METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Registered Charity Number 1134269 Beds. Essex & Herts District - Circuit Number 3416
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 CONTEMrs Pago Index Tru8te8s' report Financlal statements 10-25 Independent Examlnerfs report 28
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 TRUSTEE REPORT . KEY INFORPIATION Full name of chartly Methodist Church South Essex Circuit Registrallon Chafty Number 1134269 Date of registration 11 February 2010 Correspondence Address: CIO Langdon Hills Methodist Church. Emmanuel Road, Basildon, SS16 6EX Clreult Mini8tèr8 and officèrs Clrcull Mlnisters Rewd F A-Hassan {Ctrcult Superintend&tt) Rev'd F Smith Rev'd M Aygam Cirojit Lay Work8rs MTS C Owens MTS H Circuit Stewards Mrs L Amber Mrs H Ashworth Mrs S Stubbs Mr G Hodg8C Mrs C Raven Cir(>Jil Fin8nre Trustee: Mi55 W Crayden Independent examiner Mayor Cuttle & Co. Suite 7B Aquarium 101 Lower A[hOr Street, Chelmsfor(I, CM2 OAU The self-employed Finance Offrer (Aislair Jenkin51 and the Finance Trustee above acted as the principa officer overseeing the day to day financial management and accounting for the circuit during the year. Introductlon The Truslee$' have plea$uw in presenling their Annual Report for Ihe Methodist Church of South Essex Circuit covering the north part of the Thames Estuary from Basildon in the east to Grays In the tsklrwJ in Billericay in the northem part of the ¢IUrt.
mHoDIST CHURCH SOLrrH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 The Methodist church South Essex Circuit is responsible for the minislenal oversight and pastoral care of eight churches in the cir¢uil', the support of a ministry team of three presbyter Ministers, one full lime lay employee and one part time lay employee and the maintenance of four circuit manses. Aims aKI ovJani&itSon Charfty objective is to act as a Resource provider within the area around South Essex for the Meth¢JJist Crch. The purposes of the Methodist Church are and Shall be deemed to have been since the Date of Union the advancement of: a) The Ctistian faith in accordance with the doctrlnal $tandard$ and discipline of The Methodist Church,. b) Any chari18ble purpose for the time being of any Connexional, Dlstrict, Circuit, local or other organisalion of The meth1$1 Church,. c) Any charitae purpos& for the time being of ary soci8ty or institution subsidiary crt ancillary to The Methodist Church., dl Any purpose for the Ime belng of any charity being a charty subsidiary or ancillary to The Methodist Church The organisalion and resoLtr¢ing of regular public acts of w0h1p open to m&mbers of the and non member8 alike. The leaching of Christianty through $emions, courses and small groups. The resourcing of pastoral work including visiting the sick and bereaved. Taking religious assemblies in local schools. Promtion of Christianity through the slaglng of events and services. Provision of chaplaincy services to the local universty and other institulvjns. Public Benefit We confirm the trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on publi¢ benefft. Structure, Govemance and Manag•mont The governing document for the circuit is the Deed of Union119321 and Methodisl Church Act119761 Detai governance arr4ngemen15 are outlined withln the Constitutional Practice and DI1p11e of the elhodisl Church by order of the annual conference ICPD)- Day lo day management of the circuit is undertaken by the Cir¢uil Leadership team along wllh the Local Prea¢hers meeting. the Circuit Finanoe and Property Committee and the Circuit Pollcy Commee. Tru8t•• Tralnlng A range of guidance produc8d by Methodist Connexion lo support the effective running of the circuit , specifically the leaflet'The Role of a Trustee in The MelhcJist Church, is given to all new Circuit meeting members as induction lo their role as trustees.
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Christian Alm8 The South Essex Circui( as part of the Methodist Church. is committed to sharing the good news of Jèsus Christ in word and action. The Cir¢uil'$ role is to ensure the effe¢tNe use of ils resources to further the four dimensions of'our Calling, as Methc¥Jists. Worshlp- to increase awareness of God's presence and to celebrate Gjd's love,. Service- to b8 good neighbours lo people in need and lo challeng8 injustice., EvarrfJelism- to make more followers of Jesus", Learning and Caring - to hdp people lo learn and grow in faith through mutual Support and care. The Circuit caring policy is10: Encourage everyone in our ¢hur¢hes to care for one another, and mainlain an established pastoral system where church members work in conjunction with staff. Make il a requirement for an annual review of Safeguarding Policies and ensure necessary DBS ChkS are made and Iraining attended. Encourage churches to work alongsKle other agencies. as well as ecumenically to seek to alloviate social needs locally identified. Be sensitive lo people of olher faith5 and lo face the challerwJe of being open to dlalogue with them {empha$ising what we have in common. rather than solely focussing on those issues on which we differ). Family Mlnlstry Encourage and equip volunteers aTrJ1gaders to bjild eaGh Ghurrh into a community for all generations. Encourage and nurture relationships between God, church and families. Nurbjre relationships acr055 e groups wlthin church. Facilitate links been the church, families, the wider community and other organisalions through outr8ach and church-based events including worship. Hospltallty Encourage local churches to extend Christ-like hospitality and practice an active 2nd generous love. Invite, welcome, feceive and care for those who a 'slrangers', $0 they may find a spiritual hom8 and the rhnesS of Christ in our churches.
