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CIRCUIT OF THE METHODIST CHURCH
WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024
Registered Charity number 1155413

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
CONTENTS
Legal and administrative information
Independent Auditors Report
statement of financial activities
12
18
Balance Sheet
19
Notes to the financial statements
20
Appendix A
29
Page 2 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
l_egal and administrative information
Reglstered Charity number 1155413
South-East Dlstrlct No 36 Circuit No 18
Principal Office Address - Otford Methodlst Church, Hlgh Stree( Otford, Kent,
TN14 SPH
Trustees
Ministers
Rev Jane Braund
Rev Dermot Thornberry
Rev Kirsty McGhee
Circult stewards Dr Helen ￿'chardson (retired 13th September 2023)
Mr Rodney Stone (retired 23riJ October 2023)
Mr lan Beavis
Dr Nick Rowell (retired 18th September 2024)
Mrs. Gillian Clayton (appointed 13th September 2023)
Mrs. Kathy Walsh (appointed 13th September 2023)
Circuit Treasurer Mr Christopher Towers
Other Trustees
Name
Rev Jane Elizabeth Braund
Carol Ann Oakley
Alison Jane Farr
Sue Wilkins
John Archer
Hugh Edward Taylor
Mr Phil Smith
Sally Elizabeth Anne Dagnall
Julia Irene Bevis
PeterAllan Crouch FCCA
Rev Bryan Thomas Knapp BA
Chris Towers
Carl Andrew Warren BA Hons
Reg Rummery
Valerie Gwendoline Manser
Rachel Mary Sheppard
Kenneth John Barnes
Rev Gerald Charles Gardiner BA
Roi James Arden
Rev John Mark Butt
Ann Suaznabar
Role
Chair
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Date ofAppointment
01 September 2024
01 September 2019
01 September 2017
21 September 2016
21 September 2016
23 September 2015
23 September 2015
17 September 2014
20 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
Page 3 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
Rev John Stuart Cumow MA, BA
Michael John Richardson
Pastor Henry George Edwards
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
Bankers:
HSBC Plc, 105 Mount Pleasant Road, TLJnbridge Wells, TN1
1QP
Central Finance Board, 9 BonFiill Street, London, EC24 4PE
Investment Bankers: Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes, Central Buildings,
Oldham Street, Manchester, M1 1 JG
Nash Harvey Group LLP. The Granary, Hermilage Court,
Maidstone, ME16 9NT
Warners, 16 South Park, Spvenoaks, TN13 1AN
Auditors:
Solicitors:
Page 4 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YEAR ENDING 3191AUGUST 2024
The Trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended
31 August 2024
Introductlon
Included in the report are the aims of the Circuit and a commentary of the financial
aspects of its work. The report has been prepared based on the activities and plans as
they are known at the current time. The Circuit exists for the benefit of the six Methodist
Churches, one joint Anglicanlmethodist Church, and one joint URCIMethodist Church,
employing the Circuit staff and providing financial support for major projects.
Circuit Mission Statement
Led by the Spirit to work together to enable our churches to share the Good News of
Jesus. This we do through ,
Leadershlp: to encourage, support and challenge each church to worship God, fulfil
its own mission and spread God's word.
Communication: to facilitate effective and relevant communication between
churches and encourage two-way communication with wider Methodism.
Maximising Resources: to ensure the most effective use of all resources across the
Circuit and the development and use of our God-given gifts.
Review of the Year
Income Trends
Circuit income is primarily drawn from the assessment paid by the Circuit churches.
Expendlture Trends
Stipend expenditure has increased each financial year in line with Conference
approved increases. 200/0 of general fund expenditure is the Circuit contribution to
the District and Connexion, of which a significant part is used to fund the work of the
wider Methodist Church.
Grants from the Model Trust Fund included two payments totalling £7.000 to support
the Circuit churches.
Significant TransaC￿onS
The Circuit has made grants to one of the churches for the major refurbishment of its
premises. During the year a further £350,000 was paid out of the grant of £500,000
which was fully provided in the previous year. The refurbishment is expected to be
completed in April/May 2025.
The Circuit continues to incur costs relating to a redundant church property.
Contracts for the sale of this property were exchanged on 4th July 2023 on the basis
that completion will only take place wkien the purchaser has obtained planning
permission. Formal notification of planning pemission was received after the year
end but the purchaser requested a renegotiation of the sale price given a change in
the commercial market. At present these negotiations have been agreed but legal
documentation is not yet finalised. In these circumstances the Trustees consider it
would be misleading to anticipate any potential proceeds in these accounts.
