## St Nicholas with St Mary, Strood **ANNUAL REPORT and**
## **ACCOUNTS For 2025**
## **St. Nicholas with St. Mary Strood ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Parochial Name: St. Nicholas with St. Mary, Strood Postal Address: High Street, Strood, Rochester, Kent ME2 4TR Correspondence: The Vicar** Rev Sue Vallente-Kerr: revsuevk@gmail.com
## _**Parochial Church Council Members for 2025 (April to April 2026)**_
_Rev Sue Vallente-Kerr Vicar_
_Rob Foxwell (LLM, Deanery Synod rep for three years from APCM 2023)_
_Elaine Ford (Church Warden) Ken Reynolds (Church Warden)_
_Sarah Wilkinson_ PCC Secretary _Jade Goodwin (From APCM 2025 for three years) Kenny Boulter. (From APCM 2025 for three years) Lanza Wilson (From APCM 2023 for three years)_
_Ube Casely-Hayford (From APCM 2023 for three years) Margaret James (Deanery Synod rep for three years from APCM 2023) Robert James (From APCM 2024 for three years) Sue Marrable (From APCM 2024 for three years) Jeff Whiteley (Re co-opted May 2024)_
Number on Electoral Roll: 90 Independent Examiner: Robyn Curry Bankers: Barclays Bank, Chatham Registered charity no.: 1138948
The full PCC met 7 times during the year, and the APCM was held on 5[th] May 2025 after the 10.30 service in Church.
The standing committee met approximately 2 weeks prior to each PCC meeting. Following the APCM in May the standing committee were Reverand Sue Vallente Kerr, Elaine Ford, Ken Reynolds, Rob Foxwell, Sarah Wilkinson, Jeff Whiteley and Robert James.
Max Russell, Andy Vince, Sarah Wilkinson and Olu Odumosa stood down after the APCM as they had served 3 years on the PCC, Rev Sue thanked them for their service.
2
## **AIMS AND PURPOSES**
St Nicholas Church, Strood is a place of worship. We at St. Nicholas with St. Mary seek to fulfill our calling as followers of Jesus Christ. Our primary object is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The Parochial Church Council
cooperates with the ministers in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social, and ecumenical. We do this in many and varied ways, as the reports below will illustrate. In these ways we witness to the love of God shown to us in our lives and would draw others also into the life of discipleship. This witness is not simply a matter of words but includes practical service to one another and to the wider world, starting from the knowledge that all are loved by God and precious in His sight. We believe that this journey of faith is important for others to find. We also believe that Jesus is in our midst and therefore we seek to serve one another and the Jesus within and amongst us.
## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES**
We continue to develop a vision of ‘welcome’. In pursuance of this mission during the year we have:
1. Continued to look at the facilities of the church buildings with a view to improving them for future and current users.
2. Enabled the Worship area of the church be made more available for the onward mission of the church.
3. We continue to aim at implementing the Church of England’s Five Marks of Mission:
- 1 Enabling our church to be mission minded.
2. Helping children, young people and adults live out everyday faith in Jesus.
3. Supporting loving service in local communities.
3
4. Encouraging and responding to the prophetic voice of justice and peace.
5. Protecting creation’s life for future generations.
## **ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE**
Worship is an important and integral part of our church life. The livestreaming of the 10:30am Service remains a valuable way for people to worship at home, particularly for those who cannot physically attend church. In the last year we’ve managed to stream the services during Holy Week and Christmas as well as the regular Sunday services. Our achievements and the ability to continue the mission of the church would not have been possible without a team spirit . Ken Reynolds and Elaine Ford have been of great support and superb Church Wardens, with Ken also leading our music; Rob Foxwell has stepped up in the last year taking on more responsibility leading the study group with Rev Sue, preaching at a variety of services and undertaking training to help with funeral ministry :Sarah Wilkinson stepped into the role of PCC secretary and has been helping with many administrative roles, Sue Davis has been so helpful in steering and maintaining our finances and Jeff Whiteley as our named treasurer. A big thank you also to all the members of the PCC. We have a Ministry Team, which meets monthly, and ensures that the mission of the church remains central to our church life and vision on a regular basis. We have also restarted a pastoral support group to help us support those in our congregation in need. We also welcomed Garry Wilkinson as part of the staff team as our site manager who has been an invaluable asset.
Average weekly attendance: 70 Those who worship online 30 Baptisms: 9 Confirmations: 6
## **Financial Review**
During the year, PCC general income reduced by £24,142 (2025 £101,295, 2024 £125,437) mostly due to a reduction of grants of £24,955. This is slightly offset by an increase in hall rental income of £4,802, a decrease in gift aid claimed of £6,703, an increase in plate
4
collections of £1,231 and an increase to other income of £5,963 due to events such as the abseil and Snowboy.
General expenditure reduced by
£73,693 (2025 £101,718, 2024 £174,411) mostly due to reduced project spending of £90,948. Church hall costs were £12,146 higher due to maintenance and employing a caretaker. Fundraising costs were £5,129 higher due to the events held. Church maintenance was £3,565 higher.
