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2025-08-31-accounts

Stafford Methodist Circuit

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

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 135822

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year ended 31st August 2025

Page
Reference and Administrative Details 2
Report of the Trustees 3
Independent Examiners Report 12
Statement of Financial Activities 13
Balance Sheet 14
Notes to the Financial Statements 15-26

Reference and Administrative Details for the Year ended 31[st] August 2025

Principal Address Circuit Office
Asbury House
Merrey Road
Stafford
ST17 9LX
Registered Charity Number 1135822
Independent Examiner Melanie Crooks Associates Limited
Bellfield House
33 Stafford Road
Bloxwich
West Midlands
WS3 3NJ
Investment Bankers Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church
9 Bonhill Street
London
EC2A 4PE
The Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes
Central Buildings
Oldham Street
Manchester
M1 1JQ

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Reference and Administrative Details for the Year ended 31st August 2025 cont.

The trustees as set out below have held office during the period 1[st] September 2024 to the date of this report, unless otherwise stated:

Ministers Rev. D.J. Bintliff
Rev. D. Middleton (until 31/07/25)
Lay workers Mrs C.A. Hamer Mrs L.B. Reade
Mrs I.J. Wakerell (until 19/12/24)
Circuit Stewards Mr P.W. Hardy
Mr D.A. Hemingway
Mr K.B. Day Mrs R. Wall (from 26/09/24)
Mrs W. Timothy (from 26/09/24)
Dr S. McCready-Shea (from 03/07/25)
Circuit Meeting Secretary Mrs L.B. Reade * (until 02/09/25) Mrs R. Wall * (from 26/11/25)
Local Preachers Representatives Mr R.D. Johnson (until 03/07/2025)
Mr I. Mason Mrs J.M. Timmis
Mrs E. Hidderley (from 01/09/2025)
Circuit Representatives to District Mrs M.E. Hemingway Mrs R. Wall *
Synod
Church Representatives by Church
Barlaston Mrs K.A. Ford Mrs J. O’Byrne
Berkswich Mrs L.M. Westoby Mr T.A.S. Goodchild
Mr I. Allred (from 26/09/24)
Bishops Offley Mrs A. Hardy Mrs. A. Horton
Eccleshall Mrs M. Embrey Mrs C.E. Harper (until 04/05/2025)
Mrs D.H. Kirkham Dr P.C. Yates (from 04/05/2025)
Gnosall Mr W.D. Basford Mr K.C. Davies
Milwich Mr B. Barker (until 03/07/2025)
Mrs J. L. Barker (until 03/07/2025)
Mr. D. J. Smith (from 03/07/2025)
Mrs. W.R. Smith (from 03/07/2025)
Rising Brook Mr I.F. Baldwin Mrs S. Francis
St. John’s Stone Mrs A.E. Dair
Mr D.C. Stewart (until 19/03/2025)
Mrs B. Godridge Mr I.J. Bradburn (from 20/03/2025)
Trinity Stafford Mr. A.J. Lowe Mrs V.E. Bates (from 02/09/2025)
Weston Mrs B. Gillespie (until 31/08/25) Mr. C. Gillespie (until 31/08/25)
Mrs H. Ord (from 26/11/25)

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Report of the Trustees for the Year ended 31st August 2025

The Trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31[st] August 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statements of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Objectives & Aims

The purposes of the Methodist Church are, and shall be deemed to have been since the Date of Union, the advancement of:

a) The Christian faith in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of The Methodist Church;

b) Any charitable purpose for the time being of any Connexional, District, Circuit, local or other organisation of The Methodist Church;

c) Any charitable purpose for the time being of any society or institution subsidiary or ancillary to The Methodist Church;

d) Any purpose for the time being of any charity being a charity subsidiary or ancillary to The Methodist Church.

The Circuit produces a quarterly preaching plan to ensure the regular acts of worship take place at each of the 7 Methodist Churches and 3 Local Ecumenical Partnerships in its geographical area. The Stafford Circuit is constituted to offer acts of worship in its church communities and to further the mission of the Church in Stafford and across the borough of Stafford. With our primary internal function being that of Christian worship, we aim to provide access to acts of worship in each of the 10 Circuit churches every Sunday.

Our internal structure is based on a Circuit Meeting which meets four times a year; a Local Preachers’ meeting which meets around four times a year; Circuit Leadership Team meetings throughout the year, and Staff Meetings which meet fortnightly. We endeavour to make our meetings focus on the on-going development of the Circuit; they are the place where important decisions are made and within them, we plan our strategies and fulfil our role as Charity Trustees.

Public Benefit

When planning our activities for the year, the trustees have considered the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit and in particular the specific guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. In particular we try to enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our church communities through:

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Report of the Trustees for the Year ended 31st August 2025

ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE

Charitable Activities

Ordained staff of the Circuit at the end of 2024/2025 year, was the Superintendent minister, with the unexpected early retirement of the Authorised Minister from the Baptist Union in July. Alongside the Circuit’s ordained staff, the Circuit continues to employ a core team of lay staff, with our administrator and pastoral workers meeting with our presbyters regularly to ensure the ministry of the Circuit is effective. The Safeguarding and Administrative Worker works alongside the Superintendent to oversee the safeguarding practices of the Circuit, and its churches are upheld, verifying that activities are regulated as per the requirements of our safeguarding policies. The circuit staffing was reduced at the start of 2025 following the retirement of one of our pastoral workers in December 2024.

