ARMED FORCES CHRISTIAN UNION Trustees Annual Report 2024 Armed Forces, Christian Union Charity number: 1193977 UnFt 24. Shrivenham Hundred Business Park. Watchfield. SN6 8TZ 01793 783123 www.afcu.org.uk AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 I, Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain. Psalm 127:1a NIV Armed Forces. Christian Union Charity number: l 193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Introduction In 2024, the UK military faced growing pressures that significantly impacted on personnel morale and overall effectiveness. One of the most pressing and ongoing issues is chronic undermanning, which has led to widespread overwork and under-resourcing across all branches. This situalion leaves service members feeling stretched beyond capacity, with many expressing a deep sense of being undervalued. The rising cost of living has further intensified this sentiment, compounding financial stress for individuals and families alike. Additionally, short-notice postings are increasingly common. disrupting family life and placing further strain on already overburdened personnel. Support to Ukraine, for their second year of fighting, added a further dimension lo the ongoing pressures to the UK military. The cumulative effect of these challenges is a force under considerable pressure, with declining morale and growing concerns about the long-term sustainability of the current military slruclure. Armed Forces. Christian Union Charity number: 1193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Objectives and Activities During 2024 the AFCU contlnued work under our new description.. enabling, equipping and encouraging members of the Armed Forces, through dlscipleshlp, fellowshlp and prayer. In a climate where many feel undervalued and overwhelmed, the AFCU offers message of intrinsic worth and hope, reminding personnel of their value beyond rank or role. By fostering resilience and strengthening moral foundatlons, Ihe Union plays a vltal role in supporting the well-being of service members and their families amidst the unique stresses of life in Ihe Armed Forces. The membership of the AFCU continues to grow, having surpassed 1000 serving members, whlch is encouraging In light of the reduction of serving personnel. The significance of our 2000 non-serving and veteran members is considerable as they pray for, minister to and support our community of military Christians. Each of our ministries is led by a steering group.. nine in total. Each steering group comprises volunteers from the membership, a Director and a Trustee. Their reports are below. Armed Forces. Christian Union Charity number.. 1193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 YAFCU (Younger AFCU) Aim.. to disciple young men and women in the Armed Forces community in their Christian faith. The ministry to younger members of the AFCU has grown in strength and depth and seen significant change, not least in its new moniker which has been chosen, 'Younger Armed Forces Christian Union, or if you want St even shorter 'YAFCU'. The purpose of that is to lake away the slightly arbitrary age limit, however, we are focusing on younger serving members who are at the beginning of Iheir military career before they join the family's ministry to provide a space for our peers and demographic to Connect with each other and invile our friends. In terms of our tempo of events.. a hillwalking weekend in October, which we're hoping to make a yearly fixture additional house parties which have more focus on Bible study and worshipping logelher the AT weekend in May which is now proving very popular an encouragement lo join all of the AFCU events so thal we can connect with the wider membership, monthly prayer meetings have restarted and we're going to intersperse these with a military focused short Bible studies led by our membership we recognise as a demographic, we are scattered and constantly moving, so it can be difficull to have that constant fellowship where we're meeting together regularly. However, we really feel this is where the Lord wants us to be and He has a plan for that. With that in mind. we are looking io encourage more frequent, smaller scale fellowship, meeting up with ones or twos in youi location leading a Bible study in your barracks (base or ship). So, what's our vision? Keeping it simple and mirroring things that we think the AFCU has always done really well, we want to focus on three things in no particular order.. fellowship, friendship and discipleship. Fellowship providing a supportive and encouraging group for military Christians. Friendship building a strong network of f riends, pulting on enjoyable events regularly. Discipleship providing opportunities for members to strengthen their faith, encouraging people to live godly lives, and