair view’ provisions, together with FRS102 (effective 1 January 2019) as the applicable accounting standards and the 2019 version of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP(FRS 102)). The financial statements use the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these financial statements. The valuation of investment assets 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. The PCC constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The presentation currency of the financial statements is sterling and all figures are rounded to the nearest pound. The PCC considers there are no material uncertainties about their ability to continue as a going concern. ## **Fund accounting policy** Unrestricted funds are general funds that can be used for PCC ordinary purposes in furtherance of the objectives of the charity. Restricted funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for a specific purpose, the use of which is restricted to that area. These funds represent income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest, and donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of the year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not invest separately for each fund. Where there is no separate investment, interest will in future be appointed to individual funds on an average balance basis. Endowment funds are funds, the capital of which must be maintained. Only income arising from investment of the endowment may be used either as restricted or unrestricted funds, depending on the purpose for which the endowment was established. ## **Incoming resources** Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recognised 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 recognised when receivable. All incoming resources are accounted for 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 recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross. ## **Volunteer Help** The value of any voluntary help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the Annual Report. All help received is greatly appreciated. _8_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **Fixed Assets Consecrated property and moveable church furnishings** Consecrated and beneficed property is not included in the accounts in accordance with S.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 2011. Moveable church furnishings held by the Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC, and which require a faculty for disposal, are accounted as inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the church’s inventory which can be inspected (at a reasonable time). For inalienable property acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts. Items acquired since 1 January 2000 with individual value below £1,000 are written off. ## **Depreciation** Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost, less any residual value, over their expected useful life, as follows: Tithe Barn 2% of construction and refurbishment cost on a straight line basis ## **Investments** Investments are valued at market value at 31 December. Investment gains and losses resulting from revaluing investments to market value are reflected in the Statement of Financial Activities. ## **Taxation** The charity is exempt from tax as it has no taxable activities. Irrecoverable VAT borne by the charity is included in the cost of the item to which it relates. ## **Cash at bank and in hand** Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisitions or opening of the deposit or similar account. ## **Debtors** Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount at which the charity is expected to benefit in a future period. Provision is made for any amount that may prove uncollectible. ## **Liabilities and provisions** Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance Sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide. Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. ## **Financial instruments** The charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. _9_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **2 Income** |**Donations and legacies**
Gift aided donations
Gift aided donations via envelope
Planned giving
Collections (open plate) at all services
Sundry donations
Donations – appeals, grants(see below)
Tax recoverable on gift aided donations
Floodlighting
Legacies received
**Donations and legacies total**
**Income from charitable activities**
Fees for weddings and funerals
Church lettings - objectives
Tithe Barn lettings – objectives
Other income
**Income from charitable activities total**
**Other trading activities**
Fayres and events
Tithe Barn lettings – other
**Other trading activities total**
**Investments**
Interest - dividends
Bernard Salmon Trust income
Napier Miles Trust income
**Investments total**
**Other income**
Telecommunications agreement
**Other income total**
**Total income**
**Grants received:**
Garfield Weston Foundation
Bristol Diocesan Board of Finance
Historic England
Listed Place of Worship Scheme
HMRC Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Bristol City Council – lockdown grants
**Total grant income**|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£**
**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
3,368
—
4,865
—
32,505
—
3,143
—
15,344
375
5,000
2,494
9,987
—
120
—
—
—|**2022**
**£**
**2021**
**£**
3,368
1,992
4,865
7,042
32,505
36,017
3,143
1,746
15,719
8,686
7,494
25.048
9,987
10,723
120
260
—
3,500| |---|---|---| ||**74,332**
**2,869**|**77,201**
**95,014**| ||7,393
237
—
—
2,751
—
1,266
—|7,393
237
7,111
—
2,751
88
1,266
1,936| ||**11,647**
**—**|**11,647**
**9,135**| ||3,828
—
6,203
—|3,828
3,673
6,203
2,426| ||**10,031**
**—**|**10,031**
**6,099**| ||309
—
13,185
—
7,052
—|309
190
13,185
12,687
7,052
6,820| ||**20,546**
**—**|**20,546**
**19,697**| ||9,200
—|9,200
10,437| ||**9,200**
**—**|**9,200**
**10,437**| |||| ||**125,756**
**2,869**|**128,625**
**140,382**| ||5,000
—
—
2,494
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—|5,000
—
2,494
—
—
3,500
—
2,829
—
2,622
—
16,097| ||**5,000**
**2,494**|**7,494**
**25,048**| We are grateful to all grant providers for their support. _10_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **3 Expenditure** |**Raising Funds**
Costs of fayres and events
**Raising funds total**
**Charitable Activities**
Grants and donations – missions:
African Pastors Fellowship
Compassion
Corymeela
In Hope (Crisis Centres Ministries)
Open Doors
Mercy Ships
Water Aid
Youth Programmes
Food and Fellowship
Ministry Parish Share
**Charitable activities subtotal**
**Charitable activities – support costs**
Employment costs
Telephone and broadband costs
Parish training and mission
Fees paid for weddings and funerals
Additional organist fees
Verger fees
Church running – insurance
Kitchen consumables and equipment
Church and office equipment
Organ/piano tuning and maintenance
Church maintenance and replacements
Cleaning & hygiene
Altar requisites
Upkeep of churchyard
Printing and stationery
Sundry expenses
Church running – utilities
Specific expenses
Tithe Barn running – rates and utilities
