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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of St Mary's Prescot

2024-12-31-accounts

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

INDEX TO THE ACCOUNTS

Page
Annual Report for 2024 1-23
Independent Examiner’s Report 24
Statement of Financial Activities 25
Balance Sheet 26
Cash Flow Statement 27
Notes to the Financial Statements 28 - 35
Appendices 36 - 38

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Introduction

This report and the annual accounts are presented in a format agreed by the Central Board of Finance of the Church of England and the Charity Commissioners in order to comply with the Charities Act 2011. It paints a picture of an active parish, as we seek to share the love and light of Jesus here in Prescot, in word and in action.

The report, therefore, aims to frame our financial statements within the wider life of the church. It reviews the past year, the resources used and shared, and looks to the future, as we pray, alongside the Diocese of Liverpool, for a bigger church which will make a bigger difference, with more people knowing Jesus and more justice in the world.

Administrative Information

Parish Details

Addresses

Parish Church - St Mary the Blessed Virgin, Church Street, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LA

Daughter Church- St Paul’s, Bryer Road, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5DW

Email: revkimberleymannings@gmail.com Phone: 07305922392 URL: prescotparish.org.uk

Independent Examiner

Mr S Yates Livesey Spottiswood Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors 17 George Street St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1DB

Banking

Natwest Bank Plc St Helens (A) Branch 8 Ormskirk Street St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1DR

Architect

Rebecca Grimshaw of Anthony Grimshaw & Associates, Wigan.

Charitable Status

The Parochial Church Council received charitable status on 5 May 2010.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Structure, Governance and Management

The Church operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure, 1956. The PCC has registered with the Charity Commission, Registration Number 1135804.

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representative Rules. All Church members are encouraged to join the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. The members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Meeting (APCM) or co-opted by the PCC in accordance with Church Representation Rules.

The PCC ensures that the church lives out its vision statement: ‘Sharing the light and love of Christ in Prescot, through word and action’. It ensures that statutory requirements with regards to safeguarding and risk assessment are met and/or exceeded. The PCC also ensures compliance with statutory requirements in regard to employment, data protection (GDPR), access and health and safety. The PCC addresses issues such as long-term financial planning; Quinquennial report and capital spend plans; ministry issues; project development; links with other bodies; charitable giving; and the management of policies.

As the accountable body, PCC members are trustees and are bound by a strict code of conduct. Each has the right to scrutinise any aspect of the workings of the church, although some personal information may be withheld with regard to its sensitivity and data protection. The Standing Committee is the executive leadership team of the PCC and its membership comprises the Wardens, treasurer, two PCC members, the PCC secretary, and the Vicar. This committee feeds into PCC agendas and has the authority to make (urgent) interim decisions on behalf of the PCC.

Parochial Church Council Members

During the year, members of the PCC included the following office holders:

Vicar Rev’d Kimberley Mannings Churchwardens Steven Martin Val Sugden John Orme Susan Priestley PCC Secretary Lesley Porter Treasurer Keith Porter Electoral Roll Officer Maggie Bunting Representatives on Huyton Deanery Synod: Susan Priestley Geoffrey Appleton Rebecca Peers Ann Capewell

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Elected PCC Members

Until APCM 2025:

John Orme Maggie Bunting Joanne Peers Pauline Jessup

Until APCM 2026:

Janet Smith Barbara Percy Rebecca Peers

Until APCM 2027:

Joyce Ashley Bernard Ashley John Berry George Smailes Paul Mason

Health and Safety and Safeguarding Officers

Health and Safety Co-ordinator: Steven Martin. Safeguarding Officer (Parish): Norma Garvey Deputy Safeguarding Officer and Lead Recruiter: Steven Martin Fire Marshall: Steven Martin Verger: Norine Jones

Sidespersons

Changes to the Church Representation Rules mean that sidespersons are no longer elected at the APCM but, instead, by the Parochial Church Council at its meeting followed the APCM.

Membership

The Electoral Roll is the official membership list of local Church of England congregations. Signing the roll means that you want to belong and shows a sign of your commitment to this church. Only those on this list may stand as a member of the Deanery Synod or Parochial Church Council (PCC). Membership also allows you to vote at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. You need to be 16 years or over and be baptised as a member of the Church of England, living within the Parish of Prescot. If you live outside the parish but fulfil these requirements, and have habitually attended worship for six months, then you may also join. The number on the electoral roll on 31st December 2024 was 184.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Committees

Standing Committee:

Vicar, Churchwardens, Treasurer; and from November 2020, PCC Secretary & two PCC Members. This is the only Committee required by law. It has the power to transact the business of the PCC between meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council.

Stewardship Committee:

Vicar, Keith Porter (Treasurer), Norine Jones, Marian Piert and one churchwarden.

Gifts to Missions and Charities Committee:

Keith Porter, Geoff Almond, vacancy.

Parish Centre Committee:

Joyce Fairfield (Parish Centre Secretary), Keith Porter, (Treasurer), Andrew Basinger, a member of the clergy (as and when needed), Norine Jones (as leader of an organisation who uses the Parish Centre) a PCC member, a churchwarden, and the Vicar (on request).

Fundraising Committee

A new committee formed in September 2022. Vicar (Rev’d Kimberley Mannings), Treasurer (Keith Porter), Sue Priestley, Joanne Peers, Norine Jones, Claire Portsmouth.

Statistics and Policies

Church Attendance

Parish returns are submitted to the Diocese, which gives a complete breakdown of church attendance, number of children attending, weddings and funerals etc. Copies of this form are forwarded to the Diocese but are also available on request. Once year clergy/wardens also complete the ‘Statistics For Mission’ form, which takes into account a snapshot of the church’s missional activity. These statistics are also available on request.

GDPR

The Parish Data Protection Policy is in place and available via the Parish website. No Freedom of Information requests were received during the last year.

