Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 Charity Registration No. 1179991
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH CONTENTS Page Trustees. Annual Report Independent Examinerfs Report 13 Statement of Financial Activities 14 Balance Sheet 15 Notes to the Financial Statements 16
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 The Truslees present their report and financial statements for the Charitable Incorporated Organisation for the year ended 31st August 2024. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's trust deed. the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland published {FRS 102) (effective 1$1 January 2019}. OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Is the advanment of the Christian faith in accordance to the doctrinal statement in line with the constitution lo the wider Liverpool area. 11 ha5 a specific ministry towards people of Chinese language origin or heritage but provides a public place of Christian worship for three language groups namely English. Cantonese and Mandarin wilhoul distinction for race or culture. The objects ofthe Church are.. To advance the Christian religion primarily but not exclusively in Liverpool and the surrounding area. in accordance with the doctrinal basis hereafter slated. To relieve hardship, poverty, distress and sickness primarily but not exclusively in Liverpool and the surrounding area. To advance the education and training of the public. primarily but not exclusively in Liverpool and the surrounding area. To further such charitable purposes as the trustees in their absolute discretion may from lime to time decide. Organlsatlon The organisalion recewed CIO {charilable incorporated organisationl status on 191h September 2018. Transfer of assets and contracts were completed on 1 Sl September 2019. The Charity 1136312 {Ihe former unincorporated organisation} was formal dissolved on 18th January 2022 through the Charity Commission. There were three elected trustees and one Ex Officio trustee (by virtue of being the current employed minister of the church). The Ihree elected trustees were re-appoinled on 23rd October 2021 and are serving members of Ihe church with a three-year term. Currently Ihe structure of the Iruslee board (TB) contains three elected trustees {of which there are constitutional Iruslees through the office of a church elder) with four other posts including Ex Officio Iruslee. chair of management team, Ireasurer and secrelary by appoinlment, and an independent adviser {who is not a member of the church) appointed by the trustees to provide expert advice on organisalional and spiritual matters. The church also has five other leadership commillees. Three of these are languagelcongregalional committees, one for each of the three languages used (Cantonese, English and Mandarin) in our services. Each of these three committees is comprised of.. at least one pastoral worker, deacons and elders if there are any and other church ministry leaders. The two other committees are the management team (which is responsible for administration of church propety maintenance and resour management) and the Earle Road Hub committee (which coordinates multi- congregational activities al the additional 51te in the WavertTee area}. Each committee including the trustee board meets a minimum of five times a year. All five committees and the pastoral slaff are answerable lo and report to the trustee board ITB).
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 Public Benefits The trustees are increasingly aware of the need to demonstrate public benefit. The work of the organisation and the funds il raises are wholly directed to the furtherance of the organisation's aims and objectives as laid down by its governing document. The trustees take the view that the organi5alion has satisfied the criteria for meeting the public benefit test as each of the four objectives of the organisation have been met within this report period. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE The CIO under the delegated supeNision of the four committees organise and run regular (weekly) church services in Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin) and English and an assortment of other largely Christian ministry activities that include meetings during the week for a variety of age, gender, language and training groups. This includes some emphasis on the elderly and children's work where age specific groups are run from Junior Church (3-111 to Youth work111 +1 and a younger adullslsludents group ministry. A regular table tennis session is held to promote health and wellbeing. A mulli-congregation event involving an outdoor Sunday seNice as well as family fun and games was organised in the summer in order to promote cohesiveness and cooperation behveen the different language groups in this organisation. The church neorkS with other Christian churches in the Liverpool City areas as well as further afield within other Chinese speaking congregations in the North of England region especially in the coordination of organising conferences. Localised church ministry initiatives are supported lo a greater degree within the Merseyside area as part of the Together for the Harvest Charity nehvork operating within the Mersey region where the church seeks to collaborate with other Christian fellowships where we have mutual interestslprojecls particularly towards the Toxleth, "Chinatown. and city area of Liverpool. We are also members of the Evangelical Alliance. Health and safety awareness at all levels along with accessibility issues continue lo be reviewed and improved. Safeguarding procedures. training and awareness of national issues have also been closely m0nrtod by the trustee board {TB}. Robust procedures have ensured that all child orientated evenls have had the required Disclosure and Barring Service IDBS} checks on staff and volunteers. Those who work with vulnerable adults are a150 subject to DBS checks. Regular training of fire marshals (comprising of a team of paid slaff and volunteers} that are delivered by designated BAFE (British Approvals For Fire Equipment) and SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board) approved company in order to maintain the standard of fire safety within the organisalion. In line with UK GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and Data Protection Act 2018, the organisation has implemenled a Privacy and Data Protection Policy in order to meet the requirements of these legislations. The organisation is registered wilh the Information Commissioner Office {ICOI and regularty reviews and monitors the storage, handling and management of personal and sensitive data. The additional site in the Wavertree area provides opportunities for further gospel outreach activities and community related projects. It currently provides a base for a local charity that runs educational and social support projecls for ethnic minortty communities within the local area. A regular midweek parent and toddler group also caters to the needs of the local community. An internship was offered to one of the members of the church who was sludying for theology degree September 24 for 2 years.
