

## **Introduction** 

our church. 

Following the failure of our ageing boiler in February 2025, we were required to rethink our priorities and strategy to ensure that we could continue to provide a warm and welcoming environment for our congregation and visitors. With the dedication of the Building Committee, and through considerable time and effort, we have made important progress in installing and upgrading heating systems across the main worship space and other areas of the building. This work has only been possible due to the generosity of the congregation and the commitment of individuals such as Vicki, Dave, Ray, Marit and Tim. We remain deeply grateful for their contribution. While much has been achieved, there are still significant projects ahead, and we trust that, with God’s help, we will continue to make progress together. 

Page **1** of **14** 



for future generations. Roof leaks have been significantly reduced, gutters cleared, trees trimmed, and general cleaning and upkeep carried out throughout the premises. 

This has also been a year of growth in worship and community engagement. The year started with 40 members named on the roll, after revision (prior to the APCM) the roll now stands at 50 members for St James Fletchamstead. 

Our services and events have become increasingly intercultural and diverse (as the beautiful photo above shows), reflecting the community we serve. Events such as the intercultural Pentecost and carol services, Family Fiesta, Light Party, and NHS Family Workshop have enabled us to reach out in new ways. Our community charity shop has also expanded into larger premises, increasing its impact. 

Although we experienced the loss of Sue, our Family Worker, and David, our Priest-inCharge, we have been encouraged by the many new volunteers who have stepped forward. We have also welcomed Fiona as our Family and Youth Worker. New initiatives such as the youth choir and youth Bible study groups have begun, supported by Uche, Fiona, Gabriel, Vicki and Maryam. We are also grateful for our new Churchwardens, Vicki and Becki, and for the faithful service of Des and Tim as they handed on their responsibilities. 

Attendance has grown, particularly among families, alongside an increase in the variety of services and activities. Financially, we have moved out of the deficit experienced in 2024, thanks to the diligent work of our Treasurer, Dave, and the wider team. 

_There are many other activities within our church family, which you will read about in this report, and thanks are due to all those who have contributed their reports._ _**I am truly grateful for your love in action and for your support in helping us to grow the Kingdom of God.**_ 

We also look forward to working with our new Priest-in-Charge, Revd Gareth Irvin, and warmly welcome his wife, Jenny and their children. Gareth’s licensing service will take place on Wednesday, 10th June at 7.00 pm at St John’s, Westwood. You are all very welcome to join us as we officially welcome him. 

Looking ahead, we face considerable challenges, including further heating installations, electrical upgrades, improvements to windows and lighting, ongoing building maintenance, and expanding our outreach to the parish. Plans for a new youth club, sustaining our finances, and the potential integration into the Bridge Benefice will also require prayerful consideration. 

While it may sound familiar to say that the Lord is with us, we have truly experienced His presence in both our church life and daily lives. Despite challenges, we hold firm to the promise of Scripture: 

“In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us… nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:37–39) Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian 

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## **Building Committee** 

The Building Committee first met in July 2025 to review and prioritise work identified in the latest quinquennial report. 

To make the heating project more manageable both financially and logistically, it was agreed to deliver the installation in phases. Phase 1 focused on the toilets, entrance area, and kitchen. In December 2025, a faculty was granted, and the church received £3,070 from the Diocese’s Net Zero Fund. Infrared heaters have since been installed: one in each toilet, two in the kitchen, and three in the entrance area. 

Phase 2 will focus on installing infrared heating on the third floor, creating a warm and usable space for Sunday School, youth activities, and community events. The faculty has been approved and £9,746 has been secured from the Diocese’s Net Zero Fund to support this work. 

In addition, to prevent drainage issues, gutters and surface water drains were cleared ahead of winter 2025. 

The Committee will continue to monitor building needs and adjust maintenance priorities as required. 

Vicki Wan and Building Committee 

## **Care Home and Home Visit** 

Helen, Chris, Anne and I made several visits to care homes in our community, where we conducted Holy Communion services for residents or offered prayers. There is a longstanding link with St Jude’s Care Home, and I have recently begun holding a Holy Communion service at Victoria Gardens Care Home. Anne has also been visiting Carol at her care home, and Des regularly visits Gordon at his home. 

Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian and the team 

## **Children’s Group** 

We are grateful for a wonderful group of children. It has been a joy to see their friendships grow, along with their openness, enthusiasm, and willingness to engage with teaching. 

Over the past year, the group has continued using Youth for Christ resources, helping children explore their place within the church and wider community. In preparation for Easter, they studied The Garden, The Curtain and the Cross, gaining a deeper understanding of Jesus’ death and the restoration of our relationship with God. 

A family Good Friday event was also held, featuring crafts, a treasure hunt, and an interactive retelling of the Easter story. Although attendance was lower than hoped, those who attended enjoyed it. 

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More recently, we have begun trialling separate sessions for older and younger children to provide more age-appropriate and in-depth teaching. This approach is still under review and will depend on future growth and needs. 

We give thanks for all the children in our care. It is a privilege to support them as they grow in faith. 

Marit Njofang and the team 

## **Community Shop** 

2025 has been a mixed year for the Community Charity Shop, with both challenges and encouragements. 

The shop continues to be a valued space within the community, offering not only affordable goods but also friendship and support. Over the years, many older visitors came in regularly for conversation, and it has been sad to lose several of them this past year. It is comforting to know the shop may have brought them companionship. More recently, we have welcomed an increasing number of younger visitors, including parents seeking baby items or simply someone to talk to. 

At the start of the year, the shop faced a shortage of volunteers, particularly as some younger team members left for university. Although new volunteers came forward, few were able to commit long-term, and one new helper had to step back due to ill health. 

