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2021-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

of the Parochial Church Council,

St Mary Magdalene, Wandsworth Common

for the year ended 31[st] December 2021

(incorporating a report on the proceedings of

the Tooting Deanery Synod)

Cover photo: Easter Cross

Contents

Contents
Annual Report on PCC Proceedings and Parish Activities
Introduction - Revd Philippa Boardman MBE 1
Mission Action Plan 2021 – 2026 2
How we achieved our objectives in 2021 3
Proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom (MAP priority 1) 3
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Regular services		 3
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Special services		 4
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Prayer		 6
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Pastoral care		 6
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Church music		 6
Teaching, baptising and nurturing new believers (MAP priority 2) 7
Creating a welcoming and inspiring place of worship (MAP priority 3) 9
Developing a range of inclusive activities in our buildings (MAP 10
Priority 4(i))
Strengthening links to existing SMM ministries in prison, hospital 12
care home and schools (MAP priority 4 (ii))
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HMP Wandsworth		 12
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Springfield Hospital		 12
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Ronald Gibson House		 13
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Support for charities and other causes		 14
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Relationships with local schools and organisations		 15
Energising and being active in our care of creation (MAP priority 5) 16
The PCC's Financial Report for 2021 17
Buildings 18
Safeguarding 20
The duties of the PCC 21
How the PCC Works and our congregational volunteers 22
Church administration 23
Further information 23
Report on the proceedings of the Tooting Deanery Synod 26
Financial Statements 27
Statement of Financial Activities 27
Balance Sheet 28
Notes to the Accounts 29
Independent Examiner's Report 37

Annual Report for 2021 on PCC Proceedings and Parish Activities

The Parochial Church Council of St Mary Magdalene, Wandsworth Common (PCC) presents this report on its proceedings for the calendar year to 31[st] December 2021 and on the activities of the parish generally in that year. The PCC’s duties and details of how the PCC works, its meetings and membership, its officers, the electoral roll and other matters are set out at the end of the report.

Introduction - Revd Philippa Boardman MBE

The year began with London in lockdown again and our church doors regretfully closed once more. Prayer and fellowship were maintained through Zoom, Facebook, Mailchimps, phone calls and doorstep conversations. A new dawn was on the horizon, however, with the roll out of the vaccination programme and we give thanks for the scientists, researchers, the NHS, pharmaceutical companies and the thousands of volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this happen.

Early 2021 saw the church engaged in 'The Big Question' – 'what next for St Mary Magdalene, Wandsworth Common?' as we sought God's vision

for our next five years, encapsulated in a new Mission Action Plan. Sixty five people responded and the new priorities are highlighted in the pages which follow.

In March, the Government's 'Roadmap out of Lockdown' allowed services to re-start 'in person' on Mothering Sunday with a range of 'Covid protocols' in place, including renewed risk assessments. Our Easter celebrations were like no other with face masks, no congregational singing and even ticketing for Easter Sunday where our two back-to-back services were ‘sold out'. Sunday, 27[th] June saw the return to one united 10.00 am service and on Sunday, 25[th] July we moved to the Government's Step 4 and, with great joy, congregational singing and coffee time resumed, both of which had been so sorely missed. At Christmas, with Covid protocols and the adage 'prioritise events and celebrations that really matter to you', we were able to offer the full 'Christmas range' including the wonderful Christmas Tree Festival, carol services and Eucharists.

Our care and service of the wider community remain at the heart of our Christian faith. Visiting re-started at Springfield hospital in the autumn, and close links maintained with HMP Wandsworth and Ronald Gibson House, though volunteering is still suspended. The close of the year saw early planning for literacy support at Ernest Bevin College through hearing reading. It is hoped to launch this in Spring 2022. Memorial services in the autumn brought comfort to bereaved families from the wider parish for whom lockdown funeral services had been very restricted.

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The generosity of church members continued in the offering of their time, their talents and their giving both for the ministry and upkeep of the church as well as charities: the online Quiz for Foodbanks , raising over £1,000; Christian Aid raising over £6,000 (with Gift Aid); and the Christmas Tree Festival £5,400 for the work of the Awareness Foundation. It remained a tough year financially, as our financial statements show, resulting in a significant deficit, which required very difficult decisions on re-structuring and reducing expenditure.

2021 was a year of great struggle and sorrow, but we are thankful for each and every church member who supported the life of the church, including the Standing Committee (comprising our Churchwardens, PCC Secretary and Treasurer), who continued to meet weekly on Zoom to oversee governance; and our Clergy, Lay Reader and Director of Music who upheld the Worship and Services. We look forward to 2022 with renewed faith and hope and love.

Mission Action Plan 2021 - 2026

One of our most significant achievements during 2021 was to consider and formulate our

new Mission Action Plan for 2021 to 2026. This work is encouraged by the Church of England and will be an essential guide to our work over the next five years both for the church and within the local community.

The final MAP was the product of prayer and an extensive consultation process amongst the congregation. Notwithstanding the restrictions required by Covid, discussions were had both amongst the PCC; through WhatsApp and Zoom meetings of the different groups, who had been working together amongst the congregation; and from individual feedback.

This work enabled the PCC to finalise SMM’s priorities for the next five years. A small team was then able to pull together a colourful and engaging booklet,

which sets out how we’d like to be described in three to five years’ time and how we plan to achieve that.

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The MAP is based on our vision for the future:

To become a focal point for the community in Wandsworth Common. A beautiful space which inspires, uplifts and energises our outreach through the Glory of God. A caring place of worship, support, safety and opportunity for everyone – including the most vulnerable.

The MAP sets out our five mission priorities:

Each priority is supported by specific actions we plan to undertake in the years to 2026. For further information, hard copies of the MAP booklet can be found in the church pews and on our website.

How we achieved our objectives in 2021

Proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom (MAP priority 1)

Regular services

Our Sunday worship and midweek Eucharists continued online on Facebook and 'in person' whenever the latter was allowed. Throughout the year, Government guidance changed as the impact of the pandemic ebbed and flowed. This saw the church closed for 'in person'

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services at the beginning of the year, re-opening in mid-March and restrictions gradually relaxed as the vaccination programme brought quiet confidence and hope. Congregational singing and coffee re-started in late July with great joy! There was even a 'Christmas in August' Sunday to allow the singing of Carols which had not been sung at Christmas 2020 due to lockdown.

Government guidance was carefully applied at all times and we are indebted to the Standing Committee, cleaning team and sides people, who did a huge amount of work behind the scenes to give confidence that people could come and worship in safety. Heartfelt thanks are also due to the choir, organists, sound and live streaming technicians, as well as the clergy and lay reader team for their commitment and adaptability, with changes in Government guidance often happening at very short notice. Having the church open for services was a great source of comfort and hope to the congregation and wider community and we welcomed both 'old' and 'new' faces through the year.

Special services

Lent and Easter : Probably for the first time in its 150 year history, the St Mary Magdalene church building was closed on Ash Wednesday. The service went online with 'ash crosses' being marked on tiny squares of hessian cloth and distributed around the parish, rather than the sign of the cross being ashed on people's foreheads. By mid-March, Government guidance allowed church buildings to begin to re-open and Mothering Sunday saw 'in person' services re-start at 10.00 am and 11.00 am – a very appropriate day both to celebrate those who have 'mothered' us, but also our 'mother church'.