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Express God's invitation to others. Pray, plan, prepare and work toward helping other$ to re1ve Christ. Inclusivity EroUrage and facoilate a sense of belonging together as one in the Body of Chri$l. Acknedge the uniqueness of individuals and foster inclusivtty. Encourage mutual concern, goo111 and respect for others regardless of ethnlclty. gender. sexual orientation, marital stalus, age, disabilty or opinion. A¢knoedge Christians lkn)Id drfferent views on issues including faith and lrfe-style, and encourage all exchanges of opinion lo be within a framework of mutual respect. prayerfulnes$, gra¢e and esty. Challenge di$¢rfminallon and injustice. Worklng Together Encourage openness lo Ghange and a willingness to rer*ivo the talents of others. EnGourage people within Ghurch lo work tOgetr as effectively as possie. To be conscious and considerate of the well-beiro needs of those who servelwcfk in our churches.. volunteers, lay workers. ordained ministers. Busln•ss and Rosour¢es Poll¢y (Pooplo) The Cr<xJit poly is to: Maintain effective oversighl of ¢hurGhes through the 9Uped responsibilities of staff and the kThlion of manses. Develop and support its ministerial staff and lay workers, meet regularly for mutual support, encouragement 2nd conversalton about Circult and church issues. Train and authorise ILKal preachers and worship18aders, who, together with ordained mlnlslers. have the primary role in leading the worshipping life of th& cl¥Jrches. Seek apwowiate people lo join the Leadershlp Team as circu Stewards, offer induction and encouragement to take an interest in particular aspects of Circuit work.
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Buslnoss and Résour¢•s Poll¢y {Bullding$) The Circuit will.. Mairrtain and improve, where appropriate, those manses f which it is responsible. Continue the independent quinquennial inspections of all Circuit propety. supported by annual physical inspections by Ihe relevant Stewards, and will maintain a li51 of relevant maintenance and professional agencies. Require churches lo comply with the Safegu8rdlng and Equality legblation and Connexional policy. Require churches comply with current bulldin98 Health Safety legislation and undertake Annual Risk Assessments. Seek to support and gnie advi on the improvement and maintenanc8 of church premises. Seek to 8UPPOrt and provide resources towards erw efficiency. health and safety, a¢cessibllily and property improvements for outreach. Business and Resources Pollcy {Flnance) The Circuit policy is to.. EnUrage each church to maximise the use of regular, tax4ficient giving. Consider and approve an annual budgel, and review Circuit finarKe. Consider and approve the annu81 chur¢h contributK)ns, in the knovAedge Ihal giving is one respons8 we can make lo God's constant Iovo. Flnan¢• R•vlow of the year The Circuit ha5 provided support to all nine churches to compty with the above policy by encouraging training, financirrfj scheme to encourage outreach and maintalnlng church buildings. In February a reserves policy is drawn up for dlscussion in the circurt leadershlp team fLY the next connexional year and approved at the February Circuit Meeting. This gives us a vision of what we plan lo do in the next year. In addition we also prepare a budget. Income trends Circuit income 1$ primarily drawn from Ihe assessment paid by Ihe GirGuil ¢hufches. Interest from accounts held wilh recognised Banks and Central Finance Board.
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 We have investments valued al £945,919 which generated inome in support of the Circuit. Investments are re-valued each year and in included at htest value in the financial slalements. The rental income relates to the rental of Meadow Rise Billeri¢ay a redundant manse. During the year St Andrew's Methodist Church was sold and net proceeds included in accounts. Expenditure trends Stipend expenditure has Increased each financial year in line with conference approved Increases. 23.gyo of expenditure is the Circuit contribution to the District and Connexion, of whlch a signrfunt part is used to fund the w(Yk of the wider Methodist Church (via Levy). The other expenditure in Gerwal fund is in respe¢t of living expenses of the ordained employees and relmbursement of various expenses incuried In carrying out their dulles. Fund balanceg The assets (excl wopwty) of the circurt are £61.201 and this. wh CMTF funds. give a reserve to cther SIX months of expgnditure. Plans for 2025126 Circuit financial plans for the coming year have been prepared on Ihe basis that there remains 3 fv11 time ordained staff with anticipated cost of lfving sllpend increases combined with an IneaSe in the assessment paid to the district such that I have rt requested an increase in the assessment from the circuit churches. Related P*ties The Circull Is part of the Beds, Essex and Herts District and is also accountable lo the Methodist Conference. The following MethcMSi5t Churches are linked lo the circult Billericay .Grays, Sl Andrews. Horndon on the Hlll.Langdon Hllls .Linford, Sl Paul's. Trinity, Wickford Christ Chur¢h. Any other specific organisations with Specific linkage. Risk Managoment The major risks have been idenlrfied and recorded by the Circuit Finance and Property Committee wlth prOfeSsnal advice taken as required. There is a regular annual VIeW process undertaken and recorded. Inwme and Expenditure is being monrtored in total and is compared with the approved annual budget on a half yearly basis to delect trends as part of the risk management pro¢es$ lo avoid unforeseen calls on reserves.
METhODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Saf•guarding Evary person has a valuo and dignity whi¢h com8$ diredy from the creation of male and fèmale In God's own ima and likeness. Christians see this potenlial a8 thI18d by G¢d'8 rreall0n of us In Chdst. Among otherthlrvJs thls tmplles a (luty to valug all poopl8 as bearing thè Image of God and therefore to protect them from hami. Methodlst Conn$xional practice outllnes Comment to the following principles: • the care and nurture of. and respectful pastoral ministry with. all thildren, young people and adults the safeguarding and protection of 411 children, youn9 po¢)pl¢ and adutts when Ihey are vuknerable . the establishiNJ of safe, Caring CommunitS which provide a loving environment where there is infomd vlgllanGe as to the dangers ofobuso. . We will respond delay lo every Complaint made which suggests that an adult, child Or9 person may have been haThed, cooperalng wth the police and local authority in any investigation. * Vve will seek to work wilh anyone who has suffefed abuse, developlng with them an appropriate mni81ry of Infoed pastoral corg. • We will seek lo challenge any abuse of power. espg¢i8lly by aryon& in a position of trust. • W¥ wll $9ok lo offgr pastoral ¢aro and support. includ[J supervlsion and refeffal lo the propèr authorftl8s. to any mernbsr of our church community with offendes agalnsl a chikl. youNJ pgrson or vulnerae adLIt. • In all Ih•se prinople$ we will follow legislation. guida and Cognised good practic The South Essex Circuit Is commltted to ensudrvJ tho implerntrntsbon of Connexlon81 Safeguardlng Policy., gov8mmenl legislalion. guidancè and safe practice In the clrcuh and in the churches. The South Essex ClrcuA commhs itself to the provislon of support. advSce and trdSnlng for lay and ordaingd peop18 that will ensure paople are Car and confident 8bout their roles and $)nbIl$ In safegU8rdSNJ ond promotlng the Weare of chllthen aThJ adult8 who may b9 vulnorable. R•8•rvo8 Pollv The Reserves Policy for the Circuit is to hold a minimum sum eqU8fil to srx months, av8rag8 expenditure. This should be suffi¢i9nt lo meèt any unforeseen Item of major expenditure on manses and l or to be aL4tr to continue. in the short terrn, fundSng pknned adlvibes in the event of any inabilty to rdise the full Circuit Assèssmènt from churches. In addibon thg clrcuh 81s0 hdds r8SgNes in ros of Manse M8ltttenan¢g. Tralnlng and Leaming, Equiprnent and missM)n outreach. workerwith youFvJ people. inproving church premises. Approv•1 Trust•es' Report the FinanciBI Statèmènts were approved by th& cfirt Meetin9 on Fdiclty A141*an sw)erint1ent
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Statement ol Plnanclal Acllvltles (SOFA) forthe year ended 31 August 2025 South Essox Methodist Circuit Clrcult No 34M1 rrte5TO )rnewlFuty1 Tntsd jrS fte5tdtW Endrymrrn l Donetron5 and I 2 Incornefrornnwnetary In¥tstments 3 lnc0rnefrornletht r¢p¥tte5 A$stssntt on Churches S CbpR•l 6 Gr6nts rec¥ved 2,735 11,265 179.148 23.708 26.44 11,26 179.14 409.89 401.548 8,351 7 0th2r tharthtrble Inwme Totsl IntrAThe 2.68D 195.823 425.256 8,351 029.43 p¢ndltwt GriDtsand donatknn5 28,137 150.740 33.670 33.925 7.703 28.13 150.74 35.8S aa.92 40.57 IQ larIes a550cl* cort5 IL Pro rnaiTrtenante 2,180 12 ConTrukThal e5$M& rnodd trust I 13 Str1EAsESrffjI & 14 D r00 15 offKeEx 32.870 nse5 li 4.814 3.614 262.607 4,81 12,61 306,66 16 Oiher ou 12 1.801 34.671 7.202 9,382 7Total th&rit&ble ex nditure IB n5117ssel on nneryInYests 19 Galns/(lossttl on lTr+tralt properees Netincon rture -66.779 -637.884 390.585 636.853 -1.032 l.Q31 322.77 21 Trllnsfers betsveen lund5 17 22 Other J Ntl nwvemenl ID 24 Totol funds brou tforwèrt1 s70t fvndstarvied forwwd -704,663 3.070.864 2.366.201 1.027A38 -81,519 94S.919 322,77 2.989,345 3.312.12 io
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Stat•m•nt of Flnanclal A¢tlvltl•s {SOFA) for the year endod 31 August 2024 In¢om• t3X lo27 1&500 Eyndftur• 8.4$5 912 J4M2 &573 13 415 4VJ 12 15.718 14748 1S718 197.247 24 foi¥ fjd5 b1(41 I0d 2.182.C¢3 3.•70, 2.564.778 li
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 BALANCE SHEEf AS AT 31 AUGUST 2025 South Es$¢x Methodistcircuit Circult No 34111 IVnrNth¢teo Fuiidi IUnre•lrkt IVThTv•trthdJ 18$) QOQ 4zs.oao 5t cp 10.362 $4591 9¢591 .353 59.7fO ¥Jlkal8a ban6 &74 28674 tUnEnl 4&13? 4&13 'Gi¥ 46.13 4&132 1.09$ 612•5 Gr Dt thtCu¢u 2J6e21 ?.365.2O1 2.1617 945519 215? 3312.120 FLfftttJ 291 s/ciz62 12
