Monton Unitarian Church CIO (Charity No. 1199569) Monton Green Monton Eccles Manchester M30 9NX
Trustees’ Annual Report for the year 1[st] Jan 2025 to 31[st] Dec 2025
The charity’s purpose is as follows:
-
To promote a free and inquiring religion through worship of God and the celebration of life, the service of humanity and respect for all creation and the upholding of the Liberal Christian tradition, including by providing a place of worship to serve the community of Monton and Greater Manchester and the surrounding area; and
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To benefit the residents of Monton and Greater Manchester and the surrounding area, without distinction of sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, nationality, race, or political, religious or other opinions, by advancing education and providing facilities in the interests of social welfare for recreation and leisure time occupation with the objective of improving the conditions of life for residents.
This is an associational Charitable Incorporated Organisation, and its constitution has been approved by the Charity Commission. It was established in summer 2024, and took over the former charities of Monton Church (Unitarian) and Monton Memorial School Trustees on 1[st] January 2023.
Trustees at the time of this report were:
Irene Hitchcock Colin Morse Lynne Stopani Gloria Taylor Dave Ward-Speers Pam Ward-Speers
New trustees are invited to stand at each AGM, but must already be church members. They must be proposed and seconded by church members. There is also the option for the trustees to co-opt new trustees until the next AGM.
Financial Situation
As can be seen from the accounts, we have made a significant loss this year, however this is due to essential maintenance work, and also investment into systems and capital works that will reduce our future utility bills and make us more environmentally friendly. Most of these expenses are not repeatable ones, so while we may not break even this year, it will be a
much smaller gap. Work is also being done this year on ways to increase our income, whether through events, other fundraising or grant applications.
Chairman’s Report – 2025
Monton Unitarian Church
Reflecting on the past year, I am pleased to report that 2025 has been another vibrant and fulfilling year for Monton Unitarian Church. Our community has continued to grow in spirit and activity, and we have remained committed to worship, fellowship, and engagement with the wider community. Throughout the year we have hosted a range of services, events, and activities that have brought people together in faith, friendship, and shared purpose.
Worship and Services
Our year began with a number of special services that marked the rhythms of the church calendar. In February we held our St Valentine Service, celebrating love in all its forms, followed by our Mothering Sunday service in March. Easter brought a joyful celebration of renewal and hope.
In June we held our traditional Flower Communion Service, a beautiful and symbolic moment of unity within our congregation. Later in the year, our Harvest Service and Gift Day in October provided an opportunity to give thanks for the abundance of the year while supporting those in need within the wider community. In November, our Remembrance Service offered a time of reflection as we honoured those who have served and sacrificed. The Advent and Christmas season once again brought warmth and anticipation to our church. Our Toy Service encouraged generosity towards children and families, while the Blue Christmas Service offered a quiet and compassionate space for reflection during a time that can be difficult for many. December was particularly festive, including a wonderful concert by the Eccles Brass Band and our traditional Carol and Candlelight Service on Christmas Eve, which provided a moving and joyful conclusion to the year.
Community Engagement and Events
Community engagement remains a vital part of our mission, and the church continues to serve as a welcoming space for both congregation members and the wider Monton community.
One of the highlights of the year was our participation in Heritage Open Day in September, which coincided with the celebration of the 150th anniversary of Monton Unitarian Church. Including an anniversary service in which a presentation was made to Anna in recognition of the Ministers 10[th] anniversary of service to this church. This special occasion gave visitors an opportunity to learn about the history of our building, our congregation, and the values that continue to shape our church today.
We were also delighted to host several musical events during the year, including concerts by the Mancunian Singers and Monton Voices, both of which were warmly received and brought many visitors into the church.
Governance and Organisational Developments
The Committee has continued to meet regularly throughout the year, providing an important forum for discussion, planning, and decision-making. These meetings ensure that
the church remains well managed and able to respond effectively to the needs of the congregation and our wider community.
