2025-12-31-accounts

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Gleadless Valley

(Known as “Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC”)

Annual Report and Financial Statements For the year ended 31 December 2025

Registered charity number: 1179675

Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Index

	Page
Administrative information	1
Annual Report	2 - 12
Independent Examiner’s report	13
Receipts and payments account	14
Statement of assets and liabilities	15
Notes to the accounts	16– 17

Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Administrative information For the year ended 31 December 2025

Holy Cross Church is situated in Gleadless Valley overlooking the city of Sheffield. It is part of the Diocese of Sheffield within the Church of England.

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF GLEADLESS VALLEY was registered with the Charity Commission on 28[th] August 2018 with Registered Charity Number 1179675.

From 1 January 2025 to the signing of the accounts, the Parochial Church Council has consisted of:

Rev’d David Middleton Vicar, Chairperson Abraham Aboagye Church Warden Mark Spence Church Warden Melanie Hobbs Elected Member (from April 2022, retired April 2025) Emeka Okereke Elected Member (from May 2023) Pierre Kabaya Elected Member (from April 2024) Jono Chamberlain Elected Member (co-opt May 2024, elected April 2025) Guy Lachlan Elected Member (from May 2023) Deanery Synod Rep (from Nov 2023) Florence Murorunkwere Elected Member (from May 2023) Sunday Dawodu Deanery Synod Rep (from January 2024) Steven Rich Elected member (from April 2024) Tony Wallace Co-opted member (from May 2024, again April 2025) Abigael Akinbobola Elected member (from April 2025) Rev’d Thomas Fish Co-opted member (From March 2026)

PCC Secretary: Tony Wallace (from July 2024)

Treasurer: Martin Bell

Church address :

Holy Cross Church, Spotswood Mount, Sheffield, S14 1LG www.gleadlessvalleychurch.org.uk

Correspondence address:

The Vicarage, 5 Blackstock Close, Sheffield, S14 1AE [e-mail]

The PCC’s bankers are:

Virgin Money (previously known as Yorkshire Bank) Shawbrook Bank Limited Charity Bank Limited

The Independent Examiner is:

Susan Cochrane FCA DChA, Seven Hills Accountants Limited, 57 Burton Street, Sheffield S6 2HH

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report

For the year ended 31 December 2025

MISSION STATEMENT AND AIMS

Holy Cross is a diverse evangelical Anglican Church in the Church of England. It is in the parish of Gleadless Valley, within Attercliffe Deanery and part of the Diocese of Sheffield.

Our mission statement (revised in early 2024) remains the same.

It is: to Glorify God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit by:

• Knowing God through Jesus Christ,

• Growing together in Jesus Christ as a church,

• Serving Jesus Christ in Gleadless Valley and beyond.

We aim to fulfil this mission by being disciples who help others be disciples:

1. Knowing God through Jesus Christ:

• Enabling everyone to meet, know and be rescued by Jesus and then know Him better through the work of the Holy Spirit in God’s Word;

• Turning to Him in Praise and Prayer - because of who He is, what He has done and is doing, and asking His help in all things.

2. Growing together in Jesus Christ as a church:

• Rejoicing in, and committed to, helping one another grow together in Christ by the Holy Spirit through God’s Word - regardless of diversity in age, culture, background and nation;

• Loving and caring for one another practically as we encourage each other to live out God’s Word and use our Spiritual Gifts in church life in the power of the Holy Spirit.

3. Serving Jesus Christ in Gleadless Valley and Beyond:

• Reaching out with the Good News of Jesus through words and actions to our families, friends and community;

• Sending out missionaries and supporting worldwide mission through Mission Partners and Partner Churches.

The PCC continued to focus on the 6 Priorities for 2024-2029 :

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

Priority 1: Responsible Governance

Holy Cross continues to prioritise transparent and accountable governance. This has been reflected in the following:

• The regular revision/update of the Church Handbook .

• The continued focus on a Christ-Centred Church Culture. This year we changed the first aspect from Safe to Secure. This was to avoid any confusion with Safeguarding. Thus, we now seek to inhabit a culture in which everyone is enabled to be Secure, Happy, Effective and Free in being part of, and serving in, church life. The PCC were encouraged that there had been only one instance where individuals raised concerns that they were not experiencing this culture in church life. This situation was handled sensitively and resolution was achieved. The PCC did consider whether the Ministry Support Group (which handles such situations) was still needed and agreed that it was an important part of church life. PCC also heard reports that other churches were keen to adopt a culture similar to ours and a set up a group to oversee its outworking.

