STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 1137263
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED
31 AUGUST 2025
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 1137263
ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
C O N T E N T S
| Pages | |
|---|---|
| Trustees’ Report | 1 to 13 |
| Circuit Meeting Membership | Appendix A |
| Independent Examiner’s Report to the Trustees | 14 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 15 to 16 |
| Balance Sheet | 17 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 18 to 23 |
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
BASIS OF PREPARATION AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
The financial statements have been prepared to give a ‘true and fair’ view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a ‘true and fair’ view. This departure has involved following Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Full Name of Charity: Stockton Methodist Circuit Registration Charity Number: 1137263 Date of Registration: 4 August 2010 Main Communication Address: 4 Fritillary Place Stockton-on-Tees TS21 3LZ
The members of the Stockton Methodist Circuit meeting are the Charity Trustees, membership being made up of circuit office holders, ministers and representatives appointed by the local churches.
Full membership is shown at Appendix A of this report.
CIRCUIT MINISTERS AND OFFICERS
Active Circuit Minsters: Rev. Vincent Jambawo Rev. Sarah Ramsden Rev. Martin Ramsden Rev. Rachel Williams – retired July 2025 Rev. Kundai Katiyo – appointed September 2025 Circuit Stewards: Mr. John Moore (treasurer) Mrs. Margaret Walton (property) Mr. Mark Hall Mr. Leslie Gilburt Mr. Paul Toplis Mrs. Caroline Noble Administrator: Mrs. Rachel Wilson – resigned October 2025 Mr. Alastair Howard-Norman – appointed January 2026
Mr. J.G. Moore acted as the principal officer overseeing the day-to-day financial management and accounting for the Circuit during the year.
| Independent Examiner: | D.F. Adams FCA |
|---|---|
| Baines Jewitt Limited | |
| Spitfire House | |
| 19 Falcon Court | |
| Preston Farm Industrial Estate | |
| STOCKTON ON TEES | |
| TS18 3TU | |
| Investment Bankers: | Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church |
| Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes |
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
AIMS AND ORGANISATION
The purposes of the Methodist Church are, and shall be deemed to have been since the Date of Union, the advancement of:
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(a) The Christian faith in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of The Methodist Church;
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(b) Any charitable purpose for the time being of any Connexional, District, Circuit, local or other organisation of The Methodist Church;
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(c) Any charitable purpose for the time being of any society or institution subsidiary or ancillary to The Methodist Church;
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(d) Any purpose for the time being of any charity being a charity subsidiary or ancillary to The Methodist Church.
The charity’s objective is to act as a Resource provider within the area around Stockton-on-Tees for the Methodist Church. To do this we will engage with the community, share with one another and share Jesus Christ. Our activities include:
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The organisation and resourcing of regular public acts of worship open to members of the church and nonmembers alike;
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The teaching of Christianity through sermons, courses and small groups;
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The resourcing of pastoral work including visiting the sick and bereaved;
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Taking religious assemblies in local schools;
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Promotion of Christianity through the staging of events and services;
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Provision of chaplaincy services to the local university and other institutions.
PUBLIC BENEFIT
We confirm the trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
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).
TRUSTEE TRAINING
A range of guidance is produced by Methodist Connexion to support the effective running of the Circuit, specifically the leaflet ‘The Role of a Trustee in the Methodist Church’ is given to all new Circuit meeting members as induction to their role as trustees.
RELATED PARTIES
See note 18 to the accounts.
REVIEW OF THE YEAR
Circuit Mission Statement and New Mission Policy Adoption. Together in faith, prayer and service so that everyone can grow in God’s love.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR - Continued
This year, the circuit marked a significant milestone with the completion and formal adoption of a new mission policy. This process involved extensive consultation with church members, congregations and trustees (Church Councils and Circuit Meeting), ecumenical partners, community stakeholders, and local partners, ensuring that the circuit’s direction remains responsive to local realities. The new policy builds on the previous vision, emphasising inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability, and aligns with the evolving needs of the Stockton-on-Tees area. A new mission policy was duly adopted by the Circuit Meeting on 19 March 2025, and it states, inter alia, that the Stockton Circuit is a united communion of Methodist Churches in the Stockton Borough. We celebrate and promote our togetherness as we believe that we are stronger when we work together.
Introduction and Overview of the Year
The period under review has been one of both continuity and change for the Stockton Methodist Circuit. The Circuit, comprising eight churches across Stockton-on-Tees, Yarm, Thornaby and Billingham has navigated a complex landscape marked by ongoing financial pressures, staffing transitions and shifting community needs. Despite these challenges, the Circuit has demonstrated resilience, adaptability and a steadfast commitment to its mission. The Circuit’s governance structures remained robust with trustees and staff working diligently to ensure compliance with Charity Commission requirements and Methodist Connexional standards.
Significant developments included expanded partnerships with local food banks and the Stockton-on-Tees Food Power Network, FareShare, and the appointment of new ministerial staff to start in September 2025 and September 2026. The Circuit also faced ongoing concerns related to financial sustainability and staffing, prompting strategic reviews of resource use and ministry development. Throughout the year, the Circuit maintained its commitment to safeguarding, inclusivity and environmental stewardship, aligning its practices with both Methodist and local authority frameworks.
The demographic context of Stockton-on-Tees continued to evolve, with increasing diversity, persistent pockets of deprivation and a growing elderly population. These trends informed the Circuit’s outreach and pastoral care strategies ensuring that services remained relevant and accessible to all segments of the community.
As the year ended, the Circuit reflected on its achievements and challenges, preparing to build on its strengths and address areas of concern in the coming year. The following sections provide an account of the Circuit’s activities, developments and strategic responses during this period.
Completion and Adoption of the New Mission Policy
As stated in the introduction, a notable achievement of the year was the successful completion and adoption of the Circuit’s new mission policy. In this evolving vision, we identify six core values, namely Togetherness, Faith, Prayer, Service, Everyone and Growth , alongside the stated calling of the wider Methodist Church in Britain which is to respond to the gospel of God’s love in Christ and to live out its discipleship in worship and mission through worship, learning and caring, service and evangelism.