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 This internship provides this member with an opportunity to develop the skills in pastoral care as well as supplement Ihe pastoral needs of the church. The intern supports Ihe ministries within the Cantonese congregation. The church has continued to support and consolidate the work among Mandarin and Cantonese speaking population and the Merseyside English speaking community. Cantonese Speaking Perspective The number of people attending this congregation continues to increase steadily and has doubled over the last 3 years. The 2 COCM missionaries. intern pastoral worker and our current volunteers continued to equip and envision eslablished believers to see their experience as some training ground for developing higher service responsibilities and leadership. Various Iraining events and bible study groups including theological and leadership training as well as counselling training wilh accredited organi5alions have helped develop emerging leader5 and minislry workers with a key emphasis on theological understanding. Half a dozen members have completed theological courses run by established seminaries. Some results have been seen with personal development in the lay leaders who are better equipped lo serve and fulfil leadership P051tions. Team building activities continued to be held lo further equip the volunteer leadership team in administering their duties. Apart from the weekly Christian Sunday SeNices led by the pastoral team, a fortnigtttly Christian Service on Saturdays started this year in order lo meet the demands of increasing numbers in the congregation. Regular weekday groups to provide bible teaching and spiritual and social support lo the various groups are led by the pastoral team and lay leaders were held, with a mixture of in-person and online meetings. The different groups cater for the needs of young adults, older adults, the elderly, children. youths, universityl college students, couples and families. A pastoral care team has been established lo further enhance the spiritual, emotional and pastoral support offered lo the members attending this congregation. Ministry teams established include choir, flower arrangement, busking group, conversational English classes, seeker fellowship (to provide an introduction and initiation to the Christian faithl, yOLtth group, university students group. young adults group. couples ministry and bible study groups catering to those from different backgrounds and with different spiritual malurily and needs. Other events organised include musical performances, prayer meetings, seminars to support emotional stress, parenting seminars. marriage support, couples festival, worship training, evangelistic events, discipleship courses and Hong Kong Bible Conference with guest speakers to share about the Christian life and other seminars to help members share their faith or promole further personal and spiritual development. Social events such as the flower arrangement club, the table tennis club, outdoor excursions are valuable team building opportunities that also promote physical and mental wellbeing. Olher social events that coincide with cultural festivals are also opportuntties to bring people together and promote cohesiveness and friendships. As before, some emphasis has been given lo the needs of the elderly as Ihis congregation is still the oldest demographically. Regular in-person and online meetings lo promote the mental wellbeing and lo help overcome the social isolation oflen experienced by this group were held. The overseas university student's ministry continued to develop with regular meetings and social groups. This ministry is led by the intern pastoral worker with support from the rest of the pastoral team, and helps to promote personal spiritual development, social interaction and the initial practical help for new students from overseas. Each year following the fresher's week, a welcome meeting is held.
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 We have helped them to be aware of sludenvgeneral lrfe in the UK as well as assisting in their practical orientation of all things pertaining to Liverpool including some "Scouse" terminology. The North England Easter conferen INEECI is a Conferen oiganised jointly by seven Chinese churches in the region of northern England. We have an ongoing participation as well as having a substantial role in the organisation of the conference where it provides valuable experience for the volunteers and delegates alike providing nol just for spiritual enrichment but also provides valuable nelworking opportunities as well. We continued to take part in the Christmas Shoebox Appeal (organised by the charity Samaritan's Purse) to provide gifts for underprivilegedlimpoverished children in other countries especially in African continent in December. and a fanlaslic opportunity for parents to teach their children about sharing with otheis. In view of the unrest over the recent years in Hong Kong and the UK government's scheme to welcome and relocate British nationals living in Hong Kong via the BNO (British Nationals Overseas) visa scheme, a large number of Hortg Kong Chinese has arrived in the UK including the Liverpool City Region over the last 4 years. This organisation received and supported newcomers arriving from Hong Kong by offering a befriending Servi as well as Pfaclical help and advice on accessing local facilities and services. New support groups were started to help meet the spiritual needs of this group. An English language class run by volunteers was also started lo help newcomers improve their English and help them to participate fully in different aspects of daily life within the UK. The needs of their children were also considered, and an additional bible class held in the Cantonese language was started. Additional midweek adult bible classes lo meet the needs of the newcomers have also been established. There is scope to promote the inlegralion. adjustment and acceptance of the newcomers and existing members with each other. With the arrival of new families from Hong Kong and the steady rise in numbers pose a unique sel of challenges, including the foreseeable shortage of space within the building for worship services, language and cultural barriers and the need for integration into British society. English Speaking Perspective The Engli5h-speaking congregation has continued lo invest strategically in a variety of areas. The volunteer leaders and ministry Workers assist the pastor in administering worship services, as well as lead in the youth, the young adults and young family's groups. This year, in order to promote inclusion and cohesiveness, monthly all age Sunday services (attended by children, youth and adulls) followed by a pot luck meal was established. The Sunday School {Junior Church) continued lo support those who are between the ages of 3 to 11 years whose parents allend the church from all congregalions. The annual Summer Holiday Club (run by the charity Kids Inc.) was held as previous years. This one-week programme supports the regular Junior Church as well as offering children in the wider community the opportunity to join in a professionally developed programme of summer fun and Christian enrichment. The Youth Group continued to support the needs of the young people {between 11 to 18 years}, helping Ihem to develop and strengthen their family relationships and lo explore universal morality from a spiritual perspecltve. Over the summer holidays, midweek social events and outings were organised lo increase opportunities for physical activities and social interaction and help develop social skills amongst this age group. The annual NEEC conference held in the English language was held for adults and youths. This regional conference is run for the benefit of church fellowships across Ihe Northern region and also helped our own church members enrich their spirituality.
