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2025-12-31-accounts

www.ccbedford.org

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

FOR

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE

ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF

CHRIST CHURCH BEDFORD (“Christ Church”)

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1134785

CONTENTS

Report of Trustees 2-11
Independent Examiner's Report 12
Statement of Financial Activities 13
Balance sheet 14
Cash Flow Statement 15
Notes to the Financial Statements 16-26

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

Report of Trustees Year Ended 31 December 2025

The trustees present their report and the audited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” (FRS 102) in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in notes to the accounts and comply with the charity’s governing document, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice, applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland published in October 2019.

Aims and purposes

Christ Church Bedford (CCB) is a Church of England church within the Diocese of St Albans, and a part of the Bedford Deanery. Sitting within the evangelical tradition, and having good relations with churches of other denominations and traditions.

The primary responsibility of Christ Church Parochial Church Council (PCC) is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent, Reverend David Thomas, in promoting, in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

Week by week CCB meets together for teaching, worship, prayer and encouragement, whether on Sundays or at other times during the week. Valuing the ministry of every member and seeking to use the gifts that God has given each of us in his service. We desire to be outward looking and serve our local community through both our care for others and our sharing of the good news of Jesus Christ. It is our desire as a church to enable people to know God and to love him, and under the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit, to live a life that reflects that love and that shares the good news of Jesus Christ with others.

Our vision statement is:

We are a people being transformed by the unconditional love of God; seeking to bless our community, and longing for all to experience the hope we have in Jesus.

Objectives and activities

When planning our activities for the year, we have considered the Charities Commission's guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. We enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through:

To facilitate all this, we maintain the fabric of the Church and complex at 140 Dudley Street. The PCC also had responsibility for the upkeep of the “Curate’s House” (18 Hartland Avenue).

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Priorities and Objectives

Key priorities for 2025 were:

  1. Identify new ways/build upon existing ways of engaging with the local community.

  2. Creation of new spaces for prayer.

  3. Identify a dedicated youth space.

  4. Training of the Curate Revd Ben Williams who arrived in July 2024, and helping the new Student & Youth Minister to grow our Youth Work.

The Bible Verse for 2025 was Matthew 11:28 - Come to me all who are weary & heavy laden, & I will give you rest. (NIVUK) Reflecting both our need to continually come back to Jesus to be refreshed, but also the reminder that we hold out the good news of Jesus to the communities we find ourselves in.

In order to achieve these objectives and respond and meet the realised needs:

Achievements and performance

2025 saw Sunday attendance throughout the year remaining relatively steady, numbers during Easter, Advent and Christmas were up.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but gives a flavour of some of the significant things which took place in 2025:

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Staff Team

2025 saw two significant changes to the staff team.

Role of Volunteers

Without volunteers most activities which Christ Church puts on would cease to operate. We are extremely grateful to everyone who gives up their time and energy to serve both the church and the community.

We see this especially in areas such as our musical worship, our children’s and youth work, and our engagement with older members of the community. Without the many volunteers our Children’s Worker (Ruth Hulme) and Youth & Student Minister (Hannah Applegarth) would be unable to do all they do.

There are a few volunteers who work exceedingly hard showing pastoral care to those who are struggling and in various ways. Whether visiting hospital and care homes, to letting the vicar know who is in need, their quiet work, which often goes unnoticed, is what makes CCB the kind place that so many find it to be.

Christ Church continues to be one of several distribution centres for Bedford Foodbank. Many of the volunteers helping on Tuesday afternoons are from Christ Church. 2025 continued to see large numbers of people attending.

Children, Youth and Student Ministry

2025 was another busy and exciting year. On Sunday mornings we have four groups:

And on Sunday evenings we have Youth @ 6 (years 10 to13).

Attendance across all these groups continues to be strong, with 36 children and 14 young people attending at least once a month.

Midweek ministry:

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Morning Out and Friday Night Youth continue to be very well attended, and we see the connections these two ministries bring to the wider church.

Some of the One Off Events:

At the end of 2024 it was identified that a dedicated Youth Space was needed on behalf of our young people. After extensive meetings, exploration and planning, the PCC signed off in November that Room 7 would be a dedicated youth space.

Our Children’s Minister continues to work closely with IMPACT who engage with local schools, and helping out at their Easter and Christmas Experiences. In 2025 she also helped out with RE Holy Trinity Workshops and Lifepath: John Bunyan. Our Youth & Student Minister continues to support the chaplains at the Bedford campus of the University of Bedfordshire. Over the course of 2025 we have engaged with hundreds of families in a myriad of different activities.