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 ting and accountlng pollcl•s l Accountlng standard The fillarla4 statements have been prepared in acCOrdae with the Accounting and ReFQrting by chilleS Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP} aPIcable lo charrties preparing their accounts in accordance with the Finan¢i81 Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republi¢ of Ireland {FRS 102} effective from 1 January 2015- (Charities SORP FRS 102} 11 Public benèfrt ontry The M9thclI$t Clwrch South Essex Circuit meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and li8bilities are initially recognised al historical cost or transaction value unless otheNii5e stsled in the relevant accounting poliGy note(51 below. iii Basls These accounts have been preped on the basis of historical cost except that investments linduding properties) are shown at their market value al the end of each year. The accruals basis has been used and truslees present accounts that show a true and fair view of the Circuit's finanaal pwlion and activrties. Iv Content The fInarla1 irrfomialion presented is relevant, reliaLle, comparable and Comet8. Where eslimales are used these are based on expertence. research and judgement. The accounts are expressed in £ steding, rwThJed to the nearest pound. V FRS102 SORP 2015 These accounts are compliant with FRS102 and with FRS102 SORP. The accounts have been prepared in accordance with applKable charity law In England. thls being the Charit8S Act 2011 and Sl 20081629 ICharile$ a¢¢(wnting and Reporting regulations) and. pending the making of replatsment Regulations sp8Grfic top SORP 2015 in accordance wilh R8g.8 (41 {d} of Sl 20081629. the Charity trustees have departed from the requirements of Reg.8 {5} by ft)Ilowing SORP IFRS1021 instead of SORP 2005 to extent necessary lo give a true and fair view In the circumstance. Vl Going Con¢orn 13
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Based on the monetary assets and Iwman resources available at 311t August 2025, the trustees believe that the Circuit is a going concern. Vll Consolldation The Circuit has denominational regulatory oversighl in respect of work of Churches within the Circuit but has no legal or operational ntrol of these ¢hurch8s and their goveming except in extreme circvmslance. For this reason. the financial statements of Churthes within the Circuit are not consolidated into these fln8ncial statement& Vlll Income rocognititin Inme is brougm into accounts when there is entitlement and the amount Is reliably measurable Orell is more likely than nol that e¢onomlc benefrt of the income will be forth¢omlng. Individual amounts calegorise¢J as Other Income in the SOFA wll be shown saparatety rf they are considered malerhql. The Clrcult acts as an agent In bvo mallers:. The Collection from churches and payments over of their contributions lo variws funds controlled and adminlstraled by the Melhodisl Church-'Connexional Funds. The Administration (aptIon. collection and disbursement) of grants requested by Churches within the Circuit from bul not limited to the District and Connexion. In all these mallers th8 transactions are not reflected in the SOFA because they are income of either the Connexion or Churches as appropriate. Instead the transaclions are disclosed in the notes to the Accounts as required by SORP (FRS 102) module 19, 12. In accordarKe with the Charitwo SORP IFRS1021, the lime of volunteers is not recognised. Further infomiation on this matter is provided in the Trustees, Annual Report. If goods are donated. a value wll be shown in the SOFA or Notes where the value Is considered materlal. Ix Expendlture This is recognised when a liabilty is incuffed, or a constructive obligation arises, ere the amount is reliably measurable 8nd11 Is consldered ne likely than not that there will be an ouffiow of economic benefit. X Grants 14
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Grants made by the Circuit from ils own funds are recognised in full al the time of agreemenl lo make the grant without perfom)ance conditions or as and when the circuit accepts that Ihere is a legal or operational obligation lo make the payment rf it is subject lo perfofmance conditions. When the grant to be accrued is recurrent over more than one year the balance payable in future years. discounted lo nel present value where the drfference is material is Irealed as a provis1n being released in future years in accordance with the originally agreed terms. In the cases where the grant has been charged to one fund bul for ease of payment has been transferred lo another fund any future payment provision is applied lo the fund from whlch the grant will ultimately be pakl. Xi VAT Since the ¢ir¢uit is not VAT registered, all input VAT is charged with the expenses to which it refèrs. Xii Tangiblo Fixod AssOt¥ These are capilalised rf they can b8 used for more than one year, and individually cost at least £1,000. The freehold residential properties ar8 sV in the accounts at the revalued amount or cost