The Parish of St Mary and St John the Divine
Balham
Annual Report and Accounts
For the year ended
31" December 2024
St Mary and
St John the Divine
BALNAM
Charity Registration Number: 1139488

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
Contents
Page
Legal and administrative deLiiIs
Trustees, Report
Independent Examiner's Report
Statement of Financial Activities
Balance Sheet
13-18
Notes to the Accounts
19-31
Annual Parochial Church Meeting Report

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
Legal and administrative details
Charitable status
The Parish Church Council of St Mary and St John the Divine, Balham, was previously a
charity exempted from registration with the Charity Commission. In 201 O as required by
charity legislation, the Parish Church Council completed registration with the Charity
Commission and gained its charity registration number: 1139488.
Location of the Church
St Mary's Church is on Balham High Road, London SWI 2 9BS.
Incumbent
Incumbent priest from 30th January 2023 Revd Jonathan MacNeaney
Bankers
National Westminster Bank Plc, Balham High Road. London SWI 2 and
CAF Bank Limited. 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling. Kent ME19 4JQ
Independent Examiner:
Mrs Paula Thomas, Charcered AccountanL London SW16

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
The Parochial Church Council IPCC)
The PCC of St Mary and St John the Divine has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent in promoting
within the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church.. pastor31, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It
is also responsible for maintaining and developing the building for the parish.
Trustees (bein8 the members ol the PCC)
Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting IAPCMI in
accordance with the Church Representational Rules. Those elected bring the skills required for the PCC and
ensure the diversity refletts that of the parish.
The PCC normally meets seven times per year. During 2024, the members of the PCC were-
Appointsnènt
Until 2026 APCM
Re51gned September 2023
Until 2026 APCM
Resigned August 2024
Until ZOZ6 APCM
Name
Ms Kamalini Arul
Committee
Ms Lynn 8eatiie
Giving Group
Mr Graeme Calf
Lettln8s. Giving Group
Until 2026 APCM
M5 Julia de Cr
Until 2026 APCM
Ms Ka￿n Gray
LeThngs
Ex Officio Churchwarden Until
2025 APCM
Until 2026 APCM
Deanery Synod
Until 2027 APCM
Ms Diane Molmes
Standin& Lettings
Mr Bru￿ Knight
Ms Paulbne Lamunu
Until 2026 APCM
Mr Jack lawson
Until 2026 APCM
Tre35urer
Vitar, Chair
MrJohnA Uoyd N
Stsnding
Fr Jonathan MatNeaney
Standin¥
Ex Officio Churchwardtn Until
Z025 APCM
Untyl 2026 APCM
Ms Nicky Morton
Ms Margaret Olasebikan
Until 2027 APCM
Ms Wendy Newall
Giving Group
Until 2027 APCM
Deanery Synod
Vice-chair
Until ZO26 APCM
MrAnd￿W Purkls
Standing, Giving Group
Ms Dorothy Tay
Until 2016 APCM
Oeanery Syn¢>d
Mr Sed8il WartemberÈ
Names in bold are the trustee5 at 31 December 2024 and at the date of this report.

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
Committee5
The PCC operates through several committees that meet between full meetings of the PCC and prepare
reports for those full meetings. Emergencies that arise are dealt with by the Standing Committee which
comprises the Incumbent, Churchwardens, Secretary. Treasurer. and one other member of the PCC
appointed by the PCC lin 202 1-2 the Vice-chairl.
Standing Committee
This IS the only committee required by law. It has powertotransact the busine55 of the PCC between its
meetings, Subject to any directions given by the PCC. It also prioritises and prepares the agenda for
PCC meetings.
Bullding & Fabric Committee
This committee oversees the physical resources of the Church attendin8 to matters relating to the
Church building, grounds, fabric, and equipment. Having met irregularly. in 2023 this committee was
abolished. Its work is covered by the churchwardens sUPPOrted by two members of the PCC who
undertake monthly site inspections.
Lett•ngs Committee
This committee attends to matters relating to the letting and maintenance of the space available for
hire.
Giving Committee
This committee maintains an active overview of financial support for the church's mission via stewardship,
legacies, and fundraisin8 from events or Trusts and other funding a8encies
Church attendance
There were 154 members on the Church Electoral Roll at the end of 2024. Average Sunday attendance
in October 2024 was 98. Collective Worship for Trinity St Mary's CofE Primary School took place when
possible every Thursday in term-time. Other services. including b3Ptism, weddings. and funerals, were
conducted in the church.
Review of the year
St Mary's saw fruitful mission throughout 2024. Our core worshiping community continues to grow
and this has enabled us to serve the wider parish effectively. In the summer of 2024, we engaged
Karen Gray a5 Parish Nurse and began regular healing Eucharists and health talks. This ministry is
thrivin8.
We are blessed to be able to baptise new Christians, prepare children to receive communion and this
vear we have prepared a number of teenagers and adults for confirmation.
We thank God for the faithful moving of the Spirit among u5 and pray that we may continue to serve
as he calls us.