• Role Descriptions for Volunteers and Working Agreements for Staff Team help everyone share expectations for ministries and embrace a diversity of experience of ministry. New roles have always been set up with an accompanying Role Description. The Role Descriptions of the Staff Team have been updated after consultation and agreement with members of staff. The Vicar and Staff Team have regular Supervision and the regular cycle of Annual Reviews was conducted .

• Visibility of all the above in church meetings, and in notices, maintained awareness.

We will continue to build on these foundations to ensure we maintain Responsible Governance in 2026/7.

Priority 2: Staff Team

The staff team comprises the following posts/roles:

• Vicar:

Holy Cross is led full-time by the Rev’d David Middleton.

• International Ministry Assistant:

This post is occupied in a full-time capacity by Pierre Kabaya whose contract was extended to June 2026 anticipating a new 3-year contract in July 2026. As will be highlighted below, the full finances for a new 3-year contract were almost achieved by the end of 2025.

• Youth and Children’s Minister:

This post is filled by Rev’d Sunday Dawodu. He began a 3-year contract in November 2023. During 2025, we sought funding support for a second 3-year contract and, by the end of 2025, we had raised almost all the financial support required to make this a reality.

• Women’s Worker:

This post is voluntary and unpaid and is fulfilled by Aly Middleton. Aly is responsible for overseeing ministry among the women at Holy Cross and supporting the ministry of the Vicar and Staff Team – especially with respect to pastoral visiting and youth/children’s ministry.

 Ministry Trainee/Gap Year Ministry Experience Scheme:

• We are not planning to fill either of these ‘posts’ until we have secured funding for both of our paid posts.

As indicated above, securing funding for our Staff Team was a real priority. At the time of writing, we have managed to raise/receive pledges/promises of regular grants which, if continued, will fund 81% of

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

the employment costs for new 3-year contracts for both our paid members of staff. This support has come from partnerships with current/previous and new individuals/charities/churches. Most wonderfully, over £30,000 of this came from additional giving by church family in response to our annual Giving Season. This was truly miraculous, given the deprivation that many of our church family live in.

While each of the members of the Staff Team above have particular roles/ areas of ministry to focus on, all of them share in the day-to-day ministry of Holy Cross. Often ministries overlap – hence the report below does not contain a specific report from each of them. During 2025, our staff team were asked to share our experiences and patterns of ministry at a series of events/meetings for culturally diverse churches in the diocese and at a local meeting of churches under the Spiritual Oversight of the Bishop of Ebbsfleet.

Priority 3: Building

This year, the building became a significant focus of attention – in terms of use by the wider community, the need for more space and issues of maintenance/repair.

Use by others: Although the building has been used regularly by local groups, the transformation of the local Community Hall, at Newfield Green, into a Mental Health Hub, meant that our premises became a much sought-after venue. We were very pleased to welcome local groups and organisations to use our building and they have very much appreciated our willingness to accommodate them. This has been especially important as there is no other large building in Gleadless Valley that can accommodate larger groups. Those currently using the church buildings include: The Gleadless Valley Tenants’ and Residents’ Association (for a regular children’s Dance Group and General Meetings); Regeneration Project Board Meetings; Gleadless Valley Family Fun Day Meetings; Gleadless Valley Talent Show; Valley Youth Hub (for events and programmes associated with Healthy Activity and Food programme); Gleadless Valley Partners; Sheffield City Council (South Locality Area Committee meeting); Swahili Club; and S6 Foodbank.

More Space needed: Due to on-going growth in numbers attending on Sundays, the PCC had already engaged our architect to consider affordable ways of providing more space. These plans included a small stand-alone extension and the re-purposing of large containers. Neither of these really addressed the issue of space appropriately.

Roof Replacement: The need to replace our roof is an on-going reality – especially when it rains. The roof is covered in concrete tiles whose working-life (40-60 years) has already been exceeded, and this is leading to increasing leakage. We have been advised that replacement rather than repair is required. This may involve replacement of the timber structure as well – and a more in-depth assessment will be required to ascertain this.

