IINI 13()1l'I' TNECHURCH OFENCLhN St Phi Ips Annual Report 2024
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Introduction
2024 saw the first complete year with our fulltime stipendiary curate, Helen Calner , which enabled us to increase our provision for worship, activities, children and youth ministry, and pastoral care.
It was also the first full year with our newly installed glass doors, increasing visibility of the church and enabling us to have our main doors open well into the evening throughout the year. As a result, more people came through our doors, both for worship, and to “Come and see”, enjoying the relative peace to rest and pray - and in some cases to visit Pushkin.
This was also a year to focus on music. The congregation responded magnificently to our appeal for funds to cover the costs of replacing the organ blower and other repairs, fully funding
the works and laying the foundations for future work. We also started a programme of fortnightly free lunchtime music recitals of remarkable quality. After receiving a very generous donation by a parishioner to support and enhance our music for a five-year period, we were able to recruit three choral scholars. We also extended the recital series with additional publicity. The scholars’ arrival in the autumn, under the able leadership of our Director of Music, Laurence Long , has enhanced our music and worship, encouraging enthusiastic congregational singing, and providing for elevated liturgy, including Choral Eucharists and other seasonal services.
The clergy and members of the PCC participated, along with other local churches, in the “ Grow ” course, a six-month training provided by the diocese, which inspired us to delve more deeply into determining our mission, noticing who we are not reaching, and identifying further opportunities to better live out our vision. This has enabled us to reflect on how we can go deeper in faith and broader in number. Discussions at PCC meetings have helped us to explore these areas, with a view to planning for an away day to focus on our vision and values.
Exciting news from our church school came in the form of a “Good” overall Ofsted rating, with three areas described as “Outstanding”. Well deserved, after much hard work, under the able leadership of head teacher Rebecca Timms .
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Report of the Vicar
Christian formation and worship
Our life together centres around our worship, and I am grateful to all who enable us to offer praise and thanksgiving to God in the beauty of our liturgy: the talent and dedication of our clergy, the energetic and creative talents of our Director of Music, the musical gifts of our Choir, and the contributions of all in enhancing our praise in word and sacrament. Our choral scholars arrived in the autumn and brought further versatility and virtuosity to our Advent and Christmas seasons, helping us end the year with a liturgical flourish.
In Lent, we were delighted to welcome Bishop Michael Marshall to introduce our course focused on his newly published book, “ Lent with the Beloved Disciple ”. He returned to offer concluding thoughts following our Ascension Day Eucharist which stimulated an engaging and thoughtful discussion.
The Easter season provided an abundance of riches, starting with a dawn Easter Eucharist, followed by a scrumptious breakfast prepared by Anne Steele . We joyfully welcomed Emma Ineson , Bishop of Kensington, to our Patronal Festival as our preacher, followed by an equally festive Parish lunch, supported by our fabulous catering team led by Chandra Tambimuttu and the churchwardens. The decorations team, led by Zoe Schieppati-Emery and Anne Steele, created a magnificent boat with the help of many, including Zahra Gharezadeh and Mohammad Babarahim . Zahra and Mohammad had been baptised and confirmed in 2023, though sadly for us they were moved by the Home Office to Scotland shortly after our 2024 Patronal. Happily, they have settled down well and finally have legal status and their own home.
New services in the year were Tenebrae - a service of shadows - during Holy Week, and an All Souls’ Evensong. The latter attracted both regular church members and relatives of those whose funerals had taken place at St Philips or at whose funerals the clergy had officiated during the year.
In addition to welcoming both Ije Ajibade and Lesley Perry back to preach, we also invited Claire Heard , an LLM from the Holland Park Benefice, and enjoyed her engaging sermon. Our very own Swenja Surminski offered much food for thought in her address on Christian Aid Sunday. We were grateful Ije was able to join us for five Sundays, including Palm Sunday and two around Christmas, despite her many other responsibilities. Lesley also returned a couple of times and it is wonderful to have her living nearby once more, and that she and Ije have remained close friends of the parish.
With Helen Calner on board all year we were able to offer courses beyond those in Lent and Advent: in the spring, she offered a series on “ Pearls of Life ” part 2, and in the autumn one on “ Journeying with Job ”. Her energy and enthusiasm, as well as her
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excellent preaching and positive initiatives, have borne fruit in all areas of our parish life.
We are also grateful for all the time and gifts that Margaret Ayo , our SSM priest, gives to our parish, in all areas of our life and witness, enabling us to offer more in worship, study and outreach.
We added a weekly Eucharist in Advent as well as before each PCC meeting: a helpful, prayerful way to begin our deliberations. In the autumn, the Archdeacon, Richard Frank , joined us to preach for our Harvest Festival and enjoyed the celebrations further by joining in the parish lunch, once more aided by our fabulous catering team.
Our annual Blessing of the Animals was enhanced by the surprise arrival of a
Shetland pony who stole the show. He returned just before Christmas though he missed his moment in the nativity. Not all was lost, however, as Helen Calner directed a wonderful crib service with the able support of our young people, “donkey” included.
We continue to be involved with our ecumenical partners, and participated in the Unity Service, this year hosted by the Armenian Orthodox church, as well as in the Ecumenical Lent course, hosted by Churches Together in Kensington & Chelsea (CTiKC) and Churches Together in Notting Hill (CTiNH).
I participated in a course provided by the diocese: “ Youth Scape ”, to support and develop youth ministry; it provided many resources and ideas for a renewed energy to build on our existing engagement with the young. At St Philip’s, we continued our involvement with YMIC: Youth Ministry in Communion.
Our midweek Eucharist slowly but surely grew in numbers, as have our smaller scale seasonal services.
It is of course the people who make the worship and we are so grateful for all who join to praise God, give thanks and seek to serve and contribute, be it in the music, led by Laurence; the technology, facilitated by Rupert Steele , enabling those from far afield to join; those who welcome as Stewards; those who read, intercede, acolyte, teach Sunday School, bear the chalice, serve refreshments or parish feasts afterwards, clean the linens, decorate, arrange flowers, or care for Pushkin. Thank you all.
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Pastoral care
With a full-time curate, we have been able to increase our capacity to offer pastoral care to the homebound and those in hospital, as well as deepening our relationship with Beatrice Place , our local care home, which is becoming more of a transition facility for those preparing to go to long term care facilities or to return home. Residents are more easily able to leave the premises and have enjoyed attending our lunchtime Music recitals, and our Sunday Eucharist.