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
Review of the year (continued)
Unrestricted income declined in 2024 to £163k12023: £242kl primarily due to large legacies coming in prior
year. However, we continued to see significant uptake in room lettings of £47k 12023: £40kl. Unrestricted
expenditure declined to £146k12023.' £166kl. primarily as a result of a decline in building and fabric repairs to
£23k12023.' £SOkl.
More information about our activities and mission is found on our website.. www.stmarybalham.org.uk.
Public benefit statement
The PCC has considered the Charity Commission's Euidance on public benefit. Working cooperatively with the
clergy and other members of the congreBation, it strives to enable all people to live out their faith as part of our
parish community. This means facilitating opportunities for worship. prayer, and study, as well as encouraging
service to an(J care for members of the wider community of which we are a part.
Community
The Church Building is used by church groups and the local community. Users include Guides & Brownies, St
Mary's Choir, St MarWs Children's Choir. a concert series, Lent and Advent couises, Alcoholics Anonymous,
Warm Hubs twice weekly and various social and fundraising events. Other groups who have used the building
regularly include the United Church of the Messiah, children's music, movement and drama groups, after school
tuition, dance classes, and various exercise and wellness classes.

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
Stewardship and other forms of giving
Income from Stewardship decreased to £58k {2023'. £73kl, primarily as a result of a couple of givers moving
away. A further £16k12023.' £18kl was recovered on gift aid donations, including under the Small Donations
scheme. Stewardship giving primarily includes monthly standing orders and a blue envelope scheme.
The community generously supported lin excess of stewardship income described above) various donation
appeals and fundraising events with online talk5, concert series, tea parties. dinner5 and quiz2es, raffles, jumble
sales and the like raising around £25k.
Risk management
The PCC h35 appointed two Safeguardin8 officers {one of which was appointed in 2024} to ensure full attention
is paid to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults whilst in the building and attending events and
services. This is a key practice to minimize the risks identified in the risk review conducted by the
Churchwarden5.
The PCC updated the Health and Safety policy and lettings policies. including ensurin8 risk assessments were
completed by all those conducting activities within the Parish Church of St Mary and St John the Divine.
Safeguarding training is undertaken as stipulated by diocesan policies and the Safeguarding Officer keeps a
record of its timely completion.
Other risks leg financial. or related to Health and Safety, etcl were re8ularly reviewed by the Health and Safety
Officer, the PCC and its Standing Committee.
Finance report
Income
During the year the church's unrestricted general fund income totaled £163k12023.' £242kl. The main reason
for the decrease in income from the previous year is primarily attributed to a decrease in large legacies.
However. room lettings continued to grow. increasing to £47k12023.' £41kl.
Restricted income (including gift aid thereonl totalled £4k .

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE. BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
Finance report (continued)
Expenditure
Expenditure for the year from the unrestricted fund amounted to £146k12023.. £166kl. The decrease of £29k is
mainly due to the unexpected replacement of the boiler heatin8 System and higher energy costs in the prior
year.
Charltable G•ving
Donations totalling £1.6k12023'. £3kl were made to 11 {2023.'121 missionary or charitable or8anisations during
the year, from funds raised by special collections. (Details are given in note 101.
Oeficit
The PCC reports a surplus on the unrestricted fund of £16k12023'. Surplus of £75kl.
Transfer between Funds
During the year, designated funds nil were utilized and released to the unrestricted general fund. The desi8ned
fund was increased in 2024 with the approval of the PCC The current balance is £50k
Reserves
As at 31st December 2024, the PCC has £SOk in a desi8nated fabric reserve. £106k in the 8eneral fund and £8k
in restricted funds. The restricted funds represent a number of funds expendable only in accordance with the
specific wishes of the donorlsl. Of the E6k held in restricted funds at the year end, this includes a new grant
(£8051 from Southwark Diocese to Start a Parish Nurse Scheme. (Further details are given in Note 81.
Reserves policy
The PCC'S 8eneral reserves policy is to hold reserves equal to a minimum of three months, expenditure. The
current level of general reseNes £106k, is in excess of this figure.
The PCC considers that a designated fabric reserve of £50k is an appropriate sum to hold aside for repairs
required to the Grade11 listed building.

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
Statement of PCC members, responsibllities
The law requires PCC members to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair
view of the financial activities of the Parochial Church Council of St Mary and St John, Balham durin8 the year
and its financial position at the end of the year.
In preparing those financial statements. we are required to:
Select suitable accountin8 policies and apply them consistently:
Make judgements that are reasonable and prudent-
State whether applicable accountin8 Standards and statements of recommended practice have been
followed, subject to any departures disclosed and explained in the financial statement5,' and
Prepare the financial statements on a going concern b35i5. unless it is inappropriate to presume that
the Parochial Church Council of St Mary and St John the Divine, 8alham will continue in operation.
The PCC members are responsible for keeping accounting records. for safeguardin8 the assets of the
organization, and for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularities. should they exist.
For and on behalf of the PCC
Jonathan MacNeanev
Vicar and Chair of PCC
hn Lloyd
Treasurer
Date
9, May 2025

