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2025-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING SUNDAY 17[TH] MAY 2026 11.30AM AT ST. MILDRED’S CHURCH

INCLUDING ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

For the year ended 31[st] December 2025

‘We seek to be an open and loving church, growing in faith and confidence and joyfully sharing God’s love with all’

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CONTENTS

Agenda for 2026 APCM page 3
Minutes 2025 Vestry page 4
Minutes of 2025 APCM page 4
Aims, Objectives and Principal activities page 8
Report and Activities of the PCC page 8
Report on fabric, goods and ornaments
of the church page 11
Deanery Synod report page 12
Structure, Governance and Administrative details page 15
Financial Report page 16
PCC Annual Accounts page 17

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AGENDA

  1. Opening Prayer

  2. Apologies

  3. Election of Churchwardens

  4. Election of representatives to Deanery Synod – 4 members

  5. Election of the Parochial Church Council (PCC): 12 members

  6. Minutes of the Vestry Meeting and Annual Parochial Church Meeting of 4[th] May 2025

  7. Matters Arising from the Minutes

  8. Presentation of the Electoral Roll

  9. Achievements and performance

  10. a. Activities of the PCC & Parish

  11. b. Fabric, goods and ornaments of the Church

  12. c. Deanery Synod report

  13. d. Finance Report and Presentation of Accounts

10. Appointment of Independent Examiner

11. Any Other Business – this must be notified in writing to the PPC Secretary at least 24 hours before the meeting

12. Closing Prayer

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St Mildred’s Parish Church Minutes of the Annual Vestry Meeting and Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Held on Sunday 4 May 2025 in Church

1. Opening Prayer

Fr Neil Brunskill welcomed everyone to the meeting and led the congregation in prayer.

2. Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from Elizabeth Blackwell, Sophie Blankson, Rona Macdonald, Joy Morrall, and David and Julia Price.

3. Election of Churchwardens

Judy Bennett reported that nominations had been received from Janet Palmer and Alan Griffiths. As there were no further nominations, Fr Neil declared that Janet Palmer and Alan Griffiths were duly elected to serve as Churchwarden for the year 2025-2026.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM)

4. Election of Representatives to Deanery Synod

Fr Neil explained that Deanery Synod representatives are elected to serve for up four years. St Mildred’s allocation is for 4 representatives. The current Deanery Synod representatives – Rebecca Daniel, Patricia Howard, Alice Kawoya and Rona Macdonald have all indicated that they are happy to continue and, therefore, there is no need to have an election.

Fr Neil declared that Rebecca Daniel, Patricia Howard, Alice Kawoya and Rona Macdonald were duly elected to serve on Deanery Synod for another year.

5. Election of the Parochial Church Council (PCC)

Fr Neil explained that the term of office for lay members of the PCC is three years, so they do not need be elected each year. Once this time is up, PCC members may be nominated to stand for a further three years.

Judy Bennett reported that Rosaline Griffiths, Richard Morrall, David Nicholls, David Price and Colin Simonds, who are currently members of the PCC, have indicated that they would be happy to continue. Six of the PCC members for 2024-25 have stepped down leaving six vacancies. Nominations were received from Richard Mander, Janice Rutter and Griselda Wireko-Brobby.

It was agreed that Rosaline Griffiths, Richard Mander, Richard Morrall, David Nicholls, David Price, Janice Rutter, Colin Simonds and Griselda Wireko-Brobby were elected to serve on the PCC for the year 2025-26.

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6. Minutes of the Vestry Meeting and Annual Parochial Church Meeting of 21 April 2024

The minutes of the Vestry meeting and APCM for 2024 were agreed to be a true record. There were no matters arising.

7. Presentation of the Electoral Roll

Jenny Nicholls, St Mildred’s Electoral Roll Officer, reported that the electoral had been completely revised in 2025. There are 146 members on the Electoral Roll for 2025, three less than last year. There are 24 new names, but 33 have been removed as they have either moved out of the area, died, or did not respond to notifications.

There are a number of members who were on the roll when it was last compiled in 2019 but no longer come to church.

8. Achievements and Performance

Fr Neil said that the full reports on achievements and performance can be found in the APCM information pack.

Activities of the PCC and Parish

Fr Neil thanked everyone for their welcome and their love and support since he arrived at St Mildred’s. St Mildred’s continues to be a church rooted in faith. At the heart of worship is the Eucharist supported by a dedicated team of servers, sacristan and flourishing choirs. We are indebted to Richard Mander, our Director of Music. Children and families are nourished through Millies Mountaineers and our monthly family service ‘The Table’. We are grateful to Charlotte Hatton and the team of volunteers who organise our youth ministry. The live streaming team, led by Matt Webb, ensure that our worship remains accessible to all.

Christian education is growing with regular study groups, and music plays a significant role. The church Centre remains a vital resource, serving a number of community ventures.

The PCC has overseen all aspect of governance, including finance and safeguarding. Fr Neil thanked the Finance Team for ensuring that our finances are well managed. He also thanked the Parish Safeguarding Officers Helen Medland and Jane Ward, especially Helen who is stepping down from her role. Chris Hatton is taking on the role of Parish Safeguarding Officer.