Trustee Selection and Development Policy

The charity recruits’ trustees and co-opted members onto the board who can provide leadership, vision and direction to sustain and develop the charity, and support the achievement of its objectives based on their skills, experience and knowledge. Nominations are made in writing and must be countersigned by a member of the electoral roll. The nomination is considered at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. If selected, the nominated person receives an induction pack containing a role description and additional duties of officers and the latest annual report and accounts and business plan. Potential trustees are invited to observe at a management meeting prior to agreeing to become a trustee.

We actively follow Charity Commission guidelines on effective trusteeship; trustees are offered training appropriate to their role and undertake mandatory Safeguarding training and DBS clearance.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Risk Management

The trustees consider the major strategic, business and operational risks that the charity faces each year when considering budgets and business plans. Systems have been developed to monitor and control these risks to mitigate any impact that they may have in the future.

Safeguarding

In July 2019, we adopted a new safeguarding policy for the parish. The Parish of Prescot: St Mary’s Parish Church & St Paul’s Mission Church

SAFEGUARDING POLICY, PROMOTING A SAFER CHURCH

The following policy was agreed at the Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting and was re-adopted at the 2023 APCM. In accordance with the Church of England Safeguarding Policy, our church is committed to:

The Parish will:

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Each person who works within this church community will agree to abide by this policy and the guidelines established by this church. This church appoints Norma Garvey as the Parish Safeguarding Officer and Steven Martin as Deputy Safeguarding Officer.

If you have any safeguarding concerns or issues on a safeguarding matter then you can find out who to speak to on our contact page or get more information at www.liverpool.anglican.org.

Notices are also displayed in church and the parish centre and is available for download as a pdf on the church website.

All members of the PCC should now be background checked, and all members are required to undertake basic level safeguarding training (an online course, known as C0) prior to their first meeting in office following the APCM. The National Church are currently developing a new Independent Safeguarding Board which will be reviewing and implementing the safeguarding strategy and policy which this, and other Anglican churches, operate under.

Vision: Objectives and Activities

Vision Statement

‘Sharing the light and love of Christ in Prescot, through word and action’ is the vision statement adopted by the PCC in 2021. As a church, all that we aim to be and do is governed by this vision.

When planning our activities for the year, the Vicar and the PCC have considered the Commission's guidance on public benefit, and particularly the specific guidance on charities for the advancement of religion.

Dreams for 2024

Within the Parish of Prescot, all that we seek to do in Jesus’ name is centred around worship and prayer; learning and living the Gospel that we might develop our knowledge and trust in Jesus; providing pastoral care for people living in the parish; and sharing the love of Jesus, through mission and outreach within this community.

However, each year the PCC set five achievable targets for the coming year, which should be rooted in the mission of the parish.

The goals set at the APCM for 2024 , under ‘Plans for the Future’, were:

  1. Intentional fundraising efforts, working alongside Church Grants.

  2. The reinstating of tower tours with the subsequent health and safety related alterations.

  3. A continuing focus on deepening discipleship.

  4. Intentional prayers for growth in line with the LYCIG principles - praying for growth numerically, spiritually and missionally.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Review of the goals set at APCM for 2024

1. Information is still being gathered for Church Grants in order for the larger grants to be applied for but in-house fundraising efforts have taken place including musical events run by the Prescot Festival and Liverpool Cathedral along with the Christmas Fayre, the auctioning of some handpainted portraits, the sale of personalised Parish merchandise and Gordon Brown’s Garden party extravaganza.

2. The Faculty process is underway for the installation of a specially designed handrail at the top of the tower, in accordance with current safety standards and the advice of the quinquennial report.

3. This past year has seen an enormous growth in discipleship across the parish. Along with the regular Ecumenical Lent Course, this year the discipleship team also ran the Start Course, Moving On Course, Prayer Course and The Chosen Course, with record numbers in attendance.

4. Every day, within the life of the parish, our LYCIG prayer for growth has been prayed: ‘God of mission, who alone brings growth to your church, send your Holy Spirit to give vision to our planning, wisdom to our actions, joy to our worship, and power to our witness. Help our church to grow in number, in spiritual commitment to you, and in service to our local community, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen’. Over the course of 2024 we have seen steady and consistent growth within our Sunday and Wednesday services, discipleship groups and wider missional engagement. Let us never doubt the power of prayer!

The goals set at the APCM for 2025, under ‘Plans for the Future’, are:

  1. Creative fundraising efforts.

  2. Broadening a culture of invitation.

  3. A renewed focus on social justice.

  4. The continuation of intentional prayers for growth in line with the LYCIG principles - praying for growth numerically, spiritually and missionally.

Achievements and Performance: Celebrating Mission and Ministry in the Parish of Prescot

'When planning its activities for the year the PCC gave consideration to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit'.

Prayer and Worship

Throughout 2024, the Daily Office of Morning and Evening prayer continued to be said in parish, with clergy and parishioners gathering week on week to offer intercession; an invitation open to all. During Thy Kingdome Come, running from Ascension to Pentecost, an act of prayer took place in the Parish each day, organised by Thomas Hurst, including Compline, Lectio Divina, and George Hesketh, who was on placement with us at the time, lead a Prayer Walk.

As well as the weekly Sunday eucharist, services were held during Ash Wednesday, Holy Week and Easter, Ascension and Pentecost, along with the Patronal Festival, Harvest Festival, All Souls and All Saints, Armistice Day and the Civic Act of Remembrance, Mothering Sunday, Bell Sunday and RSCM Sunday.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

We joined with our brothers and sisters in Christ at Prescot and Whiston Methodist Church for their morning service as they celebrated Aldersgate Day, and a eucharist for Mothers’ Union was held during September.