Tithe Barn insurance
Tithe Barn maintenance
Tithe Barn broadband
Tithe Barn equipment
Governance costs – independent examination
Professional and other fees
**Charitable activities – support costs subtotal**
**Charitable costs total**
**Other expenditure**
Depreciation
**Other expenditure total**
**Total expenditure**|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£**
**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
316
—|**2022**
**£**
**2021**
**£**
316
9| |---|---|---| ||**316**
—|**316**
**9**| ||500
—
1,200
—
100
—
500
—
500
—
250
—
250
—
793
—
300
—
35,575
—|500
500
1,200
1,200
100
100
500
500
500
500
250
250
250
250
793
752
300
—
35,575
59,660| ||**39,968**
—|**39,968**
**63,712**| ||35,401
—
1,008
—
287
—
125
—
560
—
1,505
—
3,363
—
616
—
684
—
2,094
—
1,427
1,409
1,370
—
661
—
736
—
2,354
—
157
—
6,763
—
2,185
374
2,934
—
1,441
—
3,395
341
546
240
—
—
780
—
710
—|35,401
33,497
1,008
1,167
287
361
125
218
560
400
1,505
295
3,363
3,228
616
753
684
556
2,094
1,632
2,836
17.638
1,370
602
661
1,032
736
1,253
2,354
2,895
157
57
6,763
7,065
2,559
1,128
2,934
1,384
1,441
1,383
3,736
3,137
546
240
510
—
780
780
710
3,231| ||**71,342**
**2,124**|**73,466**
**84,202**| |||| ||**111,310**
**2,124**|**113,434**
**147,914**| ||7,497
—|7,497
7,497| ||**7,497**
—|**7,497**
**7,497**| |||| ||**119,123**
**2,124**|**121,247**
**155,420**| _11_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **4 Staff Costs** ||**2022**
**£**
**2021**
**£**| |---|---| |The aggregate payroll costs of staff were as follows:
Gross payroll and employer’s national insurance contributions
Employer’s pension contributions
Number of part-time staff|34,635
32,771
766
726| ||**35,401**
**33,497**| ||**2022**
**Number**
**2021**
**Number**
4
4| ## **5 Fixed Assets for use by PCC** ||**Tithe**
**Barn**
**£**
**2022**
**£**| |---|---| |**Cost**
At 1 January and 31 December 2022
**Depreciation**
At 1 January 2022
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2022
**Net Book Value**
At 31 December 2022
At 31 December 2021|515,000
515,000| ||**515,000**
**515,000**
138,142
138,142
7,497
7,497| ||**145,639**
**145,639**| ||**369,361**
**369,361**| ||**376,858**
**376,858**| _12_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **6 Investment Assets – Endowment Funds** ||**Number**
**of shares**|**Church**
**£**
**Shire**
**Charities**
**£**|**2022**
**£**
**2021**
**£**| |---|---|---|---| |**Bernard Salmon Fund**
At 1 January 2022
Shares purchased in year
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
At 31 December 2022
**Napier Miles Trust**
At 1 January 2022
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
At 31 December 2022
**CBF Shares Charity Funds**
At 1 January 2022
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
At 31 December 2022
**Summary**
Market value at 1 January 2022
Shares purchased in year
Net gains/(losses) on revaluation
**Total investment assets at 31**
**December 2022**|21,456
—
—|502,485
—
—
—
(59,150)
—|502,485
439,979
—
5,000
(59,150)
57,506| ||**21,456**|**443,335**
**—**|**443,335**
**502,485**| ||11,475
—|268,729
—
(31,634)
—|268,729
235,098
(31,634)
33,631| ||**11,475**|**237,095**
—|**237,095**
**268,729**| ||404
—|—
8,308
—
(966)|8,308
7,191
(966)
1,117| ||**404**|**—**
**7,342**|**7,342**
**8,308**| |||771,214
8,308
—
—
(90,784)
(966)|779,522
682,268
—
5,000
(91,750)
92,254| |||**680,430**
**7,342**|**687,772**
**779,522**| ## **7 Debtors** ||**2022**
**£**
**2021**
**£**| |---|---| |Prepayments
Other debtors|7,358
5,352
2,984
2,181| ||**10,342**
**7,533**| ## **8 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year** ||**2022**
**£**
**2021**
**£**| |---|---| |Trade creditors
Accruals and deferred income
Taxation and social security
Other creditors|2,913
829
3,592
3,334
151
142
176
260| ||**6,832**
**4,565**| _13_ Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Notes to the Financial Statements Year Ended 31 December 2022 ## **9 Analysis of Net Assets by Fund** ||**Unrestricted**
**£**
**Restricted**
**£**
**Endowment**
**£**
**2022**
**Total**
**£**| |---|---| |Fixed assets for church use
Investment fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities|369,361
—
—
369,361
—
—
687,772
687,772
97,616
14,662
(5,000)
107,278
(6,832)
—
—
(6,832)| ||**460,145**
**14,662**
**682,772**
**1,157,579**| ## **10 Fund movement by type** ||**Opening**
**£**
**Incoming**
**£**
**Outgoing**
**£**
**Transfers**
**£**|**Gains/**
**(losses)**
**£**
**Closing**
**£**| |---|---|---| |Endowment Funds
Restricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds
**Grand total**|774,522
—
—
—
13,917
2,869
(2,124)
—
453,512
125,756
(119,123)
—|(91,750)
**682,772**
—
**14,662**
—
**460,145**| ||**1,241,951**
**128,625**
**(121,247)**
**—**|**(91,750)**
**1,157,579**| |**Analysis of Restricted Funds**|**2022**
**£**
**2021**
**£**| |---|---| |Audio Visual & Music Equipment Fund
Memorial Garden
Gift Day - Lighting
Security System
Flower Fund
Roof Fund
Vestry Window Repair
Vestments
Grant towards energy costs
**Total Restricted Funds**|3,112
3,112
1,600
1,600
—
1,750
2,800
2,800
489
488
3,667
3,667
—
—
500
2,494
500
—| ||**14,662**
**13,917**| _14_ •• ST MARY'S /* Annual PCC Report April 2022- March 2023 ## **Parochial Church Council of St Mary, Shirehampton Annual Report** ## **Background:** St Mary’s PCC has the responsibility of promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. ## **Membership:** Members of the PCC are elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. During the year, the following served as members: |Vicar:|Rev Alison Sowton|Appointed 20thOctober 2022| |---|---|---| |Wardens:|Anne Ford|| ||Richard Powell|Vice-Chair| |Representatives on|Shemma Laws|Health & Safety Officer - Church| |The Deanery Synod:|Kathryn Mwakijungu|| |Secretary:|Sarah Parry Reid|| |Treasurer:|Philip Fowler|Also Data Protection Officer| |Elected Members:|Pat Davidson|| ||Tim Forder|Electoral Roll Officer| ||Colin Godfrey|Appointed 15thMay 2022| ||Richard Griffiths|Resigned 15thMay 2022| ||Doug Jennings|| ||Tony Symons|Health & Safety Officer – Tithe Barn| |Safeguarding:|Claire Staynings|(not on PCC): From 1stMarch 2022| #Followthestar FOR ME, TIIE LIFE OV JLSVS CHRIST. IS AW IP4bPIRATION AND AN ANC'IIOA 1*4 MI. LIFE. A ROI.E-MODF.l. nF RF.C.ONC.11.IATION AND FORGII'EYF.SS. IIE STRETC.HED OL'T IIIS IIA¥DS IN LOVE. ALC£PTANC£ AYD MEALING. CHRIST'S EXAMPI.F. HAS TAUGHT ME TO SEEK TO RESPECT A%'D VALUE ALL PEOPLE. . r.UjJ￿7•l li ,IEEICY -Lg i ## **Vicar’s Report Anticipation Loss and Life** As your new Vicar I am thankful for the way in which you held together as community, serving each other and your neighbours during your vacancy. I know that you faced many challenges and by your grace, when I arrived it was to a well-run church with a sense of anticipation. I am thankful too for the prayers and discernment process which brought me to your door! My entrance into the life of St Mary’s came slightly earlier than expected by the loss of our sovereign Queen Elizabeth. This was a time of great sadness across our nation and it was good to be able to provide a place where people