## **PCC Report on 2025** ## **Background** St. Anne’s PCC has the responsibility with the Incumbent in promoting within the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has responsibilities for the church hall, St Anne’s CoE (Aided) School and the buildings and land at St Francis. **Membership** Members of the PCC are ex officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representative Rules. During the year the following served as members of the PCC: Rev Canon Alison Cox (Vicar) Rev Olwyn Marlow (PTO = Permission to Officiate) Reader Dr Bipasha Choudry Church Wardens: Andrew Egarr Treasurer: Christopher Jones **Elected Members of the PCC:** Lynda Bywater, Susan Heath, Ann Hunt, Christopher Jones,Val Taylor, Claire Tattersall, Helen Thorley **Deanery Synod** : Susan Heath ## **PCC secretary:** Ann Hunt ## **Standing Committee** This is the only Committee required by law. It has power to transact the business of the PCC between meetings subject to any directions given by the PCC. **Other Committees** : Finance; Future Foundations; Overseas. These meet regularly and report each year to the PCC. ## **Review of the Year** The full PCC has met 6 times between January and December. All PCC members serve for one year at a time therefore everybody is up for election each year. There are vacant places. The policy of having both in-person meetings and zoom meeting was established during lockdown and continues now as it suits members. During the summer months (during British Summer Time), the PCC meets in church. During the winter months, we meet in the Vicarage or via zoom. The PCC has complied with the duty under Section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (to have regard to the House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults). 1 of 22 Further details of the Parish Year including Church Life, St Anne’s School, Financial details and Building works can be found in this Annual Report. ## **Electoral Roll Report** The current total of the roll for St Annes is 156. ## **Giving at St Anne’s** The following charities are supported directly by St Anne’s PCC: Sale Christians against Poverty (CAP) The following charities are indirectly supported by St Anne’s through fund raising events held at our church: - Christian Aid - The Children’s Society We also support the work of the Mothers’ Union and through them, our members assist Literacy in Africa and holidays in the UK for those who would otherwise not be able to afford a break. We support our church school in many ways (Foundation governors, worship, prayer and sharing resources) but we also give financial support through the annual purchase of bibles for Yr 6 children. ## **Occasional Offices** The church conducted the following services during 2025: Christenings - 6 Weddings - 0 Funerals - 8 ## **Ann Hunt** ## **PCC Secretary** 2 of 22 ## **Vicar’s Report** ## **Spring 2025** Bishop Sam came to preach and confirm Nancy Peacock at our 10 am service in January which was a delight on two accounts. A new hall user - Slimming World - started hiring the hall which is a great boost to our finances. Bip led a retreat at Foxhill Diocesan retreat centre on a Saturday in January. Matthew Prior from Trafford Youth for Christ came to preach. We held our winter Songs of Praise service before Lent began which is always interesting to hear about people’s hymn choices and faith journey. We hosted Deanery Synod in church in February. In March, we re-launched Sunday School with help from Laura Elison. Alison met with the replacement lead officer from our agents Fisher German who made new recommendations prior to marketing the site. Temple Moor school children visited the church in March to learn about the Easter story. We held the APCM before Easter (6 April). ## **Summer 2025** It was incredibly sunny over the weekend of the annual Beer & Gin Festival so that we hosted hundreds of local people on the church field; it was good to see the site being used in this way. We held a Prayer Meeting in church as part of the Thy Kingdom Come initiative which was well attended. Elizabeth Mills and I attended the launch of new safeguarding posters and other materials at Chester Cathedral in June. We held a retreat day at Whalley Abbey when again, it was a gloriously hot sunny day. Lime Tree school visited church and Artful Voices held their first summer concert at St Anne’s. The annual Brick Day exhibition was held in July in both hall and church. Jill Elston, the Diocesan Environmental advisor came to preach in August. Shauna, our Families & Children’s worker, returned off sick leave and decided to job share her role with Laura Elison (a Sunday School helper) after approval from the PCC. They would begin their jobs in September. ## **Autumn 2025** As it was the anniversary of the Nicene Creed first developed in 325 (ie.1700 years ago), we had a mini sermon series In church on Sundays and accompanied bible study on Wednesdays on this significant statement of faith. Fairtrade Fortnight is now celebrated in September so we marked this on 28 September with a special service. The popular Harvest service continues to grow and attract many young children and their carers particularly from school. We also dedicated a Sunday service and followed of 3 22 with a discussion in the hall lead by Carol Miller from USPG on the subject of Reparation for the Church of England’s role in slavery. And Dr Bipasha Choudhury, our Reader in training for the past two years, was licensed as a fully fledged Reader in the Church of England in October at Chester cathedral. We are delighted for her, and thrilled to have her passion and expertise available to us here at St Anne’s. I attended the Diocesan Clergy Conference in Swanwick in November which is a wonderful opportunity to meet clergy colleagues I haven’t seen for years. And the worship and seminars are incredible valuable too. We held an annual Stewardship Sunday in November. ## **Winter 2025** The Christmas Fair took place in early December. Janet Plumb retired from running our church toddler group for many years as she moved away from Sale up to Blackpool. Thankfully, the toddler group ministry continues to thrive and is in very good hands with Shauna and Laura at the helm. I am very grateful for the teamwork behind the Nativity Play, Carol Service and Christingle services in the run up to Christmas as ever. We had record numbers post-lockdown this year due largely to the imaginative social media campaign of an Elf (otherwise known as Shauna’s partner Kerry) who involved the choir, toddler group and headteacher in her antics. It reached 14,000 followers! Advent bible study on Wednesdays looked at the ministry of women in the nativity story. These are the highlights. The normal ministry - the everyday stuff of running a Church of England parish church - continues week by