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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of St Paul And St Mark, Old Ford

2023-12-31-accounts

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1133963

TRUSTEES' REPORT AND

INDEPENDENTLY EXAMINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

FOR

ST. PAUL AND ST MARK

OLD FORD

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

Page
Reference and administrative details 1
Trustees' report 2 to 19
Independent examiner's report 20
Statement of financial activities 21
Statement of Financial Position 22
Notes to the financial statements 23 to 27

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

Area of Operation: London

PCC members who have served from 1 January 2023 until the date this report was approved are:

Incumbent (ex officio) Rev’d Darius Weithers Associate Priest (ex officio) Revd William O'Reilly Revd April Keech Wardens (ex officio) Melanie O'Reilly Tim Murray (Representative on the Deanery Synod)

Representatives on the Deanery Tracey Yewman Synod (ex officio)

Elected Members

Matthew McKay Revd April Keech Robert Lowther-Adamson Ceri Durham Dee Kafero Anne Elizabeth Zakiewicz Doris Ani-Agyei Andrew Walters Christopher Watson

Principal Address

St Paul Old Ford St Stephen's Road London E3 5JL

Registered Charity Number 1133963

Independent Examiner

Alex Mutyaba MSc BSc (Hons) BA (Hons) FCCA 46A Fairlawn Park Sydenham London SE26 5RY

Page 1

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

The PCC Members, who are also trustees of the charity for the purposes of Charities Act 2011, present their report with the independently examined financial statements of the Church for the year ended 31 December 2023. The PCC have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015)

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Objectives and aims

The primary objective of the PCC is the promotion in its parish of "the whole mission of the Church of England, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical". The PCC considers that in doing so it is acting for the public benefit.

Further information about how the PCC considers it has met its objectives and acted for the public benefit are on the status report at page 5-18 below.

Church Attendance

There were 124 persons on the Electoral Roll in May 2023, an increase from May 2022 (117). The average attendance at Sunday morning services during the year was 62 adults and 12 children.

Volunteers

The PCC and the Incumbent express their thanks for the uncounted hours of effort put in by the many members who volunteer their time and skills, not only to provide regular services, but also to enable the other activities that are part of the church's ministry. The number of regular volunteers (excluding Trustees) is over 40. Further information about different teams and volunteers are contained in the status report page 5-18 below.

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

Charitable activities

The mission of the Church is supported by the contribution of the PCC to the cost to the Diocese of the incumbent (Church Common Fund) and by running the church building. Direct expenditure on Charitable activities is shown as Church Running Costs. Other expenditure included Equipment & Property maintenance costs and the governance costs. Information about the activities and events held in the year is contained in the status report pages 5 - 18 below.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial position

The results for the year and financial position of the Church are shown in the annexed financial statements.

Principal funding sources

Rental Income from the use of church properties continued to be the main source of income in 2023 however the PCC is thankful for the ongoing support of the Church members (congregants) who continued to support the church with donations and gifts.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

There has been a decrease income in the year under review from £276,388 (2022) to £237,847. Similar to last year the main source of income was property income. Property income was lower in 2023: £148,550, compared to £172,243 in 2022, but remained a similar proportion: 62% in 2023 and 62% in 2022.

The total expenditure in the year was £234,427 (2022: £307,071.) This included the Church Common Fund Contribution of £64,167 (2022: £60,583). Church Running Costs of £140,754 (2022: £200,628) and Other expenditures of £29,506 (2022: £45,860). A depreciation charge of £8,061 (2022: £5,256) included in other Expenditure was charged in the year under review.

Investment policy and objectives

The charity deposits funds with "The CBF Church of England Investment Fund" to ensure a reasonable return in terms of interest and long-term protection from inflation, and to meet ethical investment standards.

