## The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Stretton St Matthew’s
## **Trustee Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year ending 31[st] December 2020**
Registered Charity Number: 1132920
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## St. Matthew’s Church
St. Matthew’s Church is situated in the village of Stretton in Warrington with the parish boundaries encompassing Appleton and Stretton, and borders Appleton Thorn and St Cross Church which is within the Benefice. The Parish of St Matthew’s Stretton is in the Deanery of Great Budworth and is part of the Diocese of Chester.
The Church is a Grade II listed building with a rich heritage dating back to 1827.
The Church is built in red sandstone with Westmorland slate roofs and has a bell tower accommodating a ring of eight bells. Their rich melodic tones can be heard all over the Parish summoning people to services and celebrating special events.
The Parish consists of both urban and semi-rural areas and is growing with new housing estates in the process of being built. This is an exciting opportunity for the Church to outreach further into new communities.
St Matthew’s Church of England Primary School is an integral part of the Church family. It is located next to the Church which facilitates the use of the Church by the School. This allows children of all ages to familiarise themselves with the building, not just for faith-related activities, but for its history, architecture and heritage.
The Church Hall is co-located next to the School. It is used by a number of local groups such as Brownies, Stretton Parish Council and the Bridge Club as well as Church groups. During the weekdays, it is used by both Pre-School and Link Club which offer before and after School care. The Church is committed to assisting these groups in order that key worker and vulnerable children can attend school and that younger children of working parents can be supported.
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## The Vicar’s Report – the Reverend Alan Jewell
2020: The year began like any other, but on the 16[th] March, the Prime Minister went on television to announce that all “non-essential contact” between people should stop. This meant that Churches had to shut with immediate effect, and that weddings and baptisms could not take place (except in emergencies).
Burials and cremations would still happen at the graveside or crematorium, but without a service in Church, and with only a handful of people in attendance. Even clergy were not allowed to go into Church to pray.
Mothering Sunday was the first big casualty. Instead of welcoming people to their mother church, we went online for prayers, streamed live on Facebook. It was a steep learning curve for all of us, but we got used to having worship led from the Vicarage, rather than in Church. A team of people from both Churches were willing to take part, and we learned some new skills as we faced new challenges.
Legislation, guidance and advice followed on a regular basis, sometimes changing from one day to the next. We lived through cycles of lockdown and the easing of restrictions. Risk assessments were completed. Churches were cleaned. Hand sanitiser was purchased. Some services resumed. As well as online worship, which reached people beyond our usual congregation, we had opportunities to try new things, including an outdoor Christmas Carol Service.
We took steps towards re-ordering our building in support of our vision: pews were removed, and new flooring installed. When we are able to re-open fully, we hope this new space will provide a valuable resource for our community (not just the congregation).
It is too soon to say what the Church has learned from this strange year. Some wondered what had happened to the Church when there were no Sunday services. We carried on though, even without access to our buildings. The Church has always been the people and not the places where we meet. I am grateful for the love and generosity that have been shown through these strange days. I am very grateful to all those who have risen to the challenges that we have faced. I am hopeful that the Church will find new vision and new life as we move towards a post-pandemic world.
Who knows what the year ahead holds? As someone has said:
_I don’t know what the future may hold, but I know who holds the future._
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## Aim and Purpose.
## Aim
The primary object of all Parochial Church Councils (PCCs) is the promotion of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC has the responsibility to co-operate with the incumbent – the Reverend Alan Jewell – “in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.” (The PCC (Powers) Measure 1956).
At St. Matthew’s the mission statement is “Sharing the love of Jesus with all through friendship, prayer and service”. The Church exists to serve its Parish – the whole local Community – not just its congregation.
## Structure, governance and management
The Parochial Church Council is a corporate body established by the Church of England and is a Registered Charity (Charity No. 1132920). The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council (Powers) Measure 1956, the Church Representation Rules 2011 and the Charities Act 2011.
Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting by those on the electoral roll, in accordance with the Church Representation Rules and the Charity Commission Guidance. They are the charity trustees who are “persons having the general control and management of the administration of the charity” (Charities Act 2011).
The PCC is chaired by the Vicar and meets monthly with a business meeting alternating with a discussion meeting comprising of one or two agenda items only. Business meetings focus primarily on the operational and financial management of the Church, with the sub-committees which have been established reporting formally on their activities. The PCC has the responsibility of managing the Church estate, including the Church Hall, and for parish finances and therefore this can predominate meetings. In order for more focused discussions, alternate meetings on such items as development, strategy and governance have taken place. This has the dual benefit of more time being allocated to in-depth discussion and educationally for newer PCC members.
