LIGHTHOUSE WEST YORKSHIRE Lighthouse (West Yorkshire) Registered Charity no. 1164239 Trustees. Annual Report 2024
Contents Objectives-whatwe are here for: How we started Developments in 2024 Ourteam Achievements Sharing the King Jesus Gospel Discipling those on the margins Building a supportive community Offering specialist pastoral care Raising up leaders Providing a training hub Servingthe city of Leeds 2024-Ayear ot Milestones 10"Anniversary Celebrations Archbishop's Visit BBC Radio interview Looking Fotward Risk Management Finance Related PartyTransactions Declaration -1 have been at Lighthouse for 6 years. Jesus saved my life. I would be dead if it wasn't for Lighthouse. Theyare myfamilyand friends. It's mysafe space.
Objectives-what we are here for The intention of Lighthouse is to work holistically with those on the margins of society, those'battered and bruised bythe storms ol life., This includes those who may struggle with issues of povety, criminality, ment81 health, substance misuse an(J addiction. We aim to share the love of God as seen in Christ in an atmosphere of mutual support and inclusion. building a supportive and life-giving community. Whilst we make clear that our support is not contingent on attending any religious services or affiliation to any particular faith, many do regard Lighthouse as 'their' Church and actively participate in the services on offef. As a Charity the trustees have had regard tothe guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit and this is discharged in seven distinct areas: 1. Sharingthe Kingjesus Gospel. 2. Discipling those on the margins. 3. Buildinga supportive community. 4. Offering specialist pastoral care. 5. Raising up leaders. 6. Providing a training hub. 7. SeIngthe City of Leeds. Information about our achievements in these seven areas is provided below. How we started The ministrywas developed in 2015 bythe pioneeringwork of the Revd Jon Swales. then a Curate at St George's Church. Leeds. He s8Wthe need among the marginalised in society. manyofwhom had cont8Ct with St George's Crypt. and actively engaged with them. In this work he received the goodwill and support of both the Church and the Crypt and the free use oftheir premises. When his Curacy ended in the summer of 2015 Revd Swales was able to continue in the role of Mission Priest due to the financial support and continued goodwill of both St George's Church and St George's Crypt. The Diocese of Leeds also 8greed to offer support by providing housing and a pension contribution. Since January 2020. the Leeds Diocese hasfully financed the Revd Swales. post as Lighthouse Mission Priest.
Developments in 2024 During 2023 the Revd Sw8les' was seconded to Lighthouse Iwestyorkshirel trom St George's Churchl the Diocese of Leeds tora term of three years. and in 2024 he continued to reportto the trustee board. The secondment agreement commits the trustees, the Bishop of Kirkstall, and the Diocese of Leeds to explore options forthe re18tionship between the charity. the Diocese. and St George's Church beyond the term of the agreement. Duringthe year lay pastors K8tie Boyes and Alice Brencher moved on to newventures and the Lighthouse community celebrated their significant contribution to the charity's work over manyyears. Jack Flowers moved into a lay pastor role and he was joined by Liz Harden and Paula Weiss. Sharon Threshef moved to a supportworked role and Daisy Reeves joined the team as our new tundraiser. 2024 saw an increased demand for emergency accommodation for Lighthouse community members and others in acute need on the streets of Leeds. Further information aboutthis emergency provision is set out in Servingthe Cityof Leeds below. Ourteam Lighthouse is a te8m ministry that includes both full time and part time staff, training roles and internships togetherwith a team oftwentyvolunteers lexcludingthe trustees). Full time posts: Revd Jon Swales is Lighthouse Team Leader. He ensures staff take responsibilityfor compliance with General Data Protection Regulation and Sateguarding. Katie Boyes- Lay Pastor (resigned April 20241 Alice Brencher- Lay Pastor Iresigned June 20241 Jack Flowers- Lay Pastor Parttime posts: Liz Harden- Lay Pastor125 hours perweekl Sarah Swales- Lighthouse Administrator {20 hours perweekl Sharon Thresher- Pastoral SupportWorker110 hours perweek) Bank staff: John Dawson- Support Worker Helen Lambert- Pastor Daisy Reeves- Fundraiser Paula Reiss~Warden Yashar Sharif - Kitchen Coordinator Isundaysl
Volunteer posts: Lighthouse Volunteers are a key dimension ofthe ministry of Lighthouse. Our volunteers help in a variety of ways: preparing hot meals, befriending the community and providing practical and pastoral support where appropriate. All volunteers are given appropriate training and the relevant legally required checks are completed. We are aware of and ensure that we complywith GDPR in all record keeping. Three volunteers with particular roles are: Helen Coutie, Finance Administrator Stuart Roberts, Pastoral Assistant Claire Newton. Volunteer Pastor and Prison Chaplain
Achievements In September 2024. the Lighthouse team and trustees reviewed progress against the charity's seven area of focus. Some highlights from 2024 are described below. 1. Sharing the King Jesus Gospel At Lighthouse we boldly share the good news of KingJesus in pastorally sensitive, highly accessible and culturally relevant ways. We seek to act as heralds of Christ's life, death. resurrection. and ascension. believing that in him the darkest day is not the final day and that there is no darkness so dark that his light cannot shine. Given this, we Ljnashamedly Proclaim and celebrate the redeeming life and work ofjesus through conversations. pastoral visits, liturgy. scripture. sung worship and sacrament. Sundays. During2024 over 125vulnerable adults whowere not known to be connected with any other church attended our Sundaycafe style service forthe first time. We have 40-60 people with us each week for a church service which precedes a meal, wheie we feed an additional 40-50 people. The focus of this service is primarily evangelistic- to share the Jesus storywith those who are unchurchedl have a very limited underst8nding of the Christian faith. In 2024 our sermon series included "Unstoppable Love" 'Rest forthe Soul" and'l Am (the sayings ofjesusl" where we shared the mess8ge ofthe gospel through dramatized readings of scripture and highly accessible teaching. Wednesdays. Ourwellbeingwednesday sessions extend a warm welcome with hot drinks, homemade cake. and provide space for support, signposting. and pastoral care. Alongside this. we explore the