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2020-12-31-accounts

Charity number: 1132389

Registered number: 2626039Registered number: 2626039

PARISH CHURCH OF

ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

CONTENTS

Church information 1
Report of the Parochial Church Council 2 – 13
Independent examiner’s report 14
Statement of financial activities 15
Balance sheet 16
Notes to the financial statements 17 - 29

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

CHURCH INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Charity registered number 1132389
Address Church of St. Peter & St. Paul
Church Street
Wadhurst
East Sussex TN5 6AR
Carillon Cottage
High Street
Wadhurst
East Sussex TN5 6AA
Incumbent Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff
The Vicarage
High Street
Wadhurst
East Sussex TN5 6AA
Independent examiner A S Healey FCA CTA DChA
Lindeyer Francis Ferguson Limited
Chartered Accountants
North House
198 High Street
Tonbridge
Kent TN9 1BE
Principal bankers National Westminster Bank plc
Tunbridge Wells (B) Branch
89 Mount Pleasant Road
Tunbridge Wells
Kent TN1 1QJ

Page 1

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) presents its report, together with the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2020. The PCC has adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) (Charities SORP (FRS 102)).

Administrative information

The Church of St Peter and St Paul sits on Church Street in the heart of the village of Wadhurst.

From 1 June 2020 the parish became part of the United Benefice of Wadhurst, Tidebrook and Stonegate.The benefice is part of the Diocese of Chichester within the Church of England

Correspondence address :

Church Administrator Carillon Cottage High Street Wadhurst TN5 6AA

Wadhurst PCC is a charity registered with the Charity Commission: Charity number 1132389.

Page 2

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

PCC Membership

Members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) are appointed at the Annual Meeting (APCM).

In 2020, on the instructions of the Diocese made in the light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the APCM was postponed from April 2020 to October 2020, when it could be held in person. Members of the PCC elected in 2019 therefore continued in post until October 2020 (unless they resigned their position for another reason). During the year January to December 2020, the following served as members of the Wadhurst Parochial Church Council:

Ex-officio members

Ex-officio members
Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff Priest-in-Charge to May 2020 and Vicar from June 2020;
Chair of the PCC
David Payne Reader*
Peter Thompson Reader
Vanessa Sharman Churchwarden from April 2019 to October 2020;
Churchwarden from October 2020
Chris Bithell Churchwarden to October 2020;
DeanerySynod Representative from October 2020
John Bateup Churchwarden from October 2020
Martin Lindsay Deputy Warden to October 2020;
Elected member from October 2020
Ian Fitzgerald DeputyWarden and Health and SafetyOfficer to October 2020**
Peter Dwyer DeputyWarden*
Steve Fraser DeputyWarden* to March 2020
Michael Bradford DeputyWarden from October 2020
Michael Hardcastle Patron and Carillon Cottage Chair
Michael Toynbee Patron* to October 2020_(deceased)_
Hollie Butler Deanery Synod Representative and Pastoral Assistant for Families
and Children to August 2020
George Pulman DeanerySynod Representative (deceased)
Lynda Wight PCC Secretaryfrom January2020

** responsibility for Health and Safety matters passed to the Churchwardens in October 2020

Elected members

Elected members
Sue Hill Elected Member
LesleyWardrop Elected Member and SafeguardingOfficer from December 2019
PennyDobson Elected Member and Lead Recruiter(co-opted September 2019)
Miquela Walsh Elected Member from October 2020
Richard Lonsdale Elected Member to July2020
Sarah Stewart Elected Member to September 2020
Simon Spruce Elected Member to October 2020
AnthonyDunnett Elected Member to October 2020
Jackie Scott Elected Member to October 2020

Page 3

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Co-opted Members

Paul Stephens Treasurer

Resigned during the year

Hollie Butler and Richard Lonsdale resigned during the year following their acceptance for training for ordination in the Church of England. Other members of the PCC stepped down at the end of their terms of office, or for personal reasons, as indicated.

The PCC notes the passing of the Patron, Michael Toynbee, in October 2020, with deep regret and gratitude for his decades of service to the church and community.

PCC Meetings

The full PCC met three times during the year 2020. The meeting scheduled for March 2020 did not take place due to the imposition of a national lockdown by the UK government on 16 March 2020. The key decision due to be taken at that meeting, the approval of the 2019 Annual Report, was achieved by email in accordance with guidance from the Diocese.

The remainder of the meetings were held by ‘Zoom’ virtual meetings. Average attendance was 91%.

Date of Meeting Number attending (% of those entitled to do so at th
time of the meeting)		 e
29 June 2020 17 (90%)
21 September 2020 14 (82%)
7 December 2020 15 (100%)

Employees of the PCC

The PCC employs Jean Sermon as Church Administrator.

The PCC employed Hollie Butler as the Pastoral Assistant for Families and Children until August 2020. A replacement for this role will take up the position in early 2021.

Robert Fuller is paid by the PCC for his services as organist and choir master.

