## **PARISH OF ST JAMES, CHRISTLETON** ## **ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** **of the** ## **PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL For the Parish of Christleton** **for the year ended 31December 2022** **Rector: The Reverend Dr Stefan Collier** **Church: St James** **Parish Office: St James, Pepper Street, Christleton, CH3 7AG Bankers: Santander** **Charity Registration Number: 1133992** 1 **CONTENTS:** ## **Page:** ## **3 - Roles and Membership of the Parochial Church Council** ## **4 - Minutes of the Annual Meetings held on 22 May 2022** **6 - Rector’s Report 2022** ## **7 - St James’ Parish Routemap to Net Zero Carbon by 2030** **9 - Churchwardens’ Report** **10 - St James’ Christleton End of Year Financial Statements Year ending 31 Dec 2022** - **17- Treasurer’s Annual Report** **19 - Independent Examiner’s Report** ## **20 - Foodbank Report** ## **20 - Deanery Synod Report** ## **20 - Parochial Church Council (PCC) Report** ## **20 - Parish Hall** ## **21 - Luncheon Club** ## **21- AV Report** ## **21- Electoral Roll Report** ## **21- Friends’ Annual Report** ## **22 - Youth Work** ## **22 - Bereavement Support Group** ## **22 - Safeguarding** ## **23 - Bell Ringers’ Report** 2 ## **ROLES AND MEMBERSHIP OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL:** St James Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of working with the Rector in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church: pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has financial and maintenance responsibilities for St James. Members of the PCC are either ex-officio, elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) or coopted, in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. Since the APCM of April 2022 the following have served as members of the PCC: |Rector(ex-officio)|Revd Dr Stefan Collier| |---|---| |Assistant Curates(ex-officio)|Revd Tina Lightfoot
Revd Rob Croft| |Churchwardens (ex-officio)
Elected annually.|Bettie Gilliatt
Mike Lightfoot| |Deanery Synod Members:
This church may appoint up to 3 lay people as Lay
Deanery Synod representatives and they become
ex-officio on the PCC (if not already on PCC). They
are appointed for a three year fixed term.
(Current fixed term: 2020-2023)|Bettie Gilliatt
Jocelyn Platel| |Elected PCC members:
This church may have 12 elected PCC members
based on our current Electoral Roll size.
Members are elected for a 3 year term, maximum
of two consecutive terms (ie: 6 years)
* Member has completed 6 years.
# Member has completed 3years.|Christine Abrams (elected: 2019 & 2022)
Chris Platel (elected: 2017 & 2020) *
Sheena Cumiskey (elected: 2018 & 2021)
Brian Inall (elected: 2018 & 2021)
Keith Smalls (elected: 2018 & 2021)
Martin Thompson (elected: 2020) #
Pat Powell (elected: 2022)
John Norbury (elected: 2022)
Four PCCpositionshave been vacant.| |Co-opted PCC members:
Co-opted by the PCC for 1 year.
Maximum of 2.|Elizabeth McClure
Ann White| |**PCC Appointments**|| |---|---| |PCC Treasurer(appointed annually)|Elizabeth McClure| |PCC Secretary (appointed annually)|Jocelyn Platel| |Electoral Roll Officer(appointed annually)|Chris Platel| |SafeguardingOfficer(appointed annually)|Ann White| |**Parish Appointments**|| |---|---| |Employed Director of Music|Bob Jones| 3 ## **MINUTES OF 2022 ANNUAL MEETINGS held at 12.30 pm on 22[nd] May 2022** 27 people attended the meetings. ## **MEETING OF THE PARISHIONERS (Vestry Meeting)** Nominations had been received for Bettie Gilliatt (Proposed by Liz McClure and seconded by John Norbury) and Mike Lightfoot (Proposed by Keith Smalls and seconded by Christine Abrams). No other nominations had been received and therefore these two Churchwardens were elected unanimously without the need for a vote. Stefan thanked Bettie and Mike for their tremendous work during the past challenging year. The meeting closed. ## **ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING (APCM)** Stefan offered Opening Prayers. - **1: Apologies:** Apologies received from: John and Sue Eccles, Sheena and Carl Cumiskey, Victor and Ann Parfrement, Olga Clayton, Ann White. **2: Minutes of the Annual Meetings held on 16[th] May 2021.** These were approved as a true record to be signed by Stefan. Bettie drew attention to a correction needed on P5 where the word thermo coupling should read thermocouple. - **3: Matters Arising:** The Parish Hall boiler is now completely defunct and requires replacing. ## **4: Reports:** - **Electoral Roll** – Chris Platel said the numbers on the Roll were 172. The list should be displayed in the church porch; Chris will do this. Brian Inall pointed out that it could be published electronically. - **PCC Report** – there were no comments. - **Finance** - Covid still impacted on finances in 2021 but Liz confirmed that income exceeded expenditure mainly because of the generosity of those who donated regularly by SO and through the envelope scheme which made it less stressful for her. She registered her thanks for these donations and for the £10k legacy received. The contactless terminal has contributed £1,200. Thanks were due to Nigel Seddon for administering the envelope scheme. - Liz thanked John Norbury and the Stewardship Group for their support. The Friends have paid for the new notice boards. There will be a shortfall in the funding needed for a new boiler for the PH and the work on the churchyard paths so extra fundraising will be needed. It would be good to extend the Friends scheme. Bettie was praised for her tenaciousness in securing funding. She will be aiming to secure more funding but highlighted timing can be tricky. Also thanks are due to Maria Norbury for her sterling work in making a profit of £4362 for the PH. The absence of questions/comments was testimony to Liz’s efficiency and management. Brian asked if we could use collection plates again now and Stefan confirmed it was now permissible. - **Fabric** – The repairs to the lychgate have been completed but cost £1000 more that the quote because the services of a new stone mason had to be sought. - The churchyard paths urgently need attention and repair. The PCC has now approved for this to go ahead. The stained glass windows are generally in a good state of repair but need cleaning- a delicate and painstaking task so volunteers will be needed. Brian pointed out that the new AV equipment needs to be added to the maintenance audit; it has been added to the insurance policy. - **Deanery Synod** – no comments. - **Churchwardens’ Report** – on behalf of both wardens Mike thanked the congregation for their support