Annual Report
of the
Joint Council
of
Lincoln, St Peter in Eastgate & Lincoln, St Peter in Carlton
For the year ended 31 December 2025
2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Reference Information
The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Peter in Eastgate with St Margaret in the Close is a charity registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Charity registration number: 1132605. The parish is part of the Diocese of Lincoln.
Since 1 November 2021 a scheme has been in eNect, formally connecting the parishes of St Peter in Eastgate with St Margaret in the Close and St Peter in Carlton by the establishment of a Joint Council (JC) under the powers conferred by Rules M37-42 of the Church Representation Rules.
The oNicial correspondence address is St Peter’s Church, Eastgate, Lincoln, LN2 4AA. admin@stpeterineastgate.org.uk, 01522 546 226
JC Membership
For the period 1 January 2025 until the date of approval of this report, the following people served as members of the JC:
Ex-o%icio members Vicar & Chair Rev. Robbie Strachan Readers Chris Higham Pauline Wiggett Churchwardens Mike Bull (Eastgate) Kevin Mann (Eastgate, until April 2025) Jim Woods (Eastgate, from April 2025) GeoN Stratford (Carlton) Elected members Elected Diocesan Synod Representatives Peter Glenn (until August 2025) Sarah Freegard-Foster (from April 2025) Elected Deanery Synod Representatives Pauline Wiggett GeoN Stratford Jason Hippisley Sarah Freegard-Foster (from April 2025) Parish Representatives (Eastgate) Jayne Besley John Dagnan Denise Eardley Peter Glenn (until August 2025) Jason Hippisley Alison Quarton (from April 2025) Paul Tesha Cate Waby Sarah Ward (from April 2025) Graham Wiggett (JC Treasurer) Roy Woodford Parish Representatives (Carlton) [Vacant]
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Co-opted members Peter Harrison (from 13 May 2025) JC Secretary Lesley Mann (until April 2025) Sarah Freegard-Foster (from April 2025)
Other Church O1icers
The following served in other capacities and oNices in the church:
Parish Safeguarding ONicer Chris Wilson Giving Secretary Hugo Cobham Electoral Roll ONicers Roy Woodford (Eastgate) GeoN Stratford (Carlton) Health & Safety ONicer Kevin Mann (until April 2025) Permission to ONiciate Rev. Peter Faulkner Rev. Pam Rose Authorised Lay Ministers Jayne Besley Lorna Cushnie Sarah Rose GeoN Stratford Sandie Stratford Volunteer Parish Administrator Marianne McCall (until August 2025) Verger Denise Eardley Peter Harrison (from September 2025) Cleaner Kerry Kearton
The following were employed by the JC:
Part-time Administrator Organist
Samantha Jordan (from September 2025) GeoN Anderson
Structure, Management and Governance
St Peter in Eastgate and St Peter in Carlton JC is a body corporate which operated under the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 and the Church Representation Rules. The full JC met six times during the year. The JC also has a number of subcommittees and Working Groups, dealing with a particular aspect of church life:
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Standing Committee
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Finance Committee
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Fabric Committee
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Mission Partnerships Committee
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Energy Working Group
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Carlton Working Group
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Climate & Ecological Emergency Working Group
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Safeguarding Team
Administrative Information
The Lincoln Diocesan Board of Finance acted as Custodian Trustee for the inalienable property of the church (that is the church building).
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Bankers: HSBC, 221 High Street, Lincoln (until 02 April 2025). The Co-operative Bank, PO Box 250, Skelmersdale, WN8 6WT (from 24 Dec 2024).
Independent Examiner: Stephen Quint, 23 Cathedral View, Cabourne Ave., Lincoln LN2 2GF.
Electoral Roll
All church members were encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll of St Peter in Eastgate or St Peter in Carlton. The Eastgate Electoral Roll comprised 109 names (32 resident, 77 non-resident). The Carlton Electoral Roll comprised 16 names (12 resident, 4 non-resident), as reported to the Joint Council on 12 May 2025.
Objectives and Activities
The general functions of the Joint Council (JC) of St Peter in Eastgate & Carlton are stated with section 2 of the Parochial Church Council (Powers) Measure 1956, namely the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent in promoting, in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social, and ecumenical.
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Regular public worship at 10.30am on Sunday and 11.00am on Wednesday. Other services associated with major festivals were conducted. Sunday services were broadcast live on YouTube for those unable to attend in person.
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Weddings (5), Funerals incl. cremations (5), Baptisms, incl. Thanksgivings (3).
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Christian education through Children’s Worship, Youth Groups, and courses for those exploring Christianity.
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Collective worship, lessons and services for St Peter in Eastgate CE Infant Academy (weekly), Burton Hathow Prep School, Westgate Academy, Carlton Academy.