Structure, Governance and Management

St Peter and St Paul’s PCC consists of the Vicar, churchwardens and deputy wardens, patrons, readers, Deanery Synod representatives (the ex officio members) and those who are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules, by members of the congregation on the Electoral Roll of the church.

All those who attend services regularly are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and to consider standing for election to the PCC. In addition, the PCC has the power to co-opt members if required.

Page 4

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

The PCC’s Standing Committee, which is required by law and is known as the Executive Committee, comprises the Vicar, the Churchwardens, the Treasurer and, if appropriate, one other representative of the PCC. Up to October 2020 this was Anthony Dunnett. Since March 2020 this committee has also included the PCC Secretary. This committee sets the agenda for PCC meetings and has the power to transact business on behalf of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the PCC.

The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent.

Objectives and Activities

The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the Vicar in promoting the whole mission of the church – pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical – in the ecclesiastical parish of Wadhurst.

In furtherance of this mission, the PCC:

In setting objectives and planning for activities, the PCC has given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to ‘public benefit’.

The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016, fully recognising its duty to have due regard to the House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

Achievements and performance for the public benefit

Electoral Roll

The church Electoral Roll, as at the 2020 annual meeting in October, stands at 192 members, of which 171 are resident within the parish. Eight names were added during the year, and 10 names were removed because of death or moving away.

Worship and Prayer

The PCC aims to offer different styles of service each Sunday to enable as many people as possible from the local community to experience worship that is spiritually fulfilling for them.

Page 5

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Until March 2020 the services followed a usual pattern of worship, which has been as follows:

1[st] Sunday 8am Holy Communion (BCP); 10am All Age Worship 2[nd] Sunday 8am Holy Communion (BCP); 10am Parish Communion 3[rd] Sunday 8am Holy Communion (BCP); 10am Service of the Word 4[th] Sunday 8am Holy Communion (BCP); 10am Parish Communion 5[th] Sunday 10am 3 as 1 Service, held jointly with Stonegate and Tidebrook churches

In March 2020 services in church had to cease due to the Covid 19 pandemic.

The church leadership responded promptly and creatively to this challenge. Weekly on-line services were made available from 29 March involving a cross-section of the church community in their delivery. On special occasions ‘archive’ recordings were also made available on-line (e.g. Carol Services). Services have remained on-line throughout the year so they could be accessed at any time. Sermons are recorded and made available on CD or as hard copy for those unable to access the internet.

On average the services have been accessed online 280 times each week, from locations as far away as Australia. Bearing in mind that each time a service is accessed it may be watched by several people, this is a significant expansion of the numbers usually able to attend in person each Sunday.

Church services resumed in July 2020, again in line with all Covid requirements, but on-line provision also continued throughout the year for those unable or unwilling to attend church in person at this time. Church services had to be suspended again from 14[th] November for four weeks due to the second Covid lockdown. Although a full programme of services was planned for over the Christmas period, the Christmas Eve Nativity Service and Midnight Communion had to be cancelled due to a rapid increase in Covid infections locally in the week before Christmas.

Confidential prayer ministry has continued to be offered by telephone after all the 10am services.

On-line Sunday J Club children’s activities were made available from September 2020.

The church was re-opened for private prayer from 15[th] June 2020, with all Covid safety requirements in place.

The number of special services offered was greatly impacted by the pandemic with many cancellations. We have celebrated no baptisms and 3 weddings and held 6 funerals in the church this year, all in line with Covid restrictions in force at the time.

Deanery Synod

By virtue of the number on the Electoral Roll, the church has four places on the Deanery Synod. Synod provides the PCC with an important link between the parish and the wider structures of the church.

Fabric and churchyard

Maintenance of the church fabric continued as far as possible in line with Covid limitations, following the recommendations of the Quinquennial report.

Page 6

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Following two thefts of lead from the roof above the vestries in 2019 work has progressed on replacements in accordance with a faculty and insurers’ requirements.

During the year repairs were required to the church heating system on a number of occasions. In view of the age and unreliability of the existing boiler, the PCC is considering options for its replacement.

The churchyard continues to be maintained in good order. Extension of the available space was achieved by the removal of a mound of earth, to ensure that the people of Wadhurst will continue to have the option to be buried in the churchyard of their parish church. A faculty has been applied for to grant permission to reuse for burials an area of the churchyard nearer the church building. Experiments with rewilding areas of the churchyard have taken place during the year.

Pastoral Care

The Covid pandemic has been a tragedy for everyone and has impacted on the social and pastoral life of the church. However, it has also provided the opportunity for the church to demonstrate exceptional care and service to the local community.

The volunteer base co-ordinated by Carillon Cottage expanded to over 150 people who supported the local community with shopping, prescriptions, hospital visits and similar. This work was recognised by a ‘ Local Heroes’ Award from Wealden Council, and is still continuing.

