The Parochial Church Council
the Ecclesiastical Parish of St. Bartholomew, Otford
Registered Charity Number
1135073
Also l(nown as St. Bart's, Otford
Vacancy for the whole of 2024
The Green
Otford
Sevenoaks
Kent
TN14 5PD
office
costbartholomews.co.uk
www.stbartholomews.co.uk
Annual Report and Financial Statement for the year
ended
31 December 2024
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Trustses
The Trustees are the members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC). Those members are either ex-officio. elected at
the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) or co-opted by the PCC in accordan￿ with the Church Representation
Rules. Trustees are not rernunerated.
During the year ended 31 December 2024 the following served as members of the PCC:
Vlcar
Interregnum 2024
Wardens Mrs Janet Hunt
- from April 2018 and re-elected in 2019,2024 and 2021,2022.2023,2024
- from April 2021,2022,2023 and re-elected in 2024
Mrs. Joan Beacom
Members of the Diocesan Synod
Mr. Derek ShillinB
Members of the Deanery Synod
Mr. Mark Holmes- PCC MinLrtes se¢￿tary
Mrs. Margaret Lidbetter
Mrs. Janet Hunt
Elected Members
Mr. CollD. Anderson120211
Mr. Jonathan Batchelor
Elected 2024
Mrs. Lorna Coulson
Resigned 23 September 2024
Stood down APCM 2024
Mr. Russell Edwards
Ms. Dawn Hallam120171
Mrs. Jocelyn Hart
Miss. Naomi Hunt (20211
Mrs. Nancy Jonsson {2022)
Mrs. Emma Peters {20191
Mrs. Mags Southgate120221
Mrs. Heather Stanley (2018)
Mr. George Young
Independent Examiner
Mr F. W. Salmond
Stood down APCM 2024
Stood down APCM 2024
PCC Treasurer
Elected 2024
10 Eden Hall, Stick Hill, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 5QQ
Bankers
CAF Bank Ltd, 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling. Kent
The CBF Church of England Deposit Fund, One Angel Lane, London EC4R 3AB
Governing Document
The Parochial Church Council Powers Measure 1956 as amended. and Church Representation Rules prevlously
exempted from registration.
All members of the PCC are trustees of the charity. Elected members of the PCC are normally appointed for a period of
three years and are required under the PCC'S own policy to stsnd down for a minimum of one year followlng the three-
year period. Dawn Hallam as a Reader was requested by the PCC to remain on the PCC as a Lay Reader. The PCC meets
every two months to transact the buslness of the Church.
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In between meetings of the full Council the Standing Committee is authorfsed, subject to the PCC'S directions, to
conduct the business of the PCC should decisions need to be taken between full meetings of the PCC
Objects of the Charit¢
The PCC has the responsibility of working with the Area Dean (Rev. Dr. Chris Noble) to uphold the ministry and mission
of the Church in the areas of worship, the nurture of faith, service to the village of Otford and Christian witness. This is
done through: _
Sunday and midweek seniices:
baptisms, weddings, and funerals;
youth and children's work;
teaching adults through weekly home groups and occasional series of talks;
pastoral care and involvement in the community. and
supporting mission partners.
To meet our objectives, and by way of good stewardship of the property for which the Area Dean, Churchwardens and
PCC are responsible, we maintain the fabric of St Bartholome￿S Church (which English Heritage has listed as a Grade I
building}, the adjoining Church Centre and the Church Hall (located in the High Street).
To ensure the objectives are complied with the PCC meets regularly. There were 8 PCC meetings during the year with a
high average attendance level. Much of the PCC'S work is assisted by committees. Those committees report and make
commendations to the PCC. The main committees are: .
Standing- Has the legal authority to continue the business of the PCC, subject to any directions given by the Council.
Flnonce- meets on average at two-monthly intervals between PCC meetings. It monitors income and expenditure,
views budgets and reviews financlal controls working closely with the Treasurer.
Fabric- monitors the condition of the Church fabric, Church Hall, churchyard and car park and arranges malntenance
and repair work as required.
Fair- plans and organises the St Bartholome￿s Fair, normally the prlncipal fund-raising event of the year.
Events Teorn- plans and organises social and fund-raising events during the year.
Ministry Team, Wardens & Parish Administrator- meets to provide mutual fellowship and 5UPPOrt, and the opportunlty
to continue to look at upcoming Seniices and rota's in the absence of an Incumbent.
Mission Ministry and Growth- communlcates the work of Christian agencies supported by St. Bart's through written
articles and arranging for speakers to visit (limited speakers in 2024 due to the interregnum). It recomniends the
allocation of available fund5 to Christian mission and relief organisations. both in the UK and overseas. It updates and
reviews the Called to Grow Action Plan and makes recommendations to the PCC for further discussion and action as
appropriate.
Electoral Roll
In 2024 there were 171 members on the Electoral Roll.
Members of the Standln8 Committee are the Vicar, the Churchwardens, the PCC Minutes Secretary, the Treasurer and up to ttvo other
rnembers of the PCC or the Vice Chair of PCC and two members of the PCC.
For Charity Commlsslon purposes the Charity comes within the classification of "Rellglous Artivities" to help the general public
partlcularly within the parish of Otford, Kent and the surroundlng area but also through mission giving further afield. It provides the
Services listed in this document.
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Clerlcal Vacancy
During 2024 the Clerical Vacancy at St. BartholOme￿S was advertised twice in July and September. Whilst applications
for the post were received and various candidates were Snterviewed the Panel were unable to recommend an
appointment to the Bishop. The vacancy was therefore, readvertised in November with a closing date of 6 January
2025. We await the outcome of this application period. When the position is filled in Otford It will be that of a Priest in
Charge as there is still much uncertainty about the shape of Shoreham Deanery going forward, with a number of Clergy
due to retire and therefore some changes to format of the Deanery appear likely.
We would like to record our thanks to all our Visiting Clergy who have taken our Services of Holy Communion,
Weddings. Baptisms and Funerals. along wlth our home team of Readers who have enabled Worship to carry on as
usual during the vacancy.
SUMMARY OF THE MAIN ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE YEAR
When planning our actlvlties for the year the PCC consider the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit and the
specific guidance on charitie5 for the advancement of religion. Many of the activities and servlces listed in this report
are carried out by volunteers and St Bart's is very grateful for thls. It is difficult to estimate the exact number of
volunteers, but we belleve that it is well over half of the number on the Electoral Roll. Many among the congregation
have given time to undertake various jobs within the Church and Churchyard, too many to mention by name but we
record our thanks to each and every one of you.
