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2023-12-31-accounts

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

Trustees’ report and financial statements

For the year ended 31 December 2023

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Contents

Reference and Administrative Details 1
Annual Report of the Trustees 2
Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities 9
Independent Examiner’s report to the Trustees of the Parochial Church Council of Amberley
with North Stoke (the “Charity”) 10
Statement of Financial Activities 11
Balance Sheet 12
Notes 13

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Reference and Administrative Details

Trustees Mr Michael Boxford
Mrs Elaine Corbett
Mr Michael Davey
Mrs Melanie Edge
Mr Graham Elliott
Mrs Mary Leonard
Mrs Glenys Rowe
Mrs Rosalind Simpson
Principal Office The New Vicarage
School Road
Amberley
Arundel
West Sussex
BN18 9NA
Independent examiner James Peach FCA
Kreston Reeves LLP
Chartered Accountants
Springfield House
Springfield Way
Horsham
West Sussex
RH12 2RG
Churchwardens Mr Michael Davey
Mrs Melanie Edge

1

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Annual Report of the Trustees

The Trustees of the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke (the “PCC”) present their report and accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023.

Administrative information

The Ecclesiastical Parish of Parochial Church Council of Amberley with North Stoke is a charity.

The PCC is registered with the Charities Commission with registration number 1187780.

The address of the principal office of the PCC is The New Vicarage, School Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9NA, and its website is www.amberleystmichael.org.uk.

Trustees

During the year, and to the date of this report, the following served as members of the PCC:

Priest In Charge: The Reverend Gerry Burgess Retired 14 January 2024
No successor as Incumbent Priest had been identified at the time of this
report.
Churchwardens: Mrs Melanie Edge
Mr Michael Davey
Members: The Reverend Gerry Burgess Chairperson until her retirement on 14 January 2024
Mr Michael Boxford
Mr Stephen Burgess Resigned 17 February 2024
Mrs Elaine Corbett Lay Reader
Mr Michael Davey Secretary
Mrs Melanie Edge Health and Safety Officer and Safeguarding
Officer
Mr Graham Elliott Treasurer
Mrs Mary Leonard Deanery Synod representative and Electoral Roll
Officer
Mrs Glenys Rowe
Mrs Rosalind Simpson .

Interregnum

On 14 January 2024, the Priest in Charge for the parish, the Reverend Gerry Burgess retired. The PCC would like to take the opportunity to thank Gerry for all of her efforts on behalf of the parish and its parishioners and wish her the very best for her retirement.

With effect from 14 January 2024, the parish entered a period of Interregnum with no Incumbent priest. It is expected that for the foreseeable future, regular Sunday services will continue to be presided over by retired clergy from across the Storrington Deanery.

It is unclear whether a replacement Incumbent will be appointed to fill the vacancy in the immediately foreseeable future as the Diocese is experiencing a shortage of qualified clergy and there are numerous other vacancies elsewhere across the County.

Structure, Governance and Management

The PCC is an incorporated body governed by the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure (1956) as amended and the Church Representation Rules (contained in Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 as amended). Legally, the council is responsible for the financial affairs of the church parish and the maintenance of its assets, such as churches and church halls, and for promoting the mission of the church.

2

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Annual Report of the Trustees (continued)

A PCC is the executive committee of a Church of England parish. The membership requirements for a PCC are prescribed by the Church Representation Rules and include the clergy and churchwardens of the parish, any members of the General Synod, diocesan synod or deanery synod who are on the church electoral roll of the parish, and representatives of the laity elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. Parishioners are warmly encouraged to stand for election to the PCC who try to ensure a balance of skills and experience where possible.

The full PCC met either in person or by Zoom five times (including the Annual Parochial Church Meeting) during the year with a high average level of attendance. In addition, there was one resolution agreed by PCC email consultation during the year. The Annual Meeting of Parishioners was held on 15 April 2023.

At the year-end, there were 58 parishioners on the church electoral roll (2022 – 61).

