2023-12-31-accounts

Charity number: 1132389 THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST Wodhyi 5t Tldobrook5tonegate TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT INCLUDING PAYMENT AND RECEIPTS ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

CONTENTS CHURCH ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT PCC MEMBERSHIP OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE IN 2022 BENEFITTO THE WIDER COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REVIEW 14 SIGNATURE 14 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT 15 RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT 16 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES 17 NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 18

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTS forthe year ended 31 DECEMBER2023 ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Thechurch ofst Peter and St Paul: Church Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6AA The parish is part of the United BenefSce of Wadhurst, Tidebrook and Stonegate. The benefice is part of the Diocese of Chichester within the Church of England. Incumbent: Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff Correspondence address: Carillon Cottage High Street Wadhurst TN5 6AA East Sussex Charltsble status: Wa(Ihurst PCC is an unincorporated charity registered with the Charity Commission lcharity number 11323891 and is governed by the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure 119561 as amended and Church Representation Rules, as amended in 2020. The Porochiul Church Council (PCC) presents its report, together wlth thefinancial statementsfor the yeur ended 31 December2023. The financlal statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 using the Receipts and Payments basis.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER 2023 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT The Parochlal Church Council IPCCI Members of the Parochial Church Council IPCCI are the trustees of the Charity. The PCC consists of the Vicar, the ex officlo members, plus those elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting IAPCMI, co-opted or otherwise appointed in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. All members of the electoral roll are encouraged to consider standing for election to the PCC. Patrons of the benefice may attend PCC meetings as obseNers. The PCC is responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including decidin8 on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. PCC Members During the year January to December 2023 the following served as members of the Wadhurst PCC.. Ex-offlcio members Incumbent ond Chuir Revd Dr Paul Ratcllff Ruth Dunnett Vanessa Sharman Chris Bithell Heather Ratcliff Penny Dobson Peter Thompson Michael Hardcastle Anne BriBnell Vicar Churchwarden Churchwarden Deanery Synod Rep Deanery Synod Rep Deanery Synod Rep and Lead Recruiter Reader (retired May 20231 Chair of Carillon Cottage (retired September20231 Deputy Warden Chair of Carillon Cottage from October 2023 Elected members Lesley Wardrop Miquela Walsh Martin Lindsay Anthony Dunnett Mary Burstow Paul Burstow Paul Stephens Lynda Wight Safeguarding Officer Iretired May 20231 Member Iretired May 20231 Member (retired May 20231 Fabric ChaSr Member Member Honorary Treasurer Secretary Revd Andrew Goyi Associate Vicar, is also entitled to attend Wadhurst PCC meetings.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTS forthe year ended 31 DECEMBER2023 Executive Committee riees trh.e Ilicr, +he Churchwardens, the Honorary Treasurer, the PCC Secretary and one other representative of the PCC. In 2023 this was Chris Bithell. This committee sets the agenda for PCC meetings and has the pov.'-- to transact business ot) behalf of the PCC between its meetings, subject to d;, Flnance Commlttee The Finance Committee, whith includes the PCC Chair, the Honorary Treasurer, Church Wardenlsl and two other members. reviews the forecasts, ongoing financial data and upcoming annual budget. In 2023, Peter Thomp50n and Anthony Dunnett Se￿ed as the 'other members, on this committee. The PCC Secretary is in attendance. Patrons Michael Hardcastle Ichair of the Patronage Board) Caroline Reid John Bateup Patrons may attend PCC meetings as observers If they wish. PCC Meetlngs In the year January to December 2023 six PCC meetings were held (January February, March, July, September, November) with an average attendance of 84%. In addition, PCC members considered supporting information and voled on sE'- on six occaslons. Tho orr Ya<￿￿1￿￿11}iI1lII fnr tha f¢lY*ryill(5 gf rerF.ain ?cperts of Parish life to committees, which report to the PCC and provide written summaries of their activities to each PCC meeting for discussion and oversight. These groups include the Pastoral team, the Fellowship Committee, Carillon Cottage and the Fabric Committee. The PCC a150 receives a report fiom the Pastoral A$515tant at each meetlng. EMPLOYEES The PCC employed Jean Sermon as Church Administratorto April 2023, when she retired after 16 years of loyal service. Following a recruitment and interview process, Jemma Alderson was appointed Church Administrator from April 2023. The PCC employs Kat Fisher as the Pastoral Assistant for Families and Children, School Pastors Coordinator and Youth Worker.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023 Robert Fuller is the church Organist and Choir Directorfor Sunday seNices. In November 2023, Phlllppa Kirby was appointed Choral Director for special Services. On 15 May 2023 Andrew Goywas licensed asAssociate Vicar forthe benefice, employed by the Diocese of Chichester. In 2023 Hollie Butler completed her curacy training as part of the Wadhurst church ministryteam, with special responsibilities for supporting the Pastoral team, and left the parish in June 2023. ELECTORAL ROLL The church Electoral Roll, as at the annual meeting in May 2023, stood at 187 members. Four names were added, two left the area and sadly five members had died since the previous electoral roll.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEMBER2023 OBJEcfivES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The PCC works with the Vicar to promote the whole mission of the church - pastoral, evangelical, social, and ecumenical- in the ecclesiastical parish of Wadhurst. M15sion Statement Using the gifts God gives us, we.. bring others to Christ deepen ourfoith in Him develop the life of the churchfumity serve each other ond the wider community andso express our worship to God in every port of life In furtherance of this mission. the PCC: maintains the fabric of the parish church is the beneficial owner of, and responsible for the activities conducted from, Carillon Cottage, the church community centre in Wadhurst High Street is the beneficial owner and managing trustee of St George's Hall in Sparrows Green has oversight of the publication of Focus- the parish and community magazine is the employer of the Parish Administrator is the employer of a Pastoral Assistant for Families and Children and has oversight of the ministry undertaken by the person in that role is the employer of a School Pastor5 Coordinator and Youth Worker In setting objectives and planning for activlties, 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 Safeguardin8 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. The PCC has due regard for its Health and Safety responsibilities and for its responsibilities under the GDPR. The PCC has approved a suite of policies to contribute to good governance and these are reviewed on an annual basis, and most are made available on the church website.