Charity number: 1172326
ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
VINTp/MS

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
CONTENTS
Page
Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity. its Trustees and Advisers
Trustees. Report
Independent Auditors. Report on the Financial Statements
Statement of Financial Activities
3-12
13-16
17
Balance Sheet
18
Statement of Cash Flows
19
Notes to the Financial Statements
20-33

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Trustees
H Ayris, Secretary
S Tunde, Treasurer
Rev. l J Bunce
B Schulte
J J Giwa-majekodunmi
Rev. V J Bunce
K S Yates
E O Arowolo
F O Lawani
D Smith
T O Ilesanmi (appointed 9 June 20241
B M Hacker (appointed 9 June 2024)
S C Ellis (appointed 9 June 2024)
A K Punmiya (appointed 9 June 2024}
Charity registered
number
1172326
Principal office
Main Road
Romford
Essex
RM1 3BL
Independent auditors
Venthams
Chartered Accountants
Millhouse
32 - 38 Easl Street
Rochford
Essex
SS4 1DB
Page 1

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS
(CONTINUED}
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Bankers
Royal Bank of Scotland
Drummond House
PO Box 1727
Edinburgh
EH12 9RH
Baptisl Union Corporation Ltd
Baptist House
PO Box 44
129 Broadway
Oxford
OX11 8RT
London Baptist Propety Board Ltd
Unit C2
15 Dock Street
London
E1 8JN
CCLA
Senator House
85 Queen Victoria Street
London
EC4V 4ET
Page 2

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
The Trustees present Iheir annual report together with the audited financial statements of the Charity for the 1
January 2024 10 31 December 2024
The Trustees of Romford Baptist Church have the responsibility of co-operating with the pastors in promoting
the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistlG, social and ecumenical - in and around Romford, but
also in the wider community and throughout the world.
Objectives and activities
a. Policies and objectives
The charitys objectives are=
The advancement of the Christian Failh according lo the principles of the Baptist denomination.
Advance education and carry out other charitable purposes in the United Kingdom and other parts of the
world.
The relief of those in need, by reason of youth, age, ill-health, financial hardship or other disadvantage.
In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance
published by the Charity Commission relaling to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit= running a
charity {PB2)'.
b. Activities undertaken to achieve objectives
In fulfilling its purpose the church engages in a range of activities whether on its own or with others that vary
from time to time with activities being initiated, expanded or closed, as appropriate.
c. Grant-making policies
The church makes donations to support other Baptist causes including donations to BMS World Mission. We
also support our local churches together schools ministry, Graceworks. We do not make grants to individuals
or other organisations.
d. Volunteers
For nearly all of our activities we need volunteers and this is something that remains a challenge, particularly
since Covid. We recognise that this is reflected by many organisations nationwide but we are gratefu5 to all
those people who give of their time on either a regular or irregular basis.
Page 3

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Objectives and activities {continued)
e. Main activities undertaken to further the Charity's purposes for the public benefit
Annual Report
Romford Baptist Church's theme for the year 2024. Beyond Imagination was based on Ephesians 3 vs20-21
which is "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power
that is at work within us, to him be glow,. This verse was chosen as in 2024 we celebrated RBC'S 90th
Anniversary, we held several events throughout the year to celebrate this such as quiz night. barn dance, vision
day to name a few. On our anniversary weekend, we had a celebration service on the Sunday moming followed
by a BBQ for the church. We enjoyed having the president of the Baptist Union preaching at one of our
anniversary services.
During 2024 the church was in operation for the full year. We saw significant life in all aspects of the church,
with the church buildings and ministries running 7 days a week with 100's of people accessing the church on a
day-to-day basis. Our Sunday congregations were strong in number and we continued to see the various
activities growng.
We maintained holding the Causeway service once a month for adults with additional needs. this happens on
the fourth Sunday afternoon of the rnonth and has seen a good support. Both Sunday morning and evening
services continued to thrive.
Services relating to the rites of passage also continued through the year as we recognised the passing of
beloved and long-standing members of the churGh as well as those who have joined in more recent years.
Youth and Children
Our Youth, Children's and Families work has prospered in this last year. One of our Ministers in Training lat
Spurgeon's College) is remaining on placement here at Romford Baptist Church and has a focus on Youth and
Children.
The Sunday groups, weekly youth club and other activities conlinued to meet. In October a Youth Weekend was
held at Carrotty Wood which was a great success. In December a Youth Sleepover was held.
Pastoral Care
The pastors continued to support a significant number of people with pastoral care. Some more difficult and
demanding siluations meant that the pastors had to engage with outside agencies and local government,
particularly where there were injustices and housing matters, sometimes leaving vulnerable people, including
children, on the streets of Romford. Home communions and pastoral visits also took place at times and regular
contact was kept with as many people as possible by telephone, messagin9, email or written communication.
Additional needs
Our activities for those with additional needs continued to be busy. The Amaze group for those with additional
needs meets regularly along with the monthly Causeway service.
The Amaze Parents Support Group which met at RBC moved mid way through the year to be hosted at another
church. as our Part-Time Minister who headed this group stepped down from their role.
Adoption Group
The adoption group continued this year. We have formed rlleaningful relationships with the local authority and
others to better support adopted children and young people and their families. The activities run by the adoption
team along with the local authority were very well attended and apprecialed by the community.
Page 4