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 11 is a close collaboration of vested churches and provides invaluable social networking opportunities. This event also provided social developmenl opportunities for the youths. The student ministry has continued much like in previous years. The social and emotional welfare of student5 in tertiary education. as well as their spiritual needs. are mel through regular groups providing studies regarding the Christian faith, practical help and support lo help students to develop social independence as they gain further life experience. In order to cater for the needs of families with young children. regular meetings of families with the aim of building friendship and reducing social isolation through fun days. games, meals and outdoor activities. Such activities aim lo promote wellbeing and support parents in Iheir role of parenting as well as children in developing social and interaction skills. The millennial and post-millennial groups (younger adults aged around 18 to 35 years generalioiis Y and Zl continue lo meet regularly for a Young Adults fellowship programme. The programme has been tailored towards their needs, exploring various life issues facing ihem, including relationships, identity and social interaction. There is also a greater emphasis on support around parenting and young families. Among the mid-week activities for adults are fortnighlly men's and women's groups that promote the teaching and understanding of biblical leaching. as well as social and spiritual support. There are increased energies frjr supporting the millennial and posl-millennial groups. This group's attendance has shown an increase as well as a rise in the proportion of younger couples and those with young families. Prudent planning has been made lo cater for this expanding group as this will likely have some impact on nursery and junior church provision in the foreseeable future requiring more resources and planning for the development of current volunteers and investment into new ones. On top of the normal gifts to other charity organisalions, we have participated in the "Shoebox Appeal" {organised by the charity Samaritan's Purse) to provide gifts to underprivilegedlimpoverished children in other countries especially in African Continent in December. Mandarin Speaking Perspective The Mandarin speaking congregation is still without a pastoral worker and the pastoral respon5ibililies and administration have been largely taken over by volunteers from the leadership team and lay leaders from the trustee board ITB). The need to recruit a pastoral worker for this congregation is still a priority with the TB evaluating all options and applicants for the post. There is continued development and investment into lay leadership with regulaT training events and meetings to assist personal development as leaders as well as scriptural enrichment. Young families, young children and teenagers make up more than half the congregation. In order lo meet their needs, weekly bespoke bible teaching and parenting clubs are held. Junior Church and Youth Group also cater to the children from these families. Social events for the children and youth over the summer holidays including games and day trips were organised. Emphasis is placed on the emotional and social development as well as mental wellbeing of the children and youths. Regular group meetings to provide parenting support and children's activity groups have also been organised. A variety of groups meel for social enrichment. discussions over faith matters and collaboration with others for discipleship.