Bible together and engage in accessible worshiE gathering to sing, share family news (which we call Circle Timel, read scripture, and pray. In 2024. our larger group Bible studies have brought the Gospel of Mark to life in a dynamic and immersive way. With 3040 people regularly in 8ttendance, our community has stepped into the life and ministry of Jesus through interactive Bibliodrama. By donning costumes and actively participating in dramatized storyielling. we have not only deepened our understanding ofJesus' story but also experienced its relevance in our own lives. This experience has been further enriched bythe involvementof a qualified drama teacher. whojoined us as a Bankstaff P8Storfor severalweeks in September2024 and helped to elevate the qualityand depth of our performances. Following each Bible study, there is often an opportunityto respond-whether in prayer orthrough a meditative practice. One particularly powerful moment is'truth speaking.. where a pastor speaks words of affirmation over the community. such as: "You are loved. You always have been. You are loved right now. And you always will be." For
those who often feel unseen or unloved. this becomes a sacred and transformative time, where the King Jesus Gospel is not only heard but tangibly encountered through words, presence, and embrace. Immersive Easter and Christmas Experlences. During key moments in the liturgical year, such as Christmas and Easter. we offer an immersive. 60-minute dramatic experience that invites participants on a piLgrim8ge through a series ot in-church locations. With 40-50 people in attendance, members of ourteam and volunteerstake on the roles of biblical characters, bringing the story to life through scripted monologues rooted in scripture. Interwoven with these powerful narratives, and with many in the community atso in costume. we share in prayers and songs. Through this dynamic blend of storytelling. drama. and worship. the beauty and depth ofthe Christian story come alive in a deeply moving and memorable way. 2. Disciplingthose on the margins At Lighthouse we seektofollow Jesus. He is ourGood Shepherd whose life and teachings permeate and sh8pe all thatwe do. To follow Christ is to turn from a life of sin, chaos, and rebellion against God towards a life of holiness in which the teachings of Jesus are embodied and the fruits of the Spirit made manifest. This is a work of the Spirit which lasts a lifetime and is encouraged both individually (through 1.1 mentoring. coaching conversations, and prayer) and in the life ofthe community (through oufWOW courses, bible studies, healing workshops. modelling of conflict resolution and celebration of Godly playl. Small Group Healingworkshops During Lent IMarch- April 20241. we ran a 6week'Healingworkshop' programme where, each week. 8 small group of regularwednesday attendees looked at and journeyed together through the life of Joseph. Led by our specially trained and trauma- informed team. the workshops provided an opportunityto explore a variety of creative, visual and kinaesthetic approaches in self-reflection and steps towards positive and personal healing. An example is the making of'Eastef Gardens. when reflectingon how the seeds of hope can be planted in the darkest times. Small Group Blble Study. Our established small group Bible study continued to meet weeklythroughout 2024. exploring NewTestament passages with the help ofTom Wright's ForEveryone series. Though a smaller gatheringof around six men, for many. it is a deeply valued time-often described as their favourite part of the week. This bible study focuses specif ically on how to live out the Christian story in everyday life. with scripture being used to help people look at howthey can navigate trauma. loneliness, addiction and conflict. WOW! Course Marchl April Iled by Senior Pastor8lAssistant, Stuart Roberts). The second season of our 6-week Lighthouse WOW! Course, was a popular choice as folks gathered each Thursday afternoon through Lent to discover and discuss why and what
makes Christians get so excited {and say"WOW"l abouttopics such as The Bible, Jesus and The Church. The course was well attended and concluded with a special trip to Adel Parish Chuich la local Leeds churchl where the group enjoyed a guided historical tour of the church. hot drinks and delicious home baked cakes from some congregation members. Course participants were presented their completion certificates bythe church's Rector. Revd Alison Batye. Overthe summer we ran a 6-week follow up course to our earlier'WOW! Course,, called 'Walkingthe Way of WOW, which focussed on howto practically and daily live out our Christian faith. WWW-WOW! Course Junel July. We ran a 6-week follow-up course where wevisited and ran a'walkingthe Way of WOW!. course 8t6 different local Christian places of worship to be inspired and to learn moretogether about howtojourney as Christians. We visited Stjames, Church Woodside IHorsforthl, St Peter's Bramley, St Paul's Ireland Wood. Trinity University's Chapel, St Philip's Osmondthorpe and Leeds Minster. The feedback from those attenijing the course has been so encouraging and it's greatto see how many in our community have both discovered and shared howto dailyfollow God in their lives. "We were reallyprivileged to haveyou visit us and we're glad it Was 8 great day foryou Leeds Trinity University Chaplain- July2024 "It was a reallygood course. I loved visiting different types of churches. Course Attendee, July 2024 3. Buildlng a Supportive Community Through our d8y centres, group activities and regular day trips we seek to provide a Jesus centred. loving and supportive communityto some ofthe most vulneT8ble adults in ourcity. We recognise that we do not have magic wands that can make all the pain. struggles and complex needs of our Lighthouse brothers and sisters go away. However, we are committed to providing a safe space and non-judgemental. supportive environment where adults with multiple and complex needs can journeytOW8rds greater healing. wholeness. and life in all its fullness. An example of how being part of a supportive community helps facilitate healing and recoveryfor individuals at Lighthouse can be seen in this account of Steve and Paul: Both born and raised in Leeds. Steve and Paul have been known to Lighthouse for 10 years, both facing significant challenges. Paul had spentyears in and out ofprison and sofa surfing. while both struggled with addiction to cannabis. which impacted their ability to live with dignity. Due to spendingall their money on weed, they experienced foodpovertyend often appeared undeeight andgenerally in a low mood.
