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← Gillingham Baptist Church

2023-12-31-accounts

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH [GBC]

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2023

CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION: 1169112

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NAME OF CHARITY Gillingham Baptist Church CHARITY NUMBER 1169112 ADDRESS Green Street, Gillingham, Kent, ME7 5TJ INDEPENDENT EXAMINER Lorraine Wilson, FCCA, 24 Larkfield Avenue, Gillingham, Kent, ME7 2LN. BANKERS Co-operative Bank, PO Box 250, Skelmersdale, WN8 6WT CUSTODIAN TRUSTEES The Baptist Union Corporation OF PREMISES Baptist House, 129 Broadway, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 8RT

MANAGING TRUSTEES

All Managing Trustees must be members of the church. The Leadership Team during 2023 comprised:

Stephen Greasley Minister
Fred Adams Elder Re-elected 15 November 2022/Retired 21
November 2023
Simon Collins Elder Elected 15 November 2022
Raphael Khelawan Elder Elected 15 November 2022
Niki Lownds Elder Elected 15 November 2022
Stephen Carr Deacon Re-elected 16 November 2021
Rachel Davey Deacon Elected 15 November 2022
Sharon Greasley Deacon Elected 15 November 2022
Helen Holloway Deacon Re-elected 16 November 2021
John Lownds Deacon Elected 15 November 2022
Elizabeth Rowland Deacon Re-elected 15 November 2022/Retired 21
November 2023
Penelope Wyatt Deacon Elected 15 November 2022
Lyn Alimodian Deacon Elected 21 November 2023
Cynthia Nicholls Deacon Elected 21 November 2023

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ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2023

1. CONSTITUTION

Gillingham Baptist Church was first established in 1879 and moved into its present location in 1882. It became first registered as a charity on 18 April 1965.

On 9 September 2016 Gillingham Baptist Church was registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) with the Charity Commission (with all the Assets and Liabilities of the previous charity (Reg. No: 233942) being transferred to the CIO on the 31[st] December 2016) .

The governing document is ‘The Charitable Incorporated Organisation Constitution’ as produced by Anthony Collins Solicitors and the Baptist Union Corporation and approved by the Charity Commission. The latest version was updated by Gillingham Baptist Church and approved by the Charity Commission in 2021.

2. CHARITABLE OBJECT

The principal purposes of the Church are:

3. ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

As of 2023, the Church employs one Minister full-time, one part-time Administrator, one Debt-Centre Manager, one Family Outreach Worker, one part-time Site Manager and one part-time Cleaner.

4. MEMBERSHIP

Members of the Church are accepted as such in accordance with the Constitution which normally requires them to have been baptised by immersion upon personal profession of faith. Persons who have not been baptised in this manner may at the discretion of the Church Members’ Meeting be accepted for full membership based on their own public profession of faith.

In 2023 there was a significant growth in church membership with 30 new members joining. This is the largest membership increase in one year in over 30 years. This was partly a result of the closure of Borstal Baptist Church and the transfer of 7 of their members to GBC. The membership at the end of December 2023 stood at 178.

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5. GOVERNANCE

The Church Members’ Meeting normally takes place six times per year and has overall responsibility for the church. In accordance with the Constitution, members appoint a maximum of twelve Trustees, in addition to the minister, who collectively are known as the Church Leadership Team and are responsible for the church’s work and witness, and the financial and legal aspects of the CIO. All church members and attendees are encouraged to take an active part in the spiritual and practical tasks involved in the furtherance of the charitable objectives.

Relevant matters may be submitted to the Church Members’ Meeting by the Trustees for guidance or may be raised by members in the Church Members’ Meeting for further consideration by the Trustees. Though the Constitution permits decisions to be made at Church Meetings by an appropriate majority, the church seeks to work by consensus wherever possible.

5.1 GOVERNANCE

Governance of the church has been maintained by monthly in-person meetings of the Trustees (the Church Leadership Team). As permitted by the Church Constitution, our Church Leadership Team is supported by 4 teams. This includes the Finance Team (including Health and Safety), Safeguarding Team, Pastoral Team and Mission Team. All these have agreed Terms of Reference and Trustees are appointed to each to ensure visibility and consistency in decision making.

5.1.1 FINANCE TEAM (INCLUDING HEALTH AND SAFETY)

Our Finance Team meets 3 times a year. It is involved in setting a budget each October, and advising the Leadership Team on expenditure on health and safety and improvements to the premises.

The financial results for the year are set out in the accompanying accounts.

In 2023 a new Health and Safety Officer was appointed by the church (voluntary position) and work commenced on a revised Health and Safety Policy. Our Fire Alarm Evacuation Procedure was updated to ensure that the building could be evacuated if an emergency was to occur. A fire alarm evacuation drill also took place after a Sunday service.

Maintenance work was carried out to replace fire doors and review where additional work was required to other doors to ensure compliance with regulations.

First Aid training for all relevant staff and volunteers (including Trustees) took place on 20 May 2023.

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Finally, all annual services took place e.g. PAT tests, fire extinguishers, lift inspections, and gas boiler.

5.1.2 SAFEGUARDING TEAM

The Church operates systems to ensure that all Trustees, employees and volunteers in eligible positions (including all those working with children and adults at risk) are appropriately vetted with regard to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). DBS checks on new and existing volunteers were carried out through 2023 and no incidences were reported.

The Trustees continue to recognise their responsibilities for safeguarding children and adults at risk within the church. This includes the reading of the annual safeguarding statement during the Church AGM. Safeguarding training for all relevant staff and volunteers (run by the South East Baptist Association) took place on 16 September 2023. Future training dates are kept under review for new staff and volunteers wishing to step into roles that require DBS clearance.

5.1.3 PASTORAL TEAM

The Pastoral team met in the Autumn of 2023 to make recommendations for the revision of the membership roll. The team went through the whole membership list and raised relevant pastoral issues where appropriate. Consideration was given as to how we might best support church families in the congregation especially those who are very new to church.

5.1.4 MISSION TEAM

In 2023 there were 5 members of the church on the Mission Team, including 3 Trustees. It is hoped that others from the congregation may join the team in 2024. During 2023, the church financially supported the following organisations:

Mission Aviation Fellowship £5000
Baptist Missionary Society £4300
South-East Baptist Association £5400
Family Trust £1400
Compassion (Wilkensen Joseph education sponsorship in Haiti) £450
Good News for Everyone £250
African Pastors Fellowship £150.

We also provided the church Family Outreach Worker with £2200 of funding, and Mark and Sarah Newnham, our MAF missionaries in Kenya with £800. All of the above funding support was agreed through by the Church Members’ Meeting. We used £1000 of unallocated funding to support Samaritan's Purse appeals for the Syria earthquake (£200) and Libyan

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floods/Morocco earthquake (£500), Hope Health Action (£150) and Kenward Trust (addictions charity) (£150). £1700 was also provided to Hope Health Action in March for their work in Haiti following a mission slot and appeal in a January service.

5.2 POLICY DEVELOPMENT AND REVIEW

Throughout 2023, the trustees have reviewed, maintained and developed a wide range of policies in line with requirements outlined by the Charity Commission and Baptist Union. This included a review of the UK-GDPR policy in January 2023 and the Safeguarding Policy in November 2023 as well as the development of a new Health and Safety Policy.

There were no breaches to the updated UK-GDPR policy that needed to be reported to the ICO or other regulatory bodies.

5.2.1 POLICY DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

A new policy development framework has been put in place by the Trustees to highlight where policies are required or must be reviewed. New policies that have been developed in 2023 include: internal risk and issue management (April 2023); and Social Media Policy (December 2023). Further updates and new policy developments have been prioritised for 2024-2025.

