ST FAITH'S GREAT CROSBY ANNUAL REPORT 2024 The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Great Crosby St Faith Registered Charity No. 1134518 Diocese of Liverpool
Administrative Information The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Great Crosby St Faith is a charity registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Charity Registration number: 1134518 St Faith's Parish Church is situated at Crosby Road North, Liverpool, L22 4QQ and its Church Hall is located on Milton Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 4RE. It is part of the Diocese of Liverpool in the Church of England. The correspondence address is.. The Vicarage, Milton Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 4RE. Website.. http:Ilwww.sffaithsgc.org.uk For the period 1st January 2024 until the date this report was approved, the following served as members of the PCC: Vlcar Fr. Louis Johnson (from I3/114) (Chairman of the PCC) Church Warden Mr. Rick Walker (Acting Chaim7an of the PCC until 12/11/24) Clergy Representatlve Fr. Dennis Smith (from I8/74) Reader Representatlve Mrs. Paula Lampard Deanery Synod Representatlves Mr. Harry Huyton (Health & Safety Officer) Mr. David Jones (Treasurer) Mr. Richard Woodley Elected Members Mr. Hary Huyton (to APCM 2024) Mr. Richard Woodley (to APCM 2024) To retire 2025 Mr. David Jones Ms. Corinne Hedgecock (Assistant Warden & Electoral Roll Officer) Mrs. Christine Spence (Assistant Warden) To retire 2026 Mrs. Vivienne Shillitoe (PCC sectary) Ms. Mari Griffiths Mrs. Rita Derringer To retlre 2027 Mr. Norman Edwards Mr. Kevin Mulholland Mrs. Irene Taylor Co-opted Members Ms. Helen Kibbey (Parish Safeguarding Officer) (resigned 5/2/25) Dr. Judith Aveling (Ordinand in Training) (from 22/1/25)
The Liverpool Diocesan Board of Finance acted as Custodian Trustee for the inalienable property of the Church. Bankers: TSB plc, PO Box 373, Leeds, LS14 9GQ. Independent Examiner: Mr Raymond Bissex FCA, St. Mary's Annexe, 32 Brooklands Avenue, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 3XZ. Architect.. Rebecca Grimshaw, Anthony Grimshaw Associates LLP, 6 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan, WN1 1SX. Day-to-day management control of the Church was exercised by the Church Warden and Standing Committee until 13 November 2024, after which the Revd Dr Louis Johnson became responsible. Structure, Management and Governance The PCC of Great Crosby St Faith is a body corporate and operates under the Parochi81 Church Councils (Powers) Me8sure 1956 and Church R8psentatIOn Rules (2022). The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All those who attend our 8ep4iceslmembers of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. The full PCC met five times during the year with an average level of attendance of 820k. From the APCM 2024, tho PCC operated the followlng sub4ommittees: Standlng Commlttoe: Mr Rick Walker (Churchwarden and Acting Chairman of the PCC), Mr David Jones (Parish Treasurer), Mrs Viv Shillitoe (Secretary). Flnance Committee: Mr David Jones (Treasurer) (Chairman), Mr Rick Walker, Mr Kevin Mulholland. Fabric Commlttee: The Standing Committee oversee fabric issues. Social Committee: Mrs Christine Spence, Mr8 Irene Taylor, Mrs Eileen Matthews, Ms Corinne Hedgecock. Note.. With effect frDm I3/114, Fr Louis Johnson became Chainnan of the PCC and standing Committee, and is ex officio 8 member of all sub-committees. PCC members receive information on trustee responsibilities, basic health and safety, risk management and safeguarding pr0dUreS. Aims and Purposes St Faith's Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the Maintenan of the Parish Church of St Faith, located on the corner of Kingsway and Crosby Road North, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 4QQ and its Church Hall. located on Milton Road, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 4RE.