In July, the Circuit purchased a new manse in the centre of the Circuit, to serve the wider area more appropriately once an incumbent needs this provision again. The property meets the guidance set out for Manses by the Methodist Connexion. Our thanks should be expressed to the volunteers within the life of the trust who undertook much of the day-to-day aspects of the purchase, working with solicitors approved by the wider Methodist Connexion and TMCP (the custodian trustees of this building). As a replacement manse was purchased, the levy held upon the sale of the old manse in 2023-2024, was recovered to use towards the purchase.

We continue to hold to the fact that Worship and Teaching are both necessary aspects of our life together as a charity, that through these, the wider aspects of our responsibilities and actions are honed and fashioned, these are often expressed through the nature of "Our Calling". The circuit continues to follow the mission policy which builds upon the aspects of “Our Calling” and utilises the Methodist Connexional mission and growth strategies around “A Methodist Way of Life” and “Our Churches Future Story”.

When considering achievements and performance, it is right to pay tribute to the many people throughout the circuit who in their daily lives respond to the call of Jesus "follow me" by offering pastoral care and/or practical help, to our team of Circuit Stewards who support, and lead the Circuit alongside our staff team, and, to the team of Local Preachers who enable services to take place Sunday by Sunday. We operate an open-door policy and welcome all to our church communities and wider work irrespective of race, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, or any kind of disability.

Plans for the Future

Our churches seek to embrace the breadth of 'Our Calling' yet we recognise as a Circuit that the expectations for each local community to fulfil all aspects of the life of the church is becoming more difficult, in this way the Circuit is looking to ensure that across the full breadth of its ministry and mission, all aspects of “A Methodist Way of Life” will be undertaken, even if not all of these will be present in every location the Circuit engages within. We are rooted in several different local communities, but our vision is much wider as we seek to serve the wider church and world in our work. Work in the community continues to be an important aspect of the circuit's mission.

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Report of the Trustees for the Year ended 31st August 2025

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial position

Income

Total Circuit income was £373,131 an apparent increase of 43% compared with 2024 (£260,404). However, £101,518 of this year’s income relates to the refund of the CPF levies the Circuit paid in the previous period on the net sale of redundant properties. The underlying Circuit income after adjusting for the refund was £271,613, an increase of just 4% year on year.

Under normal circumstances, income is drawn primarily from the assessments paid by the Circuit member churches, and during the year these totalled £224,028 (2024: £194,556). The assessments were increased as part of the budget for the year.

The Circuit also received rental income from letting of office space of £888 (2024: £1,766) and office income (mainly photocopier charges) totalling £530 (2024: £644). These figures are significantly reduced from those in 2024 as the long-standing tenants found alternative accommodation to suit their growing charity organisation in February 2025. Income also includes £14,606 from Berkswich church to reimburse the Circuit for the employment of their lay worker.

Income from investment interest on bank and trust accounts totalled £27,489, a 6.2% increase on last year (2024: £25,877). This was primarily interest on the capital held which is shown in the income for Designated funds in the accounts of £24,029.

Expenditure

Overall expenditure total for the year at £314,399 was £40,553 higher than the previous year (2024: £273,846).

The increase in overall expenditure is predominately due to:

Net position and transfers.

The overall position, for the year ending 31[st] August ’25 was a net position of £58,732 surplus. This compared to a deficit of (£13,442) for the previous year ending 31[st] August ’24. However, the unrestricted fund incurred an underlying deficit of (£24,882) (2024: £47,222) before transfers from the designated funds.

Effect on Funds & Reserves

The major investment reserve fund of the Circuit, which is held by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP) is named in the accounts as ‘Circuit Investment Fund’. During the

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

year 24-25, this fund received the refund of the CPF Levy applied for the sale of the Gnosall manse (23-24) £101,518 plus generated interest at £22,469. Costs allocated to the fund were the District Levy on the previous year’s interest of £30,541, plus £1,703 bank charges. The Circuit meeting agreed a drawdown of £50,000 to replenish the General Fund following the previous year’s deficits. The funds were also drawn down to part fund the purchase of the new manse. The manse is held as an unrestricted asset of the Circuit. The fund stood at £236,891 at year-end 31[st] August 2025.

The Church Support Fund of £11,000 has not been used this year. The Mission Support Fund of £10,000 has allocated £500 in support of two church winter outreach programs, with the fund being topped up by £500 at the close of the year.

Property Refurbishment Fund: This fund has been used in 24-25 to replace the windows at the manse at Widecombe Avenue (£9,600). In accordance with the original design of the fund, this has been replenished and brought up to the desired £20,000 with a transfer of £9,600 at the end of the financial year.