could come to express their love and sense of loss, writing in the Book of Condolence and praying. Out of this loss, and with all the strong foundation built over 70 years, we stepped into a new era, King Charles III became our new Monarch. As one of the first acts of my time in Shirehampton, I swore allegiance to him, his heirs and successors. A new beginning for our nation and a new beginning here in St Mary’s. The warmth of welcome both Derek and myself found helped us to feel we were where God wants us. My passion for the Gospel message is lived out through the desire to provide an authentic welcome and inclusivity in all that we do, both aspects of church life that bring flourishing, hope and life. As a church we have stepped forward together seeking new ways of connecting with our community beyond church and there has been so much to feel truly blessed by. It has been a delight to work together with Amy Boucher. Her creativity and energy are a blessing to this church. The young people of our church are discipled, learning the good news of Jesus, in ways that are bearing much fruit. The relationship between the young people, Rise and Shine families and our 10.30 congregation members have deepened as we get to know one another better and the combined service on the 4[th] Sunday of the month. Life is intergenerational, each bringing something to enliven the lives of the other. A church that can share wisdom, laughter and life across the generations and respond to God’s call to love one another becomes as living water to the whole community. Amy and I share a vision for this, knowing that it takes a willingness to change and adapt for all of us, but already seeing such fruit that we are excited by what is to come. ## I am so grateful to all those who bring St Mary’s to life -: Eleanor Beddoes – Administrator, who has so many skills that keep us organised in communication with each other and all those who come into contact with our church. Thank you for your warmth and smile that makes even the most daunting aspects of church administration seem a breeze! For our Wardens, Anne Ford and Richard Powell as they quietly and efficiently care for all aspects of this church. Their wisdom, good humour, service and the ability to give the vicar a hug when she needs it is much appreciated. Phil Fowler our Treasurer – for his skills and dedication to keeping our finances in good order coupled with an understanding of mission and the need for generosity which leads to abundance for all. Sarah Parry Reid - Secretary and the wonderfully efficient way you navigate the chatter of PCC’s and make everything so clear and keep us all to task. The PCC who bring wisdom and provide a critical friend’s gaze on all that we do. For Claire Staynings in her safeguarding role and both Shemma Laws and Tony Symons as our health and safety officers at church and the Tithe Barn, helping us to make this a safe place for all. Jill and Chris Eynon and Colin Godfrey for their care and sensitivity at our services, especially for Jill and all she does towards the smooth running of our communion. Tim Forder and all he does, both leading the choir and providing us week by week with his organ playing, helping us to praise God. Thank you Tim for moving with me as we seek ways of worship to touch young and old, those who know church and those who are new to worship, blending the traditional with the new. All the choir members as they lead us and share their gifts of voice week by week. Shelley as she keeps our church looking spick and span, and our flowers reminding us of the glory of creation. To the coffee and tea makers, the cake bakers, the chatterers and carers, the coffee morning crew too large to mention by name…you do an amazing ministry. Those on sound systems and breakfast rotas and social/fundraising teams…those that turn up and do the million jobs that need to be done. For those who keep our grounds looking beautiful, come rain or shine, a place of sanctuary for our whole community. For Derek Sowton and all the cups of teas, for being my rock and my challenger! For ASMA, the team and the church congregations as we seek to draw closer God across our community, serving, sharing and inspiring one another to know God and share his love more fully. To those who come just as you are, willing to be transformed by God’s love and to share the Good News … You are all valued…you are the life of this church…you are the body of Christ. As we journey on my prayer is that the life, the joy, the servanthood that is present week by week continues to grow and deepen. That together we will transform our church and our community into places of love, welcome and inclusion. We never know the plans God has for us so with open hearts, open minds and open arms we wait in anticipation of the gifts and challenges ahead knowing we do not face them alone but in the strength of our loving God. Rev Alison Sowton Vicar ## **Churchwardens’ Report** Whilst I was contemplating all that has happened since the last APCM in 2022, two songs came to mind. “What A Difference A Day Makes” and “What’s Love Got To Do With It”. As you read through my report all will become clear. So many adjustments to all aspects of life were thrust upon us again with the return of the Pandemic… the way we lived, worked and worshipped to name but a few - there were huge changes for all of us. Added to this we were in Vacancy (we were without a Vicar/ Priest-in-Charge) and having to prepare more Risk Assessments, Action Plans regarding Health and Safety issues in order to keep the Church doors open and people safe. However unsettling, we all coped as best we could, keeping an eye on people unable to leave their homes to come to Church/ go shopping etc. Thanks to everyone’s cooperation, the restrictions have gradually been relaxed somewhat. Members of the PCC worked together in various sub-groups to compile a very comprehensive and in-depth Profile of the Parish, the Mission Area and our Church before we could advertise for a new incumbent. Once this was compiled it all had to be assessed by the Archdeacons and the Diocese. We finally got to the stage of writing the advert for the position of a new vicar. We invited you to give us your thoughts and many folk responded to this request. Gradually, by working together, we completed the required process. However, you are all aware of the outcome. Rev Alison and her husband Derek joined us in Shirehampton in late Summer. Alison’s first Sunday service with us was on Sunday 18th September followed soon after by a Welcome and Collation for Alison. It was a joyous and memorable occasion with much cake! The smooth running of the Church involves much work and effort by many people and we are blessed by all who work behind the scenes making things happen. Richard and I are grateful for the support and encouragement we receive throughout the year. The various tasks and roles are undertaken by many who help to keep our doors open and things running smoothly- sincere thanks to you all. Special thanks to Eleanor and Philip who each do a grand job of keeping all