THE ANNUAL REPORT AND
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR
THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL
OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF
CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
FOR THE YEAR ENDED
31ST DECEMBER 2025
Supported by:
..) Cloudesley
159 Highbury Grove, London N5 ISA. It Is part Df the siepnev
Area Df the Diocese of London and within the Deanery of151ingtoD of the Church of England. The
correspondence address is Parish Community Centre, 159 Highbury Grove, London N5 ISA.
The PCC Is a body corpor3re IPCC Powers Measure 1956. Church Represenr8tlon Rules 20061 a
registered charity with the Charity Commission 111354201.
Incurnbent.. The Revd. Andy Chrich (Chairl
Bankers.. Barclays, Islington Branch
Independent Examiners.. Independent Examlners Limited, The Grain Store, Hllls Barns
Appledram Lane South, Chichester, P020 7EG

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
CONTENTS
P3ges 3 to 21
TrLJStees Annual Report
Page 22
Statement of Financial Activities
Page 23
Balance Sheet
Pages 24 to 35
Notes to the Financial Statetnent5
Page 36
Cashflow Statement
Page 37
Related Charities
Page 38
Independent Examlners Report

2025 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH
COUNCIL OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY
WITH ST JOHN AND ST SAVIOUR
-Iiiin£iR;
.Iil'.,11
Aim and Purpose
The Parochial Church Coullcil of the parish of Christ Church Highbury with St
lohn and St Saviour (the PCC) has the responsibility of cooperating with the
Incumbent. the Reverend Andy Chrich. in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish,
the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.
The PCC has responsibility for the church building of Christ Church Highbury,
157 Highbury Grove. London N5 ISA and the Christ Church Community Centre,
159 Highbury Grove. London N5 ISA.
Objectives and Activities
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our
Church, and to become part of our parish family. At the same time we seek to
demonstrate the love of God in action by serving the community around us.
When planning our activities, the PCC has considered the Charity Commission's

guidance on public benefit, and in particular the specific guidance on charities
for the advancement of religion.
To facilitate our work in meeting our objectives, it is vital that we maintain the
fabric of both our Church and our Community Centre.
As an open and inclusive church, we describe ourselves in the following words..
'We are a lively community of all ages, in the heart of Islington, with a common
desire to deepen our understanding of God and to reach out to our community
and borough.
Our motto is'roots down, branches out" meaning a community that is rooted in
faith and branching out in loving service. We seek to put down deep roots in our
Christian faith through which we encounter the love of God. Then by drawing on
that love. we look to put branches out in our community, our workplaces and
beyond expressing and making known the love of God in word and in action, in
the name ofJesus Christ.
"God is love, and those who live in love live in God and God lives in them."
4..16
Whoever you are, and wherever you are on life's journey... You are welcome
herel
l John
Achievements and Performance
This year, the PCC has been using the following headings to guide our activities,
use of resources, and decision making:
Our Spiritual Heart
Inclusive Church
Yes to Young People
Church in Community
Going for Growth
Ministry for Mission
Safeguarding
Our Spiritual Heart
lust as the working of the human heart involves two circuits, one pumping
deoxygenated blood to the lungs to receive oxygen, and the other propelling the
oxygenated blood out of the heart to the rest of the body, so a healthy spiritual
heart needs to be renewed and refreshed through prayer and worship, in order
to be sent out to serve.

To deliver on this the PCC 15 keen to offer a range of options for worship, prayer
and Bible study not only on Sundays, but also during the week, that our
community will find both beneficial and spiritually refreshing.
Our regular pattern of prayer, worship and study:
Sunday..
9am
Holy Communion including creche and children's
groups
11am
Holy Communion or Morning Worship or
Morning Worship with Baptism
including creche and children'sgroups
Jazz Vespers (quarterly)
6.30pm
Monday
9am
Morning Prayer (online)
Tuesday
9am
Morning Prayer (in person in the Fellowship Room)
Home group (fortnightly)
7.30pm
Wednesday 9am
9.45am
Morning Prayer (online)
Contemplative Prayer (in the Community
Centre)
10am
7.30pm
Holy Communion (in the Community Centrej
Home group (fortnightly)
Thursday
9am
Morning Prayer (online)
Friday
9am
Morning Prayer (online)
This year we have seen numbers remain steady with on average 150 attending
Sunday mornings (119 adults and 31 children across the two services), and an
average of 80 at lazz Vespers.
Easter Day and Christmas Eve/Day attendance was up this year with 231 in
attendance on Easter Day, and 465 over the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
services.
A small group of parishioners (usually between 4 and 10) meet for Morning
Prayer. and this provides a vitally important opportunity to pray daily for the
church cotnmunity, our neighbourhood, and the needs of the world.
Wednesday morning's Communion in the Community Centre has grown in
popularity this year, and a regular group of up to 15 members of the church
community meet each week to receive Communion, to bring prayer requests,

and to di5CUSS together the Bible readings set for the day. In recent months, a 15
minute service of silent prayer and meditation led by Mary Cook has been
established leading into the 10am Communion. further enriching this time of
worship. In 2026 we will offer a similar space at 8.30am before the 9am
Communion
We continue to stream our services, thanks to the hard work and dedication of
Oli Bage and his team of technical volunteers, and estimate around 20
households a week access our worship online.
One great encouragement this year has been the number of people coming
forward for confirmation. We aim to offer an opportunity every year for
interested parties to explore the Christian faith for themselves. This year, we
have needed to offer two such groups, and nine adults and five young people
have taken the opportunity to be confirmed. Many of them have been baptised
as well as confirmed, and this is another encouraging pattern we have observed
with significant numbers of people coming to worship at Christ Church this year
who had not previously been brought up in the Christian faith.
Music continues to significantly enrich our worship, thanks to the ability and
hard work of James Buckham, our Director of Music, and the talented singers
and musicians from our community that he encourages and leads. We benefit
enormously from the creativity of James and his team, and in particular, the Jazz
Vespers services, and the Christmas Candlelit Carol service were especially
moving. Visitors frequently comment that they felt spiritually lifted by the
beauty of the hymns and worship songs.
Polly Arthur coordinates a team offering Prayer Ministry to those who attend
our 11am service, and this continues to be accessed regularly byvisitors and
regular members of the congregation alike.
Over the course of the year, the home groups have met regularly, coming
together in Lent to discuss and explore different spiritual disciplines using the
'Practising the Way, course. This year home groups looked at a variety of
material including studies on the Psalms, the Book of Daniel and the writings of
lulian of Norwich. The impact of the latter was shown in the enthusiastic take up
for a'pilgrimage, trip to Norwich to visit Julian's shrine and the Cathedral.
All of the above gives us reason to believe that the spiritual heart of Christ
Church is currently in good health.

Inclusive Church
We passionately believe that the love of God reaches out to all humanity- indeed
to the whole ofcreation - and consequently our church should be an inclusive
place where all are welcomed. Having taken the decision to register with
Inclusive Church, over the last year we have been exploring what it might look
like to be more inclusive. With the support of Cloudesley, a disability access
audit prompted some work to in]prove accessibility in the church, including the
installation of an upgraded hearing aid loop, and individual wearable units. We
also hosted a Diocesan Training Day, co-ordinated by the Revd Prebendary John
Beauchamp, the Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler, with input from the
theologian Professor lohn Swinton.
We are committed to racial justice, and were delighted in lune to host the
second 'Ubuntu' racial justice gathering for the Stepney Area of London Diocese.
It has been encouraging to meet people coming to our church for the first time,
or joining us as regular worshippers whose point of entry was that they saw on
our website that we are an inclusive church and therefore felt that this would be
a church where they would be welcome.
This is an ongoing journey for us at Christ Church, but we have made good
progress this year.
Yes to Young People
Reportfrom Tamika Armstrong, Children's & Youth Team Leader..
Ourvision for the children and youth at Christ Church Highbury is for them to
love, know and worship God. We do this through Bible study, play, and
consistently building strong relationships with them. There is some great work
being done, and lots of enthusiasm from the children and young people, and this
is really exciting. At the same time, each group and activity could benefit from
additional leadership (voluntary or paid), and this would help us to widen and
deepen our impact.
TODDLE TO CHURCH - MONDAYS
This is our O to 5 group which we run for our community. where we often have
toddlers coming along to play. The aim of the group is to provide a first point of
welcome, community and support at Christ Church for parents and carers
looking after babies and toddlers. Many thanks to Jenni Bage and Miranda
Henshaw for supporting the running of this group through the year.

