BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Charity Registration No. 1155461
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Trustees' Report For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
The Board present their Annual Report, together with the unaudited financial statements, for the year ended 31 March 2025.
Structure Governance and Management
The Synagogue became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) on 13th July 2013. The Synagogue's first constitution as a CIO was registered by the Charity Commission on 24 January 2014 and a new Constitution was registered on 13th April 2024.
The 2024 constitution determines the powers and activities of the Trustees, which it describes as members of the Board, also known as the Council. It also sets out how the Trustees and Honorary Officers should be elected and how long they may serve. The re-election process is based on a third of the Board retiring each year. The maximum permitted length of service is three terms of office but, within their terms as trustees, the Chair and Vice-chair may only serve in that office for two terms. The Board may at any time decide to appoint a new Trustee, whether in place of a Trustee that has retired or been removed. or as an additional Trustee, providing that the limit on number of Trustees set out in the Constitution is not breached.
The Board generally meets monthly, either on-line or in person, and considers a large variety of issues related to the Synagogue's administration. Administrative tasks are generally delegated to members of the Synagogue staff, but they at all times act under Board instruction.
In seeking candidates for the Board from among members, the Chair considers the skill mix already represented and whether new skills are required (e.g. Human Resources, Project management). Another focus is ensuring that that there is adequate diversity in terms of gender, age, specific activity interests (e.g. Cheder, religious services), lived experience and background.
Objectives and Activities
Under the Constitution the object of the Synagogue is "... to advance the Jewish religion, in particular, but not exclusively, by supporting and maintaining the Synagogue.”
In practice, this means that the Synagogue prioritises the following areas:
-
Providing services for its members, including maintaining social/pastoral contact for those in need, providing religious services for lifecycle events and providing Jewish religious activities and services;
-
Provision of a building in which religious, educational and charitable activities can take place;
-
Provision of staff or volunteers to organise and assist those activities. The Synagogue is heavily dependent in all areas on the voluntary activities of its members; and
-
Maintaining affiliations with a number of Jewish organisations including the Movement for Reform Judaism (soon to be the Movement for Progressive Judaism), the Jewish Joint Burial Society, the Community Security Trust and the Sussex
-
Jewish Representative Council.
Achievements and Performance during the year
Adult membership was 362 at end December 2024 (2023 - 364) and child membership was 90 (2023 -104). During the year we gained 25 new adult members (calendar 2023 - 19) and lost 27 (2023 - 29), of which 13 (2023 - 10) were as a result of death and the others mostly moved away or lapsed membership for financial reasons. This was the ninth consecutive year in which our adult membership declined, for reasons which are not always known, but certainly include the passing of older members and demographic change in the Jewish population nationally.
Page 1
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Trustees' Report (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
All services continue to be available on Zoom and attract a regular congregation which rarely falls below 30.
Our numerous activity groups continued to cater for a growing number of requirements. We have had members and others studying religious texts under the Rabbi and the book-club is well supported. Following the terrible events in Israel in October 2023, we set up a support group for people affected and an Israeli member of the Board leads a group, Israel in Focus, which has monthly meetings mostly with invited speakers from a variety of backgrounds. Helping Hands, the local charity, have continued their popular teas for the elderly in our Ajex Hall. Simchas and other social events with food provided by our excellent catering team take place regularly. Welfare activity continued mostly by phone, and there is a dedicated team placing calls to elderly and less mobile members.
The choir, renamed the BHRS singers, now sings from the centre of the congregation and numbers between three and five in regular services and peaked at seven or more on the High Holydays. These services again attracted a very full Congregation with on-line provision now restricted to congregants unable to attend in person.
Once again, our greatest achievement has been the burgeoning Cheder (religion school) which now has over 45 pupils in six classes or with one-to-one tuition where necessary. Teaching on-line has continued where it is useful, including for some Bnei Mitzvah students who have received one-to-one support and there is a monthly learning service during term-time directed specifically at their needs. Our Youth Leader from a local University works in co-operation with RJ Netzer, MRJ's youth group, and provides youth activities for the 10-18 age group.
Our Membership Engagement project is now in its fourth year. We have greeters for Shabbat services and Befrienders for new members. We also have a Small Groups West social team, for members who live in the Shoreham to Littlehampton coastal belt. This group has met monthly on a Friday evening at members’ homes as well as hosting occasional social events.
