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2025-12-31-accounts

St Bride's Church Annual Report 2025 Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https: / /www.achurchnearyou.com/church1158961

St Bride’s Church, Old Trafford Annual Parochial Church Meeting

26th April 2026

Our Annual Church Meeting is an opportunity to deal with the business of the church, to discuss issues that are concerned with our community life, and to think creatively about our future as we follow God’s leading. Inside this booklet are reports on the activities of the church, which I ask you to read, and so be able to come to the meeting with wellprepared questions and ideas for discussion.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Thank you for all that you have done and contributed during this past year, but, most of all, thank you for being part of the family here at St Bride’s. “So then, have your minds ready for action. Keep alert and set your hope completely on the blessing which will be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” – 1 Peter 1:13 (GNB)

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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ST BRIDE’S CHURCH

St Bride’s Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Parish Office: 0161-226 3047 | Email: admin@stbrides.uk

RECTOR: REV’D PETER MATTHEWS (until 15[th] March 2026)

St Bride’s Rectory, 33 Shrewsbury Street, Manchester, M16 9BB Tel: 0161-226 1251 | Email: peter@stbrides.uk

ASSOCIATE PASTOR: REV’D KATRIN ALLDAVOODI

6 Heaton Moor Road, Stockport, SK4 4NS Tel: 07916 151348 | Email: katrin@stbrides.uk

CHURCHWARDEN 2025/2026

Anthea Thomson, 28 Basford Road, Firswood, Stretford, M16 0GE Tel: 07384 004805 | Email: anthea@stbrides.uk

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL SECRETARY 2025/2026

Susie Crossman, 50 Milton Grove, Manchester, M16 0BP Tel: 07898 588772 | Email: susie@stbrides.uk or PCCsecretary@stbrides.uk

BANKERS:

The Royal Bank of Scotland, Drummond House Branch, 1 Redhaughs Avenue, Edinburgh, EH12 9 JN

The Cooperative Bank, 1 Balloon Street, Manchester, M60 4EP

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

Mr. John Holdsworth B.A., F.C.C.A., C.Ed.

The Parochial Church Council is a charity registered with the UK Charity Commission: Number: 1146679

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Contents Page
Rector’s Introduction 5
Agenda For Annual Meetings 6
Annual Meeting of Parishioners Minutes (2025) 7
Annual Parochial Church Meeting Minutes (2025) 8
Associate Pastor’s Report 9
Church Warden’s Report 12
Electoral Roll Report 13
Secretary to the PCC Report 14
Fabric and Health & Safety Report 15
Safeguarding Report 16
Treasurer’s Report 19
The Project 26
Children’s Ministry 27
Prayer Report 29
Church Activities in 2025 30
Notes 31

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Rector’s Introduction

Welcome to the St Bride’s Report for 2025.

Within these pages, you will find an overview of the activities, achievements, and progress our church community has made over the past year. In addition, the report includes our financial statements and key policy documents. While these may seem dry at first glance, they are an integral part of documenting who we are, what we stand for, and the work we undertake together as a church family. I encourage you to read through and reflect on all that God has been doing among us.

This year, we have been blessed to continue our services and ministries, focusing on the Gospel readings from the lectionary — primarily from Luke — alongside a Psalm to help shape and centre our Sunday worship. These passages have formed the foundation of our preaching, inspiring and guiding our community week by week.

Several members of St Bride’s and St John’s also met together during Lent and continued throughout the year in what we called a Refresh Group — a Discovery Bible Study group exploring the following Sunday’s Gospel reading. It has been wonderful to see people grow with confidence and openness in their faith.

This report also highlights some of the ways we are serving and making a difference within our local community and, through things like the St Bride’s Project, even further afield.

Looking ahead to 2026, my prayer and vision for St Bride’s is that you will continue to be a welcoming and serving church, while boldly sharing the Good News of Jesus — making a tangible impact by forming deeper connections and nurturing more disciples. I also pray that the process of preparing and advertising for the next Rector of St Bride’s will go smoothly, and that the right person will be appointed to lead well and journey faithfully with you - as I take up a new role as full time Area Dean of Manchester South and Stretford.

Thank you for your dedication, your faith, and your invaluable contributions to this church family. May God bless you abundantly.

Rector: Rev. Peter Matthews (until 15/03/2026)

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Agenda for the 2025 Annual Parishioners’ Meeting

  1. Prayer

  2. Apologies for absence

  3. Minutes of the 2024 meeting

  4. Election of Churchwardens

  5. Closure and prayer

Agenda for the2025 Annual Parochial Church Meeting

  1. Prayer

  2. Election of members of the Parochial Church Council

  3. Adoption of Minutes of the APCM 2025

  4. Identification of issues for discussion at the APCM or future PCC meetings

  5. Rector’s Report

  6. The Electoral Roll

  7. Report by the Secretary of the PCC

  8. Election of member as Deanery Synod Representatives (for 3 years)

  9. Election of members of the Parochial Church Council

  10. 10.Fabric, Health and Safety Report

  11. 11.Safeguarding Officer’s Report

  12. 12.Treasurer’s Report and Presentation of Accounts for 2025 and the Independent Examiner’s Report for 2025

  13. 13.Appointment of an Independent Examiner for 2026.