Funerals of parishioners Pat Nimmo and Patricia McClintock were held in the church, and the committal of ashes of Renate Gunn (whose funeral was in church in 2023) took place in Brompton Cemetery. All were known and loved in the community, and with Patricia also through her late husband and mother, so it was a sad end of an era to bid them farewell. It was with a heavy heart that we participated in the funeral of Janayo Lucima at Saint James’ Church on 25 May, following his sudden and tragic death, before he was taken home to Uganda to be laid to rest. Our prayers remain with Winnie and Margaret and family following their loss.
Joyful occasions
We welcomed four new members into the church through the sacrament of baptism including one at the dawn Easter Vigil; and read the Banns of couples preparing for marriage. We also prepared six young people and one adult for Confirmation and celebrated with them at St Mary Abbots church in May when they were confirmed by the Bishop of Kensington.
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Publicity and communications
Laura Sylvester , our Church Manager, continued to ably steer us through the church year with fabulous eye-catching publicity, be it posters or email newsletters, as well as her professional orders of service. She also oversaw all the rentals and constantly juggled people to make the most of our revenue potential. She is invaluable.
Community engagement
Our various ministries and initiatives continued to reach out and invite in. Our coffee mornings, kindly hosted by the Scarsdale Tavern, attracted growing numbers from the community. Other initiatives included: Carol singing in the Scarsdale; our Film Club led by Roberto Schieppati ; hosting the Glass Door homeless shelter; our Music Recitals successfully launched by Laurence; and the deep engagement with our school, St Barnabas and St Philip’s Church of England Primary School, where I serve as Governor, with Claire Dimpfl and one of our Churchwardens, Jamie Mangan .
In areas beyond the parish, including diocesan commitments, I completed my term on Diocesan Synod, ending in the autumn, remain an ADO (Area Director of Ordinands), served on the Steering Group for the Kensington and Chelsea Faith Communities Partnership, was Chaplain and Governor of the Path Finder Fellowship located at the community at Bickersteth House, Chaplain to the MES: Ministry Experience Scheme, and on the Pastoral Team at St Paul’s Cathedral. In the spring, I also preached at Canterbury Cathedral for the 100th anniversary service of my old school.
Resources and People
I am grateful to Helen Calner and Margaret Ayo for taking so much of the load in the autumn when I was away for several weeks following surgery. We also celebrated Margaret when she was commissioned to be a Chaplain for the Mother’s Union in the Kensington Area by Sarah Mullally , the Bishop of London, at St Paul’s Cathedral in June.
We are very proud of our volunteer gardener, James Warne , who won several prizes in the Brighter Kensington and Chelsea Annual Garden competition for his outstanding expertise skills in both creating and maintaining our beautiful church garden.
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The Fabric Team continued to advise and support us in maintaining our building, helping us resolve what at times appear to be insurmountable problems. We are grateful to Jacqui Sands and Jo Eade , with the support of Rupert Steele who knows the building inside out, for giving of their time and expertise.
Kasumi Tsutsui passed the mantle of Children’s champion to Sheina Allan and Richard Noordhof at the end of the summer, after several years of dedication and creativity to the support of our children and youth ministries. We are grateful to them all, along with all our Sunday School teachers, for all they do to encourage the flourishing of our young people.
Caring for Pushkin is a loving job: thank you to Sean Collins , Helen Calner, Simone Bynoe , Simon Cox , Rupert Steele and Charlie Micklewright for all the early morning and late-night visits: Pushkin is grateful, really!
I too am immensely grateful to my colleagues, Churchwardens: Jamie Mangan and Mallindi Baldassarro , Standing Committee and PCC for the support in guiding me as together we navigate how to better continue to be a beacon on the corner of the Earls Court Road. And for the prayer, care, time, talent and generosity given by the whole St Philip’s community: Thank you.
Philippa A Turner Vicar
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Report from Director of Music
The music at St Philip’s saw some exciting developments in the year. After a successful crowdfunding project, vital work was carried out on the organ, including replacing its blower. Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, we were able to start a choral scholarship programme at the church in September, which means that we now have professional singers as a regular part of our choir.
Before this, the spectacular Easter Day services saw a professional soprano join for the Vigil and the choir perform Mozart’s Coronation Mass and Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus in the 10:30 service. Other highlights of the year included a wonderful Patronal Festival with Haydn’s Little Organ Mass, and some professional singers joining a joyful performance of Haydn’s Missa Sancti Nicolai for Midnight Mass.
We started a programme of free fortnightly recitals on Thursday lunchtimes, with remarkable performances, mainly from young musicians.
We look forward to further exciting developments next year.
Laurence Long Director of Music
Report from Children’s Champions
The children of St Philip’s remain a central part of the life of the church. Around 30 children attended at some point during the year, and we are pleased to welcome new members regularly. The St Philip’s Sunday school is run by volunteers from the congregation, including parents. Each month, normally on the third Sunday, we hold an All-Age Service in which the children actively participate. Readings and prayers are led by the children.
Throughout the year, the children enjoyed various seasonal events hosted at the church. Our Shrove Tuesday Party was well attended, and children also designed Easter banners. We once more held an All Hallows’ Eve service and, at Christmas, Helen Calner revitalised our Crib Service with plenty of interaction from our young people. The children enjoyed decorating the church for major festivals such as Easter, Harvest and Christmas under the guidance of Zoe Schieppati-Emery and Anne Steele. Our Christmas Card Competition ran for the seventh year. Children and other members of the congregation designed their own interpretation of “Follow the Star, Calm and Bright; Peace and Light”. All the designed cards were sold at church during Advent.
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Our church has an important relationship with St Barnabas & St Philip’s Church of England Primary School. The clergy were involved with worship at the school, and we welcomed the children to St Philip’s for services and other events. There are also joint activities, such as the annual Paschal Candle design competition, where the winning designs are put onto our Paschal candle for Easter. Several members of the church also serve on the Board of Governors for the school.
Sheina Allan and Richard Noordhof
Children’s Champions
Report from the Wardens
This is a report on fabric in accordance with section 50 of the Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction and Care of Churches Measure 2018.