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Three church members and vicar acted as foundation governors at St Peter in Eastgate (Controlled) Infant School until August 2025, and ‘academy champions’ at St Peter in Eastgate CE Infant Academy from September 2025.
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Community activities, incl. Family Hour toddler group, monthly Afternoon Tea, Warm Space Initiative, Holiday Club.
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Pastoral Work, Rooted Groups, Student & Young Adult Ministry, visiting the sick and bereaved.
Average Attendance
Usual Sunday attendance at St Peter in Eastgate during 2025 was 114 (of whom 20% aged < 16), and the worshipping community comprised 156 (of whom 26% aged < 18). The Carlton gathering continued to meet monthly in a home for prayer, with an average attendance of 8-10.
Volunteers
The JC of St Peter in Eastgate & Carlton would like to express their thanks to over 86 volunteers, who serve the mission and ministry of the church in a number of diNerent
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
ways: from leading children’s worship, to washing up, to welcoming, to behind-thescenes admin, and much more besides. We’re thankful for those who have stepped up to serve in 2025. In January 2025 we held a Volunteers Morning, a chance to say thanks, and to train and encourage those who serve. Around 45 people attended, and we hope this can become a regular event. “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil. 1:3-6
Reports
Vicar’s Report (Rev. Robbie Strachan)
2025 has been a year of embedding vision and building momentum for the future. The JC and church family have continued to prayerfully shape and implement our vision and 2030 strategy: “Loving Jesus, Sharing Jesus”. In November we preached on these two values, exploring how they might undergird everything we do together as a church.
- We have taken deliberate steps to Grow Deeper , including expansion of Rooted Groups, and sermon series through Philippians, Exodus, Ruth and Mark’s gospel. 2025 saw the establishment of an Agapé group for adults with additional needs, and a new evangelistic course, 321 – which ran in the local pub. It has been encouraging to see us Grow Younger , with expanded ministry among children, young people, and families, including new groups and initiatives. Many of these families are new to church, and are beginning to grow as disciples. Whilst work remains on exploring how best we can Serve the City , there has also been significant progress toward Re-Establishing the Carlton Plant , including the necessary work in preparation for the successful recruitment of an Associate Vicar for the Carlton. Alongside this, strengthening our structures to Support Gospel Ministry through administration and infrastructure has been an important focus this year. We are delighted that Samantha Jordan joined us in September as our parttime Administrator and has already made a significant and much-appreciated contribution to the smooth running of church life. We also express our sincere thanks to Marianne McCall, who faithfully served as volunteer administrator up to that point, providing invaluable support during a key period of transition. As we look ahead, we remain prayerful and hopeful that the Lord will continue to grow his church, deepening our love for Jesus and widening our witness as we share him with others.
Children (Evie Strachan)
Lesley Mann oversaw the Children’s work up to Easter 2025 and we give her great thanks for her leadership and service. Over the past year our Sunday morning children’s work has continued to teach the Bible and introduce our young people to Jesus in ageappropriate and fun-filled ways. The resources from Mustard Seeds and Faith in Kids have been so helpful for a larger group of individuals being drawn into the planning of our Sunday sessions. In September we added an 11-14s group on Sundays and we’re thankful to God for providing volunteers for this small but regular group of young teens. We also re-started a holiday club in October half-term which saw an excited group of around thirty primary aged children becoming spy-agents whilst getting the opportunity to learn about Jesus from Mark’s gospel. As we look ahead, we are praying on for the
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
recruitment of volunteers for our 3 teams who could always do with a few more hands on deck!
St Peter’s Youth (Rev. Robbie Strachan)
This year at SPY our focus has been twofold – to grow a team of volunteers, and to offer a group for 16-18s, SPY+. Both of these have had moderate success, and we are grateful for those who have committed to volunteering on Sunday evenings. SPY and SPY+ run on alternative Sundays, and have been well attended - 15-20 for SPY, and 2-4 for SPY+. Sessions include fun and games (including a Chip Chase, Photo Challenges, and Hide and Seek in a dark church) food and drink, and opportunities to explore faith. We had a number of successful social outings to Bowling and a Water Park. Our annual Turkey Dinner in December 2025 was well attended, and having been quite boy-heavy, we were encouraged to welcome some new female teenagers. Our prayer is that the ministry continues to grow.
Students & Young Adults (Rev. Robbie Strachan)
Our Student & Young Adult group continues to thrive. We are in contact with nearly 30 young people, and over 2025 we have split into three smaller groups for prayer, fellowship and Bible Study. These include students, recent school leavers, graduates and workers. We have benefitted from the Bible Society’s Romans Course, and a Bible Overview course by Vaughan Roberts, as well as self-led Bible Studies and social gatherings. We continue to meet in The Vicarage, but may soon outgrow this venue. In the summer we said goodbye to three young adults who left for Ministry Experience placements and internships at churches in Newcastle, York, and Cambridge. We pray on that the Lord would raise up a younger generation of gospel workers for the harvest field, and that in time we might be able to offer something similar to train and develop leaders and help people explore Christian Ministry. We are thankful for those in the Students & Young Adults Group who have stepped up to serve in other areas of the church, including Tech/AV and Children/Youth.