However. 2024 marked a turningpoint for them both. With the support of Lighthouse- through coaching. assistance with applications. encouragement. and 8 listening e8r- they each embarked on a journeyof recovery. Steve. with our encouragement and support. successfully completed a 12-step residential rehabilitation programme with one ofourpartner charities (St George's Crypt). and Paul found freedom from his life-controlling addiction through eng8ging more deeply in Lighthouse's activities. Today. their transformation is remarkable. Steve is in paid employment, and P8uI is living independently in his own flat, managing his money effectively. Both nowserve as community helpers at Lighthouse and have become role models and an inspiration to others in our community. They have regained theirhealth, gained weight, and look well-evidence of theirrenewed hope and st8bility. Off-sit8 CommunFtyTrlps & Experiences. As well as ourweekly seNices, day centres and drop-ins. our community enjoyed numerous offsite trips, where relationships naturally strengthened through positive shared experiences and memories made. Localtrips included community farms, galleries and museums-the low cost of these trips allows them to take place regularly duringthewarmer summer months. These trips are made extra special bythe addition of perks such as'posh coffees. and ice cream-small luxuries that many in our communitywould not normally allow themselves. These extras add to the positive shared experience. We also ran a successful online fundraiser appeal for a larger trip- our annual Christm8S trip to York. Whatfollows is an extractfrom our Lighthouse Supporter's Newsletter. December 2024. 'Over40 attended this offsite d8y trip. We enjoyed a visit to and tour around York Minsterand then joined their Midday Communion Service where ourgroup were invited to proudly sing'Give Thanks with a Grateful He8rt" for the congreg8tion. We then headed over to St Olave s Church where we were given a very warm welcome by their team who served us with hot drinks whilst we enjoyed ourpicnic lunch in their beautiful church. In the afternoon, we split into 2 groups." I group ventured over to enjoy looking at the trains at the National Railway Museum whilst anothergroup were taken on a walking tour of York includingalong the City Walls. The Shambles and the Christmas Market. Some quotes from our community 8bout the day: "Fantastic day to spend with myLighthouse f8mily." aking Communion at York Minster was an amazing experience. "H8d a wondertul time with the family. Lighthouse you are the best." "F8ntasti¢ dayl Good times with good people.
- Offering specialist pastoral care Lighthouse continues to provide specialised pastoral care to some of the most vulnerable adults in the city of Leeds. Our approach is nonclinical. holistic and trauma- informed, fusing mature understandings of addiction with the hope of the gospel. During 2024we worked closely with Adult Socialcare in offering care provision and assistingwith emergency overnight accommodation as well as working 81ongside other 8gencies and charities in the city supporting those on the margins, such as St George's Crypt, Unity in Poverty Action (UPAI and Mental Health Services. Our close relationship with St George's Crypt has not only continued but deepened. This year. we were able to refer multiple individuals to Growing Rooms, their residential rehabilitation project in Leeds. Forexample. at differenttimes, we supported I0 individuals battling8ddi¢tion-one mal8 and one female-who were both street homeless. in deep distress, and desperate to break free from substance dependency. They first engaged with us through our lunchtime service, where Lighthouse provided one-to-one recovery coaching and immediate crisis intervention. We secured overnight accommodation for them while facilitating their referral into Growing Rooms rehab. Reflecting on this journey, Lee shares: "Lighthouse 100% gave me the chance to change my life. Everything they have done for me. I really appreciate. They helped me join the dots-from street homelessness to rehab to recovery." Wewere also able to referlmo individuals in our communityto Mattersey Hall. for Christian-based residential rehabilitation. training and support for those who are in recovery. They have loved theirtime there and are beingtrained and prepared forthe workplace and Christian leadership. The training. experience. and expertise of the Lighthouse team allows us to provide specialised supportfor individualswith complex mental he81th challenges. We assist in identitying. establishing, and maintaining relevant support networks, including services such as Adult Social Care, housing options. the Home Off ice. and refugee support services. Additionally, our team actively engages in establishing and attending professional meetings16 professionals meetings in 20241. while also offering practical and pastoral support by accompanying individuals to any in-person meetings. An example of our speci81ist intervention can be seen in the account below: Geoff andjames (not their re81 names) have been livingat the bus st8tion-Geoff for three ye8rs andJ8mes since July 2023. Due to 8 combination of mental health challenges and immigration status, they have slipped through the cracks of the system. unable to access housing benefits or the usu81 emergencyaccommodation routes. This ongoing instability has hada significant impact on theirmental health. James is repeatedly8tt8cked on the streets and has, at time5. been hospit81ised8s a sult.