The Christmas Tree Festival (alongside the Christmas Fayre), Christ the King, Tuesday Tots Nativity, Carols by Candlelight, Crib service, Midnight Mass, and Christmas Day Family Service all took place, along with a eucharist on each of the feast days following Christmas Day: the Feast of St Stephen, St John, the Holy Innocents, and finally the Comfort and Joy service for those who cannot usually get to church. During this period, ecumenical services also took place, including a Longest Night Service (formally Blue Christmas), for all who would find Christmas difficult that year, Carols around the Tree, as well as an ecumenical service during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

This year we saw the introduction of two new services. An all-age eucharist for Education Sunday took place celebrating the gift of education, including prayers for our local schools.

Our first ever Pet Blessing Service was also held at St Paul’s on the Saturday closest to the feast of St Francis of Assisi. This service was led ecumenically by Reverend Kim and Fr Mike Thompson from St Luke’s, Shaw Lane, who we are overjoyed to have built a connection with this year.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The Parish Newsletter, both printed and emailed, has continued to keep many up to date with upcoming services, as well as our social media and website. With thanks to Tom Hurst for the weekly completion of the newsletter and to Norine Jones for printing. The Parish website has also been updated thanks to our ordinand, Tom Hurst.

The Parish Magazine has also continued to be a rich resource, keeping the parish up to date with news, events and matters relating to the wider church and world; with thanks to our editor, Lesley Porter and coordinator, Maggie Bunting.

Bible readings and intercessions within services continued to be led by members of the congregation, and the important ministry of fellowship was maintained over post-service refreshments in the Parish Centre. With thanks, respectively, to Val Sugden, Liz Taylor, and their teams. Thanks go to Head Server Alan Williams who expertly leads our team of servers and lay assistants.

With thanks to our team of sidespersons, who offer the all-important welcome to those who come through the church doors, often for the first time. They say that it is in the first seven seconds that a new person makes a judgement about a place, so the importance of this ministry cannot be emphasised enough.

Our wonderful team of bell ringers readily shared their talents with us once again, ringing at weddings, funerals, on Civic occasions and before the weekly Sunday eucharist. The team has built up wonderfully postCovid thanks to Lesley Davies, whose enthusiasm and passion has led to a number of new joiners. With thanks to Lesley and all of the team, both local and gathered.

In September of this year, it was a joy to welcome our new Choir Director, Abigail, along with her husband, Zak. We are very grateful, too, to Rob Howard, who ably took the reins during the vacancy and who continues to support the life of the choir as Associate Director along with Tim Hall, our organist. The choir has gone from strength to strength, and two choir recruitment events have taken place, recruiting two new choir members. During Advent the choir joined for the first time with Worsley Road URC for a delightful Service of Light. The choir have continued to enchant us with the gift of music, which enriches our worship and helps us to lift our eyes heavenwards. Their commitment has been nothing short of exceptional, especially around demanding festivals such as Easter and Christmas.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

As a parish committed to training, we were pleased to welcome George Hesketh on placement with us from the Ministerial Experience Scheme, who came to experience a different tradition. We were delighted that George later applied to be our Missional Lead for St Paul’s, beginning the role in September 2024.

Rev’d Kim continues to deliver teaching and coaching sessions on the Directions Course for those exploring God’s call upon their life as well as her role as a Bishop’s Adviser.

During 2024 our assistant priest, Karen Beck, ably led a number of services in the Parish and our continued thanks goes to her for her thoughtful preaching, pastoral care and support of Kim. Thanks too to ordinand Tom Hurst for his excellent deaconing, and for the many and varied ways in which he enriches ministry here in Prescot. We were over the moon when it was announced that Tom will be serving his curacy here with us and look forward to seeing him continue to grow, as a deacon and priest in the Church of God, supported by Ruth, Carys, Michael (and Jampo!)

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Pastoral Care

Home Communions continued to take place, and many pastoral visits were undertaken across the parish by clergy for both church members and others across the community, including house blessings, the Sacrament of the Sick, and final prayers. A monthly Holy Communion service is held in Fazakerly House Care Home for residents and staff, which is well attended. This is in addition to special services offered to the home on Harvest, Remembrance Sunday, Christmas (carols) and Easter. A service of remembrance took place in church for families whose loved ones’ funerals have been held in church or at the crematorium.

The Friends of Prescot Cemetery & Churchyard’s Christmas Remembrance Tree service was held in December, where baubles are placed on the tree in remembrance of loved ones, which has become a service held in deep affection by the community.

As the family of God, we celebrated many significant life events together this year too – including birthdays of all different ages and stages.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Pastoral Offices

The church continues to be a place where children of God gather at the highest and lowest moments in life, along with everything in between.

Funerals, both of parishioners and the wider community continued to take place throughout the year along with a number of interments in both the Churchyard, Garden of Rest, along with council cemeteries.

Baptisms took place in the Parish Church, along with St Paul’s, including during the main Sunday eucharist. A number of weddings also took place. Our verger, Norine Jones, has faithfully served at each of these life events, supporting families, along with Joyce Fairfield’s excellent administrative and pastoral work. Joyce continued as Bookings Secretary for the Parish Centre and a team of volunteers led by Joyce assisted at baptisms .

Three of our congregation were confirmed this summer in a Deanery Confirmation Service held at St Nicholas Church, Whiston, and we were also delighted to see Kate Johnston ordained as priest and Emma Stonier as deacon, both of whom had undertaken placements here in Prescot.

The streaming system continues to be invaluable, as Sunday services have been streamed weekly, along with a number of funerals, allowing people to take part who would otherwise be unable to do so. We have a strong following online of a number of parishioners who are unable to physically attend church, and they find this great comfort. With thanks to the Sunday technology team comprised of Keith Porter and Andy Basinger.