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT
TO THE PCC OF ST MARY AND ST JOHN THE DIVINE BALHAM
This report is on the accounts of the PGC for the year ended 31 December 2024 which are
set out on Pages 11 to 18.
Respeclive responsibilities of the Trustees and the Independent Examiner
As trustees of the charity, the members of the PCC are responsible for the preparation of the
accounts. They consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the
Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to".
examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act
follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity
Commissioners under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act. and
state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of Independent Examiner's Statement
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the
Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the
charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes
consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations
from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not
provide all the evidence that would be required in a full audit, and consequently I do not
express an opinion as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair, view and the report
is limited to those matters set out in ihe statement below..
Independent Examiner's Statement
In connection with my examination no matters have come to my attention which give me
reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect:
the accounting records were not kept in accordance with Section 130 of the
Charities Act 2011; or
the accounts did not accord with the accounling records.
I have come across no other matters in connection with my examination to which attention
should be drawn, in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Paula Thomas Bsc FCA CTA
25 Westcote Road, London SW16 6BN
Date:
10

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE. BALHAM
Annu21 Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
for the year ended 31. December 2024
Unrestricted Restritted
Funds
Funds
2024
Total
2023
Total
Note
INCOME
Voluntary income
Church Acuvities
Acriviries for generating funds
Income from invescments
2(a)
21bl
21c}
21d)
101.362
9,174
49.751
2.570
2.662
1,387
104,024
10.561
49,751
2.570
194,667
8,939
43,110
958
Total income
EXPENDITURE
Church Acrivities
Raising Fund5
3(a)
3(b)
146.312
196
2.524
1.377
148,836
1.573
169.353
1,071
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
14
SURPLUSI(DEFICIT) OF INCOME
OVER EXPENDITURE
77
Total Funds brought forward
140,118
7,470
147.588
70,338
Total funds carried fonNard
The notes on pages 13 to 18 form part of these financial $ratements

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND ST JOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
BALANCE SHEET
At 31 December 2024
2024
2023
Notes
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
Cash at bank and in hand
21.459
24.663
150 192
74
170
LIABILITIES
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL NET ASSETS
147
PARISH FUNDS
Rescricred
Designated
General
7.618
50,000
106467
7,470
20,078
TOTAL FUNDS
Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 9 May 2025 and signed on its behalf by
Jonathan MacNeaney
Vicar Chair of PCC
loyd
Treasurer
The notes on pages 13 to 18 fom) parr of these financial statements
12

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND ST JOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the year ended 31 December 2024
I ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basls of preparation
The PCC is a public beneftt entity within the meaning of FRS 102. The financial statements have been prep2red under the
Charities Act 201 l and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the In¢Jividual accounts of the
PCCS. and with the Regulations true and fair view" provis￿￿n$. together with FRS 10212017) as the applicable accounting
standards and the 2017 version of the S¢atemeni of Recommended Pracuce. Accounu'ng and Reporting by Charities, {SORP
{FRS 102)). The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cosr convention.
Golng concern
The Tru5tee5 have considered Income and expenditure for 2025 and Set a budget for the year which reflects a surplus of
£107, after transfers from restricred and designated lund5. This will be absorbed by Ihe general fund. leaving approximately
£106k at the end of 2025 in the general fund as a reserve. The PCC are confident thar this indicates that the charity is a
going c¢rt¢ern.
Flxed assets
Purchases are written off in the year ol purchase.
The Church building
The activities of the PCC take place at S¢ Mary s Church in Balham which is owned by the Church of England {Southwark
Diocese). The PCC is responsible for the repair of the Church building and for safeguarding the Church building and assets.
All repairs and development expenditure is charged to the income and expendirure accounL
Funds
General Funds represent ihe funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restricuons regardinR their use. and are available
for application on the general purposes of the PCC. Fund5 designated for a particuL3r purpose by the PCC are also
unrestricred.
Restricted Funds are those funds which must be spenr on specthc purposes.
Deuils of the funds held. and movements during the year. are in note 8.
The financial statements include all transactj'ons. assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law.
Incomlng Resources
Planned w'ving, collections and donations are recogni5ed when receryed. Tax recoverable under Grfr is recognized when
the incoming resource to which it relates is reCe￿ed.
Grant5 and lerdcies are accounted for when the PCC is notified of its legal entitlemen¢ the amount due is quantifiable. and
its ultimate receipt by the PCC ￿ reaSona￿Y certain.
Interest entitlements are aCcoun￿d for as they accrue.
Rental income from the letting of the church premises is recognised when the renral is due.
Resource5 Expended
Grants and donations are accoLtnted for when patd. or when awarded rf that award create5 a binding or constructive
obligauon on the PCC. The diocesan contribution or parish share is aCcoUn￿d for when due.
13

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND ST JOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the year ended 31 December 2024
INCOMING RESOURCES
Unresrricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
2024 Total
2023 Total
Volunta
Income
Planned Givin
Gift Aid recovered
Communion alms
Bequesrs inc Benjamin
Weir
Donations, a
Grants
Listed Places of Worship
VAT Recove
Scheme
acies
Total
58.265
16.448
6.114
58.265
16.680
6.114
73.255
17,620
4.927
400
232
ea1& etc
17.199
1,330
1.100
18,529
1.100
2,837
22,417
1,933
6,978
2,837
500
101.363
500
104.025
67.137
194,667
2.662
Church Activities
Fees & char
es for services
Fundraisin
events
Coffee donations
Candle donations, etc
Total
4.327
3,045
549
1.252
9.173
4.327
4.422
549
1.262
10.560
3,402
3,914
522
1,377
10
1.387
8.939
Activities for
Generatin
Funds
Parkin
Use of church and rooms
Total
2,460
47.291
49,751
2.460
47,291
49,751
2.128
40,982
43,110
2(d)
Income from
Investments
Interes¢ and dividends
Total
2.570
2,570
2.570
2.570
958
958
Total Income
162.857
4,049
166.906
247.674
14