One of the most significant developments in recent years has been the establishment of
Monton Unitarian Church as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) , following the closure of the original Monton Church and Monton Memorial Hall charities. The transition to the CIO structure has provided a stronger governance framework and clearer organisational structure for the future of the church.
With Boddan Lodge now removed, the site has begun its next chapter. Following the demolition of the building, which had reached the end of its practical life, attention turned to improving and maintaining the space. With the help from – MSA Live 2025 studentsplanters have been added to help brighten and define the area while longer-term plans are considered.
Running the Memorial Hall
The Memorial Hall continues to be an important resource for both the church and the wider community. Through hall hire we are able to support a wide range of organisations while also helping to sustain the work of the church.
Regular users include national franchises such as Slimming World, Soccer stars, Dance Like a Mother, and Bloom Toddlers, alongside a number of local community groups including Monton Bridge Club, Salford Bridge Club, Monton Art Group, Vocal Sounds, Salford Local History Group, a Pilates group, and our own church coffee mornings.
Looking Forward
As we move forward, we remain committed to nurturing a welcoming, inclusive, and spiritually enriching community. We will continue to build on the success of our worship services, community events, and outreach activities, while exploring new opportunities to serve both our congregation and the wider Monton community.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed their time, energy, and dedication to the life of the church this year. The continued vitality of Monton Unitarian Church is a testament to the generosity and commitment of our members, volunteers, and friends.
With gratitude and optimism,
Dave Ward-Speers
Chair Monton Unitarian Church
Independent examiner's report on the accounts
Section A
Section A Independent Examiner’s Report Report to the trustees/ MONTON UNITARIAN CHURCH members of On accounts for the year 31/12/2025 Charity no 1199569 ended (if any) Set out on pages 3 & 4
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31 /12 /2025 .
Responsibilities and As the charity trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the basis of report accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect,:
-
the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or
-
the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
| Signed: Name: Relevant professional qualification(s) or body (if any): |
05/03/2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| CAROLYN CULLEN | ||
| INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS OF ENGLAND & WALES (ICAEW) |
October 2018
1
IER
Address:
5 HAWTHORN AVENUE
ECCLES, MANCHESTER
M30 9NE
Section B
Disclosure
Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and guidance for examiners).
Give here details of any items that the examiner wishes to disclose .
October 2018
2
IER
Profit and Loss
Monton Unitarian Church
For the year ended 31 December 2025
| Profit and Loss Monton Unitarian Church For the year ended 31 December 2025 |
||
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| Turnover | ||
| Collections | 10,272.91 | 38,532.49 |
| Donation Revenue | 5,705.84 | 4,162.28 |
| Hall Rental | 26,037.00 | 19,527.00 |
| Rites of Passage | 5,325.00 | 6,935.00 |
| Total Turnover | 47,340.75 | 69,156.77 |
| Cost of Sales | ||
| Casual Labour | 900.00 | 1,100.00 |
| Direct Expenses | 1,404.47 | 1,792.82 |
| Direct Wages | 46,467.72 | 43,293.24 |
| Gardening | 4,560.00 | 7,315.00 |
| Warden Costs | 2,661.50 | - |
| Total Cost of Sales | 55,993.69 | 53,501.06 |
| Gross Profit | (8,652.94) | 15,655.71 |
| Administrative Costs | ||
| Advertising & Marketing | 542.83 | - |
| Audit & Accountancy fees | 1,496.40 | 625.12 |
| Bank Fees | 180.00 | 180.00 |
| Charitable and Political Donations | 359.01 | 400.00 |
| General Expenses | - | 630.30 |
| Insurance | 12,609.78 | 11,900.02 |
| Interest Paid | 76.02 | - |
| IT Software and Consumables | 727.22 | - |
| Light, Power, Heating | 11,227.64 | 21,557.51 |
| Minister Expenses | 2,645.00 | 3,437.50 |
| Pensions Costs | 4,070.28 | 3,780.24 |
| Printing & Stationery | 430.17 | - |
| Rates | 822.56 | - |
| Repairs & Maintenance | 33,790.93 | 61,362.82 |
| Staff Training | 935.00 | 360.00 |
| Subscriptions | 439.11 | 3,022.72 |
| Telephone & Internet | 883.25 | 532.17 |
| Total Administrative Costs | 71,235.20 | 107,788.40 |
| Operating Profit | (79,888.14) | (92,132.69) |
| Other Income | ||
| Building Dilapidation | - | 6,249.81 |
| External Grants | 16,500.00 | 6,000.00 |
| Total Other Income | 16,500.00 | 12,249.81 |
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| Profit on Ordinary Activities Before Taxation | (63,388.14) | (79,882.88) |
| Profit after Taxation | (63,388.14) | (79,882.88) |
Independent examiner's report on the accounts
Section A
Section A Independent Examiner’s Report Report to the trustees/ MONTON UNITARIAN CHURCH members of On accounts for the year 31/12/2025 Charity no 1199569 ended (if any) Set out on pages 3 & 4
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31 /12 /2025 .