Pastoral Care (Pauline Wiggett)
We started 2025 with eight rooted groups and ended the year with eleven groups meeting regularly. As previously, the majority of our care for one another happens in that context. Our two ALM pastoral visitors have continued to be available especially for older folk who cannot get to church. John Dagnan has managed the prayer ministry team which makes two people available after each Sunday morning service to pray for anyone who would like that ministry even though the team is quite depleted. There has been little progress this year in building a team for more joined up thinking about pastoral care at St. Peter’s, but things are looking hopeful for 2026.
Women’s Ministry (Catherine Ross)
During the year we have had 2 craft evenings partially in an eNort to maintain contact with the adults who attended Family Hour and whose children have moved on to school as well as women who are unable to attend daytime events and form friendships because they work full time. As a result these events are held on a Friday night at 7.30pm. It was also an attempt to again address loneliness and the diNiculty of making social contacts. It is open to all women churched and unchurched. The 2 events took
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
place just before Easter and Christmas. Each event had a 15 minute talk or interview to reflect the time of year in the Christian calendar. The crafts are quite simple, all materials are provided and are really a vehicle for people to engage with those they do not know well. The attendance was around 30 people at each event.
Denise Eardley also leads a monthly Ladies’ Walk.
Carlton (Sandie Stratford)
On the Carlton Centre we held the Christmas Lights Switch-on and Carols, attracting over 100. We had support from the Co-Op, Go Dance, & Carlton Academy singers; Ermine Music led communal singing. Robbie’s enthusiastic leading and brief talk were well received. Our face to face Rooted group became two, one led by Rev Peter Faulkner, the other by GeoN and Sandie Stratford. Some Carlton people continue in a zoom group on Mondays. We held a sunrise service on the Carlton on Easter Sunday, and shared chocolate eggs with the community. ‘Yarns’ meets on termtime Mondays 1.30pm at Dunelm cafe; we have a regular gathering of 5 or 6. We are pleased with growing friendships and rich discussions. Our monthly (3rd Sunday morning) gathering is a rich and blessed time. The Holy Spirit always leads and surprises. Between 6 and 10 attend. Rev. Peter Faulkner leads a monthly service for residents at Olsen Court, which is much appreciated. We await God’s plans for our next stage with excitement!
Family Hour (Catherine Ross)
Family Hour is a group run for 1-5 year old children and their accompanying adults. The purpose is dual. Firstly, to provide a safe and interesting environment for early years children to visit where they can learn to socialise with children and adults outside the family unit, in preparation for Nursery or school, as well as an introduction to church should that be something their families wish to pursue. It also provides a place for their accompanying adults to share and unload to another adult to be nurtured and listened to, to maybe simply just talk to another adult. Child rearing is lonely and unrelenting. We aim to provide a break. It runs on Tuesday mornings 10-11.30 am during term time. There are approximately 30 families registered with on average around 15 families a week although this varies from week to week. The format for the session includes a craft or activity, story time which now includes a toddler appropriate Bible story, song time with instruments and a drink and biscuits/fruit for the children. Adults are oNered drinks throughout the session. Adults include mothers, fathers, grandparents and occasional childminders. There is a team of 8 regular volunteers. We aim to have diNerent sessions at the end of term eg Christmas party, Easter egg hunt , Summer waterplay and maybe parachutes. Within the term, the crafts will follow the seasons and event days eg Remembrance, 5th November, Shrove Tuesday, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Valentines Day etc Christmas and Easter.
Afternoon Tea (Jane Lund)
We are so thankful to God for His provision over the past year - for all the gifts of food, help and for bringing people along to enjoy the occasion. There has been a good range of ages from the St Peter’s church family, together with neighbours, family and friends. Those who come are happy to mix and enjoy the opportunity to get to know each other,
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
giving a lovely atmosphere of friendship and support. While the average numbers (27) have remained the same as last year, we are sadly losing those who have given up driving and can no longer get to the teas. We are very grateful to those who are able to transport others, but are in need of more help with this. We are blessed with a wonderful team and are so grateful for the food they prepare, the welcome they give and their caring service.
Fabric Report
Quinquennial Inspection Report Repairs (Final Phase)
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DAC approval process was hindered by issues regarding "appropriate materials," and resulted in a delayed project start that ran into inclement weather conditions. Consequently, at the end of the year, some work remained unfinished, awaiting better weather.
