Charity number: 1132389
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED
31 DECEMBER
2024
CONTENTS
| CHURCH ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION | 1 |
|---|---|
| STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT | 2 |
| PCC MEMBERSHIP | 2 |
| OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES | 5 |
| ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE IN 2024 | 6 |
| BENEFIT TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY | 10 |
| FINANCIAL REVIEW | 15 |
| SIGNATURE | 15 |
| INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT | 16 |
| STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | 17 |
| BALANCE SHEET | 18 |
| NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS | 19 |
Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
The Church of St Peter and St Paul: Church Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6AA
The parish is part of the United Benefice 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: Church Office Carillon Cottage High Street Wadhurst TN5 6AA East Sussex
Charitable status: Wadhurst PCC is an unincorporated charity registered with the Charity Commission (charity number 1132389) and is governed by the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure (1956) as amended and Church Representation Rules, as amended in 2020.
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) presents its report, together with the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.
The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 income and expenditure (accruals) basis for 2024, with a restatement of the 2023 accounts on the same basis.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
The Parochial Church Council (PCC)
Members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) are the trustees of the Charity. The PCC consists of the Vicar, the ex officio members, plus those elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM), 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.
The PCC is 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. The PCC will perform a review of its operation against the Charity Governance Code.
PCC Members
During the year January to December 2024 the following served as members of the Wadhurst PCC:
Ex-officio members
| Ex-officio members | |
|---|---|
| Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff | Incumbent and Chair |
| Ruth Dunnett | Churchwarden |
| Vanessa Sharman | Churchwarden(until July2024) |
| Chris Bithell | DeanerySynod Rep |
| Heather Ratcliff | DeanerySynod Rep |
| Penny Dobson | Deanery Synod Rep Lead Recruiter |
| Anne Brignell | Deputy Warden Chair of Carillon Cottage |
Elected members
| Elected members | |
|---|---|
| AnthonyDunnett | Fabric Chair |
| MaryBurstow | Member |
| Paul Burstow | Member |
| Theo Farringdon | Member(elected May2024) |
| John Fuller | Member(elected May2024) |
| Paul Stephens | HonoraryTreasurer |
| Vanessa Sharman | Member(elected bythe PCC July2024) |
| Lynda Wight | PCC Secretary |
A vacancy remained for the second Churchwarden from July 2024 for the remainder of the year.
Revd Andrew Goy, Associate Vicar, is also entitled to attend Wadhurst PCC meetings.
Patrons of the benefice may attend PCC meetings as observers.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
Executive Committee
The PCC’s Standing Committee, known as the Executive Committee, comprises the Vicar, the Churchwarden(s), the Honorary Treasurer, the PCC Secretary and in 2024, two other representatives of the PCC (Chris Bithell and Anthony Dunnett). This committee sets the agenda for PCC meetings and is permitted to transact business on behalf of the PCC between its meetings, subject to directions given by the PCC.
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee, which includes the PCC Chair, the Honorary Treasurer, Church Warden(s) and at least two other members, reviews the forecasts, ongoing financial data and upcoming annual budget. In 2024, Peter Thompson and Paul Burstow served as the ‘other members’ on this committee. The PCC Secretary is in attendance.
Patrons
The Patronage Board of the benefice consists of the following members:
Michael Hardcastle (chair of the Patronage Board) Caroline Reid John Bateup
PCC Meetings
In the year January to December 2024 six PCC meetings were held (January, February, March, July, September, November) with an average attendance of 87%. A brief PCC meeting was also held after the Annual Parochial Church Meeting in May to confirm appointments.
In 2024 PCC members considered supporting information and voted on special resolutions by email on three occasions.
In 2024 an additional Working Group was established to oversee the significant work which will be required to investigate, evaluate, budget and implement a church re-ordering project, (including the installation of air source heat pumps for heating and solar panel technology for energy generation) to be undertaken in 2025. Initial work on this project in 2024 involved sub-groups of PCC members evaluating the potential options and making recommendations to the Working Group based on the needs of the church family, the wider community and heritage factors. As the project progresses, the Working Group will make regular reports to the PCC and its key decision points will be assessed and agreed by the PCC.
The PCC delegates responsibility for the running of certain aspects of Parish life to committees, which report to the PCC and provide written summaries of their activities to each PCC meeting for oversight. These groups include the Fabric Committee and Carillon Cottage. The PCC also receives a report from the Pastoral Assistant for Children and Youth at each meeting.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
Items of business covered at every PCC meeting include financial reports, fabric reports and governance reports (Deanery Synod reports, safeguarding, health and safety, and serious incidents).