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 This includes book clubs, choir. universtty students. activity group, training on Christian worship and service. discipleship Iraining, prayer meetings and bible study classes. These events are held either in person or online. In collaboration with Bible Studies Fellowship lan international bible teaching organisalion), a bespoke weekly bible teaching in the Mandarin language is run lo cater for the ladies in the community whose preferred language is Mandarin. Small group meetings were also held lo support and care for those who are new lo the Christian faith as well as Ihose who would like to be introduced and initiated to the faith. Sunday worship services continue lo be broadcast live online in order to meet the needs of members who are unable lo attend in person due to various reasons including poor physical health. The regular support of missionaries under the auspices of the Chinese Overseas Christian Mission ICOCM} has a150 beeii extremely beneficial in supporting the work of the church, as we continue to meet the challenges of general ministry without the ServIS of a dedicated Icongregationall employed pastoral worker for the lime being. Professional and expert guests have been invited lo deliver training, enrichment and inspiration over spiritual issues and personal development. Events to provide training in the areas of spiritual development and Christian discipleship with invited guest Speakers continued to be organised by the church. Some of the members were able lo lake advantage of the training offered by other like-minded Chrislian organisalions, such as COCM, Ambassador for Christ, Hope for the Heart and DTC (Discipleship Training Conference). The work among the university students continued with regular meetings to explore spiritual mallers in a language of choice and social activities. Apart from spiritual development, such activities create opportunities for the sludents lo provide peer support and develop social networks, friendships and emotional maturity. Other events include students welcome during university fresher's week, weekend away, disciple training camps organised for them by New Creation Life Ministries and Chinese Overseas Christian Mission ICOCMI. Opportunities for social enrichment of families and children alike are regularty on the agenda at leadership gatherings. Social gatheTings were held whenever possible to coincide with publicl bank holidays and cultural feslivals, such as Chinese New Year, Spring festival. the Mid- Autumn Festival, Christmas, Easter. Father's Day and Mother's Day. Members of the congregation spending an entire day making rice dumplings {traditional food during Dragon Boat Festival) is an example of social events during such festivals held to help strengthen the relationships and bonds among the members. Many members also attended the North England Easter Conference (NEEC}, 8 conference organised jointly by seven Chinese churches in the region of northern England. We have an ongoing participalion as well as having a substantial role in the organisalion of the conference where it provides valuable experience for the volunteers and delegates alike providing not just for spiritual enrichment bLFt also provides valuable networking opportunities as well. Financial support The organisation makes a number of donations on a regular basis lo some other charitable organisations dependent upon our annual budget. Donations have also been set aside each year (from the Mission Fund) lo provide regular support for individuals in their work in the furtherance of the Christian faith as full time missionaries. In some inslances, the organisation makes a limited number of donations lo individuals, like training that would enhance the ministry of an individual. The support this year has included the following ministries or conferences-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 Wy¢liffe Blble Translators Breakthrough HK Ltd Amazing Hope 4U Operation Mobilisation IOMI Tearfund Christian Fellowship School Open Doors UK Chinese Overseas Christian Mission {COCMI UK Dlsciples Tralnlng Conference UK In addition, an interest free loan of £25,000 had also been offered last financial year lo Leeds Chinese Christian Church to support their renovation project, which was paid back in full by this financial year. The main source of income for the organisation is regular offerings from members and friends who support our work. The organisation has a normal accounting year of September to August of the following year. Gift aid has been encouraged over the years, and the increased proportion has helped the organisation lo reclaim a significant amounl of tax from HMRC. The budget for accounts includes this tax rebale. FINANCIAL REVIEW Tolal income for the year was £191,109 {2023'. £191.815) Total expenditure for the year was £184,775 {2023.' £163.647J. leaving a surplus for the year of £6,334 {2023'. surplus £28,168). All income and expenditure are unrestricted. Al 31st August 2024 the Charitable Incorporated Organisation's reseNes slood al £730,340 12023. £724,006). RISK MANAGEMENT The main risks lo which the Charitable Incorporated Organisation is exposed to as identified by the Trustees have been considered and systems have been established to miligale those risks. Analysis of the organisation's accounts in summary has proved them lo be generally sound and ahead of budget in light of the financial climate. The Iwslees have endeavoured lo identify all major financial risks facing the organisalion so that appropriate preventative steps lo mitigate them have been taken. One of these measures wa5 a more transparent salary and pay scale for staff which not only reflected service records bul also the prevailing financial climate. The trustee board continues lo strive for ethical systems of management and Christian leadership. It also examines issues surrounding ethical finance and banking slability. There is an ongoing drive to review decision making processes with the aim of developing a more efficient leadership structure. RESERVES POLICY The trustees have agreed a reserves policy of three monlhs. operating cosls At the end of the financial year, unrestricted funds tolalled £730,340 of which £103,834 is represented by tangible assets and £341,767 represented by intangible assets (see note 8), leaving surplus free reserves of £284,739 12023.. surplus £283.7371. The charity requires £46,194 for three months, running costs and £22.056 for redundancy provision, a total of £68.250.