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North Boundary Wall: Many churches like St Peter’s lack title deeds and it was during the approval process for the re-roofing that the boundary wall “ownership”, previously thought to belong to our neighbours, was identified. As the determination was ownership by St Peter’s, it led to unplanned, self-funded repairs to that wall.
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Maintenance and Improvements
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Lighting: Electrical repairs continued, with LED lighting installed as part of the replacement of old tubular lights in the kitchen and vestry (oNice).
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Grounds: The lime trees were pollarded, shrubs pruned to improve the view of the church, wild bulbs planted in the borders, and the ivy growth is gradually being brought under control to avoid damage to church and boundary walls.
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Access: Blacksmith repairs were made to the entrance gates.
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Safety: Child barriers to the kitchen and welcome desk areas were introduced.
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Future Challenges and Financial Outlook
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Heating and Roof: Preliminary enquiries were made into replacing the heating system, aiming to become gas-free by 2030. This must be balanced with the architect's recommendation to re-roof the nave by 2030.
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Financial Pressures: next 5-year cycle, compounded by the closure of the Listed Places of Worship VAT repayment scheme (scheduled to end 31[st] March 2026, or earlier if funds expire).
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Funding Shifts: The replacement "Places of Worship Renewal Fund" is limited and capped, making future financing diNicult. However, as a church, we are thankful for the very generous gifts of our congregation that continue to assist with these challenging projects.
Many thanks are due to Rick Lund, who has served the church tirelessly over many years, and is stepping back from his responsibilities on the Fabric Team.
Finance (Graham Wiggett)
During 2025, the Finance Sub Committee met six times, assisting the Treasurer, and making recommendations to the JC. 2025 Regular giving to the General Fund was slightly under budget but, thanks to some very generous one-off gifts, overall Voluntary giving was over budget by almost £12,000. Other income was very slightly under budget. 2025 General Fund expenditure was pretty much as anticipated so, once transfers to other Funds (Mission Partnerships, Quinquennial 2026 and Vicar’s
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Discretionary) are taken into consideration, the net effect was a very small (less than £1,000) draw on the church’s reserves.
While the generosity of St Peters volunteers will be celebrated elsewhere in this Annual Report, it falls to me, as Treasurer, to offer a huge thank you to all who have contributed financially to the mission and ministry of St Peters throughout 2025 – we wouldn’t be where we are now without your help. Churches are not immune to the ravages of inflation with costs rising year on year. If you are able to do so, please may I encourage you to consider adding an inflationary increase to your gifts to help us meet our 2026 costs. Thank you.
Climate & Ecological Emergency (Geoff Stratford)
We've transferred to an ethical bank (Co-op) from HSBC; we get our gas & electricity from 100% renewable supplier (Ecotricity); we have a compost; we’ve (Rick has) planted more wild flowers in the garden; some of us have engaged with our MP about environment issues; Geoff (as Deanery Environment Champion) presented to Deanery Synod about urgency of net zero target; we’re trying to work towards Eco Church bronze.
Safeguarding (Chris Wilson)
The clergy and Joint Council (JC) of St Peter in Eastgate and in Carlton Churches continue to meet the requirement to have due regard to guidance issued by the House of Bishops on matters relating to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults.
Safeguarding remains a standing item at every meeting of the JC. All safeguarding policies were updated and approved in February 2025 at the JC meeting. They are all in line with the House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policy and Practice Guidance and meet statutory requirements whilst remaining relevant to our particular context. The next reviews will be in March 2026.
The JC has approved the Safeguarding Action Plan for St Peter’s. These plans are being worked through to ensure that we are compliant with statutory requirements and also to ensure best practice is in place. As actions are achieved, the action plans are updated and redistributed accordingly.
All new volunteers and staff working with children/vulnerable adults have been safely recruited, including enhanced DBS checks and references. Currently, 24 (100%) volunteers requiring a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, have a valid, enhanced DBS certificate.
At any one time, 70 volunteers are required to undertake mandatory safeguarding training, and I am pleased to say we have around 94% compliance. This work continues to be ongoing. Anyone with training due to expire is contacted and reminded. All Groups and Activities have comprehensive risk assessments in place.
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
A small number of low-level concerns and queries were raised. These have been supported and managed internally. One formal referral has been made this year to the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor.
As always may I remind all those reading this report that safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone. That said, I am always happy to offer help or advice on safeguarding matters, should you require it. Thank you for your help in keeping St Peter’s safe.
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint Peter in Eastgate with Saint Margaret in the Close
Independent Examiner’s Report to the PCC for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
I report on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2025 as set out on the following pages.
Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the Independent Examiner
The PCC consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
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examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011
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follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act 2011, and
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state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of Independent Examiner’s Statement
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission.
