Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 1168391
Black Country Circuit Unaudited Financial Statements 31 August 2025
TC GROUP
3B Swallowfield Courtyard Wolverhampton Road Oldbury West Midlands B69 2JG
Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Financial Statements
Year ended 31 August 2025
| Pages | |
|---|---|
| Trustees' annual report | 1 to 10 |
| Independent examiner's report to the trustees | 11 |
| Statement of financial activities | 12 |
| Statement of financial position | 13 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 14 to 22 |
Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report
Year ended 31 August 2025
The trustees present their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 August 2025.
Reference and administrative details Registered charity name Black Country Circuit Charity registration number 1168391 Principal office Circuit Office Leabrook Methodist Church Leabrook Road North Wednesbury WS10 7LY The trustees Those authorised to sign on behalf of the Black Country Circuit meeting are: Revd D Williams Mr D Ashfield Mrs H Allen Independent examiner Philippa Miller-Hawkes BA CA 3B Swallowfield Courtyard Wolverhampton Road Oldbury West Midlands B69 2JG
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Structure, governance and management
The governing document for the Circuit is the Deed of Union (1932) and Methodist Church Act (1976)
Detailed governance arrangements are outlined within the Constitutional Practice and Discipline of the Methodist Church by order of the annual conference (CPD).
Day to day management of the Circuit is undertaken by the Circuit Leadership Team.
The members of the Black Country Circuit meeting are the Charity Trustees, membership being made up of circuit office holders, ministers and representatives appointed by the local churches.
Members of the Black Country Circuit meeting are as follows:
Ministers
Revd Ruth Childs Revd Denise Williams Revd Juliet Kisob Revd Carole Holden (Supernumerary)
Lay-workers
Mrs Karen Belcher (Administrator) Mrs Heather Pearce (Pastoral Worker) Mrs Elizabeth Dean (Family Worker)
Local Preachers and Worship Leader Representatives
Mr Trevor Allen Mrs Jean Mason
Circuit Stewards
Mrs Helen Allen (joint Senior Circuit Steward) Mr Donald Anderson (until 31/08/2025)
Mr David Ashfield (joint Senior Circuit Steward)
Mr Ian Belcher Mr Malcolm Freeman
Mr Ian Palfreyman Mr Christopher Pearce (also Local Preachers Secretary) Ms Shirley Shelton (until 31/08/2025)
Circuit Treasurer
Mr Malcolm Freeman (nominated Circuit Steward for Treasurer role)
Circuit Officers (Property)
Mr Donald Anderson (until 31/08/2025) Mr Alex Cooksey (until 31/08/2025)
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Structure, governance and management (continued)
Other Officers
Mr Stephen J Allen - Circuit Eco-lead Mr Ian Belcher (Circuit Safeguarding Co-ordinator)
Circuit Representatives to Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury District Synod
Mrs Helen Allen Mr Stephen Allen
Circuit Church Representatives to Circuit Meeting
Beeches Road - Mrs Grace Peumalu, Mr Robert Peumalu
Charlemont - Miss Linda Haywood, Mr Paul Reynolds
Hill Top - Mrs Joan Howes, Marlene Turner
Lea Brook - Judith Palfreyman
Methodist Centre - Mrs Jennifer Bibb, Mrs Vanessa Hill
New Road - Lorraine Morris, Chris Allen
Roseville - Mrs Sylvia Morran, Mrs Kathryn Turner, Mr Ronald Turner
Ryders Green - Mr Terry Dawson, Mr Alex Cooksey
St Andrews - Mrs June Davies, Miss Margaret Morgan
Tipton Green - Mrs Marjorie Ashfield, Mrs Rosemary Jones, Miss Susan Sandbrook
Toll End - Mrs Pauline Hodgetts, Miss Kim Pollard
Wednesbury (Central & Woods) - Ian Thomson, Mary Ann Thomson, Valerie Partridge, Karen James
Wesley - Mr Ian Collett, Mr Malcolm Wills, Mrs Miriam Wills
Trustee Training
A range of guidance is 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.