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTS fortheyear ended 31 DECEMBER 2023 ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE IN 2023 Mission and Evangelism Mission Action Plan The PCC has a Mission Action Plan which outlines its priorities for activities in the areas of Prayer and Worship, Discipleship, Pastoral Care and Evangelism. An element of the MAP is highlighted and discussed at each PCC meeting. These areas are underpSnned by Finance, Fabric and Communications which are reviewed at every meeting and discussed as necessary as kre matters of governance such a5 Health and Safety and Safeguarding. The MAP 15 reviewed by the PCC annually to set objectives for the year ahead. Study t7nd Homegroups The church ha5 a network of homegroups which meet weekly, through which the gospel is proclaimed, and collective prayer and study are promoted. Two groups for men meet monthly. A successful Alphu course was held on 12 Wednesday evenings and one Saturday in 2023 with 32 regular attendees, who enjoyed fellowship, teaching and mutual support. Children (Jnd Young People The church provides teaching for children in the church family aged 3-10 years at Sunday J Club and for older children at a Sunday Youth club (known as Why). In addition, provision for chlldren across the community is supplied through activities at Jellybeans Babies and Toddlers group and the weekday after-school '1 Club,. The Vicar makes regular visits to the local Church of England Prlmary school. The Vicar and his wife lead weekly assemblies. The Youth Worker delivers'moving Up, talks to year 6 children. In 2023, young people in the church in yeais 5 and above participated in youth events in the local area and across the diocese. such as Maycamp and Youth for Christ events in Tunbridge Wells. The church has a team of School Pastors who have continued their regular attendance at Uplands Academy during the year. Regulur Worship The PCC aims to offer different styles of service each Sunday to enable as many people as possible from the local community to experience accessible worship that is spiritually fulfilling for them. In 2023, these services have included a traditional Prayer Book Communion at 8am each Sunday, and an All-Age servlce on the first Sunday of the month. The appointment of the Associate Vicar has allowed Wadhurst Church to offer two Parish Holy Communion seNices each month. There is a150 a monthly mid-week communion service. Evensong seNices were presented for significant occasSons such as Harvest. All-Age seNices and seNites of Morning Worship are led by members of the worship leadership team. The Wadhurst congregation joins together wlth those in Tidebrook and Stonegate from time to time for'3 as I, Se￿ices.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfortheyear ended 31 DECEMBER 2023 During the year attendances have increased overall. Whilst attendance at the 8am service fell by 50h, at the mid-morning service attendance of adults on a normal Sunday rose by 20% and of children rose by 13%. Speciolservices During the year ten baptism5, and five wedding5 and marriage blessing5 were celebrated, and 12 funerals and memorial seNices were held in the church. In addition, there were eight bLsrials of ashes in the churchyard. Special services were offered at major festiva15 (Christmas, Easterl and national events Isuch as Remembrance) and these attracted attendance from across the villaBe. The church also jolned with the local Roman Catholic Church for Churches Together in Wadhurst services, including the Service of Christian Unity, the Good Friday Walk of Witrbess and an Advent Carol Service. The local primary school held Se￿ice$ in the church for Easter, for its School Leavers in July, at Harvest and at Christmas. The church has an active and growing team which is responsible for the arrangement of flowers in church through the year and decorations for festivals and special services. Proyer Confidential prayer ministry continued to be offered after all the morning services. Beneflce-wide Saturday morning prayer meetings were held in Carillon Cottage or at Tidebrook Church. There 15 also a church Prayer for Healing group. Fellowship The congregation joined together in special fellowship events during 2023, including refreshments at the licensing of Andrew Goy, a bring-and-share picnic to say farewell to Hollie Butler and her family, a cake decorating session and a HaNest lunch. The group has also ensured that refreshments were available after the 10.30am services and at special services throughout the year. Pastoral Care The Vicar continued to maintain contart with all pari5hior)ers through weekly email and regular telephone calls and visits. The volunteer activity co-ordinated by Carillon Cottage supports the church famlly and the local community with shopping, drives to hospital visits and a range of other se￿iCe5. A Pastoral Group oversees pastoral care given across the community. Voltjnteers visit those in need and the housebound to deliver Holy Communion. A partlcular relationship has been established with Wadhurst Manor Care Home. The training materials developed by Wadhurst church for this initiative are being used by other churches in the Deanery who wish to set up similar teams.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX ANNUAL REPORT and FINANGIALSTATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023 Deanery Synod The church has four places on the Rotherfield Deanery Synod. This provides the PCC with an important link between the parish and the wider structures of the church. Fabri¢ and churchyard Maintenance of the church fabric continued in line with the recommendations of the QuSnquennSal report. Attention has been paid over the year to ensure an ethical green ener8V Supply. Plans for the churchyard have evolved in 2023, with proposals to create a garden space with views over Bewl Water and rebuild the main path through the churchyard with a border for burials of ashes and new trees. The whole churchyard will also be managed in an ecologically friendly way. The PCC is also considering options for the replacement of the aBillB gas-fired heating system with an air source heat pump solution in line with a commitment to achieving Carbon Zero ICOI by 2030. Envlronmental Issues The ECO-CO Working Group consists of representatives of the three churches in the benefice plus Carillon Cottage. In 2023 Wadhurst church was awarded a Silver ECO Award from A Rocha. The group has met with the local Catholic church to share ideas and best practice. Communications There has been active and regular use of the Facebook page to publicise services and event5. These posts have attracted a lot of attention from the local communitvi playing a significant role in attracting people to Christmas and other special seNices, such as the 'Remembering Loved Ones, service. The PCC has had an increased presence on A Church Neor You website during this year. Flnances The PCC has continued to have prudent management of the church's finances. A special PCC meeting was held in February to discuss a programme of cost containment and ways to increase income. The PCC has activety sought donatlons and grants from a variety of Sources to help support its objectives. Members of the congregation were kept informed of the financial position through presentations and leaflets and a successful stewardship campaign was held in the autumn. The church has been able to turn a projected £45k deficit into a £31k surplus and so has been able to meet its commitments and continue with charitable giving and support to members of the local community.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL. WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER2023 8ENEFITTOTHE WIDER COMMUNITY Wadhurst church aspires to be at the heart of the local community and to manifest loving service to that comfflunity in numerous ways. Church building und churchyord The PCC maintains St Peter and St Paul's churchyard in good order for the benefit of the wider community. The churchyard is a popular place for dog walkers and for people to Slt away from the bustle of the High Street. The PCC has worked with local nature and environmental groups to develop 'wild' area5, to encourage the swift population and to open up views from the churchyard towards Bewl Water, for the greater enjoyment of visitors. In 2023, the church took part in the annual'Ride and Stride, event In Sussex. This is a national initiative which encourages participants to get sponsorship to walk or ride Ibike, horse, car, electric buggyl to churches across their county. Funds raised are shared between Sussex Historic Churches Trust and the local church. Both our Youth Group and residents of Crittles Court contributed to the event and a rota of members of the congregation welcomed visitors to the church. The church building is open daily for quiet reflection and prayer, which is welcomed by visitors from the local community, from across the UK, and as far afield as the United States and New Zealand.. 'Mu¢h needed iiiomenl lo hreaihe, Ihankyoii M, Wadhursl A JAKJLiuli3luce ofpcaLe. Gi-cjul l(?.iee involvemenl ihe community, RD, Bucks 'Thapikyou.foi' voiii- )Ipelcopiie' A&N, Brussels 'Li)}pL'ly Icy hLJ (Ihle In cniiie inlo Gc)d ,%' hiyii,se lo find.ftreiiRih cind ef)n.%olalion' AM, w￿￿1111r.￿l The 'Food Shelves, in the church, freely accessible during dayliBht hours to those in need in the local community, saw increased use in 2023. The church and Carillon Cottage are also locations for Nourish foodbank collections. The church building hosts 'Dads on Saturdays, monthly - an opportunity for male carers and their children to meet up in an informal way. It also hosts Jellybeans babies and toddler5, group weekly, and the J Club after-school club weekly during term time. The church is also available for local arts initiatives and concerts by local choirs, the Wadhurst Brass Band and other musicians. It has also been used by local groups such as '8rownies' for their regular meetings. The church and village benefit from an active team of bellringers who practlse weekly in church. They ring for several Sunday seNlces each month and for special occasions. They train new recruits and offer hospitality to other bellringing groups who visit.