Worship and Prayer

Worship and prayer continue to be central to the life of Christ Church. We are extremely grateful to all who have been involved whether playing and singing, projecting words onto screens, operating the sound desk and live streaming our services.

Some highlights in the year include:

Average Sunday attendance based, upon the October counts; at 9am has been 19 people, at 10.30am 156 people, and at 7pm 43 people. We continue to livestream our 10.30am service but as the community gets used to being able to worship together in person, we have seen less people joining us online. However, this continues to be a valuable part of the worshipping life of the community for those who are unable to attend for a variety of reasons, including ill health, home and work commitments. Our midweek Holy Communion Service on a Wednesday at 10am averages 12 people.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Under the Church Representation Rules, it is a requirement that a new Church Electoral Roll is prepared every 6 years. This process took place in 2025 and was completed on 5 April 2025. As of 31 December 2025 there were 226 names on the Church Electoral Roll, 68 of whom are resident within the parish.

As well as our regular services, we enable our community to celebrate and thank God at life’s milestones: 3 baptisms, 1 thanksgiving for the gift of a child, 3 confirmations and 10 funerals.

Deanery and Diocesan Synods

We had 4 Deanery Synod elected representatives and 2 Diocesan Synod representatives, offering an important link between our parish and the wider Church of England. At each Deanery Synod meeting, there is a primary focus of discussion, and the opportunity to hear of the work of the wider church. Revd David Thomas was elected as a member of clergy to Diocesan Synod for the triennium which began in 2024, as well as Rachel Bennett as a lay member.

Pastoral care

Pastoral care continues to be an important area for the life of the church. This takes place in many different ways, from Home Groups building strong friendships, to people visiting others in hospital, delivering groceries or driving people to church and other appointments. Our Pastoral Care Impact Group is slowly taking shape, in 2025 more structure was put into place, including closer ties between Pastoral Care and Home Groups being a key part of this.

Mission and Evangelism

Helping others is a demonstration of our faith, whether practical, emotional or spiritual.

The Mission Impact Group channels support and news between our Mission Partners, scattered across Africa, the Middle East and Europe, and encourages prayer for them.

Mission Direct, a small UK Based charity, whose Executive Officer attends Christ Church, became one of our Mission Partners.

Volunteers from Christ Church helped the King’s Arms Project winter night shelter, making meals for the rough sleepers.

The Engagement Group identified a number of areas for engaging with the local community including:

Revd David Thomas took communion once a month to Dame Alice Court care home, including a Christmas Carols service with Revd Ben Williams, which saw the number of attendees double (12).

Ecumenical Relationships

We continue to be blessed by our ecumenical links to other local churches across Bedford and benefit from HOPE Bedfordshire. We actively supported the town-centre open-air Good Friday Witness, attended by over 1000 people and a number of our congregation attended various Hope Bedford activities throughout the year.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Revd David attended Churches Together meetings, in January 2025 we hosted a service as a part of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

Financial review

Total income from donations and legacies on unrestricted funds were £272,277, with £202,832 from standing orders and £47,427 was from Gift Aid. Restricted donations totalled £24,651. Further details are shown in the annual financial statements.

£223,474 was spent from unrestricted funds to provide the Christian ministry from Christ Church, including the contribution to the diocesan parish share of £161,027 which largely provides the stipends and housing for the clergy.

Net movement in funds was a decrease of £13,227 during the year, and the total reserves decreased to £401,868.

The principal source of donations are the church members. The PCC takes its environmental, social and ethical duties seriously and consideration of these undergird the ministry decisions of the church.

Reserves policy

It is PCC policy to try to maintain sufficient funds, being between 3 and 6 months of expenditure to ensure the smooth financial running of the church, and ensure that unexpected expenditure can be met as and when required. Total funds held at the year end amounted to £401,868.

The balance of unrestricted funds at the year end was £397,750, of which £333,642 can only be accessed on the sale of the property owned at 18 Hartland Avenue which is used to house the curate and £2,615 can only be accessed on the sale of fixed assets. Accordingly £61,493 represents accessible unrestricted funds. This represents approximately 9 weeks of expenditure which is below the level considered adequate since it is below the PCC policy.

The purpose of any restricted fund is noted in the financial statements. Restricted funds are in respect of specific projects and or schemes.