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the year ended 31 December 2024
EXPENDITURE
Unrestricced
Funds
Designaied
Funds
Restricted
Funds
2024 Total
2023 Total
Church Activities
Missiona
& Charitable Givin
Minist
Diocesan
arish share
Accommodation for Curate
Insurance & Wacer Rates
Heat & Li
ht
Tele
hone & Broadband
Church- repairs &
maintenance & decoration
Flowers
Other expenses inc
refreshment5
Fees
ble
Cleanin
Music inc Or
anists
Altar re
uisites
unior. Senior church & creche
Garden &
rounds
Staff ex
enses and trdinin
Vicar s ex
enses
Parish Administrator
Bookkee
services
Pos(a
riniin
& scaiione
Inde endent Examination fee5
Bank char
es
ment and software
Inre
airs
Total
Raisin
Funds
Fundraisin
costsl ublici
Total
Total Ex
595
57.900
1.613
2,208
57.900
2,541
45,458
6,000
8.588
13,051
1.975
50,522
9.253
12,340
851
23.381
9.253
12.340
851
23,381
655
1,290
724
1.575
1.290
2.250
9.774
1.060
9.836
1,182
490
202
2.250
9.774
1.060
9.836
1,182
490
202
295
42
6,680
3.975
2,846
300
1,817
9,013
989
7.831
1,524
235
1.946
508
43
6.048
3.795
3.450
250
284
1.186
es & materials
n tunin
295
42
6,680
3.975
1846
300
146.312
2.524
148.836
169,353
196
196
146.508
A further analysis of missionary and charitable giving is given in Note 9
1.377
1.377
3,901
1.573
1,573
150,409
1,071
1.071
170,424
enditure
STAFF COSTS
2024
2023
Wages and salaries
Average no of employees
21,476
16.718
RELATED PARTIES
There were salary payments made to one member of PCC during the year. No other PCC member5 or
persons closely connected with such members received payments, by St Mary's Church or any closely related
organisation. except for expenses incurred on behalf of the church. The members of the PCC made donauons
to St Mary's totalling £18k (2023.. £22k).
15

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE. BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the year ended 31 December 2024
DEBTORS
2024
2024
2024
2023
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Total
Gift aid rax recoverable
Sundry debtors
Accrued income
Prepayments
4.204
15,549
1.566
4.344
15.549
1.566
5.511
18.381
771
21,319
140
21,459
24,663
CREDITORS - amounts falling due within one year
Unrescricced Restricted
Toral
Total
Total
Independenc Examination
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income
300
4.840
435
300
4,840
1,439
250
22,924
4,093
1,004
5.57S
1,004
6,579
27,267
Creditors consist of accrued expenses and other amounts due in the normal operations of the
church.
FUNDS
rict
21L￿F￿nd are those expendable only in accordance with the specific wishes of the donorls)
iLaEgdEund are those ear-marked by the PCC for a particular project or purpose.
nrestricted
objects of the Church.
ated F
are expendable at the discretion of the PCC. in furtherance of the
16

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the year ended 31 December 2024
SUMMARY OF FUND MOVEMENTS
l Jan
2024
Income less
expenditure
(utilizations)
Transfers
31 Dec 2024
FUNDS
Restricted
Children's Choir
Psalters & Music in Church
Healey Willan Memorial
Robes and Albs
Building
8ibles for TSM
Wandsworth BC
Sunday School grant
LED Brighcer Greener
Parish Nurses Scheme
90
446
100
40
2,000
358
2,656
900
880
90
343
100
40
2,000
307
2,586
900
447
805
(103)
{51)
(70)
(433)
805
Total Restricted
7.470
7.618
Unrestricted
De518nated
Fabric Reserye
50,000
50,000
Total De5i8nated
20,078
29,922
50,000
General Fund
120,040
16,349
(29,922)
106,467
Total Unrestricted
16.349
156.467
Total Funds
147.588
16.497
164,085
17

THE PARISH OF ST MARY AND STJOHN THE DIVINE, BALHAM
Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the year ended 31 December 2024
9 CHARITABLE GIVING
Overseas
Home
Mission
Total
2024
Total
2023
2024
2024
From Restricted Funds
Bisho
Crisis
St Thomas with St Ste
Friends of TSM
Po
eal
Box on High Road
RNLI
Wandsworth Su
Water Aid
5LentA
eal
50
765
50
765
666
446
268
142
127
hen PCC
180
49
180
49
21
ort for Refu
ees
36
296
36
296
Little Vill
Merc Shi
8.O.N.A.
World Aids Da
Wandsworth Work & Pla
Total Givin
225
53
53
243
10
243
2,S41
534
1.078
1,612
18