Main (structural) window : It became evident that there were issues with the concrete surrounding the main window – which is structural. Extensive surveys (inside and out) revealed that, whilst the structure was sound, repairs would be needed. These would require the removal of the window. In the meantime, to keep people safe from any small fragments of concrete fall, we sought a professional risk assessment and followed the advice to screen off the Communion Table area and fence off the exterior area around the window. The cost of these surveys was £25,000 which made a very significant impact on our General Fund. We are awaiting costings for this remedial work on the window and a more in-depth appraisal of the roof.

One Project - 3 Aspects: The roof and window issues led us to seek regular advice from Sheffield Diocese.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

At a meeting in October, we were encouraged to consider whether our other significant need – that of more space – might be progressed at the same time. Following further meetings, the PCC decided to bring these 3 aspects of our building together under one project. They revisited plans drawn up by our architect, Anya Sutton (Thread Architects) and planned a wider consultation with Ministry Coordinators and others involved in leadership at Holy Cross for January 2026. This meeting, with Diocesan Buildings’ Staff in attendance, unanimously agreed that we should progress an extension at the same time as seeking to repair the window and replace the roof.

During 2026-7, we will continue to take this combined project forward – seeking appropriate funds from outside organisations – while (as per a PCC Resolution) not seeking funds that come from the profits of gambling. We will also seek to complete other building issues raised by the 2024 Quinquennial Inspection – report due early 2026.

Activities and Achievements

Priorities 4-6 reflect the three main aims for church life and how we work out our Mission Statement in respect to our relationships with: God in Jesus, with each other in the church and with those in our community and further afield. These were revised in the last year and are now:

• Priority 4 – Growing Disciples of Christ through access to God’s Word and being transformed by it.

• Priority 5 – Facilitating Relationships across our diversity of background, age, culture and language.

• Priority 6 – Deepening Relationships with our community and Mission Partners.

Our usual ministries are shaped by these priorities and include the following:

• Sunday Services: These have been at 10am and included monthly Holy Communion. When the service is not All-Age, we have provided Children’s Church for those aged 2 years - Y6. The 4[th] Sunday has remained an All-Age Praise and Prayer Service – permitting more freedom in intercultural worship and expressions of praise and prayer in different languages.

• Sunday Children’s Ministry: Over the past year, our Youth and Children’s Minister has continued to review and develop Children’s Church. The programme now follows, as closely as possible, the adult/youth programme.

• Sunday Specials: These took place at Christmas, Easter and in the summer. These events combined activities, food and a short outreach service and were appreciated by both church family and locals who do not usually come to church.

• Growth Groups: Day-time and evening mixed and men/women’s groups have met throughout the year – except in holidays/half-terms. These have a joint focus of seeking to grow members in their relationship with God and also with each other. Because of personal circumstances, the Staff Team became aware that many of our church family cannot attend these groups. As a result of this, Discipleship outside of Sunday Services was included as the second main aspect of the Church Leadership Away Day in January 2026. The plan will be to take forward suggestions and ideas in 2026 – most notably the introduction of an All-Age Growth Group once a month on a Sunday.

• Fun, Food and Faith: This ministry has continued in most half-terms and holidays. It has largely been funded by Sheffield City Council/DFES grants. FFF is an opportunity for children aged 4-14 years old (and their families) to have some fun (activities, games and craft), food (a cooked meal) and hear something about Jesus (a Bible time and music). These have drawn in church children and locals who do not come to church.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

• YBS: Our mid-week Youth Bible Study has remained well attended this year with 20-30 youth attending each week. Due to changing circumstances following their GCSEs/A-levels, many of our older youth were unable to attend in the autumn. There was one YBS weekend away; the YBS Getaway to The Oakes, in December 2025. Wonderfully, a gift from St Luke’s Wimbledon Park enabled 23 youth to attend.

• Ministry to Women: Over the past year our Volunteer Women’s Worker has continued to disciple/encourage and equip women in the church family through God’s Word. She has arranged a number of Women’s Gatherings that have been enjoyed by a diverse group of women.

• Ministry to those from overseas: Our International Ministry Assistant has continued to develop our ministry to people from overseas - especially to those from DRC who speak little English. His pastoral care and discipleship of young and old is the main bedrock of his ministry. He supports people who are unable to come to church and encourages those who stop coming to return. Pierre is looking to take the third part of his 3-month sabbatical in February/March 2026. He will use it to reflect on how ministry to people from overseas is being conducted at Holy Cross – what is going well and what might be missing.

