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2023-12-31-accounts

ST JOHN THE DIVINE WEST WORTHING

Parish Priest: The Reverend Canon Timothy Peskett

Bank: Legal Advisers: Independent Examiner: CAF Bank Limited Lings Solicitors Garry Lock ACA 25 Kings Hill Avenue 110 George V Avenue 21 Apsley Way West Malling Worthing Durrington, Worthing Kent. ME19 4JQ West Sussex. BN11 5RR West Sussex. BN13 3RE

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the Year Ended 31[st] December 2023

Registered Charity No: 1178660

Presentation to the Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting

at St John the Divine, West Worthing on Sunday 26[th] May 2024 at 11-30am.

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

CONTENTS Page
Trustees’ report-St John the Divine Church 2
Trustees’ report- finance matters 5
Trustees’ report-Preschool report 7
Independent Examiner’s report 11
Consolidated statement of financial activities(includingPreschool) 12-14
Consolidated balance sheet(includingPreschool) 15-16
St John the Divine balance sheet 17
St John the Divine reserve funds 18
St John The Divine receipts andpayments account summary 19
St John The Divine income analysis 20
St John The Divine expenditure analysis 21
St John’s Preschool income and expenditure account 22
St John’s Preschool statement of assets and liabilities 23
Notes to the accounts 24
Certification of the accounts 25
Groupand committee reports 26-30

1

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

1. Structure, Governance & Management

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St John the Divine, West Worthing (“the PCC”) is a Charity (“the Charity”) registered with the Charity Commission under No: 1178660. The members of the PCC, as Trustees, have the responsibility for co-operating with the Incumbent, or, during an interregnum, Deanery and Diocesan Officers to promote in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the church; pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has a responsibility for the maintenance of the church hall and grounds in Ripley Road and the interior of the vicarage in Reigate Road, Worthing.

Membership

Membership of the PCC is determined under the Church Representation Rules. In addition to those members of the church elected at the Annual Parochial Church meeting (APCM) it also includes Ex Officio members who are the incumbent, Churchwardens and members of the Deanery and Diocesan Synods. Members of the congregation are warmly encouraged to stand for election to the PCC and we try to ensure a balance of skills and experience where possible.

PCC members are also Trustees and must accept the ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the Charity for the benefit of the public for whom it has been set up, including deciding how the funds of the Charity are to be spent.

PCC members who are Trustees and have served at any time during the year 2023 are:Ex Officio Members

Incumbent The Reverend Canon Timothy Peskett appointed on 5 May 2020

Wardens

Mrs Dorothy Smith Appointed on 3 September 2023

Mr Martyn Shanks Appointed on 28 May 2023

Mrs Vanessa Puttick Appointed 11 October 2020 resigned on 31 July 2023

Ms Caroline Burke Appointed 29 May 2022 resigned as a Warden on 28 May 2023

Diocesan and Deanery Synod

Mrs Kim Upton Appointed 18 April 2018 Mr Martin Lloyd Appointed 2 April 2017 (also Safeguarding Officer) Miss Dawn Munn Appointed 27 April 2019 Mr Martin Puttick Appointed 20 May 2021 resigned on 31 July 2023

2

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Elected Members

Mrs Gillian Almond Appointed 29[th] May 2022

Mr Mike Chatfield Appointed 11 November 2020 Mr Alan Caperon Appointed 11 October 2020 (Treasurer) Mrs Ros Ashton Appointed 30 May 2021 Ms Caroline Burke Appointed 29 May 2022

Mrs Sheila Hillary Appointed 28 May 2019

Mrs Margaret Borbone Appointed 29 May 2022 (Secretary)

Co-Opted Members- There were no Co-Opted members.

2. Aim and Purpose.

The primary objective of the Charity is to promote the whole mission of the church.

The Charity together with the Churchwardens support and cooperate with the incumbent, continue to maintain the condition of St John’s church, the church hall and grounds and the interior of the vicarage in Reigate Road. The church maintains the Anglo Catholic tradition for which it was founded in 1901 while still recognising that the world around us is always changing.

3. Objectives and activities.

The Charity is committed to enabling as many people as possible to both worship at our church and also to become part of our parish community at St John’s.

The PCC makes suggestions of how our services can involve the many differing groups within the parish.

We put faith into practice through prayer, scripture, music and sacrament.

When planning our activities for the year we have considered ideas from our mission action group, especially: -

  1. Provision of pastoral care for those living in our community, such as the many care homes in our parish.

  2. Our community has many single people we need to consider in our outreach.

  3. To facilitate this work, we need to be seen to be going out into our community to cover those areas that are being missed.

  4. In 2023 St. John’s church was used as a polling station for the benefit of the local community.

3

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

4. Achievements and performance

The PCC is keen to offer a range of church services through the week and during the year that our community will find both beneficial and spiritually fulfilling, in quiet reflective worship and also through fellowship after Sunday services.

Our Parish Clergy team continue to visit on a regular basis and offer communion to those people who for whatever reason cannot attend church.

We would like to thank all our volunteers for their hard work in making our church a lively and welcoming community, including the PCC, it's sub committees, our honorary Clergy, Servers, Sacristans, lay ministers and flower people, and all those who have worked so hard.

5. Review of the year

It is with gratitude and humility that I present to you a review for the annual report for 2023. This review reflects our collective efforts, challenges, and blessings as we strive to fulfil our mission of living and spreading the Gospel message in our community of West Worthing and beyond.

During 2023 we have continued to enjoy our worshipping life with the annual round of Feast and Fast being celebrated at St. John’s in a robust, dignified and fitting way. Lent, Holy Week and Easter 2023 was a very moving and spiritual time for the Parish when we drew close to our Lord in His Passion and Resurrection. In our worshipping life, numbers attending services fluctuate, but on an average Sunday attendance across the three services at St. John’s numbers between 50 – 60 people. Weekday attendance at Mass remains consistently high.