Circuit financial plans for the coming year have been prepared on the basis that there remain three full time ordained staff with anticipated cost of living stipend increases but with an increased, subsidised cost, of our administrator and any ministerial support worker that may be appointed.
The future number of churches in the Circuit cannot be predicted at present but, especially in view of the financial situation of some churches; the number of services to be covered in the Preaching Plan coupled with the number of presbyters in post and the reduction in lay preachers, there is a likelihood that some will close.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Structure, governance and management (continued)
Two churches continue to hold zoom worship (Sunday and Tuesday evenings, fortnightly) which we expect will continue, alongside some circuit seasonal reflections (Advent & Lent) also being held on the zoom platform. The Circuit's sub-committee structure has been working well, over the next 6-12 months, the Circuit Leadership Team will undertake a review of the sub-committee structures; the structure continues to provide a valued way for lay persons to support Presbyters.
No additional lay workers were appointed during this financial year, the support from our three part-time lay workers (a Circuit Administrator, a Pastoral Worker and a Family Worker) continues to be appreciated by presbyters and churches. The employment of lay workers to support presbyters and volunteers at circuit and church level is something we will continue to explore.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Objectives and activities
Aims and Organisation
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 Circuit produces a quarterly preaching plan to ensure that regular acts of worship take place at each of the 12 Methodist Churches in its geographical area. The Black Country Circuit is constituted to offer acts of worship in its church communities and to further the mission of the Church in Tipton, West Bromwich & Wednesbury. With our primary internal function being that of Christian worship, we organise acts of worship in each of the 12 worshipping Methodist churches in the Circuit every Sunday, with our superintendent also leading worship monthly at the Anglican/Methodist LEP in the circuit too.
Our internal structure is based on a Circuit Meeting which meets twice a year; a Local Preachers' meeting which meets four times a year; Circuit Leadership Team meetings throughout the year, and Staff Meetings which normally meet fortnightly. We endeavour to make our meetings more than just 'talking shops'; they are the place where important decisions are made and within them, we plan our strategies and fulfil our role as Charity Trustees.
Since the start of January 2025, Local Preachers are offered the opportunity to meet together for CPD on a bi-monthly basis for a series "Learning Together" sessions exploring many aspects of preaching, including use of music, dealing with "difficult" Sundays and exploring ways to make Sunday worship more accessible to all.
Public Benefit
We confirm the trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Achievements and performance
The financial year for year ended 31st August 2025 was similar to recent previous years, and one of consolidation. Many of our churches continue to struggle with ageing membership and people reluctant to take on leadership roles. The circuit has maintained its commitment from 2019 not to impose significant increases in finance requirements to the circuit from the individual churches; this is to be reviewed in the next financial year as costs associated with the circuit are increasing. Churches are being reminded to review their own finances to ensure appropriate use of resources.
As reported in last year's report, the sale of Park Methodist Church completed in September 2024, proceeds from which have been added to reserves funds which will continue to be used for ongoing financial support of the circuit.
Hallam Street Methodist Church ceased to worship in 2021/22, the management of the building then became a circuit responsibility with two organisations using the premises on a regular basis - Hallam Street Community Project and Anchor Church of God in Christ. Unfortunately sharing use of the building was not without its difficulties and rent received was not always meeting increasing costs of utilities, with not inconsiderable time spent by Circuit Leadership Team Property & Finance sub-group on managing property, a decision was taken that the premises will be sold as soon as possible in the next financial year. The Community Project ceased to use the premises with effect from 31st March 2025 and notice will be given to Anchor COGIC for the premises to be vacated by 31st October 2025 to facilitate the sale.