Reserves policy

It is PCC policy to maintain an ‘investment reserves’ balance of £111,465 (2022:£108,004) being the approximate value of the deposit with the CBF Church of England Investment Fund – and for day to day spending to be met out of income earned during the year or from general reserves generated from any surplus. The PCC’s view is that the investment reserves may be used to cover emergency situations or specific projects that may arise from time to time, subject to specific decisions by the PCC to use these funds. The current reserves balance (including investment reserves) of £445,525 is comfortably more than the average annual running costs £170,691 (recalculated average for 2023 and 2022) so as the church resettles post Covid, it is likely to consider whether the time is now right to use some of these funds for specific, new projects.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Going Concern

The charity trustees continued to make appropriate enquiries and review of the impact of funding of the charity that there are no implications which may be so severe as to cast doubt upon the charity's financial sustainability, and also review that the charity has adequate resources and sufficient sources of funds available for the foreseeable future, and thus the trustees are confident that the charity will continue in operation for the foreseeable future, hence, a going concern basis was adopted by the trustees in preparing the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing document

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust and constitutes an unincorporated charity.

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a corporate body established by the Parochial Church Council (Powers) Measure 1956 (as amended) and the Church Representation Rules (CRR, contained in schedule 3 to the Synodical Government measure 1969 as amended). The PCC of Ecclesiastical Parish of St Paul and St Marks, Old Ford was registered with the Charity Commission on 2 February 2010.

Recruitment and appointment of new trustees

Membership of the PCC is specified by the Church Representation Rules (CRR). All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll if they meet the relevant conditions in the CRR. Those on the Electoral Roll are invited to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) and encouraged to consider standing for election to the PCC. The APCM elects lay members to the PCC, and Deanery Synod Representatives (ex officio PCC members); Churchwardens (ex officio on PCC) are elected by Parish Meeting (annually, as APCM). Licensed Ordained and Lay Ministers (ex officio on PCC) are entitled to serve on the PCC.

Organisational structure

The PCC met 6 times in 2023 and two to date in 2024 to oversee and discuss the management of the Church. The PCC have established a Standing Committee which comprises the Incumbent and Churchwardens (ex officio) and Secretary which can take day-to-day or urgent decisions on behalf of the PCC.

Induction and training of new trustees

New PCC members are encouraged to attend PCC induction seminars held by the Diocese.

Related parties

Within the Church of England, St Paul and St Mark Church, Old Ford is a member of the Deanery of Hackney and the Diocese of London.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Risk management

The PCC have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the Church is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance, including against fraud and error. The PCC recognises the health & safety, fire and other risks that are common to most church organisations. Our policies are subject to regular review in order to ensure that controls are appropriate, and risks at an acceptable level. The PCC is unaware of other major risks that may affect the operation of the Church in the foreseeable future.

The PCC has due regard to House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. We have adopted the Diocese's "Safe Church" policy, and keep activities under review.

FUNDS HELD AS CUSTODIAN FOR OTHERS

The Charity did not hold funds as custodians on behalf of others in the year ended 31 December 2023.

St Paul Old Ford - Status Report 2023

Vicar’s report

Reasons to be thankful

There are numerous reasons for gratitude in the past year at St Paul’s. Following months of closure, and with the assistance of two grants, we successfully relaunched the church cafe as St Paul’s Kitchen in September. Operating from Wednesday to Friday, and also catering to building users, St Paul’s Kitchen has been a big hit in the community. We’ve witnessed a diverse array of people coming through our doors to enjoy Jeanette’s delicious cooking. Jeanette, who joined our team last year, has seamlessly integrated and consistently impressed. It’s been truly rewarding to observe how she has cared for hundreds of people over the months. Our vision of providing nutritious, handmade meals at affordable prices for local residents is taking shape. This is made possible because St Paul’s subsidises each meal we serve. We’re genuinely enthusiastic about the future prospects of this endeavour.

Last year also marked the addition of Grace to our welcome and hospitality team. And we were thrilled to welcome Debbie Mack to our staff as the new part-time youth worker.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Also among the highlights of 2023 was the street party we hosted in celebration of the King’s coronation. It was a joyous occasion, with over 400 local residents joining us as we embraced the opportunity to extend our traditional St. Paul Old Ford hospitality.