In 2023 we continued with our weekly bible studies on Monday afternoons. The venue for bible study sessions changed in 2023 from the vicarage dining room to the Lady Chapel, when we have read, studied and meditated on the Sunday Readings for the following Sunday. All are welcome to attend.

During Lent we had Stations of the Cross and Lent Lunches which were very well attended and raised a lot of money for the work of the Samaritans. In May 2023 we had a joyful Coronation party on the day after the Coronation of our new King. The Summer Fair and Christmas Fair brought the local community together and both were a great success and enjoyed by all. For both fairs we joined forces with our sister parish of St. Andrews. The fairs are always hard work, but they bring in much needed funds and bring us all together.

In July 2023 we said farewell to Fr. Josh who had been with us for three years as Assistant Curate. He had honed his considerable skills at St. John’s and St. Andrews and has become a very fine young priest.

In early September 2023 a large group of parishioners went to Chichester to see Deacon Rachel being installed as a Canon of the Cathedral. A few days later a group went to Eastbourne for the licensing of Fr. Josh as Priest in Charge of two parishes. In September we also said farewell to Vanessa Puttick and Martin Puttick. Vanessa has been a marvellous churchwarden at St. John’s and Martin served as a Lay Reader for a short while. We wish them every blessing in their new life in the North of England.

4

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Christmas 2023 at St. John’s was very well supported, thanks in major part to the Parish Christmas Card drop informing parishioners of Christmas services and events. Thanks to all who delivered cards.

St John’s acted as a polling station for the local council elections during 2023. The people who run the Elections enjoy coming to St. John’s and they feel it is an ideal place for this purpose. It is also good to bring the entire local community into the church.

St. John’s preschool continues to be a much-loved and valued part of our Church life, serving young families in the area and providing learning and creative play to very young children at a very formative time of their young lives. We are so fortunate to have such a good manager in Jude Waterhouse, who is supported by a very dedicated staff team and governing body. St. John’s Preschool has been judged as a “Good Provider” by Ofsted.

There is rarely a day at St. John’s when nothing much is happening, and St. John’s is at the service of the Parish Community seven days a week. Going forward, St. John’s will need each and every member to support their parish church both financially and through attendance to secure its future life and witness.

It has been an absolute joy and privilege to be Vicar of such a wonderful parish during 2023 and I am so grateful to everyone for their support and contributions during the year.

Fr. Tim Peskett

6. Financial Review

St John’s Church achieved a total income of £66,456 (2022 £65,171).

The expenditure for the year was £53,797 (2022 £55,324), including a contribution towards our parish share for our clergy of £30,000.

It is pleasing to report that St John’s church had a surplus with income exceeding expenditure this year by £12,659 (2022 surplus £9,847).

It should be noted that the market value of investments increased by £2,333 compared to a reduced value in 2022 of £3,308.

The total net assets of St John’s church after taking into account debtors and creditors at 31 December 2023 was £139,890 (2022 £124,898).

The St John’s Preschool results are included in the Charity’s consolidated accounts, and you will note that the Preschool incurred a deficit in the year of £6,105 (2022 surplus £706), after taking into account the hire of the hall of £6,825. In summary, the Preschool made a small surplus of £720 before its contribution to St John’s for hall hire.

5

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

The consolidated accounts show that the total assets of the Charity at 31 December 2023 were £195,178 (2022 £186,291), which represented an increase of £8,887. This increase is made up of the net surplus made by St John’s church of £14,992 (adjusted for the increase in the value of investments of £2,333), less the St John’s Preschool deficit of £6,105.

7. Reserves Policy

It is PCC policy to retain a level of reserves appropriate to the Charity’s future needs.

Roof funds-restricted and designated

The restricted roof fund is currently at a level whereby it is unlikely that any significant work can be undertaken to completely renew the church roof in 2024.

The PCC decided to utilise the roof designated fund for remedial works to repair leaks, damp and water ingress and therefore have started a process to carry out major reinstatement. In 2024, the hall roof will need to be replaced.

At 31 December 2023 the funds retained were as follows:-

Other restricted funds

The Charity’s reserves at 31 December 2023 totalled £195,178 (2021 £186,291) and are made up as follows: -

The reserves are shown in more detail in these accounts.

6

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

St John’s Preschool

St John’s Preschool, West Worthing

Ofsted registration number: URN EY402776

Key Extracts from the Governors’ Report for the period 1 January – 31 December 2023

Summary of the purposes of the Preschool as set out in its governing document. (SORP Ref: Para 1.17)

St John’s Preschool is a not-for-profit early years setting registered with Ofsted that is part of the work and ministry of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St John the Divine, West Worthing. The purpose of the Preschool is outlined in its constitution document:

Aim

To provide the community with a valuable, high profile service by means of a Christian Preschool’.

Objectives

1 ‘To provide a first-class programme of preschool education, including spiritual development.’

2 ‘To provide a Christian environment in which children are encouraged to develop physical,

intellectual, language, emotional and social skills, in work, play and social situations.’

7

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Summary of the main activities in relation to those purposes for the public benefit, in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts (SORP Ref: Para 1.17 and 1.19)

The Preschool operates in St John’s Church Hall on Monday – Friday (Term time only) 8.30 am – 2.30 pm as a pack-away early years setting. It provides early years education through learning activities and play for children 2-4 years old.

The Preschool follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework from the Department for Education. This specifies requirements for learning and development, for safeguarding children and for promoting their welfare.

The Preschool supports children in their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. The curriculum delivered is designed to meet the individual needs of all children, with specific additional support given to SEND or disadvantaged children. Every child in the Preschool has key worker on the staff.

Regular assemblies and special events are held in church for the children, to which families and members of the congregation are often invited.