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER 2023 Curlllon Cottuqe For over 20 years the Wadhurst PCC has had responsibility for the activities run from this location on Wadhurst High Street. The volunteers in the Cottage coordinate a driving service for healthcare appointments acro55 Kent and Sussex and offer a monthly hearing aid clinic. The Cottage team issues a Welcome Pack to newcomers to the area, has a directory of tourist and local information seNices and sells ticket5 for local events run by community groups such as Wodhurst Warriors and local choirs. Meeting rooms and the garden at the Cottage are available for local groups to hire and have seen increased use during 2023, for groups as diverse as U3A interest groups, training sessions, the Cygnet5 to Swons drama group, and committee meetings of local charities including The Rose Trust and Mullins Memorial Fund. An open Welcome Space is made available at the Cottage for anyone to attend during the winter months, for company and light refreshment5. Conversation classes for refugees from Ukraine have continued in 2023 and seNe an additional useful purpose in bringing members of this community together sociallv. The annual Open Gardens weekend took place in 2023 and is a highlight of the village calendar, with gardens acros5 the parish open to all, and teas served in the church building. It raised over £7.000 to support the maintenance and running costs of the Cottage. Chlldren's work Jellybeons, a babies and toddlers, group regularly attract5 UP to 60 people every week. They valtje the provision of a safe space, with a listeningi caring ear and games, stories and activities for the youngest. It is supported by a team of volunteers across the age range. J-club is a weekly after-school club hosted by the church during term time, attracting families that do not attend church. Volunteers supervise a 'walking bus, service from school to church, where activitie5 and healthy snacks are provided. Special events are also arranged for children in the community, including opportunities to be part of a Nativity event. A 'Light Party, in October had 'lighthouses' as its theme and attracted around 90 attendees from the local Community- as well as the Bishop of Muyinga lin Burundi) who was visiting at the time. Young people During the year excursions to events foryoung people have been arranged and have been open to any young person in our community. A team of School Pastors is in place, supported by a Prayer Pastors group. They attend Uplands Academy in break times to be a non-judgemental listening ear for pupils land staff members). io