We continue to house two Ukrainian families in two of our former Manses, the families we have supported are very appreciative; we have however taken the decision to cease this project although will offer support to the families in finding suitable alternative accommodation. It is then anticipated that one of the houses will revert to being used as a manse from September 2026 for an anticipated new superintendent minister to the circuit, and the other sold.
The situation with regard to Local Preachers in the Black Country Circuit continues to post challenges when completing the Quarterly Preaching Plan; we currently have thirteen active Local Preachers with two "on trial" and completing the Worship: Leading & Preaching course of The Methodist Church, plus one person due to move from "on note" to "on trial" from September
With 12 worshipping churches, one of which has two Sunday services, this inevitably leads to a number of "Local Arrangements" where each church prepares and leads their own worship.
Another Circuit Celebration Day was held on Saturday 21st June 2025 and held at one of our circuit churches; the theme of the day was The Methodist Church Way of Life. Each church was invited to "pick three words" from the Methodist Way of Life which reflect their own church life and to produce a display board. Other activities on the day included craft workshops, bible conversation, an introduction to Working Out Worship sessions for Local Arrangements and a Singing the Faith workshop. We were also fortunate that David Hardman from The Methodist Liaison Office in Jerusalem was also able to attend to lead one of our workshop conversations. This year's event was attended by over 120 people from across all churches in the circuit.
Following the success of our first Circuit Celebration Day in July 2024 where members from all our churches came together for fellowship and worship, we now have quarterly circuit services where congregations from all churches in the circuit are invited to join together for morning worship with no worship taking place in any of our churches on those Sundays.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Achievements and performance (continued)
Due to the increased cost of supporting work of the Black Country Methodist Circuit and individual churches within it, the Circuit continues to draw down from reserves to support ongoing expenditure. At Church Council meetings, each church is encouraged to reflect on their position (financial, state of property repair, required leadership), connection with their local community, mission and outreach.
The Circuit Finances are in a healthy position thanks to income from church buildings which have been sold. Some of this is ring fenced for our Circuit Connect Project which works to foster links between the church and the community; our Family Worker has been appointed under this project.
Our modus operandum continues to be inspired and celebrated in our main activities of worship and mission. Mission and work in our local communities is an essential part of our mission and there are community activities in most of our churches including regular coffee mornings, craft workshops, gentle keep fit activities and bible studies, an example of our churches connecting with communities and those in need.
We would extend a big thank you to all those who have committed themselves to the work and mission of the Circuit and who provide invaluable support to the Ministerial and Administrative staff. The Circuit Leadership Team is very active in the life of the Circuit and provide expertise in financial, property, worship and other facets of church life and provide support to all our churches.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Financial review
Circuit income is derived mainly from the assessments paid by the individual circuit churches and during the year the assessments were £175,465 (2024 £195,638). Most churches pay by standing order on a quarterly basis, but some pay monthly to lessen the burden on their cash flow. Interest received showed an increase at £6,064 due to the deposit of capital from property sales and the increase in interest rates. Minister's stipends and associated costs showed an increase reflecting the annual increase of of stipends.
Property costs borne by the Circuit rose due to the Circuit being responsible for the maintenance of the Hallam Street church and some financial contribution towards utility costs associated with our Ukraine family housing project. As already outlined a decision has been made to sell Hallam Street Methodist Church and at least one of the houses currently used for the Ukrainian project; rental income will therefore cease during the next financial year.
All church and manse properties are in a state of good repair.
As at 31st August 2025, unrestricted reserves excluding Land and Buildings stood at £770,157 (2024 £763,596).
The Circuit finances are in a relatively healthy position due to the closure and sale of church properties not withstanding that individual churches are struggling to break even.
The Circuit Leadership Team continue to consider offering a further grant scheme to all churches; this will be reviewed on an ongoing basis if there are suitable projects to support. In the meantime, the healthy financial position will support the ongoing work and costs of the circuit, rather than imposing significant increases in quarterly assessments on the individual churches.
