Charity registration number 1134358
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
| Charity number | 1134358 |
|---|---|
| Principal address | Chapel Field Road |
| NORWICH | |
| Norfolk | |
| United Kingdom | |
| NR2 1SD | |
| Trustees | Listed in trustees report |
| Secretary | M Callam |
| Auditor | Argents Audit Services Limited |
| 15 Palace Street | |
| NORWICH | |
| Norfolk | |
| United Kingdom | |
| NR3 1RT | |
| Bankers | CAF Bank Ltd |
| 25 Kings Hill Avenue | |
| Kings Hill | |
| WEST MALLING | |
| Kent | |
| United Kingdom | |
| ME19 4JQ | |
| Central Finance Board | |
| 9 Bonhill Street | |
| London | |
| EC2A 4PE |
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Trustees' report | 1 - 3 |
| Statement of trustees' responsibilities | 4 |
| Independent auditor's report | 5 - 7 |
| Statement of financial activities | 8 |
| Balance sheet | 9 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 10 - 23 |
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2023.
The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:
Revd Andy Burrows (Chair) Pastor Stephen Lau (appointed 01.09.22) Martin Callam (Secretary) Kai-Chiu Liu John Walters (Treasurer) Pauline Mann Jacky Baker Helen Martin (resigned 18.09.22) Carol Bedford (appointed 19.06.23) Jean Matthews (resigned 18.09.22) John Brittain (resigned 31.08.23) Linda Morgan Geoffrey Brown Martin Nisbett (appointed 29.06.23) Jayne Burdett (appointed 19.09.22) Olu Ogunnowo Caroline Carey (resigned 13.01.23) Revd Matthew Olanrewaju Connie Chan (resigned 18.09.22) Stephen Osborn Penny Clayden (resigned 25.10.22) Susan Pamplin Darren Cogman (appointed 01.01.23) Jean Parker (appointed 19.09.22) Elizabeth Cook Kevin Parfitt Revd Mary Cousins Vivienne Pease Jan Cozens (resigned 13.01.23) Kim Pike Revd Stephen Cullis Jennifer Poltock Violet Dack (retired 16.01.22) Judith Read (appointed 14.06.23) Zing Eagling Revd Mary Sachikonye Susan Eldridge Ian Scales Revd Mark Elvin Peter Sergeant Christopher Emms Elizabeth Sidebottom Janet Evans-Jones (resigned 08.01.23) Sally Simpson David Everitt (resigned 18.09.22) Susan Skinner Michael Garratt (resigned 20.04.23) Valarie Smith (appointed 21.06.23) Michael Gibbs (resigned 18.06.23) Margaret Snelling Michael Green Joy Southam Christine Greenhalgh Eric Steward Hilary Harding (resigned 18.09.23) Linda Sutton (resigned 01.03.23) Robert Hendry Livian Tan (appointed 19.09.22) David Hood Liz Thetford Marilyn Hood Elizabeth Traverse (appointed 21.10.22 – resigned 12.03.23) Martin Horth (resigned 14.06.23) Norma Virgoe Roger Hull (resigned 11.03.23) Revd Dr Alan Wakeman John Johnson Richard West Josephine Johnson Rev. Sharon Willimott Min Kennison Graham Wrenn Zoe Lam (resigned 18.09.22)
- 1 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)".
Objectives and activities
The Circuit acts as a custodian of the properties, other than the Church buildings, owned by the Church within its area, collects contributions from each of the individual Churches within its area and arranges the payment of stipends to the Ministers of the Circuit, and salaries to lay employees. Its investment policies are those authorised by the Standing Orders of the Methodist Conference.
The Methodist Conference stations Ministers annually in the Circuit and the Circuit undertakes to pay to the central Stipends Office the relevant costs which are set nationally. Lay employees are on contracts that have been approved by the District Lay Employment Committee in line with the Methodist connexional guidelines and polices.