week, month by month. This is delivering worship on Sundays and Wednesdays, conducting funerals and Christenings, delivering weekly Collective Worship in church for the whole school every Tuesday afternoon, meeting regularly with the church warden and treasurer, doing the admin for the weekend parties taking place in our hall, attending Governors meetings at school, holding PCC meetings, producing the weekly news sheet. And praying. This happens always. My thanks to all of you who pray, and give, and serve St Anne’s in so many ways. ## **Blessings for your partnership in Christ, Alison** The Revd Canon Alison Cox Vicar of St Anne’s, Sale 4 of 22 ## **Wardens Report** The churchwarden had a busy year attending all services, participating in regular weekly meetings, and overseeing the church buildings including St Francis and the former scout hut. Sadly, St Francis/Scout hut has been broken into few times and set fire to rubbish in the building Fire service called out by local residence. Resulting in having to either get somebody to secure or secure it myself. St Anne’s church boiler failed in March last year and it took till the end November to get it fixed and meant by the time it was fixed the frontend of the boiler had been replaced. General tasks on a regular weekly or monthly basis: The wardens have met weekly with Alison in church. Attended all services, either one warden or two. Visited the Scout hut and St Frances weekly to make sure they are secure. Replenished items such as bin bags, toilet rolls and handwash in buildings that need them. Put out and returned bins on weekly collection day. St Anne’s Church Support at school assembly in church as needed. Attended the Visitation service in St Mary’s Sale. Organised gutter cleaning. Organised Christmas tree decoration, tidying and removal. Organised and distributed church Service rotas for laptop, camera, welcome, duty warden. Organised stone circle area and stones outside church doors to be power cleaned. Supported with the organisation of Christmas Choir/ Fair Events. Set up and tidied away the Christmas nativity scene. Set up and tidied away the Easter Cross. Rock salt put on church paths leading to entrance before services when needed and made sure we had enough Organ buckets refilled when needed. St Anne’s Church Hall Arranged for the annual servicing for three church hall boilers and cooker. Sadly, one heating boiler failed. Requested a quote from supplier to get it fixed. Unfortunately, he is only allowed to install domestic and the gas meter in the hall is commercial. Organised cleaning of gutters. Tidied up of leaves outside. Timers regulated. Support with the Beer Festival which was a great success due to the fine weather we had. Former Scout Hut Check that hut is secure and if needed make it secure. St Francis Church Centre of 5 22 Store old chairs from the Church Hall & Church. Broken windows and doors covered with wood and fire exits secured with locks to stop people getting out other than the way they got in. If you would like to consider being a warden or would like to volunteer to help with the cleaning, gardening, keeping the refreshment area tidy and replenished and on a Sunday Laptop, Camera or welcome people into church. Some of the jobs that are outstanding from last year that volunteers could do 1) painter the choir door. 2)Tidy round the hall no need for a key. 3)Replace lights in hall ## Andrew. ## **Treasurers Report** 1. Income & Expense Accounts for 2025 The 2025 Income & Expense Accounts show Income as £128,638 and Expenses as £130,485 resulting a shortfall of £1,847, met from the Parish reserve account. This was a significant & welcome change from 2024, when there was a shortfall of £22,586. The biggest change factors were: A Decrease of c £10,300 on Buildings costs An Increase of c £6,500 in non-gift aided donations ## Notes: a.As in 2024, the Income & Expenses Accounts do not include the salaries of our Families & Children's Workers, and the Honorarium to the Parish Administrator, which are funded from the Future Foundations (“FF”) account. (Please see the FF Project Statement for full details of expenditure from that account). b.With a Parish reserve of only £335 at the start of 2026, meeting ongoing church running expenses in 2026 will require drawing on reserves from the FF deposit a/c. c.Also, the cost of the significant Church Hall upgrading works (painting in kitchen toilets & hall, replacing doors etc) which were started in 2025, were met in 2025 from the FF deposit (reserve) account. Further Church Hall upgrading works in 2026 have continued to be met from that account, albeit it is hoped to obtain grants to cover at least some of desired works (such as double glazing). of 6 22 ## 2.Expenses Expenses in 2025 were £130,485. The 3 largest areas of (unavoidable) expense amounted to £114,360 and were as follows: Parish Share 77,605 Buildings 24,375 Insurances & Licences 12,380 TotaL: 114,360 ## 3.Income Donations- Gift Aided down by c £1,500, whereas Non-Gift Aided up by c£6,000 Hall hiring Fees- When setting a 2025 Budget the PCC discussed the church’s difficult financial situation, and agreed to raise Church Hall hiring fees as from February 2025, which it was estimated would bring in extra rental income of around £8,000 during 2025. In the event the rental income only increased by c £220. |4.Bank Account Balances as at year end 2025|| |---|---| |Co-op Bank: Parish current account|£6,241| |Co-op Bank: Future Foundations current account|£4,811| |On deposit at CCLA (Parish reserve)|£335| |On deposit at CCLA (Future Foundations reserve)|£182,189| 5.MYFund Accounting (“MFA”) System Frustratingly, progress in transitioning on to the MFA online accounting system again proved minimal in of 2025, due to the promised level of support from the Diocese not being provided. However, whilst in Autumn our contact (the Assistant Accountant) left the Diocese , her new role has meant that she has been able to assist St Anne’s, as she now also works for DDL (who supply the MFA software) 2 days per month. I am pleased to report that this support was indeed given in late 2025, and has continued into 2026, resulting in significant progress, and it is hoped that a fully inputted & operational system will (at long last) finally be achieved this year. 6.Finally, I would again wish to thank Alison, and the Finance Team namely Andrew, Tim, Jackie & John, for all their help & support in dealing with the finances. Chris Jones Treasurer 7 of 22 ## **Report on the activities of Fair Trade** We continue to sell on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month and value your support and interest in fair trade matters. We were pleased to spread the Fairtrade message and sell food goods and crafts at the table top sale and the Christmas fair in 2025. As usual crafts came from the Justicia