During the year the opportunity was taken to review the Governing document of Carillion Cottage to provide additional clarity on the respective roles and responsibilities of the PCC and the Management Committee of the Cottage.

The Vicar maintained contact with all parishioners through email and telephone calls. The church email group has grown by almost 100 people during 2020 as many people have ‘signed up’ to be included in church news emails.

Mission and Evangelism

The network of homegroups, through which the gospel is proclaimed, and private and collective prayer and study is promoted, has proved invaluable during periods of lockdown in 2020.

Most homegroups continued to meet virtually, and all offered support to their members in those tough times. Some groups grew in size during the period.

An active children’s programme continued within the limitations of the pandemic, involving children from the local primary school and also more widely with activities in the village such as the Nativity trail.

Following the resignation of the Pastoral Assistant for Families to pursue ordination training, the role was advertised. The church is also in receipt of a Diocesan Mission Grant to employ someone as Church Youth Worker and School Pastors’ Coordinator. Following the interview process a new appointment of a person to both posts was made in December 2020, to commence in early 2021.

Page 7

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

The church and PCC seek to contribute to the Mission of God locally, nationally and globally. The charities and organisations supported in 2020 were:

Local Charities:

Tunbridge Wells Youth for Christ Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors

UK Charities:

Chichester Cathedral Trust Diocesan Family Support Work Children’s Society Church Army Church Pastoral Aid Society St Luke’s Healthcare for the Clergy The Bible Society

Overseas Charities:

Church Mission Society Crosslinks Eurasia Education Foundation Open Doors

In addition, a ‘Vicar’s Discretionary Fund’ was set up to allow rapid response to crises.

A special appeal for Burundi - the Wadhurst 5k Water Christmas Appeal – generated donations exceeding £4,000, which enabled Food For The Hungry to reach its target of £30,000, which was doubled to £60,000 through generous match-funding.

BENEFIT TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY

Wadhurst church aspires to be at the heart of the local community, and to manifest loving service in numerous ways. Many of these have been impacted by restrictions on social gatherings, but the church has sought to continue as many as possible in line with Covid safety advice. As soon as possible, these services will be reintroduced at full strength.

These services include:

Carillon Cottage

Since 1999 the Wadhurst PCC has had responsibility for the activities run from this location on Wadhurst High Street. The volunteers in the Cottage provide tourist and local information services and keep the Village Diary. They advertise and sell tickets for local events, coordinate a volunteer driving service for hospital appointments etc. Wheelchairs may be hired, and meeting rooms are made available for local groups for consultations, advice and community engagement.

The Friends Across Wadhurst befriending service is also run from the Cottage.

“Carillon Cottage has been chosen to receive recognition of its contribution to the community” - Wealden District Council

Page 8

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

The Cottage, its facilities and services have proved to be a lifeline for many during the 2020 pandemic and the services were expanded to meet the needs of the elderly and vulnerable, especially those ‘shielding’ during the pandemic.

Churchyard and Church building

The PCC maintains St Peter and St Paul’s churchyard in good order not only for the benefit of the worshipping community but for the wider community. The churchyard is a popular place for dog walkers and for people to sit and has been a welcome walking space for many during the pandemic.

The Church building is open for quiet reflection and prayer.

The church is also available for local arts initiatives and concerts. In December 2020 a concert in aid of the Church was held with local performers and this was made available on-line for all to enjoy.

St George’s Hall

This building in the Sparrows Green area of Wadhurst is used by various local community groups such as Brownies and Guides and is available for private hire. Although currently closed, the PCC will continue to maintain it, to be able to reopen as soon as possible.

Focus

This parish magazine is distributed throughout the village and is available in Carillon Cottage. It offers a directory of services and support, an events diary and a means for local authorities (such as the Parish Council and police service), local clubs and societies, as well as the two Wadhurst schools to communicate with the wider community.

In 2020 the management of the advertising and production aspects was transferred to Hucksters, a local company, which is using its skills to develop the publication further for the benefit of readers.

Wadhurst Community Network Group

Wadhurst church is an active member of the Wadhurst Community Network Group. This is a multi-agency network group including groups such as the county and local Council, the local care home, the U3A, AgeUK, the Fire & Rescue Service, the Dementia Society and Neighbourhood Watch. The Community Network Group aims to benefit all aspects of community especially the elderly and vulnerable.

Church representatives attend the group meetings, and the church hosts events when possible.

CAMEO

CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) is a weekly club for the elderly, who usually meet in the church hall and have a hot meal followed by games, activities or a guest speaker. It is run by a team of about 8 volunteers and welcomes about 25 members. This service has been suspended during the pandemic due to the vulnerable nature of the attendees, but importantly, the volunteers have maintained contact with the attendees.

School Pastors

Volunteer School Pastors are in place to provide support to Uplands Community College for two lunchtimes a week and often support at two boxing sessions a week. The School Pastors have been part of events such as Awards evening, Careers day, Harvest, Shoebox appeal, and are very much a valued part of the Uplands

Page 9

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Community. Additional volunteers have been recruited during 2020, and the church has been awarded a Mission Grant by the Diocese to employ a part-time professional coordinator to grow the ministry.