The Synagogue Administrator Caroline Mackay is now assisted by a volunteer in the office which is usually open three mornings a week. We have again updated our website this year and communicate with the large majority of our members by email, which is quicker, cheaper and requires less effort than using post.
The Board continued to meet monthly in person and meetings have been rescheduled to early evening which gets a better attendance. Having elected four new trustees at last year’s AGM, we now have eleven trustees which is just one short of a full complement and has enabled us to fill all the major roles.
Financial Review
Our total income in 2025 was £300,668 (2024- £307,706) down 2.3%. Excluding funerals in both years (there were no legacies) we derive our controllable “operating income” which was £209,955 (2024: £204,026) up 2.9%. There was a £7,860, 6.5%, rise in subscription income, which is the most for several years. It results probably from the end of the special concessions for Covid. We also had improvements on income from High Holyday tickets and social events. However, the exceptional Kol Nidre appeal for repair of the scrolls which raised £16,143 in 2024, the previous year, was not repeated and we raised only £5,143 in 2025 year. Funeral related income also fell by £12,967, but for obvious reasons this is a volatile number without much trend.
Expenditure was £352,322 (2024- £386,402) down 8.8%. On a controllable “operating expenditure” basis, so excluding funerals and redevelopment fees, it was £263,797 (2024 – £282,322) down 6.6%. Staff costs comprise 51.5% of these costs and despite giving inflation-based pay rises, were down 14.1% as a result of concerted efforts to save costs and mobilise volunteers (thank you!) in place of paid staff. We also reduced utility costs by making much less use of the heating, saving £14,144 and we cut the exceptionally high building maintenance costs incurred in in 2024 by £34,540. Unfortunately, we have built quite a backlog of repairs for 2026.
The net operating deficit as shown in these accounts, before investment losses, was £51,654 (2024 - £78,696). The 2025 deficit included £18,825 (2024-£31,986) of legal costs largely to ensure the removal of legal covenants on the use of our site. On a consistent "repeatable" basis, before those elements of income and cost which are one-off or uncontrollable (funerals, legacies and redevelopment costs), the deficit in 2025 was £53,842 (2024- £78,296). This consistent basis is what we use internally to track our activity, and so it really was a major improvement.
Non-controllable items in 2025 included a very small loss in investment valuations of £848 following a gain in 2024 of £48,460. We had to withdraw cash of £75,000 (2024 - £50,000) from our long-term investments during the year to cover the cash outflow resulting from the continuing deficits, and this withdrawal was reflected in the closing portfolio valuation down to £701,580 (2024- £777,431).
Page 2
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Trustees' Report (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
Reserves
Cash balances increased this year to £40,350 (2024 - £24,689) benefitting from some of the cash withdrawn from the investment portfolio. Free (General) reserves after deduction of fixed assets yet to be depreciated have increased to £698,977 (2024 - £668,059) as a result of a thorough review of the restricted reserves which have decreased to £30,952 (2024 – £113,786). We have reclassified £55,690 held for future JJBS payments as General reserves as payments are now made in a timely fashion. Our reserves are obviously far above the safety-net level which the Board believes should be more than £100,000 to cover emergencies and cushion against large swings and seasonality in income and expenditure, not least from unpredictable funerals and legacies which we have always experienced.
Redevelopment and Listing of the Synagogue Building
On 3rd March 2025 the Board was informed by Historic England that the building had been listed Grade 2. The decision was made almost a year after a visit by Historic England and followed considerable efforts by the Board to avoid listing. However, there was a well-publicised campaign by the Twentieth Century Society and others which was successful. The Board appealed the listing in April and is awaiting a final decision. Obviously, all redevelopment plans and our Option Agreement with Perth Securities and Investments Limited to allow them to redevelop our site has been put on hold pending the results of our appeal, and Members will be informed as soon as we have further information. In the meantime, the Redevelopment Committee is examining other options for future improvements to the building, whether or not the Listing remains in place.
Going Concern
The Board has concluded that due to various factors including the Synagogue's level of cash and investments, there is a reasonable expectation that the Synagogue has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Consequently, the financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis.
The Coming Year
The Board have prepared a preliminary budget for 2025-26 and again expects to incur a reduced operating deficit. We know that elements of our income such as legacies, funerals and investment performance are anyway uncertain, but we plan again to focus on:
-
Adult Education: An ongoing programme of events and Shiurs (study sessions)
-
Avodah: Ongoing support of our committee to support Lay Leaders and to review and address issues around attendance and Shabbat and HHD services.
