# **Taunton Baptist Church Charity No. 1209599 Report for Charity Commission** ## **1[st] May – 31[st ] December 2025** ## **Regular Activities** Being a church means that meeting together with one another for worship and prayer and the study of God’s Word is important to us, as is the mandate to reach others with the good news of Jesus Christ. Pastoral care is also an important part of our life together, providing support for those facing particular challenges and difficulties. With a considerable number of elderly people in our congregation, this is an important area of work. Our Home Groups are at the core of this work and several members are involved in home and hospital visits. Involvement of children and young people is also an important part of our activities. These are aimed at introducing people to the Christian faith in the context of fun and a variety of activities. ## **Ministry** Revd Richard Matcham continued to serve as our minister through 2025. During the year, we had 1 baptism and 2 weddings. Richard did several preaching series through the year including Christian Foundations, the Acts of the Apostles, and How Jesus used the Old Testament. On Sunday evenings in the spring and autumn we ran discipleship courses. The 2[nd] Sunday of each month was the church prayer evening. Following her maternity leave, Amy Farrar, decided not to come back to her role as Families Worker. In January we hosted a B1 prayer evening in the week of prayer and in November a seminar on Thinking Like a Christian. ## **Church Members’ Meetings** There were six Church Members’ Meetings in 2025: 21[st] January, 25[th] March (AGM), 3[rd] June, 22[nd] July, 23[rd] September, and 25[th] November, with the March meeting being the AGM. At the meetings we discussed the ongoing matters relating to the life and ministry of the Church. The minutes and finance report were sent out to the members and are available to read on the members’ section of our website. We also had a Special Church Members’ Meeting on 3[rd] June when we closed the old Taunton Baptist Church Charity and became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). ## **Leadership** At our AGM in March, we held the election for the Leadership Team. Keziah Cracknell was elected to serve as a deacon, however after some reflection she decided not to take up the role. ## **Charitable Status** At a Special Church Meeting on 23[rd] January 2024 the Church took the decision to become a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). This came into effect on 1[st] May 2025. ## **Safeguarding Report – Janet Gillett (Designated Safeguarding Lead)** Safeguarding children and adults at risk of harm continues to be very important to us at TBC. There are numerous reports both in church communities and in society where safeguarding has failed these people. All our staff and volunteers helpers leading in activities that we provide are regularly safeguarding trained and DBS checked. At the beginning of the year the whole church and Chinese Church was reminded that safeguarding is everyone’s business when we watched the BU video. Once again TBC hosted a regional training day in November last year. TBC continues to subscribe to ThirtyOneEight, A Christian safeguarding organisation, that is available to provide advice. We are also well supported by SWBA safeguarding lead Kath Needham. There have been no reportable safeguarding incidents during 2025. I wish to thank Julian Morant who assists with DBS checking and Karen Maxwell who is also a safeguarding deputy ## **General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Report – Steven Reed (Data Protection Officer)** One of the main purposes of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is to protect individuals' fundamental rights and freedoms, particularly their right to protection of their personal data. At TBC we therefore recognise that a person’s personal data (name, address, email address, telephone number, etc) belongs to them and we only use this privileged information with the owner’s permission. If we hold a person’s personal data on file and use it for communication and administration purposes the owner will have signed a GDPR form agreeing to this. Even then, we must always be prepared to justify the use of their information. We continue to be registered with the government’s body, the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office). Our church policy on GDPR is in date. The BU (Baptist Union) provides us with updates and recommends policy changes where necessary. There have been no reportable data breaches in the year under review. ## **External Activities** Our ministry goes beyond the church doors with members involved in: - Taunton Street Pastors which support people on the streets of Taunton at weekends through the evenings into the