io Lighthouse has been a place of support and advocacy for them both. We provide pastoral care. liaise with professional services. and raise concerns with adult SOCI81 care to advoc8te for capaGity assessments and human rights assessments. 80th Geoff andjames regularlyaccess our day centre. finding safety. security. and a sense of family. Sometimes, it's simply 8 place to rest. In 2024, Lighthouse provided them with respite B&B accommodation for an 8vera8e of two nights a week, increasing support during colder weather orperiods ofacute mental distress. We don't know what the future holds for either of them, but what we do know is this.. we have shown kindness, offered st8bility, and demonstrated care that has reduced suicidal thoughts andgiven them hope-hope that soméone is standing with them. fighting their corner. and working to bringclarity to their situation. Emergen¢yAccommodatlon: A Ltfeline in Crisls. In 2024. Lighthouse provided 257 nights of emergency accommodation in hotets. supportingGeoff and James as well as many othervulnerable individuals. Some placements were arranged through informal referrals from the Council Street Support team. while others involved ourteam acting as navigators-helping individuals who, due to anxietyordistress. were unableto access housing services on their own. Much of the cost forthisvital support was covered bythe Household Support Fund, with permission from our grant distributor to allocate funds specifically for emergency overnight accommodation. ThroLbgh this provision. we have offered safety, dignity, and a crucial stepping stone toward more stable housing. 5. Raising up leaders Lighthouse provides an immersive learningenvironmentwhere emerging leaders can develop giftings, skills and grow in confidence to lead and serve those on the margins alongside more seasoned leaders who invest generously in their spiritual formation. personal and theological development. Through receiving placement students from several theological colleges. we can invest in a range of emerging leaders whogo on to serve as leaders in both the church and widerworld. In 2024. we welcomed Jack and Liz as Lighthouse Pastors. Jacktransitioned into church ministryfrom education. while Liz brought pastoral experience from Vineyard Church. Throughout the year Revd Jon Swales. Lighthouse Mission Priest. invested in theirtraining and development. Bythe end of 2024. both Jack and Liz were equipped to lead all aspects of Lighthouse worship, including preaching. le8ding, circle time. and small groups. Jack comments, -This lastyearatLighthouse Ihave beengiven a multitude or leadership development opportunities working with Jon to lead in 811 different aspects of what happens in the d8y-to-day life of Lighthouse. I have been stretched and challenged throughout the yearand have felt encouraged 8nd supportedat all times.
li Jon has been a great coach. through form81 and informal Gonversations and check-ins. And he has particu18rlybeen a huge help in guiding me through theologic81 thought and study." Liz otters these thoughts. -since joiningLighthouse. I have had the chance to delve deeper theologicallyinto understanding the purpose of the Cross 8nd the l am s, of Jesus through team study and input. Jon has effectively coached and trained me as I support him in leading the MMTM course, giving me the opportunity to lead and teach. Lighthouse has been and continues to be inspirational in demon5tratingwh8t it looks like to love the poorand follow in Jesus. footsteps to build community in the margins. I have loved beingpart of this pioneering and dynamic team that 15 Stretching me while f8cilitating opportunities for ongoing healing and spiritual growth. n previous years. Rev'd Jon Swales has supported the Lantern project, and this continues through one-to-one meetings with their ministry lead and telephone support. Additionally. he now provides coachingand mentorship to Angela, who has recently begun Christian ministry with vulnerable individuals atour Father's House-a 12-step recoveryeveningfor those in addiction and recovery-and Leeds Homeless Pastors. Jon connects with Angela multiple times a week, offering guidance. signposting. and leadership insights to support her in this vital work. Angela comments. "I was truly blessed to be introduced to Jon Sw81es and the Lighthouse Church/Ministry lastye8r after f81thfully and obedientlysteppingout of my career to follow God's c811ing on my life. At the time. I had no idea just how imp8cttul both Jon and the Lighthouse community would be in shaping myjourney with the Lord. Lighthouse has been a shining example of what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. loving. serving. and standing alongside those who are broken. lost. and hurting. Through this ministry, I have witnessed firsthand the powerof offering light in the d8rkness. beingan 8nGhorin the storms of life for those facinghomelessness, addiction. mental health struggles. trauma. and more. Jon has given me excellent supeNision as I navigate ministry on the margins and the challenges it brings. He has been an incredible mentor-always available byphone. email, or in person offering guidance. grace. patience. and wisdom. He listens, guides, and supports with 8 deep understanding of the complexities of front-line ministry. His leadership has been invaluable in equipping me to serve with both compassion and resilience. Placement Students. Our on-going relationshipwith Cranmer Hall. Durham la Church of England ordination training college) saw us welcome an ordinand on a two-week placement as part of her training. The ordinand was given opportunities to shadow, learn, reflect and then contribute to 8nd lead in various aspects of our day to day ministry. including leading our interactive, dramatized Wednesday Bible study and speaking at our Sunday lunchtime service. Here are some reflections from Phoebe lordinandl 8bout her placement:"Heartfelt thanks to Jon and the Lighthouse team for welGoming me on pl8Gement over the first ouple of weeks in July. It was 8 real privilege to spend time chatting and being with