St Philip’s, Earls Court Road, is a busy and well-loved building, serving as a place for the community to gather for worship, education, celebration as well as recreation, for all. Originally built in 1858, and significantly modernised from 2001-2003, St Philip’s continues to be in good working order, meeting the needs of the congregation and the community.
A significant programme of maintenance was undertaken in 2024, including renewal of most of the electrical switchgear in order to meet the latest safety standards and substantial work on the heating system to replace defective valves for both the underfloor and standing radiators.
Other improvements included additional emergency lighting, creation of a mechanism to enter the building if the north door was jammed, upgrades to the CCTV system to remove “blind spots”, additional external security lighting, and installation of professional building-wide Wi-Fi and a much faster internet connection. We also converted most of the remaining fluorescent lights to LED, installed spikes to deter pigeons and sanded and varnished the lower hall floor. The AV system was upgraded to a two-camera system, giving online attendees a much better experience and enabling much better recordings of our events to be made.
The building was monitored on a regular basis and a significant number of minor matters which needed repair were addressed promptly.
The Quinquennial Inspection took place in April, carried out by Robert Shaw. He concluded that the building was generally in very good order and gave few causes for immediate concern. He made a number of detailed recommendations, some of which were addressed in the year and others are being addressed subsequently.
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The safety of those who worship, work and visit St Philips is paramount. With this in mind, contracts are in place for fire alarm and extinguisher servicing. Other necessary testing or servicing, including testing the emergency lighting, is dealt with periodically.
The church benefits from an extensive CCTV system, which acts to deter theft and antisocial behaviour while enabling those responsible to be identified. It gives us the necessary assurance to have the building open all day every day - a simple measure with immense pastoral and mission benefits.
The garden continued to grow and flourish, under Volunteer James Warne’s care, providing a welcoming exterior for St Philips.
Mallindi Baldassarro and Jamie Mangan Churchwardens
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Treasurer’s Report
General comments – unrestricted funds
The financial position is summarised in the Accounts for 2024, which form part of this report.
In January, we set a budget which was balanced before the expected income from the telecommunication base station in our spire. We budgeted unrestricted income of £265,275 and expenditure of £250,800.
In the event, unrestricted income out-turned at just over £293,950, some £28,680 higher than projected. The increase was mainly due to lettings income being £24,700 above target. Unrestricted expenditure came in at just under £299,720, some £48,920 above our budget. This was mainly due to some £62,420 being spent on maintenance, approximately £42,240 above the budget.
The resulting out-turn was a deficit of nearly £5,765 on the unrestricted fund. This is a reasonable result, given the size of the maintenance programme delivered and the context of a surplus of £20,040 in the previous year.
General comments – restricted funds
On the restricted side, there were two major developments. The first was the delivery of an urgent programme of repairs to the organ, funded from the Piano and Organ Fund, which was augmented by a campaign “Pulling Out All the Stops” in the early part of the year and also by music recitals. Overall, the Piano and Organ fund had income of just over £17,930 and costs of just over £12,250.
The second was the “Music and Education” programme, funded by a £20,000 annual grant from a parishioner; this enabled the recruitment of the Choral Scholars as well as more publicity for the recital series and additional tuning of our instruments. Overall, the Music and Education Fund had spending of just under £4,120 in the year. Some of the money in the fund will be carried forward to assist in the next phase of major work on the organ.
Note on rounding
The accounts are internally calculated to the penny, but shown in whole pounds for printing. This means that some columns may not appear to add precisely because of rounding differences, but the underlying data are fully accurate.
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Principal funding sources and review of the performance of fundraising activities
Total unrestricted income in the year was just over £293,950, an increase of nearly £21,900 on the prior year. Most of this was due to an increase of £16,260 in lettings income, together with an increase of just over £7,190 in interest as a result of rising interest rates and deposited balances, offset by other smaller changes.
The increase in lettings income can be attributed to a temporary recovery in the payments made by Star 20 Limited, trading as Gymboree Kensington (before it fell into liquidation in 2025). As mentioned in 2023, we have accounted for this hirer on a cash basis from the point at which its issues became apparent (2023) until liquidation. Lettings income was also increased with further recruitment of additional hirers to minimise the unused hall times.
There was a reduction of about £2,190 in planned giving (down from £25,440 in 2023 to just under £23,250 in 2024), This was mainly due to a number of regular givers ceasing due to changed financial circumstances or moving away. This was offset in part by unexpected legacy income of just over £1,950 when additional assets were found in an estate from about 10 years previously. There were various other movements in unrestricted donation income.
Unrestricted tax reclaim was nearly £510 lower than the prior year, partly reflecting lower unrestricted donations and also that we were ineligible under the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme until the start of tax year 2024/25 because the annual limit had been reached in 2023. St Philip’s accordingly re-introduced collection envelopes at services from mid-February 2024 to mitigate this issue. Restricted tax reclaim was higher than the prior year reflecting significantly higher eligible restricted donations as a result of the “Pulling Out All the Stops” campaign and the music recitals.
During 2024, income of £14,475 was received under a licence for a mobile phone base station in the spire of St Philip’s.
Use of expenditure to support key objectives
Total unrestricted expenditure in the year was about £299,720, an increase of about £47,700 on the previous year. Almost all the increase arose from an increase of about £42,870 in maintenance expenditure, reflecting a large programme of works during the year, and a £4,000 increase in diocesan common fund payments.
The key areas of expenditure in 2024 were:
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Ministry costs, including payments to the Diocese in respect of clergy, and clergy expenses.
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Church maintenance.
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Running expenses of the church including insurance, utilities, cleaning and caretaking etc.
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J4L 14 St Philip's Annual Report 2024
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Publicity and other mission costs, upkeep of services and music.
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Governance costs, including administration, independent examination fees and depreciation.
All of these expenditures have directly supported the objective of maintaining the worship and fabric of St Philip’s. A further sum of around £1,430 (largely covered by matching donations and tax reclaim) was spent on mission giving and donations.
Organisation and role of volunteers
The PCC is responsible for the finances of St Philip’s. Most day to day work is delegated to the Treasurer assisted by the Church Manager (an employee), working under the supervision of the Standing Committee. The Treasurer, Rupert Steele, prepares the budget and accounts, manages the bank accounts and all expenditure, and looks after certain aspects of income (open collections, legacies and gifts, grants, fundraising income and statutory fees).