Marriage preparation for couples has continued in the new style of afternoon tea, which has proved to be a success. Couples gather with clergy and the wedding team for afternoon tea, socialisation, interactive discussions around marriage, legal preliminaries, and end the day in prayer.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Children and Young People

2024 saw the launch of ‘Belong: Worship’ – a new worshipping community at St Paul’s, beginning at 3.30pm every Thursday afternoon and aimed at families from St Mary and St Paul’s Primary School and from across the Bryer Road estate, led by our Missional Lead, George Hesketh.

Faith Kids and First Steps has gone from strength to strength, and we have seen a significant growth in the number of children in attendance along with their families. With enormous thanks to Laura Howard, our group’s leader, for the tireless planning and preparation, along with Pauline Jessup, Angela Maloney and Joanne Peers for their incredible commitment to the spiritual growth of our young people. We also hold in our hearts beautiful Rachael Comerford who had recently joined the Faith Kids team when she tragically passed away. We continue to keep Sandra, Ian, James, Chris and all of the family in our prayers.

Messy Christingle was held in the Parish Centre during Advent. This was very well attended and largely attracted families who do not usually attend church.

A number of all-age services were also held, including Mothering Sunday, Pentecost, Education Sunday, the Toy Service on the Feast of Christ the King (with gifts of toys donated to Yates Court: an inspirational supported living project in Prescot), the Crib Service and an all-age Christmas Day service.

Tuesday Tots continues to take place weekly, organised by Norine Jones and supported by Dyane Basinger and Shirley Grice, continuing to offer a safe and welcoming space for all.

The church’s relationship with local schools has continued to remain strong and has been built upon. Collective Worship takes place daily at St Mary and St Paul’s C of E Primary School, with members of the parish and wider team leading the weekly clergy assembly slot along with most Wednesdays.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

With thanks to Deanery Youth and Schools Worker Rebecca Richardson, George Hesketh and Tom Hurst who, along with Rev’d Kim, delight in leading worship for our young people. Clergy also go in to school throughout the year to assist with RE lessons on topics like the ‘Big Questions’ and ‘Holy Communion’.

We were delighted to welcome Prescot Primary School to a ‘Let’s Explore’ church afternoon and enjoyed welcoming schools to Experience Easter. We also enjoyed welcoming Year 1 to St Paul’s to learn all about baptism, with the help of their teddy bears. The Vicar, along with members of the Parish, also continue in their roles within the governing body at St Mary and St Paul’s School.

Social Justice and Charity

Each year approximately 8% of our income is given to missions and charities, and the Gifts to Missions and Charities Committee agreed to continue the donations in 2024, despite the Parish’s financial challenges, recognising the Christian call to share what we have abundantly, even in the face of losses incurred this year. A thank you to each member of the committee for their generous understanding of Christian stewardship and for holding us accountable as the body of Christ.

We bid a fond farewell to Ann Capewell whose steadfast commitment to stewardship and to a fairer world has left an enormous legacy within our parish. We wish her and Simon every blessing as they return to Edinburgh and are able to be closer to their family.

Ecumenical relationships across the town remain strong, with many volunteering with the Foodbank and SHARe Knowsley. Tom Hurst has been leading the prayers at the Foodbank on a monthly basis and the Prescot Fellowship of Churches meet three times a year to discuss, primarily, worship and social justice; how we might continue to work together but also build upon the Churches’ presence across the town. Once again clergy met for Christmas Starts Here to give out mince pies, chocolate bars and the ecumenical Christmas card.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The craft group has continued, run by Barbara Bradley and Sue Nulty, including day trips which have been greatly enjoyed by the group’s members.

Mothers’ Union continued to meet in the Parish Centre monthly on a Friday afternoon, led by Diane Hornby. This year the group focused on the important issue of Domestic Violence and a moving display was created by Sue Nulty for the Mothers’ Union display in church. Val Sugden continues to run the book and card stalls, with a new collection of books available . It was a joy to see Dave Kernick, our former Choir Director and parishioner, take his vows and receive the habit as a novice in the Anglican Greyfriars in October, as he commits to a life of poverty, chastity and obedience.

Mission and Discipleship

Coffee Morning at St Paul’s continued, led by Sue Priestley and her team each Thursday morning during term time, with many creative activities being undertaken, including themed mornings, bingo, craft, crocheting and games.

The Start Course took place in the Vicarage followed by the Moving On Course and The Prayer Course followed by ‘The Chosen Course’. With enormous thanks to Tom Hurst for his gifted facilitation of much of the discipleship that has taken place.

The Ecumenical Lent Course took place once again, following the film ‘The Theory of Everything’ and accompanying resources. A member of clergy from each of the Fellowship of Churches took turns in leading the sessions.

A special service of blessing for a number of our local pubs took place, led by Revd Kim , who created a special liturgy for such an occasion. The service took place across The Deanes House, The Sun Inn and The Clock Face.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

LYCIG (Leading Your Church Into Growth) clergy teams continued to meet to discuss the different ways in which the LYCIG principles are implemented across parishes and Rev’d Kim assisted in leading the final cohort of parishes through their small groups.

A community Christmas dinner took place at St Paul’s, organised by George Hesketh, for anyone who was to find themselves alone or in need at Christmastime. George acquired donations of meat and vegetables from the Toby Carvery, and we are grateful to further support from Debbie Bennett Funeral Directors, and the Councillors of Prescot South.

Music and the Arts

The Prescot Festival of Music and the Arts, organised by its founder, our own Robert Howard, continues to warm our hearts, with events and concerts taking place at venues throughout the town, including many in our churches and Parish Centre. We are always delighted to welcome people into our Grade I listed building and StPaul’s. The Prescot Festival also hosted events throughout the year including the Mayor of Prescot’s Charity Christmas Concert and our parish musicians delighted us by sharing their musical talents, raising money for the church.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The church opened its doors regularly throughout the year during large-scale events across the town, and a big thank you to our heritage team, led by Barbara Bradley and Sue Nulty, along with Verger Norine Jones for making this possible.