'OPEN THE BOOK, COLLECTIVE WORSHIP- THURSDAYS
Each Thursday afternoon, we lead Collective Worship at St John's Highbury Vale
Primary School. Using resources from a Bible Society programme called'open
the Book, we involve the children in acting out dramatised Bible stories,
designed to bring the stories to life for the children, and promote biblical
literacy. The children are extremely keen to be involved in acting out the stories,
and engage thoughtfully with them.
(Andy C and Andy S, alternating with Gabriel and Nathan from St Augustine's
and recently Stephen from St Thomas, also lead Collective Worship at St lohn's
every Wednesday using themes chosen by the School around its Christian
values.)
'MIRACLE WORKERS'_ THURSDAYS
This is our free'after school club, for 6 to 10 year olds at St lohn's Highbury
Vale, where we watch Bible stories and play games. As part of our push to be
inclusive, it is important to us that children are able to access this club without
cost, and that they have fun exploring Christianity together, though this does
mean that there is particular need ofsupport with this group.
'WAYMAKERS' YOUTH GROUP - FRIDAYS
'Waymakers' is a youth club open to secondary school aged young people, and is
ever growing with energetic, funny teenagers. It offers the young people a place
to hang out together, play table tennis, pool, table football, dodgeball etc.
together as well as to hear a short Bible presentation. Thanks to lohn Barrett,
Andy Symmons and particularly Rihanna Palmer for their help with this club.
Waymakers is a lively group, and behaviour management can be a problem, so
again, going fonvards, additional voluntary or paid support going fonvards
would make a real difference.
SUNDAY GROUPS FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE
Our vision to put down deep roots in the Christian faith and to know the love of
God is a vision for all ages, from babes in arnis upwards. Therefore we run a
crèche and children's church group at both the 9am and I lam services every
Sunday during school terni time. Recently at 11am, we have begun a monthly
group for teenagers and we hope to offer this weekly in 2026. The Sunday
service is streamed to the crèche, but we are conscious that many parents of
crèche children don't get much of a chance to be present in the church building
for the service, and we would like to address this in 2026. Again, there is always
a vacanry for help here from new people.

SPECIAL EVENTS
The activities already described were supplemented in 2025 by a number of
special events. In Holy WeeL we have run an Easter Party with St Augustine's,
designed to help children engage with the Easter story in a fun way, involving
crafts, worship, games, challenges, biscuit decorating and a bouncy castlel
We ran a Light Party as a positive alternative to Halloween, remembering that
Halloween is the eve of All Hallows or All Saints, Day, and therefore a time to
celebrate the light of Christ. The party involved games, food and drink and a lot
of fun for all who came along.
Last year we partnered with Counties UK to run the Life Exhibition, which
enabled us to work with several local churches and primary schools to teach
children about
the life of Jesus. Again the feedback from children, teachers and volullteers was
enthusiastic.
We have also connected with the London Screen Academy to run movie nights.
ISLINGTON CENTRAL HUB
As part of the Stepney Area Hackney & Islington Partnership (HIP), losh Booth
has been working with central Islington churches including Christ Church to
come together and support one another in Children's and Youth Ministry.
Tamika has been very involved in some of the first initiatives, including helping
Hope Church
with their Halloween trail for kids and their Easter experience with teenagers at
St Mary Magdalene and working with St Mary's Upper Street on the hot
chocolate outreach for St Mary Magdalene Secondary School pupils, and a
residential event foryouth at PGL, which she helped lead. She has also worked
with St Jude St Paul's Thursday youth group, supporting them while they
searched for a youth worker.
SUMMING UP.. A THRIVING CHILDREN AND YOUTH MINISTRY
For many years Christ Church has been known as a church with a commitment
to children and young people. At a time when across the country, London
Diocese included, many churches are struggling to attract families, children and
young people, Christ Church continues to have a thriving children and youth
ministry, and today this is in large part due to Tamika's energy and dedication.
Our groups are well attended (c.15 children oryoung people on average for each
group). and in an average week, Tamika works directly with over 75 children
and youllg people. The work continues to grow in scope and has built significant
momentum.

This presents us with a happy challenge. How do we support TaTnika and
sustain and grow the ministry she has developed, being a place where children
and young people can thrive. where some can put down deep roots in faith. and
where as a church we can reach out to families, children and young people in
our local community offering support, welcome and a place to belong.
In 2025, we started to explore with losh Booth and the HIP project securing
funding for an apprentice post for someone to train and work alongside Tamika.
We are hopeFul this might come to fruition. However, we also need to redevelop
and renew our volunteer base to support the worK and consider how a growing
children's and youth ministry might best be funded and supported.
Church in Community
At Christ Church we are committed to serving the community and making the
love of God known in a variety of different ways.
SCHOOL
Whilstvaluing our contacts with all the local schools, for whom we pray
regularly, we are particularly invested in our link with St john's Highbury Vale
CE Primary School. Sarah Hinton, a member of Christ Church is Chair of
Governors, the vicar is an ex-officio governor. Nicola Duncan [foundation] and
Alex Hooper (parent) are also members of the Christ Church community serving
on the Governing Body.
St lohn's school comes to Christ Church regularly for worship and for
educational visits, and the vicar, curate and children's and youth team leader
regularly lead collective worship at the school alongside other events enriching
the school curriculum. St John's is currently developing its understanding of
global Christianity, and members oFChrist Church fvom Iran and India were
invited to talk about Christianity in their countries of origin.
COMMUNITY CENTRE CHARITY PARTNERS
When the Community Centre was conceived, and then opened in April 2022, on
Easter Day 2022, the hope was that the space would allow us to develop our
'branches out, ministry responding to the local community with loving service.
In particular we set out to identify and work with charity partners to offer them
low or no cost spaces from which to run the services they offer. Our current
charity partners are..
Islington Centre for Refugees and Migrants (ICRM)
io

ICRM meet every Tuesday to offer language classes to a group of refugees and
migrants, helping them to build confidence. and equipping them to engage with
different groups in the community. to access services and find work;
Together Productions (TP)
TP run two community choirs at Christ Church,'Mixed Up Chorus, (Tuesday
evenings) and'sing for Freedom, (Thursday lunchtimes)- Both choirs would
welcome new members from the Christ Church community, and this would be
an excellentway to build our support of their work.
The Mixed Up Chorus is a group ofpeople from a diverse range of ethnicities,
nationalities and faiths, brought together to sing in solidarity and togetherness
songs from around the world.
The Sing for Freedom Choir is a remarkable community oFtorture survivors and
friends across London who sing together in a spirit of joy and hope, in solidarity
with all those who are oppressed.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
AA host a group in the Community Centre on Sunday evenings offering support.
solidarity, strength and hope in wrestling with alcohol problems.
MEMORY CAFÉ (every Tuesday morning in the Fellowship Room)
The Memory Café was founded at Christ Church in 2017, has its own
constitution and annual meetin& and whilst drawing significantly on members
of Christ Church in its leadership team, operates as its own entity. The Memory
Café is free for all older people and especially for those who have difficulties
with their memory. It is a chance to come together for fellowship and support
every Tuesday for homemade cake and refreshments. Each week there are fun
activities to get involved in such as seated exercises, quizzes, music and singing.
We were delighted to be able to offer low cost and no cost space to our charity
partners named above (ICRM, TP, AA, and Memory Cafe). The financial value of
this support equates to an equivalent amount ofaround £21,000 for 2025.
Looking ahead in 2026. and building on our links with ICRM & TP we are
exploring what it might mean to become a Church of Sanctuary, further
strengthening and embedding our ethos and culture of welcome, hospitality and
safety, and connecting to the Church of Sanctuary network of Churches Together
in Britain and Ireland (CTBI], the wider City of Sanctuary network, and the
wider community engaging with refugees and people seeking sanctuary, and
creating a garden of sanctuary at Christ Church.