Fr Neil thanked a number of individuals for their support:

Looking to the future, Fr Neil said that St Mildred’s is entering a new chapter. We sense that God is calling us to something more, a renewal of our culture and our purpose. If we are to grow, it begins with the costly love that forgives freely and seeks always the good of the other. We need to be better at reaching out, braver in our mission and more confident in the gospel. The good news of Jesus is too good to keep to ourselves. This must start now with a renewed commitment to service and prayer, rippling out into our conversations and relationships. Let this not be a time of

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decline or retreat. Let us step forward together trusting that God is already at work. The call is clear, the time is now. Let us answer it.

Fabric, Goods and Ornaments of the Church

Griselda Wireko-Brobby said that the Organ Restoration Project is now fully complete. An inventory of the church’s goods and ornaments was carried out in March. The Archdeacon’s inspection took place on 3 May, and the report was signed off. A quinquennial inspection of St Mildred’s will be carried out later this year.

Deanery Synod Report

Pat Howard said that she had nothing to add to the report in the APCM pack. She emphasised that Deanery Synod is for everybody, all should strive to be part of it.

9. Finance Report and Presentation of the Accounts

Colin Simonds began by thanking members of the Finance Team for their support. Collectively they have been involved in St Mildred’s finances for over fifty years.

Colin explained that the church’s accounts are produced in accordance with Charity Commission regulations. Money is held in a number of funds, which may be restricted, (designated for a specific purpose), or unrestricted. In recent years St Mildred’s finances have been impacted greatly by the affects of the coronavirus pandemic, and by the Big Our Church and Organ Restoration projects. These projects are now complete. The affects have been offset by money raising events, obtaining grants and the sale of a house. However, other factors are still having an impact on our finances now. These include the rising cost of utilities and the increase in the parish support grant. St Mildred’s is unable to raise its prices to match.

Colin gave a presentation on the accounts:

Page 3 is a Statement of Financial Activity. It shows income and expenditure for the year, as well as the movement in funds. Total income from restricted and unrestricted funds was £330,933. The balance carried forward was £708,690.

Page 4 is a Statement of Financial Position (the balance sheet). It shows the fixed and current assets, and liabilities for the year. The organ has been capitalised with a value of £422,981 which will be depreciated over 50 years. Long term investments are in Charifund units, while short term investments are held in the CCLA account.

Page 6 is a Comparative Statement of Financial Activity for 2023. (This is a Charity Commission requirement).

Note 10 (page 8) lists the closing balances for various funds. Notes 11 to 18 give the income for each one and what it was used for. The Outreach fund has been split into two. The Outreach Fund is for St Mildred’s projects such as the Community Garden and Christmas Day lunch. The Charities Fund is for donations to external organisations.

Page 13 gives details of income and expenditure on St Mildred’s activities. It is for information only. Income amounted to £214,287 but is still less than that received pre-covid. There was a deficit on St Mildred’s activities of £40,605.

10. Appointment of Independent Examiner

The appointment of Osbert Klass as Independent Examiner was agreed by all present.

A letter of thanks will be sent to Osbert Klass.

ACTION: Judy Bennett

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11. Church Wardens’ Remarks

Janet Palmer said that at St Mildred’s we seek to be an open and loving church. God’s help and abundant love saw us through the interregnum. We said goodbye to one vicar at the Patronal Festival in 2023 and, by the next one, had already welcomed our new vicar Fr Neil Brunskill.

Janet highlighted some of the events that had taken place during the year and thanked all those who have spearheaded them. These include:

Janet thanked Donna Oliver who has led Millies Mountaineers for the last three years. She also thanked all those who had donated money and their time to enable St Mildred’s to continue its work of mission and pay the bills. Further information is available from our Stewardship Officer and the Churchwardens. May God continue to bless us all to continue the good work.

Janet reminded the congregation of her remarks at the last APCM when she had asked everyone to think about how they might serve the church. A skills audit has been conducted recently, leading to the creation of a skills directory for St Mildred’s.

Our mission is to Tell, Teach, Tend, Transform and Treasure.

Janet concluded by thanking Griselda Wireko-Brobby, her fellow Churchwarden during the last two years. She said she is looking forward to working with the new warden Alan Griffiths.

12. Any Other Business

Judy Bennett said that no items of any other business had been received.

13. Closing Prayer

The APCM ended with a closing prayer led by Fr Neil.

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AIMS, OBJECTIVES AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES

The Parochial Church Council of St. Mildred’s (the PCC) has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church: pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure and is a registered charity no 1133737 . PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish, including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. The Trustees have had due regard to the Charity Commissions’ guidance under Charities Act 2011 on public benefit when considering the Charity’s objectives and activities.

Report and Activities of the PCC

Introduction

St Mildred’s seeks to be a Church which serves the community in the love of Christ. Above all it is a place of faith and of worship, and yet also a place of community in which we seek to reflect the love of God to all those we encounter.

This report reflects the life and work of St Mildred’s over the past year, drawing on the contributions made by many groups and individuals. We are deeply grateful to all who serve in visible and unseen ways, and for the faithful witness of this parish to the Gospel.

The report is structured around the Church’s Five Marks of Mission, which provide a helpful lens through which to reflect on our life together.

To proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom

Our worship remains the heartbeat of our community. The Sunday Eucharists, weekday services, and special liturgies continue to draw people into the mystery and beauty of the Christian faith. Over the past year we have welcomed new people to our services, and our average Sunday congregation has increased ever so slightly.

Our team of servers, co-ordinated by Alan Griffiths, ensures that the liturgy is carried out with dignity and reverence. They are a dedicated team and serve God in a unique way – they are always happy for new volunteers! The servers are supported by Lin Kensington as Sacristan who continues to prepare for the Church’s worship with care and attention to detail.