• Food Support Ministry: This ministry provides emergency food on Sundays and as needed midweek (especially to those coming to Lunch4All). This ministry is not a Foodbank, but our way of supporting members of the church and other locals in times of need. The church has been supported in this by Sheffield City Council South LAC.

• Lunch4All: This is run by a committed team of volunteers to offer hospitality and friendship to church family and local people. Numbers fluctuate week to week but there is always a happy atmosphere. It is also encouraging that local organisations/partners are using it for their meetings and church family are using it for outreach and fellowship. During 2025, a group of local carers began bringing those they care for to Lunch4All every other week. We have also welcomed residents of a local care home (in which we take regular services).

• Community Memorial Service . We held our annual service in December. In advance, we contacted all those who had been bereaved in recent years and a number expressed a desire to attend. Sadly, many of those outside the church were unable to attend, but we were still able to include them in the service. This service also provided an opportunity to minister to church family who have lost a relative recently. We aim to repeat this in 2026/7.

Below is a more detailed look at Priorities 4-6 :

Priority 4 – Growing Disciples of Christ through access to God’s Word and being transformed by it.

• Everything we did was shaped by our belief that the God who created the world and us, has made Himself known in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ. He came into the world so that anyone who puts their trust in Him will receive forgiveness, a restored relationship with God now, and life forever with Him when we die. This Good News is found in the Bible, and it is our conviction that, when we hear the Bible read and taught, and when we study it for ourselves, God speaks to us. As in any relationship, this communication enables us grow in our relationship with God as Disciples of Christ.

• To facilitate our growth as Disciples of Christ, we spent time on Sundays and mid-week (in Growth Groups and YBS) in the following Bible Books: Matthew; Acts; 2 Samuel; and Luke. In the Spring Term, we explored our God-given and amazing Identity in Christ Jesus and how it affects our relationships with God and with each other – in church-life, family-life and life in general. This was really well received, and we are planning to do a similar series on culture and current issues in the Summer/Autumn of 2026.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

• At every stage, we strived to make the Bible accessible to all regardless of age or stage of life culture or background – so everyone could grow as Disciples of Christ. We worked hard to ensure that the needs of our youth continue to be met in our Sunday Services – since there was no specific provision for them on Sundays. We made sure that language, illustrations and examples were easily accessible to them as well as adults from different backgrounds and cultures and with varying levels of literacy.

• As in previous years, our International Ministry Assistant provided translation during our services. Pierre continued to include others in this provision. This inclusion of others will be particularly important when he takes the final part of his sabbatical in early 2026.

• We continued to visit those unable to join us on Sundays – the housebound, hospitalised and those in Care Homes. We also maintained our regular services at Ascot Lodge Care Home. In addition, we provided recordings of the main part of our services so that those unable to be with us hear the sermon and can grow as Disciples of Christ.

• The PCC remained committed to providing free Bibles and books to any who are unable to pay for them. This has helped all ages to have access to God’s Word and grow as disciples of Jesus.

We intend to build on these foundations in 2026/7.

Priority 5 – Facilitating Relationships across our diversity of background, age, culture and language.

• Our relationships with one another are at the heart of our mission and ministry. We believe that everyone whatever their background, age, culture and language is equally valued by God and is, therefore, to be equally valued by His church. This is reflected in all our main meetings, in our smaller groups, in meetings between individuals, and in our provision of pastoral care.

• The Staff Team regularly consider all aspects of church life in addition to their own specific areas of ministry. This helps them to make sure that no-one feels neglected, or being ignored.

• Having the Church Culture of being Secure, Happy, Effective and Free as a standing item on the PCC Agenda helps keep this priority in view.

• At Holy Cross we recognise that we are part of a wider church – locally in the Diocese of Sheffield, nationally in the Church of England, and internationally as part of the Anglican Communion and world-wide church.

• Partner Churches: We remained committed to supporting our Partner Churches locally and nationally. We pray for them regularly and share news and encouragements. We are very grateful that they continue to partner us prayerfully and, in some cases, financially.

• Deanery: We played an active role in Attercliffe Deanery. Our Vicar and Deanery Synod Reps have been participating in Synod and Chapter matters.