6 OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The Church has read the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit and is satisfied that the activities outlined below clearly demonstrate that the charity is providing a benefit to the public. In order to achieve the principal objectives set out above, the Church provides a variety of activities both to its membership and to the community generally and all activities are open to the public. A new monthly community newsletter was launched in 2023 to also promote the work we do. The aim is to show the love of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, and to bring people into a closer relationship with him as living Lord.

Central to the work of the Church is the provision of regular public services of Christian worship. We also provide a full children’s programme during Sunday morning services. However, we also host a wide range of weekly activities. This includes a parents/carers toddlers group, Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association, home groups, a coffee morning, and a craft club. A lunch club is usually held once a month. During 2023 we also introduced a half night of prayer and relaunched our mid-week bible study group. In the Autumn we also held our first event celebrating the work of all our volunteers. The Church continues to sponsor a Debt Centre, and we have a family outreach worker in the community. In addition, the premises are rented out to various outside groups, some meeting regularly and others are for single events.

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7 ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Whilst numbers are important, the church measures its success in less tangible characteristics such as personal and corporate spiritual growth, friendship, care and encouragement.

7.1 SERVICES

The church holds regular Sunday morning services. Throughout the year this has included baptismal services as well as regular all age worship, morning worship and Communion services. We have had guest speakers including returning missionaries as well as organisations such as the Kenward Trust. As a community based organisation we are also delighted that a number of our congregation are invited to speak at other local churches and venues. During the year we have also taken steps to improve access to our services via livestreaming and the important inclusion of a BSL Level 3 communicator to provide signing (usually on the 3[rd] Sunday in each month).

In 2023 there were 2 funeral services, 3 baptisms and 1 wedding.

7.2 CHILDREN’S CHURCH

Children’s Church has had another positive year with the numbers in both groups reflecting the growth in new families attending the church. JAM Busters (Jesus and Me) serves reception to Y2 and DJ’s (Discovering Jesus) serves Y3-6. Sessions include Bible stories or themes, praying, videos, crafts and games. In September 2023, we introduced a Children’s Church syllabus. The weekly theme has a Bible passage and key points to be shared with the children. Both groups follow the same outline but apply the activities etc to suit the different age groups. This has been welcomed by the leaders and helpers and means that children from the same family in different groups are learning the same stories. This will continue to be developed and will eventually provide a 3 / 4 year syllabus. Both groups came together at Christmas to sing Away in a Manager and take part in the pop-up Nativity service. They also enjoyed a Christmas party together.

7.3 BIBLE CLASS

This is a group for secondary school aged young people that meets during the second half of the Sunday morning services. We provide an interactive setting to allow our members to explore the Bible's teachings and how they apply to their everyday lives. As regular attendance was exceeding 30 in the middle of the year, we divided into two groups.

The first group has taken the form of a Youth Alpha for those in school years seven and eight. The other continues as a senior group. Both continue to flourish, with the smaller numbers of ten to 15 in each encouraging greater participation by the young people themselves.

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7.4 OTHER GROUPS

Outside of the regular Sunday activities, the church provides other groups and activities for children, young people and adults.

7.4.1 THE BOYS’ BRIGADE AND GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

The Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association meets on Friday evenings during school term time throughout the year offering a lively programme of educational and games activities, and seeking to develop the children’s faith and citizenship. Numbers during the first half of 2023 were steady but since September 2023 numbers in all groups have seen a decline. This is mainly due to the leap from Year 6 to post-11 education for many of those that attended. As such both younger sections now meet together.

7.4.2 HOME GROUPS

Home Groups normally meet fortnightly in the homes of some members, to encourage growth in faith and discipleship.

7.4.3 BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL – WOMENS’ MINISTRY

Our Women’s Ministry was formed in July 2022 and has met twice during 2023 (during the Spring and Autumn). Its aim is to offer events solely for women and older teenage girls, as we believe there is a place for women-only events, where women can discuss issues particular to them in a safe and caring environment, with a variety of activities including, but not exclusively, eating, sung worship, praying and crafts. Each event is themed and aims to be different from the last, so that we can try and reach people from all backgrounds and abilities. Themes in 2023 included: ‘Our Identity in Christ’ and ‘Bible Journaling’. We’ve had people attend not just from our church but other local churches and interested groups too. This is an exciting new Ministry and we look forward to hosting many more of them. It is clear from feedback that this is something many people enjoy and look forward to.

7.4.4 HALF NIGHT OF PRAYER

With an increasing multi-national membership, in mid-2023 we recognised the need for additional mid-week activities. We commenced our first half night of prayer session on 21 July 2023 and met again in August, September and November. Our meetings provided sacred spaces for individuals to come together in worship, supplication, and intercession, lifting up the needs of our church, our community, and the world. Our intention is to cultivate a culture of fervent prayer, spiritual intimacy, and unity within the congregation of GBC as we seek God's guidance, provision, and blessings for our fellowship, community and beyond.

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Each prayer meeting was centered around specific prayer themes, such as revival, reconciliation, missions, and social justice. By focusing our prayers on targeted areas, we aimed to deepen our spiritual discernment and alignment with God's purposes.

Looking ahead, we are committed to deepening and expanding the impact of our Half-Night Prayer Meeting and hope to get more engagement from members of the congregation. The Half-Night Prayer Meeting has been a vital expression of our commitment to seeking God's face, experiencing His presence, and participating in His redemptive work in the world. We are deeply grateful for the dedication and devotion of all who have contributed to this ministry, and we look forward to the continued growth and fruitfulness of our prayer community in the coming year.

7.4.5 BIBLE STUDY – MID WEEK

Our mission is to foster spiritual growth, fellowship, and understanding of the Word of God among members and friends of our congregation through the study and discussion of the Bible. Our first meeting took place on the 22 February 2023 and we’ve met fortnightly since on Wednesday evenings (mainly during term time). Throughout the year, we’ve studied the book of Acts providing opportunities for members to delve deeper into scripture, discuss its relevance to their lives, and grow in their faith. Attendance has been between 15 to 20 persons per meeting and is concluded with a time prayer.

Looking ahead, we are committed to further enriching the spiritual lives of our members and expanding our outreach efforts. We will continue explore specific topics and books of the Bible in depth.

7.4.6 ‘STEPS' (PARENTS/CARERS AND TODDLER GROUP)

Steps meets each Monday morning during term time at church and is open for all pre-school children and those that care for them. With more than 30 families registered it does get really busy, but we have a good team of helpers who help set-up each week. In 2023 we also had an Easter Egg hunt, a teddy bears picnic, and a Christmas party.

7.4.7 FRIENDSHIP MORNING (COFFEE SHOP)

Friendship morning meets every Wednesday during term time and is open to anyone, whether church attenders or people dropping by. There’s usually a short talk, songs and a time of prayer. Assistance is also given to those needing help with completing various forms. A listening ear and friendship is provided to anyone. It also provides a place for those visiting the Debt Centre. In 2023 we did see a drop in numbers but this is likely due to a number of similar initiatives run by other organisations and churches in the area.

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7.4.8 THE ALPHA COURSE

There have been 5 Alpha Courses running during the year (in the Spring and Autumn). One group was run on Monday mornings, one on Tuesday evenings. A follow-up discipleship group has also been running fortnightly all year which has really helped folk learn and grow in knowledge and relationship with Jesus. 2023 also saw us running another Youth Alpha with the Junior Bible Class with around 12 young people.

Nearly 30 guests have attended. 4 members have come to faith including 1 young person. 2 have been baptised with 7 now regularly attending a church. They are keen to pray for one another, learn and share their faith in Jesus with those they know.