Aim and Purposes

The primary aim of the PCC is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the Church of England in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish of Amberley with North Stoke, the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

Objectives and Activities

The PCC:

The PCC fully recognises its obligations with regards to the House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and has complied with its duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016.

The members of the PCC confirm that they have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity’s aims and objectives and in planning future activities.

Achievements and Performance

a) Attendance at worship

After the years of Covid disruption, our services have returned to a normal pattern. The only alteration in 2023 has been that the 3[rd] Sunday each month is now normally held as Morning Praise, a Service of the Word which is not eucharistic and which can more readily be lay led. We have not streamed Sunday services this year but continue to offer a weekly email with notices and a simple service which some people unable to get to church use regularly at home. Our Sunday congregation averages about 22, with the usual dip in the Summer but with rising numbers later in the year, and many more for special services, especially at Easter and Christmas.

3

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Annual Report of the Trustees (continued)

We are fortunate to have a choir and organist, who with the addition of ‘regular extras’ performed Faure’s Requiem for All Souls’ reflection as well as a joyful Christmas Carol Service, both of which were very well attended.

Café Church continues to be popular, meeting once a month in the Church Hall for informal worship with coffee, cake, and opportunity for discussion on a wide range of topics. This has been a good place to welcome prospective wedding or baptism families and other visitors.

The midweek service of Morning Prayer or Holy Communion has been a constant quiet space which also provided a suitable context for Ash Wednesday Communion.

Outdoor services on Palm Sunday (with donkeys) and at Remembrance, kept short and welcoming to all, were attended by large numbers including several children. In June, a churchyard service was held as part of the Churchyard Weekend and Eco Fair.

By far the greatest attendance was on Christmas Eve, as the village Journey to the Crib once again ended in church with a live tableau, the Village Singers, and refreshments for the 120 or more of all ages who packed into the building and overflowed outside.

It has also been good to hold school services in the Church each term, which have been increasingly well attended, particularly at Harvest and Christmas. The school children once again came to the War Memorial for Remembrance in November, and following last year’s innovation, the school once again led a Christmas Carol Concert for families and the wider community. To round off the year, a very successful Christingle took place on the last day of term.

This year we welcomed three children to baptism; two of these couples had been married in St Michael’s Church whilst the third family lives in the village. There were also three weddings during the year.

There have been four funerals/memorial services for people from the village community and four burials of ashes. We are thankful to have a large burial ground but must be firm regarding the right to burial there. Times of loss have seen the church packed with members of the local community, family and friends.

b) Teaching, baptising, and nurturing new and existing believers

Our vicar has visited the primary school weekly to take Collective Worship and for other events. It is good to report that others from the Church are also now involved as governors at Amberley Primary School, helping to build links between Church and school.

A Lent group was able to meet in person this year, including members from across the benefice. A small group has been meeting monthly for prayer at the vicarage. It is hoped to build on these with further study and prayer groups when possible.

c) Evangelism and outreach

The Parish Engagement Group (PEG) has continued to seek ways of serving the community and building links with those who may be at a disadvantage in some way. Further, the CAMEO group, a monthly informal meeting for friendship, particularly for older residents or those who might feel isolated, has been a valuable support network.

Highlights included the Churchyard Weekend linked with the Eco Fair in June, which attracted wide interest and focus on our bronze Eco Church status. It is hoped that the potential of the churchyard for wildlife work will continue to be developed, possibly in conjunction with the school. The church was also able to have a presence at the Wellness event in May organised as part of the Church Hall refurbishment fundraising project discussed below.

PEG activities this year included serving coffee and hot cross buns in the Square on Good Friday, distributing gifts at Mothering Sunday and Harvest, and another successful Christmas Stall in the Square, including items produced by Ukrainian friends, which brought good cheer on a cold day as well as raising funds.

PEG members also shared in organising a very successful community coronation street party in May as well as the Eco Fair.