during the restrictions imposed by Covid. He thanked the payback team for their huge contribution to the maintenance of the churchyard. They would normally make a charge but because of the hospitality they receive at St James this has been waived. Mike purchased a new mower and strimmer for their use at a cost of about £900. The team is down in size at the moment, in terms of both workers and supervisers. Mike thanked Martin Thompson 4 for taking over the administering of the foodbank donations and acknowledged the work done by Chris Alderton previous to this. The outcome of the Archdeacon’s visitation in December was that he was highly complimentary; SC emphasised how much work had been done prior to this visit to ensure its success. Mike and Bettie planted wild flowers in the churchyard yesterday. - **Rector’s Report –** Stefan communicated his sense of joy at living within and being animated by God’s mission here; the vision we are working towards has some degree of alignment with the vision of the national church of being simpler, humbler and bolder. Our plans for developing the church building as a missional centre of the community, in use daily rather than weekly, will probably take at least three years: much is entrusted to us, much demanded. It is so important that we are growing our experience and our understanding of following Jesus together; we all have a unique role to play in contributing to the mission at St James. Stefan identified Tina and Lesley for their response to the call to follow the ministry of Jesus; the bellringers for their regular commitment and particularly for ringing a quarter peal to mark the Beating the Bounds yesterday; he paid tribute to the work of the churchwardens and John Milton as verger; the PCC members for the important work being undertaken; the reformed choir; the ministry team with whom we are blessed with especial thanks to Rob; our administrator, Marj; Brian for all his work on the AV installation and his challenging questions; the many volunteers, around 60-70, who help with refreshments, intercessions, readings etc. It would be good to have a party every year to thank all these volunteers. - Martin raised the issue of reinstating the shared cup at communion. New advice from C of E is that the common cup could be reintroduced which has caused consternation in some parishes. A discussion of how to proceed is on the PCC agenda. Chris Platel asked if there was an intention to return to the midweek communion. Stefan suggested the new ministry introduced by Lesley may become a replacement for that but it is too early to know yet. Liz pointed out there were new volunteers to help with the monthly luncheon club which is a positive. Christine Abrams said she felt more optimistic about the future of the parish than she did ten years ago, thanks to Stefan and his positive impact on the rest of us. Tina pointed out that progress has been made with children’s ministry through the Ark and Lighthouse in engaging some young parents though there is a need for more volunteers. ## **5: Elections and Appointments:** - **Deanery Synod:** Bettie and Joce will continue in this role until 2023 when there will be elections. - **PCC:** Paul Forrest has come to the end of his term as a member of PCC but will continue his supportive role with Fabric and Maintenance. Ann White has also completed her term but will continue in her role of Safeguarding Officer. Charlie Bolley has resigned from PCC as she is expecting a baby this summer. Stefan thanked all three for all that they had done. - There were two nominations for new members, John Norbury (proposed by Liz McClure and seconded by Bettie Gilliatt) and Pat Powell (nominated by Chris Abrams and seconded by Bettie Gilliatt). Both were elected unanimously. - **Appointment of Auditor:** It was unanimously agreed (proposed by LMC, seconded by BI) that Meacher-Jones should continue as our Auditor for 2022 & Liz said she would contact them. There was unanimous acceptance of the accounts (proposed by DC, seconded by CA). **6: Any Other Business** : SC announced that he was working on an internal electronic system to manage the PCC’s responsibilities and workload. It was agreed that it is desirable to hold the APCM earlier in the year, closer to the time and events recorded in the document so next year the aim is to hold the meeting in February. Brian proposed that we hold a church meeting with lunch to which we invite the community where we publicise what is going on and discuss the mission of the church. The meeting closed with prayers led by Stefan at 1.45pm. Signed …………………………………………………….. (Rector)Date ……………………………………….. 5 ## **REPORTS FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2022** ## **RECTOR’S REPORT:** Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, In reflecting on 2022, I called to mind the following incomplete list of highlights. These, and other highlights (of which there are many) noted in the reports that follow, testify wonderfully to the way in which we are living out our vocation to worship, welcome, and witness in the communities we serve. - We have undertaken dedicated teaching around prayer (Feb/Mar), the Eucharist (Mar), the book of Romans (Jun/Jul), and Living in Love and Faith (Mar/Apr). - We have piloted a vocation development course in the parish (Sept), and ran a confirmation class for candidates (Oct/Nov). - We have developed and implemented major technological solutions to register church services (Jan) and manage administration services (including safeguarding, pastoral offices, pastoral visiting, and electoral roll) in the parish (c. Feb - Jul). At the same time, we have developed and implemented a community social network for use (Jul). - We have offered key community events through the year, among them: Beating the Bounds (May), the celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee (June), running a code club in the local primary school (Sept-Nov), and later, sadly, events to commemorate the Queen’s life and death (Sep). - We have progressed the church development project with the submission of a faculty for permission, and received feedback from key stakeholders. At the same time, the long overdue (on account of COVID) installation of the Audio-Visual (AV) system took place (Feb through Nov). - We reviewed, revised, and implemented a new Parochial Church Council (PCC) governance structure (Jul – Nov) which is bearing fruit in how we communicate, worship, partner with others, and steward our God given resources. - We continue to collect and donate significant amounts of food to families