provide witness lo their colleagues on barracks, ships and stations. Hlghlights: Adventurous Training Weekend In Devon May 2024 First Hlllwalking weekend in the Lakes- Oct 2024 Monthly prayer meetings AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Men's Steering Group Aim.. to disciple men in the Armed Forces community (serving, MOD Civil Servants, contractors and their spouses) in their Christian faith. Highlights: Men's Bible teaching weekend at the Armed Forces, Chaplaincy Centre (AFCC) February 2024 The Gathering June 2024 At Ihe end of June, 30 AFCU 'blokes' met in 'a field near Swindon, foi CVM'S annual event 'The Galhering 2024, (TG24). The usual line up of green Army tents distinguished the military from Ihe many other men. Whilst others were dressed in the usual fancy dress on the Saturday nighl, those serving in the military were encouraged to wear their uniforms. This once again highlighted thal Ihere are Chrislians serving in His Majesty's Armed Forces. It also was an opportunity for those al The Gathering to honour Christians serving in the Military. For a change, we had a chef cooking on the BBQ and providing a different menu of meat to eallon the Sunday morning the men mel in groups of 3-4 and prayed for one another. This occasion remains a significant event for the men's ministry. The Men's Weekend was held at Beckett House in Shrivenham. The topic, delivered by Rev Paul Cowley MBE, was 'Finding hope out of despalr, based on his own journey of growing up where both parents were alcoholics and a home life of physical and verbal abuse. Afler a prison sentence, and career in the Army, he came to faith through an Alpha Course and introduced it into prisons and the Armed Forces. Josh Marlow led the worship with a small band, and 47 men lefl having been challenged, encouraged and equipped lo live out their faith in the Forces. 'I'm so glad that I made the effort to attend this year. 'Absolutely fabulous to see you all, old faces and new., 'Thank you all for making me feel like I still belong. It's very hard lo express how wonderful having that feeling again after years of struggling with depression. .1 think it's just amazing that AFCU membership is on the brink of passing 1000, and l just want to encourage all serving members in particular to spread the word about AFCU. The presence of God revealed in the passion, prayers and practice of His people, in fellowship in the Spiril and the bond of peace. Whether generals or general ratings. soldiers or sailors, young or old, fearful or faithful, we were all one in Christ Jesus as we ministefed to one another. Armed Forces. Christian Union Charity number.. l 193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Highlight". 'Seen' event - September 2024 Flourish Steering Group .1 think that the sense of belonging and being accepted into the event spoke volumes of Jesus, acceptance. Sometimes places even though you'd expect to be inclusive are actually exclusive. 'Much of what Anneke spoke about really hit home as I'm battling with belng 'unseen' In a significant relationship. It was good to be reaffirmed by her words and Holy Spirit working through them. Aim.. to disclple women in the Armed Forces community (serving, MOD Civll Servants. those married to serving spouses and contractors) in their Christian faith.. identifying and encouraging those with leadership skills. The Flourish 'Seen' event, held in Shrivenham 113-14 September 2024), brought together 46 women for a time of worship, fellowship, and encoL¢ragement. Many attendees noted that Ihe energy and vitality of the gathering echoed Ihe spirit of pre-pandemic events. The keynote speaker, a young Christian entrepreneur, was particularly well-received and attracted notable number of serving and former servicewomen, including two active Padres. This was a significant encouragement to all present. Special recognition goes to Sian Campbell-colquhoun for her inspiring vision and leadership in bringing together the team that made the event possible. Participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to connect with lik￿minded Christian women, share prayer, revisit old friendships, and form new ones. Highlights included the powerful opening ialk. creative prayer station5. and the welcoming atmosphere. Overall, the Flourish 'Seen' weekend was a spiritually enriching experience marked by fellowship, creativity, and a strong sense of community. AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Prayer Steering Group Aim.. to foster the desire to pray and be prayed for across the Union and to arrange mechanisms by which these can be met. Throughout the year. in numerous localions in the United Kingdom and overseas over 70 faithful Prayer Support Teams (PSTS) have regularly prayed for the specific needs of over 250 