12 members of the lovely Lighthouse community, talkingabout faith. praying and worshipping together. The p18cement has built up myconfidence to come alongside all kinds of people. listen well and build relationships. It was fantastic to see how well the Gospel is conveyed at Lighthouse and then a helpful experience for me, to have a go at preaching in the unique context ofSund8y worship at the Crypt. Jon's example of ordained ministry. lived with absolute dedication 8nd integrity. h8s been helpful for me as a student to witness and learn from. All the team were generous in supporting me and making me feel like I belonged, and in answering mymany questions. The practicalities of the placement were well thought-through. and I was well-prepared for what I might experienGe, through the documents that were sent ahead to me. Altogether the placement has blessed me with lots of valuable experiences of God s love to draw on. a greater depth of understanding of life on the margins. and helped form my sense of vocation for future ministry. I will recommend Lighthouse 85 an excellentplace to come on placement to my fellow ordinands. Placement student Phoebe Power, ordinand 8t Cranmer Hall, Durham. July 24 6. Providing a tralning hub Lighthouse acts as a training hub and continues to welcome and offer opportunities for other individuals and churches within the diocese and beyond who are seekingto serve orwho are alreadyworkingwith those on the margins of society. Through our online courses, teaching at Conterences and specialist coaching and placement opportunities, we seek to encourage the wider church and provide a model of engagement and ministrythat can be replicated elsewhere. A number of these were supported by Lighthouse through 2024, all expressingtheir gratitude and valued positive time spentwith ourteam and community: "A smallgroup of us from Christ Church UpperArmley came to visit the Lighthouse Drop-in on Wednesday the 70 April to see if we could le8rn to apply to our W8fm Welcome session. We all came away deeply inspired by the honesty of those who were takingpart. The atmosphere was supportive and positive and despite the challenges people fa¢ed. there was a sense ofhopeful realism and of fun and support. "We chatted. played table tennis. coloured in. took part in circle time. and joined in the worship. I loved seeingpeople engage so authenticallyin sharing and in th8 worship thatjon led. °We hope to keep connected and are reallygrateful for the ideas 8nd inspiration th8t we received.- Revd Phil Arnold, Vicar. Christ Church. Upper Armley (April 2024}
13 OnllneTraining Course:'Ministry. Mission &Theologyon the Margins, Course. 29 students joined our online Mission. Theology and Ministry on the Margins course in September 2023. This is a course thatwe teach via zoom one evening a month forten months, concluding in July 2024. 100% of course respondents said it was good value for money and that they would recommend it to others.. -E8ch session has left me w8nting more. The content has been re811yhelpful throughout and the convenience of it being online has made itpossible for me to attend. I now have a better understanding of some of the mod81s of addiction and the effects of trauma help me to sustain the journey with them. Doing the MTMM course has also given me greater8ppreciation of God's heart forjustiGe and just how much Jesus focussed on the marginalised makes me love God more and understand his kingdom purposes better. .1 have found all the topics so helpful in my work with rough sleepers. I have loved the theologybut also the examples shared from the Lighthouse. It was great to have topics like Lament, which are $0 relevant but rarely spoken about. The leaders have such extensive experience ofliving this out. Their examples are full ofre81ism but also hope, love and confidence in a powerful, loving God. They8re an inspiration. "The content of the course has been perfect to help my training formy role as 8 Pastor working with vulnerable and marginalisedpeople in my community. There have been too manypositives to list them all here but for me. the highlights have been the clear introduction to bestpractice when it comes to providingpastoral support to individuals with complex needs and this isn'tjust theoretical but comes from real life experience. I feel equipped to be able to explain key theological concepts around the issues of justice, suffering and evil from 8 biblical perspective. The session on justice and the heart of God was another highlight for me. I would absolutely recommend this course to anybody wanting to work with those 'bruised and battered by the storms of life,. Peterchappelle, Homeless Pastors. Halifax 2023124 MTMM Course Beginning in September 2024, our current Mission, Theology, and Ministryforthe Margins IMTMMI Course120241251 has welcomed 41 students. including 11 participants from The Homeless Pastors as part oftheir training programme. In March 2024. Dave Fawcett. DirectorofThe Homeless Pastors, shared his reflections on the impact ofthis partnership: 'Jon and the team atLighthouse in Leeds have been 8n incredible source of support- both personallyand in the formation of my charity, The Homeless Pasfors. I first attended the Ministry in the Margins course in 2022. and the teaching had such profound impact that I now want to share it with potential Homeless Pastors as part of a structured 72-month trainingprogramme, launching this August.