Financial risks

Total restricted funds amounted to £4,118. The cash reserves of the church, excluding restricted funds, totalled £49,859 as at 31 December 2025. The budget for 2026 was approved by the PCC showing a deficit of £28,880. Most of the income generated by the church is from regular standing orders. The level of standing orders has remained consistent during the year and this, together with careful management of resources, has not had a significant impact on the financial risks of the church. The PCC therefore considers it has sufficient resources to sustain its purposes and activities during 2026. In the event of materially reduced income the PCC has recognised that it would be able to reduce its expenditure to match. The PCC also launched a fundraising campaign on 9 March 2026.

Plans for future periods

In 2025, the Resources Impact Group along with a Quinquennial Working Party looked at various things in regard to the roof, part of this to include strengthening the roof, replacement and increase of solar panels. Various outside agencies have been engaged with, and grant applications are being

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

made in Q1 2026 to push this project forward. The total cost for this project is likely to be less than £200k.

Updating upstairs rooms to have locks, and a television for Room 6.

Finalising of the dedicated youth space in Room 7, including furniture and decorating the room.

Risk management

The PCC is aware of its risk management duties. All PCC trustees, youth and children paid and voluntary leaders, and volunteers in contact with vulnerable adults are DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checked.

The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline measure 2016. We continue to take seriously the need to look after children and vulnerable adults. The PCC have adopted all the House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policies and Practice Guidance, as well as “Promoting a Safer Church” (child protection and vulnerable adults policy) and the Domestic Abuse statement.

Safeguarding information is displayed in the Church Porch, on the halls noticeboard and on the church website. In addition there is a child friendly version on the halls noticeboard. Contact details for those wishing to obtain advice, raise any concerns or make referrals to the statutory authorities are included on the posters and in our Safeguarding Policy, which is issued to everyone who applies for a DBS check and Worker’s Pocket Guides produced by 31:8 are included in the staff and volunteer ID lanyard pockets.

We have a Parish Safeguarding Officer who is also Lead Recruiter, a Deputy Parish Safeguarding Officer and an Assistant Recruiter. Those who work with vulnerable groups in the Parish are recruited in accordance with the Practice Guidance Safer Recruitment July 2021. We work to ensure that DBS checks are renewed every three years and that all those who have been safely recruited and all members of the PCC, have undertaken the appropriate safeguarding training within the last 3 years. The team meets regularly and we use the Parish Dashboard system for record keeping and to monitor our compliance with the various policies and the practice guidance of the Church of England.

We continue to ensure that there is adequate insurance cover for all activities involving children or adults undertaken in the name of the Parish. With the increase in engagement with young people and families, there have been several safeguarding concerns during 2025. These matters were dealt with according to the relevant safeguarding policies and guidance, by the Parish Safeguarding Officer, the Vicar, the Diocesan Safeguarding Team, and various Staff Team in which these concerns were raised.

Safeguarding is a standing item on the PCC agenda and safeguarding matters have been raised with the congregation. On November 16[th] we had Safeguarding Sunday, where our morning services focused on this important subject. Wider Safeguarding issues such Mike Pilavachi and Soul Survivor investigation, the Makin Enquiry, and the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury, continued to impact the life of the church and be discussed in meetings.

From a financial perspective, the PCC has delegated a level of responsibility to the Resource Impact Group along with the Treasurer to look after the accounting and budgets. The Treasurer regularly reports back to the PCC how things look compared to budget.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Structure, governance and management

Christ Church is a corporate body established by the Church of England, and it is part of the deanery of Bedford and the Diocese of St Albans.

The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a Registered Charity.

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules (CRR). At Christ Church the membership of the PCC consists of the licensed clergy, churchwardens, one of the Readers, members of Diocesan and Deanery Synods and members elected by those members of the congregation who are on the electoral roll of the church. All those who attend our services / members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll, and so if they fulfil the criteria (as per CRR) they can stand for election to the PCC.

New PCC members/trustees were offered a copy of The PCC Member’s Essential Guide , and a copy of the PCC Notes of Guidance.

The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent.

The PCC met 7 times during 2025 with an average attendance of 82%.

Given its wide responsibilities the PCC has a number of impact groups, each one dealing with a particular aspect of parish life. These groups, which include communications, mission, buildings, outreach, resourcing, fellowship, and young people, are all responsible to the PCC and report back to it regularly with reports of their meetings, decisions and recommendations being received by the PCC and discussed as necessary.

Standing Committee: This committee is required by law. It has power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council.

Buildings Impact Group: This group is responsible for the management and development of Christ Church PCC’s buildings and infrastructure.

Communications Impact Group: This group is responsible for oversight of both external and internal communications, including our physical and online presence.

Engagement Group: This group is responsible for the planning, resourcing and delivery of events focused on engaging with the local community. A key part is listening and identifying local needs.