Statement confirming whether the Governors have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit

(SORP Ref: Para 1.18)

The Preschool’s constitution reflects the ‘benefit’ and ‘public’ aspects of the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit, notwithstanding that it is not a separately registered Charity.

Contribution made by volunteers

(SORP Ref: Para 1.38)

All the Governors are volunteers; one governor was employed by the Preschool as the Bursar for part of the year but in 2023 a new part time bursar was employed.

Summary of the main achievements of the Preschool, identifying the difference the Preschool’s work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole

(SORP Ref: Para 1.20)

The Preschool is a happy, friendly, family environment where children, parents and staff all work together. The children learn through fun and play; these experiences give them a secure foundation for their future education and development, by building up their confidence and instilling in them an excitement for learning.

It also introduces the children to bible stories and to church; before the Covid pandemic, there were monthly assemblies in church led by one of the parish clergy. Although not as frequent the assemblies are returning, usually once a half term.

8

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Many parents return with siblings, demonstrating how happy they are with what the Preschool provides for their children.

At the end of the year in December 2023, there were 15 children on roll – 5 x 2 year olds and 10 x 3 year olds. This compares to 23 children on roll in December 2022.

Review of the Preschool’s financial position at the end of 2023

(SORP Ref; Para 1.21)

The Preschool’s financial position at 31 December 2023 has become much more vulnerable over the last year with an operating deficit of £6,105. This has been caused by a fall in the number of children on roll; this is something which affected other early years settings in the local area (2022 surplus of £706).

The Governors are aware that the majority of the Preschool’s income is public funding which has been provided for the purpose of educational provision.

Statement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held

(SORP Ref: Para 1.22)

The Governors have designated specific funds as reserves to ensure they manage the financial risks effectively and the Preschool remains financially viable in the medium and long term.

The Governors also want to ensure there are always sufficient funds available to enable them:

Explanation of any uncertainties about the Preschool continuing as a going concern

(SORP Ref: Para 1.23)

The Governors recognise that the numbers of children on the roll fluctuate for several reasons: the variation in the birth rate and the impact of other early year’s provision being the main ones.

As the Preschool’s income is linked directly to the numbers on roll, the Governors have agreed to hold designated funds as reserves, to manage the financial uncertainties caused by the fluctuation of numbers on roll in the short, medium and long term.

The Preschool’s principal sources of funds (SORP Ref: Para 1.47)

There are two principal sources of funding:

  1. West Sussex County Council – government funding for all children eligible for free childcare.

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

  1. Fees – paid by parents for children who are not eligible for government funded free childcare, or who wish to pay for more hours at the Preschool if their children are only entitled to 15 hours a week of government funding.

A description of the principal risks facing the Preschool

(SORP Ref: Para 1.46)

The Preschool’s funding is based on the numbers of children on its roll. It is always very difficult to predict the numbers on roll on a year-to-year basis and they fluctuate considerably over the short, medium and long term.

Type of governing document

(SORP Ref: Para 1.25)

The constitution document for St John’s Preschool was approved by the Parochial Church Council of the Parish of St John the Divine, West Worthing at its meeting on 14 July 2009. It was revised and updated by the Parochial Church Council on 25 September 2023.

Governor selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions

(SORP Ref: Para 1.25)

The Governors approved a new policy for the induction of governors in 2023. This policy will be reviewed every three years.

The Preschool relates to:

Sally Thompson

Chair of Governors

10

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Independent Examiner’s Report

to the Trustees of The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St John the Divine, West Worthing

Respective Responsibilities of Trustees and the Independent Examiner

I report on the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2023.

The Charity's Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The Charity's Trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) as amended by the Charities Act 2022 and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

  1. Examine the accounts (under section 145 of the 2011 Act)

  2. To follow the procedures laid down under the General Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act); and

  3. To state whether any particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of the Independent Examiner’s Report

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 Charity 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 the Trustees 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.

Independent Examiner’s statement

The accounts for the year to 31 December 2023 comply with the requirement to produce consolidated accounts and include the Designated Funds of the Preschool.

I conclude as the Independent Examiner that the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023 accord with the accounting records. The accounts therefore comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022 and provide a proper understanding of the accounts of the Charity.

Please ensure that the St John the Divine Financial Statements are filed with the Charity Commission.

Name: Garry Lock Date: May 2024

Relevant professional qualification: ACA, Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales Address: 21 Apsley Way, Durrington, West Sussex, BN13 3RE.

11

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (Incorporating an income and expenditure account) FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

INCOMING RESOURCES
St John The Divine, income
Planned giving
Other gift aided donations
Other donations
Gift aid recovered
Donations and legacies total
Pre school income
Fees for the year
Other income for the year
Other income-interest
St John The Divine, income
Weddings, funerals and other income
Charitable activities total
St John The Divine, income
Fundraising and social events
Insurance claim
Parish magazine sales
Hall and church hire
Hall and church hire-pre school
St Andrew’s contributions
100 Club
Flower fund
Polling
Sundry income including energy grant
Photocopying
Magazine advertisement fees
Catering
Bookstall sales
Other Fundraising activities total
Bank and CBF deposit interest
CBF investment fund dividend
Investment income
TOTAL INCOME RESOURCES		 Unrestricted Funds
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2022
Year to
31-Dec-22
General
Designated
Designated
Pre school
£
£
£
£
£
£
20,757
20,757
20,062
13,515
13,515
13,047
1,795
1,795
3,907
3,380
3,380
3,590
39,447
39,447
40,606
84,167
84,167
76,765
873
873
1,129
380
380
64
85,420
85,420
77,958
1,610
1,610
586
1,610
1,610
586
2,193
2,193
2,063
0
0
555
177
177
91
13,562
13,562
12,279
(6,825)
(6,825)
(6,330)
1,797
1,797
3,644
345
345
313
0
0
200
700
700
1,250
967
967
1,218
60
60
528
528
566
100
100
0
0
15
13,604
13,604
15,864
1,302
1,006
1,921
4,229
1,048
741
741
1,302
1,006
2,662
4,970
1,785		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
All funds 2022
Year to
31-Dec-22
£
£
20,757
20,062
13,515
13,047
1,795
3,907
3,380
3,590
39,447
40,606
84,167
76,765
873
1,129
380
64
85,420
77,958
1,610
586
1,610
586
2,193
2,063
0
555
177
91
13,562
12,279
(6,825)
(6,330)
1,797
3,644
345
313
0
200
700
1,250
967
1,218
60
528
566
100
0
15
13,604
15,864
1,921
4,229
1,048
741
741
2,662
4,970
1,785
55,963
1,006
85,420
2,662
145,051
134,799