We are also exploring training to allow Christ Church to join the Welcome
Directory, as a church willing and able to welcome and support people leaving
prison.
Goingfor Growth
Over 2025 we continued to see significant numbers of new faces arriving
Sunday by Sunday to experience worship at Christ Church. Large numbers of the
local community attend groups, events or activities at our premises. A growing
number offamilies with pre-school children worship with us with the intention
of being able to apply for church school reception class places for their children.
At the same time, 'London churn, continues to see a number of Christ Church
members move out of the area each year. With the tree as the symbol of our
vision at Christ Church we are reminded that growth is expected in a healthy
organism. and healthy churches should be growing in the number of members
and in depth of faith.
Looking ahead, we are planning to pilot a new'shorter, service aimed
particularly at families with pre-school children but open to all, alongside our
current Sundayworship offer. In the autumn, the effectiveness of this pilot will
be assessed to see whether it is a vehicle for encouraging new worshippers at
Christ Church and encouraging integration into the life ofthe church.
Ministryfor Mission
In 2025 we were delighted to welcome Andy Symmons and his family to Christ
Church. Andy will be with us for a three year curacy, and he brings
thoughtfulness, warmth and significant skills that are already enriching ministry
at Christ Church. increasing our capacity, and enabling us to try new ideas in
ministry and mission.
Particular thanks are due this year to Alex and to Evelyn in their hard work
addressing church finances, but many thanks to all who serve in so many
different ways in the Christ Church community:
our staff team- Tamika, Polly, john, Baran & Adrian
our churchwardens, treasurer and PCC secretary- Teresa, Dawn & Gareth,
A]ex and Pat
our Giving Secretary, Evelyn
our Electoral Roll Officer, Ann
our Parish Safeguarding Officer, Becky
our PCC mernbers
our Deanery Synod reps
our musicians- James and his team of talented volunteers
our flower arranger- Val
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all those who volunteer with our midweek group5, children's and youth
groups, Sunday service rotas
all who have delivered invitation cards around the streets of Highbury for our
Christmas and Easter services
those whose primary place to serve Christ is the work place, home or in the
local community
lesus said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask
the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.,
(Matthew 9.37-8] We are therefore called as a church to pray for God to provide
the people and resources we need to be effective in our'roots down, branches
out, vision. We are also challenged whether we are being called to be part of the
answer to our own prayers.
Safeguarding (report from Becky Osborn, Parish Safeguarding Officer)
Over the past year, considerable progress has been made towards full
compliance with the Diocese of London's safeguarding requirements, including
having in place a Parish Safeguarding Officer, a poliry statement, safeguarding
procedures, displayed safeguarding information and regular reports to the PCC.
In recognition of this we were delighted to receive positive feedback following
the Archdeacon's visit to Christ Church in luly 2025. Our progress has also been
recognised on the London wide Safeguarding Dashboard, against which we are
65 % compliant which places us at Level 2 of 3. For context, very few Parishes
are at level 3, and many are yet to reach level 2 - the requirements being
stringent.
We are delighted to report that most of our paid and volunteer workforce are
now nationally certified to safelywork with children or vulnerable adults. This
is an ongoing process as new volunteers are appointed or as DBS'S expire after 3
years. Almost all have completed the required level ofsafeguarding training for
their role. Thanks should go to office staff for administering this process for us.
Safeguarding risk assessments have now been completed for all church
activities, and the drafting of Job descriptions for each paid and unpaid role are
well undenvay. The requirement for all volunteers and staff to complete
confidential declarations is currently being rolled out, and good progress is
being made thanks to the support of our dedicated group leaders, whose time
and commitmentto ensure proper arrangements are in place is key to our
success.
In Novemberwe recognised the national initiative, Safeguarding Sunday, with a
presentation and video explaining what safeguarding means and why it is
important to raise awareness of the importance of Safeguarding and to ensure
13

that people know what to do should they have concerns about a child or
vulnerable adult.
Safeguarding continues to be widely advertised around the church building and
takes a promillent position within our website. Excellent relationships and a
culture ofsupport and open communication amongst the Safeguarding Officer,
the PCC and team leaders. ensures that robust arrangements are in place to
ensure that everyone is aware how to make a report and how to respond to
reports made to them, and as a result of everyone's efforts, we continue to keep
our congregation safe from harm.
The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 ofthe Safeguarding and
Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to comply with the House of Bishops,
guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).
Electoral Roll (statement from Ann Wilsdon, Electoral Roll Officer)
The electoral roll is the parish church's register of electors, the list of those
qualified to vote for the parochial church council and the parish's
representatives on the deanery synod. It is also an important indicator of the
regular attendance and mernbership of congregations.
Each electoral roll lasts for six years. 2025 was one of those years when we had
to prepare a completely new roll. I reported lastyear that the new roll had 125
names, a drop from the 178 on the old roll. The drop was disappointing but not
unexpected as it is quite usual for the numbers on a completely new roll to be
lower than the old one. So, l am pleased to announce that the roll has now risen
to 150 names.
Financial Review
Within an overall income of£316,521, total income on the unrestricted General
Fund was £280,709, with expenditure of £260,036, giving a small surplus of
£17,301. Overall, there was a surplus in the year of E3,619 as some amounts
were spent down from Designated and Restricted funds that had been received
in prior years. The main increase in income came from increased rental income,
both from use of the community centre and from rental of the Church buildin&
while the expenditure includes a contribution towards the housing of the Curate
and his family.
We are grateful to Cloudesley for their continued support towards maintaining
the infrastructure of the Church. In the year they provided grants of £32,616
towards a range of projects.
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The contribution to the Diocesan'Parish Share'_ which helps towards the cost
of stipends and housing costs for the clergy- decreased slightly this year, by just
under 5 %. We continue to target the giving of IOOOh of the amount requested
by the Diocese.
Reserves Policy
The activities of the church are classed as'continuinl, and therefore the PCC
aim to maintain sufficient reserves to enable the church to carry out its
activities, even if there were a substantial reduction in income. This translates
into the maintenance of sufficient'unrestricted" reserves to enable the church
to continue to operate for the next two years, even if ongoing income were to fall
by as much as 10 % each year. The impact of this potential reduction is currently
estimated as £52,495.
At the end of 2025, this compares to total unrestricted and designated funds of
£103,773. However, the Trustees note that unrestricted net current assets were
below this amount at £50,994, though this is sufficient to meet the short-term
needs ofthe PCC.
Fabric Report
Over the course of 2025, the following works were completed, with grant
support from Cloudesley to whom we are very grateful..
repairs to plaster work in the church following leaks which are now repaired,.
disabled access improvements including an access rail alongside the stone
ramp to the church entrance and significant improvements to the hearing aid
loop,.
a decarbonisation report for Christ Church looking ahead to future ways of
heating the building when the current boiler heating system fails-
electrical repairs to meet current safety standards
The wooden notice boards in the church garden have been taken down, as the
posts were rotten and had become unsafe. Plan5 are in place to replace these
with aluminium boards.
In addition work has been carried out in the Community Centre to repair the
underfloor heating in the Taylor-Basset room, the meeting room and foyer have
been repainted, and thumb-turn locks have been fitted to the inside of the
meeting room doors for extra security.
Many thanks to Michelle Paton for her tireless work in looking after the church
building and to Matthew Lloyd for his oversight of the community centre, and to
Gareth Dixon, Matthew Langston and Simon Ward for their work trouble-
shooting and undertaking minor repairs.
15