things financial/clerical in excellent order. We have held some social events and fayres again and have enjoyed welcoming and meeting with the Community. This brought back glimmers of normality to us all. The events that we have held have been well attended and enjoyed by all. It’s always good to see the support of the community at these events. Thanks to all who work hard to make these occasions happen. Folk enjoy and support the Coffee mornings which happen on 6 days of the week - three of these held in the Tithe Barn over the winter months. The Monday Warm Space session is at the Barn and covers the lunch time when hot soup is also served and table top activities such as Jigsaws and board games are available. As the weather improves these sessions are reviewed. Our Children and Youth Leader, Amy Boucher, continues to work hard and has had a wonderful response to all the exciting and innovative things she has introduced to us all. The Easter Maze was remarkable and very moving for all who came to experience it. Our joint services once a month bring both parts of the Church Family together and it is a delight to see, hear and learn from our youngest members of the Church Family. Thanks to a grant from 3 charities we are able to keep Amy in post for another year - long may that continue. Members of the clergy from the Mission Area and Trevor, Ian and Duncan are sometimes back with us to cover various services. We enjoy seeing them and appreciate all they do. During Lent this year we had the opportunity to attend the Lent courses. Each of the Mission Area churches hosted an evening. It worked well and brought us together. Richard and I enjoy taking Communion to the residents at Penhill each month. There is always a warm welcome from both residents and the staff. A small group from our Mothers’ Union visit the residents at Glanville Lodge and that too is very much appreciated by them all. Our Choir faithfully sing each Sunday and at many other services – if you enjoy singing, have you thought of joining them? If so, have a word with Tim. Our Vergers, Jill, Chris and Colin work hard assisting in many ways. We appreciate all they do for us - it is often done quietly and behind the scenes. If you can’t find Richard and/or Colin they are either down a hole looking at drains or up a ladder inspecting the roof and drainpipes. I am often invited to join them, which I usually decline! The Churchyard covers a very large area and I liaise with Bristol City Council who are responsible for cutting the grass and tree work in the main Churchyard. This area seems to be a magnet for litter. Thanks to all who keep the bins emptied and the area clean. If you could help in some way please have a word with Richard or myself. Finally, thanks must go to Alison and Derek for joining us in everything we do, for the way they lead by example and demonstrate a real warmth for everyone. What A Difference A Day Makes - well we can all make a difference and how rapidly things can and have changed. What’s Love Got to Do With It - well, God’s Love for us has everything to do with it. We must share it with others. Anne Ford Churchwarden ## **Churchwardens’ Report on the Fabric of the Church Building** A year of wear and tear on the church building. With extreme heavy rain in January the church sprang a few leaks. We had rain water ingress from the flat roofs into the church kitchen and the electrical cupboard in the south porch. Also, rain water ingress from the church roof into the nave at the west end and by the fount at the east end. Temporary fixes have been applied and Simon Cartlidge the church architect is working on a more permanent solution. During another period of heavy rain the west end cellar was also flooded to a depth of 15cm (6ins). A big thank you to Colin Godfrey for helping with the bailing out. The church heating has also been a problem during February and March but with the persistence of Craig Franklin (gas engineer) it’s now back to full working order. ## Church Yard Maintenance of the church yard is the responsibility of Bristol City Council following formal closure for burials. However, we continue to maintain our memorial gardens ## Church Security The church alarm system continues to work well with remote monitoring and call-out facility of a key holder. External metal on the building is protected with smartwater applied to all surfaces and the required notices displayed. ## Routine Maintenance and Certification by Contractors Annual tests and certification of the following are up to date: ## 1. Lightning conductors. 2. The church heating system and operation of its gas system and supply. 3. The security alarm system. 4. Fire Extinguishers. 5. Radio microphones licences. 6. The organ humidifier. 7. Portable electrical appliance testing (PAT). – - Routine Maintenance In house A schedule of routine maintenance continues to operate ensuring a regular review of the condition of the building and any actions needed. The schedule includes frequent checks of such items as roofs, gullies, drainpipes, windows, toilets, water heaters, church ladders, timber door thresholds, tea/coffee water heater de-scaling and more. ## 5 Yearly Inspection of Electrical Circuits. This was carried out by Daley Electrical on 8[th] April 2022 the recommendations from the report have been carried out which included improving emergency lighting. ## Cellnex Telecoms Equipment. Work commenced on 6[th] June 2022 to remove the Cellnex Telecoms equipment including the mast. Removal of all Cellnex equipment was completed on 7[th] June 2022. ## Quinquennial Inspection The next quinquennial (five yearly) church inspection is due in 2024. ## Triennial Inspection The next Archdeacons’ triennial (three yearly) inspection to check church records, processes and property is due in 2025. Finally Grateful thanks go to:- - Colin Godfrey for all his work keeping the Church and Tithe Barn up and running. - Chris Hearn and Derek Sowton for their help in the church yard. - Jill Eynon, Sarah Parry-Reid, Doug Jennings, Derek Sowton and Colin Godfrey for emptying the bins in the churchyard. - Gem & Lee Widdowfield, Doug Jennings, Mark Baxter, Phil Fowler & Derek Sowton for operating the sound system and projection at our services. - Thanks also to everyone who has worked so hard, not just on the building fabric but in so many other ways to make this church truly active, accessible and attractive for everyone. Richard Powell Churchwarden ## **Safeguarding Officer’s Annual Report** ## Introduction Safeguarding is important. It plays an important part in our church lives; robust policies and procedures are required to be in place to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm. The central church embodies national safeguarding laws into policies and passes them down to each diocese that, in turn, produce their own policies, guidance material and training for parishes. Parishes are required to develop their own policies, procedures, training plans and records for all safeguarding actions/events and have in place named safeguarding officers. The previous safeguarding