Objectives and Activities The principal function, or purpose, of the PCC as 'promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church" is set out within section 2 of the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 as amended. The PCC is commrtted to enabling as many people as possible to worship at the Parish Church and to become part of the community of faith at St Faith's. The PCC maintains an overview of worship in the Parish and discusses how our services can involve the many groups that live within our parish. Our worship puts faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament. Statement of Public Benefit When planning the activities for the year, the PCC have considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, and in particular, the specific guidance for charities for the advancement of religion. In particular, we try to enable people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through.. Worship and Prayer,, regular public worship that is open to all, and the provision of sacred space for personal prayer and contemplation. Enabling people to learn about the Gospel and develop their knowledge of, and trust in, God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit through sermons, courses and small groups. Provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish and for members of the congregation, including visiting th6 sick, housebound and bereaved. Mission and outreach work Taking of religious assemblies in schools. Promotion of Christianity through the staging of events and meetings and the distribution of literatu. Promoting the whole mission of the Church through provision of activities that meet the needs of various groups within the Parish. Supporting other charities in the UK and overseas. To facilitate this, it is important that we maintain the fabric of the church of St Faith and the Church Hall. Our objectives for 2024 were: Alms for 2024 To appoint a new Vicar for the United Benefice Whetherachleved The Revd Dr Louis Johnson was Licensed, Inducted and Installed to the United Benefice by the Bishop of Liverpool on 13 November 2024. The new lighting system and associated electrical works were completed in April 2024. Lack of funds has prevented the access works to proed but grant aid fundin is bein sou ht. The Director of Music left in August 2024 and the Parish Choir provide choral music at the weekl Eucharist. To complete the new lighting system and the acSsible entrance to the church To strengthen the Parish Choir
To re-build the congregation Since the arrival of Fr Louis, weekly numbers have been increasing at the Parish Eucharist and young families have been welcomed back. Progress in completing the new website has been slow but the Friends page on Facebook has 287 members and is viewed regularly, along with the 'A Church Near You" website which has been u dated. To develop our online Presen and visibility in the parish Church Attendance The average weekly attendan counted during October 2024 was 57 and the average Sunday attendance during the same period was 42. These figures do not include baptism services, weddings or funerals but the numbers are affected by the Patronal Festival in October. Electoral Roll The Electoral Roll is a list of those who are entitled to attend the Annual Parochial Church Meeting and take part in its proceedings. This includes voting in elections for the Parochial Church Council, Churchwardens and Deanery Synod members and eligibility to be elected to these roles. The Roll is completely renewed every six years (last renewal was in 2019) and is revised each year before the APCM to make sure that it is accurate. Following the revision, corrections may be made, but no names may be added or removed between the time that the revised Roll 18 completed and the close of the Annual Meeting. Following the complete renewal for the APCM 2025, there are currently 52 names on the Church Electoral Roll, 11 of whom are resident within the ecclesiastical parish and 41 of whom are not resident within the parish. Pastoral Care The clergy and ministry team visit, on behalf of the Church, those who are unwell or are unable to leave their houses on their own. Those who wish it will receive regular communion either at home or in hospital and those who are bereaved are visited when it Seems appropriate. Occaslonal Offices From January - December 2024, there were: 6 baptisms 1 wedding, and 5 funerals Mission and Evangellsm Helping those in need is a demonstration of our faith. We are grateful for donations and fundraising efforts that resulted in £549 being given for missionary work. It is good that these efforts on behalf of others can be combined with opportunities for fellowship.
The parish website is in the process of being re-built and this wort( should be completed in 2025. The 'Friends of St Faith's Great Crosby. page on Fabook has 287 members and is updated daily. The "St Faith's Crosby Music. page has 309 followers on Facebook and 74 followers on Instagram and posts photographs and videos of musical events in the church, although this has not been active since July. Safeguarding Th8 PCC has complied with the duty under sectlon 5 of the Safeguardlng and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have due regard to House of Bishops. guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults>. We are committed to: The care, nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young people and all adults; The safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and all adults; The establishing of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where victims of abuse can report or disclose abuse and where they can find support and best practice that contributes to the prevention of abuse. To this end: We will carefully select, support and train all those with any responsibility within the Church, in line with the principles of Safer Recruitment. We will respond without delay to every complaint made, that any adult, child or young person may have been harmed, cooperating with the police and local authorrty in any investigation. We will seek to offer informed pastoral care and support to anyone who has suffered abuse, developing with them an appropriate ministry that recognises the importan of understanding the needs of those who have been abused, including their feelings of alienation and l or isolation. We will seek to protect survivors of abuse from the possibility of further harm and abuse. We will seek to challenge any abuse of power, especially by anyone in a position of respect and responsibility, where they are trusted by others. We will seek to offer pastoral care and support, including supervision, and referral to the appropriate authorities, to any member of our Church community known to have offended against a child, young person or adult who is vulnerable. The Parish Safeguarding Officer post is currently vacant. In all these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and recognised good practice. Other Policies The PCC affirmed its commitment to holding policies that follow Diocesan and national church guidan on Data Protection, Volunteering, HR, the Environment, Health and Safety and Risk Management. Links to the Diocesan guidance are to be found on the church website. The PCC Secretary holds copies of this in hard copy and electronic form and they are available on request.