rf purchased within last tsvo years. The all properties were revalued at 1 * September 2020. A now policy has been introduGed which rValUeS one propety a year on a four year rotstion. No depreciation is being provided because the Iruslees Consider the current residual value of the properties in their present condition to be not less than the hislorlcal cost and. In the absence of any Impaimienl, any depreciallon provlsion for the buildings component of the properties would be immatertal. The Circull has made use of the deemed cost option on transitioning to FRS102 as outlined above. Xlli Investfflent Property From lime to time the Circuit may hold resentIal property (formerfy manses) which is surplus lo its normal staffing requirements. Where this is the case and It anlicipaled that the properly is unlikely to be used as a manse within g periods of two years. the property is dassrfied as investment proporty (whether let or not) any lets are al market rates unless there is a compelling reasons not to do so in furtheran of the Cirojivs charitable objecllves. Xlv Recelvableg and payables: Bank and Cash (baslc Flnanclal Instruments) 15
METHODIST CHURCH SOLrrH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Debtors ar& stated at the amounts Thved to the Circuit or prepaid. Creditors are initially recognised al settlement amount after any trade discounts, where normal credlt terms apy, or the amount advanced lo the CircLFit. Subsequently creditors that are current liabilities are measured al the cash or other consideration expected to be paid. The liquid funds of bank balances and deposit fund balances are shown al their reasonable values. Xv Method18t Connoxlonal Funds Th& Melhodi8t Church Connexion raises assessments against each Circult and these are paid quarterfy to their Districts. The Circuits raise assessments against Churches in I Circuit. The District remits quartedy lo the Melhodisl Church Fund most of Ihe sum il receives from Circuits. A small sum is relained by the District lo m8el ils own costs. The Clrcult may a¢t a$ an agent for 8(F hoc collections for various funds controlled and 8dminislrateoY by the Methodist Church. Xvl Funds The Trustees have adopted a poIY for all unrestriGtsd reserves which is attached as separate document. Xvii Minsler5' manse costs The Clrcuit Is required to provide accommodation ft)r each minister and pastor In th& Circuit and their families and this is seen as a benefit to the Church. Minister and pastors are exp8cled lo occupy the manse provided for IherD. The Circuit bears the cost of the repairs. maintenance, buildings insur8r*, council tax and water charges. These figures are not separately élsclosed as benefils-in-kind for minsters or pastors as HMRC does not seek to tax these receipts in the hand of them. 2. Funds The fijnds hold constitute.. General Funds held for any purpose of the Circuit whtch are Unrestrthd. The Circuit Model Trust Fund has wide purposes defined in Standing Orders and is categorised as unreslri¢ted. Restricted furKls which are held for a narrower purpose. There are no Endowment fuFKls. Details of each mal8rial fund are disclosed in the fin8J note to these accounts. Any fvnds may be represented by more than jusl Cash. 3. Income from Inv4Stm•nt Property 16
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 The trustees had determined that the properties listed below were unlikely to be returned to use as a manse in the foreseeable future and have therefore classrfied the same as an Investment Properties. Letting income is shown gross of fees and repairs General Fund ChTfF Doslgnated Total Meadow Rise 11.265 11,265 4. A88es8ments on Churche8 The Circuit comprises 8 Churches and each is assessed for a contriltIOn to meet the overall nel costs of the Circuf(. In making r(s Assessment budgeted income from investment irthme induding propety letting, and conformed external grants are taken Into account. The Circuit aims lo cover all its Gore costs from the assessment. The assessment is paid on 8 quarterly basis in advance and payment in advance. made al August end. is held as a creditor on the Balance Sheet. Assessments recelved In the General Fund as shown below:. BILLERICAY GIiAYS HORNDON-ON-THE-HILL LANGDON HILLS LINFORD ST. PAUL'S TRINITY WICKFORD TOTAL 70,000 12.000 10.500 18,670 7.000 21,946 22,484 179.148 5. Capltal Rwlpt$ During the year to 31st Asjgusl 2025 St Andrew Methodist church, Herongale was sold. After deduction of the levy by the Methodist Church the circuit receNed £401.548. Partly offsetting this is the £7.202 of profession81 fees the circuit incurred in this matter. 17