2024
Annual Parochial Church Meeting Report
Table of Contents
Finance Report
PCC and Standing Committee Report
Electoral Officerfs Report
Church Warden's Report: Fabric and Ornaments
Safeguarding Report
Giving Group Report
Lettings Committee Report
Parish Nursing Report
Health and Safety Report
10. Gardening Group Report
11. Trinity St Maws School Report
12. Music at St Marys Report
13. Brownies and Guides Report
14. Sunday School Report
15. Deanery Synod Report
16. Churches Together Report
17. Vicarfs Report
19

1. Finance Report
The main audited finance report for the year to 31 December 2024 is available
elsewhere in this document. In summary, during the year the church's
unrestricted general fund income totaled £163k (2023: £242k). The main reason
for the decrease in income from the previous year is primarily attributed to a
decrease in large legacies. However, room lettings continued to grow, increasing
to £47k (2023: £41 k).
Restricted income (including gift aid thereon) totalled £4k. Expenditure for the
year from the unrestricted fund amounted to £146k (2023: £166k). The decrease
of £29k is mainly due to the unexpected replacement of the boiler heating system
and higher energy costs in the prior year.
Donations totalling £1.6k (2023: £3k) were made to 11 {2023:12) missionary or
charitable organisations during the year, from funds raised by special collections.
The PCC reports a surplus on the unrestricted furld of £16k (2023: Surplus of
£75k). During the year, designated funds nil were utilized and released to the
unrestricted general fund. The designed fund was increased in 2024 with the
approval of the PCC. The current balance is £50k.
John Lloyd. Treasurer
2. Parochial Church Council and Standing Committee Report
The PCC met throughout the year, usually once every two months, maintaining
a systematic overview of the church's activities and mission, and of the
management of its resources and staff.
I confirm that the PCC has complied with the duty under the Clergy Discipline
Measure 2016 to have regard to the House of Bishops, guidance on
safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
The PCC'S Standing Committee comprises the Vicar, Churchwardens, Treasurer
and PCC Secretary. It has met a few days before each PCC meeting to prepare the
agenda and plan how best the issues before the PCC are to be presented for
decision (including preparing the Budget and other financial information).
PeterAssor
20

Report of the Electoral Roll Officer
This year saw the revision of the Electoral Roll (every 6 years). Parishioners could
fill in forms online or in person and the total number on the new register is 89.
The old register had 154 on the list but that included many who had, over the
previous 6 years, moved away, left the church, or passed on.
Graeme Calf
Church Wardens Report: Fabric and Ornaments
The fabric and Ornaments of the building have been well maintained with the
regular servicing of the lift, fire extinguishers, alarms, electrics, sound-system,
gutters and floor polishing.
Permission was finally given by the Diocesan Board that repairs could go ahead
to stop rain water coming in through the Nave ceiling and Baptistry. This was
completed in November and appears to be successful. We are still awaiting
Diocesan permission to proceed with repairing the plaster work in the Baptistry
and Holy Family chapel.
The Stone Masons Boden and Ward repaired the stone pillar hit last year by
Hornsby House Minibus in January 2024.
We have Smart Metres installed so regular readings can be taken. A brand new
back door into the school playground has been fitted - many thanks to Martin for
doing this. One of the garden planters had to be removed due to old age and
space has now been given to the Cherry Tree planted in memory of Emese Bito.
We have also had 3 new smoke detectors fitted and a new St George's flag
installed.
We would like to thank Margaret Olasebikan and Jack Lawson for their monthly
reports on the Church building. We also thank Martin for his continued dedication
to maintaining this beautiful building. Throughout the year we have organi5ed
several working parties to do extra cleaning and repairs and we would like to
thank everyone who has helped make St Marys so special.
Diane Holmes and Nicky Morton
Church Wardens
21

Safeguarding
Julia remains as Parish Safeguarding Officer{PSO) and works closely withjonathan
in covering safeguarding responsibilities. Since the last APCM we are still
searching for a second PSO, so if anyone is interested please contact Julia or
Jonathan to find out more.Jonathan and Julia completed the Parish Safeguarding
Audit in February 2025.
Safeguarding Incidents
Since the previous APCM last year there have been 2 safeguarding incidents
reported, 1 enquiry, and 2 historic submissions that have been passed to the
Diocese.
DBS
6 DBS checks (new and renewal) were completed since last year. These were for
PCC members and our Children's Ministry. There are an additional 5 applications
ongoing.
Training
All of those currently required to undertake safeguarding training will have been
notified of the courselcourses required and the level required based on their role
(paid or voluntary).
For the future
Jonathan is still exploring the possibility of a Safeguarding Training Day at St
Marys, so that all those who are eligible andlor interested can achieve a
Foundation Level Certificate, but anyone can complete the course online at
anytime by using this link:
https://southwark.anglican.org/safeguarding/training/
I can confirm that the PCC has complied with the duty to have due regards to the
House of Bishop's policies and guidance in relation to the safeguarding of children
and vulnerable adults.
Julia D'cruz
Parish Safeguarding Officer
22