serving members and their families in a confidential and passionately committed manner. Once again, we have seen lives changed through hundreds of prayers answered this year. The impacl of thi5 ministry is not to be underestimated as these dedicated prayer groups offer vital prayer'Top Cover. fof those who are serving. This demonsliates full commitment to our purpose of 'Prayerfully serving ihose who serve,. This year has also seen the continuation of our dedicated prayer support for Military Chaplains and Iheir families with the continualion of our confidenlial Prayer for Padres list prayed for by the slaff leam. This allows our Chaplains to ask for more personal and confidential prayer requests on a regular basis and provides a safe space foi them lo share Iheir needs and concerns. (At the lime of writing this we have 131 Chaplain members making up IO% of our serving membership.) In 2024 a further 21 serving members asked to be linked to a PST for regular prayer support. They have been a hugely significant encouragement to us and a lifeline. God has blessed us immensely through them and their prayers have supported us through some challenging times., Thank You again. I really appreciate this faiihful ministry to us. As you know Army Chaplains can feel isolated and vulnerable at times. Do know il means the world to know we are being lifted up in prayer.. Highlights- Prayer Retreat - May 2024 Linking Serving members and è.j,, thelr families for speciflc conf idential prayer cover Praying for Mililary Chaplains AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Bible Teaching In June we held a PST Leaders Retreat in Harnhill, Cirencester with 30 attendees lo encourage and thank our PSTS for their vital work and to allow for valuable in person meetings wilh the Prayer coordinator. We also held a re-dedication service to recommission our PSTS for Iheir continuing vital ministry. Spring weekend In March, over 75 members attended the Spring Weekend which was held at Denham Grove Hotel. The topic was 'Convictions to Live for,, a series of five talks given by Rupert Shelley leading to a deeper understanding af the One we trust. We were also very privileged to have Bernard Palmer challenge us on talking to others about God. Throughoul the year the wonderful Midday prayer group have met on zoom every weekday lunchtime to pray for the needs of the Union and our military community. The staff team join with them on a Tuesday lunchtime lo share current prayer needs. .1 left feeling the joy of the Lord and delighting in all that He is doing in bolh my life and the life of those who attended. I was particularly encouraged through the small group discussions, hearing about olher people's experiences of walking with Jesus., The staff team continue lo pray daily for mornirig prayer using the prayer diary (also sent to our full membership of over 3000), sick list, deployed lisl and CIP list (The CIP list is also prayed for by 90 trusted conf idential intercessors and once again this year the answers to their prayers have been very tangible and impactful.) 'The Lord nourished my faith over the weekend. It was great to be in a big group of Christians and all at different stages of their lives and journeys. My biblical underslanding increased tremendously and l am very grateful., 'Absolutely wonderful to go back to basics of faith doclrine and apply it to working in the Armed Forces., Armed Forces, Christian Union Charity number.. 1193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Families Steering Group Highlights: Summer Camp Leaders preparation weekend April 2024 New Wine August 2024 Summer Camp for Teenagers- Augusl 2024 Aim.. to pray for and plan the AFCU Families Ministry, and to coordinate, oversee and develop activities to encourage. equip and reach out to serving members and thelr families In the Armed Forces. The AFCU Summer Camp, held from 18-24 August 2024, was a great success, with 48 campers and 36 leaders participating in what was described as a "normal" and smooth- running week-much to the relief of the leadership team and Safeguarding Officei! Although a late rush of bookings created logistical challenges around supplies, accommodatlon, and catering, steps are being considered to manage this more effectively in 2025. In preparation for the camp, Ruth and Adam Pyrke laid on a SC Leaders, Weekend (5-7 April) which was attended by 40 leaders our largest turnout yet. The weekend was marked by enlhusiasm. prayer, and planning, with notable participation from six Issachites and at least seven potential leaders currently serving in the military. Overall, the energy, preparation, and spiritual focus of the team lald a strong foundation for a safe and transformalive summer experience for all involved. Afterwards the following message was received from