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2024-12-31-accounts

Registered Charity: 1193475

Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Parochial Church Council

for the year ended 31 December 2024

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Annual Report for 2024

Background

Christ Church Wokingham was founded as a ‘church plant’ from Barkham Parish Church in September 2004, and was originally called The Church at the White House School. While maintaining strong links with the Arborfield and Barkham family of churches, the Church at the White House became a Conventional District on 10 June 2007, and is part of the Diocese of Oxford within the Church of England. In April 2013, following the closure of the White House School, the church was renamed Christ Church Wokingham.

The correspondence address of the church is:

Christ Church Wokingham c/o The Church Office The Rectory Church Lane Arborfield Berkshire RG2 9HZ

Purpose

The principal purpose of Christ Church Wokingham is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. To this end, the Parochial Church Council (PCC) seeks to co-operate with the minister and incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church – pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

Structure, governance and management

The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England and operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC, which was previously excepted from registration with the Charity Commission by Statutory Instrument 180 Charities (Exception from Registration) Regulations 1996, registered as a charity (registration number 1193475) on 10 February 2021.

The appointment of PCC members is governed by, and set out in, the Church Representation Rules. Members of the PCC are either elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting or are co-opted onto the PCC.

Incumbent Rev’d Andy Kearns (Appointed 26 September 2024)
Minister Rev’d Joel Knight* Chairman
Church
Wardens Martin Northend* (Resigned 24 April 2024)
Paul Hucklesby* (Appointed 24 April 2024)
Jayne Yeo* (Appointed APCM 26 April 2023)
Elected Linda Clements
Members Ian Stewart* Deanery Synod Lay member
Simon Fawkes Deanery Synod lay member
Joyce Dunning
Graham Richardson* Treasurer
Philippa Allan
Paul Hucklesby

1

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Eva Simmons Elliot Harding Secretary Jayne Yeo

Members marked with an asterisk are on Standing Committee.

Julie Wilding is not an elected or co-opted member of the PCC but attends in her capacity of note-taker and secretary.

At 31 December 2024 there were 78 members on the Electoral Roll of the church. This is an increase from 73 members on the Roll at 31[st] December 2023.

2

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Minister’s Review

Activities

We gather each week for public worship, in a local school, for the proclamation of the Christian faith as the Church of England has received it and to serve and encourage one another through prayer, song and fellowship. A large and growing proportion of the church family are involved practically in making this happen. Members setup the space hired each week, welcome people in, serve refreshments, play in the music team or work with youth in one of the three groups for children and teens we run each Sunday. Our hope is that our gatherings might be a focal point to draw others into our corporate ‘life together’, most publicly visible on a Sunday but continuing in all manner of ways through the week. To enable our ‘life together’ we run various weekly groups. Two ‘men’s breakfasts’ in a local coffee shop, a daytime meetup for women, two daytime Bible study groups and seven evening groups where members discuss life, the Christian Scriptures and pray together. Within the wider family of churches (St. Bartholomew’s Arborfield, St. James’ Barkham, Christ Church and Church at the Green) we also run a ministry to the elderly as well as youth work for 11-18s. The church has been pleased to continue links with 1. The Carter family, Andrew, Julie and children, who minister in Thailand. 2. Yeldall Manor, a local Christian drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre. 3. Arab World Ministries. 4. A family who work in theological education in east Asia. We support them through the organisation Crosslinks.

Performance

We continue to see the church grow, in diversity of background religious, ethnic and cultural, and in size. This year we’ve needed to make adjustments for this growth in size in various ways, especially in the way we setup our space on Sundays. Ongoing integration of those who’ve arrived in the past 3 years continues and is now seen in various leadership positions. A significant proportion of the church family meet in small groups across the week and the ministry to men has been supplemented by a new ‘weekend away’ for men which, due to demand, runs twice a year. The monthly prayer meeting has outgrown its space and now makes use of a different room at Norrey’s church, who kindly lend us their facilities each month. The arrival of Iain Lingwood to the wider family of churches, who gives some of his time to youth work, has enabled the continuation of Friday Club and Rooted. Alongside Rooted, for 14-18s, there is a fortnightly bible study for boys and the occasional gathering of teenage girls. This past year saw the 20th anniversary of Christ Church and in celebration we had a lunch together as well as the baptisms of five teenagers/ adults on the same day.

Future

Some progress has been made on the regularisation of CCW’s position within the Church of England and much has been agreed in principle. Delays have been caused by waiting on legal documents from the Diocese of Oxford. The Church remains hopeful of being a fully self-funded Church of England church. And whatever the future holds we plan to continue our close links with the other ABCH churches in our ‘family’ of churches.

Joel Knight

Minister

3

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Financial review 2024

Overview

2024 has seen God provide for the church’s needs as we seek to serve him in Wokingham. Throughout 2024 the spiritual and administrative running of the church has been led by our minister, Joel Knight. In September 2024 Iain Lingwood was appointed the Minister of Church on The Green, a sister church within the ABCH Trust. As part of his duties Iain took over the joint Youth Activities of the ABCH churches including Friday club and Rooted. CCW reimburses ABCH for one third of the one day per week that Iain devotes to this task, with Barkham and Arborfield Churches contributing a similar amount.

During 2024 expenditure was slightly higher than income but we end the year with comfortable reserves. It was noted that total income dropped off to a certain extent towards the end of the year but not sufficiently to cause concern when the extent of the reserves are considered.

Despite everything that has occurred in 2024, the Church is in good financial health although this cannot be assumed to remain the case without careful planning.