12

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (Incorporating an income and expenditure account) FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

RESOURCES EXPENDED
Charitable donations
Parish share to Chichester Diocese
Clergy property costs and clergy expenses
Weddings, funerals and baptisms etc
PCC governance costs
Other charitable costs
Total direct costs of charitable activities
Preschool expenditure
Year to 31 December 2023
Pre school payments to St John’s
Flowers for church
Church insurance
Accountancy and Xero licence
Hall, water, gas, and electricity
Church water, gas, electricity and refuse
Hall cleaning and wages
Hall maintenance and repairs
Hall insurance
Insurance claims and property costs
Telephone and Internet
Bank charges
Parish office copier rental
Other regular church running costs
Printing and photocopying
Church maintenance and repairs
Walsingham
Depreciation
Total indirect costs of charitable activities
TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED		 Unrestricted Funds
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2023
Year to
31-Dec-22
General Designated
Designated
Preschool
£
£
£
£
£
£
174
174
0
30,000
30,000
30,000
4,741
4,741
6,045
300
300
271
271
300
513
513
393
35,999
35,999
36,738
91,525
91,525
77,252
(6,825)
(6,825)
(8,330)
84,700
84,700
68,922
61
52
113
339
2,376
2,376
2,095
413
413
435
3,325
3,325
2,621
2,285
2,285
2,605
3,150
3,150
2,498
927
927
1,451
1,788
1,788
1,580
0
1,182
1,182
370
820
820
821
84
84
90
(1,928)
(1,928)
406
913
913
1,158
543
543
595
1,082
1,082
1,392
105
105
130
620
620
16,564
1,182
52
17,798
18,586
52,563
1,182
84,700
52
138,497
124,246

13

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (Incorporating an income and expenditure account) FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

Unrestricted Funds Unrestricted Funds Unrestricted Funds Restricted Total Year to
Funds All funds 2023 31-Dec-22
Designated
General Designated Preschool
£ £ £ £ £ £
MOVEMENT IN TOTAL FUNDS FOR THE YEAR
Net income/expenditure for the year 3,400
(176)
720
2,610
6,554
10,553
Revaluation of shares 2,333
2,333
(3,308)
Preschool hall hire 6,825 (6,825)
TOTAL FUNDS AT 1 JANUARY 2023 35,594
21,912
61,393
67,392
186,291
179,046
TOTAL FUNDS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 45,819
21,736
55,288
72,335
195,178
186,291

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

FIXED ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
CAF Bank current account
Bank current account-pre school
Bank deposit account-pre school
CBF Deposit fund
Cash in hand
Cash at bank
Investments
1200CBF Investment fund shares
Investment assets at market value
Share valuation at 31 Dec 2023
Total assets
DEBTORS
Preschool
HMRC
Hall rent
Christmas fair
Christmas service donations
100 Club
Interest
St Andrews
Flower fund
Sundry debtors
Advertising
CREDITORS
WSCC
Prepaid fees and deposits
Employees
HMRC
Gas and electricity
Bank charges
Donation from church collection
Funeral fee
Diocese
Trade suppliers
Petty cash expenses
Total liabilities
Transfers
NET ASSETS after
debtors/(creditors)		 Unrestricted Designated
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
General
Designated
Pre School
£
£
£
£
£
£
2,480
2,480
0		 Unrestricted Designated
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
General
Designated
Pre School
£
£
£
£
£
£
2,480
2,480
0		 Unrestricted Designated
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
General
Designated
Pre School
£
£
£
£
£
£
2,480
2,480
0		 Unrestricted Designated
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
General
Designated
Pre School
£
£
£
£
£
£
2,480
2,480
0		 Unrestricted Designated
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
General
Designated
Pre School
£
£
£
£
£
£
2,480
2,480
0		 Unrestricted Designated
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
General
Designated
Pre School
£
£
£
£
£
£
2,480
2,480
0
8,929
34,049		 29,857
40,053
22,614		 43,203 8,929
11,002
29,857
36,819
40,053
40,092
99,866
87,081
0
12
42,978 22,614
69,910		 43,203 178,705
175,006
27,126 27,126
24,794
27,126 27,126
24,794
45,458 22,614
69,910		 70,329 208,311
199,800
1,606
504
0
1,050
0
388
330
189
252
160		 304

579
0 156
1,606
1,480
504
562
0
756
1,050
365
0
313
1,271
113
330
0
189
0
252
0
160
82
4,479 304
0		 579 5,362
3,905
(563)
(18)
(217)
(2,500)
(575)		 (12,306)
(360)
(1,956)		 (12,306)
(12,773)
(360)
(1,143)
(1,956)
(1,560)
(69)
(563)
(1,538)
(18)
0
(21)
(217)
(2,500)
(575)
(100)
(248)
(3,873)
(14,622)		 0 (18,495)
(17,414)
(245) (1,182) 1,427
45,819 21,736 55,288 72,335 195,178
186,291

15

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023


CURRENT ASSETS
CHARITY FUNDS
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
DESIGNATED FUNDS-St John's
Roof
Church development fund
Interest
DESIGNATED FUNDS-Preschool
RESTRICTED FUNDS
Roof
Special purpose fund
(redesignated)
Interest
Dividends
Share revaluation
Solar panels
Pam Bailey fund
TOTAL CHARITY FUNDS		 General
£
 Designated
£