shop in Bolton on a sale or return basis which was very useful to us. We marked Fairtrade Sunday on 28 September with a focus on tea, and many people signed the petition to call on our government to protect human rights, tackle climate change and encourage businesses to improve the quality of life for the people who pick our tea. Over 20,000 people signed the petition. Thank you for your support. Government and supermarkets are listening………..there is still more to do……. Finances this year were stable and allowed us to send a donation of £150 to Transform Trade (previously Traidcraft Exchange) to support their work with inspirational producers transforming the tea, fashion and farming industries. ## Greater Manchester Fair Trade Network The network have registered as a Fairtrade community with the Fair Trade Foundation We meet regularly to swap ideas, share bulk buys and plan events, like the event in September at Chorlton Community Church. The local MP attended and along with the smoothie bike and a wide range of fairly traded goods on sale, eg footballs, a good time was had by all. The most popular buys this year; Tony’s chocolate, Alara muesli, and as ever Cafedirect Machu Pichu ground coffee which is served each Sunday and at other church gatherings. Thank you to the congregation and to our team for their unwavering support; Gill Crossley, Hilary Lawlor, Kerrie Hickman, Lynda Ronan, Howard and Janice Mason. ## **Overseas Group Report** Our aim is to assist St Anne’s to make links between our parish and the world-wide Church. We have three mission partners: USPG and through them, ‘Education for Change’ Sri Lanka; Trafford Youth for Christ (TYFC), Bible Society. Keeping the link strong with our mission partners USPG Overseas group members learned more about the work of USPG when Carol Miller, Regional Officer came to visit. It was here that we became curious about the Church of England’s Reparation Fund and decided to arrange an event in partnership with USPG to find out more. The Fund was ‘A step toward acknowledging historic ties to slavery’. The event in October was attended mainly by church members. We had well informed speakers, group discussion and interesting debate. We hope to follow this up a year later (October 2026) by providing an update for interested parties. of 8 22 Four of us from St Anne’s attended a USPG regional event at Chester Cathedral in October. It was useful to share and network with other USPG supporting parishes. TYFC On 16 February, we were very pleased to welcome Matthew Pryor, the newly appointed Director of TYFC, to speak at our 10 am service. A large group of us attended their annual fundraising event, a Quiz night. it was a fun occasion and raised much needed funds. Bible Society Osoba Otaigbe, the Regional Officer for the Bible Society has moved back into ministry this year so as we wait for a new officer we have used their excellent resources and distributed the informative newsletter. Alison ran the revised Bible course with a group from church. Feedback was very positive. Fundraising for our three link mission partners. We held cake sales again this year to raise funds for the three mission partners. Each sale raised over £100. Thank you for your support. People clearly appreciate the home baking each quarter so we will do the same in 2026. Lent Lunch March 2025. We raised over £300 for USPGs Gaza Hospital Appeal. Lent Study. Once again a small group of church members met for 6 weeks to study the USPG study guide, based on the Nicene Creed. Harvest. Boaz and Foodbank were very appreciative of the generous harvest gifts from church members. Members of the Overseas group: Sue Heath, Gill Crossley, Hilary Lawlor, Brian Durham, Claire Tattersall, Louise Pickford, Margaret Blowey, Alison Cox, Janice Mason. ## **Communication Report** We produced ten editions of the online eSpire magazine during the year: seven single month and two two-month issues. Readership is fairly small but we get enough comments to know that some members of the church and on its fringes appreciate it. We offer a mix of content on church life – local, national, international - social concern, humour and devotional. If you feel some contributors appear too frequently, the solution is in your own hands: we would like as many people as possible to offer material. But we are particularly grateful to regulars like Carol and Jackie for MU and Bridget, and to the school for keeping us in touch with what goes on there. I continue to maintain the salestanne.org website, trying to keep it current and accurate. All pages open, all links work, all contacts are current – unless of course you know different! Do tell us if anything needs changing. Rachel Boyle continues to look after our presence in social media – keeping Facebook live and relevant. Howard Mason of 9 22 ## **Christians Against Poverty - Sale Debt Advice Centre** It is a pleasure to be a partner with other churches in Sale running this worthwhile project. I am our church’s representative on the steering group. In March Debbie Walters left CAP and was replaced by Funa Joseph in May. Debbie lay the groundwork for the project, networking and promoting the service wherever she went in Sale. Funa has settled in really well and taken on board new CAP systems for managing people’s debt. It was good for our congregation to meet Funa when she joined our Sunday morning worship and provided an update on the work of the Centre. She is always in need of Befrienders to work with her to support clients through the process. A very worthwhile role. Over the year the Centre has developed a closer working relationship with the Partington Debt Advice Centre. Together they have 23 open cases. Three clients have become debt free and we rejoice with them. The new systems will shorten the time taken to manage debt. Please do ask for more information or leaflets to share with groups you belong to. There may be someone who needs the free help that CAP can offer to lift the weight of debt. And please pray for those struggling to cope, current clients and Funa. Thank you. Janice Mason ## **Mothers Union Report** ## Mother Union Report 2025 We had our usual party in January where we had Jacket Potatoes with Cheese, Beans, Tuna and various salad ingredients followed by Cheesecake and tea/Coffee. We spent the evening chatting, eating, exchanging Prayer Partner gifts and then had a Quiz and all who attended seemed to have had a good time. In February we held our Annual General Meeting where reports were read out, Accounts approved and the Committee elected for the next twelve months. There was no change in the Committee members. March saw us welcome the Rev. Becky Matthews from St. Paul's Church who spoke to us about her trip to Sri Lanka. This was very informative and interesting. As usual on the Saturday before Mothering Sunday our