Recruitment, selection and induction for PCC members and all volunteers is in place to ensure safe recruitment and support. The Parish Safeguarding Officer maintains an active database ensuring DBS checks are undertaken and maintained, and that all PCC members complete the appropriate level of safeguarding training and reports back to
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the PCC.
The PCC has complied with the duty under Section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016, fully recognising its duty to have due regard to the House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
The PCC are fully aware of their responsibilities under Health and Safety legislation to ensure effective risk assessments and policies and procedures are in place. Guidance, best practice and policies from government, charity and ecclesiastical sources are reviewed and implemented as soon as possible. Training is supported when required. During the year the following served as members of the PCC:
**Ex Officio** Revd Alan Jewell* **Licensed Workers** Sheila Goulston* **Church Warden** Michele Gwillim* Stephen Edwards* **Lay Representatives** Linda Buckley* **on The Deanery Synod** Stephen Edwards
## **Elected Members**
Elected until 2020 Laura Booth (until 15.10.2020) Barbara Hamilton (until 15.10.2020) Richard Johnson (until 15.10.2020)
Elected until 2021 Catherine Edwards Alison Hughes Rose Jewell
Elected until 2022 Chris Ellson Kath Holbourn* Carol Rylett Jenny Snodgrass Neville Snodgrass
*Standing Committee membership
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The PCC is assisted in its working by a Finance Sub-Group; Fundraising Committee which focused on the Big Welcome Project fundraising; Fabrics Committee and the Church Hall Management Committee.
The Sub-Committee membership is voluntary with PCC members agreeing to assist with the work required in their specific area in order that the PCC is given detailed information on which to base decisions. The Sub-Groups do not have executive responsibility. The Church Hall Management Committee is responsible for the operational management of the Church Hall and the management of bookings.
St Matthew’s is represented on the Deanery Synod by the Vicar and two lay members (with one vacancy). The Deanery Synod is an intermediary between the PCC and Diocesan Synod and usually meets three times per year. In 2020, the planned Synod meeting in March was cancelled due to lockdown and the following two were held via Zoom. In September, there was a presentation by the Diocesan Director of Vocations and notification of changes in the number of Parish lay representatives. The November meeting saw the election of one of our representatives, Linda Buckley, appointed as Lay Chair. The Parish Share was announced as increasing by 1% from April 2021. There was feedback from the Diocesan Synod and an account of the Presidential Address by the new Bishop of Chester who said the key words for the Diocese were **Simpler, Humbler, Bolder** .
Formal training for the PCC has been constrained by the pandemic and inability to meet. The planned PCC half day seminar has been unable to take place, but several PCC members did attend an online training with other Churches’ PCCs on the role of the PCC and improving effectiveness.
A key responsibility of the PCC is to identify how our activities are focused on achieving public benefit and positively impacting on the lives of people in our congregation and community.
When planning our activities for the year, our incumbent, Alan Jewell and the PCC have considered the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the specific guidance on “Charities for the advancement of religion” (2011).
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## Objectives and Activities
Our main objectives for the year were set building on work undertaken over previous years, as well as those specific to 2020 with our redevelopment plans.
Growing our Church across the age range in our Community
- Looking at how we run services and the type of services which appeal to a wider audience.
- Increasing and retaining our current congregations.
- Opening doors to community events – weekly Community coffee mornings and the monthly Singing Kettle occur but further opportunities need developing.
- Reducing loneliness particularly in the elderly.
- Increasing communication with new families moving into the area.
## Nurturing Children
- Determining the next phase of development work with children as the Children & Family Worker contract ends.
- St. Matthew’s has a Church School which has excellent links with Church. The School Senior Management Team has changed significantly in September 2020 so new relationship building has been an important factor.
- The Vicar has established links with Grappenhall Heys Primary School. This is the most likely School to be developed for accommodating families from the new housing, so further links will be developed.
- Supporting Pre-School and Link Club with preferential reduced hiring rates for using the Church Hall.
- Praise and Play further development – encouraging families with young children to enjoy Church.
Making our Church building fit for the future
- Creating space by commencing Phase 1 of the Big Welcome Project. St Matthew’s is a beautiful Church with a traditional interior which minimises flexibility of use. The Big Welcome Project fundraising successfully achieved the costs of Phase 1.