16,212
4,251
1,273		 Designated
Pre School
£		 Restricted
£
27,700
4,030
2,434
1,478
4,124
10,000
22,569		 Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
£
£
45,819 45,819
35,594
21,736
21,912
21,736
55,288 55,288
61,393
27,700
4,030
513
737
1,791
10,000
22,569
72,335 72,335
67,392
45,819 21,736 55,288 72,335 195,178
186,291

16

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

ST JOHN THE DIVINE BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

FIXED ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
CAF Bank current account
CBF Deposit fund
Cash in hand
Investments
1200CBF Investment fund shares
Investment assets at market value
Share valuation at 31 Dec 2023 of
£27,126
TOTAL ASSETS
DEBTORS
HMRC
Hall rent
Christmas fair
Christmas service donations
100 Club
Prepayments
St Andrews
Interest
Flower account
Advertising
CREDITORS
Gas and electricity
Funeral fee
Donation from church collection
Trade suppliers
HMRC
Diocese
Total liabilities
Transfers
NET ASSETS after
debtors/(creditors)
CHARITY FUNDS
Restricted funds
Designated funds
Unrestricted funds
TOTAL CHARITY FUNDS		 Unrestricted funds
General
Designated
£
£		 Unrestricted funds
General
Designated
£
£		 Unrestricted funds
General
Designated
£
£		 Restricted
Funds
£		 Restricted
Funds
£		 Total
All funds 2023
Total
All funds 2022
£
£
2,480
8,929
11,002
99,866
87,080
0
0
2,480
8,929
34,049		 22,614 43,203
0
42,978 22,614 43,203 108,795
98,083
27,126 27,126
24,794
0 0 27,126 27,126
24,794
45,458 22,614 70,329 138,401
122,877
1,606
504
0
1,050
0
252
330
388
189
160		 304 579

1,606
1,480
504
562
0
756
1,050
365
0
313
252
113
330
0
388
0
189
0
160
160
4,479 304 579 5,362
3,749
(563)
(217)
0
(575)
0
(2,500)		 (1,538)
(1,538)
(217)
0
(21)
(575)
(100)
(69)
(2,500)
(3,873) 0 0 (3,873)
(1,728)
(245) (1,182) 1,427
45,819 21,736
21,736		 72,335 139,890
124,898
72,335 72,335
67,392
21,736
21,912
45,819 45,819
35,594
139,890
124,898

17

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Charity reserves fund (adjusted for transactions received and paid in year to 31 December 2023) Fund income & expenditure

Fund name
Restricted funds
Special purpose fund
Restricted purposes
(see below)
Roof
Interest received
Dividend income
Revaluation of shares
Total of all restricted funds
Designated funds
Roof-designated fund
Church redevelopment-designated fund
Interest
Total of all designated funds
Unrestricted funds
Total funds
Restricted funds
Childrens corner
Crib service collection
Flowers
Jean Godden legacy
Junior church
St Luke's collection
Pam Bailey legacy
Requiem altar carpet
Solar panels
Sunday school books
War memorial
Andrew Wood
Altar cloths
Restricted roof fund
Special purpose fund
Social fund
Revaluation of shares
Interest
Dividends		 Balances b/f
1 Jan 2023
Income
Expenditure
Adjustments
Balances c/f
31 Dec 2023
£
£
£
£
890
0
0
3,140
4,030
35,761
0
(52)
(3,140)
32,569
27,700
0
0
0
27,700
513
1,921
2,434
737
741
1,478
1,791
2,333
4,124
67,392
2,662
(52)
2,333
72,335
17,394
0
(1,182)
0
16,212
4,251
0
0
0
4,251
267
1,006
267
21,912
1,006
(1,182)
0
21,736
35,594
62,788
(52,563)
0
45,819
124,859
66,456
(53,797)
2,333
139,890
B/f
Income
Expenditure
Redesignation
C/f
79
(79)
0
183
(183)
0
52
(52)
0
0
933
(933)
0
451
(451)
0
41
(41)
0
22,569
22,569
150
(150)
0
10,000
10,000
76
(76)
0
112
(112)
0
715
(715)
0
400
(400)
0
35,761
(52)
(3,140)
32,569
27,700
27,700
4,030
4,030
890
(890)
64,351
(52)
0
64,299
1,791
2,333
4,124
513
1,921
2,434
737
741
1,478
3,041
2,662
2,333
8,036
67,392
2,662
(52)
2,333
72,335

18

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

ST JOHN’ S STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

Income
Donations
Charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
Other receipts
Total received
Expenditure
Charitable direct costs
Charity indirect costs
Total paid out
NET EXPENDITURE
Net movement in funds
Adjustment-investment to transfer
Revaluation of shares (see notes)
Cash & investments on 1st January 2023
Cash and investments
on 31st December 2023		 Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
Total
All funds
2023
Total All
funds 2022
General
Designated
£
£
£
£
£
39,447
39,447
40,606
1,610
1,610
586
17,587
17,587
22,194
1,302
1,006
2,662
4,970
1,785
2,842
2,842
62,788
1,006
2,662
66,456
65,171
(41,354)
(1,182)
(52)
(42,588)
(36,738)
(11,209)
(11,209)
(18,586)
(55,324)
(1,182)
(52)
(53,797)
(55,324)
10,225
(176)
2,610
12,659
9,847
10,225
(176)
2,610
12,659
9,847
-
2,333
2,333
(3,308)
35,594
21,912
67,392
124,898
118,359
45,819
21,736
72,355
139,890
124,898