The Elizabethan Fayre was held as well as the Serious Nonsense Festival.

In December it was a joy to welcome Liverpool Cathedral Choir along with soloist Damian O’Keeffe for a fundraising concert in aid of the church roof, in conjunction with the Prescot Festival.

The Liverpool Cathedral Junior Choir Knowsley continues to meet each Tuesday afternoon in the Parish Centre, made up of children from across Prescot and the wider borough and led by Choral Outreach lead Mitchell Holland and his team of volunteers. It has been a joy to witness the children’s enthusiasm and to meet their families. It was a particular gift to welcome the choir to our Toy Service on the Feast of Christ the King as they sang alongside our Parish Choir in this special service.

Heritage

The Guiding Group, led by Barbara Bradley, Sue Nulty and their team continued to offer guided tours and Heritage Days, including treasure hunts and prizes for children. Visitors are also able to embark upon a QR code guided tour, containing a wealth of information about the church, along with an audio tour. With thanks to Barbara and the team for the hours and commitment given to opening our beautiful church for all to enjoy.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Professional photographer Tony Mallon has been working with a group of amateur photographers over the past two years to capture the past, present and future of Prescot, through old and new photographs. One such photograph, taken by Tony, was entered into a competition and was selected to be added permanently to the Historic England archives, taken at the top of the church tower.

Fabric Report

Alan Williams and Norine Jones laundered the church altar linen and Liz Taylor continued as leader of the Flower Guild. A huge thank you to Liz and the team. In addition to our own organisations, the Parish Centre and St Paul’s Hall are used by outside organisations, for activities such as line dancing, fitness classes, choirs, and Prescot Historic Society, to name but a few. They are also used for children’s birthday parties. Many thanks to Joyce Fairfield and Lesley Porter for managing the mammoth task of bookings and subsequent logistics for these respective buildings.

We continue to be indebted to Steve Jones, KMBC Cemeteries Manager, and to the continued efforts of the Friends of Prescot Cemetery and Churchyard group, led by Lesley Porter, for their time and expertise in the maintenance of our churchyard.

As warden and Health and Safety Officer, Steve Martin has undertaken a huge amount of work in keeping both churches safe and minor repairs underway, quietly solving problems behind the scenes. The uneven flags in the St Mary’s church carpark have been tirelessly repaired by Peter Lynch as an act of service and love, supported by John Berry in gathering materials, leaving us with a safe and even carpark.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

St Paul’s Church underwent a Quinquennial report, thankfully flagging only minor repairs. The roof of the Parish Centre was sealed to become watertight and minor repairs have been made to the roof of St Paul’s. The heating in the Parish Centre continued to be a challenge which appears to finally be resolved.

The PCC voted to employ Church Grants to assist with the enormous fundraising efforts that we face, and information continues to be compiled for the company.

With thanks to wardens John Orme, Sue Priestley, Steve Martin and Val Sugden for their service in the upkeep and protection of our church buildings.

Deanery Synod

During 2024, the Deanery Synod continued to meet, looking at a range of topics and collaborating across churches. The Huyton Deanery Academy continued to thrive with events being held across a range of churches in the Deanery. It is so important that local voices are part of the decision making in our Deanery and Diocese, and we would encourage people to stand for election and be part of the future decision- making for Huyton Deanery. Conversations around exploring Fit For Mission also began, with Huyton Deanery falling into cohort three, including visits from representatives from the FFM team, taster sessions for clergy and church representatives, and coaching.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Financial Review

We continue to be indebted as a parish to the outstanding work of our treasurer, Keith Porter. Keith goes above and beyond in all that he does to serve the needs of the parish and uses his many skills in financial management and accountancy to ensure that we are operating, financially, at a high standard and with accountability. Keith undertakes this role at an incredibly challenging time, as churches country-wide face greater financial challenges than ever before. However, there could not possibly be a better person to have on your team than Keith at such a time as this. Keith’s realism over the decline of income and giving over recent years, his ability to communicate this, coupled with his desire to see the parish buck the trend has meant that we are presented with clear and understandable projections for the future whilst creatively imagining how we might change the tide.

Keith also undertakes many other roles, unbeknown to many, including securing and managing the best possible energy tariffs for the parish and he can regularly be found challenging companies who have failed to deliver upon their guarantees, ensuring that the parish is compensated. Keith often suggests that, being trained in accountancy, he is not gifted with creativity, but we beg to differ, as many an initiative has come from Keith, including our very own branded parish pens, which have been a huge success, and the bringing of the parish into the 21st century when it comes to software and technology.

Keith’s faith shines through in all that he does, both within his role as treasurer and outside of this, with a desire to see the church grow and flourish being a driving force for Keith. His perseverance, forward-thinking, and understanding of stewardship is the envy of many churches. We are astoundingly lucky that he continues to share his gifts with us and grateful for the many, many hours that Keith dedicates to this incredibly vital work.

Keith’s report, as treasurer, and the financial statements follow.

20

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Treasurer’s Report

Income

Following the exceptionally high amount we received in 2023 from legacies (£365k), a fall in income in 2024 was virtually inevitable, with total income falling from just over £500k to just under £183k. However, if the distorting effect of last year’s legacies is excluded, the underlying income in 2024 increased by 6% to almost £143k.

The Parish Giving Scheme continues to be our biggest contributor for parishioners wanting to support the church. The number of people in PGS dropped slightly again in 2024, with membership falling from 64 to 62. In spite of this disappointment, the money received held its own at £43k thanks to those who have agreed to increase their donation by the amount of the inflation level.

We introduced a new contactless machine in March 2024, when we replaced our basic Paybox with a much more prominent floor-standing machine. Although the number of donations in 2024 fell by around 10%, we benefited from the fact that we receive any Gift Aid directly which in 2024 amounted to £10,196.