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## Balancing the Budget
- Increasing income strategies
- Identifying further cost reductions – this has already been undertaken so the impact is likely to be limited.
## Supporting local and national charities to help the disadvantaged.
- Regular donations are made to Warrington Food Bank and the Royal British Legion.
- Christian Aid and The Children’s Society campaigns are supported.
- Continue to support in kind – food donations from Harvest; food and clothing to Warrington Open Door at Christmas and Macmillan Cancer Support through coffee mornings.
- Determine the charity to benefit from Christmas Sparkle.
## Strengthening governance
- Review the Church policies and guidance.
- Participate in the Past Cases review and ensure adherence to the House of Bishops Key Roles and Responsibilities document (2017) in all activities.
- Increasing our volunteer base from both within the Church and wider Community.
## Developing Community partnerships
- Strengthening ecumenical relationships – continuing active participation within the Deanery and Diocese, as well as locally with Bridgewater Churches Together.
- Active participation with Pewterspear Green Trust.
- Involvement with the Community Payback Scheme.
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## Activities and Performance
## Meeting our Objectives
When the PCC set their objectives, there was no reason to believe at that time that progress would not be made in their achievement. The pandemic has for St Matthew’s, as for many charities, made an enormous difference to our world. However, we believe that despite the difficulties, there have been opportunities which we have tried to grasp, whilst accepting that some of the objectives are not achievable this year. We are optimistic about our future – so challenges yes these are many, but we are proud of what we have been able to achieve despite everything.
## Making our Church building fit for the future
2020 started as a year of much promise – the building work which was eagerly anticipated following the successful fundraising was planned with military precision in order to perform a major declutter and store safely all the displaced items. A band of volunteers suitably briefed did an amazing job in clearing the Church over several weekends, yet still allowing services to continue.
Phase one of the Big Welcome project, to create an open space at the back of church, was started in March by Lloyd and Smith Ltd, but was interrupted by the national coronavirus lockdown. After a delay, Practical Completion was achieved on the 5[th of] August 2020.
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We also have some of the chairs needed, to provide rows of seating when required for services, or for other flexible uses, and have allowed a more intimate feel to Christenings, as the family can gather around the font.
Whilst work was in progress inside the Church, work was progressing outside with a tree survey and a major tidy up of the Churchyard with the assistance from the Community Payback Scheme. Repairs to the Church boundary wall, damaged by some errant motorist, were undertaken.
A new noticeboard, donated by a parishioner in memory of his wife, was erected by the Lychgate which provides a fitting and very practical tribute to her.
## COVID-19 and strengthening Governance.
None of us had appreciated how 2020 would look at the beginning of the year. As COVID-19 emerged, we embraced the need for rigorous risk assessment and wrote new risk management procedures to minimise the risks of transmission, and importantly ensure that people felt safe in our Church. COVID has focused our attention on a whole range of policies and guidelines which were written. We have undertaken monthly (or more frequently if guidance changed) risk assessments and developed our risk register to incorporate the Church and Church Hall. The benefit of this has been that we have been able to open the Church and stay open whenever regulations allowed, and the Church Hall was able to open promptly after the first lockdown to facilitate use by Pre-School and Link Club. This was a very welcome benefit to both parents and children.
Whilst initially we were open for short services, we soon were able to identify
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how Holy Communion could be delivered safely, in accordance with the Church of England guidance. This has continued and been very much appreciated by those attending.
For the majority of the time, funerals have been permitted in Church although with varying restrictions. We have always facilitated these, especially in the very difficult circumstances that many families have had to endure. In 2020, there were: 10 funerals held either in Church or in the Churchyard with a further 7 at the crematorium.
It has been very difficult for parents wanting to have their children baptised and for those wishing to marry. Several of these had to cancel arrangements due to changing restrictions. 4 baptisms did take place and 1 couple decided that they would like their cancelled wedding to take place on Christmas Eve and we were delighted to arrange this for them.
We worked hard to ensure that the baptisms and the one wedding which did take place were both personal and safe, whilst ensuring absolute compliance with the restrictions in place. We look forward to welcoming back our couples and parents for their deferred celebrations.
Whilst COVID has been a major influencer on our governance agenda, we have not allowed it to predominate. A review of all our Health and Safety policies was begun and importantly whilst participating in the Past Cases Review, the Parish Safeguarding checklist was undertaken.
The Safeguarding policies including safe recruitment, personal safety and lone working have all been revised.