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Stipends, Salaries and assoclated costs stiponds Stipends were paid lo 3 Presbyters (20241251 out of unreslricled fuThJs as follows Gonoral Stipends 96,162 National Insurance Iother 13.811 Pension Fund Contribution 16,834 Travel Total StiPond¥ 133.177 The Circuit employs lay stsff involved in administration work and the o)sts we below.. Admlnlstratlon SLiff Ganeral Stipends 14.116 Nallonal Insurance I Pension 327 SeKemployed FInar Admin Totsl staff rglated items 120 150.740 Pon8lon All presbyters are memberg of the Methodist Ministers Pension Scheme {MMPS}. This 15 a defined b8nefit scheme. The Supreme Court held in 2014 slated that Melhodi$t Ministers (which term indudes presbyters) are not employees of the Church. For simplicity, however. when dealing with National Insurance Contributions and pensh)n contributions. the terms 'employerf and 'employee' are used as they would be in an enwoying body. Lay employees are conlra¢lually employees and have the option of joining a pension scheme which the circuit has arranged with Nest Pensions. This is a defined benefrt scheme and the circuit contributes as employer to the scheme. The Connexional accounts for t4)th penslons. schemes show the figure in the annual Methodist Church In Great Britain accounts. The MMPS is in def11 bul a plan for removal of thi$ deficit has been proposed and is being implemented. 18
MHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 7. Costs of Superlntendents, Pre8byters and Truste88 The Superinlendenl of the Cwcuit. the Presbyters and the remaining members of the CLT are considered as Key Management Personal. The Superintendent chairs meeting of the CLT and Circuit Meetings. The members of the Circuit meeting are the trustees of the Circuit. The stipends, employers NIC and employer's pension contribution5 and other expenses of the Presbyters of the Circuit are paid by the Circuit. The manses are provided by the Circuit and the Circuit maintains the property. The value of the Council Tax and water charges paid by the Circuit is not disclosed here as HMRC does nol regard this as a benefit in kind in the hands of the minister. Payments to Trusl•as The Circuit policy is to reimburse membeTS of the CLT and other trustees for expendilu propeily incurred in carryin9 Out the duties, irlUding where appropriate travelling expenses. or where they have been requested to undertake certain activities for the Circuit. The Superinlendenl Minister and other presbyters undertake the primary executive roles within the Circuit. None of the trustees is an employee of the Circuit nor was in receipt of any payment for work undertaken on behalf of the Clrcuil other than reimbursements of appropriat& expenseg. 8. Property Exp•n8•8 The Cir¢ult is Managing Trustees for three manses and one investment property which 1$ let on an assured shorthold tenancy. With the exception of the let propety the circuit is reswnsible for the payment of Council Tax. water rates. In addKlon the Clrcull Is responsible for insurance and maintenance on all properties. Bills for St Andrew's herongate lin designated fund) are induded as far as sale, with any subsequent refunds nett8d off. Expenditure on properties is as follows: 19
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Gonoral (Manse) Gongral Designated (Let Prop) 1st Andrews) Tolal Council tax 9,280 9,280 Water Supply 2,743 2,743 Insurance 3,017 1,727 5,784 Maintenance 10,257 1,645 453 12,355 Management Fees 1,810 1.810 Telepho TOTAL 29.175 4.495 2.180 35.850 9. Connexional a8Se8sm&nts and levy The Connexional Assessment is calculated relative to the proportion of Church Members. and staffing {Presbyters and Mission staff only) of all the Circuits in the Beds, Essex & Herts Dislricl 50% of the overall cost is calculated using the relalive membership proportions and 50¥0 using relative 51affing PTOPOrtions. 10. Dlgtrict Assessment and Levy The Dlstricl Assessment is calculated relative to the proporbon of Church Members, and staffing {Presbylers and Mission stsff only) of all the Circuits in the Beds. Essex & Herts District 50% of the overall cost is calculated using the relative membership prokxiions and 50% using relative staffing proportions. The levy 1$ ¢alculated on a sliding scale percentage of the Circuit's CMTF Accounts balance as at 31 August for the previous accounting period. 11. Office and Admlnlstratlon Cost Gèneral CMTF Total 20
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 Rent 3,139 3,139 soTe l other 338 338 Hire of Photocopier TOTAL 4814 4.814 12. Othgr Outgoings General CIKfF Designated Total 1st Andr•Ws) Professional Fees 950 7.202 8,152 Independent Examiner 640 TMCP Admin 1,801 1,801 Mission Work 1.817 1,817 General Expense5 TOTAL 207 207 3.614 1.801 7.202 12.617 13. Investm•nt Managwnont During the year Circuit paid TMCP. the ¢usto(Jians of the Circull's investments (Circult Model Trust Fursd and Restricted Funds) management charges based on 0.2% of the value of the individual funds al the beginni of the year. The amount was £590. {2022-23 £994). 14. Man$08 and Other Propgrtlos There are three Manses Iwaled in Basildon, Billeriray and Slarrford Le Hope. The investment property is located in Billericay. These properties were revalued 2131 August 21