• Diocese: The parish remained under the Bishop of Sheffield’s legal oversight and enjoyed the support of Sheffield Diocese for administration, discipline, safeguarding and licensing matters. The parish also received pastoral and spiritual oversight from the Bishop of Ebbsfleet (under the 2014 Declaration of the House of Bishops). During 2025, the PCC revisited their Resolution that requested such oversight, and unanimously decided it was appropriate and should remain in place. We also received oversight from the Bishop of Ebbsfleet in respect of the denomination’s continuing strategy to implement PLF (Prayers of Love and Faith) - this followed a Resolution passed in January 2024.

• Church of England: Due to the Church of England’s stance on LLF (Living in Love and Faith)/PLF, the PCC continued to pay their parish contribution to Sheffield Diocese using the diocese’s Restricted fund – created for this purpose. This pattern will continue in 2026/7.

• Anglican Communion: We remain very grateful to GAFCON and GSFA, who represent the majority of the Anglican Communion, for their support and encouragements in these uncertain and challenging times.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

In 2026/7, we intend to continue building on how we are already working out Priority 5.

Priority 6 – Deepening Relationships with our community and Mission Partners.

Priority 6 is aimed at helping us deepen our relationships within Gleadless Valley and beyond to our Mission Partners and Partner Churches in UK and around the world.

We have worked hard on deepening our relationships locally in Gleadless Valley, within Sheffield Diocese, and with Mission Partners and Partner Churches in Sheffield, elsewhere in UK and around the world.

Ways in which we have been seeking to work out this Priority include:

• Food Support Ministry: This enabled us to reach out and develop deeper relationships with those in very difficult circumstances. As in previous years, it was augmented by Christmas Food Gifts given to 30 families who attended our Christmas Fun, Food and Faith . Working in close relationship with Constable Road and Derbyshire Lane Co-ops, Gleadless Medical Centre, and Gleadless Valley Tenants’ and Residents’ Association, we were able to provide: warm clothing for children and adults; hot-water-bottles and throws to keep people warm.

• FoodBank: In September, Holy Cross welcomed the S6 Foodbank - until then, it had operated out of the Newfield Green Community Hall. This is an exciting development, and we are hoping to grow our partnership in this vital ministry to the residents of Gleadless Valley. Some of the warm clothing, hot-water-bottles and throws mentioned above were also distributed through the Foodbank.

• Gleadless Valley Partners: This year we have worked closely with other Gleadless Valley Partners seeking to deepen our relationships with them and thereby support local residents more holistically and cohesively. We believe that we have built solid relationships based on mutual trust and respect. This is reflected in the ways that we have been able to involve/invite them in some of our uniquely Christian events such as: Fun Food and Faith ; Sunday Special and the Gleadless Valley Memorial Service . We have also begun to plan the Gleadless Valley Family Fun Day for Summer 2026.

• Gleadless Valley Regeneration Project: our Vicar has remained on the Regeneration Board – providing a voice for local residents and helping keep the project people-focussed.

• Sheffield South Local Area Committee Working Group on Community Buildings - This working group concluded its project in September, and the newly created policy will assist local groups/organisations in having opportunities to access/use/lease community buildings – including those in/from deprived areas.

• Diocese of Sheffield: As mentioned earlier, Holy Cross has been at the forefront of helping create and grow intercultural ministry within the diocese. Last Summer, our Staff Team played a significant role in the first Celebrating Diversity Day conference. They have also participated in the on-going learning programme that has arisen since then.

• Mission Partners and Partner Churches: we continued to provide prayer and financial support for each of the following Mission Partners: the Oakes Christian Holiday Centre ; the Potter Family in Mozambique and St Thomas’ Church, Heideveld in Cape Town, South Africa. The PCC also made grants to help two new members of the Yorkshire Camps Team (Harry Peace and Alex Myers). In addition, we have received financial support from: St Luke’s Wimbledon Park; 13:33 Trust; Emmanuel Wimbledon; Gospel Partners Trust; and St Helen’s Bishopsgate. We have in turn prayed for them - and also the wider ministry of Yorkshire Camps; Christ Church Fulwood; Galeed House; and St Ebbe’s church.

In 2026/7, we aim to further deepen all the above relationships in Gleadless Valley and beyond.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

Conclusion

With God’s help, as we move into 2026/7, we aim to remain focussed on our 6 Priorities and working them out in fulfilment of our Mission Statement. We pray therefore, that, guided and facilitated by God, He may continue to develop His work, in us and through us, as He opens and closes doors in His perfect, good and loving plan. To Him be the glory.