7.4.9 CRAFT TIME

In 2023, Craft Time had 25 people registered throughout the year, excluding the leaders. There was an average attendance of 21 at each session comprising of mainly elderly people who often live alone but enjoy spending time in the companionship of others. Usually, there are six sessions per term. A nominal registration fees is used to provide refreshments for each session and to subsidise a Christmas lunch. In the Autumn collections of items for charity shoe boxes were donated and sent to Blythswood. Monies were also raised for the R.N.L.I.

7.4.10 LUNCH CLUB

Lunch club started up again in February 2023 with about 30-40 attending most months. We have a wonderful team of volunteers who come to either cook, lay tables and wash up. It is a friendly environment, with lots of interesting discussions taking place. There is also a thought for the day provided before or after every lunch.

7.4.11 BRUNCH CLUB

Brunch Clubs are usually held during the school holidays at Easter, August, and Christmas. During our events we provide a hot breakfast as well as crafts table and other fun activities. We have had 10-12 families engage with our Brunch Club during 2023.

7.4.12 GOOD NEWS at TEN

Good News at 10 is a weekday group that meets fortnightly at church for bible study.

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8 HELP AND SUPPORT FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

8.1 CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY (CAP DEBT CENTRE)

The Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Debt Centre celebrated its tenth year in 2023 having seen over 500 client families in that time, with 192 client going debt free and a further 154 making a commitments (129 first time, 25 recommitments). We have been encouraged that a high percentage of those have continued in contact with this or other churches. As part of our Anniversary Service we had a wrestling ring in the church and an evangelistic wrestler both wrestled and gave his testimony.

Over the course of the year we helped around 50 families. It was notable that even after going debt-free their budgets were much tighter and ex-clients remained in need of help due to the cost of living crisis. Clients generally had more complex needs.

We had 2 evangelistic meals in January, an Easter event, our CAP Anniversary in June and took a large group to Churches Together in Medway Christmas Connect. Many clients have attended Alpha. We had picnics over the summer and a beach day in September which was enjoyed by those who came. We also distributed 80 Christmas hampers from KICC to CAP clients and others in need.

We have seen 11 folk make commitments over the year, including 3 children and 2 recommitments. Two clients have been baptised and one has become a member.

Volunteers, as usual, were a great blessing going far beyond their roles in supporting, loving, and sharing Jesus with the clients.

8.2 FAMILY OUTREACH WORKER (FOW)

Our Family Outreach Worker (FOW) works in partnership with St Mary Magdalene Church on Gillingham Green to deliver a number of activities. This includes a Tuesday coffee morning where there’s about 14 on the books but average 8 most weeks. It is a diverse group, but it is a safe place where folks can talk, have a peaceful space in the church body or light a candle for friends and family. Most who come can be classed as vulnerable. A Toddlers group meets on Thursdays (during term time). Those that come are mainly grandparents with their grandchildren, or older mums. Finally, a coffee morning is held at our church each Friday morning for pre-school parents/carers.

8.3 THE CHURCH PREMISES

The Church premises were also used by various organisations/groups and individuals from the local community. These included:

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9 FINANCIAL REVIEW

9.1 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE

Increased giving from our members and attendees has continued to help with our expenses during 2023. The rental income decreased as the Preschool moved to alternative premises at the end of July. We continue to have other Christian groups meeting here, including a Bulgarian and a Romanian church, as well as a dance class.

We had new energy contracts for gas and electricity before the pandemic and have benefited from lower costs. A new contract for electricity came into effect during 2023 and this has increased our running costs by a significant amount. A new gas contract will be required in 2024.

There was a final deficit of £500 of income against expenditure for the year in the general fund. A budget was set which allowed for a deficit in 2024.

9.2 CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY (CAP)/ FAMILY OUTREACH WORKER (FOW)

A grant for CAP ran out at the end of 2022 and for most of 2023 it was supported by money from our general fund in addition to donations from church members and other local churches.. We had a donation in July of £3,575 for CAP from Emmanuel Baptist Church in Gravesend, when they closed their debt centre, and a grant In November of £7500 from Kent Community Foundation These will cover CAP expenses until the autumn of 2024, when we will continue to transfer money from the general fund.

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FOW has been supported by donations from church members, the residue of a grant in 2022 and a grant of £4400 in October 2023. £2,200 was also transferred from the general fund as part of our mission donations. These cover the FOW expenses to the middle of 2024.

9.3 LOAN REPAYMENTS

We still have one loan outstanding: to the Baptist Building Fund. £1,500 a month has continued to be transferred from the General Funds to the Project Fund to help cover these repayments. The loan from the Baptist Building Fund will be repaid from these transfers and from pledges by church members. Some pledges have been withdrawn, but other contributions have been made, some significant. In 2023 we had a gift day which raised over £11,000. The loan is due to be repaid in 2029 (after 10 yrs), but if current contributions continue, the church is still on track to repay this loan 3-4 years early.

9.4 CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

No payments were made to ‘Connected People’. The trustees ensure that if there is ever a conflict of interest regarding any matter, then this is declared, and the person with the conflict of interest takes no part in any discussion or decision regarding the matter being considered.

9.5 PENSION FUND

The Baptist Pension Fund has made an agreement with Just Group Insurance that takes the pension fund out of a shortfall position. From August 2022 our contributions have been reduced to £1 p.m. and will cease at the final change in 2024. The defined contributions plan will still be administered as before.

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GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES YEAR ENDING 31ST DECEMBER 2023

Income & Endowments
Donations & Legacies
25
Investment Income
26
Charitable Activities
27
Other Income
28
Trading Activities
29
Total Receipts
Expenditure
Charitable Activities
Charitable Activities
13,15
18-22
Total Expenditure
Net Income/Expenditure for the year
before gains/losses of Fixed Assets
Net Gains/Loss on Sale of Fixed As-
sets
Net Income before transfer
Transfer Between Funds
Net Income before other
recognised losses
Gains/Losses on Deferred Benefit
Pension Scheme
5
Net Movement of Funds
Reconciliation of Funds
Total Funds brought forward
Total Funds carried forward		 2023 2022 2022
Unrest- Desig- Endo-
ricted nated wment Restricted Total Total
£ £ £ £ £ £
138,044 0 0 71,376
209,420		 186,535
0 2,982 0 0
2,982		 798
278 0 0 5,199
5,477		 6,188
1,730 0 0 23
1,753		 477
12,418 0 0 0
12,418		 19,326
152,470 2,982 0 76,598
232,050		 213,323
122,345 1,551 0 54,009
177,904		 172,297
122,345 1,551 0 54,009
177,904		 172,297
30,126 1,431 0 22,589
54,146		 41,026
0 0 0 0
0		 0
30,126 1,431 0 22,589
54,146		 41,026
-30,235 28,595 0 1,640
0		 0
-110 30,026 0 24,229
54,146		 41,026
0 0 0 0
0		 48,500
-110 30,026 0 24,229
54,146		 89,526
33,674
32,026		 0 483,351
549,052		 459,526
33,564
62,053		 0 507,580
603,198		 549,052

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GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

BALANCE SHEET AT 31st DECEMBER 2023

Fixed Assets Note Note Note Note
£
Tangible Fixed Assets 23 619,018

Current Assets
Bank
Baptist Union Corporation
Cash
Prepayments
Debtors		 6
24,153
7
112,226
8
557
9
6,350
10
6,608
**149,894 ** **106,546 **
Current Liabilities 1,513
25,000
Accruals & Creditors
Loans falling due within one
year		 11
1,186
12
25,000
26,186 **26,513 **
123,707
150,000
127,500
603,197
603,197
33,674
32,027
0
483,351
603,199
Net current Assets 80,033
Loans falling due after one
year
12
127,500
150,000
549,051
Defined Benefit Pension liabil-
ity
5
Total Net Assets 549,051
Charity Funds
14
Unrestricted
33,564
Designated
62,053
Endowment
0
Restricted
507,580
Total Funds 549,052

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GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

Restricted Funds relate to funds where the use of income has been specified for the particular purpose.