officer, Emma Jennings, stood down as Safeguarding Officer in June 2021. Then Lucy Swithinbank of St Mary’s Stoke Bishop stepped in until January 2022. The Parish Safeguarding Officer, still in training, for children and adults of the parish of St Mary’s Shirehampton is Claire Staynings who began the role in February 2022. Details of how to contact Claire if required for advice or to report an incident can be found on the church noticeboard in the porch or on the church website www.stmarysshire.org. ## Policies Those in place at St Mary’s are for: - child protection - vulnerable adults - domestic abuse - safer recruitment - handling of disclosure information - fair recruitment of ex-offenders - lone workers Policies are up to date and are reviewed annually by the PCC. There is an area in the porch of our church where safeguarding information is displayed. The policies are also be kept here and on display boards in the church so, as long as the church is open, they will be accessible to all. Safeguarding information is also available on a notice board in the Tithe Barn. This information is also in the toilets of both the church and the Tithe Barn and on our website. ## Training Bristol Diocese provides all types of training at different levels and for specific roles in safeguarding. Much of this training can be undertaken online. https://www.bristol.anglican.org/aboutus/safeguarding/safeguardingtraining/ According to our records, out of the 68 people of our register, 62 people have done the Basic Awareness training in the past. Some of these, however, are due for renewal. 4 people have done the Foundation training and 1 person has undertaken the Domestic Abuse training. We need to arrange for renewal of the training to take place in the near future, this can be done as a group as in previous years. Thank you to all who have given their time to undertake training and make our church a safer place. – Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly Criminal Records Bureau CRB) This is referred to as DBS and is a national service for checking the background of new employees and leaders of children’s and vulnerable adult activities. The system can bar anyone whose record shows them to be unsuitable. We are up to date with our DBS checking for volunteers. We thank the 38 people who have their enhanced DBS and remind some that renewal is due as soon as possible. Thank you for taking the time to complete these. DBS checks at St Mary’s are carried out by Eleanor Beddoes. It is important that any records containing personal details, such as notes written during the investigation of a safeguarding event, are kept confidential and secure. Our vicar and the safeguarding officer of St Mary’s have access to a document safe and encrypted memory stick used specifically for this purpose. The new Dashboard offers an online system to store all the information on DBS and training needs. We can use this to monitor whose DBS and training is in date and can see when DBS or training is due for renewal. Claire Staynings Safeguarding Officer ## **Finance Report** Throughout the year the PCC’s objective has been to honour our pledges and mission support, as far as possible. Unfortunately, this became very challenging and by the end of the second quarter, we reluctantly advised Bristol Diocese that we would not be able to pay the full amount of our promised Parish Share for the year. By the fourth quarter, net income did improve sufficiently for some additional funds to be used for this purpose and the final amount given was £35,575 as shown in the financial accounts. Giving to missions/charities remained broadly unchanged. Other donations of food for the Harvest Appeal were made by members of the congregation to the Bristol North West Foodbank. We also continued to sponsor two children via Compassion UK, partially paid for by the families at the Rise and Shine Service, and we gave to The Children’s Society via collecting boxes and at the Christingle service collection. Church members and supporters gave £37,370 in 2022 in planned giving. Further information can be found within the financial accounts, including the Financial Review and the Reserves Policy. Finally, I should like to thank all those who have continued to count the cash and, Chris and Jill Eynon, for undertaking the banking on a weekly basis. |**Summary Financial Information:**|**2022**|**2021**|**change**| |---|---|---|---| |Total income|128,625|140,382|**(11,757)**| |Total expenditure|121,247|155,420|**34,173**| |Net (expenditure)/income|7,378|(15,038)|**22,416**| |Gains on investment assets|(91,750)|92,254|**(184,004)**| |Fixed assets|1,057,133|1,156,380|**(99,247)**| |Current assets|107,278|90,136|**17,142**| |Current liabilities|(6,832)|(4,565)|**(2,267)**| |Net current assets|100,446|85,571|**14,875**| |Total funds|1,157,579|1,241,951|**(84,372)**| |hil Fowler|||| |reasurer|||| Phil Fowler Treasurer ## **Health and Safety Report** After three very difficult years of different government and internal COVID restrictions that have been put into place, I would like to thank every single one of you for your ongoing and continued support with the changes. The PCC have put into place measures to keep you all safe over these testing times. Now all restrictions have been eased a sense of normality has returned to us. Rise and Shine is now fully immersive with “open tables” so everyone is welcome to sit and converse with other families and enjoy delicious hot food. At this time of writing, the wardens and the PCC agree that Eucharist will continue to be an open choice with both the receiving of the wine and communion wafer. Masks are a personal choice and there is no legal requirement to wear them, all church activities can be enjoyed. Thanks to Shelley and all those who have kept up the wonderful high standards of cleaning in the church and we have all certainly noticed. An additional thank you goes to Richard Powell, Colin Godfrey and Anne Ford for your assistive support with the upkeep and maintenance duties. Health and Safety Risk assessments are all up to date and actions have been taken to ensure continued upkeep of the Church, including a new Kitchen Risk assessments to allow easing of use. Thank you all for your support and commitment to making St Mary’s a safe and welcoming space for everyone and look forward to reporting to you all next year. Shemma Laws Health and Safety Officer ## **Children’s and Youth Report** Over the past year we have been delighted to welcome our new Vicar, Rev Alison Sowton, to our Church and I personally have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her and working together in many ways. ## STOMP Dance Clubs Our dancers range from age 3-17 and they have been working hard on a variety of routines and confidence building activities. Break time topics have been used to help with team building whilst looking at various faith topics. The groups have enjoyed a range of performance opportunities such as being invited to dance at Alison’s Licensing Service, dancing at a variety of All Age and Celebration services, as well as being