## **Volunteers**
A special mention needs to be made to all those unsung heroes who have worked so hard to keep the Church a living, breathing, relevant organisation. There have been many of them – those helping declutter the Church; those cleaning the Church regularly to keep it COVID-secure, the ladies creating beautiful flower arrangements to decorate the Church; those who help in the Churchyard and many more. The flexibility of volunteers is demonstrated by our Bellringers who have rung all bells, then none, then only three then stopped again. Not to be thwarted they took to practising with handbells in the Car Park over the summer, until the weather and Rule of Six defeated them. We certainly miss them.
We have been fortunate this year to benefit from the Community Payback
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Scheme. On a number of Saturdays, a group of young people worked with gusto around the Churchyard, strimming, mowing and weeding. We were really delighted with the work they did until lockdown in March and hope that this can continue once restrictions lift.
The PCC and volunteers have shown their resilience, despite the ongoing pressures, to try to balance the work involved in remaining open for services with the mental health and spiritual needs of our congregation who see being able to come to Church as essential to their wellbeing.
## Growing our Church
This objective could not be achieved as we originally intended, but we have gained a new audience online. Whilst our technology is not advanced, the Vicar has managed to both stream live services and produce additional online services. The use of the Church Facebook page and uploading videos to YouTube has gained a considerable number of views and feedback has been positive. Many of our older members were shielding and the provision of a Wednesday night “Reflections” online has been greatly appreciated. BL (92) stated “It is wonderful, very thought provoking and it has kept me in touch with Church”.
Having the option to attend in person or online has given people choice to worship safely and in the way they feel most comfortable. Not everyone has access to or feels comfortable with technology, and we have been very cognisant of this wanting to give freedom of choice wherever possible.
Carol Services are for many an integral part of Christmas and so following the Church of England’s guidance on risk assessing Outdoor Worship, we decided that if this was the only way we could hold a Carol Service, as singing indoors is not permitted, we would go outdoors. Despite a poor weather warning with heavy rain and strong winds we held our Carol Service in the local Sports Pavilion car park. The ticketed event was attended by 75 people and despite the gloomy prediction – the rain stopped, the wind eased, and we even had two shooting stars to accompany a wonderful service enjoyed by all.
The traditional Crib Service moved online and is always extremely popular. Whilst 777 views were recorded, it is difficult to calculate the exact number who participated, but 24 comments were recorded.
The Singing Kettle is a monthly group for those who are lonely; isolated or who just enjoy a sing in convivial company. Whilst normally meeting in the Church Hall,
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this too has gone online. It continues to be enjoyed by those tuning in, with meetings themed around both the Church and national calendar.
Under normal circumstances, postcard invitations are distributed, as above, to encourage people to attend.
Pastoral support has of necessity been minimally face to face for much of the year. The Vicar and Pastoral Worker share concerns of a pastoral nature confidentially. They have encouraged support in different ways. The Vicar established a WhatsApp group for Church where anyone could join and post items for information and discussion, as well as offering a communication channel about Church services.
Telephone support both by the Vicar and Pastoral Worker has been supplemented by members of the Church Fellowship. They have sent newsletters, Easter cards and Christmas gifts to their members who are predominantly older. Help with shopping and transport has been arranged when needed.
A new camaraderie has developed as people meet when outside exercising, and there is a feeling of genuine concern for those who are vulnerable. This is something which we hope to build upon.
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To encourage exercise, a Walk to Jerusalem was started on Christmas Day 2020. This is a virtual walk where participants record the length of their daily walking on the World Walking App. The distance from our Lychgate to Jerusalem is 6077km and the plan is to arrive in time for Easter 2021. This is being thoroughly enjoyed by those participating as regular updates are received on progress and places reached so far.
Walking Day which takes place annually in July involving a walk of witness, church service, crowning of the Rose Queen and Rose King followed by a fete in the School grounds is a highlight of the Summer, which was another victim of COVID. Not only is it a demonstration of the School and Church partnership, but also it allows the Church to physically walk within the Community increasing awareness of us. It is also a significant fundraiser for School.
The Autumn Fair which contributes towards the general administrative costs of the Church was also cancelled this year, adding further pressures to the budget.
Similarly, the Christmas Tree Festival is an event where the Church is lit with numerous small Christmas trees decorated by local businesses. Free refreshments are served whilst children and adults choose their favourites in a competition. Donations from the event which takes place over two weekends are given to a local charity. This meant that its loss this year reduced our ability to donate monies.