The Church Manager, Laura Sylvester, deals with all aspects of hall lettings and recording the income from them. Among other tasks, she also prepares service booklets, working with the Vicar, and handles the Church’s publicity.
The fund-raising for the organ repairs was undertaken by the Treasurer, working with the Church Manager and the Vicar.
More widely, all the activities of the church are undertaken by volunteers with the exception of the Vicar, Church Manager and other staff or contractors engaged for specific roles or tasks including caretaking, cleaning, and the provision of music at services. Our independent examiner, a partner of Shaw Gibbs , is engaged on a commercial basis.
Policy for making grants or donations
The PCC makes some charitable donations and grants for purposes connected with its objects. In 2024 these included membership of two local residents’ associations. Payments were also made to Christian Aid, the Royal Trinity Hospice, International Needs UK and guests at the Glassdoor Night Shelter operated at St Philip’s, supported wholly or mainly by collections taken for the purpose. Other donations (beyond those falling within Clergy expenses) are normally supported wholly or mainly by fundraising events or by special collections undertaken (and associated tax reclaim) or are made following gifts received for the purpose. Any specific requests outside this policy will be considered by the PCC or Standing Committee on their merits.
St Philip’s makes payments to the Diocesan Common Fund significantly in excess of the diocesan costs attributed to it, thus supporting parishes elsewhere in the diocese.
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Investment policy/objectives and performance against investment objectives set
The PCC’s investment funds are invested in the Church of England Central Board of Finance fund, managed by CCLA. Accordingly, St Philip’s follows the CBF’s policy on taking into account social, environmental and ethical considerations in investments.
PCC policy on the reserves that are held
The PCC holds reserves against the possibility of unexpected maintenance requirements or falls in income and also to cover the cost of anticipated works on the church. The PCC reviews the target minimum reserves level from time to time and the level was increased to £200,000 in 2024. The remaining excess will be held as part of our planning to fund the next phase of work on the building and to strengthen the church’s long term financial position.
Funds
No fund is materially in deficit. The position on creditors is set out in the accounts. No funds are held as Custodian Trustee.
Rupert Steele
Treasurer
Electoral Roll Report
At the 2024 APCM I reported that, following the fifth (and final) Annual Revision of the 2019 Electoral Roll, the list of church members stood at 153 names. The Roll would be created from scratch in 2025, as happens every six years in all Church of England parishes.
During the 12 months since the 2023 APCM, twelve names were removed from the Roll, two of whom had sadly died: Michael Durtnall, and Josephine Honnor; the other ten having moved away - variously returning to their home countries in New Zealand and the US, and to different parts of the UK.
By 31 December 2024, there were 159 names on the Roll. The percentage of those living outside the parish had risen to 67% of the total Roll.
Chris Luxton
Electoral Roll Officer
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Report on the proceedings of the PCC
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) met on 6 occasions during 2024.
The PCC is supported by a Standing Committee, which is empowered to transact the business of the PCC between the PCC’s meetings.
The PCC, in collaboration with the Vicar, has a wide-ranging role in the areas of mission, together with primary responsibilities relating to the finances of the parish and the care and maintenance of all church buildings and their contents. The PCC’s main focus during the year was supporting the Vicar in the continuation of the church’s ministry.
The PCC complies with the Safeguarding Code on matters relating to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults issued by the House of Bishops pursuant to the Safeguarding (Code of Practice) Measure 2021.
Simon Cox
PCC Secretary
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Safeguarding Report
St Philip’s is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of its ministry and mission, promoting a safer culture and the welfare of every child, young person and adult. As such, St Philip’s has robust policies, procedures and guidelines in place, to ensure good practice. Our safeguarding policy aims to protect children and any vulnerable adults in our parish community, in accordance with Diocesan policy and the Safeguarding Code issued by the House of Bishops.
The principles guiding this work, with advice from the Diocesan Safeguarding Team, are to:
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[implement a safer environment and culture;]
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[safely recruit and support all those with any responsibility related to children and ]
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vulnerable adults within St Philip’s;
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[respond promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation in line with Diocesan ]
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safeguarding guidelines;
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[care pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons;]
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[care pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and ]
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other affected persons
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[respond to those that may pose a present risk to others.]
The Safeguarding Officer and Children’s Advocate are available to parents, children, vulnerable adults and carers, as needed, before and after services. The Safeguarding Officer is always available to listen to any queries or concerns they may have, offer advice and support which may involve directing them towards a range of services to access information and advisory organisations or groups.
Once a year, the PCC considers and approves the safeguarding policy and copies of this are on display on the notice boards and around the building. St Philip’s undertakes an annual safeguarding self audit (looking at the prior year) and the PCC performed such an audit on 8 July 2024. Of the fifteen criteria, ten were wholly met, three partially met and two not applicable. An action plan was adopted to improve the position on the three partially met criteria and maintain performance on the others.
Chandra Tambimuttu Safeguarding Officer
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Report on the Proceedings of the Kensington Deanery Synod
Deanery Synod meetings in 2024 continued to align with London Diocese’s 2030 Vision, with each meeting focusing on a specific theme:
• Compassionate Communities (February) – Hosted by St Barnabas Church, this meeting centred on Caring for God’s Creation and encouraged churches to engage with the Eco Church Awards. Andy Buckler illustrated the Five Marks of Mission highlighting Tell, Teach, Tend, Transform, and Treasure – with the fifth mark emphasising the importance of treasuring God’s creation. Charlotte BannisterParker , Associate Vicar of St John’s, Notting Hill and Founder of The Hope4Creation Foundation, spoke about a journey of lamentation, pilgrimage, and hospitality, underscoring the necessity of an eco-spiritual faith and reflecting on humanity’s impact on creation.
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Spring Common Fund Meeting – Held at Chelsea Old Church, this meeting provided
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an opportunity to discuss and review financial commitments within the deanery.
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Summer Garden Party (June) – Held in the gardens of St Mary Abbots Vicarage,
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fostering fellowship among clergy and laity.
• Confident Disciples (November) – We hosted this session, introducing the Grow Course. The meeting featured a ‘Barriers to Growth’ video and testimonies from parishes currently undertaking the course, as well as reflections from St Barnabas on their experience of completing it.