A new depreciation policy was agreed by the Trustees in 2019 it is as follows:

Only items with a value exceeding £1,000 will be included as Capital Expenditure and therefore depreciated. The following rates of depreciation were agreed:

Keyboard (purchased in 2016) 5 years
Chairs in Worship Area 10 years
Stacking Chairs 5 years
PA & Audio equipment 5 years

The Trustees consider that the current assets shown on the balance sheet are sufficient reserves to maintain current operational activities.

4 Related Charities

The Custodian Trustee of the church is the Baptist Union Corporation Limited (BUC) which is charity number 249635, and which is controlled by the Baptist Union Council. The church is also a member of the Baptist Union of Great Britain, and the South Eastern Baptist Association.

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GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

5 Pension

The Church is a participating employer in the Baptist Pension Scheme (“the Scheme”), which is a separate legal entity administered by the Pension Trustee (Baptist Pension Trust Limited). The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Employer and the other participating employers.

The Scheme previously known as the Baptist Ministers’ Pension Fund started in 1925, but was closed to future accrual of defined benefits on 31 December 2011. Prior to this date the main benefit provided through the Defined Benefit (DB) Plan was a pension of one eightieth of final minimum pensionable income for each year of pensionable service together with additional pension in respect of premiums paid on Pensionable income in excess of Minimum Pensionable Income.

From January 2012, pension provision is being made through the Defined Contribution (DC) Plan within the Scheme. In general, members pay 8% of their Pensionable Income and employers pay 6% of members’ Pensionable Income into individual pension accounts, which are operated and managed on behalf of the Pension Trustee by Legal and Broadstone Corporate Benefits Limited. In addition, the employer pays a further 4% of Pensionable Income to cover Death in Service Benefits, administration costs, and an associated insurance policy which provides income protection for Scheme members in they are unable to work due to long-term incapacity. This income protection policy has been insured by the Baptist Union of Great Britain with Aviva Limited. [Members of the Basic Section pay reduced contributions of 5% of Pensionable Income, and their employers also pay a total of 5%].

The Scheme is considered to be a multi-employer scheme as described in Section 28 of FRS 102. This is because it is not possible to attribute the Scheme’s assets and liabilities to specific employers and means that the scheme is accounted for as if the Scheme were defined contribution scheme

The Minister is a member of the Scheme

The scheme has now been bought out by Just Group Insurance .

The minister contributes at a rate of 8% of pensionable income. This includes an element for accommodation, usually the notional value of a manse. The employer contributes an additional 10% of pensionable income. From this 6% is credited to the minister’s pension account and the remaining 4% is used to pay for insurance (lump sum death benefit and income protection benefit) and administration costs.

The scheme has been bought out by Just, who will administer the pensions of those who have made DB contributions; those with benefits in the DC plan will have them administered by Broadstone and looked after by the Trustee of the Scheme. No DC plan savings will be transferred to Just. When the DB Plan transitions to Just, the DC Plan will continue to be run as the Baptist Pension Scheme.

The employer contribution rate will remain at 10% of Pensionable Income. As before, 6% of this employer contribution goes direct to the member’s DC pension pot. The other 4% covers the cost of income protection insurance, life assurance and the expenses of running the Scheme. The overall operational costs of the Scheme will reduce once the DB Plan has been bought-out but those costs that are currently shared between the DB and DC Plans will all have to be met from the DC Plan. In addition, the cost of increased life assurance benefits (see below) needs to be met. BU believe the 4% allowance will cover the costs under the revised set up but this will clearly be kept under close review.

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GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts
6
Bank
GBC
Steps (held in GBC bank)
Boys' Brigade
Holiday
Flowers
Craft
Lunch (held in GBC bank)
7
Baptist Union
General Funds
8
Cash
GBC (Petty Cash)
STEPS – Cash
Boys' Brigade
Lunch Club
Craft Time
Flowers
9
Prepayments
Bridge Insurance Brokers
Business Stream
BNP Paribas
Onecom/Plus Net
Virgin Media
Medway Council
10
Debtors
HMRC
West Kent Domiciliary Care/Choice Support
11
Accruals
Total – Gas
SSE
Vodafone
Co-operative Bank -Visa
Kent County Supplies (KCS)
12
Loans Outstanding		 2022
£
18,185
244.72
9,428.28
0
637.08
100
28,594.71
65,944.2
65,944.2
17.88
22.59
13.22
16
66.37
65
556.62 201.06
5,627.79
25.95
457
0.00
9.68
229
6,349.63
6,608.3
0
6,608.3
604.70
340.93
0
69.0
171.83
1,186		 5,550.24
25.95
0
41.14
9.68
222
5,849.01
5,957.5
0
5,957.5
859.91
205.47
0
242.5
205.12
1,513

18

Accounts Repayable Baptist 2023 Total 2022 total
Building
Fund
Within one year 25,000 25,000 25,000
After one year 112,500 112,500 137,500
Thank you Offering (6 years at £2,500 pa) 15,000 15,000 12,500
152,500 152,500 175,000

19

Notes to the Accounts

13 Organisations
Brigades
Opening Balance
Income
Gift Aid (underGA in SOFA)
Expenditure
Transfer of Funds to GBC
Closing Balance
Craft Time
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure
Transfer of Funds to Gen.
Closing Balance
STEPS
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure from Cash/bank
Expenditure from Bank (under Conf & Mat in SOFA)
Closing Balance
Lunch Club
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure
Transfer to General
Closing Balance
Totals
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure
Transfers Out
Closing Balance		 2023
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
£
£
£
0
9,642
9,642
0
2,656
2,656
0
0
1,921
1,921
0
1,360
1,360
0
9,016
9,016
0
703
703
0
921
921
0
910
910
0
200
200
0
515
515
0
267
267
0
249
249
0
158
158
0
0
0
0
359
359
0
116
116
0
873
873
0
812
812
0
0
0		 2022
Total
£
8,622
4,253
150
3,383
0
9,642
104
922
222
100
703
250
202
150
36
267
16
100
0
0
0
177
177		 116
0
10,728
10,728
0
4,699
4,699
0
3,800
3,800
0
1,560
1,560
0
10,067
10,067
8,992
5,627
3,791
100
10,728

20

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

14 Restricted, Designated & Unrestricted Funds

Land & Buildings – GBC
Land & Buildings – Manse
Fixtures & Fittings
Manse Proceeds
General
Pension Deficit
Project Sensory Room
Project 2 (for Loan Repayments)
Loans to be Repaid
Flowers
Mission
Christians Against Poverty(CAP)
CAP Smile
Family Outreach Worker
Church Family Fund
Holiday
Brunch Club
Organisations		 2023
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
General
Designated
£
£
£
£
0
0
600,000
600,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
6,989
6,989
0
0
0
0
33,566
0
0
33,566
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
62,053
27,420
89,473
0
0
-152,500
-152,500
0
0
125
125
0
0
-255
-255
0
0
7,711
7,711
0
0
2,123
2,123
0
0
4,895
4,895
0
0
207
207
0
0
0
0
0
0
797
797
0
0
10,067
10,067
33,566
62,053
507,579
603,198		 2022
Total
£
600,000
0
19,018
0
33,670
0
240
54,293
-175,000
65
-58
565
2,632
2,378
339
0
179
10,730
549,051

21

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

15
Salaries and Related Expenses
Unrestricted
Salaries
45,614.64
DBS Check
0
Sub Contractor
0
Pension Contributions
6,056
Pension Deficit
12
Manse Expenses
8,609
60,292		 15
Salaries and Related Expenses
Unrestricted
Salaries
45,614.64
DBS Check
0
Sub Contractor
0
Pension Contributions
6,056
Pension Deficit
12
Manse Expenses
8,609
60,292		 15
Salaries and Related Expenses
Unrestricted
Salaries
45,614.64
DBS Check
0
Sub Contractor
0
Pension Contributions
6,056
Pension Deficit
12
Manse Expenses
8,609
60,292		 2023
Designated
Restricted
45,614.64 0
0 0
0 0
6,056 0
12 0
8,609 0
60,292 0

The Church started the year with 7 employees and finished the year with 6- A full time Minister, a part time Administrator, a part time Debt Centre Manager, a part time Family Outreach Worker, a part time Site Manager and one part time Cleaner. No employee was paid more than £60,000. The Minister is, by the nature of his employment, also a Trustee of the Church. His total remuneration, including Housing Allowance was £37,348

The Minister’s employment entitles the minister to free accommodation in a house either owned or rented by the Church and for which the Church pay the council tax, water bills, and 25% of the gas & electricity bills. The church also provide phone & Internet. (shown under Manse Expenses). The Church pay rent to the Minister, who owns his own property. This is also shown under Manse Expenses.

