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2021-12-31-accounts

Parochial Church Council of St Sebastian’s Church, Wokingham Without

ANNUAL REPORT 2021

- Not Without Jesus -

Annual Parochial Church Meeting 25 May 2022

Contents

Our Aims And Purposes At St Sebastian’s ................................................................................................... 3 Administrative Information ............................................................................................................................. 5 Structure, Trustees And Membership Of The PCC ...................................................................................... 5 Safeguarding ................................................................................................................................................. 8 Fabric Goods and Ornaments of the Church Report for 2021 ...................................................................... 9 Priorities For 2021 ......................................................................................................................................... 9 Summary Of Church Activities In 2021 ....................................................................................................... 10 A Thank You from the Deanery .................................................................................................................. 11 Priorities For 2022 ....................................................................................................................................... 11 Electoral Roll & Church Attendance ............................................................................................................ 11 Sonning Deanery Report ............................................................................................................................. 12

Financial statements of the Parochial Church CouncilFor the Year ended 31 December 2021….14

Financial statements

Of the

Parochial Church Council

For the Year ended 31 December 2021

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 2 St. Sebastian’s Church

OUR AIMS AND PURPOSES AT ST SEBASTIAN’S

Parish Values

Based on Jesus’ prayer for his disciples in John 17, we believe that as a Church God has called us to be:

S pirit-filled All God’s people using God’s gifts to the full. ‘…so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them…’ (John 17:13)

Mission Statement

We believe God is calling us as a Church to be:

A beacon in the community:

‘A city set on a hill cannot be hidden’ (Matthew 5:14)

Vision Statement

Our current Vision:

To glorify God and to serve the local community, sharing the heart of Jesus.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 3 St. Sebastian’s Church

The Parochial Church Council of St Sebastian’s Wokingham Without has the responsibility of cooperating with the Incumbent in promoting the whole mission of the Church of England in the Ecclesiastical Parish of Wokingham in the Diocese of Oxford. It has responsibility for maintaining the Church on Nine Mile Ride and has the responsibility of acting as Managing Trustees of the Church Hall, Parish Centre, and St Sebastian’s Lodge.

Public Benefit

The trustees of the Charity are aware of the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit in The Advancement of Religion for the Public Benefit and have had regard to it in their administration of the Charity. The trustees believe that, by promoting the work of the Church of England in the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Sebastian, Wokingham it helps to promote the whole mission of the Church (pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical) more effectively, within the Ecclesiastical Parish, and that in doing so it provides a benefit to the public by:

Charity Registration Number

1139933 (registered on 19 January 2011)

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 4 St. Sebastian’s Church

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

St Sebastian’s Church is situated in Nine Mile Ride, in the district of Wokingham Without. It is part of the Diocese of Oxford within the Church of England.

**Clergy: ** Revd Canon Andrew Marsden
Churchwardens: MaryUnwin Nigel Wickens
Deputy Churchwardens: Jane Addison Nigel Birch
Paul Morrison
Deanery Synod: David Hare John Congram
Peter Thompson Janet Rogers
PCC Members: Clergy, Churchwardens, and Deanery Synod Reps (Ex-Officio)
Andy Gorham (until June 2021) Celia Waters (until December 2021)
Sue Thomas David Smart
Nigel Birch Matthew Goddard (until Feb 2021)
Paul Morrison Murray Foulds
Suman Shrestha Vacancy

Address for correspondence Banks St Sebastian’s Church CAF Bank Ltd Barclays Parish Office 25 King’s Hill Avenue Leicester Nine Mile Ride King’s Hill LE87 2BB Wokingham Kent RG40 3AT ME19 4JQ

STRUCTURE, TRUSTEES AND MEMBERSHIP OF THE PCC

Legally the council is responsible for the financial affairs of the Church Parish and the maintenance of its assets, such as Churches and Church halls, and promoting the mission of the Church.

Members (Trustees) of the PCC are Ex-Officio or elected by the APCM in accordance with the Church Representation Rules.

The PCC meets as a whole body usually seven times a year. For six of these meetings the items of business will include approval of decisions made by the Finance, the Environment, the Mission or the Standing Committees; items brought forward by the clergy or Churchwardens that need discussion and decisions and information items from the Team Leaders, Deanery Synod representatives and the Churches Together representatives. Each year the PCC also review its Safeguarding policies, following Diocesan guidelines and policies, its Health and Safety policy and Employment policies. The meeting in October is dedicated to discussions and decisions on the budget for the coming year.

The sub-committees during the year were:

Standing Committee – This is the only committee required by law. It has the power to transact business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the council.

Finance Committee – Concerned with the stewardship of our financial resources. Makes recommendations to the PCC on Budget, approaches to voluntary giving (stewardship), scrutiny of major expenditure to ensure PCC secures best value for money on expenditure incurred.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 5 St. Sebastian’s Church

Mission Committee – Liaises with and promotes the work of selected Christian missions and missionary work of the Church in the local area. Makes recommendations to the PCC regarding how the Church’s giving should be distributed. It also researches and provides reports to the PCC on the work of the charities, missions and individuals benefiting from these gifts.

