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2022-08-31-accounts

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

Circuit Accruals Accounts 2021-22

THE METHODIST CHURCH

STANDARD FORM OF ACCOUNTS ACCRUALS BASIS

for the year ended 31 August

2022

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Forest Circuit Circuit no 35/33
Registered Charity - Registration number 1134384
Circuit Superintendent Minister The Revd Anthony Guy Malcolm
and Chair of Trustees
Circuit Ministers Revd Oseias Da Silva
Revd Hilary Cheng - till 31/07/22
Revd Sue Creighton
Revd Stephanie Njeru
Circuit Stewards Dallion Roye
Lincoln Fearon
Circuit Treasurer Florestine Corbett
Circuit Finance Group Convenor Hannah Roberts
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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

1 Introduction

The Forest Methodist Circuit was until 1st September 2006, one of the constituent circuits of the London North East District. On 2nd September 2006 that district ceased to exist and a new London District was formed of which the Forest Circuit became part. There are twelve local churches in the Forest Circuit.

On the 18th February 2010 the Circuit was entered into the Register of Charities in England & Wales.

The Managing Trustees of the Forest Circuit are those members of the Circuit Meeting who have agreed to be the Circuit trustees. The Circuit Meeting meets at least twice each year to consider the work of God in the Circuit and the general management of the Circuit and its business. The membership of the meeting is governed by the Standing Orders of the Methodist Church. The Circuit Leadership team (CLT) are appointed by the Circuit Meeting to act upon its behalf between Circuit Meetings, with guidance where appropriate from the Circuit Finance Group. The CLT comprises, the Circuit Superintendent Minister, the Ministerial Staff team, the Circuit Stewards and the Circuit Financial Steward (treasurer) and the Circuit Safeguarding officer

2 Objectives and Activities

2.1 Aims and organisation

The aims of the Circuit Meeting through its officers are to:

2.2 The Forest Circuit Vision

The Circuit's current mission statement is "The Forest Circuit is committed to further God's Kingdom by enabling and supporting the local churches in the growth of their discipleship and mission; resourcing local churches under the power of the Holy Spirit to function as effective worship, witness and community wellbeing".

The circuit achieves this by holding the following values in all its dealings with individuals, communities, local and national authorities, other charities and businesses,

The Vision, its wording and Implementation shall be reviewed annually. It provides for the:

2.3 Circuit Goals

The principal purpose of the circuit is to act as a supporting body between Churches and the District and Connexion. The circuit does not seek and in large measure, does not attain direct contact with the public. The direct contact is by the Churches. It is these that the circuit supports in their desire to provide benefit to the public.

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

3 Review of progress and achievements

3.1 The Forest Circuit Annual Report

The major aspect of the 21-22 Connexional year for the Forest Circuit was the urgent need to escalate the Mission and Strategy Review of the Circuit. In March 2021 a “Mission and Strategy Statement of Intent” document reported that the Forest Circuit was unsustainable for the future in its present form and that difficult questions needed to be addressed. Mission Questionnaires were sent out to all churches for discussion and return by September 2021

Following the news that Rev Hilary Cheng would “step down” in July 2022 and consultation with Rev Jongi Zihle the Circuit meeting was informed that the Forest Circuit would not be entering stationing process in 2021 to replace her. However the Circuit meeting was reminded that the stationing process begins in May 2022 and there could be 3 ministerial appointments to fill in 2022 for 2023

Mission Questionnaires completed by churches were reviewed by the Circuit Leadership team (CLT) alongside staffing options and resources available from September 2022. Resulting proposals were issued at the start of January and pastoral conversations held with churches significantly impacted by the proposals, i.e. those recommended to close or join with other churches. The proposals were then formally agreed at the Circuit Meeting in March 2022. The outcome of the proposals has been very difficult for those churches recommended to close or join with others. Some have been more accepting of the situation than others, but some conversations are still in progress well into 2022-23, as this report is being written. Services in 22-23 are on the plan for North Chingford, South Chingford and Cann Hall, though this is only possible monthly.

In August 2022 Wanstead Church held a final service filling the church with many old friends returning to give thanks for the church’s mission in Wanstead. The closure and decisions about the future of Wanstead church building have yet to be formalised.

In July a wonderful service was held saying farewell to Rev Hilary Cheng and her husband, Leo Cheng. Both had contributed so much to the Circuit and introduced many puppet characters to help the Congregations consider their lives and mission.

A second Manse was sold, with proposals made for the majority of funds to be used to employ Lay staff to support the Circuit Mission. Posts of Pastoral worker and Facilities Manager were advertised with consideration being given to the employment of a Mission Co-ordinator at a later stage. A Pastoral worker was employed to start in September 2022. The post of Facilities Manager is to be re-advertised in early 2023.

The early stationing consultations resulted in Rev Tony Malcolm deciding to seek an appointment elsewhere for pastoral reasons, the re-invitation of Rev Sue Creighton for five years from 2023 and the re-invitation of Rev Oseias da Silva for 2 years from 2023. The Circuit is therefore seeking a replacement superintendent from Sept 2023.

Once again the Circuit is grateful to the Circuit Stewards for their commitment to Circuit support, and to the Circuit Finance Group for their financial management and oversight.