Finance Review

Giving to God’s work at Holy Cross relies on teaching from God’s Word and prayer. Due to personal circumstances, giving may go up, down or stay the same. By the end of 2025 there were 25 families / individuals, from the church family or external supporters, who had made a commitment to give regularly by Standing Order. 18 tax-paying members have also signed Gift Aid forms enabling the church to reclaim tax from the government. This commitment to give regularly is so helpful to the Church Council as it enables it to plan for future ministry and associated expenditure.

In 2025, the General Fund (unrestricted) giving by standing order, contactless card, bank transfer, cash in Sunday collections and other donations along with reclaimed tax through the Gift Aid scheme totalled just over £93,000. Of this £32,137 was transferred to the designated employment fund and the remaining amount is to cover all church running costs, including:

• Ministry expenses – books, stationary, communications, printing, catering, travel

• Church running costs – gas, electricity, water, maintenance and repair including over £25,000 spent on investigative work on the main window

• Mission Partners

The targeted (restricted) giving and grants received during 2025 is just over £63,000. This is mainly to cover:

• Employment costs – salaries, pensions spread over the next 3 years

• The support of those struggling with the cost of living

A legacy of £30,000 was received into the designated development fund and then transferred to the designated employment fund.

Finance Planning

Many in the church family are struggling with the increased cost of living. Securing external funding and grants is becoming more challenging. There are large financial burdens on the horizon mainly due to the need to replace the roof, concrete repairs to the main window, our employment commitments as well as the need for more space. The PCC is extremely grateful for the sacrificial giving by the church family and others who financially give to support work at Holy Cross. Please continue to pray for appropriate finance to support God’s work here in Gleadless Valley.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

In order to help the monitoring of accounts, the PCC has created the following funds into which all income and expenditure is assigned:

• Employment Fund – includes grants and donations specifically for the employment costs of the Youth and Children Minister and the International Ministry Assistant

• Building Fund – includes specific donations

• Vicar’s Discretionary Fund – includes specific donations and grants to support individuals and families suffering hardship as well as the Food Support Ministry.

• Development Fund – this was created to receive any legacies which can be used for new developments as agreed by the PCC.

• General Fund – includes all income and expenditure which is not assigned to the above funds. The PCC is also able to transfer funds to any of the above funds.

We are an Anglican church within the Diocese of Sheffield and Doncaster. We contributed £10,500 to the Common Fund towards their costs of:

• The Vicar’s stipend, national insurance & pension

• Vicarage repairs and renewals

• Legal and Human Resource services, resettlement costs, Diocesan conference

• Parish Support e.g. training, advice, communications, safeguarding etc.

Reserves policy

It is the policy of the PCC that unrestricted funds, which have not been designated for a specific purpose, should at least be maintained at £20,000. The PCC considers that reserves at this level will ensure that, in the event of unforeseen costs, they will be able to immediately address the issue whilst demonstrating our dependence on God. Free reserves at 31 December 2025 were £16,963 (2024: £26,504). This was lower than intended due to the investigative work on the main window. The PCC also holds Designated Funds of £101,098 (2024: £58,346).

We should all give thanks to God for the considerable sacrificial giving by the church family and partner churches to enable this growing ministry within Gleadless Valley. Pray also that the PCC will make wise decisions to be good stewards of these resources.

Structure Governance and Management

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. At Holy Cross, Gleadless Valley, during 2025, membership consists of our vicar as the chairperson, two churchwardens, two representatives on the Deanery Synod, two co-opted members and 7 members elected by the church family from those who are on the Electoral Roll. One of these members retired after the Annual Parochial Church Meeting in April.

All those in the church family are encouraged to be on the Electoral Roll, which at the time of the APCM in 2025 was 60.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

The full PCC has met nine times during the year. The Standing Committee, a sub-group of the PCC, meets between PCC meetings (four times) to deal with any urgent and planning business. Each meeting begins with time in God's Word and a time of prayer. They discuss church finances and the upkeep and best use of our building always giving thanks to God for how He has generously provided for the growing church family.

The PCC hears reports on various situations in church life, both locally and nationally, looking back on what has already happened and then looking ahead to what is coming up. This includes planning for and reflecting on outreach to the local community as well as church family events.