early morning, helping to make the town safer - The Hospital Chaplaincy - Town Centre Chaplaincy - volunteer chaplains are allocated to participating stores, offices and other places of employment and other locations such as a homeless hostel to be available to provide a listening ear or encouragement, etc, to staff and others - The Taunton Foodbank which provides emergency food for local people in crisis - Charis which provides accommodation and support to Syrian refugee families and advice to others working with refugee families - Taunton Area Debt Advice ## **Room Hire/Outside Groups** We continue to have a good number of outside groups who hire different rooms. This included the following groups: - Big Noise Street Band - Christians Against Poverty - Private Tuition & Therapy Sessions - Home Edducation Group - Maths & English Classes x 2 - First Aid Training - Movement Worship - Quantock Club Coffee Morning - Safe Families - School Visit - Slimming World - Somerset Industrial Archaeological Society - SWBA Meeting - SWYM Cluster Meeting - Taunton Area Debt Advice - Taunton Food Bank - Taunton Guides - Taunton Youth Together - Weddings x 2 - Youth For Christ - Sewing Classes ## **Church Membership Statistics** |**Membership 31st December 2024:**|**102**| |---|---| |**New Members:**|**4**| |Chris and Emma Brown|| |Johnson and Martha Sampson|| |**Deaths:**|**1**| |Charlie Back|| |**Resignations:**|**3**| |David Blake|| |Mike Newberry and Rosie Marsh|| |**Transfers:**|**0**| |**Membership 31st December 2025:**|**102**| ## **Ministry Reports 2025** ## **CHILDREN AND FAMILIES – Janet & Barbara** ## **Toddlers, Children and Young People report for AGM 2026** The past year has been difficult since the resignation of our children and families worker Amy Farrar. Whilst we rejoice at the safe delivery of their son, Forest we were saddened when she decided to leave and become a full time mother as her leadership and creativity had been much appreciated. As a consequence we have had to make a decision to stop the monthly Messy Church and weekly Baby Group. However, the dedicated teams have continued to support the midweek toddler groups and Sunday Stars. ## **Toddlers** The toddler group operates 3 times weekly and there are around 50 toddlers with adults attending. Each session includes a short Bible story and some singing when there are leaders available to do this. At Christmas there was nativity enactment, and also a time with Santa and gifts and food. This Easter we are planning an Easter egg hunt in the sanctuary with a story about Easter. This will help to link the toddler group with the church. With thanks to Clare Purches who organises this group and all the activities and of course those who regularly come to serve and welcome families. ## **Sunday Stars** Barbara Wager has taken on the organisational role for Sunday Stars and prepares materials for each week. This year we are looking at the Life of Jesus and the Early Church. The group is growing as new people with children come to TBC and we usually have between 6 and 11 children attending on a Sunday morning. There is a core group of leaders without whom we would not be able to function, Lauren Jewhurst, Anna Regan and Karen Maxwell, and they are supported by others who help with the children, whose ages range from 4 – 11 years. ## **Sparkz** In September 2025 we said goodbye to Grace Horner, our SWYM trainee as she returned home to USA. We valued her input and have continued with a dedicated group of teenagers each Sunday studying the Bible and how it is applicable to their lives. We have some new helpers which has supported the team. For the 3rd time Movement Worship from Bath has come to TBC and over 50 young people have enjoyed an evening of song and word. They will return in July. ## **Lighthouse** Friday evenings are a time for fun and fellowship as young people enjoy the excellent facilities in the youth suite. With thanks to Colin Jewhurst and others who regularly support this evening activity. ## **ADULTS** ## **PASTORAL CARE – Steve** As an Elder with responsibility for Pastoral Care, my emphasis is on visiting those who are unable to get to church for whatever reason, bringing them Holy Communion, fellowship and prayer. If people choose, visits are monthly with Holy Communion. However, a more regular visit might be necessary if the need arises. Importantly, there are others who also visit and fellowship with friends and I am not seeking to interfere with these important links and arrangements. Pastoral care is, after all, a shared responsibility involving the whole church. It is a real joy for me to visit those who have contributed so much of their lives to TBC and to hear their stories and testimonies. Let us never forget that what we enjoy today is down to those who so faithfully served in the past. If you know of someone whom you think is missing out on pastoral care, please give me a call. ## **PRAYER NETWORK – Janet & Carole** We continue to give thanks to God for this ministry. We receive requests for prayer from those in our fellowship either for themselves or for other people. We just need to emphasise that the recipient of the prayer request has given their permission for this to be shared and also have some connection to TBC. It gives such comfort and assurance to those who have requested prayer knowing that they are being upheld before God’s Throne of Grace and it’s such an encouragement as their request is sent to approx. 