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 2020 by Smith La¢hter but a new policy has been introduced Ihis year lo revvalue one prq)ety on a rotation basis. This year 93 Mountnessing Road was valued at £800,000. There 1$ no OtriGe equipmenl, these are charged lo the General Fund when purthased. 15.1 Cost or Valuatlon Inv•#tm•nt Propertle8 Manses Total Balae Brought FoTward 425,000 1,880.000 2.305,000 425,000 1.880.000 2.305.000 SGhedulo8 of Manse and Inv•stmonl Property 15.2 Prop8rty Type Valuation 93 Mounlne$$lng Rd- Blllericay Manse 800.000 88 Meadow Rise- Billericay 61 Vlxler Roa Investment 425,000 Manse 560,000 198 SoLrtFEnd Road Manse 520 000 2,305,000 16. Invoslm¢nt A$$•t$ and Trust008 for M•thodi8t Church Purposes (TMCP) 22
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 The funds that support the Circuit Model Trust Fund and the Circuit's other funds las listed below) are held by TMCP in the Trustees Interest Fund on which interest is credited to the aUnIS eh month. These are regarded a5 medium-lerm investments. TMCP is the legal owner and custodian tw$tee of all Metht)disl model Irusl property, iluding legactes, endowments and accumulated funds. Trust property is hold for and on behalf of local managing agents who are responsible for the day lo day management of trust propety. TMCP ensures that. through providing guidance and acting under their direction, the managiThJ Trustees comply with charity law and Melhodisl law and policy as determined by the Methodist Conference. 17 Dobtors and Prepaymènts The followng sum$ were outstanding al year end: Genernl CMTF Totsl 2024 Debtors and Prepayments Stlpends 10,953 10,953 10,362 Grant repayment Assessment 1.436 1,436 TOTAL 18,889 18.889 10,362 18. - Contral FinanGo Board ICFB) and Bank Balan¢es Monetary balances held at the Central Finance Board of the meldISt Church and at Sanlander a all available on demand wilhoul loss of interest. Dep05its with the CFB are SP8cifically designated lo the appropriate funds. Ggnoral Fund CMTF 2024 Central Finance Board 59.770 100,514 TMCP Trustee Account 945,919 335,353 Bank account 28 674 59.635 TOTAL 945,919 495.502 19. Cr•dltor8, Accruals and Income In Advance 23
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 The following sums were outslandiro at year end: Creditors and Attruals Gonèral CMTF Total 2024 Assessments 40,784 40,784 40,458 other credilor5 Grant Payable Examiners Fees 640 46,132 46,132 41,09B 20. Unrg5trictod Funds 20.1 General Fund The purpose ol this fvnd Is for use at the di$¢tIOn of the trustees in the furtherance of the general objective$ of the Circuit and which have not been designated for other purposes. Some 91Vo of this fund is held as a freehold propety. belng manses for ministers and investment property. 20.2 Clrcult Modol Trust Fund The purpose of this fund is for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Circuit. Ils main source of income is legacies and formulaically delemined L¥)ntributions from the sale of manses and church building5 in the CKcuit. Although this is technically an Unrestricted Fund under the control of the Circuit Meeting, prior approval is still required from the District lo ulilise these funds. Melhodr51 Stsjing Orders 930. 931 and 917 {2) are appluble. 20.3 Analpis of Reserves by Net Assots As shown on face of balance sheet.. the unrestricted general reserve is made up of circuit Flxed Assets, as well as Current Assel {Debtors and Creditors) and a proportion of the cash and investments. CMTF Trust items are Shown separately. 21. Summary of Fund Movomonts 24
MEfHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2026 Openlnc B•l•nc• aoJlnE B•l•n In¢om• fxp•ns•s Tr•nsl•rs General lunrestrlclodl 3.070.864 195.828 262.607 -637.884 2,366.201 cfrArF Fund -81,521 425,256 34671 636,853 945,919 1st Andrews) .351 9.382 L031 TOTAL 2.989,345 629.435 3,312.120 22. Related Partle8 None of the Circuit Irugtees made donations dired to the Cirlt during the year or in the precedlng year. All of the Circuit Iruslees are members of one or another Church within the Circuit and may be tnjstees of thelr cfwjrches. Related partles induding the Melhodi$t Ccrference, the BE & H District and Churches wlhin the Circuit, other Methodist Dlstricts in Great Britain, CFB and TMCP. 23 Volunt••r Contrfbutlon Every Entity Iconnexion. District. Circuit and Church) within the Methodist Church in GB is heavily reliant on voiunleers who ¢ontribute their skills. time and money in the furtherance of the work of the Church. In the Circuit the principal contribution is by serving on commille8S of the Circuit that deal with the mission. manses. finance. policy. grants. training and safeguarding. We are grateful to all of them for their help and commitment. No attempt has been made by this Cir¢uit to value the non-monelary value lo the Circuit. 