The PCC of Great Crosby St Faith complies with its obligations under the 'GDPR' by keeping personal data up to date" by storing and destroying it securely. by not collecting or retaining excessive amounts of data,. by protecting personal data from loss, misuse, unauthorised access and disclosure and by ensuring that appropriate technical measures are in place to protect personal data. Report of the Sefton South Deanery Synod Deanery Synod met three times during the year 2024. In addition to the usual standing items such as finance, and reports from Diocesan Boards, a number of new initiatives were reported upon as highlighted below. 8 February 2024 at Bootle Christ Church Claire Morgans from Y-Kids gave a presentation about her organisation's work with young people in the Bootle area. 24 July 2024 at Netherton St Oswald Archdeacon Peter Spiers gave a detailed account of the recent General Synod meeting in York. Deanery election was held: Elected for the laity: Jill Morland-Duff, Nancy Bell, George Carter Elected for the Clergy.. Revd Andrew Stott, Paula Bridson, Alex Peach. 24 October 2024 at Lltherland St Phllip Canon David Banbury spoke about the Fit for Mission programrne. Details of the discussion do not seem to have been recorded. Revd Gregor Cuff Christ Church with St John, Watertoo Vicar's Report Given that it's under six months since Christine, Benedict, and l arrived here to join you the church communtty of St Faith's, this cannot really constitute a conventional Vicar's Report for the last year, as I haven't been here for most of it; however, looking back at the aims and objectives included in the last report, I can see that you have achieved some, and that we are making really positive progress on others. For instance, you have appointed a new vicarl And myself and Christine (and Benedictl) would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the warm, kind, generous welcome that you've given us since our arrival- it has been a crucial part of our feeling genuinely at home immediately - it feels as if God has really called us to and put us in the right place, at the right time. Since I've been here, we have been welcoming families and young people to our worship and community. we have increased our links with St John's Church of England Primary School (where l am now a governor, and part of the team that delivers regular collective worship at the school, as well as seasonal activities, such as 'Experience Christmas, and 'Experience Easter,, as well as Messy Church) - and as this involves Gollaboration with both of the other Waterloo parishes, St Mary's and Christ Church, this also demonstrates that we are developing our collaborative relationships with our neighbouring church communities (as does our commitment to joint benefi ministry team meetings with St Mary's, and helping to provide cover for Revd Gregor Cuff at Christ Church, and at the Liverpool Seafarers, Centre) - with our continued support of our joint patronal services, and our increased engagement with Churches together in Waterloo and Crosby, this is a sign of the strengthening and development of our identity as part of the larger Body of Christ in our local area.
In our Benefice, we have continued to deepen our shared discipleship and worshipping life through the 'Seekers' prayer group, and through the Walsingham group, whilst Lent has seen us deepen this further still, with the introduction of healing ministry during our Sunday Eucharist here at St Faith's, experimenting with having both St Faith's and St Mary's buildings open more, with contemplative prayer stations, an additional Eucharist, crafting, hospitality and fellowship, and running a Lent course on the sacraments twice a week at both sites (all of which also fulfils another existing objective to increase the focus on the season of Lent). Vvhilst we are still exploring possibilities to develop music and the choir at St Faith's, I'd like to put on record my thanks to all those who have been, and are, keeping things going in this respect- it is central part of the worship we offer to God in this community, as well as being a deeply held aspect of the history and culture of this place, so l am hugely grateful that this has been maintained during this period. It was an important part of the wonderful Advent and Christmas seasons that marked the beginning of our time together at St Faith's, and being part of so many powerful and moving ServIS that reached so many people was a huge privilege- and it gives me such hope for the future of this community- in fact, the potential of this community, and the energy, creativity, ideas, and commitment of the people of this community is genuinely inspiring, and incredibly exciting - and it is that future that we're all being called into, together. And so, we come to our objectives for the year ahead - in some sense, the broad objectives have been set for us, as my role description was clear about some essential aspects of the ministry I've been called into amongst and alongside you (to which I've added our desire to develop our choir and musical activities generally) and I'm pleased to say that we are, already, making some headway on all of them - and I've every confidence we can continue this positive direction of travel and it is vital that we do so as successfully and effectively addressing these objectives will be an indication of the health and ongoing thriving of our church community. And, in truth, I'm totally optimistic about this as I think there is just so much potential here - as we are already doing so much - our worship is wonderful, joyful, Spirit- filled, thanks to the committed and engaged laity and clergy who enable and support our shared worshipping life - and thanks to your responsive participation as part of it - we host participate in the real, life-giving gospel work of the Kindhearts Café and it's amazing team, the kind of social justice project that should be a model for other communities in our deanery and diocese - we have so many people who want to learn and grow as disciples of Jesus, and respond to this call through action- we have so much creativity, a community full of ideas and people so committed to serrfing each other, in this community, and in our wider community, through charitable projects, pastoral care, and community initiatives, demonstrating the living love of God, living out faith and Christian discipleship 'in truth and action., {1 Jn 3.18) - the sheer energy of this community is remarkable, it is fantastic to be a part of it now, and it fills me with hope for our future together and beyond: 'and hope does not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us., (Rom. 5.5) Fr Louis Johnson Vicar Report of the Parochial Church Council There have been five meetings of the PCC held between January and December 2024 (nominally every two months with a break for the summer). Average attendance across the meetings has been 820h. Vacancies for two Synod Representatives, one Clergy representative and four elected PCC members were filled at the APCM in April. A vacancy for a second Church Warden remains.