Risk management
The trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
Significant activities
The Circuit acts as managing trustees of the church premises in Long Stratton, Spixworth, Attleborough and Forncett St Peter and Heartseases Lane pending decisions being made regarding the future of the buildings.
Achievements and performance
The Circuit continued its support of Methodist Churches within its area and received donations and grants towards its ongoing duties.
The Circuit continues to evaluate the use and necessity of the various properties under its auspices, with the goal to make the best use of each.
Opportunities have been taken to provide enhanced pastoral capacity fir churches in the circuit with a demonstrated opportunity for growth.
Financial review
During the year the Circuit received total income of £866,708, mainly made up from Assessment income and donations (including closed churches transferred to the Circuit). The expenditure for the year amounted to £706,812.
In addition a manse was sold in the year from which the net proceeds amounted to £256,802, and a gain of £58,003 was made and included within other income.
The major cost of the Circuit was the payment of the stipends and salaries and the assessment to East Anglia District. There was an overall surplus for the year of £97,096.
- 2 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
Reserve policy
The Policy relates to the general unrestricted funds that are freely available to be used for any or all of the purposes of the Circuit.
Under Standing Orders the Circuit must meet its financial obligations in relation to the support of its ministers, the maintenance of its manses and support to churches for the medium term of the upkeep of churches. To meet these obligation, it is our policy to hold in the Unrestricted General Fund (CAF & CFB) together with TMCP Model Trust fund, at least 6 months expenditure say £200.000.
The Charity Commission have agreed that the TMCP Model Trust fund be shown in the accounts as unrestricted and for the Trustees to set a policy for the management of this fund.
During the year Broadview manse was sold (net amount received £257,000) and we wish to keep this additional amount in Reserves pending the purchase of a replacement manse.
This will increase our agreed reserves to £457,000
The policy is to hold £200,000 in Unrestricted General Funds (CAF & CFB) and £257,000 in the Circuit Model Trust.
The balances can be varied on the basis that there is always £457,000 in the Reserves
The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.
Plans for future periods
In addition to the ongoing commitment to provide effective resources and support for the members, the community and local churches within the Circuit, the Trustees are committed to; 1)Furthering the redevelopment and successful relationship with the Bowthorpe Road Methodist Church. 2)Providing the active involvement of new ministers and Pastors in the growth of the local church community. 3)The continuing development and redevelopment of Manses and Churches within the Circuit’s control. 4)Providing for the enhanced pastoral support where required.
Structure, governance and management
The Charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes an unincorporated charity.
Recruitment and appointment of Trustees
The Charity Trustees are appointed to the roles for a designated period, by the Representative Session of the Norwich Circuit Meeting. The Meeting Chair and Secretary offer training to new Trustees on appointment in the form of personal induction.
The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.
M Callam Trustee
29 February 2024
- 3 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that year.
In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:
-
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
-
observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
-
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
-
state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and
-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for keeping sufficient accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
- 4 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of The Methodist Church, Norwich Circuit (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 August 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion, the financial statements:
-
give a true and fair view of the state of the charity’s affairs as at 31 August 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended;
-
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
-
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:
-
the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the trustees' report; or
-
sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or
-
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or
-
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
-
5 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
Responsibilities of trustees
As explained more fully in the statement of trustees' responsibilities, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.
Identifying and assessing potential risks related to irregularities
In identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and noncompliance with laws and regulations, we considered the following:
-
enquiring of management, including obtaining and reviewing supporting documentation concerning the company's policies and procedures relating to:
-
identifying, evaluating and complying with laws and regulations and whether they were aware of any instances of non-compliance;
-
detecting and responding to the risks of fraud and whether they have knowledge of any actual, suspected or alleged fraud;
-
the internal controls established to mitigate risks related to fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations;
-
discussing among the engagement team regarding how and where fraud might occur in the financial statements and any potential indicators of fraud; and
-
obtaining an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that the company operates in, focusing on those laws and regulations that had a direct effect on the financial statements or that had a fundamental effect on the operations of the companies. The key laws and regulations we considered in this context included the Charities Act 2011 and laws specifically applicable to sector in which the company operates.