Pastoral Care
We now have just one Pastoral Assistant Margaret Lidbetter, who is also a trained counsellor, and who serve5 our
church in many situations, from an arrange appointment and Holy Communion at home to the impromptu chat and
whatever help is needed. We appreciate being alerted to any situation where we can help. This Is a fulfllllng role within
our church and look forward to bein8 joined by others who may be willlng to undertake this role.
Cornerstone
In 2024 we were invited to join the Cornerstone project as part of a trial in the Diocese of Rochester. The ministry and
mission of Parish Churches is mostly funded through the incredible generosity of those who give to it through money,
time and talents. When times are tough, financial struggles can seem overwhelming, which is why Cornerstone has
been developed, by the National Giving Team, with the aim that it will take each Parish on a Journey to understand the
giving culture and financial situation of their Parish. It alms to leave the Parish with clear, simple steps to grow gNing,
both in terms of Income, time and talents.
Liz Mullins our Diocesan Generous Giving Adviser introduced us to the platform which uses data taken from our Annual
Parish Return along with answers to a questionnaire. This then provides a platform to look at what we do and how we
do it, what we could look at doing differently. In terms of use of tlme and talents and finance. This 15 very much a work
in progress and will continue to develop over time.
This led to us taking the decision to advertise that half of the collections taken at Services over the Chrfstmas Period
would be donated to Loaves and Fishes. Amount to £539.00. This extra funding allowed Loaves and Fishes to purchase
items they might be short of in term5 of good5 available to hand out to those in need.
Cornerstone has various areas to work through. Work on the Cornerstone projert will continue in 2025.
Cholr
Throughout 2024, the choir fulfilled its normal schedule of singing three morning and two evening senil￿S per month,
with the usual special services to mark particular occaslons in the church's year.
As I have said on previou5 Occasions, the choir is ageing and is in urgent need of new recruits. Sadly, there has been no
response from any congregation members wishing to help by singing in the choir, so thls situation will only become
worse. Some choir members have had health problems this year, and this resulted, unfortunately, in the cancellation of
our annual Christmas Concert, for the first time (other than when Covid inter￿ened) in over 40 years. Thankfully we
were still able to have our usual Service of Nine Lessons and Carols.
The choir has nevertheless continued to perform a wide-ranging repertoire, and during 2024 sang music from England,
th
France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Belgium, Russia and Norway, from the 16 to the 21 century.
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A new venture in 2024 was a service of evensong on a Saturday in November, Jolntly with members of Kent County
Organists, Association. The resulting choir of 26 produced a joyful sound, much appreciated by a small congregation of
Association and church members.
The choir is. as ever, fortunate to have so many dedicated and faithful members, and its membership now continues to
stand at 16.
Anyone interested in singin& on a regular basis, the wide range of Service repertoire that we have, should contact me
or the Church Offi￿.
Music Group
Membership of the music group {band) has remained reasonably stable during the year. Although some members have
gone to university, they always seem keen to join in when they return for holiday or visiting home. When everyone
turns up (approx. 15 people) it can be quite difficult to fit everyone plus instruments on the platform - what a great
problem to have!
The instruments in the band include cello, violin, various representations from the brass and woodwind sections,
guitars, bass guitar, mandolin, percussion and of course our singers. We are always happy to welcome new members to
the band particularly with an instrument we don't have so as to give our music arranger, to whom we are extremely
grateful for his hard work, an extra challenge!
The band have continued to play at All Together Worship services each month and at some extra services during the
year including the Mothering Sunday communion, one of our quarterly healing se￿ices, Christingle, the Palm Sunday
ecumenical Se￿iCe (held in St Bart's due to bad weather) and Sunday Club Nativity service. Two particular highlights in
2024 were the band being asked to play at two weddings: the one in May being that of a band member, and the one in
July being that of a member of our AV team. These were very special occasions for the band and will be long
remembered.
Again, special thanks must go to our technical wizard who, with all his knowhow and talent, spends time making it
possible for the band to be heard with a balanced sound both in church and via the live stream.
We look forward to what thi5 year will bring as we continue to worship with God's people here at St Barvs.
Bell Ringers
We've managed to keep going throughout 2024 despite only having six bell ringers. There have been occasions when we
haven't been able to ring on Sundays because of insufficient numbers. We have had ringers from other towers who have
offered to support us but unfortunately their Church services clash with St Bart5.
Our Thursday practices have continued to be very well supported by Fraser and Dee from Kemsing and attended
regularly by some of the Kemsing ringers. We also have two or three other more experience ringers who support us
periodically. Without a significant number of rn0￿ able ringers. it is difficult to progress beyond a certain point.
During the year we rang ft)r four weddings-may, June, July and December. We had no requests to rin8 for any Memorial
services but are always happy to do so. We had a number of visitrng rlngers throughout the year, covering January,
April, May and July. Also hosted training sessions in October and November. All visitors showed their appreciation of
the bells.
We managed to ring for Remembrance Sunday but were not able to ring for the opening of the Church Fayre. Although
we were not able to ring for Christmas Day, we did ring for the Nine Lessons and Carols service.
We were in the process of training an Otford resident to ring but unfortunately due to an unforeseen medical condition
he is unable to continue. We would welcome anyone who would like to take up this challenge and at present could
provide trainin8. It is a good physical and mental challenge.
As regards the condition of the bell ropes, we have managed to make temporary repalrs to the ropes to extend their
lives but now It has become necessary to arrange a full ￿plaCernent.
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Cameo
Fourteen members of our church family and who live alone have met regularly on Monday afternoons. The group is
called CAMEO (come and meet each other) and is open to those who would appreciate a regular sociable inter-action
with those similarly placed.
Fortnightly we engage in Bible Study and on the alternate Mondays we have a varied programme of activities and
Visitors who come to give a talk on their chosen subject. This year some of our members went away together to
Weston Super Mare, visiting Cheddar, Bath, Bristol and Wells.
Highlights of our activities are the Summer and Christmas Afternoon Teas, which always involve fun time. We are
pleased to meet together in this Pastoral Ministry.
Chlldren and Young People
Sunday Club
Sunday Club meets on Sunday Mornings (except for the I Sunday of the month when we have our'AII-Togetherf
worship}. We continue to meet as an all-age group with two leaders for each session. The leaders work together to
plan the session and can split the group depending on the ages of children attending each week. We use a scheme
from the Scripture Union which provides a variety of age appropriate activities based round a bible passage, and we
find this flexible approach allows us to play to the strengths of both the leaders and the young people attending week
by week.