-
Cheder (Religion school) and Young People: Continued support and focus on our thriving and vibrant Cheder, including ongoing support for youth programme.
-
Membership Engagement: Continue and grow our Befrienders programme, ongoing Small Groups activity and associated events.
-
New Members: focused activity on attracting new members.
-
• Outreach and Partnership working – in particular regard to Youth activity and social events.
-
Redevelopment of our building to better meet our needs as discussed above.
-
• Social Activity – maintain current groups and planned events and activities.
-
Volunteering – ongoing support for existing volunteers and look to extend this whenever possible for all areas of Synagogue life.
Page 3
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Trustees' Report (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
Public Benefit
The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in Section 4 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit and the specific guidance relating to bodies for the advancement of religion. We are constitutionally required to prioritise the provision of Jewish religious services, and the Board performs that duty through the employment of a Rabbi, the training of lay readers, and the provision of an appropriate Sanctuary. In addition, in normal times the Board fulfils its duty for "other charitable activities" through active dedication to:
-
pastoral care, both to members and on occasion to other Jewish people in the Sussex area;
-
education both for adults and children in topics both specifically Jewish and of general Jewish interest; and
-
perpetuation of the Jewish community, fulfilled through fundraising as well as other social and pastoral activities. Our activities are popular amongst both members and other people in the community.
President and Trustees
The Honorary President is Michael Harris who is also a Trustee. The Trustees who were Members of Board and served throughout the Year unless stated were:
Honorary Officers Other Council members Chair Sharon Rose Michelle Epstein (Appointed 28th July 2024) Vice Chair Debra Goodman Noah Gerstman (Retired 28th July 2024) Secretary Michael Harris Michelle Kay (Appointed 28th July 2024) Senior Warden Anthony Rosenfield Adam Ma'anit (Appointed 28th July 2024) Treasurer Peter Vos Erez Peer Elizabeth Shaw Paul Wiltshire (Appointed 28th July 2024)
Page 4
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Trustees, Report (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025 Legal and Administrative Information The Synagogue is a consliluent member of Ihe Movement for Reform Judaism. which is also a registered charity. These accounts have been drawn up in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities,. Risk Management The concerns of the Board include the additional costs which listed stslus will bring for future maintenance and repairs. The long-lerm decline in membership numbers also remains a major focus. with much of our activity intended lo bolster recruilmenl and encourage member families to maintain their membership in the long-term. Fixed Assets The movements in Fixed Assets during the year are sel out in Note 10 of the financial statements. statement of the Board's Responsibilities select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently., observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP.. make judgements and estimates thal are reasonable and prudenl., slate whether applicable Accounting Standards. including FRS 102. have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial stslements., prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis. unless it is inappropriate lo presume that the Synagogue will continue in operation. The Board are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Synagogue and which enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Trust deeds They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Synagogue and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. By Order of the Board Palmeira Avenue Hove East Sussex BN3 3GE Sharon Rose Chair Date: 11th August 2025 Page 5
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Independent Examiner's Report to the Members of Brighton and Hove Synagogue
I report on the accounts of Brighton and Hove Reform Synagogue for the year ended 31 March 2025, which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, Balance Sheet and related notes.
Respective Responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner
The Synagogue's Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).