Audit response to risks identified
Our procedures to respond to risks identified included the following:
-
reviewing the Financial Statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with relevant laws and regulations discussed above;
-
enquiring of management, concerning actual and potential litigation and claims;
-
performing analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships that may indicate risks of material misstatement due to fraud;
-
reading minutes of meetings of those charged with governance, reviewing internal controls/systems notes and reviewing correspondence with HMRC; and
-
in addressing the risk of fraud through management override of controls, testing the appropriateness of journal entries and other adjustments; assessing whether the judgements made in making accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias; and evaluating the business rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the normal course of business.
-
Assessing compliance with relevant laws and regulations, including Equality Act 2010, Employers' Liability Act 1969 and Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, to which we found no material shortfalls or had any concerns.
-
Assessing compliance requirements set out by The Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes, to which we found no material shortfalls or had any concerns.
-
6 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https:// www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.
Other matters
The financial statements for the prior period were not audited.
Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared financial statements in accordance with "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (as amended) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has now been withdrawn.
This has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with current Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Mark Johnstone (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Argents Audit Services Limited 5 March 2024 Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor 15 Palace Street NORWICH Norfolk United Kingdom NR3 1RT
Argents Audit Services Limited is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
- 7 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2023 2023 Notes £ £ Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies 2 386,458 4,490 Investments 3 19,561 733 Closed churches transferred to circuit 421,928 - Other income 4 151,666 - Total income 979,613 5,223 Expenditure on: Charitable activities 5 702,667 4,145 Net gains/(losses) on investments 10 60,200 - Net incoming resources before transfers 337,146 1,078 Gross transfers between funds (305) 305 Net incoming resources 336,841 1,383 Other recognised gains and losses Revaluation of tangible fixed assets (55,000) - Net movement in funds 281,841 1,383 Fund balances at 1 September 2022 3,535,905 20,705 Fund balances at 31 August 2023 3,817,746 22,088 |
Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2023 2022 2022 £ £ £ 390,948 437,057 4,430 20,294 14,418 90 421,928 469,000 - 151,666 21,263 - 984,836 941,738 4,520 706,812 501,780 11,967 60,200 (8) - 338,224 439,950 (7,447) - - - 338,224 439,950 (7,447) (55,000) 150,000 - 283,224 589,950 (7,447) 3,556,610 2,945,955 28,152 3,839,834 3,535,905 20,705 |
Total 2022 £ 441,487 14,508 469,000 21,263 946,258 513,747 (8) 432,503 - 432,503 150,000 582,503 2,974,107 3,556,610 |
|---|---|---|
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
- 8 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31 AUGUST 2023
| Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 12 Investment property 13 Current assets Debtors 14 Investments 15 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 16 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Income funds Restricted funds 18 Unrestricted funds General unrestricted funds Revaluation reserve |
2023 £ £ 2,135,000 951,128 3,086,128 17,768 374,324 501,823 893,915 (140,209) 753,706 3,839,834 22,088 3,682,746 135,000 3,817,746 3,839,834 |
2022 £ £ 2,520,000 469,000 2,989,000 13,541 224,532 432,302 670,375 (102,765) 567,610 3,556,610 20,705 3,345,905 190,000 3,535,905 3,556,610 |
2022 £ £ 2,520,000 469,000 2,989,000 13,541 224,532 432,302 670,375 (102,765) 567,610 3,556,610 20,705 3,345,905 190,000 3,535,905 3,556,610 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2,989,000 567,610 |
|||
| 3,556,610 | |||
| 20,705 3,535,905 |
|||
| 3,556,610 |
The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 29 February 2024
Mr J Walters Revd A Burrows Trustee Trustee
- 9 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
1 Accounting policies
Charity information
The Methodist Church, Norwich Circuit is a unincorporated charity.