With all the above, as at 31[st] August 2025, total funds were £1,130,023 (2024: £1,071,291). In summary:

o St. Johns Mission £ 35,965
o Church Support Fund * £ 11,000
o Mission Support Fund * £ 10,000
o Property Refurbishment* £ 20,000
o Superintendents Discretionary* £ 1,940
o Circuit Youth Fund* £ 1,175

General Reserves Policy

It is the Trustees policy to maintain a balance of unrestricted and undesignated funds equivalent to between three and four months average unrestricted expenditure, to cover unexpected requirement which may occur from time to time, this equates to between £65,000 and £85,000.

In addition, the Circuit Reserves Policy is to maintain accessible funds of between £50,000 and £75,000 to enable the Circuit to assist its churches with appropriate grants and loans.

With the above two provisions, the General Reserve Policy equates to a minimum of £115,000 and a maximum of £160,000.

The funds which form part of the General Reserves, also shown by * (asterix) in the list above with their respective balances, on 31[st] August ‘25 include:

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

The General Reserves policy was not met at the year end. The Circuit is undertaking actions within its 25-26 Budget to improve this position.

Principal Funds

In addition to the Unrestricted General Fund, into and from which most of the financial transactions of the Circuit are made, the Circuit Meeting have determined certain designated and restricted funds for specific purposes.

Circuit Model Trust Fund (Designated)

Held and invested by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP) and consists of income from churches. They have wide purposes, as defined by TMCP, and permission must be sought by the Circuit Meeting from TMCP to call upon money for specific building projects or to support the mission in general.

Property Investment Fund (Designated)

This fund was set up with the purpose of managing the costs of purchasing a new manse. The manse once purchased is held as an unrestricted asset of the Circuit.

St. John’s Mission & Development Fund (Designated)

This fund, set up with the Methodist share of the proceeds from the sale of St. John’s Church building, has been designated for St. John’s use in developing its future mission plans. The fund is monitored by the Circuit Meeting, to ensure that monies will be used, both for an approved purpose and within a reasonable timescale.

Property Refurbishment Fund (Designated)

Manse refurbishments are carried out at irregular intervals, usually to coincide with the change in Ministers and can, therefore, fluctuate considerably from year to year. The intention is for this fund to be held at £20,000 at the close of the financial year and therefore the part of the fund used for replacement windows, was replenished from the general fund.

Mission Support Fund (Designated)

The purpose of this fund is to enable and support mission initiatives within the Circuit. The aim is to set a principal that such mission projects already have money put aside within the Circuit budget (originally set at a level of £10,000), and proposals will be received for approval by representatives of the Trustees. The £500 called upon from this fund has been replenished from the general fund at the close of the year.

Church Support Fund (Designated)

The Church Support Fund is designed to be the vehicle by which the Circuit can respond to a need for financial support that is raised by any church when it is unable to meet these through its own resources. Such a request for a grant or loan may be made to meet challenges in cash flow, unexpected expenditure or indeed, to allow the church time to respond to a significant risk to its sustainability. This fund has not been called upon in 202425 and has an opening balance of £11,000 for 25-26.

Other Funds

Circuit Youth Work Fund (Designated)

To support Youth Work in the Circuit.

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Superintendents Discretionary Fund (Designated)

The fund is for spend in cases of local individual need at the discretion of the Superintendent. The fund has been used for a small contribution in this year and so stands at £1,940 at the end of 24-25.

Berkswich Families Fund (Restricted)

This fund, originally set up by a donation, as the Children’s Worker Fund. The fund was restored in 24-25 to provide for the payroll services of a Community Families Worker, working alongside Berkswich Church.

Good Heart Project Fund (Restricted)

This fund relates to The Good Heart Project which supports and encourages people with additional needs to experience God's Love in alternative worship.

Going Concern

The Trustees consider that it is appropriate to prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis. They have assessed the Circuit’s ability to continue by reviewing their plans for 2025-2026 having due regard to the level of assessment income and the restructuring actions taken with effect from September 2025.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing Document

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust and constitutes an unincorporated charity.

The governing document for the circuit is the Deed of Union (1932) and Methodist Church Act (1976).

Detailed governance arrangements are outlined within the Constitutional Practice and Discipline of the Methodist Church by order of the annual conference (CPD).

Induction and training of new trustees

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust and constitutes an unincorporated charity.

The governing document for the circuit is the Deed of Union (1932) and Methodist Church

Act (1976).

Detailed governance arrangements are outlined within the Constitutional Practice and Discipline of the Methodist Church by order of the annual conference (CPD).

Related Parties

The Circuit was part of the Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury District until 31/08/25. The Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury District and the Birmingham District merged, and on 01/09/25, became the newly formed West Midlands District. As is the case for all Circuits and Districts, Stafford Circuit is also accountable to the Methodist Conference.

The following Methodist Churches/LEPs are linked to the circuit: Barlaston, Berkswich, Bishops Offley, Eccleshall, Gnosall, Milwich (LEP), Rising Brook, St. John’s-Stone (LEP), Trinity (LEP), Weston.

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Audit and Risk Management

The Charity Commission Guidance on Risk Management (CC26) requires only those charities that are above statutory audit threshold to make a risk management statement, however, the Circuit Leadership team undertook an assessment in the financial year 24-25 to include in the trustees’ report for this year.