Our Choir, directed by Richard Mander, has continued to flourish. In addition to weekly leadership of music in worship, they have enriched our major festivals with anthems and choral settings. The Junior Choir continues, meets weekly and includes singing at a carol service – a wonderful development for nurturing younger members in faith and music. The Choir had a successful trip to Sailsbury Cathedral in August 2025.

We are also fortunate to boast our Ladies’ Choir directed by Penny Locke who continue to be active in their bookings. The highlight was the World Day of Prayer service, on 1st March, hosted by the Church of Our Lady, Bingham Road. The Ladies’ Choir also joined forces with other members of Southwark Mothers’ Union to sing for the annual Festival Service in Southwark Cathedral in June, as well as the Diocesan MU Advent Carol Service, hosted at St Mildred’s.

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Millies Mountaineers meets most Sundays and is rooted in a new programme of ‘Mountain Guides’ in which the children learn about faith through the eyes of a Biblical character or saint over the course of four weeks, on the final week they present these findings to the congregation so that every generation can learn from those who guide us closer to God. The volunteer team continues to grow and develop. Our Youth Ministry is continuing to grow and develop, and we are conscious further work is needed in this area.

We continue to offer our live-streaming, and the capacity for this continues to grow. Most Sunday Eucharists are now live-streamed and recorded, with a small but regular number of online participants, and an increasing number of those who engage after the service. This has provided an important point of connection for those who are housebound or away and

is increasingly appreciated as part of our wider ministry. Matt Webb continues to lead this vital part of our ministry, and we are grateful to all those who assist him.

Throughout the year our Church is beautifully decorated by the Flower Team of an ever-growing team who are enthusiastic and artistic! Throughout the year they provide excellent displays which enhance our worship. In 2025 we returned to using fresh flowers each week with faithful members of the congregation donating each week. We pray that this continues into the future. The Church looked particularly beautiful at Easter with flowers adorning the entire Church.

The Parish Post, edited each month by Karen Rooney and a team of volunteers, continues to be a valued communication tool of the life and work of the parish. It offers thoughtful reflections, news, and updates for both church members and the wider community.

To teach, baptise, and nurture new believers

The parish continues to offer opportunities for Christian learning and growth. But this is a growing aspect of our life and ministry.

Study Groups met regularly and explored various aspects of the Christian faith, and in the Autum of 2025 studied Galatians. At the same time, lectures which studied the Nicene Creed were given on Monday evenings and were well attended. During Advent there were a series of meditations focusing on Prophecies of the Messiah from the Old Testament; and during Lent the study course focused on the liturgies of Holy Week.

Preparation for baptisms has been undertaken by the clergy as needed and supported pastorally by the wider congregation. The community’s welcome and prayers for those marking these milestones are a vital part of this ministry.

Music has continued to be a formational experience particularly with our organ scholars. Not only do they provide exceptionally high standards of music, but gain an education into the liturgical life of the Church of England in a parish church.

To respond to human need by loving service

Our Church Centre continues to be a vital resource, used heavily by both the parish and local community. It would be impossible to run such a resource without Leander Garner, who dedicates so much time and effort to ensure the smooth operation of the facilities.

While the level of hire is not the same as before COVID, it continues to build. We have many regular users including orchestras, choirs, martial arts, yoga, baby and toddler groups, Millie’s PreSchool, NHS groups, and MLH. In addition to our regular users, the Centre continues to host a wide range of people from a wide range of backgrounds on an ad-hoc basis for events such as

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birthday parties. We continue to maintain strong links with ANCA and APCMH who both use the Centre as a base for their work in the wider community.

Our Centre Manager has worked hard to maintain high standards of cleanliness and welcome. Improvements and maintenance continue to be needed and the expenditure of this is a significant part of our expenditure.

The Mothers’ Union branch at St Mildred’s has continued to meet monthly, offering fellowship, prayer, and a focus on family and community life. The group has hosted a variety of speakers and has provided support to members both practically and spiritually. Their quiet faithfulness is a gift to the life of the parish. They have also welcomed members from other MU branches which have closed. The MU run our weekly Toddler Group which welcomes around 20-25 families, which can mean 30-36 children, each week during school term time. The children have the opportunity to mix and share in playing with our wide variety of toys. Each week there is a craft activity such as painting or making something to take home. We mark the seasons and celebrate major events in the Church calendar by telling the story of Christmas and Easter in Church.

The Drop-In continues to be a welcoming and safe space for the most vulnerable in our community. Each Sunday a mixture of regulars, street homeless, and those who struggle with mental health, debt, or addiction come together for a meal, the ability to shower, and have clean clothing. The Drop-In is only possible due to the countless volunteers who give up their time in various ways, talents, and money. We are indebted to those volunteers – but are always looking for more to join the team.

The Drop-In team were also responsible for the running the Christmas Lunch which has become a staple of the St Mildred’s calendar. The team fed over eighty people, and it was a really joyful event. We are grateful to the many donations especially from Our Lady’s Catholic Church, St Mary’s Catholic Church, and New Testament Assembly Church.

Pastoral Care has been provided by clergy and lay members, often informally, but always with dedication. Phone calls, visits, and conversations have helped keep people connected, especially those unable to attend church regularly. We continue links with people who have left the parish through the Friends of St Mildred’s which continues to keep our friends updated on the life and work of the parish.