able to participate in Bristol STAGES dance weekend in a professional theatre setting. ## Youth @ The Barn Our sessions are now fully up and running with 14 regular attendees and 2 young leaders who have now joined the team. In addition to the weekly activities and talk slots, the young people have really taken an interest in helping to develop church for their age group. We had a Youth Forum to discuss their views of Church and ideas for services and their answers were profound! The results can be summed up as Church needing to be a ‘SOUL HOSPITAL’- a place of safety and inclusion for all whilst meeting needs, helping heal hearts and engaging all ages through a variety of activities and services. ## Outreach Activities This year, Messy Church has come to a natural end due to the current group of families either moving way, having other commitments or the children outgrowing the sessions. This has led to myself and Alison teaming up to provide a range of pop-up events that can be attended by all ages across a broader spectrum of the community than Messy Church was reaching. So far the pop ups have been a great success – we have had a Glow Party, Pancake Party and an interactive Easter Maze to enable young and old to explore the Easter story. There have been between 90-175 people engage at each of these events, many of which we have met for the first time. We plan to do some outdoor pop ups throughout the summer. ## GLOW We have a core group of 8 Young People who have been attending Glow sessions to ask bigger faith questions. The group has helped to plan what topics they would like covered - this year with emphasis on taking care of the Earth – what the Bible has to say on caring for the planet and alongside this have developed a community garden at the Tithe Barn. ## Schools Work We are able to regularly attend Shire Primary School for monthly assemblies to both KS1 and KS2. We have also been able to hold their Christmas and Easter Assemblies at the Church and welcome in the visiting families to watch too – this also provides a good opportunity to advertise outreach events on a wider scale. ## Summer Sessions In August 2022, we held 4 summer sessions at the Tithe Barn with a Pirate theme. Each session started off with a Pirate themed worship song and looking at God being our Anchor, Jesus being our lighthouse and us being God’s treasure. These sessions were attended by adult family members, which gave a wonderful opportunity to catch up with the whole family. Activities included garden games, obstacle courses, quizzes, craft, banana split making, bring and share buffet and a family ‘beetle drive’ night. We look forward to running some summer sessions again this year. ## Sunday Services Rise and Shine has developed to form a cafe style service with breakfast and a programme that follows the lectionary to provide continuity between both services. The lectionary topics are explored through a variety of interactive activities, both on Church premises and also out in nature. It has been wonderful to see the development of monthly All Age Worship Services, offering a wide range of worship styles across our monthly service rotas. This is important not only for our regular church attendees but also as a vital outreach link to visiting families through Baptisms and those who may come as a result of attending our future pop-up events. It has been great to see our Children and Young people at Rise and Shine, STOMP and Youth Clubs get involved with these services through performing dance routines, learning the Gloria as a drumming piece, writing prayers, reading Bible verses and joining in with the talks and service preparations. We have also had a successful year of special celebration services, with a broad range of Church family and community families of all ages coming together for Harvest, Christingle, Nativity, Mother’s Day Cafe Church and Easter Services. It was also great to see some of our uniformed organisations at our Remembrance Day parade. A huge thank you to all leaders and volunteers for helping on various teams - you have made such a valuable difference to our local children and young people and we look forward to continuing to do this as we head towards the Summer. This includes our Church family and PCC too – you have welcomed in the young families and helped greatly behind the scenes with encouragement, resources and practical help. A special mention also to our teens, who come along to many of our events to help serve food, run activities, man the sound system and help to set up and clear up. Finally, a huge thank you to Alison who has invested a lot of care and support in developing and expanding my skills as a Children’s and Youth Minister – Thank you, it’s much appreciated! Amy Boucher Youth Worker Ak, *'4• ## **Mothers’ Union** ## DIOCESE Mothers' Union is a worldwide Christian Charity of women and men. We support families in need locally and worldwide through prayer and action in 84 countries. We welcome everybody both female and male, single and divorced, parents, non-parents and grandparents. We belong to Bristol Diocese which is run by a President and trustees. The Diocese have various projects which we support when we can. There is a list on the notice board here and in The Tithe Barn. ## DEANERY There are 5 branches in our Deanery which is Bristol West which comprise of St Peter’s Henleaze, St Peter’s Filton, St Mary’s Henbury, Holy Trinity Horfield and ourselves. We meet throughout the year for a Deanery Festival which was at Holy Trinity Horfield. St Mary’s Henbury put on a splendid Deanery lunch in July. We hosted the Advent Service in December 2022. It was hugely different to previous advent services but was very successful. The collection, £132.95 was given to St Mary’s Church. We followed this with tea and mince pies. ## BRANCH Thankfully Covid did not stop us meeting each month. We had a good response to the request from Friends for Parents for Tea, Coffee and dried milk. We also had a collection for Mothering Sunday which was sent to Mary Sumner House. We assisted in making posies for Mothering Sunday. At our March meeting we all enjoyed answering the questions that Vivien Holcombe's family put together for us. It certainly made us think! My son gave a talk in April about Firefighting during Covid. Our May meeting was a talk from Portishead Lifeboat. Three of us went to the commissioning of our new President at Yate. We re-started the monthly service for dementia patients at Granville Lodge. August – We had a cream teas afternoon and invited everyone to ‘bring a friend’. Before we ate, we had a short talk reminding everyone about our Founder, Mary Sumner, and that we were supporting Summer of Hope which was followed by prayers for families and communities everywhere. We collected £100 for Summer of Hope. September – we had a speaker from the Barnabus Fund talking about Persecuted Christians. We held our November meeting in church and gave an open invitation to everyone to watch “A musical Nativity story” by Lewis and Furneaux, I didn’t know what to expect but it was terrific, and I