one teenaged boy's mother to say that he "had a really amazing time, dorm friends were great, perfect size, and that he adored his dorm leader. He came back asking for family Bible study lime (l) and saying how he loved the swimming gala. the food, informal praise and Canterbury and ffluch more! He said the atmosphere was so caring as everyone seemed to be looking out for one another. He wants to sign up now for next year. Illll AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 More than 60 members met up and camped at the annual New Wine (NW) Conference called 'Uniled' back at the Bath and West Showground for a week of worship and teaching. The great weather made all the difference and those who brought children were well catered for, and Ihey built friendships that will carry on into Summer Camp. Being grouped together as a village enables great connections to be made and, as ever, Ihe lunchtime picnic was held to draw together those who are altending NW but camping with their churches. Our large white marquee is an excellent space for spending time in fellowship in the evening. after the final meeting, as well as Ihroughout the day I have been coming to camp since I was 11 and next year I plan to be leader and canl wait. Armed Forces. Christian Union Charity number.. 1193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Issachar Leadership Programme Aim.. Spiritual mentoring for Christian leadership within the military. The Issachar Leadership Programme continues lo grow in both impact and participation across the serving community. AFCU was enormously blessed by generous grants from the Cornelius Trust and another anonymous donor. new The weekend teaching supplemented by monlhly leadership webinars given by significant mililary and Christian leaders including General The Lord Richard Dannatt, Major General Peter Rowell, Rev (Group Captain) Ruth Hake, Carl Beech, and Paul Cowley. was The programme officially launched in March with a highly successful weekend and resulted in 25 Issachar signups for the 18-month programme, which equips serving personnel to grow as spiritual leaders and discern their calling. In Novembei the Issachar Honing Weekend, attended by 45 people, provided space for deep spiritual refleclion and connection. One participanl reflected on her Issachar journey, sharing how intentional prayer practices like using the Lectio 365 app helped her develop a daily rhythm with God. A powerful personal moment came when, while discerning whether to attend an international Christian conference in Brazil, God confirmed her decision in an unmistakable and timely way-ieminding her, and others, of God's faithfulness and the importance of listening and trusting in His timing. Four Issachar Missions introduced.. producing spiritual deployment pack, leading an online Advent Retreat, supporting AFCU'S ministry to internationals. and hosting fundraising events. Issachar has a strong focus on partnering trained mentors with Issachites for individual spiritual development with supervisors overseeing and safeguarding the process. were 'Issachar is a great way to deepen your own faith and find areas that need strengthening with the intention to go out and spiead God's kingdom., Mentee 'Do not hesitate to sign up to Issachar, you will nol regret saying yesl Go, it will help you in your walk with the Lord and give you a better understanding of how the Lord is working in your life., Armed Forces, Christian Union Charity numbei- l 193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 The Release Weekend, held in January at Harnhill. proved io be a significant and spiritually impactful event, drawing togeiher 24 individuals seeking healing and resloration in response to PTSD and military traurna. The weekend included g team members and 15 participants-of whom 60% were from the serving community-creating an intentionally high ratio of support. The almosphere was deeply prayerful, underpinned by many years of preparation and intercession. and the teaching. prayer minislry, and shared experiences created a safe and powerful environment for growth and healing. Panicipanls particularly valued the depth of prayer ministry, structured teaching. smaller group discussions, and the opportunity to process their journeys in a safe. supportive space. The beautiful surroundings of Harnhill and the wide age range of attendees also contributed positively to the weekend's almosphere. Informal conversations over meals a Friday night ice-breaker session helped foster connection. Community for Post-Traumatic Growth A particularly moving moment involved one participant making a personal faith commitment. highlighting the Holy Spirit's quiet yet profound work during the event. Follow-up conversations revealed thal this step brought clarity and hope to their