The Stockton Circuit (SC) is guided by its mission statement, which is rooted in the wider Methodist calling to respond to the gospel of God’s love in Christ and to live out its discipleship through worship, learning, caring, service and evangelism. The Circuit’s erstwhile vision – Engage, Care, Share – has been incorporated into the new vision, reflecting a commitment to engaging with the local and global community, caring for one another and sharing the hope found in Jesus Christ. The policy sets out clear priorities: deepening spiritual life, expanding community outreach, strengthening ecumenical partnerships and ensuring robust governance and safeguarding . This renewed focus is a strong foundation for the Circuit’s work, guiding decisions on resource allocation, ministry priorities and engagement with wider Methodist and civic initiatives. The policy has provided a framework for decision-making, resource allocation and ministry development, ensuring that all Circuit activities are aligned with its core values. It has also strengthened the Circuit’s identity, fostering a sense of shared purpose among churches, staff and volunteers.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR - Continued
Expansion of Community Outreach: Food Banks and Food Power Network Partnerships
The Circuit continued to play a vital role in addressing food insecurity and poverty in Stockton-on-Tees. Through partnerships with local food banks, community pantries and the Stockton-on-Tees Food Power Network (SFPN), the Circuit contributed to a coordinated response to hunger and deprivation. Key achievements included:
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Increased volunteer engagement in food distribution and support services, especially at Norton Methodist Church.
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Participation in the SFPN’s Healthy Options Small Grants Scheme, enabling innovative approaches to community food provision. ASDA has also provided funding for Warm Spaces and Catalyst at North Billingham Methodist Church.
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Collaboration with local authorities and partners to promote healthy, sustainable food options and reduce food waste.
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Support for festive food initiatives, ensuring that vulnerable families had access to meals during holidays and periods of increased need.
Strengthening Ecumenical Partnership and Local Collaborations
The Circuit strives to deepen its ecumenical relationships, working closely with Anglican, Baptist and other Christian communities through Churches Together and Local Ecumenical Partnerships (LEPs).
Digital and Online Presence
Building on innovations developed during the pandemic, the Circuit maintained a digital presence through the Circuit Website and Facebook and through the individual churches’ websites and social media platforms. The Yarm Methodist Church’s YouTube channel continued to provide accessible worship for those unable to attend in person, while the Circuit website offered news, events and spiritual resources.
Recognition and Awards
The Circuit’s outreach and partnership work received recognition at the Catalyst Conference and Awards, with local volunteers and projects honoured for their contributions to health, wellbeing, inclusion and community impact. These accolades reflect the Circuit’s commitment to excellence and its positive influence in the wider community. Norton Methodist Church was nominated for the King’s Award for Voluntary Services.
Community Outreach: Food Banks and Food Power Network Partnerships
Stockton-on-Tees continues to face significant challenges related to food insecurity, poverty and social exclusion. The Circuit’s engagement with food banks and the SFPN is a strategic response to these issues, aligning with local authority priorities and the Fairer Stockton-on-Tees Framework. The SFPN, comprising over 45 local organisations, coordinates efforts to promote health, sustainable food, fight food waste and build community resilience. The Circuit’s participation in this network has enabled it to contribute effectively to borough-wide initiatives, leveraging resources and expertise to maximise impact.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR - Continued
Circuit Contributions and Impact
The Circuit’s churches have served as distribution hubs, volunteer centres and safe spaces for those experiencing food poverty. Key activities include:
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Working with FareShare to tackle food waste and reduce poverty.
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Hosting food bank sessions and providing community meals.
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Supporting the SFPN van initiative which collects surplus food from supermarkets and delivers it to community venues.
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Engaging in grant-funded projects to improve the nutritional quality of meals and increase access to fresh produce.
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Promoting cookery courses and skills development, empowering residents to make healthy choices and reduce reliance on emergency food provision.
The Circuit’s efforts have contributed to measurable outcomes, including increased food support for vulnerable families, reduced food waste and enhanced community cohesion. Feedback from beneficiaries and partners has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the Circuit’s role as a trusted and compassionate presence in the community.
Case Study: Food Bank Impact
One notable story from the year involved a partnership between Thornaby Methodist Church and local organisations, which enabled the distribution of festive food parcels to over 200 families during the Christmas period. Volunteers from the church worked alongside council staff and community groups to identify those in greatest need, ensuring that no one was left behind during the holidays.
This initiative not only addressed immediate hunger but also fostered relationships and trust, laying the groundwork for ongoing support and engagement.
Strengthening Relationships across Denominations
The Circuit’s commitment to ecumenism is reflected in its active participation in Churches Together and Local Ecumenical Partnerships. These relationships have enabled shared worship, joint outreach and collaborative responses to social challenges. Those collaborations have enhanced the Circuit’s capacity to serve diverse needs.
Concerns and Challenges: Financial Pressures
Financial sustainability remains a significant concern for the Stockton Circuit. The Circuit’s income and expenditure patterns reflect broader trends in church finances, with rising costs, declining giving and increased demand for outreach services. The Circuit’s financial history shows fluctuations in income and expenditure, but it faces ongoing pressures related to staffing, property maintenance and outreach activities. The Circuit’s trustees have worked diligently to manage resources, maintain reserves and ensure compliance with Charity Commission requirements.
Key Financial Challenges
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Rising Operational Costs : Utilities, insurance, property maintenance and staffing expenses have increased, placing a strain on budgets.
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Increased Demand for Outreach : The expansion of food bank and community support activities has required additional resources, both financial and volunteer.
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Giving or Stewardship Funding : Overall, this has remained fairly constant but with fewer people giving more and more and representing a decrease in real income.
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Uncertainty in Funding : Complexities in government and grant funding sometimes create uncertainty, requiring careful planning and diversification of income streams.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR – Continued
Strategic Responses
Changes in demographics and economic conditions have led to reduced regular giving from individual members, necessitating new fundraising strategies. The Circuit has undertaken a strategic review of resource use, exploring opportunities for consolidation, shared ministry and income generation. Key actions include:
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Rationalising property uses and exploring options for shared facilities.
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Seeking grant funding for outreach and community projects.
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Encouraging regular giving and stewardship among members.
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Collaborating with local authorities and partners to leverage resources and expertise.
The Circuit’s financial management has been recognised as robust and compliant, with Annual Returns and Accounts submitted on time to the Charity Commission.
Concerns and Challenges: Staffing and Ministerial Resources
Staffing and ministerial resources have been a persistent challenge for the Circuit, reflecting broader trends in church ministry and volunteer engagement. The Circuit relies on a combination of ordained ministers, lay preachers, volunteers and administrative staff to deliver its mission. The staff situation remains stable, although there might be changes in individual appointments. We appointed our part-time Circuit Administrator to a parttime role as Lay Pastoral Assistant to cover the gap created when one member of our ordained staff accepted an offer to become a part-time Mental Health Chaplain with a local hospital, starting 1 September 2024 and we recruited a temporary part-time Administrative Assistant. As mentioned last year, this is cost-neutral as we utilised the financial windfall generated by the shorter working of a staff member.