members spent part of the afternoon making Daffodil posies to be handed out to all on the Sunday. Attached to each posy was a small reading from the Bible, designed by Margaret Ward. 10 of 22 The April meeting fell in Holy Week so some members were in church on the Monday listening to The Glasshouse Choir. The May Speaker was Sarah Maunder from Stockdales, which is a Charity based in Sale. It was really interesting to find out all the work they do to help people have a form of independent living. They have various events during the year to raise funds and I personally made a number of knitted Snowmen that held a Ferrero Rocher. June saw us welcome Sarah Newton Smith who talked to us about the Charity ‘Early Essentials’. This Charity help Mothers who are finding things hard and we were able to donate a number a baby items which were welcomed with delight. This Charity was suggested to us by Olwyn Marlow. In July we had our usual meal out at the Boat House in Sale and I know that we all really enjoyed it, it was also a pleasure to have Mavis attend again. We started back in September with a Eucharist in church followed by a chat and tea and coffee with biscuits and home made cake. We stayed in church for this and didn’t move over to the hall. October saw us welcome Alison again to further demonstrate her Quilting. There were a few quilts having been started, so we voted on which one would be completed in time for the December Christmas Fair. It would then be raffled to raise funds for church. We had a change of plan for our November meeting and asked members if they would like to talk about things that were precious to them no matter how small, large, old or new. It was a really interesting evening. The year was completed by our Symposium in December. This is always a calm evening in the rush of Christmas. During this evening we were able to welcome Eileen Short who has has been a member of the Mothers Union for a good number of years and we are very happy to welcome her to our Branch. The Symposium was organised by Elizabeth again and Carol and I are extremely grateful for her efforts. During the year we also held the usual Moira Garnett award and this was produced by the children in Year 5 at St. Anne’s School. Carol and I are grateful for all the support we get from members. Jackie and Carol 2025. ## **Eco Group Report** The Eco group met most Tuesdays in term time throughout the year. We meet in church from 6 to 6,45pm. There are a dozen regular members of the group. We have been working toward the criteria for the A Rocha Silver Eco award, already holding the bronze level. The five areas are Worship and teaching, buildings and energy, land and nature, community and global engagement and lifestyle. Members have attended a carbon literacy workshop run by a church in Salford, A eco church celebration day at Chester Cathedral and a eco Christmas craft day run by Chester Diocese. During the year we organised three fundraising events, a quiz night in March, Garden party in June and a Christmas craft session in November. We raised £770 for church funds. Margaret Ward gave a hanging basket demonstration in May , the event raised £155 which was used to buy plants for around the church. They were planted by the eco group on the day of the garden party. We also asked for donations of bulbs which were planted around the church in November. 11 of 22 Carol Thomas has continued to feed the birds on the church field, Thank you Carol. We collected used postage stamps for USPG, empty printer cartridges for Water aid and Candle wax for recycling. We have stopped collecting empty blister packs as these can now be taken to Boots in Sale, but they only accept small amounts at a time so it is more appropriate for people to take their own. Our group members applied to Trafford council for litter pickers and we held two litter picks in the local area, the first one uncovering a samurai sword which was collected by the police! The group was asked to help judge two eco competitions held in school, thanks to Mrs Ruddy for inviting us. As a group we are committed to helping our church congregation to care for the earth as a key part of our Christian faith in response to the climate and nature crisis. ## Louise Pickford St Anne’s Eco Group Leader. ## **Deanery Synod Report** ## February 2025 This meeting was held at St Anne’s the choir opened the meeting, singing ‘You Lord are in this place’ and closed the meeting by singing ‘Guide me oh thou great redeemer’ Nadine Wright, Diocesan Racial Justice Officer addressed the meeting. Nadine was appointed to this new role for Chester Diocese, joining the Outreach team, to narrow the gap of racial disparities in our churches, schools and workplaces. Nadine was speaking about how to breakdown cultural barriers and interspersed her talk with topics for questions to think about culture and diversity to discuss in small groups. Christine Sargent having fulfilled the role of Deanery Secretary for 13 years is standing down and Rev Andrew Knight asked in anyone in the parishes is willing to take over from Christine. Andrew reminded those present to ensure all PCC members in their parish undertake safeguarding training, both new members and existing members. Daud Gill gave an interesting presentation about his mission trip Pakistan he reported that it went well and they were given a very warm welcome. Andrew clarified the Church of England’s position on the use of gluten-free wafers and non-alcoholic wine, it is acceptable for both of these to be used at Communion. ## June 2025 Revd Steve Rankin, Vicar of St Mary’s, Sale Co-ordinator of Sale Myriad hub, supporting lay-led church planting and new worshipping communities. Steve provided an interesting presentation and overview on the subject. He described how planting a congregation can take many forms including the example from Revd Andrew Knight on the growth of a congregation in a care home in Partington that has grown from a few people to over 30 12 of 22 regular attendees including residents, their families, care home staff and other local residents. The meeting discussed ideas for the future of growing the church, these included the use of Zoom, welcoming people of faith from overseas and new children’s activities, including building on ‘Open the Book’. ‘Speak Out Stay Safe’ is a new initiative and identity for Safeguarding in the diocese, we are encouraged to move our safeguarding response from being reactive to proactive and the responsibility of all church members, which will require a shift in culture in our parishes. Many resources are available to help churches make this move. Simon Wilson reported on the discussions taken place at the General Synod meeting in February 2025. The key points were Safeguarding accountability; the new clergy conduct measure; the appointments or lack of