On 23[rd] March we joined in the call for National Prayer to mark the anniversary of the first Lockdown - all who had died and all who had worked tirelessly in the care and service of others. Holy week and Easter services were re-shaped with Palm Sunday in church (but no procession), Maundy Thursday in church (but no meal nor foot washing), the Hessian ash crosses

Three Hours on Good Friday and then 10.00 am and 11.00 am services on Easter Day which were ticketed and 'sold out' – another 'first' in our SMM history!

In early April we joined in national prayer for HRH the Duke of Edinburgh as news of his death was announced, also praying for the Queen and the Royal family.

Harvest Festival : The importance of this service was emphasised by the plea of the Wandsworth Foodbank: ' Can you help? Our guest numbers are rising rapidly and we're desperately short of stock.' There was a generous

response from the congregation and we continue to collect for Foodbank, Sunday by Sunday.

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Ordination and First Mass of the Revd Shavaun Shodeinde : On 3[rd] July, our curate, the Revd Shavaun Shodeinde was ordained priest by the Bishop of Kingston at Kingston Parish church. With much rejoicing, Shavaun presided at her First Mass as a priest the following day, Sunday 4[th] at St Mary Magdalene. Shavaun wore the Windrush cope, created for the 70[th] anniversary of the landing of the MV Empire Windrush and to act 'as a catalyst for dialogue and debate on othering, belonging and inclusion'. The guest preacher was the Revd Canon Roxanne Hunte. Despite the Revd Shavaun celebrates her First Mass

Covid restrictions, many church members and family and friends of Shavaun gathered for Revd Shavaun celebrates her First Mass worship. Celebratory prosecco and refreshments served in a 'Covid-safe' manner at the end. A 'BYO' picnic was held on Trinity Fields after the service as indoor gatherings to eat were not allowed at this time.

All Souls 'A service of Lament and

Hope': We were joined by the Mayor of Wandsworth Cllr Richard Field and Mrs Sue Field as we remembered those personally known to us, and also those in the UK and across the world who had died during the Pandemic. Those who served in the NHS and in front line services were also remembered. Our Music Director and the 'Come and Sing' Choir, sang an inspiring Choral Evensong. The Mayor read the First Lesson and the names of those who had died were read aloud. The service was greatly appreciated by all who attended.SMM All Souls service 2021

Mayor Cllr Richard Field and Mrs Sue Field with the Vicar at SMM All Souls service 2021

Remembrance Sunday: A well-attended service saw around thirty Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Leaders of the 1[st] Wandsworth join us for their Church Parade. Two of the Scouts read a poem ' It's time to remember. Remember why we remember ' connecting Remembrance to the present day. The traditional Two Minute Silence was also held with Last Post and Reveille.

Advent and Christmas : The season of Advent began with an uplifting service of Advent Carols with the traditional congregational carols, inspiring anthems sung by the Choir, Bible readings and poetry. Lay members of the congregation led evening Advent worship on the two following Sundays with meditative music, readings, prayers and silence – a new initiative, which was much appreciated. With the spread of the Omicron variant, there was concern that our churches may be closed for ‘in-person’ Christmas worship for a second

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year running. However, with extra precautions in place and careful planning, we were able to stay open for Christmas carols, a fun-filled Nativity from Scratch, Children's Crib service, Midnight Mass and Christmas morning services. These were attended by around one hundred people each, much less than 'pre-pandemic' numbers, but ensuring socialdistancing and reassuringly 'safe'. Heartfelt thanks to all those seen and unseen who enabled these services to go ahead.

Prayer

New ways of prayer (started in 2020) continued such as the imaginative use of the railings with laminated prayers outside the church and Zoom prayer gatherings. Revd Shavaun and Keith Mitchell began a half hour of prayer and organ music following the midweek Eucharist. In Lent, church members contributed favourite prayers via short video or audio clips to a '40 days of Prayer' project accessed via our church website.

Church members were also on the organising group for the World Day of Prayer at St Anselms RC church in July, with a liturgy by the women of Vanatu. The Vicar led the multifaith Peace ceremony at Tooting Broadway in October organised by the Balham and Tooting Community Association. This included leaders from the Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and Sikh communities as well as contributions from the Mayor of Wandsworth and our MP, Dr Rosena Allin-Khan.

Pastoral care

This was as important as ever in 2021 as we mourned the untimely deaths of four beloved church members, as well as the continuing toll which the pandemic was taking in people's personal lives and work situations. Phone calls, cards, Zoom and WhatsApp calls, outdoor walks and garden gate conversations with social-distancing all continued as part of pastoral care. When allowed, the clergy met with people in church or at home to support and pray with them.

The return of coffee time in late July 2021 was also of significant pastoral support with coffee time sometimes continuing as long as the church service! The coffee time after the midweek Eucharist was another valued source of support.

Support for the bereaved was offered through the All Souls service, through funeral ministry and the memorial services held at SMM in the autumn. At these memorial services hundreds of people, who were unable to attend funerals during lockdown, were able to gather to honour loved ones who had died.

Pastoral care is also given in a myriad of ways through volunteering by church members in often hidden acts of kindness and compassion both within the church and wider community.

Church music

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The long months Covid restrictions prevented the congregation from singing. A sociallydistanced choir of six was permitted to present and lead the choral part of our services at the 10.00 and 11.00 am Sunday services and this continued until mid-summer when restrictions began to ease. The choir members’ flexibility during this period is to be thanked enormously. Offering a balanced choir meant restricting numbers to two sopranos and just one/two per part otherwise. Somehow we came through it all thanks to WhatsApp!

With restrictions reduced we began to work towards our pre-pandemic solid list of 30+ members, with a choir ranging typically from eight to 16 on typical Sundays. Our breadth of repertoire and growing confidence enabled us to present 4-part harmony anthems to a good standard almost every week. We also had a significant ‘extras’ list of singers for Evensongs and special services. Festival services saw 25+ in the choir.

We bade farewell in June to our eldest member and the choir sang at a packed memorial service for her. We also saw two other much loved members of the choir move away from Wandsworth Common. We thank them for their enormous contribution and exceptional musicianship, which blessed our services.

Our strength of musical confidence; diction, phrasing, blend, cantabile singing, accuracy of tuning and precision of attack are some of the key technical aspects which together make a better-sounding choir. While this may sound technical, the progress we made here is the reason our Sunday anthems continued to please, even during restrictions.

Every single Come-and-Sing Choral Evensong has secured us 25+ singers! Obviously these stopped during restrictions. We rehearse for 2 solid hours, retire for tea and then sing a proper Cathedral-style Evensong. It attracts additional singers into our orbit and allows time for singers to socialise before the service for 30 minutes over tea and cake.

Enormous thanks go to our Director of Music, Barry Holden, for his energy and commitment to making music such a core part of our worship.

Teaching, baptising and nurturing new believers (MAP priority 2)

Lent course: The Revd Dr Nadim Nassar led an inspiring Lent course on Zoom with four sessions on the Last Supper, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Trial & Denial, and the Crucifixion based on St Mark's Gospel. In September, he added an excellent session on Jesus' resurrection in Mark.

Exploration of Faith: The Pilgrim course on the Lord’s Prayer was led on Zoom by Revd Shavaun for those who were new to the Christian faith, new to Church or who wanted a faith 'refresher'. Six people attended who had not been part of a study group at SMM before.