Each PCC meeting also has a focus topic : January, Youth and Children; March, year-end financials and annual report; May, APCM and appointments; July, review and update of policies; September, Mission Action Plan objectives for the coming year; November, budget for the forthcoming year.
EMPLOYEES
Jemma Johnson has been employed as the Church Administrator since April 2023.
The PCC employs Kat Fisher as the Pastoral Assistant for Children and Youth. In early 2024 the previous full-time contract for this post expired and at Easter 2024 the School Pastors scheme ended. Thus, a new part-time contract was agreed.
ELECTORAL ROLL
The church Electoral Roll, as reported at the annual meeting in May 2024, stood at 180 members.
Seven new names were added; however, 14 members had moved away or sadly died since the previous electoral roll.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Objectives
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.
Vision: Worshipping God in every part of life
Mission Statement: Using the gifts God gives us, we: bring others to Christ deepen our faith in Him develop the life of the church family serve each other and the wider community and so express our worship to God in every part of life
In furtherance of this mission, during 2024, the PCC:
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maintained the fabric of the parish church
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was the beneficial owner of, and responsible for the activities conducted from, Carillon Cottage, the church community resource centre in Wadhurst High Street
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had oversight of the publication of Focus – the parish and community magazine
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was the employer of the Parish Administrator
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was the employer of a Pastoral Assistant for Families and Youth and has oversight of the ministry undertaken by the person in that role
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was the beneficial owner and managing trustee of St George’s Hall in Sparrows Green
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’.
Responsibilities
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. Since October 2023 Dominic Bolas has served as Safeguarding Officer for St Peter and St Paul, reporting to the PCC.
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 management of people, premises and finances. These are reviewed on an annual basis and made publicly available on the church website.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE IN 2024
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.
The MAP defines the mission priorities for the church, is addressed at each PCC meeting, and is updated annually by the PCC.
Study and Homegroups
The church has a network of homegroups which meet weekly, through which collective prayer and study are promoted in a mutually supportive environment.
Two groups specifically for men meet monthly and there have been separate ad hoc discussion groups under the banner ‘Men Behaving Acceptably’.
Regular Worship
The church offers different styles of service to enable as many people as possible from the local community to experience accessible worship that is spiritually fulfilling for them in their parish church.
During 2024, these services have included a traditional Prayer Book Communion at 8am each Sunday, an All-Age service on the first Sunday of the month and two Parish Holy Communion services each month. There has also been a monthly mid-week communion service. Evensong services were presented for significant occasions such as the Patronal Festival and Harvest.
The Wadhurst congregation joined together with those in Tidebrook and Stonegate from time to time for ‘3 as 1’ services.
During the year attendances have decreased in some areas and increased in others. Adult attendance at services was down 2% and children by 7%, (a major factor being the closure of local Brownie pack which used to attend on a regular basis). Whilst attendance at Easter was slightly down on last year, attendance on Christmas Day 2024 was almost double the previous year.
Special Services
During the year 13 baptisms, and 11 weddings or marriage blessings were celebrated. There were ten funerals and memorial services and eight burials of ashes.
Special services were offered at major festivals (Christmas, Easter) and for national events (such as Remembrance) and these attracted attendance from across the village. On Christmas Eve members of the community were invited to dress up and take part in the annual Nativity Service.
The church also joined with the local Roman Catholic Church for Churches Together in Wadhurst activities, including the Service of Christian Unity, the Good Friday Walk of Witness and an Advent Carol Service.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
The local primary school held services in the church for Easter, for its School Leavers in July, at Harvest and at Christmas.
Prayer
Confidential prayer ministry continued to be offered after all the morning (10.30 am) services.
Benefice-wide Saturday morning prayer meetings were held in Carillon Cottage or at Tidebrook Church throughout the year.
Prayer to support those in our Children’s and Youth Ministry restarted fortnightly in 2024 over ‘Zoom’.
Children and 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).
Provision for children across the community has been supplied through the weekday after-school ’J Club’ . Younger children and their carers were supported at ‘Jellybeans’ babies and toddlers’ group.
The church hosts ‘Dads on Saturdays’ monthly – an opportunity for male carers and their children to meet up in an informal way.