Income from Room Hire fell both at the Parish Centre and St Paul’s; of the total reduction of £5,574, £3,500 was the loss of Slimming World from St Paul’s, with the loss of the Smile Productions youth dance/drama group costing St Mary’s over £1,000.

21

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Expenditure

Total expenditure fell from £227,602 to £209,090.

The biggest single cost continues to be The Parish Share levy from Liverpool Diocese. In 2024 this has held steady at £62,722, 2023 it was £62,719. The Diocese is in discussion with the Church of England about its financial position.

Our own wages and salaries increased from£24,672 to £33,385; this was made up of the annual pay rise which in 2024 was 10% ( we are committed to following the Real Living Wage plus 5%). In September we also introduced the part-time position of Missional Lead, based at St Paul’s on a 12-month fixed term contract and also raised the profile of our choir by appointing a Choir Director, also in September.

Up to the end of 2023 we enjoyed a very favourable gas contract, but from January 2024 the price per kilowatt hour for the Parish Church went up from 3.3p to just under 7p, with slightly higher prices for St Paul’s and the Parish Centre. As a result, the cost of gas in 2024 increased to £29,353 from £10,931 despite cutting back usage.

We had none of the large expense bills for St Mary’s which we had faced in 2023. This isn’t as good as it sounds, however, as we are still facing costs of around £500,000 at St Mary’s for repairs to the pointing, the ceiling and the churchyard wall. The Leadership Team had concluded that some grant funding was essential, and we agreed to work with a company called Church Grants Ltd, which specialises in tracking and writing applications for grant funding. This still requires us to prepare a wealth of background factual information which is taking some time to get together. It was decided that at this stage we would not commit the legacy income received in 2023 in isolation from grant funding.

Meanwhile the electrical improvements which the EICR identified as necessary at St Paul’s in August 2023 have been specified but not yet started; preliminary discussions have been started about reorganising the interior layout which might include removing the stage and making the space more relevant for the church’s increasing focus on outreach. It made sense to incorporate the electrical improvements once a decision has been made on the overall situation at St Paul’s.

Principal Risks and Uncertainties

We face inherent risks with both our income and expenditure. Regarding income, a small percentage stems from commitments by parishioners, and this effect is magnified when looking at the size and frequency of legacies. Because of this, we do not make plans or commitments which rely on income levels we cannot be reasonably certain of achieving.

Similarly with expenditure, as the guardians of St Mary’s Parish Church which is a Grade 1 Listed Building, much of which dates from 1610, we face unpredictable demands for major expenditure on repair and maintenance. There have been times in the last decade when we have needed support from Grant Agencies such as National Heritage Lottery, Historic England etc and this will no doubt continue.

Trustee Payments and Expenses .

The PCC supported the Clergy by paying Council Tax for the Vicarage of £2,804 (2023 - £2,934). Contributions of £3,850 (2023 - £1,914) was paid towards the costs of travel, phone and hospitality.

There were no other payments to trustees or to people related to trustees.

22

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Reserves Policy

The Trustees have reviewed the Charity's need for reserves in line v.ith guidance issued by the Charity Commission. The Trustees agree to the aim of holding at least six months' running costs in free reserves on the understanding that the charity's funding is not certain and to ensure that the charity can run effectively and continue to meet the needs of its beneficiaries.

At 31 December 2024, the charity held reserves of £818,505, of which, £11,277 were restricted funds, £314,611 were designated funds, £362,824 were unrestricted funds held as fixed assets with the remaining £129,723 being unrestricted funds. This represents approximately 7 months running costs for the charity.

The components of designated funds are as detailed in note 8 and the trustees expect these designated funds to be expended in the next two years.

Statement of Council's Responsibilities.

The Church Accounting Regulations, 2006 require the Council to prepare accounts for each financial year, which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Church, and of the results of the church for that period.

In preparing these financial statements we are required to:

select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently

make reasonable and prudent judgements and estimates

state whether accounting standards have been followed and give details of any departures. - prepare the accounts on a going concern basis unless, in our view, the church will be unable to continue in operation.

We are also responsible for:

keeping proper accounting records safeguarding the church's assets

taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud.

Declaration

I declare that, in my capacity of Chair of the PCC that:

Rev'd Kimberley Mannings (Vicar)

30 September 2025

23

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE BOARD OF MEMBERS ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 which are set out on pages 25 to 35.

Responsibilities and basis of report

The PCC members are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').

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

Independent examiner's statement

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

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

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

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

Mr Steven Yates FCCA Livesey Spottiswood Association of Chartered Certified Accountants 17 George Street St Helens Merseyside WA101DB

Date: 2 October 2025

24

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Notes
Unrestricted
Restricted
Funds
£
Funds
£
INCOME
Donations and legacies
2(a)
121,470
7,135
Charitable activities
2(b)
25,759
-
Other activities
2(c)
15,385
-
Investment
2(d)
13,248
-

TOTAL INCOME
175,862
7,135
EXPENDITURE
Church activities
3(b)
205,890
3,200
TOTAL EXPENSES
205,890
3,200
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
FOR THE YEAR
(30,028)
3,935
TRANSFER BETWEEN FUNDS
-
-
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
(30,028)
3,935
FUND BALANCES BROUGHT
FORWARD AT 1 JANUARY 2024
837,256
7,342
FUND BALANCES CARRIED
FORWARD AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
807,228
11,277		 Total
2024
£
128,605
25,759
15,385
13,248
182,997
209,090
209,090
(26,093)
-
(26,093)
844,598
818,505		 Total
2023
£
449,912
32,026
13,660
4,879
500,477
227,602
227,602
272,875
-
272,875
571,723
844,598

The notes on pages 28 to 35 form part of these financial statements.