Environment Committee – Attends to matters relating to the stewardship of our site including the Church, Hall, Parish Centre and St Sebastian’s Lodge; the fixtures and fittings thereof and health and safety matters

Communications Committee – Seeks to ensure the most effective and coordinated communication with both church members and our community through the use of existing and new channels such as social media and video. Has taken an active role in making all services and meetings available on-line.

Covid Committee – Set up in 2021 this ad hoc Committee seeks to monitor and review local, regional and national Covid-19 trends and their impact on the Covid-related processes, protocols and controls in respect of St Sebastian’s Church; to feed relevant Covid-related concerns to the PCC; to make recommendations for appropriate action in the context of Government and Church of England requirements/guidance for the safety and protection of St. Sebastian’s congregations, staff and volunteers.

Strategy Committee – Did not meet in 2021. In July 2021 the PCC agreed to discontinue this committee.

The PCC also appoints Team Leaders, who are responsible for the day-to-day running of their respective teams within the life of the Church. These teams include: Administration (vacant), Children and Youth, Evangelism, Pastoral Life, Prayer, Small Groups and Worship Services.

PCC Officers

Officers 2021: The Revd Canon Andrew Marsden Chair
Matthew Goddard (until Feb 2021) Vice Chair
David Smart (from July 2021) Vice Chair
Vacancy PCC Secretary
Celia Waters (until August 2021) Treasurer
John Congram (from August 2021) Acting Treasurer
Jacob George Independent Examiner
Church Administrator Electoral Roll Officer
Matthew Goddard Planned Giving Officer
PCC Committees
Standing Committee: The Revd Canon Andrew Marsden Chair
Vacancy PCC Secretary
Celia Waters (until August 2021) Treasurer
John Congram (from August 2021) Acting Treasurer
Mary Unwin Churchwarden
Nigel Wickens Churchwarden
Matthew Goddard (until Feb 2021) Vice Chair

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 6 St. Sebastian’s Church

David Smart (from July 2021) Vice Chair
Finance Committee: Mary Unwin (Chair) John Congram
Janet Rogers Matthew Goddard
Celia Waters (until Aug 2021) Sue Thomas
Marshall Miller
Mission Committee: David Smart (Chair) Suman Shrestha
David Hare Heather Marsh
Nigel Birch
Environment Committee: Nigel Wickens(Chair) Murray Foulds
Paul Morrison Peter Thompson
John Cooper (until June 2021) Andy Gorham(until June 2021)
Communications
Committee:		 David Smart (Chair) Suman Shrestha
Marvin Vogel Kirsty Milam - Church Administrator
(from Aug2021)
Covid Committee: Murray Foulds (Chair) Suman Strestha
Mary Unwin Nigel Wickens

Team Leaders

Team Leaders
Administration: Vacant
Children & Families: Amy Vogel
Youth: Marvin Vogel
Evangelism: Revd Canon Andrew Marsden (Caretaker)
Pastoral Life: Russell Shipton and Angela Shipton
Prayer: Alexis Clarke (from July 2021) and Jill Gardener
Small Groups: Russell Shipton (Caretaker)
Worship Services: Eve Bull (from March 2021)

Safeguarding

Safeguarding in the Helen Thompson Safeguarding Officer
Diocese of Oxford: Nicola Brock Deputy Safeguarding Officer
Revd Canon Andrew Marsden Children’s Advocate
Amy Vogel Recruiter (Youth)
Russell Shipton Deputy Recruiter (working with vulnerable adults)
Church Administrator Verifier

Other PCC Appointments

Other PCC Appointments
Churches Together in Crowthorne: David Hare, Janet Rogers
Health & Safety Officer: Murray Foulds
Deputy Churchwardens: Jane Addison, Nigel Birch, Paul Morrison
Church Hall Liaison: Murray Foulds

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 7 St. Sebastian’s Church

SAFEGUARDING

The PCC consider Safeguarding one of its most important responsibilities. There has been much discussion amongst the PCC members at many of the regular PCC meetings. Safeguarding of course extends to all, young and adult alike.

The following policy was agreed at the Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting held on 19[th] May 2021.

In accordance with the Church of England Safeguarding Policy our church is committed to:

The Parish will:

Each person who works within this church community will agree to abide by this policy and the guidelines established by this church.

This church appoints Helen Thompson as the Parish Safeguarding Officer.

The policy was signed by Andrew as incumbent and Mary as Churchwarden on 9 June 2021

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 8 St. Sebastian’s Church

FABRIC GOODS AND ORNAMENTS OF THE CHURCH REPORT FOR 2021

Dear Church Congregation,

2021 was a strange year, with covid restrictions, which, impacted maintaining all our buildings in a timely manner. However, over the year we did the following work.

St Sebastian’s Lodge

The outside windows and surrounding wood facias of the lodge was repainted, and the interior was recarpeted. We also painted some of the rooms. We also had someone in to check the chimney as some smoke/smell appeared in one of the bedrooms. We could not resolve this, and due to the cost of rebuilding a new chimney stack would be so expensive we have told the tenants the choice to use the fireplace would be their decision. The cost of all the work to St Sebastian’s Lodge was over 10K.

Parish Centre

We had a company to trim the trees in the Parish centre, and the Church area which cost just over 2K.