Mission Impact Group: This group is responsible for caring, praying and practically supporting our Mission Partners and Organisations and encouraging vocations and support to mission at home and overseas.

Pastoral Care Group: This group is still in its infancy, its primary focus in 2025 was building the structure in which Christ Church can think about how it cares for one another.

Resourcing Impact Group: This group is responsible for the financing of Christ Church and the prudent management of its financial resources.

Worship Impact Group: This group is responsible for the planning, resourcing, coordination and delivery of all corporate worship at Christ Church.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Young People’s Impact Group: it was identified that this group was not supporting the Children’s and Youth & Student Minister the way it was historically intended. The PCC put this group on hold, and two separate support structures have been created for Ruth and Hannah.

Administrative information

Christ Church is situated at 140 Dudley Street, Bedford. It is part of the Diocese of St Albans within the Church of England. The correspondence address is 140 Dudley Street Bedford MK40 3SX. Registered charity number 1134785 under the name the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Christ Church Bedford. It is also known as Christ Church Bedford, PCC or Christ Church.

PCC members who have served at any time from 1 January 2025 until the date of this report was approved are:

approved are:
Ex-Officio Members:
Incumbent The Revd David Thomas Chairman
Curate The Revd Benjamin Williams
Wardens Mrs Kay Berrington (until 30thApril 2025)
Dr Gwyneth James (from 30thApril 2025
Dr Andrew Russell
Reader Mr Michael Bishop
Deanery Synod Ms Rachel Bennett
Mrs Margaret Cottenden
Mr Martin Hamilton
Ms Phillipa Francis
Elected Members: Mrs Kay Berrington (from 30thApril 2025)
Mr Christopher Brown Lay Chair of the PCC
Mr Tony Daniels
Dr Jonathan Day
Ms Rachel Day
Mr Will Eves (from 30thApril 2025)
Mr Stephen Gardner
Dr Gwyneth James (until 30thApril 2025)
Ms Susan Marshall (until 30thApril 2025)
Mrs Jennie McAdam
Miss Wendy Pegg (from 30thApril 2025)
Mr Thomas Rees (until 30thApril 2025)
Mr Benjamin Rowan (until 5thSeptember 2025)
Ms Christine Somervell (until 30thApril 2025)
Mr Jonathan Templeman (until 1stMay 2025)

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Co-opted members:

Mr Christopher Stevens (from 30[th] April 2025) Treasurer Ms Sarah Harris (from 21[st] November 2025

(PCC Secretary) Mrs Pauline Grimley

(not a PCC member)

Bank:

CAF Bank Ltd 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ

Independent Examiner:

Suzanne Goodson BSc FCA Wright Connections Limited Registered Auditors Bedford I-Lab Priory Business Park Stannard Way Bedford MK44 3RZ

Day-to-day management of the charity is delegated to the incumbent:

Incumbent: The Revd David Thomas Christ Church Vicarage 115 Denmark Street Bedford MK40 3TJ

Approved by the PCC, and signed on their behalf on 26[th] March 2026

Revd David Thomas (PCC Chair)

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Parochial Church Council of The Ecclesiastical Parish of Christ Church Bedford

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025 which are set out on pages 13 to 26.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity’s trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

Since the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or 2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  2. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Suzanne Goodson BSc FCA Institute of Chartered Accountants England & Wales Wright Connections Limited Bedford I-Lab Stannard Way Bedford MK44 3RZ

18/04/2026

Date: .............................................

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (Including Income and Expenditure account)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2025

Note
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and Legacies
4
Charitable activities
5
Other trading activities
Investments
6
Other income
10
TOTAL INCOME
EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable activities
7
Other expenditure
10
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Transfers between funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
19
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD at
31 December 2025
19		 Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
272,277
14,651
87,162
10,000
6,829
0
168
0
0
0		 Total Funds
31-Dec-25
£
286,928
97,162
6,829
168
0
391,087
404,314
0
404,314
(13,227)
0
(13,227)
415,095
401,868		 Total Funds
31-Dec-24
£
352,273
80,699
6,780
939
266,582
366,436
24,651		 707,273
374,842
29,472
0
0		 362,883
165,440
374,842
29,472		 528,323
(8,406)
(4,821)
1,200
(1,200)
(7,206)
(6,021)
404,956
10,139		 178,950
0
178,950
236,145
397,750
4,118		 415,095

All income and expenditure, except the other activities derived from continuing activities