An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from the PCC concerning such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in a full audit, and consequently I do not express an opinion on the accounts.
Independent Examiner’s Statement
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
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1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements - to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act, or
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to prepare accounts which accord with these accounting records have not been met, or
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2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Name: Stephen Quint Date: 11 April 2026
Signature:
Address: 23 Cathedral View Court, Cabourne Avenue, Lincoln, LN2 2GF.
Relevant professional qualification or body: Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) For the period from 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025
| Notes 1 2 3 4 14 |
Unrestricted Designated Restricted funds funds funds 2025 2024 Totals |
|
|---|---|---|
| Donations and legacies Income from charitable activities Other trading activities Investments Other income Income and endowments from: |
133,020 4,574 625 138,219 256,924 2,226 2,226 2,404 2,058 2,058 987 4,772 2,271 37,450 44,494 50,331 -240 -240 743 |
|
| Raising funds Expenditure on charitable activities Other expenditure Total income Expenditure on: |
141,836 6,845 38,075 186,756 311,389 118 118 84 122,278 49,661 34,148 206,087 169,805 1,124 1,124 446 |
|
| Total expenditure | 123,521 49,661 34,148 207,329 170,335 |
|
| Net income / (expenditure) resources before transfer |
18,315 -42,816 3,927 -20,573 141,054 |
|
| Transfers: Gross transfers between funds - in Gross transfers between funds - out Other recognised gains / losses Gains/losses on investment assets |
29,510 29,954 59,465 83,839 -18,896 -40,444 -125 -59,465 -83,839 4,263 4,263 530 |
|
| Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds |
3,683 -53,749 33,757 -16,310 141,583 |
|
| Total funds brought forward | 170,917 129,520 930,796 1,231,233 1,089,650 |
|
| Total funds carried forward | 174,600 75,771 964,553 1,214,923 1,231,233 |
|
| Unrestricted General fund Designated Boiler replacement Legacy - RB Mission Partnerships Organ and works Quinquennial 2021 Quinquennial 2026 Vicar's discretionary Restricted Eastgate Infant School Fabric Legacy - Carlton Organ and works Quinquennial 2021 Represented by |
174,600 174,600 170,917 3,000 3,000 3,000 54,530 54,530 52,259 1,775 1,775 13,079 4,537 4,537 26,792 1,660 1,660 33,900 10,000 10,000 270 270 490 3,000 3,000 62,500 62,500 62,500 899,053 899,053 861,923 123 6,250 |
|
| 174,600 75,771 964,553 1,214,923 1,231,233 |
There may be minor discrepancies in the totals if the pence are not being shown
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
2025 General Fund Income
----- Start of picture text -----
Total GF
income
=
£146,099
2025 General Fund Expenditure
Total GF
expenditure
=
£142,417
Covenant Pledge,
£75,246
Transfers to other
funds, £18,896
Regular giving,
Gift Aid & GASDS, £89,458
£22,640
Other giving,
£20,692
Building related, £28,709
£15,890
Church activities,
£13,309
Oth income,
Admin related , £3,676
----- End of picture text -----
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Balance Sheet detailed
| Notes | As at As at 31/12/2025 31/12/2024 |
|---|---|
| 3201: BlackRock Bond Fund 7,918 7,799 3202: BlackRock Equity Fund 36,909 32,765 Total Fixed assets 44,827 40,564 3102: HSBC Deposit (xxxx2849) 31,523 3103: HSBC Deposit (xxxx8900) 46,694 3104: HSBC Deposit (xxxx5162) 63,472 3105: CCLA CB CofE dep. acct. 953,859 914,138 3106: CCLA CO Charities dep. acct. 37,064 35,569 3107: Co-op Current (xxxx8054) 7,823 28,094 3108: Co-op Deposit (XXXX6359) 168,720 3141: Cash in hand 1,318 51,702 3151: Cash floats 32 5 Z05: Accounts Receivable 382 319 6 Z051: Gift Aid & GASDS Receivable 2,075 13,170 Z053: Accounts Receivable (LDTBF) 7 Z054: Gifts Receivable 303 32 8 Z055: Prepayments & Income Accruals 3,116 7,246 Total Current assets 1,174,692 1,191,959 Liabilities 9 6699: Agency collections 2,515 10 Z04: Accounts Payable 1,455 1,289 Z041: Accruals Z042: Refundable deposit Z043: Grants returnable 11 Z045: PAYE & NI Payable 486 12 Z046: Pension Payable 39 13 Z047: Deferred Income 100 Total Liabilities 4,596 1,289 Net Asset surplus (deficit) 1,214,923 1,231,233 Reserves Excess/(deficit) to date -20,573 972,151 Z01: Starting balances 1,231,233 258,553 Z02: Other gains/(losses) 4,263 530 Total Reserves 1,214,923 1,231,233 Represented by Funds General (Unrestricted) 174,600 170,917 Designated 75,771 129,520 Restricted 964,553 930,796 Total 1,214,923 1,231,233 Current assets Fixed assets |
7,918 7,799 36,909 32,765 |
13 April Approved by Joint Council on …....................2026 and signed on its behalf by Revd. Robbie Strachan (Chair)
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Accounting Policies for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
Basis of preparation
the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP (FRS 102)). The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of Joint Councils (JCs), and with the Regulations’ ‘true and fair view’ provisions.