Parish centre entrance carpet was replaced. The aim was to carpet the corridor, but this was put on hold, in part due to costs.

Church

The church heating has been a problem for years and in 2021 the heating packed up. After many visits and changing of parts the heating problems have been resolved. The cost for this amounted to just over 3.5K.

The Church corridor by the kitchen suffered a water leak due to the skylight cover being damaged when the wind blew it of the roof. Due to the leak the wooden flooring in the hallway lifted. Both areas were dealt with at no cost to the Church. However as most of the flooring original glue has dried out so we will need to revisit this later in 2022.

The work ‘we’ hope to complete in 2022 in the Church is as follows.

Repaint the kitchen and hallway. We will also repaint the toilet.

Repaint the Vestry.

Re-glue the flooring in the hallway.

Sand the wooded floorboards in the main Church and re-seal. This will be done but not seen as a priority for 2022.

Fabric Team

Nigel Wickens – Chair Paul Morrison Peter Thompson Murray Foulds

PRIORITIES FOR 2021

Our Vision is ‘To glorify God and to serve the local community, sharing the heart of Jesus’.

The coronavirus pandemic has delayed the review of the PCC Strategy that was planned for 2020. The existing strategy, therefore, remained in place:

We had planned to review the vision statement and strategy in the course of the year, however due to Andrew’s availability this did not happen.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 9 St. Sebastian’s Church

SUMMARY OF CHURCH ACTIVITIES IN 2021

2021 was another difficult year at St Sebastian’s, as the Covid-19 Pandemic continued to impact life for all. In addition, Andrew’s health meant he was off work for a considerable time and only able to work part time for the remaining periods. This placed a strain on the leadership of the church and thanks must go out to all those who rallied round to continue the life of the church in particular the churchwardens, Mary Unwin and Nigel Wickens who took the church leadership role and Russell Shipton who took the lead on services. The Churchwardens and other Leaders were very well supported by Richard Lamey the Area Dean.

Andrew continued to suffer health problems and advised in the latter part of the year that he would be retiring due to health grounds.

Due to government restrictions, we were not able to hold services in church until Easter Day on the 4[th] of April 2021 and we have had services every Sunday since then apart from December. Concerns about the spread of the Omicron variant meant that several services in December did not take place in Church. The carol service was recorded and made available online, thanks and due to everyone involved, including Janice Ellwood who led the choir. There was a service in Church on Christmas morning.

St Sebastian’s at Home’ services took place online throughout the whole year. A wide number of church members were involved in the services, with people doing readings and prayers.

Russell Shipton acted as co-ordinator of all activities associated with services during periods of absence of Andrew. This work was invaluable in maintaining the on-line and in person services and thanks are due to Russell. The LLMs Russell Shipton, David Hare and Wendy Wickens continued to play a key role in leading and preaching at the services in Church as well as the online services. We are hugely indepted to several other local clergy, most notable Ian Seymour, without whom the service pattern and load would have been unsustainable. Our thanks go to all those involved including the technical team, working behind the scenes.

In Families, Children and Youth work 2021 was a rocky year with the ever changing covid rules. We managed to find ways to get the Base going as an outdoor service mainly throughout the summer which actually made it a great draw to new people.

In the youth area we said goodbye to the year 13s who made the majority number of our youth we had to radically think outside the box. We started Friday night live in September. This is a youth group that bridges outreach with youth bible study. Friday night live has been amazing so far with an average of 15 youth fortnightly.

When we couldn’t meet, we thought outside the box. We used zoom and online social apps to run all our groups mentioned above. We produced recorded video to view online (Big thanks to David Smart for organising this). We then moved on to distributing craft packs, as well as Kids and Youth Magazine packs with treats in them.

We ran a highly successful light party last year. We had an attendance of 250+ people mainly from the schools. We have also occasionally run parents coffee mornings serving parents from St Sebastian’s primary school after school drop off.

During the year homegroups continued with meetings held generally via Zoom and later in the year some started to meet in person again.

On the PCC, Celia Waters stood down as Treasurer in August 2021 and John Congram took on the role of Acting Treasurer. Matthew Goddard stood down as Planned Giving Officer at the end of 2021 and John Congram has replaced him. David Smart was appointed vice-chair of the PCC at the July meeting.

Early in 2021 Karen deFraine moved away from the area and Alexis Clarke was appointed as Team Leader for Prayer. Eve Bull was appointed as Team Leader for Worship and Services. Russell and Angela Shipton continued to work hard keeping in touch and helping those needing pastoral care.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 10 St. Sebastian’s Church

After a long period without a Church Administrator Kirsty Milam was appointed on 6 August and has been a major asset since she arrived. Our thanks go to Pam Carter who monitored emails and covered urgent issues in the office from September 2020 to August 2021.

A THANK YOU FROM THE DEANERY

The last two years have been difficult for everyone, and for every church, but that has been particularly profoundly so for St Sebastian’s because you have been going through the deep challenges of the pandemic with extra uncertainty around Andrew’s health, around how much he could do in the parish, and what was going on, and when he would be able to come back properly, and what decisions could be made when and by whom in the meanwhile. The whole situation was tricky for everyone involved.