In the long term, the ordained staff member will be replaced by a minister from another conference through the Methodist Stationing process and who will start in September 2025. The current Superintendent has exercised his right to be stationed to a new appointment in September 2026 and a current colleague will be offered the Circuit Superintendent role from that date. As a consequence, the Circuit will enter the stationing process for a further Presbyter to start in September 2026. Plans are already in place to make sure that this happens smoothly without creating a sense of interregnum. We note that, in any case, the evolving demographic situation across the Connexion means we must redouble our efforts to find volunteers to deliver on mission and ministry. We may have to look more at less traditional sources.
Key Staffing Challenges
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Recruitment and Retention : Attracting and retaining qualified ministers and staff remains difficult, particularly in the context of financial constraints and changing patterns of ministry.
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Volunteer Engagement : Sustaining volunteer involvement in outreach, worship and governance is essential but increasingly challenging as demographics shift and competing demands arise.
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Workload and Wellbeing : Ministers and staff face significant workloads, balancing pastoral care, administration, outreach and compliance responsibilities. Ensuring wellbeing and support is a priority.
Strategic Responses
The Circuit’s response to these challenges reflects Methodist values of shared leadership, mutual support and adaptability.
Asset Management and Optimisation
The Circuit has undertaken a strategic review of its assets, aligning with local authority best practices and the Methodist Connexion’s guidance on property and resource management. The aim is to optimise the use of buildings, land and financial resources to support ministry, outreach and sustainability.
The Circuit’s approach, guided by Methodist Connexionalism, mirrors the Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Strategic Asset Management Plan, emphasising value for money, optimisation and sustainability.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR – Continued
Financial Resilience
Prudent financial management, diversification of income streams and robust governance have contributed to the Circuit’s resilience. Trustees and staff have worked to maintain reserves, manage risks and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
The Circuit’s financial resilience is supported by:
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Regular review of budgets and expenditure.
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Strategic fundraising and stewardship initiatives.
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Collaboration with partners to leverage resources and expertise.
Safeguarding Framework Resilience
Safeguarding remains a top priority for the Circuit, with robust policies and procedures in place to protect children, vulnerable adults and all members of the community. The Circuit aligns its practices with national Methodist guidance and local authority frameworks, ensuring compliance and best practice.
Key measures include:
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Regular training for staff, volunteers and trustees.
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Implementation of updated safeguarding policies, reflecting changes in statutory guidance (e.g. Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025).
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Participation in multi-agency safeguarding partnerships, sharing information and resources to enhance protection.
Inclusivity Initiatives
The Circuit’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its outreach, worship and pastoral care. The celebration of the first same-sex marriage, engagement with diverse communities and proactive support for marginalised groups demonstrate leadership in promoting equality and acceptance. Initiatives include:
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Inclusive worship services and events.
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Support for LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
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Engagement with minority ethnic communities and refugees.
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Advocacy for social justice and equality in local and national forums.
The Circuit’s approach aligns with Methodist values and broader societal trends towards inclusion and affirmation.
Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives
Sustainability is a growing focus for the Circuit, reflecting both Methodist commitments and local authority priorities. The Circuit has taken steps to reduce its environmental footprint, promote sustainable practices and engage members in stewardship.
Key initiatives include:
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Energy efficiency upgrades in church buildings (e.g. LED lighting, insulation).
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• Promotion of recycling, waste reduction and sustainable procurement.
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Participation in local environmental campaigns and partnerships.
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Education and advocacy on climate change and creation care.
The Circuit’s efforts align with the Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Environmental Sustainability and Carbon Reduction Strategy, contributing to borough-wide goals for emissions reduction and environmental stewardship.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR – Continued
Evolving Demographic Context
Stockton-on-Tees is home to over 196,000 people, with a population projected to rise to 200,444 by 2030. The Borough is characterised by significant diversity, with areas of affluence alongside some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in England. Key demographic trends include:
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Increasing ethnic diversity, with 8% of the population from black or minority ethnic groups.
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Growing elderly population, particularly among those aged 65 and over.
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Persistent health inequalities, with life expectancy varying dramatically between affluent and deprived areas.
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High levels of child poverty, food insecurity and social exclusion in certain wards.
These trends inform the Circuit’s outreach, pastoral care and ministry strategies, ensuring that services are tailored to the needs of diverse communities.
Responding to Community Needs
The Circuit is adapting its activities to address evolving needs, including:
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Targeted outreach to deprived and marginalised communities.
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Support for families, children and young people facing poverty and exclusion.
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Engagement with refugees, asylum seekers and minority ethnic groups.
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Collaboration with local authorities and VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) partners to coordinate responses.
Governance Structures
The Circuit’s governance is overseen by the Circuit Leadership Team and the Circuit Meeting (Managing Trustees), comprising ministers, lay leaders and representatives from member churches. Trustees are responsible for strategic direction, financial management, compliance and safeguarding.
Key governance activities during the year included:
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Regular trustee meetings and strategic planning sessions.
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Review and adoption of updated policies (mission, safeguarding and financial management).
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• Oversight of property, staffing and outreach activities.
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Engagement with Methodist Connexional and district structures.
Charity Commission Compliance
The Circuit maintained full compliance with Charity Commission requirements, submitting Annual Returns, accounts and trustees’ reports on time. The Circuit’s reporting history demonstrates a commitment to transparency, accountability and best practice. The governing document, based on the Deed of Union (1932) and Methodist Church Act (1976), sets out the charitable objects and operational framework for the Circuit. Trustees have ensured that all activities align with these objects and with the Methodist Church’s doctrinal standards and discipline.
Worship Life
Worship remains at the heart of the Circuit’s life, with services held across eight churches. The Circuit offers a mix of traditional and contemporary worship led by ministers, local preachers and worship leaders. Innovations during the year included:
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Introduction of informal and interactive services, such as Saturday Night Worship at Greens Lane Methodist Church.
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Ecumenical worship events, fostering unity and shared spiritual experience.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR – Continued
Pastoral Care
Pastoral care is a defining feature of the Circuit’s ministry, reflecting Methodist values of compassion, support and inclusion. The Circuit offers pastoral support to members and the wider community, including:
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Home visits, telephone support and prayer ministry.
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Support for those facing illness, bereavement or crisis.
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Engagement with older people, families and marginalised groups.
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Training and support for pastoral care volunteers.
The Circuit’s approach is informed by national Methodist guidance and local best practice, ensuring that care is sensitive, confidential and effective.
Youth and Children’s Ministry
The Circuit remains committed to nurturing faith and wellbeing among children and young people. Activities during the year included:
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Sunday schools, youth groups.
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Participation in the Connexional annual event 3Generate.
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Engagement with schools, colleges and family hubs to support education, wellbeing and inclusion.
Challenges included attracting and retaining young people, adapting to changing interests and addressing barriers to participation.