63 email addresses. We read in James chapter 5 verse 16 that the prayers of a righteous person who is living in obedience to God , are described as powerful, effective and capable of achieving great results. So we want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all our faithful prayer warriors for your support and faithfulness in this ministry. Please also pray for Janet and myself as we continue to serve God in this way and may His blessing be upon us both. ## **HOMEGROUPS – Janet** Six Bible study homegroups meet every fortnight, one online, two at TBC and the others in homes. Approximately 70 people meet to pray, share fellowship and study God’s word. New attendees at TBC are invited to join a homegroup and a new group commenced during 2025. Homegroups also provide pastoral support for those in the group and for those known to the group. It is our hope and prayer that there will be an increased number of people praying, studying and sharing together within the ‘homegroup’ environment. ## **COFFEE PLUS – Hazel** Coffee Plus continued throughout the year 2024 - 25 with a core number of attendees of around 20. Some have been with us for a number of years, some have moved on or become incapacitated and others have joined us, mainly by invitation from a friend. It has also been good to welcome 10 – 15 visitors from time to time. Four of those visitors have become regular members of the group, while others continue to ‘pop in’ when they can. We were especially grateful to Carl who organised a Macmillan coffee morning in September, with all money taken being given to that charity. Our thanks to those from the church who supported that venture. We also held the traditional sale of Christmas crafts that did not seem to be of particular interest to many this year, but was better supported on the second occasion of the ‘mini-sale’. We do rely on some outside support on these occasions as we do not have the same footfall on a Friday now, and some of our current attendees do not have a lot of cash to spare or people to buy for. It is really an encouragement to us all to know that the church family is interested in what we do. We have of late become much more of a support group for people who are vulnerable or just need some company. Some members with similar problems just like to chat and encourage each other, and Christian members are happy to listen and advise where possible, but we do still have some amazing crafting talent within the group! Sadly Dorothy had to retire at the end of the year after giving about seven years to the project, but with love and thanks for her hard work we were able to give her a potted patio rose, and a photo-card of members and activities during those years which was handmade by our much appreciated volunteer Gail. She is an active member of St. George’s RC church who has been with Coffee Plus as a craft expert since it began, and we are very grateful for her warmth and help in many different ways. David Fletcher has offered to be the second TBC member to support the group in the new year, and we will continue to support everyone where we can. Personal space and prayer is offered outside the main room if the need is felt, with some members actively accepting it at the time whilst others appreciate being prayed for rather than being personally involved. ## **“GIRLS” TOGETHER – Iris** I would like to start my report for thanking the group for being so supportive after my Major Health Scare, your support and prayers were much appreciated. We had another good year starting off with Nick O’Donnell telling us about his year as Mayor. We had an interesting talk from Dr Yoxell. Everyone enjoyed when Sarah brought her beautiful clothes she wore at her son’s Indian Wedding. We had talks on being aware of Scams, Easter Craft and Brian Wright talked to us again this time his talk was Food for thought. We had Trip a to Powderham Castle and Dawlish on a lovely Sunny Day. We also enjoyed our Bowls and lunch at Vivary Park. Once again Mike Wager entertained with Christmas music and Carols. Iris, Janet & Clare ## **KNIT AND NATTER – Anne & Christine** The knitting group is still growing steadily, with ladies bringing