The Circuit Leadership Team, acting on behalf of the trustees meeting, annually review and assess potential risks to the circuit.

Governance – The circuit is governed by The Methodist Church of Great Britain and follows the policies and procedures of The Constitutional Practice and Discipline (CPD) of the Methodist Church. The Circuit’s mission policy clearly indicates the agreed direction of travel for the Circuit and its churches. The policy and strategy within it, are reviewed annually to ensure objectives are met. Lay workers are appointed following the procedures of the recruitment process of The Methodist Church. The District Lay employment secretary is consulted for every appointment, and for changes to existing appointments. Job Descriptions and role activities are logged for subsequent recruitment. Safer recruitment processes, including job descriptions are followed for volunteers within the churches, strictly adhering to the Safeguarding procedures of The Methodist Church.

– Operational The circuit, according to the policies and procedures in CPD, follows the complaints procedure for all circuit volunteers, staff and ministerial team. The District Lay employment secretary ensures governance of staff meets with employment law. Lay Staff are responsible to an appointed Line Manager and any changes to work patterns for specific projects are agreed in consultation. Circuit owned property is appropriately maintained, covered by a property maintenance and repairs budget. An annual property inspection is carried out by the circuit property steward with a five-year inspection carried out by an independent property surveyor. The usual practice of obtaining three quotes for major works is upheld to ensure best price for the required work is achieved. IT equipment of circuit employees and presbyters is password protected and backed up on a regular basis. In the event of an emergency which prevents any Presbyter from occupying a manse, temporary accommodation would be provided. In the case of the Circuit Office, temporary office accommodation would be provided within one of the church buildings. All property deeds and documents are held in a fire retardant safe.

Financial – The Circuit Treasurer produces a detailed balance sheet to the leadership team regularly, presenting an up-to-date financial position. The circuit treasurer presents, at minimum, a balance sheet and analysis of income/expenditure to the circuit meetings throughout the year. The circuit treasurer and chair of trustees meet with church treasurers in Quarter two and monitor annually the individual church accounts, particularly their reserve funds. In maintaining an understanding of the financial position of the churches, any potential financial issues can be addressed in a timely manner to minimise risk to circuit funds. The annual Circuit budget, prepared by the treasurer, the chair of trustees and the circuit stewards is presented to the church treasurers, indicating the individual church assessments for the coming year allowing their input into the final figures. The reserves levels and reserves policy are reviewed annually. The circuit accounts hold a contingency of £11,000 in the Church Support Fund for unexpected financial calls on church finances.

Communication – The Circuit trustees receive full updates of events at the regular trustees’ meetings. Minutes and reports from all meetings are shared in a timely manner. The Circuit has a social media presence and ensures that information is shared appropriately while complying with the circuit’s social media and safeguarding policies. The Methodist Church media team are responsible for any public statements in the event of crisis handling.

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Law and regulation compliance – The Methodist Church provides guidance to ensure all matters of employment law are adhered to. For matters of property sales and purchases, The Methodist Church legal team are responsible for ensuring all matters are handled within charity law requirements, with a list of panel solicitors and surveyors being provided for the circuit to appoint.

Safeguarding

Every Person has a value and dignity which comes directly from the creation of male and female in God’s own image and likeness. Christians see this potential as fulfilled by God’s re-creation of us in Christ. Amongst other things this implies a duty to value all people as bearing the image of God and therefore to protect them from harm.

Methodist Connexional practice outlines commitment to the following principles:

The Stafford Methodist Circuit commits itself to ensuring the implementation of Connexional Safeguarding Policy; government legislation, guidance and safe practice in the circuit and in the churches.

The Stafford Methodist Circuit commits itself to the provision of support, advice and training for lay and ordained people that will ensure people are clear and confident about their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults who may be vulnerable.

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards. The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of the affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records 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 and the provisions of the Constitution. 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.

REPORT APPROVAL

Approved by order of the Board of Trustees on 21[st] April 2026 and signed on its behalf by:

……………………………………….

Rev. D.J. Bintliff - Trustee

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Independent Examiner’s Report to the Trustees of Stafford Methodist Circuit

Independent Examiners Report to the Trustees of the Stafford Methodist Circuit - Charity number 135822 ( “the Circuit”)

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

Respective Responsibilities of the Trustees and Examiner

As the trustees of the Circuit, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the 2011 Act”). The Trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

Having satisfied myself that the Circuit is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:

Basis of Independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the Circuit and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees of the Circuit 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 next statement.

Independent examiner’s statement

In connection with my examination no matter has come to my attention which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements:

have not been met or to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

This report is made solely to the trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 (Regulation 31) of the Charities ( Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the trustee those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent Examiner’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the trustees as a body, for my work or for this report.