19

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

ST JOHN’S CHARITY INCOME FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

Total Total
All funds 2023 All funds 2022
Unrestricted Designated Restricted
INCOMING RESOURCES
St John The Divine, income £ £ £ £ £
Planned giving 20,757 20,757 20,062
Other gift aided donations 13,515 13,515 13,047
Other donations 1,795 1,795 3,907
Gift aid recovered 3,380 3,380 3,590
Donations and legacies total 39,447 0 39,447 40,606
St John The Divine, income
Weddings, funerals and other income 1,610 1,610 586
St John The Divine, income
Fundraising and social events 2,193 2,193 2,063
Insurance claim 0 0 555
Parish magazine sales 177 177 91
Hall and church hire 13,562 13,562 12,279
St Andrew’s contributions 1,797 1,797 3,644
100 Club 345 345 313
Flower fund 0 0 200
Catering 100 100 0
Photocopying 60 60 0
Polling 700 700 1,250
Sundry income including energy grant 967 967 1,218
Magazine advertisement fees 528 528 566
Bookstall sales 0 0 15
Other activities total 20,429 20,429 22,194
Bank and CBF deposit interest 1,302 1,006 1,921 4,229 1,048
CBF investment fund dividend 741 741 737
Investment income 1,302 1,006 2,662 4,970 1,785
TOTAL INCOME RESOURCES 62,788 1,006 **2,662 ** 66,456 65,171

20

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

ST JOHN’S CHARITY EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2023

Charitable donations
Parish share to Chichester Diocese
Clergy property costs and expenses
Costs of weddings, funerals and baptisms
PCC governance costs
Other charitable costs
Total direct costs
Flowers costs
Accountancy and Xero licences
Church water, gas and electricity
Church insurance
Telephone and internet
Church maintenance and repairs
Other regular church running costs
Printing and photocopying
Hall, water, gas and electricity
Hall cleaning and wages
Hall maintenance and repairs
Insurance claims
Hall insurance
Parish office copier rental
Bank charges
Walsingham
Depreciation
Total indirect costs
Total paid out on all funds		 Unrestricted funds
Restricted
funds
General
Designated
£
£
£
174
30,000
4,741
300
271
513
35,999
61
52
413
2,285
2,376
820
1,082
913
543
3,325
3,150
927
1,182
1,788
(1,928)
84
105
620		 Total
All funds
2023
Total
All funds
2022
£
£
174
0
30,000
30,000
4,741
6,045
300
0
271
300
513
393
35,999
36,738
113
339
413
435
2,285
2,605
2,376
2,095
820
821
1,082
1,392
913
1,158
543
595
3,325
2,621
3,150
2,498
927
1,451
1,182
370
1,788
1,580
(1,928)
406
84
90
105
130
620
0
16,564
1,182
52		 17,798
18,586
52,563
1,182
52		 53,797
55,324

21

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

ST. JOHN'S PRESCHOOL

RECEIPTS & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2023

Income
Fees
Fundraising
Bank interest
T Shirt income
Grant
Sundry
Less Expenditure
Curriculum costs
Salaries
Premises costs
Hall hire
Administration costs
Professional fees
Service costs
Fund raising costs
Excess of (expenditure) over income		 Total
3 terms to
(3 terms)
31-Dec-22
£
£
84,167
76,765
861
286
380
64
12
12
0
665
0
166
85,420
77,958
(3,551)
(2,595)
(74,189)
(63,549)
(223)
(2,147)
(6,825)
(6,330)
(2,280)
(427)
(384)
0
(3,341)
(2,204)
(732)
0
(91,525)
(77,252)
(6,105)
706

22

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

ST. JOHN'S PRESCHOOL

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES AS AT 31st DECEMBER 2023
CURRENT ASSETS
Bank accounts
Bank account
Cash in hand
Deposit Account
DEBTORS
Outstanding fees
Total debtors
TOTAL ASSETS
LESS LIABILITIES
WSCC prepayment
Prepaid fees and deposits
Petty cash expenses
Employment costs
Total liabilities
Net assets at 31st December 2023
REPRESENTED BY
Reserves b/f
(Deficit) for the year (Surplus in 2022)
Reserves c/f		 31-Dec-22
£
£
29,857
36,819
0
12
40,053
40,092
69,910
76,923
0
156
0
156
69,910
77,079
(12,306)
(12,773)
(360)
(1,143)
0
(210)
(1,956)
(1,560)
(14,622)
(15,686)
55,288
61,393
61,393
60,687
(6,105)
706
55,288
61,393

23

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Notes to the accounts

  1. St John The Divine has been registered as a Charity with the Charity Commission since 6 June 2018 and since that date has submitted its own accounts. Prior to that date, St John’s Parochial Church Council (“the PCC”) was a Charity excepted from registration with the Charity Commission. In order to provide a better understanding of the Charity’s funds within the accounts, it was necessary in the year to review certain historical transactions. The outcome of the review has identified the source of certain of the Charity’s funds and the specific bequests from the donors. These accounts properly reflect the Restricted Funds and Unrestricted Funds (which includes Unrestricted Designated Funds).

  2. The financial statements of the Charity have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022 and current church accounting regulations.

3. The consolidated accounts separately identify the hall hire which is a cost to the Preschool and its corresponding income to St John The Divine but these transactions are still included in their respective accounts.

  1. The consolidated accounts show the Preschool results as Designated Funds in accordance with the aim of the Preschool to provide the community with a valuable, high profile service by means of a Christian preschool.

  2. St Andrew the Apostle church reimburses 50% of the clergy property costs.

  3. The share investment has increased in value as at the 31[st] December 2023 by £2,333 to £27,126 (2022 decrease by £3,308 to £24,794). The value of the shares is not realised until the shares are sold.

  4. Clergy and other allowances and expenses:-

This expenditure includes Council tax on both the vicarage and the curate’s house (to 31 August 2023), plus water charges and Clergy expenses but has been reduced by the contributions made by St Andrew the Apostle Church.