Page 5 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YE4R ENDING 315tAUGUST 2024 Gont'd
Assuming there is a successful conclusion the Circuit can anticipate net proceeds of
around £800.000 in the current year.
Fund balances
As of 31st August 2024 the net current assets on general fund of the Circuit were
£128,525 giving approximately six months cover for general expenditure. There are
substantial funds held in the Model Trust Fund which support the Circuit and
individual churches, development plans.
Plans for 2024- 2025
Circuit financial plans for the coming year have been prepared on the basis that
there remains three ordained staff with the anticipated cost of living stipend
increases combined with an increase in the assessment paid to the Distn'ct and the
Connexion.
The Circuit hopes to complete on the contract for the sale of the redundant church.
Under the terms of the revised offer received completion will take place after the
purchaser has resolved the funding required.
At the year end the Circuit Model Trust Fund stood at £162,910 (£225,865). These
funds are held to support future work of the Circuit and to cover any additional costs
that may need to be incurred on the new development mentioned above.
Basis of preparation and legal framework
The Charity's annual financial statement for the year ended 31 st August 2024 have
been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 and the Accounting and
Reporting by Charities,. Statement of Recommended Practi￿ 2015 as applicable to
the Financial Reporting Standard 102.
Full name of Charity
Registration Number
Date of Registration
Main communication address:
Weald of Kent Methodist Circuit
1155413
21 January 2014
Otford Methodist Church
High Street
otford, Sevenoaks TN14 SPH
The members of the Weald of Kent Methodist Circuit meeting are the Charity
Trustees, membership being made up of Circuit office holders, ministers and
representatives appointed by the local churches.
Full membership is shown as Appendix A to this report.
Full list of Trustees:
Name
Rev Jane Elizabeth Braund
Carol Ann Oakley
Alison Jane Farr
Sue Wilkins
Role
Chair
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Date ofAppointment
01 September 2024
01 September 2019
01 September 2017
21 September 2016
Page 6 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YEAR ENDING 3181AUGUST 2024 cont'd
John Archer
Hugh Edward Taylor
Mr Phil Smith
Sally Elizabeth Anne Dagnall
Julia Irene Bevis
PeterAllan Crouch FCCA
Rev Bryan Thomas Knapp BA
Chris Towers
Carl Andrew Warren BA Hons
Reg Rummery
Valerie Gwendoline Manser
Rachel Mary Sheppard
Kenneth John Barnes
Rev Gerald Charles Gardiner BA
Roi James Arden
Rev John Mark Butt
Ann Suaznabar
Rev John Stuart Curnow MA, BA
Michael John Richardson
Pastor Henry George Edwards
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
21 September 2016
23 September 2015
23 September 2015
17 September 2014
20 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January2014
10 January2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
10 January 2014
Circuit Ministers and Officers
Active Circuit Ministers
Rev Jane Braund {appointed 1 sl September 2024)
Rev John Rilson (retired 31st August 2024)
Rev Sharon Lovelock (retired 31 St July 2023)
Rev Dermot Thornberry
Rev Kirsty McGhee
Circuit Lay Workers
Mr Philip Staddon (retired 3151 August 2024)
Mr Richard Cannam
Circuit Stewards
Dr Helen Richardson (retired 13th September 2023)
Mr Rodney Stone (retired 23rd October 2023)
Mr lan Beavis
Dr Nick Rowell (retired 18th September 2024)
Gillian Clayton (appointed 13th September 2023)
Kathy Walsh (appointed 13th September 2023)
Administrator
Ms Nicola Martin
Mr Christopher Towers acted as the principal officer overseeing the day to day
financial management and accounting for the Circuit during the year.
Custodian Trustees
Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes act as custodian trustees holding the
Freehold Property and the Model Trust Funds of the Circuit.
Page 7 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YEAR ENDING 31sIAUGUST 2024 cont'd
Vol unteers
The Circuit benefits from the time and experience of a number of the Trustees who
perform tasks in a voluntary capacity. These tasks include maintaining the freehold
properties, keeping the financial records, accepting preaching appointments at
Circuit churches, and involvement with safeguarding matters. Where required the
Circuit provides its volunteers with training to assist them in the performance of their
tasks.
Aims and organlsatlon
Charity objective is to act as a resource provider within the area around Sevenoaks,
Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells for the Methodist Church.