1.1 Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011, FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.
The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
1.2 Going concern
At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
1.3 Charitable funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.
Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be maintained by the charity.
1.4 Income
Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.
- 10 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
1.5 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.
Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.
1.6 Tangible fixed assets
The Circuit acts as managing trustee to a number of Manse properties in the Norwich area, purchased at various times over the past 50 years. They are incorporated at the Trustees' valuation, which does not exceed current market value. The valuation is reviewed annually, and any reduction in market value would be reflected in the accounts.
Freehold land and buildings 0%
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.
1.7 Investment properties
Investment property, which is property held to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation, is initially recognised at cost, which includes the purchase cost and any directly attributable expenditure. Subsequently it is measured at fair value at the reporting end date. The surplus or deficit on revaluation is recognised in profit or loss.
1.8 Impairment of fixed assets
At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
1.9 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
1.10 Financial instruments
The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
- 11 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
1 Accounting policies
(Continued)
Basic financial assets
Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
Basic financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.11 Employee benefits
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
1.12 Retirement benefits
Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.
- 12 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
2 Donations and legacies
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2023 2023 £ £ Donations and gifts 386,458 4,490 Donations and gifts Assessments 386,458 - Mission Contribution - 2,459 Funds to support Presbyters and Deacons - 745 Connection Property - 600 Benevolent contributions - 686 386,458 4,490 |
Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2023 2022 2022 £ £ £ 390,948 437,057 4,430 386,458 437,057 - 2,459 - 2,200 745 - 1,135 600 - 1,095 686 - - 390,948 437,057 4,430 |
Total 2022 £ 441,487 |
|---|---|---|
| 437,057 2,200 1,135 1,095 - |
||
| 441,487 |
- 13 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
3 Investments
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2023 2023 £ £ Rental income - - Dividend income - - Interest receivable 19,561 733 19,561 733 |
Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2023 2022 2022 £ £ £ - 12,200 - - 3 - 20,294 2,215 90 20,294 14,418 90 |
Total 2022 £ 12,200 3 2,305 |
|---|---|---|
| 14,508 |
- 14 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
4 Other income
| Unrestricted | Unrestricted | |
|---|---|---|
| funds | funds | |
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Net gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets | 58,003 | - |
| Income from closed churches | 48,878 | 9,017 |
| Heartsease | 2,820 | 3,019 |
| Sprowston Road | 7,030 | 1,508 |
| Spixworth | - | 412 |
| Wymondham Networker | 5,918 | 5,264 |
| Chapelfield Road | 15,124 | - |
| Circuit Laity | 12,000 | - |
| Miscellaneous income | 1,893 | 2,043 |
| 151,666 | 21,263 |
- 15 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
5 Charitable activities
| Assessment and ministerial activities Collection and Grant funding activities 2023 2023 £ £ Property costs 245,896 - District Assessments 86,669 - Minister travel fund and local preacher expenses 1,508 - Pulpit supplies 2,565 - Quinquennial surveys 2,218 - Expenses, training and sundries 11,780 - 350,636 - Grant funding of activities (see note 6) 13,384 1,345 Share of support costs (see note 7) 326,371 - Share of governance costs (see note 7) 15,076 - 705,467 1,345 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 702,667 - Restricted funds 2,800 1,345 705,467 1,345 |