We also work on producing displays for the notice board in the church centre- often sharing the project with Epic or
Messy Church. These displays may be seasonal or related to a particular bible story. These creatNe sessions are always
popular and allow us to give something back to the congregation. Our Christmas display this year was on the theme of
The Star of Bethlehem and included stars created by our different youth activities.
There are 7 regular leaders who work on a rota basis and we are blessed to have such a faithful team. We thank them
all for sharing their time, thelr talents, and their faith. We have alw benefited from the support of young people who
are following the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, and work with us as volunteers. Currently we have 20 children on
our register, with an attendance of between 5 and 10 most weeks.
It has become a tradition that Sunday Club has a special project during August. This year we took the theme of Caring
for God's Creation and built up a display on the board covering different elements including recyclin8, trees and
rainbows.
The year ended with our nativity play, Yhe Advent Calendar Puzzle, using resources especially written for us by one of
our leaders. This involved participation by the whole congregation and was a successful end to the year.
EPIC- Every Person In Chrlst
Epic is the St Bartholomew's Youth Club for those In school years S- 8. Meetings are held on the second Saturday
evening of the month in the Church Centre for a range of activities, supper, and bible study.
We try to offer a range of activities that meet the social, physical and splrltual needs of young people. We aim to foster
a spirit of co-operatlon and encourage working together in small groups for problem sofving activities and as a whole
group for discussion times. There is often a craft activity, as well as plenty of opportunities to let off steam.
We always have supper together- always two courses and hopefully with veggies or fruit! Sometimes this is provided
by parents, thank you to all those who have taken on this task. Sometimes we order in Pizza (always popular) and we
also have times when we get the young people involved in the preparation and the washlng up. This is always an
interesting experience with much being learnedl Grace is said before supper and there is always a bible study linked to
one of the p￿viouS activities and a prayer.
We have three regular leaders and call on others as needed for extra or specific help. There are 16 young people on the
reglster and typically 12 - 14 attend. Epic offers a wonderful opportunity to meet the needs of this age group and their
families and to reach out to families who are not regular church attenders.
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For the leaders it is exhaustin& enriching and enlightening. For the young people we hope it is a chance to meet in a
safe Spa￿ that is not school or home. to have a degree of freedom, to have fun and to have a chance to consider the
spiritual aspects of their lives.
Thanks must go to everyone who was involved in running Epic and for being a constant in the lives of our young people
when so much else was changing. This group of young people are open to bringing their friends along and look forward
to meeting together. We aim to SUPPOrt a smooth transition of these chIld￿n from primary to senior school and from
EPIC to YPF.
YPF- Young People's Fellowship
YPF is our group for young people in year 9 and above, we meet every Sunday evening in term time and our meetings
involve fun, food (lots of chocolate) and friendship. Every year we see some leave to go off to further education and
welcome new members to join in the mayhem. Numbers can vary wildly from 6 to 20, especially during exam season
and university holidays. You can find us cooking (sometimes successfully), playing silly games {always competitively),
searching for Easter eggs {in the furthest reaches of the pari5h}, decorating plant pots land then getting EPIC to plant
them upl- Our young people also take an active part in church life, many of them are involved in the worship band and
the tech team wouldn't run without them.
Our aim is to create a welcoming, inclusive and supportive community for all the young people associated with our
church and walk wlth them as they mature into faith as adults. It is always a joy to welcome back students durin8 the
holiday. This year I have been reminded of the long term impact of such a group
twice. We had a coffee and cake gathering for'ancient, YPF- those of us who were part of the group 40 years ago, it
was great to see nearly 30 of us gather and catch up and reminisce. The other occasion was at midnight mass this year
where about 25 young people, current and student YPF and recent members gather in the traditional YPF pews at the
back of the lady chapel to worship together as part of the seNice. Bonds of friendship and faith can have eternal
consequences
Youth Weekend
The month of July every year means it's time for the children and young people, of our church family, to go away for a
weekend {with a few oldies) and give their parents a weekend of peace and quiet! Kench Hill has now been our
destination for severdl years and we do all love going there. Although it is in a lovely, peaceful area there is not a lot of
quiet during our weekend there. We do such a range of activities from art and crafts to water fights there is always
something to do. Our theme in 2024 was 'Hopes and Dreams, based on the wonderful Bible promise from God: "For I
know the plans I have for you" Our sessions focussed on different ideas such as being open to God, when God
challenges us, when things go wrong and the older generation sharing their life experiences of God, related to hopes
and dreams. Each session was linked to a different Bible story. A new activity this year, after watching film, was to
have a campfire in which we toasted marshmallows and enjoyed eating them between biscuits. So, 27 young adults
and children ranging from the age of 8 to 21+, and about 12 adults met with God, enjoyed lots of fellowship and came
home pretty exhausted but having loved another weekend together.
Te¢￿tearn
Our Live streaming of regular and occasional Services is made possible by a very dedicated core of 3 households and 4
individuals who give up several hours each month to run the video for our services alongside the three regular
volunteers who run the sound. Many thanks to all who use their time and talents in support of this much appreciated
aspect of our church life. In total 57 services were streamed in 2024 including Nine Lessons and Carols, 3 Funerals and I
Wedding outside of the normal Sunday schedule.
This year has seen the introduction of new software for managing the subtitles. This was funded by a generous
donation from a member of the church and our thanks go to them for that. This year also saw the introduction of the
dedicated AV cabinet within the church removing the need for the weekly set up and pack down. Thanks goes to Sam.
the Cabinet Builder, and to the Fabric Committee for their hard vA)rk in making thi5 happen.
Whlle not reaching the same heights as during the COIVD Pandemic our live streams attract 4 regular viewers at the
time of the service and an average of 20 viewings over the week.
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Despite the eventful year the team are really feeling the effect of a key members moving away in previous years. We
are now at the point where every person is assigned a week and thus unavailability has a major impact. We now need a
person to cover a monthly slot and two people to help provide occasional cover when our re8ulars are unavailable.
We'd love to hear from you if you'd like to help and full training will be provided with no obligation.
Social Medla
Overview
The church utilises various channels to communicate our events, mission activities, key services and prayer diary. We
have a closed Facebook Group {170 followers) and an open Facebook Church page1240 followers). A small number of
administrators manage content and respond to queries on behalf of the church and are on standby to moderate
(although this hasn't been necessary, thankfully!). Our Instagram page (250 followers) synchronises with our Facebook
account, and the same content is usually uploaded to all these channels. In December 2023, we decided to focus efforts
on Facebook and Instagram, we no longer post on our X (formally Twitter) account. Our church WhatsApp Group
currently consists of around 80 church members and invitations to the group is managed in an orderly way.