and individuals who are facing food insecurity. - We welcomed with joy the ordination of Tina Lightfoot as deacon and Assistant Curate of the parish (Jul). There is, as you can see, so much to be thankful for. May I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our leadership (ministry colleagues and PCC), volunteers, members, and those we partner with who have worked tirelessly to make our church community a welcoming and supportive place. A community which serves as a focal point and catalyst for the transformation of the communities we serve through prayer, praxis, and proclamation of the good news of Jesus Christ. I look forward to the coming year with great optimism and hope to the new creation the Lord is continuing to reveal among our communities with and without us, and am confident that, through our collective abiding in Christ and letting his love become our own, we will grow in the transformation of God’s world of which we are a precious part. Thank you. With much love, Stefan - Rector, Christleton 6 ## **St James Parish Routemap to Net Zero Carbon by 2030** |**Challenges include**|**Solution**|**Date to be achieved**| |---|---|---| |Heating/Lighting|Switched to Green Tariff for gas and
electricity|Done| |Eco Church|Registered
Bronze Award
Silver Award
Gold Award|Achieved
Apr/May 2024
Dec 2027
Dec 2030| |Carbon Footprint Calculated|Carbon Footprint Tool|Completed 2022 submission, see below.| |Annual report to APCM on progress with
environmental issues||Apr/May 2023| |Churchyard environmental
improvements, including biodiversity|Caring for God’s Acre consultation
Installed bug hotel in churchyard, West End
Rewilding parts of churchyard|Dec 2024
Done
Done/in process| |LED lights installed||Done where possible (to be confirmed)| |Energy Efficiency|Maintenance of the building especially
drains and gutters
Drafts dealt with
Insulation installed|On annual drains/gutters contract
N/A| |Theological input|Services/small groups include appropriate
messaging
Designed sermon series for Creationtide
(2022) – interrupted by death of monarch|Sept 2024| |Travel to church|Plan for clergy
Walk to church Sunday|N/A
N/A @ this time| |Individuals driving change identified||| |Liturgical opportunities|Environment Sunday (4 June 2023; nearest
Sunday to World Environment Day)
Climate Sunday (in Creationtide)
Rogation
Lammas
Harvest|4/6/23
Celebrated annually
Celebrated annually
-
Celebrated annually| 7 St James, Carbon Foot rint Carbon Footprint Thlsyear La5fYear Gross CO em15510n5(Tonnes} Net CO2 emlsslons (Tonnesi 11.0 Renewables and off5ets.' non-accredtted {tonne5) Weather Adjusted Energy Efficlency Net CO2 Percentile 0-10° 10-20° 20.31)% 3040% Emissionslsq metre adjusted percentile band 0-10.10 10-20°h 20-30°A 304￿ 4040% Church usage adjusted percentile band 0-10° 10-20°h 2040% 3040% 60-7VA 7(b80°A 80-90% 90'1.+ 60-70°h 60-70% 7040°h 70-80° 80-90°h 8040% 90"/9+ 90°lu+ Thethiee tknds alK)¥e are Intended to give you a perspective on whetheryour churih eTnlts"a litde" or'a lot" of iarbon, taking Into accountthesize ofthe building 3nd tt5 pattern of usage The first figure hlghll8hts where your net footprint Iles relatlve to other churcheswlthln the Church of England. Ascore of 0-10W4 Puts you In the 109 of Churches v41th the smallest foOtp￿nI, while è scoreof 90%+ means you are In the IOK of churches *Ath the lèrgest footprlnt. The S￿Ond figure highlights whereyour net footprint lie5 relatDie to other Ihurche5 once we take into aicountthe size ofthe building. The third figure highlights where your net footpnnt lies relarive ro ￿her churche5 once we take Inro bccouni how many people typically make use of the bjllding, and how longthe bulldln81s open for Thls Year LastYt¥ CO2 emlsslons per m 22.4 **St James Environmental Award Progress – A Rocha** ## **CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT:** Fabric and Maintenance. The PCC agreed to the installation of a new boiler and radiators in the Parish Hall. The work was completed late summer early autumn. Thanks to everyone involved in this project, especially Maria Norbury who worked tirelessly along with Connor. Regular maintenance checks were undertaken on the Church roof, fire extinguishers, and security system. New sensors may have to be fitted to the security system in the coming months. Three cycle stands were erected in the parish hall car park at no cost to the church. Churchyard Maintenance. Following extensive consultation, two large trees were cut down in the churchyard. These were on the north side of the church. We have had planted two native hornbeams in Littleton copse. The community payback team stopped maintaining the grounds towards the end of the year. The organisation is short of supervisors. We are hopeful of their return in 2023. Mike Lightfoot.Churchwarden. 9 **The financial reports for 2022 now follow in 3 sections: (i) Financial Statements; (ii) Treasurer’s Report (iii) Independent Examiner’s Report:** **ST JAMES’ CHURCH CHRISTLETON – END OF YEAR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDING Dec 31, 2022** ## **Introduction:** These accounts are produced on a receipts and payments basis by the programme Finance Co-ordinator, as in the previous 5 years so are directly comparable. Accrual accounts and full audit is not required at our income level. ## **Receipts and Payments Account** |**Receipts and Payments Account**|| |---|---| ||**Total funds**
**Prior year funds**| |**AVP - Audio-Visual project (Designated)**
**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN14 - donations
_Total Income from charitable activities_
**Expenditure**
Expenditure on charitable activities
EX25 - AVproject
_Total Expenditure on charitable activities_
Other expenditure
EX24 - church development
_Total Other expenditure_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
Transfers to/(from)
**Carried forward balance**
**EG - Egerton (Restricted)**
Brought forward balance
Transfers to/(from)
**Carried forward balance**
**FRIENDS - Friends of St James (Restricted)**
**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN07 - standing orders
IN08 - HMRC
IN14 - donations
_Total Income from charitable activities_
**Expenditure**
Expenditure on charitable activities
EX05 - church building maintenance
EX06 - churchyard maintenance
_Total Expenditure on charitable activities_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**|—
19,293| ||_—_
_19,293_
18,257
423| ||_18,257_
_423_
1,954
3,058| ||_1,954_
_3,058_
(20,212)
15,811
32,496
—
—
16,685| ||**12,284**
**32,496**
1,441
2,882
(1,441)
(1,441)| ||**—**
**1,441**
3,555
330
1,006