Space also became a significant issue, as donations increased and the shop premises became too small. We were therefore delighted when a larger unit (No. 44) became available. After much preparation, we received the keys at the end of March 2026 and began the process of relocating. 

Looking ahead, we hope to extend opening hours, but this will depend on recruiting more volunteers. Even a few hours a week can make a difference, with a variety of roles available. 

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported the shop through donations and purchases. Your generosity continues to help those facing difficult times. 

Jacky Cashmore and Community Shop Committee 

## **Deanery Synod** 

Deanery Synod serves as a link between parish PCCs and the Diocesan Synod, bringing together clergy and elected lay representatives from each parish. 

Tim has served as our only parish representative for the past three years, following Sue’s resignation during her term. 

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Coventry South Deanery Synod meets approximately three times a year at different churches, with each parish taking turns to share their experiences, including challenges, progress, and encouraging developments. 

Looking ahead, the Synod will be involved in important elections. In October, members will vote for representatives to the General Synod, and next year elections will take place for the Diocesan Synod. 

Tim Pollard 

## **Diocesan Synod** 

Tim Pollard has served as Diocesan Synod representative on behalf of our deanery and offers this summary. 

health, mission, and environmental responsibility. Safeguarding remained a key priority, with 219 Parish Safeguarding Officers across the diocese and ongoing preparation for the INEQE audit in 2026. Synod also reflected on national developments and their impact on parish life. 

Supporting healthy and sustainable churches was another major theme, including updates on new worshipping communities, church buildings, and resources to help parishes grow 

Financial challenges continue, but there has been encouraging progress. Parish contributions enabled £5.2m in parish share for 2024, supporting clergy numbers, and the long-term deficit trend has begun to stabilise, with a reduced projected deficit for 2026. 

Environmental work also remained central, with progress towards Eco Diocese Silver status and the Net Zero 2030 commitment. An updated Environment Policy was adopted. 

The year also included welcoming Bishop Sophie and giving thanks for all who contribute to the mission and life of the diocese. 

Tim Pollard 

## **Emergency Prayer** 

The Emergency Prayer Chain continues to offer urgent intercessory prayer support to members of the St James Fletchamstead fellowship. 

This year, access to the prayer chain has been updated. Previously, requests were shared via text or email with around 25 members. Now, a WhatsApp group has been introduced for those with smartphones, allowing requests and updates to be shared more interactively and promptly. This has encouraged timely, ongoing prayer. Requests are still sent by text to those without smartphones to ensure everyone remains included. 

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This development has strengthened our sense of unity as we support one another in prayer, reflecting Christ’s command to love one another. Over the past year, there have been many requests, particularly relating to illness and difficult circumstances within the church family. 

We have seen and experienced answers to prayer, often through a deep awareness of God’s presence and peace, even in times of trial. 

If you would like prayer support, please contact Chris Maud or Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian, and your request will be shared with the team. 

Chris Maud and the team 

## **Events** 

Over the past year, we have hosted a wide variety of events within our church and the wider community, bringing people together in creative and engaging ways. Family Fiesta 1 and 2, led by Oli and Marit, combined salsa dancing with worship music and successfully raised funds for our building project. Living Stone offered a powerful expression of worship through dance and flags, thanks to Rachel, Nicki and the team. 

We also provided several family-focused events, including the Christmas Eve Family Service, Good Friday activities, and the Light Party as a positive alternative to Halloween. These events created welcoming spaces for families to gather, have fun, and connect with the church community. 

In partnership with the NHS and the local Family Hub, we delivered family training workshops and have begun working together to establish a new youth club, further strengthening our outreach and support for families. 

Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian and the team 

## **Finance** 

Our overall position in 2025 has improved from £214k to £230k.  This is mainly due to the church’s general fund running an £18k surplus. This means we have started 2026 with a reserve of £34.5k in the general fund.  The shop has £36k, and the mid-week groups have £851. Overall, General Fund receipts were about £3k more than budget and Expenditure was about £14k less than budget. It was notable that there were fewer one-off gifts to the 

that there has been a significant amount of one-off gifts donated to the restricted Heating & Repairs fund (circa £13k). 

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## **Funerals** 

were large services. In one case, the family’s own pastor also took part. We also hosted the funeral of Philip Muad at St James, with a significant number of attendees. 

Through these services, we have recognised the importance of having a wider support team. In addition to the officiating priest and audio-visual support, at least one further team member is needed to provide a warm welcome and help ensure the smooth running of each service. 

Special thanks go to Chris, Des, Joan, Dave, Tim, and the wider Funeral Ministry Team for their valuable support. 

A small promotional booklet has been produced and shared with local funeral directors, highlighting St James as a venue for funeral services and receptions. This offers families a more flexible and personal alternative to crematorium services, which are often limited in time. 

Rev Don Alcock and the team 

## **Community Hall** 

The biggest news relating to our Community Hall in 2025 was the complete refurbishment of the kitchen.  Over 5 weeks, the room was stripped back to the walls and the concrete plinths removed.  A new floor was laid and new plumbing and electrics installed.  We had brand new units and worktops fitted.  The end result is a kitchen to be proud of. 

We continue to host Coundon Care, which offers day care for elderly people, 3 days a week. Also, the hall is regularly used by the Uniform organisations as well as Delveen’s Academy of Dance.  Miscellaneous bookings have started to pick up, but we need to see these increase in 2026 to place the hall on a sound financial footing. 

Dave Cuttler and the team 

## **Jigsaw Report** 

staff, Rosemary (leader) and Diana, were unable to continue due to illness. We thank them both for their many years of dedicated service and the love and care they showed to team members and to the many families who attended JIGSAW over the years. Thanks are also due to Irene, who despite her own illness continued to help whenever she was able, showing great commitment and compassion. We are also grateful to all volunteers for their continued hard work. 