  14. 14.Report on The Project

  15. 15.Report on Children’s Ministry

  16. 16.Prayer Report

  17. 17.Church Activities

  18. 18.Any other urgent business

  19. 19.Closure and prayer

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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2025 Meeting of Parishioners Minutes St. Bride’s Church – Meeting of Parishioners (Open to everyone on the Electoral Roll of the Church plus all Local Government Electors in the Parish)

Date: 2025-05-11
Attendance: Linda Penrose (LP), Jeanette Mclaughin (JM), Maxine Khoyte (MK), Scott Hewitt
(SH), Cannie Fung Waiyez (CFW), Paul Fung Po Wen (PFPW), Solomon Adebayo
(SA), Penny Matthews (PM), Anthea Thompson (AT), Alma Weekes (AW), John
Myring (JM), Clare Myring (CM), Lynda Sterling (LS), Peter Matthews (PM), Jenni
Williams (JW), Susanna Hewitt (SusH), Rachel Dean (RD), Norine Mottershead
(NM), Geraldine Roswell (GR), Fred Waters (FW), Lloyd Matthews (LM), Sabina
Sohail (SS)
Apologies: Graham Cooper (GC), Ann-Marie Williams (AMW), MJ Sharp (MS), Cara Crossman
(CC), Susie Crossman (SC), Ameneh Asadi (AA)
1. Prayer: Peter Matthews opened the meeting with prayer
2. Apologies for absence – see above
3. Minutes of the 2024 meeting – these minutes were approved by the PCC on 29.5.2024
4. Election of Churchwarden.Anthea Thompson was duly elected.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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2025 Annual Parochial Church Meeting Minutes

Date: 2025-04-11
Attendance: Linda Penrose (LP), Jeanette Mclaughin (JM), Maxine Khoyte (MK), Scott Hewitt
(SH), Cannie Fung Waiyez (CFW), Paul Fung Po Wen (PFPW), Solomon Adebayo
(SA), Penny Matthews (PM), Anthea Thompson (AT), Alma Weekes (AW), John
Myring (JM), Clare Myring (CM), Lynda Sterling (LS), Peter Matthews (PM), Jenni
Williams (JW), Susanna Hewitt (SusH), Rachel Dean (RD), Norine Mottershead (NM),
Geraldine Roswell (GR), Fred Waters (FW), Lloyd Matthews (LM), Sabina Sohail (SS)
Apologies: Graham Cooper (GC), Ann-Marie Williams (AMW), MJ Sharp (MS), Cara Crossman
(CC), Susie Crossman (SC), Ameneh Asadi (AA)
1. Introduction and welcome
2. Minutes of the APCM 2024 -These minutes were approved by the PCC on 29th May
2024.
3. Identification of issues for discussion at the APCM or future PCC meetings – None
noted.
4. Rector’s Report - PM added CM has now been Licensed as a Lay Minister at St. Bride’s
Church.
5. Report of Electoral Roll – Number on the revised Electoral roll is 30.
6. Report on Secretary to the PCC.
7. Elections:
a) Election of Deanery Synod Representatives (for 3 years) – Previous representative
SH described the role. No-one volunteered.
b) Election of Members of the Parochial Church Council: CM standing for re-election,
JW also standing. Both duly elected. PM thanked everyone on PCC for their hard work
this year.
8. Report on Fabric, Health and Safety
9. Report of Parish Safeguarding Officer - PM reminded everyone that safeguarding is
the responsibility of us all.
a) Parish Policy on Safeguarding Children - This was read out in the meeting.
b) Parish Policy on Safeguarding Adults -This was read out in the meeting. JW with
CM are officers for vulnerable adults.
10. Report on the Treasurer and Presentation of Accounts for 2024 and Independent

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Examiner Report for 2024
JM added that the accounts have been prepared and are available for people to read.
The deficit is still the problem. The Diocese has allowed us to cut our Parish Share
from £22,000 to £15,000. We need to increase our income.
Questions all members of the church should think about:
a)
Do you give regularly and if so, have you reviewed the amount lately?
b)
Do you “Gift Aid”?
c)
What can we do with the building to increase income, and can you help?
d)
How can we fundraise?
What is your response to these questions?
The Quinquennial inspection has been done but the report has not been received to
date.
PM thanked JM for all his hard work and said he wants St Bride’s to be a generous
church that can bless others.
11. The Project - PM thanked LP for her work on the project
12. Report of Bizzy B’s – PM thanked LP, CM AND JM for their work on the project
13. Selection of Sidespeople - PM asked people to consider taking on the role.
14. Report of Welcome and Warm Space – PM reported there is a need for more
volunteers to enable Warm Space to happen when he is unavailable.
15. Report of Prayer – PM thanked all those who have helped with prayer and reminded
everyone they are welcome to join in.
16. AOB: JW asked if we could record sermons (just audio) to help those housebound.
This will be looked into.
17. Meeting ended with prayer for the work of the church.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 10