## Nurturing Children
The enthusiasm of our younger children is an absolute delight. Praise and Play a Friday afternoon group for Pre-School children has moved online. The Vicar and his ukulele are a regular feature much enjoyed by the little ones and around 12 adults and 17 children attend, although not all every week.
St Matthew’s Church of England Primary School goes from strength to strength. Our Lay Reader, Linda is Chair of Governors which is a great communication channel between School and the PCC.
We were delighted to welcome the appointment of Mrs Jo Costello as Headteacher from September 2020. Jo has made a great start, building on the success of her predecessor, Mrs Hazel Fryman, who retired at the end of the School year in 2020. Sadly, COVID restrictions meant that we were unable to mark Hazel’s retirement in the way we would have liked, but we wish her well in this new phase of her life. The new Head and Management Team continue to develop
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strong links which is hugely beneficial for us both.
The Vicar was able to perform a couple of key services in person for School – their New Year 2020 service and the Year 6 Leaver Service, minus parents this year, which were really important for the children. Like most other services, his weekly collective worship has moved online via MS Teams so when the children are in School, they join in from their classrooms.
He also has connections with Grappenhall Heys Primary School and led a Christingle Service via video link and an R.E. lesson.
Pre-School and Link Club have been supported by clarifying their responsibilities and assisting with Church Hall Risk Assessments. A new Users’ Guide was produced to help them ensure a COVID-secure environment.
A strong element in 2019 had been Family Extravaganzas held on a Sunday afternoon approximately every three months. It was decided not to hold a Christingle Service in December 2019 but to move it to the Feast of Candlemas in February 2020 as a Family Extravaganza. 14 children and 31 adults attended and made their Christingles in a very enjoyable afternoon. Unfortunately, it has not been possible to arrange any further Extravaganzas this year.
Christingle is a very popular and joyful service for children, so as so much was missing at Christmas time this year, we reverted to our December service. This had 203 views, although it is doubtful so many Christingles were made. It was particularly important this year for children to understand the light of Jesus and the message of hope from the service when they have been surrounded by so much gloom and despair.
## Balancing the Budget
The COVID pandemic has certainly made this objective unachievable this year. Income has dropped considerably with limited services in Church, and particularly those in the latter part of the year – Harvest Festival, Remembrance Sunday and the related Christmas services. These normally attract large congregations who generously donate and despite strong advertising of online giving, it is a deficit that cannot be made up.
As the Financial Review demonstrates, the overall financial position with our reserves is not critical however the PCC are acutely aware that dependence on reserves which are finite, is not an appropriate strategy.
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The Treasurer through good housekeeping over previous years has already revised spending and looked at all contracts to ensure value for money. There is limited scope to further improve.
## Supporting local and national charities
We have continued our regular donations to Warrington Food Bank and the Royal British Legion. Food was collected at Harvest Festival for Warrington Food Bank rather than distributing gifts around the Parish, as it was felt this was a higher priority this year.
With the restrictions, Warrington Open Door at Christmas was not open this year and we were unable to run the Macmillan Coffee Mornings. Both The Children’s Society and Christian Aid were supported by publicising online giving alongside collection boxes in Church.
We have not been able to support our charities to the degree that we have done previously which is a source of regret to the PCC. We are hopeful that next year this can be addressed.
## Developing Community Partnerships
The Pewterspear Green Trust manages an area of parkland and sports pitches in our Parish. The Vicar and a Trustee represent St Matthew’s on their management committee. As the Church and Pewterspear Green are neighbours, we have a shared concern for the environment and for the amenities available to our community. For major services and events, the Trust kindly agree to allow us to place banners on their railings at the entrance to their land so that we can prominently advertise them.
We hope that our developing relationship with the Community Payback Scheme can be resumed in 2021.
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## Looking Forward to 2021
We look forward to 2021 with confidence. There are many challenges, as there is considerable work to be done to catch up on progress following the pandemic. Our biggest plan for next year is Phase 2 of the Big Welcome Project and the installation of a kitchen facility. The plan below shows its intended location.
This much needed facility will enable use not only for our Church and related activities, but also for wider community use. We will look forward to being able to accommodate a range of different community groups to our Church.
Making progress on our objectives, with particular regard to improving our financial position, will be our priority for 2021. Welcoming back our congregations both in person and online and growing our Church in 2021 will be an important step for us all.