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New volunteers were sought, and Mohammad and Des kindly assisted with setting up on Wednesdays and supporting the group when needed, enabling sessions to continue. Safeguarding procedures were maintained throughout. 

The group provided a welcoming environment where children could enjoy stimulating play, build relationships, and reach developmental milestones. Activities included art and craft to encourage creativity and fine motor skills, while tea and toast remained a popular part of each session. Parents and carers were able to form friendships and receive support and prayer from volunteers, sharing in the love of Christ. Sessions concluded with songs and a time of prayer. 

Although attendance numbers were lower during the summer and winter months, the group continued to meet regularly and celebrated with a successful Christmas party. 

Following Christmas, the group temporarily closed as the leader stepped back due to family responsibilities. Parents were informed through a WhatsApp group, phone calls, and messages. 

We are pleased that Fiona, our Family and Youth Worker, has taken charge of Jigsaw. The session has been restored just recently. The group plays a valuable role in the community, supporting families and sharing the love of Christ, with the hope of bringing others to faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Helen Kearney and the team 

## **Knitting Group** 

The knitting group meets once a fortnight on Thursdays during term time at 1.45 pm – 3.15 pm. We have about 5 members. You can knit whatever you want to knit. Last year, we gave a donation to the church. We have tea, coffee, biscuits and we chat. The group is friendly and relaxed. New members welcome. 

Marlene Person and the team 

## **Ministry and Services** 

In addition to our two main services, we held a number of special services throughout the year. Intercultural Pentecost and Carol services were highlights, incorporating more than seven languages in readings and worship songs, reflecting the diversity of our community. We also held a traditional Easter service, as well as a dawn service where we prayed for the city from the top floor of the church. 

Our Remembrance Service honoured those who gave their lives for our freedom, while the Memorial Service provided a space to remember loved ones who have passed away. We also hosted a joint Bridge service and the West Coventry Prayer and Praise gathering, bringing together over 120 people in united worship. 

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In addition, we celebrated a number of baptisms and hosted a Confirmation service in partnership with St Mary Magdalen, led by the Bishop of Coventry. 

## **10:30 Service** 

This service continues to grow in both numbers and diversity. Three dedicated worship teams regularly leads worship, with around 30 people involved in readings and intercessions. We are encouraged to see more families joining, alongside a greater use of liturgy within the service. A wide range of voices contribute to teaching, with eleven preachers from different backgrounds and churches sharing God’s word. This has enriched our understanding and strengthened our sense of unity. We are also making greater use of technology, supported by the audio-visual team, helping to enhance the quality and accessibility of the service. 

## **9 am service** 

The 9:00am Sunday Service continues as a weekly traditional Anglican service centred on the Holy Eucharist. The service includes two songs, confession and absolution, prayers, and Communion. 

Over the past year, two sermon series have been delivered: one exploring the Apostles’ Creed and another focused on Encountering God. This latter series has developed into a key theme that will continue into 2026. 

Rev Don Alcock and Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian and the team 

## **Open Doors** 

Open Doors continues to meet on Monday afternoons (2:00–3:30pm) during term time, with a £2 weekly donation covering session materials. The group currently has around 28 

The group provides a supportive environment where friendships can grow, with some members also meeting outside sessions. A varied programme of activities encourages engagement and connection, including visiting speakers, arts and crafts, gentle exercise, games, and musical entertainment. Birthdays are celebrated, and prayer remains an important part of the group’s life, particularly for those who are unwell or in need of support. 

We give thanks for Diana, a valued volunteer who stepped back due to ill health, and for her many years of dedicated service. 

The group enjoyed a shared Christmas meal, meditation, and carol singing together. 

Following Christmas, leadership changes were necessary due to family commitments. We are grateful to Anne Richards and Des French for continuing to run Open Doors and ensuring this important ministry remains active within the community. 

Helen Kearney and the team 

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## **Parochial Church Council** 

Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian has served as Associate Minister since September 2024. The PCC officers are Rebecca Chandler (Warden since 2025), Vicki Wan (Warden since February 2026), Des French (Secretary since 2020), and Dave Cuttler (Treasurer since 2022). PCC members include Marlene Pearson, Trecia Davidson and Sally Noon (until 2027), and Helen Kearney (until 2026), with two current vacancies. Sally Noon also serves as Parish Safeguarding Officer, and Tim Pollard represents the parish on the Deanery Synod. 

The PCC operates in accordance with the Church Representation Rules, working with the Associate Minister to promote the mission of the Church across pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical areas, and to ensure the smooth running of parish life. 

Since the 2025 AGM, the PCC has met eight times. Core areas of focus include buildings, finances, safeguarding, and oversight of the Community Charity Shop, for which the PCC now acts as Trustees. Additional matters discussed included the installation of infrared heating and a proposed partnership with the Bridge group of churches, which has been paused pending the arrival of a new Vicar in Charge. 

It was agreed to donate 10% of regular and loose plate giving (£6,800) to a range of charities. Nine organisations each received £500, including Coventry Food Bank and Coventry Youth for Christ. The Lighthouse Trust received £1,000 and CPAS £300. 

Building work remains a priority. Phase 3 of the Church Hall project is underway, including installation of double-glazed windows. Following the failure of the gas boiler in February 2025, infrared heating has been installed in several areas of the church and will be extended further. Repairs following the 2025 Quinquennial Report are ongoing, alongside efforts to address water leaks. A dedicated building fund has been established to support this work. The parish rental house continues to be managed by a letting agent. 