Islington Deanery Synod Report 2025
A shared life of stewardship, mission, and hope
Across 2025, the life of Islington Deanery Synod has reflected a shared
commitment to prayer, discernment, and participation in God's mission.
Bringing together clergy and lay representatives, Synod connects parishes with
one another and the wider Church-offering space to share learning, engage
common challenges, contribute to diocesan conversations, and discern how best
to steward our resources for mission.
In a context where many churches face pressures around finance, buildings, and
capacity. there has also been a growing sense of opportunity.. to deepen
engagement with our communities and to learn from one another.
Throughout the year, a consistent rhythm has shaped our meetings-gathering
for worship, receiving input, and engaging in conversation-holding together
the spiritual and practical dimensions of our shared calling.
Synod Meetings in Summary
March 2025 - Schools and Shared Leadership
The March Deanery Synod, hosted at St Mary's Islington, focused on the
relationship between churches and schools. Contributions from local and
diocesan leaders, including input from St John's Upper Holloway and the London
Diocesan Board for Schools, were followed by small-group discussions that
enabled deeper engagemenL
In synod business, nominations were approved for school governors and for a
Deanery Synod-nominated Trustee to the Cloudesley Charity. These
appointments reflected the deanery's ongoing commitment to shared
leadership, governance, and the strengthening ofour links with local schools.
lune 2025- Mission Across the Deanery
The June Synod, held at Hope Church [St Mary Magdalenej, focused on mission
across 151ington, particularly engagement with estates, young people, and
church planting. Presentations from those leading work in these areas were
followed by discussion groups. enabling members to reflect on emerging
initiatives and consider opportunities for collaboration.
16

The meeting highlighted a growing emphasis on outward-facing ministry,
alongside a recognition of both the opportunities and challenges ofmission in
this context.
November 2025 - Stewardship, Giving, and Sustainability
The November Synod, held at Christ Church Highbury, focused on giving, grants,
and sustaining the finances ofour churches. Input from Joe Allen (Area Finance
Advisor, London Diocesan Fund) and representatives from the Cloudesley
Charity, including Catherine Sorrell (Grants Manager), provided practical
support for churches.
A key highlight was guidance on grant writing-identifying funders, articulating
outcomes and what funders are looking for, and building realistic budgets-
alongside signpostingto resources such as the Cornerstone grants database.
Members were encouraged to share their own experiences of fundraising and
stewardship, fostering mutual learning across the deanery.
The meeting also included reflection on initiatives such as Rewild the Church,
connecting financial stewardship with care for creation and the Church's wider
mission.
Emerging Themes Across the Deanery
l. Deepening engagement with schools- The strong focus on schools reflects
their continuing importance as places of mission, relationship, and presence
within local communities. Governance, leadership, and partnership with
schools remain a significant part of the deanery's shared life. Sadly, one of our
church schools closed due to Falling roll.
2. A renewed focus on mission- Across the year, there has been a growing
emphasis on outward-facing ministry-particularly among young people, on
local est2tes, and through new expressions ofchurch. This signals a desire not
simply to sustain existing structures, but to engage afresh with the
communities we are called to serve.
3. Stewardship under pressure-and opportunity - Financial sustainability,
buildings, and giving remain as significant challenges. Atthe same time. there
is evidence ofcreativity. shared learnin& and a willingness to develop new
approaches to stewardship and fundraising.
4. The distinctive role of the Cloudesley Charity- A distinctive feature of
Islington Deanery is the support of Cloudesley, whose grants enable not only
the maintenance of buildings but their development for mission and
17

community use. This relationship is strengthened through deanery
representation among trustees and through the Deanery/Cloudesley link role,
which provides ongoing connection, oversight, and support. Together. this
reflects both provision and responsibility.. an opportunity to steward
resources wisely for the sake of God's mission. A common liturgical refrain at
synod is. where would we be without Cloudesley."
5. Collaboration and shared learning- A consistent pattern across synod
meetings has been the use of discussion groups and shared conversation. This
reflects a growing culture of collaboration, where parishes learn from one
another and discern together best practice. This is not stealing or nicking
from other churches butworking togetherl
6. Care for creation as mission- The inclusion ofinitiatives such as Rewild the
Church highlights an increasing awareness of environmental stewardship as
integral to Christian mission, particularly in engaging younger generations
and responding to the wider ecological crisis. Working with farmers will be
crucial to its success.
Spiritual and Strategic Significance
Taken together, these themes suggest a deanery that is being invited to hold
together faithfulness and imagination. There is a call not only to sustain what we
have inherited, but to reimagine how our churches, buildings, and resources
serve God's mission in this place.
The provision available through the Cloudesley Charity, alongside diocesan
support, creates space for creativity and development. At the same time, it raises
important questions about stewardship.. how we use these resources well, how
we learn from one another, and whether there are opportunities for deeper
collaboration across the deanery.
The year also points to a growing integration of the spiritual and the practical.
Conversations about finance, buildings, and governance are not separate from
mission, but part of our response to God's call-rooted in prayer, expressed in
service, and directed towards the flourishing of our communities.
18

Looking Ahead
As we look to 2026, several priorities emerge..
Continuing to strengthen links with schools and local communities
Developing and supporting Mission initiatives, particularly among young
people and on estates
Growing in confidence and skill around stewardship, giving and fundrnising
Deepening collaboration and shared learning across parishes
Responding faithfully to the call to care for creation
Above all, there is an invitation to continue walking together as a deanery-
sharing resources, wisdom, and encouragement-as we seek to follow Christ in
this place.
Christ Church Highbury is sltuated at 157 Highbury Grove, London N5 ISA. It IS
part of the Stepney Area of the Diocese of London and within the Deanery of
Islington of the Church of England. The correspondence address is Parish Office,
159 Highbury Grove, London N5 ISA. The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers
Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules online 2025) and a registered
charity with the Charity Commission (1135420).
PCC members who have served at any time from Isr January 2025 until the date
this report was approved are:
Ex officio members
Incumbent: The Revd. Andy Chrich (Chair)
Assistant Curate: The Revd Andy Symmons (from luly 2025)
Churchwardens: Teresa Dodgson; Dawn Bramble (till August 2025],. Gareth
Dixon from 21/12/25
Co-opted members
Hanna Sepulveda
Elected members
Sue Stevens
Michelle Paton
Tunje Faleye
Karen Harvey
Pat Woodward (Secretary) Alex Sargent (Treasurer)
lohn Barrett
Gareth Dixon
Rosie Strachan
Matthew Langsdon
David Dudding
19

Deanery Synod elected members
Adrian Arthur
Jackie Mair
Other positions not members of PCC
Children and Youth Work Leader: Tamika Armstrong
Licensed Lay Ministers.. Polly Arthur and lohn Gilbert
Safeguarding Officer: Becky osborn
Administrator[s): Baran Sommier and Adrian Grosu
Music Director and Organist.. James Buckham
Electoral Roll Secretary.. Ann Wilsdon
Giving Secretary: Evelyn Thomas
Approved by the Annual Meeting on 17 May 2026 and signed by the Reverend
Andy Chrich (PCC Chair).
Gareth Dixon, Teresa Dodgson
Churchwardens on behalf of the PCC
20