3.2 Plans for future years

Conversations continue with all churches on their future and the implementation of the Circuit Mission Strategy. The future of Church buildings no longer being used for Methodist Worship will also be addressed.

A further manse will become available following the decision not to replace Rev Hilary Cheng. Professional advice will be sought to inform consideration of whether to sell the property or prepare the property for rental.

All churches will face considerably difficulty in the coming year from much higher utilities bills. Impact on the churches cannot fail to have an impact on the Circuit, which therefore needs to be monitored.

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

4 Financial Review

Total Income in the year was £310,657. The General fund income was £306,502 of which £283,632 was due from church assessments and £22,720 was the net rental of the Hollywood Way Property. A further £4,305 was interest received. All churches were able to pay the year's assessment within a few weeks of the EOY. In addition some churches with outstanding debt to the Circuit paid some or all of their outstanding debt. The outstanding church debtors were reduced from £178,194 to £68,666.

The total expenditure in the year was £743,625. From the General fund the expenditure was £356,658 giving a net deficit of £50,156 in the General fund. This general fund deficit was not unexpected. The budget for the year had included a subsidy from reserves to reduce the total assessments requested of churches. A further £432,583 was paid in levies from the Reserves fund mainly to the Connexion Priority Fund & District largely as a result of the sale of the manses.

The sale of a residential property in August 2021 relieved the immediate financial pressure on the Forest Circuit. A second residential property no longer needed as a manse was sold in February 2022 for £975,000, (£960,476 net sale proceeds). The Circuit received £600,286, 60% of the final proceeds of sale after costs and £360,190, 40% was paid to the Connexional Priority Fund, in line with Methodist Conference procedures.

The Circuit has insufficient regular income to cover the cost of additional Lay staff. Increasing the Income from Assessments is not possible at this time. Under Standing order 917, Model Trust Funds can be used to support the personnel serving in the circuit. Employment is a commitment. Therefore to ensure such funds will be available to pay employed staff salaries, expenses etc. for approximately 5 years. £183,555 has been drawn down from reserves and placed in a separate designated Lay Workers Fund. As further new staff are employed additional funds should be moved to the Lay Workers Fund.

With the CAF bank account operating effectively for the year, the HSBC bank account was closed.

There are still some churches with significant financial challenges, which will be exacerbated by much increased utility bills in the coming year. The Circuit is a vehicle for the group of churches to operate together to benefit from shared activity and costs. It does not stand alone. A failing church impacts all other churches in the circuit. Circuit Trustees must be mindful of the financial position of individual churches in the circuit as well as the Forest Circuit itself.

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

5 Reserves policy and level

5.1 Reserves Policy

The Forest Circuit is required to provide a manse for each minister stationed in the Circuit as a base for work as well as home. Such manses satisfy the accommodation guidelines in CPD Book VII Part 2. The value of these properties are shown as fixed assets in a designated fund.

The Circuit needs to maintain an operating reserve approximately equal to 6 months of annual expenditure in order to allow for any urgent work to its Manses. In addition Funds have being designated to pay the salary & expenses of a lay worker for the Circuit for 5 years. Plans are also in place to employ a second Lay worker. Once a second person is employed funds will be designated for this post also.

5.2 Explanation and reserves level.

Fixed Assets: (Designated)

The Circuit currently has 6 residential properties. Five of the properties are used as manses for ministers stationed in the Circuit. 1 Property is being let. Valuation of the properties is £4,770,000. Remaining fixed assets of £941 are for depreciating equipment.

Current Assets:

Lay Worker Fund (Designated): £183,555 to pay the salary & expenses of a pastoral worker for 5 years from September 2022.

General Fund (unrestricted) £997,373. This includes approximately £68,000 of outstanding amounts due from 2 churches, for which repayment plans have been discussed and are being monitored. A more realistic value currently therefore is £929,000 approx.

Whilst the Circuit’s difficult financial position has been alleviated, it must be emphasised that careful management is required to ensure Trustee responsibilities are met, funds are used effectively and financial stability is maintained.

The Circuit's Benevolent fund is the only restricted fund held at the end of the year.

6 Related Parties

The Forest Methodist Circuit is part of the London District of the Methodist church and is also accountable to the Methodist Conference. The Churches in the Forest are listed in Note 2 of the accounts.

The Forest Circuit's main source of funding is the assessments obtained from each church within the Circuit. The assessments are used to defray the cost of administering the Circuit and to pay the contributions to the expenses of the London Methodist District and to the Methodist Church Fund i.e. the Methodist Connexion.

The approach to calculating each Church's contributions to the Circuit is also discussed in Note 2 of the accounts.

7 Public Benefit Requirement

The trustees had due regard to the guidance published by the Charities Commission in compliance with its duties under section 4 of the Charities Act 2011.

This guidance sets out two key principles:

  1. The organisation must have an identifiable benefit.

  2. The benefit must be to the public or a section of the public.

The church exists to:

The trustees consider that for these reasons the charity meets these public benefit requirements.