Giving Group
The Giving Group meets every 6 to 8 weeks, and corresponds between meetings,
in its role of maintaining an overview of, encouraging and inspiring, the raising of
funds to support the worship and mission of our church. Lettings are the subject
of a separate report. The Giving Group's remit covers: stewardship, legacies, grant
applications, collections and sales, raffles and other events with a significant fund-
raising dimension. It reports regularly to the PCC. We liaise with Nigel Collier and
his team who organise the wonderful free concert series which give such pleasure
to many people within and beyond the church community and attract significant
donations.
Lynn Beattie stepped down from the Group during the year with our warm thanks
for her contribution since its inception. Members at the year end were: Fr
Jonathan, Graeme Calf, Wendy Newall, Fiona Symes and Andrew Purkis. We would
warmly welcome additional members, not least anyone with an interest in
outreach and marketing.
The strategic priority of the Group is to increase regular and reliable giving
through stewardship, as ideally we would spend less time and effort on other
fundraising and more on the priorities in our Mission Action Plan. Our annual
Stewardship Appeal is in June and is key to the success of our Mission. We also
seek to maintain a drip-drip of awareness about the importance of making a will,
and remembering St Marys in it as so many have done on whose shoulders we
now stand.
In addition we strongly support church events which produce funds whilst also
helping to enrich our community and reach out to others: our annual Garden
Party, our concerts (including in the past year a memorable and high profile
Westenders Concert in August), our Tea and Hymns, and regular favourites
including Pancakes and Beetle Drive, Harvest Supper, and selective talks in
church, including in the past year one by two Policemen and one by a well known
advocate of good health and well-being. And both Christmas and Easter at St
Maws would not be quite the same without our well-supported raffles.
It is a sadness thatThe Grapevine, conceived in the Group, has temporarily ceased
because of the lack of a co-ordinating editor. There is no shortage of contributors
and enthusiasm for this simple newsletter to enhance our communal life and how
23

we can support it, and we hope that it will soon awake from its current
hibernation.
We thank sincerely all who support the work of the church through their giving of
money and time, and all who organise, support and participate in the initiatives
that the Group helps to inspire and co-ordinate.
Andrew Purkis
Chair. The Giving Group
Lettings Committee report
Lettings have been going very well this year, as the financial report indicates. We
receive about 3-5 email requests a week to use our church. The enquiries led to
us making bookings for: parties, first aid classes, business meetings, counselling
service, GP surgery away day, sound healing sessions, school concerts, school
health hearing and vision testing, wakes, singing/ musical instrument practice.
We secured 4 new regular lets including a private fitness class", a dance class and
2 new AA groups, (we now have 6 A4 groups using our church regularly).
We offered Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust our rooms once a
week for child health care clinics, this only lasted a few months as they said the
rooms were not suitable, unfortunately they left without paying & we are still
trying to recover the debt.
Balham in Bloom was held at St Maws in June 24 and was a great success.
We have lost a couple of regular bookings including a large choir who used the
Narthex every week, she was asked to leave as she owed over £1,000. We are still
trying to recoup the payment.
As well as our paid users we also offer a variety of community outreach support,
including School Councillor meetings," The sewing club; The repair shop;
Wandsworth World refugees and the Retired clergy meetings. TSM school use our
space for meetings and services once a week. Our own Little Lambs meet once a
week. Once a month we also have a One Stop Organiser to offer later life advice.
We introduced new lettings policies and increased fees from September 2024.As
a rough calculation we now get about £2,700 a month from lettings.
Melinda our administrator sadly left us in December 2024, we thank her for all the
work she did with lettings and keeping up with regular users. Happily, we now
welcome Mella as our new administrator. She will be a taking on all new booking
24

requests and one-off lettings from Karen in May 25, as well as managing all regular
users. In addition to room hire we have five weekday parking permits. If you drive
to church during the week, please do not park in the 5 marked spaces.
The letting committee meet regularly, to discuss safety, storage, health concerns
and any complaints from users. Thanks tojonathan, Graeme and Diane. Melinda/
Mella for their support. Thanks to Jonathan who welcomes most of our one off
and new lets and opens up for them, also to Colin, Bruce and Graeme who are
there when needed. Thanks also to Margaret our financial advisor who
coordinates the invoices & payments.
Our current regular classe5
Monday
9.15- 10.50am
7-8pm
Tuesday
8-2pm
9.30-10.30pm
3.45- 6.45pm
12-1pm
7.30- 9pm
7pm-8pm
8-9pm
Wednesday
7- 9.30pm
Thursday
9.50- 11.50am
12-1pm
3.45- 6.15pm
8- 9.45pm
Friday
9.30- 10.50am
6.30- 7.30pm
Saturday
1.30-4pm
6-8 pm
Sunday
1-3pm
6- 7.30pm
Narthex
MR
Tappy Toes
Narthex
Balcony
MR
Balcony
Narthex
Balcony
MR
Baby Sensory
Music lesson
Kumon Classes
Councillor
Popchoir
Martial Arts
MR
Narthex
Balcony
MR
MR
Monkey Music
Councillor
Kumon Classes
Narthex
Narthex
Tappy Toes
Dance Class
MR
MR
Kumon Classes
Narthex
Narthex
Messiah Church
Karen Gray- Lettings Coordinator
25