Financial position

The PCC began 2024 with reserves of £47,021, all of which was unrestricted (2023: £45,752). In 2024, the PCC received unrestricted income of £114,746, a small decrease on the previous year (2023: £114,903), while its unrestricted expended resources increased 1% to £116,425 (2023: £113,327). The increase in expenditure on other activities was the result of a significantly increased portion of the ABCH Benefice’s Parish share being paid by CCW (£13,624 vs 2023 £3,165). This in turn was caused by the agreed allotment of this expense resulting in a larger sum during the Rector’s inter-regnum and the appointment of Iain Lingwood to CTG during September 2024. This expense is expected to return to the projected figure in 2025 now that all positions within the Trust have been stabilised. This increase in Parish Share was partially offset by there being no requirement to pay legal and profession fees in 2024 (2023:£6,775). The net result was that in 2024, the PCC recorded a deficit on its unrestricted funds of £1,679 (2023: £1,269 surplus).

Consequently, at the end of 2024, the PCC’s unrestricted reserves have dropped to £45,342.

All restricted funds received in 2024 were spent with the exception of £20 gift to Joel and Frankie Knight which was transferred following the end of the financial year.

Income

Income received by CCW in 2024 has reduced to £114,746 (2023 £114,903) including bank interest. Over 95% of donations to CCW are eligible for gift aid which is reclaimed from HMRC.

Expenditure

Unrestricted General Fund

The PCC continues a tithing policy to give away 10% of its unrestricted voluntary income. In relation to 2024, we gave away £11,629 to a number of missionary and charitable organisations (2023: £11,431). This represents a £349 over donation with respect to 10% tithe, which PCC will be asked to approve in 2025. We have supported many of these mission partners for some years, both financially and in our prayer life.

The Mission Committee advises the PCC on the distribution of these funds.

4

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

The main cost of the church is that of supporting the minister, Joel Knight. Members of staff are employed by the Arborfield and Barkham Parish Churches’ Trust. Joel was paid the standard Diocesan ministerial stipend. The PCC reimburses the Trust for all staff employment costs including rented accommodation for the Minister. Work-related expenses are directly reimbursed by the PCC. The total cost of Joel’s employment was £69,889 (2023: £66,185).

Administration and support costs provided through the Arborfield and Barkham Churches Trust increased significantly to £22,682 (2023: £17,403). The underlying reasons for this increase are twofold:-

The core running costs of the Church comprise rent paid to St Crispin’s school for use of the 6[th] Form Centre for Sunday worship. In 2024 this increased to £7,586 (2023: £6,139). Expenditure on church activities other than school rent also increased to £3,041 (2023: £1,576) reflecting a full year of hiring Norrey’s Church for monthly prayer meetings and an increase in church activities and events.

Church Reserves

At the end of 2024 Church Reserves stood at £45,342. This is a modest decrease from £47,021 at the end of 2023.

In December 2024 the PCC reviewed its policy relating to its Reserves target to ensure it was in line with the Charity Commission’s guidance for good financial management and ABCH Trust’s policies. In line with this policy the reserves target for 2024 has been set at £32,500.

The Church holds its bank accounts at the Wokingham branch of HSBC.

Independent Examiner

The Accounts are examined by Trevor James as independent examiner in compliance with good practice.

Charity Registration

In accordance with Church of England and Charity Commission requirements, CCW is directly registered with the Charity Commission. This is a legal requirement as our annual income now regularly exceeds the £100,000 annual threshold. The Church is registered as a Charity under the name of “Christ Church Wokingham” with a charity number 1170524. Members of the PCC are trustees but not the Priest in Charge (Andrew Kearns). The Minister is Joel Knight, who acts as the Chairman of the Charity and PCC.

This registration has no noticeable effect on the functioning of CCW which remains part of the Arborfield / Barkham group of Churches and the wider Church of England. The Church accounts and annual return will be submitted to the Charity Commission on approval at the APCM.

Looking forward

2024 has seen consolidation and growth for Christ Church Wokingham, for which we are grateful to God. In financial terms we have continued to meet the overwhelming majority of church costs with only a small deficit. Going forward in 2025 the PCC have agreed to hold a Gift Day with the objective of covering this deficit and additional costs expected in 2025.

5

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

There have been continued efforts towards the regularisation of CCW’s position within the Church of England. These discussions are ongoing and further details are included in the Minister’s report section of this document.

The ongoing health of the Church accounts will remain dependent upon growing the congregation, its donor base and prudent financial management.

We end 2024 reminded that without God we build in vain, but with God anything is possible.

Graham Richardson & Zoe Hubbard Joint Treasurers

6

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Financial Statements for 2024

Statement of Financial Activities

for the year ended 31 December 2024

Notes:
Incoming resources
Voluntary income
Investment income
Other incoming resources
Staff gifts
Total incoming resources
Resources expended
Church activities
Other activities
Staff gifts
Prior Year Adjustment
Total resources expended
Net incoming / (outgoing)
resources before transfers
Net movement in funds
Value of fund at 1 January
Value of fund at 31 December
2024
2024
2024
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
£
£
£
3 and 4
5
111,928
-
111,928
881
-
881
1,937
-
1,937
-
560
560
114,746
560
115,306
(101,203)
-
(101,203)
(15,222)
-
(15,222)
-
(560)
(560)
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
113,391
621
891
-
114,903
(110,162)
(3,165)
-
(307)
(116,425)
(560)
(116,985)
(1,679)
(0)
(1,679)
(1,679)
-
(1,679)
47,021
-
47,021
45,342
-
45,342
(113,634)
1,269
1,269
45,752
47,021

7

Christ Church Woklngham Annual Report and Finan¢lal Statements Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 2024 Unrestrfrted Funds 2024 Restrirted Fund5 2024 Total 2023 Total curre￿ assets Debtor5 (Note 91 Cash at bank Total ¢urrent assets 20.808 34,157 $4,965 20.808 34,177 54.985 22,868 45,621 68.489 20 20 Creditors: amounts falli￿ due wlthln one year Creditors INote 101 Accruals Imote 111 Deferred income 19.4911 {1321 {201 19.5111 11321 IIS,2821 15,0611 11,1251 Total creditors 19.6231 20) {9.6431 121,4681 Net assets I Iliabilitiesl 45342 45.342 47.021 Totsl funds broughtfonmard 47.OZI 47.021 45,752 Net movement in funds 11.6791 11.6791 1,269 Total funds carrled lonyard 45,342 45.342 47,021 Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 30th April 2025 and signed on its behalf by= Joel Knight Chair of PCC, Minister Graham Richardson CtrTreasurer Zoe Hubbard Co-Treasurer The notes on pages 9 to 17 form part of these accounts.