Content
A small group prepare our daily prayer diary, in advan￿. on a 3-month rotation. This is shared with the office along
with suitable images. Another small group prepares an adVan￿d monthly communications schedule of our events, key
Services and mission activities. A couple of nominated people then pre-load social media posts in a streamlined way,
whilst information is loaded manually onto WhatsApp on an as needed basis.
Community engagement
Some Facebook posts from our Church Account are shared on the Otford Village Hub Facebook Group, to adverti￿ our
various events, pop-up stalls and activities to the local community. Our approach is to be helpful and positive when
engaging with comments from village residents, for example when concerns were raised about controlling ivy around
the hall or tidying our flower beds. After each pop-up, one of the comms team will usually post a "thank you" on the
village hub to show our appreciation. Our posts about the Church Falr re￿iVed our highest engagement yet.
Website and Emalls
During 2024, a team prepared for the closure of 0tford.net and migrating our dornain and our emails to a new host.
We are now busily working on re-vamplng the church website, which we hope to launch in 2025.
Thank you
We would like to give a very big "thank you" to everyone In￿1ved in preparing, uploading and managing our various
social media communications, our email system and our website. Your assistance and 5UPPOrt in 2024 was very much
appreciated.
Church Fabric
There are 8 members on the Church Fabric Committee and we met 5 times in 2024 face to face and on Zoom
there is much activity by members between meetings.
Church
AV Cabinet, designed, built installed and up and running. The preliminary works have been completed in relation to
moving the cameras to their final agreed position.
Quinquennial recommend works are in hand with longer term works currently on hold. The South door repairs are in
hand in order to make access through this door easier. The dangerous tree at the East end of the Church has been
removed, and permission requested to remove small trees near fire exit to Vestry.
Issues in relation to lighting and securlty in the Church Car Park have also been discussed and work is in progress In
relation to creating a workable scheme following damage to vehlcles and li8htin8 in the Car Park.
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Church Centre
Cracks in walls. Following a report from a structural Engineer it was noted that the East Wall requires structural ties.
Other cracks require filling with a flexlble medium and decoration. This work is currently on hold.
The installation of acoustic panels is also currently on hold pending PCC work on use of the Church Buildings. A new
Contractor has been appointed to manage and maintain the alarm system in the Centre and Church.
Church Hall
A new boiler has been Installed providing heat and hot water to the building. fin has been replaced on the slde hall
roof. An Electrlcal Inspection had been completed with resultlng items undertaken.
Maintenance inspection 17 Nov 2023 recommended short and medium term actions, to windows, doors, roof, gutters
and drains and external finishes. Some or all kitchen unlts are in urgent need of replacement. The water tank on the
store roof was drained and remove.
Cycllcal Maintenance
This is reviewed annually to ensure all is on track and items are appropriately maintalned. An Energy Saving review was
also undertaken with quotes being obtained for underfloor insulation under pew staging. This proved to be not
economically viable.
Finally, a big thank you to our committee member5 for all their hard work and dedication!
Flowers
The Flower Team continues to place flowers each week on the two altars in our beautiful church to enhance the
experience of everyone attending services or visiting. We also work as a team for Special Festivals where more
elaborate arrangements are needed.
You do not need to be a flower arranger to help our depleted team. Some of our congregation use the opportunity to
remember loved ones on specific dates and the signup sheet is at the back of the church.
Can you put a bunch of flowers in a vase?
Would you like to remember a loved one with church flowers?
If you feel unable to physically help, a monetary contribution would be gratefully received.
Events. Church Falr and Christmas Market
The Events team again put together an interesting and varied programme of activitie5 to enliven the church year, both
to support church finances and provide fun and fellowship.
We started the year with a Burns Nlght Supper, which we are grateful to Wickie Howie for organising, and followed this
up with a fascinating talk by Ed Thompson on the history of Otford shops. Over the summer we again ran a series of
pop-ups, including one supporting Christian Aid in a co-ordinated event between ourselves. the Methodists, Catholics
and Evangelicals- a first for Otford. Other events included a beetle drive, the annual parish BBQ and a sponsored litter
pick. The autumn saw the arrlval of a French Bistro in the church centre, followed by an ever popular Harvest Supper &
Quiz before the arrival of the Christmas Festivities and annual 'StrictlV evenlng. The Holmes family again did sterling
service in visiting as many parlshes as possible during Ride & Stride.
Our annual St Bart's Summer Fair took place on the Green next to the church on 22nd June. The Fair is a major
community engagement event for our Church and brings many from the village and surrounding area into contact with
St Barts in friendly and fun environment.
Our prayers were answered in terms of the weather and we were blessed with a sunny afternoon that helped draw a
good crowd. This year the Falr again offered a wide range of stalls and attractions to appeal to all ages, plus in additlon
we were delighted to have our very own St Barts Band performing through the aftemoon very popular with the
fairgoers! Overall, a great day, enjoyed by all for which we are so grateful to our Church famlly and wider community
for all their help and support in puttlng on this popular event.
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In November we joined in with the Otford Vlllage Fayre on a very wet and windy Saturday in November. We were
pleased to welcome many to the Church and Church Centre to peruse the items on offer, the bacon butties went down
particularfy well. It was a great opportunity to catch up with many friends in the village. We are truly grateful to all
who sUPPOrt all our Social and Fund Raising events either by helping, providing items for sale or simply coming along
and supporting those on the various stalls.
Soup Lunch
We are grateful to Joan Beacom for her work in organising and running soup lunches throughout the year and for
initiating a bridge afternoon in August. which we hope to repeat again in 2025.
We meet bimonthly in the church centre any one is welcome to attend. We attract some 30 people who come to enjoy
homemade soup with bread, a small dessert and coffee with a guest speaker who will chat about their life and
interests. We have recently welcomed our new Otford Methodist Minister, a representative from Demelza House and a
supporter of Hearing Dogs for the Deaf.
Come and join us- there will be a sign up list in the church lobby two weeks before each lunch.
Warm Welcome
We continue our Warm Welcome initiative every Friday afternoon 2-5pm in the Church Centre.
We are a very friendly group who meet for a chat, to knit, sew or work on a jigsaw and of course drink tea and eat cake!
Some quotes from our regulars
'We are always made very welcome"
We are frequently challenged by difficultjigsaws"
Come and join us.
Churchyard working party
Churchyard working partles contlnue to be held usually on the first Saturday between March and November. We are
very grateful to all the volunteers of all ages, who help to keep our Churchyard looking clean and tidy. Extra working
groups were held during the year in order to have the Churchyard looking clean and tidy. Cake is now regularly offered
along with the usual refreshments, We could do with more help; it can be done at any time to Sult the individual.