Matters discussed have been dominated by Interregnum planning and progress. We have been ably guided through this process by our Parish Representatives, David Jones and Rick Walker, who, togetherwith the Parish Representatives from St. Mary's, produced a new Parish Profile, and supported us through the Section 11 and Section 12 meetings. Other topics discussed have included, but are not limited to: The installation of new lighting and the re-wiring of the church, which has now been completed. The new H-bracket road markings and 'left tum only, signage in Milton Road, made necessary by the introduction of a one-way system. The Parish Share - this remains an area of concern. The PCC has acknowledged the importance of meeting this requirement and has committed to making regular payments. A Stewardship renewal campaign and an appeal to all parishioner8 to reduce arrears has been discussed. We remain committed to the importance of 8afeguarding, which is discussed at every PCC meeting. Finally, our prayers were answered as we welcomed Fr. Louis in November. This is an exciting time, as we look to the future with renewed hope and energy. As a PCC we are dedicated to preserving the Spiritual and material traditions of our worship at St. Faith's but remain eager to explore new opportunities for growth and development. We look forlvard with faith and positivity to achieving much together. Vivienn8 Shillitoe PCC Secretary Report of the Churchwarden 2024 was as usual an interesting and hectic year at st Faith's since we had said goodbye to our Vicar a few months previously and were in interregnum and starting the process of finding a replacement, but more of that later. During the gap between parish priests, it is the duty of churchwardens to keep the show on the road, and, nomially two in number, the wardens are in charge of just about everything - and that really does mean everything!! Fortunately, St Faith's has always worked as a team and I could certainly not have kept things moving without the considerable help of David looking after the money, Christine the catering, Viv as Secretary and many, many others who just did what was necessary to keep things moving. The PCC rose to the occasion splendidly and although they must have thought several times that I was "losing it. we struggled through with an optimistic hope that it would all work out in the end. I was of course able to rely on the clergy team of Fr Dennis, Fr Bill, Fr Peter, Revd Denise and Paula to look after the more religious side of things, and I will be forever thankful and grateful fortheir unstinting support and help during those difficult times. Few wardens would have such dedicated and versatile team to ensure that the important work of the church continues smoothly. The same can be said for St Mary's where Revd Janet and Fr Peter Walker offered similar support there. It was a pleasure to chair the joint clergy meeting between the church and help to ment the friendship that we share.
Eady in 2024 we needed to replace all the lighting in church. We secured a number of tenders ranging up to nearly £100,000, but fortunately, we were able to secure a lower price from Merseyside firm who had considerable experience in church lighting. We did however need to divert a significant portion of the money that Liz Mackert had left us into the new lighting system. l am sure that we are all delighted with the new lights which is, of course, all LED and fully compliant with the Diocesan Eco scheme. Over the past few years there has been a reduced number in the congregation, and so the regular series of musical Saturdays was reduced, and the Christmas Tree Festival was not possible. However, that may not always be the casel Read on . The process leading up to the induction of a new Vicar is embedded in much Church of England history, legal fomalities and peculiar rituals known only to a few. To explain it all now would simply be a waste of time and paper so please bear with me when I say that after a considerable amount of work by the PCCS of both churches. copious reports, papers and references, I was delighted when the good Lord directed a certain young priest to consider being our Vicar. The rest of the story will be in next year's Report, but l am sure that we have all found that Fr Louis, Christine and Benedict have brought a huge injection of Christian love, excitement, ideas and inspiration to us all. I finish with my thanks to all in the now growing congregation for their help to me over the past couple of years, and a fervent prayer that someone will step forward and join me as warden. Rick Walk8r Churchwarden Eco Church Report In January, I signed St Faith's Church up to the A. Rocha Eco Church scheme, which is Church of England approved scheme helping churches all over England to develop a deeper understanding of what it means to care for Creation. This is because we, as Christians, believe that caring for the world that God created, and responding through action to the climate crisis, are integral to Christian faith, life, and worship. Therefore, St Faith's PCC agreed, on behalf of this congregation, that we as a church, would like to participate in the Eco Church award scheme, and are committed to trying harder to care for God's Creation. If we can show that we do this, in the ways in which we worship, teach and encourage one another in our faith., in the ways in which we care for our buildings and consume energy when we are inside them., in the ways in which we care for the land and nature which is on our church property; in the ways in which we engage with our communities and the outside world more generally" and finally. in the ways in which we behave as Christians, within our own households and while out and about in the world, then we are eligible for an award. However, it is much more than an award. By working together to meet the criteria set by the awarding body, we will learn how to understand more deeply the world God has created, how to care for it better, and also how to celebrate it. In practical terms, I have started to complete the survey and preached to the congregation of St Faith's on the First Sunday of Lent (9 March), about the importance of Creation care. We produced a leaflet listing a variety of eco-gestures which people were encouraged to try out as part of their Lenten discipline. That Sunday, l also promoted the use of eco products, manufactured by Miniml and 'Who Gives a Crap, (toilet tissue), which can be used in our everyday lives. On Friday 21st March, with Fr Louis, I met with a diocesan representative of