• Creative Growth (December) – St Stephen’s, Gloucester Road hosted the final meeting of 2024, with a focus on Cultural Diversity. Sally Baily , Vicar of Holy Trinity Hounslow, shared insights from her experience leading a multicultural and multilingual congregation. She emphasised that cultural diversity is a gift rather than a threat and encouraged churches to embrace the richness it brings.
Simon Cox and Chris Luxton
Deanery Synod Representatives
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Report of the Church Cat
I am pleased to present my report for my seventh year with St Philip’s.
My main role is to continue to keep the church free from mice and rats and I’m pleased to report another year with 100% success rate. My secondary role is to be a community cat for all those who visit the church, whether as a regular attendee at one of our weekly services or for those who have just popped in for a moment of peace, reflection and feline attention during the week.
In January I advised Laurence Long, our Director of Music, on his recruitment of our choral scholars (and of course I formed part of the interview and eventual induction process for the successful scholars).
I was delighted to welcome Bishop Emma back to St Philip’s in April when we had a long conversation about where cats fit into the church hierarchy.
In addition to my duties as chief rodent officer, I continue to provide an ear and companionship to visitors to the church. In July I supervised the local polling station for the general election, running a side poll on whether the main focus of the day’s news coverage should be dogs or cats at polling stations.
I post a daily report of my activities on my Bluesky (@specr-cat.bsky.social), Instagram (specr_cat), Twitter (@CatSpecr) and Mastadon (SPECR_cat @mastodonapp.uk)
accounts, with a combined total of four thousand followers. The musings of one small cat observing the life and ebb and flow of the seasons in a vibrant local church seem to have captured the imagination of people across the world, which is not something I could have ever imagined when I first started posting.
In conclusion, I would like to say a big thank you to the various humans who serve me – Pippa Turner, Helen Calner, Sean Collins (the caretaker), Simon Cox (PCC Secretary), Rupert Steele (Treasurer), Charlie Micklewright and my various visitors.
Pushkin
Church Cat
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Statement of the Parochial Church Council’s responsibilities for preparation of the Financial Statements
The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Philip, Earl’s Court Road (charity number 1172886) is required to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the church as at the end of the financial year and of its financial activities for the year to that date. The financial statements must be prepared in compliance with applicable accounting standards. The Parochial Church Council is also responsible for maintaining adequate accounting records, for safeguarding the assets of the church and for preventing and detecting fraud and other irregularities.
In preparing these financial statements, the Parochial Church Council has ensured that suitable accounting policies have been selected and used, applied consistently and supported by reasonable and prudent judgements and estimates, has taken account of income and expenses relating to the period reported on whether or not they have been received or paid in that period, and it has prepared the financial statements on a going concern basis.
Philippa A Turner Rupert Steele Vicar Hon Treasurer
27 July 2026
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Independent Examiner’s Report To the members of the Parochial Church Council of St Philip Earl’s Court Road (Charity number 1172886)
I report on the accounts of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Philip, Earl’s Court Road, for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 24 to 35, which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet and the related notes. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland’.
Respective responsibilities and basis of report
As the members of the Parochial Church Council (PCC), you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’). You are satisfied that your Church is not required by charity law to be audited and have chosen instead to have an independent examination.
I report in respect of my examination of the Church’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Act. In carrying out my examination I have followed the applicable directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Scope of the independent examination
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the Church and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as members of the PCC concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair” view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
22 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
Independent examiner’s statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Church as required by section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
B Clifford FCA
Shaw Gibbs Limited, Accountants, Salatin House, 19 Cedar Road, Sutton, SM2 5DA
27 July 2026
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 23
Statement of Financial Activities
For the Year Ended 31 December 2024
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Unrestricted | Restricted | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2023 | ||
| Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Incoming | |||||
| Resources | |||||
| Donations and legacies | 3a | 47,108 | 37,933 | 48,906 | 32,044 |
| Charitable activities | 3b | 1,831 | - | 1,588 | - |
| Other trading activities | 3c | 232,245 | - | 215,985 | - |
| Income from | 3d | 12,767 | - | 5,576 | - |
| investments | |||||
| Total incoming | 293,952 | 37,933 | 272,055 | 32,044 | |
| resources | |||||
| Resources | |||||
| Expended | |||||
| Expenditure on raising | 4a | 910 | - | 495 | - |
| funds | |||||
| Expenditure on | 4b | 265,305 | 16,375 | 207,932 | 248 |
| charitable activities | |||||
| Expenditure on other | 4c | 24,727 | - | 34,477 | 104,195 |
| activities | |||||
| Governance costs | 4d | 8,773 | - | 9,111 | - |
| Total Resources | 299,716 | 16,375 | 252,015 | 104,443 | |
| Expended | |||||
| Net Movement | -5,764 | 21,558 | 20,040 | -72,399 | |
| in Funds | |||||
| Transfer between | - | - | - | - | |
| funds | |||||
| Net Movements | -5,764 | 21,558 | 20,040 | -72,399 | |
| in Funds After | |||||
| Transfers | |||||
| Balances Brought | 303,939 | 2,753 | 283,899 | 75,152 | |
| Forward At | |||||
| 1January | |||||
| Balances Carried | 298,175 | 24,310 | 303,939 | 2,753 | |
| Forward At | |||||
| 31 December |
24 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
Balance Sheet
As at 31 December 2024
| Balance Sheet As at 31 December 2024 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Notes | 2024 | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | ||
| Fixed Assets | |||
| Tangible assets | 7 | 7,089 | 3,320 |
| Current Assets | |||
| Debtors | 8 | 30,102 | 26,623 |
| Short term deposits | 260,767 | 248,000 | |
| Cash at bank and in hand | 48,273 | 45,267 | |
| 339,143 | 319,889 | ||
| (Liabilities) | 9 | - 23,747 | -16,517 |
| Net Current Assets | 315,397 | 303,372 | |
| Total Assets Less Current | 322,486 | 306,692 | |
| Liabilities | |||
| Funds | |||
| Unrestricted – General | 10 | 298,175 | 303,939 |
| Restricted funds | 10 | 24,310 | 2,753 |
| 322,486 | 306,692 |
This Financial Report for the year ended 31 December 2024 including the notes following, was approved by the PCC and signed on its behalf by:
Philippa A Turner Rupert Steele Vicar Hon Treasurer
27 July 2026
The notes on pages 26 to 35 form part of these accounts.