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 1: Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, and include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. Unrestricted funds are general funds which can be used by the PCC for ordinary purposes. Restricted funds represent donations received for a specific purpose which may only be used for that purpose.

The accounts are prepared on an accruals basis to give a fairer representation of the church’s financial position on an on-going basis.

Note 2: Accounting policies

Incoming resources Recognition of All planned giving, donations and collections are recognised in the Statement incoming resources of Financial Activities (SoFA) when they are received. One-off gifts are generally recognised when they are received, except for gifts of over £1,000 that are received in response to the annual giving appeal which are recognised over the following 12 months. All other income is recognised when it is receivable. All incoming resources are accounted for gross. Tax reclaims on Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate donations is recognised. Resources expended Recognition of Expenditure and liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or expended resources constructive obligation on the PCC. All other expenditure is recognised when and liabilities it is incurred. All expenditure is accounted for gross. Assets Tangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £1,000. They are valued at cost or a reasonable value on receipt. Reserves The PCC aims to keep three months’ worth of general running costs in reserves. The PCC is committed to maintaining our reserves at an appropriate level

9

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 3: Unrestricted General Fund

Note 3: Unrestricted General Fund
Incoming resources
Voluntary income
Regular donations under gift aid
Other regular donations
Total regular donations
Gift aid reclaimed
Gift aid incorrectly reclaimed
Regular income
One-off donations under gift aid
Other one-off donations
Total one-off donations
Gift aid reclaimed
Gift aid incorrectly reclaimed
One-off income
Total
Investment income
Interest
Total
Income from church activities
Parochial fees
Wreath event
Women’s Events
Men’s Events
Other events, bookstall etc
Total
Other income
Total incoming resources
2024
£
£
83,234
6,760
89,994
20,809
110,803
900
-
900
225
-
1,125
111,928
881
881
-
-
549
1,380
8
1,937
-
114,746
2023
£
£
80,433
6,700
87,133
20,108
-
107,241
4,920
-
4,920
1,230
-
6,150
113,391
621
621
242
500
-
-
149
891
-
114,903
2023
£
£
80,433
6,700
87,133
20,108
-
107,241
4,920
-
4,920
1,230
-
6,150
113,391
621
621
242
500
-
-
149
891
-
114,903
89,994
20,809
87,133
20,108
-
110,803 107,241
900
-
4,920
-
900
225
-
4,920
1,230
-
1,125 6,150
881 621
-
-
549
1,380
8
242
500
-
-
149
114,903

10

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 4: Unrestricted General Fund

Note 4: Unrestricted General Fund
resources expended on
church activities
Missionary and charitable gifts1
Andrew Carter
Faith
Arab World Ministry of Pioneers
Powerline Trust
Yeldall Manor
Crosslinks
Unallocated2
Other charitable gifts
Total
Ministry costs
Minister’s costs
Salary, National Insurance
Contributions and pension
Housing
Expenses
Total minister’s costs
Youth and Children’s worker
Salary, National Insurance
Contributions and pension
Expenses
Staff Development
Total minister’s costs
Share of David Horrocks’ costs
Contribution to Barkham PCC3
Staff Team Development
Total
Church activities
School rent
Outreach activities
Resources and equipment
Service costs
Friday Club / Lasers / Sunday Club
Refreshments
Prayer Meeting
Wreath-making event
Other
Total
2024
£
£
(2,820)
-
(2,820)
-
(2,820)
(2,820)
-
(349)
(11,629)
(39,901)
(29,496)
(492)
(69,889)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(69,889)
(7,586)
-
(1,960)
(164)
(140)
(282)
(495)
-
-
(10,627)
2023
£
£
(1,905)
(1,905)
(1,905)
(375)
(1,905)
-
(3,436)
-
(11,431)
(37,060)
(28,392)
(733)
(66,185)
(10,367)
-
-
(10,367)
-
(533)
(77,085)
(6,139)
-
(425)
(159)
(92)
(128)
(201)
(530)
(41)
(7,715)

1 Standing Committee agreed that monthly payments of £235 would be made to each of Crosslinks, Andrew Carter, AWM and Yeldall. This totalled £2,820 per mission partner in the year, which included a minor ‘overspend’ based on our mission giving policy. Standing Committee also agreed to contribute £349 for a member of the congregation to participate in a summer camp.

2 It was agreed on 24 March 2023 that the £1670 unallocated at 31 December 2022 would be given to John and Mary Featherstone (Powerline Trust) as a retirement gift.

11

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Administration
Share of Arborfield & Barkham church
office cost (7,404) (5,450)
Insurance (386) (396)
Legal and professional fees - (6,775)
Other administration costs (1,208) (1,179)
Parochial fees - (70)
Parish Share (13,624) (3,165)
Prior Year Adjustment4 - (307)
Bank charges (60) (61)
Total (22,682) (17,403)
Total resources expended (114,827) (113,634)
Note 5: Unrestricted - Men’s Events 2024 2023
£ £ £ £
Incoming resources
Income - contributions
1,380 -
Total 1,380 -
Resources expended
Expenditure on venue and catering
(1,071) -
Total (1,071) -
Net movement in funds 309 -
Value of fund at 1 January - -
Value of fund at 31 December 309 -

4 The prior year adjustment relates to writing off an historic gift aid debt asset, which was overstated in the 2020 accounts.