the Net Zero Carbon 2030 project to explore our future participation in the project. We organised a litter pick which took place in and around the church grounds on Sunday 23rd March. Ecologically friendly products were ordered for use at the church clean on Holy th Saturday (19 April). I have also organised a notice board with information that raises awareness about Eco Church. Many more events and initiatives are in the planning stage for the forthcoming year. Judith Aveling Eco Church Team Leader Report on the Church Fabric Regular monitoring and maintenance of the church fabric has been carried out to ensure that the buildings and grounds are in a good and safe condition. The first half of the year was dominated by the installation of the new LED lighting system that has proved to be a significant improvement to the church. This was possible thanks to the Mackert legacy. Not only will the lifespan of the lights last for several thousand hours but the energy costs are much lower too. More importantly, the wiring is now safe and a very dangerous mix of wiring in the organ loft has been replaced. Unfortunately, it has not been possible to proceed with the access improvement works to the church entrance but the possibility of extemal grant aid is being investigated. Similarly, the floor tiles in the church are in need of repair and more areas have been covered with hazard tape for the time being. The church sound system has been maintained and a new amplifier for the hearing loop was installed, thanks to a small legacy after a funeral. Security issues remain important and various padlocks have been replaced to secure the perimeter gates and doors. The roof alarm has been maintained and batteries were replaced during the year. Work is needed on several of the roof cameras that have not been updated for some time. The Quinquennial Inspection of the church is due in 2025 and preparations are under way for it to be carried out by our Church Architect at the request of the Diocese. Works that were identified in the 2020 inspection have been carried out and are reported annually to the Diocesan Advisory Committee. Following the success of the installation of the 'Hive' controller for the church, one was installed for the hall in June because a lot of heat was being wasted. A small wall heater in the Mackert Room means that the room can be heated without the central heating being on for the whole hall. Pest controllers were brought in to clear a swarm of bluebottle flies in the Mackert Room in January and the flooring in the gents toilet was replaced, thanks to Corinne's fundraising efforts. Other smaller plumbing works have also been completed in the hall. We are very grateful to the churchwarden and many others who care for the buildings by cleaning and maintaining them, providing flowers and generally ensuring that the fabric of the church and hall is in a good and safe state of repair.
Financial Review Ten years ago, I wrote that the financial year had been dominated by payments for the roof, following the lead theft, and that the target of paying the Parish Share had not been met. In 2024, the new lighting system was installed but we continue to struggle with the Parish Share and it remains our biggest commitment. We have given our commitment to the Diocese to pay the Parish Share of £2,840.95 every month but this has been a very real challenge. Happily, parish giving in 2025 has increased and the outlook is brighter for the first time in many years. Our planned giving fell again to £24,830- a drop of nearly 150k - due to reduced attendances, deaths and removals. Nevertheless, we are extremely grateful to those who continue to give by monthly standing order and allow us to reclaim Gift Aid too. Both that and the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme provide important sources of additional income. We are grateful too for the increasing number of people who have signed up for the Parish Giving Scheme (PGS) and we are pleased to see new people signing up for regular giving, together with some people renewing their giving. This is very encouraging. Unfortunately, with the lack of available volunteers, the Christmas Tree Festival could not be held and the closure of the Music Department meant that only a few Saturday Recitals were held, so there was a reduction in fundraising activities for the church, although events have been held in the hall to raise funds for essential improvements. It is pleasing to note, however, an increase in the number of subscribers to the 100 Club. There was exceptional expenditure of almost £72k for the new lighting system but, overall, the level of expenditure fell. There were two items - insurance and the gas supply - where very considerable savings have been made but the full effect will not be felt until 2025. First, our insurance provider sought to increase the premium from 202314 to 202415 by £1,400, or 22 %, which we felt was unreasonable and could not be justified. As in 2015, we switched back to Trinitas Insuran from March 2024 and saved £2,467 or £205 per month. Then, our gas supply contract became due for renewal in August 2024. The renewal two years earlier in 2022 was at the height of the energy crisis and cost us dearly. A new contract was negotiated and will save, in a full year, about £16,300. This is particularly significant and will help us to re-build our financial base. Discussions with the Diocesan Lead Officer for Parish Sustainability has identified three key tasks for the year ahead: The need to raise planned giving - using the Parish Share as a monthly target- through the PGS and contactlesslonline giving The need to generate income through events in the church - Summer Fair, Christmas Tree Festival & raffle, music concerts Raising the profile and usage of the hall, again with a focus on regular bookings. The Diocese could help with consultancy to review and suggest improvements. In conclusion, although we have had a few °bumps along the road. the outlook is much brighter and we can look to the future with growing confidence. We continue to be grateful to all those who give so much of their time and talents in generating much-needed funds for the church.