2022 is a new year, in which you are all being invited to listen together to what God is saying about the ministry and mission of St Sebastian’s, and what new adventures you are called to, and what will happen as you let down your nets on the other side of the boat.

Part of the reason there should be such confidence around in 2022 is the way you as a parish and congregation have navigated the last two years. You supported Andrew and Ros prayerfully and graciously throughout long months of uncertainty. Andrew’s illness and then early retirement put particular pressures on the congregation which could not easily have been mitigated, and you were always patient, always understanding, always supportive, always kind.

So, thank you for the faithfulness, willingness and prayer you have shown throughout the last two years. Those are great attributes to build the future on, in terms of the character and identity of the parish under God.

The Rev Cannon Richard Lamey – Area Dean for Sonning

PRIORITIES FOR 2022

Our Vision is ‘To glorify God and to serve the local community, sharing the heart of Jesus’.

The coronavirus pandemic and Andrew’s health have delayed the review of the PCC Strategy that was planned for 2021 The existing strategy, therefore, remains in place:

ELECTORAL ROLL & CHURCH ATTENDANCE

Kirsty Milam: Electoral Roll Officer

Following the revision of the Church Electoral Roll for the APCM on 25 May 2022 there are 152 Parishioners on the roll as compared to 173 in 2021. 26 names were removed and 5 added.

The whole roll was renewed in 2019.

The Average Sunday attendance (at all services), counted during October 2021, was 64. No services took place in October 2020, in 2019 it was 139.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 11 St. Sebastian’s Church

SONNING DEANERY REPORT

Much of 2021, inevitably, was overshadowed by Covid and the ongoing crisis we all lived under. We met as a Synod both in person and on Zoom and tried to make as many meetings as possible meetings which were open to anyone who was interested. Reading back through the minutes, I realise exactly how much we achieved in 2021 as a Deanery:

  1. We agreed to end the system whereby parishes paid the Deanery a Quinquennial Levy each year and the Deanery then paid for the QI. We reimbursed everyone the money they had paid but not used, and from now on, every parish will pay for its own Inspections.

  2. Lynne Paine (Woosehill) became Treasurer and has done an excellent job of working through past years of accounts and is now presenting the accounts to the Standing Committee and Synod on a regular basis with clarity and control.

  3. John Sutton (St Paul’s, Wokingham) was elected as Lay Chair of the Deanery in July 2021. He is a Primary School Teacher and has made a very bright start, bringing together his ability to listen and his ability to think.

  4. Our meetings have dealt with some very big contemporary challenges facing the Church of England and our own churches- our response to the environmental crisis (which has led to the launch of a Deanery Grant for projects which seek to reduce the carbon footprint of a church), engaging with the LLF process (around issues in human sexuality) and also helping the Church to face up to its record on racial discrimination by discussing the powerful report From Lament to Action. We also had a session on how Churches work in Schools, looking at both a chaplaincy model and also things like assembles, being a Governor and offering practical support.

  5. The Deanery Plan was meant to run from June 2021 to June 2022 but the extended nature of the pandemic means that we need to adjust our expectations as to what we will achieve. We are focusing in on the first two sections as a result of the consultation we had with parishes on what their priorities were- rebuilding relationships and then preparing for the next, longer Plan.

  6. In terms of Parish Share, the Deanery paid the lowest percentage of Share in the Archdeaconry but not the lowest in the whole Diocese. We paid 87.5% of what we were asked for- £964,693 out of £1,102,617. Winnersh and Bearwood and Owlsmoor are trying to pay in full but not getting there. (Winnersh and Bearwood will not be replacing their last minister with a full-time appointment in part as a result of this). Hurst had a shortfall which was largely linked to issues with the property they own, and Arborfield and Barkham and Sonning choose not to pay in full because of long-running issues they have with the Diocese and/ or the Church of England. Thank you for everything that was paid- it really does help the Deanery and Diocese to emerge well from the pandemic- and let’s look to overtake some of the other local Deaneries in 2022.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 12 St. Sebastian’s Church

Parochial Church Council of St Sebastian’s Church Nine Mile Ride Wokingham Without

Diocese of Oxford

- Not Without Jesus -

Financial statements

Of the

Parochial Church Council

For the Year ended 31 December 2021

Charity Number: 1139933

Contents

Independent Examiner’s Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet Notes to the Financial Statements

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 13 St. Sebastian’s Church

To the members of the Parochial Church Council of St Sebastian, Wokingham

I report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2021, (which are set out on pages 6 to 14).

Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the examiner

As members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the Financial Statements; you consider that the audit requirement of Regulation 3(3) and section 144 (2) of the 2011 Charities Act do not apply. It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act and to be found in the PCC Accountability guidance, 5th edition, 2017 issued by the Finance Division of the Archbishops’ Council. That examination includes a review of the accounting records 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 audit 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:

  2. to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and

  3. to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the requirements of the 2011 Act and the Regulations have not been met; or

  4. to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Mr Jacob George

Accounting Partnership Ltd 74 Salisbury Close Alton GU34 2TP

Date:

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 14 St. Sebastian’s Church

The accounts for the year ended 31 December 2021 are presented on pages 6 to 14 and are in accordance with the PCC Accountability guidance, 5th edition, 2017 issued by the Finance Division of the Archbishops’ Council.