‘Living in Love and Faith': This was an initiative of the National Church to enable Christians holding a wide spectrum of views on human sexuality, relationships and marriage to come together in a safe space to learn, pray and discuss together. St Mary Magdalene hosted this six session course, which was organised for the Tooting Deanery. Over sixty different people

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attended from all eleven churches in the Deanery and it was valued by participants with honest and thought-provoking discussion.

Advent course: 'A light for the pathway - learning from the Psalms' was an imaginative four session course, which included music, art and video clips on Zoom. It was much appreciated by all participants.

Junior church : Unfortunately the Covid restrictions meant that ‘on site’ Junior church activities were curtailed. A 'Lent course for families' was sent out digitally and leaders endeavoured to send activity ideas out to families throughout the lockdowns and restrictions. Colouring sheets were available for children attending services. Junior church was re-started in the summer, but numbers were low as young families had readjusted to new lifestyles. Heartfelt thanks are due to the Junior church leaders for their faithfulness. Re-engaging with children and young families is a priority in the year ahead.

Families and young people: 2021 continued to be a tough year for families and young people with home-schooling, isolating at home and many out of school activities being closed. On Good Friday, Revd Shavaun organised an Easter drop-in workshop for families who then offered prayers at the Cross.

A 'Teens Focus' Zoom course run by the organisation 'Parenting for Faith' was offered in the autumn. Also in the autumn, Revd Shavaun began a Saturday afternoon Children's Eucharist on a monthly basis. These had the themes of Back to School (September) Harvest (October) Remembrance (November) and Christmas (December), and included music and craft as well as a short Eucharist liturgy. These were attended by between eight and twenty children and their families and were a significant opportunity to connect with families who had brought their children for baptism.

Home Groups: The groups continued in 2021 either on Zoom or in person, offering a chance for more personal and informal learning, growing in faith and sharing in fellowship.

One leader wrote: ‘ Our home group which is made up of 9-10 members, continued to meet up on the first Thursday of each month throughout 2021 (except August). For most of the year this was on Zoom but joyfully, we returned to meeting in person from September with plenty of tea and delicious home-made cake. We've started a new 12 part study book by Eugene H. Peterson, “Psalms; Prayers of the Heart”. Each chapter looks at a different psalm with titles such as “Praying our Trouble” and “Praying our Tears”. We keep in touch via email and a WhatsApp group in between sessions, sharing further thoughts about our discussions or other points of interest regarding matters of faith. We all feel the group is a safe space for open and honest discussion and we also find strength and support in each other.’

As a broader congregation we are keen to encourage more people to get involved in home groups and current members are always willing to help prospective new members find the group that best suits them. As restrictions lift, this will need reinvigorating in 2022. A new online group began in 2021, which emerged from the 'Exploration of Faith' Pilgrim Group mentioned above, whose members decided they wanted to carry on meeting when the Pilgrim course ended. They have been studying 'Biblical women of faith'.

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Online Sunday gathering: This is a WhatsApp group originally set up to support a beloved parishioner. Following her death in January 2021, the group met intermittently on Zoom. A handful of participants met again for prayers and shared thoughts on the anniversary of her death. As services at church opened up the need for the Sunday gathering became redundant. The group was instead used for active, weekly communication. It continues as a thriving communication medium.

Men’s Bible Briefing: This small group continued to meet throughout the year at fortnightly intervals, at 7.30 am initially on Zoom and latterly in Cafe Nero, Bellevue Road. The members find it a valuable chance during the week to share faith together.

Baptisms, confirmation, weddings and funerals. Many families had had to postpone baptisms due to lockdowns and

Covid restrictions. As these lifted, it was a joy to welcome ten children and their families in holy Baptism in 2021. We were also delighted that Nick Wood was able to be confirmed at Southwark Cathedral in April 2021 'at the third time of asking'. Nick's perseverance in waiting to be confirmed, as the first two services were arranged and then cancelled, is an inspiration to us all.

Two weddings also took place at SMM and what wonderful celebrations they were, as both couples had also gone through the disappointments of dates being arranged and then The Vicar and Reader, Richard Sweet, support Nick Wood at his confirmation postponed.

The clergy conducted eleven funerals in 2021 both at the church and local cemeteries and crematoria. Five memorial services were also held at SMM bringing comfort to those who had not been able to attend funeral services earlier in the year due to Covid restrictions.

Creating a welcoming and inspiring place of worship (MAP priority 3)

Renewing our buildings to create a lively place of welcome for all is a key part of our new MAP. This, in fact, has been a major objective for a number of years and a considerable amount of work has already been done in this respect. 2021 saw work on this project really advance.

In January, the PCC focussed on a renewed vision for the project considering again why it was so important and how we planned to make it happen. Out of these discussions a ‘case for support’ began to be developed. This document, which reflected the principles of the Asset Based Community Development approach, sought to emphasise SMM’s strengths: its volunteering; being a trusted organisation central in the community; and having very good governance. It identified a number of potential partners in the community, with whom we had already had discussions and who might find a home with us in our buildings.

Even in this initial draft of our case for support, a clear direction of travel was beginning to be seen. We were able to understand the considerable work already done, which

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supported our objectives, identified areas which needed further explanation or attention and the further work required.

The key elements of the case for support are:

Now was the time to start considering what a renewed building might look like and work commenced on finding a firm of architects to create a possible scheme for the building renewal and to help guide us through the beginnings of the process. After a competitive tendering process, we appointed Matthew Lloyd Architects to this role. They defined the key aims of their brief succinctly as: Reordering; Upgrading; Repairing; Relighting; Making accessible; Extending; and Intensifying various community activities. To engender thought, discussion and feedback, they prepared an initial proposal of what the new buildings could look like. They presented this to the PCC and to the congregation early in 2022.

Matthew Lloyd are known for designing unique and beautiful architectural solutions, whilst ensuring their projects are grounded in their history and communities. We are extremely pleased to be working with them.

2022 will be an exciting year as, having consulted with church members, we will be able to move to the next stage of design, at the same time as renewing our discussions with potential partners, finalising our case for support and building a sound business plan to support fundraising for the project.

Developing a range of inclusive activities in our buildings (MAP Priority 4(i))

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Of the myriad of activities that make up the church year, many of which have been described in this report, three of the most memorable were:

Christmas Tree Festival: After missing out on the Christmas Tree Festival in 2020 because Covid, we were all excited to see the Festival back. Unfortunately, as the date for it drew closer, Omicron started to rear its head.

Following careful consideration and risk

assessment, the decision was taken to go ahead with the festival with a few sensible precautions. These included having fewer trees, viewed by a one way system in order to enable social distancing and no visiting choirs. Instead, we installed a new grotto and invited Santa to meet children one by one. This saved Santa from being mobbed on the dais!

Incredible wreaths and flower arrangements were for sale, together with a vast array of produce and crafts. Once again we held a prize draw using the online platform Jumblebee. Decorating Christmas trees gets underway. Local businesses and members of the congregation provided some generous prizes and we sold an amazing 1,315 tickets.

Thank you to local businesses and members of the congregation who generously sponsored trees and other elements of the festival. The trees and lights provided a beautiful backdrop for the Christmas services and the eye catching 17ft tree outside the church spread some Christmas cheer to our neighbours.

We were delighted that, after deduction of expenses, we raised almost £5,500 for the Awareness Foundation.