Melanie Crooks Date: Melanie Crooks Associates Limited Bellfield House 33 Stafford Road Bloxwich, WS3 3NJ

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Statement of Financial Activities for the Year ended 31[st] August 2025

Income and Endowments from :
Income from charitable activities
Donations & Legacies
Grants
Church Assessments
Office income & recharges
Investments
Rental income
Other income
Total income
Expenditure on:
Stipends, salaries, NI and Pensions
District Assessment
URC Mission & Ministry
Property
Office expenses
Telephone & Travel Expenses
Apprenticeship levy
Mission & Ministry expenses
Rent paid
Other expenditure
Total expenditure
Net (expenditure) resources before transfer
Transfers:
Gross transfers between funds - in
Gross transfers between funds - out
Other recognised gains and losses:
Gains /losses on investment assets
Net movement in funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward		 2025
2025
2025
2025
2024
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
£
£
-
-
-
-
956
-
2,250
900
3,150
-
224,028
-
-
224,028
194,556
530
501
14,606
15,637
644
3,460
24,029
-
27,489
62,074
888
-
-
888
1,776
16
101,923
-
101,939
398
228,922
128,703
15,506
373,131
260,404
171,484
-
14,264
185,748
161,267
40,575
-
-
40,575
40,431
9,688
-
-
9,688
9,412
13,855
2,750
-
16,605
19,261
6,229
1,702
445
8,376
8,592
10,425
-
233
10,658
11,388
781
-
-
781
684
466
500
-
966
1,020
-
-
543
543
-
301
40,158
-
40,459
21,791
253,804
45,110
15,485
314,399
273,846
(24,882)
83,593
21
58,732
(13,442)
432,816
344,330
-
777,146
713,651
(89,540)
(687,606)
-
(777,146)
(713,651)
-
-
-
-
-
(13,442)
492,421
576,654
2,216
1,071,291
1,084,733
810,815
316,971
2,237
1,130,023
1,071,291

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Balance Sheet as of 31[st] August 2025 (Charity number 135822)

Fixed assets
Note 7 Residential land
Note 7 Manses
Note 7 Other Buildings
Total Fixed Assets
Current Assets
Note 9 Debtors
Note 8 Cash
Total Current Assets
Current Liabilities
Note 9 Creditors falling due within 1 year
Net Current Assets
Net Assets
Represented by:
Note 6 General (Unrestricted) Fund
Note 6 Designated Funds
Note 6 Restricted Funds
Total Funds		 2025
2024
£
£
75,000
75,000
505,727
75,000
275,000
275,000
855,727
425,000
20,111
6,782
259,839
641,357
279,950
648,139
(5,654)
(1,848)
274,296
646,291
1,130,0231,071,291
810,815
492,421
316,971
576,654
2,237
2,216
1,130,0231,071,291

The notes 1 to 14 form part of these financial statements. The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 21[st] April 2026 and signed by:

Rev. D.J. Bintliff - Trustee Mr K.B. Day - Trustee

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STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year ended 31[st] August 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

The financial statements of the charity, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) ‘Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland’ and the Charities Act 2011. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.

The financial information presented is relevant, reliable, comparable and complete. Where estimates are used these are based on experience, research and judgement. The accounts are expressed in £ Sterling, rounded to the nearest pound.

Going concern

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis as the trustees believe that no material uncertainties exist. The trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements.

Consolidation

The Circuit has denominational regulatory oversight in respect of the work of the Churches within the Circuit but has no legal or operational control of those Churches and their governing bodies except in extreme circumstances. For this reason, the financial statements of Churches within the Circuit are not consolidated into these financial statements.

Income

Income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when the Circuit becomes entitled to the resources, and the trustees are reasonably certain they will receive the resources; and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings, they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Grants made by the Circuit from its own funds are recognised in full at the time of agreement to make a grant without performance conditions or as and when the Circuit accepts that there is a legal or operational obligation to make the payment if it is subject to performance conditions. When the grant is recurrent over more than one year the balance payable in future years is treated as a provision for future commitments in the Balance Sheet against the appropriate fund, the provision being released in future years as instalments are paid in accordance with the originally agreed terms.

Tangible fixed assets

These are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and individually cost at least £1,000. The freehold property is shown in the accounts at 2015 deemed values, of which the land component is deemed to be £75,000. No depreciation is provided on the buildings because the trustees consider the current residual value of the property in its present condition to be not less than its current value, and in the absence of any evidence of impairment, any depreciation provision would not be material.

Page 15

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Redundant Churches as Investment Properties

From time to time the Circuit may be required to assume responsibility for Church premises following closure and cessation for worship. This results in the Circuit becoming Managing Trustees for the property. At that time the property is recognised as an asset at its anticipated net sale price as determined by a professional valuation. Any expenditure on such assets, if held for reinvestment of the proceeds, as the trustees determine, that is likely to enhance sales value is capitalised at the time the expenditure is incurred. Where the proceeds are intended to be spent on activities, the property is included in current assets at the lower of cost and realisable value.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

Pension costs

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charity’s pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

The Circuit is a member of the Connexional pension scheme (MMPS) which covers presbyters and deacons of the Methodist Church. The contribution rates are set each year by the Methodist Conference. The MMPS is a multi-employer scheme and in accordance with the guidance issued by the Charity Commission, the Circuit employees enrolled in a defined contribution pension scheme administered by The Pension Trust. Employer contributions are made into this scheme on behalf of employees who are members.