2,500
2,326
12,354| ||_6,887_
_15,184_
—
4,734
3,900
897| ||_3,900_
_5,631_
2,987
9,553
9,553
—| ||**12,540**
**9,553**| **HB - hymnbooks (Designated)** 10 Brought forward balance |roug orwar aance
**Carried forward balance**
**LCD - legacy/church development (Designated)**
**Income and endowments**
Donations and legacies
IN10 - legacy
_Total Donations and legacies_
**Expenditure**
Other expenditure
EX24 - church development
_Total Other expenditure_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
Transfers to/(from)
**Carried forward balance**
**PHRest - parish hall refurbishment (Designated)**
**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN14 - donations
_Total Income from charitable activities_
Other trading activities
IN05 - parish hall
_Total Other trading activities_
Other income
IN11 - fundraising
_Total Other income_
**Expenditure**
Other expenditure
EX10 - parish hall maintenance and refurbishmen
_Total Other expenditure_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**PHRest - parish hall refurbishment (Restricted)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**RDProf - rector D prof (Restricted)**
**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN08 - HMRC
_Total Income from charitable activities_
**Expenditure**
Expenditure on charitable activities
EX07 - clergy expenses
_Total Expenditure on charitable activities_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**|—
—| |---|---| ||**—**
**—**
1,647
10,000| ||_1,647_
_10,000_
756
1,127| ||_756_
_1,127_
890
8,872
38,872
—
—
30,000| ||**39,763**
**38,872**
2,075
—| ||_2,075_
_—_
24
—| ||_24_
_—_
3,558
864| ||_3,558_
_864_
12,367
1,362| ||_12,367_
_1,362_
(6,709)
(498)
5,818
6,316| ||**(891)**
**5,818**
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
—
750| ||_—_
_750_
—
750| ||_—_
_750_
—
—
—
—| ||**—**
**—**| 11 |**bells - bellringers (Restricted)**
**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN14 - donations
_Total Income from charitable activities_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**carpark - car park land trust (Designated)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**carparkres - car park (Restricted)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**chancel - chancel (Restricted)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**charit - charitable (Restricted)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**choir - choir (Designated)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**churchyd - churchyard (Restricted)**
**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN07 - standing orders
IN08 - HMRC
IN14 - donations
_Total Income from charitable activities_
**Expenditure**
Expenditure on charitable activities
EX06 - churchyard maintenance
_Total Expenditure on charitable activities_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
Transfers to/(from)
**Carried forward balance**
**heating - heating/boiler (Restricted)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**|350
—| |---|---| ||_350_
_—_
350
—
1,732
1,732| ||**2,082**
**1,732**
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
3,000
3,000| ||**3,000**
**3,000**
96
96| ||**96**
**96**
581
581| ||**581**
**581**
64
96
30
100
534
755| ||_628_
_951_
2,719
889| ||_2,719_
_889_
(2,090)
61
1,284
(217)
1,441
1,441| ||**634**
**1,284**
—
—| ||**—**
**—**| 12 ## **rectdec - rectory decorating (Designated)** |**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN14 - donations
_Total Income from charitable activities_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
Transfers to/(from)
**Carried forward balance**
**rest - restoration (Restricted)**
**Income and endowments**
Income from charitable activities
IN14 - donations
_Total Income from charitable activities_
**Expenditure**
Expenditure on charitable activities
EX05 - church building maintenance
_Total Expenditure on charitable activities_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**ssmessy - sunday school/messy church (Restricted)**
**Expenditure**
Expenditure on charitable activities
EX12 - messy church
EX20 - church gen expenses
_Total Expenditure on charitable activities_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**windprot - window protection (Designated)**
Brought forward balance
**Carried forward balance**
**General - General fund (Unrestricted)**
**Income and endowments**
Donations and legacies
IN10 - legacy
_Total Donations and legacies_
Income from charitable activities
IN02 - envelope scheme
IN03 - gift aid env
IN04 - funerals and weddings
IN06 - parish magazine
IN07 - standing orders
IN08 - HMRC
IN14 - donations
IN17 - clergy fee reimbursement
IN20 - general exp reimbursement
IN23 - CH ELEC REIMB
_Total Income from charitable activities_|—
200| |---|---| ||_—_
_200_
—
200
(358)
(558)
358
—| ||**—**
**(358)**
500
1,000| ||_500_
_1,000_
—
1,500| ||_—_
_1,500_
500
(500)
4,863
5,363| ||**5,363**
**4,863**
33
109
—
56| ||_33_
_165_
(33)
(165)
2,627
2,792| ||**2,594**
**2,627**
1,377
1,377| ||**1,377**
**1,377**
1,000
—| ||_1,000_
_—_
5,221
9,459
2,230
955
23,742
16,894
—
159
45,284
42,629
17,004
18,294
30,060
24,967
7
—
—
10
—
46| ||_123,550_
_113,416_| Other trading activities 13 |IN05 - parish hall
IN19 - land rent
IN22 - PH ELEC REIMB
IN24 - REIMB PH GAS
_Total Other trading activities_
Investments
IN09 - investment acct interest
_Total Investments_
Other income
IN11 - fundraising
_Total Other income_
**Expenditure**
Expenditure on charitable activities
EX01 - Church gas
EX02 - Church electricity
EX03 - Church salaries
EX04 - church insurance
EX05 - church building maintenance
EX07 - clergy expenses
EX08 - weddings/funerals
EX12 - messy church
EX14 - parish share
EX15 - rectory expenses
EX19 - church water
EX20 - church gen expenses
_Total Expenditure on charitable activities_
Other expenditure
EX10 - parish hall maintenance and refurbishmen
EX16 - parish hall gas
EX17 - parish hall electricity
EX18 - parish hall water
EX23 - parish hall general expenses
_Total Other expenditure_
Excess of Income and endowments over Expenditure
Brought forward balance
Transfers to/(from)
**Carried forward balance**|11,718
10,472
585
45
—
142
48
712| |---|---| ||_12,351_
_11,373_
1,084
45| ||_1,084_
_45_
401
300| ||_401_
_300_
2,607
2,636
1,560
966
3,980
455
4,006
3,594
—
1,060
3,154
2,938
10,356
9,082
—
104
84,020
81,303
4,135
5,950
46
45
12,613
7,254| ||_126,482_
_115,392_
614
—
404
566
4,797
833
656
247
6,115
4,606| ||_12,589_
_6,253_
(683)
3,488
11,439
54,637
(358)
(46,685)| ||**10,398**
**11,439**| ## **Balance sheet** |**Balance sheet**|| |---|---| |**Class and code**
**Description**|**This year**
**Last year**| |**Current assets**
CA1