8. Regular church running costs:-

This expenditure includes sacristy costs including candles, oil for candles and also the costs of the organist.

9. Other charitable costs

This expenditure includes:

Drinks licence Website maintenance CCLI licence – copyright payment for music in church. Forward in faith Office telephone and broadband Payment for safeguarding

24

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Reports from groups and committees

WARDENS REPORT

a. Fabric

On 18[th] September 2023 the UK was hit by a storm that left many areas flooded. St John’s unfortunately did not escape water damage. Tiles blown off the roof dropped into the valley between the roofs on the north side of the church. This led to a blockage where the water drain runs through the tower and out onto a flat roof above the high altar. The gutters and drainpipe on the flat roof were silted up and could not clear the water fast enough. The outcome was a buildup of water where it enters the tower which overflowed into the church.

Inside the church the water poured from the ceiling into the vestry soaking the severs robes hanging on the wall directly below and flooding the floor. (Our thanks go to Sandy for laundering them back into good working order). The water also poured through the electric main switches which caused concern for safety and ruined the ceiling light in this area. The Sacristy was soaked both from the outside where the water ran under the door and inside through the walls near the door. Inside the church the water ran down the east wall surrounding the doorway to the electric switches from the church. Water in this area damaged the carpet as far as the Requiem altar and most of the space behind it.

An insurance claim was submitted followed by a visit from a loss adjuster on 13 October 2023, who organised drying equipment and a roof inspection. The drying equipment ran 24/7 from this time right up to and beyond the end of December 2023 at a considerable cost for the electric supply. The roof inspection took place on 24[th] October 2023.

Roof repairs started with clearing the silted gutters and down pipes on 9 November, followed by installing a new hod as well as waterproofing the masonry where water constantly runs down the lightening conductor. This was completed on 15 December 2023.

The task of repairing the church after this storm damage will continue in 2024.

Several chairs have needed attention as they have developed loose joints. These have now been repaired. Please let someone know if you find a chair with a problem.

Regular worshippers on a Sunday including 8am Mass, 10am Parish Mass and 6pm Evening Prayer and Benediction, amount on average to 50 - 60 members attending.

c. Bible Study Group

A weekly bible study started in Lent and has continued ever since. 10 people on average attend the bible study, forming a solid core for growing in faith worship and knowledge. Our thanks go to Father Tim for setting this group up and leading it so faithfully.

d. Social & Fundraising

We started the year with a Quiz and Fish and Chip Supper which was well supported.

In May 2023 we had a Tea party and games in the hall to celebrate the coronation of King Charles.

The Summer Fair was well supported and raised a good amount of cash for parish funds.

A Harvest Supper and Beetle Drive was held on Saturday 30[th] September 2023.

26

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Reports from groups and committees

Father Tim was heroic in cooking 4 options for the main course, it was appreciated very much with a delicious trifle made by Lyn Gough to finish the meal. It was a great evening enjoyed by all as well as raising funds for the church.

A Christmas market was held on 2[nd] December 2023. St Andrews and the Preschool joined us with stalls of their own. Independent stall holders paid a hire fee of £15 per table. Also present were WADARS Animal Rescue charity. The morning went by in a relaxed and happy way, bringing in the local community and providing simple lunches of great value. The children enjoyed a visit to Santa, a games area and things of interest from the stalls. All in all, a happy event, and a profit for church funds.

Vanessa’s departure could have left much to aspire to regarding social fundraising events, but we have great people here willing to use their gifts to carry on this much appreciated, well attended, social fundraising events.

There is wonderful team spirit in the congregation which is to be celebrated and added to. A small committee has been formed to organise events as well as a great gang of helpers who turn up faithfully to assist in any way they can.

Dorothy Smith

SIDESPERSONS

Our gratitude goes to the faithful team of sidepersons who turn up week after week to greet and help all who come through our doors. This is an incredibly important role to give a positive and warm welcome to our worship and they do a great job.

SERVING TEAM

At St. John’s we are so fortunate to have a small but totally dedicated team of Servers. The level of serving has remained consistently high throughout the year and our team of servers have assisted the clergy for big occasions, major feast days, Holy Week liturgies, funerals, Requiem Masses and Sunday by Sunday. We all owe our Serving and Sacristy Teams a huge debt of thanks for serving at the Altar and preparing behind the scenes for the wide range of services and liturgical events, without fuss and in such a dignified and fitting manner. Everything in the serving and sacristy is done to a very high standard.

St. John’s also hosted the Worthing branch of the Guild of the Servants of the Sanctuary on two occasions in 2023.

If anyone would like to join the Serving Team, please have a word with our head server, Mike Chatfield after Mass on Sunday mornings.

Fr. Tim

ST. JOHN’S 100 CLUB

A total of 60 tickets were sold in 2023, up 3 from 2022.

Each month there are 5 prizes of £5, and at Christmas two additional prizes of £50 and £25.

At the end of this year, we gave £345 to Church funds.

The 100 Club has been running since 2012 when we had 63 participants. This is slowing reducing year by year. In the last eleven years, we have given St John’s a total of £3,877.

27

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Reports from groups and committees

Thank you for your continued support. If you would like to purchase a number, please contact me.

Lyn Gough Tel: 07880 796619

CHURCH FLOWERS - 2023

Donations have been generously given to commemorate an annual occasion, such as wedding anniversaries or remembering a loved one, or marking a special event.

At the start of the year, we had £51 left in the fund from 2022. Personal donations in the year totalled £985, £250 came from Church funds, and the cost of flowers was £848. There was a surplus of £189 remaining for use in 2024.

I am always looking for volunteers, either to arrange flowers or to help in the preparation and clearing up. Easter and Christmas are particularly busy, so please me know if you can help.

There is a list in the Church which you can complete with the details that you want placed by your flowers. A pedestal will cost from £25, but any donation is welcome. At least two weeks’ notice, with your donation, would be appreciated.