Community Engagement continues to be at the fore of St Mildred’s, including our commitment to supporting several charitable organisations. In addition, our groups such as the Women’s Group who hosted a number of events including old favourites like planting Spring bulbs, making Christmas table decorations and a film night with popcorn in the Church; as well as special events such as the theatre trip to see Gaslight at Theatre 62 in West Wickham and we all enjoyed a wonderful cookery demonstration of three apple-based desserts including tarte tatin. We also continue to maintain strong links with the St Mildred’s Literary Society, who have offered a varied programme throughout the year. As always, our Christmas Market was the highlight of our community engagement, and a big thank you to the Social Committee who put so much effort into making this day a big success. It was great to see so many people walking through the Church and raising a significant amount of money for Church funds.

In the winter the Community Garden transforms into a Winter Friendship Group which hosts a wide number of people from the local community for refreshments, guest speakers, games, quizzes, and music.

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To seek to transform unjust structures of society, to challenge violence of every kind and to pursue peace and reconciliation

Our commitment to safeguarding is ongoing. Our Parish Safeguarding Officer continues to work hard to ensure that relevant policies are adhered to, and that advice is provided to those who need it. The PCC regularly reviews safeguarding procedures, and safer recruitment processes are followed carefully.

To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth

The parish remains mindful of its environmental responsibilities. This includes attention to heating use, waste, and energy efficiency across the site. The PCC is open to exploring how we might further grow in this area including looking into solar panels and/ or heat pumps.

We are proud of our Community Garden and how this both supports people in our local community but fundamentally shows good stewardship of God’s creation. It continues to grow in number and grow produce which is often used by the gardeners themselves.

Governance and Oversight

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) has met regularly and has overseen the life and mission of the parish with faith and care.

This has included:

The PCC is especially grateful to our Church Wardens, who offer tireless service and leadership; our Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer, who continue to manage our finances with diligence.

Conclusion

St Mildred’s is a Church of worship, welcome, service, and growth. This report can only touch the surface of all that goes on. For every service, public event or programme, there are quiet acts of kindness, commitment, and prayer behind the scenes. We give thanks for all that has been, and we look forward in hope to all that God is calling us to be.

Report on Fabric, goods and ornaments of the Church .

St Mildred's had its quinquennial detailed inspection on the 28[th] of October 2025. Recommendations are given priorities A to E and we have/will be addressing priorities A to B as they are urgent and due within 12months of the report.

A complete Inventory checked was carried out in March 2025 and the full report is in the church terrier. All items purchased since then have been added and updated to this report.

The annual Archdeacon’s inspection was carried out by the new Area Dean Ruth Chapman on Saturday the 25th of April 2026, and all was found to be in order and signed off.

Churchwardens

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2025 Deanery Synod Report

It was my privilege to attend and report on the following to PCC during 2025. Along with myself, the Deanery Representatives from St Mildred’s are Rebecca Sangeetha-Daniel, Alice Kawoya and Rona MacDonald.

January

Our Deanery held an Epiphany service at St Michael and All Angels Church, led by Revd Dr Geoff Dumbreck, Area Dean, and included a reception.

February

Deanery Synod was held on 27[th] February, at St Andrew’s Church, and I was accompanied by Rebecca Sangeetha-Daniel, Alice Kawoya and Fr Neil Brunskill. The guest speaker was Joseph Vambe from Christian Aid. In recent years the way in which donations are collected has changed. When asked what two things we could take back to our PCCs, Joseph said

Revd Linda Fox, Asst Area Dean, gave us an update on provisions for the homeless in Croydon. There is a plan to set up a static night shelter for the coming winter.

Paul Wardell, our General Synod Representative, gave us an insight to the topics being reviewed at the next General Synod in March:

May

On Saturday 10[th] May our Deanery, with the support of ANCA, ran an information/training session helping Baby Boomers in using their smart phones. This was held at St Mildred’s and was hosted by Pat Howard with the assistance of Matt Webb and Kyle Knight, together with our own Gen Z teens who worked individually with the participants. Lots of laughter!

June

Deanery Synod was held on 26[th] June, at Emmanuel Croydon, and I was accompanied by Rebecca Sangeetha-Daniel, Rona MacDonald and Fr Neil Brunskill. The guest speaker was The Venerable Carol-Ann Coslett, Assistant Director of Lay Ministry in the Discipleship and Ministry Team, based at Trinity house. Carol has held this current role since 2023 and is now responsible for selection and discernment for Lay Vocations and Ministries as well as teaching those who are training to be Commissioned Pastoral Lay Ministers. She is a member of the Lay Council and a coopted member of the Schools Committee for the Board of Education.

Also speaking was Dr Michael Brockett, the Diocesan Lay Ministry Consultant; a member of the Lay Council and Bishop’s Advisory Group for Pastoral Lay Training and Development; a Licensed Pastoral Lay Minister in the South Croydon Benefice (St Peter’s & St Augustine’s); a Day Chaplain

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at Southwark Cathedral and Lay Champion for this Deanery. After the presentation, we divided into smaller groups to discuss a) how we came to faith, and b) how do we affirm those in our church already involved with ministry?

Revd Michael Nayagam and Revd Linda Fox gave an update on provisions for refugees and the homeless. The Refugee Day Centre operates a drop-in centre for single men and women who have recently been evicted/are about to be evicted from an asylum hotel having been granted refugee status. Last winter, there were no night shelters available for single men in South London. They are working hard within the Croydon area (through the auspices of West Croydon Baptist Church who have started this work) to find a way to set up a static night shelter for this coming winter.