Total cash and balances held in bank accounts at the end of 2025 stood at £136,647 (2024 £132,119).
It is the policy of the PCC to spend reserves under its stewardship to deliver its vision for the future and the PCC continues to discuss the best ways to use its funds to meet God’s purpose for the parish of Strood and the wider community.
Of the total cash resources of £136,647 at the end of
2025 £17,890, (2024 £20,881) was held in funds designated for the repair of the church, the installation of a lift to the upper hall and the music fund. £12,012 (2024 £10,621) was held in various restricted funds.
This year income has remained stable. In 2025 income from hall rental, car park and fundraising events increased by 11% on 2024 levels. This income contributed to 45% of general income this year.
We thank God that despite the difficult economic climate, St Nicholas is managing to make ends meet and has been able to make significant improvements to the church and grounds in recent years as a result of the reserves entrusted to it. We pray for guidance in directing resources to best serve His purpose.
## **Policy Statements**
Liquidity - It is the policy of the PCC to generally maintain unrestricted funds, which are the free reserves of the charity, at a level which equates to approximately three months unrestricted expenditure. This provides sufficient funds to cover management, administration and support costs, and to respond to emergency expenditure and applications for grants that arise from time to time.
## **Risk Management**
The church insurance is reviewed on a regular basis. Cheques are signed by two signatories.
5
A child protection policy is in place. Any potential hazards which come to the PCC’s attention are dealt with as soon as possible.
## **SAFEGUARDING**
At the first meeting of a new PCC the House of Bishops’ ‘Promoting a Safer Church: Safeguarding Policy Statement’ is read out and formally adopted by the PCC. A Parish Safeguarding Officer is appointed and details of those to contact if there are any concerns are displayed in church. The PCC adopts the Safeguarding Policy of the Church of England. See below for full report from our Safeguarding officers.
## **AWAY GIVING**
We gave to the following charities in 2024: Friends of Kent churches, Christian Aid, Crisis, The Children’s Society, The
Fishermen’s Mission, The Poverty & Hope Appeal and St Clare’s link church Harare.
## **CHILDREN AND YOUTH WORK**
Sunday school: - Although children and families are welcome every Sunday, on the first Sunday of the month we have Sunday school. Thanks to the committed help of Vickie Desai, Janet Hughes, Jade Goodwin, Rob Foxwell and Jean Kerr. We continue to try and follow a similar theme to the main service through age-appropriate activities and have something for the children to take home to remember the theme. We had another 4 children receiving communion before confirmation after completing a course and another 4 awaiting to start the course . Tina Francis has also started a youth choir. We also have a youth group with 6 regular young people involved and also taking responsibility in Sunday worship.
**----- Start of picture text -----**
6
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **Toddler and Chat**
The numbers for the Thursday toddler group continued to fluctuate over the year. It continues to be one of the only free places for toddlers to attend locally, which we feel is important. The group is a safe space for parents, grandparents and carers to come along, meet others and for the children to play. The highlight is the singing at the end. Thanks to Janet Hughes, Jeff Whiteley, Tina Francis for her singing skills and John and Elaine Ford for their great commitment to the group especially for setting up and tidying up every week!
## **Schools**
We continue to have good contacts with the schools. We held harvest and Christmas assemblies for All Faiths and Gordon school in church. We also take termly assemblies for both KS1 and KS2 at Gordon school. We’ve been into the schools to conduct R.E. lessons and Christingle services. Ken Reynolds, Brian Davies and Rev Sue continued to take weekly assemblies at St Nicholas Primary School. We have also been invited to several school production performances and assisted with their Christmas services and Christingles too. We also had the pleasure of welcoming Reception class for a mock baptism where they had chosen parents and Godparents, a name for the baby, and even had a baptism party afterwards and also a mock wedding with Haribo rings and bubbles rather than confetti!
## **COFFEE SHOP**
7
The coffee shop is on Saturday mornings and is open to all. It has a small number of regular customers who enjoy being able to purchase refreshments at a reasonable price and the chance to socialize.
We thank Brian and Mary Davies who have stepped down after being part of coffee shop from the start and thank those who have stepped up to enable coffee shop to continue.
## **CHRISTMAS HAMPERS / COMMUNITY LARDER**
At Christmas, with thanks to a grant from Medway Council and Toys from The Salvation Army, we were able to provide over 65 hampers to help those families most in need. Thank you to all who helped contribute financially, with items, toys, and a special thanks to a great team who came to help wrap boxes, pack and deliver the hampers. We continue to regularly support several families locally with food and essential items and also work closely with the Foodbank.