Jellybeans

Jellybeans is a Babies’ and Toddlers’ group hosted by the church and usually has up to 30 families represented every week. Families have valued the healthy snacks that have been provided as well as the provision of a safe space, with a listening, caring ear for all. It is supported by a team of volunteers across the age range. It has not been possible for Jellybeans to meet during the Covid crisis, but sessions have been posted online with songs, stories and activities.

J-Club

J-Club is an after-school club hosted by the church. Prior to the pandemic, a waiting list for J Club was put in place because it reached capacity at around 25 children per week. J Club attracts families that do not attend church and is supported by an enthusiastic team of volunteers.

Although not taking place during lockdown, some on-line provision has been made available for Jellybeans and J Club during the pandemic.

WLTDO?

Who Let The Dads Out? meets once a month on a Saturday morning to provide fun and fellowship for dads and their children. It has not been possible for WLTDO to meet during the Covid crisis, but it is intended to start again as soon as possible.

Schools

The church actively supports our local schools. Wadhurst CE Primary School governing body has three foundation governors from the church. Unfortunately it was not possible for the Vicar to take school assemblies for most of the year due to Covid restrictions, and it was not possible for the church to host school Easter, Harvest and Christmas services. Similarly it was not possible to host the Christmas Carol Service for Uplands Community College, although good relations were maintained with the school primarily through the work of the School Pastors. In addition, each child at both “I’m so touched to know that anyone would be thinking of us at this time. It will be wisely schools who is in receipt of Free School Meals was given a spent!” – a grateful mum. £10 supermarket voucher for Christmas. This was entirely funded (£1,360) by donations from church members.

The church also helps to run a lunch club at Wadhurst CE Primary School called Stargazers who were able to present a socially-distanced Nativity to the village for 2020.

Nourish

The church is a collection point for the local community food bank.

Family Support Work

Once again in 2020 a collection of toys, gifts and money was made for Family Support Work to support needy families in the wider community over the Christmas period.

Page 10

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Review of the Year 2020

In June 2020 the United Benefice of Wadhurst Stonegate and Tidebrook was approved, with Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff as Vicar. The three churches have continued to work closely together to provide on-line worship and pastoral care services during the unusual circumstances of 2020.

In undertaking active stewardship of the church building and finances and in sharing in the leadership of the church’s worship and mission, the Wadhurst PCC has:

Page 11

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Financial review

Total incoming resources from unrestricted general funds were £147,847 (2019: £161,499), a decrease of 8%.

Expenditure on unrestricted church activities, including the diocesan parish share, was £158,569 (2019: £155,540), an increase of 2%. The contribution to the diocesan parish share remained consistent with the contribution made in the previous year of £61,000.

The net loss on unrestricted funds, excluding gains and losses on investments, was £10,722 compared to net income of £5,959 in the previous year.

Reserves Policy

The PCC's unrestricted funds at 31 December 2020 were £427,095 (2019: £434,272). Free unrestricted funds (that is, unrestricted funds excluding designated funds and funds represented by tangible fixed assets) were £28,952 (2019: £23,616). Designated funds include investments of £49,892 which would be available to meet additional short-term needs, the Focus Magazine Fund of £1,212, the Fabric Fund totalling £34,366, the Church Building fund of £5,000 and the Pastoral Assistant fund of £6,408.

The PCC aims at all times throughout the year to have free unrestricted funds available representing three months unrestricted expenditure. At end of 2020 reserves were 2 months’ worth of unrestricted funds. The PCC noted that in an emergency, both the designated funds reserves plus the PCC investment funds would be sufficient to meet six months unrestricted expenditure. The PCC aims to bring the unrestricted free reserves back to the equivalent of three months expenditure during 2021/22 but this continues to be subject to the impact of Covid-19 set out in Note 1.2 to the accounts.

Responsibilities of the PCC

The members of the PCC are responsible for preparing the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice, including the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the members to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the affairs of the PCC and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the PCC for that period.

In preparing those financial statements, the members are required to:

Page 12

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

The members are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the financial position of the PCC and enable them to ascertain to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the PCC and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

On behalf of the Parochial Church Council

Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff Vicar and Chair of the PCC

Date: 22 March 2021

Page 13

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE PCC OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

I report to the PCC members on my examination of the accounts of the Parish Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Wadhurst for the year ended 31 December 2020.

Responsibilities and basis of report

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

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

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of the independent examination.