Safeguarding
Miss Naomi Hunt continues to be our Parish Safeguarding Officer {PSO)
The PSO and Lead Safeguarding Warden {Janet Huntl have also been working through the year to identify all of the
volunteers within the congregation who should complete Basic Awareness and Foundation training. Safeguarding
appears as an Agenda item on all PCC and Standing Committee meetings. There were no issues raised with the
Diocesan Safeguarding team.
Wider Community
The Annual Civic Service was replaced by a Celebration Servi￿ to mark the Coronation of King Charles111 followed by
refreshments in the Church Centre.
The Remembrance Sunday service was well attended both in Church and then out on the Green. The unifomied
organisations were agaln able to play their part in the Service and the laying of Wreaths on the Green. The SeNice in
Church was live streamed for those unable to attend in person.
Deanery Synod
Shoreham Deanery Synod brings together representatives from parishes St￿tChing from Otford to Stan5ted and from
Farningham to Shipbourne. St. Bart's is the largest benefice in the Deanery by electoral roll. Members are elected at
Annual Parochial Church Meetings to serve a 3-yearterm.
The Synod met twice in 2024, chaired by the Rural Dean, Rev. Chris Noble (Rector of Stansted with Fairseat & Vigo). At
typlcal meeting, the first half consists of a presentation by a relevant speaker followed by questions and answer5. The
second part consists of routine Synod business. l am the Lay Chair of the Synod, but that does not involve very much at
Poge 10 of 24

The first meeting of the year was held on 22 February 2023 at St. Peterfs Church Centre,18htham. The speaker was Rev.
Trudi Oliver. Rector of Eynsford with Farningham and Lullingstone. She has experience of chaplaincy work in secondary
schools and spoke on work with young people, in particular championing young vocations, among people aged up to
about 32 (including parents of young children). She emphasised the importance of role models and mentors and of
avoiding assumptions about the nature of vocation. There was a table exercise on ways to encourage young vocations
in our own parishes.
The second meeting took place on 17 October at St. Marfs, Stsnsted. The speaker was Rev. Wil North, recentty
appointed as an Associate Archdeacon while continuing part-time as Rector of Barmin8 Wlth Teston. He grew up in
Woolwich and started as a naval architect befo￿ being called to ministry as a youth and community worker in Norfolk,
then ordained ministry in London. He had not expected to find himself in rural rnini5try but was loving it. and had
ended up as diocesan 5POrts ambassador, lead vocation advisor for the Diocese and {until becomlng Assoclate
Archdeacon) Area Dean for Malling.
He explained that the two Associate Archdeacon roles had been created to add capacity, since it was very hard for one
Archdeacon to deal with 21 vacancies at the same time (out of about 168 clergy posts) across the six Deaneries making
up the Tonbridge Archdeaconry. The role involved working with parishes on plans for reorganisation and changing the
shape of ministry, as well as selection processes. He explained the need for reorgani5ation: that traditional parish
boundaries were no longer working in some places, and experience was that, done well, reorganisation could prove
really positive even if the proces5 was sometime5 painful or slow. For Shoreham Deanery, the largest In the
archdeaconry in square miles, no decisions had been taken but some change was likely to be needed. Any plans
involved time and prayer and were always discussed at the Archdeaconry Mlsslon and Pastoral Working Group before
decisions were taken. As the lay representative for Shoreham Deanery on the Worklng Group, I commented how
heartened I had been by the open, honest, sensitive and constructive splrlt In discussions at the meetings.
He mentioned the clerical vacancy in Otford. He surprised that we had received so few applicants in response to
the first two adverts, but the pattern had been similar across the whole country land more extreme in other parts of
the ar¢hdeaconryl. Representatives from Wrotham and Ightham talked about the positive experience of their recent
reorganisation.
In the business part of the meeting, the Area Dean was elected to a casual clerical vacancy on Diocesan Synod but there
were no candidates to fill the casual lay vacancy.
l usually take my own notes of Deanery Synod meetings and circulate them to PCC members. If others would like a
copy of my notes from previous or future meetings, I would be happy to share them.
Pollcy on Reserves
The PCC upholds a pollcy to maintain general reserves at a level of £35,000. Thls pollcy Is revlewed on an annual basis.
The PCC also maintains a fund for cyclical maintenance and repair. Other funds held and set aside for specific purposes
at the close of 2023 are dealt with in the Accounts Section of this report.
Poge 11 of 24

CHARITY COMMISSION
FOR ENGLAND AND WALES
Independent examiner's report on
the accounts
Section A
Independent Examiner's Report
Report to the trustees
'iart5 a-,.io
St. Bartholomew's Church, Offord
On accounts for the year
ended
31" De￿mber 2024
Charity no
(if any)
1135073
Set out on pages
14to24
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above
charity ('Ihe Trusf) for the year ended 3111212024.
Responslbilities 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 Acf,).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out
under section 145 of the 2011 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 I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have
examlnerfs statement come to my attention in connection wilh the examination (other than that
disclosed below ') which gives me cause to believe that in, any material
respect:
the accounting records were not kepl in accordance with section 130
of the Charities Act; or
the accounts did not accord with the accounting records," or
the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements
concerning th8 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 fairf view which is not a matter
onsidered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concems 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.
. Please delete the words in the brackets if they do not apply.
Signed:
Date:
Name:
Mr F W (Bill) Salmond
Relevant professional
qualification{s) or body
(if any):
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
Address:
10 Eden Hall, Stick Hill
Edenbridge
Kent TN8 5QQ
Page 12 of24

Section B
Disclosure
Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight material matters of con￿rn
(see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and
guidance for examiners).
Give here brief detalls of
any items that the
examiner wlshos to
disclose.