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Objectives and activities {continued)
Discipleship
Our small groups continued during the year meeting in a number of homes around the area as well as a group
continLJing to meet online, a new evening small group was formed at the start of 2024. We studied many
different subjects and benefited by the joint learning.
During the year we held 2 Baptismal services with a total of 8 people professing their faith in Jesus through the
waters of Baptism.
Older generation
All the work with the older generation was able continue this year and, at each event, there was always space
given for a short talk or thought about the Christian faith and favourite hymns sung. The weekly Treasure Times
is preceded by some choosing to lunch together before each session as well as during the holidays when the
group don't meet. This is a good way to maintain relationships and combat loneliness felt by many of this age
group. So many have no-one else to share a meal table with other than during this regular gathering.
3 Holiday at Home day events were also run on a variety of themes giving a space for older people to meet with
their peers, again lo overcome their loneliness but also to attend sessions geared to their age group with fun
and food at its heart. These were all booked up to capacity.
We also hèld in person and via zoom Dementia training as part of our aim to become a Dementia friendly
church.
Mission
Our Outreach work, the Meeting Place, had continued to thrive during the year with some new staff joining the
team. We saw a number of groups partnering with us including the Hospice and Age UK and some of those
who have attended have subsequently joined the older generation activities or have begun to come on a Sunday
morning to the service. It has been encouraging to see a lot of new people joining with us at the Meeting Place.
We made Ihe decision to close our Community Money Advice Centre. which is a debt support programme, we
had been trying to actively train and provider more advisors but we were unable to provide enough advisors to
work alongside the waiting list we had for clients who needed support. The centre will officialSy be closed in
2025 and all existing customers were transferred to other centres.
We continued to support the work of those who reach out into the local schools with the message of the
Christ13n faith through our partnership with Graceworks. This has involved holding Harvest and Christmas
services for schools within the borough.
In the Spring of 2024 we hosted in conjunction with London City Mission, The Life Project which is an interactive
experience for primary school children lo find out about the Christian faith. It was warmly received by the local
schools.
We also continue to partner with a street feeding prograrnme which aims to provide food for those in need in the
Romford area 5 days a week. We are still working with our link church in Sofia, Bulgaria.
We have strong links with BMS World Mission, supporting Louise and Peter Lynch, working in Bangladesh.
Our Partnership with Winter Gardens Baptist Church continued, whereby we have continued to include prayer
points in our weekly newsletter. This was a great focus for our work with Home Mission.
The church received visits from a number of schools during the year for special services including Harvest,
Christmas and Easter. We also conducted assemblies in local schools presenting copies of the book "It's Your
Move-.
Page 5