spiritual journey. Aim.. to pray for and plan the 'work' of the CPTG to AFCU members with military trauma including and not restricted to those with combat trauma. moral injury and PTSD. The last Release weekend proved to be a great step in my recovery. I have incorporated aspects of the Body, Spirit and Soul model into my approach. I still have a way to go. but I find myself feeling that l am ovei the worst of the emotional trauma that gripped me for too many monihs. And it has boosled my spiritual strength enormously. AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 International Steering Group Aim.. to coordinate the international activities of AFCU members and the wider international military community within the UK. The International highlight of 2024 was the Association of Military Christian Fellowships (AMCF) Conference in Bra2il in October. Four of the Issachites, plus several others involved in the Issachar Programme. had the privilege of attending. This was a 'once in a len-year opportunily, and was attended by 350 internationals from 72 countries, supported by over 600 Brazilians. It offered an amazing opportunity lo meet and get to know people from all around the world, to pray and worship together. and to get "a litlle laste of heaven'l We were also blessed having two international participants on the Issachar Programme from two different European countries. Additionally two members joined in the Romanian MCF ski party, both to instruct skiing and to teach in the evenings, and il was good lo welcome a Belgian colleague, who is Irying to set up the Belgian MCF. One of the staff team atlended the European Military Chrislian Meeling (EMCM) in the Czech Republic for a time of sharing and encouragement. It's a wonderful moment when members connect with other MCFS when they are deployed abroad, and this was lotally taken up by a young sailor in Sri Lanka who was royally hosted therel Another facet of Ihe ISG is to pray for those of our members who have left the Armed Forces and become missionaries around the world. Their prayer needs are also added to the monthly Prayer Diary. 'You are not here by coincidence. You are here to bless this land and to take blessing back to the rest of the world.. AMCF Conference Hlghlights: Skl Trlp. Romanla - February 2024 EMCM - Czech Rep - May 2024 AMCF Worfd Conference, Brazil - October 2024 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Finance Steering Group Aim.. To prayerfully ensure and monitor the financial liouidity and related governance of the AFCU so that it can operate effectively. The FSG reviewed the quarterly accounts. reviewed and agreed staff pay, reviewed the budgets for 2025. veteran Doctor who had died in 20081 God moves in miraculous ways. One of our supporters introduced us to a large Christian grant making Trust. who have given generously to support the work of the CPTG. funded the PST retreat and underpinned the first programme of Issachar. The Staff team spent a day in prayer on the finances of the AFCU and God has more than answered our request for more funding. In the middle of 2024. the AFCU was gifted Trusl money from General Sir Arthur Smith's famlly to support work happenlng today that fits in with his passion. As a Union, we are still using his .1 00 Days. daity readings. As part of a profile and fund ralslng campaign at the end of the year. with the Blg Give. over £14,500 was ralsed through the generosity of both pledgers and those who responded to the campaign. We glve God all the glory Additionally, we were informed of legacies -.with the AFCU as named beneficiaries. At this point, we were unsighted on the value of these gifts, one of which was from a WW2 We stlll seek lo meet our overheads wlth membershlp glvlng. Armed Forces, Christian Union Charity nutnber: 1193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Veterans In Custody (VICS) Ministry Aim.. to offer prayerful support and encouragement to a limited group of AFCU members who are veterans currently in custody, recently released on probation. or listed on the Sex Offenders Register. In the UK. a significant number of former service personnel are held in custody, and among them, a minority identify as Christian and have Teached out to the AFCU for spiritual support. This small, sensitive ministry has been overseen this year by Lt Col {Retd) Val Hall along with a number of trusted AFCU volunleers. The VICS Ministry seeks to maintain regular contact through letters sent at key times of the year-such as Christmas. Easter, and birthdays-as well as in response to personal correspondence. Where appropriate, small gifts, typically Chrislian books, are senl and have been warmly received. Encouragingly, many of the veterans supported through this minisiry also uphold the AFCU in their prayers. Their