Des French and the PCC team 

## **Pastoral Care Report** 

Over the past year, pastoral care has been especially important within our church family. Several members have faced serious illness, undergoing or awaiting significant treatment, and we also remembered our dear Phil Maud through a well-attended and meaningful funeral service. These moments have reminded us of the importance of supporting one another in times of need. 

The pastoral care team has faced challenges due to a shortage of volunteers, although individuals such as Rev Anne and Helen have given generously of their time and energy in visiting and supporting others. In addition, much pastoral care has taken place informally, as members of the congregation have continued to look after one another with compassion and kindness. 

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Following discussions with the St James Leadership Team, it has been agreed that Life Groups (small groups) will, for the time being, form the primary context for pastoral support, while we work towards strengthening the pastoral care team with more volunteers. A new Life Group will begin on 7th May and is open to anyone who would like to join. 

While this is not an ideal long-term solution, it is a step forward. We ask for your continued prayers for the pastoral care team and its leadership as we seek to grow and serve more effectively. 

Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian and the team 

## **Safeguarding Report** 

The Safeguarding Team has met regularly throughout the past year to review and support safeguarding practices within the parish. A small number of safeguarding concerns were raised and appropriately managed at parish level, with the PCC kept fully informed. 

Coventry Diocese requested safeguarding information dating back to 2019, which involved a thorough review of both electronic and paper records. In addition, it is now a requirement for all PCC members to complete both Foundation Safeguarding Training and Domestic Abuse Awareness Training. 

Following a data breach involving the previous DBS provider (ACP), Thirtyoneeight has been appointed by Coventry Diocese to carry out DBS checks. Over the past year, 16 Enhanced DBS checks and 1 Basic DBS check have been completed, although 2 checks fell outside the required timeframe. 

Training compliance has continued to improve: 12 individuals have completed or renewed Basic Safeguarding Training, 5 have completed or renewed Foundation Training, and 4 have undertaken Domestic Abuse Awareness Training. 

All volunteer role descriptions have been reviewed and updated. The Recruitment of ExOffenders Policy has been revised by the Safeguarding Team and approved by the PCC. In addition, the Responding to Safeguarding Concerns and Allegations Policy has been reviewed and formally adopted. 

The PCC continues to give due regard to the House of Bishops’ safeguarding guidance, ensuring that safeguarding remains a priority in all areas of church life. 

Sally Noon and the team 

## **Shawl Ministry** 

Our mission is to use knitting skills to share God’s love in a practical and tangible way, and we are grateful to have continued this ministry over the past year. We have distributed 33 shawls and 5 scarves, mainly during times of illness and bereavement. This included ten 

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shawls and one scarf for the Memorial Service in November, and a further eight shawls given to support ministry at Coventry University. 

The shawls are warmly received by both church members and the wider community. We believe this ministry blesses not only those who receive them but also those who create them, and we often receive heartfelt letters of thanks. 

One particularly memorable example was a shawl given to a young woman undertaking a solo, non-stop sailing challenge around the British Isles. The shawl accompanied her throughout difficult conditions, providing comfort and encouragement as she successfully completed her journey. 

We are thankful for the generous donations received this year, which have helped maintain a stable financial position. Sincere thanks go to all our knitters, especially Val, for her significant contribution. 

As a small group, we would welcome new knitters. Encouragingly, the ministry continues to grow, with a new shawl ministry now established at another local church. 

Diana Bartlett and the team 

## **Tuesday Afternoon Life Group** 

Our Life Group, with around nine members, meets weekly on Tuesday afternoons. Together we study the Bible, discuss a range of topics, share in prayer, and enjoy fellowship—always with a good selection of cake. 

This year, we began by studying the book of Acts, reflecting on the events following the Crucifixion and considering how we might have responded in those circumstances. We then explored Revelation, guided helpfully by Severina, which deepened our understanding of this complex book. 

it more suited to clergy than to the wider congregation. Joan later introduced a document on how churches support those aged 80+, which we studied and submitted as a report. It was encouraging to see some of our suggestions being implemented, including the installation of a working hearing loop and opportunities for long-standing members to share their testimonies. 

During Advent and Lent, we followed diocesan resources, which enriched both our discussions and personal reflections. 

Despite ongoing health challenges affecting attendance for some, we remain committed to meeting together and look forward to the coming term. 

Diana Bartlett and the team 

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## **Welcome Team** 

This year, the Welcome Team became a distinct ministry, having previously been part of the hospitality group. Following the introduction of new role descriptions, six members of the congregation volunteered to join the team. 

Additional guidance has been developed and shared, including processes for post-service follow-up with visitors and the use of a contact form to help maintain connections. 

Throughout the year, the team has had the privilege of welcoming a wide range of people. These include families attending baptisms, some of whom have returned to church; individuals marking significant anniversaries following the loss of loved ones; and parents seeking prayer and support for unwell children. It has also been a joy to welcome new regular attendees, as well as those returning after periods of serious illness. 

The Welcome Team plays an important role in ensuring that all who come through the church doors feel seen, supported, and valued. 

Special thanks are extended to Joan, whose consistent presence, care, and dedication in greeting and guiding visitors have been invaluable to the life of the church. 

Rebecca Chandler and the team 

## **Worship Team** 

In 2025, the 10:30am service included live music on two Sundays each month, led by Dave or Rachel (piano), supported by Uche (guitar), Andrew (bass), Katherine (flute), and vocalists Carole, Des, Ebony, and Fiona. The two teams have worked well together, and regular practice sessions have helped develop and strengthen our worship. Also, Uche has started a new worship team. 

Some Sundays, video-led worship has provided a flexible and effective alternative. At times, both children and adults have joined in with flags and percussion, and action-based songs have been warmly received. 