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 25
Notes To The Accounts
For the Year Ended 31 December 2024
1. Accounting Policies
a. Accounting convention and accounts preparation
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with the second edition of 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 (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) – (Charities SORP FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011, and applicable regulations.
St Philip’s 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 otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s). They include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC was responsible in law during 2024. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.
The entity has taken advantage of the exemption from preparing a cash flow statement conferred by Charities SORP FRS 102 on small charities (with income of £500,000 or less).
b. Funds
Unrestricted Funds are general funds and which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes, while Designated Funds are monies set aside by the PCC out of unrestricted funds for specific future purposes or projects.
Restricted Funds represent :
(i) income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest, and
(ii) donations or grants received for specific objects or invited by the PCC for specific objects.
The funds may only be expended on the objects provided or specified. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of the year is carried forward as a balance on that fund.
26 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
c. Incoming Resources
All incoming resources are accounted for gross.
Donations and legacies
Planned Giving and Collections are recognised when received. Income tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations is recognised when the donation is made, or (if later) when the amount due is assessed. Grants and legacies are recognised when received or (if earlier and an amount can be estimated) a legal entitlement has arisen.
Income from Investments
Interest entitlements are accounted for as and when they are credited.
All other income
All other income is recognised when it is receivable. By way of exception, in 2024, one hirer, Star 20 Limited, trading as Gymboree Kensington, continued to experience significant financial difficulties and, as a post balance sheet event, fell into liquidation in 2025 with no dividend expected to unsecured creditors. As with 2023 for this hirer, it was therefore considered prudent to account for its income on a cash basis and allocate all payments received in 2024 to the current year.
d. Resources Expended
Resources expended are accounted for on an accruals basis and are accounted for gross.
Charitable activities
The Diocesan Common Fund is accounted for when paid. Any amount unpaid at 31 December is provided for as an operational (though not a legal) liability and is shown as a creditor in the Balance Sheet.
e. Cash
Cash and cash equivalents comprise deposits in bank accounts or with the CBF Church of England Deposit fund, and cash held in hand on the reporting date. These are therefore subject to an insignificant risk in change in value.
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 27
f. Fixed Assets
Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are included in the balance sheet at cost or if gifted at market value at the date of the gift.
Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets at rates calculated to write off the full cost or valuation less estimated residual value of each asset over its estimated useful life. The principal rate in use is:
Equipment: 25% on cost
g. Debtors
Debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
h. Creditors and provisions
Creditors and provisions are recognised where the church has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.
i. Financial instruments
The Church only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.
2. Legal status and address of the Church
The Parish of Saint Philip, Earl’s Court Road was formed with effect from 1 January 2017 by a scheme made on 8 December 2016 by the Church Commissioners under the Mission and Pastoral Measure 2011. The PCC was registered by the Charities Commission on 4 May 2017, Charity Number 1172886. The address of the Church is St Philip’s Church, Earl’s Court Road, London, W8 6QH.
28 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Unrestricted | Restricted | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2023 | |
| 3. Incoming Resources | £ | £ | £ | £ |
| 3a. Donations and | ||||
| legacies | ||||
| Tax-effcient planned giving | 23,249 | - | 25,440 | - |
| Other planned giving | 70 | - | 70 | - |
| Tax-effcient collections at | 8,071 | - | 10,000 | - |
| services | ||||
| Other Collections at services | 3,651 | - | 1,250 | - |
| Other donations | 1,434 | 8,623 | 2,054 | 1,119 |
| (tax effcient, non-recurring) | ||||
| Other donations | 334 | 2,122 | 1,241 | 493 |
| Income tax recoverable | 8,343 | 2,187 | 8,852 | 432 |
| Legacies | 1,957 | - | - | - |
| Grants | - | 25,000 | - | 30,000 |
| 47,108 | 37,933 | 48,906 | 32,044 | |
| 3b. Charitable activities | ||||
| Statutory fees | 676 | - | 792 | - |
| Income from church | 1,155 | - | 796 | - |
| events & meals | ||||
| 1,831 | - | 1,588 | - | |
| 3c. Other trading | ||||
| activities | ||||
| Fundraising events | - | - | - | - |
| Lettings (general) | 192,649 | - | 177,518 | - |
| Lettings for mission purposes | 25,121 | - | 23,992 | - |
| Diocesan admin/ | - | - | - | - |
| sequestration payments | ||||
| Income from licences | 14,475 | - | 14,475 | - |
| under faculty | ||||
| 232,245 | - | 215,985 | - | |
| 3d. Income from | ||||
| investments | ||||
| Bank and CBF deposit interest | 12,767 | - | 5,576 | - |
| Total Incoming | ||||
| Resources | 293,952 | 37,933 | 272,055 | 32,044 |
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 29
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Unrestricted | Restricted | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2023 | |
| Resources Expended | £ | £ | £ | £ |
| 4a. Expenditure on | ||||
| raising funds | ||||
| Stewardship, appeal costs, | 910 | - | 495 | - |
| refreshments for sale | ||||
| 910 | - | 495 | - | |
| 4b. Expenditure on | ||||
| charitable activities | ||||
| Mission giving and donations | 1,432 | - | 811 | - |
| Diocesan parish share | ||||
| contribution | ||||
| Diocesan Common Fund | 107,000 | - | 103,000 | - |
| Other Diocesan clergy | 18,000 | - | 9,700 | - |
| costs | ||||
| Salary costs for Church | 29,236 | - | 26,576 | - |
| Activities | ||||
| Clergy expenses | 6,829 | - | 7,219 | - |
| Mission and evangelism costs | 1,835 | - | 1,922 | - |
| incl. publicity | ||||
| Church running expenses | ||||
| Church Maintenance | 62,422 | - | 19,553 | - |
| Insurance | 6,080 | - | 5,667 | - |
| Upkeep of Services, | 6,951 | - | 5,094 | - |
| booklets, fowers | ||||
| Music costs | 4,555 | 16,375 | 6,096 | 248 |
| Sunday School and Youth | 1,403 | - | 1,382 | - |
| Refreshments (not sold) | 1,943 | - | 1,760 | - |
| Cleaning expenses | 4,008 | - | 3,298 | - |
| Church utilitybills | 13,614 | - | 15,853 | - |
| 265,305 | 16,375 | 207,932 | 248 |
30 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Unrestricted | Restricted | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| 4c. Expenditure on | ||||
| other activities | ||||
| Salary costs for | 20,699 | - | 19,954 | - |
| Hall lettings | ||||
| Cleaning expenses for | 4,008 | - | 3,298 | - |
| hall lettings | ||||
| Other caretaking costs | - | - | - | - |
| Other fundraising | 20 | - | 20 | - |
| trading costs | ||||
| New building work and | - | - | 11,205 | 104,195 |
| alterations to church | ||||
| 24,727 | - | 34,477 | 104,195 | |
| 4d. Governance | ||||
| costs | ||||
| Independent | 1,500 | - | 1,260 | - |
| examination fees | ||||
| Bank charges | 612 | - | 577 | - |
| Support costs: | 3,483 | - | 3,668 | - |
| administration | ||||
| Production of | 82 | - | 82 | - |
| annual report | ||||
| Depreciation | 3,096 | - | 3,524 | - |
| Losses on disposals | - | - | - | - |
| of fxed assets | ||||
| 8,773 | - | 9,111 | - | |
| Total Resources | 299,716 | 16,375 | 252,015 | 104,443 |
| Expended |
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 31
5. Staff Costs and PCC Member Payments and Donations
5a. Wages
In 2024 a Caretaker, a Director of Music and a Church Manager were employed. The total pay cost was £49,935 (2023: £46,530) including pension costs of £905 (2023: £785). St Philip’s claimed Employment Allowance, which removes Employer’s National Insurance Contributions, in 2024 and 2023. None of the employees in 2024 or 2023 earned over the lower limit for individual disclosure of £60,000.