4

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Annual Report of the Trustees (continued)

This year, a committee of local volunteers was formed known as the ‘Hallraisers’ to raise the income needed to fund refurbishment of the toilet and kitchen facilities as well as the remediation of the decoration of the Church Hall to bring it up to standard and make it more appealing and suitable for hirers. They have been very successful since launch of the project at the start of 2023 and have drawn many people into a range of interesting events.

We are most grateful to the small group of energetic and committed people who have masterminded or helped with these events, and to all who give their time to serve in so many ways in the church.

d) Provision of the church building for people to enjoy

St. Michael’s Church continues to be a place appreciated for its peace and quiet, where a well-used prayer corner affords the opportunity to leave requests or find words of encouragement. This has also been a focus for prayers for the situation in Gaza and the wider Middle East.

Our many visitors from around the world also appreciate the history of the ancient building, which they can engage with via an audio guide using the Church Wi-Fi connection as well as written material.

The churchyard with its flourishing wildflower area is attractive and well-tended, providing a peaceful haven for villagers and visitors alike. We are most grateful to all who help maintain this large area, whether regularly or in one-off working parties.

A reflective prayer trail around the churchyard has been much appreciated and commented on by visitors.

e) Provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish

The Priest in Charge and members of the Church visit and keep in touch with a number of elderly and vulnerable members of the community and those recently bereaved, providing practical, spiritual and emotional support. The PEG group and CAMEO helpers once again arranged gifts of Mothering Sunday flowers and Harvest fruit for elderly or isolated folk.

f) Provision of tangible support to the poor and needy

Collections of food and other items have been made through the Church for Family Support Work which supports parents and children across Sussex, both at Harvest and periodically throughout the year. The invitation to provide Christmas gifts for families also met with a generous response from the wider village community. Both initiatives were actively and creatively supported by the Amberley Village Stores.

We have worked together with the local school to increase awareness amongst local families of the valuable support offered by this organisation and by the village Welfare Trust. The Church has also trialled provision of a Community Larder to provide food and toiletries for immediate needs in the local community. It is hoped to collaborate further with the Welfare Trust on similar projects.

We are building links with the Lorica Trust, which supports young people with a range of difficulties. Lorica provides their donkeys for Palm Sunday and the Christmas Eve procession.

Donations were sent from our Harvest collection to Tearfund and from Remembrance Sunday to the Royal British Legion.

Financial Review

Results for the year

The PCC recorded an overall net income of £804 for the year as compared to an overall net expenditure of £3,771 in the prior year 2022. Of this, Unrestricted Fund activity incurred a net deficit of £325 (2022 – deficit of £3,558) and Restricted Fund activity contributed £1,129 (2022 - deficit of £213).

5

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Annual Report of the Trustees (continued)

In summary, the movements for the year were as follows:

Unrestricted Restricted Unrestricted Restricted
funds funds funds funds
2023 2023 2022 2022
£ £ £ £
Income from donations and legacies 33,333 10,141 32,791 -
Income from charitable activities 16,974 200 18,198 500
Income from other trading activities, etc 1,896 6,763 2,372 -
Investment income 1,533 403 508 150
Total income 53,736 17,507 53,869 650
Total expenses (54,790) (16,995) (56,401) -
Investment (losses)/gains 729 617 1,346 (863)
Net income/(expenditure) (325) 1,129 (3,558) (213)

Unrestricted Fund activity

Unrestricted Fund income for the year remained consistent with the prior year at £53,736 as compared to £53,869. Of note in this regard:

Unrestricted Fund expenditure for the year was £54,790 slightly down on the prior year total of £56,401. Within this:

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Annual Report of the Trustees (continued)

Restricted Fund activity

Restricted Fund activity in 2023 was dominated by the commencement of a project to refurbish the Church Hall, an asset of community value. As discussed earlier, a committee of local volunteers was formed known as the ‘Hallraisers’ to raise the income needed to fund refurbishment of the toilet and kitchen facilities as well as the remediation of the decoration of the hall.