Total 2023 Assessment and ministerial activities Collection and Grant funding activities 2022 2022 £ £ £ 245,896 74,787 - 86,669 85,653 - 1,508 5,577 - 2,565 2,816 - 2,218 816 - 11,780 11,479 - 350,636 181,128 - 14,729 20,347 2,230 326,371 265,411 - 15,076 44,631 - 706,812 511,517 2,230 702,667 501,780 - 4,145 9,737 2,230 706,812 511,517 2,230 |
Total 2022 £ 74,787 85,653 5,577 2,816 816 11,479 |
|---|---|---|
| 181,128 22,577 265,411 44,631 |
||
| 513,747 | ||
| 501,780 11,967 |
||
| 513,747 |
- 16 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
6 Grants payable
| Assessment and ministerial activities Collection and Grant funding activities 2023 2023 £ £ Grants to institutions: Mission contributions 2,700 - Benevolent contributions 100 - Connexional support for Presbyter and Deacons - 745 Connexional support for Property - 600 Property grants to Churches 10,584 - 13,384 1,345 |
Total 2023 Assessment and ministerial activities Collection and Grant funding activities 2022 2022 £ £ £ 2,700 9,132 - 100 605 - 745 - 1,135 600 - 1,095 10,584 10,610 - 14,729 20,347 2,230 |
Total 2022 £ 9,132 605 1,135 1,095 10,610 |
|---|---|---|
| 22,577 |
7 Support costs
| Support costs | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Staff costs Audit fees TMCP administration District levy Ministers pension deficit Analysed between Charitable activities |
Support costs Governance costs £ £ 326,371 - - 5,760 - 637 - 8,679 - - 326,371 15,076 326,371 15,076 |
2023 £ 326,371 5,760 637 8,679 - 341,447 341,447 |
Support costs Governance costs £ £ 265,411 - - 6,220 - 744 - 10,817 - 26,850 265,411 44,631 265,411 44,631 |
2022 £ 265,411 6,220 744 10,817 26,850 |
| 310,042 | ||||
| 310,042 |
8 Trustees
Included within staff costs was trustees remuneration for the year of £212,584 (2022: £205,728)
The membership of the Circuit comprises Ministers, Deacons, Circuit Stewards, Lay workers and others either elected by their Church or holding an office within the Circuit. All are eligible to receive reasonable expenses incurred in the course of their activities. Identifying the number of people who incurred such expenses would be unnecessarily time consuming.
Expenses paid to trustees in the year totalled £10,566 (2022: £11,720)
- 17 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
9 Employees
The average monthly number of employees during the year was:
| Employees Ministers Total Employment costs Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs |
2023 Number 8 4 12 2023 £ 226,531 59,884 39,956 326,371 |
2022 Number 8 4 |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | ||
| 2022 £ 205,691 21,469 38,251 |
||
| 265,411 |
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
10 Net gains/(losses) on investments
| **Unrestricted ** | Unrestricted | |
|---|---|---|
| funds | funds | |
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Gain/(loss) on sale of investments | - | (8) |
| Revaluation of investment properties | 60,200 | - |
| 60,200 | (8) |
11 Taxation
The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxationof Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects.
- 18 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
12 Tangible fixed assets
| Tangible fixed assets | |
|---|---|
| Freehold land and buildings | |
| £ | |
| Cost | |
| At 1 September 2022 | 2,520,000 |
| Disposals | (385,000) |
| At 31 August 2023 | 2,135,000 |
| Carrying amount | |
| At 31 August 2023 | 2,135,000 |
| At 31 August 2022 | 2,520,000 |
| Investment property | |
| 2023 | |
| £ | |
| Fair value | |
| At 1 September 2022 | 469,000 |
| Additions through external acquisition | 421,928 |
| Net gains or losses through fair value adjustments | 60,200 |
| At 31 August 2023 | 951,128 |
13 Investment property
Investment property comprises of 6 Churches in Norfolk. These Churches (situated in Attleborough, Forncett, Long Stratton, Spixworth, Heartsease and Horsford) 4 were transferred into the ownership of The Methodist Church, Norwich Circuit last year and 2 this year, following the individual churches closures.
The fair value of these investment properties has been arrived at on the basis of a valuation carried out by the Trustees of £1,402,000, less the levy percentage to be taken by the Connexional Priority Fund (CPF) and associated selling costs – being £394,086 and £56,786 respectively.