current account
CA2
savings account
CA3
CBF investment account
CA4
petty cash
**Total Current assets**
**Liabilities**
6699
Agency collections
Z04
Accounts Payable
**Total Liabilities**
**Net Asset surplus(deficit)**
**Reserves**
Excess / (deficit) to date
Z01
Starting balances
**Total Reserves**|12,631
11,874
—
—
75,202
101,117
—
—| ||**87,833**
**112,991**
(1,991)
(1,834)
—
—| ||**(1,991)**
**(1,834)**| ||**89,825**
**114,826**| ||(25,000)
36,822
114,826
78,003| ||**89,825**
**114,826**| **Represented by funds** 14 Unrestricted 10,398 11,439 Designated 53,114 78,788 Restricted 26,311 24,598 Endowment — — **Total 89,825 114,826** ## **Statement of assets and liabilities** ||**General Designated**
**Restricted Endowment**
**This year**
**Last year**| |---|---| |**Current assets - Cash at bank and in hand**
current account -
**Totals**
**Current assets - Investments**
CBF investment account -
**Totals**
**Liabilities - Agency accounts**
Agency collections -
**Totals**
**Grand total**|4,951
1,983
5,696
—
12,631
11,874| ||**4,951**
**1,983**
**5,696**
**—**
**12,631**
**11,874**
5,446
51,131
18,623
—
75,202
101,117| ||**5,446**
**51,131**
**18,623**
**—**
**75,202**
**101,117**
—
—
(1,991)
—
(1,991)
(1,834)| ||**—**
**—**
**(1,991)**
**—**
**(1,991)**
**(1,834)**| ||**10,398**
**53,114**
**26,311**
**—**
**89,825**
**114,826**| ## **Fund movement by type** ||**Opening Incoming Outgoing Transfers Gains/losses JournalsClosing**| |---|---| |**AVP - Audio-Visual project**
Designated
**Sub-total for AVP**
**EG - Egerton**
Restricted
**Sub-total for EG**
**FRIENDS - Friends of St James**
Restricted
**Sub-total for FRIENDS**
**HB - hymnbooks**
Designated
**Sub-total for HB**
**LCD - legacy/church develo**
Designated
**Sub-total for LCD**
**PHRest - parish hall refurbis**
Designated
Restricted
**Sub-total for PHRest**
**RDProf - rector D prof**
Restricted
**Sub-total for RDProf**
**bells - bellringers**
Restricted
**Sub-total for bells**
**carpark - car park land trust**
Designated
**Sub-total for carpark**
**carparkres - car park**
Restricted
**Sub-total for carparkres**
**chancel - chancel**
Restricted|32,496
—
20,212
—
—
—
12,284| ||**32,496**
**—**
**20,212**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**12,284**
1,441
—
—
(1,441)
—
—
—| ||**1,441**
**—**
**—**
**(1,441)**
**—**
**—**
**—**
9,553
6,887
3,900
—
—
—
12,540| ||**9,553**
**6,887**
**3,900**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**12,540**
—
—
—
—
—
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
38,872
1,647
756
—
—
—
39,763| ||**38,872**
**1,647**
**756**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**39,763**
5,818
5,657
12,367
—
—
—
(891)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—| ||**5,818**
**5,657**
**12,367**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**(891)**
—
—
—
—
—
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
1,732
350
—
—
—
—
2,082| ||**1,732**
**350**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**2,082**
—
—
—
—
—
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
—
—
—
—
—
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
3,000
—
—
—
—
—
3,000| 15 |**Sub-total for chancel**
**charit - charitable**
Restricted
**Sub-total for charit**
**choir - choir**
Designated
**Sub-total for choir**
**churchyd - churchyard**
Restricted
**Sub-total for churchyd**
**heating - heating/boiler**
Restricted
**Sub-total for heating**
**rectdec - rectory decorating**
Designated
**Sub-total for rectdec**
**rest - restoration**
Restricted
**Sub-total for rest**
**ssmessy - sunday school/messy**
Restricted
**Sub-total for ssmessy**
**windprot - window protection**
Designated
**Sub-total for windprot**
**General - General fund**
Unrestricted
**Sub-total for General**
**Grand total**|**3,000**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**3,000**
96
—
—
—
—
—
96| |---|---| ||**96**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**96**
581
—
—
—
—
—
581| ||**581**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**581**
1,284
628
2,719
1,441
—
—
634| ||**1,284**
**628**
**2,719**
**1,441**
**—**
**—**
**634**
—
—
—
—
—
—
—| ||**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
(358)
—
—
358
—
—
—| ||**(358)**
**—**
**—**
**358**
**—**
**—**
**—**
4,863
500
—
—
—
—
5,363| ||**4,863**
**500**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**5,363**
2,627
—
33
—
—
—
2,594| ||**2,627**
**—**
**33**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**2,594**
1,377
—
—
—
—
—
1,377| ||**1,377**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**1,377**
11,439
138,388
139,071
(358)
—
—
10,398| ||**11,439**
**138,388**
**139,071**
**(358)**
**—**
**—**
**10,398**| ||**114,826**
**154,059**
**179,059**
**—**
**—**
**—**
**89,825**| ## **Analysis of receipts and payments** ||||||**Total**|| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| ||**Unrestricted**|**Designated**|**Restricted**|**Endowment**|**This year**|**Last year**| |**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS**||||||| |**Donations and legacies**||||||| |IN10 - legacy|1,000|1,647|—|—|2,647|10,000| |Total|1,000|1,647|—|—|2,647|10,000| |**Income from charitable activities**||||||| |IN02 - envelope scheme|5,221|—|—|—|5,221|9,459| |IN03 - gift aid env|2,230|—|—|—|2,230|955| |IN04 - funerals and weddings|23,742|—|—|—|23,742|16,894| |IN06 - parish magazine|—|—|—|—|—|159| |IN07 - standing orders|45,284|—|3,619|—|48,903|43,055| |IN08 - HMRC|17,004|—|1,036|—|18,041|21,644| |IN14 - donations|30,060|2,075|3,710|—|35,845|58,569| |IN17 - clergy fee reimbursement|7|—|—|—|7|—| |IN20 - general exp reimbursement|—|—|—|—|—|10| |IN23 - CH ELEC REIMB|—|—|—|—|—|46| |Total|123,550|2,075|8,365|—|133,991|150,794| |**Other trading activities**||||||| |IN05 - parish hall|11,718|24|—|—|11,742|10,472| 16 |IN19 - land rent
IN22 - PH ELEC REIMB
IN24 - REIMB PH GAS
Total
**Investments**
IN09 - investment acct interest
Total
**Other income**
IN11 - fundraising
Total|585
—
—
—
585
45
—
—
—
—
—
142
48
—
—
—
48
712| |---|---| ||12,351
24
—
—
12,375
11,373
1,084
—
—
—
1,084
45| ||1,084
—
—
—
1,084
45
401
3,558
—
—
3,960
1,164| ||401
3,558
—
—
3,960
1,164| |**INCOME TOTAL**|138,388
7,304
8,365
—
154,059
173,377| ## **EXPENDITURE** |**Expenditure on charitable activities**
EX01 - Church gas
2,607
—
—
—
2,607
2,636
EX02 - Church electricity
1,560
—
—
—
1,560
966
EX03 - Church salaries
3,980
—
—
—
3,980
455
EX04 - church insurance
4,006
—
—
—
4,006
3,594
EX05 - church building maintenance
—
—
—
—
—
7,294
EX06 - churchyard maintenance
—
—
6,619
—
6,619
1,786
EX07 - clergy expenses