Incoming Resources
| Recognition of incoming resources |
These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when: 1. The JC becomes legally entitled to the beneft of use of the resources; 2. and infow of economic beneft is probable; 3. and the monetary value can be measured with suNicient reliability. |
|---|---|
| Fundraising income |
Funds raised from events and trading activities (e.g. a fete, a garden party or sale of books and magazines) are reported gross in the SOFA – i.e. before the deduction of any costs from the gross proceeds. |
| Grants and donations |
Grants and donations are included in the SOFA when any preconditions preventing their use by the JC have been met. For collections and planned giving this is when the funds are received. |
| Gift Aid Tax claims etc. on cash donations |
Gift Aid (GA) and Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme (GASDS) are included in the SOFA at the same time as the cash donations to which theyrelate. |
| Gifts in kind | Gifts in kind are accounted for at a reasonable estimate of their fair value at the time of gift, if feasible, or else at the amount actually realised from their disposal. Gifts in kind for sale to fund the JC are included in the accounts at their estimated fair value at the date of gift, if feasible, or else recognised when sold by the charity. Gifts in kind for the JC’s own use are included in the SOFA as incoming resources at their fair value when receivable, and expensed as and when consumed in use. Gifts of fxed assets, if material, are included in the balance sheet at their fair value and expensed over the asset’s useful economic life.. |
| Donated services and facilities |
These are included in income (and at the same time in resources expended) at the estimated fair value to the JC of the service or facilityreceived. |
| Volunteer help | The value of any voluntary help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the Trustees’ Annual Report. |
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
| Rental income | Rental income from the letting of the church is recognised when the rental is due. |
|---|---|
| Investment income |
This is included in the accounts when receivable. |
| Investment gains and losses |
This includes any gain or loss on the sale of investments and any gain or loss resulting from revaluing investments to market value at the end of theyear. |
| Regular giving | This is all freely oNered gifts and donations, however given, that aregiven regularly,whether weekly,monthlyor annually. |
| Voluntary giving | All freely oNered gifts and donations, regular or not (including the associated Gift Aid and Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme income from HMRC). |
Expenditure and Liabilities
| Liability recognition |
Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation and settlement is probable and quantifable. |
|---|---|
| Governance costs |
Include costs of the preparation and examination of statutory accounts, the costs of trustee meetings and costs of any legal advice to trustees ongovernance or constitutional matters. |
| Grants payable without performance conditions |
These are recognised in the accounts when a commitment has been made externally and there are no preconditions still to be met for entitlement to the grant that remain within the control of the JC. |
| Support costs (if allocated across more than one heading) |
Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources. |
Assets
| Tangible fxed assets for use by charity |
These are not capitalised and depreciated in the accounts but written oN completely in the year of acquisition. While the assets may have an ongoing value to the JC they are likely to have little realisable or economic value to the JC in future periods. This policy has been adopted to better refect the actual usage of funds each year and the amount of liquid funds available to the JC at the end of each accounting period. |
|---|---|
| Investments | Investments quoted on a recognised stock exchange or whose value derives from them are valued at market value at the year end. Other investment assets are included in the accounts at the trustees’ best estimate of market value. |
| Trading stocks | These are valued at the lower of cost (or gift value) or year end fair value. |
| Short-term deposits |
Include cash held on deposit either with CCLA Church of England Funds or at the bank. |
Funds
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
| Unrestricted funds |
These represent the remaining income funds of the JC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the JC, including amounts designated by the JC for fxed assets for its own use or for spending on a future project and that are therefore not included in its ‘free reserves’ as detailed below. |
|---|---|