  1. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Income and Endowments from :
Donations and Legacies
1305- Donations
Income from Donations & legacies Totals
Grant income
1311- Grant from URC
1304- Connexional and District Grants
Grant income Totals
Income from charitable activities
1301- Assessments
1309- Administration & recharges
Income from charitable activities Totals		 2025
2025
2025
2025
2024
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
£
£
-
-
-
-
956
-
-
-
-
956
-
2,250
-
2,250
-
-
900
900
-
-
2,250
900
3,150
-
224,028
-
-
224,028
194,556
530
501
14,606
15,637
644
Page 16
224,558
501
14,606
239,665
195,200

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Investments
1308-Rent
1309-Interest & Investment
1307-Property Sale
Investment Totals
Other income
1302- CPF Levy returned
1306-Other income
1312-Leaving Gifts
Other income Totals
Income and Endowments Total		 888
-
-
888
1,776
3,460
24,029
-
27,489
3,606
-
-
-
-
58,468
4,348
24,029
-
28,377
63,850
-
101,518
-
101,518
-
16
405
-
421
262
-
-
-
-
136
16
101,923
-
101,939
398
228,922
128,703
15,506
373,131
260,404

Income codes are consistent with the previous year:

Page 17

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

3. EXPENDITURE ON CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Expenditure on:
1401- Methodist Stipends
1403-District Levy
1404-District Assessment
1402-URC Mission & Ministry
1412- Insurance
1413-Utilities
1414-Maintenance (Office)
1418-Property Surveys
1419 -Property refurbishment
1428 Maintenance (manses)
1429- URC Maintenance (manses)
1405-Administration
1423-Bank Charges
1406-Telephone & Broadband
1407-Travel Expenses
1424-Apprenticeship Levy
1409- Youth work
1410-Pastoral Work
1411 - Donations to Churches
1420-Training & Recruitment
1425-Accountancy
1426 - Leaving Gifts
1422-Pastoral Work Other
1415- Rent
1421 - Other expenditure
Expenditure on charitable activities Total		 2025
2025
2025
2025
2024
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
£
£
171,484
-
14,264
185,748
161,267
-
30,540
-
30,540
21,529
40,575
-
-
40,575
40,431
9,688
-
-
9,688
9,412
1,883
-
-
1,883
2,540
4,798
-
-
4,798
6,750
2,086
-
-
2,086
4,710
3,510
-
-
3,510
1,080
-
9,600
-
9,600
-
1,578
-
-
1,578
4,181
-
2,750
2,750
-
4,524
-
445
4,969
5,182
86
1,703
-
1,789
1,731
3,506
-
233
3,739
3,103
6,918
-
-
6,918
8,285
781
-
-
781
684
120
-
-
120
-
133
-
-
133
155
-
500
-
500
677
126
-
-
126
100
1,620
-
-
1,620
1,680
50
-
-
50
-
87
-
-
87
87
-
-
543
543
-
251
17
-
268
262
253,804
45,110
15,485
314,399
273,846

Page 18

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

4. TRUSTEES’ RENUMERATION AND BENEFITS

Certain trustees are renumerated as employees of the Circuit. All payments to trustees are at normal market rates and are subject to review by independent members of the trustee body. Total renumeration paid to these trustees in their lay employment was £53,449 (2024:£57,995)

No expenses were paid to trustees in their capacity as trustees for the year ended 31 August 2025 (2024: £nil).

Trustee indemnity insurance was taken out for the year as part of the Circuit general insurance policy (premium costs for indemnity insurance are not identified within this general insurance policy).

5. STAFF COSTS

Lay Employee Costs (excluding Presbyters)
Wages and Salaries
National Insurance
Pension Costs
Redundancy Costs		 2025
2024
£
£
90,597
75,710
7,114
4,640
3,216
2,364
2,650
-
103,577
82,714

The average monthly number of employees during the year was 6 (2024:6). No lay employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.

The Presbyters stipends are not included within the Circuit staff costs, as they are not employees of the Circuit. The Circuit is merely responsible for the central administration and payment of the stipends on behalf of the churches. However, the Circuit paid on average 2 (2024:2) presbyters as office holders and the costs were as follows:

Stipends & Allowances
National Insurance
Pension		 2025
2024
£
£
65,556
58,923
7,208
5,510
12,408
14,120
_______
84,172
78,553

The Presbyters of the Circuit are also provided with the use of a manse rent free and council tax and water rates in furtherance of their duties. The Authorised Presbyter from the Baptist Union chose to live in his own property.

Key Management Personnel are considered to be the Superintendent of the Circuit, the other Presbyter and the remaining members of the Circuit Leadership Team (CLT). The Superintendent chairs meetings of the CLT and Circuit Meetings.