Annual Report of the Associate Minister: Rev’d Katrin Alldavoodi
The Farsi Congregation (14
th
Sept 2025– 14 April 2026		 Annual Report of the Associate Minister: Rev’d Katrin Alldavoodi
The Farsi Congregation (14
th
Sept 2025– 14 April 2026		 Annual Report of the Associate Minister: Rev’d Katrin Alldavoodi
The Farsi Congregation (14
th
Sept 2025– 14 April 2026
Written by Rev’d Katrin Alldavoodi Date April 16, 2026.
Since arriving at St Bride’s Church on 14th September 2025, the Farsi-speaking congregation has
continued to grow as a worshipping community rooted in Scripture, prayer, and discipleship. Many
members of this congregation were previously part of a Farsi ministry context and have now become
an integral part of the life of St Bride’s, bringing with them a deep spiritual hunger and a vibrant
expression of faith.
The congregation gathers weekly for a Farsi-speaking Sunday service, centered on worship, biblical
teaching, and prayer, with an average weekly attendance of over 85 people. A live worship team leads
the congregation in sung worship, which forms a significant and life-giving part of the service.
Notably, the service is largely led and facilitated by members of the congregation themselves —
individuals who have been discipled and equipped, and who now demonstrate growing confidence and
spiritual maturity. This reflects both the fruit of intentional ministry and the grace of God at work
among the people.
Alongside the Sunday gatherings, a midweek teaching and prayer meeting takes place each Tuesday.
This is held both in person and online: approximately 20 people attend in person each week, and a
further 15 join via Zoom due to distance or other practical constraints. These meetings provide a vital
space for ongoing teaching, discipleship, and pastoral support.
A notable characteristic of the Farsi congregation is its young and growing demographic, with many
families and children. A Sunday School ministry has been established to serve the younger members of
the community, offering a safe and nurturing environment in which they can learn the Christian faith
and grow in their relationship with Christ.
Over recent months, we have witnessed profound spiritual growth within the congregation, including
several baptism services and ongoing preparation for baptism. One of the most powerful and visible
aspects of these occasions has been the testimonies shared by those coming to faith. These
testimonies speak of deep and personal encounters with Jesus Christ — encounters that continue to
transform lives today. They stand as a compelling witness to the living reality of the Gospel, revealing
that Christ is still at work, calling people, meeting them in their need, and leading them into new life.
The emphasis of this ministry has therefore not only been on sacramental life, but also on intentional
and sustained discipleship, ensuring that those who come to faith are rooted, supported, and
encouraged to grow in maturity.
The Farsi congregation is also actively engaged in the wider life of St Bride’s. As part of our regular
contribution, the congregation takes responsibility each Sunday for the general cleaning of the church,
including hoovering, tidying, and cleaning all toilet facilities. This practical service is offered with a
spirit of humility and stewardship.
In addition, there have been several opportunities for shared celebrations and fellowship with the
English congregation. These have included joint participation in Christian festivals, as well as
community events such as Nowruz celebrations and the farewell event for Rev’d Peter. On these
occasions, members of the Farsi congregation have participated actively in planning, organizing, and
providing food, contributing significantly to the life and unity of the church.
This ministry carries a distinct pastoral and missional dimension. Many within the congregation come
from migrant backgrounds and, in some cases, from contexts where the Christian faith has been
difficult or costly to practice. The church therefore becomes not only a place of worship, but also a
place of belonging, restoration, and hope. The proclamation of the Gospel in the heart language of
the people remains central, enabling a deeper encounter with Scripture and with Christ himself.

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 11

At the same time, there remain practical challenges, including the need for appropriate space, access to suitable audiovisual equipment, and the coordination of shared facilities. As the congregation continues to grow, these needs will require ongoing attention and support.

Looking ahead, the vision is to continue strengthening discipleship, to nurture future leaders from within the congregation, and to deepen integration within the wider life of St Bride’s. There is also a growing awareness of the importance of supporting the next generation and enabling families and young people to flourish in faith.

In conclusion, it is important to frame this ministry within the wider biblical vision of unity in the Body of Christ. The Church is called to be one in Jesus Christ, transcending differences of language, culture, and background.

As we read in Epistle to the Ephesians 2:14:

“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.”

And in Epistle to the Galatians 3:28:

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Likewise, First Epistle to the Corinthians 12:13 reminds us:

“For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body… and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.”

These scriptures call us to remain faithful and intentional in teaching and embodying this truth, so that the Church may grow into maturity. Our prayer is that both the Farsi-speaking and Englishspeaking congregations would not see themselves as separate, but as one body, living and serving alongside one another.

We are therefore committed to nurturing this unity with faithfulness and care, so that what has been given to us in Christ may be made visible among us — growing together in love, in truth, and in the shared life of the Gospel.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the PCC and to the wider St Bride’s community for their continued welcome, generosity, and partnership in this ministry. It is a privilege to share in the mission of God together, and to witness the transforming work of Christ in the lives of so many.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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The Church Warden’s Report

Written by Anthea Thompson Date March 28, 2026

There has been no church warden at St Bride’s for the last six years. I was excited and enjoyed the challenge of taking up this role. So, I am going to tell you a bit about what I do.

I help Rev Peter in the day-to-day life of the church by supporting practical decisions. I also offer pastoral support to the congregation by supplying reading materials, for example, “Our Daily Bread” and “Word for Today”, and other booklets.

I oversee maintenance, safety checks, and make sure the building is ready for services and events. I act as a bridge between the congregation and clergy, especially when concerns or ideas need to be communicated. I help to maintain peace and order in the church, and work in and keep an eye on the kitchen facilities, so that our church is a welcoming and hospitable space for everyone.