Other memorable moments included Michelle Lam’s baptism in our children’s swimming pool in the vicarage garden, and Debbie’s moving testimony as she expressed gratitude to God for His goodness while reaffirming her baptismal vows.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Thank you Billy, for all your support and always being willing to serve. You’ve been a constant source of encouragement to me.

I would also like to give an extra special thank you to my colleague and friend Rev April. In my time so far at St Paul’s, April has modelled to me what it looks like to be in love with this parish. It has been a huge support and comfort to work alongside her. In her dedication to prayer, her beautiful preaching ministry and her far-reaching pastoral work, April has taught me a lot about what it means to be a priest to our congregation. At times of tragedy, April’s number was the first that I dialled. With her depth of ministerial knowledge, and her unique spirituality, she continues to be a blessing to me, and I’m sure to all of us. So, I wanted to take this opportunity to give April her own shout out. I know I don’t say this enough. Thanks for who you are, and all you do.

Challenges to the church community

In 2023 however, St. Paul’s faced significant loss and challenges that left a lasting impact. Christina, our dedicated team member who keeps our premises immaculate, was signed off long-term for health reasons. Similarly, Grace encountered health challenges that required her to be signed off from work. We also mourned the passing of cherished church family members Mike Zackiewicz, John Day and Eddie Collins.

Personally, I found 2023, particularly the losses we experienced, deeply distressing. However, it is during such trying times that the true character of faith communities is revealed. The unwavering support and solidarity that St Paul’s extended to Grace and I during our own challenges served as a powerful affirmation of our belonging within this community. Similarly, witnessing the care and compassion our church fellowship offered to the families of Mike, John, and Eddie, was profoundly moving.

So, despite the sorrow and pain of 2023, it was also a year marked by glimpses of Christ’s kingdom among us at St Paul Old Ford. Through tangible acts of love and support, we witnessed the resilience and compassion of our community. As your vicar, I am deeply grateful for these moments, which remind us of the strength and grace found in our shared journey of faith.

Unsung heroes

Again, I want to take a moment to highlight the incredible individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes at St Paul’s. While I won’t be able to mention everyone, it’s vital to recognise the myriad contributions that often go unnoticed.

Firstly, I want to commend Gerry, who stepped down from the PCC last year, but continues to be an unwavering source of support for me as vicar. Gerry’s dedication is evident every Sunday morning as he quietly attends to various tasks without seeking recognition.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

A special acknowledgment is also due to Tracey, our assistant churchwarden and a member of our bank staff team. Tracey consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring that even the smallest details, like changing the altar candles, are attended to with care.

I also want to shine a light on Jean’s invaluable work behind the scenes. The brilliance of our altar cloths and the cleanliness of our kitchen towels are all thanks to Jean’s diligent efforts.

I want to express heartfelt gratitude to Jackie, Dom and Ray for their selfless service. Not only do they ensure that we are refreshed after every service, but they also proactively tackle any tasks that need attention.

Lastly, I want to extend a special recognition to Tim, Rob, and Isobel for their dedication to running our livestream. Their commitment ensures that our services reach an average of about 40 viewers per week, a testament to the impact of their efforts. It’s clear that their hard work is bearing fruit, allowing us to connect with our community in meaningful ways, even beyond the physical walls of our church.

To all those I’ve mentioned and the countless others who quietly keep our community running smoothly, I extend my deepest appreciation. Your dedication is the unseen but essential lubricant that keeps the wheels turning at St Paul’s. Whether your name has been mentioned or not, please know that your efforts do not go unnoticed. Beyond our church’s recognition, God sees and acknowledges the love and care you pour into our community.

Darius Weithers, Vicar of St Paul Old Ford

Associate priest’s report

Since 2010, I have been an informal part of St Paul’s community and ministry, originally helping with preaching and presiding only, while I worked full time as chaplain to an academy. In 2018, I was asked to come into the building three days a week to offer more formal ministry: continuing preaching and presiding, but also assisting with the pastoral ministry, small groups, and other pastoral offices.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Pastoral work

Given that St Paul’s is open at least 5 days a week, there are always people coming in and out who are looking for help, and while they don’t always know it, looking for God. From April 2023, I have continued to offer preaching and presiding ministry with Darius, our vicar and Billy, our self¬supporting minister. And that has been a joy.