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Objectives and activities {continued>
Other groups continued to meet including the prayer groups both online and in person, social groups and craft
groups.
We reviewed and updated the churches Safeguarding policy during the year.
Links with the community
We have increased our links within the local community and the Local Authority by holding a Knife Crime Forum
in collaboration with Knife Crime Charities and the Local Police, this event enabled the community to come and
voice their concerns and meet with charities.
We are also a part of the Faith Forum that meets with the Local Authority on a regular basis.
We host and attend the Local Police Forum which enables the church to engage with the local community
particularly looking at priorities for the police going forward. This meets 4 times a year.
Links with the Town Centre Churches
The Town Centre Ministers meet regularly to pray and plan events for the town, last year saw a joint Easter
Service in the market place and at Christmas the churches hosted different musical events such as carol
singing etc. in the market Square. This partnership also included Romford Bid and was a great step forward in
engaging with the local authorities.
Church Vision Day
In April we held a Church Vision day to reflect on how far RBC has come within the last 90 years and what God
is calling for us lo do in the future. Ideas were put forward for a large development project in the future to see
the church pionèer new ways of creating intergenerational communities.
Leadership Away Day
In September the Leadership Team held an Away Day al Stapleford Tawney to look at pulting into practice what
had been spoken about at the Church Vison Day. We enjoyed having Revd Paul Hills leading the day and
doing team building training with us.
Parkside
The work of Romford Baptist Church Housing Association (Parkside) continued and was led by Romford Baptist
Church Minister Team Leader and is supported by the Minister who has a focus on the older generation. The
full report for activities of this Home can be seen in its own report.
The Buildings
We continued to maintain our buildings and ensure that they remained in good order.
Some outside bookings made use of the building, including the Blood Donors, some children's dance classes, a
fostering group, a phonics group and a women's aid group. We have also built strong links with the U3A and the
job centre. We continue to be a member church of the Baptist Union of Great Britain and London Baplists.
Page 6

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Objectives and activities (continued)
Finance
Looking forward
Like many organisations we are anticipating the future with faith but also a sense of what will need to be
different. We are listening to God and the community to see what we need to do to show God's love going
forward. God is still at work. The church has spenl some time starting to look al the next steps for the church.
Achievements and performance
Review of activities
At 31 December 2024 the church membership totalled 205 During the year we had 15 new members join the
church. During the year we also reviewed our membership list and 18 were taken off the list as they had moved
away or no longer attending the church for other reasons. Sunday attendance continued to grow and many
compulersldevices were tuned in to our livestream services each Sunday.
The activities of the church, Ihrough its organisations, have continued with a sense of purpose and
encouragement. We have experienced the encouragement of many new people worshipping with us throughout
the year.
The church was host to a number of occasions, making the large worship area and extensive buildings available
lo organisations within the community. We also held some special events including Faith in the Westend
Musical evening and John Archer mission event.
New Logo
We decided to change the logo for RBC during 2024, the logo that was being used had been in place for in
excess of 20 years and wilh our 90th Anniversary laking place we fell it was time to reflect RBC in 2024 and
beyond. Our new logo reflects the love of God for the community of Romford. It also links with our care home
new logo.
RBCCC
As mentioned in 2023, we took over the running of the Collier Row and Romford Foodbanks and created a
separate Charity called Romford Baptist Church Community Care, the setting up of this was finalised in 2024
This new charity, whilst part of Romford Baptist Church's ministries, will enable a level of autonomy for the work
of the foodbank and the growth of our social action mission activities. Funds of £41 ,684 were transferred to the
charity during the year.
b. Fundraising activities and income generation
The church generates income mainly through the donations from its membership and others throughout the
regular congregation. The trustees regu5arly update the membership as to the current financial situation of the
church.
Page 7

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Achievements and performance (continued}
c. Investment policy and performance
The church does not have an investment portfolio, any reserved are with the Baptist Together high interest
account.
Financial review
a. Going concern
After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate
resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason, they continue to adopt
the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Further details regarding the adoption of the
going concern basis can be found in the accounting policies.
b. Reserves policy
In order to meet the running costs of the church for 12 months beyond the balance sheet date, an amount
estimated at £450,000 would be required. This amount is comfortably met by the cash reserves held by the
church.
Total income for the year was £527,36412023.. £540,470} and the total expenditure for the year was £538,921
(2023.. £486,701). The (deficit) I surplus for the year was £11 ,557 {2023'. £53,769 surplus).
c. Principal risks and uncertainties
All major insurable risks are subject to normal church and employerfs insurance. Contractual risks are reviewed
before being entered into to assess that they could not significantly impact upon the church's ability to fulfil its
objectives. An annual review of a51 areas of risk is undertaken by the trustees in conjunction with staff and
volunteers responsible for the area of activity.
d. Principal funding
The principal funding source of the charity is the donations received from members of the church throughout the
year.
Page 8