Communication Strategies
Effective communication is essential for coordination, engagement and outreach. The Circuit has invested in:
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Regular updates to members and partners.
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Transparent reporting on activities, finances and governance.
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Engagement with local media, partners and stakeholders.
These strategies have enhanced the Circuit’s visibility, reputation and impact.
Plans and Priorities for the Coming Year (September 2025 – August 2026)
Strategic Priorities
Building on the achievements and lessons of the past year, the Circuit has identified key priorities for the coming period:
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Deepening Spiritual Life : Expanding opportunities for worship, prayer and discipleship.
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Strengthening Outreach : Enhancing partnerships with food banks, VCSE organisations and local authorities to address poverty, exclusion and wellbeing.
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Promoting Inclusivity : Continuing to affirm and support LGBTQ+ individuals, minority ethnic communities and marginalised groups.
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Ensuring Sustainability : Investing in environmental stewardship, financial resilience and asset optimisation.
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Supporting Youth and Families : Innovating programmes for children, young people and families, addressing barriers to participation and engagement.
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Enhancing Governance : Maintaining robust compliance, transparency and accountability in all activities.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
REVIEW OF THE YEAR – Continued
Planned Actions
The Circuit remains committed to ongoing discernment, consultation and adaptation, ensuring that its mission remains responsive to changing needs and opportunities.
Acknowledgements and Thanks
The achievements of the Stockton Methodist Circuit during the year would not have been possible without the dedication, generosity and faithfulness of its members, staff, volunteers and partners. Special thanks are extended to:
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Ministers, lay preachers and worship leaders for their spiritual leadership and pastoral care.
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Trustees and administrative staff for their diligent governance and management.
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Volunteers for their tireless service in outreach, worship and community support.
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Ecumenical partners, VCSE organisations and local authorities for their collaboration and shared vision.
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Beneficiaries and community members for their trust, engagement and feedback.
The Circuit also acknowledges the support and guidance of the Methodist Connexion, Darlington District and Charity Commission, whose frameworks and resources have enabled effective ministry and compliance. As the Circuit looks ahead to the coming year, it does so with gratitude, hope and a renewed commitment to faith, service and community.
In closing, the Stockton Methodist Circuit affirms its mission to engage with the community, care for one another and share the hope found in Jesus Christ. Through resilience, inclusivity and stewardship, the Circuit continues to be a beacon of faith and compassion in Stockton-on-Tees and beyond.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Income Trends
Circuit income is primarily drawn from the assessment paid by the Circuit churches. All of the eight churches were able to meet their assessment commitments in the year to 31 August 2025, but continued to be affected by relatively high inflation and wholesale energy costs. Assessments that will provide a 3% uplift on the previous year’s level have been agreed with the churches for 2025/2026.
The Circuit has continued to benefit from the relatively high interest rates through 2024 and the first eight months of 2025 and this has represented a useful supplement to assessment income.
The Circuit was grateful to receive a bequest of £1,000 from the estate of Mr Malcolm Bainbridge.
Longer term the Circuit will endeavour to maintain assessment income at the current level with, where possible, some increase to counter inflation. However, it is recognised that with an ageing demographic there will probably be further reductions in church membership and with a number of ageing buildings to maintain, church finances are likely to come under increasing pressure. With such considerations, it is realised that overall church assessment income may not keep up with inflation.
Expenditure Trends
Stipends and associated expenditure and the assessment paid to the District and Connexion make up 75% of Circuit expenditure.
Stipend expenditure has increased by 6.82% in line with Conference approved increases. Increases in the rate of employer’s National Insurance contributions and the lowering of the salary threshold at which these start to be paid also raised costs. However, following a revaluation of the Minister’s Pension Fund these were largely countered by a 25% reduction in the employer’s contribution rate to this fund. The assessment paid to the District and Connexion in the year to 31 August 2025 remained the same as the previous year.
As one of the presbyters was working part-time, the Circuit employed a Lay Pastoral Assistant for 10 hours a week to support the ordained staff. This arrangement also necessitated the employment of an Assistant Administrator for five hours a week. These were temporary roles until the end of August 2025 and the cost of these roles was covered by the savings in presbyter cost.
The Circuit gave a grant of £11,000 to Thornaby Methodist Church (this was the second instalment of a grant of £33,000 to be paid over three years to support specific missional activities). The Circuit also gave a grant of £2,500 to St Andrew’s Methodist Church as a contribution to emergency concrete repairs.
Looking ahead to 2025/2026, stipends are scheduled to increase by 3.09%. The District/Connexional assessment will again remain steady in 2025/2026.
Looking further ahead, it is anticipated UK inflation will remain in the region of 2% or 3%. With declining interest rates and the continued financial pressures on the churches, annual Circuit income is not envisaged to increase significantly in the next few years and will probably struggle to keep pace with inflation. Matching income with expenditure is likely to remain challenging.
Fund Balances
As at 31 August 2025, the net current assets of the Circuit were £369,416. However, of this, £64,000 is allocated for funding half the direct employment cost of the Faith Rooted Community Organiser (FRCO) for five years and the remaining grant to Thornaby Methodist Church. Taking this into account, there is approximately 13 months cover for unrestricted expenditure.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
FINANCIAL REVIEW – Continued
Plans for 2025/2026
The presbyter who was working part-time during 2024/2025 has moved on to new roles outside the Circuit and will be replaced by a new full-time presbyter starting in September 2025. With this arrangement, the Lay Pastoral Assistant and Assistant Administrator roles are no longer needed and the Circuit will return to having an Administrator working 15 hours a week. Financial plans for the coming year are thus on the basis of three fulltime ordained staff and one part-time lay staff. There will be 3.1% cost of living rise for stipends from September 2025 while the assessment paid to the District and Connexion will remain at the same level. The assessment income from the churches has been agreed at 103% of the previous year’s level.
Darlington Methodist District is proposing to employ a Faith Rooted Community Organiser (FRCO) from January 2026 and Stockton Methodist Circuit has agreed to contribute half of the direct employment cost (initially, this share will be £10,000 per year). The FRCO will spend 50% of their time working for the district as an enabler developing the concept of the role and 50% engaged in practical community organising in the Circuit.
The Circuit has agreed to pay £11,000 as the third instalment of the grant to Thornaby Methodist Church in 2025/2026.
Apart from the Thornaby grant and the contribution for the FRCO (both these are funded from the proceeds of the sale of Yarm Road Methodist Church in September 2023), the Circuit anticipates running at a deficit of around £20,000 in the coming year.