Income

Total income was £144,836 (2020: £166,242). (Note 2 of the financial statements provides further details.)

Our main income source is “Voluntary income” or congregational giving (plus associated HMRC tax recovery) and we are grateful to the many faithful and generous givers (some over many years) who contribute, and without whom the Church would not be able to run its programme of activities. This year donations and legacy income has decreased to £127,193 from £143,735 in 2020 due to reduced planned giving.

Activities for generating funds, arising from the letting of the Church’s premises, provided £14,900 (2020: £19,919). This is primarily income from the letting of St Sebastian’s Lodge. The fall in the rental income in 2021 was due a period when a reduced rent was received followed by a void period. Church Hall rent recovered as activities restarted in 2021.

Expenditure

Total expenditure in the year was £177,038 (2020: £162,737). (Note 3 of the financial statements provides further details.)

The largest single item of expenditure remains the diocesan parish share of £83,127(2020: £84,866). The parish share is set by the Diocese and Deanery according to pre-determined formulae. We pay our parish share via a 12 monthly direct debit which provides us with a 1% discount. During 2020, we employed 4 different staff members, which accounted for our second largest expenditure of £32,955 (2020: £37,348). We were without a paid administrator until August which explains the reduced cost compared to 2020.

The Church is committed to give at least 10% of its unrestricted voluntary income to support the work of charities and reach out to those in need across the world and in the UK. This year the Church’s mission and charitable giving allocation was £12,720 (2020: £14,310) As is detailed in note 12, £11,053 from this year’s tithe was spent, and £10,560 from unspent tithing from previous years.

In 2021, total expenditure (that is from Unrestricted and Restricted Funds), increased from £162,257 in 2020 to £177,038. This was due largely to expenditure on the repair of the Church boiler (£4,248 in total) and the refurbishment of the Lodge, before it could be relet, (£10,730) and void costs (e.g., Council Tax etc £699)

In addition, cost management and budget control of our operational spend throughout the year continues to attempt to minimise the impact of inflation. We are also grateful for the many volunteers who generously provide their time and skills for the benefit of the Church and thus make a substantial saving on our running costs.

Net position

Total Expenditure in 2021 exceeded Total by £31,537 against the budgeted Deficit of £17,427. The value of our investments increased by £4,882 in the year reducing the net Deficit to £26,655

Funds

At the end of the year, the net current assets totalled £91,312 (2020 £117,967) made up of cash balances of £75,989, Debtors £345and Investments valued at £2, 2642 less Creditors of £7664.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 15 St. Sebastian’s Church

Financial outlook

The PCC is expecting 2022 to be a very challenging year financially.

It is expected that our income will continue to fall as a result of:

The inflationary pressures are also expected to cause an increase in our running costs particularly the cost of gas and electricity for our three buildings.

The PCC is looking to increase the rental income from the Church Hall and is reviewing all items of expenditure to see where cost savings can be made.

The PCC is budgeting for a Deficit of £28250 in 2022, but recognises the actual deficit for 2022 may be somewhat higher.

Looking beyond 2022, the PCC recognises that to meet the needs of the growing community in our parish, significant investment in our long-term vision will be required and as the PCC prayerfully develops practical proposals, we are actively investigating how the necessary funds may be raised.

Reserves policy

It has been PCC policy, where practicable, to maintain a minimum balance of free reserves (net current assets) equating to approximately two month’s general fund payments or £29K. It is held to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies.

The balance of the General Fund at 31[st] December 2021 was £14,957. In view of the uncertain financial outlook described above, the PCC has decided it must move the Vision Fund totalling £30,600 to replenish the Major Maintenance Fund to £20,000 to cover unexpected building repairs and to redesignate the balance of £19,421 to the General Fund.

The PCC has designated five other funds:

Financial administration

A Finance Committee appointed by the PCC has responsibility for oversight of routine financial administration, annual budgeting and preparation of financial reports. We would like to thank Christina Gorham for her work as Finance Officer. Unfortunately, in August 2021 due to work pressures Celia Waters had to step down as Treasurer and John Congram has taken on the role of temporarily. We thank Matt Goddard for his many years of faithful service as Planned Giving Officer, John Congram has agreed to take on this role from January 2022.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 16 St. Sebastian’s Church

Provision of information to independent examiners

Each of the members of the PCC at the time when this report is approved has confirmed that:

Independent examiner

A resolution proposing the re-appointment of Jacob George as independent examiner of the charity will be put to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 15[th] June 2022.