friends along and others simply finding us and joining in. It’s such a warm, supportive group, and we have a lot of fun together. We’re there for each other too — sometimes offering practical or emotional support outside of our Saturday meet-ups. Our conversations cover just about everything! Last week, for example, we somehow found ourselves chatting about death and heaven We pray with people if they’d like us to, and we’ve helped a couple of ladies get Bibles and encouraged them to come along to services. Some have come — and even invited others of the group along too, which has been lovely to see. Strangely enough, we often talk as much as (if not more than!) we knit or crochet. We help each other with patterns, learn new stitches together, and sometimes even teach one another knitting or crochet skills. Some of the ladies knit for Baby Basics, a charity supporting new mums who don’t have very much. We often swap wool or bring in spare bits so they can keep going. It’s amazing what they create from odds and ends — beautiful blankets, hats, and little jackets, even when there isn’t enough of one colour. Please pray for us that we can find the right words to help when difficult conversation happens or when other issues arise, as they sometimes do in any group, so that we can show God’s love in action in all we do. Thank you all. ## **MEN’S GROUP – Graham & Martin** The Men@TBC group has continued to meet regularly throughout the year, usually gathering on the second Friday of each month. During the year the group has enjoyed a variety of activities and outings. These have included a coach trip to Oakham Treasures, several evening and daytime games of skittles, an evening at Hollywood Bowl, and an enjoyable time at Vivary Bowls followed by a shared meal. The group has also met for breakfasts at a local pub, providing further opportunities for fellowship and conversation. These events have been well supported and have included a mixture of men from our congregation as well as friends and guests who do not regularly attend church. This has provided a relaxed and welcoming environment for building friendships and strengthening connections within the wider community. In addition to the social activities, some gatherings have included testimonies and short talks, offering opportunities for encouragement, reflection, and sharing of faith. The Men@TBC group continues to provide a valuable space for fellowship, friendship, and outreach. ## **Fellowship Events – Martin** During the past year, a subcommittee of seven church members was formed to organise fellowship events for the congregation. As there was no church weekend away planned, it was agreed that particular focus should be given to arranging a variety of fellowship opportunities throughout the year to encourage connection and participation within the church community. Several successful events were organised as a result. These included a Fun Day, featuring quizzes, games, a bouncy castle, and a hog roast, which was well attended and enjoyed by all ages. A Talent Show was also held. This began with a static display showcasing many home talents and interests from members of the congregation. This was followed by a range of acts and performances presented in the sanctuary, providing an enjoyable time of entertainment and creativity. Later in the year, we hosted a Christmas Party, with a bring-and-share meal and a variety of fun games that created a warm and festive atmosphere. Another highlight was the Ceilidh and Curling evening, which included both hot and cold food, dancing to a three-piece band, and indoor curling held in the Trull Room. This event proved to be particularly popular and provided a great opportunity for fellowship and laughter. Looking ahead, a meal is planned at Oake Manor in May, and a church picnic is scheduled for later in the year, continuing the focus on building community and fellowship for all. Overall, it has been a very successful year for fellowship, with strong participation and many opportunities for members to connect, share their gifts, and enjoy time together. ## **RENDEZVOUS – Dorothy** Rendezvous has continued throughout another year, meeting on the first Tuesday of every month. As before, six different leaders – Evelyn, Hazel, Joan, Mary and Bob, Tracey and myself lead the sessions in turn, and choose their own speaker, either from our own fellowship or beyond. Each session includes prayer, singing, a bible reading and a speaker (topics and testimonies, etc.) At the end of each session, we enjoy tea and cake together. During the year we have a lovely summer meal kindly prepared by Jane and Julian and a cream tea at various venues. Grateful thanks to our leaders and speakers and to all who contribute to our afternoons: providing transport, sending of cards, preparing teas, etc. We