RESERVES POLICY
General
It is the trustees’ policy to maintain a balance of unrestricted funds equivalent to six months unrestricted expenditure. However, world events show little sign of stabilising and the financial climate continues to be uncertain. Although inflation now seems to be under reasonable control, the high levels of the past few years have been detrimental to the finances of both Circuit and churches. The Circuit is also entering a period in which, over the next several years, it anticipates running at a deficit and needing to sell property in order to maintain an effective presence. All this adds to the anxiety regarding Circuit finances.
One Circuit presbyter has a further five years, another a further four years and a third a further year of their appointments to run. The third presbyter will be leaving in August 2026 and the Circuit has been successful in stationing for a replacement and the incoming presbyter’s appointment will run until at least August 2031. The Circuit has also agreed to fund half the direct employment cost of a FRCO, employed by the district, for the next five years and this is estimated overall at £53,000 and still has to pay a grant of £11,000 to Thornaby Methodist Church for the next year. It is essential for the Circuit to maintain sufficient income/reserves to ensure the financial consequences associated with these commitments and decisions can be met.
In these circumstances, it is seen as not unreasonable for reserves to be above the six month level.
RISK MANAGEMENT
The major risks associated with the Circuit have been identified and recorded by the Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) with professional advice taken as required. There is a regular annual review process undertaken and recorded. Income and expenditure are being monitored in total and compared with the approved annual budget on a half yearly basis to detect trends as part of the risk management process to avoid unforeseen calls on reserves.
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 recreation of us in Christ. Among other things this implies a duty to value all people as bearing the image of God and therefore to protect them from harm.
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STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Methodist Connexional practice outlines commitment to the following principles:
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The care and nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young people and adults;
-
The safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and adults when they are vulnerable;
-
The establishing of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is informed vigilance as to the dangers of abuse;
-
We will carefully select and train all those with any responsibility within the Church, in line with Safer Recruitment principles, including the use of criminal records disclosures and registration with the relevant vetting and barring schemes;
-
We will respond without delay to every complaint made which suggests that an adult, child or young person may have been harmed, cooperating with the police and local authority in any investigation;
-
We will seek to work with anyone who has suffered abuse, developing with them an appropriate ministry of informed pastoral care;
-
We will seek to challenge any abuse of power, especially by anyone in a position of trust;
-
We will seek to offer pastoral care and support, including supervision and referral to the proper authorities, to any member of our church community known to have offended against a child, young person or vulnerable adult;
-
In all these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and recognised good practice.
The Stockton Methodist Circuit commits itself to ensuring the implementation of the Connexional Safeguarding Policy, government legislation, guidance and safe practice in the Circuit and in the churches.
The Stockton 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.
APPROVAL
This report has been approved by Managing Trustees and will be presented to the Board of Trustees for approval at the 18 March 2026 Circuit Meeting.
Approved on behalf of the Charity’s Trustees on and signed on their behalf by:
M Ramsden
Acting Superintendent Minister
Appendix A
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
CIRCUIT MEETING MEMBERSHIP
Superintendent Rev. Vincent Jambawo * Ministers Rev. Sarah Ramsden Rev. Martin Ramsden Rev. Rachel Williams – retired July 2025 Rev. Kundai Katiyo – appointed September 2025 Circuit Stewards Mrs. Margaret Walton (property) Mr. Mark Hall Mr. Leslie Gilburt Mr. Paul Toplis Mrs. Caroline Noble Circuit Treasurer Mr. John Moore Secretary of the Circuit Meeting Mrs June Howard-Norman Secretary of Local Preachers’ Meeting Dr. Peter Dodd Local Preacher Representative Mrs. Sheila Hargreaves – retired December 2025 Lay Property Secretary Position currently vacant Lay Youth Forum Secretary Mrs. Margaret Murray MWiB Representative Position currently vacant Methodist Homes Representative Position currently vacant Safeguarding Dr. Peter Dodd
- Rev. Vincent Jambawo will be on sabbatical from 7 January 2026 to 6 April 2026. During this period, Rev. Martin Ramsden will be Acting Superintendent.
Appendix A
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
From each Church: Steward, Treasurer and Elected Representatives:
| Carlton: | Joan Burn, Charlton Peters, Margaret Hall |
|---|---|
| Greens Lane: | David Smart, Judy Morrison, Margaret Schofield – retired June 2025 |
| Sandra Wilkinson, Heather Wilkinson – appointed June 2025 | |
| North Billingham: | Rhona Ball, Cynthia Dent, Jackie Pitt, Maureen Gowland |
| Norton: | Howard Gill, Judith Lloyd - retired May 2025 |
| Carolyn Oliver – appointed June 2025 | |
| Catherine Bemrose | |
| Aneta Bradley | |
| St. Andrew’s: | Doreen Sharp, Gill Carr |
| Olga Brand | |
| Thornaby: | Judith Powell, Edith Appleby, Eileen Middleton |
| Stephen Smith – appointed September 2024 | |
| Trinity Eaglescliffe: | Robert Woodman, Ralph Barton – died April 2025 |
| John Monkhouse – appointed September 2024 | |
| Yarm: | Abigail Beer |
| Brian Bainbridge | |
| Chris Kendrew, Graham Clarke, Roz Matthews | |
| Ian Fyfe – retired January 2025 | |
| Jenifer Goodchild – appointed March 2025 |
Page 14
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 August 2025 which are set out on pages 15 to 23,
Responsibilities and Basis of Report
As the charity’s trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).
I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts as 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 matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements concerning the form and content of the 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.