The renumeration and pensions of these people amounted to £130,678 (2024:£133,109)

Page 19

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

6. FUNDS & MOVEMENT IN FUNDS

Unrestricted:
General
Designated:
Church Support Fund
Circuit Youth Work Fund
Mission Support Fund
Circuit Model Trust Fund
Superintendent's Discretionary Fund
Property Refurbishment Fund
St John's Mission & Development Fund
Property Investment Fund
Total Designated
Restricted:
Berkswich Children's Worker Fund
Good Heart Project
Total Restricted
Total Funds
Prior Year:
Unrestricted:
General
Designated:
Church Support Fund
Circuit Youth Work Fund
CMT - Circuit Model Trust Fund
Mission Support Fund
Circuit Model Trust Fund
Superintendent's Discretionary Fund
Property Refurbishment Fund		 1.9.2024
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Gains &
Losses
31.8.2025
£
£
£
£
£
£
492,421
228,922
(253,804)
343,276
-
810,815
11,000
-
-
-
-
11,000
770
405
-
-
-
1,175
10,000
-
(500)
500
-
10,000
498,524
22,469
(32,244)
(251,858)
236,891
1,956
-
(16)
-
-
1,940
20,000
2,750
(12,350)
9,600
-
20,000
34,404
1,561
-
-
-
35,965
-
101,518
(101,518)
-
-
576,654
128,703
(45,110)
343,276
-
316,971
2,216
14,606
(14,606)
-
-
2,216
-
900
(879)
-
-
21
2,216
15,506
(15,485)
-
-
2,237
1,071,291
373,131
(314,399)
-
-
1,130,023
1.9.2023
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Gains &
Losses
31.8.2024
£
£
£
£
£
£
634,019
200,980
(248,202)
(94,376)
0
492,421
11,000
11,000
770
770
0
0
10,000
10,000
130,538
56,756
(21,976)
333,206
498,524
1,000
956
(18)
18
1,956
10,640
9,360
20,000

Page 20

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

St John's Mission & Development Fund
Redundant Property Fund
Total Designated
Restricted:
Berkswich Children's Worker Fund
Total Funds		 32,692
1,712
34,404
251,858
(3,650)
(248,208)
0
448,498
59,424
(25,644)
94,376
0
576,654
2,216
-
-
-
0
2,216
1,084,733
260,404
(273,846)
0
0
1,071,291

Transfers between funds in the year are as follows:

Unrestricted
General
£		 Unrestricted
Designated
£		 Restricted
£
1 GeneraltoMissionSupport (500) 500 -
2 General to Property Refurbishment (9,600) 9,600 -
3 Circuit Model to General 201,858 (201,858) -
4 Property Investment to General 101,518 (101,518) -
5 Circuit Model to General 50,000 (50,000)
343,276 (343,276) -

  1. Being replenishment of Mission Fund to £10,000

  2. Being replenishment of Property Refurbishment Fund to £20,000

  3. Being transfer of new manse from element funded by Circuit Model to General fund

  4. Being transfer of new manse from element funded by Property Investment to General fund

  5. Being replenishment of General Fund from Circuit Model re prior year deficits.

Principal Funds

In addition to the Unrestricted General Fund, into and from which most of the financial transactions of the Circuit are made, the Circuit Meeting have determined certain designated and restricted funds for specific purposes.

Circuit Model Trust Fund (Designated)

Held and invested by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP) and consists of income from churches. They have wide purposes, as defined by TMCP, and permission must be sought by the Circuit Meeting from TMCP to call upon money for specific building projects or to support the mission in general. It is managed by TMCP and contain net revenue from the sale of properties and the interest earned from the capital. The District Levy is made from this fund on the interest.

Property Investment Fund (Designated)

This fund was set up with the purpose of managing the costs of purchasing a new manse.

St. John’s Mission & Development Fund (Designated)

This fund, set up with the Methodist share of the proceeds from the sale of St. John’s Church building, has been designated for St. John’s use in developing its future mission plans. The fund is monitored by the Circuit Meeting, to ensure that monies will be used, both for an approved purpose and within a reasonable timescale.

Property Refurbishment Fund (Designated)

Manse refurbishments are carried out at irregular intervals, usually to coincide with the change in Ministers and can, therefore, fluctuate considerably from year to year. The intention is that the fund will receive between £5-£10,000 per year from general funds. A transfer of £9,600 was made from general funds in 24-25 thereby achieving a closing balance of £20,000.

Page 21

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Mission Support Fund (Designated)

The fund has the purpose of enabling and supporting mission initiatives within the Circuit. The aim is to set a principal that such mission projects already have money put aside within the Circuit budget and proposals will be received for approval by representatives of the Trustees.

Church Support Fund

The Church Support Fund is designed to be the vehicle by which the Circuit can respond to a need for financial support that is raised by any church when it is unable to meet these through its own resources. Such a request for a grant or loan may be made to meet challenges in cash flow, unexpected expenditure or indeed, to allow the church time to respond to a significant risk to its sustainability.

Circuit Youth Work Fund (Designated)

To support Youth Work in the Circuit.

Superintendents Discretionary Fund (Designated)

The fund is for spend in cases of local individual need at the discretion of the Superintendent.

Berkswich Families Outreach Fund (Restricted)

This fund provides for the payroll services of a Families Outreach Worker at the Berkswich church.

Good Heart Project Fund (Restricted)

This fund relates to The Good Heart Project which supports and encourages people with additional needs to experience God's Love in alternative worship.