14 One of our 2024-2025 MTMM cohort. currently ministering in a frontline contextwrites. "The Mission. Ministry, 8nd Theology on the Margins course has also been inv81uable in preparing me to W81k 81ongside people affected by homelessness. addiction. trauma. and mental health challenges. It has deepened my understanding and strengthened my ability to seNe with wisdom. comp8Ssion, and faith. I look forw8rd with excited 8nticipation to how God will continue to use these new skills to lead me further into my calling." Undergraduate Opportunlties. In Janu8ry2024 we welcomed back an undergraduate student we previously had on placement. Lady Boamah. 3 student atTrinity University. Leeds, produced a short Lighthouse documentary entitled'ln the presence ofLove-A Lighthouse Documentaty. This useful resource has been added to ourwebsite. 7. Serving the City of Leeds Strengthenlngour CItyThrough Partnership and Advocacy. Lighthouse plays a key role in supporting Leeds. homeless community by hostingthe Homeless Charter meetings-an essential forum that unites a diverse network ofagencies committed to tackling homelessness. These gatherings bring together individuals with lived experience. grassroots organisations. the council. commissioned services. charities. faith communities, and churches. By facilitating these discussions, Lighthouse helps shape policies and initiatives that directly impact the city's most vulnerable residents. In addition to hosting lived experience conversations with city centre partners. Lighthouse ensures that thevoices ofthose affected by homelessness and hardship are centralto decision-making. One of the most significant outcomes of this work has been our contribution to the development of SHAP, a multi-million-pound homelessness strategy designed to provide long-term support tor entrenched rough sleepers across Leeds. As part of this. twenty Lighthouse community members were invited to sharetheir insights in a dedicated consultation session. This provided a valuable plattorm for Leeds Citycouncil and Forward Leeds, whose twenty delegates participated in the discussion. The session. chaired by Revd Jon Swales in partnership with Unity in PovertyAction IUPAI. reinforced the importance of lived experience in shaping meaningful change. Lighthouse also continues to co-hostthe qu8rterly Homeless Charter meetings alongside UPA. These gatherings bring together council teams. housing providers, grassroots organisations. and charities. fostering collaboration and coordinated responses to homelessness. Each meeting includes a reflection by Revd Jon Swales. grounding discussions in compassion andjustice. Beyond these efforts. Lighthouse 8Ctively contributes to key Homeless Charter workinggroups:
15 Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. Christian Addiction Connection. As part ofthis work. Jon recently led an in-person and virtual session on Lighthouse's approach to suicide prevention. This focused on creating safe spaces. effective signposting. and coaching-demonstratingour ongoingcommitment to supporting those in crisis. Expanding Our Mission Through Partnershlps. In 2024. Lighthouse deepened its engagement across Leeds, forging new partnerships to extend our reach and impact. A key developrnent has been our collaboration with the Churches Conservation TrLJSt ICCTI, allowing us to use Stjohn's Church-one ofthe city's historic and culturally signif iGant sites. Currently open to visitors just twice a month. St John's is now a vital resource for Lighthouse, offering office and pastoral space. Looking ahead. we are in the early stages of launching an Ambassador Scheme. designed to provide meaningful volunteering and training opportunities for Lighthouse community members. Participants will gain skills in areas such as churctt history. cleaning. and tour guiding. with a long-term vision of reopening st John's to the public-led by Lighthouse members as trained guides. Mark Sproat. Lead Loc81 Communityofficer (Northl at CCT. shared: 'As the Churches Conservation Trustprepares to launch Strategy 2025-30, 1 am enthusiastic about a potential p8rtnership Mth Lighthouse at Stjohn's the Evangelist. Leeds. Conservation. Community. and Creativity will guide ccr's work over the next five years. and this project embodies all three-harnessing the creativity of the Lighthouse community while conserving this historic site. Stjohn's once served the parishioners of Leeds City Centre, and this initiative presents a fantastic opportunity for it to once again support some of the city's most vulnerable residents. Through our partnership with Lighthouse, we look forward to 818Sting felationship that benefits both their service users and the widerpublic. Alongside this. Lighthouse continues to strengthen its relationship with Leeds Minster. Occasionalvisits have opened the door to deeper collaboration, and as we look towards 2025. we are exploring the possibility of launching 8 Drop-ln Service specifically aimed at supporting rough sleepers further reinforcing our shared commitmentto serving those in need. Celebratlng Communlty and Creativity. Lighthouse is also engaged in wider creative and community-driven initiatives. In June. we were invited to participate in a local book launch featuring poetry bySurfinE Sofas. a poet with lived experience of homelessness. This event followed previous poetry-writingworkshops held during ourwednesdayday centre, which encouraged community members to reflect on their experiences through creative expression.
16 Providing emergencyaccommodation. Between April 2024 and March 2025 LHWY provided 257 nights ol accommodation to 44 different individuals. Most accommodation was provided to a small number of individuals who are established members of Lighthouse. The cost ofthis provision was £12.084 and this was supported byan allocation from the Household Support Fund of £8.100 and otherfundr8ising specificallyforemergency accommodation. LHWY team and trustees continue towork with Leeds City Council. St George's Crypt and other partners to coordinate the provision of emergency accommodation and to minimise the risk that this is abused. A monthly breakdown of this emergency provision is provided below. 2024 Aprll May June July August Septèmber Nlghtg 26 16 24 21 Mo108 Total 13 Co$t E1.174.56 £816.76 1 £405.45 1 £1.137.34 | E301.55 £1.058.80 2024 2025 2024125 October No¥gmb•r Decembor January February March TotaL 12 months Nlghts 17 63 23 18 27 257 M4l•s 31 Femal9* 13 Total 12 Co¥t £243.34 É1,029.91 £2.468.131 É1,085.14 1 £1.047.85 £1.314.89 E12,083.72 Note- More than 50% of bed spaces were provided forfive individuals well-known to Lighthouse. 8096 of bed spaces were provided to 15 individuals.
17 2024 A Year of Milestones 10th Anniversary CelebTations. January marked 8 major milestone for Lighthouse- our 10th Birthday! We celebrated with a lively Birthday Party during our Wednesday drop-in. complete with traditional party games. dancing, birthday cake, partyfood, and even a jelly and ice cream station. On 18th April. we hosted a Celebration Service at St George's Church to mark a decade of ministry and impact. The event featured powerful testimonies and stories of transformation. reminding us otthe love and hope tound in Jesus. Guestswere welcomed with pre-service drinks and nibbles, and the service concluded with a short message and prayers forthe Lighthouse team from The Right Reverend Arun Arora, Bishop of Kirkstall. We were also delighted to hear Bishop Arun announce that he will off icially become Lighthouse's patron in early2025. Archblshop's Vlsit. On 20th April, we had the honour of welcomingthe Archbishop of York. Stephen Cottrell. as part of his tour celebrating the Diocese of Leeds, 1 Oth Anniversary. Hejoined us at St George's Crypt for a Lighthouse-style morning prayer. followed by conversations over coffee with ourteam and community members. Later that day. Jon Swales alsojoined Bishop Arun at Bradford Cathedralforthe Leeds@10 Celebration Service, where he shared about Lighthouse's vitalwork and ministry. BBC Radlo Interview. In May, Revd Jon Swales was invited to speak on BBC Radio Leeds. Sheflield & York about Lighthouse's mission and his personal faith journey raising awareness of ourwork and its impact on the community.