D F Adams FCA Baines Jewitt Limited Spitfire House 19 Falcon Court Preston Farm Industrial Estate STOCKTON ON TEES TS18 3TU
Dated : 23 March 2026
DFA/GW
Page 15
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (SOFA) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| Circuit Model | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Fund | Trust | Restricted | Total | Total | ||
| Notes | (Unrestricted) | (Unrestricted) | Funds | 2024-2025 | 2023-2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Income | ||||||
| Donations and legacies | 4 | - | 1,038 | - | 1,038 | 155,000 |
| Income from monetary | ||||||
| investments | 5 | 11,078 | 5,998 | - | 17,076 | 20,075 |
| Income from investment | ||||||
| properties | 6 | - | - | 6,674 | 6,674 | 6,473 |
| Assessments on churches | 195,120 | - | - | 195,120 | 191,797 | |
| Capital receipts | - | - | - | - | - | |
| Grants received | - | - | - | - | - | |
| Other income | 7 | 14,411 | - | - | 14,411 | 17,373 |
| ___ | ______ | ______ | ___ | ___ | ||
| Total Income | 220,609 | 7,036 | 6,674 | 234,319 | 390,718 | |
| ------------ | -------- | -------- | ------------ | ------------ | ||
| Expenditure | ||||||
| Grants and donations | 8 | 7,170 | 13,500 | - | 20,670 | 19,471 |
| Salaries and associated | ||||||
| costs | 9 | 133,211 | 449 | - | 133,660 | 139,891 |
| Property maintenance | 10 | 35,414 | - | 1,389 | 36,803 | 38,449 |
| Connexional assessment | ||||||
| and model trust levy | - | - | - | - | 36,216 | |
| District assessment and levy | 11 | 48,956 | 4,407 | - | 53,363 | 49,554 |
| Office expenses | 1,869 | - | - | 1,869 | 2,093 | |
| Other outgoings | 2,744 | - | - | 2,744 | 3,744 | |
| Loss on disposal of fixed assets | - | - | - | - | 4,460 | |
| ___ | _ | ______ | ___ | ___ | ||
| Total Charitable Expenditure | 229,364 | 18,356 | 1,389 | 249,109 | 293,878 | |
| ------------ | ---------- | -------- | ------------ | ------------ | ||
| Net Income/Expenditure | (8,755) | (11,320) | 5,285 | (14,790) | 96,840 | |
| Transfers between funds | 17 | 17,584 | (12,299) | (5,285) | - | - |
| _ | __ | _ | __ | _ | ||
| Net Movement in Funds | 8,829 | (23,619) | - | (14,790) | 96,840 | |
| Total funds brought forward | 1,436,503 | 138,138 | 91,826 | 1,666,467 | 1,569,627 | |
| ____ | __ | _ | ____ | ____ | ||
| Total Funds Carried Forward | 17 | 1,445,332 | 114,519 | 91,826 | 1,651,677 | 1,666,467 |
| ======== | ====== | ====== | ======== | ======== |
The notes on pages 18 to 23 form part of these accounts
Page 16
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (SOFA) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024
| Circuit Model | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Fund | Trust | Restricted | Total | Total | ||
| Notes | (Unrestricted) | (Unrestricted) | Funds | 2023-2024 | 2022-2023 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Income | ||||||
| Donations | 4 | - | 155,000 | - | 155,000 | 65,000 |
| Income from monetary | ||||||
| investments | 5 | 13,175 | 6,900 | - | 20,075 | 9,691 |
| Income from investment | ||||||
| properties | 6 | - | - | 6,473 | 6,473 | 5,776 |
| Assessments on churches | 189,320 | 2,477 | - | 191,797 | 204,245 | |
| Capital receipts | - | - | - | - | - | |
| Grants received | - | - | - | - | 2,000 | |
| Other income | 7 | 17,373 | - | - | 17,373 | 21,940 |
| ___ | ___ | ______ | ___ | ___ | ||
| Total Income | 219,868 | 164,377 | 6,473 | 390,718 | 308,652 | |
| ------------ | ------------ | -------- | ------------ | ------------ | ||
| Expenditure | ||||||
| Grants and donations | 8 | 15,471 | 4,000 | - | 19,471 | 8,627 |
| Salaries and associated costs | 9 | 139,553 | 68 | 270 | 139,891 | 136,302 |
| Property maintenance | 10 | 36,674 | - | 1,775 | 38,449 | 29,004 |
| Connexional assessment and | ||||||
| model trust levy | - | 36,216 | - | 36,216 | - | |
| District assessment and levy | 11 | 48,956 | 598 | - | 49,554 | 49,660 |
| Office expenses | 2,093 | - | - | 2,093 | 2,342 | |
| Other outgoings | 3,744 | - | - | 3,744 | 4,560 | |
| Loss on disposal of fixed assets | - | 4,460 | - | 4,460 | - | |
| ___ | _ | ______ | ___ | ___ | ||
| Total Charitable Expenditure | 246,491 | 45,342 | 2,045 | 293,878 | 230,495 | |
| ------------ | ---------- | -------- | ------------ | ------------ | ||
| Net Income/(Expenditure) | (26,623) | 119,035 | 4,428 | 96,840 | 78,157 | |
| Transfers between funds | 17 | 9,498 | (4,800) | (4,698) | - | - |
| _ | __ | ______ | _ | _ | ||
| Net Movement in Funds | (17,125) | 114,235 | (270) | 96,840 | 78,157 | |
| Total funds brought forward | 1,453,628 | 23,903 | 92,096 | 1,569,627 | 1,491,470 | |
| ____ | ___ | _ | ____ | ____ | ||
| Total Funds Carried Forward | 17 | 1,436,503 | 138,138 | 91,826 | 1,666,467 | 1,569,627 |
| ======== | ======= | ====== | ======== | ======== |
The notes on pages 18 to 23 form part of these accounts
Page 17
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 AUGUST 2025
| Circuit Model | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Fund | Trust | Restricted | Totals | Totals | ||
| Notes | (Unrestricted) | (Unrestricted) | Funds | 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Fixed Assets | ||||||
| Circuit Manses and equipment | 13 | 1,192,261 | - | - | 1,192,261 | 1,192,261 |
| Investment properties | 13 | - | - | 90,000 | 90,000 | 90,000 |
| ____ | ___ | _ | ____ | ____ | ||
| Total Fixed Assets | 1,192,261 | - | 90,000 | 1,282,261 | 1,282,261 | |
| ======== | === | ====== | ======== | ======== | ||
| Current Assets | ||||||
| Debtors | 14 | 7,386 | - | - | 7,386 | 8,973 |
| Investments with TMCP | 15 | - | 114,519 | - | 114,519 | 138,138 |
| Central Finance Board deposits | 285,546 | - | 1,826 | 287,372 | 268,873 | |
| Cash at bank and in hand | 15,188 | - | - | 15,188 | 20,926 | |
| ___ | __ | ______ | __ | ___ | ||
| Total Current Assets | 308,120 | 114,519 | 1,826 | 424,465 | 436,910 | |
| ------------ | ----------- | -------- | ----------- | ------------ | ||
| Current Liabilities | ||||||
| Creditors: due in less than one | ||||||
| year | 16 | 55,049 | - | - | 55,049 | 52,704 |
| _ | ___ | ___ | _ | _ | ||
| Total Current Liabilities | 55,049 | - | - | 55,049 | 52,704 | |
| ---------- | ---- | ---- | ---------- | ---------- | ||
| Net Current Assets/Liabilities | 253,071 | 114,519 | 1,826 | 369,416 | 384,206 | |
| ------------ | ----------- | -------- | ------------ | ----------- | ||
| Total Assets less Current | ||||||
| Liabilities | 1,445,332 | 114,519 | 91,826 | 1,651,677 | 1,666,467 | |
| ======== | ======= | ====== | ======== | ======== | ||
| Net Assets | 1,445,332 | 114,519 | 91,826 | 1,651,677 | 1,666,467 | |
| ======== | ======= | ====== | ======== | ======== | ||
| Funds of the Circuit | ||||||
| General fund (unrestricted) | 17 | 1,445,332 | - | - | 1,445,332 | 1,436,503 |
| Circuit Model Trust Fund | ||||||
| (unrestricted) | 17 | - | 114,519 | - | 114,519 | 138,138 |
| ____ | __ | ___ | ____ | ____ | ||
| Total Unrestricted Funds | 1,445,332 | 114,519 | - | 1,559,851 | 1,574,641 | |
| -------------- | ------------ | ---- | -------------- | -------------- | ||
| Restricted funds | 17 | - | - | 91,826 | 91,826 | 91,826 |
| --- | --- | ---------- | ---------- | ---------- | ||
| Total Funds | 17 | 1,445,332 | 114,519 | 91,826 | 1,651,677 | 1,666,467 |
| ======== | ======= | ====== | ======== | ======== |
These financial statements were approved on behalf of the Charity’s Trustees on 18 March 2026 and are signed on their behalf by:
M Ramsden
(Acting Superintendent Minister)
The notes on pages 18 to 23 form part of these accounts
Page 18
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1. CHARITY INFORMATION
The charity (registered number 1137263) is a public benefit entity, established in the UK and governed by The Methodist Church Act 1976. The address of the principal office is given in the charity information on page 1 of these financial statements. The nature of the charity’s operation and principal activity is the advancement of the Christian faith.