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Date: 25 March 2021

A S Healey FCA CTA DChA Lindeyer Francis Ferguson Limited Chartered Accountants

North House, 198 High Street Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BE

Page 14

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Notes
Income from:
Donations
2
Church activities
3
Other trading activities
4
Investments
5
Expenditure on:
Church activities
6
Net gains on investments
10
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
13		 Unrestricted
funds
2020
£
126,719
5,696
12,919
2,513
147,847
158,569
3,545
( 7,177)
434,272
427,095		 Restricted
funds
2020
£
35,288
3,665
1,959
2
40,914
38,776
-
2,138
79,723
81,861		 Total
funds
2020
£
162,007
9,361
14,878
2,515
188,761
197,345
3,545
( 5,039)
513,995
508,956		 Total
funds
2019
£
165,885
19,285
14,449
5,290
204,909
196,565
9,315
17,659
496,336
513,995

Page 15

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2020

Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
9
Investments
10
Current assets
Debtors
11
Cash at bank and in hand
Liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due
within one year
12
Net current assets
Net assets
Funds
Unrestricted funds
13
Restricted funds
13		 £
3,473
119,361
122,834
( 8,407)		 2020
£
321,267
73,262
394,529
114,427
508,956
427,095
81,861
508,956		 £
6,254
121,567
127,821
( 10,766)		 2019
£
327,347
69,593
396,940
117,055
513,995
434,272
79,723
513,995

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Parochial Church Council on 22 March 2021 and signed on its behalf by:

Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff Vicar and Chair of the PCC

Paul Stephens, Honorary Treasurer Member of the Committee

Page 16

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

1 Accounting policies

The principle accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:

1.1 Status

Wadhurst PCC is a charity registered with the Charity Commission in England & Wales. Its registered address is Church of St. Peter & St. Paul, Church Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6AR. Details of its activities are given in the Parochial Church Council's Report.

1.2 Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. The accounts are presented in pounds sterling and rounded to the nearest pound.

Wadhurst PCC meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes.

In the preparation of these financial statements the going concern basis of accounting has been adopted. Material uncertainties regarding the going concern basis are as follows:

The closing of Parish churches by the UK Government and Diocese during 2020 to suspend public worship had a significant impact on church finances and affected PCC governance matters during 2020. General collections plate and yellow envelope donations were down to £6,603 compared to £15,487 in 2019 and the 2020 budget. Weddings, baptisms & funerals income and various church trading activities were adversely affected, along with Guides and other hire fees. Following a Harvest Thanksgiving Appeal a number of one off donations were received along with an increase to the Planned Giving Scheme which has enabled much of voluntary income towards unrestricted church activities to be recouped by the year end and close the expenditure cash deficit. At the year end unrestricted reserves are approximately 2 months of committed expenditure but considered adequate due to the ongoing COVID-19 impact on financial position of the church.

The third UK lockdown and legal restrictions and social distancing requirements since January 2021 continue to challenge church finances during 2021. Planned giving may also be negatively affected by the general UK economic recovery and reduced working hours and rising levels in unemployment. Weddings, baptisms, funerals, and general church activities’ income will continue to be adversely affected. However, the PCC intend to continue to pay all staff salaries during 2021, including cleaning and churchyard contractors. The PCC is therefore expecting a challenging operating environment in 2021 but anticipate a balanced budget year end outturn, with sufficient income to cover budgeted 2021 expenditure. The church’s current expected income and unrestricted reserves are sufficient to ensure the church finances operate as an going concern during 2021.

Page 17

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

1 Accounting policies (continued)

1.3 Income

Income is recognised when the PCC is entitled to it, it is probable that it will be received and it can be measured reliably. Donations, including planned giving, collections and donations, are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities when received. Tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is recognised when the income to which it relates is received. Grants are recognised when the PCC is legally entitled to the amount due.

Income from church activities and other trading activities is recognised when the related service has been performed or the event has taken place.

1.4 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised when there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer resources to a third party, settlement is probable and the amount can be measured reliably.

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded where the award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish contribution is accounted for when due.

1.5 Fixed assets and depreciation

Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the accounts in accordance with s.10(2) of the Charities Act 2011.Movable church furnishings held by the Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal, are accounted for as inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the church's inventory which can be inspected. For inalienable property acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts.

Freehold land is not depreciated. Depreciation is provided on other tangible fixed assets, at annual rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value, of each asset evenly over its expected useful life as follows:

Freehold buildings 1% on cost Equipment, sound system and furnishings 25% on written down value Kitchen 10% on cost

The St. George's Hall freehold property is not depreciated as the PCC considers that the realisable value exceeds its cost.

1.6 Investments

Investments are stated at market value. Gains and losses on revaluation are included in the Statement of Financial Activities.

1.7 Financial instruments

Other than investments, the PCC 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.

Page 18

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

1 Accounting policies (continued)

1.8 Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds include general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes. Designated funds include monies set aside by the PCC out of unrestricted funds for specific future purposes or projects. Restricted funds include all money and assets given for a particular purpose e.g. a special appeal or a specific legacy.

2 Donations

Planned giving (including Parish Giving)
General collections
Donations
Income tax recoverable
Special collections received
Grants		 2020
£
85,461
6,603
43,618
10,570
3,255
12,500
162,007		 2019
£
86,620
15,487
41,280
13,546
3,252
5,700
165,885

The comparative 2019 figure includes restricted income of £29,102.