The purposes of the Methodist Church are and shall be deemed to have been since
the Date of Union the advancement of:
a) The Christian faith in accordance with the doctrinal standards and discipline of
The Methodist Church,,
b) Any charitable purpose for the time being of any Connexional, District, Circuit,
local or other organisation of The Methodist Church.,
c) Any charitable purpose for the time being of any society or institution
subsidiary or ancillary to The Methodist Church;
d) Any purpose for the time being of any charity being a charity subsidiary or
ancillary to The Methodist Church
The organisation and resourcing of regular public acts of worship open to members
of the church and non-members alike.
The teaching of Christianity through sermons, courses and small groups.
The resourcing of pastoral work including visiting the sick and bereaved.
Taking religious assemblies in local schools.
Promotion of Christianity through the staging of events and services.
Provision of chaplaincy services to the local university and other institutions.
Public Benefit
We confirm the trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on
public benefit.
Structure, Governance and Management
The goveming document for the Circuit is the Deed of Union (1932) and Methodist
Church Act (1976)
Detailed governance arrangements are outlined within the Constitutional Practi
and Discipline of the Methodist Church by order of the annual confe￿ nce (CPD)
Day to day management of the Circuit is undertaken by the Circuit Leadership team
along with the Local Preachers meeting and the Circuit Finance and Property
Committee.
Page 8 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YEAR ENDING 31StAUGUST 2024 cont'd
Trustee Training
A range of guidance produced by Methodist Connexion to support the effective
running of the Circuit, specifically the leaflet 'The Role of a Trustee in The Methodist
Church, is given to all new Circuit meeting members as induction to their role as
trustees.
Related Parties
The Circuit is part of the South East District and is also accountable to the Methodist
Conference.
The following Methodist Churches are linked to the Circuit:
1. East Peckham
5. Paddock Wood (jointly with Church of England)
6. Sevenoaks
2. Hawkhurst
3. Horsmonden
7. Tonbridge
8. Tunbridge Wells (jointly with URC)
4. Olford
Risk Management
The major risks have been identified and recorded by the Circuit Finance and
Property committee with professional advice taken as required.
There is a regular annual review process undertaken and recorded.
Income and Expenditure is being monitored in total and is compared with the
approved annual budget on a regular basis to detect trends as part of the risk
management process.
Safeguarding
Every person has a value and dignity which comes directly from the creation of male
and female in God's image and likgness. Christians see this potential as fulfilled by
God's re-creation of us in Christ.
Among other things this implies a duty to value all people as bearing the image of
God and therefore to protect them from harm.
Methodist Connexional practice outlines commitment to the following principles:
The care and nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young
people and adults
The safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and adults when
they are vulnerable
The establishing of safe, caring cotrimunities which provide a loving environment
where there is informed vigilance as to the dangers of abuse.
We will carefully select and train all those with any responsibility within the
Church, in line with Safe Recruitment principles, including the use of criminal
records disclosures and registration with the relevant vetting and barring
schemes,
Page 9 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YEAR ENDING 315IAUGUST 2024 cont'd
We will respond without delay to every complaint made which suggests that an
adult, child or young person may have been harmed, cooperating with the police
and local aLrthority in any investigation.
We will seek to work with anyone who has suffered abuse, developing with them
an appropriate ministry of informed pastoral care,
We will seek to challenge any abuse of power, especially by anyone in a position
of trust.
We will seek to offer pastoral care and support, including supervision and referral
to the proper authorities, to any member of our church community known lo have
offended against a child, young person or vulnerable adult.
In all these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and recognised good
practice.
The Weald of Kent Methodist Circuit commits itself to ensuring the implementation of
Connexional Safeguarding Policy. government legislation and safe practice in the
Circuit and in the churches.
The Weald of Kent Methodist Circuit commits itself to the provision of support, advice
and training to lay and ordained people that will ensure people are clear and
confident aboLrt their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding and promoting the
welfare of children and adults who may be vulnerable.
Reserves Policy
The reserves policy for the Circuit is to hold a minimum sum equivalent to 15°/o of the
general fund annual expenditure budget plus twice the annual budget for manse
repairs. This should be sufficient to meet any unforeseen item of major expenditure
on manses andlor to be able to continue, in the short term, funding planned activities
in the event of any inability to raise the full Circuit Assessment from churches. The
balance on General Fund at 31st August 2024 disregarding the value of land and
buildings camplies with the Circuit Reserves Policy.