John Congram - Treasurer Date: 17 January 2022

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 17 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021

£
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Notes
Donations and Legacies
2(a)
Income from Charitable Activities
2(b)
Income from Investments
2(c)
Income from Trading Activities
2(d)
TOTAL INCOME
EXPENDITURE
Parish Share and Fees
3(a)
Mission and Charitable Giving
3(b), 12
Staff Costs
3(c), 4
Ministry Costs
3(d)
Premises Costs
3(e)
Other Church Activities
3(f)
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET INCOMING RESOURCES BEFORE
INVESTMENT GAINS (LOSSES)
Net (loss) gain on investments
Transfer of Vision Funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS		 General Fund
Designated
Funds
Total
Unrestricted
Funds
Total
Restricted
Funds
Capital
Reserves
TOTAL
FUNDS
TOTAL
2021
2021
2021
2021
2021
2021
2020
note 7
note 9
124,490
2,703
127,193
127,193
143,735
464
464
464
1,526
371
371
1,048
1,419
1,062
15,760
15,760
15,760
19,919
141,084
2,703
143,787
1,048
144,836
166,242
82,575
82,575
82,575
85,293
12,720
12,720
12,720
14,310
32,955
32,955
32,955
37,348
4,877
997
5,874
5,874
3,117
23,486
12,523
36,010
1,998
38,008
18,142
4,241
4,241
4,241
4,524
160,855
13,520
174,375
1,998
176,373
162,734
(19,770)
(10,817)
(30,587)
(950)
(31,537)
3,508
4,882
4,882
4,882
(3,991)
19,421
(19,421)
0
(349)
(25,356)
(25,705)
(950)
0
(26,655)
(484)
OPENING BALANCES 34,727
74,845
109,572
10,145
296,495
416,212
416,696
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
CLOSING BALANCES		 (349)
(25,356)
(25,705)
(950)
0
(26,655)
(484)
34,378
49,489
83,867
9,195
296,495
389,557
416,212

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 18 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021

Assets.1
£		 2021
Column
2020		 2021
Column
2020
ASSETS
Note
Fixed Assets
Investments Fixed Assets
5a
Tangible
5b
Total Fixed Assets
Current Assets
Debtors and Prepayments
6
Current asset investments
7a
Cash at bank and in hand
Total Current Assets
Current Liabilities
Creditors - falling due within one year
8
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL NET ASSETS
PARISH FUNDS
Restricted Funds
9
Unrestricted Funds - Designated Funds
7b
Unrestricted Funds - General Fund
Church Capital Reserves
CLOSING BALANCES		 1,750
296,495
298,245
345
22,642
75,989
98,976
7,664
91,312
389,557
9,195
49,489
34,378
296,495
389,557		 1,750
296,495
298,245
2,894
17,760
109,915
130,568
12,601
117,967
416,212
10,145
74,845
34,727
296,495
416,212

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 16[th] March 2022 and signed on its behalf by:

David Smart PCC Vice Chair John Congram PCC Treasurer

The notes on pages 20 to 26 form part of these financial statements.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 19 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

1. Accounting policies

Basis of Preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (SORP (FRS 102)) and the Charities Act 2011.

The PCC is a public benefit entity within the meaning of FRS 102.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets and certain of the freehold properties which are at valuation as described in the notes.

The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Funds

Capital reserves (or permanent endowment funds) are funds, the capital of which must be maintained; only income arising from investment of the capital reserves may be used either as restricted or unrestricted funds depending on the purpose for which the capital reserve was established. The PCC has a single permanent endowment (capital reserves) established by trust in 1968 relating to the Upkeep of the Church and Churchyard.

Restricted funds represent income from trusts and endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest, and donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. These funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund.

Restricted funds include an upkeep of church and churchyard fund held under trust deed together with a number of other restricted funds.

Unrestricted funds are general funds that can be used to fund ongoing Church expenditure. These represent the remaining income funds of the PCC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the PCC, including amounts designated by the PCC for fixed assets for its own use or for spending on a future project and which are therefore not included in its ‘free reserves’ as disclosed in the trustees’ report.

Designated unrestricted funds are monies set aside by the PCC from unrestricted funds for specific purposes. That purpose is not binding on the PCC, though the PCC must be mindful of the intent when considering using the funds for other purposes. It is the simplest and most flexible way to ring fence money for special needs.

"Major Maintenance Fund”, setup in January 2012 to cover large repair and maintenance items relating to the church and buildings.

“Vision Fund - Investments” these funds are set aside to develop potential new areas for ministry.

“Jubilee Club Fund” , setup in September 2017 representing funds and expenditure relating to this church group.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 20 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

“Legacy Fund” (formally “Mike Page Legacy Fund”) – during 2019, the PCC received a legacy of £5,000 from the estate of Mike Page a much-loved member of the congregation. The PCC has designated these funds whilst considering options to invest funds in a way that would honour Mike’s memory. In 2021 the PCC received gifts in memory of the wonderful servant of the church Eric Fudge, and these have been similarly designated.

“IT / Computer facilities” – during 2019 we collected £1795 in donations from the congregation to support and enhance IT/Computer facilities for the Church.

Income

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resources to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Rental income from the letting of the PCC property is recognised when the rental is due. Investment income is included in the accounts when receivable. Investment gains and losses include any gain or loss on the sale of investments and any gain or loss resulting from revaluing investments to market value at the end of the year. All other income is accounted for gross.

Expenditure

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that reward creates a binding or constructive obligation of the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

It is the policy of the PCC that at least 10% of our voluntary unrestricted giving (and related recoveries of income tax) should be used for missionary and charitable giving: at the year-end amounts are accrued to comply with this policy.