By year end, the efforts of the Hallraisers had raised income of £16,945 including £6,763 from fund raising events and £9,856 from grants made by the National Lottery Community Fund, Horsham District Council funds and Amberley Parish Council. The PCC is most grateful to these organisations for their support.

The level of income raised allowed for the first main body of work, the refurbishment of the toilet facilities including the addition of disabled facilities to be undertaken. This was completed in November 2023. Expenditure on the project up to 31 December 2023 amounted to £17,618, of which £673 was charged to Unrestricted Funds.

The PCC would like to thank the Hallraisers for their efforts and wish them well for their continued success in 2024.

Activity in the other Restricted funds was minimal in both 2022 and 2023.

Funding position at year end

As at 31 December 2023, total funds amounted to £330,908 up from £330,104 at the end of 2022 due to the activities for the year discussed above. Of this, Restricted Funds amounted to £32,087 up from £30,958 at the end of the prior year.

Unrestricted Funds at year end were £298,821 marginally down from £299,146. However, these amounts include the book valuation placed on the Church Hall. Excluding this, Unrestricted Funds at year end were £64,188 as compared to £61,177 at the end of the previous year.

It may be noted that the most recent Quinquennial Inspection of the fabric of the church was carried out in 2020. As would be expected in maintaining a building of this historic nature, there are always matters of maintenance to be attended to, and the report detailed these. However, the report did not raise any sufficiently serious concerns that would require a significant project or expenditure to remediate.

The PCC invests monetary balances with either the CBF Church of England Deposit Fund or in deposit accounts with High Street banks. At 31 December 2023, these monetary balances amounted to £101,911 as compared to £78,624 at the end of the prior year. This increase arose largely due to the fact that Church Hall toilet refurbishment work related expenditure of £16,653 remained unpaid at year end.

In addition, to the monetary balances, the PCC continued to hold some legacy investments in Chichester Diocesan Board of Finance and Church of England Central Board of Finance funds amounting to £15,650 up from £14,304 following a capital gain for the year of £1,346. A capital loss of £1,889 was made in 2022.

It is PCC policy to maintain a balance on Unrestricted Funds (excluding property) at a minimum of two months’ worth of average unrestricted payments as contingency against unforeseen situations. This balance has always been exceeded.

Specific thanks

As ever the PCC is indebted to many contributors to the ongoing operation and funding of the Church in addition to those mentioned above, including:

  1. The PCC is most grateful for the ongoing generosity of those who have supported the Church during the year by way of both regular giving and one-off donations, whether they be parishioners, friends or organisations.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke 31 December 2023 Annual Report of the Trustees {continuedJ .We would fike tothankAmberley Parth Counol fortheir ongoiThg support and the grants of £5(Kl agaln5t ,the costs of operatingthe ChLwth Hall as well as the £LOOD8ranttovdards the hall rèfurbishment work Smentloned above. We would also Ilke to thank those Pa￿h7One￿ who have been involved in any way with the regular artivities of the Church, such a5 operatiw of the r¢wgaan4 church Hall eto that make 5uth an important , contribution to p3rSsh ItfÈ and to our ￿restrIrted finan The parish magazine Is prndured in fvll wkMJr contains much u5efiJl local information and to￿(al , articles. The supp(¥t of the manysubscribers 15 much appreoed. However. rfanyone reading does not ' presently receive this informative magazine, a subscriptlon comes at very economical rate of £15 for ' the year. Approved by order oftheTrtstees and swd on dir behalfbr. Mrs Melanie Edge alurchwarden MrGraham EIKott Treasurer 24 February 2024