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EASTSUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIALSTATEMENTSfoitheyear ended 31 DECEMBER 2023 Schools The church activety supports the church-affiliated local primary school. Wadhurst CE Primary School governing body has three foundation governors from the church. The church also helps to run Christian lunch club called Starguzers. Leavers are presented with Bibles in the summer. The Vicar runs Religious Education coaching sessions for the staff, covering the subjects in the RE syllabus. Each child at both schools in the village (primary and secondary) in receipt of free sch¢)ol meals was given a £10 supermarket voucher for Easter. This was entirely funded by donations from church members. Older people Come And Meet Each Other, or CAMEO, Is a weekly club for the elderly, with a hot meal followed by games, activities, or a guest speaker. The sessions include 'armchair exercises, for the attendees, musical entertainment, or crafting sessions. CAMEO is run by a team of volunteers and welcomes up to 25 members each week. Volunteer drivers collect the guests and take them home. In addition, Afternoon Fellowship meets monthly for worship* fellowship and refreshments. A guest speaker is invited to talk on topics of interest to the group, which is mainly older frople, althouBh anyone in the community is invited to attend. A'senior Lunch, is held twice a year for around 50-60 attendees. Pustorttl cure The Pastoral Care tean) makes regular visits to those in the village who feel lonely and isolated, to deliver Holy Communion or simply to talk. Monthly Sunday services are held at Wadhurst Manor Care Home and residents are also visited in their room for prayer or just conversation. Community mogozlne Focus, the Wadhurst parish magazine, is distributed by a team of volunteers throughout the village. It offers a directory of Se￿iceS and support. an events diary and a means for local authorities (such as the Parish Covncill, the local MP, local clubs and societies, the two Wadhurst schools and Stonegate Primary School to communicate with the wider community. Community engagement The church and Carillon Cottage had a presence at the village Coronation celebrations, providing information and a C￿Che for yotjnger children. Copies of Crowned King book were made available to the church family and anyone visiting the church premises at the time of the Coronation, as a memento of the occasion. li