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES, REPORT {CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Financial control
Romford Baptist Church the Charity operales under a scheme of authority delegation. Disbursement of the
Charity assets must be properly authorized in accordance with the agreed procedures. All payment must have
dual authorizalion.
Romford Baptist Church has a Finance Committee that meets Ihree times a year to review proposed annual
budget, the final financial year statement and the annual audit reports and accounts.
The Finance Committee recommend the annual budget, the annual audited reports and accounts to the
Romford Baptist Church Trustees who recommend these at the Church meeting.
The Final Year End Accounts are prepared by the Treasurer, reviewed by the Finance Team, approved by the
Trustees before being presented to the Church Members meeting, and signed off by the Trustees and
submitted to the Charity Commission.
The Romford Baptist Church Leadership Team
which includes Ihe Trustees - receives regular management
reports and ensures that Ihis is representative of the activities within the Charity.
Page 9

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Structure, governance and management
a. Constitution
Romford Baptist Church is a registered charity, number 1172326. and is constituted under a Trust deed.
b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees
The management of the Charity is the responsibility of the Trustees who are elected and co-opted under the
terms of the Trust deed.
Organisational structure and decision-making policies
The deacons and church officers are elected by the Church members at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) or
other church Members Meeting as desired.
At the end of December 2024, the leadership team consisted of two full-time pastors, one Outreach Leader, two
ministers in training, officers and deacons.
Our Part-Time Minister stepped down from the role as they felt called to become a full foster carer, they have
continued to remain a part of our church community.
The church also employs a number of full and part time staff to assist with adminislration and to run the coffee
shop {The Meeting Place).
Plans for future periods
The fulure is challenging and exciting,. we are expecting great things of an amazing God as we reach out into
our community in Romford. We are reminded of the need to pray about how we can, individually and
corporately, bring glory lo our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. 2024 will see the church celebrating its 90th
anniversary and work is being done towards a strategy of developing the church for the next generation.
Page 10

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Statement of Trustees. responsibilities
The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordance
with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted
Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in England & Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for
each financial which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of its incoming resources
and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial
statements, the Trustees are required to:
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently-
observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP (FRS 102}-,
make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent.,
state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards IFRS 102) have been followed, subject to any
material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements.,
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the
Charity will continue in business.
The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain
the Charily's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity
and enable them lo ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity
(Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Trust deed. They are also responsible for
safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of
fraud and other irregularities.
Page11

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
TRUSTEES. REPORT {CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Disclosure of information to auditOTS
Each of the persons who are Trustees at the time when this Trustees, Report is approved has confinmed thal-.
so far as that Trustee is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the charivs auditors are
unaware, and
that Trustee has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a Trustee in order to be aware of
any relevant audit information and to establish that the charity's auditors are aware of that information.
Auditors
The auditors, Vènlhams, have indicated their willingness to continue in officè. The designated Trustees will
propose a motion reappointing the auditors at a meeting of the Trustees.
Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by..
H Ayris
Truslee
Date..
7-7-2025
Page 12

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS. REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Romford Baptist Church (the 'charity'l for the year ended 31
December 2024 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheel, the Statement of
Cash Flows and the related notes, including a sumrnary of significant accounting policies. The financial
reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting
Stand3rds, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK
and Republic of Ireland, (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities
preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Rèporting Standards applicable in the UK and
Republic of Ireland IFRS 102) in preference to Ihe Accounting and Reporting by Charities- Statement of
Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been
withdrawn.
This has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with the Generally
Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2015.
In our opinion the financial statements..
give a true and fair view of Ihe state of the charity's affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of its incoming
resources and application of resources for the year then ended.,
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting
Practice., and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) {ISAs (UK)) and applicable
law. Our responsibilities under Ihose standards are further described in the Auditors, responsibilities for the audit
of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the
ethical requirerllents that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including
the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in
accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have oblained is sufficient and
appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees, use of the going concem basis of
accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or
conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to Gontinue as a
going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statemenls are authorised for
issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect to going concern are described in the
relevant sections of this report.
Page 13