The Vicar makes regular visits to the local Church of England Primary school. The Vicar and his wife lead weekly assemblies. The Children and Families worker delivered ‘Moving Up’ talks to year 6 children and provided printed resources to assist with their transition to senior school. The church supplied Bibles to all Year 6 school-leavers.
In 2024, some young people in the church in years 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 had a team of School Pastors who continued regular attendance at Uplands Academy until Easter 2024. A change in leadership at the school occasioned a re-evaluation of their future priorities so that approval could not be obtained for the continuation of this service for the immediate future.
Fellowship
A refreshments team ensured that refreshments were available after all 10.30am services and at special services. A Fellowship group is responsible for organising social events throughout the year.
The church has an active team which is responsible for the arrangement of flowers in church through the year and providing decorations for festivals and special services.
Pastoral Care
The Vicar continued to maintain contact with all parishioners through weekly emails and regular telephone calls and visits.
The volunteer activity co-ordinated by Carillon Cottage supports the church family and the local community with shopping, drives to hospital visits and a range of other services.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
A Pastoral Group oversees pastoral care given across the community. Volunteers visit those in need and the housebound, including those in the local care home, to deliver Holy Communion.
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.
Fabric and churchyard
The churchyard continued to be well-maintained, with a programme of grass cutting and hedge trimming alongside steps to conserve wildflowers and local wildlife.
Maintenance of the church fabric continued in line with the recommendations of the Quinquennial report.
During the year significant repairs were required to the roof.
As the existing heating system continued to be unreliable, the PCC undertook an investigation into alternate heating systems, with a focus on achieving ‘net-zero’ compliance in line with CofE objectives and reduced running costs.
The preferred option will necessitate the removal of the Victorian pews and lifting of the floor. Therefore, the PCC took this opportunity to contemplate a complete re-ordering of the church interior to increase flexibility of its use for the wider community whilst retaining important historical and traditional aspects of the building and the retention of internal fittings which have significance to local families.
A survey was conducted across the wider community in December 2024 which demonstrated strong support for the proposed changes.
St Peter and St Paul was selected by the Church of England to be one of two parishes in the Diocese to be a ‘Demonstrator Church’ for the installation of air source heat pump technology. Consequently, this project will benefit from grants towards the expert evaluation of the options available and consultancy on their implementation and will also be subject to additional external oversight.
Environmental Issues
The churchyard has been maintained with a focus on environmental concerns.
The reordering of the church will take place with environmental issues at the forefront of each decision taken. In the meantime, small steps have been taken with the installation of motion-sensor lighting in the lavatories and the choices for the purchases of consumables having due regard for environmental considerations.
All energy purchased is from renewable sources.
The church continues to hold an ‘ECO Church Silver Award’ awarded by A’Rocha, in recognition of its efforts on environmental matters.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
Communications
There has been active and regular use of the church Facebook page to publicise services and events, and regular posts on the village social media sites have been made. These posts have attracted a lot of attention from the local community, playing a significant role in attracting people to special services, such as the ‘Remembering Loved Ones’ service.
The PCC continued to maintain a dynamic presence on A Church Near You website during this year.
The IT infrastructure of the church and Carillon Cottage has been improved during 2024 to enable more secure working, assured back-up and to future-proof the IT provision.
Finances
The PCC has continued to have prudent management of the church’s finances and has actively sought donations 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 in services and direct emails from the Vicar.
A successful stewardship campaign was held in the autumn.
The church has been able to meet its commitments and continue with charitable giving locally, nationally and internationally, and offer support to members of the local community.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
BENEFIT TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY
Wadhurst church aspires to be at the heart of the local community and to manifest loving service to that community in numerous ways.
Churchyard
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 sit away from the bustle of the High Street.
In 2024 the PCC approved plans for Churchyard path restoration and the establishment of a Quiet Area, with new benches and trees. This will be implemented as relevant permissions and funding allow.
During 2024 the PCC has approved works to encourage areas of re-wilding in the churchyard allowing wildflowers to thrive in the area east and west of the north path. Surveys of moths, invertebrates and mammals (including bats) have been performed with the involvement of local wildlife groups, children’s groups and other interested parties. Records of the wild plant life, some invertebrates, and the presence of badgers and deer as transient visitors have been established.
Church building
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.
The ‘Food Shelves’ in the church, freely accessible during daylight hours to those in need in the local community, continued to have regular use in 2024. The church and Carillon Cottage are also locations for Nourish Foodbank collections.