At the start of the year, Gordon led hymns at the 9:00am service on the organ. His playing is greatly missed, along with the organ itself. We are thankful to Anna for now supporting this service on the piano. 

The Worship Team 

## **Youth Bible Study** 

A series of monthly Bible study sessions for young people aged 11–15 began in January 2026, with four sessions held so far. 

The first two sessions focused on games and activities designed to build relationships and help the group get to know one another. Subsequent sessions have taken place during 

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on topics such as personal identity, emotional resilience, and relationships. 

The aim of these sessions is to provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can share their thoughts and grow in understanding, guided by biblical teaching. 

Gabriel Lee and the team 

## **Youth Choir** 

The Youth Choir began around September 2025 when we saw within the young people at church a desire to play instruments and sing. Fiona and Uche came to Mohammad and asked if we could create a space for the children to sing and learn to play instruments and Mohammad suggested working towards a performance. We began meeting once every 2 weeks on a Sunday afternoon 4.30-6.30 pm and have continued since then. We have a Youth choir WhatsApp group. 

We regularly have up to 8-10 young people aged between 10 and 17 years old. 2-3 children play instruments, piano, guitar and drums while the others sing as part of the choir. Two of the young people attend St Stephen’s church regularly with their families, so it has been a nice opportunity to socialise and get to know the young people from the other churches. We performed in December 2025 for the Christmas Carol concert, singing songs in English and Farsi. We are preparing to perform at Pentecost too, which is on 24th May 2026. 

We also have a time of socialising during our meetings where the children enjoy playing table tennis, computer games, doing gymnastics and share snacks and drinks. The children enjoy this time together and we have seen their confidence and ability grow over the months 

Fiona Shepherd and Uche Davidson and the team. 

## 

Rev Mohammad Eghtedarian Vicar@stjamesfetch.org.uk (Associate Minister of St James), Tim Pollard (Deanery Synod Rep), Dave Cuttler Treasurer@stjamesfetch.org.uk (Church Treasurer), Helen Kearney, Trecia Davidson, Sally Noon Safeguarding@stjamesfetch.org.uk (Parish Safeguarding Officer) Des French (PCC Secretary), Rebecca (Becky) Chandler (Churchwarden), Vicki Wan (Churchwarden), Fiona Shepherd Family@stjamesfetch.org.uk (Family and Youth Worker) 

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PagÈ1of8
2025 Finance Re
ort Summa
for St James Fletchamstead AGM
Compiled by Dave Cuttler for mtg on IOmay2026
Overall, our financial position as a charity (no.1180328) at the end of 2025 is significantly
improved from 2024.
The finalised accounts for our charity include Ihe main church accounts. charity shop accounts
and groups that operate from our church that keep segregated funds. The reports on the
following pages explain our financial status overall as well as details of each area of activity-
PAGE 2 SOFA for 1180328 (all activities combined}-.- Our overall position in 2025 has improved
from £214k lo £230k. This is mainly due to the church's general fund running an £18k surplus.
This means we have started 2026 with a reserve of £34.5k in the general fund. The shop has
£36k and the mid week groups have £851.
PAGE 3- Balance Sheet for the church's main accounts.'_ shows where funds are currently held.
There is only one point lo note and that is w.r.1. Z05 accounts receivable (£93401. This includes
a fotW8rd payment of £7k for commission on utilities, which will be redeemed through 2027 10
2030. This means we might need to regulate expenditure in 2026127 if we are running a deficit
budget al any point in the year.
PAGE 4- Fund Movement Summary for main accounts'._ The key changes here are the
reduction in the hall upgrades fund, as a result of completing the kitchen refurbishment in April
2025 and a significant increase in Ihe Community Support fund which is a grant from the
National Lottery to support our appointment of a Community Worker.
PAGE 5 General Fund breakdown showing Actual Income and Expenditure compared to
budget=_ Overall, receipts were about £3k more than budget and Expenditure was about £14k
less Ihan budget. It was nolable that there were fewer one off gifts lo the general fvnd, but this
was offset by an increase in regular giving. It should 81$0 be noted that there has been a
significant amount of one off gifts donated to the restricted Heating & Repairs fund Icirca £13kl.
PAGE 7 Charity Shop'.- There was a net deficit of £617, bul the shop carries forward a healthy
reserve of £36k into 2026.
PAGE 8 SJF Midweek groups'.- There was a nel spend of £509 in 2025, which reduced funds
carried fonmard lo £850. Given that these groups only spend what they self generate, this is nol
a cause for concern.
Page1 of8

Page 2 of 8 

## **Statement of Financial Activities For the period from 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025** 

## **THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE Charity name ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ST JAMES FLETCHAMSTEAD COVENTRY** 