Revd Dr Geoff Dumbreck gave us an update on The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, and how it will improve protective security and organisational preparedness across the UK by requiring that those responsible for certain premises and events consider how they would respond to a terrorist attack. The Deanery held an information session at Croydon Minster on Martyn’s Law on Wednesday 10th September and this was attended by nine members of St Mildred’s.

September

Deanery Synod was held on Thursday 11th September 2025 at St Mary Magdalene with St Martin Church, and I was accompanied by Rona MacDonald and Fr Neil Brunskill. Before the main speaker, Mayor Jason Perry, we were given a short presentation by Katie McMullen and Claudia Almeida (Addiscombe Neighbourhood Care Association).

ANCA was originally launched in the 1960’s at St Mildred’s and adopted by the Addiscombe group of churches as their welfare arm, delivering care in the community. Their lunch clubs are more than just a place for a hot meal; they are a place of friendship, laughter and connection. Their shopping trips are a vital link to the outside world for those who might otherwise be housebound. Their activities are designed to help keep people independent and active. They help their seniors to live happier, healthier and dignified lives both in their own homes, and through their activities. With cuts to statutory services, the need for ANCA is greater than ever, as they are on the frontlines doing the critical care of social care that falls through the gaps. Through their daily work and the personal connection with clients, they can easily become aware of potential safeguarding issues.

Revd Geoff Dumbreck emphasised that the mayor was not here in a party-political capacity, but rather as a representative of the council. He stressed that whatever our political persuasion, it was important as faith leaders to keep good lines of communication with civic and community leaders, and to work together when it’s in the interest of the borough.

Although he was elected as a Conservative mayor, Jason’s priority is to get Croydon back on track. In years gone by there has been a north-south divide, not only the poverty gap, but different parties elected in each borough. The mayoralty brings that to an end as whoever is elected will have responsibility for the whole area. Croydon is both London’s largest and youngest borough. It is essentially the 9th largest city in the UK, with its connectivity bringing 140,000 visitors into Croydon on a daily basis.

Revd Linda Fox – Update on Homelessness – reported that the Home Office are doing an amazing job with the asylum backlog, meaning the numbers of people being evicted from their homes once they have refugee status are continuing to rise. Croydon Voluntary Action have agreed to take on the role of the governing charity for the groups that are discussing homeless projects for this coming winter. Fr. Michael Nayagam is particularly keen to hear from anybody who would like to volunteer.

Deanery Newsletter

Throughout 2025 there have been five newsletters spreading information and events going on throughout Croydon Central Deanery. I have attended most of these events in my role as Lay

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Patricia Howard

Chair, plus two meetings of Diocesan Lay Chairs at Trinity House as well as meeting and greeting new church wardens at the Archdeacon’s Visitation Service. There is a Facebook page with various items, which is updated by Margaret Simmons on behalf of our Deanery.

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STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Charity number: 133737 Registered Charity name: The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St. Mildred’s Addiscombe Address: Bingham Road Croydon CR0 7EB Bankers: National Westminster Bank Croydon High St Branch 1 High Street, Croydon CR9 1PD Independent examiner: Klass & Co 18 Mounthurst Road Bromley BR2 7QN

Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules.

During the year the following served as members of the PCC:

Incumbent: Fr Neil Brunskill
Hon Curate: Rev’d Marie King (NSM - retired)
Readers: Steve Chapman and Rona Robins
Churchwardens: Janet Palmer and Alan Griffiths
Secretary: Vacant
Treasurer: Colin Simonds
Representatives on Deanery
Synod: Rebecca Daniels
Patricia Howard
Alice Kawoya
Rona Macdonald
Elected Members Richard Morrall (from APCM 2023)
David Price (from APCM 2023)
Colin Simonds (from APCM 2023)
Rosaline Griffiths (from APCM 2024)
David Nicholls (from APCM 2024)
Richard Mander (from APCM 2025)
Janice Rutter (from APCM 2025)
Griselda Wireko-Brobby (from APCM 2025)

The aims of the PCC are to promote the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical within the parish. It also offers the Pastoral Staff Team full support in the carrying out of their mission.

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Governing Documents

The Church of England have agreed with the Charity Commission that for the purpose of agreeing ‘governing documents’, Parochial Church Councils (PCCs) are governed by two pieces of legislation:

2025 Financial Report.

2025 remained a financially challenging year for St.Mildreds, but a year where we managed to reduce our income and expenditure deficit from £41,333 in 2024 to £26,100 in 2025. This being achieved mainly by increased casual giving, a highly successful Christmas Market, (thanks are extended to all those involved in making the market the most sucessful of events) and reduced repairs and maintenance (see below)

St Mildreds exceeded our pledge of £69,000 to the Diocese Parish Support Fund to £72,125 through an additional personal donation to the fund, although this was still over £17,000 short of being a self financing parish

With no major repairs in 2025, we were able to considerably reduce our costs from £43,677 in 2024 to £27,369 in 2025.

During 2025 we repaid £20,000 of the personal loans for the Organ Restoration. leaving a balance of £70000 outstanding debt still to be repaid.

The Centre recorded and income of £112,971 in 2025 compared with £114,134 in 2024.

In the last two months of 2025 we received 2 substantial legacies totalling £110,000.