5b. Payments to PCC members
Payments totalling £27,173 (2023: £26,023) were paid to eight (2023: nine) PCC members or related parties during the year ended 31 December 2024. These comprised reimbursed expenses. All the underlying costs are accounted for according to the category in which they fell. One PCC member is contracted in accordance with section 185 of the Charities Act 2011 to provide musical services. No payments were made in 2024 (2023: £120).
5c. Donations by PCC members
No donations were made in 2024 or 2023 from a PCC member or a related party with conditions which would, or might, require St Philip’s to alter significantly the nature of its existing activities if it were to accept the donation. Donations without such conditions totalled £12,125 in 2024 (£11,172 in 2023).
6. Analysis of Net Assets By Fund
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | Funds | Funds 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Fixed Assets | 7,089 | - | 7,089 |
| Current Assets | 314,833 | 24,310 | 339,143 |
| Current Liabilities | -23,747 | - | -23,747 |
| Fund balance | 298,175 | 24,310 | 322,486 |
32 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
| Cost: At 1 January 2024 Additions Disposals (cumulative) 7. Tangible Fixed Assets |
Equipment Total £ £ 41,714 41,714 6,865 6,865 -3,385 -3,385 |
|---|---|
| At 31 December 2024 | 45,194 45,194 |
| Depreciation: At 1 January 2024 Provision for the year Depreciation on cumulative disposals |
38,395 38,395 3,096 3,096 -3,385 -3,385 |
| At 31 December 2024 | 38,105 38,105 |
| Net book value: | |
| At 31 December 2024 | 7,089 7,089 |
| At 31 December 2023 Income tax recoverable Accrued income from hall lettings Other debtors 8. Debtors |
3,320 3,320 |
| ~~2024~~ ~~2023~~ |
|
| £ £ 16,160 16,614 13,473 9,064 469 945 |
|
| Total | 30,102 26,623 |
| Other creditors Deferred income Accruals 9. Liabilities |
2024 2023 £ £ 16,886 10,717 4,340 3,340 2,520 2,460 |
| Total | 23,747 16,517 |
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 33
10. Movement of Funds
| Current | Balance at | Balance at | Net | Transfer | Balance at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| reporting period | 01/01/24 | income/ | between | 31/12/24 | |
| (expenses) | funds | ||||
| in the year | |||||
| Unrestricted fund comprises | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General | 303,939 | -5,764 | - | 298,175 | |
| Restricted funds comprise | |||||
| The Music and Education Fund | - | 15,882 | - | 15,882 | |
| The Piano & Organ Fund | 2,753 | 5,676 | - | 8,429 | |
| 2,753 | 21,558 | - | 24,310 | ||
| Totals | 306,692 | 15,794 | - | 322,486 | |
| Previous | Balance at | Net | Transfer | Balance at | |
| reporting period | 01/01/23 | income/ | between | 31/12/23 | |
| (expenses) | funds | ||||
| in the year | |||||
| Unrestricted fund comprises | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General | 283,899 | 20,040 | - | 303,939 | |
| Restricted funds comprise | |||||
| The West End Project Fund | 70,786 | -70,786 | - | - | |
| The Piano & Organ Fund | 3,001 | -248 | - | 2,753 | |
| The ImprovingSt Philip's Fund | 1,365 | -1,365 | - | - | |
| 75,152 | -72,399 | - | 2,753 | ||
| Totals | 359,051 | -52,359 | - | 306,692 |
34 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
The Church had two restricted funds (the Music and Education Fund, and the Piano & Organ Fund) in place during 2024.
The Music and Education Fund is a restricted fund, that was started in July 2024, used for the purpose of funding and promoting musical provision at St Philip’s, including the Choral Scholars, Recitals and work on the organ and piano. The fund had income of £20,000 in 2024 from a single donor and expenditure of £4,118 reflecting the September start of the Choral Scholars and the carrying forward of extensive organ work scheduled for approximately 2030.
The Piano & Organ Fund is a restricted fund used only to refurbish and maintain the church’s concert grand piano and organ. It had income of £17,933 in 2024 (2023: nil) from an appeal for urgent works on the organ and from regular Thursday lunchtime music recitals. £12,257 was spent in 2024 (2023: £248)
The West End Project Fund was a restricted fund used to pay for changes to the West End of the church to reduce noise transmission and heat loss. Funds of £32,044 were raised in 2023 and it was fully spent during that year. It was closed at the end of 2023.