3,154
—
—
—
3,154
3,688
EX08 - weddings/funerals
10,356
—
—
—
10,356
9,082
EX12 - messy church
—
—
33
—
33
213
EX14 - parish share
84,020
—
—
—
84,020
81,303
EX15 - rectory expenses
4,135
—
—
—
4,135
5,950
EX19 - church water
46
—
—
—
46
45
EX20 - church gen expenses
12,613
—
—
—
12,613
7,310
EX25 - AVproject
—
18,257
—
—
18,257
423
Total
126,482
18,257
6,652
—
151,392
124,752
**Other expenditure**
EX10 - parish hall maintenance and
refurbishmen
614
12,367
—
—
12,981
1,362
EX16 - parish hall gas
404
—
—
—
404
566
EX17 - parish hall electricity
4,797
—
—
—
4,797
833
EX18 - parish hall water
656
—
—
—
656
247
EX23 - parish hall general expenses
6,115
—
—
—
6,115
4,606
EX24 - church development
—
2,711
—
—
2,711
4,185
Total
12,589
15,078
—
—
27,667
11,801|**Expenditure on charitable activities**
EX01 - Church gas
2,607
—
—
—
2,607
2,636
EX02 - Church electricity
1,560
—
—
—
1,560
966
EX03 - Church salaries
3,980
—
—
—
3,980
455
EX04 - church insurance
4,006
—
—
—
4,006
3,594
EX05 - church building maintenance
—
—
—
—
—
7,294
EX06 - churchyard maintenance
—
—
6,619
—
6,619
1,786
EX07 - clergy expenses
3,154
—
—
—
3,154
3,688
EX08 - weddings/funerals
10,356
—
—
—
10,356
9,082
EX12 - messy church
—
—
33
—
33
213
EX14 - parish share
84,020
—
—
—
84,020
81,303
EX15 - rectory expenses
4,135
—
—
—
4,135
5,950
EX19 - church water
46
—
—
—
46
45
EX20 - church gen expenses
12,613
—
—
—
12,613
7,310
EX25 - AVproject
—
18,257
—
—
18,257
423
Total
126,482
18,257
6,652
—
151,392
124,752
**Other expenditure**
EX10 - parish hall maintenance and
refurbishmen
614
12,367
—
—
12,981
1,362
EX16 - parish hall gas
404
—
—
—
404
566
EX17 - parish hall electricity
4,797
—
—
—
4,797
833
EX18 - parish hall water
656
—
—
—
656
247
EX23 - parish hall general expenses
6,115
—
—
—
6,115
4,606
EX24 - church development
—
2,711
—
—
2,711
4,185
Total
12,589
15,078
—
—
27,667
11,801| |---|---| ||126,482
18,257
6,652
—
151,392
124,752
614
12,367
—
—
12,981
1,362
404
—
—
—
404
566
4,797
—
—
—
4,797
833
656
—
—
—
656
247
6,115
—
—
—
6,115
4,606
—
2,711
—
—
2,711
4,185| ||12,589
15,078
—
—
27,667
11,801| |**EXPENDITURE TOTAL**|139,071
33,336
6,652
—
179,059
136,554| ||| |**GRAND TOTAL**|(683)
(26,031)
1,713
—
(25,000)
36,822| ## **TREASURER’S REPORT:** The overall income and expenditure figures give a deficit of £25,000. We have however spent £20,257 on capital projects. The general fund figures give a deficit of £683. We had expected to dig further into reserves when the PCC resolved in November to pay additional payments to bring the parish share to our allocated 1.25, so although not good, it is not as bad as we had feared. 17 As you can see from the Assets and Liabilities sheet, we have less in our CBF investment account. Comparison with last year is limited in view of the fact omicron had a significant effect on normal church life. However, looking at income: Envelope use has dropped from £9,400 to £5,200 – very few are using this method. GA envelope use has increased from £955 to £2,230. This is important as it is from visitors or occasional attendees in general. Standing orders have increased in both number and total from £42,600 to £45,200 (GF only) Donations to the GF are up by £5,000 this year. Fundraising has increased from £1,160 to £3,900 as the team has taken advantage of Covid recovery on the church’s behalf Our net Funeral and Wedding income has increased by £7,600 since last year. The Parish Hall, if all the utilities’ expenses are taken into account, has made a small loss of £831. However, some of the ridiculous electricity bill may well belong to last year and was due to the boiler failure. The website has attracted donations totalling £2,260 – 30 donations The contactless terminal has attracted donations of £1,935 – 255 donations The Friends has been a very successful stewardship venture, with now 15 standing orders, the fund being augmented by some one-off donors. This now stands at £12,500. Projects are in hand, including part of the paths. 2 major capital projects have been undertaken – AV installation is as yet not complete but has cost £18,257. The PH boiler has been replaced and central heating system has been updated – £12,000. Due to receipt of a grant of £1,500 on 5[th] January 2023 this has now been fully funded by fundraising, grants and previous donations, unfortunately not quite in the 2022 financial year. The parish share for next year at 1.25, our allocated figure, is £85,425, £7118.71 pcm. If this were to be funded from our regular giving, ie envelopes, gift aid envelopes, standing orders and the HMRC refund that would be £69,000, adding donations would make it £99,000 (this figure is less predictable, however). As you see we are running increasingly close to the wind, with little to pay our expenses, salaries etc. It is difficult to presume to make a recommendation but I suspect in view of the increasing costs of running the parish, we need to consider making the case to suggest an increase in regular giving of 5% or more which might allow us to break even on the general fund. I am overwhelmed by the generosity, kindness and welcome of all those I have visited over the Christmas season – very, very many thanks to you all I am, as always, much indebted to John Norbury and the Stewardship group for their support, also to Nigel Seddon who claims our gift aid from HMRC. Elizabeth McClure 11.1.23. 18 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT: depend•nl exwnlfief• R•p)rt 10 th• MthMb•rn i fn•toM of tho Parochlal cour￿11 Jamm, Par￿h Church I repun on tr* Kwunts oftr* ¢hgdty lor thg hear enO•J 31 OK*rthr 21Y22. Rwp•ct&40 r••pon•lblllth•• oltru•tw And •umlnw A$ trustees ol the ¢hadfy, the member8 01 tho PCC •r• reSP)rts￿ for Ihe prepw8¢ion of th8 Thay Jk1er thai an w(11 Is not reqUIr￿ lor Inli y•or u￿1¢1 s&xi¢n 14412) of lh• Chariiws Aci 2011 (th0 2011 Ad> and Ih•i •n •xaminth'on is needed. Tr¥pgn*t4ty 10.. •x¥nin• th• ac£oLml% und2r se4Y*)n 145 olihe 2011 Art fdlN kXDcpdur•s l¥wJ down In Ih? gewal DIwod&￿S by Ihe comm1w￿Tr uTrJer eection 145(51(bl ofih• 2011 and ¥tYkwl*t￿r Pa￿￿*M￿lIeVd hava come to nyl all￿￿n. ¥61# of Sndgp•nd•nE •x*nln•f• rnport examnalion c*itd ¢xrt in arxordanae w*h the gengrEI Dir¥thon8 gvi¥n by the cha￿[Y ComThsslon. An ex4tnin8tyts) I￿ludeS a ol xcouoliry recr*ds by tha charfly and a ¢£4npJr*on of the aC￿untI trfOSOrt•d wTlh Ihose ￿1rd￿. 