|**Charity number**||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|**1180328**|**Unrestricted**<br>**Funds**|**Designated**<br>**Funds**|**Restricted**<br>**Funds**|**Endowment**|**Funds**|**Total Funds**|**Prior Year**<br>**Total Funds**|
|_Incoming Resources_||||||||
|Incoming resources from donors|67219|_0_|1241||_0_|68460|57783|
|Other voluntary incoming resources|695|_0_|85943||_0_|86638|80005|
|Activities in furtherance of the councils objects|1882|_0_|_0_||_0_|1882|751|
|Activities for generating funds|16071|_0_|1258||_0_|17329|15843|
|Income from investments|8186|_0_|_0_||_0_|8186|8526|
|Other incoming resources|_0_|1638|_0_||_0_|1638|2382|
|Community Care Centre|_0_|15390|_0_||_0_|15390|15617|
|**Total Income**<br>_Resources Used_<br>Costs of generating funds<br>Grants<br>Activities relating to the work of the Church<br>Support costs<br>Other resources used<br>Community Care Centre|94052<br>13385<br>6700<br>56007<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_|17029<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>2147<br>16008|88442<br>71254<br>200<br>17922<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_||_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_|199522<br>84639<br>6900<br>73929<br>_0_<br>2147<br>16008|180907<br>64428<br>4900<br>85448<br>_0_<br>2191<br>19564|
|**Total Expenditure**<br>_Gains / losses on investment assets_|76091<br>_0_|18155<br>_0_|89376<br>_0_||_0_<br>_0_|183623<br>_0_|176531<br>_0_|
|**Net Inc. / Exp. before transfer**|17960|-1127|-934||_0_|15900|4376|
|_Transfers_<br>Gross transfers between funds - in<br>Gross transfers between funds - out<br>St James Fletchamstead Outreach<br>Community Care Centre<br>_Other recognised gains / losses_<br>Gains on revaluation, fixed assets, charity's own use<br>**Net movement in funds**<br>_Reconcilliation of funds_|1<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>17961|_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>-1127|_0_<br>-1<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>-935||_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_|1<br>-1<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>15900|32720<br>-32720<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>4376|
|St James Fletchamstead Main<br>St James Fletchamstead Other<br>Community Care Centre|16581<br>_0_<br>_0_|127200<br>1360<br>36918|31688<br>_0_<br>_0_||_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_|175469<br>1360<br>36918|167337<br>1170<br>40839|
|**Total funds brought forward**<br>St James Fletchamstead Main<br>St James Fletchamstead Other<br>Community Care Centre|16581<br>34542<br>_0_<br>_0_|165478<br>127200<br>851<br>36300|31688<br>30753<br>_0_<br>_0_||_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_|213747<br>192495<br>851<br>36300|209346<br>175469<br>1360<br>36893|
|**Total funds carried forward**|34542|164351|30753||_0_|229646|213722|
|Fixed Assets|_0_|127200|_0_||_0_|||
|Liquid Assets|34542|37151|30753||_0_|||



Page 2 of 81 

24th April 2026 



Page 3 of 8 

## **St. James Fletchampstead** 

## **Balance Sheet detailed** 

||**31/12/2025**<br>**31/12/2024**<br>**As at**<br>**As at**|
|---|---|
|**Fixed assets**<br>126,000.00<br>40000005: PCC house<br>126,000.00<br>1,200.00<br>40000007: Grand Piano<br>1,200.00<br>**127,200.00**<br>**Total Fixed assets**<br>**127,200.00**<br>**Current assets**<br>55,081.92<br>A1502: Co-op current account xxxx5805<br>45,780.93<br>3,803.41<br>A1505: CCLA deposit account xxx968-001<br>10,462.18<br>76.29<br>A1550: Petty Cash<br>58.75<br>9,340.23<br>Z05: Accounts Receivable<br>3,152.48<br>**68,301.85**<br>**Total Current assets**<br>**59,454.34**<br>**Liabilities**<br>3,006.67<br>Z04: Accounts Payable<br>11,185.25<br>**3,006.67**<br>**Total Liabilities**<br>**11,185.25**<br>**192,495.18**<br>**Net Asset surplus (deficit)**<br>**175,469.09**<br>**Reserves**<br>17,026.09<br>Excess / (deficit) to date<br>8,132.21<br>175,469.09<br>Z01: Starting balances<br>167,336.88<br>—<br>Z03: Gains and losses own use<br>—<br>**192,495.18**<br>**Total Reserves**<br>**175,469.09**<br>34,542.15<br>Unrestricted<br>16,581.00<br>127,200.00<br>Designated<br>127,200.00<br>30,753.03<br>Restricted<br>31,688.09<br>—<br>Endowment<br>—<br>**Represented by Funds**<br>**192,495.18**<br>**175,469.09**<br>**Total**||



Page 3 of 8 

26 April 2026 

Page 1 



Page 4 of 8 

## **St. James Fletchampstead** 

## **Fund movement summary** 

## **Selected period: 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025** 

|**Fund**|**Fund Balances**|**Incoming**|**Outgoing**|**Transfers**|**Gains and**|**Journal Enties**|**Fund balances**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||**brought forward**|**Resources**|**Resources**||**Losses**||**Carried forward**|
|AVupgrade - Audio Visual|2,102|1,937|4,306|—|—|—|(265)|
|Upgrade||||||||
|Shop - Community Charity|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|
|Shop||||||||
|Community - Community|—|18,780|—|—|—|—|18,780|
|Support||||||||
|Fixed - Fixed Assets|127,200|—|—|—|—|—|127,200|
|Burch - Gifts for Steve &|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|
|Kathy Burch||||||||
|Hall - Hall Upgrades|29,337|53,708|70,107|—|—|—|12,938|
|Repairs - Heating &|—|12,239|12,770|—|—|—|(531)|
|building repairs||||||||
|Jigsaw - Jigsaw|—|100|—|—|—|—|100|
|HDeposit - PCC House|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|
|Deposit||||||||
|Refunds - Refundable|—|350|895|—|—|—|(545)|
|Transactions||||||||
|V-Gas - Vicarage Gas|—|908|907|0|—|—|—|
|Youth - Youth Work|247|118|189|—|—|—|176|
|Grants and Donations||||||||
|Giving - Churches giving|—|300|200|—|—|—|100|
|fund||||||||
|General - General fund|16,581|94,051|76,091|0|—|—|34,542|
|**Totals**|**175,469**|**182,493**|**165,467**|**—**|**—**|**—**|**192,495**|



_**There may be minor discrepancies in the totals if the pence are not being shown**_ Page 4 of 8 