The church is available for local arts initiatives, and for rehearsals and concerts by local choirs, (including ‘Polyphony’), the Wadhurst Brass Band and others. In October 2024 members of the community enjoyed a ‘Concert for Carillon’ which brought together three local choirs, local solo performers and the Brass Band, for an evening of music-making in aid of Carillon Cottage.
The church building has also been used by local groups such as ‘Brownies’ for their regular meetings. In 2024, the church again took part in the annual ‘Ride and Stride’ event in Sussex. Members of the Youth Group and residents of Crittles Court and Wadhurst Manor Care Home contributed to the event and a rota of members of the congregation welcomed visitors to the church.
The church and village benefit from an active team of bellringers who practise weekly in church. They ring for several Sunday services each month and for special occasions.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
In 2024 the church increased its involvement with the Wadhurst community ‘Late Night Shopping’ event in early December, by holding a Christmas Tree Festival in the church. Businesses, schools and community associations took part by decorating trees and over 500 people came to the church building to admire them and enjoy the refreshments on offer over the weekend.
We absolutely loved the Christmas Tree Festival, the children loved making the decorations, the drama students loved recording the story, we enjoyed putting it all together and our families really loved visiting it . Local children’s group leader
It was absolutely fabulous, the organisation, volunteering and community spirit was just so heartwarming. Thank you . Local Business
A ‘prayer tree’ proved very popular with over 100 people adding their prayers for world events, as well as for their personal needs, to the tree.
Carillon Cottage
For over 20 years the Wadhurst PCC has had responsibility for the activities run from this location on Wadhurst High Street.
The services supplied are wide-ranging and develop according to local needs. They are delivered by a team of around 100 volunteers.
The volunteers in the Cottage coordinate a driving service for healthcare appointments across Kent and Sussex and offer a monthly hearing aid clinic. The Cottage has a directory of useful local services and tourist information and sells tickets for local events run by community groups such as Wadhurst Warriors and local choirs. The jigsaw library is especially popular and the recycling collections in aid of local and national charities are very well supported.
The Cottage makes rooms available for committee meetings of local charities including The Rose Trust and Mullins Memorial Fund and supports fundraising for the latter by distributing and collecting donations for their annual quiz.
In 2024 the Cottage was used by district and county councillors for ‘surgeries’ at which local people could raise concerns or seek assistance. In addition, a regular ‘Scams Clinic’ is held for those who have worries about computer fraud.
A Welcome Space is held weekly at the Cottage for anyone to attend to enjoy good company and light refreshments. In 2024 this developed from a small group meeting during the winter months to a yearround activity attracting around 10 attendees a week. This is run by a separate team of volunteers.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
The annual Open Gardens weekend took place in 2024, with gardens across the parish open to all, and teas served in the church building. People from the local community, but also from across the country, and as far away as Spain attended to enjoy gardens in Wadhurst and the surrounding area, and a calendar was produced from photographs taken at the event.
Meeting rooms and the garden at the Cottage are available for local groups (book clubs, U3A groups, children’s drama clubs etc) to hire for their own activities and meetings.
During the year free training courses were held for all volunteers to attend on First Aid , Moving and Handling , and Communicating with People with Dementia.
Children and Families
Jellybeans, a babies and toddlers’ group, regularly attracts up to 60 babies and carers every week. They value the provision of a safe space, with a listening, caring ear and games, stories and activities for the youngest. It is supported by a team of volunteers across the age range.
“ This is my favourite group. It’s so chill. I look forward to it every week, … I deliberately don’t work on a Thursday so I can come to it. ” Jellybeans mum
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 activities 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 ‘the heavens’ as its theme and attracted 35 children and young people plus their parent or carer from a total of 21 families, many with little or no connection to other church activities, but who appreciated an alternative to ‘trick or treat’.
Young people
During the year excursions to events for young people have been arranged and have been open to any young person in our community.
The team of School Pastors was in place for several years, up to Easter 2024. The PCC is currently considering options for how this team of ‘listening ears’ may most usefully support the young people in the local community in 2025.
Schools
The PCC actively supports the church-affiliated local primary school. Wadhurst CE Primary School governing body has three foundation governors from the church. The Vicar runs Religious Education coaching sessions for the staff, covering the subjects in the RE syllabus.
Some members of the church congregation support children with their reading.