Plans for 2025/26
Budgets for the coming year have been prepared on the basis that three presbyters will be in post together with a paid Circuit Administrator, Pastoral Support worker and Family Worker (all part-time roles).
As noted above decisions have been taken regarding ex-manses; due to the retirement of our current Superintendent minister, the circuit is in the Stationing Process for the appointment of a new Superintendent minister from September 2026. The current intention is that one of the houses currently occupied by a Ukrainian family will be used for the new Superintendent, releasing a current manse plus the other house currently in use by a Ukrainian family for sale.
There are currently no churches in the circuit closing, although this remains a possibility and if church buildings are sold by the circuit, this would provide further support of maintaining a longer-term healthy Circuit financial profile.
The Circuit Connect Project is underway following the appointment of the Family Worker in July 2024; this role and project is monitored on its outcomes by presbyters and the Circuit Leadership Team, which includes the Mission and Outreach sub-group of the Leadership Team
Plans are in early stages for our 2026 Circuit Celebration Day which it is suggested will follow an eco-church theme of "Living Hope for Creation".
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Financial review (continued)
Reserves Policy General
It is the Trustees' policy to maintain a balance of unrestricted and undesignated funds equivalent to around six months average unrestricted expenditure, to cover unexpected requirements which may occur from time to time. Due to the uncertain future of some of our churches our reserves are currently above six months expenditure to support our future expenditure plans without having to impose substantial increases in annual assessments. Our reserves will diminish over the next few years as we continue to subsidise paid employment positions needed to continue the work of the Methodist Church in the Black Country Circuit, with potential increases to reserves through the sale of circuit owned properties.
The policy of using circuit reserves has been vindicated in the current financial situation as some churches are facing serious financial problems but the Circuit itself is in a strong position to support the work of the Methodist Church in the Black Country.
Risk Management
The major risks associated with the Circuit have been identified by the Circuit Leadership Team. A regular review process is in place and is recorded.
Safeguarding
Every person has a value and dignity which comes directly from the creation of male and female in God's own image and likeness. 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:
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the care and nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young people and adults
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the safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and adults when they are vulnerable
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the establishing of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is informed vigilance as to the dangers of abuse.
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we will carefully select and train all those with any responsibility within the Church, in line with Safer Recruitment principles, including the use of criminal records disclosures and registration with the relevant vetting and barring schemes.
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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 authority in any investigation.
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we will seek to work with anyone who has suffered abuse, developing with them an appropriate ministry of informed pastoral care.
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we will seek to challenge any abuse of power, especially by anyone in a position of trust.
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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 to have offended against a child, young person or vulnerable adult.
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in all these principles we will follow legislation, guidance and recognised good practice.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Trustees' Annual Report (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
Financial review (continued)
The Black Country Circuit commits itself to ensuring the implementation of the Connexional Safeguarding Policy, government legislation, guidance and safe practice in the circuit and in our churches, including carrying out enhanced DBS checks as required.
The Black Country Circuit commits itself to the provision of support, advice and training for lay and ordained people that will ensure people are clear and confident about their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults who may be vulnerable. We adhere to the church's Safer Recruitment Policy.
Regular training sessions are held to ensure that those required to receive the necessary training. Ensuring the appropriate training is undertaken continues to be closely monitored by our Circuit Safeguarding Officer. Necessary DBS checks have continued to be carried out over the last connexional year.
Our Circuit Safeguarding Officer, Ian Belcher, continues to meet regularly with our Church Safeguarding Officers - both informally and at regularly held formal meetings - to ensure that best practice is being followed in our churches and that effective communication about Safeguarding matters continues. Ian's priority is to ensure that Safeguarding is embedded in all aspects of Circuit and Church life, and that its core principles of inclusivity, respect, being valued, being listened to and feeling protected are at the forefront of all we do. This is achieved through ensuring that people attend Safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check appropriate to their role, the principles laid out in the Safer Recruitment Policy are adhered to and that Church Safeguarding Officers are supported in their vital role.