I have also met regularly with the Wednesday daytime Bible study with Anne, our pastoral assistant. It’s a time of discussion, learning and humour. I’ve also relished visiting our older shut-in parishioners and those in hospital or sick at home. On the days I’m not in the church building, I am often calling people to see how they are, preparing sermons and orders of service and praying for various issues locally and globally.

Supporting funerals and grieving

I have often offered funeral ministry with people who do not come to church. It is a time to meet families at difficult times, prepare a service acknowledging death and its ache, as well as offering the consolation and love of God. For no matter how near or far people are from God, God is with us. Most poignant have been John Day’s funeral, and - heartbreakingly - Mike Zak’s death and funeral, Eddie’s demise and remembrance, and the sudden death of Angela Doherty. These funerals take a toll on all of us, but yet this is part of being Christ’s body and God’s family.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Since January, I have further reduced my time in the church building but still work at home on other days. As well as the above ministry, I have had some death cafes to help people reflect on life in the midst of death, mostly with people outside the church family. I’ve done these for the last 6 years. This year I took a couple of people to another church’s ‘Blue Christmas’ services for those who might find Christmas a very difficult time.

Other work at St Paul’s and beyond

I am St Paul’s monthly liaison with Helen and Rob Quail, our mission partners in Nicaragua, for their family and personal support. And it’s wonderful to meet with families for baptism preparation and marriage preparation.

Outside the St Paul Old Ford ministry, I have helped prepare candidates for ordination retreats, tutored students on the ‘Peter stream’ at St Mellitus College and I did the last of my evening ‘Beginning Theology’ classes in June. I’ve taught 6 classes a year for over 15 years for that stream of ministry. I’ve enjoyed co-leading the 10-sessions of the ‘Being With’ course with Darius and also with a group of women. And recently I organised our 4 guest speakers for St Paul Old Ford’s 20th reopening anniversary.

The future

As you read this, I have reached 72 years of age and realise it is time for me to let go. How and exactly when is still yet to be formally announced. But it makes room for others to come and gives me space to ponder my continued thanks for this wonderful life God has given me.

April Keech, associate priest

Churchwardens’ report

At St Paul’s, the church wardens do less of the traditional church wardens’ role of being responsible for the church buildings, because we have our amazing building team, led by Venue Manager Divya.

We want to thank her for keeping everything running so smoothly. We also want to give a shoutout to the bank staff, who do so much to help our out-of-hours bookings happen. We want to give particular thanks to Trevor, for also being our go-to repair man for many jobs around church.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

The main part of the church wardens’ role at St Paul’s is supporting the vicar and helping to make decisions and provide leadership to the church through the standing committee and the PCC.

But back to the buildings, the big things to report this year is the 2 quinquennial inspections: one for St Paul’s and the other for St Mark’s. Every 5 years, church buildings must be inspected by an experienced and qualified professional. These inspections help make sure our buildings are kept in good repair.

The inspections on our buildings were carried out by Alex Sherratt of Matthew Lloyd architects, the firm behind the renovation of St Paul’s in 2004. They have continued to be involved with the church and produced the 2023 quinquennial reports. The reports include a detailed look at the condition of each building and provide a list of things that need to be done, in order of urgency. There are a few things that we need to act on, and the church wardens are working with Divya (for St Paul’s) and the Montessori nursery (for St Mark’s), and others, to get the necessary work done.

Church wardens: Tim Murray and Melanie O’Reilly

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Deanery Synod Report

The deanery synod is a forum where clergy and lay reps from churches across Tower Hamlets meet 3 times a year to discuss and work together on various issues we have in common. Meetings usually take place at St Paul Shadwell, starting with food.

The deanery synod had 3 meetings in 2023. They discussed issues like mission action plans and strategy and the collaborative parish operations project. There was also a social gathering at St Katherine’s Foundation.

There were a couple of new things in 2023. A new lay chair was elected, and the synod also started regular prayer walks around the borough.