The valuation was made on an open market value basis by reference to market evidence of transaction prices for similar properties, with assistance from Arnolds Keys, Chartered Surveyors.
14 Debtors
| Debtors | ||
|---|---|---|
| Amounts falling due within one year: Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income |
2023 £ 16,839 929 17,768 |
2022 £ 12,589 952 |
| 13,541 |
- 19 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
| 15 Current asset investments TMCP investment funds 16 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Other taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals and deferred income |
2023 £ 374,324 2023 £ 43,581 90,047 6,581 140,209 |
2022 £ 224,532 |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 £ - 94,667 8,098 |
||
| 102,765 |
17 Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.
The charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes was £29,815 (2022 - £27,886).
- 20 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
18 Restricted funds
The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes:
| Movement in funds | Movement in funds | Movement in funds | Movement in funds | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at | Incoming | Resources | Balance at | Incoming | Resources | Transfers | Balance at | |
| 1 September | resources | expended | 1 September | resources | expended | 31 August | ||
| 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | ||||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Circuit Mission Fund | 26,504 | 2,290 | (9,132) | 19,662 | 3,192 | (2,700) | - | 20,154 |
| Benevolent Fund | 1,000 | - | (605) | 395 | 686 | (100) | - | 981 |
| Connexional Fund | - | 2,230 | (2,230) | - | 1,345 | (1,345) | - | - |
| Gift Fund | 648 | - | - | 648 | - | - | 305 | 953 |
| 28,152 | 4,520 | (11,967) | 20,705 | 5,223 | (4,145) | 305 | 22,088 |
- 21 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
19 Unrestricted funds
These are unrestricted funds which are material to the charity's activities made up as follows:
| Balance at 1 September 2021 £ General Fund 2,645,059 Circuit Advance Model Trust Fund 260,896 Revaluation Reserve 40,000 2,945,955 |
Incoming resources £ 940,645 1,093 150,000 1,091,738 |
Movement in funds Resources expended Transfers Revaluations, gains and losses Balance at 1 September 2022 £ £ £ £ (463,360) - (8) 3,122,336 (38,420) - - 223,569 - - - 190,000 (501,780) - (8) 3,535,905 |
Incoming resources £ 971,011 8,602 - 979,613 |
Movement in funds Resources expended Transfers Revaluations, gains and losses £ £ £ (587,062) 256,497 60,200 (115,605) (256,802) - - - (55,000) (702,667) (305) 5,200 |
Balance at 31 August 2023 £ 3,822,982 (140,236) 135,000 3,817,746 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
- 22 -
THE METHODIST CHURCH, NORWICH CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023
| 20 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 2023 2023 £ £ Fund balances at 31 August 2023 are represented by: Tangible assets 2,135,000 - Investment properties 951,128 - Current assets/(liabilities) 731,618 22,088 3,817,746 22,088 |
Total Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 2023 2022 2022 £ £ £ 2,135,000 2,520,000 - 951,128 469,000 - 753,706 546,905 20,705 3,839,834 3,535,905 20,705 |
Total 2022 £ 2,520,000 469,000 567,610 |
|---|---|---|
| 3,556,610 |
Fund Purpose:
Connexional Fund - Funds are collected from church each year and forwarded by the circuit.
Benevolent Fund - This fund is to assist those in need as directed by the circuit meeting.
Circuit Mission Fund - Voluntary contributions made by Circuit churches and transfers made by the General funds for the mission of the church.
Model Trust Fund - Funds arising from the sales of local Churches and Circuit property.
General Fund - Derives its income from assessments levied on the Churches and uses it to meet the costs of employing presbyters, deacons and lay workers, administration costs and District Connexional Assessments.
21 Related party transactions
There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year with the exception of trustees remuneration disclosed in the trustees note(2022 - none).
- 23 -