12

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 6: Unrestricted: Women’s Events

Note 6: Unrestricted: Women’s Events
2024
£
£
£
Incoming resources
Income - contributions
549
Total
549
Resources expended
Expenditure on venues, catering and
speakers
(527)
Total
(527)
Net movement in funds
22
Value of fund at 1 January
-
Value of fund at 31 December
22
Note 8: Restricted – Staff gifts
2024
£
£
£
Incoming resources
Donations towards baby gift for Joel
and Frankie
560
Total
560
Resources expended
Gift vouchers purchased
(560)
Total
(560)
Net movement in funds
nil
Value of fund at 1 January
-
Value of fund at 31 December5
nil
Note 9: Debtors
2024
2023
2024
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
£
£
£
HM Revenue & Customs
(gift aid)
20,809
-
20,809
Total
20,809
-
20,809
£ 2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
22,868
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
22,868
-
£
-
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
22,868
22,868

HMRC debt is in respect of tax reclaimable on donations received under gift aid which had not been claimed and received as at 31[st] December.

5 The remaining amount was transferred to Joel and Frankie Knight following the end of the financial year.

13

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 10: Creditors and Other
Liabilities
St Crispin’s School rent
Arborfield and Barkham Trust
Minister’s expenses
Ellen Crewe
Jayne Yeo
Emma Harding
Norreys Church
Helen McSweeny
Sue Northend
Pines Bowerman Trust
DM Music Ltd-
Helen Stewart
Joel and Frankie Knight
Total
2024
2024
2024
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
£
£
£
(1,400)
-
(1,400)
(5,345)
-
(5,345)
(1,604)
-
(1,604)
-
-
-
(75)
-
(75)
-
-
-
(30)
-
(30)
(41)
-
(41)
-
-
-
(220)
-
(220)
(723)
-
(723)
(53)
-
(53)
-
(20)
(20)
(9,491)
(20)
(9,511)
2023
Total
£
(895)
(12,932)
(764)
(530)
(48)
(19)
(30)
(23)
(41)
-
-
-
-
(15,282)

14

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 11: Accruals 2024 2024 2024 2023
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
Funds Funds
£ £ £ £
Missionary and charitable gifts
Andrew Carter - - - (405)
Arab World Ministries - - - (405)
Faith (132) - (132) (405)
Crosslinks - - - -
Yeldall Manor - - - (405)
Unallocated6 - - - (3,441)
Total (132) - (132) (5,061)

In 2023 the church changed its previous practice of supporting its mission partners via an annual lump sum payment following the end of the financial year and began supporting its mission partners with a regular monthly payment, to be followed by a balancing payment when the financial year has concluded. In 2024 therefore, each of our four mission partners has received £235 per month, with no balancing payment due.

Following the end of the financial year, it was determined that a further £132 was due to Faith as we had agreed to pay them £275 in 2024 as part of terminating our giving arrangements with them. This was paid on 15 March 2025.

6 The difference between £3441 unallocated in accruals and £3436 unallocated in general expenditure under Note 4 is due to carried forward rounding amounts from 2022.

15

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 12: Summary of Fund Movements

At 1 Jan 2024
Income
Expenditure
Carried forward at 31 Dec
2024
Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total
General
Fund
Total
£
£
47,021
47,021
Total
£
nil
£
47,021
114,746
114,746
(116,425)
(116,425)
560
(560)
115,306
(116,985)
45,342
45,342
nil 45,342

Note 13: Summary of Assets by Fund at 31 December 2024

Current assets
Debtors
Cash at bank and in
hand
Unrestricted Funds Restricted
Funds
Total
General
Fund
Total
£
£
20,808
20,808
34,157
34,157
Restricted
funds
Total
£
£
-
-
20
20
£
20,808
34,177
Total current assets 54,965
54,965
20
20
54,985
Creditors: amounts
falling due within
one year
Creditors
Accruals
Deferred income
Other Liabilities
(9,491)
(9,491)
(132)
(132)
-
-
-
-
(20)
(20)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(9,511)
(132)
-
-
Total creditors (9,623)
(9,623)
(20)
(20)
(9,643)
Net assets /
(liabilities)
45,342
45,342
nil
nil
45,342

16

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 14: Related Party Transactions

Christ Church Wokingham is a registered charity (under Charity Number 1193475) and as such the Trustees are the Elected Members of the PCC and the only related parties. In the year ended 31 December 2024 there were no transactions with related parties other than donations by Elected Members to Christ Church Wokingham and payments to the Arborfield and Barkham Parish Churches’ Trust (ABPCT), who employ our Minister and Church Youth Worker and provide central administration functions on behalf of Christ Church Wokingham. From time to time related parties pay for goods and services on behalf of the PCC and are subsequently reimbursed. At 31 December 2024 reimbursement of £75 was due to Jayne Yeo, and reimbursement of £5,345 was due to ABPCT. In addition, a restricted gift of £560 was made to Joel and Frankie Knight in-year from congregational contributions, following the arrival of their baby.

17

Registered Charity: 1193475

Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Parochial Church Council

for the year ended 31 December 2024

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Annual Report for 2024

Background

Christ Church Wokingham was founded as a ‘church plant’ from Barkham Parish Church in September 2004, and was originally called The Church at the White House School. While maintaining strong links with the Arborfield and Barkham family of churches, the Church at the White House became a Conventional District on 10 June 2007, and is part of the Diocese of Oxford within the Church of England. In April 2013, following the closure of the White House School, the church was renamed Christ Church Wokingham.