The Improving St Philip’s Fund was a restricted fund that was created to fund improvements to the building and contents of the church. The opening balance of £1,365 at the start of 2023 was fully spent in support of the West End Project. There was no income on this fund in 2023 and it was closed at the end of that year.
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 35
Statutory Information
The following (taken together with the Treasurer’s Report) comprises the information required by statute.
A Reference and administrative information
Full name of PCC
The Parochial Church Council of Saint Philip, Earl’s Court Road.
Location of Church and PCC correspondence address
The Church is located at the junction of Earl’s Court Road and Stratford Road, London W8. Correspondence should be addressed to the PCC Secretary, St Philip’s Church, Earl’s Court Road, London, W8 6QH.
Names and addresses of bankers, legal and other advisers Bankers:
NatWest Bank PLC, South Kensington Station (B) Branch, PO Box 592, 18 Cromwell Place, London, SW7 2LB
Independent Examiners:
Shaw Gibbs Limited, Accountants, Salatin House, 19 Cedar Road, Sutton, SM2 5DA
The person to whom day to day management is delegated The Reverend Philippa A Turner, Vicar.
36 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
Names of members of the PCC who have served since the commencement of the financial year until the approval of the financial statements
Ex Officio (throughout period) Philippa A Turner (Vicar) Margaret Ayo (Assistant Priest) Mallindi Baldessarro (Churchwarden) Simon Cox (Deanery Synod) PCC Secretary Chris Luxton (Deanery Synod) Electoral Roll Officer
Ex Officio (for part of period) Mary (Helen) Calner (Curate) To July 2025 Lara (Briony) Mackie (Assistant Priest) From October 2025 to May 2026 Jamie Mangan (Churchwarden) To May 2026 Charles Micklewright (Churchwarden) From May 2026 Lesley Raymond (Deanery Synod) From May 2026
Elected (throughout period)
Anastasia Alshanskaya Antonio Aidah Meron Gwiggner Peninah Kamatsiko Karen Loggey Diana von Preuschen Rupert Steele Treasurer Chandra Tambimuttu Safeguarding Officer Petya Todorova
Elected (for part of the period)
Davina Jackson From May 2025 Matthew Livas To May 2026 Jamie Mangan From May 2026 Charles Micklewright To May 2026
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 37
B Risk assessment
The PCC considers that it is exposed to various areas of risk, including:
-
Financial risk;
-
Reputation risk;
-
Risks emanating from statutory and legal requirements;
-
Operational risk.
Systems and procedures are in place to handle these risks.
Factors affecting achievement of objectives
Worship and fabric of the church of St Philip
The worship is principally under the control of the Vicar, but the PCC is consulted about changes. The fabric is managed by the Churchwardens, assisted by a Fabric Team, and the PCC – the PCC has control of the responses to the issues which arise, but not of the maintenance requirements that may occur. The PCC is continually undertaking initiatives to maintain and improve the fabric of the building.
Strength of the church’s finances
This will depend on satisfactory progress in raising income, together with tight control of expenditure. The level of donations will depend partly on economic factors affecting those approached and partly on the success of the church in achieving growth and inspiring those approached to contribute. The former is not under the PCC’s control.
Income from lettings depends on market factors including the level of competition from other venues. These aspects are not under the control of the PCC. However, the income also depends on the level of the utilisation of the halls, the effectiveness of the marketing, and the quality of the facilities and service offered. These matters are under the control of the PCC. Other sources of income may need to be sought – these would be partly under the control of the PCC and partly under control of the bodies or people providing that income.
Expenditure is largely under the control of the PCC, though it is influenced also by factors such as market salary levels, energy prices and the emergence of necessary maintenance tasks, that are outside the PCC’s control.
Financial risk
There is a risk that St Philip’s could have insufficient finance to pay the targeted Diocesan Common Fund contributions together with the operating costs of the church. The PCC, advised by the Treasurer, is responsible for monitoring and managing financial risk. Our major source of income is from lettings and the Treasurer and PCC closely monitor progress and any issues which might adversely affect lettings income, in conjunction with the Church Manager.
38 St Philip’s Annual Report 2024
In addition, we receive significant income from donations, mainly regular planned giving with Gift Aid as well as specific appeals for projects. The Treasurer and PCC monitor receipts from this source and periodically organise initiatives to increase this.
There are a number of risks relating to damage to the building or disruption of activities from fire or other disasters. Adequate insurance is maintained and our insurance policy is regularly reviewed to ensure that it properly covers all areas of our operation.
Pandemic risk
The events of March 2020 revealed that the PCC’s ability to continue its ministry and its finances are susceptible to risk from a major disease outbreak such as the Covid pandemic, especially if there are restrictions on activities in order to prevent disease spreading. During that year, the PCC developed effective mitigations to deal with the impact on the church’s ministry with the development of online and hybrid worship. Technology was installed in the church to facilitate this and these mitigations remain available to the PCC.
Although the sources of rental income are well diversified, and the building insured, the pandemic revealed that there is a residual risk of hall rental income disappearing entirely for a period of months from these very rare events. It will therefore be important to ensure that the PCC has sufficient financial resilience to be able to weather such events.
Reputational risk
There is a risk that failure to maintain a good standard of worship could lead to a possible reduction in the congregation. The standard of worship has not to date been a problem, with congregation numbers broadly steady (taking account of online and inperson participants), but we are continually aiming for improvement. The clergy team meet regularly to review worship. Guest preachers are invited to attend services from time to time throughout the year.
Risks emanating from statutory and legal requirements
There are risks relating to health and safety legislation, child and vulnerable adult protection and employment legislation. A comprehensive health and safety set of guidelines have been drawn up and are regularly reviewed. Training is provided to Stewards and others to ensure that proper procedures are carried out. Children’s Champions and a Safeguarding Officer have been appointed. The Safeguarding Officer or the Churchwardens arrange for relevant staff to attend diocesan safeguarding seminars. The PCC has adopted the diocesan model safeguarding policy and appropriate procedures are in place.
St Philip’s Annual Report 2024 39
The ecclesiastical parish of St Philip, Earl’s Court Road Registered Charity number 1172886 Email info@specr.org 020 7938 1367 www.specr.org Images by Sue Foll, Laura Sylvester, Philippa Turner and members of the congregation. Thank you!