Deanery synod reps: Tim Murray and Tracey Yewman

Pastoral team report

Pastoral visiting

The pastoral work at St Paul Old Ford is shared between the clergy, Rev Darius and Rev April, and assisted by the pastoral team: Anne Zakiewicz, Chris Watson, Joy Redman and Doris Ani-Agyei. But there are also many other caring people at St Paul’s, who help each other out, in so many ways.

We meet as a team occasionally to share news and pray, and between us, we visit a few mainly elderly or immobile people in their homes, and sometimes go to see people in hospital. Most of these people were regulars at St Paul’s in the past, and still take an eager interest in hearing news and praying for us. They are no longer well enough to get to church and some - like Moji and Dulcie - are well into their 90s. We always spend time in prayer with them and sometimes give holy communion.

The clergy meet with many bereaved families, and this year we have sadly lost 4 of our church family; Mike, John, Eddie and Angela (in early 2024).

Welcome lunches

Every other month after the Sunday service, we hold welcome lunches and invite new people who have started coming to the church, to help them to meet some of our church members and feel welcomed. Many thanks to our wonderful cooks and welcome team.

Other pastoral team work

On Tuesdays Chris collects all the food and other gifts left in the trunk in the church cafe and delivers these generous donations to Bow Foodbank.The foodbank is currently based in the old Raines school in Bethnal Green, but it will soon be moving closer to us in Roman Road. There has been a huge growth in the need for the food bank and its vital work.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

At Christmas the annual Christmas carols at Donnybrooke Care home and the Eleanor pub were a delight and a great opportunity to take the good news into the community.

Anne Zakiewiez, pastoral assistant

Bible study and prayer

Prayer and Bible study is at the heart of what we do at St Pauls, because in doing these we are listening and speaking to God, and growing in our relationship with God and each other. We’d encourage everybody at St Paul’s to be part of these groups. They will be glad to welcome you along!

Wednesdays is always the busiest day for church Bible study and prayer groups. There are 3 Wednesday Bible study groups at St Paul’s meeting at different times, which ran throughout 2023.

12.30 pm is the church cafe group, led alternately by April and Anne. They look ahead to the 2 Bible readings in the following Sunday’s service, so they can think about it beforehand.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

7.15 pm is the fortnightly evening Bible study in the church cafe, with Anne. They have 15 minutes for tea and biscuits, before starting the study at 7:30pm. Like the lunchtime group, they also look ahead to the following Sunday’s readings. They finish with 15 minutes prayer until 9pm.

8pm is the Bible in the pub group at the Eleanor Arms on Old Ford Road. It’s friendly gathering in the relaxed atmosphere of the pub, and they usually read and discuss the readings from the previous Sunday service and try to understand what they are teaching us.

Prayer

On Wednesdays, just before the lunchtime Bible study, there are prayers in the church prayer corner from 12pm, with April and Anne.

The prayer corner at church is open regularly and people can come, pray and light a candle. We are happy to offer prayer on Sundays when the church is open around the service, or any weekday, when the church is open (usually 9am to 5pm) and if someone is available.

Saturday mornings is the online prayer meeting run by Rev Darius. It’s a half hour prayer meeting which people can join from wherever they are.

And at the end of 2023, we started a new monthly prayer meeting on Wednesdays in the church cafe at 7:30pm. This was formed mainly by the Wednesday evening cafe group and the Bible in the pub group coming together, although all are welcome. They pray the evening prayer liturgy, spend time interceding, and try different ways of listening to God.

Other groups

On Fridays Joy and Beryl lead a knit and natter group in the church cafe from 11am, with lots of nattering and cups of tea.

In January 2023, April started a new Being With course, which spent 10 weeks exploring Christian life and faith.