appointments being made in vacant bishoprics. Clergy pensions, clergy striped national measures. ## October 2025 There was a talk from the Central Ministry Team; Rev Jenny Bridgman, Rev Simon Chesters and Karen MacMillan. The team outlined their work and the set up of the Diocesan Ministry Team in networking, resourcing, training, discerning and support in all areas. The meeting broke into small discussion groups to share share faith journeys, callings and discipleship. We considered the power of invitation and who has encouraged us on our faith journeys. A tribute was paid to Father Michael Burgess who has sadly passed away, Michael, faithfully served his parish for 34 years, Michael will be dearly missed. On Sunday October 19th St Anne’s Sale held a workshop on the Church of England and the Slavery Reparation Fund in conjunction with USPG. Church Commissioners are trying to address the past wrongs in its historic links to the transatlantic slave trade by investing in a better future. This event was well attended and Revd Alison has a 30 min presentation from the event that is available for others to use. During September 2026 all three of our Bishops will visit Bowden Deanery to encourage, support and interact with a wide variety of groups, activities and locations in our parishes. The programme for the visits will be agreed before the summer. Following the attack on the Manchester Synagogue we continue to pray for our Jewish neighbours and local communities. In terms of our own safety Jane Please, Diocesan Secretary, assured us that there is no indication of any increased concerns around other religious groups, but it is good to remain vigilant around church buildings and events and reviewing risk assessments. Hilary Lawlor 13 of 22 ## **Future Foundations Project Report 2025** The main emphasis in 2025 regards the Future Foundations project has been disposing of the land on Budworth Road. A new lead officer from Fisher German (the firm appointed by the PCC to oversee the sale of our land) was appointed. He had different ideas about how to proceed so we followed his advice. We erected fencing to show where the boundary of our site was. In May, the church hosted a consultation day by Trafford Council Strategic Planning team. We bombarded them with questions about their rejection of our plans for both the church and the land on Budworth Road. The main outcome of this was to discover that they agreed that the Protected Open Space line running through our building (St Francis) on Budworth Road should not have been placed there. Alison filled in the necessary forms as part of their consultation of the future use of land in Trafford. By November, we heard back from Trafford Council that they accept the removal of the Protected Open Space demarcation and have also allocated our land for housing. In March 2025, a wooden door from the vicarage garden was placed against the church wall in the exact spot that the fire door that we wish to have would be. We want local people to see want this looks like. So far, nobody has complained about the presence of this door. Once we accept an offer for sale of the land, we can give our attention back to the plans for the church redevelopment. Alison Cox, PCC Chair and lead for the Future Foundations Project ## **Safeguarding Report** Safeguarding issues in the Church of England continue to make headlines. Chester Diocese Safeguarding Team members and the Bishops in Chester Diocese have been there to help and support the Parish. Courses have been arranged either in person or online to give every member who has a role in the church the tools to respond appropriately. With the introduction of Sunday School, Shauna Hancock has now got additional help, and they have been vetted by “Thirty-one eight” for EDBS and undertaken safeguard training. We were visited by Claire R, Safeguarding officer, who 14 of 22 viewed our church, which gave her an understanding of the problems we are faced with in making the facilities fit for purpose. Regular meetings with Rev Alison engage in filling in the tasks on the Parish Dashboard. It is in Stages. St Anne’s has now progressed through to the next stage. Think we have cracked it- no way- red lights come up on the previous stages – and these require reviewing. It works on a traffic light system Green- completed/ Amber- upcoming or need to complete. This ensures our regular/active involvement. There were no new members to the PCC and their EDBS’s remained current. Chester Diocese Safeguarding Team advised that additional training was available. Those who wished to take up the offer these are on the Safeguarding web page. Remember -Important - EDBS and DBS certificates are your property not that of the employer. The “Update Service Gov.UK” is no longer being used- It was found that the system let a few undesirables obtain employment in the Diocese. Monitoring continues and historical cases are being reviewed. Rev Alison and I went to Chester Cathedral for the launch of an initiative being rolled out by the Diocese. “Speak Out! Stay Safe!”. The posters were shared monthly in the “Spire” and put on the notice board in the Church Hall. Literature/booklets/ and pocket-sized cards were ordered and a delay in receiving them has resulted in us not issuing them. Propose doing this after the next PAGM. The bespoke email set up ensures that the Safeguarding Team at St Anne’s can act and respond to issues of concern if Elizabeth or Rev Alison are away. Personal telephone numbers are not displayed on the posters as concerns need to be tracked by the Safeguarding Team at Chester Diocese. Anne Hunt and Shauna Hancock have been added as contacts. It is to be noted that concerns are referred to Chester as they have the legal authority to conduct investigations. The bespoke email: safeguarding.stannessale@gmail.com At St Anne’s, unless it has been reported to other bodies who have not been able to share their findings for legal reasons has not had any safeguarding issues. Safeguarding information is shown in prominent places- The Church notice boards/ weekly news sheet/ Church magazine-The Spire. / Web page. Safeguarding St Anne’s takes its duty and obligation to protect all, extremely seriously. St Anne’s have adopted the national Church of England's robust procedures and guidelines. You can find out more about the national policies and procedures at www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding. If you have any safeguarding concerns or issues of a safeguarding matter, then you can find useful contact information on the Chester Diocese website. Our local contact is: safeguarding.stannessale@gmail.com. – Posters in the Church and Hall has a comprehensive list of contact details for those who need help. If you know anyone who is in danger, PLEASE phone- don’t hesitate as you could save a life.Processes