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

BALANCE SHEET AT 31 December 2025

Note
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fixed assets
13
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
14
Cash at bank and in hand
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Creditors due within one year
16
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE
AFTER MORE THAN ONE YEAR
17
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
19
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
TOTAL CHARITY FUNDS		 £
£
£
£
336,257
340,220
26,991
35,106
53,977
64,889
80,968
99,995
-15,357
-15,120
65,611
84,875
401,868
425,095
0
-10,000
401,868
415,095
397,750
404,956
4,118
10,139
401,868
415,095
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 26th March 2026 and signed on its behalf by:

Revd David Thomas Chairman

Mr Christopher Stevens Hon. Treasurer

The notes on pages 16 to 26 form part of these accounts

Charity registration number 1134785

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

CASH FLOW STATEMENT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2025

Note
Cash flow from operating activities
Cash generated from activities
3
Cash flow from investing activities
Payments to acquire tangible fixed assets
Purchase of 18 Hartland Avenue
Sale of 161 Dudley Street
Interest received
Net cash flow from investing activities
Cash flow from financing activities
Interest paid
Repayment of orignal loan to purchase 161 Dudley Street
Finance charge re sale of 161 Dudley Street
Loan to purchase 18 Hartland Avenue
Loan repaid for the purchase of 18 Hartland Avenue
Net cash flow from financing activities
Net increase/decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1.1.25
Cash and cash equivalents at 31.12.25
Cash and cash equivalents consists of
Cash at bank and in hand
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the
reporting period not available for charitable purposes
as held as agent		 31-Dec-25
(11,080)
0
0
0
168
168
0
0
0
0
0
0
(10,912)
64,889
53,977
53,977
1,321		 31-Dec-24
27,603
0
(333,642)
356,582
939
23,879
(1,981)
(55,679)
(165,440)
160,000
(160,000)
(223,100)
(171,618)
236,507
64,889
64,889
373

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31st December 2025

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a) General information

Christ Church, a registered charity in the United Kingdom is a corporate body established by the Church of England, and it is part of the deanery of Bedford and the Diocese of St Albans. Its trustees are all members of the Parochial Church Council and they operate under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a Registered Charity. In the event of the charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the charity. The address of the registered office is given in the charity information on page 11 of the Report of the Trustees. The nature of the charity’s operations and principal activities are shown in the Report of the Trustees.

b) Basis of preparing the financial statements

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The accounts (financial statements) have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued in October 2019 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.

The financial statements have been prepared to give a ‘true and fair’ view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a ‘true and fair view’. This departure has involved following the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention. The financial statements are prepared in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity and rounded to the nearest £.

The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years prescribed.

c) Income recognition

Voluntary income and capital sources

All incoming resources , including grants are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any performance conditions have been met, the amount can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received.

Collections are recognised when made. For donations to be recognised the charity will have been notified of the amounts and the settlement date in writing. Pledged amounts are only recognised on receipt of the funds.

Income tax recoverable on gift aid scheme donations is recognised in the period the income is received. Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of the entitlement and the likely amount due.

Donated facilities and donated professional services are recognised in income at their fair value when their economic benefit is probable, it can be measured reliably and the charity has control over the item. Fair value is determined on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity. For example, the amount the charity would be willing to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31[st] December 2025

No amount is included in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP (FRS 102). Further detail is given in the Trustees’ Annual Report.

Where practicable, gifts in kind donated for distribution to the beneficiaries of the charity are included in stock and donations in the financial statements upon receipt. If it is impracticable to assess the fair value at receipt or if the costs to undertake such a valuation outweigh any benefits, then the fair value is recognised as a component of donations when it is distributed, and an equivalent amount recognised as charitable expenditure.

Legacies

For legacies, entitlement is the earlier of the charity being notified of an impending distribution or the legacy being received. At this point income is recognised. On occasion legacies will be notified to the charity however it is not possible to measure the amount expected to be distributed. On these occasions, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed.

Other trading activities

Other trading activities represent feed in tariffs from solar panels and are recognised on entitlement.

Other ordinary income

Rental income from the letting of church premises is accounted for when earned. Fees due to the PCC for weddings, funerals, etc. are accounted for on an event by event basis.

Grants

Where grants are payable in more than one year income is only recognised in the year to which it relates. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred.

d) Expenditure recognition

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Costs directly related to the work of the church

The Diocesan parish share is accounted for when payable and any amount unpaid at 31[st] December is included as a creditor in the Balance Sheet. Grants and donations are accounted for at the earlier of payment or formal approval by the PCC. Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year-end date are noted as a commitment but not accrued as expenditure.

e) Tangible fixed assets

Consecrated land and buildings and moveable church property

Consecrated and beneficial property is excluded from the financial statements by s. 10(2) of the Charities Act 2011.