26 April 2026 Page 1 



Page 5 of 8 

## **SJF - General Fund Assessment** 

|**WIP**<br>**Code**|**Receipts**<br>**Payments**<br>**Balance**<br>**Description**|91050<br>3002<br>94052<br>-90905<br>14814<br>-76091<br>145<br>17815<br>17960<br>**2025**<br>**Budget**<br>**EOY**<br>**FFvB**<br>**Delta**<br>**Final R+P**<br>**+ Accruals**|
|---|---|---|
|**_00001_**|**_Income below this line_**||
|0101005<br>0102000<br>0103A00<br>0104000<br>0105B05<br>0105B10<br>0106010<br>0106020<br>0106030<br>0106040<br>0203B00<br>0203B02<br>_0203B05_<br>0301001|Regular giving (Gift aided)<br>Tax recovered from HMRC<br>Regular giving (not gift aided)<br>Loose plate Collections<br>One-off Gift Aid gifts<br>Gifts non-gift-aid<br>PGS Regular Giving<br>PGS Tax Rebate on regular giving<br>PGS One off Gifts<br>PGS Tax rebate from one off gifts<br>Donations - unspecified<br>Donations - Overheads<br>_Donations - Youth Work_<br>Bank & building soc interest<br>_PCC house net income_<br>Hall lettings - miscellaneous<br>Hall Letting - Brownies<br>Hall Lettings - Scouts<br>Hall Lettings - Delveen<br>Hall Lettings - Coundon Care<br>Land Rent<br>Church Lettings<br>_Vicarage Gas_<br>Photocopying<br>Fees for weddings & funerals<br>Miscellaneous|12500<br>134<br>12634<br>4000<br>642<br>4642<br>6000<br>-1220<br>4780<br>2800<br>-885<br>1915<br>3500<br>-2865<br>635<br>4000<br>-2900<br>1100<br>27500<br>3184<br>30684<br>6100<br>1196<br>7296<br>0<br>2817<br>2817<br>0<br>715<br>715<br>250<br>210<br>460<br>250<br>-15<br>235<br>_0_<br>0<br>186<br>186|
|||_5250_<br>_2750_<br>_8000_|
|0402A00<br>0402B01<br>0402B02<br>0402B03<br>0402B04<br>0402C10<br>0402D00<br>_0403A10_<br>0403A15<br>0404000<br>0405000||2990<br>-1995<br>995<br>450<br>50<br>500<br>825<br>265<br>1090<br>3935<br>-40<br>3895<br>9300<br>-200<br>9100<br>300<br>0<br>300<br>300<br>-250<br>50<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>_0_<br>0<br>140<br>140<br>800<br>1082<br>1882<br>0<br>1<br>1|
|**_099999_**|**_Expenditure below this line_**||
|1001000<br>1002000<br>1003000<br>2001005<br>2001010<br>2002000|UK charities working overseas<br>Other organisations working overseas<br>UK charities working in UK<br>External Ministry Costs<br>Ministry parish share<br>Working expenses of incumbent|-2500<br>600<br>-1900<br>0<br>-500<br>-500<br>-3000<br>-1300<br>-4300<br>0<br>-545<br>-545<br>-37000<br>0<br>-37000<br>-500<br>358<br>-142|



Page 5 of 8 



Page 6 of 8 

||Vicars training/retreat/books|-250|250|0|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|2003000|Parsonage house expenses|0|0|0|
|2004000|Assistant staff costs|-9000|7924|-1076|
|2005005|Church running expenses - Gas|-4375|3344|-1031|
|2005010|Church running expenses - Elec|-2100|-1723|-3823|
|2005020|Church running expenses - Insu|-3300|256|-3045|
|2005022|Church - administrator|-2700|810|-1890|
|2005025|Church Cleaner|-800|352|-448|
||Church Consumables|-100|100|0|
|2005030|Photocopier|-480|-120|-600|
|2005031|Printing|-200|-121|-321|
|2005400|Postage|-200|200|0|
|2005500|Telephone / Broadband Supply|-400|9|-391|
|2006000|Church R & M Building|-750|-570|-1320|
|2006002|Church R & M (Fittings)|-2250|1761|-489|
|2007000|Upkeep of services|-300|120|-180|
|2007005|Music and music group|0|-24|-24|
|2007010|Organist, Verger, AV Operator, Minister|0|-355|-355|
|2007008|Operational Licences & Subscriptions|-1200|110|-1090|
|2008000|Upkeep of churchyard|-150|-642|-792|
|2010005|Hall running costs - Gas|-3100|-36|-3136|
|2010010|Hall running costs - Electrici|-6000|823|-5177|
|2010015|Hall running costs - Insurance|-1250|-55|-1305|
|2010020|Hall running costs (R&M)|-1250|113|-1137|
|2010025|Hall - Operational Costs|-500|328|-172|
|2010026|Hall - Cleaning|-2000|280|-1720|
|2010027|Hall - Administrator|-1500|1106|-394|
||Hall - Caretaker|-2000|2000|0|
|2010035|Hall Upgrades - General Fund|-500|207|-293|
|2012010|Interior & exterior decoration|0|-180|-180|
|202000|Education & Training|-100|83|-17|
|202200|Education (Youth)|-100|100|0|
|2030000|Mission (St.James led)|0|-168|-168|
|2035000|Mission (Youth Work)|-500|500|0|
|3000004|Cost of fetes & other events|0|-51|-51|
|300001A|Assigned fees payments to CDBF|-400|-506|-906|
|3001005|Hospitality - Consumables|-150|-1|-151|
|4000008|Misc|0|-22|-22|