## **DEANERY SYNOD**
Synod has not met yet since February 2025 when Bishop Jonathan came to share the diocesan vision. There is now a new Area Dean, Clifford Stocking , vicar of St Helen’s, Cliffe
## **ELECTORAL ROLL (** revised 11th April)
Number of people living within the parish Number of people living outside the parish Number of women
8
Number of men
## Total
## **Fabric Report**
Following an accident in May the outer wall of the Swain vestry sustained some cosmetic damage. We are pursuing an insurance claim for the cost of the repairs. After a safety inspection The Swain Vestry was deemed safe to use.
## The Quinquennial Report Electrical works code C2
After the Quinquennial inspection 4 years ago, all 14 electrical jobs have been completed under C2, making St Nicholas Church a safe building to now be in. We have received the Certificate from Quantec stating that this building is now safe to worship in.
## Here are some photos of the works carried out so far below
## 1.
New section of flooring fitted in the upper hall
kitchen.
2.
New kitchen has now been fitted in the upper
hall.
3.
9
New kitchen has now been fitted in the upper
hall.
4.
Redecoration the wall & celling of the upper hall
toilets 1.
## 5.
Redecoration the wall & celling of the upper hall toilet 2.
## 6.
Installed new splash back to upper hall toilet
lobby.
7.
10
Redecoration of the wall & celling of the upper
## hall toilet lobby.
## 8.
Redecoration of the upper hall toilets doors.
## 9.
New sink & taps installed to the upper hall toilets and new splash installed back behind new sink.
## 10.
Four new stopcocks have been installed in the
upper hall toilets.
11.
11
Installed one new light in the upper hall. 12.
Installed new 4-inch pipe connections in main
church.
13. Installed new 4-inch pipe connections in main church.
14. Refixed all the outside light cages. 15. Refixed all the outside light cages.
16.
12
Installed new boards to protect the stain glass windows in the upper hall.
17.
Installed new board to protect the stain glass windows in the upper hall.
## 18.
New doors installed to the main entrance to the
lower hall.
19.
New pull handle fitted to the back of the main entrance door to the lower hall.
## 20.
Installed new electrical cupboard in the upper hall
toilets.
21.
13
Installed new boards to make the church roof
watertight.
22.
New light switch replaced in one of the toilets in the lower hall.
## 23.
New toilet seat replaced in one of the toilets in lower hall.
## 24.
Three new lights have been replaced in the upper
hall toilets.
## **FRESH EXPRESSIONS**
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Families@3 **-** On the third Sunday of each month we continue to hold Families@3 in the afternoon. This involves craft activities and games in the hall followed by a Bible story, an interactive song and creative prayers. We conclude our time together with refreshments. Through this one of our young people has sought baptism and attendance on a Sunday morning too. It has been wonderful to welcome families to these events. We held our second Family Good Friday event with all ages coming to experience the Easter story. A special thank you to Janet Hughes, Jeff Whiteley, Jean and Paul Kerr and Tina Francis for their help and support.
## **HALL GROUP**
The Church has two halls and the Swain Vestry for the use of both the congregation and outside groups, for social and fund-raising events. The Upper Hall is used by St Nicholas Playgroup on weekdays all year and Rainbows one night a week. It is also used by a Street Dance group weeknights and a Ballet class for young children on Saturday mornings. The Lower Hall and church space is used by Yoga, Zumba, GA, AA, CA, The Phoenix Art Group, LCGC youth choir, Gardening Club, Compassionate Friends, Friends of Medway Archives, Cuxton singers and Floral Art. A church run Parent Toddler used the Lower Hall too. The Swain Vestry was used by the Church, Strood fellowship, Friends of Rede Common, Warblers Close and Kent Family History for meetings. Compassionate Friends held a monthly afternoon meeting to support bereaved families. Raising Youth continued to be based on site, using the Swain Vestry as an office and supporting many of our community events. Garry has worked tirelessly in maintaining the halls and especially making improvements to the upper hall kitchen and toilets.
15
## **MAGAZINE GROUP**
The magazine is still very much appreciated by those who subscribe and we have many people in the month asking for a copy of it. The magazine editorial group, continues to make decisions of content by email. Thanks to Sue Marrable for her editorial skills.
## **MUSIC REPORT**
Another successful year has passed. I would like to thank our choir for their continued support and loyalty over the year. I would also like to thank the congregation for their amazing singing. On that note (excuse the pun) we always enjoy the well-known and favourite hymns. In recent months we have chosen some less known or new ones. I am sure they will grow on you. We are always open to suggestions for new hymns, please offer yours.
In the report for 2022. I drew attention to the state of the organ. It is still reasonably playable but seems to have a mind of its own, some of the funny noises are not always down to the organist! The last major restoration work was done in 1984, 42 years ago. Internally, the thin leather pouches which make the notes play are in poor condition, the pipes are also beginning to lean over, causing some of the “windy “notes. Some of the stop actions are very slow coming on and off so produce some out of tune sounds. This work will not be cheap but will help the organ to last for many more years in good playing order.
16
There are only two regularly played organs left in Strood (St Nicholas and English Martyrs), most have gone, one other is still in place but never played (St Mary’s).
Let’s make sure St Nicholas’ organ keeps going.