The trustees' annual report was approved on 17 June 2026 and signed on behalf of the board of trustees by:
Revd D Williams Mrs H Allen Trustee Trustee
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Black Country Circuit
Year ended 31 August 2025
I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Black Country Circuit ('the charity') for the year ended 31 August 2025.
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 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.
Philippa Miller-Hawkes BA CA Independent Examiner
3B Swallowfield Courtyard Wolverhampton Road Oldbury West Midlands B69 2JG
17 June 2026
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Statement of Financial Activities
Year ended 31 August 2025
| 2025 | 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | ||||
| fundsTotal funds | Total funds | |||
| Note | £ | £ | £ | |
| Income and endowments | ||||
| Donations and legacies | 4 | 4,000 | 4,000 | – |
| Charitable activities | 5 | 175,465 | 175,465 | 195,638 |
| Investment income | 6 | 55,706 | 55,706 | 54,330 |
| Other income | 7 | 255 | 255 | 292 |
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| Total income | 235,426 | 235,426 | 250,260 | |
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| Expenditure | ||||
| Expenditure on charitable activities | 8 | 360,636 | 360,636 | 372,417 |
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| Total expenditure | 360,636 | 360,636 | 372,417 | |
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| Net gains on investments | 131,771 | 131,771 | 948,318 | |
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| Net income and net movement in funds | 6,561 | 6,561 | 826,161 | |
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| Reconciliation of funds | ||||
| Total funds brought forward | 2,695,596 | 2,695,596 | 1,869,435 | |
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| Total funds carried forward | 2,702,157 | 2,702,157 | 2,695,596 | |
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The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
The notes on pages 14 to 22 form part of these financial statements.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Statement of Financial Position
31 August 2025
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Note | £ | £ | |
| Fixed assets | |||
| Tangible fixed assets | 14 | 1,165,000 | 1,165,000 |
| Investments | 15 | 767,000 | 767,000 |
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| 1,932,000 | 1,932,000 | ||
| Current assets | |||
| Debtors | 16 | 22,790 | 25,424 |
| Investments | 17 | 638,267 | 583,042 |
| Cash at bank and in hand | 143,515 | 187,187 | |
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| 804,572 | 795,653 | ||
| Creditors: amounts falling due within one year | 18 | 34,415 | 32,057 |
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| Net current assets | 770,157 | 763,596 | |
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| Total assets less current liabilities | 2,702,157 | 2,695,596 | |
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| Net assets | 2,702,157 | 2,695,596 | |
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| Funds of the charity | |||
| Unrestricted funds | 2,702,157 | 2,695,596 | |
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| Total charity funds | 19 | 2,702,157════════════ |
2,695,596════════════ |
These financial statements were approved by the board of trustees and authorised for issue on 17 June 2026, and are signed on behalf of the board by:
Mrs H Allen Trustee
The notes on pages 14 to 22 form part of these financial statements.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements
Year ended 31 August 2025
1. General information
The charity is a public benefit entity and a registered charity in England and Wales and is unincorporated. The address of the principal office is Circuit Office, Leabrook Methodist Church, Leabrook Road North, Wednesbury, WS10 7LY.
2. Statement of compliance
These financial statements have been prepared in compliance with FRS 102, 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland', 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 (FRS 102) (Charities SORP (FRS 102)) and the Charities Act 2011.
3. Accounting policies
Public benefit entity
The Black Country 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 notes below.
Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, as modified by the revaluation of certain financial assets and liabilities and investment properties measured at fair value through income or expenditure.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the entity.
Going concern
Based on the monetary assets and human resources available at 31 August 2023, the Trustees believe that the Circuit is a going concern.
Disclosure exemptions
The entity satisfies the criteria of being a qualifying entity as defined in FRS 102. As such, advantage has been taken of the following disclosure exemptions available under paragraph 1.12 of FRS 102:
(a) No cash flow statement has been presented for the company.