25

FOR THE YEAR END￿G 31 DECEMBER ZAY2A Notr• 371077 13.4TJ 4146 314.611 494617 314.741 SWIS a.fp￿¥ John Bllc 0￿ 26

CASH FLOW STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Note
Net cash used by
Operating Activities
1
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investment income

Change in cash and cash equivalents
in the reporting period
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 2024
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 2024
1
Reconciliation of net expenditure to net cash
flow from operating activities
Net income/(expenditure) for the reporting period
(as per the statement of financial activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation
Investment income
Decrease/(Increase) in debtors
Increase/(Decrease) in creditors
Net cash used by operating activities		 2024
£
51,744
13,248
64,992
413,058
478,050
2024
£
(26,093)
10,253
(13,248)
68,673
12,159
51,744		 2023
£
223,714
4,879
228,593
184,465
413,058
2023
£
272,875
12,455
(4,879)
(56,236)
( 501)
223,714

27

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

1.1

Basis of Preparation

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 Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations “true and fair view” provisions, together with the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities SORP 2019 (FRS 102).

The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policies.

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

1.2 Funds

Unrestricted funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for application on the general purposes of the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC are also unrestricted.

Restricted funds represent 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 object 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.

Endowment funds are funds, the capital of which must be maintained: only income arising from investment of the endowment may be used either as restricted or unrestricted funds depending upon the purpose for which the endowment fund was established.

An arrangement with the NatWest Bank allows for automatic transfer from one fund (restricted) to the cheque account (unrestricted) if there is a temporary deficit.

1.3 Incoming Resources

Voluntary Income and Capital Resources

Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC.

Planned giving receivable under Gift Aid is recognised only when received.

Income tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate is received.

Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is legally entitled to the amount due.

Funds raised by fetes, fayres and similar events are accounted for gross.

28

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

1.3 Incoming Resources (cont’d.)

Sales of books and magazines from the church bookstall are accounted for gross.

Rental income from the letting of the Meeting Room etc, is recognised when the rent is due.

Investment Income

Dividends and interest are accounted for when due and payable and interest entitlements are accounted for as they accrue.

1.4 Resources Expended

Grants

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC.

Activities directly related to the work of the church

The Diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds.

Other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross, with the notable exception of repairs, where deductions have been made for insurance claims and refunds of VAT under the Listed Places of Worship scheme.

1.5 Fixed Assets

Consecrated Property and Moveable Church Furnishings

Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the accounts by Section 10(2) of the Charities Act 2011.

Moveable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the Church’s inventory which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For inalienable property acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the accounts. Items acquired since 1 January 2000 and costing less than £1,000 have been written off when the expenditure was incurred. Items over this figure are capitalised and depreciated in the accounts over their currently anticipated useful life on a straight-line basis.

1.6 Buildings, Other Fixtures, Fittings and Office Equipment

Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1,000 or less are written off when the asset is acquired. Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost of fixed assets over the expected useful lives on the following basis:

Buildings - not depreciated
Fixtures and fittings - 10 years straight line
Equipment - 4 years straight line

29

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

1.7 Current Assets

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees, rent or other income are shown as debtors less any provision for amounts that may prove uncollectable.

1.8 Current Liabilities

Liabilities are recognised where the PCC has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

1.9 Going Concern

The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern.

2 INCOMING RESOURCES

Unrestricted
Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
2(a)
Donations & Legacies
Planned Giving
43,459
-
IT Recoverable Gift Aid
10,196
-
Non-Gift Aid
7,361
-
One-off Gift Aid
-
-
Open Plate:
All Services
10,511
-
Sundry Donations
6,289
2,635
Grants
3,575
4,500
Legacies
40,079
-
121,470
7,135		 Total
2024
£
43,459
10,196
7,361
-
10,511
8,924
8,075
40,079
128,605		 Total
2023
£
42,057
10,014
8,085
120
9,061
11,385
3,464
365,759
449,912

The income from donations and legacies last year was £449,912 of which £446,448 was unrestricted and £3,464 was restricted.

30

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Unrestricted
Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
2(b)
Charitable Activities
Church hall lettings
19,484
-
Magazine sales
824
-
Weddings/Funerals
5,451
-
25,759
-		 Total
2024
£
19,484
824
5,451
25,759		 Total
2023
£
25,058
833
6,135
32,026

The income from charitable activities last year was £32,026 which was all unrestricted.

Unrestricted
Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
2(c) Other Activities
Bookstall
150
-
Magazine advertising
1,380
-
Summer and Christmas fayres
3,205
-
Other
1,800
-
St Mary’s House Rent
8,850
-
15,385
-
All income from other activities last year relates to unrestricted funds.
Unrestricted
Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
2(d) Investments
Dividends & interest
13,248
-		 Total
2024
£
150
1,380
3,205
1,800
8,850
15,385
Total
2024
£
13,248		 Total
2023
£
149
999
1,968
2,344
8,200
13,660
Total
2023
£
4,879

The income from investments last year relates to unrestricted funds.

31

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

3 EXPENDITURE

Unrestricted
Restricted
3
Funds
£
Church Activities
Funds
£
Missionary Societies
12,500
-
Parish share
62,722
-
Salaries/wages
33,185
200
Clergy expenses
3,850
-
St Mary’s house
2,668
-
Vicarage costs
3,690
-
Church costs
46,211
-
Depreciation
7,753
2,500
Church repairs
4,503
500
Choir
297
-
Telephones
2,941
-
Meeting room costs
14,203
-
Printing, stationery & postage
4,165
-
Bank charges
707
-
Accountancy
4,160
-
Institute costs
1,106
-
Community outreach
1,229
-
205,890
3,200		 Total
2024
£
12,500
62,722
33,385
3,850
2,668
3,690
46,211
10,253
5,003
297
2,941
14,203
4,165
707
4,160
1,106
1,229
209,090		 Total
2023
£
12,400
62,719
24,672
1,914
1,903
5,040
41,507
12,455
44,062
395
2,948
6,026
5,233
521
4,488
950
369
227,602

The expenses for charitable activities last year was £227,602 of which £222,384 was unrestricted and £5,218 was restricted. Accountancy includes £3,500 (2023 - £ 3,696) paid in respect of the independent examination of the accounts.