Further funding has allowed the Family Outreach Worker (FOW) role to continue and it is anticipated that it will continue till the end of June 2024. The role is then dependant on further funding.

22

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

16
Loans
Baptist Building Fund Balance b/f
Thank Offering Gift
Repayments
Balance of Loan		 2023
£
175,000
2,500
-25,000		 2023
£
175,000
2,500
-25,000		 2022
£
197,500
2,500
-25,000
152500 175000
, ,

Loan is repayable over 10 years with 20 six monthly payments of £12,500. The loan was paid directly into the church account in August 2018 and repayments started in August 2019. As per the request of the Baptist Building Fund two extra payments will be made after the loan has been repaid. The trustees agreed to reflect this as a liability of £2,500 a year for 10 years. This is currently totalling £15.000

Baptist Union: Balance b/f
Interest Accrued (in SOFA exp)
Repayments
Balance of Loan		 2021
0
0
0
0		 2022
0
0
0
0.00

Loan is repayable over 10 years. Interest is accrued on a daily basis. Interest rate is variable but it is lower than commercial rates. The current rate is 3.5%. Repayments are made on a monthly basis and started one month after the loan was drawn down. Loan repayments are shown under ‘Projects 2 Loan Repayments’. This loan has now been repaid.

17
Christians Against Poverty Expenditure
Designated
75
Salary (shown under salaries)
3,445
Fees (shown under finance fees)
3,445
Expenses shown under CAP
Contribution to CAP HQ
4,725
Smile
0
Other CAP Expenditure
4,725		 17
Christians Against Poverty Expenditure
Designated
75
Salary (shown under salaries)
3,445
Fees (shown under finance fees)
3,445
Expenses shown under CAP
Contribution to CAP HQ
4,725
Smile
0
Other CAP Expenditure
4,725		 17
Christians Against Poverty Expenditure
Designated
75
Salary (shown under salaries)
3,445
Fees (shown under finance fees)
3,445
Expenses shown under CAP
Contribution to CAP HQ
4,725
Smile
0
Other CAP Expenditure
4,725		 2023
Restricted
£		 Total
£		 Total
£		 2022
Total
£		 2022
Total
£
3,445 6,891
10,336		 9,752
126
126		 39

3,445 7,017
10,462		 9,791
4,725 1,575
6,300		 6,300
0 963
963		 1,742
2,609
2,609		 1,301
4,725 5,147
9,872		 9,342

The Church Members’ meeting of July 2016 agreed to continue hosting the CAP Debt Centre. As part of this commitment it was agreed to make an annual contribution to CAP HQ, employ a Debt Centre Manager and meet other designated costs.

Until the end of 2019 the CAP Debt Centre Manager’s Salary was paid from General Funds. From 2020 it was agreed to transfer the Salary from the General Funds to CAP designated and pay it from there so that the actual costs of running the Debt Centre could more easily identified.

At the start of 2023 money was transferred from the general fund to CAP designated as required. During the year another grant was received so that salary and expenses are paid from restricted funds the payment to CAP HQ is from designated funds.

23

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts
18
Other Activities
Children’s Church
Youth Work
Conferences & Training
Travel
Visiting Preachers
Outreach
Thank You Gifts
19
Upkeep of Church Premis-
es
Repairs & Maintenance
Water Rates
Heat & Light
Insurance & Valuation
20
Administration
Telephone
Printing
Office Supplies
Publicity
Finance Fees
Membership Fees
21
Supplies and Services
Materials
Small Equipment
Refreshments
Media & Books
Music & Organ
Flowers
Depreciation (Designated)		 2022
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
Total
£
£
£
424
0
0
424
48
0
0
48
940
0
0
940
468
0
468
160
0
0
160
1,142
0
0
1,142
25
0
0
25
3,207
0
0
3,207
12,233
0
0
12,233
190
0
0
190
10,441
0
0
10,441
5,540
0
0
5,540
28,404
0
0
28,404
612
0
0
612
2,162
0
0
2,162
1,028
0
0
1,028
0
0
0
0
627
0
252
879
1,035
0
0
1,035
5,463
0
252
5,715
1,961
0
4
1,965
1,139
0
0
1,139
801
0
788
1,589
833
0
0
833
1,494
0
0
1,494
0
0
439
439
0
1,551
10,477
12,028
6,228
1,551
11,708
19,487		 Total
£
120
0
965
862
325
887
47
3,206
12,338
168
7,824
5,494
25,824
489
3,630
809
0
831
977
6,735
2,476
1,402
1,383
633
1,714
389
12,028
20,025

24

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

22
Grants to Charitable Causes
Home Mission
Missionary Aviation Fellowship
BMS World Mission
BMS World Mission (Guinebor)
BMS Ukraine
The Family Trust
M & S Newnham
Compassion re Wilkenson
Tear Fund
Medway Good News for Life (Gideons)
SEBA (bread of Life)
M & S Newnham (gift from church mem-
ber)
FEBA Radio
SAT-7 UK
Hope Health Action
African Pastors Fellowship
Leprosy Mission
The Red Cross
Samaritans Purse
AMAT
Kenward Trust
Family Outreach Worker (by transfer)
Donations From Church Family Fund		 2022
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
£
£
£
5,400
0
5,400
5,000
0
5,000
4,300
0
4,300
0
900
900
0
0
1,400
0
1,400
800
0
800
450
0
450
0
126
126
250
0
250
0
0
0
0
650
650
0
0
0
0
0
0
150
1,700
1,850
150
30
180
0
0
0
0
900
900
700
579
1,279
150
150
18,750
4,885
23,635
2,200
0
150
150
5,200
5,000
4,550
900
1,504
1,200
1,100
450
693
250
400
200
200
200
0
150
162
0
0
529
22,688
250

25

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts
23
Tangible Fixed Assets
Cost
at 1 January
Additions
Revaluation Gain
Disposals
31stDec
Depreciation
Change in year
Disposals
Total
Net Book Values
at 31st December 2023
Premises Funded by
Church Building – Restricted
Manse – Restricted		 2023
Freehold Land
Fixtures
& Buildings
& Fittings		 Total
£
619,018
0
0
0
619,018
12,028
0
12,028
606,990
2023
600,000
0
600,000		 Total
£		 Total
£
23
£
£
600,000
19,018		 629,137
0
0		 0
0 0
0
0		 0
600,000
19,018		 631,045
0
12,028		 12,028
0
0		 0
0
12,028		 12,028
600,000
6,990		 619,018
2022
600,000
0
600,000

Mr. Julian Scannell FRICS IRRV MCIArb MEWI of Watson Day, chartered surveyors, valued the church building in December 2014 and put a value of £1,625,000 on the premises. This valuation was done on the basis of the building being a Specialist Property and on the basis of depreciated replacement cost. A new valuation was carried out in March 2020 giving the value on 31[st] December 2019. The basis of the valuation is now 'Fair Value' defined as "the price that would be received to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date" This value has been set as £600,000, as at 31/12/2019

The Manse, 5 Seaton Road, was purchased in December 2010 at a cost of £181,000. The trustees revalued the Manse at the end of 2016 and agreed to value it at £250,000, in line with similar properties in the area. It was sold for £250,000 in August 2018.