24 Capltal commltments and contlngent Ilabllltleg The Circull has no Contracts or obligations. 25 Indfrpondont Examiner The fèes p8yablo to thé indèpendent Examiner in the sum of £640 {2024 £640} have been provided for in these accounts. The examiner has provided no additional services during the year. 26. Glossary of Tem)8 25
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRCUIT TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THEYEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 CFB.. Central Finan Board of the MethClISt Church manages a Common Deposit Fund and a series of pooled investment funds for the MetlvJdist ChurGh in Great Britain and provides investment advice to these entsties. Church.. a group of members from fewer than 10 to rn0 than 100. Circuit.. a group of Methodist Church near each other. typically befven 10 and 20 Circuit Mogting: The trvslees of the CiTCUit. Most of whom are appointed local ChUhe¥ and others by virtue of a role they undertake for the Circuit andlor their local churches. CLT (Circuit Leadership Team): A Group (Gomprising mostly-, but not exGlusively} of Circuit trustees responsible for the day lo day adminislralion and policy fr)rmulation of the Circuit. Generally the CLT comprises the Presbyters {Ministers} and pastors stationed wthin the Circuit, the Clrcuit Stewards and the Clr¢ull Treasurer. CMTF .. Circuit Model Trust Fund Conn•xlon- The designaled andlor Restricted Funds held and administrated by the connexion in the further3 of its charitable aThJ mission objectives District = a group of conliguous rGuit¥. usually 15 and 30 DAF.. Distr Advance Fund FRS: Financial reporting gtandard HMRC.. His Majesty's Revenue and Customs Lay Employee5'. Personal employed by the Circuit on generally apted commerGial employment terms. MMPS-, Methodist Minislers Pension Scheme PASLEMC: Pensions and AssuranGg SGheme for Lay Ernployees of the Methodisl Church. Pènslon Trust.. The pensDn Trust. the organisation through which the Circuf( arranges a pension's scheme for its lay employee. PresbytOT8 (Includln9 8uperfntendentl Probationer or ordaiwd Methodi81 Ministers who have pastoral and administrative responslblllty for the Churches wllhln the Clrwlt. SOFA: Slatemenl of Financial Activities SORP: Statement of recommended prathce 26
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTh ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 TMCP.. Trustees for Melhodlst Church Purposes. the legal owner and Cust31an Trustees of all Methodist Model Trust Propwty, including legacies, endowments and accumulated Funds. INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE METHODIST CHURCH SOUTh ESSEX CIRCUIT CHARITY COMMISSION REFERENCE NUMBER 1134269 27
METHODIST CHURCH SOUTH ESSEX CIRcurr TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 I report C tlw ac¢ounts of the Methodist Church South E888x Circuit Charty for the year ende¢J 31AI August 2025. Re8ponslbllltl89 and basis of report As the trustee of the charity, you are responsible for the preparats'on of th8 accounts in accordance wrth the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Acri. I report in respect of my examination of the charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Acl 8nd in carryir4J OLIt my examination I have followed all the applicable directKJns given by the Charity Commission under section 1451Sllb) of the Act. Independent examlnorf8 Statement I have completed my examination. I confirm that rn material matters have come to my atlenli)n in connecth)n the examination and I believe that: Accounting records were kept in respect of the Trust as required by section 130 of ihe A¢t. The accounts accord wth those records. The accounts comply with the applicable requirements concerning the fom and content of ac- cwnts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any require- ment that the accounts gwe a 'true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an in- dep8nd&nl examination. I have no concerns and have Come across no other matters in connection with the examinallon to whrh attentKJn should be drawn in this report in order lo enable a proper understanding of the accounts lo be reached. Signed: Date sds/LO Mayor Cuttle & Co, Suiie 7B Aquarium 101 Lower Anchor Street, Chelmsford, CM2 OAU 28