11 indLths ¢ortsk1efal#1fi of 811y mllSUBI Itelres or d￿ck>SUre$ th Ihe accounts, d $¢obr*J e%pl•Trouons from yw aB IrugtW5 ￿￿ce￿I￿a Gu¢h maueps. Th• Unl￿en do nol 0￿de al tt* eVhlefi￿ tlwl b? r•quts8d in an aLKIit no oPth￿n ￿ glv* a$ 10 lh8 aC£O￿t8 present a 'lrvE f#r thts lo￿)￿ * Ikmthd 10 th¢xe m8118f8 88t oul In th• stsi•m¢ni Indep?nd•nt•ymlnèrts •tsl•rn•nt In my 0x•￿nal￿ no ￿1181 has to my thrt￿n. whith 9NeB me re￿ab￿ lo Ihrt In ￿Y1TH1￿￿1 r￿￿1. requ1￿m￿¢￿'. k¢ k•ep re¢ord$ in wlh aédion 111 oflhe 2011 kr. gnd prepare xcord *lth th• arxoLmting i•ccfth 8*coun r•qlir•m￿ts d Ihts 2011 haw not rn•t: ( to in my ￿1Th1￿. attèrthn thoukl be (Irwn In orf•r ID In￿ble * w¢pei Lffjdersts￿j1￿j of Ihè unb to b8 reached. ¥**•r rt•r countants John Court vt CHI QE 20 V•brwy ID33 19 ## **FOODBANK REPORT:** West Cheshire Foodbank is a project founded by local churches and community groups, working together to combat hunger in our local area. It is part of a nationwide network of over 2,000 food banks in the UK. Sadly, the need for Foodbanks has steadily increased over time. In the past year, there has been a 60% increase in need, the most significant being to supply single people who are in work but whose income is insufficient to meet daily needs. This is especially the case now during these extremely difficult and uncertain times with the enormous rise in the cost of living on so many fronts. Fortunately, there has also been a heart-warming generosity resulting in an increase in both food and monetary contributions. The amount of food last year donated from St James’ was 1339.3 Kgs, - over a ton and a quarter of food. St James’ Church became involved in the scheme in 2013 and has continued ever since. Donations of food can be left in the box at the back of church. Each month there is an updated list on the collection box at the back of church of the items that are particularly in short supply, as well as a ‘help yourself’ more general list of requirements. I want to say a big thank you for your ongoing generosity on behalf of those who are so much less fortunate and privileged than ourselves, in these very difficult times of hardship for so many of our fellow human beings. Chris Alderton ## **DEANERY SYNOD REPORT:** The Deanery Synod met at St Philips, Kelsall on 28[th] February 2022. The topic for the evening was Healing Ministry and the speaker explored a range of ways in which healing can be administered. The October meeting took place at All Saints, Hoole where the Outreach Director of Diocesan Mission, Rev Peter Froggart spoke about Bishop Mark’s desire to achieve greater cohesion in the diocese. Jocelyn Platel and Bettie Gilliatt.(Deanery Synod Representatives) ## **PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (PCC) REPORT:** This year the PCC undertook an evaluation exercise to identify strengths and weaknesses of how we function. A proposed Away Day to explore how leadership structures could be developed proved too difficult to achieve in the timescale. Therefore, an extended evening meeting in September was used to discuss the Governance Proposal for the future working structure of the parish. The outcome of this was the setting up of four Mission Groups: Stewardship, Faith and Worship, Communication and Partnerships. These groups should meet within their own frameworks to decide on objectives and then report back to each PCC meeting. This is how the PCC has begun to function. Jocelyn Platel (PCC Secretary) ## **PARISH HALL REPORT** Issues surrounding the heating system and specifically “the boiler” were finally resolved with the implementation of a new system supported by remote control mechanisms. The finance was covered by monies carried forward and some vigorous fund raising. This enhancement has greatly improved the experience for users of the hall. We are also able to offer a wi-fi service to our clients. Maria Norbury 20 ## **LUNCHEON CLUB REPORT:** The monthly Luncheon Club has been running since January 2014 and is a valuable outreach from St James’ Church to the community. We offer free lunches but are grateful for donations towards costs. During the Covid pandemic we had to stop, but in 2022 lunches restarted from March, although omitting August when the Parish Hall was unavailable because of much needed heating works. So we met nine times in the year including a wonderful Christmas lunch. Attendance was good, enthusiasm is high and donations were generous – so much so that we were able to give £1,000 back to the PCC for 2022. We have recruited new volunteers to the kitchen team and to those who set tables, serve, wash up and welcome our guests – so we are in a very healthy position going forward. We are slightly re-branding from “Luncheon Club” to “St James’ Luncheon Club” to emphasise that it is a church initiative. Thanks to all who help and all who come. Brian Inall ## **ST JAMES’ AV SYSTEM REPORT:** As part of our Mission Plan the year 2022 saw the installation of the first part of our new Audio Visual (AV) system. St James’ Church has a three-phase development plan, the first of which is the new AV system. The others are church reordering (seating and meeting area) and a kitchen/toilet extension. We were successful with our AV faculty application and a new custom AV desk was made to coordinate with existing woodwork. Fixed screens replaced the temporary TV screens we were using, extra screens for the choir, plus a large drop-down central screen with a long-range projector. We can use a computer either from the rear desk or from the front, and everyone gets a good view. There is an internet connection and Wi-Fi in church. It all works well. At the end of 2022 we awaited the installation of an audio mixer and additional CD/MP3 player in the AV desk. (This was done in Feb 2023 to complete the AV works.) The system makes a real difference and permits a good deal of flexibility for services, and for other meetings and presentations, including for community users. Thanks to the volunteers who help operate the equipment - more always welcome. Brian Inall ## **ELECTORAL ROLL REPORT:** The Electoral Roll has increased from 172 in 2021 to 182 with the new members coming from our church community. We now have a new electronic listing, courtesy of Stefan, which will make the management of the Electoral Roll a simpler process. Marj Keech ## **THE FRIENDS’ ANNUAL REPORT 2022:** In January The Friends of the Building of St James financed the replacement of the two notice boards at the front of the church on Pepper Street. The remainder of the year was spent accumulating funds for the major project to replace the paths. Leaflets were prepared highlighting this initiative and these have been placed in prominent positions around the village. Whilst there is goodwill in the village it has to be noted that converting interest into hard