In 2026 I will keep a logbook to track the daily tasks which I carry out, to ensure that I comply with the statutory duties of the Church of England, e.g. ensuring that safeguarding and health-and-safety requirements are always met. I am enjoying these new responsibilities, and it feels good to be able to serve our church.

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 13

Electoral Roll Report

Written by Susie Crossman Date April 12, 2026.

In 2025, a new Electoral Roll was compiled, and now, each successive year the Electoral Roll is revised. In 2026, notice of the revision of the Electoral Roll was given and displayed on the Church board from the 8[th] of March. No new members of the Roll can be added after 14[th] April, until after the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 26[th] April 2026. This gives us time to compile and check the Annual Report of the Church before it goes to press on 16[th] April.

The Electoral Roll of 14[th] April 2026 recorded 68 names.

Since the last Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 11[th] May 2025 seven people have moved from parish, including our vicar, Peter Matthews, who has taken up the role of Area Dean. There are 38 additional members who applied to be recorded on the Electoral Roll. The majority of these new members joined us as members of the Farsi Congregation.

The Electoral Roll of 14[th] April recorded 68 members.

Demographic Composition of the Electoral Roll of 11 Demographic Composition of the Electoral Roll of 11 Demographic Composition of the Electoral Roll of 11 Demographic Composition of the Electoral Roll of 11 th
 April 2026 April 2026
People who live 2026 (2025) % 2026 (% 2025)
In St Bride’s Parish 20 13 29% 43%
Outside St Bride’s Parish 48 17 71% 57%
In Old Trafford 30 23 44% 77%
Outside Old Trafford 38 7 56% 23%

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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The PCC Secretary’s Report The PCC Secretary’s Report The PCC Secretary’s Report
Written by Susie Crossman Date April 12th, 2026

  1. At the beginning of 2025 the elected members of the PCC were Linda Penrose, Nathan Gonzalez, John Myring, Anne Marie Williams, Susanna Hewitt and Anthea Thompson.

  2. Appointed to PCC in the APCM of April 2025: Jenni Williams, Clare Myring 3. Those leaving PCC as of the APCM of 2025: Nathan Gonzalez, Susanna Hewitt. 4. No appointment of Deanery Synod Representative positions in APCM of 2025. 5. Anthea Thompson was appointed as Church Warden.

  3. The PCC appointed Susie Crossman to office as PCC secretary. Linda Penrose as Vice Chair. John Myring to the office of Treasurer.

  4. The PCC met on five occasions after the APCM.

  5. PCC Standing Committee met on four occasions between PCC meetings to deal with urgent business and to agree to the PCC Agenda.

  6. Each Meeting included prayer, worship and or a Bible reading, routine reports on finance, safeguarding, small group projects, Mission and outward focus and Health and Safety.

  7. Other business considered by PCC included business regarding building use and space hire.

  8. The PCC also appointed MJ Sharp to set up a small group of volunteers from the congregation to work through and review the course on “Living in Life and Faith”. This course explores church members to consider their attitudes of identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage in the light of today’s Church understanding of Christian faith. MJ reported back to the PCC on the groups findings. The incoming PCC will decide when and where this course can form part of activities in 2026.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Fabric and Health & Safety Report

Written by Anthea Thompson, Church Warden Date 12[th] April, 2026

The St. Bride’s building and site continue to see steady use, both for our regular activities (detailed elsewhere in this report) and by external groups

However, this year has continued to be challenging. The building faces several issues, primarily due to the deteriorating roof, which has caused leaks and subsequent problems. The boiler was repaired in 2024, and it continues to work well. The full pump replacement has been deferred to 2026. The underfloor heating in the Worship Space has been working well since it was repaired in 2024.

The ongoing issues, related to the leaky roof, highlight the scale of work still needed to bring the building to a better standard. These include adjustments and upgrading the fire alarm system and the emergency lighting in the upstairs areas. We are still in discussion with the Diocese about how best to go about paying for repairs to this issues. The main barriers are the high costs involved and the lack of personnel to organize and oversee maintenance. The Quinquennial Report was received in late 2025. It is still under review by the PCC.

I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to John Myring and Siavash Ahmadi for stepping in on numerous occasions to address urgent issues.

Looking ahead to 2026, it would be wonderful to see the building used more frequently — not just for church-related activities but also by the community. To achieve this, we need more organized individuals to take on the practical challenges of maintaining and improving the building. Addressing our financial challenges could also be supported by increasing space hire opportunities and prioritizing work to make the building watertight.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Safeguarding Report

Written by Jenni Williams Date 9 March, 2026

Safeguarding Report 2025/26

We are committed to the protection of all children and adults, especially those who may be vulnerable for varying reasons.

There are practices in place at St Bride’s to keep children and adults safe.

The PCC of St Bride’s Church adopts the House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policy and commits to responding promptly and appropriately to all safeguarding concerns in accordance with diocesan safeguarding procedures. St Bride’s safeguarding policies are reviewed at the A.P.C.M each year. The policies help us to create a safe environment for both children and vulnerable people.

Safe recruitment and training procedures are in place to enable high standards of care. Any vacancies should be advertised with a job description. Volunteers need to make a ‘Confidential Declaration’ regarding their suitability to be involved in the area of work. The volunteer is required to make a paper application, and references will be taken up. There needs to be an interview and if the person appears to be suitable for the role an application can be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service. The Safeguarding Officer is informed of anything that would make the person unsuitable for the role. The volunteer is then required to take complete online training prior to taking on their new role. The Diocese provides training throughout the Diocese which the volunteer is required to attend. A record of agreement is signed, and they receive a copy of our ‘Good Practice’ guidelines.