As always members of the congregation put in an enormous amount of time and effort, putting up trees and taking them down, assisting with decoration, cleaning up all the needles and stray bits of tinsel, preparing and selling refreshments and home produce, brewing vats of mulled wine, selling tradecraft gifts, providing children’s activities, setting up the steam train, being on the door, counting the money; to name just a few. A huge thank you to the organising committee (Charlotte Flowers, Rowan McCarthy, Phil McCarthy and Ann Carrington Brook) and everyone else for their cheerful hard work.

Jumble Sale: Through the pandemic, of course, we had been unable to hold the church’s famed twice

yearly recycling event – the jumble sale. As Covid restrictions were lifted, jumbling once again became possible. As many had had a clear out over lock down, there was an enormous amount of jumble delivered for our team of sorters to organise for the sale.

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Finally the day arrived and we were very pleased with the number of jumblers who came, sifted, searched and sought out items, which they wanted. In all, £1,233 (net) was raised for the church.

Enormous thanks to those who delivered, sorted, sold and took away unsold items away afterwards.

Wandsworth arts fringe: We were delighted to be able to offer our church space as a venue for the Wandsworth Arts Fringe. Simon Waterfield gave readings from his book

'Ripple in Still Water' a reflection on life with prostrate cancer followed by discussion.

Strengthening links to existing SMM ministries in prison, hospital, care home and schools (MAP priority 4 (ii))

HMP Wandsworth: SMM hosted the Licensing of Wendy Stephens as Anglican chaplain at HMP Wandsworth in September 2021. The Archdeacon of Wandsworth, Ven John Kiddle, led the service. He commended

the tireless work of Prison staff and the Chaplaincy during the incredibly demanding months of lockdowns especially as prisoners were unable to receive visits from their families and struggled with their mental health. The Archdeacon also commended the long association of SMM with the Prison through volunteering and urged our continued prayer and support. Delicious refreshments provided by the Chaplaincy were served at the back of church at the end of the service and were enjoyed by Wendy's family, many friends, prison staff and fellow Southwark Pastoral Auxiliaries.

The Prison Bible Study Group continues to meet weekly on zoom for a forty minute bible study session and prayers for the prisoners. This discipline has fostered a strong bond HMP Wandsworth Governor Graham Barratt OBE, with chaplains Wendy Stephens and Lewis Lzeleban. among the members of the team. During 2021-22 was not possible to go into the prison. We are hopeful of returning sometime in 2022.

Springfield Hospital: Visiting to Springfield was not possible for the majority of the year due to the restrictions imposed by Covid - but we were delighted to gain permission to restart in October, subject to the visitors wearing face coverings and other requirements requested by the hospital. We started tentatively, visiting only one of the acute wards during 2021, but hope to restore our visits to a second ward in 2022. Our usual carol singing around the hospital didn't happen, as it coincided with the appearance of Omicron - so one for 2022.

We had excellent support from the hospital chaplaincy, now known as the Department for Spiritual and Pastoral Care, and particularly from the Chaplain, Tuulia Castledine. A training day organised by the chaplaincy was very well attended by our visiting group. We have also

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had discussions with the Ward Activity Manager to see if any volunteers could support the weekly daytime clubs involving service users.

One of our MAP priority 1 initiatives is to participate in Springfield Village activities and, by summer 2022, invite new residents to discover what SMM offers in the way of services, outreach groups and community activities. This has proved difficult to accomplish, but we hope to move forward with this in 2022.

We did continue to try and make suitable contacts with the developers of the Springfield site; a useful team meeting was held in the summer, though follow up from both the developers and the hospital project/community managers has been slow. The physical development of the site has continued apace; the conversion of the main '1840' buildings has advanced well, the new houses being consAr t ist’s impression of part of the new Springfield Horucted by Barratt Homes have fini s pital hed phase 1, and the first of the new clinical buildings has started. site

Springfield Hospital has, like many institutions, been under considerable strain this year; there were a number of Covid-related deaths among hospital staff, ward operations and arrangements for family visitors were curtailed, and working conditions amid a major development site were very challenging. The hospital very much values the prayers said on its behalf within the parish.

Ronald Gibson House: The monthly communion service held at Ronald Gibson House was going from strength to strength prior to the Covid outbreaks, the subsequent lockdown and continuing strict government guidelines for care homes.

News that there might be a lifting of restrictions in the not too distant future has reignited the enthusiasm of our RGH group, who are planning bigger and better outreach in the future.

Prior to lockdown, the SMM communion service had become a monthly highlight for residents as it was treated not only as a welcome spiritual and prayerful moment but as a cheerful social activity, outgrowing its allotted space in the home time and again.

Understanding the limitations of the residents, Revd Philippa restructured the service to simplify it and make it work for all who attended – everyone from the frail and elderly to those far into on their dementia journey. Plus of course staff, who love to join in, and those of us from SMM, who support the Vicar and love meeting the residents.

The services feature communion, prayers, hymns with live piano accompaniment and the Vicar’s ingenious visual cues!

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After the service has been a time to chat, revive memories, drink tea and enjoy delicious cake. There are often golden breakthrough moments at these services when residents who haven’t spoken for some time join in with a loud Amen or other residents locked into their dementia world amaze us all by remembering all the words to hymns. Being there at these moments is a joy and a privilege.

Each year we welcome residents of all ages and stages at Ronald Gibson House to our SMM Christmas Tree Festival. On a quiet day after the event, they come to marvel at the trees, have a delicious tea and more time to socialise. This year the RGH group were looking forward to this more than ever, as we had our new accessible loos and kitchen to make welcoming disabled groups into church that much easier. Sadly, extra government restrictions made that trip impossible, so cancellation was inevitable.

However, not to be deterred, the group is now looking forward to a lifting of restrictions when we will be back at Ronald Gibson House and gearing up to welcome them into the church for more social gatherings. Our new facilities mean that outreach for all kinds of groups that need the stimulation of outside socialising, can be welcomed in with ease.

Members of the congregation are always welcome to come along to the communion service at Ronald Gibson House by contacting the Vicar for a list of dates and times. Trust us, it’s wonderfully joyous and uplifting – plus you’ll meet some interesting residents who will be so glad of your company.

Support for charities and other causes

The Awareness Foundation (www.awareness-foundation.com) : Having invited nominations from the congregation, in September 2021 the PCC voted to support The Awareness Foundation as SMM’s chosen charity of focus for 2021 – 2023.

The Awareness Foundation was founded in 2003 by our own Revd Nadim Nassar. The Foundation is an international humanitarian charity driven by Christian values which builds peace through education and training.

Their two core programmes, LITTLE HEROES and AMBASSADORS FOR PEACE aim to equip and empower children and young people in Syria and Iraq to become agents of peace and reconciliation. The PAX videos together with seminars and talks seek to educate people in the UK, north America, Hong Kong and beyond about peace-building both local and international.

Other causes: The church continued to support a number of other charities and causes, including:

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Relationships with local schools and organisations: We also sought to reach out into the community through the church’s work with local schools and other organisations.

Schools: Due to the lockdown and Covid restrictions, many annual 'favourites', such as the Ernest Bevin College Remembrance event, the Finton House Christmas concerts and the Beatrix Potter performances at the Christmas Tree Festival, were again not able to happen in 2021.

We were able, however, to welcome Wandsworth Preparatory School for their end of year assembly in July 2021 and we hope that the accessible facilities, now installed in the church, will enable us to further develop the use of the worship space for a host of educational and arts activities in 2022.