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## Financial Review
## Income
## **Voluntary Giving**
The total receipts on general unrestricted funds received were £56,313 and are detailed in the Financial Report. Planned Giving through Standing Orders and Weekly Giving Envelopes decreased by 10%. The incidence of Covid 19 and subsequent lockdown necessitated the closure of the Church for part of the year. Very generously, some parishioners were able to continue their financial giving by using methods other than cash. No legacies were received during the year, but the PCC was grateful to receive a £2,000 grant from the Diocese of Chester to support the church through the pandemic.
## **Other Income**
The PCC received income under the Covid 19 Job Retention Scheme, enabling it to continue supporting its employees. Due to the Covid 19 restrictions we were only able to open our Church Hall to educational groups for part of the year. This resulted in a decrease in Church Hall income. The PCC was grateful to receive some donations towards the running of the Church.
## **Restricted Income**
The PCC continued to make the Big Welcome Project a priority and was grateful to receive donations and grants towards this totalling £8,375.
## Expenditure
## **Parish Share**
The largest item of expenditure was the Parish Share of £74,708, paid to the Diocese. The contribution from St Matthew’s increased by 2.5% from last year. The Parish Share is a contribution to the Diocese towards the cost of the provision and support of mission and ministry. This includes housing, support, stipend and pension costs of the clergy of this parish, training of new ordinands, a contribution to national church funds and shared costs of the diocese, including assistance towards the upkeep of Churches less able to manage than ourselves.
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## **Staff costs**
The PCC pays for a Parish Secretary, Church Hall and Office cleaner, Director of Music and a Verger for weddings and funerals. Details of our staff costs are included in the Financial Statements. During the year, the PCC was very grateful to be able to claim a proportion of these costs under the Covid 19 Job Retention Scheme.
## **Trustee payments and expenses**
The PCC also supported the clergy by paying Council Tax, Water and environmental charges for the vicarage amounting to £3,200 as well as other costs such as travel, telephone and broadband. There were no payments to persons related to, or connected to, the trustees.
## Other charitable giving
During the year, the Church was unable to undertake its usual outreach activities. It has continued its donations to the Warrington Foodbank and The Royal British Legion.
## Repairs
Routine maintenance and repairs were undertaken during the year to ensure the PCC met its responsibility for health and safety. The boundary wall and lychgate were damaged last year and the repair work was undertaken during 2020. The work done during the year cost £13,978 and insurance monies were received towards this of £13,802.
## Re-ordering
During the year we were able to commence the first phase of the Big Welcome Project. Using funds raised specifically for the project, in 2019 and 2020, we were able to remove the pews at the back of church and level the floor. This creates a flexible usable space for church and community use. During the year £5,250 was raised by donation and fundraising, and £5,824 in grants, including a generous £3,000 from Allchurches Trust. The work and associated costs came to £21,856.
The PCC is responsible for keeping the Father Willis organ (which is an early model from the renowned organ builder) safe and in good repair. Due to the reordering work, it was necessary to take extra precautions to safeguard the organ. The cost of £936 was met from the restricted fund for music.
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## Reserves
The PCC has a good reserves position, thanks to generous legacies given in the past. The PCC has considered its policy on reserves and revised this policy from previous years in the light of recent events and guidance. It is the policy of the PCC to keep two months general running costs as a general reserve, and an additional amount to cover committed contract costs and minor repairs. Major building works, including those identified under the Quinquennial Inspection, will only be undertaken once additional funding has been secured. The reserve requirement under this policy is £33,500. Our current free reserves more than meet this policy and enable the PCC to use the remaining reserves to support its cash flow during 2021 and to continue its mission.
On 31 December 2020 unrestricted reserves were £121,855. In support of the Big Welcome Project the £22,134 held as a designated building reserve has been made available to the project, leaving £99,721 free reserves to support the general running of the Church.
The PCC also had £52,668 in restricted reserves. These include £5,765 for the Big Welcome Project and £15,503 for the Church Hall. There is also a reserve for £13,209 which the PCC hope to spend putting AV equipment into the Church to enhance our worship and outreach to the community. The balance is made up of smaller funds belonging to groups within the Church.
Our investments are accumulation shares held with CCLA in The Church of England Investment Fund. These create capital growth rather than income. Despite the pandemic they continue to increase in value.
## Looking Forward
The deficit for the year is a concern. The PCC has looked to reduce costs wherever possible, but the need to increase regular giving to meet regular commitments remains. The PCC is aware of its dependence on a limited number of donors and one regular hall hirer. As restrictions are lifted the PCC hopes to continue its policy of opening the Church to the community, particularly through the Big Welcome Project.