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke 31 Decernber 2023 Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities The Trustees are responsible for prepaTlng the Annual Report of the Trustees and the financSal statements in accordancewlth applicable law and In aCcOrdan￿WIth UK accountingstandards IUKGenerallyAccepted Accounting Practicè)- Under charity law the Trustees must not approve the finandal statements unless they are satisfied that they glve a true and falr vlew of the state of affalrs of the thartty and of Its incoming resources and applicatlon of those resources. Including its income and expenditure for that period. In preparing thesè finantlal statements. the Tru5tee5 are required to- selettsuttable accountine policies and then apply them consistÈntly* observe the methods and prlnclples of the Charltles SORP IFR51021- makejudgements and accounting estimate5 that 3re reasonable and prudent,, state whether applicable UK accounting standard5 have been followed, subjett to any material departures disdosed and explalned In the financlal statements: prepare the financial statements using the going concem ba515 of accounting unless it 55 inappropriate to presume that the Charity will continue in busirbess. The Tru5tee5 are responslbie lor keeplng adequate accountlng records that are sufficlent to show and explain the charitvs transactions and disclose with rèasonable accuracy at any time the flnanclal posltlon of the charfty and enable them to ensure that the financial ststÈments complywith thè Charltles Art 2011. the Charity (Attounts and Repurtsl Regulatlcffl5 2008 and the provi5ion5 of other applicable legislation. They al50 have general re5ponslbility for safeguarding the assets of the charlty and for taklng such steps as are reasonably open to them to prevent and detertfraud and other Irreguladtles. Approved by order of the Trustees and slgned on thelr behalf by: Mrs Melanle Edge Churchwarden Mr Graham Elllott Treasurer 24 February 2024

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Independent Examiner’s report to the Trustees of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Parochial Church Council of Amberley with North Stoke (the “Charity”)

I report to the Charity Trustees on my examination of the financial statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2023.

Responsibilities and Basis of Report

As the Trustees of the Charity, you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2001 (the “2011 Act”).

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity’s financial statements carried out under Section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charities Commission under Section 145 (5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent Examiner’s Report

Your attention is drawn to the fact that the Charity has prepared the financial statements in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their financial statements in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been withdrawn.

I understand that this has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019.

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

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with my examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.

The purpose of my work and to whom I owe responsibility

This report is made solely to the Charity’s Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Charity’s Trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent Examiner’s Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charity and the Charity’s Trustees, as a body, for my work, or for this report.

James Peach, FCA for and on behalf of Kreston Reeves LLP Chartered Accountants Springfield House, Springfield Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 2RG

Date: 24.02.2024

10

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Statement of Financial Activities

for the year ended 31 December 2023

Unrestricted
funds Restricted funds Total funds Total funds
Note 2023 2023 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Income from:
Donations and legacies 2 33,333 10,141 43,474 32,791
Charitable activities 3 16,974 200 17,174 18,698
Other trading activities 4 1,896 6,763 8,659 2,372
Investments 5 1,533 403 1,936 658
Total income 53,736 17,507 71,243 54,519
Expenditure on:
Raising funds 6 (175) - (175) (259)
Charitable activities 7 (54,615) (16,995) (71,610) (56,142)
Total expenditure (54,790) (16,995) (71,785) (56,401)
Net gains/(losses) on investments 729 617 1,346 (1,889)
Net income/(expenditure) (325) 1,129 804 (3,771)
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward 299,146 30,958 330,104 333,875
Net income/(expenditure) (325) 1,129 804 (3,771)
Total funds carried forward 298,821 32,087 330,908 330,104

The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised for the year.

The notes on pages 13 to 21 form an integral part of these financial statements.

11

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke 31 December 2023 Balance Sheet on 31 December2023 20 2023 2022 2022 Hxed 059ets Tanglble assets Investments io li 234,633 15,650 237,969 14.304 251273 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and In hand 12 3,054 101,911 5,101 78,624 104,965 83.725 Credltors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year 124,340) 15,8941 Neteurrent assets 77,831 N•t a5s•ts 330,908 330,104 Charityfunds Unrestrlcted funds Aestricted funds 14 14 298.821 31087 299,146 30,958 Total funds 330.908 330,IIYI The note5 Qn page5 13 to 21 form an Integral part of these flnanclal statements. These flnanclal Statements were approved and authori5ed for155ue by the Tru5tee5 and signed on thelr behalf bv: Mrs Melanle Edge Churchwarden Mr Graham Elllott Treasurer 24 February 2024 12

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes

(forming part of the financial statements)

1 Accounting policies

The Parochial Church Council of Amberley with North Stoke (“PCC”) is an incorporated body governed by the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure (1956) as amended and the Church Representation Rules (contained in Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 as amended). Legally the council is responsible for the financial affairs of the church parish and the maintenance of its assets, such as churches and church halls, and for promoting the mission of the church.