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 The remainder of the unrestricted general fund balance will enable the organisation to continue its 5UPPOrt in the following areas.. building maintenance, mission fund (if suitable short lemi mission projects that are in keeping with the organisation's objects are identified) and emergency fund (in the event of unforeseen circumstances that require emergency evacuation of the current premises and procurement of temporary premises). There is also provision for financial assistance to church members who may have inadvertently fallen victim to severe financial hardship and for part funding the cost of any suitable lay church member{sl that intend to undertake further training in theology or church ministry. All funding is subject to approval by the trustee board. Our financial arrangements are closely monitored. It is the desire of the trustee board to ensure that any reserve capital is kept in ethically sound financial institutions whilst seeking to practice sound governance in robustly protecting these financial interests and is regularly looking al various options for the future. As we enter an era of austerity and financial crises including the cost-of-living crisis. we are expecting there to be a decrease in contribution to the organisalion through regular giving by our members and friends. In addition. the rise in fuel costs globally is likely to impact on the energy bills in this organisalion. 11 is expected Ihal this organisation, like many others, will have lo tap into its reserves lo cover the costs of day-to-day function and energy bills. The organisation continued to ensure that sufficient funds would be available to cover the salaries of 2 more church workers as recruitment had been ongoing for pastoral staff for the Mandarin speaking and youth ministries. PLANS FOR THE FUTURE The trustees continue with a timetabled programme of modernisalion by updating or creating policies in order to ensure the organisation's structure and day to day running to be fully compliant with any legal requirements operating within the UK. There is a drive by the trustees lo seek out good code5 of practice in our operations and day to day management. Existing policies have been scrutinised to ensure that they are robust enough lo be clearly understood, transparent and resilient lo public scrutiny. Each of the language committees will explore avenues for expansion of our WOTk and how we can benefit the target audience beller and lo serve them better. In particular, Ihe Cantonese speaking congregation is consolidating plans lo cater for the needs of the increasing number of immigrants belonging lo this language group in recent years. The Mandarin speaking congregation is seeking lo belter meet Ihe needs of families as the number of teenage children increases. The English-speaking congregation is exploring ways lo build resilience especially within the Gen Y age group as well as thinking about the needs of the surrounding community. This includes looking at the changing demographics of the surrounding community and the ever-changing sludenl population in Ihe cily. The search for a full-time pastoral worker lo serve in the Mandarin speaking congregation is ongoing. The organisalion has received additional support from COCM (Chinese Overseas Christian Mission), a UK based charity that supports Chrislian mission through the sending of Christian missionaries throughout UK, Europe and beyond, which provided a missionary couple (husband and wrfe couple} to seTve in the Cantonese speaking congregation, to cater both for the needs of the second and third generalion Chinese communities in the local area and the first-generation Chinese including new immigrants to this country, to support their spiritual needs and day to day practical needs. However, due lo the rapid increase in demand within the Canlonese congregation as the number of worshippers rise steadily each
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 ST week, the recruitment of an additional pasloral staff has become a priority. In the interim, a part leTm intern pastoral worker, who is currently completing studie5 in Theology college. is supporting the missionary couple in this work. It is also anticipaled that the pastor for the English-speaking congregation may retire in the next financial year and plans are being put in place lo recruit another pastoral worker to take over the responsibililies of the pastor. We continue lo explore Ihe possibilities of a closer collaboration in inner city partnerships with other organisalions with similar objectives. It is planned that this collaboration will contribute resources to create community enrichmenl projects for those from different ethnic backgrounds within the community that have shown some inner-city deprivation in the past. With the recent influx of immigrant population of various ethnic groups, not exclusively of ethnic Chinese, other avenues including a new expression of Christian social care as well as educalional aclivilies to enhance learning and living standards of those whose first language is not English are in the developmental stages with a lol of investment into human resour preparation and training. The organisation has been reviewing ils own practices and carbon footprint and is delemiined to play ils part in the global and national action of climate change and to promote sustainability. We are looking at ways of increasing the use of biodegradable material, lo replace regularly used disposable utensils and consumables wilh those made of biodegradable material and to encourage members lo bring their own reusable utensils whenever possible. We have been in the process of replacing old electrical equipment with newer more energy efficient ones. The old boiler heating system has been replaced with newer more efficient one with separate temperature control and timer for each section of the building. Other possibilities include investment in the use of more sustainable energy and making our buildings greener in the use of resources, increasing recycling and reducing waste in the medium and long tenn. The organisation has also invested in information technology and moving fotwards with the use of online meetings, in order to reduce travel and fuel cost. This would contribute towards our strategy of reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainability- The expansion of our work and development of new ministries will have lo take into account the fallout and effects of post-covid