Responsibilities and As the charity trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the basis of report accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect,:
-
the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or
-
the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
| Signed: Name: Relevant professional qualification(s) or body (if any): |
05/03/2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| CAROLYN CULLEN | ||
| INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS OF ENGLAND & WALES (ICAEW) |
October 2018
1
IER
Address:
5 HAWTHORN AVENUE
ECCLES, MANCHESTER
M30 9NE
Section B
Disclosure
Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and guidance for examiners).
Give here details of any items that the examiner wishes to disclose .
October 2018
2
IER
Profit and Loss
Monton Unitarian Church
For the year ended 31 December 2025
| Profit and Loss Monton Unitarian Church For the year ended 31 December 2025 |
||
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | |
| Turnover | ||
| Collections | 10,272.91 | 38,532.49 |
| Donation Revenue | 5,705.84 | 4,162.28 |
| Hall Rental | 26,037.00 | 19,527.00 |
| Rites of Passage | 5,325.00 | 6,935.00 |
| Total Turnover | 47,340.75 | 69,156.77 |
| Cost of Sales | ||
| Casual Labour | 900.00 | 1,100.00 |
| Direct Expenses | 1,404.47 | 1,792.82 |
| Direct Wages | 46,467.72 | 43,293.24 |
| Gardening | 4,560.00 | 7,315.00 |
| Warden Costs | 2,661.50 | - |
| Total Cost of Sales | 55,993.69 | 53,501.06 |
| Gross Profit | (8,652.94) | 15,655.71 |
| Administrative Costs | ||
| Advertising & Marketing | 542.83 | - |
| Audit & Accountancy fees | 1,496.40 | 625.12 |
| Bank Fees | 180.00 | 180.00 |
| Charitable and Political Donations | 359.01 | 400.00 |
| General Expenses | - | 630.30 |
| Insurance | 12,609.78 | 11,900.02 |
| Interest Paid | 76.02 | - |
| IT Software and Consumables | 727.22 | - |
| Light, Power, Heating | 11,227.64 | 21,557.51 |
| Minister Expenses | 2,645.00 | 3,437.50 |
| Pensions Costs | 4,070.28 | 3,780.24 |
| Printing & Stationery | 430.17 | - |
| Rates | 822.56 | - |
| Repairs & Maintenance | 33,790.93 | 61,362.82 |
| Staff Training | 935.00 | 360.00 |
| Subscriptions | 439.11 | 3,022.72 |
| Telephone & Internet | 883.25 | 532.17 |
| Total Administrative Costs | 71,235.20 | 107,788.40 |
| Operating Profit | (79,888.14) | (92,132.69) |
| Other Income | ||
| Building Dilapidation | - | 6,249.81 |
| External Grants | 16,500.00 | 6,000.00 |
| Total Other Income | 16,500.00 | 12,249.81 |
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| Profit on Ordinary Activities Before Taxation | (63,388.14) | (79,882.88) |
| Profit after Taxation | (63,388.14) | (79,882.88) |