The investments in the Charifund ( Income and Accumulation Units ) track the general movement of the stockmarket, which in 2025 resulted in a valuation of £318,520. In both 2024 and 2025 there were unrealised gains of £9,810 (2024 ) and £49,009 ( 2025 ). It has to be noted that these investments provide a source of income of circa £15,000 per annum.

We are fortunate to have a dedicated finance team of church members including Fr Neil, commited to monitoring the financial health of St Mildreds. As a team, we are indebted to Patrina for producing our annual accounts ready for presentation, and liasing with Osbert Klass our auditor. Finally, to Colin our Treasurer, who through his expertise, guidance and development of our Xero accounting package, enables us to produce regular updates for both the Finance Team and PCC.

Richard Morrall Chair of St.Mildreds Finanace Team

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ST MILDRED’S PARISH CHURCH PCC ANNUAL ACCOUNTS

For the year ended 31 December 2025

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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. MILDRED’S, ADDISCOMBE

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of St. Mildred’s Parish Church for the year ended 31 December 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

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

I report in respect of my examination of your Charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by section 130 of the 2011 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulation 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

18

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Note
Income
St. Mildred’s income, fundraising and
donations
Investment
Total income
3
Expenditure
Charitable activities
Total expenditure
Income less expenditure
4
Unrealised gain on investments
6
Net movement in funds
Fund balances brought forward
2
Fund balances carried forward
at 31 December 2025
10		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
365,373
14,420
379,793
277,834
277,834
101,959
49,009
150,968
665,070
816,038		 Restricted
Funds
£
2,797
472
3,269
6,049
6,049
(2,780)
1,273
(1,507)
43,620
42,113		 Total
Funds
£
368,170
14,892
383,062
283,883
283,883
99,179
50,282
149,461
708,690
858,151		 2024
Total
£
315,584
15,349
330,933
302,979
302,979
27,954
9,810
37,764
670,926
708,690

The notes on pages 21 to 28 form part of these accounts.

19

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As at 31 December 2025

Note
Fixed Assets
Tangible Assets
Centre Assets
7
Church Assets
7
Church Equipment
7
Pipe Organs
7
Long-term Investments
1
Current Assets
Debtors
8
Short-term investments
1
Cash and bank
Liabilities
Due within one year:
Creditors and accruals
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Due after one year:
Loans
9
Total net assets
Represented by:
Unrestricted funds
10
Restricted funds
10		 2025
£
£
597
1,881
21,672
414,392
438,542
318,520
757,062
10,918
131,129
38,107
180,154
(9,065)
171,089
928,151
(70,000)
858,151
816,038
42,113
858,151		 2024
£
£
1,238
0
29,553
422,981
453,772
268,238
722,010
9,993
35,095
43,786
88,874
(12,194)
76,680
798,690
(90,000)
708,690
665,070
43,620
708,690		 2024
£
£
1,238
0
29,553
422,981
453,772
268,238
722,010
9,993
35,095
43,786
88,874
(12,194)
76,680
798,690
(90,000)
708,690
665,070
43,620
708,690
453,772
268,238
722,010
76,680
180,154
(9,065)		 88,874
(12,194)
798,690
(90,000)
708,690
665,070
43,620
708,690

Approved by the PCC on

20

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

For the year ended 31 December 2025

1) Accounting policies

(a ) Basis of preparing accounts

The accounts (financial statements) have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the Church’s ability to continue as a going concern.

Funds

All funds are under the oversight of the trustees.

Income

All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis. All expenses including support costs and governance costs are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings.

Fixed assets

Assets costing over £1,000 are capitalised and depreciated as follows: Equipment (computer & electronic)—10%-33% per annum. Fixtures and fittings (including furniture)—10%-20% per annum. Pipe organs—2% per annum.

The church building (consecrated and beneficed property) and the centre building are not reported as fixed assets in the statement of financial position. All expenditure on maintaining or improving the buildings is recognised as an expense when incurred. Expenditure on moveable furniture and equipment (such as the pipe organs and audiovisual equipment) is capitalised.

Investments

Investments are held in the statement of financial position at market value at the year end. Any change from market value at the previous reporting date or from cost if purchased during the year, is included in the Statement of Financial Activities.

Long-term investments represent investments in M&G Charifund units, which are invested in stock market securities.

Short-term investments represent monies held in the CCLA CBF Church of England Deposit Fund.

21

2) Comparative of Statement of Financial Activities - 2024

Income
St. Mildred’s income, fundraising and donations
Investment
Total income
Expenditure
Charitable activities
Total expenditure
Unrealised gain on investments
Net movement in funds
Fund balances brought forward
Fund balances carried forward
at 31 December 2023
3) Income from unrestricted funds
Income from St. Mildred’s activities
Income from legacies
Income: Property fund
Income: Organ fund
Income: Outreach fund
Income: Charities fund
Other income
Total income from unrestricted funds		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
314,994
14,900
329,894
298,192
298,192
9,623
41,325
623,745
665,070
Note
11
11
12
14
16
18		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
314,994
14,900
329,894
298,192
298,192
9,623
41,325
623,745
665,070
Note
11
11
12
14
16
18		 Restricted
Total
Funds
Funds
£
£
590
315,584
449
15,349
1,039
330,933
4,787
302,979
4,787
302,979
187
9,810
(3,561)
37,764
47,181
670,926
43,620
708,690
2025
2024
£
£
229,412
214,287
110,000
0
14,420
14,900
17,518
90,349
1,192
2,718
4,782
4,311
2,469
3,329
379,793
329,894		 Total
Funds
£
315,584
15,349
330,933
302,979
302,979
9,810
37,764
670,926
708,690
Note
11
11
12
14
16
18