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## Administration
Principal Address: St Matthew’s Church Stretton Road Warrington Cheshire WA4 4NT Independent Examiner: Voisey & Co Chartered Accountants 8 Winmarleigh Street Warrington Cheshire WA1 1JW Bankers: HSBC 11 Bridge Street Warrington WA1 2EY CCLA Investment Management Ltd Senator House 85 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V 4ET Architect: Mark Pearce BA(Hons),BArch,MA,AADiplCons,RIBA,AABC Kepczyk Pearce and Sanderson Architects, Surveyors & Historical Building Consultants 75 Wilmslow Road Handforth Cheshire SK9 3EN
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Charity Number 1132920
## **FINANCIAL STATEMENTS**
## **of the**
## **PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL**
**PARISH OF STRETTON – ST MATTHEW’S FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[ST] DECEMBER 2020**
_**PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL of the ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF STRETTON - ST MATTHEWS Financial Statements for year ended 31[st] December 2020**_
## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT**
I report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31[st] December 2020 which are set out on pages 2 to 5.
## **Respective responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner**
As the members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts; you consider that the audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
- examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act
- to follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act); and
- to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
## **Basis of Independent Examiner’s Report**
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and 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 no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair view” and the report is limited to those matters set out in the Statement below.
## **Independent Examiner’s Statement**
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 proper accounting records are kept in accordance with Section 130 of the 2011 Act; and
- to prepare accounts are prepared which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or
2. To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Lee Warburton BA FCA Voisey & Co Chartered Accountants 8 Winmarleigh Street Warrington Cheshire WA1 1JW
Date 18.03.2021
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_**PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL of the ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF STRETTON - ST MATTHEWS Financial Statements for year ended 31[st] December 2020**_
## **RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[ST] DECEMBER 2020**
_
|Notes
Unrestricted
Funds
£
**RECEIPTS**
**Voluntary Receipts**
Planned giving
38,233
Collection at services
2,165
All other giving/voluntary receipts
4
6,052
Gift Aid Tax recovered
9,863
56,313
**Activities for generating funds**
60
**Investment Income**
5
28
**Church Activities**
6
11,705
**Other Income**
7
16,454
**Total receipts**
84,560
**PAYMENTS**
**Church activities**
Diocesan parish contribution
74,709
Clergy and staff costs
8
13,222
Church running costs
9
17,484
Hall running costs
4,854
Charitable donations
10
334
110,603
**Costs of generating funds**
-
**Other Costs – major works**
11
18,506
**Total payments**
129,109
**Excess of receipts over payments**
(44,549)
**Proceeds from sale of shares**
36,798
(7,751)
**Cash at bank and in hand at 1 January**
51,904
**Cash at bank and in hand at 31 December**
44,153|Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
8,375
253
8,628
3,369
111
-
-
12,108
-
850
1,477
-
2,327
340
20,921
23,588
(11,480)
13,202
1,722
40,919
42,641|Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
8,375
253
8,628
3,369
111
-
-
12,108
-
850
1,477
-
2,327
340
20,921
23,588
(11,480)
13,202
1,722
40,919
42,641|Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
8,375
253
8,628
3,369
111
-
-
12,108
-
850
1,477
-
2,327
340
20,921
23,588
(11,480)
13,202
1,722
40,919
42,641|Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
8,375
253
8,628
3,369
111
-
-
12,108
-
850
1,477
-
2,327
340
20,921
23,588
(11,480)
13,202
1,722
40,919
42,641|Total
2020
£
38,233
2,165
14,427
10,116
64,941
3,429
139
11,705
16,454
96,668
74,709
14,072
18,961
4,854
334
112,930
340
39,427
152,697
(56,029)
50,000
(6029)
92,823
86,794|Total
2019
£
42,648
8,996
32,196
15,103
98,943
7,815
197
22,861
-
129,816
72,887
19,122
24,205
4,862
2,415
123,491
1,597
1,316
126,404
3,412
22,134
25,546
67,277
92,823|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||||
||||||||
||||||||
||||
|
|||
2
_**PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL of the ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF STRETTON - ST MATTHEWS Financial Statements for year ended 31[st] December 2020**_
## **STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES**
|**Notes**
**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£**
**Cash Funds**
Bank Current Account & Cash
22,019
Deposit Funds
22,134
44,153
**Investment Assets**
Investment Fund shares at market value
77,702
**Assets retained for church use**
38,000
**Liabilities**
Due to Diocese
257
Other liabilities
1,896
2,153|**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
-
42,641
42,641
10,027
-
-
-|**Total**
**2020**
**£**
20,019
64,775
86,794
87,729
38,000
257
1,896
2,153|**Total**
**2019**
**£**
13,730
79,093
92,823
127,390
38,000
219
280
499|
|---|---|---|---|
|||||
|||||
Approved by the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Stretton – St Matthews on 18.03.2021 and signed on its behalf by:
Revd Alan Jewell
3
_**PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL of the ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF STRETTON - ST MATTHEWS Financial Statements for year ended 31[st] December 2020**_