Marmalade Bear Nursery continue to flourish in the Halls and we were pleased to welcome Miss Christine and then Miss Karen as acting Headteachers. Revd Philippa gave the welcome at the Nursery Nativity play in December.

Revd Philippa completed her four year term as a Governor at Ernest Bevin College in the autumn and was subsequently made a trustee of the 'Friends of Ernest Bevin School' enabling continuing links with the College. In late 2021, early planning got underway for Literacy support at Ernest Bevin College through hearing reading. It is hoped to launch this in spring 2022. All the schools, staff and families continue in our prayers at this challenging time.

8th Upper Tooting Girlguiding Units: There has been a long association between St Mary Magdalene and the 8[th] Upper

Tooting Girlguiding Units, who regularly use the church halls for their meetings and join us for services on certain Parade Sundays throughout the year. A number of the Units' leaders are regular members of the church congregation.

2021 was a challenging year for the Units, but one where offering continuity and the opportunity to enjoy all that Guiding has to offer was increasingly important for the young members’ mental health.

Sadly the year started with the death of Jill Clark (AKA Flamingo), who was a Unit Helper with Brownies for 14 years, followed in June by the death of Emma Beckett who had been a Outdoor activities at the Guide Leader for 16 years and prior to that a Brownie, Guide and Ranger at 8th Upper Romany Tooting. Also the Rainbows were unable to reopen in 2021, and Jane Cooper and Joan

15

Taylor retired from active Unit Guiding. Jane after 32 years as a Leader and Joan with over 70 years as a volunteer, of which 25 years were with Rainbows. We have much to thank them for.

2021 started again with meetings on Zoom, but after Easter the Units restarted outdoor meetings at The Romany Scout HQ. The Guides ‘adopted’ another local Unit who had been unable to meet the previous year. Everyone made the most of enjoying the outdoor space; exploring nature, planting pollinator friendly seeds, campfire cooking, the Brownies were thrilled to find a Stag Beetle and the Guides did a litter pick on Wandsworth Common.

September marked a returned to indoor Guiding in the church - it felt like starting anew as for the majority of girls it was the first time they’d met as a full group or indoors with the usual meeting structure. A big challenge was attempting to maintain social distancing, incessant cleaning and a shortage of leaders as a result of recent deaths, relocation, illness and shielding. The Rangers made a return to unit meetings, first virtually and then in person, keeping up varied activities, mixing fun and games, cooking, discussion of global issues and celebrating festive events.

Hopes are high to find an opportunity in 2022 to celebrate the 90 years of Guides and 80 years of Brownies associated with SMM.

Energising and being active in our care of creation (MAP priority 5)

Last but not least in the MAP Plan is to energise and be active in our care of creation by participating in the Eco-Church awards scheme.

Southwark Diocese encourages all churches to make use of A Rocha’s Eco Church action plan, which provides a framework for environmental action. It helps churches consider

what they are already doing and where to take action in five areas:

engagement

 lifestyle

Like minded individuals in the church came together to consider how SMM fared against the Eco Church action plan. In October we were delighted to achieve our Bronze Eco Church Award. In 2022 we will be working towards Silver.

In September we hosted an activity day ‘Create,

16

Conserve, Connect’ with input from Friends of Wandsworth Common and the creation of the Eco Cope and Cross in preparation for Climate Change Sunday. Two weeks later we participated in the Big Green Day at St Mary Balham; a forum for all kinds of environmental and community groups.

One church member spent much of lockdown watching, photographing and sharing photos of birds mostly taken on Wandsworth Common. This resulted in two photobooks and a calendar last year and inclusion of her wildlife photos and those of the Church Cope in the ‘Wandsworth Common Story’ book published by the Friends of Wandsworth Common. There was an exhibition of photos as part of the September Eco Church event. Greetings cards were also sold at the Eco chasuble designed and made by event and at the Christmas Tree Festival, together with calendars, with the proceeds going SMM children and adults and worn by to church funds.

In November we invited the community to join in prayers for COP26.

At the end of an active Eco year, the Eco Church group sponsored and decorated a Praying for COP26 Christmas tree for the Christmas Tree Festival and displayed tips for a greener Christmas.

The PCC's Financial Report for 2021

As expected, the accounts reflect a deficit for 2021 of £3,186 on the unrestricted fund and £10,163 on the restricted funds.

The deficit on the restricted funds is the spending to complete the kitchenette and accessible toilet project on the south side of church. This was an expected use of monies specifically raised for this project, which is now complete subject to payment of the retention.

The deficit on the unrestricted fund was also predicted in the PCC's approved 2021 budget, albeit less than expected. Income on the unrestricted fund is comparable to 2020 at £160,000. Small falls in income from donors and halls were offset by an increase in other voluntary income. A steady state after a couple of years of uncertainty and change.

Expenditure increased in 2020 by just under £5,000 with increased contributions to the Diocese for our clergy staff (including the curate) and increased essential maintenance costs for our buildings. The PCC was mindful of the need to reduce costs wherever possible and took the difficult decision to make the part time post of parish administrator redundant at the end of the furlough scheme in August 2021.

Whilst the resulting deficit of £3,186 is not optimal, it is absorbed by the reserves accumulated over previous years of £69,506.

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At the end of 2021 the reserves were £66,000 unrestricted, plus £40,000 designated to specific projects and £37,000 restricted to specific projects. This is represented by short term deposits, cash and the income tax claims submitted for the tax recovery on gift aid donations for 2021.

The PCC has approved a surplus budget for 2022 which restores the level of unrestricted reserves, and they continue to monitor the financial position each month.

Fundraising for other charities increased in 2021 with an amazing £5,487 raised for The Awareness Foundation at the Christmas Tree Festival and £1,457 for other charities, including £1,105 from a quiz night fundraiser for our local foodbank

Buildings

Quinquennial Inspector: Every church is required to be inspected every five years by an architect or chartered building surveyor approved by the Diocesan Advisory Committee. This “Quinquennial Inspector” then reports to the PCC with recommendations as to the matters which need attention during the next five years. Our last report was completed in 2016 and so we were due for a new quinquennial report.

We decided to take the opportunity to change our Quinquennial Inspector, so that his work could best tie in with the work of the architects appointed for the development project. Following a competitive selection process and a lengthy procedure to get approval from the Diocese, in late 2021 Alex Sherratt, a partner at Michael Lloyd Architects, was appointed our new Quinquennial Inspector. He will be completing his QuinquAlex Sherratt, our new Quinqu e nnial Inspector nnial Report in early 2022.

Once again the year was a busy one for the Buildings Maintenance Team with a number of emergency works adding to the usual run of maintenance tasks.

Emergency Works: Following the discovery that stonework was flaking off the west façade of the Church, our steeplejacks removed any further loose stonework and reported on the general state of the west façade. On advice from our then Quinquennial Inspector, none of the items in the report required immediate attention and we will discuss the report further with our new Quinquennial Inspector.

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Other work of an emergency nature was required in the Parish Hall to prevent water ingress in stormy weather - a significant amount of water had been pouring down the north-west wall and over the entrance into the hall itself. Exposed roofing was repaired and broken tiles were replaced on the north lower slope of the hall roof. The opportunity was also taken to repair the box gutter on that roof.