22

4) Income and expenditure on unrestricted funds

Note
Deficit on St. Mildred’s activities
11
((£23,875) - depreciation on tangible fixed assets £17,320)
Property fund: investment income
12
Outreach fund (income less expenditure)
16
Toddlers fund (income less expenditure)
Income over expenditure on St. Mildred’s activities
Other income (net of expenditure):
Legacies (in St Mildred’s fund)
11
Organ fund
14
Drop-in for the homeless fund
17
Total income over expenditure on unrestricted funds
5) Staff costs
Salaries (including pensions)
Social security costs
Staff
6) Revaluation of investments
Increase in market value of Charifund investments during year
(unrestricted funds)		 Note
Deficit on St. Mildred’s activities
11
((£23,875) - depreciation on tangible fixed assets £17,320)
Property fund: investment income
12
Outreach fund (income less expenditure)
16
Toddlers fund (income less expenditure)
Income over expenditure on St. Mildred’s activities
Other income (net of expenditure):
Legacies (in St Mildred’s fund)
11
Organ fund
14
Drop-in for the homeless fund
17
Total income over expenditure on unrestricted funds
5) Staff costs
Salaries (including pensions)
Social security costs
Staff
6) Revaluation of investments
Increase in market value of Charifund investments during year
(unrestricted funds)		 2025
2024
£
£
(41,195)
(55,568)
14,420
14,900
(83)
(854)
758
189		 2025
2024
£
£
(41,195)
(55,568)
14,420
14,900
(83)
(854)
758
189
(26,100)
(41,333)
110,000
0
17,518
72,701
541
334
101,959
31,702
2025
£
55,448
0		 2024
£
53,685
0
53,685
No.
4
2024
£
9,623
55,448
No.
4
2025
£
49,009
49,009
9,623

23

7) Tangible fixed assets

Cost
At 1 January 2025
Additions
At 31 December 2025
Accumulated Depreciation
At 1 January 2025
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2025
Net Book Value
At 31 December 2025
At 31 December 2024		 Centre
Assets
£
66,687
0
66,687
65,449
641
66,090
597
1,238		 Church
Equipment
£
83,478
0
83,478
53,925
7,881
61,806
21,672
29,553		 Church
Assets
£
22,339
2,090
24,429
22,339
209
22,548
1,881
0		 Pipe
Organs
£
429,422
0
429,422
6,441
8,589
15,030
414,392
422,981		 Total
£
601,926
2,090
604,016
148,154
17,320
165,474
438,542
453,772

Church equipment includes the audio visual system in the church, purchased in 2018.

The pipe organ restoration was complete in April 2024, and the organs have since been in use.

8) Debtors

Rent and other income owing
Gift aid tax recoverable		 2025
£
6,882
4,036
10,918		 2024
£
5,840
4,153
9,993

9) Liabilities due after one year

In 2024, St. Mildred’s received interest-free unsecured loans of £90,000, used to help fund the restoration of the pipe organs. The loans are repayable as and when funds become available and, at the latest, in 2029. £20,000 was repaid during 2025, leaving an outstanding balance of £70,000 as at 31 December 2025.

10) Funds as at 31 December 2025

Note
St. Mildred’s fund
11
Property fund
12
Fabric fund
13
Organ fund
14
Organ scholarship fund
15
Outreach fund
16
Drop-in for the Homeless fund
17
Centre assets
7
Church equipment and assets
7
Pipe organs
7
Toddlers group
Flower fund		 Closing
Balance
£
86,709
275,069
38,798
(59,600)
14,514
44,505
15,433
597
23,553
414,392
1,140
3,041
858,151		 Unrestricted
£
86,709
275,069
28,798
(59,600)
44,505
875
597
23,553
414,392
1,140
816,038		 Restricted
£
10,000
14,514
14,558
3,041
42,113

24

11) St. Mildred’s Fund

St. Mildred’s fund is for the general upkeep and running of St. Mildred’s.

Fund at 1 January
Income:St. Mildred’s activities
Expenditure:St. Mildred’s activities
Income over expenditure
Legacies received during the year
Purchase of church assets
Fund at 31 December		 2025
£
2,674
229,412
(253,287)
(23,875)
110,000
(2,090)
86,709		 2024
£
43,279
214,287
(254,892)
(40,605)
0
0
2,674

12) Property Fund

This fund includes amounts set aside for the future purchase of a property. Those amounts are invested in Charifund income units and the CBF Deposit Fund.

Fund at 1 January
Income:dividends and interest
Increase in value of Charifund investments
Fund at 31 December		 2025
£
224,507
14,420
36,142
275,069		 2024
£
204,308
14,900
5,299
224,507

13) Fabric Fund

This fund was established with a legacy from James Arthur Diplock. £10,000, representing the original capital, is to remain untouched except in the event of a major unforeseen emergency. £5,000 of the original capital is invested in Charifund accumulation units (market value on 31 December 2025 £65,185).