I report in respect of my examination of the Synagogue’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent Examiner's Statement
Since the Synagogue’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the ACCA, which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:
-
1) accounting records were not kept in respect of the Synagogue as required by section 130 of the Act; or
-
2) the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
3) the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Betchworth House
James Saunders (FCCA, DChA) On behalf of Moore Kingston Smith LLP Chartered Accountants
57 - 65 Station Road Redhill Surrey RH1 1DL
Date: 14 August 2025
Page 6
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Unaudited Statement of Financial Activities For the year ended 31 March 2025
| Note INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS Donations, gifts and legacies 2 Other Trading Activities Trading activities 3 Charitable Activities 4 Investment Income 5 Total Operating Income EXPENDITURE Raising Funds Generating Voluntary Income Goods sold and services provided Total cost of raising funds 6 Charitable Activities 7 Total Operating Expenditure Net Operating Income 9 Unrealised gains/(losses) on Investments Transfers between funds 15 Net Movement in Funds Total Funds Brought Forward Total Funds Carried Forward |
Unrestricted Funds £ 10,214 39,318 225,813 22,771 298,116 - 1,922 1,922 324,880 326,802 (28,686) (848) 59,866 30,332 834,257 864,589 |
Restricted Funds £ 1,355 1,197 - - 2,552 7,722 - 7,722 17,798 25,520 (22,968) - (59,866) (82,834) 113,786 30,952 |
2025 Total £ 11,569 40,515 225,813 22,771 300,668 7,722 1,922 9,644 342,678 352,322 (51,654) (848) - (52,502) 948,043 895,541 |
2024 Total £ 20,012 32,316 230,201 25,177 307,706 1,927 333 2,260 384,142 386,402 (78,696) 48,460 - (30,236) 978,279 948,043 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 7
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Balance sheet As at 31 March 2025 Note 2025 2024 Fixed Assets Tangible Assets Investments 10 11 165.612 700.718 866.330 166,198 777,431 943,629 Current Assets Judaica Shop Stock Funeral Plots Debtors and Prepayments Cash at Bank and in Hand 1,806 372 20.896 40.350 63.424 1,841 372 28,803 24.689 55,705 12 13 Current Liabilities Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 14 (34.213) (51.2911 Net Current Assets 29.211 4,414 Total Net Assets 895.541 948.043 Accumulated Funds Restricted Funds Unrestricted FLJnds - Designated Unreslricled Funds - General 15 30,952 113,786 165.612 698.977 166.198 668,059 864.589 834.257 16 895.541 948.043 Approved by the Synagogue Council on IlthAugust.2025.......... and signed on ils behalf by Sharon Rose - Chair Peter Vos- Treasurer Page 8
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
1. Accounting Policies
- (a) Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). The Synagogue is a public benefit entity for the purposes of FRS 102 and a registered charity and therefore has also prepared its financial statements in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (The FRS 102 Charities SORP) and Charities Act 2011.
(b) Going concern
It is very difficult for the Trustees to form reliable estimates of forecast income and expenditure and some by its nature, such as legacies, is inherently uncertain. However, the Trustees have concluded that due to various factors including the Synagogue’s level of cash and investments, there is a reasonable expectation that the Synagogue has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Consequently, the financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis.
(c) Basis of preparation of accounts
The charity controls two subsidiaries. It does not prepare consolidated accounts since it does not meet the criteria in the Charities Act 2011 (and applicable regulations) which require preparation of consolidated accounts.
(d) Subscriptions
Subscriptions due for the current year are included, after making allowance for any amounts that are unlikely to be collected.
(e) Donations, legacies, etc
Voluntary income includes donations and legacies, grants and fundraising income and is included in full in the period in which it is receivable. Legacies are considered receivable when the amount can be reliably measured and receipt is reasonably certain.
(f) Resources expended
Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis, gross of irrecoverable VAT. The financial statements distinguish between the following subheadings:
Cost of raising funds
This category includes all expenditure relating to the cost of goods sold and services provided, along with the cost of generating voluntary income.
Cost of charitable activities
This category includes all expenditure on activities in furtherance of the charity's objects together with expenditure on costs incurred in support of the charitable activities undertaken by the charity.
(g) Restricted and unrestricted funds
The accounts distinguish between restricted and unrestricted funds. The former are subject to restrictions on the purposes for which they may be used. Unrestricted funds are those where there are no externally imposed restrictions. They include those freely available to the Synagogue for expenditure or appropriation to reserves for internally designated purposes. The same basis is used for accounting for income in each of these funds.
(h) Designated funds
The Designated Fund relates to the costs involved with the purchase and depreciation of tangible fixed assets.
Page 9
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
1. Accounting policies (continued)
(i) Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement
In the view of the Trustees in applying the accounting policies adopted, no judgements were required that have a significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements nor do any estimates or assumptions made carry any significant risk of material adjustment on the next financial year.
(j) Burial plots
As in previous years, no depletion provision is considered necessary by the Council in respect of land used for burial.
(k) Stock
Stock is valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
(l) Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets of more than £100 are capitalised and included at cost.