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

8 Circuit Trustee Responsibilities

In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees must:

8.3

The Forest Circuit Meeting

The Forest Circuit Meeting meets at least 2 times a year to deal with routine and exceptional matters. It seeks to think strategically about the work of the Circuit and carry out administrative matters for the Circuit. Its key functions have been:

9 Risk Management

The Circuit Meeting considers the various risks facing the circuit and the impact and the likelihood of issues occuring. Guidance is received from the London District of the Methodist Church and the Methodist connexion. The headings under which the risks are being categorised include:

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

10 Trustees of the Circuit Date Retired Appointed since
as Trustee 1 September
2021
Revd Hilary Cheng 31/08/22
Revd Oseias da Silva
Revd Sue Creighton
Revd Anthony Guy Malcolm
Revd Stephanie Njeru
Revd Jongikaya Zihle
Revd Armstrong Fummey
Dallion Roye
Lincoln Fearon
Florestine Corbett
Janet Tweedale
Graham Burgess
Christine Okpattah
Gary Ian Marshall
Sheila Elizabeth Wintergill 24/02/22
Gill Geddes
Martin Howarth
Jane Gooding 01/02/22
Sharon Heather
Stephen Murray
Patricia Bott
Gordon Trevor Lumer
Loyl Marcia Brandt
Elvena Bernita Brumant
Joseph Kusi
Leslie Stowe
Pat Evans
Robert Amey
Hannah Roberts
Bernard Mansell
Carole Merriman
Jean Norton
Hazel Mathews
Pat Ovenden
Kathleen Poole
Michael Higgins
Andronica Mugenbe
Phyllis Lloyd
Millicent Freeman 28/02/22
Jojo N Monney 27/02/22

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

11 Structure, governance and management

The Forest Ciruit is an unincorporated association and is governed by the Methodist Church Act 1976, the deed of Union and the Model Trust Deeds of the Methodist Church. It was registered with the charity Commissioners on 12th March 2010.

Circuits are the coordinating charities for local groups of churches; circuits pay the stipends of the ministers and circuit employed lay staff to serve the churches in the circuit; most decisions are made at or ratified by the circuit meetings. Some churches, who can afford it also employ their own lay workers, e.g. to assist with church managment and administration. A District is the coordinating charity for a group of contiguous circuits and makes its decisions at half yearly synods. The Methodist Conference meets once each year as the supreme denominational body for all Methodist Churches.

11.2 Purpose of the Circuit

The Circuit is an expression, over a lesser geographical area than a District, of the Connexional character of the Methodist Church. The purposes of the Methodist church are and shall be deemed to have been since the date of the union the advancement of:

The primary purpose of this Circuit is to advance the mission of the church in this are of London by:

The Circuit operates within a statutory framework of regulation and seeks to ensure that it follows Methodist Standing Orders. It relies on the London District, Connexional Office and the Charity Commission to provide guidance on changes that could affect the Circuit.

Detailed governance arrangments are outlined within the Constitutional Practice and Discipline of the Methodist Church bythe order of the annual conference (CPD)

Day to day management of the Forest Circuit is undertaken by the Circuit Leadership team along with the Local Preachers meeting, and the Circuit Finance Group.

The Circuit Meeting consists of representatives of the local churches within the Circuit who are all annually appointed by Church Councils The Circuit Superintendent is ex officio chair of the Circuit Meeting.

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

12 Reference and Administration Details
12.1 The full name of the Charityis the Forest Methodist Circuit, "Forest Circuit".
12.2 The Forest Circuit is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission in England and Wales. The
organisation'sCharity No is 1134384.
12.3 The address of the Forest Circuit for correspondence is 1 Chester Road, Wanstead,London E11 2JU. The
name of the person to whom correspondence should be addressed is Revd Anthony Guy Malcolm, the
Circuit Superintendent.
12.4 The trustees that served during the year are listed in section 10
12.5 The Circuit's Bankersare: HSBC and Charity Aid Foundation "CAF" Bank and the Central Finance Board of
the Methodist church "CFB".
12.6 Investments managedby the District are held by Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes "TMCP".
12.7 Disclosure of information to auditors
In so far as the trustees are aware:
- there is no relevant audit information of which the charity's auditors are unaware; and
- the trustees have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any relevant
audit information and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information.
12.8 Auditors
A recommendation was put to the Circuit Meeting in the Autumn of 2022 that they re appointed Clay Ratnage
Strevens & Hills. They have been auditors to the Circuit for 13 years.

Approval

4/4/2023

The report was approved by the trustees on ……………………. and signed on their behalf by:

…………………………………………….