pandemic and the uncertain impact of the rent socio- economic downturn on the local community and possible emergence of greater Social needs and hardship. The organisalion would also like lo increase its efforts toward providing for those in vulnerable groups such as those wilh special needs and disability and Ihe elderly and to be more socially inclusive and diverse in our approach. The organisalion is also reviewing its use of the additional premises in the Wavertree area. More recently, the demand for the use of this premises has significantly reduced as many charities are facing financial challenges and many of our organisalion's activities have gone online. In addilion, the cost of maintaining this Art Deco building is also rising significantly. The trustee board is considering the future of thi5 premises including the possibility of disposing of STRUCTURE. GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Liverpool Chinese Gospel Church is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation ICIOI, number 1179991 registered on 19th September 2018, under the terms of the Conslitulion dated 15th October 2017. Eligibility for trusteeship Every Trustee shall be a member ofthe church. 10-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 ST Number of charity trustees There musl be al least four charty trustees. Elected charity trustees At every third annual general meeting of the members of the Church. at least 2 elected charty Iruslees shall retiie from office. The vacancies so arising may be filled by the decision of the members at the annual general meeting on prior recommendation by the Trustees. The members lon prior recommendalion by the charity trustees of suitable candidates) or the charity Iruslees may at any time decide to appoint a new charity trustee. Information for new charity trustees The charity trustees will make available to each new charity trustee, on or before his or her first appointment.. la} a copy of this constitution and any amendments made to it., and Ib) a copy of the Church's lalesl Iruslees. annual report and slatement of accounts. REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Name Liverpool Chinese Gospel Church 1179991 Charity number Address & Offlce 11 Great George Square, Liverpool. L15DY Tru8tèe8 The members of the Board of Trustees are a8 follows.. Eric Luk Yau Chan Tommy Ho Yin Kwan- Chair Rev David Seibolh Dr Maw Joo Tan (Resigned 181 October 2024) Additional Board Pasta Pong Lai Agatha Mak Daniel Yeo James Liu (Pastor- Independent Adviser) (Treasurer) (Secretary) (Chair of Management Team} (Elderl (Pastor) (Elderl (COCM Chinese Overseas Christian Mission) missionary {COCM missionary) (Interim Pastoral worker) Pastoral Team Eric Luk Yau Chan David Seiboth Maw Joo Tan Wayne Cheung Esther Ngan steven Siu
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH TRUSTEES. ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31- ALIGUST 2024 Church Staff Janet Dyu David Seiboth Church administrator) (Pastor) Independent Examiner Ylng Huang ACCA clo LCVS 151 Dale Street. Liverpool. L2 2AH Bankers Santand8r UK plc Bootle, Merseyside. L30 4GB Slgned on b8half of the Trustee8 /8-tr- >dO Tommy Ho Y n Kwan, Trustse Date 12-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH I report on the accounts of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation for the year ended 3151 August 2024 which are set out on pages 14 10 24. Res ective res onsibilities of trustees and examiner The chariVs trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's Iruslees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 {the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibilty to.. examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act, to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 14515}Ib} of the Charities Act. and to stale whether particular matters have come to my allention. Basis of inde endent examiner's statement My examination was carried out in accordance with 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, vièw and the report is limited to those matters set out in the Statement below. Ind8 endent 8xamineWs statement In connection with my examination. no matter has come to my attention: {11 which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements.. lo keep accounting records in accordance with seclion 130 of the Charities Act., lo prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and compty with the accounling requirements of the Charities Act have not been met., or 12) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Name: Ying Huang Relevant professional qualification or body.. ACCA Address.. clo LCVS 151 Dale Street, L2 2AH Dated.. 5/19/2025 13
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 Notes Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total Funds 2024 Total Funds 2023 Income and Endowments from: Donations and legacies Charitable activitie5 Investments 2a 2b 2¢ 173,682 11.855 5,572 173,682 11,855 5,572 171 ,692 16,507 3,616 Total Incomo 191,109 191,109 191,815 Expenditure on: Charitable activities 184,775 184.775 163,647 Total expenditure 184,775 184,775 163,647 Net Incomo, net movoment in funds 6,334 6,334 28,168 Total funds brought forward 9.10 724.006 724,006 695,838 Total funds carried forward 8-10 730,340 730,340 724,006 The notes on pages 16 to 24 form part of these accounts. All the above amounts relate to continuing activities of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation 14-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31ST AUGUST 2024 Notes 31¥t August 2024 3191 August 2023 Flxed assets Tanglble fixed assets Right to use asset 103.834 341.767 98,151 342,118 445,601 440,269 Current as8et8 Debtors Cash at bank and In hand 2,331 304,553 49,604 235,692 306,884 285.296 Current Ilabllltles Credltors.. amounts falllng due within one year (22,145) (1,559) Net current a8sets 284,739 283,737 Total as8et8 less current Ilabilltles 730.340 724,006 Funds: Unreslrlcted fiJnds Restricted funds 730,340 724.006 8,10 730,340 724,006 Approved by Trustees on ..... 15 Tommy Ho Yln wan, Trustse Maw 00 Tan, Trustee 15-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 5T 1. Accounting Policies Basis of Accounting The financial stalemenls have been prepared in accordance wrlh the Statement of Recommended Practice.. Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Stsndard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS102} ISORP 2019) and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland {FRS1021 leffeclive 1BI January 20191 and Charities Act 2011. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical c051 convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless olherwise staled in the relevanl notels} to these accounts. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The Charitable Incorporated Organisalion has tsken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for Charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletin 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows. Golng concorn At the time of approving the accounts. the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charitable Incorporated Organisation has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Trustees continue lo adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the accounts. Fund accounting Unreslricled funds are the ¢haritable Incorporated Organisation's free reyeNes available for the Trustees lo apply in accordance with the charitable objects. Reslricled funds are subject to specific restrictive conditions imposed by the donor. All restricted fund5 are accounted for as restricted income and expenditure for the purposes Is charged to the fund. Income recognltlon All income is recognised once the Charitable Incorporated Organisalion has entitlement to the income, there is sufficient certainty of receipt and so il is probable Ihal the income will be received, and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. Donations and legacies comprise donations which are recognised in the accounts when received, with the exception of known legacies which are accounted for when their receipt is certain. Income from charilable activities is recognised on an accrual's basis except for grants receivable. which are recognised on the dale on which their unconditional payment IS confirmed by the donor. Income from investment relates to bank interest received and is recognised when the amount is certain. 16-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 Fixed Assets Capital expenditure of more than £200 is treated as a fixed asset and is written off over its useful economic life as below.. Land & Buildings Music Equipment Fixtures & Fittings Right to use asset Expenditure recognltlon Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the Charitable Incorporated Organisalion to that expenditure. il is probable that settlement will be required, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All expenditure is accounted frjr on an accrual basis. All expenses, including support costs and governance costs, are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings in the Statement of Financial Activities. Support and governance costs are applied to unrestricted funds unless specifically included in the reslriclions, as specified by the donor. Expenditure on charitable activities relates to the operation of the charity comprising of direct charitable expenditure to meet the objectives of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Support and governance costs relate to the management and operation of the Organisalion and also compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements in producing the annual report. These are deall with in the Statement of Financial Activities when payment has been approved by the charity. Cash and cash equlvalonts Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held al call with banks. other short-lerm liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. and bank overdrafts. 2% per annum straight line basis 100A per annum reducing balan basis 200A per annum reducing balance basis Over the tern of the lease Flnanclal Instruments The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financial Instruments, and Section 12 '01her Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all ils financial inslrumenls. Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheel when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of Ihe instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the nel amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right lo set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or lo realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. Basic financial assets Basic financial assets, which include debtor5 and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at Iransaclion Pri including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cosl using the effective interest method unless the arrangement conslitules a financing transaclion, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amorlised. 17-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31sf AUGUST 2024 Basic financlal liabilities Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing Iransaclion, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted al a market rate of interesl. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amort15ed. Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost. using the effective interest rate method. Derecognition of financial liabilities Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. Critlcal accounting estimates and judgements In the applicalion of the charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, eslimales and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factor5 Ihal are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounling estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period. or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. All expenditure is accounted for on an accrual basis. All expenses, including support costs and governance costs, are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings in the Statement of Financial Activities. Support and governance costs are applied to unrestricted funds unless specifically included in the restrictions, as specified by the donor. Cost of charitable aclivities relates to the operation of the charlty comprising of direct charitable expenditure to meet the objectives of the charity. Support and governance cosls relate to the management and operation of the organisation and also compliance with conslitulional and statutory requirements in producing the annual report. These are dealt with in the Statement of Financial Aclivities when payment has been approved by the charity Taxation Income and gains are exempl from laxation as they are received and applied for charitable purposes only. The Charitable Incorporated Organisation benefits from various exemptions from taxation afforded by lax legislation and are not liable to corporation tax