Men’s breakfast

The men’s breakfast is coordinated by Andrew, our licensed lay minister. The group meets on the second Saturday of the month from 9:30am to 11am. They sometimes invite a visiting speaker or one of the groups will talk about their passion and their Christian life over a tasty breakfast. They share their own stories, and the meeting ends in prayer. They also hold regular curry nights.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Venue manager’s report

We were all delighted that St Paul’s Cafe officially reopened in September 2023 after an 8-month closure. Our new cook Jeanette lives locally and has settled in brilliantly. And she has started new initiatives such as sourcing meat from a local butcher and developing a weekly changing menu of new favourites like shepherd’s pie, jerk chicken and stew with dumplings. We are gaining new customers alongside our valued existing regulars. Also, opening the cafe (on Wednesdays to Fridays, 11am to 3pm) would not be possible without the help of our old friend Rose, who is such a reliable volunteer.

Another new face in the building is Grace Weithers, who took on the role of welcome and hospitality coordinator in April 2023. She is kept busy on the reception desk, increasing our income through hiring out space for private parties, and our regular hirers, like NHS respiratory care and exercise, Strong Mamas, and our new classes like Muay Tai kickboxing for under 12s. We have also expanded our partnership with our tenant, Ability Bow, which has begun providing affordable community exercise classes on Tuesdays in our meeting hall.

We have increased bookings through using the online space hire platform Sharesy, which allows new customers to find us and give us a try. Through Sharesy we have taken on the Breathwork class, baby showers and engagements. Our flexible spaces make the venue appealing to lots of different users and the team - including our valued bank of part-time reception staff and cleaners who come out-of-hours - work hard to make sure events run safely and successfully.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

In October we hosted a Black History Month celebration for the second year running. This is a free community event organised by Anita and Susan from the Lady Lane Market which brought people together creating fun memories and increasing well-being. The day consisted of craft workshops for all ages, a Lindy Hop jazz dance performance and opportunity to join in. Two guest speakers - Salome Dior Williams (film producer) and Tina Amuzie (founder of the ‘Educate an African Child’ charity), as well as music, raffles and food completed the day and we hope to host them again.

Our quinquennial inspection came around again and was led by Alex Sherratt. This resulted in a 100- page report identifying the condition of the building in detail and suggesting when work will need to be done. Thankfully, no major urgent works were identified this time round, although there are a number of repairs in the pipeline that we are planning for. As the report says: “St Paul’s remains well cared for and properly managed by dedicated people... improvements and upgrades are undertaken where necessary in order to enhance and adapt various aspects of the building to suit the needs of different users.”

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

We are very grateful to have a venue team of passionate people who work extremely hard to make sure St Paul’s continues to be a space that is safe, welcoming and hospitable for everyone who enters the building.

Divya Beeharry, venue manager

Youth worker’s report

I wasn’t around at the beginning of the year. I started a phased return to work, starting with one day a month in March and slowly built up to 21 hours by August, by adding a day each month.

I completed the practical side of my degree in September 2023 which was an apprenticeship in youth ministry and mission. Due to my mental illness in 2022, I was unable to complete the university and essay side of things. The London diocese and St Paul’s were so patient and understanding about my illness and the need to take my time. I began with youth Sunday school, then added the Rise youth club on Mondays. I loved being back! It felt like home from home: my church family.

Sunday youth started small in March 2023 but slowly increased and by December 2023 we had 5 to 7 young people regularly attending. The young people were keen to learn and inspired me to look deeper into my own faith. My challenge was to make the sessions fun and relevant to life today. With help from Darius, Jessica and April I learnt new ways to do this.

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

I returned to Rise in May 2023 and it ran really well with the help of our amazing volunteers Charis, Angela and Darius. It started slow with low numbers and some young people didn’t return. But we remained optimistic and kept going. We lowered the age of young people attending down from 11 to 10 and that helped to increase numbers. By December 2023, we had 10 young people regularly attending Rise on Monday nights.

Darius gave me new opportunities to try new things like learning to do a youth service. I was nervous but valued his faith in me to be able to do it. The Christmas youth service was a big one for me. But so many people stepped up to help from the congregation and it was wonderful and very inspiring.

In September 2023, the post for a new youth worker came up at St Paul’s. I thought that I’d maybe assist them and carry on doing what I was doing. But God had other plans and I got the post! I felt like everyone knew that would be the case but me! The people at St Paul’s made me feel so at home and wanted. I truly cannot imagine working anywhere else.