At every PCC meeting we consider the needs of our growing church family along with progress with our agreed priorities. We also consider and respond to issues affecting the national and local church scene. The PCC has complied with the duty to have ‘due regard’ to the House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policy and Practice Guidance. There is always a report on Safeguarding and Health & Safety concerns together with consideration of any action to be taken.

In order to avoid any conflict of interest, PCC members are excluded from discussions and decisions in which they may be personally affected. For example, discussions regarding allowances and expenses.

Trustees’ responsibilities in relation to the financial statements

The charity trustees are responsible for preparing a Trustees’ Annual Report and financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the charity trustees to prepare financial statements for each year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, of the charity for that period. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are required to:

• Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

• Observe the methods and principles in the applicable Charities SORP;

• Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

• State whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures that must be disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

• Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business.

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the applicable Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations, and the provisions of the Trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Annual Report For the year ended 31 December 2025

The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information included on the charity’s website in accordance with legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements.

The annual report and financial statements were approved by the PCC on 19th April 2026

Signed on their behalf by

Rev’d David Middleton

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Independent Examiner’s report to the PCC Members of Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC

I report to the PCC members on my examination of the accounts of Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC (the Charity) for the year ended 31 December 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the PCC members of the Charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

• accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or

• the accounts do not accord with the accounting records.

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.

Susan Cochrane, FCA, DChA

Seven Hills Accountants Limited 57 Burton Street Sheffield S6 2HH

Date:

29 Apr 2026

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Receipts and payments For the year ended 31 December 2025

Receipts from: Donations and grants Planned giving Giving via Collection plate Other donations Gift aid reclaimable 13:33 Trust - Families Ministry St Luke's Wimbledon - International Ministry Emmanuel Church Wimbledon St John's Fellowship St Helen's Bishopsgate Sheffield City Council - HAF funding Sheffield City Council - Cost of living support The Diocese of Sheffield Sheffield City Council - Community Buildings Gospel Partners Trust Sheffield Church Burgesses Trust Stewardship Other income Fees Rents received Other income Investment income Total receipts Payments: People Vicarage Expenses Clergy Expenses Staff salaries Buildings Properties & Facilities Utilities Insurance Ministry Diocese - Common Fund Bookstall Catering Youth & Children Women's ministry Ministry Expenses Fee Expenses Parish Administration Vicar's Discretionary Fund Outreach work Printing and Publicity Training and Conferences Independent examination fee Mission Partners Mission Partners Net receipts/(payments) Transfers Net movement in funds Total cash funds brought forward Total cash funds carried forward	General funds £ 28,153 4,094 50,305 11,148 - - - - - - - - - - - - 308 5,059 90 5,112 104,269 2,818 506 - 32,468 4,358 1,888 10,500 45 586 3,270 404 4,183 - 8,974 - 1,185 690 1,858 741 5,300 79,774 24,495 (34,036) (9,541) 26,504 16,963	Designated funds £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 30,000 - - - - 30,000 - - 18,718 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 18,718 11,282 30,470 41,752 59,346 101,098	Restricted funds £ 2,585 - 1,526 7,919 6,000 3,420 4,000 - 2,500 5,448 - 5,000 - 5,000 20,000 500 - - - - 63,898 - - 45,134 - - - - - - - - - 780 - 2,179 3,347 - - - - 51,440 12,458 3,566 16,024 46,349 62,373	2025 Total £ 30,738 4,094 51,831 19,067 6,000 3,420 4,000 - 2,500 5,448 - 5,000 - 5,000 20,000 30,500 308 5,059 90 5,112 198,167 2,818 506 63,852 32,468 4,358 1,888 10,500 45 586 3,270 404 4,183 780 8,974 2,179 4,532 690 1,858 741 5,300 149,932 48,235 - 48,235 132,199 180,434	2024 Total £ 24,881 6,044 12,403 8,169 6,000 6,840 4,000 5,000 2,500 2,718 5,000 4,400 750 - - - 718 3,963 - 3,191 96,577 3,347 901 63,180 14,114 4,871 830 9,650 - 715 4,093 419 3,360 720 6,135 5,854 4,581 134 1,020 720 4,500 129,144 (32,567) - (32,567) 164,766 132,199 14

Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Statement of Assets and Liabilities As at 31 December 2025