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSfortheyearended 31 DECEMBER 2023 To mark the King's Coronation, the church organised a Barn Dance in the local Commemoratlon Hall for everyone in the local community to attend, which was a great success. Carillon Cottage partitipated in the Wadhurst traders, Christmas Late Night Opening event, distributing information, welcoming visitors and participating in the children's trail and colouring competitions. The young people from the church made and sold tree decorations and bracelets in support of a 'toilet twinning, initiative with toilets in Nepal and South Sudan. Charitable support The church and PCC seek to contribute in financial terms to the Mission of God locally, nationa15y and globally. In 2023, the PCC gave a total of £15,752 to a range of local, national and international charities. Special collections were also made at many 5eNices to supporl charities, including The Children s Society at Christingle and Crisis at the Carol SeNice. Due to a long-standing relationship between Wadhurst church and Burundi, the church family responded generotjsly to a plea for donations to help repair the roof of the church in Burundi, sending £2,000 to pay for roofing materials. In addition to financial gifts, the church supports charities in many other ways. A collection of toys, gifts and money was made for Diocesan Family Support Work to support needv families in the wider community over the Chrlstmas period. Hurvest Festival parcels were distributed to the needy across the village. In addition. vouchers were distributed to local families in need, and there is a 'Vicarfs Discretlonary Fund, to allow rapid response to crises. Carillon Cottage co-ordinated a collection of candle stubs from the local community which were taken to the 'Roy of Hope, charity for making into trench candles for Ukralne. The Cottage is also a centre for collection of other items which are recycled in aid of various charlties, such as ink cartridges and plastic bottle tops. 12

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIALSTATEMENTS forthe yeaw ended 31 DECEMBER 2023 St George's Ht711 This Church-owned community hall in the Sparrows Green area of the village has been a resource for the community since 1927. The property has been designated an 'Asset of Community Value, by the local council. The Hall was closed during the Covid pandemic in 2020, and due to deterioration in its condition the decision was made to extend the closure, pending a decision on the most suitable way forward. During 2023 the PCC held discussions with Wadhurst Parish Council IWPCI on the terms by which WPC could purchase the property and use it as a facility for the people of Wadhurst. These negotiations are expected to conclude in 2024. 13

Charity Number 1132389 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX ANNUAL REPORTand FINANCIAL STATEMENTSforthe year ended 31 DECEM8ER 2023 FINANCIAL REVIEW The financial statement5 are presented using the Receipts and Payments basis, in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. Total income from unrestricted general funds were £184,12112022: £163,122). Expenditure on unrestrirted artivities was £161,57112022'. £159,521). This includes the contribution to the (liocesan parish share of £61,44012022: £56,038). The year showed a surplus of £22,550 on unrestricted activities12022: surplus of £3,601). With the exception of the School Pastors & Youth Worker role, all Restrlcted funds were self-financing. RESERVES POLICY At 31 December 2023 the unrestricted free cash reserves stood at £81,32512022.' £58,775). The PCC aims to retain three months of annual general unrestricted funds expenditure in free reseNes. DECLARATION The PCC trustees declare that they have approved the PCC annual report above. SIGNED ON BEHALF OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL: Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff Chair of Wadhurst PCC Vicar of Wadhurst, Tidebrook and Stonegate 14

Charity Number 1132389

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX

ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Wadhurst (‘the Charity’) for the year ended 31 December 2023.