3 Income from church activities

Fees for weddings, funerals etc.
Guides, hire fees, other		 2020
£
5,696
3,665
9,361		 2019
£
8,682
10,603
19,285

The comparative 2019 figure includes restricted income of £6,734.

4 Fundraising and other trading activities

Fundraising
Other activities		 2020
£
1,020
13,858
14,878		 2019
£
5,305
9,144
14,449

The comparative 2019 figure includes restricted income of £7,560.

Page 19

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

5 Investment income

Dividends and interest
Trust income
The comparative 2019 figure includes restricted income of £14.
Church activities
Direct costs:
Charitable giving & vouchers
Special collections paid
Diocesan parish contribution
Other clergy costs
Church running expenses
Church maintenance & repairs
Vicarage
Upkeep of churchyard
Upkeep of services
Training and education
Outreach
Pastoral assistant
St. George's Hall - PCC contribution
Depreciation of fixed assets
Focus Magazine expenditure
Restricted fund expenditure:
St George's Hall
Carillon Cottage
Burundi fund expenses
Burundi fund charitable giving
Building the family fund:
Caring & Sharing charitable giving
Pastoral assistant
Cameo
Support costs:
Administrator's salary
Subtotal		 2020
£
2,335
180
2,515
2020
£
13,384
3,345
60,997
2,229
11,748
4,582
4,215
6,642
8,066
325
103
8,882
1,500
6,080
14,351
6,334
13,442
-
13,100
2,000
-
900
11,508
193,733		 2019
£
2,229
3,061
5,290
2019
£
15,788
3,252
61,000
2,205
11,577
9,067
3,761
6,274
11,054
877
410
868
1,500
6,376
9,338
7,265
17,232
40
-
-
13,722
2,766
8,653
193,025

6 Church activities

Page 20

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

6
Church activities continued
Subtotal from previous page
Governance costs:
Independent examiner's fee
Current year
Cost of annual accounts
Current year
The comparative 2019 figure includes restricted expenditure of £41,025.
7
Charitable giving
The following donations to missions and charities were made in the year:
General income:
UK Charities:
Chichester Cathedral Trust
Diocesan Family Support Work
Children's Society
Church Army
Church Pastoral Aid Society
St Luke's Healthcare for the Clergy
Bible Society
Local Charities:
Tunbridge Wells Youth for Christ
Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors
Overseas Charities:
Church Mission Society
Crosslinks
Eurasia Education Foundation
Open Doors
Vicar's Discretionary Fund
School leavers' Bibles
Christmas vouchers
Restricted funds
Burundi
Nakuru (Caring & Sharing)		 193,733
1,625
1,987
197,345
2020
£
400
1,190
680
1,700
1,190
200
680
680
680
1,190
1,700
680
680
11,650
-
944
790
13,384
13,100
2,000
28,484		 193,025
1,590
1,950
196,565
2019
£
400
1,400
800
2,000
1,400
200
800
800
800
1,400
2,000
800
800
13,600
200
1,308
680
15,788
-
-
15,788

Page 21

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

8 Staff costs and transactions with PCC members

Wages and salaries
Pension costs		 2020
£
25,818
354
26,172		 2019
£
27,841
528
28,369

The average number of employees during the year was 3 (2019: 3).No staff earned more than £60,000.

Key management personnel are considered to be the PCC members. One member, Hollie Butler is was employed by the PCC as Pastoral Assistant until August 2020, when she also resigned as PCC Member. During this period she received emoluments totalling £8,232 (2019: £12,604) in that capacity. No PCC members received remuneration or were reimbursed expenses in their capacity as PCC members during the year.

In the previous year Mrs Angela Kateley, wife of previous PCC member Mark Kateley, was paid £770 in respect of her services as editor of Focus magazine until August 2019.

During the year donations were received from members of the PCC totalling £26,552 (2019: £20,770).

9 Tangible fixed assets

Cost
At 1 January 2020
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2020
Net book value
At 31 December 2020
At 31 December 2019		 Freehold
land
Freehold
buildings
Cottage,
equipment
and
furnishings
Fixtures
fittings and
equipment
£
£
£
£
120,000
237,493
14,823
77,424
120,000
237,493
14,823
77,424
-
44,150
14,719
63,524
-
2,375
104
3,601
-
46,525
14,823
67,125
120,000
190,968
-
10,299
120,000
193,343
104
13,900		 Total
£
449,740
449,740
122,393
6,080
128,473
321,267
327,347

Page 22

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

9 Tangible fixed assets (continued)

The fixed assets of the PCC include two freehold properties - St. George’s Hall, Wadhurst and Carillon Cottage, High Street, Wadhurst.

Carillon Cottage, High Street, Wadhurst, which was purchased in 1999, is held for continuing use in the work of the PCC. It was opened as a Church community centre during 2001. The cost of this property includes the historic purchase cost plus the cost of the subsequent building works for its refurbishment.