Page 6 of 8 



Page 7 of 8 

Final Report 

## Community Charity Shop 

## 31-Dec-2025 

|Income<br>Till Sales - Cash/Cheque<br>Till Sales - Card<br>Sale of Rags<br>Donations and Efforts<br>Direct Payments<br>_(Refunds)_<br>Bank Interest<br>LessExpenses<br>Rent<br>Rates<br>Repairs<br>Donations and gifts<br>Insurance<br>Electricity<br>Card Fees<br>Telephone<br>Water<br>Office Supplies<br>Container<br>Cleaning (incl windows)<br>Sundries<br>Bank Charges<br>Misc.<br>Surplus for the year<br>Balance brought forward from<br>2024<br>Balance carried forward<br>2026|7449.05<br>7537.42<br>230.00<br>118.30<br>0.00<br>55.62||
|---|---|---|
||4600.00<br>203.59<br>0.00<br>5469.09<br>833.48<br>1618.53<br>127.17<br>54.00<br>256.18<br>108.28<br>528.00<br>0.00<br>32.01<br>85.95<br>2091.50|15390.39|
||BMM<br>CA<br>Cash|16007.78|
|||-617.39<br>3389.01<br>33528.52<br>0.00|
|||36300.14|
|Bank Reconciliation<br>Business Money Manager<br>Community Account<br>Cash<br>Balance carried forward to<br>2026||3444.63<br>32852.51<br>3.00<br>36300.14|
|Variance (Bank v Receipts)<br>Outstanding liabilities<br>to be paid in<br>2026<br>Telephone<br>Container||0.00<br>18.00<br>48.00<br>66.00|



Page 7 of 8 



Page 8 of 8 

## **Statement of Financial Activities** 

## **Sub Group** 

## **ST JAMES FLETCHAMSTEAD Midweek** 

**Charity number 1180328** 

|**1180328**|**Unrestricte**|**d Funds**|**Designated**<br>**Funds**|**Restricted**|**Funds**|**Endowment**|**Funds**|**Total Funds**|**Prior Year**<br>**Total Funds**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|_Incoming Resources_||||||||||
|Open Doors|||1080.30|||||1080.30|1435.68|
|Jigsaw|||419.19|||||419.19|796.04|
|Knitting Group|||138.77|||||138.77|150.00|
|**Total Income**<br>_Resources Used_<br>Open Doors<br>Jigsaw<br>Knitting Group|||1638.26<br>1309.75<br>757.66<br>80.00|||||1638.26<br>1309.75<br>757.66<br>80.00|2381.72<br>1482.33<br>558.90<br>150.00|
|**Total Expenditure**<br>_Gains/Losses_|||2147.41<br>0.00|||||2147.41<br>0.00|2191.23<br>0.00|
|**Net Inc. / Exp. before transfer**|||-509.15|||||-509.15|190.49|
|_Transfers_<br>Open Doors<br>Jigsaw<br>Knitting Group|||0.00<br>0.00<br>0.00|||||0.00<br>0.00<br>0.00|0.00<br>0.00<br>0.00|
|**Net movement in funds**<br>_Reconcilliation of funds_|||0.00|||||0.00|0.00|
|Open Doors<br>Jigsaw<br>Knitting Group|||627.86<br>732.14<br>0.00|||||627.86<br>732.14<br>0.00|674.51<br>495.00<br>0.00|
|**Total funds brought forward**<br>Open Doors<br>Jigsaw<br>Knitting Group|||1360.00<br>398.41<br>393.67<br>58.77|||||1360.00<br>398.41<br>393.67<br>58.77|1169.51<br>627.86<br>732.14<br>0.00|
|**Total funds carried forward**|||850.85|||||850.85|1360.00|
|||||||||||



Page 8 of 8 



CHARITY COMMISSION
FOR ENGLAND AND WALES
Independent examlner's
report on the accounts
Sectlon A
Independent Examlner's Report
R•port to th• tru8t••sl
ThE PftROC+I I rtL Cth) hJeJL OF TklE £&￿111&-
ES
On accounts for th• y•ar
•nd•d
Chartty no
(If any)
2025
1180328
S•t out on pag•8
I rew1 to the trustees my examlrnkn crf the acc￿nts of th8 above
chartty (Ihe Trust") for the year ended 311121201
Responslbllltles and A8 the thaflty trustees crf the Tnjst, you are re8[￿s1b1e for the preparation
basls of r•port of the accounts In accordanc￿ the requirements ol the Charttle3 Act
2011 ("the Acr).
I rew1 In r08P8Ct ol my oxamlnatlon rf the T￿￿t'S accounts carrnd ¢xrt
under ge(Ikn 145 of the 2011 Act and In carrylng out rny examlnatlon, I
have followod the applkable t)iroCtlon8 given by tho Charity Commission
urKler sedlon 145(SXb) of the Act.
Independent
I h8ve cxxnpleled my examlnatk)n. I corrfkm Ihal rK> materl81 m8tter3 have
•xamln•fs stat•m•nt CO￿ to my attentk)n (olher than that disck£aJ bek>w ') in cx)nneclk)n with
the 8xamlnatlon vthlch glves me cause to belleve that In. any materlal
aCc￿n11ng records were nol kept In aceLYdance wlth seclkjn 130
the ACI
the accounts do not acc4xd wllh the accountlng rerx)rd8
I have no concems and have come acyoss no cts maftefS In conne(th>n
wlth the examln8tlon to whlth attenllon Sh￿k1 be dra￿ kn order to enable a
proper underntanding of Ihe aCC￿nts to be rèadxd.
' Pl688e delele the won18 in Ihe brache18 rf Ihey {* not apply.
8lgn•d:
/D_
Narn•:
Rel•vant wof•ulonal
quallflcatlon(¥) or body
(If any):
Addr•s•:
IER
Octob•r 2018