| Designated funds | These are_unrestricted funds_that have been ‘set aside’, by the JC, for specifc purposes, but which may be ‘un-designated’ by a subsequent decision of the JC. |
| Restricted funds | These are income funds that must be spent on restricted purposes and details of the funds held and restrictions provided are shown in the notes to the accounts. |
| Endowment funds |
These are restricted funds that must be retained as trust capital either permanently or subject to a discretionary power to spend capital as income, and where the use of any income or other beneft derived from the capital may be restricted or unrestricted. Full details of all their restrictions are shown in the notes to the accounts. |
Other
| Other | |
|---|---|
| Reserves | The JC has adopted a reserves policy to maintain a minimum balance of free reserves equatingto three months of expenditure. |
| VAT | The JC is not registered for VAT. |
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Notes to the Financial Statements Selected period: 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025
| Note 1 - Total Income Donations and legacies |
Totals 2024 Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endow. 2025 |
|---|---|
| Heating incme Fundraising activities - gross 89,458 88,956 Regular giving 89,458 4,759 SumUp - contactless 2,236 2,236 1,372 Collections at services 6,680 6,680 108,077 Gift Aid and GASDS 22,640 125 22,765 35,864 All other voluntary receipts 11,776 500 12,276 Grants received 130 4,574 4,704 17,896 Legacies received 100 100 256,924 Income from charitable activities Fees (funerals & marriages) 1,961 1,961 2,089 Donations and legacies Totals 133,020 4,574 625 138,219 Other trading activities 315 Income from charitable activities Totals 2,226 2,226 2,404 265 265 Trading activities 2,058 2,058 987 Investments Other trading activities Totals 2,058 2,058 987 Dividends, interest, etc. 4,772 2,271 37,450 44,494 503 50,331 50,331 Other income Investments Totals 4,772 2,271 37,450 44,494 743 Income Grand totals 141,836 6,845 38,075 186,756 311,389 Other income Totals -240 -240 -240 240 Misc. income -240 |
There may be minor discrepancies in the totals if the pence are not being shown
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Notes to the Financial Statements Selected period: 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025
| Note 2 - Total expenditure | Totals Unrestricted 2025 2024 Restricted Designated Endow. |
|---|---|
| Costs of fundraising Raising funds Totals Raising funds |
118 84 118 84 118 118 |
| Expenditure on charitable activities | |
| Mission giving (FUND) Vicar's discretionary (FUND) Covenant Pledge Salaries and payroll expsenses Clergy expenses Mission & evangelism expenses Insurance Copyright (CCLI & RSCM) Building repairs & maintenance Equipment repairs & maintenance Grounds maintenance Cleaning Organ repairs & maintenance Admin training Audio visual Telelphone & broadband Stationery Photocopier Refreshments & sundries Office IT General ministry expenses |
16,800 16,800 26,854 620 620 431 75,246 75,246 71,663 6,358 6,358 1,948 469 469 43 559 559 1,079 2,479 2,479 2,773 869 869 845 10,461 10,461 4,258 5,662 5,662 875 2,817 2,817 183 450 450 1,671 27,578 27,578 40,151 485 485 1,149 1,149 345 1,481 1,481 1,185 89 89 129 421 421 414 1,475 1,475 922 785 785 3,144 884 884 505 284 284 30 19 19 100 726 726 187 327 327 222 573 573 119 123 123 85 85 192 192 213 45 45 131 53 210 263 77 825 825 534 766 766 63 46 110 156 2,011 2,011 2,974 3,653 3,653 3,231 411 411 639 0 1,787 32,241 6,250 38,491 80 |
| Music ministry Women's ministry Student ministry Children's ministry Youth/SPY ministry Seniors ministry Rooted ministry Family hour/plus Bank Charges Office expenses Publicity expenses Health & Safety Professional Fees Electricity Gas Water Books Major repairs & maintenance (FUND) |
|
| Exp. on charitable activities Totals Costs of trading Misc. expenditure Other expenditure Totals Expenditure Grand Totals Other expenditure |
206,087 169,805 972 153 446.27 1124 446.27 207,329 170,335 49,661 34,148 122,278 153 972 123,521 49,661 34,148 1124 |
There may be minor discrepancies in the totals if the pence are not being shown
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Notes to the Financial Statements Selected period: 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025
| Totals | |
|---|---|
| Restricted Endow 2025 2024 Designated Unrestricted |
|
| Note 3 - Fund Transfers From General to Mission Partnerships From General to Vicar's Discretionary From Mission Partnerships to Eastgate Infant School From Organ & Works (Des) to Organ & Works (Res) From General to Quinquennial 2021 From Quinquennial 2021 to Quinquennial 2026 To Quinquennial 2026 from Quinquennial 2021 From Vicar's Discretionary to Mission Partnerships To Mission Partnerships from Vicar's Discretionary |