Fixed assets

As Consecrated and benefice property of any kind is excluded from the statutory definition of “charity” by Section 10(2) (a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011 such assets are not capitalised in the financial statements.

Moveable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the church’s inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). No valued is placed on these assets in the financial statements. No individual item has cost more than £1,000 so all such expenditure has been written off when incurred.

Freehold properties are either stated at cost when built by the Parish or stated at valuation when donated to the PCC. Fixed asset investments are stated at cost.

Other Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and cost at least £1,000. They are valued at cost or else, for gifts-in-kind, at a reasonable estimate of their open market value on receipt. Depreciation is calculated to write off the capitalized cost of fixed assets less their currently anticipated residual fair value over their estimated useful lives as follows: Land - Nil / Buildings* - Nil / Fixtures & Fittings - 20 years

*No depreciation is provided on buildings as the currently estimated residual value of the properties is not less than their carrying value.

Current assets

Current asset investments are held at market value.

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 21 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

2. Income and Endowments

Custom
INCOME
2(a) Donations and Legacies
Gift Aided Income
Other Tax efficient giving
Planned Giving
Sub-Total Gift Aided Income		 General
Fund
Designated
Funds
Total
Unrestricted
Funds
Total
Restricted
Funds
TOTAL
FUNDS
Total
2021
2021
2021
2021
2021
2020
639 2,218
2,857
2,857
845
102,082
102,082
102,082
116,838
102,721
2,218
104,939
104,939
117,683
Tax recoverable 20,710
250.00
20,960
20,960
24,188
Collections at Services
249 235
484
484
461
Other Donations non gift aid
810
810
810
720
Nominated Gifts
182
Restricted Grant Received
Legacies
500
Sub-Total Donations and Legacies
124,490
2,703
127,193
127,193
143,734
2(b) Income Charitable activities
Charitable Activities - Fees
407
407
407
1,448
Charitable Activities - Other
57
57
57
78
Sub-Total Income Charitable activities
464
464
464
1,526
2(c) Income from Investments
Sykes Legacy Divds & Interest
371
371
371
50
Dividends Restricted Funds
1,048
1,048
1,012
Sub-Total Income from Investments
371
371
1,048
1,419
1,062
2(d) Income from Trading Activities
Church Hall Rental Income
860
860
860
587
St Sebs Lodge Rental Income
14,900
14,900
14,900
19,332
Sub-Total Income from Trading Activities
15,760
15,760
15,760
19,919
TOTAL INCOME
141,085
2,703
143,788
1,048
144,836
166,241		 249 235
484
484
461
810
810
810
720
182
500
124,490
2,703
127,193
127,193
143,734
407
407
407
1,448
57
57
57
78
464
464
464
1,526
371
371
371
50
1,048
1,048
1,012
371
371
1,048
1,419
1,062
860
860
860
587
14,900
14,900
14,900
19,332
141,085
2,703
143,788
1,048
144,836
166,241

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 22 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

3. Expenditure

General Fund
Designated
Funds
Total
Unrestricted
Funds
Total
Restricted
Funds
TOTAL
FUNDS
TOTAL
_2 2021
2021
2021
2021
2021
2020
EXPENDITURE
3(a) Parish Share and Fees
Diocese and Deanery Fees (552)
(552)
(552)
427
83,127
83,127
83,127
84,866
Parish Share
Sub-total 3(a) Parish Share and Fees 82,575
82,575
82,575
85,293
3(b) Mission and Charitable Giving 12,720.00
12,720
12,720
14,310
3(c) Staff Costs 32,955
32,955
32,955
37,348
3(d) Ministry Costs
Church Services Costs 3,511
997
4,509
4,509
2,489
Education Evangelism & Pastoral 72
Family and Youth 1,365
1,365
1,365
557
Sub-total Ministry Costs 4,877
997
5,874
5,874
3,118
3(e) Premises Costs 23,486
12,523
36,010
1,998
38,008
18,144
3(f) Other Church Activities
Communications 2,544
2,544
2,544
2,376
Independent Examiner's Fee 500
500
500
500
Other Administration Expenses 1,197
1,197
1,197
1,648
Sub-total Other Church Activities 4,241
4,241
4,241
4,524
TOTAL EXPENDITURE 160,855
13,520
174,375
1,998
176,373
162,737

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 23 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

4. Staff Costs

There were 3 employees in post until August and 4 employees in post for the rest of the year.

There were no employee benefits to key management personnel in this year or previous years.

5. Fixed assets

(a) Tangible fixed assets - freehold land and buildings – at 31 December 2021

Freehold land and buildings comprise the church hall and the parish centre, both of which were built by the PCC and are stated at cost of £201,495, and St Sebastian’s Lodge which is stated at a valuation made in the year of donation to the PCC of £95,000. It is not considered that the current value of the freehold properties is lower than their stated cost and accordingly no depreciation has been provided. The PCC do not see any benefit in obtaining a current valuation of these properties.

(b) Investments – at 31 December 2021

CBF Investment fund - 1,764 shares

£ 1,750 1,750

The CBF Investment funds represents permanent endowment (capital reserves) relating to the Upkeep of the Church and Churchyard restricted fund.