Poge 13 of 24

St Bartholomevs Church Otford - 1135073
Statement of Financial Actlvltlos - summary
For the period from 01 January 2024 to 31 December 2024
Unr¢stsi¢t•tl
funds
Doslgnated
lunds
Totsl
fund5
Prioryear
totsllunds
lunds
fund5
Tot•1 tn¢ome
141636
10A73
1H796
170,110
T¢*al upendttwe
110.676
15,426
170.978
14V11
Gains I losst$ on Inve5tmentasse
133
N￿1n¢¢th l{expendlturel r•sour¢o5 bofor8 transfer
121189)
1,047
13151
21201
Gr055tr8nsf￿S behveen funds- in
Gr¢%5tran5f￿5 bettveen ftJnds- ¢xrt
Af2367
164,4431
58,5n
(28.5121
8.870
14,8551
107.811
1107,8111
71.1(Lfj
(71.1051
Netmpvemoni in fvvKIs
14m8
{&129)
11951
21J01
T￿al fvnds brought foThvwd
43150
211867
311J03
29Q002
T￿1 fvnds ¢trrI￿ forvmrd
88
49A56
217.929
325255
311.303
UrY85trictaJ
Gener8lfuThJ
DesKJnated
AV and IT MaintBnarre
Church Hall
CytlirAI M8inknanc
MissiDn
Parlsh Offer Fund
57,866
57.868
43,850
1.207
24,124
9,137
7.764
12,351
23,329
15,296
9.196
1,250
152
9.196
Bernardworssam F￿d
Cameras ?rbJ
Choral Music Fthd
Church H811
Church Fkll NlalntenawK
External Work5
RcAsef5
Jean Kelsey M¢Jsic FuTrY
Mus
Sgque¥tratkn Acojunt
1527
1992
201572
201,572
S97
12.540
201.$72
587
12MI
1LKI
2.039
510
31
2.039
510
11,8191
Poge 14 of 24

SL Bartholomew's Church Otford - 1135073
Balance Sheet (Separate funds)
As at: 31 December 2024
As at 3111212024 As at 3111W2023
FIX￿ a*sets
Tangible assets
Investments
201.572
201.572
207,537
207,404
Currant assots
559
118.927
1.410
105.e
Cash al bank and In
119,487
107.070
Liabilitios
Creditors: Amounts f8111ng due in one y
3.171
Nel current a880ts185s currnnt Ilabililie5
117.717
101899
Tolal a88Ots l•$¥ currgnt Ilablllllos
325,255
311.303
Total net assets Igss Ilab1151Fo8
325,255
311JOa
Represented by
Unr•strlcted
Unre¥trfcted- General fijnd
57,868
43,850
De5ign*ted
Designated- AV and IT Maintenance
Designated- Parish Offer Fund
Designate(l- Church Hdl
Designated- Cydical Maintenance
Designated- Mission
1.207
12,351
24.124
9,137
7,764
1250
23,329
15296
9,196
Re$trfC￿ - Bemard Vvorssam Fund
Restrioted- Choral Muslc Fund
Restricted- Church Hall
Rèsthcted- Churth Repair
Restrlcted- Jean Kelsey Music Fund
Restricted- Re-ordering Fund
Restricted - Cameras and
Restricted- Office Computer
Restricted - Extemal Works
Restricted. Flowers
Restricted- Church Hall Maintsnance
RestriCt￿- Musl
Restr1¢￿1 - Sequestration Ac¥xunl
Restsic*ed - Mcarage D￿rationS
529
5,992
201,572
201,572
2.039
3,527
12
100
587
510
31
533
{1,819)
Funds of tht ehurth
311J03
Poge 15 of 24

st. Bartholomew's Church Otford - 1135073
Statement of Assets and Llabilities (by fund)
As at: 31 Dacember 2024
Balance
Previous
Balance
Investments
6432: 238 Shares In CBF Inv•stmont Fund. Asset
General fijnd
Unrestricted
5.965
5.832
5.832
Investments
5,965
5,832
Tanglblo assets
6431: Church Hall - Asset
Church Hall
Restricted
201,572
201,572
201,572
201.572
Tangible assets
201,572
201,572
Cash at bank and in hand
6500: CAF current ac¢ount- Asset
FIow8rs
Restrfcled
Sequestrdtlon Attount Restricted
Church Hall
DesSgnat&
General fund
un￿trIcted
11,8241
6,646
4.885
6,592
11.531
6507: CAF Freewill Account- Assot
Extemal Works
Restricted
General fund
Unrestricted
2.5CKJ
1,2￿¥
6,440
3.750
6510,. CCLA (CBF) d•poslt a¢¢ount- Asset
AV and IT
Designated
Maintenance
Bemard Worssam
Fund
Cameras and IT
Church Hall
Malntenance
Extemal Worky
Flowers
Music
Parish Offer Fund
Choral Music Fund
Church Hall
Cydical Maintenance
General fund
Jean Kelsey Music
Fund
Mission
383
1.207
Restricted
556
529
Restricted
Restricted
22
587
3.527
559
Restricted
Restricted
Restricted
Designaled
Restricted
Designated
Designated
Unrestricted
Restricted
10.040
100
510
1,250
21
533
12,351
18.303
15.296
45.220
2.039
23.Iy22
9.137
23.859
Deslgnated
9.196
103.508
91A17
0590: Cash In hand - As30t
General lund
Unrostrlcl8d
136
140
136
140
Cash at bank and In hand
118,927
105,680
Page 16of 24

Oebtors
Z05: Accounts R•c01vatsle . A88Ot
Sequestratlon Awount RestrKled
General fund
Unr88trided
55
1.354
559
559
1,410
Debtors
559
1,410
Credltors: Amounts falllng duo In one year
Z04: Accounts Payablg- Llablllty
Sgqu8slration A￿OUnt Restdcbj
Church Hall
Deslgnated
General fund
Unrestrlcted
Ission
Deslgnatwj
50
1,782
369
1.620
150
1,770
3,171
Crndltors: Amounts falllng due in one year
1.TlO
3.171
Grand Total
325.255
311.303
Poge 17of 24

St. Bartholomews Church Otford- 1135073
Analysis of income and expendlture
01 January 2024 to 31 December 2024
Income and ondowments
Total
Donatlons and legacles
Unrestricted
Deslgnated
Restricted
Endowment Thls y8ar
Last year
0101- GfftAkl- Donabons
0110- Gift Ald - Envelope5
0201 Other planned gSving
0301- L005e plate eollections
0302- Wall Safe
0501- One-off Gift Aid gifts
0550- Donations appeals etc
0601- Tax recoverable on Gift
0610- Tax R￿)very- GASDS
0701- Legacie5
0811- Norpre(yJthng onevoff grants
1270- Youth work
1280- Church refreshments
1510- Bookof Remembrance
2,413
1,365
7.392
7.002
62.413
1.365
7.392
7.027
65,671
8.949
6.123
250
2.630
719
19.064
2269
11.000
1￿96
1,935
25
11.100
1.969
20.751
2.085
10.(
21,100
2.￿24
23.296
2,085
1,960
996
200
996
25
Donadons and legacles Totals
117.484
13,225
130.709
122,152
Income from charitable actlvltles
1101- Fees for w&ddlng8 & fijnerals -
pcc
1111- Fees for w￿￿1￿9$ & fvnerals -
DBF
4.553
3,(K17
1,531
Income fmm eharltable actlvltles
Totals
4.553
7,436
Other trndlng activltles
0901 - Otherfijnds generdted
0910- iJurch falr
0911- Made In Otford website
0912- Ride and stride
0913- ￿ristMaS market
0914- Events
1.449
7.579
508
561
4.390
7.843
7.579
7,188
918
875
4,106
9,535
15,755
561
4.390
7,843
19.674
1240- Church hall letbngs
19.674
Other trading aCti￿tIeS Totals
22.333
19.674
42.007
39,730
Investments
1001- Dlvidends
1020- Bank and building So￿￿ty
Intgrest
161
2.104
161
4,481
159
3,530
2,011
Investments Totals
2.266
2.011
365
4.643
3,690
Income and endowments