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS, REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
{CONTINUED>
Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report other than the financial
statements and our Auditors, Report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained
within the Annual Report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and,
except to the extent othetwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance
conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the
other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course
of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or
apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material
misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on Ihe work we have performed. we conclude
Ihat there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
We have nothing lo report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports)
Regulations 2008 requires us to report lo you if, in our opinion..
the information given in the Trustees, Report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial
statements. or
sufficient accounting records have not been kept- or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns., or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of trustees
As explained more fully in the Trustees, Responsibilities Statemenl, the Trustees are responsibSe for the
preparation of the financial statements which give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the
Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability to continue
as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern
basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no
realistic alternative but to do so.
Page 14

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS. REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
{CONTINUED)
Auditors. responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with
the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance aboul whether the financial statements as a whole are free
from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditors, Report that inc5udes our
opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in
accordance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise
from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate. they could reasonably be
expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design
procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of
irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of delecling irregularities,
including fraud is detailed below=
Based on our discussions with the charity's management and the Trustees, we identified that the following laws
and regulations are significant to the entity..
Those laws and regulations considered to have a direct effect on the financial statements include UK financial
reporting standards and Charity Law.
Those laws and regulations for which non-compliance may be fundamental lo the operating aspects of the
charity and Iherefore may have a material effect on the financial statements include compliance with the
charitable objectives, public benefit, fundraising regulations, safeguarding and health and safety legislation.
These matters were discussed amongst the engagement team at the planning stage and the team remained
alert to non-compliance throughout the audit.
Audit procedures undertaken in response to the potential risks relating to irregularities (which include fraud and
non-compliance with laws and regulations) comprised of.. enquiries of managemenl and the Trustees as lo
whether the entity complies with such laws and regulations- enquiries with the same concerning any actual or
potential litigation or claims,. inspection of relevant key risk assessments and inspection reports. review of
Trustee meeting minutes., testing the appropriateness of journal entries., and the performance of analytical
review to identify unexpected movements in account balances which may be indicative of fraud.
No instances of material non-compliance were identified. However, the likelihood of detecting irregularities,
including fraud, is limited by the inherent difficulty in detecting irregularities, the effectiveness of the entity's
controls, and the nature, timing and extent of the audit procedures performed. Irregularities that result from
fraud might be inherently more difficult lo detect than irregularities that resull from error. As explained above,
there is an unavoidable risk that material misstatements may not be detected, even though the audit has been
planned and performed in accordance with ISAS (UK).
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Firkancial
Reporting Council's website at.. www.frc.or
.uklauditorsres
onsibilities. This description forms part of our
Auditors, Report.
Page 15

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS. REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
{CONTINUED)
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charitls trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities
(Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might stste to the
charitys trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors, Report and for no other
purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than
the charity and its trustees, as a body, for our audit work, for this rèport, or for the opinions we have formed.
Venthams
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
Millhouse
32 - 38 East Street
Rochford
Essex
SS4 1DB
Date.. 1410712025
Venthams are eligible to acl as auditors in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
Page 16

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Unrestricted
funds
2024
Restricted
funds
2024
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Note
Income from.
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Investments
268,314
205,606
52,287
1,157
269,471
205,606
52,287
265,860
235,923
38,687
Total income
526.207
1.157
527,364
540,470
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
538,108
813
538,921
486, 701
Total expenditure
538,108
813
538,921
486, 701
Net movement in funds
{11,901)
344
(11,557)
53, 769
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought fonward
Net movement in funds
7,615.611
(11,9011
63,125
344
7.678,736
(11,557)
7,624,967
53, 769
Total funds carried forward
7,603,710
63,469
7,667,179
7, 678, 736
Page 17

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
BALANCE SHEET
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
2024
2023
Note
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
12
6,806,339
6,810,588
6,806,339
6,810,588
Current assets
Stocks
Debtors
Cash at bank and in hand
13
791
627
14
22,096
853.153
20,189
864, 938
876,040
885,754
Creditors.. amounts falling due within one
year
15
(15,200)
(17, 606)
Net current assets
860.840
868.148
Total assets less current liabilities
7,667,179
7,678,736
Total net assets
7,667,179
7,678, 736
Charity funds
Restricled funds
Unrestricted funds
16
63,469
7,603,710
63,125
7,615,611
16
Total funds
7,667,179
7,678,736
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by..
is
Trustee
Date..
7-7-ZS
Page 18