Ken Reynolds
## **PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL**
## **SAFEGUARDING**
Safeguarding at St Nicholas continues to be robust and taken seriously at all levels. Over the last year we have worked closely with the Diocesan Safeguarding Team in Rochester. They have always been helpful and supportive . We are grateful for their advice and guidance.
## **Training**
Safeguarding training and DBS checks are up-to-date. All PCC members have successfully completed their training. We organised Basic and Foundation training for other volunteers.
To ensure best practice in Safeguarding we also hosted a face to face training in Domestic abuse for our PCC members and other local church leaders joined us. These face to face training sessions were well attended and successfully led by Canon Jean Kerr. Thank you Jean.
Our church wardens (Elaine and Ken), Rob and myself successfully completed the Leadership training course. As a result, we have an Action plan which we presented to the PCC. The main aim of the action plan is to embed key aspects of the training to promote a safer church culture where safeguarding is not feared but spoken about.
We regularly update our Safeguarding Dashboard and Hub data to ensure we have completed important and necessary checks and procedures. The Dashboard and Hub provide helpful notes, links to important national links and tools to support the PCC. We also have Thirtyoneeight which is responsible for all DBS checks.
## **Safeguarding Sunday**
Last year, we joined in with the Diocesan Safeguarding Sunday celebration within our church. Rev Sue Vallente-Kerr focused the service on safeguarding. As part of Safeguarding Sunday, members of the congregation completed a safeguarding questionnaire. The outcomes
17
were very positive and useful. About 80% of the congregation are aware of what to do if they have a disclosure or have concerns about safeguarding. There were a few suggestions made which we have implemented. For example, our safeguarding information board has been revamped and visible with resources and information for all. We also have key information about the safeguarding team displayed in our church and church website.
During the year we have had a few safeguarding disclosures and concerns. Fortunately, the Safeguarding Advisors in our diocese have been prompt and very supportive. All safeguarding disclosures and concerns are always treated with confidentiality, sensitivity and respect.
We have attended different safeguarding conferences and network meetings and training such as the domestic abuse conference, the joint Rochester and Canterbury annual conference, induction training for parish and deputy safeguarding officers and regular online network meetings. These meetings and other online tools, both national and diocesan gives us opportunity to keep up-to-date with safeguarding and are able to actively support others.
Thank you all for your support and also for completing and returning the questionnaire promptly.
We continue to ensure that safeguarding is taken seriously by all in our church community.
Thank you. Ube Casely-Hayford and Rob Foxwell 26th February 2026
## **SOCIAL AND GENERAL FUND-RAISING GROUP**
In 2025 we were able to hold the following events : Book Sales, Jumble Sales and Table Top Sales. In June we had a Big Lunch in the grounds, with activities for children as well as a Summer Fete. In September we held a craft showcase of different people from the community showcasing their creative skills and in October we had a Harvest Lunch. For both events people brought their own food or food to share with others. We held a Jazz night as part of the fringe festival for Rochester Cathedral welcoming Snowboy and his Latin band. A very unique experience in using our facilities and opening the building to the wider community.
18
We held a Christmas Bazaar in November which was very successful and well attended and in December we held our Christmas tree festival inviting community groups to decorate a tree that represented them .
## **STANDING AND FINANCE COMMITTEE**
**Aims -** To meet prior to each PCC meeting to think through the agenda for that meeting, making any necessary recommendations to the PCC. The Committee also makes interim decisions for the PCC when appropriate. To work with the Accounts Advisor, who prepares the Accounts for us and gives advice about our financial position. The Standing Committee met bi-monthly during 2025.
## **WARM SPACE**
Warm Space has continued to thrive and the decision was made to extend it all year round to support those who used the space. The space is open 9.30-12pm free of charge . We also made the decision to move out of the Swain Vestry and into the church to enable more people to attend safely. Thanks to Janet and Muskan for being such amazing hosts and to John Ford and Jeff Whiteley for assistance in setting up and tidying away.
19
## **WORSHIP GROUP**
The aim of the Worship Group is to be a forum for discussion of every aspect of worship in our church. This includes consideration of the services we provide now, reviewing those that have taken place since we last met, and putting forward ideas for future services. The group also considers feedback from the congregation. The group met regularly throughout 2025. We began an evening service on a fifth Sunday in the style of Taize or a more relaxed style of worship and we are looking at the possibility of holding a mid week service.
The Annual Report was accepted at the APCM held on the Signed ………………………………………… Date……………….