(b) Disclosures in respect of financial instruments have not been presented.
Consolidation
The Circuit has denominational regulatory oversight in respect of the work of the Churches within the Circuit but has no legal or operational control of those Churches and their governing bodies except in extreme circumstances. For this reason, the financial statements of Churches within the Circuit are not consolidated into these financial statements.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
3. Accounting policies (continued)
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported. These estimates and judgements are continually reviewed and are based on experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
No significant estimates or judgements have been made by management when preparing the financial statements. The policies followed are shown below.
Grants
Grants made by the Circuit from its own funds are recognised in full at the time of agreement to make a grant.without performance conditions or as and when the Circuit accepts that there is a legal or operational obligation to make the payment if it is subject to performance conditions. 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 in future 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.
Incoming resources
Income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when the Circuit becomes entitles to the resources, and the trustees are reasonably certain that they will receive the resources; and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability.
Resources expended
This is recognised when a liability is incurred, or a constructive obligation arises, where the amount is reliably measurable and it is considered more likely than not that there will be an outflow of economic benefit.
Tangible assets
These are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and individually cost at least £1,000. The freehold property is shown in the accounts at 2015 values following a revaluation of the properties by Wakeman Chartered Surveyors an independent valuer. No depreciation is provided on the buildings because the trustees consider the current residual value of the property in its present condition to be not less than its current value, and in the absence of any evidence of impairment, any depreciation provision would not be material
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
4. Donations and legacies
| Unrestricted | Total Funds | Unrestricted | Total Funds | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | 2025 | Funds | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Grants | |||||
| Grants receivable | 4,000 | 4,000 | – | – | |
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| 5. | Charitable activities | ||||
| Unrestricted | Total Funds | Unrestricted | Total Funds | ||
| Funds | 2025 | Funds | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Assessments on Churches | 175,465 | 175,465 | 195,638 | 195,638 | |
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The Circuit comprises of 12 worshipping churches, plus one Ecumencial Partnership and one church no longer meeting for worship. Given the current strong financial position of the CIrcuit, the total amount collected from churches has not been increased for a number of years; each of the 12 churches is assessed for a contribution towards the overall net costs of the Circuit. The method takes into account the level of membership and financial reserves of each church.
6. Investment income
| Unrestricted | Total Funds | Unrestricted | Total Funds | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | 2025 | Funds | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Income from investment properties | 20,810 | 20,810 | 19,381 | 19,381 |
| Income from cash investments | 34,896 | 34,896 | 34,949 | 34,949 |
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| 55,706 | 55,706 | 54,330 | 54,330 | |
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7. Other income
| Unrestricted | Total Funds | Unrestricted | Total Funds | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | 2025 | Funds | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Other charitable income | 255 | 255 | 292 | 292 |
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
8. Expenditure on charitable activities by fund type
| Unrestricted | Circuit | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Model Trust | |||
| Fund 2025 | Fund 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Salaries and associated costs | 180,139 | – | 180,139 | 155,777 |
| District assessment and levy | 44,592 | 36,873 | 81,465 | 65,454 |
| Connexional assessment model trust | ||||
| levy | 28,692 | – | 28,692 | 89,698 |
| Property costs | 52,392 | – | 52,392 | 40,616 |
| Other outgoings | 13,760 | – | 13,760 | 19,790 |
| Office expenses | 4,189 | – | 4,189 | 1,082 |
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| 323,764 | 36,873 | 360,637 | 372,417 | |
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District assessment and levy
In common with other circuits in the District, the Circuit pays an annual assessment to the Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury District of the Methodist Church, which is based on the number of Methodist Presbyters and Lay Workers within each circuit. The Levy is calculated on a sliding scale percentage of the balance of the Circuit's CMT at 31 August in the previous accounting year.