The safeguarding board has the Children’s and Vulnerable Adult’s Safeguarding Policies on display as required by the Diocese. The Safeguarding Officer’s photograph and contact telephone number are also on display.

The church website includes Safeguarding information.

It is important to state that Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer. Her contact information is on the Safeguarding board.

Jenni Williams Parish Safeguarding Officer

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Safeguarding Policy Statement on Children, Young People and the Church. St Bride, Old Trafford.

Safeguarding Policy Statement on Children, Young People and the Church.
St Bride, Old Traford.		 Safeguarding Policy Statement on Children, Young People and the Church.
St Bride, Old Traford.		 Safeguarding Policy Statement on Children, Young People and the Church.
St Bride, Old Traford.		 Safeguarding Policy Statement on Children, Young People and the Church.
St Bride, Old Traford.
Written by Jenni Williams Adopted 2ndJune, 2025
This statement was agreed at the PCC meetng held on: 2nd June 2025
1. As members of this church, we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protecton and
safekeeping of all, especially children and young people.
2. It is the responsibility of each one of us to prevent the physical, sexual and emotonal
abuse of children and young people and to report any abuse discovered or suspected.
3. We recognise that our work with children and young people is the responsibility of the
whole Church.
4. Our church is commited to supportng, resourcing and training those who work with
Children and young people and to provide supervision.
5. Our church is commited to following the policy and procedures published by the
Diocese.
6. The parish will adopt good practce guidelines.
7. Each worker with children and young people must undertake diocesan Safeguarding
training, know the guidelines and undertake to follow them. Each shall be given a copy
of the Parish’s agreed procedures and good practce guidelines.
As part of our commitment to children and young people, the PCC has appointed
Jenni Williams to be the Parish Safeguarding Coordinator.
8. Children and young people are an important part of our Church today.
9. They have much to give as well as to receive.
10. We will listen to them.
11. As we nurture them in worship, learning, and in community life, we will respect the
wishes and feelings of children and young people.
Signed:
Role: Chairman of St Bride’s PCC: Linda Penrose
Dated: 2/6/2025

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Policy on the Safeguarding of Adults in the Church of St Bride’s, Old Trafford

Policy on the Safeguarding of Adults in the Church of St Bride’s, Old Traford Policy on the Safeguarding of Adults in the Church of St Bride’s, Old Traford Policy on the Safeguarding of Adults in the Church of St Bride’s, Old Traford Policy on the Safeguarding of Adults in the Church of St Bride’s, Old Traford
Written by Jenni Williams Adopted: 2ndJune, 2025
This statement was agreed at the PCC meetng held on: 2nd June 2025
This policy will be reviewed each year to monitor the progress which has been achieved.
1. We recognize that everyone has diferent levels of vulnerability and that each of us may be
regarded as vulnerable at some tme in our lives.
2. As members of this parish we commit ourselves to respectul pastoral care for all adults to whom
we minister.
3. We commit ourselves to the safeguarding of people who may be vulnerable, ensuring their well-
being in the life of this church.
4. We commit ourselves to promotng safe practce by those in positons of trust.
5. The parish commits itself to promotng the inclusion and empowerment of people who may be
vulnerable.
6. It is the responsibility of each of us to prevent the physical, emotonal, sexual, fnancial and
spiritual abuse of vulnerable people and to report any such abuse that we discover or suspect.
7. We undertake to exercise proper care in the appointment and selecton of those who will work
with people who may be vulnerable.
8. The parish is commited to supportng, resourcing, training and regularly reviewing those who
undertake work amongst people who may be vulnerable.
9. The parish adopts the guidelines of the Church of England and the Diocese.
10. Each person who works with vulnerable people will agree to abide by these recommendatons
and the guidelines established by this church.
This church appointsClare Myring to represent the concerns and views of vulnerable people at our
meetngs and to outside bodies.
Signed:
Role: Chairman of the PCC, Linda Penrose
Dated: 2/6/2025

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Treasurer’s Report for Year to 31 st December 2025

Written by John Myring Date: April 1 2026

Managing the Finances of the Church continues to be a challenge for the PCC. In last year’s report I had hoped that it would get easier, but that hope was unfounded. Another reduction in regular giving and an ever-growing list of things that need to be done around the building continues to challenge the PCC as to what their financial priorities are.

It is worrying to report that during 2025 our Income from regular giving continued its slow decline, and the opportunities to generate income from people wanting to use the building were diminished. During the year discussions were held with the Diocese about the level of Parish Share that we could afford to contribute. An agreement was reached that we could reduce our annual contribution by 25% for 2025 and subsequent years, saving us around £5,000

a year. Running costs have decreased with reductions in energy costs, and a capping on what

was spent on maintenance, and other regular running costs have seen an overall reduction in

expenditure. The Financial impact of all this has meant that in 2025 we have an overall surplus £9,700 compared to the previous year’s surplus of £4,300.