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
2024
2023
Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities
573
62,415
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
{12,358>
(35, 753)
Net cash used in investing activities
112,358)
(35,753)
Cash flows from financing activities
Net cash provided by financing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
{11,785)
864.938
26,662
838,276
Cash and Gash equivalents at the end of the year
853.153
864,938
Page 19

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
General information
The charity was established as a CIO on 29 March 2017 and was registered with the Charity Commission
under charity number 1172326. The charity commenced trading in 1 June 2018 following the transfer of
the assets of Romford Baptist Church an unincorporated charity.
Accounting policies
2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP {FRS 102)
Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities
preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK
and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102) (effective 1 January 20191, the Financial Reporting Standard
applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally
Accepted Practice as il applies from 1 January 2015.
The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair, view and have departed from
the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true
and fair, view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP IFRS 102) published in
October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended
Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.
Romford Baptist Church meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and
liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless othetwise stated in the
relevant accounting policy.
2.2 Going concern
There are no material uncertainties regarding the chariws ability to continue. Therefore the accounts
are prepared on a going concern basis.
2.3 Income
All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the
income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.
Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment
income is receivable.
2.4 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic
benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in
settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by
activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs,
including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Dirèct costs attributable to a single
activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity
and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those
activities on a basis consistenl with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the
basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset's use.
Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the
Charity's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.
Page 20

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Accounting policies {continued)
2.4 Expenditure {continued)
Grants payable are charged in the year when the offer is made except in those cases where the
offer is conditional, such grants being recognised as expenditure when the conditions attaching are
fulfilled. Grants offered subject lo conditions which have not been met al the year end are noted as a
commitment, but not accrued as expenditure.
All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.
2.5 Interest receivable
Interest on funds held on deposit is included when recèivable and the amount Gan be measured
reliably by the Charity., this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the
institution with whom the funds are deposited.
2.6 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation
Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model,
tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated
impairment losses. A]1 costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working
condition should be included in the measurement of cost.
Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value
over their estimated useful lives,
Depreciation is provided on the following bases..
Freehold property
property not depreciated, roof works straight
line 10 years
not depreciated
straight line 3 to 5 years
Long-term leasehold property
Fixtures and fittings
2.7 Stocks
Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for
obsolete and slow-moving stoGks. Cost includes all direct Gosts and an appropriate proportion of
fixed and variable overheads.
2.8 Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at Ihe settlement amounl after any trade discount offered.
Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
2.9 Cash at bank and in hand
Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short
maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar
account.
Page 21

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Accounting policies (continued)
2.10 Liabilities and provisions
Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation al the Balance Sheet date as a result of a past
event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the
amount of Ihe settlement can be estimated reliably.
Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the
amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.
Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where
the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those
amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The
unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activilies as a finance cost.
2.11 Financial instruments
The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial
instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised al Iransaction value and
subsequenlly measured al their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are
subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
2.12 Pensions
The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the
amounts payable by the Charity lo the fund in respect of the year.
2.13 Fund accounting
General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in
furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other
purposes.
Designated funds Gomprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Trustees for
particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial
statements.
Restricted funds are funds which are lo be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by
donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The costs of raising and
administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted
fund is sel oul in the notes to the financial statements.
Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.
Page 22

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Donations
268.314
1,157
269,471
265,860
Total 2023
264, 960
900
265, 860
Income from charitable activities
Unrestricted
funds
2024
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Income from charitable activities - Church
205,606
205,606
235, 923
Total 2023
235,923
235, 923
Investment income
Unrestricted
funds
2024
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Investment income- local investment properties
Investment income- local cash
18,643
33,644
18,643
33.644
19,778
18,909
52,287
52.287
38,687
Total 2023
38, 687
38,687
Page 23

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Analysis of grants
Grants to
Institutions
2024
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Grants, Church
57,884
57.884
7,500
Total 2023
7,500
7,500
The Charity has made the following material grants to institutions during the year..
2024
2023
Name of institutions
Graceworks
2,100
2,000
11,000
2,000
(7, 500)
17,000
2,000
B3Ptist Union Home Mission
BMS World Mission
Winter Gardens Baptist Church
The Big Sing
London City Mission
RBC Community Care
500
600
41,684
57.884
7, 500
Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities
Summary by fund type
Unrestricted
funds
2024
Restricted
funds
2024
Total
2024
Total
2023
Church
538,108
813
538,921
486,701
Total 2023
485,857
844
486, 701
Page 24