It was a pleasure watching all our young people grow physically, mentally and spiritually. And also having my daughter along for the journey. Everything that happened in 2023 led to my confidence in my role today and my dreams and hopes for the young people in 2024.

Debbie Mack, youth worker

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ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including Financial Reporting Standard 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland".

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales, the Charities Act 2011, Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provision of the trust deed requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements of each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charity for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provision of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Approved by order of the board of trustees on 30 October 2024 and signed on its behalf by:

Revd. Darius Weithers - Trustee

Page 19

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of St Paul and St Mark, Old Ford. I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of St Paul and St Mark, Old Ford (the Trust) for the year ended 31st December 2023.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees of the Trust you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under Section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the 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:

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.

Alex Mutyaba

Alex Mutyaba MSc BSc (Hons) BA (Hons) FCCA

46A Fairlawn Park Sydenham London SE26 5RY

Date: 31 October 2024

Page 20

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

Notes
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacies
2
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
3
Investment income
4
Total
EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable activities
Common Fund Contribution
5
Church Running Costs
6
Other
7
Total
NET SURPLUS/(DEFICIT)
Transfers between funds
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD		 Unrestricted
funds
£
80,328
153,925
3,594
237,847
64,167
140,754
29,656
234,577
3,271
442,254
445,525		 Restricted
fund
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
7,710
7,710		 2023
Total
funds
£
80,328
153,925
3,594
237,847
64,167
140,754
29,656
234,577
3,271
-
449,964
453,235		 2022
Total
funds
£
87,815
187,055
1,468
276,338
60,583
200,628
45,860
307,071
(30,732)
-
480,696
449,964

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 21

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION 31ST DECEMBER 2023

Notes
FIXED ASSETS
10
11
CREDITORS
12
14
Restricted fund
14
Cash at bank
Tangible assets
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
Unrestricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS		 2023
£
273,350
26,097
156,186
182,283
(2,398)
179,885
453,234
453,234
445,525
7,710
453,235		 2022
£
281,411
7,875
174,242
182,117
(13,564)
168,553
449,964
449,964
442,254
7,710
449,964

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 30 October 2024 and were signed on its behalf by:

Rev’d Darius Weithers - Trustee

The notes form part of these financial statements

Page 22

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

BASIS OF PREPARING THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The financial statements of the charity, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Charities Act 2011. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The presentational currency of the financial statements is Pound Sterling (£).

INCOME

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount 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 a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.

life.
Longhold Lease property 2% Straight line
Office equipment and Furniture & Fittings 5% Reducing balance

CASH FLOW

The financial statements do not include a cash flow statement because the charity, as a small reporting entity, is exempt from the requirement to prepare such a statement under the FRS102.

TAXATION

St. Paul and St Marks Old Ford is a registered charity and is potentially exempt from taxation inrespect of income and capital gains received within the categories covered by Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that such income or gains are applied to charitable purposes.

FUND ACCOUNTING

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

continued …

Page 23

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

PENSION COSTS AND OTHER POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charity's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

2.
Unplanned Giving
Planned giving
Gift Aid
Youth Work
Donation & Appeals
Columba Congregation
Cleaning services
Utility & other Contributions
3.
INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Community Café Income
Parochial fees
Property Income
4.
INVESTMENT INCOME
Deposit account Interest
5
COMMON FUND CONTRIBUTION
Common Fund Contribution
Activities
DONATIONS AND LEGACIES		 Unrestricted
funds
£
16,790
17,121
9,669
65
3,057
982
-
8,908
25,700
80,328
Unrestricted
funds
£
4,011
1,364
148,550
153,925
Unrestricted
funds
£
3,594
Unrestricted
funds
£
64,167		 Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
Restricted
funds
£
-
Restricted
funds
£
-		 31.12.23
Total
funds
£
16,790
17,121
9,669
65
3,057
982
-
8,908
25,700
80,328
31.12.23
Total
funds
£
4,011
1,364
148,550
153,925
31.12.23
Total
funds
£
3,594
Total
£
64,167		 31.12.22
Total
funds
£
7,717
20,214
10,701
5,008
16,380
449
8,600
18,747
87,815
31.12.22
Total
funds
£
9,992
4,820
172,243
187,055
31.12.22
Total
funds
£
1,468
Total
£
60,583