General Fund

The General Fund showed a small surplus. The Project working with the Red Cross in supporting Asylum seekers shows a substantial surplus, thanks to the efforts of the Big Breakfast Team and receipts of two substantial Grants. The General Fund is where the dayto-day Income and Expenditure of keeping the Church running is recorded. In 2025 our income exceeded our running costs by £3,000, a turn round from the deficit of £3,000 in 2024.

Overall, income was reduced by £3,500, or 7.5%. Year on year Regular Giving to Church declined a further by 7%. This trend must be addressed. Related Gift Aid income is also lower. Income from the use of the building is a further 10% lower. We continue to work out how we can sustain this and increase this income source.

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Collections, Fundraising and other Donations show small increases over the previous year helped by the arrival of the Farsi Church in September. Overall, income is down by almost 7.5% on the previous year; running costs were reduced by almost 20% so there was an overall surplus of almost £3,000.

With careful management of costs, expenditure has been reduced by £9,500 from 2024, decreased by 19%. We had productive conversations with the Diocese which led to our Parish

Share contribution being reduced by over 25%. There were further reductions in Gas and Electric costs (£3,000). Maintenance costs are lower than previous year as a result of us doing

only what was essential and what we could afford. Lower water rates and careful management of other running costs reduced our overall expenditure by 19%.

The surplus of £3,000 in the year helped restore the level of the General Fund to almost £13,000, leaving the General Fund at a level that is only just acceptable. The proposed Budget for 2026 attempts to reflect the impact of known and anticipated changes to activities in the Church and our Building. We hope the reductions in regular giving from members of the Church can be reversed, but it is still felt to be very fragile. We continue to pray that new people joining us may help to reverse this falling trend.

Income from the use of the Church building is assumed to be similar. We continue to lack volunteers available to enable us to generate the income that we would like from the building we have been blessed with.

Overall, the Income in the proposed 2026 Budget shows a small decrease versus the actual income for 2025. In line with all the Parishes in Manchester Diocese we have had discussions about what level of Parish Share we can realistically afford to pay for in 2025 and future years. We have now agreed a reduction of over 25% to £15,000 as a basis for the next few years. Our energy costs have started to fall and have been fixed at a lower level for the next two years. Maintenance costs continue to be a big uncertainty and will have to be carefully managed to ensure we get the balance between what is essential and what we can afford. It continues to be the situation that there are a number of projects that could be done but the funding is not readily available. Work continues in controlling running costs,

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 21

but the emphasis must be on increasing income to a satisfactory level. The proposed Budget, with a much-reduced payment of the Parish Share, shows there will be a balanced budget in 2026. We have to work together to try and increase income in order to have the funding to address the maintenance wish-list.

Designated Funds

Overall, these showed a much healthier position this year, but as usual this statement doesn’t fully reflect the blessings and challenges in a number of areas.

 Youth and Children’s Work

The Church has paused its Youth work and the ongoing activities with the Children have relatively small running costs so we can plan to go forward with sufficient resources. All expenditure in the year was covered by the Income that was received.

 St Bride’s Project

The Clients continue to attend every two weeks. This work is supported mainly by cash donation . The level of funding provided by the Red Cross was further

reduced in 2025 to a minimal level. The Project is now only sustainable thanks to the hard work of our friends at the Big Breakfast. Their efforts are really appreciated as they contributed £10,000 in the year, which made the work possible. We were also blessed with receiving two grants totaling £7.000 in the year, giving us a cushion as we continue our work with some very vulnerable clients.

 Other Funds

These funds are for income and related costs for Church activities that take place over the year.

We continue to thank God for his generosity and provision.

John Myring

PCC Treasurer March 2026

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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General Fund - Budget 2025 12 Months to 31st December

Written by John Myring Date: 2 March, 2026

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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2025 2025 2024 2024
Income Expenditure Income Expenditure
General
Fund Regular Giving £20,825 £22,388
Gift Aid Claimed £5,238 £5,915
Collections & Donations £4,257 £3,393
Income from Use of
Building £10,004 £11,114
Fundraising & Other
Income £2,397 £3,394
General Fund Income £42,721 £46,204
Parish Share £14,584 £14,584 £20,383 £20,383
Church Maintenance £3,608 £5,506
Cleaning £0 £485
Church Running - Gas £5,236 £7,497
Church Running -
Electric £4,939 £5,884
Church Running -
Insurance £1,788 £1,748
Church Running - Water £927 £16,498 £1,014 £22,134
Working expenses of
Incumbent £208 £338
Rectory Council Tax £2,574 £2,397
Rectory Water rates £500 £3,282 £770 £3,505
Parish Training &
Mission £225 £0
Giving to Other
Organisations £0 £0
Upkeep of Services £719 £944 £522 £522
Church Office Phones &
Internet £777 £798
Running Costs &
Sundries £3,455 £4,232 £1,678 £2,476
Governance Costs £250 £250 £225 £225
General Fund
Expenditure £39,790 £39,790 £49,245 £49,245

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 24

Designated Funds

Designated
Funds
2025 2025 2024 2024
Income Expenditure Income Expenditure
Destitution Donations, Gift Aid & Other £16,28
Project Income £14,265 3
Grants from Organisations £7,000 £0
Re-imbursement of Running
Costs £1,170 £5,048
Other Donations, Gift Aid & Other
Funds Income £1,659 £1,834
Youth &
Children's Youth & Children's Work
Work Expenses £1,104 £1,206
Destitution
Project Project Running Costs £15,400 £14,024
Other
Funds Purchase of Equipment £180 £85
Other Running Costs £1,071 £1,717
£24,36
Total Designated Funds £24,494 £17,755 5 £17,032
£70,56
Total For Year £67,215 £57,545 9 £66,277