We commissioned stonemasons to inspect the state of the brickwork and mortar around the windows on the west

façade of the Parish Hall. They confirmed that this was to blame for the water Roof works needed! coming in over the entrance into the hall. They undertook emergency repairs to prevent further water getting in. The brickwork and stone finials on the west façade have

----- Start of picture text -----
Deteriorated brickwork on
Parish Hall facade
----- End of picture text -----

been in a poor state of repair for some time and, subject to a decision on the future of the hall itself, will still require additional work to protect them from further deterioration.

Painting: The exterior of the clerestory windows of the Parish Hall have also been in poor repair for some time, because of lack of funds to restore them and due to the uncertainties surrounding in the future of the hall. This year it was decided that action was now unavoidable and repainting was necessary to prevent further deterioration and potential water ingress in the period until any redevelopment works might commence. Accordingly,

the windows were repaired and repainted to provide protection for at least that period.

At the same time, the interior of the (middle) Church Hall was redecorated. This had not been done for some time and was looking very tired, not least because of the number of posters and other materials, which had been put on the Parish Hall upper windows – before… walls. The hall is now … after repainting much brighter and cleaner.

Electrics: Our insurers require that the full electrical installation in the church and the halls are inspected every five years. Fortunately only a few items failed

the inspection and work to rectify these problems was soon completed.

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A number of other electrical matters were dealt with by our usual electrician. These included installing fire safety lighting in the Vestry Hall and Vestry Hall lobby in accordance with the recommendations of our Fire Risk Assessment.

Other matters: The accessible toilet project was finally completed with the installation of cupboards in the kitchenette. Designed to match the existing fittings, the new cupboards and work surfaces now provide the furnishings needed for coffee and tea to be served from the kitchenette. This has already been a significant improvement, permitting refreshments at the back of the church after some services and other events.

There was always, however, the usual need to deal with the plethora of less material general repairs and annual servicing arising during the year. In particular, in 2021 we New units in the church kitchenette arranged for:

Cleaning: The cleaning regime continued to need to take account of the pandemic restrictions and the Government and Church of England guidance. The church cleaning team rose to the challenge and continued to keep St Mary Magdalene a clean and safe place in which to worship.

Safeguarding

The Diocese takes the view that every member of the congregation has a safeguarding responsibility. With this in mind, the SMM Safeguarding Officers, Lynn Tilling and Richenda Tonge, continued to update DBS checks, register junior church members and encourage PCC members and sides persons to attend safeguarding courses run by the Diocese.

The year was once again challenging for the church as we experienced elements of lockdown and socially distanced congregations remained the norm. Fewer children attended church so our vigilance in that area was less than previously required – although still in place.

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Parish of St Mary Magdalene Wandsworth Common Safeguarding policy promoting a safer church The following policy was agreed at the Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting held on 11[th] November 2021. In accordance with the Church of England Safeguarding Policy, our church is committed to: • promoting a safer environment and culture • safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to children, young people and vulnerable adults within the church • responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation • caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons • caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons • responding to those who may pose a present risk to others. The parish will: • create a safe and caring place for all • have a named Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) to work with the Incumbent and the PCC to implement policy and procedures • safely recruit, train and support all those with any responsibility for children, young people and adults to have the confidence and skills to recognise and respond to abuse • ensure that there is appropriate insurance cover for all activities involving children and adults undertaken in the name of the parish • display on church premises and on the parish website the details of whom to contact with safeguarding concerns or support needs • listen to and take seriously all those who disclose abuse • take steps to protect children and adults when a safeguarding concern of any kind arises, following House of Bishops’ guidance, including immediately notifying the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser (DSA) and statutory agencies • offer support to victims/survivors of abuse regardless of the type of abuse, when or where it occurred • care for and monitor any member of the church community who may pose a risk to children and adults whilst maintaining appropriate confidentiality and the safety of all parties • ensure that health and safety policy, procedures and risk assessments are in place and that these are reviewed annually • review the implementation of the Safeguarding Policy, Procedures and Practice at least annually. 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 Lynn Tilling and Richenda Tonge as Parish Safeguarding Officers. Incumbent: Revd Philippa Boardman Churchwardens: Tom Roberts Jane Cooper

Live streaming was our new challenge as we had yet to receive guidance from the Diocese about just how we protect children and the vulnerable on screen. The Vicar and the Safeguarding Officers took the view that until such guidance is in place, we do not show children or the vulnerable during live streaming.

Challenges for 2022 remain the same as in 2021 and hopefully we can move some of the following forward as our congregations increase and social distancing is eased. We plan to:

----- Start of picture text -----
Date: 11 [th] November 2021
1
----- End of picture text -----

eep all DBS checks up to date and renew where necessary, plus ensure newly introduced disclosure forms are completed.

People having any concerns about the safety of children or vulnerable adults, are always requested to speak to our Safeguarding Officers directly. Their contact details are on the church safeguarding noticeboard in the church entrance or on the SMM website. They can also be emailed at safeguarding@smmwandsworth.org.uk

In relation to its safeguarding arrangements, the PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have regard to House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).

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Safeguarding is a central and essential part of the church’s life and, as always, we offer our thanks to Lynn and Richenda for all they do, most often behind the scenes.

The Duties of the PCC

The PCC has the duty, amongst other things, to consult with the Vicar on matters of general concern and importance within the parish and to work with her to promote the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical in the area.

The PCC is committed to enabling regular public worship at St Mary Magdalene, open to all, and to the provision at the church of sacred space for personal prayer and contemplation.

When planning our activities, we have considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. In particular, we try to enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through:

To continue this important work, it is also vital that we maintain the fabric of the church of St Mary Magdalene, including its Parish and Vestry Halls, and ensure they remain fit for purpose.

How the PCC works and our congregational volunteers

Much of the day-to-day work of the PCC is usually delegated to various groups, but the PCC retains the responsibility for receiving reports from these groups and for taking all major decisions at its regular meetings. The principal groups to which the PCC delegated authority are the:

The Standing Committee continued to meet almost every week to ensure the business of the church continued notwithstanding the restrictions imposed by Covid, reporting to the PCC. In practice, the other Committees did not meet often - restricted, as in 2020, by the continued pandemic restrictions.

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The PCC also includes those appointed to represent it at the Tooting Deanery Synod.

Notwithstanding Covid, many other groups of people, however, contributed to the operation and vitality of our church as this report has shown. Collectively we owe enormous thanks to all those volunteers who contribute so much of their time and skills to the work of St Mary Magdalene in our community and further afield.

There are always opportunities to support the work of the church in many different ways and we continue to encourage every member of the congregation to consider prayerfully how they might contribute their “time, talents and treasure” at St Mary Magdalene and in the wider parish.

Church administration

We took up the Covid job retention scheme and put our parish administrator on furlough until the scheme came to an end. When it became clear that there would be a material deficit for the year, we had to consider, consult and then decide whether we had to make the post redundant in order to save costs. As there was no other alternative employment, unfortunately we had to make the post holder redundant at the end of August. Due to lack of funds, we have had to continue with volunteers taking on some tasks and others falling to the Vicar and Churchwardens.

Revd Philippa’s regular Mailchimp messages continued to provide information on forthcoming services and also serve as a conduit of news and other matters concerning church life. They kept on being used as Covid restrictions began to be reduced and are likely to last as a part of church life. We increased our use of Facebook as a means of communicating with those using it. PCC meetings also continued to make use of Zoom, including its facility for break out groups, where some lively discussion ensued. In fact, only one PCC meeting during the year was held in person.