1.1 Basis of preparation of these financial statements

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair' view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair' view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP (FRS 102) published on 16 July 2014 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.

The PCC meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

No amendments arising from the implementation of this Standard have affected the PCC’s previously published financial position.

1.2 Income

All income is recognised once the PCC has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.

1.3 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated based on time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Expenditure on charitable activities is that incurred on undertaking the activities which further the PCC's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.

All expenditure is shown inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

13

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

1 Accounting policies (continued)

1.4 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Tangible fixed assets are capitalised and recognised when the future economic benefits are probable, and the cost or value of the assets can be measured reliably.

Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working condition are included in the measurement of cost.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of the tangible fixed assets less their residual values over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

The estimated useful lives are as follows:

1.5 Investments

Fixed asset investments are financial instruments and are initially recognised at their transaction cost, and subsequently measured at fair value, unless the value cannot be measured reliably, in which case they are measured at cost less impairment. Investment gains and losses, whether realised or unrealised, are combined and presented as ‘Net Gains/(losses) on investments’ in the Statement of Financial Activities.

1.6 Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered.

Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

1.7 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

1.8 Liabilities and provisions

Liabilities are recognised in the balance sheet when there is a present legal or constructive obligation arising as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably.

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the PCC anticipates it will pay to settle the obligation or the amount received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must subsequently provide.

Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities as a finance cost.

1.9 Financial instruments

Other than investments, the PCC only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.

1.10 Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the PCC and which have not been designated or otherwise restricted for use for other purposes.

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The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

1 Accounting policies (continued)

1.10 Fund accounting (continued)

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the PCC for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aims and uses of each restricted fund are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.

2 Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted Restricted
funds funds Total funds Total funds
2023 2023 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Donations:
Planned giving 13,160 - 13,160 11,570
Income tax recoverable 6,129 - 6,129 4,762
Collections at services 7,609 - 7,609 7,819
Legacies 609 - 609 1,000
Gift days, sundry donations and appeals 5,326 285 5,611 7,140
Grants 500 9,856 10,356 500
Total 2023 33,333 10,141 43,474 32,791
Total 2022 32,791 - 32,791

3 Income from charitable activities

Unrestricted
funds Restricted funds Total funds Total funds
2023 2023 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Church fees received 4,521 200 4,721 7,771
Church hall lettings 2,134 - 2,134 1,763
United Benefice cost recharges 1,411 - 1,411 1,467
Parish magazine 8,908 - 8,908 7,697
Total 2023 16,974 200 17,174 18,698
Total 2022 18,198 500 18,698

15

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

4 Income from other trading activities

Unrestricted
funds Restricted funds Total funds Total funds
2023 2023 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Fundraising events 1,635 6,763 8,398 2,356
Other income 261 - 261 16
Total 2023 1,896 6,763 8,659 2,372
Total 2022 2,372 - 2,372
5 Investment income
Unrestricted
funds Restricted funds Total funds Total funds
2023 2023 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Interest receivable 1,533 403 1,936 658
Total 2022 508 150 658
6
Expenditure on raising funds
Unrestricted
funds Restricted funds Total funds Total funds
2023 2023 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Fundraising costs 175 - 175 259
Total 2022 259 - 259