Provision is made for depreciation on tangible assets at rates calculated to write-off the cost over their expected useful life as follows:
Freehold Property - nil Fixtures and Fittings - 25% per annum on a reducing basis Office and Computer Equipment - 33% per annum on a reducing basis The Council have reviewed tangible assets, which comprise land, buildings, fixtures and fittings. Where the Council consider that the expected useful life is in excess of 50 years and the carrying value in the financial statements is not more than the estimated recoverable amount, no depreciation has been charged. The Council have and will continue to carry out annual reviews for impairment.
- (m) Fixed asset investments
The Synagogue owns 100% of the issued share capital of BHRS Development Limited and BHRS Residential Limited. These investments are held at cost.
Other investments are held at fair value.
(n) Financial instruments
The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the charity after deducting all of its liabilities.
- (o) Pensions
The Synagogue operates a defined contribution scheme for the benefit of the Rabbi. Contributions payable are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the year they are payable.
Page 10
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
1. Accounting policies (continued)
(p) Cash flow statement
The charity has taken the exemption available in paragraph 7.1B of FRS102 and has not prepared a cash flow statement.
2. Voluntary income - donations and gifts:
| Year to 31 March 2025 Donations Yahrzeit Prayer Book Fund Scroll repair fund Welfare fund Kol Nidre Year to 31 March 2024 Donations Renewal Fund (Representative Council) Yahrzeit Scroll repair fund |
Unrestricted Funds £ 3,194 2,808 - - - 4,212 10,214 Unrestricted Funds £ 800 - 819 - 1,619 |
Restricted Funds £ - - 57 1,105 193 - 1,355 Restricted Funds £ - 2,250 - 16,143 18,393 |
Total £ 3,194 2,808 57 1,105 193 4,212 11,569 Total £ 800 2,250 819 16,143 20,012 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 11
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
3. Trading Activities:
| Year to 31 March 2025 Non-Member Funerals High Holyday Tickets Catering team and Functions Seder tickets Adverts & New Year Greetings Security Fund Judaica Shop Sales Hall Hire (including students) Board of Deputies Year to 31 March 2024 Non-Member Funerals High Holyday Tickets Catering team and Functions Seder tickets Adverts & New Year Greetings Security Fund Judaica Shop Sales Hall Hire (including students) Wedding Charges Board of Deputies 4. Incoming Resources from Charitable Activities Year to 31 March 2025 Subscriptions Jewish Joint Burial Society Income from Members for Funerals Income Tax Recoverable on Subscriptions and Donations Stone Settings Year to 31 March 2024 Subscriptions Jewish Joint Burial Society Income from Members for Funerals Income Tax Recoverable on Subscriptions and Donations Stone Settings |
Unrestricted Funds £ 14,331 8,015 11,209 1,369 1,130 - 3,164 100 - 39,318 Unrestricted Funds £ 14,756 5,309 6,578 1,702 935 - 789 300 770 - 31,139 Unrestricted Funds £ 129,082 60,487 12,795 20,349 3,100 225,813 121,222 - - 20,055 4,000 145,277 |
Restricted Funds £ - - - - - 1,107 - - 90 1,197 Restricted Funds £ - - - - - 1,117 - - - 60 1,177 Restricted Funds £ - - - - - - - 61,317 23,607 - - 84,924 |
Total £ 14,331 8,015 11,209 1,369 1,130 1,107 3,164 100 90 40,515 Total £ 14,756 5,309 6,578 1,702 935 1,117 789 300 770 60 32,316 Total £ 129,082 60,487 12,795 20,349 3,100 225,813 121,222 61,317 23,607 20,055 4,000 230,201 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 12
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
5. Investment income
| Year to 31 March 2025 Dividends Received Interest on Deposits Year to 31 March 2024 Dividends Received Interest on Deposits 6. Raising funds Year ended 31 March 2025 Costs of Generating Voluntary Income Security fund Fundraising: Costs of goods sold and services provided Judaica Shop Year ended 31 March 2024 Costs of Generating Voluntary Income The Guild Renewal fund Security fund Fundraising: Costs of goods sold and services provided Judaica Shop |