The PCC continues to act responsibly and prudently in the management of the charity's financial affairs. David Jones MBE Parish Treasurer Reserves Policy It is PCC policy to maintain a balance on unrestricted funds (if possible) that equates to at least three months, unrestricted payments. This is equivalent to £20,000. It is held to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to cover emergency situations that may arise from time to time. The negative balanGe of £7,595 held on unrestricted (including designated) funds at 31 December 2024 did not meet this target. Risk Management The major risks to which the PCC are exposed are being reviewed and a Risk Management Plan had been prepared and updated during the Covid pandemic. Risk can be defined as 'the threat that an event or action will adversely affect an organization's ability to achieve its objectives and execute its strategies,. The risks may be categorized as ft)Ilows: Financial risk- the most common category of risk and many non-financial risks can be measured in terms of financial impact. The PCC approved a 'Financial Controls and Purchasing Policy" to manage financial risk. utational risk - can have an impact if unwelcome publicity hinders the mission of the church. Media releases a issued to local newspapers and the Diocesan Bulletin. Statuto and le al re uirements such as health and safety, employment law, Charities Act, and child protection. The PCC has policies in place and these will be publicly available on the new church website. erational risk relates to threats to the Church's ability to deliver its objectives owing, for example, to damage to the church building. Plans for 2025 Aims and Obj•ctlves for 2025 The payment of parish share becoming an absolute priority and that a monthly payment plan is evidenced. How we plan to achleve this Growing the congregation., increasing regular giving using PGS. introduction of contactless giving,. maximising building resoUrs. sustainability strategies,. grant lications- fund raisin Joint benefice ministry team meetings. engagement on collaborative projects in which both congregations have the opportunity to work together; MO joint serviceslworshipping together" benefi away Timescale Ongoing" contactless giving introduced before the summer of 2025,. grant application deadlines and fund-raising opportunities providing varying deadlines throughout the year. The relationship between the two churches is on a more equal footing, giving the opportunity for both churches to grow spiritually and numerically. Ongoing. joint projects to support the Eco Church work of both parishes happening in 2025,. first away dayl'vision, session in early summer 2025. joint participation in the Slavery Truth Project October 2025- Februa 2026,. seasonal
dayslfacilitated 'vision' sessions. planning forjoint worship (such as planned Pet Service Ongoing and reviewed at standing committee meetings and regular joint benefice ministry team meetings. That responsible and caring pastoral care is administered across both parishes and to look at the setting up of a commissioned pastoral visiting team. Regular joint benefice ministry team meetings., effective record keeping. effective communication within and between the parish communities. strategic and collaborative workin across the team. Engagement with local stakeholders (schools, charitable organisations, uniformed organisations, faith groups, businesses, community groups, entrepreneurs, cultural organisations). looking for and engaging with opportunities for collaboration on one-off and longer-term projects. That clear lines of communication are evidenced in the parish and beeen the church organisations and the community. Ongoing. vicar is now a governor at St John's C of E Primary School. plans for collaborative events involving local people, businesses, and organisations in summer 2025 (Spencer Leigh talk in May 2025, pub games, night in the church hall and return of recital series in summer 2025., Crosby Symphony Orchestra concerts,. hosting school services throughout 2025. more engagement with our Rainbows, Brownies, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts groups, including gardeningloutside space project and parade services Ongoing,. patronal serrfices in 2025,. invitations to worship at key seasonal points (Easter 2025)., delivering 'Experience Easter, and 'Experien Pentecost, in Springlsummer 2025 with joint team from across the arishes. Working towards decision on whether to enter the two- year 'as if phase - vote in Autumn 2025. That there should develop a closer working partnership between all 3 Anglican churches in Waterloo. Worshipping togetherfjoint services., seeking ouvcreating opportunities for collaborative working (schools, shared ministry with local organisations, social justice),. being responsive and supporting each other effectively when needed. Taking all opportunities offered to leam more about what Ffm., making it a priority discussion point at all standing committee and PCC meetings. helping to keep the wider congregation informed,. working with deanery partners (clergy and laity) to support each other in en in ositivel That engagement with Fit for Mission is genuine and whole-hearted.