are sad that Janice Moody and Eric Skinner cannot join with us in the future owing to ill health; we thank them for all that they have contributed over the years. Some of our members are needing transport to be able to join us, so any offers of help with this would be much appreciated. A very warm welcome awaits you if you would like to join us. Dorothy and the Team Charlty Reglstration No. 1209599 TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Lentells Chartered Certified Accounianis TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Tw$t•¢$ William Venn Rev Richard Matcham David Fletcher Rev Steven Reed Dr Janel Gillett Barbara Wager Mike W8ger Charity registration England and Wales 1209599 Prlnclpal address 19 Silver Street Taunton SOme￿et TA1 3DH Independent examiner Lente115 Limited Ash House Cook Way Bindon Road Taunton Somerset TA2 6BJ TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH CONTENTS Page Trustees. report Independent examiner's ￿port Slalemenl of financial activities Balance sheet Notes to the financial statements 6-15 TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Thè trusteès prèsent their annual rep￿ and finanual statemènts for the yèar ended 31 Decembèr 2025. The financial stsleTllenls have been prepared in aC£Ordan￿ with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011, FRS 102 "The Fin8nci81 Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Ch8rrties SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities". Stslerllenl of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Finan￿al Reporting Stsndard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021.. Objectives and activities The advancement of the Christian faith ac￿rdIng to the principles of the Bapts"st denomination. Public benefft The trustees have paid due regard to guidance iSsL￿d by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the harity should undertake. In fulfilling the Purpose, the Church is engaged in the following activities.. regular public worship, prayer, Bible study, preaching and teaching,. baptism, as defined in the Baptist Union's Declaration of Prinople.. . the Communion of the Lord's Supper which is normally observed al least once a month., evangelism and mission, locally. regionally, nationally and internationally., . the leaching, encouragement. welcome and inclusion of young people,. nurture and growth of christs.an disciples., education and training for Christian and community service.. giving encouraging pastoral care.. * supporting and encouraging tharitable social 8ctron in the United Kingdom and abroad,. encouraging rel8tionships wlh and supporting B¥ptisls and other Christians. Achievements and performance SNgnrfiGant activities and achievemerts againsl objecttives See Church Annual RewrL Financial review The attached financial statements show the state of the finan￿S of the church and c£>mply with the Charities Act 2011 and the Charib'es SORP. The Statement of Financial Acts'vibes shows a net income of £516 after charging depreciation of £2,560. The balance sheet shows funds of £316,294. R8seNes policy It is the policy of Ihe charity that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a speafic use should be maintained al a minimal level equivalent lo three month's expenditure. This reserve is adopted in order for the church to meet its financial obligations should Ihere be a sudden reducknon in its income. At Ihe year end, the unreslricted net asset balan￿ amounted to £120,294. which comfortably exceeds three months expenditure. Structure, go¥eman¢e and management Taunton Baptist Church, Silver Streel. Taunton. SomerseL TA1 3DH. was founded in 1812 and later became a registered charity (charity number.. 11329491. On 1sI May 2025 it became a Charity Incorporated Organisation (charity number 12095991. The Constitution was last amended on 9th May 2024. TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Thè trusteès who setvèd during the year and up to the date of signaturè of the finanaal statèments wèré.. William Venn Rev Richard Matcham David Flet¢her Rev Steven Reed Dr Janet Gillett B8rb8ra Wager Mike Wager R8Gruitm8nt and appointment of trustees The ChLJr¢h Members, Meeting appoints Charity Trustees, induding a Church Secretary lor equivalentl and a Church Treasurer lor equivalentl to be responsible for the governan￿ an¢J affairs of the Church. None of Ihe trustees has any beneficial interest in the company. AJI of the truslees are members of the company and guaranlee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up. The Charity Trustees have an obligation lsubject to any overriding legal binding requ1￿ment to the ¢ontraryl to lake note of the dire¢b'ons and ￿quests of the Church Members, Meeting. The trustees. report was approved by the Board of Trustees. sign￿ Dn 17June 2026 @ 10."18 William