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT
Trustees Responsibilities
The trustees (Members of the PCCI are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with
applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice}.
The law applicable to charities in England & Wales requires the trustee5 to prepare financial statements for each financial year which
give a true and fair view of the state of affai￿ of the charity and of the incorning resources and application of resources of the charity
for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to..
Select suit3ble accounting policies and apply them consistently
Observe the methods and principles In the Charlties SORP.,
Make judgernents and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
Prepare financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presLJme that the
charity will continue in existence.
St3te whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures
which must be dlsclosed and explained In the flnanclal statements
The trustee5 are responsible for keeping proper accounting ￿CordS that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial
position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity
(Accounts and Reports) Regulations and the provisions of Church Accounting Regulations 2006. They are also responsible for
safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularities.
Signed on behalf of the Trustees and PCC Metnbers by..
Reverend Andy Chrich
PCC Chair
Date
17 May2026
Note that there may be fflinor discrepancies in the totals throughout the following pages if the pence are not being shown.
21

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
Unrestricted Designated Endowment Restricted
Funds
Fund5
Funds
Funds
TOTAL
2025
TOTAL
2024
Note5
Income and endowments from:
Donations and Legacies
2a
156,168
33,116
189,284
193,537
Charitable Activitles
2b
805
805
341
other Trading Income
2c
119,568
119,568
87,886
Investment Income
2d
4,168
2,696
6,864
4,859
other Income
2e
4,883
TOTAL
280,709
2,696
33,116
316.521
291.506
Expendlture on:
Charitsble Activities
260,036
10,000
1,046
35,913
306,995
328,442
TOTAL
260,036
10,000
1,046
35,913
306.995
328.442
NET INCOME/(EXPENDThURE)
BEFORE INVESTMENTS
GAINSI(LOSSES)
20,673
{io,000)
1,650
{2,797)
9,526
(36,936)
Gainslllossesl on
investments
5b
11,2901
14,6171
15,907}
2,726
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
19.383
(10.000)
(2.967)
(2.797)
3.619
(34.210)
Transfer between Funds
9,10
12,0821
4,778
12,6961
Net movement in funds
17.301
{5.222)
(5.663)
(2.797)
3.619
(34.210)
Reconciliation of funds:
Total Funds Brought Forward
59.344
32,350
1.137,822
51,524
1,281,040
1.315.249
Total Funds Carrled Forward
76,645
27,128 1,132,159
48,727 1.284.659 1,281.040
Movements on all reserves and all recognised gains and losses are shown above. All of the organisation's operations are classed as
contlnulng.
The notes on pages 24 to 35 form part of these financial statements.
22

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31ST DECEMBER 2025
Notes
Unrestricted Designated Endowment Restricted 31-De¢-25 31-Dec-24
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Total
Total
Fixed Assets
Tangible assets
Investment assets
5{al
51bl
1,038,787
91,826
1,038,787
117,476
1,039.833
123,383
25,650
Current Assets
Debtors
Cash at bank
Total Current Assets
10,885
46,400
10,885
123,801
134 686
5,262
116.500
121 762
1,546
Creditors- amounts
falling due within one year
6,291
6,291
3,938
NET CURRENT ASSETS
50,994
27,128
1,546
48,727
128,396
117,824
TOTAL ASSETS less current liabilities
76,645
27,128 1,132,159
48,727 1,284,659 1,281,040
NET ASSETS
76,645
27,128 1,132,159
48,727 1.284,659
1,281,040
Funds of the Charity
General Unrestricted Fund5
Designated Funds
Restricted Funds
Endowtnent Fund
76,645
76,645
27,128
48,727
1,132,159
59,344
32,350
51,524
1,137,822
27,128
io
li
48,727
1,132,159
Total Funds
76,645
27,128 1,132,159
48,727 1,284,659 1.281.040
Signed on behalf of the Trustees and PCC Metnbers by..
Reverend Andy Chrich
PCC Chair
Date
17FAay2026
23

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FENANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
I. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basls of preparatlon:
The aCCOLJnts are prepared under the historical cost convention, in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 and
Accounting and Reporting by Charitie5: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to Charities preparing their accounts in
accordance with FRS 102 (effective l January 20191- (Charities SORP IFFiS 10211 and the Charities Act 2011, with the exception of
the valuation of freehold land and buildings, which are stated at fair value as at 1st January 2015 and investment assets, which are
shown at market value.
The financial statements include 811 transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the
accounts of Church groups that owe their main affiliatlon to another body, nor those that are Informal gatherings of church members.
The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity.
There are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue in operation.
No changes to accounting estimates have occurred in the reporting period
No material prior year errors have been identified in the reporting period.
Fund$
￿F % ￿p￿e$ernt lal income which may be extended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or
the bequest, and Ibl donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only
be expended on the specific objert for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be
carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not usually invest separately for each fund.
Unrestricted Funds are general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes.
are earmarked by the PCC for partlcular purposes but are nevertheless stlll unrest￿tted
a5 the PCC can redesignate the fund5 if it wishe5.
h ￿En n was estsblished in April 1986, following the sale of the church hall and cottage in leigh Road. The LDF was
wm
appointed Custodian Trustees of the Endowment and the PCC Managing Trustees. The initial value of the fund was E287,588 (sale
price of £290,000 less legal fees).
The capital of the fund is held in permanent endowment and cannot be spent, other than for the PLJrchase of property. However, the
Income from the fund Is not simllarfy restricted and can be used for local mission of the church. Income from the Endowrnent fund Is
therefore transferred into PCC General Fund each year. Dividend incorne from the various investments in the Endowment Fund is
shown on the Statement of Financial Artivibes and Note 11.
Endowment fund Investment assets are shown at rnarket value in the balan￿ sheet. Endowrnent fund fixed assets are shown at book
value in the balance sheet.
Income recognition
Income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities ISOFAI when..
the charity becomes entitled to the income,.
It is more likely than not that the twstees will receive the resources,. and
the tnonetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability.
Planned giving* collections and donations are recognised when received. Tax refund5 are recognised when the incoming resource to
which they relate 3re received. Legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the 8mounts due and the amounts can
be estimated with sufflclent accuracy. Grants are recognlseé on receipt, any unspent Income received for a speciflc purpose is shown
within the relevant fund on the balance sheet. Where income is received in advance of entitlement of receipt, its recognition is
deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Dividends and bank interest are accoLJnted for when receivable. All other
Income is recognised when it is receivable. All Incoming resources are accounted for gross.
24

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
Government grants
The charlty has not received government grants durlng the ￿pOrtIng perlod.
Donated Services and Facilities
Donated service5 and facilitie5 are included in the SOFA when received at the value of the gift to the charity provided the value of the
gift can be measured reliably.
Volunteer Help
The value of any voluntary help received Is not Sncluded in the accounts but is described In the Trustees Annual Report. Volunteers
are used in all aspect5 of the activities of the church, including servingi readings, prayers, offertory and collertions, preparing and
serving food and drink 8t church events, helping with providing hospitality to guests, assisting in the office and providing other
supporting roles, Including bookkeeplng, accountlng and reportlng.
Investment gains and losses
All gains and losses are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities as they arise. Realised gains and losses on investments are
calculated as the difference between sales proceeds and their opening carrying value or their purchase value if acquired subsequent
to the first day of the financi31 year. Unrealised gains and losses are calculated as the difference between the fair value 3t the year
end and thelr carrylng value. Reallsed and unreallsed Investment galns and losses are combined in the Statement of Flnanclal
Activities.
Expenditure recognition
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the PCC to that expenditure,
it is probable that Settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All expenditure is accounted
for on an accruals basis. All expenses including support costs and governance costs are allocated or apportioned to the applicable
expendlture headlngs
Grants and donatlons are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a blndlng obllgatlon on the PCC. The
diocesan quota or parish share is accounted for when due. Although there is no legal obligation to pay outstanding Common Fund, it
Is the policy of the PCC to provide for unpaid amounts in these accounts. There were no such provisions at 31st December 2025 or
2024. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.
Costs of church activities include grants made, governance costs and support costs.
Pensions
During 2025, up to th￿e employees of the PCC weo enrolled in a defined contribution workplace pension scheme. Employer's
pension contributions were £1,215 in 2025 12024.. £7411.
Tax Status
As a charity, the PCC is exempt from paying income and corporation tax.
Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any tra£Je discount offered.
Prepayments a￿ valued at the amount popaid net of any trade discounts due.
Cash at bank and in hand
Cash at bank and in hand include5 cash and 5hort-term highly liouid investment5 Wlth a short maturify
of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.
Liabilities and provisions
Liabilities are recognised where it is more likely than not that there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to P3y
out ￿sourceS and the amount of the obligation can be measured with reasonable certainty.
25