Funds are retained in the Model Trust Funds to be available to meet grant and loan
requests for expenditure from the Circuit and the churches in the Circuit falling within
the categories approved by the Methodist Church.
Trustees. Responsibilities In Relation to the Financlal Statements
The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial
statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting
Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The charity's trustees are responsible for preparing financial statements for each
financial year that gives a true and fair view of the charity's incoming resources and
application of resources during the period and of its state of affairs at the end of the
year. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are required to:
Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently.
Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP.
Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent.
Page 10 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YEAR ENDING 31StAUGUST 2024 cont'd
Prppare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is
inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business.
State whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed,
subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial
statements.
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records, which disclose
with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable
them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011.
They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for
taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularities.
Auditors
In accordance with the constitLrtion, a resolution to appoint Nash Harvey Group LLP
as Auditors was approved by the Trustees.
Statement of Disclosure of Information to Auditors
There is no relevant audit information of which the charity's auditors are unaware;
and the trustees have taken all steps to make themselves aware of any relevant
information and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information.
Page 11 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR YEAR ENDING 31$1AUGUST 2024 cont'd
Declarations:
Treasurer
I confirm that these accrual based accounts for the year ended 31 August 2024 have
been prepared from the records of the Circuit and that they include all funds under
the control of the Circuit Meeting.
Signature of Treasurer
23 June 2025
Name of Treasurer
Christopher Towers
40 Willow Park Otford Kent TN14 5NF
Address
Presentation to the Circult Meeting for approyal.
I confirm that the annual report and accounts for the year ended 31 August 2024
were presented to the Circuit Meeting at its meeting on 13th March 2025 and were
approved.
Signature of the Chair of the Meeting
Name of the Chair of the Meeting
23 June 2025
Rev Jane Braund
Page 12 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF WEALD OF KENT CIRCUIT
Oplnion
We have audited the financial statements of Weald of Kent Methodist Circuit (the
'charity') for the year ended 31 sl August 2024 which comprise the statement of
financial activities, the balance sheet, and the notes to the financial statements.
including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has
been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting
Standards, including FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the
UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting
Practice).
In our opinion, the financial statements..
give a true and fair view of the state of the charitys affairs as at 31 August
2024 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year
then ended.
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally
Accepted Accounting Practi￿. and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act
2011.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK)
(ISAS (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are
further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial
statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance
with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements
in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fvlfilled our other
ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the
audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for
our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees, use of the
going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is
appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material
uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may
cast significant doubt on the charitys ability to continue as a going concern for a
period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised
for issue.
Our responsibilities and the ￿SponSibl11t1eS of the trustees, with respect to going
concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Page 13 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORTTO THE TRUSTEES OF WEALD OF KENT CIRCUIT
nt'd
Other information
The other information comprises the infomiation included in the annual report other
than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are
responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion
on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not
express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility Is to read the
other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is
materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the
course of the audit, or other+Nise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify
such material inconsistencies or apparent material rnisstatements, we are required to
determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial
statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that
there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report
that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Matters on which we are required to report by exceptlon
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment
obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in
the trustees, report.
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the
Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in
our opinion:
the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material
respect with the trustees, report; or
sufficient accounting records have not been kept. or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records.,
or we have not received all the information and explanations we require for
our audit.
Responsibilities of trustses
As explained more fully in the statement of trustees, responsibilities, the trustees are
responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being salisfied that
they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine
is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial
statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability to continue
as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and
using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to
cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Page 14 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORTTO THE TRUSTEES OF WEALD OF KENT CIRCUIT
ont'd
Auditor's responslbilitles for the audit of the financial statements
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and
report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect
thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or
error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable
assurance is a high level of assuran￿ but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted
in accordance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it
exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if,
individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the
economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-complian￿ with laws and
regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to
detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent
to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is
detailed below.
Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities
Includlng fraud
We identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial
statements, whether due to fraud or error. and then design and perform audit
procedures responsive to those risks, including obtaining audit evidence that is
sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Our approach to identrfying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in
respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and
regulations, was as follows:
.the engagement partner ensured that the engagement team collectively had the
appropriate competence, capabilities and skills to identify or recognise non-
compliance with applicable laws and regulations,
•we identified the laws and regulations applicable to the charity through discussions
with trustees and other management, and from our commercial knowledge and
experience of the sector,
"we focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a direct
material effect on the financial statements or the operations of the charity, including
the Charities Act 2011 , taxation legislation, data protection, anti-bribery, employment,
environmental and heafth and safety legislation,
•we assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identrfied
above through making enquiries of management and inspecting legal
correspondence, and
Page 15 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF WEALD OF KENT CIRCUIT
cont'd
•identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team regularly
and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit.