Members of the Carillon Cottage volunteer team supported Uplands Academy Open Day for potential new students and their parents by serving tea and home-made cakes. It was commented by more than one parent that it was good to see the links the school had with the local community.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 30 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 people, although anyone in the community is invited to attend.
A ‘Senior Lunch’ is held twice a year for around 50-60 attendees.
Pastoral care
The Pastoral Care team 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 conversation, or if requested, prayer.
Community engagement
Carillon Cottage participated in the Wadhurst traders’ Christmas Late Night Opening event, distributing information, welcoming visitors and participating in the children’s trail and colouring competitions.
In 2024 the church hosted a ‘Clothes Swap’ event drawing in a wide cross-section of the community to purchase high quality goods for adults and children at very reasonable prices.
Due to a long-standing relationship between Wadhurst church and Burundi, three members of the church joined the visit to Mwumba in 2024, at the culmination of the ‘Food for the Hungry’ development project that the church has supported. They identified a further need for specific support for sanitation works and for the Buye Lycée school. A sale was held in the church in October 2024, raising funds from the wider community. These enabled desperately needed repairs to the roof and windows of the school’s dormitories to be done, and the purchase of a computer for the use of the students.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
Community magazine
Focus, the Wadhurst parish magazine, is distributed every month throughout the village by a team of volunteers and made available at Carillon Cottage. It offers a directory of services and support, an events diary and a means for local authorities (such as the Parish Council), the local MP, local clubs and societies, the two Wadhurst schools and Stonegate Primary School, to communicate with the wider community.
Charitable support
The church and PCC seek to contribute in financial terms to the Mission of God locally, nationally and globally. In 2023, the PCC gave a total of £22,445 to a range of local, national and international charities.
Special collections were made at many services to support other charities, including The Royal British Legion on Remembrance Sunday, The Children’s Society at Christingle and Crisis at the Carol Service.
A collection of toys, gifts and money was made for Diocesan Family Support Work to support families across the Diocese over the Christmas period.
Harvest Festival parcels were distributed to the elderly and those in need across the village. In addition, vouchers were distributed at Christmas to local families, and there is a Vicar’s Discretionary Fund to allow rapid response to immediate crises.
St George’s Hall
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 and 2024 the PCC held discussions with Wadhurst Parish Council (WPC) on the terms by which WPC could purchase the property and use it as a facility for the people of Wadhurst. These negotiations were concluded in early 2025.
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
ANNUAL REPORT and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2024
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Total income from unrestricted general funds were £181,969 (2023: £186,398).
Expenditure on unrestricted activities was £203,090 (2023: £167,925). This includes the contribution to the diocesan parish share of £63,370 (2023: £61,440).
The year showed a deficit (excluding gains on investments) of £21,121 on unrestricted activities (2023: surplus of £18,473).
With the exception of the School Pastors & Youth Worker role, all restricted funds were self-financing.
RESERVES POLICY
At 31 December 2024 the unrestricted free reserves stood at £137,252 (2023: £155,031).
The PCC aims to retain three months of annual general unrestricted funds expenditure in free reserves.
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
Date: 8 May 2025
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Charity Number 1132389
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE PCC OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL, WADHURST
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 2024.
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
Since the charitable company’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies.
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:
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accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
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the accounts do not accord with those records; or
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The accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; and
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the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
I confirm that there are no other matters to which your attention should be drawn to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
James Mathieson FCA Lindeyer Francis Ferguson Limited Chartered Accountants North House, 198 High Street Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BE Date: 12 May 2025
16
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
| 2024 Notes £ Income from: Donations and legacies 3 147,702 Charitable activities 4 30,163 Investments 4,104 Total Income 181,969 Expenditure on: Charitable activities 5 203,090 Total expenditure 203,090 Net gains on investments 2,046 Transfers between funds 756 Net movement in funds ( 18,319) Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought forward 464,632 Total funds carried forward 446,313 Unrestricted funds |
Restricted funds 2024 £ 74,036 34,408 - 108,444 95,630 95,630 - ( 756) 12,058 39,666 51,724 |
Total funds 2024 £ 221,738 64,571 4,104 290,413 298,720 298,720 2,046 - ( 6,261) 504,298 498,037 |
Total funds 2023 £ 186,584 54,060 3,052 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 243,696 | |||
| 216,705 | |||
| 216,705 | |||
| 5,248 - 32,239 472,059 |
|||
| 504,298 |
17
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
| Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 8 Investments 9 Current assets Debtors 9 Cash at bank and in hand Liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 10 Net current assets Total net assets The funds of the charity Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total charity funds 12 |
2024 £ 28,263 108,133 136,396 ( 21,401) |
2024 £ 309,061 73,981 383,042 114,995 498,037 446,313 51,724 498,037 |
2023 £ 5,570 121,306 126,876 ( 4,114) |
2023 £ 309,601 71,935 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 381,536 122,762 |
||||
| 504,298 | ||||
| 464,632 39,666 |
||||
| 504,298 |
These financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Parochial Church Council on 8 May 2025 and signed on its behalf by:
Revd Dr Paul Ratcliff Chair
Paul Stephens Honorary Treasurer
18
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
1 Status
Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Wadhurst is an unincorporated charity registered with the Charity Commission in England and Wales. Its registered address is Church Office, Carillon Cottage, High Street, Wadhurst.