The correspondence address of the church is:

Christ Church Wokingham c/o The Church Office The Rectory Church Lane Arborfield Berkshire RG2 9HZ

Purpose

The principal purpose of Christ Church Wokingham is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. To this end, the Parochial Church Council (PCC) seeks to co-operate with the minister and incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church – pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

Structure, governance and management

The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England and operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC, which was previously excepted from registration with the Charity Commission by Statutory Instrument 180 Charities (Exception from Registration) Regulations 1996, registered as a charity (registration number 1193475) on 10 February 2021.

The appointment of PCC members is governed by, and set out in, the Church Representation Rules. Members of the PCC are either elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting or are co-opted onto the PCC.

Incumbent Rev’d Andy Kearns (Appointed 26 September 2024)
Minister Rev’d Joel Knight* Chairman
Church
Wardens Martin Northend* (Resigned 24 April 2024)
Paul Hucklesby* (Appointed 24 April 2024)
Jayne Yeo* (Appointed APCM 26 April 2023)
Elected Linda Clements
Members Ian Stewart* Deanery Synod Lay member
Simon Fawkes Deanery Synod lay member
Joyce Dunning
Graham Richardson* Treasurer
Philippa Allan
Paul Hucklesby

1

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Eva Simmons Elliot Harding Secretary Jayne Yeo

Members marked with an asterisk are on Standing Committee.

Julie Wilding is not an elected or co-opted member of the PCC but attends in her capacity of note-taker and secretary.

At 31 December 2024 there were 78 members on the Electoral Roll of the church. This is an increase from 73 members on the Roll at 31[st] December 2023.

2

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Minister’s Review

Activities

We gather each week for public worship, in a local school, for the proclamation of the Christian faith as the Church of England has received it and to serve and encourage one another through prayer, song and fellowship. A large and growing proportion of the church family are involved practically in making this happen. Members setup the space hired each week, welcome people in, serve refreshments, play in the music team or work with youth in one of the three groups for children and teens we run each Sunday. Our hope is that our gatherings might be a focal point to draw others into our corporate ‘life together’, most publicly visible on a Sunday but continuing in all manner of ways through the week. To enable our ‘life together’ we run various weekly groups. Two ‘men’s breakfasts’ in a local coffee shop, a daytime meetup for women, two daytime Bible study groups and seven evening groups where members discuss life, the Christian Scriptures and pray together. Within the wider family of churches (St. Bartholomew’s Arborfield, St. James’ Barkham, Christ Church and Church at the Green) we also run a ministry to the elderly as well as youth work for 11-18s. The church has been pleased to continue links with 1. The Carter family, Andrew, Julie and children, who minister in Thailand. 2. Yeldall Manor, a local Christian drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre. 3. Arab World Ministries. 4. A family who work in theological education in east Asia. We support them through the organisation Crosslinks.

Performance

We continue to see the church grow, in diversity of background religious, ethnic and cultural, and in size. This year we’ve needed to make adjustments for this growth in size in various ways, especially in the way we setup our space on Sundays. Ongoing integration of those who’ve arrived in the past 3 years continues and is now seen in various leadership positions. A significant proportion of the church family meet in small groups across the week and the ministry to men has been supplemented by a new ‘weekend away’ for men which, due to demand, runs twice a year. The monthly prayer meeting has outgrown its space and now makes use of a different room at Norrey’s church, who kindly lend us their facilities each month. The arrival of Iain Lingwood to the wider family of churches, who gives some of his time to youth work, has enabled the continuation of Friday Club and Rooted. Alongside Rooted, for 14-18s, there is a fortnightly bible study for boys and the occasional gathering of teenage girls. This past year saw the 20th anniversary of Christ Church and in celebration we had a lunch together as well as the baptisms of five teenagers/ adults on the same day.

Future

Some progress has been made on the regularisation of CCW’s position within the Church of England and much has been agreed in principle. Delays have been caused by waiting on legal documents from the Diocese of Oxford. The Church remains hopeful of being a fully self-funded Church of England church. And whatever the future holds we plan to continue our close links with the other ABCH churches in our ‘family’ of churches.

Joel Knight

Minister

3

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Financial review 2024

Overview

2024 has seen God provide for the church’s needs as we seek to serve him in Wokingham. Throughout 2024 the spiritual and administrative running of the church has been led by our minister, Joel Knight. In September 2024 Iain Lingwood was appointed the Minister of Church on The Green, a sister church within the ABCH Trust. As part of his duties Iain took over the joint Youth Activities of the ABCH churches including Friday club and Rooted. CCW reimburses ABCH for one third of the one day per week that Iain devotes to this task, with Barkham and Arborfield Churches contributing a similar amount.

During 2024 expenditure was slightly higher than income but we end the year with comfortable reserves. It was noted that total income dropped off to a certain extent towards the end of the year but not sufficiently to cause concern when the extent of the reserves are considered.

Despite everything that has occurred in 2024, the Church is in good financial health although this cannot be assumed to remain the case without careful planning.

Financial position

The PCC began 2024 with reserves of £47,021, all of which was unrestricted (2023: £45,752). In 2024, the PCC received unrestricted income of £114,746, a small decrease on the previous year (2023: £114,903), while its unrestricted expended resources increased 1% to £116,425 (2023: £113,327). The increase in expenditure on other activities was the result of a significantly increased portion of the ABCH Benefice’s Parish share being paid by CCW (£13,624 vs 2023 £3,165). This in turn was caused by the agreed allotment of this expense resulting in a larger sum during the Rector’s inter-regnum and the appointment of Iain Lingwood to CTG during September 2024. This expense is expected to return to the projected figure in 2025 now that all positions within the Trust have been stabilised. This increase in Parish Share was partially offset by there being no requirement to pay legal and profession fees in 2024 (2023:£6,775). The net result was that in 2024, the PCC recorded a deficit on its unrestricted funds of £1,679 (2023: £1,269 surplus).