We assessed the susceptibility of the Charity's financial statements to material
misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud rnight occur, by:
•making enquiries of management as to where they considered there was
susceptibility to fraud, their knowledge of actual, suspected, and alleged fraud, and
•considering the intemal controls in place to mitigate risks of fraud and non-
compliance with laws and regulations.
To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:
'performed analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected
relationships,
.tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions,
•assessed whether judgements and assumptions made in determining the
accounting estimates were indicative of potential bias, and
•investigated the rationale behind significant or unusual transactions.
Audit response to risks identified
In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and
regulations, we designed proCedU￿S which included, but were not limited to:
•agreeing financial ststement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation,
"reading the minutes of meetings of those charged with governance.
"enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and Glaims, and
•reviewing correspondence with HMRC, relevant regulators, and the charity's legal
advisors.
There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more
removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is
that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the
audit Pro￿dureS required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to
enquiry of the trustees and other management and the inspection of regulatory and
legal correspondence, if any.
Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those
that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.
A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting
Council's website at: https."/lwww.frc.org.uklauditorsresponsibilities. This description
forms part of our auditorfs report.
Page 16 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF WEALD OF KENT CIRCUIT
cont'd
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charity's trustees, as a body, in accordance with part
4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has
been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we
are required to state to them in an auditors, report and for no other purpose. To the
fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone
other than the charity and the charity's trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this
report, or for the opinions we have fomied.
Kate Francesca Sharp FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Nash Harvey G'roup LLP
23 June 2025
Chartered Accountants
statutory Auditor
The Granary
Hermitage Courl
Hermitage Lane
Maidstone
Kent
ME16 9NT
Nash Harvey Group LLP is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its
eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under of section 1212 of the Companies
Page 17 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
STATEMENT OF FINANCIALACTIVITIES TO YEAR ENDING 31 AUGUST 2024
Note General
Fund £
Model
Trust
Fund £
Total
Total
2023124 £ 2022123 £
Charitable activities: Assessments
Investment income
237,718
4,679
237,718
33.327
213,764
27,672
28,648
other income
108,942
Total Income
242,397 28,648
271,045
350.378
Charitable Activities:
Stipends and salaries
District assessment
Methodist Church Fund
Telephone and travel
Insurance and utilities
Maintenance of manses
Expenditure on circuit property
other expenditure
Grants and donations
Provision for outstanding grants
Contributions to Connexional Priority
Fund
Other Expenditure
Audit fee
140,154
9,690
38,802
14,084
20,426
8,419
140,154
9,690
38,802
14,084
20,426
8,419
23,846
10,000
2,000
124,738
11,521
39,522
15,023
19,866
10,859
60,700
8,002
123,086
378,914
59,227
23,846
1,916
2,000
8,084
16
10
41 ,656
41 ,656
1,300
1,300
1,100
Expenditure on Charitable Activities
Unrealised gainsllosses on
investment assets
240,959 69,418
-315
310,377
-315
852,558
149
240,959 69,103
1,438 -40,455
22,500 -22,500
310,062
852,707
-39,017 -502,329
Net Income/Expenditure
Transfers between funds
Other recognised gainsllosses
Gainsllosses on revaluation of fixed
assets
642,075
642,075
182,405
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of Funds
Total funds brought forward
666,013 -62,955
603,058 -319,924
2,407,715 225,865 2,633,580 2,953,504
Total funds carried forward
3,073,728 162,910 3,236,638 2,633,580
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in Ihe year. All
income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
Page 18 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
BALANCE SHEET AT 31 AUGUST 2024
Note
General
Fund £
Model Trust Total 2024 Total 2023
Fund £
Tangible Fixed Assets
Land and buildings
Investments
11
12
2,945,203
2,945,203 2,303,128
4,170
3,855
4,170
Total Flxed Assets
2,945,203
4,170 2,949,373 2,306,983
Current Assets
Debtors and prepayments
Trustees for Methodist Church
Purposes deposits
Central Finance Board deposits
Cash at bank
13
34,844
34,844
69,907
210,516 210,516 668,227
106,888
35,205
106,888
35,205
58,968
21,038
Total Current Assets
Creditors, Accruals and
Provlslons
Due under 1 year
Provision for outstanding grants
176,937
210,516 387,453 818,140
14
16
48,412
-17,862 -66,274 -102,629
-33,914 -33,914 -388,914
Net Current Assets
128,525
158,740 287,265 326,597
Net Assets
3,073,728
162,910 3,236,638 2,633,580
Funds of the Circuit
General Fund unrestricted
Model Trust Fund unrestricted
3,073,728
3,073,728 2,407,715
162,910 162,910 225,865
Total Funds
3,073,728
162,910 3,236,638 2,633,580
Registered Charity number 1155413
Approved by the trustees on 23rd June 2025 and signed on their behalf by:
Rev. Jane Braund (Chair)
Page 19 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31°, 2024
1. Basis of preparatlon of financial stalements
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting
and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable
to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial
Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland {FRS
102) (effective 1 January 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS102)), the Financial
Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland
(FRS102) and the Companies Act 2008.