We conducted a professional fire risk assessment of the church buildings. This was undertaken in the latter part of the year by Precision Safety Services. We were generally found to be in good order and are working on a plan to improve areas where action is necessary or the risks mitigated further. Precision Safety Services will be helping us undertake a Health & Safety Risk Assessment and review our Health & Safety Policy in 2022.

The year could not go by without another mention of risk assessments, particularly in relation to the pandemic. With each change in the Government regulations and Church of England guidance we needed to re-assess risk issues to ensure our Covid precautions remained appropriate. Fortunately, as the Covid restrictions were lessened, we too were able to review and reduce some of our precautions. Aware especially of the vulnerable in our congregation, we kept a number of measures in place throughout the year.

Further information

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Constitution: The Parochial Church Council of the ecclesiastical parish of St Mary Magdalene, Wandsworth Common is a corporate body established by the Church of England. It operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure and is a registered charity, registered with Charity Number 1140530.

Address: St Mary Magdalene, Wandsworth Common is situated on Trinity Road, London, SW17 7HP. It is part of the Diocese of Southwark (Kingston Episcopal Area) within the Church of England. The address for correspondence is the Parish Office at 10a Wiseton Road, London, SW17 7EE.

Electoral Roll: The number on the electoral roll as of 31[st] December was 156 (2020: 162). Eight people were removed from the roll during the year and two added.

Church attendance: People continued to attend in person in good numbers despite the pandemic, people shielding and provision for Junior Church only starting again in the summer.

PCC Meetings: During 2021 there were seven ordinary meetings of the PCC (2020: 7), of which six were held by Zoom video conference. 81% of PCC members on average attended these seven meetings (2020: 82.5%).

Members of the PCC: The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. At St Mary Magdalene the membership of the PCC consists of (i) the incumbent Vicar, (ii) the Churchwardens, (iii) the reader, (iv) the lay representatives of the parish elected to the Tooting Deanery Synod and (v) lay members; in the case of (iv) and (v) elected by those members of the congregation who are on the electoral roll of the church. All those who worship regularly at St Mary Magdalene are encouraged to register on the electoral roll and stand for election to the PCC.

After the May APCM, the PCC consisted of:

Officers elected by the PCC during 2021:

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Members of the Standing Committee: Revd Philippa Boardman, Tom Roberts, Jane Cooper, Keith Mitchell and David Coleman

Sides people: Florence Acquaye (head sides person, with the support of Barbara Littlechild), John Ager, Alison Blair, Ruth Bowdage, Lucinda Byron-Evans, Carolyn Chambers, Alex Cox, Graham Dick, Charlotte Flowers, Jill Gould, Matthew Heard, Nick Higton, Jill Jeffery, Barbara Littlechild, Veronica Mills, Maha Nassar, Jane Ogram, Alice Ogunlana, Nicola Pattinson, Serena Perkins, Gabrielle Richards, Jake Stratton, Joan Taylor, Michael Taylor, Lynn Tilling, Rosie Tilling and Nick Wood

Members of the Buildings Maintenance Committee: Nicholas Higton, Serena Perkins, David Coleman and Hugh Birchall

Members of the Finance and Risk Committee: Keith Mitchell, Nick Higton, Jane Player, Alicia Birchall, Andrew Beney

Members of HMP Wandsworth Bible Study Group: Olivia Pethybridge, Peter Carpenter, Serena Perkins, Huda Nassar, Alicia Birchall, Veronica Mills and Tom Roberts

Members of the Springfield Hospital Visiting Group: Rosemary Birchall, June Brockbank, Mary Broderick, Ann Carrington Brook, Hilary Coulson, Katie Dick, Jill Gisby, Gill Gould, Nicola Martin, Sally Riley, Louisa Russell, Irene Sweet, Richard Sweet and Richenda Tonge

Monthly Wednesday Ronald Gibson House communion volunteers: Revd Philippa Boardman, Pat Crosswell, Marion Cahill, Jane Cooper, Lynn Tilling, Rosie Tilling, Dora Littlechild, Joyce Mason, Nell Wells, Anthea Masters, Carole Low and Doreen Bush

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Report on the proceedings of Tooting Deanery Synod 2021

Deanery Synod met three times in 2021. Elections for Diocesan Synod and General Synod took place in 2021. Members of Deanery Synod are the electorate for these elections. Four members of Tooting Deanery Synod put themselves forward for election to General Synod and, of these, two have succeeded as representatives for Southwark Diocese, Mae Christie (House of Clergy) and Rosemary Wilson (House of Laity). As voters, it was very interesting and quite a responsibility for our Deanery Synod Representatives to be involved in this election which only takes place every five years. During the process we heard from a diverse group of candidates from churches across Southwark, all passionate about having a voice on General Synod.

The first meeting of the year took place via Zoom in June with Bishop Richard present. This was the first meeting of the triennium as several parishes had to delay their 2020 APCMs (where elections for Deanery Synod members take place). Bishop Richard preached on the five marks of mission of the Anglican Communion and reflected on the role of the Deanery in relation to these. He was encouraged to see the emphasis the Deanery was already placing on the environment, compassion projects and joint training initiatives.

Across the three meetings the aim of being an Eco Deanery was kept to the fore with churches sharing their progress with Eco Church. As one of our joint compassion projects, the Deanery continues to support our local Syrian refugee family. Their landlady has extended their rental agreement to the summer of 2022 and parishes and individuals in the Deanery continue to make up the shortfall in their rent. Despite the many difficulties caused by the pandemic, the family is making progress in settling in.

The September meeting was held in person at the Ascension church where a light supper was provided. We were introduced to the Church of England’s ‘Living in Love and Faith’ course. This course took place over five weeks in September and October. Run by Rev Marcus Gibbs and Ascension Balham it was hosted by St Mary Magdalene with facilitators from across the Deanery. With over sixty participants it was a great success and Deanery Synod hopes to host more Deanery wide training and courses in future.

At our final meeting of the year, held in person at St Alban’s, Wendy Stephen, the newly licensed Anglican chaplain at HMP Wandsworth was introduced with a fascinating question and answer session. Churches across the Deanery responded generously to the chaplaincy’s Christmas appeal for pairs of socks for the prisoners.

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Financial Statements for the year ended 31[st] December 2021

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31[st] December 2021

Incoming Resources
(Notes 2&3)
Income from donors
Other voluntary income
Government grants
Income from operations
Income from investment
Total income
Resources Expended
(Notes 2&3)
Costs of generating funds
Work of the Church
Church Management &
Administration
Other expenditure
Total expenditure
Net incoming/(outgoing)
resources
Balances at 1stJanuary 2021
Balances at 31st December
2021		 Unrestricted Designated Restricted
Total
Total
Funds
Funds
Funds
2020
£
£
£
£
£
95,734
-
3,188
98,922
164,416
5,418
-
200
5,618
1,381
3,997
-
-
3,997
4,298
55,470
-
-
55,470
52,526
53
-
-
53
302
160,672
-
3,388
164,060
222,923
60
-
-
60
157
131,163
-
-
131,163
128,455
11,545
-
-
11,545
17,108
21,090
-
13,551
34,641
70,993
163,858
-
13,551
177,409
216,713
(3,186)
-
(10,163)
(13,349)
6,210
69,596
40,000
47,024
156,620
150,410
66,410
40,000
36,861
143,271 £156,620

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St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common Balance Sheet at 31[st] December 2021

Fixed Assets
Note
Tangible fixed assets
4
Current Assets
Debtors
5
Short term deposits
Cash at bank and in hand
Petty cash
Less:
Liabilities
Creditors falling due
within one year
6
Net current assets
Total Net Assets
Funds
Unrestricted Funds
Designated Funds
3A
Maintenance Fund
West Window Fund
Restricted Funds
3B		 2021
£
20,273
101,251
27,867
267
149,658
6,390
30,000
10,000		 £
-
143,268
£143,268
66,407
40,000
36,861
£143,268		 2020
£
-
20,702
101,198
41,591
267
163,758
7,138
156,620
£156,620
69,596
30,000
10,000
40,000
47,024
£156,620

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 6[th] April 2022 and signed on its behalf by:

……………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………… Thomas Roberts Jane Cooper

Churchwarden Churchwarden

28

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common

Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021

1 Accounting Policies

The Accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the SORP 2015.

The Accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The Accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of other church groups that owe affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of Church members.

Funds

Restricted funds represent (a) income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest and (b) donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given and any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be carried forward. The PCC does not invest separately for each fund.

Unrestricted funds are general funds which can be used for the PCC ordinary purposes.

Designated funds are general funds that have been set aside by the PCC for particular purposes. The aim and use of the designated funds is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Incoming Resources

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Interest and all other income is recognised when it is receivable. All income resources including funds raised by sales and events are accounted for gross.

Resources Expended

Grants and donations are accounted for when they are paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. The Parish Support Fund is accounted for when due. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

29

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common

Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021 (continued)

Fixed Assets

Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts in accordance with s96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 1993.

Moveable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens in 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. For anything acquired before 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the Accounts.

Equipment used within the church premises is depreciated on a straight line basis over four years. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1,000 or less are written off when the asset is acquired.

Parish Hall

The Parish Hall is approximately 100 years old. It is an integral part of the church building and is not considered to have a separate identity, which could have been consecrated or which can be individually valued.

Current Assets

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31[st] December in respect of fees, rents, taxes due or other income are shown as debtors, less provision for any amounts that may prove uncollectible.

Short term deposits include cash held on deposit either with the CBF Church of England Funds or at the bank.

30

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common

Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021 (continued)

2A
Unrestricted Funds
Income from Donors
Church open collections
Tax efficient giving (including
stewardship)
Tax rebates received and due
Other Voluntary Income
Fees
Donations and bequests
Government grants
Trading
Use of photocopier
Bookstall
Fund Raising
Jumble sales_(Note 2B)_
Calendars
Eco event
Quiz Nights
Parish hall lettings
Income from Investments
Interest:
On deposit
Total income		 2021
£
5,455
72,904
17,375
2,368
3,050
-
-
-
1,293
-
430
-
53,747		 £
95,734
5,418
3,997
55,470
53
£160,672		 2020
£
2,344
81,272
17,363
100,979
678
703
1,381
4,298
22
-
22
190
332
-
2,340
49,642
52,526
302
£159,486

31

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common

Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021 (continued)

Resources Expended
Cost of Generating Funds
2021
£
Fund Raising_(Note 2B)_
Jumble sales
Activities Directly Related to
the Work of the Church
Parish Support Fund
93,000
Clergy expenses
10,360
103,360
Church and services
Choir and organ
1,986
Mission and Worship
530
Communication
-
2,516
General running expenses
Heat and light
2,356
Insurance
3,600
Repairs and maintenance
19,331
25,287
Church Management & Administration
Administration
1,920
Examiner's fee
360
Parish Office
8,789
Photocopier maintenance
272
Bank charges
203
Charitable donation
-
Depreciation (note 1)
-
Resources expended carried forward		 £
60
131,163
11,545
142,768		 2020
£
157
100,593
15,997
106,590
2,812
935
416
4,163
2,398
3,600
11,704
17,702
128,455
7,340
360
8,562
457
139
250
-
17,108
145,720

32

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common

Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021 (continued)

2021
£
Resources expended brought forward
Other Expenditure
Parish Hall expenses
Total payments
(Deficit)/surplus of receipts over payments
Transfers to/(from) Designated Funds(Note 3A)
Transfer from Boiler Fund
Unrestricted funds at 1stJanuary 2021
Unrestricted funds at 31stDecember 2021		 £
142,768
21,090
£163,858
(3,186)
-
69,593
£66,407		 2020
£
145,720
13,257
£158,977
509
-
69,087
£69,596

2B Trading / Fund Raising

Net income from Jumble Sales £1,233

33

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021 (continued)

3A Designated Funds

Movement of designated funds

Fund
Maintenance Fund
West Window Fund
Total Designated Funds		 Transfer from
Balance
Unrestricted
Expenditure
Balance
at 01.01.21
Fund
at 31.12.21
£
£
£
£
30,000
-
-
30,000
10,000
-
-
10,000
£40,000
-
-
£40,000

3B Restricted Funds

Movement of restricted funds

Fund
Roof and Fabric
Organ
Sewing
Chair
Rood Screen
Servers
War Memorial
Maintenance
Liz Wintle Music Fund
Southwark IT Grant
Accessibility Fund
Total Restricted Funds		 Balance
Income
Expenditure
Balance
at 01.01.21
at 31.12.21
£
£
£
£
28,785
600
-
29,385
560
200
-
760
163
-
-
163
90
-
-
90
1,160
-
-
1,160
937
-
-
937

35
-
-
35
2,000
-
-
2,000
168
-
168
-
13,126
2,588
13,383
2,331
£47,024
£3,388
£13,551
£36,861

34

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021 (continued)

4 Fixed Assets

All assets are now fully written off in accordance with the four year depreciation policy.

5 Debtors

Tax rebates due
Debtor re VAT
Sundry debtor
Creditors
Marmalade Bear Nursery School
Payable re accessible loo
Rental deposits
Examiner's fee
Charity Fund
Sundry		 2021
£
17,509
2,737
27
£20,273
2021
£
3,000
-
1,362
360
-
1,668
£6,390		 2020
£
17,233
3,469
-
£20,702
2020
£
3,000
2,600
960
360
218
-
£7,138

6 Creditors

35

St Mary Magdalene – Wandsworth Common

Notes to the Accounts for year ended 31[st] December 2021 (continued)

7 Money held in Trust - Charity Projects Fund

The Charity Projects Fund does not form part of the accounts and is only included here to show monies received for and paid to other charities.

Charity Projects Fund income and expenditure:

2021
£
Balance brought forward from prior year:
Specific collections
Other income
Christmas Tree Festival
8,213
less expenditure
2,726
Total available to distribute
Donations paid and payable
Christian Aid_(Note 1)_
-
Children’s Society
168
Clink Charity
-
Epilepsy Research
-
Earlsfield Foodbank
1,105
Trinity Hospice
158
Awareness Foundation
5,487
Welcare
-
Royal British Legion
-
Total donations made
Less
Bank charges
Balance carried forward		 £
337
1,451
24
5,487
7,299
6,918
381
-
£381		 2020
£
5,001
803
-
284
250
145
53
461
-
4,148
27		 £
596
971
-
4,198
5,765
5,368
397
60
£337

Notes

1 In addition, £5,248.97 (with Gift Aid, £6,240.57) was raised and sent directly to Christian Aid.

Independent Examiner’s Report

36

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