## **Notes to the accounts**
**1.** The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006, using the Receipts and Payments basis.
**2.** The fixed asset retained for the church use is the church hall at historical cost.
**3.** The PCC has considered its reserves in accordance with the policy set out in their report. The reserve requirement based on these accounts is £33,500 which is more than met by the PCC’s free reserves.
|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£**
**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
**4.**
**All other giving/voluntary receipts**
Legacies and Grants
2,000
5,824
Donations
2,246
2,551
Other Income
1,806
-
6,052
8,375
**5.**
**Income from investments**
Bank interest
28
112
**6.**
**Church Activities**
Fees for weddings and funerals
3,206
-
Church hall hire
7,271
-
Magazine Sales
1,228
-
11,705
-
**7.**
**Other Income**
Insurance Claim – wall and Lychgate
13,802
-
Job Retention Scheme
2,652
-
16,454
-
**8.**
**Clergy and staff costs**
Clergy costs
3,347
-
Salaries
8,545
850
Parish Office costs
1,330
-
13,222
850
**9.**
**Church running expenses**
Organist and Choir Fees
1,066
936
Bell-ringers
-
-
Church flowers
115
Church service costs
664
134
Youth work
104
158
Insurance
5,295
-
Light and heat
3,102
-
Repairs and maintenance
5,180
-
Magazine costs
639
-
Sundries
221
249
Professional fees
618
-
Accountancy
480
-
17,484
1,477|**Total**
**2020**
**£**
7,824
4,797
1,806
14,427
139
3,206
7,271
1,228
11,705
13,802
2,652
16,454
3,347
9395
1,330
14,072
2,002
-
115
798
262
5,295
3,102
5,180
639
470
618
480
18,961|**Total**
**2019**
**£**
7,597
21,541
3,058|**Total**
**2019**
**£**
7,597
21,541
3,058|
|---|---|---|---|
|||
32,196||
|||
197
11,132
10,308
1,421|
197|
|||
22,861||
|||
-
-||
|||-||
|||3.998
12,978
2,146||
|||
19,122||
|||
2,138
351
1,227
1,662
3,158
5,192
4,396
6,145
1,796
1,591
461
480||
|||32,412||
4
## _**PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL of the ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF STRETTON - ST MATTHEWS Financial Statements for year ended 31[st] December 2020**_
|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£**
**Restricted**
**Funds**
**£**
**10. Charitable donations**
Christian organisations
134
-
Secular organisations
200
-
334
-
**11. Other Costs – major works**
Repair to the wall and Lychgate
13,978
-
Purchase of chairs
4,529
-
Re-ordering
-
20,921
18,507
20,921|**Total**
**2020**
**£**
134
200
334
13,978
4,529
20,921
18,507|**Total**
**2019**
**£**
1,085
1,330
2,415
1,022
-
294|**Total**
**2019**
**£**
1,085
1,330
2,415
1,022
-
294|
|---|---|---|---|
||||
2,415|
||||
1,022
-
294|
||||1,316|
## **12. Staff Costs**
The PCC pays for the services of parish secretary, director of music, verger, and a church hall cleaner and these costs are included under the heading Clergy and Staff Costs. Comparative figures for 2019 have been changed where previously the costs were shown in relevant cost headings. During the year the PCC employed a children and families worker, from funds given by the Diocese of Chester. Funds were received to cover a proportion of these costs under the government Job Retention Scheme.
There were no employee benefits to key management personnel in the previous or current years.
## **13. Transactions with Trustees**
The parish secretary became a trustee in April 2017 and received a salary of £3,490 relating to that employment only for the year to December 2020. The Director of Music became a trustee in April 2018 and received a salary and organists fees totalling £2,577 for the year to December 2020. Funds were received to cover a proportion of these costs under the government Job Retention Scheme.
The incumbent was reimbursed for expenses incurred on behalf of the Church, totalling £117.
5