18 Looking Foard Buil(Jingon thefoundations of2024. Lighthouse is committed to expanding its work through the following key initiatives: Opening a drop-in for street homeless individuals at Leeds Minster, providing a safe and welcoming space for support and connection. Launchingthe St John's Ambassador Scheme. equipping Lighthouse community members with training and volunteer opportunities to help reopen St John's Church to the public. Responding to the housing crisis by exploring, in partnership with Unity in PovertyAction and Leeds Citycouncil, the possibilityof churches in Leeds opening a winter night shelter. Planningfor the future of the MTMM course {Mission, Theologyand Ministryfor the Margins). which Lighthouse has co-hosted with Leeds School ofTheologyfor severalyears. With LSOT closing. we will need to develop 8 plan to continue MTMM from 2026 onwards. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to justice. hospitality. and community transforrn8tion in Leeds. Risk Management The major risks to the ch8rityare: Failure to obtain the necessaryfundingto support the work. This has been managed bytwo appointments: a trustee with specific oversight of fin8nce and a part-time fundraiser. Team burn-out. Regular professional supeNision of Lighthouse Core Team continues. and st8ff wellbeing is the responsibility of a specific trustee. Each CoreTearn Member has an allowance to cover costs for a retreat. Our prime responsibility is forthe safety and welfare ofthe vulnerable adults we SLJPPOrt. During the year the Lighthouse team and trustees continued to receive safeguarding supportfrom thirtyone-eight and maintained a close working relationship with the Leeds Diocese SafeguardingTeam.
19 Finances We are fortunate to have a trustee who is a professionallyqualified accountant as our tre8surer. We have no funds materially in def icit and the tnjstees are satisf led that the charity is 8 going concern. We operate our finances within 8 Financial Controls Policy overseen bythe treasurer. Income In 2024the Charity continued to receive financial support from St Geoige's Church (£10.0001, and St George's Crypt1£20.0001 as well as smaller donations from other organisations totalling circa £1.000. Approximately £35,OOOwas received from individual supporters comprising regular contributions as well as generou5 one-off donations. St George's Church and Crypt also supportthe Gharity by providingfree use of meeting space for the core team and for Lighthouse sessions. We also received grants in 2024totalling £30.450, Comprising: Unrestricted grant income Marsh Christian Trust £800 TheWh8rtedale Foundation £7.000 Total unrestricted grant incomg £7.800 Restricted grant incom6 Norman WhitelyTrust-for Day Centre Charles and Elsie Sykes Trust-for Day Centre LCC-Household Support Fund LCCTIUPA- Household Support Fund Other anonymous charities Total restrlcted grant Income £500 £2,500 £2.200 £6.750 £10.700 £22,650
20 Through discussion with Adult Social Care (ASC), Lighthouse has been entrusted to provide some ofthe required care and support fora small number of clients. The funding received in 2024 from Leeds City Council of £33,82112023.' £35,430) is identified in our accounts as a 'restricted' fund. Expenditure incurred to support these clients Isalary. rent, utilities, food allowance, carer support etc.) are shown as being paid from 'restricted' funding. To meet other indirect costs incurred by Lighthouse Ifor example administration, ad hoc staff support in response to a crisis etc.) any year end surplus of this fun(ling is transferred to 'unrestricted' funds. ASC are in full agreementwith this 8rrangement. In addition. we have an arrangement with one individualwho is unable to manage their benefits to hold money in the Lighthouse bank account and feed money to them in small amounts. As Lighthouse prepares receipts and payments accounts. these monies1£23.2431 have been included in both income and expenditure. Expenditure Our principle spend of circa £95.000 for staff salaries is to provide the high level of one- to-one pastoral support that enables us to connect effectivelywith those on the margins of society and build a supportive community. In addition. circ8 £41,000 was spent to provide materials for sessions or direct support to individuals through. for example. covering travel costs orgiving emergencyfunding. Reserves The Trustees have felt it prudent to have a policy wherebythe unrestricted funds held by the Charity should be approximately 3 months ofgross runningcosts which equates to approximately £40-45k. On 31 st December 2024 the unrestricted funds of the Charity stood at c. £99k. The reserves policy will be reviewed annually. Note: The charityhas no guarantees ordebts outstanding. Related Party Transactions Under the terms of Lighthouge's constitution St George's PaTo¢hial Church Council IPCCI may nominate or recommend up to three trusteestothe Lighthouse Board and StGeorge's Crypt Iiegistered chafity 11444741 may ngminate or recommend up lo two trustees to the Lighthouse Board. Accordingly. St George's Church and St George's Crypt are considered related parties due to this governing document arrangement and the mutual trustees. As noted in the Finances section above. during the year Lighthouse received donations from St George's Church amountingto £10.000 and donations from St George's Crypt amounting to £20,000. These transactions were made in the normal course of the charity's operations and on an arm's length basis.