Weald of Kent Methodist Circuit meets the definition of a public benefit entity
under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost
or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional
currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are
rounded to the nearest £1.
Going Concern
At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a
reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in
operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to
adopt the going concem basis of accounting in preparing the financial
statements.
2. Funds
The fvnds held constitute. General Funds held for any purpose of the Circuit
which are Unrestricted. The Circuit Model Trust Fund has wide purposes
defined in Standing Orders and is categorised as unrestricted. There are no
Restricted funds. Details of each material fund are disclosed in note 14 to
these accounts. Any funds may be represented by more than just cash.
3. Accounting Policies
Basis
These accounts have been prepared on the basis of historical cost except that
investments are shown at their market value at the end of the year, on the
accruals basis to show a true and fair view of the Circuit's financial position
and activities.
Income Recognition
Income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when the
Circuit becomes entitled to the resources, the trustees are reasonably certain
they will receive the resources and the monetary value can be measured with
sufficient reliability.
Page 20 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31sI 2024 Gont'd
Resources Expended
This is recognised when a liability is incurred or a constructive obligation
arises, that results in the payment being unavoidable. Liabilities are
recognised as soon as an oufflow of economic benefrt is considered more
likely than not under the legal or constructive obligation committing the Circuit
to pay out resources.
Grants
Grants made by the Circuit from its own funds are recognised in full at the
time of agreement or when the Circuit accepts that there is a legal or
operational obligation to make the payment. When the grant is recurrent over
more than one year the balance payable in future years is treated as a
provision for future commitments in the Balance Sheet against the appropriate
fund, the provision being released in fLrture years as instalments are paid in
accordance with the originally agreed terms.
VAT
Since the Circuit is not VAT registered all input VAT is charged with the
expenses to which it refers.
Tangible fixed assets for use by the Circuit
The freehold property is held at depreciated replacement cost, determined
based on sums insured, except where a sale is anticipated in the near future,
in which case realisable value is used. The land component is not recognised
in these figures. No depreciation has been provided for in the year, as the
trustees consider the residual fair value of the manse buildings is not less
than its carrying value. Any depreciation charge would be immaterial. The
property has been reviewed for impairment with no adjustments deemed
neGessary.
Investments
Investments are valued in the balance sheet at market value at the year end.
Investment income is included in the accounts when re￿1vable and any gains
or losses on revaluation at the year-end are shown in the SOFA.
Debtors and Prepayments
Debtors relate to the payment of the September stipend in August and other
debtors and prepayments.
Page 21 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31st 2024 cont'd
Credltors
Creditors on General Fund include receipts in advance relating lo the 1 St
quarter assessments received in advance. Creditors on Model Trust Fund
include grants approved but not yet paid.
Cash Flow Exemption
The financial statements do not include a cash flow statement because, as a
small charity, it has taken exemption for cash flow in accordance with FRS
102, update bulletin one, in preparation of these financial statements.
Critical Accounting Estimates and judgements
In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required
to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount
of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The
estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience
and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ
from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Revisions to accounting estimated are recognised in the period in which the
estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period
of revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and
future periods.
Critical judgements
Impairm6nt Revlew
Determine whether there are indicators of impairment of the charity's tangible
assets. Factors taken into consideration in reaching such a decision include
the economic viability and expected future performance of the asset. Where
indicators exist impairment reviews are carried OLrt on the charity's tangible
assets.