on income or gains falling within those exemptions. The Charitable Incorporated Organisation is not able to recover Value Added Tax. Expenditure is recorded in the accounts inclusive of VAT. 18-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 ST 2. Income and endowments from: Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total Funds 2024 Total Funds 2023 a. Donations and legacies Offering and donations Gift Aid 154.293 19.389 154,293 150,692 19,389 21,000 173.682 173,682 171,692 Income from donations and legacies in 2024 related wholly to unrestricted funds b. Charitable activities Bookstall Children's Summer Club Events and Funerals Photocopying income Rental income 30 570 350 79 10,826 30 570 350 79 10,826 60 984 935 72 14,456 11,855 11.855 16,507 Income from charitable activities in 2023 related wholly to unrestricted fvnds c. Invostmonts Bank interest 5,572 5,572 3,616 Income from investments in 2023 related wholly to unreslricled funds 3. Expenditure on Charitable actlvltlos Dlrect Charitable Expenditure 2024 Support & Governance Costs 2024 Total Total 2024 2023 To advance Christian religion, to relieve hardship, poverty and distress and to advance education and training 152,957 31.818 184,775 163,647 19
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 analysed as follows-. 2024 2023 Direcl charilable expenditure.. Staff salary costs Pension Youth group Nursery 41,847 271 614 126 7,466 3.636 1,537 4,852 13,828 49,370 1,339 215 15,622 5.707 3,744 362 35.378 103 164 5,681 208 1,338 3,959 13,405 40,355 2,212 Friday fellowship Activities and events Repairs Cleaning Missions Fellowships and ministries Evangelism and outreach Donations and gifts Speakers Training Travel expenses Conference Subscription and memberships Equipment TV licence 21.976 5,536 1,132 319 250 891 1,952 159 1.631 649 141 152,957 135,018 2024 2023 Support & Governance costs.. Staff salary costs Pension Church Offl- office costs Insurance Professional and legal fees DBS fees Sundry Bank charges Accountancy Depreciation 12,022 361 2,576 4,619 4,069 378 1,690 349 1,086 4,668 11,889 366 2,599 5,473 1,848 323 1,037 334 970 3,790 31,818 28,629 Total expenditure on charitable activities 184,775 163,647 All Ihe above expenditure relates to unrestricted funding. (2023.. £nill -20-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 5T 2024 2023 b. Staff costs Gross wages and salaries Social security costs Pension 53.869 47,267 632 469 54.501 47,736 Particulars of employee5: The average number of employees during the year, calculated on the basis of full-lime equivalents, was as follows.. 2024 2023 Charitable activities No employee received emoluments of more than £60.000 during the year. The Trustees are not remunerated for their services and are not included in the above number of employees. 4. Tanglble flxed assets Land & Flxtures & Muslc Buildings Fittlngs Equipment Total Cost., Balance at 1$1 September 2023 Additions 95.679 9.323 10.000 4,675 109,677 10,000 Balance at 31st August 2024 95,679 19,323 4,675 119,677 Depreciation: Balance al 1 $1 September 2023 Charge for the year 6.844 1.712 3.073 2,300 1,609 305 11,526 4,317 Balance at 31st August 2024 8.556 5,373 1,914 15,843 Net Book Value at 31st August 2024 87,123 13,950 2,761 103,834 Nel Book Value al 31 $1 August 2023 88,835 6.250 3,066 98,151 There were no material capital commitments al the year end. All fixed assets were used in the direct charitable activities of Ihe charitable incorporated organisation. 21
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 5. Right to use assets Leasehold Total Cost: Balance al 1. September 2023 Additions 343,518 343,518 Balance at 315t August 2024 343,518 343,518 Depreciation,. Balance al 151 September 2023 Charge for the year 1,400 351 1,400 351 Balance at 31st August 2024 1.751 1.751 Net Book Value at 3151 August 2024 341,767 341,767 Net Book Value al 3131 August 2023 342,118 342.118 The charity has been granted a peppercorn lease from 23 February 2001., the lease term is 999 years. As at 10th October 2019 the property value was £350,000. 6. Debtors 2024 2023 Prepayments Debtors- Gift Aid Other Debtors 2,331 3,604 21,000 25,000 2,331 49,604 Other debtors is a loan made to Leeds Chinese Christian Church for the extension of existing church buildings. The loan is interest free until 3151 March 2029 and is due for repayment in full not later than 301h June 2029. This was repaid in full during YE 31 sl August 2024 7. Creditors.. amounts tslllng due within one year 2024 2023 Other Creditors Accruals Tax and social securty 20,854 1,269 22 1,065 494 22,145 1,559 -22-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 8. Analysis of net assets between Funds 2024 Tangible Fixed Net Current Assets Assets Total Unrestricted Funds General Fund Right to use asset- Designated 103.834 341,767 284,739 388,573 341,767 445.601 284,739 730,340 Restricted Funds Totals 445,601 284,739 730,340 2023 Tangible Fixed Net Current Assots Assets Total Unrestricted Funds General Fund Right to use asset- Designated 98.151 342,118 283,737 381,888 342,118 440.269 283,737 724,006 Restrlcted Funds Totals 440.269 283,737 724,00 9. Unrestrlcted funds Movements In the year Income Expendlture 2024 Funds at beginning of Year Funds at End of Year General Fund Right to use a5sel- Designated 381.888 191.109 1184,4241 (3511 388,573 342,118 341,767 724.006 191,109 {184,7751 730,340 -23-
Docusign Envelope ID.. FBB79E3D-92FE485>8E3&1BEA469C1179 LIVERPOOL CHINESE GOSPEL CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 Movements in the year Income ExndItUre Funds at beginning of Year Funds at End of Year 2023 General Fund Righl to use asset- Designated 353,370 342,468 191,815 (163,297} {350} 381,888 342,118 695,838 191,815 1163,647) 724,006 General Fund is used lo finance the Charitable Incorporaled Organisation's general activities and core costs as outlined in the Trustees, Report. Right to uso asset- Designated is a peppercorn lease from 23rd February 2001. the lease term is 999 years. 10. Restricted funds There were no restricted funds received during or held at the year-end {2023.' none) 11. Guarantees and Other Financial Commitments The only financial commitments under non-cancellable finance leases will result in the payment of a peppercorn rent, being the annual sum due under a 999 years lease with Pine Court Housing Association dated 2001 for the church building 11 St George Square. 12. Related Parties Rev David Seiboth a trustee receives a salary of £33,113 during the year12023'. £31,924). -24-