are in place to ensure the reporter’s safety. Thank you for being a caring Parish. ## Elizabeth Mills 15 of 22 ## **Sacristans Report** We have had a good but busy year. The serving team continue to serve on Sundays and occasional Holy Days - Maundy Thursday, Good Friday Ascension Day and Christmas Day. Unfortunately, we didn’t recruit any new servers this year. Daniel Bainton is taking three months off, but I very much hope he will be back with us soon. Claire unfortunately resigned from the serving team for personal reasons. Can I also thank the people who volunteer to do the intercessions, healing, chalice, and bible readings. Thank you so much for all you do, we could not manage without you. We could still do with a few more servers and intercessors to join our team, so if you, or anyone else are interested in taking on this ministry, then please do speak to Alison, Olwyn or myself - you would be made very welcome and be given full training. Thanks to everyone for their dedication these ministries we couldn't manage without you. Can I say special thank you to Daniel for his continuing support I certainly could not manage without you and hope you are back soon. . Finally, many thanks to Alison, Olwyn and Andrew for all their love and support it is so appreciated. Sue Heath, Sacristan/Head Server ## **Families & Children’s Work** ## Junior Church Since relaunching Junior Church (previously Sunday School), we’ve been encouraged to see children attending regularly and engaging well with sessions. We are building strong, positive relationships with them, and our time together has focused on Bible stories, discussion, and helping them explore faith in a way that feels accessible and meaningful. ## Laura Ellison In September, we welcomed Laura as a second Families and Children’s Worker. She has been a wonderful addition to the team - bringing creativity, energy, and a genuine heart for St Anne’s. We feel very blessed to have her alongside us in this work. ## Toddlers Our toddler group continues to grow in strength, particularly in the relationships we are building with parents and carers. In November, we said goodbye to Janet Plumb after many years of faithful service, and we are so grateful for all she has given. Since then, we have introduced a new structure to the group, including a dedicated prayer corner, a ‘book of the week’ with biblical themes, and a weekly craft to help bring the stories to life. ## Social Media During December, we ran a social media campaign called Re al Life Elf on the Shelf. Using a familiar idea, we shared daily videos that told stories of kindness, hope, and joy through a Christian lens. “Crinkle the Elf” was a great success, reaching over 18,000 people on Facebook. This has led to increased engagement, with new families attending Christmas services and connecting with church life both in person and online. 16 of 22 ## Volunteers We are thankful to now have a growing team of volunteers supporting the toddler group, including help in the kitchen and within sessions. Their support is invaluable and helps us run safely and effectively. ## Christmas Services This year we saw record numbers of children and families at our Christmas events. Highlights included a well-attended Nativity service, a fantastic Christmas fair, a joyful toddler party, and two full Christingle services. It was a real encouragement to see so many families engaging with church. ## Looking Ahead In the coming year, our focus is on continuing to build and develop Junior Church, with more support and greater variety for the children. We hope to create opportunities to split age groups where possible, ensuring teaching is age-appropriate, and to involve the wider congregation more in what we are doing. After Easter, we will be introducing a short ‘mini ministry time’ following the toddler group on Fridays. This will be a 15-minute session for children and parents, including songs, a Bible story, and prayer. It’s a natural next step in sharing faith more intentionally, and we would really value your prayers as we prepare to launch this. We are also planning a summer fundraiser and will continue to build relationships within our congregation, our church school, and the wider community. ## Shauna Hancock St Anne’s Families & Children’s Worker ## **Headteachers Report** |NUMBERS ON ROLL|Pupil Numbers|KEY PASTORAL
|Pupil Numbers| |---|---|---|---| |Total Number on roll|217
|English as an additional language|75| |Nursery|27
|Special Educational Needs
|38| |Reception
|14
|SEND – EHC Plan|10| |Year 1
|27
|FSM – Free School Meals
|41| |Year 2
|19
|Pupil Premium
|44| |Year 3
|29
|Medical Conditions|30| |Year 4
|33
|Looked After Children (LAC)|0| |Year 5
|33
|Previous LAC
|3| |Year 6
|32||| Pupil numbers are falling which is a pattern that can be seen in the majority of Trafford primary schools. Pupil numbers are falling which is a pattern that can be seen in the majority of Trafford primary schools. 17 of 22 School Update SIAMS Inspection – January 2026 St Anne’s received an exceptional SIAMS inspection report after their inspection in January. This reflects the strength, faith and dedication of our whole school community. This outcome is the result of a truly collective effort — staff, leaders, governors, parents, pupils and our church family working together to live out our shared vision, “Let Your Light Shine.” The inspector was deeply impressed by the distinctive Christian character of the school and the impact it has on pupils, families and the wider community. He encouraged us to share these strengths beyond our school. The inspection highlighted many notable strengths, including: - A clearly expressed and embedded Christian vision that shapes every aspect of - school life. - Collective worship at the heart of the school, nurturing pupils’ spirituality and moral - development. - Strong relationships grounded in Christian love, resulting in exceptional wellbeing - support for adults and pupils. - A rich, inclusive curriculum rooted in Christian values, supporting all pupils, - including those with SEND and those who are vulnerable. - High-quality Religious Education that deepens pupils’ understanding of Christianity - and other worldviews. The report also celebrates how our vision is lived out daily through worship, curriculum and relationships, leading to exemplary behaviour, strong community links and a deep sense of belonging. The inspector praised the close partnership between the school and church, and the way pupils are encouraged to serve others, seek justice and live out their faith. We are overwhelmed by the success of this inspection and give thanks for God’s guidance throughout this journey. We remain fully committed to ensuring that every individual continues to flourish and to “let their light shine.” The full report can be read here - https://www.st-annes.trafford.sch.uk/key-information/ siams ## School Data Our school’s academic data can be viewed online: https://www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk/school/106343/st-anne's-cofeprimary-school/primary ## SIAMS Inspection – January 2026 St Anne’s received an exceptional SIAMS inspection report after their inspection in January. This reflects the strength, faith and dedication of our whole school community. This outcome is the result of a truly collective effort — staff, leaders, governors, parents, pupils and our church family working together to live out our shared vision, “Let Your Light Shine.” The inspector was deeply impressed by the distinctive Christian character of the school and the impact it has on pupils, families and the wider community. He encouraged us to share these strengths beyond our school. 