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
Tangible Fixed Assets
Tangible fixed assets are depreciated over their useful lives taking into
account residual values, where appropriate. The actual lives of the assets and
their residual values are assessed annually and may vary depending on a
number of factors. In re-assessing asset lives, factors such as age and future
economic benefits are taken into account.
Page 22 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31st 2024 cont'd
Valuation of Freehold Property
As described in the accounting policies of the financial statements, freehold
property is stated at fair value. The Trustees, have assessed this and based
on reference to current insurance valuations consider them to be stated at fair
value. However, the rise in inlerest rates and inflation have caused significant
disruption and uncertainty in the UK property market which has inevitably
increased the degree of judgement in the property valuations at the balance
sheet date.
4. Investment Income
The income consists of interest of £28,534 from deposits with the Trustees for
Methodist Church Purposes, £4,679 from deposits with the Central Finance
Board of the Methodist Church and dividends of £114 from listed investments.
S. Other Income
The receipts on the Model Trust Fund for the previous year were as follows..
2023 (£)
5,000
Non-refundable deposit
Return of Levy
103,942
108942
6 Net movement in funds
2024 <£) 2023 (£)
The net movement in funds is stated after
charging:
Fees payable for the audit of the charity's
financial statements
1,300
Fees payable for the independent examination of
the charity's financial statements
1,100
7. Taxation
The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because ils income is
applied for charitable pury)oses.
Page 23 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 315I 2024 cont'd
8. Payments to Trustees
There were no payments for additional services to trustees for the current and
previous year excluding the amounts reported under note 9 relating to
stipends and salaries.
9. Stipends and Salarles
The total amounts paid relating to stipends amounted to £94,537 {£88,724).
staff costs for the year were:
Expense
2024 {£)
2023 (£)
Gross salaries
40,942
31,855
Pension costs
1,666
1,630
Employers National Insurance
2,420
1,999
Apprentice Scheme Levy
589
530
Total
Average number of full time equivalent employees were 3 (2). There were no
employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
10. Contributions to Connexional Prlorlty Fund
As required by the Methodist Church contributions are made from propety
sales to the Connexional Priority Fund. An annual levy is also required and
the total paid over during the year amounted to £41,656 (£59,227).
11. Land and Buildings
The total relates to the four manses held by the Circuit throughout the year.
2024 (£)
2,303,128
642,075
£2 945 203
Balance brought foNard
Revaluation surplus
Balance carried forward
The historical cost of Ihe freehold properties included at the balance sheet
date was £nil (2023 £nil) and the accumulated depreciation based on
historical cost would be £nil (2023 £nil). When the circuit was established by a
merger of circuits the then properties were passed over at no cost. During the
Page 24 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31s12024 cont'd
year there was a revaluation of freehold property based on sums insured. In
the opinion of the Trustees, this represents fair value of the property at the
year-end. The revaluation surplus is disclosed above.
12. Investments
The funds that support the Circuit Model Trust Fund and the Manses Fund are
held by TMCP in Trustees Interest Funds on which interest is credited
monthly. These are regarded as medium and long term investments.
TMCP is the legal owner and Custodian Trustee of all Methodist Model Trust
property. including Legacies, Endowments and Accumulated Funds. Trust
property is held for and on behalf of local Managing Trustees who are
responsible for the day to day management of trust propety. TMCP ensure
that. through providing guidance and acting under their direction, the
Managing Trustees comply with charity law and Methodist law and policy as
determined by Methodist Conference.
Analysis of investment movements
2024 (£)
3,855
Market value brought fomard
Profit on revaluation
315
Market value carrled forward
All investments are listed on a registered Stock Exchange and generated
income of £114 (£117) for the year.
13. Analysis of current assets
2024 (£) 2023 (£)
8,627
7,823
Stipends in advance
Other debtors and prepayments
26,217 62,084
Total
34 844 69 907
The bank balance is held at HSBC Plc. Other debtors include the balance due
from the Model Trust Fund of £17,862 (2023: £57,303).
Page 25 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES"ro THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31" 2024 cont'd
14. Current Liabilities
2024 (£)
33,352
2023 {£)
36,852
Deferred income (15)
Other creditors and accruals
32,922
65,777
Total
102 629
Other creditors for the Model Trust Fund include the balance due to the
General Fund of £17,862 (2023 £57,303).
There are no long-term liabilities.