with Ffm, both in terms of the formal training opportunities offered, and throu h informal networkin Explore opportunities to develop the choir without compromising our work towards financial stability,. Growth and development of choirlmusic. Ongoing. possible collaborative project involving Anglican Cathedral music department and local schools in Se tember 2025. Volunteers We are so thankful for the commitment and faithful seNice of our church family. In particular, we thank our Churchwarden, Rick Walker, who gave so much of his time to the care of the church and its people, especially during the Interregnum, and David Jones, our Treasurer, who manages the church finances so carefully, all the members of the PCC, Assistant Wardens, sidespeople, our former Director of Music and the Music Department, the catering team and those who clean and tidy the church. A special "thank you" to our Ministry Team who worked harder than ever during the interregnum to ensure St Faith's continues to flourish. God of Mission who alone brings growth to your Church, send your Holy Spirit to give vision to our planning, wisdom to our actions, and power to our witness. Help our church to grow in numbers in spiritual commitment to you and in seNice to our local community, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A prayer from °Leading Your Church Into Growth. Approved by the PCC 13 April 2025 and slgned on their behalf by The Revd Dr Louis Johnson Chaimian of the PCC
THE PARISH OF ST FAITH, GREAT CROSBY st Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024 Unrestricted Deslgnated Restricted Funds Funds Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Note INCOME Donations and legacies Fundraising activities Church activities Investments TOTAL INCOME 2(a} 2(b) 2(c) 2(d} 50,959 4,163 7,014 782 62,918 66 549 4,000 51,574 8,163 7,014 782 67,533 71,741 18,453 20,636 1,275 112,105 66 4,549 EXPENDITURE Raisln8 funds Church activities TOTAL EXPENDITURE 3(a) 3(bl 2,511 98,389 100,900 60 3,240 72,249 75,489 5,811 170,638 176,449 3,309 127,511 130,820 60 NET IEXPENDITURE}/INCOME BEFORE INVESTMENT GAIN Galn on investment Transfer of funds NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS BALANCE BIFWD I JANUARY 2024 BALANCE CIFWD 31 DECEMBER 2024 (37,982) 1,858 2,120 (34,004) 26,183 (7,8211 6 {70,940> {108,9161 1,858 {18,7151 257 (100) (2,020) 194) {72,9601 1107,0581 320 87,841 114,344 226 14,881 7,286 {18,4581 132,803 114,344 The movements in Designated and Restricted Funds were as follows: Balance B/fwd Income Expenditure Transfers Balance C/fwd DESIGNATED Events Fund 320 66 60 1100} 226 RESTRICTED Building & Repairs Fund 100 Club Mission 85,062 2,779 71,700 3,240 549 75,469 13,362 1,519 4,000 549 4,549 12,020) 87,841 12,0201 14,881
THE PARISH OF ST FAITH, GREAT CROSBY Balance Sheet at 31 December 2024 Unrestricted Designated Restricted fund funds Funds TOTAL 2024 TOTAL 2023 Note Fixed assets Tangible assets Investment 4,411 3,846 8,257 5,704 5,704 5,704 5,704 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 2,496 4,219 6,715 2,496 19,326 21,822 5,219 107,787 113,006 226 226 14,881 14,881 Credltors: amounts falling due within one year 20,240 20,240 6,919 Net current assets {13,525) 226 14,881 1,582 106,087 Total net QS5ets (7,821> 226 14,881 7,286 114,344 PARISH FUNDS Unrestricted funds Designated funds Restricted income funds (7,821) {7,821) 226 14,881 14,881 14,881 7,286 26,183 320 87,841 114,344 226 7,821} 226 Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 13 April 2025 and signed on their behalf by Revd Dr Louis Johnson Chairman of the PCC David Jones MBE Parish Treasurer
THE PARISH OF ST FAITH, GREAT CROSBY Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accountin8 and Reportin8 by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102} issued on 16 July 2014 and with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets, which are shown at market value. The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members, Funds General fund represents the funds of the Parochial Church Councll I'PCC'I that are not subject to any restrictions re8ardin8 their use and are available for application for the general purposes of the charity. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the trustees are also unrestricted. Deslgnated funds are general funds for which the PCC has designated that they should be used for a specific purpose. Restricted funds represent donations or grants received for a speclflc object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of the year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not usually invest separately for each fund. Income Donations, legacies and other voluntary income Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recognlsed when the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. All other income is recognised when it is receivable, incoming resources are accounted for gross The charity received substantial amounts of voluntary help from its supporters, but no attempt is made to place a financial value on these services and they have not been included. Expenditure Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for misslon are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross. Flxed assets Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts in accordance with s.96 (21 (a) of the Charities Act 1993.