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 25

St Bride's Church I T¢[￿ on the financial stalem¢nls of the PCC for the year •thJ 31¥ Decern￿r 2025. which Sel oul on pages Iwo 24 iIESPECTIV£ RE5PON51BILITIESOFTHE PCCAliDTHE EXAMIIYER As memb¢rs of ihe PCC you ore ￿sPonsible for the WePArttion of the finAncial slalem¢nlS: consider thai In audii 15 nol Ttquired for this >'e8r under Ihe Regulation and under s¢¢tion 144(2) of the CharitiesAci 2011{the ?01 l Act) and thai an indeF¢ndenl examination is needed. It is my ￿5P)nsibIl11Y to i55uc this report on; th0￿ financial 51aiemtnts under section 145 of the 2011 ACL rollow the pr(K¢dur¢s laid dowTt in the 8eneral directions given by the Chuity Commi55N)n under section 145(5Xbl of the •OI l Aci- and 4 5111e whciher pani¢uknr maft¢r5 have come w my Atteniion. This reporL includin8 my ststemcni h&% brtn prepard for and only for th¢ charbty's Iwst 15 & btyJN. M> work h&5 b¢¢D undertaken so that I mighi sole lo ¢hwity'S tnjsitt ih05e malt¢rs l am rcquir¢d io S￿1¢ io Ih¢m in an indep¢t)deni examiner's le￿rt •nd for Ot￿r purpose. To the fullesi txlenl rrtrnJill¢d b) la, I do noi K¢ep¢ or assume Tesponsibilily lo anyone other than the clwiry and the charity's tru51ee Rg • bod). for my examination Wo￿.. for this or for th¢ ￿tements I ha%"e mid¢. BASISOFTHIS RÉPORT M>. examinaiion w'as carried oul in accordance wilh Ihe Genernl Direction5 given by the Charl￿. Commission. Art examinBiion in¢lud¢s 8 re%i¢w of the ￿rOun11n8 records k"¢w by the PCC ond g compari50n of Ihe finan¢ial stai¢menis presented with thoy records. li Al includes consKkrin8 Any unusu81 items or dis¢losU￿$ bn the finBncial sthiements Ind s¢¢king explanations from you &5 VU51¢¢s conc¢ming aDy suEh M￿lerS. Th¢ procdures underthk¢n do i prowide all the el'idence ih81 'ould be ttquired in an audiL and consequenity no opinion is givcn a5 lo V4hether lh¢ fin•n¢ial 5tat¢m¢n15 prrscnt a 'tnte and fAir vi¢w' and thr ￿ is limitd io those matt¢rs sei oui in the 51alrm¢iit klow. IYDEPENDENT EXA¥INER'SSTATEhl In connKtion with my exlminiiio￿ Do rn•ner h$ io my attention: • which give5 me rtlsonthle eayse to believe thoi irb ￿Y mbieri#l the rtyuiremtnLs'. lo kttp •c¢ouniin8 recrffds in ac¢(dan¢e with Xxiion IJO of the 201 I A¢L and io prepar¢ financial s￿lements which Ac¢ord wilh the a¢¢thJnting rE¢ords and comply tih the accountjn8 requirements of th¢ ?01 l and h4%e n(x b¢¢n meL or lo which. in my opinioffj AneniK)n shoukl b¢ draw'n in oth to eth￿1¢ * proper under$w￿l￿g of the finan¢i8151•lements io be ￿&¢he￿. SIGNED John ThOffl￿ Hoklswonh C Ed. 15 Lynmouth AY¢nue. Flix¢crf4 M416FB Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https: / /www.achurchnearyou.com/church1158961 26

The Project The Project The Project
Written by Linda Penrose Date: April 1
The Project has continued to run for the whole of 2025. We met fortnightly and provided
the asylum seekers with money. The British Red Cross have continued to offer face to face
case work. We have continued to serve hot food, cooked each week initially by volunteer
asylum seekers, and more recently, by volunteer chefs, served to people in their seats by
more volunteer service users. It has been wonderful to partner in this way.
We continue to have prayer time at 11.30 am before opening at 12:00. Sometimes the
prayers are in up to 5 languages.
We had a wonderful celebration meal for Refugee Week with food from all over the world.
At Christmas we celebrated with a more substantial meal. Each service user received a
Christmas gift, and we enjoyed Christmas songs from St Margarets School choir. Many thanks
to all the people who worked together to make that happen.
Grace and Mark continue to do amazing work with the clothes stall, sorting and sourcing
secondhand clothes and new underwear. Thank you for your hard work. We have also
partnered with Reboot to provide new fitted shoes for service users.
As usual there are many people to thank for helping to keep things going, so if you are one
of them, please consider yourself thoroughly thanked. Also, thanks to Big Breakfast, who
have continued to fundraise for us, raising over £1000 monthly. Thank you. You are a true
blessing to us. Throughout the year we have been delighted to have former service users
return to celebrate with us when their applications have been accepted.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Children’s Ministry: Bizzy B’s

Written by Clare Myring & Lind Penrose Date: April 1

Bizzy B’s continued to flourish in 2025.