18 of 22 The inspection highlighted many notable strengths, including: - A clearly expressed and embedded Christian vision that shapes every aspect of - school life. - Collective worship at the heart of the school, nurturing pupils’ spirituality and moral - development. - Strong relationships grounded in Christian love, resulting in exceptional wellbeing - support for adults and pupils. - A rich, inclusive curriculum rooted in Christian values, supporting all pupils, - including those with SEND and those who are vulnerable. - High-quality Religious Education that deepens pupils’ understanding of Christianity - and other worldviews. The report also celebrates how our vision is lived out daily through worship, curriculum and relationships, leading to exemplary behaviour, strong community links and a deep sense of belonging. The inspector praised the close partnership between the school and church, and the way pupils are encouraged to serve others, seek justice and live out their faith. We are overwhelmed by the success of this inspection and give thanks for God’s guidance throughout this journey. We remain fully committed to ensuring that every individual continues to flourish and to “let their light shine.” The full report can be read here - https://www.st-annes.trafford.sch.uk/key-information/ siams ## School Data Our school’s academic data can be viewed online: https://www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk/school/106343/st-anne's-cofeprimary-school/primary ## Teaching Team |Nursery|Mrs Madeley| |---|---| |Reception|Mrs Peacock| |Year 1|Mrs Meredith| |Year 2|Mrs McLoughlin and Mrs Ruddy| |Year 3|Miss Hammond| |Year 4|Mr Ellaway| |Year 5|Mr Owen (M, T) and Mrs Kelly-Muldoon (W, Th, F)| |Year 6|Mr Speedie| |PPA
|Mr Furness| ||Miss O’Gorman (supply teacher)| |Nursery|Mrs Sullivan| |Reception|Mrs Harris| |Year 1|Mrs Burke| |Year 2|Mrs Rudge| ||Miss Thomas| |Year 3|Mrs Kerr| |Year 4|Miss Wright| 19 of 22 Year 5 Mrs Barron / Mr Furness Year 6 Mrs Lloyd Our Site Manager has handed in his resignation. Ashley has worked at St. Anne’s for 9 years and is leaving to pursue new opportunities. There is currently an advert out for his role and we anticipate that interviews will take place in the last week of this half term. We thank Ashley for his service to St. Anne’s. Alongside these four strategic priorities, the school development plan identifies several ongoing whole-school priorities. These include maintaining a strong focus on attendance, continuing to strengthen safeguarding systems and training, embedding oracy and language development, raising standards in writing, and further improving parental engagement through workshops, communication and shared learning opportunities. Good progress is being made in each of these areas, and they will remain key areas of focus as we move into the next phase of the school development cycle. ## School Development Plan School Development Plan for 2025–2026 identifies four key strategic priorities for the year: 1.Reviewing and refining the St Anne’s curriculum to ensure it continues to meet the needs of our community and prepares for future national curriculum and inspection changes. - 2.Improving outcomes in mathematics, with a particular focus on fluency, assessment and mastery teaching approaches. 3.Enhancing pupil wellbeing, ensuring that pupils feel supported, resilient and able to engage positively in learning. - 4.Strengthening transition arrangements, particularly between Nursery, Reception and Year 1, to ensure children are well prepared for the next stage of learning. Key School Events Fundraising Children in Need Roberts’ Recycling Guide Dogs for the Blind Shoe Aid Collection SEND Horse Riding Sport Competitions/Events Gymnastics Festival Y3 Friendship Festival Y6 Lacrosse Festival Inclusion Festival Y5/6 Basketball Competition – winners Y5 Sports Hall Athletics Y4 Swimming Sessions 20 of 22 Y4 Aqua Splash Festival Y4 and Y5 Swimming Gala Lacrosse Skills – Y4 Sale and Partington Football League B Team Football League Girls Football League Swimming Lessons – Year 4 and Year 5 Bikeability Learn to ride Sports Day Cheshire Cricket Workshops Santa Dash 10-PIN bowling BMX Sessions SEND gymnastics Visits/Visitors KS1 Animal Roadshow Chester Roman Trip – Y3/4 EYFS Ugly Bug Ball Bible Exhibition – Easter and Christmas Magistrates Visit EYFS Local Area Visits Library Visits Y6 – Crucial Crew Y5/6 Church Visit – Eucharist Y1/2 Church Visit Y6 Robinwood Residential Girls’ in Construction Workshops Show Racism the Red Card Y3 Trafford Singing Festival Ukulele and guitar Concerts Library Visits Y6 Chester Cathedral Leavers Service EYFS Farm Visit Mock Trial Comptition Once Upon a Remix – Reception Nursery Rhyme Event Y6 Beach Trip Allotment Visits Worthington Park Visit Opera – Y5 Y5 Singing Festival Events Parents Evenings x 2 Parent Book Share Mornings x 2 Y6 Production Head Pupil, Eco Warriors and Pupil Parliament elections Primary PE Leadership Academy 21 of 22 Whole School RE Art Project Black History Month Harvest Festival Christmas Fair Reception Nativity Nursery Christmas Singalong Christmas Carols Christmas Parties Pantomime – FOSA Holi Celebrations Violin and Cello concerts Compass – parent workshops Mental Wellbeing Parent Workshops Phonics Workshops New Parents Meeting Christmas Dinner STEM Day World Book Day Choir Performance at Worthington Park and Church Fair World Book Day events Easter Events – Easter Egg hunt, bonnet parade Show Racism the Red Card EYFS Mouse Club Monthly coffee horsebox for parents FOSA Events – Friends of St. Anne’s (PTA) At St. Anne’s we have a fantastic group of parents and supporters who organise a range of exciting fundraising activities. Some of the organised events this year have included: Clothing Collection (always the first Thursday of the half term) 2 x Discos Foam Party Father Christmas visit Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Present Wreath Workshop Summer and Christmas Fair 22 of 22 ## **Accounts 