2 Accounting policies
The principle accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:
2.1 Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of investments, and 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), the Charities Act 2011 and The Church Accounting Regulations 2006.
Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Wadhurst meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s). The financial statements are presented in pounds sterling and rounded to the nearest pound.
There are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue, and so the going concern basis of accounting has been adopted.
2.2 Income
All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. For donations, including related Gift Aid recoverable, this is usually on receipt. Investment income is recognised when it is receivable.
Grants are recognised when communicated to the charity in writing, and are only deferred where there are terms and conditions outside the charity's control which must be met before the charity is entitled to the income, or the funder has specified that the grant is to be used in a future accounting period.
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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
2.2 Income continued
Income from legacies is recognised when the charity is entitled to the income, receipt is probable and the amount can be measured reliably. It is normally considered probable when there has been a grant of probate, the executors have established that there are sufficient assets in the estate to pay the legacy, and any conditions attached are within the control of the charity or have already been met.
Income from church activities and other trading activities is recognised when the related service has been performed or the event has taken place.
2.3 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised when a present legal or constructive obligation exists at the balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and the amount can be measured or estimated reliably. It is inclusive of any VAT which cannot be recovered.
Grants payable are recognised when communicated to the recipient without further conditions, or where conditions are outside the control of the charity.
2.4 Tangible fixed assets
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 systems and furnishings - 25% on the reducing balance
The St. George's Hall freehold property is not depreciated as the PCC considers that the net realisable value exceeds its cost.
20
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
2.5 Investments
Investments are stated at market value. Gains and losses on revaluation are included in the Statement of Financial Activities.
2.6 Other financial instruments
Other than investments, the PCC only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as short term basic financial instruments. These financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.
2.7 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.
3 Income from donations and legacies
| Planned giving and parish giving Collections Donations Gift Aid recovered Grants |
2024 £ 91,229 7,559 63,985 9,808 49,157 221,738 |
2023 £ 82,234 20,658 62,825 14,315 6,552 |
|---|---|---|
| 186,584 |
In the prior year restricted income from donations and legacies was £28,458.
4 Income from church activities
| Fees for weddings, funerals etc. Diocesan fees Organist, choir and bells Carillon Cottage income Cameo income Other |
2024 £ 7,336 5,745 4,090 29,236 5,172 12,992 64,571 |
2023 £ 8,259 5,086 2,045 24,062 4,778 9,830 |
|---|---|---|
| 54,060 |
Restricted income from church activities relates to Carillon Cottage and Cameo and amounted to £34,408 (2023: £28,840).
21
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
| 5 Expenditure on charitable activities Direct costs: Staff costs Grants and donations (see note5) Diocesan parish contribution Other clergy costs Church running expenses Church maintenance & repairs Repairs to roof and north transept Vicarage Upkeep of churchyard Upkeep of services Training and education Outreach Carillon Cottage Cameo Stonegate vicarage garden Depreciation Support costs: Staff costs Governance costs: Independent examination |
2024 £ 25,997 23,396 63,370 10,927 27,849 25,847 39,422 - 5,834 21,345 1,038 4,506 21,969 5,330 2,424 4,906 10,546 4,014 298,720 |
2023 £ 27,208 21,152 61,440 3,490 27,095 2,690 - 4,776 7,760 14,054 717 694 19,306 7,248 - 4,294 9,981 4,800 |
|---|---|---|
| 216,705 |
In the prior year expenditure of £48,780 was applied to restricted funds.