15. Deferred Income
2024 (£)
33,352
2023 (£)
36,852
Arising from deferred income
Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:
2024 {£)
36,852
2023 (£)
31,114
Balance at 1 September 2023
Deferred in year
33,352
36,852
Released in year
Balance at 31 August 2024
Deferred income arises from church assessments paid in advance of the
year-end which relate to the next accounting period.
Page 26 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDING AUGUST 31sI 2024 cont'd
16. Provision for Outstsnding Grants
The amount of grants provided but unpaid at 81 August 2023 was
£388,914. A total of £355,000 was paid during the year leaving a balance
outstanding of £33,914 at 31 August 2024. It is anticipated that this balance
will be paid within twelve months. An analysis of grants paid during the year
is as follows:
2024 (£>
2023 (£)
Refurbishment of a Circuit church
building
350,000
116,086
Employment of Community Worker
355,000
121,086
Expensed through SOFA.,
Supporting worship at Circuit Church
Total grants in year
357 000
123 086
17. Capital Commltments and Contingent Liabilities
At 31st August 2024 the Circuit has no capital commitments.
No contingent liabilities were identified at 31 sl August 2024
18. Detailed Analysis of Individual Fund Movements
Unrestricted Funds
General Fund Model Trust Fund
Total (£)
Opening balance
Income
2,407,715
225,865
2,633,580
884,472
28,963
913,435
Expenditure
Transfers
-240,959
-69,418
-310,377
22,500
-22,500
Closing Balance
£3073728
£ 162 910 £ 3 236 638
The purpose of the general fund is the administration of the Circuit.
The purpose of the model trust fund is to make grants and loans to the Circuit
churches and to improve the manses.
The transfer between the funds related ta support from the Model Trust Fund
for the ministry of the Circuit.
Page 27 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YE4R ENDING AUGUST 31°, 2024 cont'd
19. Analysls of Net Assets between Funds
Fund
Tangible Fixed
Assets (£)
2,945,203
4,170
2 949 373
Net Current
Assets (£)
128,525 3,073,728
158,740
162,910
287 265 3 236 638
Total {£)
General Fund
Model Trust Fund
Total
20. Sale of Redundant Church
On 4th July 2023 the Circuit entered into a contract for the sale of the site of a
redundant church subject to planning pemission being obtained. Subsequent
to the year-end confirmation of planning pemission was received from the
purchaser, The purchaser requested a re-negotiation of the purchase price
given a change in the commercial market and revised terms have been
agreed subject to legal documentation. Completion at the revised price is
expected to produce a net benefit to the Circuit estimated at £800,000 after
the levy that is due to the Connexional Priority Fund. The truslees consider it
prudent to await completion before anticipating receipt of these funds.
21. Related Party Transactions
The following schedule shows the related party transactions for the year and
amounts outstanding at the year end. The Circuit churches and other
Methodist organisations are considered related parties for the purpose of
determining related party transactions.
Circuit churches
Assessment income
Grants paid to the churches
Grant from Connexion
Assessments paid in advance
Methodist church organisations
District assessment
Methodist Church Fund contribution
Connexional Priority Fund contribution
Deposit - Trustees for Methodist Church
Deposit Central Finance Board
2024 {£)
237,718
357,000
2023( £)
213,764
123,086
103,942
36,852
33,352
9,690
38,802
41,656
210,516
106,888
11,521
39,522
59,227
668,227
58,968
22. Post Balance Sheet Events
There are no post balance sheet events to report.
Page 28 of 29

WEALD OF KENT METHODIST CIRCUIT
Appendix A
Circuit meeting membership - at 31 st August 2024
11
Alison Farr
12
Ann Su¢iznabar
13
Anne Stobo
14
Barbara Crosswell
15
Bryan Knapp
16
Carl Warren
17
Carol Bamett
18
Carol Oakley
19
Chris Towers
110 Demiot Thomberry
111
Elaine Coupe
112 Felicity Lusted
113 Gill Clayton
114 Helen Warmington
115 Henry Edwards
116 Hugh Taylor
117 lan Beavis
118 Jane Braund
119 John Archer
120 John Sansom
121 Julia Bevis
122 Kathy Walsh
123 Ken Barnes
124 Kirsty McGhee
125 Michael Richardson
126 Nick Rowell
127 Nicola Martin
128 Peter Crouch
129 Philip Smith
130 Rachel Sheppard
131 Reg Rummery
132 Richard Cannam
133 Roi Arden
134 Sally Dagnall
135 Sue Wilkins
136 Valerie Lovett
137 Valerie Manser
Page 29 of 29