The Spring and Summer terms saw an average attendance each week of 43 adults bringing 48 children. The adults who bring their pre-school children include Mums and Dads, Grandparents, Aunties, Childminders (anyone is welcome!). And I’m glad to say the whole range of ethnicities represented reflects the population of Old Trafford.

The Autumn term saw a drop in numbers; 36 adults bringing 36 children, but this is still a healthy number, and in some respects makes things calmer. We began the term two weeks late due to volunteer holidays, and we believe another stay and play started on a Friday morning in Old Trafford during September which may have had an effect. However, those who come continue to express their gratitude for Bizzy B’s and talk about the peaceful atmosphere and friendships they find there.

Linda and I would like to thank our wonderful team of volunteers. John faithfully sets up and packs away; Barbara and Natalie in the kitchen supply endless brews and snacks; Emma fills in so many of the gaps, and all the little ones and their grownups who help at ‘tidy up time’. May God continue to bless this activity.

Clare Myring and Linda Penrose

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 28

Children’s Ministry: Bible B’s

Written by Clare Myring Date: April 1

In July 2025 we started a weekly meeting for children from 4 years old up to the age of 11 years (Primary School age) to share Jesus with them, and to have a more focused teaching time for them than is provided during the Sunday morning service. Initially, this group was started for our church children who come to Sunday service, and for them to then be able to invite their friends. and so, the group would grow.

We have been meeting on Friday afternoons at 16:45 until 18:15. The children chose the group name: Bible B’s. They liked the link with our pre-school stay and play group Bizzy B’s.

We now have a core group of up to six who are very faithful. Four of them regularly attend Sunday services; the other two are friends that they have brought along. It’s a simple time: a game, a Bible story which the children then act out, a snack, some crafts, then finishing with a prayer time and a song. At present, we go through stories from the Old Testament, and the children thoroughly enjoy them.

Craft time Nov. 2025

Mary and Joseph Drama

The children enjoyed the Christmas session, when they were able to use the new costumes St Bride’s had bought, to act out the story of the Nativity.

There photos of the Bible B’s are in colour inside the back cover!

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 29

The Prayer Report

Written by Clare Myring Date: April 8[th] 2026

We believe as a church that prayer should be central in all that we do. It is an important part of our faith and helps us to develop and deepen our personal relationship with Jesus and as we fellowship together.

There continue to be regular opportunities to meet to pray during the week. On Monday and Wednesday morning Peter and I often met at 8:00 to pray.

People request prayers in different ways which include the prayer box within church, the prayer email address, and the prayer WhatsApp group. This has enabled us to pray for specific requests when needed.

We have offered and prayed for people during the service.

Thank you to all who led the prayers during Sunday morning service.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 30

Other Church Activities

Written by Clare Myring and Susie Crossman Date: April 8th2026
Refresh Group
A small Refresh group has begun to meet in church on Tuesday afternoons at 15:00.
Members of this group come from both St. Bride’s Church and St John’s Church.
Peter Matthews introduced the idea of a group meeting together to enable people to grow
in their faith, deepen their understanding of scripture, and to support one another. What
we receive and learn extends into every part of our lives.
We gather, reconnect, worship, and reflect on the previous week. Then we look at the
Gospel passage set for the next Sunday morning service, in the context of what it reveals
about God and/or Jesus, and what it tells us about people and ourselves. We look for any
command, promise or example given, and discuss how we will apply it, and who we can tell
about it. We take turns in doing each part and have learned how to share in this group. We
finish by praying for each other and leave refreshed!
We hope the group will grow and multiply. All are welcome to join us, and anyone can start
their own group.
Clare Myring
Saturday Evening Fellowship
In January 2025, Susanna Hewitt started an informal Saturday evening gathering, for church
members and their families and/or friends, to bring a snack to share and enjoy getting to
know each other better. This usually occurred on the last Saturday evening of the month,
from 17:00 to about 19:30. Each occasion was very different in its own special way.
Sometimes we chatted together in small groups, played a game – or took part in a quiz.
Other times we took time to reflect on deeper issues after the snacks were demolished and
small chat had run dry. These evenings faded away after Susannah and Scott left us to move
to Eccles as a pastor. They did, however, serve as icebreakers for social relationships in the
church, as many of us had found that we each had much in common.
Watching “The Chosen”
During Lent in 2025, Peter and Penny Matthews invited those who were free on Wednesday
evenings from 18:30 to the Rectory to join them in watching the second series of The
Chosen. I found it so much more enjoyable to watch this series as a group, because after
the episode, we took a little while to share our insight or ask for clarity on issues. These
group discussions were invaluable. A good idea to look for other such opportunities?

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 31

St. Bride’s Church from Shrewsbury Street

Dawn on Easter Sunday, 2025. The view that greeted us during the sunrise service.

Charity Number: 1146679

Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/

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Thank you for taking the time to read our annual report. We ask that you continue to pray for us as a church as we enter into this next annual year.

If you feel prompted or would like to support some of the projects or groups that happen throughout the week then please don't be afraid to get in touch.

May the Lord Bless you and keep you in His eternal love.

Charity Number: 1146679 Address: St Bride's Church, St Brides Way, Manchester, M16 9NW Website URL: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/15896/ 33