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
Fixed assets
All tangible fixed assets costing £1,000 or more are capitalised and recognised when future economic benefits are probable and the
cost or value of the asset can be measured reliably.
Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at
cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its
Intended working condltlon should be Included in the measurement of cost.
At each reportlng date the charlty assesses whether there Is any Indication of impalrment. If such Indication exlsts, the recoverable
amount of the asset 15 determined to be the higher of its fair value less cost5 to sell and its value in use. An impairment 105S IS
recognised where the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.
Fixed assets are shown at book cost where the annual depreciation charye and accumulated depreciation are imrnaterial to the
financial statements, due to the asset having a very long remaining useful life (i.e. 50 years or morel.
Depreciation is calculated at a rate to write off the cost of tangible fixed assets on a straight line basis over their estimated useful
lives. The rates applied per annum are as follows..
Hall furniture and fittings
Church furniture, firtings and equipment
Computer equipment
IOOkn per annum
IOO/o per annum
20Qkn per annum
Investment assets
Investments are initially recognised at thelr transactlon value and subsequently measured at fair value at the balance sheet date
using rnarket prices. The Statement of Financial Activities includes net gains and losses arising on revaluations and disposals
throughout the year. The PCC does not acquire put options, derivatives or other complex financial instruments. The main form of
flnancial risk faced by the PCC Is that of volatllity in markets due to economlc condltlons, the attltude of Investors to Investment risk,
and changes in sentiment.
26

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
2. INCOME FROM:
Unrestricted Designated Endowment Restricted
Funds
Fund5
Funds
Funds
TOTAL
2025
TOTAL
2024
Note5
a) Donations and Legacies
Donations and Appeals
Grants
155,918
250
155,918
33,366
154.475
39,062
33,116
b) Charltable Actlvltles
Parochial Fees (Banns, Weddings, Funerals)
Playgroup Income..
Other Income
805
805
327
14
805
805
341
c) Other Trading Activities
Room Hlre
Fundraising
Sale of Cards
111,021
8,547
111,021
8,547
84,613
2,640
633
119 568
119 568
d) Investments
Dividends and Bank Interest
4,168
2,696
6,864
4,859
4,168
2.696
6.864
4.859
e) Other Income
VAT Reclaim from LPOWS
other Sundry Income
4,437
446
27

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
3. EXPENDITURE ON:
Unrestricted Deslgnated Endowment ReSt￿Cted
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
TOTAL
2025
TOTAL
2024
Notes
a) Charitable Activities
Ministry Costs
Common Fund Contribution
Curate Accommodation
Vicar's Expenses incl Worship Resources & Books
other Dlrect Costs
Repairs and Maintenance (Church and Garden)
Piano and Organ Tuning
Upkeep of Eouipment and Sound System
Seroice Upkeep and Flowers
utilities Ichurchl
Tnsurance
Cleaners Wages
Posters, Publlclty and Website
Music Director and Freelance Musicians
Salaries and Wages
Adult Education and Training
Children and Youth Work
Conferences and Church Events
Small Equipment
Printing, Postage and St3tionery Incl. copier
Telephone Costs
Bank Charges
Grants and Donations
Grants and Donations ' ltsver accrual)
Other Expenses
Depreciation
Governance Costs
Independent Examiners Fees
Legal and Professional Fees
Trustees Meeting Costs
Playgroup
Other Costs (incl Recruitment and Training)
100,200
13,000
100,200
13,000
104,875
270
8,050
220
35,417
43,467
10,220
70,173
12,215
46
119
16,099
8,465
9,648
420
12,540
57,865
150
430
10,220
5,347
12,672
1,827
439
2,790
18,5171
5,410
1,046
10,000
80
15,802
8,658
6,300
347
15,461
61.890
108
1,491
2,501
1,330
12,809
1,554
363
80
15,802
8,658
6,300
347
15,461
61,890
108
1,987
2,501
1,330
12,809
1,554
363
13
496
5,940
5,940
1,046
1,046
1.380
1,594
959
1,380
1,594
959
1,320
1,897
631
13
45
TOTAL
260,036
10.000
1.046
35,913
306.995
328.442
* Note that 2024 shows a negative balance, due to an over accrual in 2022 and 2023 which was reversed in 2024.
28

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
4. DETAILS OF CERTAIN TYPES OF EXPENDITURE
2025
2024
Independent examiner's fees
1,380
1,320
S (a). TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Endowment Endowment
fund
fund
Total
Construction
Cost5
Fixtures &
Fitting5
Cost l-Jan-25
Additions
Disposals
Cost at 31-Dec-25
1,032,462
10,457
1,042,919
1 032 462
1,042 919
Depreciation l-lan-25
Charge
Disposals
Dep￿CiatIon 31-Dec-25
3,086
1,046
3,086
1,046
Net book value 31-Dee-25
Net book value 31-Dec-24
1,032,462
1,032,462
6,325 1.038.787
7,371
1,039,833
The assets shown above within the Endowment Fund represent the Christ Church Comrnunity Centre which was constructed in the
course of 2021 and 2022. The PCC considers that the Community Centre will have a very long remaining useful life and in Ilne wlth
the PCC accounting policy stated in Note I, will not be depreciated. Specific elements of the building that will need periodic
replacement are depreciated as from 2022.
The annual commitments under non-cancelling operating leases and capital commitments for the next financial year are as follows..
Photocopler leaslng Costs £820 per quarter.
29

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
5 (b). INVESTMENT ASSETS
Endowment Unrestricted
fund
Igenerall
fund
TOTALS
31-De¢-25
COIF
COIF
4752.45
1327.55
Income Units Income Units
Market Value l-lan-25
Additions
Disposals
Transfers
Net Gain/lLossl on Fievaluation
Market Value 31-Dec-25
96,443
26,940
123,383
4,617
91,826
1,290
25,650
5,907
117,476
Llsted Investments
All listed investments are carried at their fair value and represent holdings iri common investment funds. The basis of fair value is
equivalent to market value. Asset sales and purchases are recognised at the date of trade at the transaction value. The main risk to
the PCC frorn listed investments lies in the combination of uncertain investment rnarket5 volatility in yield. Liquidity risk is
deemed to be low as all assets are traded in markets with good liquidity and high trading volumes. The PCC has no investment
holdlngs in markets subject to exchange controls or trading restrictions. The PCC manages its investment rlsks by retaining expert
advisors and operating an inve5trnent policy that provide5 for a high degree of diversification of holdings Wllthin investment asset
classes that are quoted on recognised stock exchanges. The PCC does not make use of derivatives and similar complex financial
Instruments.
6. DEBTORS AND PREPAYMENTS
Unrestricted Designated Endowment Restricted
Fund
Fund
Fund
Fund
Total
Total
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
Listed Place of Worship Scheme
Gift Aid Tax Recoverable
other Debtors
2,484
5,263
3,138
2,484
5,263
3,138
5.262
5.262
7. CASH AT BANK AND IN HAND
Unrestricted Designated Endowment Restricted
Fund
Fund
Fund
Fund
Total
Total
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
Cash at Bank
46,400
27,128
1,546
48,727
123,801
116,500
123 801
116.500
30