22
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
6 Charitable giving
| Charitable giving | ||
|---|---|---|
| The following donations to missions and charities were made in the year: Local Charities Tunbridge Wells Youth for Christ Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors Nourish Community Foodbank UK Charities Diocesan Family Support Work The Children's Society Church Army Church Pastoral Aid Society Bible Society Ride & Stride Overseas Charities Burundi Church Mission Society Crosslinks Tearfund Release International School Leavers' Bibles Christmas vouchers |
2024 £ 850 850 625 1,200 850 1,800 1,200 700 1,045 8,565 1,200 1,500 800 800 711 700 23,396 |
2023 £ 850 850 625 1,200 850 1,800 1,200 700 1,064 6,279 1,200 1,500 800 800 844 590 |
| 21,152 |
23
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
| 7 Staff costs Staff costs comprise: Gross wages and salaries Employer's pension contributions |
2024 £ 35,180 1,363 36,543 |
2023 £ 35,945 1,244 |
|---|---|---|
| 37,189 |
The average number of employees during the year was 2 (2023: 5).
No employees earned more than £60,000.
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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
8 Tangible fixed assets
| Cost At 1 January 2024 Additions At 31 December 2024 Depreciation At 1 January 2024 Charge for the year At 31 December 2024 Net book value At 31 December 2024 At 31 December 2023 |
Freehold property £ 357,493 - 357,493 53,650 2,375 56,025 301,468 303,843 |
Fixtures, fittings, equipment £ 10,236 4,366 14,602 4,478 2,531 7,009 7,593 5,758 |
Total £ 367,729 4,366 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 372,095 | |||
| 58,128 4,906 |
|||
| 63,034 | |||
| 309,061 | |||
| 309,601 |
The fixed assets of the PCC include two freehold properties - St. George’s Hall and Carillon Cottage.
Carillon Cottage was purchased in 1999 and 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.
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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
9 Investments
| Market value at 1 January 2024 Change in market value Market value at 31 December 2024 |
2024 £ 71,935 2,046 73,981 |
2023 £ 66,687 5,248 |
|---|---|---|
| 71,935 |
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 and 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 is therefore 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 with a value at 31 December 2024 of £4,549 (2023: £4,447) 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 CBF as custodian trustee and is freely available to the PCC.
| 10 Debtors Gift Aid Recoverable Accrued Income Other Debtors 11 Creditors Taxation Accruals Other Creditors |
2024 £ 6,871 19,926 1,466 28,263 2024 £ 667 19,631 1,103 21,401 |
2023 £ 5,276 - 294 |
|---|---|---|
| 5,570 | ||
| 2023 £ 1,309 2,460 345 |
||
| 4,114 |
26
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
12 Statement of movement in funds
| Current year: Unrestricted funds: Designated funds Capital fund Fabric fund General funds Restricted funds: Carillon cottage Burundi fund Communications fund Cameo Fabric Fund Choir Fund Upkeep of church yard North Transept Net Zero Carbon Fund Churchyard Project Total funds |
Brought forward £ 309,601 23,366 131,665 464,632 22,706 1,946 255 3,243 10,000 1,516 - - - - 39,666 504,298 |
£ - - 184,015 184,015 29,236 12,502 - 5,172 - - 3,500 43,114 14,400 520 108,444 292,459 Income and gains on investments |
Expend- iture £ ( 4,906) ( 4,000) ( 194,184) ( 203,090) ( 21,969) ( 8,565) - ( 5,330) - - ( 3,500) ( 39,422) ( 16,844) - ( 95,630) ( 298,720) |
Transfers £ 4,366 - ( 3,610) 756 ( 3,200) - - - - - - - 2,444 - ( 756) - |
Carried forward £ 309,061 19,366 117,886 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 446,313 26,773 5,883 255 3,085 10,000 1,516 - 3,692 - 520 |
|||||
| 51,724 | |||||
| 498,037 |
Designated funds
The fabric fund is for the quinquennial cyclical maintenance of the church premises.
The capital fund represents the net book value of the tangible fixed assets.
27
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
12 Statement of movement in funds (continued)
Restricted funds
Carillon Cottage
The Carillon Cottage fund represents the income and expenditure account for the activities run from Carillon Cottage. This 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 services for the local community. Income is derived from fund-raising activities and donations made by users of the services.
Burundi fund
The Burundi fund includes donations received for the specific purpose of furthering the aims of the Wadhurst-Burundi link.
Communications fund
The communications fund includes donations towards improvements to church communications and marketing.