| Unrestricted | Circuit | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Model Trust | |||
| Fund 2025 | Fund 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| District Assessment | 44,592 | – | 44,539 | 44,539 |
| District Levy | – | 36,873 | 36,873 | 20,915 |
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|
| 44,592 | 36,873 | 81,412 | 65,454 | |
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Property costs
The Circuit is Managing Trustee for 5 properties; all these are manses, or former manses. Two former manses are let out on renewable leases to Ukrainian families. In addition, the Circuit is also Managing Trustee for Hallam Street Methodist Church.
| Unrestricted | Circuit | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Model Trust | |||
| Fund 2025 | Fund 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Insurance, Council tax and utilities | 13,913 | – | 13,913 | 12,561 |
| General maintenance on manses and | ||||
| other Circuit properties | 38,480 | – | 38,480 | 28,055 |
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|
| 52,393 | – | 52,393 | 40,616 | |
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
9. Independent examination fees
| 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||||
| Fees payable to the independent examiner for: | |||||
| Independent examination of the financial statements | 1,512 | – | |||
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||||
| 10. | Staff costs | ||||
| Unrestricted | Circuit | ||||
| General | Model Trust | ||||
| Fund 2025 | Fund 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Presbyters | 140,555 | – | 140,555 | 136,991 | |
| Lay workers | 39,584 | – | 39,584 | 18,786 | |
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──── |
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||
| 180,139 | – | 180,139 | 155,777 | ||
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||
| Presbyters | |||||
| Unrestricted | Circuit | ||||
| General | Model Trust | ||||
| Fund 2025 | Fund 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Stripends and allowances | 97,117 | – | 97,117 | 90,536 | |
| National insurance | 10,653 | – | 10,653 | 8,809 | |
| Pension costs | 19,560 | – | 19,560 | 23,033 | |
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──── |
───────── |
───────── |
||
| 127,330 | – | 127,330 | 122,378 | ||
| Telephone and travel | 6,679 | – | 6,679 | 5,368 | |
| Postage and stationery | 385 | – | 385 | 568 | |
| Miscellaneous | 6,065 | – | 6,065 | 8,677 | |
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──── |
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||
| 140,459 | – | 140,459 | 136,991 | ||
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
11. Staff costs (continued)
Lay workers
| Unrestricted | Circuit | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Model Trust | |||
| Fund 2025 | Fund 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Salaries and allowances | 36,646 | – | 36,646 | 18,095 |
| National insurance | 2,218 | – | 2,218 | 41 |
| Pension costs | 463 | – | 463 | – |
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──── |
──────── |
──────── |
|
| 39,327 | – | 39,327 | 18,136 | |
| Telephone and travel | – | – | – | 319 |
| Miscellaneous | 257 | – | 257 | 331 |
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──── |
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|
| 39,584 | – | 39,584 | 18,786 | |
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Stipends were paid to 3 full time Presbyters. Salaries were paid to three part-time lay workers.
No employees received employee benefits of more than £60,000. There is no accrual for holiday pay as it is immaterial. All staff are paid at or above the living wage.
Pensions
Most ordained Presbyters are members of the Methodist Ministers' Pension Scheme, which is a defined benefit scheme. The Supreme Court held in 2014 that Methodist ministers are not employees of the Church. For simplicity, however, when dealing with National Insurance Contributions and pension contributions, the terms 'employer' and 'employee' are used as they would be in an employing body.
Lay employees of the Circuit are offered membership of NEST; two lay employees have opted out, the required minimum level of contributions for one lay employee are currently being paid to NEST.
Costs of Superintendent, Presbyters and Trustees
The Superintendent of the Circuit, the other Presbyters and the remaining members of the Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) are considered as Key Management Personnel. The Superintendent chairs meetings of the CLT and Circuit Meetings. The members of the Circuit Meeting are the trustees of the Circuit. The stipends, employer's NIC and employer's pension contributions and other expenses of the Presbyters of the Circuit are paid by the Circuit.