THE PARISH OF ST FAITH, GREAT CROSBY st Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Flxed assets (continued) Movable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the church's inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For anything acquired prior to 2005 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statements. Subsequently no individual item has cost more than £1,000 so all expenditure has been written off when incurred. Equipment used within the church premise5 is depreciated on a straight-line basis over four years. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1,000 or less are written off when the asset is acquired. Investments are valued at market value at 31 December. 2 INCOME Unrestricted Designated Restrlcted Funds Funds Funds TOTAL 2024 TOTAL 2023 21a) Voluntary income Planned giving Gift aid donations Tax recoverable Collections Donations Legacies Grants 24,830 2,314 8,476 1,179 24,830 2,314 8,476 1,179 614 1,750 12,410 51,573 29,336 2,328 9,327 1,184 5,598 16,394 7,574 71,741 66 549 1,750 12,410 50,459 66 549 2{bl Fundraising activities 100 Club Appeals Events 4,(X)O 4,000 1,956 2,207 8,163 3,665 9,405 5,383 18,453 1,956 2,207 4,163 4,(XJO 2(cl Church activities Fees Church hall Land rent Candles, cards and books Other 1,024 4,502 500 342 646 7,014 1,024 4,502 500 342 646 7,014 2,702 16,333 578 334 689 20,636 21dl Investment Dividends Bank interest 136 646 782 62,918 136 647 783 67,533 93 1,182 1,275 112,105 Total income 66 4,549
THE PARISH OF ST FAITH, GREAT CROSBY st Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Unrestricted Designated Restricted Funds TOTAL 2024 TOTAL 2023 3 EXPENDITURE 31al Raising funds Events 100 Club Bank charges 2,259 2,259 3,180 372 5,811 1,639 1,200 470 3,309 3,180 60 3,240 252 2,511 60 60 3{bl Church activities Missionary and charitable glvlng Ministry: Diocesan parish share Clergy expenses Vicara8e expenses Ministry team expenses Salaries and support Church running expenses Utilities Building insurance Building maintenance Professional fees Upkeep of services Music department Depreciation Hall expenditure Printing and stationery Parochial council expenses Sundries 549 549 34,093 349 34,091 1,285 264 392 19,235 34,093 2,322 2,322 11,038 11,038 15,658 4,366 3,946 15,658 4,366 75,646 15,490 5,142 9,739 6,390 2,353 7,306 4,411 14,417 5,248 1,307 92 127,511 71,700 3,S67 10,283 4,411 4,260 3,456 519 470 98,389 3,567 10,283 4,411 4,260 3,456 519 470 170,638 72,249 Total expendlture 100,900 60 75,489 176,449 130,820 No payments were made to the Independent Examiner.
THE PARISH OF ST FAITH, GREAT CROSBY Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 PAID EMPLOYEES 2024 2023 Salaries 10,936 15,762 Employerfs national insurance 102 11,038 15,762 The avera8e number of employees employed by the PCC during the year was 2 and 2 for 2023. Some expenses were reimbursed to trustee5 for services other than a5 trustees during the year. FIXED ASSETS 51al Tangible Church equipment Cost At beginning of the year Addition At end of the year 17,645 17,645 Depreciation At beginning of the year Charge for the year At end of the year 13,234 4,411 17,645 NET BOOK VALUE At beginning of the year At end of the year 4,411 5{b) Investment Standard Chartered PIC 3,846 1,858 5,704 Market value At I. January 2024 Revaluation gain At 31" December 2024 2024 2023 DEBTORS Tax recoverable Other 2,296 200 2,496 2,895 2,324 5,219 LIABILITIES: amounts falling due within one year Other 20,240 6,919
CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent Examiner's Report on the accounts Independent Examiner's Report Report to the Trustees of St Faith's Parochial Church Council, Great Crosby On accounts for the year ended st 31 Dernber 2024 Charity no. 1134518 Respective The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. responsibilities of The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year Trustees and Examiner under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to: examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act, to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act, and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basis of Independent My examination was carried out in accordance with general Directions given Examinerfs statement by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair, view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. Independent In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my Examiner's statement attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect.. accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act or the accounts do not accord with the accounting records I have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Signed: Date: 26 February 2025 Name: Raymond Bissex Relevant professlonal qualification{s) or body Fellow Chartered Accountant Address: St Mary's Annexe, 32 Brooklands Avenue, Waterloo, Liverpool, L22 3XZ