Consequently, at the end of 2024, the PCC’s unrestricted reserves have dropped to £45,342.

All restricted funds received in 2024 were spent with the exception of £20 gift to Joel and Frankie Knight which was transferred following the end of the financial year.

Income

Income received by CCW in 2024 has reduced to £114,746 (2023 £114,903) including bank interest. Over 95% of donations to CCW are eligible for gift aid which is reclaimed from HMRC.

Expenditure

Unrestricted General Fund

The PCC continues a tithing policy to give away 10% of its unrestricted voluntary income. In relation to 2024, we gave away £11,629 to a number of missionary and charitable organisations (2023: £11,431). This represents a £349 over donation with respect to 10% tithe, which PCC will be asked to approve in 2025. We have supported many of these mission partners for some years, both financially and in our prayer life.

The Mission Committee advises the PCC on the distribution of these funds.

4

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

The main cost of the church is that of supporting the minister, Joel Knight. Members of staff are employed by the Arborfield and Barkham Parish Churches’ Trust. Joel was paid the standard Diocesan ministerial stipend. The PCC reimburses the Trust for all staff employment costs including rented accommodation for the Minister. Work-related expenses are directly reimbursed by the PCC. The total cost of Joel’s employment was £69,889 (2023: £66,185).

Administration and support costs provided through the Arborfield and Barkham Churches Trust increased significantly to £22,682 (2023: £17,403). The underlying reasons for this increase are twofold:-

The core running costs of the Church comprise rent paid to St Crispin’s school for use of the 6[th] Form Centre for Sunday worship. In 2024 this increased to £7,586 (2023: £6,139). Expenditure on church activities other than school rent also increased to £3,041 (2023: £1,576) reflecting a full year of hiring Norrey’s Church for monthly prayer meetings and an increase in church activities and events.

Church Reserves

At the end of 2024 Church Reserves stood at £45,342. This is a modest decrease from £47,021 at the end of 2023.

In December 2024 the PCC reviewed its policy relating to its Reserves target to ensure it was in line with the Charity Commission’s guidance for good financial management and ABCH Trust’s policies. In line with this policy the reserves target for 2024 has been set at £32,500.

The Church holds its bank accounts at the Wokingham branch of HSBC.

Independent Examiner

The Accounts are examined by Trevor James as independent examiner in compliance with good practice.

Charity Registration

In accordance with Church of England and Charity Commission requirements, CCW is directly registered with the Charity Commission. This is a legal requirement as our annual income now regularly exceeds the £100,000 annual threshold. The Church is registered as a Charity under the name of “Christ Church Wokingham” with a charity number 1170524. Members of the PCC are trustees but not the Priest in Charge (Andrew Kearns). The Minister is Joel Knight, who acts as the Chairman of the Charity and PCC.

This registration has no noticeable effect on the functioning of CCW which remains part of the Arborfield / Barkham group of Churches and the wider Church of England. The Church accounts and annual return will be submitted to the Charity Commission on approval at the APCM.

Looking forward

2024 has seen consolidation and growth for Christ Church Wokingham, for which we are grateful to God. In financial terms we have continued to meet the overwhelming majority of church costs with only a small deficit. Going forward in 2025 the PCC have agreed to hold a Gift Day with the objective of covering this deficit and additional costs expected in 2025.

5

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

There have been continued efforts towards the regularisation of CCW’s position within the Church of England. These discussions are ongoing and further details are included in the Minister’s report section of this document.

The ongoing health of the Church accounts will remain dependent upon growing the congregation, its donor base and prudent financial management.

We end 2024 reminded that without God we build in vain, but with God anything is possible.

Graham Richardson & Zoe Hubbard Joint Treasurers

6

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Financial Statements for 2024

Statement of Financial Activities

for the year ended 31 December 2024

Notes:
Incoming resources
Voluntary income
Investment income
Other incoming resources
Staff gifts
Total incoming resources
Resources expended
Church activities
Other activities
Staff gifts
Prior Year Adjustment
Total resources expended
Net incoming / (outgoing)
resources before transfers
Net movement in funds
Value of fund at 1 January
Value of fund at 31 December
2024
2024
2024
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
£
£
£
3 and 4
5
111,928
-
111,928
881
-
881
1,937
-
1,937
-
560
560
114,746
560
115,306
(101,203)
-
(101,203)
(15,222)
-
(15,222)
-
(560)
(560)
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
113,391
621
891
-
114,903
(110,162)
(3,165)
-
(307)
(116,425)
(560)
(116,985)
(1,679)
(0)
(1,679)
(1,679)
-
(1,679)
47,021
-
47,021
45,342
-
45,342
(113,634)
1,269
1,269
45,752
47,021

7

Christ Church Woklngham Annual Report and Finan¢lal Statements Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 2024 Unrestrfrted Funds 2024 Restrirted Fund5 2024 Total 2023 Total curre￿ assets Debtor5 (Note 91 Cash at bank Total ¢urrent assets 20.808 34,157 $4,965 20.808 34,177 54.985 22,868 45,621 68.489 20 20 Creditors: amounts falli￿ due wlthln one year Creditors INote 101 Accruals Imote 111 Deferred income 19.4911 {1321 {201 19.5111 11321 IIS,2821 15,0611 11,1251 Total creditors 19.6231 20) {9.6431 121,4681 Net assets I Iliabilitiesl 45342 45.342 47.021 Totsl funds broughtfonmard 47.OZI 47.021 45,752 Net movement in funds 11.6791 11.6791 1,269 Total funds carrled lonyard 45,342 45.342 47,021 Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 30th April 2025 and signed on its behalf by= Joel Knight Chair of PCC, Minister Graham Richardson CtrTreasurer Zoe Hubbard Co-Treasurer The notes on pages 9 to 17 form part of these accounts.