gratilude and expressions of failh offer a moving ieslament to the impact of this work. '1 can see the blessings God has provlded for me over the past year li.,%t; In the people that I have met and the paths He set before me. I still have a lot to learn but have some invaluable resources and i >o- experiences to help me along the y>, way. I still find it unbelievable that this is my life. Honesty, if you had I," told me a few years ago I would be writing that sentence I would have thought it impossible. But, as I continue to be reminded. for God nothing is impossible.. Armed Forces, Christian Union ¥ty.e' Charity number: l 193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Communications y) Communicating with our members is critical to ensure they know what is going on that they can join in with, and for sending out teaching to those for whom attending church is difficult due to their military commitments. Our weekly newsletter continues and is well received. Our opening rate for 2024 was 53 /0 which is an increase of 15% from last year. The newsletter is also put into our new WhatsApp community to make it more easily seenl Our social media posts on Instagram are contrib(rting to an increased engagement. One person signed up to join the AFCU after spotting us on Instagram. We continue lo use our closed Facebook account. There have been a number of requests for media interviews, comments. speakers at chLtrch events, which we have often pulled in volunteers to fulfill. r4 11 We are currently looking at refieshing our brand which will be rolled out during 2025. AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Partnerships with other organisations After five years of tireless work selting up the Defence Christian Network, which comes under the MOD Faith and Belief Networks. il was wonderful lo hear that Lt Col Simon Maggs had been awarded an MBE in the King's birthday honours. Having the DCN as a 'visible, quad- service Christian community, growing together in faith and providing a positive Christian presence in the MOD, has meant that more military Christians have heard aboul us and our fellow MCFS, with whom we meet regularly as the DCN leadership. As a result of these meetings, there is greater understanding between the fellowships, and much shared information and encouragement. Fl Defence Christian Network Armed Forces. Christian Union Charity number.. 1193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Financial review The AFCU is funded by the generous donations of the membership, which also includes legacies. In November. we were informed of a generous legacy from a member who had been a Chaplain. We were also delighted to receive £60,000 from the trust of General Sir Arthur Smith, whose Bible study 'lOO Days, is still given out and used. Grants are sought in support of aspects of our work. We are particularly grateful to the Cornelius Trust for their financial contribirtion towards the activities for the benefrt of members of the Armed Forces, enabling us to keep costs down for attendees. The generosity of another grant making trust has underpinned our Issachar leadership programme, the work of the CPTG and our PST prayer retreat. The AFCU'S financial situation improved during the reporting period. Income for the year was £447.240 which was above expectations for the above reasons. Expenditure for the year was £330,935, with the majority of the expenses relating to staffing costs (64%). event expenses (24%), and administrative costs (12%). This has enabled us to enlarge our reserves considerably. AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 .JConclusion We would Ilke to express our appreciation to the staff, volunteers, and donors who have supported the 4),:é AFCU during the reporting period. We are proud of the progress we have made In advancing our mission of providing pastoral and spiritual support to the Armed Forces community. We remain committed to our mission and look forward to continuing to serve the needs of this community in the coming year. Confirmation statement I confirm, as Chair of Truslees, that we have complied with the duty in Section 4 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benef it 'Charities and Public Benefit" Signed.. Date.. 02 September 2025 Lt Col Simon Harris Chair of Trustees Armed Forces, Christian Union Armed Forces, Christian Union. Charity number.. l 193977 STATEMEhrr OF TRUSTEES, RESPONSIBILITIES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 The trustees are responslble for preparing the Trustees, Report and the accounts In accordance wlth appllcable law and Unlted Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practicel. The Charities Art requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financlal year whlch 8ive a true and falr vlew of the state of