2025** |Row||Account|2025|2024|Variance| |---|---|---|---|---|---| ||1|Exceptional Income|0|0|| ||2|Surplus from Sale of Assets|0|0|| ||3|Income|128,638|122,633|6,005| ||4|Gift Aided Donations|47,265|48,663|-1,398| ||5|Envelopes|2,735|4,535|| ||6|Plates|0|0|| ||7|Appeals|1,240|160|| ||8|un-restricted|1,240|160|| ||9|restricted|0|0|| ||10|Funeral|10|0|| ||11|Wedding|0|0|| ||12|Baptism|79|64|| ||13|Standing Orders|43,201|43,904|| ||14|Non-Gift Aided Donations|30,169|23,672|6,497| ||15|Envelopes|490|623|| ||16|Plate|968|962|| ||17|Funeral|0|9|| ||18|Wedding|0|55|| ||19|Donnations Restricted|0|0|| ||20|Appeals|14,571|12,444|| ||21|un-restricted|14,017|11,538|| ||22|restricted|554|906|| ||23|Legacies|1,378|0|| ||24|Baptism|0|14|| ||25|Votive Candles|136|144|| ||26|Standing Orders|12,625|9,422|| ||27|Fund Raising|7,404|5,596|1,808| ||28|Lunch and Coffee morning|0|0|| ||29|restricted|0|0|| ||30|non-restricted|0|0|| ||31|Lent lunches|0|0|| ||32|Other|7,404|5,596|| ||33|restricted (non-GA)|197|288|| ||34|restricted (GA)|0|0|| ||35|non-restricted (non-GA)|7,207|5,308|| ||36|non-restricted (GA)|0|0|| ||37|Trading|33|321|-288| ||38|Adverts magazines|0|0|| ||39|Sales magazines|0|153|| ||40|Bookstall sales|33|168|| ||41|Fees|4,576|4,890|-314| ||42|Wedding/Bann Certificates|166|246|| Page 1 of 5 |Row||Account|2025|2024|Variance| |---|---|---|---|---|---| ||43|Wedding Fees|678|629|| ||44|Church Funeral|2,560|2,854|| ||45|Crematorium|1,172|1,161|| ||46|Rent Income|22,212|21,538|674| ||47|St Anne Church|400|1,360|| ||48|St Anne Hall|21,812|20,178|1,634| ||49|St Francis|0|0|| ||50|Gift Aid Rebate|15,517|15,141|376| ||51|HMRC Rebate|15,517|15,141|| ||52|VAT Rebate|0|0|| ||53|VAT Rebate|0|0|| ||54|Reimbursed Expenses|0|0|| ||55|Reimbursed Expenses|0|0|| ||56|Interest|0|1,002|-1,002| ||57|Un-restricted|0|1,002|| ||58|Restricted|0|0|| ||59|Designated|0|0|| ||60|Sum Up|0|0|| ||61|Internet Income|0|0|| ||62|Ticket Sales|949|1,810|-861| ||63|Income-Uncategorised|513|0|| ||64|Banking|0|0|| Page 2 of 5 |Row||Account|2025|2024|Variance| |---|---|---|---|---|---| ||65|Expenses|130,485|144,729|-14,244| ||66|Cost of Generating Funds|0|907|-907| ||67|Holiday at home|0|457|| ||68|restricted|0|0|| ||69|Un-restricted|0|457|| ||70|Messy church|0|0|| ||71|Other|0|450|| ||72|Parish Share|77,605|75,344|2,260| ||73|Parish Share|77,605|75,344|| ||74|Costs of Clergy|1,226|2,556|-1,330| ||75|Assignment|508|1,658|| ||76|Clergy Expenses|718|898|| ||77|Insurance & Licences|12,380|11,895|485| ||78|Builidings insurance|11,392|10,801|| ||79|St Anne|10,102|9,598|| ||80|St Francis/Scout Hut|1,290|1,203|| ||81|St Anne Hall|0|0|| ||82|Music Rights|988|1,094|| ||83|St Anne|137|766|| ||84|St Francis|0|0|| ||85|St Anne Hall|851|328|| ||86|Church Running Expenses|2,791|2,825|-34| ||87|Altar|196|121|| ||88|Worship|1,987|2,078|| ||89|Music (restricted)|387|0|| ||90|Music (non-restricted)|0|246|| ||91|Organ/Piano|220|380|| ||92|Funerals|0|0|| ||93|Readers etc.|0|0|| ||94|Children's Ministry|520|396|-124| ||95|School Expenses (excl. donations)|520|321|| ||96|School Donations|0|0|| ||97|Child and Family worker|0|75|| ||98|Cash payments|0|0|0| ||99|Young Choir St Anne|0|0|| ||100|Warden cash|0|0|| ||101|Magazine & Bookstalls|289|0|-289| ||102|Magazines expenses|125|0|| ||103|Boookstalls expenses|164|0|| ||104|Salaries & Wages|6,218|7,016|799| ||105|Assistant Priest|0|0|| ||106|Organist Wages|0|0|| ||107|Choir lead|2,100|2,700|| ||108|Organist Fees|2,320|2,683|| ||109|Verger Fees|0|0|| ||110|Hall Cleaner|1,798|1,633|| ||111|Other|0|0|| Page 3 of 5 |Row||Account|2025|2024|Variance| |---|---|---|---|---|---| ||112|Church Donations|870|1,538|668| ||113|Missionary Societies|0|0|| ||114|Un-restricted|0|0|| ||115|Restricted|0|0|| ||116|Relief & development|0|0|| ||117|Home missions|0|1,538|| ||118|Secular Charities|0|0|| ||119|restricted|0|0|| ||120|Un-restricted|870|0|| ||121|Fees|906|3,901|2,995| ||122|Fees|906|3,901|| ||123|Management & Administration|5,103|5,229|125| ||124|Equipment Hire|1,306|1,693|| ||125|Legal & Professional fees|0|0|| ||126|Bank comission|48|48|| ||127|Printing & Stationary|167|63|| ||128|Other admin costs|3,582|3,424|| ||129|Buildings|22,577|33,121|10,544| ||130|St Anne|9,495|18,104|| ||131|Major Building Works|0|0|| ||132|Maintenance|137|1,428|| ||133|Fixtures & Fittings|0|0|| ||134|Fixtures & Fittings un-restricted|0|0|| ||135|Fixtures & Fittings restricted|0|0|| ||136|Churchyard upkeep|503|5,105|| ||137|Water|397|291|| ||138|Gas|6,313|9,819|| ||139|Electricity|2,145|1,461|| ||140|St Francis|275|2,691|| ||141|Maintenance|0|1,536|| ||142|Ground upkeep|0|0|| ||143|Water|185|349|| ||144|Gas|90|806|| ||145|Electricity|0|0|| ||146|Vicarage|3,091|2,818|| ||147|Concil Tax|2,574|2,397|| ||148|Water|517|421|| ||149|Maintenance|0|0|| ||150|St Anne Hall|9,716|9,000|| ||151|Maintenance|3,891|2,314|| ||152|Water|736|374|| ||153|Gas|3,626|4,160|| ||154|Electricity|1,463|2,154|| ||155|Scout Hut|1|508|| ||156|Maintenance|0|170|| ||157|Water|1|136|| ||158|Gas|0|0|| ||159|Electricity|0|201|| Page 4 of 5 |Row
Account
2025
2024
Variance|Row
Account
2025
2024
Variance| |---|---| |160
0
0
Expenses-uncategorised|| ||| ||128,638
122,633
130,485
144,729
Income
Expenses| ||-1,847
-22,096
Excess/(Deficit) of
income over
expenditure| ||| ||| ||| Page 5 of 5 ## **Independent Examiner’s Report to the PCC of St. Anne, Sale with St. Francis, Sale Moor** This report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31st December 2023, which are set out herewith is in respect of an examination carried out under Regulation 3(3) of the Church Accounting Regulations (‘the regulations’) and s.43 of The Charities Act 1993 (‘the act’). As members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts; you consider that the audit requirements of Regulation 3(3) of the regulations and s.43(2) of the Act do not apply. It is my responsibility to issue this report of those accounts in accordance with the terms of Regulation 25 of the Regulations and Regulation 7 of the Charities (Accounts & Reports) Regulations 1995. My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission under s.43(7) of the Act and to be found in the guidance from the CBF. The examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It also includes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts. In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: (1) Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with s.41 of the Act; and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with the requirements of the Act, as also contained in the Regulations have not been met; or (2) To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. ## **Darren Briscoe Independent Examiner** ... Approved by the Parochial Church Council on the 2026 And signed on its behalf by: ......................................... **Alison Cox, Chairperson** .......................................... **Member**