Revd Anthony Guy Malcolm Circuit Superintendent & Chair of Trustees

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

----- Start of picture text -----
General Fund Reserves Funds Lay Workers Manse Circuit Total Total
(Unrestricted) (Designated) Fund Valuation Benevolent 2021-22 2020-21
(Designated) (Designated) fund
(Restricted)
£ £ £ £ £ £ £
Incoming Resources
1 Donations & Legacies 3 - - - - - - -
2 Interest and Investment Income 4 150 4,155 - - - 4,305 287
3 Manse Rent Received (net) 5 22,720 - - - - 22,720 22,643
4 Assessment on Churches 2 283,632 - - - - 283,632 351,652
6 Capital Receipts - - - - - - -
7 Grants received (E.g. from DAF) - - - - - - -
8 Other income - - - - - - -
9 Total Incoming Resources 306,502 4,155 - - - 310,657 374,582
10 Resources Expended
11 Grants and Donations 6 450 - - - 560 1,010 21,073
12 Salaries and associated costs 7 203,737 - - - - 203,737 194,362
13 Property (incl Ins., C tax, utilities etc) 8 45,330 - - - - 45,330 71,640
14 Connexional Assessment & MTF Levy 72,393 360,190 - - - 432,583 371,760
15 District Assessment & Levy 10,331 24,937 - - - 35,268 14,894
16 Depreciation 470 - - - - 470 470
17 Office Expenses incl Investment 9 14,462 1,280 - - - 15,742 14,594
Managment costs(Admin., tel. travel etc.)
18 Other Expenditure (incl admin fees) 10 5,033 - - - - 5,033 2,272
19 Accountancy & Audit 11 4,452 - - - - 4,452 4,236
20 Capital Expended - - - - - - -
21 Total Resources Expended 356,658 386,407 - - 560 743,625 695,301
22 Net Incoming/(Outgoing) Resources (50,156) (382,252) - - (560) (432,968) (320,719)
23 Transfers between funds 10,781 (194,336) 183,555 - - - -
24 Sub Total (39,375) (576,588) 183,555 - (560) (432,968) (320,719)
25 Gains/(losses) on disposal of Manse - 960,476 - (950,000) - 10,476 (28,237)
26 Gains/(losses) on revaln fixed assets - - - - - - 50,000
27 Gains/(losses): on investment assets - - - - - - -
28 Net investment in funds (39,375) 383,888 183,555 (950,000) (560) (422,492) (298,956)
29 Total funds brought forward from last year 202,924 449,936 - 5,720,000 1,292 6,374,152 6,673,108
30 Total funds carried forward at end of 163,549 833,824 183,555 4,770,000 732 5,951,660 6,374,152
year
For information only: Money received and passed on to External Organisations
Balance brought forward from last year -
Offerings/Gifts - received for External Organisations 2,187 -
Offerings/Gifts - passed to External Organisations -
Balance still to be paid 2,187 -
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

The notes on the following pages form part of these accounts.

2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx, SOFA

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 AUGUST 2022

----- Start of picture text -----
General Fund Reserves Lay Workers Manse Circuit Total Total
(Unrestricted) Funds Fund Valuation Benevolent 2022 2021
(Designated) (Designated) (Designated) fund
(Restricted)
£ £ £ £ £ £
Tangible Fixed Assets
Manse and other property 13 941 - - 4,770,000 - 4,770,941 5,721,411
Investment properties - - - - - - -
Investments with TMCP - - - - - - -
Total fixed assets 941 - - 4,770,000 - 4,770,941 5,721,411
Current Assets
Debtors and Prepayments 14 83,692 - - - - 83,692 194,131
Trustees for Methodist Church 15 - 833,824 - - - 833,824 449,156
Purposes - Interest Accounts
Central Finance Board Deposits 16 95,992 - 183,555 - - 279,547 31,846
Cash at Bank and in hand 16 41,532 - - - 732 42,264 31,296
Total current assets 221,216 833,824 183,555 - 732 1,239,327 706,429
Current Liabilities
Creditors (due in under 1 year) 17 58,608 - - - - 58,608 53,688
Total current liabilities 58,608 - - - - 58,608 53,688
Net current (liabilities)/assets 162,608 833,824 183,555 - 732 1,180,719 652,741
Total assets less current liabilities 163,549 833,824 183,555 4,770,000 732 5,951,660 6,374,152
Long term liabilities
Liabilities due after 1 year - - - - - - -
Net assets 163,549 833,824 183,555 4,770,000 732 5,951,660 6,374,152
Funds of the Circuit 21
General Fund (Unrestricted) 163,549 163,549 203,704
Reserves & Projects (Designated) 833,824 833,824 449,156
Manse Fund (Designated) 183,555 4,770,000 4,953,555 5,720,000
Total Unrestricted funds 163,549 833,824 183,555 4,770,000 5,950,928 6,372,860
Benevolent Fund (Restricted) 732 732 1,292
Total Funds 163,549 833,824 183,555 4,770,000 732 5,951,660 6,374,152
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

The Notes on pages 14 to 22 form part of these accounts.

……………………………………………. Revd Anthony Guy Malcolm Circuit Superintendent and Chair of Trustees

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

1 Accounting framework and accounting policies

ii Public benefit entity

iii Basis

Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s) below.

These accounts have been prepared on the basis of historical cost except that investments and land and buildings are shown at their market value at the end of the year, and grants committed , but not paid are provided on the accruals basis to show a true and fair view of the District’s financial position and activities.

iv Content

The financial information presented is relevant, reliable, comparable and complete. Where estimates are used these are based on experience, research and judgement. The accounts are expressed in £ Sterling, rounded to the nearest pound.

v

Going concern

vi Consolidation

The District oversees the work of ministers and lay workers in Churches within the Circuit, but does not have control over those Churches, ministers or lay workers except in accordance with standing orders of the Methodist church 1932 Act, none of which were applicable. For this reason, the financial statements of the Churches within the Circuit are not consolidated into these financial statements.

vii Income recognition

Income is brought into account when it is more likely than not that the economic benefit of the income will accrue to the Circuit. No attempt is made to measure the value of services donated by volunteers.

In accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102), the time of volunteers is not recognised.

viii Expenditure

This is recognised when a liability is incurred, or a constructive obligation arises, that results in the payment being unavoidable. Liabilities are recognised as soon as an outflow of economic benefit is considered more likely than not under the legal or constructive obligation committing the District to pay out resources.

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

Grants are recognised annually only as and when any performance conditions attaching to the award are met, even when the awards is for a recurrent grant over more than one year . All grants awarded for payment in future financial years are conditional on the Grants committee being satisfied, on the basis of progress reports from the grantee, that the grants achievements to data justify the payment of further instalments of that grant. such committments are noted as contingent liabilities and included within the circuit Advance Fund or other relevant designated fund in these accounts.

x VAT

Since the District is not VAT registered, all input VAT is charged with the expenses to which it refers.

xi Tangible fixed assets

These are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and individually cost at least £500 . The freehold properties are shown in the accounts at market valuation at the end of the financial year. The building value has been depreciated over a period of 50 years.

xii Investment Policy

The investment of surplus funds is operated through the Central Finance Board (CFB) of the Methodist Church. CFB aims to provide a high quality investment service seeking above average returns for long term investors, whilst ensuring that the securities held by all its funds are in line with the ethical policy of the Methodist Church. The Circuit has its funds in a deposit account with CFB and in Trust funds managed by Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP). TMCP funds are also invested with CFB.

xiii Debtors and creditors; bank and cash

Debtors are stated at the amounts owed to the Circuit or prepaid. Creditors are initially recognised at settlement amount after any trade discounts, where normal credit terms apply, or amount advanced to the Circuit. Subsequently creditors that are current liabilities are measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be paid. The liquid funds of bank balances and deposit account balances are shown at the realisable values.

xiv Loans

Where concessionary loans ( i.e., free of interest) are made to (or received by) the District to further its charitable purposes, and are repayable after more than one year, they are initially recognised at the amount paid [or received], with the carrying value adjusted in subsequent years to reflect repayments and any accrued interest, adjusted for any impairment, if necessary.

Where there is objective evidence of impairment, an immediate impairment loss is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities. Subsequent reversals of an impairment loss that objectively relate to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised, are recognised immediately in the Statement of Financial Activities.

xv Ministers' manse costs

The Circuit is required to provide accommodation for each Minister and his / her family. The Circuit bears the cost of repairs, maintenance, building insurance, Council Tax and water charges. These costs are not shown separately as benefits-in-kind for Ministers as HMRC does not seek to tax these receipts in the hands of the Ministers.

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

2 Assessment from Churches

Forest Circuit assessments due from Churches to the Circuit for the year 2021-22 were as follows. The Circuit Finance Group continued to review the method of apportionment of the assessments across churches in the circuit and make recommendations for changes.

Church Name
Cann Hall
South Chingford
North Chingford
Shern Hall
Loughton
Woodford
Winchester Road
Leytonstone
Leyton Trinity
Wanstead
Lighthouse
Loughton Trinity (Debden) - incorporated into Loughton church from Sept 2020
2021-22
16,192
18,092
14,119
42,172
67,269
9,223
33,965
30,555
22,457
14,777
14,811
-
283,632
2020-21
11,559
17,755
19,004
53,522
72,095
18,714
33,965
37,167
35,860
16,012
35,999
-
351,652
2020-21

Building on the assessment approach of 20-21, the Circuit Finance Group gave further consideration to the assessment apportionment. A calculation was again drafted using a number of factors, such as church capita, but also a factor to reflect a church's ability to pay . This was a church's total funds as a percentage of the combined churches' total funds. However with churches still suffering financial from the impact of the covid pandemic, the assessment calculation what ever percentages were used could be seen to be difficult for most churches. It was therefore suggested that as two Manses were being sold, the circuit could usefully use recently released capital to reduce the assessment. An amount of £35,000 was agreed on the understanding that this would be a one off application of funds.

Donations Received
Pastoral & Benenvolent Fund
General Fund
Total Donations & legacies
2021-22
-
-
-
2020-21
-
-
-

3 Donations Received

4 Interest & Investment Income

The Circuit currently holds no investments.

Funds are held on deposit at CFB, either directly or through a model Trust fund held at TMCP.

Interest Received
General Fund
Forest Model Trust Fund
Total Interest & Investment Income
Fund Type
Held at
U
CFB & CAF
U
TMCP
2021-22
150
4,155
4,305
2020-21
29
258
287

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

5
6
Income from investment Properties - Manse Rent Received
Manse Rental
Gross
Agents Fees
Hollywood Way
26,400
(3,680)
Total Interest & Investment Income
Grants, donations and related Support costs
Grants from Circuit Model Trust Fund
W
d
W l
A
P
j
Loughton - Digital Services Facilities
Dalit Project - paid via Loughton
Lighthouse - expansion of communcal area
Debden Trinity
Total Grants from Model Trust fund Reserves
Benevolent Fund Grants
General donations
Total
Grants and donations were made in the year as shown below:
2021-22
22,720
22,720
2021-22
-
-
-
-
-
560
450
1,010
2020-21
22,643
22,643
2020-21
-
5,000
10,000
5,023
20,023
500
550
21,073
2020-21