affairs of the charity at the end of the year and of the surplu5 or deficit for the year then ended. In preparin8 these accounts. the trustees are ￿qUired to: select suitable accountlng policles and then appty them consistently: observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP. make judgements and estlmates that are reasonable and prudent: slate whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed. subjert to any m*erial departures dlsclosed and explained in the accounts: and prepare the accounts on the going concern basi5 unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charlty wlll contlnue In operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accountln8 records that dlsclose wlth reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the CharltSes Act 2011. They are also responsible for safeguardin8 the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the preventlon and detection of fraud and other irregularltles. Independent Examlnerfs report to the Trustees on the unaudlted accounts of the Armed Forces. Chrlstlan Unlon I report to the trustees on my exarnlnallon of accounts for the endln8 31 December 2024. whlch comprSse the Statement of FSnarKi•l ArtN}￿e5, the 8alan(e Sheet and related notes set out on the followlng page5. As the trLbStees of the Charfty you are responsfole tr* weparntlon of the accounts In accordance wlth the requlrements of the Charltles kt 2011. I report In respect of my examln*lon ol the trustee's accow)ts carrled ¢xJt under sertlon 145 of the 2011 Act and In carryin8 Out my examlnatlon I ha¥e followed all tr* applkabk d*ectborts ir¥en trrf the Ch•rtty Commlsslon ￿r￿er sectlon 14515llbl of the 2011 Art. Ind•p•nd•nt Ex•mlnerfs ststffiwnt Slnce the charltV5 8ros5 Income exceeded £250.¢XKI your exJmlner must be a member of a l>ody Ilsted In sertlon 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of the Instltute of Chartered Accountants In E￿•*￿ and Wales. T*hlch Ls one of the1Ssted bodle5. I have completed my examlnatlon. I confim) that no mateftsl m•tters ha¥e come to my attentlon In connectlon wlth the examlnatlon me cause to belle¥e that In arry materlal respert.. al accountln8 records were nat kept In respect olthe Ch•rlty ￿ requlfed by sectlon 130 of the Act: or bl the Jccounts do nut accord t*lth th￿e records. or ¢1 the accounts do not Com￿Y wlth the appllcable requlrements concernlnq the lom) and content of Counts set out In tP* Charbtles {A¢¢ounts and Reports) Regulatior￿ 2008 other than any requlrement that the a¢wunts 8l¥e a'true and f4lr vw whl¢h Ss not a mattef consldered as part of an Independent examlnaiion. I have concerns and come auoss no other matters In connectbon wlth the ex•mlnatSon to whlch attentknn should be drnwn In thls report In order to enable a w)pef wKlerstandlry of ihe acwjnts to be reKheO. C J Goodhead FCA Knl8ht Goodhead Limlted Chartered Accountants 7 BoUrnem0￿h Road. Chandler's Ford. East*h. Hamwl*e. 5053 3DA Oate: eP ber STATEMENT OF FIIIANCIAL AcnvmES FOR THE YEAR ENOED 31 December 2024 F¥nds Donatlons and lewles Other tradln8 •ctfvfjUes Income Irom Invemmen InMm• Ch•rft•tyl• A¢ii¥l¢l•s: olldays and •ctMtIos 31•1 XllJ22 31bl 31cl 112.241 82,312 396,37S 413 4.563 219.328 162 5.785 4,563 31dl 45.889 45,889 92,528 Talal Income 252.687 112.241 82,312 447,240 317.803 ÉMwd#ur•oTr I•l￿r4 fimdl 181 406 Nolkl•y5 Ind activrtles Membu malllng and vlslts 41bl 92.614 41cl 177.279 57.125 3,737 149,739 181,016 182.311 188,036 Tot•1 Expwdlttw• 270.074 330,935 370,754 Net 1ncomellexper￿l￿f¢j before transler olfunds 117.3871 112.241 21.450 116,%)4 152,9511 Transfers between Fu 19,S90 119.8811 291 B•l•n¢es Wl l J•nu•ry 2024 99,219 10.031 17,570 126A20 179,770 Balances 31 December 2024 101.422 102.391 39.311 243.124 126.820 ARMED FORCES. CHW UNION Funds Tot•1 Nots Tan8ible Flxed A$5ets 1.972 1.972 1,972 2.738 2.738 Short tern deposlts + In¥estments Debtors Cash at bank & In hand 171.182 23.689 23.414 218.285 39311 210.493 23.689 107.160 21.189 11.209 139.557 io 39311 257596 U•blItt￿$ li 116.4431 116A431 115.4761 241 152 124 081 243 124 126 820 Funds General Fund Desi8nated Funds Restricted Funds Mlsslonary Fund International Fund - SpecifK Gffts FUTr IOL422 101391 99.219 10.031 L749 S59 37.562 17.011 243 124 126 820 // ktin8 ChaiM￿n ofTfUStees 12025 afftdl￿ Charfde5*xixiii. cannot bedlro(tr#*iidburtdwwnttu4v useolrew￿rtès.ttytné1lu￿ a i•) Donot1fy75•r41ry L311 7P,6U Gwqr¥ 74514 li iUJ41 375 1114 Ibl thhertrndrythllés 411 4U 162 &7AS 111211 351 22%175 Actmi￿$ 91518 45 ral Sped•l Nolè 12 (bl 21.717 57.125 79*46 11 89￿92 69242 182 92.614 97,8)1 1,271 IIEer¥wie& 291 Mhllstyy 1,131 MowrandTr￿I Poswe 136Z pporttorMMI&Fthrne diessettetèrysalèry Other pportand8Qvon4nc¢ tw515￿% 337 69.892 181.016 2,SJ9 69,242 IW036 177.2 n7 Go￿ra1 Pro Ntste 12 SUpportSTaflS￿r￿I InS￿r￿nCe RenL