The Parochial Church Council is the beneficial owner and Managing Trustee of a Charitable Trust – the St. George’s Hall (Sparrows Green) – the owner of the freehold of St. George’s Hall.

10 Investments

Market value
At 1 January 2020
Revaluation
Accumulated income to 31 December 2020
At 31 December 2020		 Chancel
Trusts
Acc.
Income
Trust funds
PCC
funds
£
£
£
2,532
19,402
47,659
-
1,313
2,232
124
-
-
2,656
20,715
49,891		 Total
£
69,593
3,545
124
73,262

All investments are held in CBF Church of England Funds.

Trust funds are invested through the Diocesan Board of Finance and include the Watson-Smyth Trust & Parish General Fund. They also include the Laurens/Watson-Smyth – Churchyard Fund. The capital represented by these holdings is freely available to the PCC and thus is considered unrestricted.

Other funds (not included in accounts)

Chancel Trusts: The Diocese maintains, as a permanent trust for the Parish under the Tithe Act, a holding of 196.74 CBF Investment Fund - Income Shares (value at 31 December 2020, £4,031) accumulated income from which may be used to defray the cost of repairs to the fabric of the chancel and the Church. The Diocese has confirmed that the accumulated income is held by DBF as custodian trustee and is freely available to the PCC.

Page 23

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

11 Debtors

Debtors
Gift aid recoverable 2020
£
3,473
3,473		 2019
£
6,254
6,254

12 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Fees owed to Diocese
Taxation and social security
Other creditors and accruals		 2020
£
1,578
1,306
5,523
8,407		 2019
£
1,603
1,315
7,848
10,766

Page 24

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

13
Statement of funds: current year
Brought
forward
£
Unrestricted funds:
Designated funds:
Capital fund
355,005
Fabric fund
33,080
Focus magazine fund
2,644
Church building (Crèche)
fund
5,000
Pastoral assistant fund
14,927
General funds
23,616
434,272
Restricted funds:
Caring and sharing scheme
1,982
St George's Hall
25,715
Carillon Cottage
24,652
Burundi fund
15,734
Building the family fund:
Communications fund
6,750
Cameo
4,890
Other restricted funds
-
79,723
Total funds
513,995		 Income
Expend-
iture
Net gains /
(losses)
Transfers
£
£
£
£
-
( 6,080)
2,232
-
1,286
-
-
12,919
( 14,351)
-
-
-
-
-
-
363
( 8,882)
-
-
133,279
( 129,256)
1,313
-
147,847
( 158,569)
3,545
-
576
( 2,000)
-
-
5,827
( 6,334)
-
-
16,594
( 13,442)
-
-
9,999
( 13,100)
-
-
-
-
-
-
718
( 900)
-
-
7,200
( 3,000)
-
-
40,914
( 38,776)
-
-
188,761
( 197,345)
3,545
-		 Carried
forward
£
351,157
34,366
1,212
5,000
6,408
28,952
427,095
558
25,208
27,804
12,633
6,750
4,708
4,200
81,861
508,956

Page 25

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

13
Statement of funds (continued): prior year
Brought
forward
£
Unrestricted funds:
Designated funds:
Capital fund
358,109
Fabric fund
28,083
Focus magazine fund
1,224
Church building (Crèche)
fund
5,000
Pastoral assistant fund
-
General funds
26,582
418,998
Restricted funds:
Caring and sharing scheme
1,406
St George's Hall
23,325
Carillon Cottage
23,501
Burundi fund
3,688
Building the family fund:
Pastoral assistant
13,722
Communications fund
6,750
Cameo
4,946
77,338
Total funds
496,336		 Income
Expend-
iture
Net gains /
(losses)
Transfers
£
£
£
£
-
( 6,376)
3,272
-
2,205
( 1,104)
-
3,896
10,758
( 9,338)
-
-
-
-
-
-
15,795
( 868)
-
-
132,741
( 137,854)
6,043
( 3,896)
161,499
( 155,540)
9,315
-
576
-
-
-
9,655
( 7,265)
-
-
18,383
( 17,232)
-
-
12,086
( 40)
-
-
-
( 13,722)
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,710
( 2,766)
-
-
43,410
( 41,025)
-
-
204,909
( 196,565)
9,315
-		 Carried
forward
£
355,005
33,080
2,644
5,000
14,927
23,616
434,272
1,982
25,715
24,652
15,734
-
6,750
4,890
79,723
513,995

Details of designated funds are as follows:

Capital fund:

This fund represents the net book value of the tangible fixed assets (apart from St George's Hall which is included in restricted funds as described below) plus the market value of the PCC funds included within investments.

Fabric fund:

This fund is for the Quinquennial , five year cyclical maintenance of the church premises.

Focus magazine fund:

Focus Magazine is administered by a separate committee under the overall control of the PCC. It seeks to raise sufficient income from advertising revenues and from sales to cover its costs of production and distribution. The print and production of the magazine is managed by an external company ‘Hucksters’.