Unrestricted Funds £ 22,763 8 22,771 24,021 1,156 25,177 Unrestricted Funds £ - 1,922 1,922 109 - - 333 442 |
Restricted Funds £ - - - - - - Restricted Funds £ 7,722 - 7,722 - 30 1,788 - 1,818 |
Total £ 22,763 8 22,771 24,021 1,156 25,177 Total £ 7,722 1,922 9,644 109 30 1,788 333 2,260 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 13
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
7. Expended charitable activities
| Year to 31 March 2025 Costs directly related to activities:- Rabbinic Costs and Expenses Administration, Cheder and Welfare Costs Funeral Costs Movement for Reform Judaism Affiliation Jewish Joint Burial Society Education Youth Fund Kiddush & Chagim Costs Welfare Assistance Support costs allocated to activities:- Redevelopment Fees Repairs and Maintenance Lighting and Heating Caretaker Costs Insurances Accountancy Sundry Resources Expended & scroll repair Printing, Stationery and Advertising Credit Card Charges Computer Running Costs Investment Management Fees Depreciation Water Rates Motor Expenses Telephone Subscriptions and Donations Social events and Catering Legal costs |
Unrestricted Funds £ 59,055 55,382 47,090 13,938 22,610 1,961 - 2,525 - 202,561 18,825 4,027 10,626 7,381 11,948 32,067 13,822 3,939 2,934 2,573 - 1,883 4,044 77 3,920 1,237 1,816 1,200 122,319 324,880 |
Restricted Funds £ 15,938 - - - - 1,860 - - 17,798 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 17,798 |
Total £ 74,993 55,382 47,090 13,938 22,610 1,961 1,860 2,525 - 220,359 18,825 4,027 10,626 7,381 11,948 32,067 13,822 3,939 2,934 2,573 - 1,883 4,044 77 3,920 1,237 1,816 1,200 121,119 341,478 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 14
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
7. Expended charitable activities (continued)
| Year to 31 March 2024 Costs directly related to activities:- Rabbinic Costs and Expenses Administration, Cheder and Welfare Costs Funeral Costs Movement for Reform Judaism Affiliation Jewish Joint Burial Society Education Youth Fund Kiddush & Chagim Costs Welfare Assistance Support costs allocated to activities:- Redevelopment Fees Repairs and Maintenance Lighting and Heating Caretaker Costs Insurances Accountancy Sundry Resources Expended Printing, Stationery and Advertising Credit Card Charges Computer Running Costs Investment Management Fees Depreciation Water Rates Motor Expenses Telephone 8. Staff costs Salaries Social security costs Pension and life insurance costs |
Unrestricted Funds £ 78,586 61,536 7,270 21,755 - 3,487 - 2,824 - 175,458 38,567 23,998 24,770 19,134 9,726 8,640 6,888 4,251 2,871 2,095 - 2,090 3,676 104 3,146 149,956 325,414 |
Restricted Funds £ - - 52,616 - 5,627 - 485 - - 58,728 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 58,728 2025 £ 127,189 3,895 4,888 135,972 |
Total £ 78,586 61,536 59,886 21,755 5,627 3,487 485 2,824 - 234,186 38,567 23,998 24,770 19,134 9,726 8,640 6,888 4,251 2,871 2,095 - 2,090 3,676 104 3,146 149,956 384,142 2024 £ 148,167 4,168 5,658 157,993 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 15
8. Staff costs (continued)
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2024
The average numbers of full time equivalent staff employed during the year was 3 (2024: 3). The total headcount comprised one full time employee, the Rabbi, and other employees who all work part-time. These comprise 2 in administration, a caretaker, and, on average, 9 adults in the religion school. The total headcount was 17 (2024: 13).
Key management personnel comprise the trustees and the Rabbi.
During the year, the Trustees received remuneration of £nil (2024: £nil) and were not reimbursed any expenses.
During the year, the Rabbi received remuneration of £69,836 (2024: £69,836) and was reimbursed £13,242 (2024: £1,263) of expenses.
During the year, one employee received emoluments within the range of £60,000 to £69,999 (2024: one employee).