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
8. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
Unrestricted Designated Endowment Restricted
Fund
Fund
Fund
Fund
Total
Total
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
Independent Examiners Fees
PAYEINI/Penslon
Salaries and Wages
Playgroup Payroll Costs
Accruals
1,380
1,994
34
1,135
1,748
1,380
1,994
34
1,135
1,748
1,320
1,449
34
1,135
6,291
6.291
3.938
9. DESIGNATED FUNDS
CURRENT YEAR
Balance
01-lan-25
Galns and
Losses
Balance
31-Dec-25
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Piano/Organ
Special Project5
Vicarage Renovation
5,222
24,128
3,000
iio,0001
4,778
24,128
3,000
32,350
{io,000
4.778
27.128
PREVIOUS YEAR
Balance
01-lan-24
Galns and
Losses
Balance
31-Dec-24
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Piano/Organ
Special Project5
Vicarage Renovation
Ukraine Fund
5,222
24,128
3,000
2,205
5.222
24, 128
3,000
12,7051
500
500
The Pianolorgan Fund was Set up to fund renovation of the grand piano in the church and the longer term aim of raising
significant sums needed to restore the organ.
The Special Projects Fund was set up to help finance capital projects.
The Vi¢ara9e Renovation Fund was set up for the renovation/redecoration of the interior of the vicarage.
The designated funds are wholly represented by cash reserves of the charify as detailed below..
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
Cash at bank and in hand
27,128
27.128
32,350
32.350
31

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHRIST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
10. RESTRICTED FUNDS
CURRENT YEAR
Balance
01-Jan-25
Gain5 and
Losses
alance
31-Dec-25
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Cloudesley Fund
Highbury Heritage
Sparkfund
44,678
6,846
32,616
135,4171
41,877
6,846
500
14961
48.727
PREVIOUS YEAR
Balance
01-lan-24
Gains and
Losses
Balance
31-Dec-24
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Cloudesley Fund
Highbury Heritage
Playgroup
58,598
5,839
423
39,062
1,044
14
152,9821
1371
1451
44,678
6,846
1392}
392
The restricted funds represents donations made for specific purposes monitored by the PCC to ensure that only relevant expenditure
is charged against the fund.
The Cloudesley Fund ￿preSentS grants received from Cloude51ey for specific expenditure ￿lating to maintaining the church building.
The Highbury Heritage Fund represents grants received from Heritage Lottery Fund for the Spire Repairs pmject.
The Playgroup Fund represents the Christ Church Playgroup, which was managed by a sub-committee of the PCC. The Playgroup
was closed during 2023. All bank accounts were closed in September 2024 and the balances transferred to the Church account. The
restriction was lifted upon closure of the Playgroup, allowing the funds to be transferred to general unrestricted funds.
The Spark Fund supports youth led community Christian projects. It enable5 churches and schoo15 to develop init12tive5 that are
relevant and appealing to young people aged 11-L8. In our case, the Spark Fund helped us run a collaborative youth outreach
Christmas event with another church. The funding was used to provide hot chocolate and refreshments to kid5 and drive interest in
the youth activities we run and the church.
The Playgroup funds transferred to general funds in 2024 were as follows..
Balances held in bank a£count5
Creditors payable
1,527
392
The restrirted funds are wholly represented by cash reserves, current liabilities and marketable securities of the charity as detailed
below:
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
Cash at bank and in hand
Current assets
48,727
51,524
48,727
51.524
32

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
11. ENDOWMENT FUNDS
CURRENT YEAR
Balance
01-Jan-25
Gains and
Losses
Balance
31-Oec-25
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Christ Church Endowment Fund
1,135,691
14,6171
2,696
11,0461
12,696} 1,130,028
1 135 691
1 130.028
PREVIOUS YEAR
Balance
01-Jan-24
Gains and
Losses
alance
31-Dec-24
Income
E¥penditure
Transfers
Christ Church Endowment Fund
1,136,737
2,635
11,0461
12,635}
1,135,691
1,136,737
2.635
1.046)
{2.635) 1.135,691
The Christ Church Endowment Fund was established in April 1986, following the sale of the church hall and cottage in leigh Road. The
LDF was appointed Custodian Trustees of the Endowment and the PCC Managing Trustees. The initial value of the fund was £287,588.
The capital of the fund is held in permanent endowment and cannot be spent, other than for the purchase of property. However, the
Income from the fLJnd is not similaA y restricted and can be used for local mission of the church. Income from the Endowment fLJnd is
therefore transferred Snto PCC General Fund each year. In 2025 Income of £2,696 was transferred to general fund 12024.. £2,635)
The endowment funds are wholly represented by cash reserve5, fixed assets and investments a5 detailed below..
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
Tangible Flxed Assets
Investment Assets
1,038,787
91,826
1,546
1,039,833
94,312
1,546
Cash at Bank and In Hand
Current ￿abilItieS
1 132 159 1 135 691
12. RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS HELD AND MOVEMENT OF FUNDS
CURRENT PERIOD
Balance
01-Jan-25
Balance
31-Dec-25
Income
GalnlLoss
Expendlture
Transfers
General Funds
Designated Funds
Endowment Funds
Restricted Funds
59,343
32,350
1,137,822
51,524
280,709
11,2901 1260,0361
iio,0001
11,0461
135,9131
12,0821
4,778
12,6961
76,643
27,128
1,132,159
48,727
2,696
33,116
14,6171
1 281 040
316 521
306 995
1 284.657
33

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
12. RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS HELD AND MOVEMENT OF FUNDS (Continued)
PREVIOUS PERIOD
Balance
01-Jan-24
Balance
31-Dec-24
Income
Gain/Loss
Expenditure
Transfers
General Funds
Designated Funds
Endowment Funds
Restricted Funds
79.096
34,555
1,136,737
64,860
248,751
595
1271,6261
12,7051
11,0461
153,0641
2,527
500
12,6351
13921
59,343
32,350
1,137,822
51,524
2,635
40,120
2,131
1 315 248
291 506
328 442
1 281.040
13. STAFF COSTS, PAYMENTS TO TRUSTEES AND KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL
(a) Employees paid via Payroll:
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
pcc
Gross Wages and Salaries
Employers NI
Employers Allowance Claimed
Employers Pension Contributions
60,675
6,278
16,2781
57,124
3,979
{3,9791
741
staff who were engaged in each of the following activities laverage numbers)..
31-De¢-25 31-Dec-24
TOTAL
TOTAL
3.25
Activities in furtherance of charity's objects
Employed staff are paid via through a payroll scheme operated by the PCC. No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000
12024.. None).
The charlty paid three self employed personnel for provlding music services vSa a servlce contract. These personnel Involce the
charity for their professional services and are responsible for their own reporting of Tax and NI to HMRC. The total atnounts paid
under music service contracts during the year was £15,461 12024.. £12,540).
The charity paid Self employed cleaning personnel a total of £6,300 for cleaning services rendered. These paytnents were made in
accordance with an agreed cleaning rota and/or upon receipt of an invoice 12024.. £9,647}. From October 2025 the charity employed
cleaning personnel via the PAYE scheme.
(b) Key Mana9ement Personnel
The charity's key management personnel is considered to be the Trustees and 'Other Positions not members of the PCC referred to
in the Trustees Report. No remuneration was paid to Key Management Personnel in 2025 or 2024.
34