can say that everyone really enjoyed it. We once again had a chocolate tombola at the Christmas Fayre. We ended the year with our usual Christmas lunch at Shirehampton Golf Club. Our first meeting in 2023 was our Annual General Meeting, this clashed with the day of heavy rain, thunderstorm, and hailstones. Thankfully twenty people turned up and all went well. Louise Lyddon, our Deanery leader joined us in February and enrolled four of our seven new members which included Revd. Alison Sowton. We welcome them all and hope they will enjoy our very friendly group. I would like to thank all the Committee and everyone for their support and generosity. Grateful thanks also to Mary Powell who has taken on the Treasurer’s post and Phil Fowler for auditing our yearly accounts. Julie Smith Branch Leader Some of the Deanery Banners at the Advent Service December 2022 ## **Coffee Mornings** On Monday 3[rd] July 2022 we resumed Refreshments of Tea and Coffee on Sunday mornings after the service. This means we are back to supplying Tea and Coffee every day of the week, with the exception of Thursday when we have a Holy Communion service. In an effort to control ever-increasing energy costs, it was decided that we would move some of our Coffee Mornings to the Tithe Barn from 14[th] November, as it is a smaller area to heat and has a more efficient gas boiler. As the colder weather progressed, the Tithe Barn was considered to be a “warm place” and tea and coffee was served there on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. On Mondays the opening time was changed to 12.00 noon until 2.00 pm as in addition to serving tea and coffee, hot soup and a bread roll was also served. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, tea and coffee are served in the church, which meant that some heat was provided to maintain the fabric of the building during the Winter weather. The footfall to the Tithe Barn has been less than originally anticipated on some days. On Mondays very often we have only served 7 or 8 people, though we have also seen some new people coming along. Wednesdays have proved slightly better and Friday is the best day of the week. Patrons of the Tithe Barn have said they much prefer the Coffee Mornings at the Church and look forward to its return when the weather permits. Financially, the money taken at the Tithe Barn is less than we take when in the Church, though this is balanced with the lower energy bills incurred. Many thanks have to be given to all the Volunteer Helpers and also to those people who have generously donated packets of biscuits etc. Jill Eynon ## **Building Co-ordinators Report on the Fabric of the Tithe Barn** This is the fabric report for the Tithe Barn, prepared by the churchwardens of St Mary’s Church Shirehampton. ## Roofs The Tithe Barn roof and the Orangery roof are in good order. ## Walls, Windows and Doors External walls of both parts of the building are in good order. All windows are double glazed and have required routine maintenance during the year. They are all in good working order. There is a small area of peeling paintwork on the pillar to the left of the door leading from the main hall into the extension. This requires attention. ## Rain Water Goods Gutters and downpipes of the original barn and the orangery are working and are routinely cleared of debris. ## Interior The kitchen and toilets are in good working order. ## Exterior The exterior fence, gates and party wall are in good order. The garden is maintained by Norman England. ## Security The building is secured with modern dead locks. There was an attempted break in through the orangery patio doors during the Christmas/ New Year break, this was reported to the police. A crime scene investigator came and took photos of the boot prints on the patio doors. We’ve not had any further attempted break ins. Yearly Inspection of Electrical Circuits. This was carried out by Daley Electrical on 11[th] April 2022 the recommendations from the report have been carried out which included improving emergency lighting. ## Routine Maintenance and Certification by Contractors Annual tests and certification of the following are up to date: 1. The barn heating system and operation of its gas system and supply. 2. The fire/smoke alarm system. (6 Monthly tests to BS 5839) 3. Fire Extinguishers. 5. Radio microphones licences. 6. Portable electrical appliance testing (PAT). ## - Thanks to: Philip Fowler and Eleanor Beddoes for managing the lettings and accounts of the Tithe Barn. Colin Godfrey, Philip Fowler, Monica and Tony Symons for the opening and closing of the barn, dealing with the routine maintenance and operational actions required including setting up and clearing away after each letting. Richard Powell ## **Tithe Barn Report** All the activities that take place at the barn, including lettings and charity work are controlled directly by the PCC and the roles of caretaker/ manager, building fabric co-ordinator and health and safety officer were undertaken by Colin Godfrey, Richard Powell and Tony Symons. Eleanor Beddoes and Philip Fowler provided administrative support. St Mary's regularly used the facilities at the barn for Church activities, including STOMP dance groups, Youth Group and GLOW, Our Mindfulness Group also met there on a regular basis, throughout the year as did Mothers’ Union and our Art Group. Members of the PCC and the church family have supported the work of the barn and their contributions are much appreciated. Finally, the barn was let for private hire, with enquiries remaining relatively stable throughout the year. ## Philip Fowler ## **Tithe Barn Health and Safety** In addition to Health and Safety and Tithe Barn reports already received, I report as follows. As all covid restrictions have been lifted I have little to report. Earlier in the year an unsuccessful attempt was made to force entry at the rear of the Orangery. The Police took boot prints from the doors but to date the culprit/s have not been traced. The following checks are carried out on a weekly basis: Emergency lighting, fire extinguishers and fire blanket checks are recorded. Plastic chairs are regularly checked for damage and loose securing screws are tightened when necessary. Wall plugs are checked and ensured they are covered. Recycling and bins put out for collection weekly. Tony Symons ## **Electoral Roll Report** The current status of St Mary’s Shirehampton Electoral roll at the time of producing this report stood at 106 members. 