Cameo
The Cameo fund provides the finances for weekly lunches and other social activities for senior citizens at the Commemoration Hall, High Street, Wadhurst.
Fabric Fund
These relate to specific donations and legacies towards the repair and maintenance of the church.
Choir Fund
During previous years payments 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.
Upkeep of church yard
A grant was received from Wadhurst Parish Council in the year towards the upkeep of the churchyard. This was fully expensed.
North Transept
The North Transept Fund is to fund two roof repairs. This includes retiling the North Transept and replacing the flat roof over the North Aisle. Grants have been received from several donors.
Net Zero Carbon Fund
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Wadhurst is part of the Church Demonstrators Project. Funds have been received to support the repairs needed to achieve Net Zero. This includes Air Source Heat Pumps for underfloor heating, solar roof panels, secondary glazing and draft proofing doors and windows.
28
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
12 Statement of movement in funds continued
| Prior year: Unrestricted funds Designated funds Capital Fund Fabric Fund General funds Restricted funds: Carillon Cottage Burundi fund Communications fund Cameo School Pastors and Youth Worker Fabric Fund Families and Children's worker Upkeep of church yard Energy grant Listed places of worship Choir Fund Total funds |
Brought forward £ 313,895 27,366 99,650 440,911 17,950 1,686 255 5,713 3,963 - - - 1,581 - - 31,148 472,059 |
£ - - 191,646 191,646 24,062 5,660 - 4,778 3,050 10,000 1,680 6,000 - 552 1,516 57,298 248,944 Income and gains on investments |
Expend- iture £ ( 4,294) ( 4,000) ( 159,631) ( 167,925) ( 19,306) ( 5,400) - ( 7,248) ( 7,013) - ( 1,680) ( 6,000) ( 1,581) ( 552) - ( 48,780) ( 216,705) |
Transfers £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Carried forward £ 309,601 23,366 131,665 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 464,632 22,706 1,946 255 3,243 - 10,000 - - - - 1,516 |
|||||
| 39,666 | |||||
| 504,298 |
29
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
13 Analysis of net assets between funds
| £ Current year: Tangible assets 309,061 Investments 73,981 Current assets 84,672 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year ( 21,401) 446,313 £ Prior year: Tangible assets 309,601 Investments 71,935 Current assets 87,210 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year ( 4,114) 464,632 Unrestricted funds Unrestricted funds |
Restricted funds £ - - 51,724 - 51,724 Restricted funds £ - - 39,666 - 39,666 |
Total funds £ 309,061 73,981 136,396 ( 21,401) |
|---|---|---|
| 498,037 | ||
| Total funds £ 309,601 71,935 126,876 ( 4,114) |
||
| 504,298 |
14 Funds held as agent
These include special collections received on behalf of other charities totalling £4,870 (2023: £3,434). At the year end the full amount had not been paid over with £407 included in other creditors (2023: £345 included in other creditors).
It also includes receipts received by Carillion Cottage who have acted as a booking office on behalf of other organisations. Receipts totalled £6,209 (2023: £3,263) of which £6,012 were paid over at the year end (2023: £3,290). The final balance of £197 is included in other creditors (2023: £27 other debtors).
15 Related party transactions
Key management personnel are considered to be the PCC members. No PCC members received remuneration or were reimbursed expenses in their capacity as PCC members during the year.
During the year donations amounting to £22,131 were received from 12 trustees (2023: £23,845 from 9 trustees).
There are no other related party transactions to disclose (2023: None).
30
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF WADHURST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
16 Church Workers Pension Fund (CWPF)
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Wadhurst participates in the Pension Builder Scheme section of Church Workers Pension Fund (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. It has a section known as Pension Builder 2014 which is described below.
The Pension Builder Scheme of the Church Workers Pension Fund includes the Pension Builder 2014, which is classed as a defined benefit scheme. There is no sub-division of assets between employers in each section of the 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 therefore the 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.
A valuation of the Pension Builder Scheme is carried out once every three years. The most recent was carried out as at 31 December 2022.
For the Pension Builder 2014 scheme, the valuation revealed a surplus of £2m on the ongoing assumptions used.
The legal structure of the scheme is such that if another employer fails, the Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish of Wadhurst could become responsible for paying a share of that employer’s pension liabilities.
17 Post Balance Sheet Events
On the 22nd January 2025 the sale of St Georges Hall was completed and proceeds were received of £135,000, the majority of which will be used for repairs, restoration and net carbon zero/demonstrator church projects.
31