24 Building Project (Fund for Future)

Project relates to money raised to refurbish the Lighthouse room. This project was completed in 2020. The fund was then closed.

Project 1 relates to the money raised for, or contributed to, the Building Project. This project was completed in 2020 and the fund was then closed

26

Project 2 relates specifically to money raised for Loan repayments. Together with the money that has been pledged to repay these loans the church will need to transfer £1,500 a month from its General funds into this fund to ensure there are sufficient funds available to repay all loans over the next ten years. If the income given specifically to Project 2 varies then this figure may change accordingly. This fund is currently on track.

Project 3 relates to money retained from payments to the Builder. This payment was made in 2020 and the fund was then closed

27

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

25
Donations & Legacies
Offerings
Donations to Charitable Activi-
ties
Donations for Projects
IT Update
outreach
Christians Against Poverty
Brunch Club
Family Outreach Worker
Donations to Church Family
Fund
Income Tax Recovered on Offerings
Legacies
26
Investment Income
Bank Interest
27
Charitable Activities
Flowers
Refreshments
Organisations
13
28
Other Income
Other Income
29
Trading Activities
Rents
Fund raising Activities re Project
Total Receipts		 Unrest-
ricted
£		 Desig-
nated
£		 Desig-
nated
£		 2023
Restricted
£
115,302 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
22,742 0
0 0
138,044 0
0 2,982
0 2,982
0 0
278 0
0 0
278 0
1,730 0
1,730 0
12,418 0
0 0
12,418 0
152,470 2,982

28

GILLINGHAM APT15TCHUfl¢H A[ lh￿ tsit ￿LLIbL[l￿ Jp.ie' I li1￿¢ InMrci4 jii with ihc rt>Vphich ￿loUI￿ dtwwn Lorr)".nEllilSQii FCCA 24 LJrkficld Awnuo 2LN L7ète Signed by Managing Trustee Signed by Managing Trustee Signed by Mana9ing Trustee 29

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES YEAR ENDING 31ST DECEMBER 2023

Income & Endowments
Donations & Legacies
25
Investment Income
26
Charitable Activities
27
Other Income
28
Trading Activities
29
Total Receipts
Expenditure
Charitable Activities
Charitable Activities
13,15
18-22
Total Expenditure
Net Income/Expenditure for the year
before gains/losses of Fixed Assets
Net Gains/Loss on Sale of Fixed Assets
Net Income before transfer
Transfer Between Funds
Net Income before other
recognised losses
Gains/Losses on Deferred Benefit
Pension Scheme
5
Net Movement of Funds
Reconciliation of Funds
Total Funds brought forward
Total Funds carried forward		 Unrest-
ricted
138,044
0
278
1,730
12,418
£
 2023
Desig-
nated
Restricted
Total
0
71,376
209,420
2,982
0
2,982
0
5,199
5,477
0
23
1,753
0
0
12,418
2,982
76,598
232,050
1,551
54,009
177,904
1,551
54,009
177,904
1,431
22,589
54,146
0
0
0
1,431
22,589
54,146
28,595
1,640
0
30,026
24,229
54,146
0
0
0
30,026
24,229
54,146
32,026
483,351
549,052
62,053
507,580
603,198
£

£

£
 2023
Desig-
nated
Restricted
Total
0
71,376
209,420
2,982
0
2,982
0
5,199
5,477
0
23
1,753
0
0
12,418
2,982
76,598
232,050
1,551
54,009
177,904
1,551
54,009
177,904
1,431
22,589
54,146
0
0
0
1,431
22,589
54,146
28,595
1,640
0
30,026
24,229
54,146
0
0
0
30,026
24,229
54,146
32,026
483,351
549,052
62,053
507,580
603,198
£

£

£
 2022
Total
186,535
798
6,188
477
19,326
£
152,470 2,982 213,323
122,345 1,551 172,297
122,345 1,551 172,297
30,126 1,431 41,026
0 0 0
30,126 1,431 41,026
-30,235 28,595 0
-110 30,026 41,026
0 0 48,500
-110 30,026 89,526
33,674 32,026 459,526
33,564 62,053 549,052

Page 12

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

BALANCE SHEET AT 31st DECEMBER 2023

Fixed Assets Note 2023
£

£
 2023
£

£
 2022
619,018
28,595
65,944
201
5,849
5,958
106,546
1,513
25,000
26,513
80,033
150,000
150,000
549,051
549,051
33,674
32,027
0
483,351
549,052
£

£
 2022
619,018
28,595
65,944
201
5,849
5,958
106,546
1,513
25,000
26,513
80,033
150,000
150,000
549,051
549,051
33,674
32,027
0
483,351
549,052
£

£
Tangible Fixed Assets
Current Assets
Bank
Baptist Union Corporation
Cash
Prepayments
Debtors		 23
6
7
8
9
10		 606,990
24,153
112,226
557
6,350
6,608
149,894
Current Liabilities
Accruals & Creditors 11 1,186
Loans falling due within one year 12 25,000
26,186
Net current Assets 123,707
Loans falling due after one year 12 127,500
Net Assets excluding Pension Liability
Defined Benefit Pension liability
Total Net Assets
Charity Funds
Unrestricted
Designated
Endowment
Restricted		 5
14		 127,500
603,197
603,197
33,564
62,053
0
507,580
Total Funds 603,199 549,052

The Notes on Pages (14-25) form an integral part of the accounts.

Page 13

Page 13

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

2 Depreciation

A new depreciation policy was agreed by the Trustees in 2019 it is as follows:

Only items with a value exceeding £1,000 will be included as Capital Expenditure and therefore depreciated. The following rates of depreciation were agreed:

Keyboard (purchased in 2016) 5 years
Chairs in Worship Area 10 years
Stacking Chairs 5 years
PA & Audio equipment 5 years

3 Reserves

The Trustees consider that the current assets shown on the balance sheet are sufficient reserves to maintain current operational activities.

4 Related Charities

The Custodian Trustee of the church is the Baptist Union Corporation Limited (BUC) which is charity number 249635, and which is controlled by the Baptist Union Council. The church is also a member of the Baptist Union of Great Britain, and the South Eastern Baptist Association.

Page 14

Page 14

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

5 Pension

The Church is a participating employer in the Baptist Pension Scheme (“the Scheme”), which is a separate legal entity administered by the Pension Trustee (Baptist Pension Trust Limited). The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Employer and the other participating employers.

The Scheme previously known as the Baptist Ministers’ Pension Fund started in 1925, but was closed to future accrual of defined benefits on 31 December 2011. Prior to this date the main benefit provided through the Defined Benefit (DB) Plan was a pension of one eightieth of final minimum pensionable income for each year of pensionable service together with additional pension in respect of premiums paid on Pensionable income in excess of Minimum Pensionable Income.

From January 2012, pension provision is being made through the Defined Contribution (DC) Plan within the Scheme. In general, members pay 8% of their Pensionable Income and employers pay 6% of members’ Pensionable Income into individual pension accounts, which are operated and managed on behalf of the Pension Trustee by Legal and Broadstone Corporate Benefits Limited. In addition, the employer pays a further 4% of Pensionable Income to cover Death in Service Benefits, administration costs, and an associated insurance policy which provides income protection for Scheme members in they are unable to work due to long-term incapacity. This income protection policy has been insured by the Baptist Union of Great Britain with Aviva Limited. [Members of the Basic Section pay reduced contributions of 5% of Pensionable Income, and their employers also pay a total of 5%].