No value is placed on moveable church furnishings held by the churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal since the PCC considers these to be inalienable property.

All expenditure on consecrated and beneficial property and moveable church furnishings, whether maintenance or improvement, is written off in the year incurred. This includes all expenditure incurred to date in respect of the Hall Redevelopment Project, including the build costs, since the build is occurring on consecrated ground, and as such cannot be capitalised.

Other land and buildings

Other land and buildings held on behalf of the PCC for its own purposes are valued at cost. No depreciation is charged on such properties since it is considered that the estimated residual value of the properties is in

17

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31[st] December 2025

excess of the purchase price. Any expenditure on maintenance or improvement is written off in the year incurred.

Other fixtures, fittings and office equipment

Equipment purchased within the accounting period is capitalised on the balance sheet at cost. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1,000 or less are written off in the year in which the asset is acquired.

Depreciation

Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets, at rates calculated to write off the cost, less estimated residual value, of each asset in a systematic basis over its expected useful life. Depreciation rates used are as follows: -

Furniture and solar panels – 10% per annum (estimated useful life 10 years), Equipment – 33.33% (estimated useful life 3 years)

f) Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.

g) Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

The purpose of any restricted fund is noted in the financial statements. Restricted funds include amounts raised for the Hall Redevelopment Project (HRP).

The financial statements include transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC can be held responsible. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe an affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

h) Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charity makes contributions to employees’ defined contribution pension plans. Contributions payable are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

l) Bank and Cash

Bank and Cash include short-term deposits which include cash held on deposit at CAF Bank.

j) Loans

Loans and borrowings are initially recognised at the transaction price including transaction costs. Subsequently, they are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method, less impairment. If an arrangement constitutes a finance transaction it is measured at present value.

k) Debtors and creditors receivable/payable within 1 year

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31[st] December in respect of fees, rents or other income are included as debtors at transactional values less any provision for amounts that may prove to be uncollectible. Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impairment are recognised in expenditure.

l) Judgements

No judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have been made in the process of applying the above accounting policies.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

2 YEAR ENDED 31 December 2024 Comparatives

Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds
Note Funds Funds 31-Dec-24
£ £ £
INCOME FROM
Donations and Legacies 251,999 100,274 352,273
Charitable activities 70,699 10,000 80,699
Other trading activities 6,780 0 6,780
Investments 939 0 939
Other income 266,582 0 266,582
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES 596,999 110,274 707,273
EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable activities 345,336 17,547 362,883
Other expenditure 165,440 165,440
TOTAL EXPENDITURE 510,776 17,547 528,323
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) 86,223 92,727 178,950
Transfers between funds 118,245 (118,245) 0
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 204,468 (25,518) 178,950
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward 200,488 35,657 236,145
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD at
31 December 2024 404,956 10,139 415,095
All income and expenditure is derived from continuing activities

3 Reconcilation of net expenditure for year to net cash flow from operating activities

Net income for year
Interest receivable
Interest payable
Gain on sale of 161 Dudley Street
Finance chage on sale of 161 Dudley Street
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Decrease (increase) in debtors
Increase (decrease) in creditors
Net cash flow from operating activities
4 Income from Donations and Legacies
Gifts
Income tax claimed
Legacies
Other Donations		 31-Dec-25
£
(13,227)
(168)
0
0
0
3,963
8,115
(9,763)
(11,080)
31-Dec-25
£
214,032
49,927
10,000
12,969
286,928		 31-Dec-24
£
178,950
(939)
1,981
(266,582)
165,440
4,838
(17,348)
(38,737)
27,603
31-Dec-24
£
283,315
57,805
0
11,153
352,273

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

5 Income from charitable activities

Rental income
Grants
Events and activities
Fees
`
6 Income from investments
Deposit interest
7 Charitable Activities Costs
Direct costs
£
Church Activities
376,034
See note 21 for further details
8 Support/ Governance costs
Independent examiner's remuneration
Cost of raising loan finance
9 Net income for the period is stated after charging
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Gain on sale of 161 Dudley Street
10 Exceptional Income and Expenditure
Sales proceeds - 161 Dudley Street
Cost of disposal
Net proceeds
Cost of investments
Other income
Other expenditure		 Direct costs
£
376,034		 31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
40,489
36,754
12,000
10,250
43,973
32,429
700
1,266
97,162
80,699
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
168
939
Donations
Total
£
£
28,280
404,314
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
1,680
1,680
0
1,260
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
3,963
4,838
0
266,582
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
-
365,000
-
(8,418)
-
356,582
-
(90,000)
-
266,582
-
(165,440)