21 In addition. during the year Lighthouse arranged regular workshop-based activities for groLSPS of its clients at Horsforth Shed Iregistereij charity 11846721 for which Lighthouse paid fees amounting to £4.628. In the interests of tiansparency we are disclosing these transactions as Jonathan Cain is Chair of Trustees of both charities, but the two charities are not regarded as related parties and the terms of engagementwere agreed on an arm's length basis. No other related party transactions requiring disclosure were identified during the year. Charity and Trustee Details Charity name: Registered charity number: Charity's principal address: Lighthouse Iwest Yorkshire) 1164239 St George's Church Great George Street Leeds LS13BR Type ofgoverning document Constitution (Foundation Flegistered 03 Nov 2015 as amended on 11 Jul 20231 Charitable Incorporated Organisation Appointed by agreement of the trustees. How the charity is constituted Trustee selection methods "The Constitution 8nticipates the nomination of up to three trustees by St George's Church {registered charity no. 11317981 and up totwo trustees by St George's Crypt (registered charity no. 11444741 Names of the charitytrustees who manage the charity N. Bishop A. Bisset H. Bown-Brownridge J. Cain D Pilling A. Wilcock P. Wilcock C. Wilson J. Woodhead Treasurer Chair Appointed February 2025 Resigned September 2024 Resigned Febru8ry 2024 Independent Examiner: N. Wyatt Wyatt & Co Chartered Accountants, Leeds. LS6 1NP
22 Names of senior staff members.. Revd Jonathan Swales Katie Boyes Jack Flowers Liz Harden Team Leader Senior Pastor (resigned May 20241 Senior Pastor (appointed January 2024 Senior Pastor (appointed May 20241 Trustee Matters The charitywas registered as a CIO on 03 November 2015. The charitytrustees undertake to make available to each new charity trustee. on or before their first appointment copies of or access to: 181 The current version of the constitution. Ibl The CIO'S latestTrustees' Annual Report and statement of accounts. IclThe Ch8rityCommission's guidance ofthe role of the trustee. Idl The trustee declaration of being a 'fit and proper, person document. le) The Lighthouse Handbook. The charity is aware ofthe guidance on diversity and inclusion and is actively seekingto expand the board oftrustees. The trustees with specific roles 8re'. Nick Bishop120161- Specialist knowledge of mental health. addiction, and Adult Social care Chris Wilson {20221-Safeguarding until February 2024 Jamie Woodhead12023}-Safegvarding from March 2024 Helen Bown Brownridge120221- HR matters Revd Jonathan Cain120221- Staff wellbeing. & Chair ofTrustees Andy Bisset (20211- Treasurer The Revd Jon Swales (Lighthouse Team Leaderl continues to attend trustees. meetings to infoFm discussions, but does not havevoting rights.
23 Declaration The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees, report above. Signed on beh8lfofthe charity's trustees: Signatures 4aL ifv• Full names Jonathan Cain Nick Bishop Chair of Trustees Trustee Dat 27 othLLr Lz£
CHARITY COMMISSION IC* EL)IlDJ0 w15 Lighthouse Iwest Yorkshi) 1164239 Receipts and payments accounts CC16a For the wrood To 01-J8n-24 31-C%cp24 Section A Receipts and payments Unmtrictsd funds Reslrl¢ted lundg Endowment funds Total funds Last year tolhe nthv••t É toth• DMt••t£ ¢0 lh• tl•4TMt É A1 Recelpts tX)NATIONS GPANTS LEEDS CtTr COUNCIL CONTR4CT TO PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR CLIENTS GIFf AIO CLAIM COURSE FEE INCOME OTHER INCOME 68.J61 ,516 40,380 22,6SQ 67,C43 3S.430 2,8S1 6.369 2.851 4.804 J,66S ss income AR) 79.713 163,902 152,796 set an 18W table). n¥eslment sa Total receipts A3Pa SALARIES PASTOPAL CARE EXPENDrnJRE RESOURCES STAFF SUPERVISK)N. TRA1141P4G AND WELFARE FUNO RAISING OThER 95.3¥0 46,7 105.860 2Y,074 11,S6S 4,598 1D.413 42.112 632 3,898 $1 3.967 5•1 S1 6,662 Sub total BS.WJ9 163,SS4 153,570 A4 Ass•t and InNf8tm•rrt urch$ See tsble Sub total 85.909 163.554 153,57Q Net of receipts/(paymentsJ AS Trnn$fer¥ bèts¥een funds A6 Cash funds last yèar end Cash funds this year end 2.068 428 99,439 11.248 110,687 110,25 CCXX R1 accounts ISSI 2411012025
Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period Unre8tricted lund Rèstricted fund8 tra É Endowrn¢nt fund8 to n••rwt E C¥tegorl•• Details tolare•l£ B1 Cash funds &ANK ACCOUNT 8B.966 STEWARDSHIP ACCOUNT PEftY CASH 77 Total cash fund$ 99,439 11,248 Unrostrlcted furKI$ Rg8tri¢ted fund# to rwwt E Endowment fund• to neare¥i£ Detalls --••44 Fundto whlch O••d b• Cunvnt v81 on•1 Details Cot ¢oFDlI whlch Sel b•kJn current Detslls ¢o•t lopOon•ll 84 Ass•ts retained for th• charity's own uso Fund to hlch Ahwntduè When ( Dglalls B5 Llabillties SYJned by one or lx) tru$l8es on b¢haLlof all the Iruslees Date of roval Signature Pnnt Name £ AIILIIQ fohl IS c*ifvJ DL17oz CCXX R2 accounis ISSI 2111D12025
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Lighthouse (West Yorkshire) ('the charity') for the year ended 31/12/2024.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the trustees of the charity you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).
I report in respect of my examination of the charity's financial statements 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
I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
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accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or
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the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
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the financial statements 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.
Nigel Wyatt BSC FCA Date: 27/10/2025 Independent Examiner 125 Main Street Garforth Leeds LS25 1AF