Grand totals
146.636
21,685
16,473
184.796
170,110
Page 18 of 24

Total
Endowment This year
Expendlture
Unre8trthd
D8signat&
R8thded
Last year
RaI￿ng funds
1730- Costs of fund raising
1.570
1,620
1,974
R8lslng fimds Totals
1.570
1.620
1,974
Expenditure on charftable 8Ctivltles
1801- Mission Giving
1907- Mission & Ministry SuppDrt
2001- Salary of Caretakor
2050- Salary of parish administrator
2051- Pension Contributions Offi
Staff
2101- Working expenses of incumbent
2110- Vislting speakers I locums
2120- Council tsx
2130- Wicarage house expenses
2140- Water rates- virAra9e
2180 - Youth work
2201- Fees & subscrfptSons
2320- Organ I piano tunln9
2321- Organist fee5
2322- Choir exPendI￿re
2340- Upkeep of $8rvices
2341- Atar Rquisites
2345- Churth refreshments
2350- Upkeèp of Ghurchyard
2360- Printing. ststionery, postage 8nd
other
2361- Computers and Offi￿ equlpm8nl
2362 - Photocopier maintenance
2365- Church office- telephone
2366- Intemot & Websitè
2370- aeaning & sanitsry supplies
2401- Church running - electric
2410- Church njnning - gas
2420- Churth rnnning- water
2422- Churth sound and vision
2430- Churth running- security
2450- Churth running - insuranr
2460- Churc* maintenance
2470- Church - performing rights
licence
2530- Hall running - electricity
2540- Hall njnning - gas
2550- Hall running - insuran
2560- Hall running - maintenance
2570- Hall deaning and materials
2580- Hall running - water
10.224
12,351
10.224
72.
4.484
9.609
2.492
9,698
57.316
4,211
9.023
2,343
60,639
4,484
9,609
2.492
175
4,183
175
4.183
412
307
412
307
3.422
203
3.422
476
638
3.071
1,710
2.391
3.463
11
389
254
516
2,391
11
421
254
516
3,023
1,436
31
100
510
632
557
516
357
896
126
2.936
4,¥27
516
357
236
875
126
2,936
4.827
114
850
7.923
8,888
1.364
3.216
3.899
2.166
714
3.813
3.418
679
2,166
714
2.212
3.253
1,416
13.413
2.212
3.253
1,416
13,413
2,553
4.680
1.385
8.825
2.222
1.511
1,154
1.154
Expenditure on charftable
activities Totsls
108.877
44.875
15,376
169,128
147,085
Other expenditure
2602- Bank Charges
229
229
251
Other expendhurn Totals
229
229
251
Poge 19 of 24

Unrestricted
Designabj Restricted
Endowm8nt This year Last year
Exp•ndlture Grand totals
110,676
44,875
15,426
170,978
149,311
Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 9 April 2025 and signed on its behalf by:
Mrs. Janet Hunt
Mrs. Joan Beacom
Lay Chair of PCC & Churchwarden
Churchwarden
Notes to the Financial Statements for
ar endln
to 31 December 2024
The notes on the following pages form part of these accounts.
Accounting Policies
The PCC is a public benefit entity within the meaning of FRS102. The financial Statements have been prepared
under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulation5 2006 governing the
individual account5 of PCC, and with the Regulations true and fair viev/' provisions.
Assets
2.1. Consecrated and benefice
ro
ert
In 50 far as consecrated and benefice property of any kind is excluded from the statutory definition of 'CharIt￿ by
section 10{2)lal and (c) of the Charities Act 2011 such assets are not capitalised in the financial statements.
2.2. Moveable Church Furnishin
Typically, these are capitali5ed at cost and depreciated over the useful economic life other than where insufficient
cost information is available. In this case the item is not capitalised, but all items are included in the Church's
inventory.
2.3. Tan
ible Fixed Assets for use b the charit
These are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £IOOO. They are valued at cost
or else, for gifts-in-kind, at a reasonable estimate of their open market value on receipt.
Depreclation is calculated to write off the capitalised cost of fixed assets less thelr currently anticipated residual
fair value over their estimated useful lives as follows:
Land
Fixtures & Fittings
Computers
20 years
3 years
Page 20 of 24

No depreciation is provided on buildings as the currently estimated residual value of the properties is not less
than their carrying value and the remaining useful Ilfe of these assets currently exceeds 50 years, so that any
depreciation charges would be immaterlal.
An impairment review is carried out each year end and any resultant loss identified included in expenditure for
the year.
2.4. Church Hall
The Church Hall is currently the subject of a consultation prO￿5S to deterrnine its future use. The PCC has
Suspended all non-essential maintenance to the Hall until this process is complete, with the result that the fabric
of the Hall is continuing to deteriorate.
As part of the consultation process in 2019 the PCC commissioned a condition survey of the Hall, with associated
costs for repairs, from an independent firm of surveyors, which estimated total repair costs, at the time, of £385k.
A sum of £9k ha5 been included within the Church Hall Budget for 2023 to cover maintenance costs needing
immediate attention within the short term.
2.5. Investments
Investments quoted on a recogni5ed stock exchange or whose value derlves from that are valued at market value
at the year end. Other investment assets are included at PCC'S best estimate of market value.
2.6. Short Term De
oslts
These are the cash held on deposit either with the CCLA or at a bank.
The church's assets are held in the following accounts:
CAF Bank- current account (for general income and payments for both church and hall)
CAF Bank- freewill offering account (for all regular donations made by bank transfer)
CCLA-deposit account (interest paying instant access account)
Funds
3.1. Unrestricted Funds
These represent the funds of the PCC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the PCC,
excluding amounts designated by the PCC for r￿ed assets for its own use or for spending on a future project and
which are therefore not included in its 'free reserves, as disclosed on the trustees, report.