During 2024 the PCC sold 161 Dudley Street - which had been used to house curates. The PCC had a loan of £55,679 from the Church Commissioners which was taken out to assist with the purchase of 161 Dudley Street . This was an interest only value linked loan representing 62% of the original value of the property. It was repaid on sale of the property together with a 62% share in the increase in value since acquisition.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

11 Trustees and key management personnel remuneration and expenses

No trustees received amounts for church work during the year (2024 - None)

In 2025 and 2024 the incumbent and the curate were remunerated by way of a stipend by a a related party, being the Diocese of St Albans who are responsible for setting the level of remuneration. As is standard practice in the Church of England the clergy were provided with housing by the Diocese (incumbent) and PCC (curate).

Two trustees, including incumbent, were reimbursed £3,403 during the year (2024, Two trustees - £902). This was for travel, hospitality, books and expenditure on behalf of the church.

12 Staff Costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Defined contribution pension costs		 31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
99,772
86,334
1,139
0
4,311
2,998
105,222
89,332

The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:

Youth minister and Families and Children's worker
Other		 2025
2024
2
2
7
7
9
9

No employees received remuneration in excess of £60,000

13 Fixed Assets

COST
At 1 January 2025
Additions
Disposals
At 31 December 2025
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January 2025
Charge for the year
Disposals
At 31 December 2025
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December 2025
At 31 December 2024		 Freehold
Property
Equipment
Total
£
£
£
333,642
86,149
419,791
0
0
0
0
0
0
333,642
86,149
419,791
0
79,571
79,571
0
3,963
3,963
0
0
0
0
83,534
83,534
333,642
2,615
336,257
333,642
6,578
340,220

21

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

14 Debtors: amounts falling due within 1 year

Debtors: amounts falling due within 1 year
Other debtors		 31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
26,991
35,106
26,991
35,106

A total of £30,000 has been awarded by The Diocese of St Albans to be paid in equal annual instalments to cover the term of the employment contract which commenced in June 2024. The remaining amount of £10,000 is expected to be received in June 2026

15 Monies raised for others

During the year the following monies were collected for external organisations

31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
Christmas Appeals
Bedford foodbank
Bishops' Harvest appeal
Malawi Orphan fund
Tearfund
Bibles for youth		 £
£
1,013
70
0
260
992
0
597
0
0
326
0
440
2,602
1,096

A total of £1321 was held as at 31 December 2025 (£373 31 December 2024) These are included in other creditors in note 16.

16 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Other creditors
Deferred income		 31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
5,357
5,120
10,000
10,000
15,357
15,120

Amounts included in other creditors include sums as shown in note 15

17 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year

Deferred income 31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
-
10,000
0
10,000

The income relates to the grant due to be received from the Diocese of St Albans covering a three year time period from 2024 - 2027.

22

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

18 Related parties

The Diocese of St Albans is a related party by way of the constitution Details of receipts from related parties are found in note 20 Details of payments to related parties are found in notes 21

The Diocese of St Albans also loaned £160,000 at an interest rate of 3.5% during 2024 that was fully repaid during 2024. Interest of £660 was charged in 2024

19 Fund reconciliation - 2025

Unrestricted funds

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Designated funds - repairs to church		 Balance at
Balance at
01-Jan-25
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
31-Dec-25
£
£
£
£
£
384,956
366,436
(374,842)
1,200
377,750
20,000
20,000
404,956
366,436
(374,842)
1,200
397,750

Of the general fund £333,642 relates to the ownership of 18 Hartland Avenue and can only be accessed in the event of its sale.

Restricted funds

Vicar's discretionary fund
Youth and Student Minister
New Curate's house
Total restricted		 Balance at
Balance at
01-Jan-25
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
31-Dec-25
£
£
£
£
£
4,501
951
(1,334)
0
4,118
5,638
22,500
(28,138)
0
0
0
1,200
(1,200)
0
10,139
24,651
(29,472)
(1,200)
4,118

The transfer of the funds from restricted to general reflects further receipt of funds for the purchase of the curate's house which are now treated as general funds.