Responsibilities and basis of report

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

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.

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.

………………………………………..

Amy Healey FCA CTA DChA

Lindeyer Francis Ferguson Limited Chartered Accountants North House, 198 High Street Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BE

Date: 8 May 2024

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2023 2023 Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2022 Note Receipts from: Donations and legacies Church Activities Investments 161,371 19,698 3,052 11,516 172,887 19,698 3,052 6,552 1.680 24,062 5.660 4,778 3,050 241,419 157,374 13,946 2,421 16,854 1,223 18,161 6,520 4,215 17,075 237,789 Grants Families and Children's Worker Carillon Cottage income Burundi donations Cameo income School Pastors and Youth Worker Gros5 incorne 6,552 1,680 24,062 5,660 4,778 3,050 57,298 184,121 Asset and investment sales; Insurance claims- capital 19,461 Total Income 184,121 57,298 241,419 257,250 Payments on: Church Activities Asset and investment purchases (purchase of sound system) Total payments 161,571 48,780 210,351 259,076 10,236 161,571 48,780 210,351 269,312 Surplus / Ideflcitl for the year 22,550 8,518 31,068 12,062 Cash balances brought forward 58,775 31,148 89,923 101,985 Cash balances carrled forward io 81.325 39,666 120.991 89.923 16

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES ASAT 31 DECEMBER 2023 Unrestrlcted Restrlcted Funds Funds 2023 2023 Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2022 Note Bank current accounts Deposit accounts Less monies held as agent Cash funds 44,239 37,277 11911 81,325 39,666 83,905 37,277 11911 120,991 55,121 35,100 12981 89.923 39,666 Other Monetary assets 5,570 5,570 3,711 Investment assets 71,934 71,934 66.686 Assets retained for church use 347,729 20,000 367,729 367,729 Liabilities 11,3091 11,3091 12,1551 The receipts and payments account and statement of assets and liabilities were approved by the members onQ.S.M .&LWnd signed on their behalf by.. Rev'd Dr Paul at¢liff Paul Stephens- H norary Treasurer Vl¢ar and Chair of the Wadhurst pcc Member of the Commlttee 17

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 I Preparatlon of accounts The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulatlons 2006 using the Receipts and Payments basis. The accounts are presented in pound sterllng and rounded to the nearest £1. 2 Donations 2023 2022 Collections Plarkned givlng and parish giving Donations Legacles Income tax recovered 20,658 82,234 47,245 10,000 12,750 172,887 5,623 82,959 43,345 15,000 10,447 157,374 Unrestrlcted Restrlcted fund5 funds 2023 2023 Total funds 2023 Total funds 2022 3 Payments CharStable glving & vouchers (note 41 Diocesan parlsh contrSbutSon Other clergy costs Church running expenses Church maintenance & repairs Vicarage Upkeep of churchyard Upkeep of services Training and education Outreach Focu5 Magazine expenditure Salaries St. George's Hall Carillon Cottage Burundi fund charltable giving Inote 41 Cameo School Pastor and Youth Worker's expenses Governance cost5.' Independent examiner's fee 15,752 61,440 3,490 24,685 2,138 4,775 1,760 14,180 717 694 15,752 , 61,440 3.490 26,266 2,690 4.775 7,760 14,180 717 14,083 56,038 3,008 14,316 53,247 3,848 6,736 10,062 7,135 3,887 620 40,313 6,855 23,879 7,000 3,895 794 3,360 1,581 552 6,000 694 29,600 8,693 38,293 19,306 5,400 7,248 19,306 5,400 7,248 2,340 2,340 Total ments 161,571 48,780 210,351 259,076 18

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 4 Charitable Giving The followSng donations to missions and charities were made in the year 2023 2022 Locul Chorities Tunbrldge Wells Youth for Christ Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors Nourish Community Foodbank UK Chorities Diocesan Family Support Work The Children's Society Church Army Church Pastoral Aid Society Bible Society Ride & Stride Overseos Charities Burundi Church Misslon Society Cr0$51ink5 Tearfund Release International 850 850 625 850 850 625 1,200 850 1,800 1,200 700 1,064 1,200 850 1,800 1,200 700 879 1,200 1,500 800 800 14,318 844 590 15,752 1,200 1,500 800 800 12,375 988 720 School Leavers, Blbles ChrSstmas vouchers 14,083 In addStlon, donations were made from Restricted funds to Burundi of £5,4tX)12022- £7,000). 19