8,006 0 0 -890 890 0 0 -3,000 3,000 0 0 -26,829 26,829 0 0 10,000 0 0 -10,000 -10,000 0 10,000 10,000 0 -490 -490 -788 490 490 788 -8,006 -10,000 |
| -10,934 29,829 4,263 530 Fund Transfers Totals -18,896 0 0 Note 4 - Gains / Losses on investment assets Other Gains / Losses Black Rock investments 4,263 |
|
| Note 5 - Accounts Receivable HMRC interest Black Rock quarter 4 dividends & interest Other Gains / Losses Totals |
381 381 1 1 319 530 4,263 4,263 |
| Note 6 - Gift Aid & GASDS Receivable Parish Giving Scheme (PGS) Acounts Receivable Totals HMRC |
668 668 1407 1,407 319 382 381 13,170 |
| Note 7 - Gifts Receivable SumUp (Contactless) Gift Aid & GASDS Receivable Totals |
303 303 32 2,075 2,075 13,170 |
| Note 8 - Prepayments and Income Accruals Coyright licences (CCLI) Jan-Oct 26 853 853 561 Insurance (Trinitas) Jan-Sep 26 2,126 2,126 Membership subscription (RSCM) Jan-Dec 26 137 137 137 Electricity 108 6440 32 Gifts Receivable Totals 303 303 LPWGS anticipated VAT refunds |
|
| Note 9 - Agency Collections Payable Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) Eastgate Infant & Junior School Prepayments and Income Accruals Totals |
2475 2,475 40 40 3,116 7,246 3,116 |
| Agency Collections Payable Totals | 2,515 2,475 0 |
There may be minor discrepancies in the totals if the pence are not being shown
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Notes to the Financial Statements Selected period: 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025
----- Start of picture text -----
Totals
Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment 2025 2024
Note 10 - Accounts Payable
BT 150 150
ChurchSuite 61 61
Ecotricity (electricity & gas) 545 545
Expenses (various) 465 465
Spectrum (photocopier) 108 108
SumUp (contactless) charges 3 3
Wave (Anglian Water business) 124 124
Accounts Payable Totals 1,455 1,455 1,289
Note 11 - PAYE & NI Payable
HMRC (quarterly DD collections) 486 486
PAYE & NI Payable Totals 486 486
Note 12 - Pension Payable
NEST (monthly DD collections) 39 39
Pension Payable Totals 39 39
Note 13 - Deferred Income
Church hire in Jan 2026 100 100
Deferred Income Totals 100 100
Note 14 - Outline of Fund Movements
Fund & Type b/f from 2024 Incoming Outgoing Transfers Gains & losses c/f to 2026
Boiler (des) 3,000 3,000
Eastgate Infant School (res) 3,000 3,000
Fabric (res) 62,500 62,500
General (unres) 170,917 141,836 -123,521 -18,896 4,263 174,600
Legacy - Carlton (res) 861,923 37,450 -320 899,053
Legacy - RB (des) 52,259 2,271 54,530
Mission Partnerships (des) 13,079 -16,800 5,496 1,775
Organ & Related Work (des) 26,792 4,574 -26,829 4,537
Organ & Related Work (res) 123 625 -27,578 26,829 0
Quinquennial 2021 (des) 33,900 -32,241 1,660
Quinquennial 2021 (res) 6,250 -6,250 0
Quinquennial 2026 (des) 10,000 10,000
Vicar's Discretionary (des) 490 -620 400 270
Outline of Fund Movements 1,231,233 186,756 -207,329 0 4,263 1,214,923
Totals
----- End of picture text -----
Additional Notes on Restricted Funds
Eastgate Infant School (res) 2024 £3K Mission Partnerships grant to Eastgate School but not yet claimed Fabric (res) Gift-Aided gift of £50,000 rec'd specifically for this fund in December 2024 Legacy - Carlton (res) Invested gift of £776,034.96 to be used for outreach on the Carlton estate Organ & Related Work (res) All gifts given specifically for this project have now been spent on this project Quinquennial 2021 (res) All gifts given specifically for this project have now been spent on this project
There may be minor discrepancies in the totals if the pence are not being shown
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2025 Annual Report of Joint Council: Eastgate and Carlton (Charity No. 1132605)
Glossary of Terms used throughout the Annual Report
CB CB Church of England Deposit Fund (CCLA) CCLA Churches, Charities and Local Authorities CCLI Christian Copyright Licensing International Ltd CO CO Charities Deposit Fund (CCLA) CofE Church or England DEC. December DES Designated DISC. Discretionary ENDOW. Endowment EXP. Expenditure GASDS Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme HMRC His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs HSBC Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited INC. Income IT Information Technology JC Joint Council LDTBF Lincoln Diocese Trust and Board of Finance Ltd LPWGS Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme MISC. Miscellaneous NEST National Employment Savings Trust (pension provider) NI National Insurance PAYE Pay as You Earn PREPAY. Prepayment QI Quinquennial Inspection (building inspection every 5 years) RES Restricted RSCM Royal School of Church Music SOFA Statement of Financial Activities SORP Statement of Recommended Practice SPY St Peters Youth SUBS Subscription UNRES Unrestricted VAT Value Added Tax
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