cash can be challenging. The financial numbers were as follows (2021 in brackets): Standing Orders £3,555 (£330) Donations £2326 (£12,354) 21 HMRC £1,006 (£2,500) **Total Income £6,687 (£15,184)** 2 Notice Boards £3,900 **Total Expenditure £3,900 (£5,631) Surplus as at 31.12.2022 £2,987 (£9,553) Balance carried forward £12,540** The key point to note is the rebalancing of giving in favour of Standing Orders (80% of donors in this period). Work on the paths is expected to commence this summer and it is likely to consume the majority of funds. John Norbury. ## **YOUTH WORK REPORT:** The main focus on youth work this year has been with the under 5’s and their parents. The Ark Pray and Praise toddler and parent group meets weekly during term time. It is well attended attracting an average of 10 family groups each week. It is also well supported by the worshipping community with several members involved from supporting each session, helping to clear away and those who provide refreshments. The other aspect of our youth work is the Lighthouse Sunday Club for children of primary school age. Despite a skilled and enthusiastic team of leaders, numbers remain low but those who do attend derive great benefit from it. The children join the main congregation at the end of each session and enjoy sharing what they have learned. Nine children were baptised over the course of 2022 Our aims for 2023 are to build on the relationships which have begun to develop with the local primary school and build up numbers at the Sunday club. Revd Tina Lightfoot, Assistant curate ## **BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP REPORT:** Due to the constraints caused by Covid 19 and other factors, the group no longer meets or members make visits to bereaved families, as happened traditionally. The system of sending sympathy cards to all families with bereavement connected to St James’ Church & the Parish continues, as does the invitation for members of those bereaved families to attend the annual All Souls Service. These cards are really appreciated and we often get feed-back and thanks from the families. In 2022, we held 20 funeral services at St James and 9 burial of ashes services. Anniversary Cards were sent to bereaved families as well as Invitations to attend the All Souls’ Service. Beryl Cummings ## **SAFEGUARDING REPORT:** The parish continues to embed safeguarding as central to its mission. Some of the highlights include. - The development and implementation of a bespoke safeguarding web application to manage parish safeguarding records. - The celebration of Safeguarding Sunday on the festival of Christ the King, where around 70 members of the parish community received a Basic Awareness Safeguarding Presentation. - The revision of the PCC’s code of expectation to include the following item: - Within 6 months of being appointed to the PCC of St James each member should have completed the following courses: 22 **Basic Awareness** ## **Foundation Level of Safeguarding** ## **Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse** Members who are unable to complete these courses in the allotted time will be asked to stand down from the PCC. - The development of supplementary materials to aid PCC and other members of the community in accessing and completing safeguarding training. - The revision of our website to make more explicit and visible links to safeguarding information concerning the parish. Namely, the provision of a dedicated webpage, links to Safe Spaces, and our safeguarding policy. Ann White, Parish Safeguarding Officer ## **BELL RINGERS’ REPORT:** The Bell Ringers’ AGM was held on 07-03-2023. The outcome of the leadership election was as follows. |**Position**|**Elected**| |---|---| |Tower Captain|Nikki Dromgoole| |Deputy Tower Captain|Ian Braithwaite| |Treasurer|Ian Braithwaite| |Secretary|Mary Cowen| ## **Safeguarding** We have two ringers who have obtained their DBS certification and three additional ringers who are part way to becoming qualified. ## **Ringing Development** We have one ringer who has gained accreditation from the Association of ringing teachers. This will help with our ringing recruitment. The stand at the village fete created awareness of ringing at St. James. However, the death of her Majesty the Queen meant that we had to postpone the Tower Open Day to 2023. ## **Noise Complaint** The ringers had one noise complaint during 2022. The ringers reported the incident to the Rector. There was no further communication from the complainant. However, the ringers discussed what they could do to mitigate noise complaints and have put a plan in place to address this and to continue our policy of being good neighbours. ## **Safety** The ringers have created several risk assessments relating to our ringing activity. Additional focus will be on people entering the tower when the ringers are not present. This has been necessary after an electrical cable was left in the path of the bell and if not noticed before ringing commenced, could have caused harm. ## **Accounts** Wedding fees stayed at £100 per wedding though there was a temporary increase to £125 for three of the weddings which the PCC did not ask to be refunded. Weddings currently contribute £16 to tower funds (£84 goes to ringers).The other main source of income is the PCC annual retainer of £150. Expenditure includes Guild subs (£12 per ringer). We 23 anticipate subs increasing in 2023 as recruitment progresses. Reserves total £800 and the account just breaks even but various necessary expenditure in 2022 has not come from tower funds. - We replaced the ringing chamber electric heater (£40). - Lighting in the belfry was replaced and not charged for (£350) - There was a subsidy at the Christmas dinner (£100 donation). - We have replaced the muffles (£337.78) which did not come from tower funds. - Tower open day costs were defrayed by ringers personally (advertising, posters and leaflets, refreshments approx. £150). - Spare wooden stay blanks have been sourced at a cost of £7 each. - A full set of bell ropes were purchased privately about ten years ago (approx. £1000) and the remaining ropes (four) have been given to the tower. The ringers would like to communicate the work they do to mitigate the cost of ringing provision at St. James, Christleton. Nikki Dromgoole ## **On behalf of the PCC** **The Revd Dr Stefan Collier Jocelyn Platel (Chairman) (Hon Secretary)** Parish Office, St James, Pepper Street, Christleton, CH3 7AG Telephone: 01244 325529 Email: office@stjameschristleton.org.uk Website: https://www.stjameschristleton.org.uk 24