Independent Examiner Mrs Robyn Curry
20
## St Nicholas with St Mary, Strood **ANNUAL REPORT and**
## **ACCOUNTS For 2025**
## **St. Nicholas with St. Mary Strood ANNUAL REPORT 2025 Parochial Name: St. Nicholas with St. Mary, Strood Postal Address: High Street, Strood, Rochester, Kent ME2 4TR Correspondence: The Vicar** Rev Sue Vallente-Kerr: revsuevk@gmail.com
## _**Parochial Church Council Members for 2025 (April to April 2026)**_
_Rev Sue Vallente-Kerr Vicar_
_Rob Foxwell (LLM, Deanery Synod rep for three years from APCM 2023)_
_Elaine Ford (Church Warden) Ken Reynolds (Church Warden)_
_Sarah Wilkinson_ PCC Secretary _Jade Goodwin (From APCM 2025 for three years) Kenny Boulter. (From APCM 2025 for three years) Lanza Wilson (From APCM 2023 for three years)_
_Ube Casely-Hayford (From APCM 2023 for three years) Margaret James (Deanery Synod rep for three years from APCM 2023) Robert James (From APCM 2024 for three years) Sue Marrable (From APCM 2024 for three years) Jeff Whiteley (Re co-opted May 2024)_
Number on Electoral Roll: 90 Independent Examiner: Robyn Curry Bankers: Barclays Bank, Chatham Registered charity no.: 1138948
The full PCC met 7 times during the year, and the APCM was held on 5[th] May 2025 after the 10.30 service in Church.
The standing committee met approximately 2 weeks prior to each PCC meeting. Following the APCM in May the standing committee were Reverand Sue Vallente Kerr, Elaine Ford, Ken Reynolds, Rob Foxwell, Sarah Wilkinson, Jeff Whiteley and Robert James.
Max Russell, Andy Vince, Sarah Wilkinson and Olu Odumosa stood down after the APCM as they had served 3 years on the PCC, Rev Sue thanked them for their service.
2
## **AIMS AND PURPOSES**
St Nicholas Church, Strood is a place of worship. We at St. Nicholas with St. Mary seek to fulfill our calling as followers of Jesus Christ. Our primary object is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The Parochial Church Council
cooperates with the ministers in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social, and ecumenical. We do this in many and varied ways, as the reports below will illustrate. In these ways we witness to the love of God shown to us in our lives and would draw others also into the life of discipleship. This witness is not simply a matter of words but includes practical service to one another and to the wider world, starting from the knowledge that all are loved by God and precious in His sight. We believe that this journey of faith is important for others to find. We also believe that Jesus is in our midst and therefore we seek to serve one another and the Jesus within and amongst us.
## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES**
We continue to develop a vision of ‘welcome’. In pursuance of this mission during the year we have:
1. Continued to look at the facilities of the church buildings with a view to improving them for future and current users.
2. Enabled the Worship area of the church be made more available for the onward mission of the church.
3. We continue to aim at implementing the Church of England’s Five Marks of Mission:
- 1 Enabling our church to be mission minded.
2. Helping children, young people and adults live out everyday faith in Jesus.
3. Supporting loving service in local communities.
3
4. Encouraging and responding to the prophetic voice of justice and peace.
5. Protecting creation’s life for future generations.
## **ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE**
Worship is an important and integral part of our church life. The livestreaming of the 10:30am Service remains a valuable way for people to worship at home, particularly for those who cannot physically attend church. In the last year we’ve managed to stream the services during Holy Week and Christmas as well as the regular Sunday services. Our achievements and the ability to continue the mission of the church would not have been possible without a team spirit . Ken Reynolds and Elaine Ford have been of great support and superb Church Wardens, with Ken also leading our music; Rob Foxwell has stepped up in the last year taking on more responsibility leading the study group with Rev Sue, preaching at a variety of services and undertaking training to help with funeral ministry :Sarah Wilkinson stepped into the role of PCC secretary and has been helping with many administrative roles, Sue Davis has been so helpful in steering and maintaining our finances and Jeff Whiteley as our named treasurer. A big thank you also to all the members of the PCC. We have a Ministry Team, which meets monthly, and ensures that the mission of the church remains central to our church life and vision on a regular basis. We have also restarted a pastoral support group to help us support those in our congregation in need. We also welcomed Garry Wilkinson as part of the staff team as our site manager who has been an invaluable asset.
Average weekly attendance: 70 Those who worship online 30 Baptisms: 9 Confirmations: 6
## **Financial Review**
During the year, PCC general income reduced by £24,142 (2025 £101,295, 2024 £125,437) mostly due to a reduction of grants of £24,955. This is slightly offset by an increase in hall rental income of £4,802, a decrease in gift aid claimed of £6,703, an increase in plate
4
collections of £1,231 and an increase to other income of £5,963 due to events such as the abseil and Snowboy.
General expenditure reduced by
£73,693 (2025 £101,718, 2024 £174,411) mostly due to reduced project spending of £90,948. Church hall costs were £12,146 higher due to maintenance and employing a caretaker. Fundraising costs were £5,129 higher due to the events held. Church maintenance was £3,565 higher.
Total cash and balances held in bank accounts at the end of 2025 stood at £136,647 (2024 £132,119).
It is the policy of the PCC to spend reserves under its stewardship to deliver its vision for the future and the PCC continues to discuss the best ways to use its funds to meet God’s purpose for the parish of Strood and the wider community.