Fund at 1 January
Increase in value of investments during year
Fund at 31 December
Of which:
Unrestricted
Restricted - original legacy		 2025
£
25,932
12,866
38,798
28,798
10,000		 2024
£
21,608
4,324
**25,932 **
15,932
10,000

25

14) Organ Fund

This fund includes amounts donated, raised and designated for the restoration of the pipe organs. Expenditure incurred to bring the pipe organs to their intended working condition is capitalised as a tangible fixed asset (see note 7) and included in the pipe organs fund. The pipe organ restoration was completed in April 2024. Fund raising activities will continue to raise the remaining £59,600 needed to fund the organ restoration project.

Fund at 1 January
Income:donations and fundraising (plus gift aid)
fundraising expenses
grant income (Grade II listing of church building)
Christmas market
Used for:organ restoration costs (capitalised)
other costs (recognised as expenses when incurred)
Fund at 31 December (**shortfall in funds raised) **		 19,604
(2,218)		 2025
£
(77,118)
17,386
132
0
17,518
(0)
(0)
(59,600)		 2024
£
1,174
55,298
23,851
3,062
82,211
(150,993)
(9,510)
(77,118)

15) Organ Scholarship Fund

This fund includes amounts invested in Charifund income units, which is restricted for use for organ scholars.

Fund at 1 January
Income:dividends and other donations
Increase in value of Charifund investments
Used for: organ scholar costs
Fund at 31 December		 2025
£
14,110
1,633
1,273
(2,502)
14,514		 2024
£
15,142
449
187
(1,668)
14,110

26

16) Outreach Fund

This fund is for use for outreach.

Fund at 1 January
Income
Donations – St. Mildred’s Community Garden
Donations – St. Mildred’s Christmas Day lunch & drop-in
Diocese mission grant – pantomime
Total income
Used for:
St. Mildred’s Community Garden
St. Mildred’s drop-in
Expenditure – pantomime
Amounts used for outreach
Fund at 31 December		 2025
£
44,588
561
631
0
1,192
644
631
0
1,275
44,505		 2024
£
45,442
208
1,650
860
2,718
292
2,420
860
3,572
44,588

17) Drop-in for the Homeless Fund

This fund includes amounts donated and raised for St. Mildred’s Drop-in for the Homeless and for the Christmas Day lunch. Amounts donated for the Christmas Day lunch that remain after the lunch has taken place are unrestricted. All other amounts are restricted for use for St. Mildred’s Drop-in for the Homeless.

Fund at 1 January
Income:donations (restricted)
Christmas Day lunch (unrestricted)
Used for:food
clothing
Christmas Day lunch
other
Fund at 31 December
Of which:
Unrestricted
Restricted		 2025
£
16,838
1,601
1,150
(1,390)
(1,081)
(609)
(1,076)
15,433
875
14,558		 2024
£
19,033
590
770
(1,219)
(1,761)
(436)
(139)
16,838
334
16,504

27

18) Charities Fund

This fund is for donations to third-party charities (see below).

Fund at 1 January
Income
Donations – Children’s Society
Donations – Christian Aid
Donations – Bishops Lent Appeal
Donations – Mothers Union Appeal
Donations – monies collected at Ada Mcdonald funeral
Donations – Macmillan Tea Party
Donations – Nightwatch
Donations – Alzheimer’s Society
Thanksgiving Service – St Catherine’s Hospice
Patronal festival – Vicar’s Relief Fund
Christmas market – Childhood Trust (2025) / Epilepsy Action (2024)
Christmas pantomime – Childhood Trust (2025) / Baby Bank (2024)
Vicar’s concert – Cornerstone University Choir
Total income
Used for:
Children’s Society
Christian Aid
Bishops Lent Appeal
Macmillan Cancer Support
Nightwatch
Alzheimer’s Society
Childhood Trust
Cornerstone University Choir
St Catherine’s Hospice
Vicar’s Relief Fund
Croydon University Hospital chaplaincy
ANCA
Eye Health
Shrublands
Epilepsy Action
Baby Bank
Mothers Union Appeal
Amounts used for donations
Fund at 31 December		 2025
£
0
391
792
22
631
0
802
20
78
372
131
161
1,082
300
4,782
391
792
22
802
20
78
1,243
300
372
131
0
0
0
0
0
0
631
4,782
0		 2024
£
0
125
2,090
31
412
407
0
0
0
0
435
140
671
0
4,311
125
2,090
31
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
407
145
145
145
140
671
412
4,311
0

28

St. Mildred’s activities (for information only)

Income
Pledged giving
Hire of St. Mildred’s premises
Flat rent
Non-pledged giving
Gift aid tax refund
Baptisms weddings funerals
Christmas market
Donations and other
Total income
Expenditure
Parish Support Fund pledge1
Heat, light & water
Premises repairs and maintenance
Premises cleaning
Choir music, organ and organist
Printing, telephone and other administration (incl. website)
Staff costs
Altar sundries and clergy expenses
Insurance
Baptisms weddings funerals costs
Fundraising costs
Other expenditure
Total expenditure
Deficit on St. Mildred’s activities for the year		 2025
£
56,605
112,971
13,800
16,496
14,746
3,487
4,986
6,321
229,412
72,125
34,762
27,369
22,992
6,913
13,379
51,916
3,818
8,622
361
872
10,158
253,287
(23,875)		 2024
£
58,003
114,144
13,800
10,840
13,789
2,115
0
1,596
214,287
66,000
34,154
43,677
19,326
9,362
15,685
48,568
1,559
8,497
255
0
7,809
254,892
(40,605)

1 The Diocese Parish Support Fund self-financing pledge in 2025 was £89,300 (2024 - £86,300).

29