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

7
Salaries and associated costs
2021-22
133,037
12,492
34,734
Stipend administration charge and apprenticeship Levy
951
Circuit Administrator's Gross Pay - Part time
13,960
707
7,787
(Pension contributions had not been correctly set up at start of employment.)
Payroll administration charge and apprenticeship Levy
69
203,737
Gross Stipends Paid - 5 ministers
Employer's National Insurance contribution
Employer's pension contribution to defined contribution scheme
Total cost
Employer's National Insurance contribution re Administrator
Employer's pension contribution re Circuit Administrator (back
2020-21
131,017
12,006
34,330
717
14,861
877
-
554
194,362
2020-21

The Superintendent Minister and Ministers Stationed in the Circuit are paid a stipend, pension and expenses by the Circuit. This Stipend is that agreed annually by the Conference of the Methodist Church.

No employees received employee benefits that totalled more than £60,000. There is no accrual for holiday pay as it is immaterial; the holiday year ends on 31 August. All staff are paid at or above the living wage.

No accrual is made for ministers sabbaticals as their functions are undertaken by other ministers and delegated lay persons in the Churches and Circuit at minimal extra cost to the Circuit.

It should be noted that the Ministers stationed in the Circuit are required to occupy the Circuit manses. The council tax and water charges for the manses occupied by ministers are paid by the Circuit. HMRC does not regard this as a taxable benefit to the minister.

Payment to Trustees

The Methodist Ministers stationed in the Forest Circuit are included as trustees of the Circuit. It is Circuit Policy to offer to reimburse local preachers and others involved in the administration of Circuit affairs for expenditure properly incurred in carrying out their duties.

Pensions

Most ordained presbyters and deacons are members of the Methodist Ministers’ Pension Scheme (MMPS). This is a defined benefit scheme. The Supreme Court held in 2014 that Methodist ministers (which term includes presbyters and deacons) are not employees of the Church. For simplicity, however, when dealing with National Insurance Contributions and pension contributions, the terms ‘employer’ and ‘employee’ are used as they would be in an employing body.

The Connexion accounts for the MMPS schemes and shows the figures in the annual Methodist Church in Great Britain accounts. The MMPS is in deficit but a plan for removal of the deficit has been proposed and is being implemented. Details of the deficits on this scheme can be found in the Annual Report and Accounts of The Methodist Church at www.methodist.org.uk.

8 Property costs
Manse Costs
Professional Fees and Survey costs
Circuit Property Valuation Survey
Manse Renovation costs
Total*
Council tax
Repairs, Maintenance and Renewals
Insurance and Utilities
2021-22
20,154
9,820
14,551
805
45,330
-
45,330
-
45,330
2020-21
12,176
9,814
15,438
2,160
39,588
-
39,588
32,052
71,640

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

9
10
11
Office expenses & investment management fees
2021-22
Office expenses & other ministerial costs
3,086
Telephones & Broadband
5,979
Travel & Parking
3,133
Ministerial Worship Resources & Support
2,264
14,462
Investment management
Circuit Model Trust Fund
1,280
1,280
Office expenses & other ministerial costs
Total 15,742
Other Expenditure
2021-22
General Fund (U) Other items
Training
605
1,419
Youth Work
850
Health checks
1,213
Bank charges & Auditor's letter
176
Sundries
500
Acountancy guidance during year
270
Removal Costs
-
5,033
Total Other Expenditure & Training 5,033
Fees for Accountancy and audit of the Accounts
2021-22
Auditor's Fee
2,226
Other Fees (e.g. advice, accountancy services)
2,226
4,452
Total
Preachers fees and expenses
Total
Printing, postage and stationery
Total
During the year the Circuit paid the following amounts to TMCP as
custodians of the Trust Funds
2020-21
3,181
7,167
1,678
2,445
14,471
123
123
14,594
2020-21
1,025
-
-
-
84
(337)
-
1,500
2,272
2,272
2020-21
2,118
2,118
4,236

12 Manse Valuations

All Manses were professionally revalued at the end of August 2020. The report showed an increase of £160.933.

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

13 Tangible Fixed assets

----- Start of picture text -----
Land Buildings Total Land Equipment Furniture Total Equipment Total Assets
& Buildings & Software & Furniture
Cost or Valuation
Balance at 31st Aug 2021 5,720,000 11,247 - 11,247 5,731,247
Additions in the year - - - - - - -
revaluations in the year - - - - - - -
less: disposals in year - - (950,000) - - - (950,000)
Transfers between categories - - - - - - -
Balance at 31st Aug 2022 - - 4,770,000 11,247 - 11,247 4,781,247
Accumulated depreciation
Land Buildings Total Land Equipment Furniture Total Equipment Total
& Buildings & Software & Furniture
Changes Not Depreciated
Balance at 31st Aug 2021 - - - 9,836 - 9,836 9,836
Depreciation charge for the year - - - 470 - 470 470
- - - - - - -
revaluations in the year
less: disposals in year - - - - - - -
Balance at 31st Aug 2022 - - - 10,306 - 10,306 10,306
NB: Years over which value is depreciated 50 3 3
----- End of picture text -----