32

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

4.

Staff Costs
Wages and Salaries		 2024
£
33,385		 2023
£
24,672

During the year the PCC employed a verger, a cleaner (at St Paul’s), organist, choirmasters and a Meeting Room caretaker, all part-time.

The average number of employees in the year was 6 (2023 – 6).

No employee earned £60,000 per annum or more.

The PCC supported the Clergy by paying Council Tax for the Vicarage of £2,804 (2023 - £2,934). Contributions of £3,850 (2023 - £1,914) was paid towards the costs of travel, phone and hospitality.

There were no other payments to trustees or to people related to trustees.

5. Fixed Assets

Cost
St Mary’s
House
£
Parish Church
Institute
£
Meeting
Rooms
£
Equip-
ment
£
Fixtures &
Fittings
£
At 1January2024
50,000
55,000
256,602
49,820
8,497
At 31 December 2024
50,000
55,000
256,602
49,820
8,497
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024
-
-
-
38,345
8,497
Charge for the year
-
-
-
10,253
-
At 31 December 2024
-
-
-
48,598
8,497
Net Book Value
At 31 December 2024
50,000
55,000
256,602
1,222
-
At 31 December 2023
50,000
55,000
256,602
11,475
-		 Total
£
419,919
419,919
46,842
10,253
57,095
362,824
373,077

All fixed assets of the church are used in direct furtherance of the objectives.

33

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

6.
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year:
Gift aid reclaims
Legacies due
Trade debtors
7.
Creditors: Amounts Falling Due
Within One Year
Trade creditors
Mission Giving
Social security
Accruals
8.
Unrestricted Funds
Within Unrestricted Funds are the following designated funds: -
Major Repairs Fund
Bell Ringers
Choir Fund
Tuesday Tots
Church Guiding Group
Funds not designated		 2024
£
12,069
-
1,404
13,473
2024
£
10,472
12,500
2,200
10,670
35,842
2024
£
312,000
45
2,346
74
146
314,611
492,617
807,228		 2023
£
12,068
68,902
1,176
82,146
2023
£
1,944
12,950
545
8,244
23,683
2023
£
312,000
170
2,425
-
146
314,741
522,515
837,256

34

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Balance at Balance at Incoming Expenditure Balance at
01.01.24 Resources & Transfers 31.12.24
£ £ £ £
9. Restricted Funds
Bells Restoration 4,842 - - 4,842
Church Clock fund - 500 (500) -
John Pilling Trust - 4,000 (200) 3,800
Together Liverpool - 500 - 500
St Paul’s AV System 2,500 - (2,500) -
Restoration for Church - 2,135 - 2,135
7,342 7,135 (3,200) 11,277

10. Analysis of Net Assets by Fund

Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
£
£
Fixed Assets
362,824
-
Current Assets
480,246
11,277
Current Liabilities
(35,842)
-
Fund Balance
807,228
11,277		 Total
£
362,824
491,523
(35,842)

818,505

11. Related Party Transactions

There were no related party transactions.

35

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

APPENDIX TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Grants
Missionary societies:
Church Mission Society
Bible Society
Relief & Development:
DEC Ukraine
Huyton Deanery Global Partnership Challenge
Home Missions – Church Societies:
Children’s Society
Church Army
Church Housing Trust
Salvation Army
Church Urban Fund
Intercontinental Church Society
Other:
Mildmay Mission Hospital
Willowbrook Hospice
Samaritans
Knowsley Council for Voluntary Service
The Refugee Council
Practical Action
TEAR fund
Yates Court
Olivia
The Adam Ellison Foundation
Ravenhead Food Pantry
SHARE Knowsley
GRAND TOTAL

36

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

APPENDIX TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Church Costs:
Heat and light – St Mary’s
Heat and light – St Paul’s
Insurance – St Mary’s
Insurance – St Paul’s
Maintenance – St Mary’s
Maintenance – St Paul’s
Waste collections
Choir and organ costs
Faith Kids
Flowers
Organisation activities
Church Repairs:
ST MARY
Lighting project
High level netting in Nave and Chancel
Scaffold for lighting and netting
Gutter maintenance
Boiler / boiler house
Clock
Gates for walled garden and vicarage
Vicarage and walled garden maintenance
Inspection of churchyard wall
Bell repairs
Other (less than £500)
ST PAUL
Intruder alarm
Inspection and service of fire extinguishers
Replacement and reposition of timer
Other (less than £500)
TOTAL		 Total
2024
£
18,741
3,373
8,349
2,607
7,885
1,599
1,613
1,243
367
434
-
46,211
-
-
-
1,560
488
500
-
-
-
931
172
3,651

228
330
539
255
1,352
5,003		 Total
2023
£
13,358
2,224
8,487
2,593
8,471
3,258
1,433
1,306
287
77
13
41,507
11,929
16,631
7,800
1,560
700
1,000
1,494
1,110
1,632
-
106
43,962
-
-
-
100
100
44,062

37

PRESCOT PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

APPENDIX TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Total Total
2024 2023
£ £
Parish Centre Costs:
Heating 2,173 806
Lighting 1,531 1,836
Water 992 494
Maintenance 1,268 1,460
Repairs:
General repairs 3,209 1,130
Lighting repairs 2,119 -
Radiator repairs 2,911 -
Install defibrillator - 300
14,203 6,026

38