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 1: Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting by Charities. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, and include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. Unrestricted funds are general funds which can be used by the PCC for ordinary purposes. Restricted funds represent donations received for a specific purpose which may only be used for that purpose.

The accounts are prepared on an accruals basis to give a fairer representation of the church’s financial position on an on-going basis.

Note 2: Accounting policies

Incoming resources Recognition of All planned giving, donations and collections are recognised in the Statement incoming resources of Financial Activities (SoFA) when they are received. One-off gifts are generally recognised when they are received, except for gifts of over £1,000 that are received in response to the annual giving appeal which are recognised over the following 12 months. All other income is recognised when it is receivable. All incoming resources are accounted for gross. Tax reclaims on Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate donations is recognised. Resources expended Recognition of Expenditure and liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or expended resources constructive obligation on the PCC. All other expenditure is recognised when and liabilities it is incurred. All expenditure is accounted for gross. Assets Tangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £1,000. They are valued at cost or a reasonable value on receipt. Reserves The PCC aims to keep three months’ worth of general running costs in reserves. The PCC is committed to maintaining our reserves at an appropriate level

9

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 3: Unrestricted General Fund

Note 3: Unrestricted General Fund
Incoming resources
Voluntary income
Regular donations under gift aid
Other regular donations
Total regular donations
Gift aid reclaimed
Gift aid incorrectly reclaimed
Regular income
One-off donations under gift aid
Other one-off donations
Total one-off donations
Gift aid reclaimed
Gift aid incorrectly reclaimed
One-off income
Total
Investment income
Interest
Total
Income from church activities
Parochial fees
Wreath event
Women’s Events
Men’s Events
Other events, bookstall etc
Total
Other income
Total incoming resources
2024
£
£
83,234
6,760
89,994
20,809
110,803
900
-
900
225
-
1,125
111,928
881
881
-
-
549
1,380
8
1,937
-
114,746
2023
£
£
80,433
6,700
87,133
20,108
-
107,241
4,920
-
4,920
1,230
-
6,150
113,391
621
621
242
500
-
-
149
891
-
114,903
2023
£
£
80,433
6,700
87,133
20,108
-
107,241
4,920
-
4,920
1,230
-
6,150
113,391
621
621
242
500
-
-
149
891
-
114,903
89,994
20,809
87,133
20,108
-
110,803 107,241
900
-
4,920
-
900
225
-
4,920
1,230
-
1,125 6,150
881 621
-
-
549
1,380
8
242
500
-
-
149
114,903

10

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 4: Unrestricted General Fund

Note 4: Unrestricted General Fund
resources expended on
church activities
Missionary and charitable gifts1
Andrew Carter
Faith
Arab World Ministry of Pioneers
Powerline Trust
Yeldall Manor
Crosslinks
Unallocated2
Other charitable gifts
Total
Ministry costs
Minister’s costs
Salary, National Insurance
Contributions and pension
Housing
Expenses
Total minister’s costs
Youth and Children’s worker
Salary, National Insurance
Contributions and pension
Expenses
Staff Development
Total minister’s costs
Share of David Horrocks’ costs
Contribution to Barkham PCC3
Staff Team Development
Total
Church activities
School rent
Outreach activities
Resources and equipment
Service costs
Friday Club / Lasers / Sunday Club
Refreshments
Prayer Meeting
Wreath-making event
Other
Total
2024
£
£
(2,820)
-
(2,820)
-
(2,820)
(2,820)
-
(349)
(11,629)
(39,901)
(29,496)
(492)
(69,889)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(69,889)
(7,586)
-
(1,960)
(164)
(140)
(282)
(495)
-
-
(10,627)
2023
£
£
(1,905)
(1,905)
(1,905)
(375)
(1,905)
-
(3,436)
-
(11,431)
(37,060)
(28,392)
(733)
(66,185)
(10,367)
-
-
(10,367)
-
(533)
(77,085)
(6,139)
-
(425)
(159)
(92)
(128)
(201)
(530)
(41)
(7,715)

1 Standing Committee agreed that monthly payments of £235 would be made to each of Crosslinks, Andrew Carter, AWM and Yeldall. This totalled £2,820 per mission partner in the year, which included a minor ‘overspend’ based on our mission giving policy. Standing Committee also agreed to contribute £349 for a member of the congregation to participate in a summer camp.

2 It was agreed on 24 March 2023 that the £1670 unallocated at 31 December 2022 would be given to John and Mary Featherstone (Powerline Trust) as a retirement gift.

11

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Administration
Share of Arborfield & Barkham church
office cost (7,404) (5,450)
Insurance (386) (396)
Legal and professional fees - (6,775)
Other administration costs (1,208) (1,179)
Parochial fees - (70)
Parish Share (13,624) (3,165)
Prior Year Adjustment4 - (307)
Bank charges (60) (61)
Total (22,682) (17,403)
Total resources expended (114,827) (113,634)
Note 5: Unrestricted - Men’s Events 2024 2023
£ £ £ £
Incoming resources
Income - contributions
1,380 -
Total 1,380 -
Resources expended
Expenditure on venue and catering
(1,071) -
Total (1,071) -
Net movement in funds 309 -
Value of fund at 1 January - -
Value of fund at 31 December 309 -

4 The prior year adjustment relates to writing off an historic gift aid debt asset, which was overstated in the 2020 accounts.