Net Value

Balance at31st Aug 2021
Balance at31st Aug 2022
Land
Buildings Total Land
& Buildings
Equipment Furniture Total Equipment
& Furniture
Total
- -
5,720,000
1,411
- 1,411
5,721,411
- -
4,770,000
941
-
941
4,770,941

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

14

Debtors and prepayments

Not all sums shown as debtors at the start of the year, 1st September, were received during the year. A few churches had outstanding assessments, but these have reduced during the year.

outstanding assessments, but these have reduced during the year.
Amount outstanding from churches at Year End
Leytonstone
Assessments
Paid
Cann Hall
Assessments
Paid
Leyton (Trinity)
Assessments
Lighthouse
Assessments
Lighthouse
Loan / Transfer 2016
Shern Hall
Boiler Loan
Repaid Aug 2022
2021-22
2020-21
-
36,942
-
2,890
14,360
15,860
44,306
99,502
10,000
10,000
-
13,000
Total 68,666
178,194
Other sundry debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
Council tax & Utilities
Stipend
2,433
1,006
12,543
14,931
50
-
Total 15,026
15,937
Total (net) 83,692
194,131

15 Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes

TMCP is the legal owner and Custodian Trustee of all Methodist Model Trust property and assets, including Legacies, Endowments and Accumulated Funds. Trust property is held for and on behalf of local Managing Trustees who are responsible for the day to day management of trust property. TMCP provide guidance and require the circuits to act under TMCP direction. Thereby Managing Trustees will comply with charity law and Methodist law and policy as determined by the Methodist Conference.

In the year the Circuit meeting agreed to sell the manse at Windsor Road. The transaction went through in the year and proceeds were lodged in the Circuit's Trust at TMCP. In line with the Constitutional Practice and Disipline of the Methodist Church(CPD), a levy of 40% of proceeds of sale was transferred to the Connexional Priority Fund.

16 Central Finance Board (CFB) and cash at bank

The Circuit has had a current account at HSBC plc for many years. In 19-20 the Circuit agreed to open an account with CAF Bank (Charities Aid Foundation), this was opened in October 2020. The account with CAF bank will facilitate online banking with dual authorisation. HSBC and CAF are authorised institutions. The sums held on the accounts are immediately available.

In addition, the Circuit has one deposit accounts at CFB. Interest earned on these CFB accounts is credited monthly; the sums deposited can be withdrawn without notice and without loss of interest.

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

17 Creditors and accrued expenses

2021-22 2020-21
Creditors:
Other Creditors unpaid as at EOY - 250
Audit & accountancy Fees & bank audit letter 4,466 4,236
Expenses reimbursement 787 217
Property related expenses 1,064 -
Pension Back payments 7,787 -
Grant to Dailit via Loughton, committed 2011 - 10,000
Grant to Lighthouse committed 2016 - 5,024
Connexional Funds & received for others unpaid 2,446 600
Total creditors 16,550 20,327
Pre receipts
Assessments 42,058 33,361
Rent in Advance - -
Total accruals 42,058 33,361
Total of creditors and accrued expenses 58,608 53,688

It is expected that all sums accrued at 31 Aug 2022 would be paid during the year to 31 Aug 2023.

18 Capital commitments and contingent liabilities

18.1
Capital commitments at end of year amounted to:
2021-22
2020-21
-
-
-
-

19 Volunteer contributions

Every entity (Connexion, District, Circuit, Church) within the Methodist Church in GB is heavily reliant on volunteers who contribute their skills, time and money in the furtherance of the work of the Church. For the Forest Circuit directly this contribution is generally by serving on committees of the Circuit that deal with mission, manses, finance, policy, grants, training, development and governance, but there are many others who assist with the preparation and running of Circuit events. We are grateful to all of them for their help and commitment.

20 Lease commitments

The Circuit had no lease commitments at the end of August:

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

21 Circuit funds (Unrestricted, Restricted and Endowment)

The Forest Circuit of the Methodist Church maintains a number of separate funds. The purpose, type, movement and state as at the end of year is documented below:

The funds held constitute: Unrestricted (U) General Funds held for any purpose, Designated (D) funds allocated for a specific purpose, Restricted (R) funds which are held for a narrower purpose. The Forest circuit does not hold any Endowment funds.

21.1 Fund Purpose & Type

The value of property owned by the Circuit, e.g. Manses and rental property, has been moved from the General fund to a separate Manse Value Fund in order to simplify and clarify the reporting and monitoring of the Circuit's more liquid assets.