3.2. Restricted Funds
These are funds that must be spent on restrScted purposes. Details of the restricted funds held are shown below:
Bernard Worssam Fund
Church Hall {Building)
External Works
Jean Kelsey Music Fund
Sequestration Account
Cameras & IT Fund
Church Hall Maintenance
Flower Fund
Music Fund
These Funds are primarily held in the CCLA account and interest Is added to the Funds on a quarterly basis.
Page 21 of 24

The Choral Music Fund, which held monies donated speclfically for fvrtherance of Choral Music, was closed within
the financial year, with the majority of the monies transferred to The Royal School of Church Music.
A Sequestration Account is instigated when a clerical vacancy occurs. Income from statutory fees normally
payable to the diocese are retained wlthin this account, along with costs associated with the vacancy such as
visiting curate fees. The account was showing a deficit of £4,015 as at31 December 2024, which has been
expensed within the 2024 financial year. The Sequestration Account will be closed when a new priest is
appointed. Any positive balance within the account at the time is payable to the diocese; a negative balance
must be covered from church funds.
Restricted Income in the year was as follows:
External Works
Flower Fund
Sequestration Account
£10,600 donated for churchyard and car park lighting
£80 Donations
£2,883 Statutory fees
Expenditure in the year from Restricted Funds was as follows:
Cameras & IT Fund
E)rternal Works Fund
Flower Fund
Muslc Fund
Sequestration Account
£3,563 New Sound Desk & Associated camera works
£632 Tree works
£31 Altar Flowers
£50 Loan of Music for Band use
£5,078 Visiting Clergy & Vicarage costs
3.3. Desi
nated Funds
These are funds that the PCC have designated for a specific purpose. Detsils of the designated funds current held
are shown below:
AV & IT Maintenance
Cyclical Maintenance
Parish Offer Fund
Church Hall Irunning costs and lettingsl
Mission Giving
These Funds are primarily held in the CCLA account and interest is added to the Funds on 3 quarterly basis.
Money transferred to designated Funds during the year was as follows:
Church Hall
Cyclical Maintenance
Mission Giving
Parish Offer Fund
£19,674 Hall Lettings
£5,500 budgeted Cyclical Maintenance for 2024
£8,800 budgeted Mission Giving for 2024
£1,250 towards 2025 Parish Offer
Expenditure in the year from Designated Funds was as follows:
AV & IT Maintenance
Church Hall
Mission Giving
Parish Offer Fund
£850 New Amplifier
£21,449 Hall Running & Maintenance
£10,224 Away Giving from 2023
£12,351 Towards 2024 Parish Offer
Page 22 of 24

Staff Costs
During the yearthe PCC employed an organist and office staff (all part time). Tax and National Insurance
payments were made for relevant employees. Total staff costs amounted to £19,565 which includes £783
Employer Pension Contributions. National Insurance Contributions for the year fell below the £2,000 government
allowance.
Incumbent costs are covered by the diocese and therefore not included within these accounts.
No members of the PCC are employed, however a person closely connected to a PCC member is employed within
the office staff.
Donations made by PCC members during the year amounted to £28,825.
4.1. Church Worker5 Pension Fund
CWPF
St Bartholomew's participates in the Pension Builder Scheme section of CWPF for lay staff. CWPF is administered
by the Church of England Pensions Board, which holds the CWPF assets separately from those of the Employer
and other partlcipating employers.
CWPF has two sections:
the Defined Benefits Scheme
the Pension Builder Scheme, which has two subsections;
a deferred annuity section known as Pension Builder Classic, and,
a cash balance section known as Pension Builder 2014.
Pension Builder Scherne
Both sections of the Penslon Builder Scheme are classed as defined benefit schemes.
Pension Builder Classic provides a pension, accumulated from contributions paid and converted into a deferred
annuity during employment based on terms set and reviewed by the Church of England Pensions Board from time
to time. Discretionary increases may also be added, depending on investment returns and other factors.
Pension Builder 2014 is a cash balance scheme that provide5 a lump sum which member5 use to provide benefits
at retirement. Pension contributions are recorded in an account for each member. Discretionary bonuses may
be added before retirement, depending on investment retums and other factors. The account, plus any bonuses
declared is payable, unreduced, from age 65.
There is no sub-division of assets between employers in each section of the Pension Builder Scheme.
The scheme is considered to be a multi-employer scheme as described in Section 28 of FRS 102. This is because it
is not possible to attribute the Pension Bullder Scheme's assets and liabilities to specific employers and means
that contributions are accounted for as if the Scheme were a defined contribution scheme. The pensions costs
charged to the SOFA in the year are the contributions payable (2024: £2,493, 2023: £2,343).
Page 23 of 24

A valuation of the Pension Builder Scheme is carried out once every three years. The most recent valuation was
carried out as at 31 December 2022.
For the Pension Builder Cla55ic section, the valuation revealed a surplus of £34.8m on the ongoing assumptions
used. At the most recent annual review effective l January 2025. the Board chose to grant a discretionary bonus
of 6.7% to both pen5i0ns not yet in payment and pensions in payment in respect of service prior to April 1997;
and a bonus on pension5 in payment in respect of post April 2006 service so that the pension increase was 2.7%
{where usually it would be calculated based on inflation up to 2.5%). This followed improvements in the funding
position over 2024. There is no requirement for deficit payments at the current time.
The next valuation is due as at 31 December 2025.
For the Pension Builder 2014 section, the valuation revealed a surplus of £8.5m on the ongoing assumptions used.
There is no requirement for deficit payments at the current time.
The legal structure of the scheme is such that if another employer fails, St Bartholomew's could become
responsible for paying a share of the failed employerfs pension liabilities.
Misslon Givin8
Current policy is for 75% of any unrestricted budget surplus from the 2023 accounts to be added to the 2023
budgeted Mission Giving and for these funds to be distributed following sign-off of the 2023 accounts. However.
an exception to this policy was agreed by the PCC at its meeting in Dec 23, in that £12,531 of budget surplus from
2023 was set aside to fund the parish offer in 2024. As a result, the amount of 2023 budget surplus transferred to
Mission amounted to £1,921. A total of £10,224 was distributed in line with instructions from the Mission
Committee.
Overall Position
The church is currently in a clerical vacancy, which is in general detrimental financially. We anticipate this will be
resolved within the coming financial year.
With this assumption in place, the PCC have reviewed antlclpated income and expenditure for 2025 and set
balanced budget for the year ahead.
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