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
13. STAFF COSTS, PAYMENTS TO TRUSTEES AND KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL (continued)
(c) Transactions with PCC members and Trustees
No PCC member5 or Trustees received remneration.
Expense5 were paid to one Trustee as follows..
Detail
Total
Total
31-Dec-25 31-Dec-24
Mobile Phone IIOOQh Church Usel
zoom Software IIOOWD Church Usel
Broadband IIOO% Church Usel
144
237
509
890
91
140
400
631
The only other payments made to PCC members or any persons connected with them were reimbursements for purchases of
equipment, fumishlngs, refreshments and materlals made on behalf of the Church. No materlal transactlon took place between the
charity and a PCC Member or any person connected with them 12024- None).
The aggregate arnount of donations given by Trustees and PCC Members during 2025 was £5,000 12024: £4,731). There were no
conditions attached to these donations.
13. STAFF COSTS. PAYMENTS TO TRUSTEES AND KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL (continued)
(d) Transactions with Related Parties
Name of Related Party
Detail
Total
Total
31-Dec-25 31-De¢-24
B Fesharaki {spouse of Trustee W Sommier}
Gross Salary as Parish Administrator
Employer Pension Paid
17,640
208
W Sommier resigned as a Trustee in November 2024.
There were no other transactions with related parties that require disclosure.
14. MATERIAL LEGACIES
The PCC is unaware of any material legacies attributable to the charity.
IS. RESERVES POLICY AND RISK ASSESSMENT
Reserve5 are unrestricted fund5 which the PCC has set aside for the future. The purpose of holding reserve5 IS SO that the PCC is
able to continue to meet its financial obligations in a situation where Ljnforeseen shortfalls arise, until alternative plans can be put in
place.
The PCC has identified the key risks and assessed the amounts prudent lo set against those risks. The Reserves policy Is set out in
the Trustees Annual Report.
16. PUBLIC BENEFIT
The PCC acknowledges its requirement to demonstrate clearly that it must have charitable purposes or'aim5' that are for the public
benefit. Details of how this has been 3chieved this are provided in the Trustees Annual Report. The PCC Members confirm that they
have paid due regard to the Charify Commission guidance on public benefit before deciding what activities the charity should
undertake.
17. EVENTS AFTER THE END OF THE REPORTING PERIOD
There are no events that reouire disclosure.
35

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
CASH FLOW STATEMENT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2025
2025
2024
Cash used in operating activities
(al
{43,235)
Cash used from investing activities
Di5posal/lPurchasel of tangible fixed assets
Proceeds fmm s31elclosure of investments
Dlvldends from Investments
17531
724
Cash provlded by (used In)
investin9 activities
753
724
Cash flows from flnanclng artlvltles
IntrodurtionllRep3ymentl of long term borrowing
Cash used in financing activities
Tncreaselldecreasel in cash and
cash equivalents in the year
7,301
142,5111
Cash and cash equivalent5 at the
start of the year
116,500
159,010
TOTAL cash and cash equivalents
at the end of the year
Ibl
123 801
116.500
(a) Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities
2025
2024
Net movement in funds
Add back depreciation charge
Add back dividends from investments
Capital Igainl/loss on investments
Decreasellincreasel in debtors
Increase/ldecreasel in creditors
3,619
1,046
753
5,907
15,6231
2,353
{34,2101
1,046
{7241
{2,7261
6,151
{12,7721
Net cash used in operating activities
8,054
(43.235)
(b) Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
2025
2024
Cash at bank and in hand
123,801
116,500
Total cash and cash equlvalents
123 801
116 500
36

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH
OF CHIUST CHURCH HIGHBURY WITH ST.JOHN AND ST. SAVIOUR
RELATED CHARITIES: THE ST. JOHN'S MISSION HALL TRUSTS- REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 280116
St. John's Mission Hall, situated in Conewood Street in the parish of St. John's, was left in trust by two spinster sisters, the Misses
Quick. A trust deed was drawn up on 17 May 1934, appointing four named individuals
William Rampley, Charles Barber, ArthLJr
Downton and Joseph Johnson as Trustees. The trust deed declared that any building or buildings erected on the site should be held
upon trust to permit the same to be used in perpetuity for the usual purposes of a mission hall or parish roorn, for the furtherance of
any religious, educational or social work carried on in connection with the church of St. john, HighbLJry Vale or In connection with the
spiritual organisabon of the said parish of St. John. The property was to be managed by the Vieèr and Churchwardens of St. John's.
The trust deed contained an express power of sale, with any money arising from such Sale being applied towards the purchase or
acquisition of any other premises or the improvement of any premises used or intended to be used for the purposes of the trusts
thereby conststuted.
Some further land in Conewood Street. which now forms part of the site of St. John's Highbury Vale C of E Primary School, was also
left in trust. This land Is the subject of a Declaration of Trust dated 4th December 1945 made by C. N. Daintree, J.W. Herbert, E. W.
Cooper and A. F. Jarvis, in which it wa5 declared that the Trustees li.e. those narned above) would stand possessed of the land to be
used as a playground in connection with St. John's Highbury Vale School situate in Conewood Street and the church of St. John,
Highbury Vale and In furtherance of any charitable purpose In connectlon wllh the sald school and church. The declarallon of trust
further provides that in the event of St. John'5 School being closed or taken over by any public or local authority and all connection
between the school and the church ceasing, the Trustees have the power to use or allow the land to be used for the purposes of St.
John's Highbury Vale church or in any other way within the trusts declared.
st. John's Church was made redundant in 1978 and the parish Incorporated into the parish of Christ Church. By this time, most or all
of the original Trustees both of the Mission Hall Trust and of the Playground Trust had died and an application was made to the
Charity Comrnission by the then Vicar and Churchwardens of Christ Church to appoint new Trustees. In 1979, four new Trustees were
appointed - Winnie Cooper, John Dove, Richard Edmunds and Tom Peryer. They were appointed Trustees of both the Mission Hall and
the Playground Trusts. The management of the hall passed to the Vicar and Churehwardens of Christ Church.
In the eady 1980$, the PCC of Christ Church decided to sell St. John's Mission Hall and it was duly sold to an evèngelieal church. The
proceeds of the sale were split between Christ Church and St. Thomas's, Finsbury Park, as directed by the Charity Commission
Scheme 280116 A/1. It is assumed that Christ Church's share of the proceeds was put towards the renovation of Christ Church and
the extensive alterations which were carried out in the 1980$, in accordance with the terms of the trust.
At some point, the St. lohn's Misslon Hall Trust was reglstered as a charity and given the cha￿tY number 280116. In 2005, the PCC
applied to the Charity Comtlli55ion for permission to appoint the Parochial Church Council of Christ Church Highbury as Trustee of the
charity, replacing the four named Trustees appointed in 1979. This permission was granted and a sealed order made appointing the
Parochial Church Council of Christ Church Highbury as Trustee of the St. John's Mission Hall Charlty dated 17th October 2005.
Since the hall had long been 501d, the only remaining asset of the charity 15 the covenant held over the land now constituting part of
the playground of St. John's Highbury Vale C of E Primary School. As long as the school remains in operation and the connection
between the school and church maintained, this "asset" has no realisable value. The charity has no function, other than to hold the
Trusteeship over thi5 land, and has no income or expenditure. The land comprise5 three plots and is registered with title deed
numbers 420386, 104158 and LN50858 at HM Land Registry.
37

## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT ON THE ACCOUNTS** 

I report on the accounts of the Parochial Church Council of The Ecclesiastical Parish of Christ Church Highbury, with St John and St Saviour for the year ended 31st December 2025, which are set out on pages 22 to 37. 

## **Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the examiner** 

The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed. 

It is my responsibility to: 

- examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act 

- - to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act and 

- 

- to state whether particular matters have come to my attention 

## **Basis of independent examiner's statement** 

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission and to be found in the Church Guidance, 2006 edition, issued from the Finance Division of the Archbishops' Council. That examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It also includes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. 

## **Independent examiner's statement** 

Since the gross income for the year exceeds the amount provided in Section 145(3) of the Charities Act, I confirm that I am qualified to act as Independent Examiner under the provisions of that section of the Act and that my qualification is as shown below. 

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: 

- (1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements: 

   - to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; and 

   - to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act 

have not been met; or 

- (2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

Signed: 


Print name: G.W.Schulz FCMA 

Date: 02-Jun-26 

Relevant professional qualification or body: Chartered Institute of Management Accountants 

Address: Independent Examiners Limited, The Grain Store, Hills Barns, Appledram Lane South, Chichester, PO20 7EG 

38