  1. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Deemed Cost and carrying value
As at 1.9.2024
Addition
As at 31.8.2025		 Land
Manses
Other
buildings
Total
£
£
£
£
75,000
75,000
275,000
425,000
-
403,727
-
403,727
75,000
505,727
275,000
855,727

The properties include the Manse at Widecombe Avenue, Berkswich, Stafford, the newly purchased Manse at Bellardia Road, Stafford and Circuit Office at Asbury House, Rising Brook, Stafford. All properties are held within the unrestricted general fund.

  1. CASH IN BANK AND IN HAND
1501: CAF Bank
1502: Central Finance Board
1503:TMCP:Circuit Model Trust
1504:CFBSt John's M&D Fund
Total Cash at Bank		 2025
2024
£
£
28,839
20,996
49,407
62,080
145,628
523,877
35,965
34,404
259,839
641,357

Page 22

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

The current asset values are all in bank accounts:

Debtors:
Assessments owed
Recharge Debtor
Prepayments
Total Debtors
Creditors falling due within 1 Year
Other Creditors
Accounts examination accrual
Assessments in advance
Total Creditors within 1 year		 2025
2024
£
£
11,635
-
1,522
6,954
6,782
20,111
6,782
(4,154)
-
(1,500)
(1,680)
-
(168)
(5,654)
(1,848)

Page 23

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

  1. COMPARATIVES FOR PREVIOUS YEAR 1[ST] SEPTEMBER ’23 TO 31[ST] AUGUST ‘24
Income and Endowments from :
Income from charitable activities
Donations & Legacies
Church Assessments
Office income
Investments
Rental income
Other income
Total income
Expenditure on:
Stipends, salaries, NI and Pensions
District Assessment
URC Mission & Ministry
Property
Office expenses
Telephone & Travel Expenses
Apprenticeship levy
Mission & Ministry expenses
Other expenditure
Total expenditure
Net ( expenditure) resources before transfer
Transfers:
Gross transfers between funds - in
Gross transfers between funds - out
Other recognised gains and losses:
Gains /losses on investment assets
Net movement in funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward		 2024
2024
2024
2024
2023
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
£
£
0
956
0
956
0
194,556
0
0
194,556
205,854
644
0
0
644
783
3,606
58,468
0
62,074
10,398
1,776
0
0
1,776
2,256
398
0
0
398
11,072
200,980
59,424
0
260,404
230,363
161,267
0
0
161,267
155,317
40,431
0
0
40,431
42,717
9,412
0
0
9,412
9,424
16,462
2,799
0
19,261
24,736
7,442
1,150
0
8,592
6,668
11,240
148
0
11,388
10,198
684
0
0
684
657
1,020
0
0
1,020
476
244
21,547
0
21,791
34,231
248,202
25,644
0
273,846
284,424
(47,222)
33,780
0
(13,442)
(54,061)
183,350
530,301
0
713,651
69,846
(277,726)
(435,925)
0
(713,651)
(69,846)
0
(51,818)
(141,598)
128,156
0
(13,442)
(105,879)
634,019
448,498
2,216
1,084,733
1,190,612
492,421
576,654
2,216
1,071,291
1,084,733

Page 24

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

11. NET ASSETS

The net assets of the Circuit may be analysed as follows:

Fixed assets
Debtors
Cash at bank
Creditors
Total Net Assets
Fixed assets
Debtors
Cash at bank
Creditors
Creditors -Assessments in advance
Total Net Assets		 2025
2025
2025
2025
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
£
855,727
-
-
855,727
20,111
-
-
20,111
(59,369)
316,971
2,237
259,839
(5,654)
-
-
(5,654)
810,815
316,971
2,237
1,130,023
2024
2024
2024
2024
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
£
425,000
-
-
425,000
6,782
-
-
6,782
62,487
576,654
2,216
641,357
(1,680)
-
-
(1,680)
(168)
-
-
(168)
492,421
576,654
2,216
1,071,291

12. OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENT

As of 31 August 2025, the Circuit was committed to making the following payments under noncancellable operating leases:

----- Start of picture text -----
Operating Leases which expire: 2025 2024
£ £
Within 1 year
Within 1-2 years 590
Within 2-5 years 590
More than 5 years
----- End of picture text -----

----- Start of picture text -----
__
Total 590 590
____
----- End of picture text -----

13. RELATED PARTIES

Transactions between the Circuit and its member churches

The Circuit received assessments of £224,028 (2024: £194,556) from the churches within the circuit.

The Circuit provided grants to churches in the circuit amounting to £500 (2024: £677) in support of winter outreach projects.

Page 25

STAFFORD METHODIST CIRCUIT

Transactions between the Circuit and the Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury District

The Circuit paid the District £40,575 (2024: £40,431) in district assessments. They also paid them £30,540 (2024: £102,598) by way of levies on the net sale of properties and on the balance of monies held in the Circuit Investment Fund at the start of the financial year. The Circuit received back the £101,518 of the levy paid in prior year on the net sale of properties, to assist with the purchase of a new manse in the year.

The Connexional assessment is collected by the District as part of the above District Assessment and in 2025 this was £38,219.

14. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENT

With effect from 1 September 2025, the Circuit became part of the West Midlands District. The West Midlands District was formed by the merger of the existing Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury District with the Birmingham District.

Page 26