Of the total cash resources of £136,647 at the end of
2025 £17,890, (2024 £20,881) was held in funds designated for the repair of the church, the installation of a lift to the upper hall and the music fund. £12,012 (2024 £10,621) was held in various restricted funds.
This year income has remained stable. In 2025 income from hall rental, car park and fundraising events increased by 11% on 2024 levels. This income contributed to 45% of general income this year.
We thank God that despite the difficult economic climate, St Nicholas is managing to make ends meet and has been able to make significant improvements to the church and grounds in recent years as a result of the reserves entrusted to it. We pray for guidance in directing resources to best serve His purpose.
## **Policy Statements**
Liquidity - It is the policy of the PCC to generally maintain unrestricted funds, which are the free reserves of the charity, at a level which equates to approximately three months unrestricted expenditure. This provides sufficient funds to cover management, administration and support costs, and to respond to emergency expenditure and applications for grants that arise from time to time.
## **Risk Management**
The church insurance is reviewed on a regular basis. Cheques are signed by two signatories.
5
A child protection policy is in place. Any potential hazards which come to the PCC’s attention are dealt with as soon as possible.
## **SAFEGUARDING**
At the first meeting of a new PCC the House of Bishops’ ‘Promoting a Safer Church: Safeguarding Policy Statement’ is read out and formally adopted by the PCC. A Parish Safeguarding Officer is appointed and details of those to contact if there are any concerns are displayed in church. The PCC adopts the Safeguarding Policy of the Church of England. See below for full report from our Safeguarding officers.
## **AWAY GIVING**
We gave to the following charities in 2024: Friends of Kent churches, Christian Aid, Crisis, The Children’s Society, The
Fishermen’s Mission, The Poverty & Hope Appeal and St Clare’s link church Harare.
## **CHILDREN AND YOUTH WORK**
Sunday school: - Although children and families are welcome every Sunday, on the first Sunday of the month we have Sunday school. Thanks to the committed help of Vickie Desai, Janet Hughes, Jade Goodwin, Rob Foxwell and Jean Kerr. We continue to try and follow a similar theme to the main service through age-appropriate activities and have something for the children to take home to remember the theme. We had another 4 children receiving communion before confirmation after completing a course and another 4 awaiting to start the course . Tina Francis has also started a youth choir. We also have a youth group with 6 regular young people involved and also taking responsibility in Sunday worship.
**----- Start of picture text -----**
6
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **Toddler and Chat**
The numbers for the Thursday toddler group continued to fluctuate over the year. It continues to be one of the only free places for toddlers to attend locally, which we feel is important. The group is a safe space for parents, grandparents and carers to come along, meet others and for the children to play. The highlight is the singing at the end. Thanks to Janet Hughes, Jeff Whiteley, Tina Francis for her singing skills and John and Elaine Ford for their great commitment to the group especially for setting up and tidying up every week!
## **Schools**
We continue to have good contacts with the schools. We held harvest and Christmas assemblies for All Faiths and Gordon school in church. We also take termly assemblies for both KS1 and KS2 at Gordon school. We’ve been into the schools to conduct R.E. lessons and Christingle services. Ken Reynolds, Brian Davies and Rev Sue continued to take weekly assemblies at St Nicholas Primary School. We have also been invited to several school production performances and assisted with their Christmas services and Christingles too. We also had the pleasure of welcoming Reception class for a mock baptism where they had chosen parents and Godparents, a name for the baby, and even had a baptism party afterwards and also a mock wedding with Haribo rings and bubbles rather than confetti!
## **COFFEE SHOP**
7
The coffee shop is on Saturday mornings and is open to all. It has a small number of regular customers who enjoy being able to purchase refreshments at a reasonable price and the chance to socialize.
We thank Brian and Mary Davies who have stepped down after being part of coffee shop from the start and thank those who have stepped up to enable coffee shop to continue.
## **CHRISTMAS HAMPERS / COMMUNITY LARDER**
At Christmas, with thanks to a grant from Medway Council and Toys from The Salvation Army, we were able to provide over 65 hampers to help those families most in need. Thank you to all who helped contribute financially, with items, toys, and a special thanks to a great team who came to help wrap boxes, pack and deliver the hampers. We continue to regularly support several families locally with food and essential items and also work closely with the Foodbank.
## **DEANERY SYNOD**
Synod has not met yet since February 2025 when Bishop Jonathan came to share the diocesan vision. There is now a new Area Dean, Clifford Stocking , vicar of St Helen’s, Cliffe
## **ELECTORAL ROLL (** revised 11th April)
Number of people living within the parish Number of people living outside the parish Number of women
8
Number of men
## Total
## **Fabric Report**
Following an accident in May the outer wall of the Swain vestry sustained some cosmetic damage. We are pursuing an insurance claim for the cost of the repairs. After a safety inspection The Swain Vestry was deemed safe to use.
## The Quinquennial Report Electrical works code C2
After the Quinquennial inspection 4 years ago, all 14 electrical jobs have been completed under C2, making St Nicholas Church a safe building to now be in. We have received the Certificate from Quantec stating that this building is now safe to worship in.