12

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 6: Unrestricted: Women’s Events

Note 6: Unrestricted: Women’s Events
2024
£
£
£
Incoming resources
Income - contributions
549
Total
549
Resources expended
Expenditure on venues, catering and
speakers
(527)
Total
(527)
Net movement in funds
22
Value of fund at 1 January
-
Value of fund at 31 December
22
Note 8: Restricted – Staff gifts
2024
£
£
£
Incoming resources
Donations towards baby gift for Joel
and Frankie
560
Total
560
Resources expended
Gift vouchers purchased
(560)
Total
(560)
Net movement in funds
nil
Value of fund at 1 January
-
Value of fund at 31 December5
nil
Note 9: Debtors
2024
2023
2024
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
£
£
£
HM Revenue & Customs
(gift aid)
20,809
-
20,809
Total
20,809
-
20,809
£ 2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
22,868
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
22,868
-
£
-
-
-
-
2023
Total
£
22,868
22,868

HMRC debt is in respect of tax reclaimable on donations received under gift aid which had not been claimed and received as at 31[st] December.

5 The remaining amount was transferred to Joel and Frankie Knight following the end of the financial year.

13

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 10: Creditors and Other
Liabilities
St Crispin’s School rent
Arborfield and Barkham Trust
Minister’s expenses
Ellen Crewe
Jayne Yeo
Emma Harding
Norreys Church
Helen McSweeny
Sue Northend
Pines Bowerman Trust
DM Music Ltd-
Helen Stewart
Joel and Frankie Knight
Total
2024
2024
2024
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
£
£
£
(1,400)
-
(1,400)
(5,345)
-
(5,345)
(1,604)
-
(1,604)
-
-
-
(75)
-
(75)
-
-
-
(30)
-
(30)
(41)
-
(41)
-
-
-
(220)
-
(220)
(723)
-
(723)
(53)
-
(53)
-
(20)
(20)
(9,491)
(20)
(9,511)
2023
Total
£
(895)
(12,932)
(764)
(530)
(48)
(19)
(30)
(23)
(41)
-
-
-
-
(15,282)

14

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 11: Accruals 2024 2024 2024 2023
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
Funds Funds
£ £ £ £
Missionary and charitable gifts
Andrew Carter - - - (405)
Arab World Ministries - - - (405)
Faith (132) - (132) (405)
Crosslinks - - - -
Yeldall Manor - - - (405)
Unallocated6 - - - (3,441)
Total (132) - (132) (5,061)

In 2023 the church changed its previous practice of supporting its mission partners via an annual lump sum payment following the end of the financial year and began supporting its mission partners with a regular monthly payment, to be followed by a balancing payment when the financial year has concluded. In 2024 therefore, each of our four mission partners has received £235 per month, with no balancing payment due.

Following the end of the financial year, it was determined that a further £132 was due to Faith as we had agreed to pay them £275 in 2024 as part of terminating our giving arrangements with them. This was paid on 15 March 2025.

6 The difference between £3441 unallocated in accruals and £3436 unallocated in general expenditure under Note 4 is due to carried forward rounding amounts from 2022.

15

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 12: Summary of Fund Movements

At 1 Jan 2024
Income
Expenditure
Carried forward at 31 Dec
2024
Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total
General
Fund
Total
£
£
47,021
47,021
Total
£
nil
£
47,021
114,746
114,746
(116,425)
(116,425)
560
(560)
115,306
(116,985)
45,342
45,342
nil 45,342

Note 13: Summary of Assets by Fund at 31 December 2024

Current assets
Debtors
Cash at bank and in
hand
Unrestricted Funds Restricted
Funds
Total
General
Fund
Total
£
£
20,808
20,808
34,157
34,157
Restricted
funds
Total
£
£
-
-
20
20
£
20,808
34,177
Total current assets 54,965
54,965
20
20
54,985
Creditors: amounts
falling due within
one year
Creditors
Accruals
Deferred income
Other Liabilities
(9,491)
(9,491)
(132)
(132)
-
-
-
-
(20)
(20)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(9,511)
(132)
-
-
Total creditors (9,623)
(9,623)
(20)
(20)
(9,643)
Net assets /
(liabilities)
45,342
45,342
nil
nil
45,342

16

Christ Church Wokingham

Annual Report and Financial Statements

Note 14: Related Party Transactions

Christ Church Wokingham is a registered charity (under Charity Number 1193475) and as such the Trustees are the Elected Members of the PCC and the only related parties. In the year ended 31 December 2024 there were no transactions with related parties other than donations by Elected Members to Christ Church Wokingham and payments to the Arborfield and Barkham Parish Churches’ Trust (ABPCT), who employ our Minister and Church Youth Worker and provide central administration functions on behalf of Christ Church Wokingham. From time to time related parties pay for goods and services on behalf of the PCC and are subsequently reimbursed. At 31 December 2024 reimbursement of £75 was due to Jayne Yeo, and reimbursement of £5,345 was due to ABPCT. In addition, a restricted gift of £560 was made to Joel and Frankie Knight in-year from congregational contributions, following the arrival of their baby.

17

Trevor James FCA DChA FCIE

Dormer Cottage West Broyle Chichester West Sussex PO19 3PR

01243 780334 07802 832611

trevorejames@yahoo.co.uk

26 April 2025

The Members of the PCC Christ Church Wokingham Arborfield and Barkham Church Office The Rectory Church Lane Arborfield Berkshire RG2 9HZ

Dear PCC Members

Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024

I have completed my independent examination of your financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.

I am pleased to report I have found no matters which give me any reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act 2011 has not been met and therefore I am able to provide my signed independent examination report.

After your report and financial statements have been signed please send a signed copy to me for my records.

Yet again I would like to commend the high quality of the records maintained by Zoe Hubbard and Graham Richardson. You are fortunate to have their services.

Yours sincerely

T��v�� J��e�

Trevor James

T E James FCA DChA FCIE