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Analysis of expenditure by activities
Activities
undertaken
directly
2024
Grant
funding of
activities
2024
Support
costs
2024
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Church
319,236
57,884
161,801
538,921
486,701
Total 2023
304, 761
7,500
174,440
486,701
Analysis of direct costs
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Church
2024
Slaff costs
Church housing expenses
Travel
Other ministerial costs
213,984
25,161
521
4,478
75,092
213,984
25,161
521
209, 853
19,886
1,031
6,649
67,342
4,478
75,092
Mission and outreach
319,236
319,236
304, 761
Total 2023
304, 761
304, 761
Page 25

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)
Analysis of support costs
Total
funds
2024
Total
funds
2023
Church
2024
Staff costs
Depreciation
Church premises
Church office expenses
Auditors, remuneration
48,437
16,607
48,688
34,990
7,839
5,240
48,437
16,607
48.688
34,990
7,839
5,240
39, 228
15, 157
69, 793
40,628
7,632
2, 002
Legal fees
161,801
161.801
174,440
Total 2023
174,440
174,440
Auditors, remuneration
The auditors, remuneration amounts to an auditor fee of £7,824 (2023 - £7,524), and accountancy of £
{2023- £ -}.
10.
Staff costs
2024
2023
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Contribution lo defined contribution pension schemes
230,745
12,164
19,512
217,573
10,914
20, 594
262.421
249,081
The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows..
2024
2023
Employees
13
14
No employee received remuneralion amounling to more than £60,000 in either year.
Page 26

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Trustees. stipend and expenses
During the year, salaries have been paid to Rev l Bunce £46,11712023: £43,559). Rev V Bunce £34,300
12023 £31.800) and Rev J Love3rd £11,659 {2023.' £22,470), for rllinisterial services. Employers pension
contributions totalling £13,221 (2023.. £14,822) were paid on their behalf.
InclLJded in the above salaries are expenses totalling £7,280 (2023.. £7,895) which were reimbursed or
paid directly to 3 Trustees.
12.
Tangible fixed assets
Long-term
leasehold Fixtures and
property
fittings
Freehold
property
Total
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024
Additions
6,588,270
188,000
149,820
12.358
13,1951
6,926,090
12,358
(3,195)
Disposals
At 31 December 2024
6,588,270
188,000
158,983
6,935.253
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024
Charge for the year
On disposals
1,096
1,096
114,406
15,511
{3,195}
115,502
16,607
(3,195)
At 31 December 2024
2,192
126,722
128.914
Nel book value
At 31 December 2024
6,586,078
188,000
32.261
6,806,339
At 37 December 2023
6.587.174
788, 000
35,414
6,810,588
13.
Stocks
2024
2023
Raw Materials and consumables
791
627
Page 27

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
14.
Debtors
2024
2023
Due within one year
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
5,396
11,130
5,570
3, 759
10,873
5,557
22,096
20, 789
15.
Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
Trade creditors
4,589
2,787
7,824
5,867
4,215
7, 524
Other taxation and social security
Accruals and deferred income
15,200
17,606
Page 28

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
16.
Statement of funds
Statement of funds current year
Balance at
31
December
2024
Balance at 1
January
2024
Transfers
inlout
Income Expenditure
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
Fixed asset fund
Contingency fund
Junction Road
Parent and Toddler Group
6,810,588
68,090
45,170
2,837
(4,249)
6,806,339
68,090
45,170
3,382
4,255
{3,710)
6,926,685
4,255
{3,7101
{4.249} 6,922,981
General funds
General fund
Auxiliaries fund
622,412
7,789
58,725
497,106
1459,963)
3,208
662,763
7,789
10,177
Church group activity funds
24,846
(74,435)
1,041
688,926
521.952
{534,398)
4,249
680.729
Total Unrestricted funds
7.615.611
526,207
1538,108)
7,603,710
Restricted funds
Benevolent Fund
Future project fund
Jack Petchey Fund
252
252
60,000
2,873
60.000
3,217
1,157
{813)
63,125
1,157
1813)
63,469
Total of funds
7,678,736
527,364
1538.9211
7,667,179
Page 29