----- Start of picture text -----
Fund Name Type Purpose of the Fund
21.1.1 Unrestricted Funds (U)
General Fund U For use at the discretion of the trustees in the furtherance of the objectives of the
Circuit. This excludes funds which have been designated for a specific purpose. (see
designated funds below)
21.1.2 Designated Funds (D) For specific purposes but not restricted by document or deed to that purpose alone.
The trustees may agreed from time to time to transfer funds from a designated fund.
Ciruit Model Trust Reserves D1 To support the funding of projects in the Circuit
Manse Valuation Fund D2 The freehold properties owned by the circuit used as manses for the ministers
stationed in the circuit. And the properties rented out.
Manse Refurbishment Fund D3 A temporary project fund, to assist in the management and reporting of
refurbishement work on Circuit property. i.e. Manses and rental property.
Lay Worker Fund D4 A fund set up, setting asside sufficient funds to employ specific lay staff staff for a
designated number of years. E.g. A Pastoral Worker for 5 years.
21.1.3 Restricted Funds (R )
Forest Circuit Benevolent R1 To help meet the exceptional needs of presbyters, deacons and lay employees in the
Fund Circuit, when these cannot be met by the church alone. Providing a resource from
which confidential payments can be made at the discretion of the Superintendent &
nominated Trustees.
----- End of picture text -----

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

21.2 Fund Balances and Movements

----- Start of picture text -----
Fund Name Opening Incoming Resources Gains on Transfer Closing
Balance Resources Expended revaluation Balance
£ £ £ £ £
21.2.1 Unrestricted Funds
General Fund (excluding U 202,924 306,502 (356,658) 10,781 - 163,549
manse fund)
Designated Funds
Ciruit Model Trust Reserves D1 449,936 4,155 (386,407) 960,476 (194,336) 833,824
Manse Value Fund D2 5,720,000 - (950,000)- - 4,770,000
Manse Refurbishment Fund D3 - - - - - -
Lay Worker Fund D4 - - - - 183,555 183,555
-
Total Designated 6,169,936 4,155 (386,407) 10,476 (10,781) 5,787,379
Total Unrestricted & 6,372,860 310,657 (743,065) 10,476 - 5,950,928
Designated
21.2.2 Restricted Funds
Forest Circuit Pastoral & R1 1,292 - (560) - - 732
Benevolent Fund
Total Restricted Funds 1,292 - (560) - - 732
Total Funds 6,374,152 310,657 (743,625) 10,476 - 5,951,660
0 0 0 0 0
----- End of picture text -----

22 Connected organisations and related parties

Connected organisations include the Methodist Connexion, the District and Churches within the Circuit, CFB and TMCP. Except as reported in Note 3. All of these entities have their own trustees or directors and autonomous administration such that the Forest Circuit has no significant influence over any of them, nor they over the Forest Circuit. They are, therefore, not considered related parties.

Donor: Churches within the Forest Circuit - assessments
Donor / Donee: Churches within the Forest Circuit (grants).
- Wanstead, Trinity Debden.
Total
Name of Connected Organisations
Donee: Methodist Church Fund via the London District.
Donor / Donee: the London District (levies / grants)
Receipts
Payments
Adjustments
£
£
£
283,632
-
-
- -
-
- (35,268)
-
- (432,583)
-
283,632
(467,851)
-

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2022 Final Accts 21-22 Forest DRAFT 5 - 230323.xlsx

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

DECLARATIONS

Finance Group Convenor

I confirm that I have prepared the accounts from the records of the Circuit and that they include all funds under the control of the Circuit Meeting.

----- Start of picture text -----
Circuit Finance Group Date
20/3/2023
Convenor
Name Hannah Roberts
Address 45 Byron Avenue,
London,
E18 2HH
Presentation to the District Council for approval.
I confirm that the Accounts have been presented to the Circuit Meeting on 23rd March 2023
and were approved.
Signature of the Chair of
the meeting
Name of the Chair of the
Revd Anthony Guy Malcolm
meeting
Date
4/4/2023
----- End of picture text -----

Page 23

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

We have audited the financial statements of the Forest Methodist Circuit (the 'charity') for the year ended 31 August 2022 which comprise Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet and notes to the financial satements, including a summary of 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).

This report is made solely to the charity's trustees, as a body, in accordance with Section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and regulations made under Section 154 of that Act. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's managing 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.

Opinion on accounts

In our opinion the accounts:

Basis of Opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Internatonal Standards on auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further sdescribed 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 requirments that are relevant to our audit of the financial statments in the UK, including the FRC's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirments. 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

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the ISAs (UK) require us to report to you where:

Other information

The trustees are responsible for other information. The other information comprises the information included in the trustees' annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditors's report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and ecept to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form od assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in 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 there is a material missstatement in the financial statements or a material missstatement of the other information. 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.

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DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities Act 2011 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the Trustees’ responsibilities statement set out on page 6, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of financial statements which 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 liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Responsibilities of auditors 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 regulations made under section 154 of that Act.

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.

To identify risks of material misstatement due to fraud (“fraud risks”) we assessed events or conditions that could indicate an incentive or pressure to commit fraud or provide an opportunity to commit fraud. Our risk assessment procedures included:

Obtaining an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the charity. Obtained an understanding of how the charity is complying with those legal and regulatory frameworks by making enquiries to the trustees.

The susceptibility of the charity’s financial statements to material misstatement caused by fraud or other irregularities were assessed with the following procedures:

Potential fraud risks that had been identified throughout the planning and commencement of the audit were communicated to the audit team.

Page 25

DocuSign Envelope ID: 37B8F738-2559-4DAE-8C63-AA0E6C00E103

FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2022

TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE FOREST METHODIST CIRCUIT

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditors responsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

Clay Ratnage Strevens & Hills Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditor Suite D, The Business Centre Farringdon Avenue Romford Essex RM3 8EN

4/4/2023

Date ……………….

Clay Ratnage Strevens & Hills is eligible to act as auditor in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

Page 26