16

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

7 Expenditure on charitable activities

Unrestricted
funds Restricted funds Total funds Total funds
2023 2023 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Missionary and charitable giving 658 - 658 1,649
Diocesan parish contribution 16,000 - 16,000 16,500
Other clergy costs 5,446 - 5,446 3,735
Church running expenses 11,968 50 12,018 10,680
Upkeep of churchyard 3,599 - 3,599 9,085
Parish magazine 7,096 - 7,096 5,913
Church hall running costs 4,499 - 4,499 3,734
Church hall refurbishment 673 16,945 17,618
Depreciation 3,336 - 3,336 3,336
Independent examination fees 1,200 - 1,200 1,050
Other expenses 140 - 140 460
Total 2023 54,615 16,995 71,610 56,142
Total 2022 56,142 - 56,142

Throughout 2022 and 2023 the PCC had two part time employees. Church and church hall running expenses include payments to these two part time employees of £5,460 (2022- £5,550). These payments were not large enough to attract social security costs.

8 Independent examiner’s remuneration

The independent examiner’s remuneration comprises a fee for the independent examination of £1,200 (2022 - £1,050).

9 Trustees’ remuneration

None of the trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2022 - £Nil) nor did they incur expenses (2022 - £Nil).

17

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

10 Tangible fixed assets

Freehold
property
£
Cost
Balance at 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2023
278,000
Accumulated depreciation
Balance at 1 January 2023
40,031
Amortisation for the year
3,336

Balance at 31 December 2023
43,367
Net book value
At 1 January 2023
237,969

At 31 December 2023
234,633

11
Fixed asset investments
2023
£
Other investments at valuation
At 1 January
14,304
Revaluations
1,346
At 31 December
15,650		 Total
£
278,000
40,031
3,336

43,367
237,969
234,633
2022
£
16,193
(1,889)

14,304

18

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

12 Debtors

Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income		 2023
£
1,804
1,250
3,054		 2022
£
3,470
1,631
5,101

13 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Other creditors
Accrued expenses
Deferred income		 2023
£
63
19,407
4,870
24,340		 2022
£
681
2,483
2,730
5,894

Deferred income comprises fund raising event and parish magazine subscription and advertising income received in advance.

19

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

14 Statement of funds

Current year
Balance at 1
January
£
Unrestricted funds

General funds
299,146
Restricted funds
Collard
5,420
Collard Churchyard
8,117
Bells
3,567
Choir
3,148
Fabric
10,706
Church hall
-
30,958
Total funds
330,104
Prior year
Balance at 1
January
£
Unrestricted funds

General funds
302,704
Restricted funds
Collard
5,419
Collard Churchyard
8,834
Bells
3,267
Choir
2,948
Fabric
10,703
Church hall
-
31,171
Total funds
333,875		 Income
Expenditure
£
£
53,736
(54,790)
-
-
260
-
100
(50)
100
-
102
-
16,945
(16,945)
17,507
(16,995)
71,243
(71,785)
Income
Expenditure
£
£
53,869
(56,401)
1
-
146
-
300
-
200
-
3
-
-
-
650
-
54,519
(56,401)		 Gains/
(losses)
Balance at 31
December
£
£
729
298,821
-
5,420
617
8,994
-
3,617
-
3,248
-
10,808
-
-
617
32,087
1,346
330,908
Gains
Balance at 31
December
£
£
(1,026)
299,146
-
5,420
(863)
8,117
-
3,567
-
3,148
-
10,706
-
-
(863)
30,958
(1,889)
330,104

The Restricted funds are restricted for the following uses:

20

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Amberley with North Stoke

31 December 2023

Notes (continued)

15 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted Restricted
funds funds Total funds
£ £ £
Current year
Tangible fixed assets 234,633 - 234,633
Fixed asset investments 8,529 7,121 15,650
Current assets 63,346 41,619 104,965
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year (7,687) (16,653) (24,340)
Total at 31 December 2023 298,821 32,087 330,908
Prior year
Tangible fixed assets 237,969 - 237,969
Fixed asset investments 7,800 6,504 14,304
Current assets 59,271 24,454 83,725
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year (5,894) - (5,894)
Total at 31 December 2022 299,146
 30,958
 330,104

16 Related parties

There were no related party transactions in the year or the prior year that require disclosure under the Charities SORP (FRS102).

21