6. Debtors

----- Start of picture text -----
Debtor 31 Dec 21 31 Dec 20
Other Debtors - SSP SMP Recovery 2,849
Other Debtors - Gift Aid Recovery 270
Accounts Receivable 75 45
Total Debtors and prepayments 345 2,894
----- End of picture text -----

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 24 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

7a. Current Asset Investments

The investments being Barclays Ordinary Shares are stated at the market value prevailing at 31 December 2021.

7b. Designated Funds

Given the fall in the level of our income the PCC is preparing to cover the expected deficit in 2022 from our Unrestricted Reserves, so has decided to consolidate the designated Vision Fund back into the General Fund. This leaves three designated funds: the Major Maintenance Fund, the Jubilee Club Fund and the Legacy Fund (represented gifts we have received in memory of Mike Page and Erik Fudge).

----- Start of picture text -----
Major IT / Total
Jubilee Vision Visionl Fund -
Maintenance Legacy Fund Computer Designated
Club Fund Fund Invest
Fund Fund Funds
Opening Balance (31.12.20) 19,095 5,000 1,393 997 30,599 17,760 74,844
Total Income 2,250 453 2,703
Total Expense (12,523) (997) (13,520)
Net (loss) gain on investments 4,882 4,882
Transfers from Vision Funds 11,178 (30,599) (19,421)
Closing Balance (31.12.21) 20,000 5,453 1,393 0 0 22,642 49,488
----- End of picture text -----

8. Creditors - amounts falling due within one year

----- Start of picture text -----
Creditor 31 Dec 21 31 Dec 20
Rent in Advance - SSL 1,350
Accruals (General) 2,133 500
Accruals (Utilities) 798 69
Tithing Provision 3,227 10,559
Parochial Fees 739
HMRC Payroll Creditor 639
Pension B&CE Creditor 128 123
7,664 12,601
----- End of picture text -----

9. Restricted Funds

Opening Balance (31/12/20) 3,985
6,159
10,144
1,049
1,049
Total
Restricted
Funds
Other
Restricted
Funds
Church / CYard
Fund
Total Income
Total Expense
Closing Balance (31.12.21)		 1,998
1,998
3,036
6,159
9,195

Restricted funds include an upkeep of Church and churchyard fund together with a number of other funds, including grants awarded for specific purposes by Wokingham United Charities and Wokingham Without Parish Council (£5,500)

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 25 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

10. Disclosure of trustee and staff remuneration, related party and other transactions

PCC members Rev Canon Andrew Marsden and Mary Unwin are also Governors of St Sebastian’s School. During the year, the PCC made grants of £1073 to the school to pay for bibles for the children and staff and pay the Core Supportcharge from the Diocese.

The Church Finance Administrator, employed by the PCC, is married to Andrew Gorham, a Trustee until June 2021 and her salary, employer national insurance and pension costs were £3072 (2020 - £2,971).

No other payments or expenses were paid to any other member of the PCC or person closely connected to them or related parties, other than the re-imbursement of expenses incurred by PCC members in respect of Church activities.

PCC indemnity insurance cover is provided for all PCC members as part of the Ecclesiastical Parish Plus Insurance policy entered into on annual basis. The annual premium for the combined church, parish centre and hall insurance, which also covers areas such as employer’s liability, property damage, consequential loss and financial loss, is £3,925 for the year to 30 April 2021. The cost of the indemnity insurance cover is not separately identifiable.

11. Fees payable to the Independent Examiner

The independent examiner fee is £500.

12. Charitable grants and special collections

The Church is committed to give at least 10% of its unrestricted voluntary income to support the work of charities and reach out to those in need across the world and in the UK. In 2021, we granted a total of £20,053 (2020: £14310), funded by the 10% tithe (£12,720, 2020: £14,305) In addition, accumulated funds from previous year’s unspent tithing allocations, are set out below and is shown as a creditor in Note 8 Creditors.

During the year, charitable grants were made to the following organisations:

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 26 St. Sebastian’s Church

Notes to the financial statements - Year ended 31 December 2021

£ £
Gifts in 2021 to Charities and Organisations from From 2021
Tithe		 Earlier years
unspent
Tithe
Mitiyana Charity 1,200 500.00
Open Doors 1,200 1,500.00
Univida 1,200
Yeldall Christian Centre 1,200
Just Around The Corner (JAC) 1,200
Soulscape 1,200
Elim International Missions (Bulembu Ministries / Dan Smart) 1,200
St Sebastians C of E Primary School -Diocesan Core Support 919
Bibles for Children 155
Nepal Critical Care Foundation 1,225 1,025.00
Caravan Park Support 354
The Mustard Tree Foundation (Reading) RAHAB 1,000.00
Childrens Society 500.00
Berkshire Clergy Charity 1,000.00
Tearfund 1,500.00
Frimley Park ICU Staff Well Being Charity 1,000.00
St Columba's Presbyterian Church - support Edson Choma 975.00
Total Spend 11,053 9,000
Balance of Tithes brought forward 10,560.00
Total 2021 Tithe 12,720
Set aside for future giving 1,667 1,560.00
Total Balance carried forward 3,227.00

APCM Report – 25 May 2022 27 St. Sebastian’s Church