Page 26

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

13 Statement of funds (continued)

Pastoral assistant fund/Building the family fund

The goal of the restricted building the family fund was to grow the church and serve the community through the appointment, funding and support of a pastoral assistant for families and to develop flexible fellowship space and improve amenities of the church. Funds in prior years were restricted donations but from 2019 donations have been allocated to the pastoral assistant designated fund from general fundraising by the PCC.

Church building (Crèche) fund:

This fund is for improving the Crèche amenities of the church.

Details of restricted funds are as follows:

Caring & sharing scheme:

The Caring & Sharing Scheme was established some years ago to support our nominated community in Nakuru, Kenya.

St. George's Hall:

St George’s Hall (Sparrows Green) is a separate charitable trust, approved by the Charity Commission in 1994, of which the PCC is beneficial owner and Managing Trustee. St. George’s Hall is administered by a separate committee under the overall control of the PCC. In financial terms it is largely self-sufficient although the PCC contributes to its revenues as required. This fund includes the freehold property which is included in the accounts at its deemed cost of £20,000. The PCC currently contributes an annual grant of £1,500 to its revenues.

Carillon Cottage:

The Carillon Cottage fund is a restricted fund for the operation of the Church Community Centre at Carillon Cottage, High Street, Wadhurst, a property purchased by the PCC in 1999. The Carillon Cottage figures also include Social Action Project and Friends Across Wadhurst income and expenditure.

Burundi fund:

The Burundi fund includes donations received for the specific purpose of furthering the aims of the WadhurstBurundi link.

Communications fund:

The communications fund includes donations towards improvements to church communications, marketing and the post of Communications Officer. An appointment has not yet been made but is planned for 2021.

Cameo:

The PCC took over responsibility for this fund from the Wadhurst Methodist Church Council in May 2015, following the closure of the Methodist Church. At the same time, the venue for Cameo moved from the Methodist Church to St George’s Hall. The Cameo fund provides the finances for weekly lunches and other activities for senior citizens.

Page 27

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

13 Statement of funds (continued)

Other restricted funds:

The balance carried forward relates to funds received for the extension of the burial ground. Works for this are planned in 2021.

14 Analysis of net assets between funds: current year

Tangible fixed assets
Fixed asset investments
Current assets
Creditors due within one year		 Restricted
funds
Un-
restricted
funds
2020
2020
£
£
20,000
301,267
-
73,262
61,861
60,973
-
( 8,407)
81,861
427,095		 Total funds
2020
£
321,267
73,262
122,834
( 8,407)
508,956

Analysis of net assets between funds: prior year

Tangible fixed assets
Fixed asset investments
Current assets
Creditors due within one year		 Restricted
funds
Un-
restricted
funds
2019
2019
£
£
20,000
307,347
-
69,593
59,723
68,098
-
( 10,766)
79,723
434,272		 Total funds
2019
£
327,347
69,593
127,821
( 10,766)
513,995

Free unrestricted funds as noted in the PCC report comprise unrestricted, undesignated fixed asset investments and current assets less creditors due within one year.

15 Monies handled as agent

These include fees collected on behalf of the Diocese by St Peter and St Paul, Stonegate and Tidebrook churches at weddings and funerals (£9,765). Balances payable at the year end were £2,484 (2019: £3,756).

Page 28

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WADHURST

16 Church Workers Pension Fund (CWPF)

Wadhurst PCC participates in the Pension Builder Scheme section of CWPF for lay staff. The Scheme is administered by the Church of England Pensions Board, which holds the assets of the schemes separately from those of the Employer and the other participating employers.

The Pension Builder Scheme of the Church Workers Pension Fund is made up of two sections, Pension Builder Classic and Pension Builder 2014, both of which are classed as defined benefit schemes. There is no subdivision of assets between employers in each section of the Pension Builder Scheme.

The scheme is considered to be a multi-employer scheme as described in Section 28 of FRS 102. This is because it is not possible to attribute the Pension Builder Scheme’s assets and liabilities to specific employers and that contributions are accounted for as if the Scheme were a defined contribution scheme. The pensions costs charged to the SoFA in the year are the contributions payable (2020: £354, 2019: £528).

A valuation of the Pension Builder Scheme is carried out once every three years. The most recent was carried out as at 31 December 2016.

For the Pension Builder Classic section, the valuation revealed a deficit of £14.2m on the ongoing assumptions used. At the most recent annual review, the Board chose not to grant a discretionary bonus, which will have acted to improve the funding position. There is no requirement for deficit payments at the current time.

For the Pension Builder 2014 section, the valuation revealed a surplus of £1.8m on the ongoing assumptions used. There is no requirement for deficit payments at the current time.

The legal structure of the scheme is such that if another employer fails, Wadhurst PCC could become responsible for paying a share of that employer’s pension liabilities.

Page 29