continued …

Page 24

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

6
CHURCH RUNNING COSTS
Employer NI
Employer Pension
Insurance
Columba Church expenses
Telephone
Staff Training & Welfare
Computer & Website costs
Youth Work expenses
Organist & Choir expenses
Subscriptions
Domestic & Hospitality
Ministers Expenses
Volunteer Costs
Security Costs
Light & Heat
Rates & water
7.
OTHERS
Equipment & Property Maintenance
Depreciation Expenses
Hooke House Property Expenses
Accountancy and Legal fees
Independent Examiners fees
Finance Costs
Bank charges
Provision for Bad and Doubtful Debts
Church Café cost
Venue & Service promotion
Postage Printing and Stationery
Salary & Wages
Donations
Repairs & Maintenance
Governance Costs		 Unrestricted
funds
£
54,534
2,256
5,741
6,842
6,000
350
2,230
5,046
600
1,450
4,575
5,685
197
360
1,575
11,534
2,734
142
829
27,420
655
140,754
Unrestricted
funds
£
8,061
3,617
14,387
26,065
1,500
1,650
3,150
441
-
441
29,656		 Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 31.12.23
Total
funds
£
54,534
2,256
5,741
6,842
6,000
350
2,230
5,046
600
1,450
4,575
5,685
197
360
1,575
11,534
2,734
142
829
27,420
655
140,754
31.12.23
Total
funds
£
8,061
3,617
14,387
26,065
1,500
1,650
3,150
441
-
441
29,656		 31.12.22
Total
funds
£
124,826
6,734
4,739
6,756
6,000
4,642
3,311
4,773
522
-
4,273
5,970
793
419
1,069
1,782
5,793
-
580
15,622
2,023
200,628
31.12.22
Total
funds
£
5,256
8,362
13,977
27,595
5,286
1,500
6,786
476
11,002
11,478
45,860

continued …

Page 25

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

8. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 December 2023 nor for the year ended 31 December 2022.

Trustees' expenses

There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 December 2023 nor for the year ended 31 December 2022.

9.
STAFF COSTS
Wages and salaries
Employer NI
Employer Pension
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
Charitable Activities
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000		 31.12.23
£
54,534
2,256
5,741
62,531
31.12.23
9		 31.12.22
£
124,826
6,734
4,739
136,299
31.12.22
9

10. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Long
Leasehold
property
£
COST
At 1 January 2023
245,277
At 31 December 2023
245,277
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January 2023
26,980
Charge for year
4,906
31,886
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December 2023
213,391
At 31 December 2022
218,297
11. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Other debtors
Gift Aid Receivable
Prepayments		 Office
Equipment
£
57,956
57,956
15,624
2,117
17,741
40,215
42,332		 Fixtures
and
fittings
£
70,167
70,167
49,385
1,039
50,424
19,743
20,782
31.12.23
£
24,723
1,000
373
26,097		 Totals
£
373,400
-
373,400
91,989
8,061
100,050
273,350
281,411
31.12.22
£
6,501
1,000
373
7,875

continued …

Page 26

ST. PAUL AND ST. MARKS OLD FORD NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

12. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Accrued Expenses
Other Creditors
13. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS
Fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
14. STATEMENT OF FUNDS
Brought
Incoming
Forward
Resources
£
£
General Funds
442,254
237,847
Restricted Funds
7,710
Total Funds
449,964
237,847		 Resources
Expended
£
(234,577)
234,577
-		 31.12.23
£
1,650
748
2,398
31.12.23
£
273,350
182,283
(2,398)
453,234
Transfer
£
-
-		 31.12.22
£
7,984
5,580
13,564
31.12.22
£
281,411
182,117
(13,564)
449,964
Carried
Forward
£
445,525
7,710
453,235

Page 27