## Here are some photos of the works carried out so far below
## 1.
New section of flooring fitted in the upper hall
kitchen.
2.
New kitchen has now been fitted in the upper
hall.
3.
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New kitchen has now been fitted in the upper
hall.
4.
Redecoration the wall & celling of the upper hall
toilets 1.
## 5.
Redecoration the wall & celling of the upper hall toilet 2.
## 6.
Installed new splash back to upper hall toilet
lobby.
7.
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Redecoration of the wall & celling of the upper
## hall toilet lobby.
## 8.
Redecoration of the upper hall toilets doors.
## 9.
New sink & taps installed to the upper hall toilets and new splash installed back behind new sink.
## 10.
Four new stopcocks have been installed in the
upper hall toilets.
11.
11
Installed one new light in the upper hall. 12.
Installed new 4-inch pipe connections in main
church.
13. Installed new 4-inch pipe connections in main church.
14. Refixed all the outside light cages. 15. Refixed all the outside light cages.
16.
12
Installed new boards to protect the stain glass windows in the upper hall.
17.
Installed new board to protect the stain glass windows in the upper hall.
## 18.
New doors installed to the main entrance to the
lower hall.
19.
New pull handle fitted to the back of the main entrance door to the lower hall.
## 20.
Installed new electrical cupboard in the upper hall
toilets.
21.
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Installed new boards to make the church roof
watertight.
22.
New light switch replaced in one of the toilets in the lower hall.
## 23.
New toilet seat replaced in one of the toilets in lower hall.
## 24.
Three new lights have been replaced in the upper
hall toilets.
## **FRESH EXPRESSIONS**
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Families@3 **-** On the third Sunday of each month we continue to hold Families@3 in the afternoon. This involves craft activities and games in the hall followed by a Bible story, an interactive song and creative prayers. We conclude our time together with refreshments. Through this one of our young people has sought baptism and attendance on a Sunday morning too. It has been wonderful to welcome families to these events. We held our second Family Good Friday event with all ages coming to experience the Easter story. A special thank you to Janet Hughes, Jeff Whiteley, Jean and Paul Kerr and Tina Francis for their help and support.
## **HALL GROUP**
The Church has two halls and the Swain Vestry for the use of both the congregation and outside groups, for social and fund-raising events. The Upper Hall is used by St Nicholas Playgroup on weekdays all year and Rainbows one night a week. It is also used by a Street Dance group weeknights and a Ballet class for young children on Saturday mornings. The Lower Hall and church space is used by Yoga, Zumba, GA, AA, CA, The Phoenix Art Group, LCGC youth choir, Gardening Club, Compassionate Friends, Friends of Medway Archives, Cuxton singers and Floral Art. A church run Parent Toddler used the Lower Hall too. The Swain Vestry was used by the Church, Strood fellowship, Friends of Rede Common, Warblers Close and Kent Family History for meetings. Compassionate Friends held a monthly afternoon meeting to support bereaved families. Raising Youth continued to be based on site, using the Swain Vestry as an office and supporting many of our community events. Garry has worked tirelessly in maintaining the halls and especially making improvements to the upper hall kitchen and toilets.
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## **MAGAZINE GROUP**
The magazine is still very much appreciated by those who subscribe and we have many people in the month asking for a copy of it. The magazine editorial group, continues to make decisions of content by email. Thanks to Sue Marrable for her editorial skills.
## **MUSIC REPORT**
Another successful year has passed. I would like to thank our choir for their continued support and loyalty over the year. I would also like to thank the congregation for their amazing singing. On that note (excuse the pun) we always enjoy the well-known and favourite hymns. In recent months we have chosen some less known or new ones. I am sure they will grow on you. We are always open to suggestions for new hymns, please offer yours.
In the report for 2022. I drew attention to the state of the organ. It is still reasonably playable but seems to have a mind of its own, some of the funny noises are not always down to the organist! The last major restoration work was done in 1984, 42 years ago. Internally, the thin leather pouches which make the notes play are in poor condition, the pipes are also beginning to lean over, causing some of the “windy “notes. Some of the stop actions are very slow coming on and off so produce some out of tune sounds. This work will not be cheap but will help the organ to last for many more years in good playing order.
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There are only two regularly played organs left in Strood (St Nicholas and English Martyrs), most have gone, one other is still in place but never played (St Mary’s).
Let’s make sure St Nicholas’ organ keeps going.
Ken Reynolds
## **PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL**
## **SAFEGUARDING**
Safeguarding at St Nicholas continues to be robust and taken seriously at all levels. Over the last year we have worked closely with the Diocesan Safeguarding Team in Rochester. They have always been helpful and supportive . We are grateful for their advice and guidance.
## **Training**
Safeguarding training and DBS checks are up-to-date. All PCC members have successfully completed their training. We organised Basic and Foundation training for other volunteers.