4 Members have passed away during the last year and one has moved away. There has been three new members, added to the roll. Out of the 106 members 42 live outside of this parish. Members of the Church will only be permitted to take part in any election of Officers and PCC members if they are on the Electoral Roll. Tim Forder - Electoral Roll Officer ## **Church Music Report** The church choir has continued to lead the singing at services during the last year and they have sung the hymns, provided communion anthems and have been able to sing the communion setting at the first service of the month. Numbers in the choir are low and we have unfortunately lost the voices of two younger singers. We really would appreciate any volunteers coming forward to swell our ranks. The Shirehampton area choir were able to perform a Christmas concert in 2022 and will be performing a seasonal presentation on Easter Saturday this year (2023). Numbers in the choir are also rather low and again new voices would be welcomed. Any willing volunteers should contact me either in person or by E mail at timboford@hotmail.com. The organ has been used regularly during the last year and is in reasonable order. The instrument has been tuned twice since our last AGM by Harrison & Harrison organ Builders. The piano is used regularly for Communion anthems on a Sunday and occasionally at the Thursday morning Eucharist, subject to my availability. We have started having a joint service with Rise and Shine members on the last Sunday of the month. The choir does not robe at those services and join the main congregation. The keyboard is used at those services together with songs through our sound system. ## Tim Forder Organist and Director of Music ## **Social Events Team Update** How lovely it was to be able to organise events without the anxiety of social distancing and mask wearing. And I think it’s true to say, that we all had a really good time, as the whole church family reached out to our wider community for some well needed fun and fellowship, whilst at the same time raising some much needed funds for St Mary’s. Behind the scenes planning was carried out by the super resourceful Emma Jennings, Rebecca Carroll and Vicki Bushell. They all stepped up to the plate, recruiting extended members of the family to help out as well as borrowing gazebos and other equipment to make our events go with a swing. Following the success of arranging stalls outside the church because of Covid rules, we did the same for the Spring and Christmas Fayres. At the Spring Fayre a BBQ, Coconut Shy, and a well-stocked Nannies Knits stall outside, as well as the lovely weather, drew many into the church for refreshments and a good catchup whilst they supported the many other fabulous stalls and games we had inside. We raised £1,136.60 at this event. The Christmas Fayre was held at the beginning of December and raised £1,800. Again, we had stalls outside serving hot soup and a roll and hot chocolate. Both of which were much needed as it was a dry (thankfully) but very cold day. The church was full to bursting with lovely people supporting all the well-stocked stalls and games that were on offer. We were very happy to have our beloved Santa (aka Colin Godfrey) back. He was kept very busy and we must thank Sarah Parry-Reid and Evie Carroll who acted as Santa’s helpers. Mother’s Day cream teas had been a great success so we served the same at our Patronal festival in August. The event was well attended and raised £208.50. None of these events could happen without the commitment of all those who gave their help whether it was baking a cake, serving on a stall or coming along and supporting us on the day. A big thank you to you all. With your help we have been very successful in bringing our church family and our wider community together. Mary Powell ## **Bristol West Deanery Synod Report** Following two years of continuing disruption and unforeseen changes within our local communities, across society and experienced on a global platform due to the pandemic it was with increasing relief that some aspects of life were returning. All parishes reported significant impact over the last two years in terms of decreased income, attendance, volunteering; and increased caution and anxiety. Three Deanery Synods took place in 2022 and the key themes were: March 2022 – focused upon shaping a motion to bring to Diocesan Synod to give the previously agreed Climate Emergency recognition a greater sense of urgency. Agreement of the Net-Zero Motion to take to Diocesan Synod: Rev Dr Andy Murray: that this Synod recognizes the need to take urgent and immediate action at a parish, diocese and national church level, in order to achieve the Church of England’s NetZero Carbon targets by 2030. We affirm the national church and diocesan work currently underway regarding these targets. In addition, we commend the proposals outlined in the ‘Bristol West Deanery NetZero Carbon (March 2022)’ paper and we therefore call upon the Diocese of Bristol to formally consider the proposals and recommendations contained within the above paper with a view to identifying a programme of support targeted at parish level. This Net-Zero Motion was proposed, by the Rev Dr Andy Murray, and unanimously carried and accepted at Diocesan Synod on 11 June 2022. May 2022 – focused upon how we, as a Deanery, continue to shape the developing Diocesan Strategy to deliver across the Diocese. The Ven Neil Warwick, Archdeacon of Bristol, introduced this update on the development of the diocesan strategy. In developing the strategy, the Diocese has been keen to listen to less-heard groups, such as minorities and the disabled. A draft of the strategy was presented to Diocesan Synod in March; the strategy was developed further in response to feedback; and a bold bid for funds would shortly be submitted to the national church. Key parts of the strategy include the following: _Investing in people_ – sustaining the same level of stipendiary ministry as at present. – _Investing in people’s wellbeing_ especially the wellbeing of stipendiary clergy. _Investing in volunteers_ – enabling all to serve as well as they can. While the church is still present in every community, we are not representative: we need more under-18s and minorities, and people are critical of the church’s treatment of women, the Windrush generation and LGBTQI+ people. A key objective of the strategy is ensuring everything is sustainable. October 2022 – focused upon the impacts of the cost of living and the energy crisis. The Rev Chris Dobson was welcomed as the facilitator for the evening’s discussion. Chris highlighted recent decisions by the Government led by Prime Minister Liz Truss and Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng that benefitted the rich and had a negative impact on the poorer and more vulnerable members of our society. He invited the Synod to explore and discuss: How might churches respond to the cost of living/energy crisis? What are the challenges for us as we make our response? ## The Uganda Link The essential platform for this is ‘building relationships of wholeness across culture with Christ at the center’. In short this is about ‘relationship’; between Christians, across cultures, over geography and with, sometimes, differing views of this world. It is about learning from each other and providing mutual support. The Uganda Link is a feature of every Synod and the working life of our parishes in the Deanery. Fr Charles Sutton Area Dean for Bristol West Deanery **Come: as you are Be: renewed Go: share God’s love** ## www.stmarysshire.org When you have finished with this document please recycle it or better still pass it on to a friend.