Cash funds Bank accounts Total cash funds Debtors Rents receivable Gift aid recoverable Other amounts receivable Total debtors Liabilities Ministry costs Total liabilities	General funds £ 16,963 16,963 465 649 944 2,058 2,440 2,440	Designated funds £ 101,098 101,098 - - - -	Restricted funds £ 62,373 62,373 - - - -	Total 2025 £ 180,434 180,434 465 649 944 2,058 2,440 2,440	Total 2024 £ 132,199 132,199 - 1,586 - 1,586 1,335 1,335

Approved by the PCC on 19 April 2026 and signed on their behalf by:

Rev'd David Middleton Trustee

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 December 2025

1 Accounting policies

Basis of preparation

The accounts are prepared in line with the Charity Commission guidance on "Receipts and payments" accounts and the Church Accounting Regulation 2016.

Receipts & payments account

Receipts and payments accounts are statements that summarise the movement of cash into and out of the organisation during the financial year. In this context "cash" includes cash equivalents, for example, bank accounts where cash can be readily withdrawn to pay for debts as they become due.

Funds

General funds are donations and other income receivable or generated for the objects of the organisation without further specified purpose.

Designated funds are set aside at the discretion of the PCC.

Restricted funds are to be used for specific purposes as laid down by the donor.

2 Designated funds

Note Youth and Children Ministry Fund Employment fund Building fund Development Fund	Cash funds brought forward £ 27,185 - 8,298 23,863 59,346	Income £ - - - 30,000 30,000	Expenditure £ (18,718) - - - (18,718)	Transfers £ (1,667) 62,137 - (30,000) 30,470	Cash funds carried forward £ 6,800 62,137 8,298 23,863 101,098

Youth and Children Ministry Fund

We cannot rely on external funding for the Youth and Children's Ministry and we are therefore steadily building up the fund from the General Fund to ensure there is sufficient to commit to a 3 year contract.

Employment fund

This fund is used to support employment costs. The transfer represents the allocation of unrestricted donations and legacies to the employment fund.

Building fund

An extension to the church is planned and in order to do this a substantial sum is needed to be raised. The PCC want, where possible, to transfer money into this fund.

Development

This fund can be used for any developments approved by the PCC.

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Holy Cross Gleadless Valley PCC Notes to the financial statements For the year ended 31 December 2025

3 Restricted funds

Youth and Children Ministry Fund International Ministry Assistant Fund Employment Fund Vicar's Discretionary Fund Building Fund Holiday Activities & Food programme Major Repair Fund	Cash funds brought forward £ 8,830 6,350 23,425 5,964 1,780 - - 46,349	Income £ - - 52,408 812 - 5,448 5,230 63,898	Expenditure £ (13,206) (13,209) (18,719) (2,179) (780) (3,347) - (51,440)	Transfers £ 4,376 6,859 (5,568) - - (2,101) - 3,566	Cash funds carried forward £ - - 51,546 4,597 1,000 - 5,230 62,373

Youth and Children Ministry Fund

All Youth and Children's ministry employment costs are currently met by this fund.

International Ministry Assistant Fund

All International Ministry Assistant employment costs are currently met by this fund.

Employment Fund

This was created this year to enable supporters to give towards the employment of staff to be determined by the PCC according to need.

Vicar's Discretionary Fund

Includes specific grants, donations and related Gift Aid where appropriate. This fund is used by the vicar to support individuals and families suffering hardship and includes the Food Support Ministry.

Building Fund

To support costs associated with a planned extension to the church.

Holiday Activities & Food programme

Funding received to provide the Healthy Activities and Food Programme. The transfer reflects room rental costs.

Major Repair Fund

Funding received to contribute towards church repairs.

4 Related party transactions

Two trustees of the Charity, P Kabaya and S Dawodu were also employed by the charity during the year as the International Ministry Assistant and the Youth and Children's Minister.

PCC members donated £14,442 (2024: £11,395) in addition to any amounts given within the collection during the year. Of this £11,525 were unrestricted donations and £2,917 restricted donations.

Other related party transactions were:

• The church gives a total of 10% of freewill giving to financially support three Mission Partners. One of the mission partners is the Potter family in Mozambique. Sarah Potter is the daughter of Martin Bell (treasurer). The finance is paid through Wycliffe Bible Translators.

• 13:33 Trust, of which M Bell and D Middleton are Trustees, made a donation of £6,000 (2024: £6,000) to Holy Cross which was restricted to the Youth & Children Ministry Fund.

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