9. Net operating income
| This is stated after charging: Independent Examiner's fee 10. Tangible fixed assets Cost At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 Depreciation At 1 April 2024 Charge for Year At 31 March 2025 Net book value at 31 March 2025 31 March 2024 11. Fixed asset investments Cost or market value At 1 April 2024 Disposal at cost Withdrawals Unrealised fair value loss At 31 March 2025 Net book value at 31 March 2025 31 March 2024 |
Freehold Fixtures Land and and Buildings Fittings £ £ 161,281 77,796 - - 161,281 77,796 - 75,710 - 521 - 76,231 161,281 1,565 161,281 2,086 £ 2 - - - 2 2 2 Investment in subsidiaries |
2025 £ 9,072 Office and Computer Equipment £ 21,243 1,297 22,540 18,412 1,362 19,774 2,766 2,831 Other investments £ 777,429 (74,907) (1,806) 700,716 700,716 777,429 |
2024 £ 8,640 Total £ 260,320 1,297 261,617 94,122 1,883 96,005 165,612 166,198 Total £ 777,431 - (74,907) (1,806) 700,718 700,718 777,431 |
|---|---|---|---|
The historical cost of investments managed by Barclays is £752,615 (2024: £752,615)
Page 16
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
11. Fixed asset investments (continued)
Details of the Synagogue's dormant subsidiaries as at 31 March 2025 were as follows:
| Name of undertaking | Class of shares held |
% Held Direct |
Capital & Reserves |
Profit for the year |
Principal activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||||
| BHRS Development Limited |
Ordinary £1 shares |
100 | 1 | - | Dormant |
| BHRS Residential Limited | Ordinary £1 shares |
100 | 1 | - | Dormant |
The companies are both registered in England and Wales and have their Registered Office address as the Synagogue.
| 12. Debtors and prepayments Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 13. Cash at bank and in hand |
Unrestricted Funds £ - |
Restricted Funds £ 40,350 |
2025 £ 15,015 5,881 20,896 Total Funds 2025 £ 40,350 |
2024 £ 11,762 17,041 28,803 Total Funds 2024 £ 24,689 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Other creditors and accruals Deferred income Social security and other taxes |
2025 £ 28,327 1,195 4,691 34,213 |
2024 £ 46,409 653 4,229 51,291 |
|---|---|---|
Deferred income represents fundraising income received during the year for events taking place post year end.
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Deferred income at 1 April 2024 | 653 | 1,277 | |
| Income deferred in the year | 1,195 | 653 |
Page 17
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
| 15. Restricted funds Jewish Joint Burial Society Prayer Book Fund Fit Out Fund Youth Fund Welfare Fund Renewal Fund Scroll Repair Fund Security Fund Memorial Board Board of Deputies |
1 April 2024 £ 55,690 12,958 8,901 7,036 7,489 2,410 17,921 1,104 217 60 113,786 |
Incoming £ - 57 - - 193 - 1,105 1,107 - 90 2,552 |
Outgoing £ - 3,000 - 1,860 - - 12,938 7,722 - - 25,520 |
Transfer £ (55,690) (7,000) - - - (2,410) - 5,511 (217) (60) (59,866) |
£ - 3,015 8,901 5,176 7,682 - 6,088 - - 90 30,952 31 March 2025 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
The Jewish Joint Burial Society is a central fund to which contributions are made towards the cost of members' funerals. Peter Vos is a Trustee of this charity as well as being a member of the Synagogue's Executive.
Following clarification, the Council have concluded that the balances on the Jewish Joint Burial Society Fund (excluding the estimated charges for funeral plots) should be treated as unrestricted.
The Prayer Book Fund was set up for the maintenance and replacement of the stock of liturgical books.
The Fit Out Fund is for contributions towards the new Synagogue's fit out.
The Youth Fund was set up to assist with the costs of youth activities, mostly in connection with Reform Jewish Youth.
The Welfare Fund was set up for donations given for a welfare purpose, mostly by the Rabbi.
The Renewal Fund is for contributions to the Sussex Jewish Representative Council.
The Scroll Repair Fund was set up for the upkeep of the scrolls.
The Security Fund is for contributions towards the Community Security Trust (CST), which is responsible for the Synagogue's Security.
The Memorial Board Fund if for contributions towards memorial plaques.
The Board of Deputies Fund is for contributions towards the representative body of the Jewish community in the UK.
Page 18
BRIGHTON AND HOVE REFORM SYNAGOGUE
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the Year Ended 31 March 2025
16. Analysis of Net Assets between funds
| Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds General Designated Net Assets |
Tangible Fixed Assets £ (Note 10) - - 165,612 165,612 |
Investments £ (Note 11) - 700,718 - 700,718 |
Cash at Bank and in hand £ (Note 13) 40,350 - - 40,350 |
Other Net Assets/ (Liabilities) £ (9,398) (1,741) - (11,139) |
Total £ 30,952 698,977 165,612 895,541 |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
17. Related party transactions
David Turton,(son of the Chair, Sharon Rose) has been paid a total of £71 (2024: £651) in the year through the payroll.
Page 19