The Scheme is considered to be a multi-employer scheme as described in Section 28 of FRS 102. This is because it is not possible to attribute the Scheme’s assets and liabilities to specific employers and means that the scheme is accounted for as if the Scheme were defined contribution scheme

The Minister is a member of the Scheme

The scheme has now been bought out by Just Group Insurance .

The minister contributes at a rate of 8% of pensionable income. This includes an element for accommodation, usually the notional value of a manse. The employer contributes an additional 10% of pensionable income. From this 6% is credited to the minister’s pension account and the remaining 4% is used to pay for insurance (lump sum death benefit and income protection benefit) and administration costs.

The scheme has been bought out by Just, who will administer the pensions of those who have made DB contributions; those with benefits in the DC plan will have them administered by Broadstone and looked after by the Trustee of the Scheme. No DC plan savings will be transferred to Just. When the DB Plan transitions to Just, the DC Plan will continue to be run as the Baptist Pension Scheme.

The employer contribution rate will remain at 10% of Pensionable Income. As before, 6% of this employer contribution goes direct to the member’s DC pension pot. The other 4% covers the cost of income protection insurance, life assurance and the expenses of running the Scheme. The overall operational costs of the Scheme will reduce once the DB Plan has been bought-out but those costs that are currently shared between the DB and DC Plans will all have to be met from the DC Plan. In addition, the cost of increased life assurance benefits (see below) needs to be met. BU believe the 4% allowance will cover the costs under the revised set up but this will clearly be kept under close review.

e15

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

2023
6Bank
GBC
14,152
Steps (held in GBC bank)
337.72
Boys' Brigade
8,991.13
Holiday
0
Flowers
75
Craft
501.19
Lunch (held in GBC bank)
96
24,153.26
7Baptist Union
General Funds
112,225.9
112,225.9
8Cash
GBC (Petty Cash)
364.86
STEPS – Cash
21.26
Boys' Brigade
24.85
Lunch Club
81
Craft Time
13.71
Flowers
51
556.62
9Prepayments
Bridge Insurance Brokers
5,627.79
Business Stream
25.95
BNP Paribas
457
Onecom/Plus Net
0.00
Virgin Media
9.68
Medway Council
229
6,349.63
10Debtors
HMRC
6,608.3
West Kent Domiciliary Care/Choice Support
0
6,608.3
11Accruals
Total – Gas
604.70
SSE
340.93
Vodafone
0
Co-operative Bank -Visa
69.0
Kent County Supplies (KCS)
171.83
1,186
12Loans Outstanding
Accounts Repayable
2023 Total
Within one year
25,000
25,000
After one year
112,500
112,500
Thank you Offering (6 years at £2,500 pa)
15,000
15,000
152,500
152,500
£

Baptist
Building
Fund		 2023
14,152
337.72
8,991.13
0
75
501.19
96
24,153.26
112,225.9
112,225.9
364.86
21.26
24.85
81
13.71
51
£
 2022
18,185
244.72
9,428.28
0
637.08
100
£
 2022
18,185
244.72
9,428.28
0
637.08
100
£
28,594.71
65,944.2
65,944.2
17.88
22.59
13.22
16
66.37
65
556.62 201.06
5,550.24
25.95
0
41.14
9.68
222
5,849.01
5,957.5
0
5,957.5
859.91
205.47
0
242.5
205.12
1,513
2022 total
1
1		 25,000
37,500
12,500
75,000

Page 17

Page 17

Notes to the Accounts

13 Organisations

Organisations
Brigades
Opening Balance
Income
Gift Aid (underGA in SOFA)
Expenditure
Transfer of Funds to GBC
Closing Balance
Craft Time
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure
Transfer of Funds to Gen.
Closing Balance
STEPS
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure from Cash/bank
Expenditure from Bank (under Conf & Mat in SOFA)
Closing Balance
Lunch Club
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure
Transfer to General
Closing Balance
Totals
Opening Balance
Income
Expenditure
Transfers Out
Closing Balance		 2023
Unrestricted Restricted
Total
0
9,642
9,642
0
2,656
2,656
0
0
1,921
1,921
0
1,360
1,360
0
9,016
9,016
0
703
703
0
921
921
0
910
910
0
200
200
0
515
515
0
267
267
0
249
249
0
158
158
0
0
0
0
359
359
0
116
116
0
873
873
0
812
812
0
0
0
£

£

£
 2022
Total
8,622
£
4,253
150
3,383
0
9,642
104
922
222
100
703
250
202
150
36
267
16
100
0
0
0
177
177		 116
0
10,728
10,728
0
4,699
4,699
0
3,800
3,800
0
1,560
1,560
0
10,067
10,067
8,992
5,627
3,791
100
10,728

Page 18

Page 18

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

14 Restricted, Designated & Unrestricted Funds

Land & Buildings – GBC
Land & Buildings – Manse
Fixtures & Fittings
Manse Proceeds
General
Pension Deficit
Project Sensory Room
Project 2 (for Loan Repayments)
Loans to be Repaid
Flowers
Mission
Christians Against Poverty(CAP)
CAP Smile
Family Outreach Worker
Church Family Fund
Holiday
Brunch Club
Organisations		 2023
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
General Designated
0
0
600,000
600,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
6,989
6,989
0
0
0
0
33,566
0
0
33,566
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
62,053
27,420
89,473
0
0
-152,500
-152,500
0
0
125
125
0
0
-255
-255
0
0
7,711
7,711
0
0
2,123
2,123
0
0
4,895
4,895
0
0
207
207
0
0
0
0
0
0
797
797
0
0
10,067
10,067
33,566
62,053
507,579
603,198
£

£

£

£
 2022
Total
600,000
0
19,018
0
33,670
0
240
54,293
-175,000
65
-58
565
2,632
2,378
339
0
179
10,730
£
549,051

Page 19

Page 19

Page 19

Page 19

Page 19

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

15 Salaries and Related Expenses

Salaries
DBS Check
Sub Contractor
Pension Contributions
Pension Deficit
Manse Expenses		 Unrestricted 2023
Designated
Restricted

The Church started the year with 7 employees and finished the year with 6- A full time Minister, a part time Administrator, a part time Debt Centre Manager, a part time Family Outreach Worker, a part time Site Manager and two part time Cleaners. No employee was paid more than £60,000. The Minister is, by the nature of his employment, also a Trustee of the Church. His total remuneration, including Housing Allowance was £37,348

The Minister’s employment entitles the minister to free accommodation in a house either owned or rented by the Church and for which the Church pay the council tax, water bills, and 25% of the gas & electricity bills. The church also provide phone & Internet. (shown under Manse Expenses). The Church pay rent to the Minister, who owns his own property. This is also shown under Manse Expenses.

Further funding has allowed the Family Outreach Worker (FOW) role to continue and it is anticipated that it will continue till the end of June 2024. The role is then dependant on further funding.

Page 20

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

16Loans
Baptist Building Fund Balance b/f
Thank Offering Gift
Repayments
Balance of Loan		 2023
£
 2022
£
175,000
2,500
-25,000		 197,500
2,500
-25,000
152,500 175,000

Loan is repayable over 10 years with 20 six monthly payments of £12,500. The loan was paid directly into the church account in August 2018 and repayments started in August 2019. As per the request of the Baptist Building Fund two extra payments will be made after the loan has been repaid. The trustees agreed to reflect this as a liability of £2,500 a year for 10 years. This is currently totalling £15.000

Baptist Union: Balance b/f
Interest Accrued (in SOFA exp)
Repayments
Balance of Loan		 2021
0
0
0
0		 2022
0
0
0
0.00

Loan is repayable over 10 years. Interest is accrued on a daily basis. Interest rate is variable but it is lower than commercial rates. The current rate is 3.5%. Repayments are made on a monthly basis and started one month after the loan was drawn down. Loan repayments are shown under ‘Projects 2 Loan Repayments’

This loan has now been repaid.