To ensure best practice in Safeguarding we also hosted a face to face training in Domestic abuse for our PCC members and other local church leaders joined us. These face to face training sessions were well attended and successfully led by Canon Jean Kerr. Thank you Jean.
Our church wardens (Elaine and Ken), Rob and myself successfully completed the Leadership training course. As a result, we have an Action plan which we presented to the PCC. The main aim of the action plan is to embed key aspects of the training to promote a safer church culture where safeguarding is not feared but spoken about.
We regularly update our Safeguarding Dashboard and Hub data to ensure we have completed important and necessary checks and procedures. The Dashboard and Hub provide helpful notes, links to important national links and tools to support the PCC. We also have Thirtyoneeight which is responsible for all DBS checks.
## **Safeguarding Sunday**
Last year, we joined in with the Diocesan Safeguarding Sunday celebration within our church. Rev Sue Vallente-Kerr focused the service on safeguarding. As part of Safeguarding Sunday, members of the congregation completed a safeguarding questionnaire. The outcomes
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were very positive and useful. About 80% of the congregation are aware of what to do if they have a disclosure or have concerns about safeguarding. There were a few suggestions made which we have implemented. For example, our safeguarding information board has been revamped and visible with resources and information for all. We also have key information about the safeguarding team displayed in our church and church website.
During the year we have had a few safeguarding disclosures and concerns. Fortunately, the Safeguarding Advisors in our diocese have been prompt and very supportive. All safeguarding disclosures and concerns are always treated with confidentiality, sensitivity and respect.
We have attended different safeguarding conferences and network meetings and training such as the domestic abuse conference, the joint Rochester and Canterbury annual conference, induction training for parish and deputy safeguarding officers and regular online network meetings. These meetings and other online tools, both national and diocesan gives us opportunity to keep up-to-date with safeguarding and are able to actively support others.
Thank you all for your support and also for completing and returning the questionnaire promptly.
We continue to ensure that safeguarding is taken seriously by all in our church community.
Thank you. Ube Casely-Hayford and Rob Foxwell 26th February 2026
## **SOCIAL AND GENERAL FUND-RAISING GROUP**
In 2025 we were able to hold the following events : Book Sales, Jumble Sales and Table Top Sales. In June we had a Big Lunch in the grounds, with activities for children as well as a Summer Fete. In September we held a craft showcase of different people from the community showcasing their creative skills and in October we had a Harvest Lunch. For both events people brought their own food or food to share with others. We held a Jazz night as part of the fringe festival for Rochester Cathedral welcoming Snowboy and his Latin band. A very unique experience in using our facilities and opening the building to the wider community.
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We held a Christmas Bazaar in November which was very successful and well attended and in December we held our Christmas tree festival inviting community groups to decorate a tree that represented them .
## **STANDING AND FINANCE COMMITTEE**
**Aims -** To meet prior to each PCC meeting to think through the agenda for that meeting, making any necessary recommendations to the PCC. The Committee also makes interim decisions for the PCC when appropriate. To work with the Accounts Advisor, who prepares the Accounts for us and gives advice about our financial position. The Standing Committee met bi-monthly during 2025.
## **WARM SPACE**
Warm Space has continued to thrive and the decision was made to extend it all year round to support those who used the space. The space is open 9.30-12pm free of charge . We also made the decision to move out of the Swain Vestry and into the church to enable more people to attend safely. Thanks to Janet and Muskan for being such amazing hosts and to John Ford and Jeff Whiteley for assistance in setting up and tidying away.
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## **WORSHIP GROUP**
The aim of the Worship Group is to be a forum for discussion of every aspect of worship in our church. This includes consideration of the services we provide now, reviewing those that have taken place since we last met, and putting forward ideas for future services. The group also considers feedback from the congregation. The group met regularly throughout 2025. We began an evening service on a fifth Sunday in the style of Taize or a more relaxed style of worship and we are looking at the possibility of holding a mid week service.
The Annual Report was accepted at the APCM held on the Signed ………………………………………… Date……………….
Independent Examiner Mrs Robyn Curry
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**Independent Examiner’s Report to the PCC of St Nicholas with St Mary, Strood**
This Report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2022, which are set out in this annual report, is in respect of an examination carried out under Regulation 3(3) of the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 (“ the Regulations”) and section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
## **Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the examiner**
As members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts; you consider the audit requirement of Regulation 3(3) of section 144(2) of the Act do not apply. It is my responsibility to issue this report on those accounts in accordance with the Regulations.
## **Basis of this report**
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act and to be found in the Church guidance, 2006 edition, issued by the Finance Division of the Archbishops’ Council. That examination includes review of the accounting record kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It also includes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an opinion on the view given by the accounts.
## **Independent Examiner’s statement**
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
- (1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements
- to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Act; and
- to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the requirements of the Act and the Regulations, have not been met; or
- (2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Date: 21 April 2023
Mr Gordon Viggers FCA
74 Woodstock Road Sittingbourne Kent ME10 4HN
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