deaniTr& aTrJ Iwhl Repail$4hd renew¥s Olfvce Equlwnt Oewedatlon ststIo￿￿and phone Tnlnin8 Suthtey￿seSllW&Chav￿s 4189 IrA, ICa2n 2,631 2.613 2fffj ￿,￿5 IL524 717 18,2rffj 7399 717 IA59 327 2MS3 138.7 717 1,359 327 053 1.431 137.633 wdll&l¥8*le 6 stsIICMts 5Mffcoststhchtde". W￿e$all￿$•Ia￿¢S 1rn478 174A83 Pen51on5 Trninln8 16J41 327 713 tyr¢ 111241 19.59) 101,411 391 813 291 17671 1749 IZ478 C¢vnell Fomlfymlnlstry on d￿$m￿ls￿Y iJfj2 L293 1156 Z597 37.S62 247 ISG6 1597 I7￿11 1S95951 8i31Z 291 The Wnated f￿n￿{01he￿tte¢8[1erfIhè5￿eCill Projert Fufidl*assÈi.uproe4Yn oirtleyc¥ lftcomo¢wor4y4 The ML%slfmaryFund dwuons ￿P￿dePe￿￿al8lfty IWM￿bu$oVAls$etl1¢esOty ¢the Miss&*¥tyPr** L￿. The lnternatlonblF￿nd w4b*sdonaiionsio Supportihe*ort￿Qth¢r￿1￿toryfel1O￿*hlps¢Y•tfSèa￿ Spednc Glftsare mon￿58￿1￿10￿5perI1c short rerm le4.8rantstrom th*Corr*llusTru¢ orf¢f Eartereaiwsl. anNal8ram frcon Cornellus Tru51 Icf>15UEdtedtoa restrlc*d fvJr*. Grantsto s[￿￿¢¢￿rrf$a￿s￿￿fia%1(afvsle1sfr•rn ov 99J19 iooji 109250 8J3l 167Jii 1364AIS) ILIISI MJD A819 1SG6 Z591 IS97 la7 17mi AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Governance of the AFCU Structure, governance, and management The Armed Forces. Christian Union is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). It has a Foundation Constitution with two principal objects.. to advance the Christian faith and the Kingdom of Jesus ChTlSt in and through the Armed Forces of the Uniled Kingdom and internationally. to promole the efficiency of the Armed Forces of the Crown. Its beneficiaries are the Armed Forces Community, including but not limited to, serving, retired or prospective members of the Armed Forces of the United Kingdom and Internationally, and their associates and families. Governance The AFCU is governed by a Board of Trustees, who meet quarterly to provide oversight and strategic direction. During the reporting period, the Board continued to review and update the charity's policies and procedures to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and best praclice. Virtual meetings were held in March, June and September. and Ihe Board gathered for a day of strategic thinking in early December. AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Trustee recruitment Trustees As a member organisalion, we recruit our Trustees from within the membership. Volunteers are sought or individuals ale recommended to the Board. Each applicant is asked to provide details of their faith journey and experience of the AFCU, along wilh a CV and two personal references to the Trustees. They are given the lalesl Trustees Annual Reporl, the AFCU constitulion and the Charity Commission's 'Role of Trustee, and Code of Conduct to ensure the role is fully understood. During the reporting period.. Chair= Sqn Ldr Jonathan Palmer RAF lemp slood down from Feb 25 Cdr Peler Ellison RN - from Dec 24 Rev Andrew Thompson Army Maj Barnaby Smith Army Lt Col Simon Harris Army - temp Chair from Feb 25. Flt Lt Sian White RAF Rev Chris Carré RAF Sgt Paul Hodgkinson RAF Mrs Marina Colville Civilian Mrs Paula Carré Civilian Maj Bob Sheldon Army Retd Following a successful Trustees, review of the application, the prospeclive Trustee is invited to attend the next Board meeting to enable both the applicant and the Tiustees lo be sure of their suitabiliiy for Ihe post. The exisling Trustees then confirm their decision to the Chair of Trustees within 7 days of Ihe meeling. with the new Trustee being formally confirmed in the role at the subsequent Board of Trustees meeting. Trustees serve for a term of three years. 11 Presidential Bench In addition to the Board of Trustees, the AFCU Presidenlial Bench provides advice and guidance lo the Trustees. The Presidential Bench can give particular insighl at a slrategic level. President.- Maj Gen Peter Rowell Vice President.. Cdr Dan Peskett Vice President.. Rev {Gp Capt) Ruth Hake Armed Forces, Christian Union Charity number: l 193977 AFCU ANNUAL REPORT 2024 Management Accountant The AFCU'S Office is in Watchfield. Oxfofdshire close to the Defence Academy of Ihe UK. The managing staff consists of three Directors (Membership, Operations and Communications, and Prayer and Pastoral) who are responsible for the staff team, with FTE 5 paid and 3 staff members volunteering their time. and the day-to-day management of the CIO. They report directly to the Board of Trustees. Knight Goodhead Limited 7 Bournemouth Road Chandlers, Ford Eastleigh, Hampshire S053 3DA The Chair. Deputy Chair and Treasurer meet monthly with the Directors, with a quarterly focus on safeguarding. governance, and risk management. qFILJ Armed Forces, Christian Union Charity number: 1193977 Unit 24, Shrivenham Hundred Business Park, Watchfield. SN6 8TZ 01793 783123 vrnw.afcu.org.uk Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.