2. BASIS OF PREPARATION OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Basis of Preparation and Assessment of Going Concern
The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity.
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.
3. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(a) Funds
The funds held constitute: General funds held for any purpose of the Circuit which are unrestricted; the Circuit Model Trust Fund has wide purposes defined in Standing Orders and is categorised as unrestricted; Restricted funds which are held for a narrower purpose; there are no endowment funds; details of each material fund are disclosed in the final note to these accounts and any funds may be represented by more than just cash.
(b)
Incoming Resources
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.
(c) Resources Expended
This is recognised when a liability is incurred, or a constructive obligation arises, that results in the payment being unavoidable. Liabilities are recognised as soon as an outflow of economic benefit is considered more likely than not under the legal or constructive obligation committing the Circuit to pay out resources.
(d)
Grants
Grants made by the Circuit from its own funds are recognised in full at the time of agreement or when the Circuit accepts that there is a legal or operational obligation to make the payment.
(e) VAT
Since the Circuit is not VAT registered, all input VAT is charged with the expenses to which it refers.
(f) Tangible Fixed Assets for use by the Circuit
These are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and individually cost more than £500. The freehold property purchased pre 2015 is shown in the accounts at 2015, deemed values resulting from a valuation in 2005. Freehold property purchased since 2015 is shown at cost. The land component is deemed to be a third. No depreciation is provided because the trustees consider the current residual value of the property in its present condition to be not less than its current valuation and, in the absence of any evidence or impairment, any depreciation provision for the buildings component of the property would be immaterial.
Page 19
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
3. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Continued
(g) Investment Properties
These are properties held for the long term and are included in the financial statements at fair value. Depreciation is not provided on investment property.
(h) Financial Instruments
The charity only has financial assets and liabilities that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. Any losses arising from impairment are recognised in expenditure.
(i) 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. The budgeted income and expenditure is sufficient with the level of reserves for the charity to be able to continue as a going concern.
4. DONATIONS
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Gift of church property | - | - | - | - | 155,000 |
| Legacy | - | 1,038 | - | 1,038 | - |
| ___ | ______ | ___ | ______ | __ | |
| - | 1,038 | - | 1,038 | 155,000 | |
| === | ===== | === | ===== | ======= |
Under the Methodist Church constitution, when a local Methodist society closes, the church passes to the Circuit and becomes part of its assets.
5. INCOME FROM MONETARY INVESTMENTS
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Central Finance Board | |||||
| Deposits | 11,078 | - | - | 11,078 | 13,175 |
| Investments with TMCP | - | 5,998 | - | 5,998 | 6,900 |
| _ | ______ | ___ | _ | _ | |
| 11,078 | 5,998 | - | 17,076 | 20,075 | |
| ====== | ===== | === | ====== | ====== |
6. INCOME FROM INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Lettings income: | |||||
| Alpine Way | - | - | 6,674 | 6,674 | 6,473 |
| ___ | ___ | ______ | ______ | ______ | |
| Total | - | - | 6,674 | 6,674 | 6,473 |
| == | == | ===== | ===== | ===== |
Page 20
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
7. OTHER CHARITABLE INCOME
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Lettings income: | |||||
| 2 Wallington Road | 6,975 | - | - | 6,975 | 6,900 |
| Donations for Connexional | |||||
| Funds | 7,170 | - | - | 7,170 | 8,471 |
| District employment | |||||
| reimbursement | - | - | - | - | 1,878 |
| Other sundry income | 266 | - | - | 266 | 124 |
| _ | ___ | ___ | _ | _ | |
| Total | 14,411 | - | - | 14,411 | 17,373 |
| ====== | === | === | ====== | ====== |
One of the Circuit manses is currently let on a short-term basis. It is anticipated that it will be again required to house a Minister.
8. GRANTS AND DONATIONS
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Connexional Funds | 7,170 | - | - | 7,170 | 8,471 |
| Thornaby Methodist Church | - | 11,000 | - | 11,000 | 11,000 |
| St. Andrew’s Methodist | |||||
| Church | - | 2,500 | - | 2,500 | - |
| ______ | _ | ___ | _ | _ | |
| 7,170 | 13,500 | - | 20,670 | 19,471 | |
| ===== | ====== | === | ====== | ====== |
9. SALARIES AND ASSOCIATED COSTS
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Gross wages, salaries and | |||||
| benefits in kind | 98,881 | - | - | 98,881 | 99,929 |
| Pension costs | 16,856 | - | - | 16,856 | 23,995 |
| Employer’s national | |||||
| insurance costs | 9,397 | - | - | 9,397 | 8,960 |
| Apprenticeship levy | 488 | - | - | 488 | 497 |
| Telephone | 4,272 | - | - | 4,272 | 3,648 |
| Travelling | 2,362 | - | - | 2,362 | 2,314 |
| Relocation costs | 475 | - | - | 475 | - |
| Administration | 480 | 449 | - | 929 | 548 |
| __ | ____ | ___ | __ | __ | |
| Total | 133,211 | 449 | - | 133,660 | 139,891 |
| ====== | === | === | ====== | ====== |
The average number of staff engaged during the year was 4 (2024: 4). No employees received employee benefits that totalled more than £60,000.