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
16.
Statement of funds (continued)
Statement of funds - prior year
Balance al
37
December
2023
Balance al
1 January
2023
Transfers
in/ou
Income Expenditure
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
Fixed asset fund
6, 789,992
68,090
45,170
3, 069
20,596
6.810,588
68,090
45,170
2,837
Contingency fund
Junction Road
Parent and Toddler Group
4,546
(4, 778)
6,906,321
4,546
(4, 778)
20, 596
6, 926, 685
General funds
General fund
Auxilliaries fund
632,552
7, 789
15,236
465,689
(455, 235)
(20,596)
622,470
7, 789
58, 727
Church group activity funds
69,335
(25, 844)
655,577
535,024
(481,079)
(20,596)
688,926
Total Unrestricted funds
7,561,898
539,570
(485,857)
7,615,611
Restricted funds
Benevolent Fund
252
252
Future project fund
Jack Petchey Fund
60, 000
2,817
60, 000
2,873
900
(844)
63,069
900
(844)
63,125
Total of funds
7,624, 967
540, 470
(486, 701)
7, 678. 736
Page 30

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
17.
Summary of funds
Summary of funds - current year
Balance at
31
December
2024
Balance at 1
January
2024
TTansfers
inlout
Income Expenditure
Designated funds
General funds
Restricted funds
6,926,685
688.926
63,125
4,255
521,952
1,157
(3,710)
(534,398)
(813)
{4,249)
4,249
6,922.981
680,729
63,469
7,678,736
527.364
1538,921 }
7,667.179
Summary of funds - prior year
Balance al
31
December
2023
Balance al
l January
2023
Transfers
inloul
Income Expenditure
Designated funds
General funds
Restricted funds
6,906, 321
655,577
63,069
4,546
535, 024
900
(4, 778)
(481,079)
(844)
20,596
(20,596)
6,926, 685
688,926
63,725
7,624,967
540,470
(486, 701)
7, 678, 736
18. Analysis of net assets between funds
Analysis of net assets between funds current period
Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
Total
funds
2024
Tangible fixed assets
Currenl assets
Creditors due within one year
6,806.339
812,571
{15,200)
6,806,339
876,040
(15.200)
63,469
Total
7,603,710
63,469
7,667.179
Page 31

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
18. Analysis of net assets between funds (continued)
Analysis of net assets between funds - prior period
Unrestricted
funds
2023
Restricted
funds
2023
Total
funds
2023
Tangible fixed assets
Current assets
6,870,588
822,629
(17,606)
6,810,588
885, 754
(17,606)
63, 125
Creditors due within one year
Total
7.615.611
63, 725
7.678,736
19.
Reconciliation of net movement in funds to nel cash flow from operating activities
2024
2023
Net incomelexpenditure for the period (as per Statement of Financial
Activilies)
{11,557)
53, 769
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
Decreasellincreasel in stocks
Increase in debtors
16,607
1164)
{1,907)
12,406)
15,757
65
(576)
(6, 000)
Decrease in creditors
Nel cash provided by operating activities
573
62,415
20.
Analysis of Cash and cash equivalents
2024
2023
Cash in hand
853,153
864.938
Total cash and cash equivalents
853,153
864,938
Page 32

ROMFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
21. Analysis of changes in net debt
At1
January
2024 Cash flows
At31
December
2024
Cash at bank and in hand
864,938
111,785)
853,153
864.938
{11,785)
853,153
22.
Pension commitments
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held
separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge
represents conlributions payable by the charity to the fund and amounted to £19,51212023.. £20,594).
23.
Related party transactions
During the year, income of £73,900 (2023.. £68,500) was received from Romford Baptist Church Housing
Association Limited, a charity under common Gontrol, in respect of pastoral services. During the year
payments of £16,30012023.. 23,200) were made lo Romford Baptist Church Housing Association Limited
in respect of book-keeping and premises management. At the balance sheet date £218 {2023: £116} was
receivable from RBCHA and is included within trade debtors and £3,796 {2023-. £4,169} was payable to
RBCHA and is included within trade creditors.
During the year grants of £41,684 12023: £Nill were made to RBC Communtiy Care, a charity under
common control.
24.
Post balance sheet events
The Harold Hill manse currently being held by Romford Baptist Church with a net book value of £512,000
will be transferred to the EBA and the BUGB during 2025.
Page 33