Parish Nursing
In September 20241 was blessed to become the Parish Nurse here at St Marys. I
have worship here for over 30 years and been an NHS nurse for nearly 50 years.
For the last 4 years I was Parish Nurse at St Michael's Church in Camden.
Parish Nursing is community healthcare based from the church that aims to
enable people to maintain physical, mental and spiritual health. It provides an
additional layer of nursing support to people with existing health problems, those
nearing the end of life or who are at risk in some way.
Parish Nursing Ministries UK (PNMUK) provide training and clinical support and
oversees the service. There is about 100 Parish Nurses throughout United
Kingdom. 2025 marks a significant milestone for PNMUK as they celebrate 20
years of training, supporting and promoting holistic care to communities across
the nation.
would like to thank the Parish Nursing Support team who help me to deliver the
service within this community. Thanks to Fr Jonathan for his love and vision in
supporting me in bringing the Parish Nurse service to St Marys. Together we
deliver a monthly Healing Service followed by Health Advice Sessions covering first
aid at home and cancer awareness to name a few,
If you require any further information, support or health advice please speak to
me or contact me via email parishnurse@stmarybalham.org.uk.
Karen Gray
Health and Safety
Although COVID 19 has not featured much in the news lately, the congregation
consists of very few mask wearers and there are fewer people seeking to be
socially distanced during the service. Church attendance is up however there are
still areas where people can socially distance if they wish. The Eucharist/Holy
Communion is offered in both kinds with the majority of people opting for
receiving in both kinds. Also for those parishioners who cannot make it up to the
altar rail to receive Communion, we do provide the option of receiving
Communion at their seats. Thanks to the new Music Director the Choir has
increased in size such that the parishioners can enjoy a regular sung Sunday
mass.
Bruce Knight
26

10. The Church Garden
They say, if you make a garden, you believe in the future. Much of the fun of
gardening is planning and looking ahead to the next season, while enjoying the
current season. The long bed in front, under the pavement wall, was restored
and gaps replanted. The vital, annual top dressing of farmyard manure was
applied in the autumn, to ensure stronger growth, drought resistance and weed
suppression in all the beds. The neglected North bed was planted with
hellebores and the irises continued to do well. The bulbs in beds and containers
gave a good show in the spring. The lawn in the Oasis Garden was treated
throughout the season by Green Thumb (a gift from a generous member of the
congregation). However. drought and hard wear do make it look tired and we
have to accept these conditions.
We gardeners are very few, so do join us on a Saturday morning. Knowledge is
built up with experience. The activity of gardening embodies hope, which may
partly account for its therapeutic effect.
Marian Shaw
11. Trinity St. Mary's School
As has been the case with many schools in Wandsworth and elsewhere, TSM have
had another difficult year, mainly due to falling demand for school places.
However, this problem is largely outside the control of individual schools and
thanks to the hard work and good management by Headteacher Lynn Anderson,
her deputy Chloe Keys and all the teaching and support staff, TSM remains one of
the leading primary schools in the country. The school's strong links with St. Marys
Church provide valuable support and as always, Father Jonathan has made a
considerable contribution through his presence as a governor and elsewhere.
Lynn and her team continue to successfully motivate the school and also arrange
many successful and enjoyable'out of school, activities, The PTA and many parent
helpers are also to be thanked for their many contributions to the life of what is a
happy and successful school.
'Nurturing minds, filling hearts. flourishing together..
Mark Synge
27

12. Music at St Marys
Church Choir
We run two rehearsals per month. The choir now regularly has between 9 and
11 singers per service, sometimes reaching 12 or 13. Twice-monthly sight-
reading sessions were launched in November which have been very well
attended by the six people registered. The feedback has been excellent.
Children's Choir
The children's group is still in a fragile state, with only four members at the
moment, but they are very motivated and sing once a month with the adult choir
at the Sunday Eucharist.
Sophie Garbisu. Music Director
Saturday Concerts
In the summer of 2024 we hosted six evening concerts ranging from individual
song and instrumental recitals to excerpts from popular West End shows and a
jazz quartet. Audience numbers range from 22 to 100 with an average of about
50 attending. In 2025 we are part way through a similar programme.
The intention of these concerts is to extend the long musical tradition at St Maws
to a wider local audience, making use of what is a unique space in Balham.
Entrance is usually low cost or free so that no one is excluded. Donations are
collected and any profits passed on to the PCC general account.
Nigel Collier
13. 5th Balham Brownies and Guides
Unit numbers continue to improve: 7 Guides, 20 Brownies and 1 Young Leader.
We also have a new Duke of Edinburgh Helper, Edie and a new leader, Cammy.
This year, Hannah and Charlotte were both awarded Jack Petchey Awards. These
are £300 grants which have to be spent on the unit. Hannah decided to
commission special '5th Balham Guide Hoodies, which the girls wear with pride.
Charlotte decided on bowling, the Escape Room and pizza night out. Both
attended a presentation evening in March and received a certificate and medal.
We havejoined in District Events including a trip to London Zoo and Thinking Day.
The girls have worked on different badges including Skills Builder Level 3 and 4
Innovate and Interest Badges including Jobs, Painting, Back-wood Cooking and
Mixology. The Brownies have learnt many skills and attempted many challenges
including tracking signs, making a zipwire for teddies and constructing towers out
28