Please see me or phone me on 07880 796619

Lyn Gough

PARISH OFFICE REPORT - 2023

The Parish Office continues to be open on Thursday mornings 10am – 12 noon.

We print the pew sheet weekly with the Sunday readings on the reverse. Brian Hatton produces the parish magazine monthly and Sheila Hillary and I help by collating and stapling it.

During the year we were pleased to have a colour printer installed and I was very grateful to the PCC for agreeing to a complete refurbishment of the office laptop which has given it (and me) a new lease of life.

The Parish Office also provides a venue for meetings, and we can offer small quantities of personal photocopying and laminating.

We welcome enquiries for baptism, weddings, and any other general church enquiries.

Lois Watson

ST JOHN’S HALL REPORT – 2023

Last year the hall was busy with birthday parties and social events. Preschool continues to be popular with local families. We lost one of our regular groups, but their spot was quickly filled by a martial arts group who meet every Wednesday for 2 hours. A local foster agency have been hiring the hall for social events for children in foster care. I am told they have been very successful. A new cleaner joined us in November 2023, and he is proving to be very reliable and is doing an excellent job in both the hall and the church. Maintenance and repairs have been regularly carried out, but there is still a list of jobs to be done. The hall now has good Wi-Fi connection and many thanks to Martyn our Churchwarden for all his hard work installing the Wi-Fi. If anyone is interested in hiring the hall, please contact me.

Caroline Burke

28

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Reports from groups and committees

ST JOHN’S WEBSITE www.stjohnwestworthing.org.uk

I am sorry that I am really a web minder rather than a web master owing to the constraints on my time. However, I have been able to update the website weekly with the pew sheet and the liturgy of the day and monthly with the parish magazine. When possible, I have publicised upcoming events; in this connection, it would be most helpful if people organising events could send me flyers or at least details if they want them put on the website’s home page.

Will Oakeshott webmaster@stjohnwestworthing.org.uk

ST JOHN’S PRESCHOOL

Our preschool is not only a financial support for our church – it's a link to our local community and beyond, providing work for the local residents and creating strong community ties when we visit care homes and local organisations.

We have a very dedicated manager in Jude. She has high values and works very hard to continue to build a secure, modern and vibrant place for our young children. Jude's enthusiasm shines through in everything she does, and our church hall is a testament to this. Our parents have just given some outstanding testimonials, acknowledging how amazing all our staff are. These can be viewed on our website.

Preschool children attend church on a regular basis to gain an understanding of our Christian ethos. Numbers of children attending can drop from time to time but all staff are working hard to improve, sustain and improve these. As a result, numbers are gradually improving.

We are very proud to stand out amongst other settings as a family, caring and very happy bubble. Each child counts alongside their parents /carers, as individuals and as part of our family.

Sally Thompson

Chair of Governors.

SAFEGUARDING REPORT 2023

ln our parish, the safeguarding of everyone, and especially of children and vulnerable adults, is at the heart of everything we do in our life and worship together. Abuse and mistreatment can take many forms and we are fully committed to following up any safeguarding concerns appropriately, in line with parish, diocesan and national church policies.

The parish has continued to receive support in 2023 from those with a range of expertise in the Diocesan Safeguarding Team based at Church House in Hove. The importance of safeguarding in our parish was demonstrated by having reports at every PCC meeting in 2023. The contact details for the Parish Safeguarding Officer are also easily accessible in a prominent position on the front page of the parish website.

Throughout the year, a number of DBS disclosure checks were carried out for people in leadership roles at St John the Divine, and for governors and staff at St John’s Preschool. All members of the PCC have had a DBS disclosure check. In line with Diocesan policy, all DBS disclosure checks will be renewed every three years.

Martin Lloyd - Parish Safeguarding Officer

29

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE

Reports from groups and committees

DEANERY REPORT 2023

In 2023, the Worthing Deanery Synod met three times:

7 March 2023 at All Saints’ Church, Findon Valley

14 June 2023 at St Peter’s Church, Sompting

19 October 2023 at St Stephen’s Church, East Worthing

At its meeting in March 2023, the synod had two very good presentations; one from Revd Earl Collins - Church House, Hove about ‘The Year of the Old Testament’ and another presentation from the Turning Tides team about their work with the homeless in Worthing.

At its meeting in June 2023, Deacon Rachel spoke to the synod about the work of the hospital chaplaincy team. There were also some interesting contributions from other members of her team. Deacon Rachel explained about the work of the chaplaincy team to support both patients and staff.

At its meeting in October 2023, there was a presentation to the synod about ‘Open the Book’. This is a team of trained volunteers who go into schools to tell bible stories to children in an imaginative and engaging way.

In September 2023, there were two important changes in the deanery. Revd Helena Buque stepped down as the rural dean and was replaced by Revd Felix Smith. We are grateful to Helena for all the work she has done to support the mission of the deanery.

Also in September 2023, Heather Crookes started as our paid Deanery Development Officer. Heather already works as the administrator for the Lancing parishes. She will be employed in this new role in the deanery for 3 hours a week over the next three years. She will particularly focus on improving communication between churches in the deanery and on supporting the rural dean in his work.

Key roles in the Deanery Synod in 2023:

Rural Dean:

Revd Helena Buque – Vicar of St John the Baptist, Findon, St Mary the Virgin, Clapham and St John the Divine, Patching (until September 2023).

Revd Felix Smith – Vicar of South Lancing and Sompting, and Lancing with Coombes (from September 2023).

Lay Chair:

Martin Lloyd – St John the Divine, West Worthing.

Treasurer:

Liz Farrow - St Mary's, Broadwater.

Secretary:

Yvonne Austin - St Symphorian’s, Durrington (until October 2023).

Deanery Development Officer:

Heather Crookes – Lancing Parishes (from September 2023).

Martin Lloyd

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THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JOHN THE DIVINE Reports from groups and committees 31