The manses are provided by the Circuit and the Circuit maintains the properties The value of Council Tax and water charges is not disclosed here as HMRC does not regard this as a benefit-in-kind in the hands of the minister.
12. Trustee remuneration and expenses
Apart from the 3 Presbyters no member of the Circuit Meeting was in receipt of any payment for work undertaken on behalf of the Circuit, although certain travelling and administration costs were reimbursed in particular cases.
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
13. Leasing commitments
At 31 August 2025 the Circuit had no leasing commitments.
14. Tangible fixed assets
| Freehold | |
|---|---|
| property | |
| £ | |
| Cost | |
| At 1 September 2024 and 31 August 2025 | 1,165,000 |
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|
| Depreciation | |
| At 1 September 2024 and 31 August 2025 | – |
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|
| Carrying amount | |
| At 31 August 2025 | 1,165,000 |
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|
| At 31 August 2024 | 1,165,000 |
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15. Investments
| Investment | |
|---|---|
| properties | |
| £ | |
| Cost or valuation | |
| At 1 September 2024 and 31 August 2025 | 767,000 |
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|
| Impairment | |
| At 1 September 2024 and 31 August 2025 | |
| Carrying amount | |
| At 31 August 2025 | 767,000 |
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|
| At 31 August 2024 | 767,000 |
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All investments shown above are held at valuation.
Investment properties
Investment properties consist of three former manses currently let under the government's scheme to assist Ukrainian refugees.
16. Debtors
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Other debtors | 22,790 | 25,424 |
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Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
17. Investments
Model Trust Fund
| 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|
| £ | £ |
| 638,267 | 583,042 |
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The funds that support the Circuit Model Trust Fund are held by TMCP in the Trustees Interest Fund on which interest is credited each month. TMCP is the legal owner and custodian trustee of all Methodist model trust property including legacies, endowments and accumulated funds.
18. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Accruals and deferred income | 822 | 610 |
| Other creditors | 33,593 | 31,447 |
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|
| 34,415 | 32,057 | |
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19. Analysis of charitable funds
| Opening | Gains on | Closing | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| balance | Income | investments | Expenditure | balance | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General | (1,425,617) | (230,024) | (87,324) |
254,591 | (1,488,374) |
| Circuit Model Trust Fund | (480,416) | (13,389) | 88,534 |
24,212 | (381,059) |
──────────── |
───────── |
──────── |
───────── |
──────────── |
|
| (1,906,033) | (243,413) | 1,210 |
278,803 | (1,869,433) | |
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20. Analysis of net assets between funds
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total Funds | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | Funds | 2025 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Tangible fixed assets | 1,165,000 | – | 1,165,000 |
| Investments | 767,000 | – | 767,000 |
| Current assets | 804,572 | – | 804,572 |
| Creditors less than 1 year | (34,415) | – | (34,415) |
──────────── |
──── |
──────────── |
|
| Net assets | 2,702,157 | – | 2,702,157 |
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════ |
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|
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total Funds | |
| Funds | Funds | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Tangible fixed assets | 1,932,000 | – | 1,932,000 |
| Investments | – | 381,059 | 381,059 |
| Current assets | 249,193 | – | 249,193 |
| Creditors less than 1 year | (30,817) | – | (30,817) |
──────────── |
───────── |
──────────── |
|
| Net assets | 2,150,376 | 381,059 | 2,531,435 |
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- 21 -
Tracking ID: 1030949-1261285
Black Country Circuit
Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)
Year ended 31 August 2025
21. Related parties
Related Parties include The Methodist Connexion, the Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury District, Churches within the Circuit (listed below), CFB and TMCP.
Beaches Road Charlemont Hallam Street Hill Top Lea Brook Methodist Centre New Road Roseville Ryders Green St Andrews Tipton Green Toll End Wesley Wednesbury Central Woods
- 22 -
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