Fixed assets
Cash and current investments
Other current assets
Creditors: amounts due in less than one year		 Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
Total
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-25
£
£
£
336,257
0
336,257
49,859
4,118
53,977
26,991
0
26,991
-15,357
0
-15,357
397,750
4,118
401,868

23

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

20 INCOME
Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
Income from Donations and Legacies
Standing orders & Envelope Scheme
202,832
10,000
Legacies
10,000
Income tax reclaimed
47,427
2,500
New curate's house
1,200
Other donations
12,018
951
272,277
14,651
Note - included above are the following amounts given by trustees
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Income from charitable activities
Rental income
40,489
Social & Youth Events
37,309
Grants from related party
2,000
10,000
Morning Out receipts
2,733
Lunch Club Receipts
1,387
Fees
700
Sundry receipts
2,544
87,162
10,000
Income from other trading activities
Income from solar panels
6,829
6,829
0
Income from investment
Deposit interest
168
0
Other income -gain on sale of 161 Dudley Street
0
0
TOTAL INCOME
366,436
24,651		 Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
202,832
10,000
10,000
47,427
2,500
1,200
12,018
951		 Total Funds
Total Funds
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
212,832
198,410
10,000
0
49,927
57,805
1,200
84,905
12,969
11,153
286,928
352,273
46,810
41,220
10,275
4,000
57,085
45,220
40,489
36,754
37,309
26,977
12,000
10,250
2,733
2,463
1,387
1,034
700
1,266
2,544
1,955
97,162
80,699
6,829
6,780
6,829
6,780
168
939
272,277
14,651
6,829
0
168
0
0
0		 0
266,582
366,436
24,651		 391,087
707,273

24

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

21 Resources spent
Notes
Grants
Mission and charitable giving
Other donations
Directly relating to Church Ministry
Parish share - payment to diocese
Clergy & staff expenses
Housing costs
Services including music
Telephones
Books
Explorers, Holiday Club & Youth Work
Training
Morning Out
Lunch Club
Holiday at Home
Outreach (including social events)
Sundries
Interest payable
Church management and administration
Heat and light
Insurance
Cleaning Materials
Church and property maintenance
Equipment - not capitalised
Hall Redevelopment
Salaries and wages
Printing, postage and stationery
Other
Depreciation
Support/Governance Costs
Finance charge from loan repayment
TOTAL RESOURCES SPENT		 Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
26,946
0
0
1,334
26,946
1,334
161,027
2,429
2,581
5,747
1,699
250
12,930
2,351
988
813
0
30,403
2,256
0
223,474
0
9,649
3,266
4,713
19,905
0
330
0
0
77,084
28,138
1,822
2,010
3,963
122,742
28,138		 Total Funds
Total Funds
31-Dec-25
31-Dec-24
£
£
26,946
24,896
1,334
412
28,280
25,308
161,027
154,063
2,429
2,594
2,581
5,297
5,747
5,660
1,699
1,607
250
222
12,930
5,026
2,351
0
988
744
813
926
0
0
30,403
26,853
2,256
2,418
0
1,981
223,474
207,391
9,649
12,389
3,266
3,407
4,713
3,610
19,905
8,550
330
1,905
0
272
105,222
89,332
1,822
1,513
2,010
2,687
3,963
4,838
150,880
128,503
1,680
1,680
1,680
0
0		 0
165,440
374,842
29,472		 404,314
528,323

25

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2025

----- Start of picture text -----
22 DETAILS OF MISSION AND CHARITABLE GIVING Total Total
General Restricted 31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
£ £ £ £
OVERSEAS
SIM (supporting the Deneufchâtel's) 2,975 0 2,975 3,208
Gayet (work in Belgium) 6,864 0 6,864 6,948
Operation Mobilisation 0 0 0 500
Mission Direct 3,120 0 3,120 2,098
Open Doors 850 0 850 0
Friends of Johannesburg Bible College 1,207 0 1,207 1,508
Neno Macadamia Fund 350 0 350 500
Malawi Orphan Fund 1,144 0 1,144 1,448
Mission Aviation Fellowship 850 0 850 0
17,360 0 17,360 16,210
HOME
Bedford Area Schools Christian Support Trust 6,292 0 6,292 6,768
Langham Partnership 350 0 350
King's Arms Project - Bedford 0 0 0 500
Bedford Street Angels 0 0 0 50
Bedford Foodbank 500 0 500 710
SMART 630 0 630 500
Good News For Everyone 250 0 250 0
Hope in Bedfordshire 100 0 100 0
Other specific giving 1,464 0 1,464 158
9,586 0 9,586 8,686
Total Mission 26,946 0 26,946 24,896
OTHER
Other donations 0 1,334 1,334 412
Total 0 1,334 1,334 412
TOTAL MISSION GIVING 26,946 1,334 28,280 25,308
----- End of picture text -----

Note: Mission giving was set at 10% of General Gifts in 2025 (2024: 10%)

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