of marshmallows and spaghetti! Guides have learnt about ember cooking,
construction, public speaking and shopping on a budget.
Many thanks to Helen, Henna, Cammy and Church Volunteers who ensure the
girls are safe and happy.
Diane Holmes Brownie and Guide Guider
14. Sunday School
We have had a good year in Sunday School, getting to know our regular attendees
better and growing closer to God together. It is exciting and refreshing to be able
to tell them the stories of the bible that we know so well, but which they are often
hearing for the first time. We have also been focussing on teaching them about
the fundamental elements of our faith, such as prayer and the meaning of Easter.
A few highlights have been:
Making fishing boats out of cardboard boxes
Using star stickers to each represent a prayer and creating a beautiful
starry sky of all the children's prayers
Easter party complete with egg and spoon race, musical bunnies and
bunny in the middle
We currently have 8 volunteers and are looking for more to join the team. Our
attendance is up slightly from lastyear with between 5 and 12 children each week,
and an average of 819. The age range of our regular attendees is currently 4-12yrs.
Going forward we are discussing further ways that we can support our
neurodivergent children and are trying to link in our learning from week to week.
We continue to use the Roots resource which provides good ideas for activities
based around the lectionary readings. I would like to try and support others to
use this resource to be able to lead sessions so that this responsibility can be
shared more between volunteers.
15. Deanery Synod
Deanery Synod is a church council comprising of clergy from the deanery and
elected lay members from the local churches. Synod comprises 11 parishes with
a geographical boundary that ranges from The Church of the Ascension in Balham
Hill to St. Marys in Summerstown. It also includes Wandsworth Prison, Springfield
Hospital, and St. George's Hospital. It acts as a source of information and decision-
29

making for Diocesan Synod and, more importantly, a support to the parishes and
other institutions within it.
The Deanery Synod meets four or five times a year, discussing ways to fulfil the
mission of the Deanery, and hosting guest speakers on topics that are important
to the Deanery or wider Diocese. There were 5 meetings during 2024. Topics
included Environment (including the growing concern about an Eco-crisis),
Diocesan Synod Elections, Racial Justice in the Church, promoting the Lay Ministry,
and the importance providing a Ministry for Older People. The meetings are open
to everyone in the Deanery, whether Synod members or not. Feedback on
discussions and any pressing Deanery matters are subsequently shared with the
pcc.
Bruce Knight
16. Churches Together in Balham and Upper Tooting (ChBUT)
Churches Together in Balham and Tooting have shared another packed year of
events, including:
A group visit to the Shrine of Julian of Norwich, two coffee mornings, selling cakes
and refreshments at the BATCA Fun Day in Tooting, spirituality, prayer and
learning for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and two hugely popular
concerts: Prelude to Advent and Prelude to Holy Week.
A special thank you to representatives of St Maryds who have supported Churches
Together over the past year as members of our very own ChanTons Choir, helping
to step in atthe last minute to ensure the Coffee Morning last October went ahead
as planned, and to those who join us at meetings and events.
At the time of writing we are preparing to witness and worship together on Good
Friday 18th April at 10.30am at Bedford Place at the back of Sainsbuws.
Please support us by keeping a regular eye on our events on the pew sheet and
our website https://v¥rww.ctbut.co.uk/
Julia D'cruz
30

17. Vicarf5 Report
It is a privilege to lead this parish as we proclaim Christ afresh in this generation
and seek to serve our community. 2024 witnessed the embedding of a number of
initiatives which had started the year before alongside continued growth of our
regular worshipping life. I have been delighted to witness how ready is our
congregation to expend energy, time and resources in pursuit of our shared
vision.
Additionally, 2024 saw some changes in personnel. Karen was commissioned as
our parish nurse. Beginning in the summer a ministry in Balham which she has
already been carrying out in Camden for some years. In December Melinda our
administrator handed in her resignation as she moved on to fuller time
opportunities. l am grateful for all her work particularly in revitalizing the lettings
after the pandemic.
Our presence makes Balham a better place to be. We reach out to lives young and
old and especially those on the margins. And our greatest gift is the opportunity
we offer season by season, week by week and day by day for people to encounter
the living God and see their lives transformed.
The activities enumerated above bear testimony to our thriving community and I
offer my thanks to those who take responsibility to lead different parts of our
church's life. Rather than list the 100 names who all deserve praise each year I
pick out just a couple of people to whom to pay tribute.
Janet is faithful in fellowship, the breaking of the bread and prayers. She supports
the ministry to children on Sunday and on Thursday afternoons alongside Sally.
She prepares the altar for our midweek Eucharists and cleans up after them. She
cares for me like a mother and gently enables my pastoral ministry by freeing me
from practicalities. If ever you don't see her, it is because she is replacing candles,
straightening a cloth or quietly serving in some unseen capacity.
Martin: sands, paints, affixes weatherboarding and rehangs doors; fixes taps and
replaces washers; sets the clock,. hangs fresh flags; replaces lightbulbs; examines
roofing leaks; has mastered the sliding doors; replaces bricks and in general saves
the church thousands of pounds of repair costs. All this he does in a spirit of
prayerful service with good humour and his price is a coffee and a thank you. He
is good value.
These two individuals stand in the stead of many I could write about. l am blessed
to be spending my life with you all. As always, l am indebted to the PCC, standing
committee and particularly the wardens, Diane Holmes and Nicky Morton. With
my love.
Fatherjonathan