17Christians Against Poverty Expenditure
Designated
75 Salary (shown under salaries)
3,445
Fees (shown under finance fees)
3,445
Expenses shown under CAP
Contribution to CAP HQ
4,725
Smile
0
Other CAP Expenditure
4,725		 17Christians Against Poverty Expenditure
Designated
75 Salary (shown under salaries)
3,445
Fees (shown under finance fees)
3,445
Expenses shown under CAP
Contribution to CAP HQ
4,725
Smile
0
Other CAP Expenditure
4,725		 2023
Restricted
£		 Total
£
 2022
Total
£
 2022
Total
£
£
3,445 6,891
10,336
126
126
7,017
10,462
1,575
6,300
963
963
2,281
2,281
4,819
9,544		 9,752
39
3,445 9,791
4,725
0		 6,300
1,742
1,301
4,725 9,342

The Church Members’ meeting of July 2016 agreed to continue hosting the CAP Debt Centre. As part of this commitment it was agreed to make an annual contribution to CAP HQ, employ a Debt Centre Manager and meet other designated costs.

Until the end of 2019 the CAP Debt Centre Manager’s Salary was paid from General Funds. From 2020 it was agreed to transfer the Salary from the General Funds to CAP designated and pay it from there so that the actual costs of running the Debt Centre could more easily identified.

At the start of 2023 money was transferred from the general fund to CAP designated as required. During the year another grant was received so that salary and expenses are paid from restricted funds the payment to CAP HQ is from designated funds.

Page 21

Page 21

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts
2022
Unrestricted
DesignatedRestricted
Total
18Other Activities
Children’s Church
424
0
0
424
Youth Work
48
0
0
48
Conferences & Training
940
0
0
940
Travel
468
0
468
Visiting Preachers
160
0
0
160
Outreach
1,142
0
0
1,142
Thank You Gifts
25
0
0
25
3,207
0
0
3,207
19Upkeep of Church Premises
Repairs & Maintenance
12,233
0
0
12,233
Water Rates
190
0
0
190
Heat & Light
10,441
0
0
10,441
Insurance & Valuation
5,540
0
0
5,540
28,404
0
0
28,404
20Administration
Telephone
612
0
0
612
Printing
2,162
0
0
2,162
Office Supplies
1,028
0
0
1,028
Publicity
0
0
0
0
Finance Fees
627
0
252
879
Membership Fees
1,035
0
0
1,035
5,463
0
252
5,715
21Supplies and Services
Materials
1,961
0
4
1,965
Small Equipment
1,139
0
0
1,139
Refreshments
801
0
788
1,589
Media & Books
833
0
0
833
Music & Organ
1,494
0
0
1,494
Flowers
0
0
439
439
Depreciation (Designated)
0
1,551
10,477
12,028
6,228
1,551
11,708
19,487
£

£

£
 Total
£
120
0
965
862
325
887
47
3,206
12,338
168
7,824
5,494
25,824
489
3,630
809
0
831
977
6,735
2,476
1,402
1,383
633
1,714
389
12,028
20,025

Page 22

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

2022
Unrestricted Restricted
Total
22Grants to Charitable Causes
Home Mission
5,400
0
5,400
Missionary Aviation Fellowship
5,000
0
5,000
BMS World Mission
4,300
0
4,300
BMS World Mission (Guinebor)
0
900
900
BMS Ukraine
0
0
The Family Trust
1,400
0
1,400
M & S Newnham
800
0
800
Compassion re Wilkenson
450
0
450
Tear Fund
0
126
126
Medway Good News for Life (Gideons)
250
0
250
SEBA (bread of Life)
0
0
0
M & S Newnham (gift from church member)
0
650
650
FEBA Radio
0
0
0
SAT-7 UK
0
0
0
Hope Health Action
150
1,700
1,850
African Pastors Fellowship
150
30
180
Leprosy Mission
0
0
0
The Red Cross
0
900
900
Samaritans Purse
700
579
1,279
AMAT
Kenward Trust
150
150
18,750
4,885
23,635
Family Outreach Worker (by transfer)
2,200
Donations From Church Family Fund
0
150
150
£

£

£
5,200
5,000
4,550
900
1,504
1,200
1,100
450
693
250
400
200
200
200
0
150
162
0
0
529
22,688
250

Page 23

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

23Tangible Fixed Assets
Cost
at 1 January
Additions
Revaluation Gain
Disposals
Depreciation
Change in year
Disposals
Total
Net Book Values
at 31st December 2023
Premises Funded by
Church Building – Restricted
Manse – Restricted
31stDec		 2023
Freehold Land
Fixtures
Total
& Buildings
& Fittings
600,000
19,018
619,018
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
600,000
19,018
619,018
0
12,028
12,028
0
0
0
0
12,028
12,028
600,000
6,990
606,990
2023
600,000
0
600,000
£

£

£
 Total
£		 Total
£
629,137
0
0
0
631,045
12,028
0
12,028
619,018
2022
600,000
0		 2022
600,000

Mr. Julian Scannell FRICS IRRV MCIArb MEWI of Watson Day, chartered surveyors, valued the church building in December 2014 and put a value of £1,625,000 on the premises. This valuation was done on the basis of the building being a Specialist Property and on the basis of depreciated replacement cost. A new valuation was carried out in March 2020 giving the value on 31[st] December 2019. The basis of the valuation is now 'Fair Value' defined as "the price that would be received to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date" This value has been set as £600,000, as at 31/12/2019

The Manse, 5 Seaton Road, was purchased in December 2010 at a cost of £181,000. The trustees revalued the Manse at the end of 2016 and agreed to value it at £250,000, in line with similar properties in the area. It was sold for £250,000 in August 2018.

24 Building Project (Fund for Future)

Project relates to money raised to refurbish the Lighthouse room. This project was completed in 2020. The fund was then closed.

Project 1 relates to the money raised for, or contributed to, the Building Project. This project was completed in 2020 and the fund was then closed

Project 2 relates specifically to money raised for Loan repayments. Together with the money that has been pledged to repay these loans the church will need to transfer £1,500 a month from its General funds into this fund to ensure there are sufficient funds available to repay all loans over the next ten years. If the income given specifically to Project 2 varies then this figure may change accordingly. This fund is currently on track.

Project 3 relates to money retained from payments to the Builder. This payment was made in 2020 and the fund was then closed

Page 24

GILLINGHAM BAPTIST CHURCH

Notes to the Accounts

25Donations & Legacies
Offerings
Donations to Charitable Activities
Donations for Projects
IT Update
outreach
Christians Against Poverty
Brunch Club
Family Outreach Worker
Donations to Church Family Fund
Income Tax Recovered on Offerings
Legacies
26Investment Income
Bank Interest
27Charitable Activities
Flowers
Refreshments
Organisations
13
28Other Income
Other Income
29Trading Activities
Rents
Fund raising Activities re Project
Total Receipts		 Unrest-
ricted
£
 2023
Desig-
nated
Restricted
£

£
 2023
Desig-
nated
Restricted
£

£
nated
£
115,302
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
22,742
0		 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
138,044 0
0 2,982
0 2,982
0
278
0		 0
0
0
278 0
1,730 0
1,730 0
12,418
0		 0
0
12,418 0
152,470 2,982

Page 25