The Superintendent of the Circuit and the other Presbyters and the remaining members of the Circuit Leadership Team are considered as key Management Personnel. The members of the Circuit meeting are the trustees of the Circuit. The stipends, employer’s NIC, apprenticeship levy and employer’s pension contributions and other expenses of the Presbyters of the Circuit are paid by the Circuit.
Page 21
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Payments to Trustees
Apart from the Presbyters (stipends), no member of the Circuit meeting received any payment for work undertaken on behalf of the Circuit.
Included in these accounts is £2,367 (2024: £2,351) in respect of reimbursed expenses for three trustees.
10. PROPERTY
| PROPERTY | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Council tax | 7,130 | - | - | 7,130 | 7,868 |
| Water supply | 1,956 | - | - | 1,956 | 1,565 |
| Energy supply | 588 | - | - | 588 | 192 |
| Repairs and maintenance | 18,278 | - | 104 | 18,382 | 18,348 |
| Insurance | 5,487 | - | - | 5,487 | 4,818 |
| Letting expenses | 1,315 | - | 1,285 | 2,600 | 2,388 |
| Quinquennial reports | 660 | - | - | 660 | 3,270 |
| _ | ___ | ______ | _ | _ | |
| Total | 35,414 | - | 1,389 | 36,803 | 38,449 |
| ====== | === | ===== | ====== | ====== | |
| DISTRICT ASSESSMENT AND | LEVY | ||||
| Circuit Model | 2025 | 2024 | |||
| Unrestricted | Trust Fund | Restricted | Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| District expenses and | |||||
| Methodist Church funds | 48,956 | - | - | 48,956 | 48,956 |
| Levy on CMTF funds | - | 4,407 | - | 4,407 | 598 |
| _ | ______ | ___ | _ | _ | |
| Total | 48,956 | 4,407 | - | 53,363 | 49,554 |
| ====== | ===== | === | ====== | ====== |
11. DISTRICT ASSESSMENT AND LEVY
12. NET INCOME/EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR
This is stated after charging:
| This is stated after charging: | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| Total | Total | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Independent Examiner’s Fees: | |||
| Independent examination – 2025 | 2,544 | 2,424 | |
| ===== | ===== | ||
| TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS | |||
| Circuit | Investment | ||
| Property | Property | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Cost or Valuation | |||
| Balance brought forward as at 1 September 2024 | 1,192,261 | 90,000 | 1,282,261 |
| Depreciation | |||
| At 31 August 2024 and 31 August 2025 | - | - | - |
| ____ | _ | ____ | |
| Balance carried forward as at 31 August 2025 | 1,192,261 | 90,000 | 1,282,261 |
| ======== | ====== | ======== |
13. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Circuit property comprises four manses for use by the Circuit staff and the chapel located at Maltby village which is used for occasional Circuit services.
The investment property is one property which is held for the long term. In the opinion of the trustees, £90,000 is a reasonable estimate of the market value as at 31 August 2025.
Page 22
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
14. DEBTORS AND PREPAYMENTS
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | |
| Stipends paid in advance | 7,377 | 8,973 |
| Other debtors and prepayments | 9 | - |
| ______ | ______ | |
| 7,386 | 8,973 | |
| ===== | ===== |
15. INVESTMENTS WITH TRUSTEES FOR METHODIST CHURCH PURPOSES (TMCP)
TMCP is an investment receiving body within the Methodist Church which pays interest at market rates on funds invested with them.
16. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| Total | Total | |
| £ | £ | |
| Assessments received in advance | 50,813 | 48,780 |
| Other creditors and accruals | 4,236 | 3,924 |
| _ | _ | |
| 55,049 | 52,704 | |
| ====== | ====== |
17. SUMMARY OF FUND MOVEMENTS
| At | At | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01.09.24 | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | 31.08.25 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General fund | 1,436,503 | 220,609 | 229,364 | 17,584 | 1,445,332 |
| Circuit Model Trust fund | 138,138 | 7,036 | 18,356 | (12,299) | 114,519 |
| ____ | ___ | ___ | _ | ____ | |
| Total Unrestricted Funds | 1,574,641 | 227,645 | 247,720 | 5,285 | 1,559,851 |
| ------------- | ------------ | ------------ | --------- | ------------- | |
| Tees Valley Housing Fund | 90,000 | 6,674 | 1,389 | (5,285) | 90,000 |
| Circuit Mission and | |||||
| Evangelism Fund | 1,826 | - | - | - | 1,826 |
| _ | ______ | ______ | _ | _ | |
| Total Restricted Funds | 91,826 | 6,674 | 1,389 | (5,285) | 91,826 |
| ---------- | -------- | -------- | --------- | ---------- | |
| TOTAL ALL FUNDS | 1,666,467 | 234,319 | 249,109 | - | 1,651,677 |
| ======== | ======= | ======= | === | ======== |
Page 23
STOCKTON METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
17. SUMMARY OF FUND MOVEMENTS – Continued
| At | At | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01.09.23 | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | 31.08.24 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General fund | 1,453,628 | 219,868 | 246,491 | 9,498 | 1,436,503 |
| Circuit Model Trust fund | 23,903 | 164,377 | 45,342 | (4,800) | 138,138 |
| ____ | __ | __ | ______ | ____ | |
| Total Unrestricted Funds | 1,477,531 | 384,245 | 291,833 | 4,698 | 1,574,641 |
| ------------- | ------------ | ------------ | -------- | ------------- | |
| Tees Valley Housing Fund | 90,000 | 6,473 | 1,775 | (4,698) | 90,000 |
| Circuit Mission and | |||||
| Evangelism Fund | 2,096 | - | 270 | - | 1,826 |
| _ | ______ | ______ | ______ | _ | |
| Total Restricted Funds | 92,096 | 6,473 | 2,045 | (4,698) | 91,826 |
| ---------- | -------- | -------- | --------- | ---------- | |
| TOTAL ALL FUNDS | 1,569,627 | 390,718 | 293,878 | - | 1,666,467 |
| ======== | ======= | ======= | === | ======== |
General Fund - this fund is used for general purposes.
Circuit Model Trust Fund - This fund has wide purposes as defined in the standing orders of the Methodist Church.
Tees Valley Housing Fund - This fund is to be used to benefit homeless families.
Circuit Mission and Evangelism Fund – This fund is used to support new Mission and Evangelism activities.
18. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Churches which form the Stockton Methodist Circuit whose assessments provide the principal income for the Circuit are:
Carlton Greens Lane North Billingham Norton St. Andrew’s Thornaby Trinity Eaglescliffe Yarm
The Circuit paid an assessment and levy to Darlington Methodist District as detailed in note 11 to these accounts.