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 5 Monies held as agent These include fees collected on behalf of the Di0￿Se by St Peter and St Paul, Stonegate and Tidebrook churches at weddings and funerals, and special collection5. 6 Other monetary assets 2023 2022 Gift aid recoverable Other debtors 5,276 294 5,570 3,711 3,711 7 Investment$ 2023 Market value at l January 2023 Revaluation Market value at 31 December 2023 66,686 5,248 71,934 All investments are held in CBF Church of England Funds and are stated at market value. Trust funds are invested through the Diocesan Board of Finance and include the Watson-smyth Trust and Parish General Fund. They also include the Laufens/Watson-Smyth Churchyard Fund. The capital represented by these holdings is freely available to the PCC and is therefore unrestricted. Other funds (not included in accountsl Chancel Trusts.. The Diocese maintain5, 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 2023, £4,44712022.. £4,06511 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 conflrmed that the accumulaled income Is held by CBF as custodian trustee and 15 freely available to the PCC. 8 Assets retalned for church use Assets retained for church use include the freehold property at Carillon Cottage purchased in 1999 and St. George's Hall at cost. 9 Llabllltles 2023 2022 Taxation and social 5ecurlty 1,309 2,155 20

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 10 Statement of cash funds held Brought forwanl Corry forward Income Expendlture Tronsler Unrestricted cash funds Designated cash funds.. Fabric fund Unrestricted cash funds 27,366 31,409 58,775 14,0001 1157,5711 1161,5711 23,366 57,959 81,325 184,121 184,121 Restricted cash funds: Carillon Cottage Burundi fund CommunScations fund Cameo School Pastors and Youth Worker Fabric Fund Families and Children's worker Upkeep of church yard grant Energy grant Listed places of worship grant Choir Fund 17,950 1,686 255 5,713 3.963 24,062 5,660 119,3061 15,4001 22,706 1,946 255 3,243 4,778 3,050 io,(x)o 1,680 6,000 17,2481 17,0131 10,000 11,6801 16,0001 11,5811 15521 1,581 552 1,516 57,298 1,516 39,666 31,148 148,7801 89,923 241,419 210 351 120,991 Designated Funds: Fobricfund.. This fund is for the QL¢inquennlal, five-year cyclical maintenance of the church premises. Restricted fund5: Corillon Cottoge.. The Carillon Cottage fund represents the income and expenditure account for the activities run from Carillon Cottage. Thls property was purchased by the church in 1999 and in addition to the church administration office and meeting rooms, provides the base for a range of support servlces for the local community. Income is derived from fund-raising activitie5 and donations made by users of the services. Burundi fund.. The Burundi fund includes donations received for the speclflc purpose of furtherlng the alms of the Wadhurst-Burundi link. Communicotionsfund.- The communications fund include5 donations towards Improvements to church communications and marketing. 21

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WAOHURST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 10 Statement of cash funds held Icontlnuedl C(7meo.' The PCC took over the responsibility for this fund from the Wadhurst Methodist Church Council In Mav 2015, following the closure of Wadhurst Methodlst Church. The Cameo fund provldes the finances for weekly lunches and other Social actlvities for senior citizens at the Commemoration Hall, Hlgh Street, Wadhurst. School Pastors and Youth Worker.. This fund was set up to provide for the appointment of a School Pastor and Youth Worker, who leads team of volunteer school pastors who visits the local Community College. The p051tion was part funded by a Diocesan Mission @rant received in the previous two years. Thi5 grant has now been fully expensed. Fubric Fund These relate to specific donations and legacies towards the repair and malntenance of the church. These are fully covered by expenditure in the year. Families ond Children's Worker A number of donations were received to fund the role of the Families and Children's Worker. Thls income ha5 been fully expensed on salarie5 for the year. Upkeep of church yard grant A grant was received from Wadhurst Parish Council in the year towards the upkeep of the churchyard. This was fully expensed. Energy grunt During the previous year a grant was provided to assist with heat and light costs within the church. This was fully spent in the year. Listed Ploce of Worship gront A grant was received in the year towards the VAT paid on repairs to the Church whlch was fully spent in the year. Choir Fund Durin8 the year p8yments to choir members who sang for weddings and funerals were collected and donated to the PCC to be used for much needed storage for the choir music archive. 22