Venn Trustee Date.. i�e���� ��� �a dCountersigned on 17 June 2026 @ 10:42 TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING INCOMEAND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Unrsstrl¢t•d R$strl¢t•d Endowm•nt funds funds funds 2025 2025 2025 Total Unr•strlct•d Rèstrlctod Endowm•nt fund$ fund$ fund$ 2024 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Note$ In¢om¢ from.. Donations and legacies Charitable activities Investment8 117,950 31,784 2,362 736 118,686 31,784 2,362 103,510 31,440 4,525 1,760 105,270 31,440 4,525 Total In¢oma 1 $2,096 736 152,832 139,475 1,760 141,235 Expendlture on.. Grants Charitable activities 15,720 135,860 736 16,456 135,860 15,500 143,750 2,685 18.185 143,750 Total •xp•ndlture 151,580 736 152,316 159,250 2,685 161,935 Net Incomellexpendltur8} and movement In funds 516 516 119,7751 19251 120,7001 Re¢on¢lllatlon of funds.. Fund balances at 1 January 2025 119,778 196,000 315,778 139,553 925 196,000 336,478 Fund balances at 31 December 2025 120,294 196,000 316,294 119,778 196,000 315,778 The ststemenl of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing aclivilies. TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025 202S 2024 Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 13 215,086 211,990 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 14 4.429 102,018 3,384 106,708 1(￿.44/ 110,092 Cr•dltor$.' amounts falllng due wlthln ono year 15 15,239) 16,3041 Net current a55ets 101,208 103,788 Total assets less current liabilities 316,294 315,778 The funds of the charity Endowment funds Unrestricted funds 17 18 196.000 120.294 196,000 119.778 316.294 315,778 The financial statements were approved by the trustees on ......................... sign￿ Dn 17June 2026 @ 10."18 William Venn Trustè• TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Accountlng pollelès Charity infomiation Taunton Baptist Church is a Charitablè Incorporat￿ Organisation registèred with Charty Commission for England and Wales (registration number". 12095991. The regISte￿d office address is Taunton Baptist Church, 19 Silver Street, Taunton, TA1 3DH. 1.1 Basis of preparation The financial statements have l)een prepared in accordan￿ with the Charity's goveming document, the Charities Act 2011, FRS 102 "The Finan(ial Reporting Siandard appli¢able in the UK and Republic of Ireland. and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporbng by Chartties." Statement of Recommended Practi applicable to charilies p￿paring their accounts in accordan￿ with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021" The charity is a Public Benefil Entity as defined by FRS 102. The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP lor charities not to prepare a statement of cash flows. The financial stslements have departed from the Charities IA¢¢ounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only lo the extent reqUI￿d to provide a tnje and fair view. This departure has involved following the Ststement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of thè Statement of Recommended Pra¢ti¢e which is referred to in the Regulations bul whi¢h has Sin￿ been withdrawn. The financial ststements are prepared in sterfing. which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary afflounls in these finanrAal statements are rounded lo the nearest £. The finanaal statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 1.2 Going concern At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to conts.nue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going con￿rn basis of accour)ling ir) preparing the financial statements. 1.3 Charitable funds Unrestricted funds are available for use at the dis(xetion of the trustees in fvrtherance of their Charitsble objectives. Restricted fLJnds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricied funds are set out in the notes to the finanual statements. Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that Ihe capital must be maintained by the charity. 1.4 Income Income is recognised when the tharity is legally enb.ued to it after any perfomian¢e Conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable thal income will be received. Cash donations are re¢ognised on r￿lpL Other donations a￿ re¢ognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless perfomiance conditions require deferral of the amounl. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift or deeds ol covenant is recognised at the time of the donation. Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known. the legacy is treated as a contingent asset. TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Accounting policies (Continued) 1.5 Expenditure Expenditure is recognised On￿ there is a legal or construclive obligation to transfer econornic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each aclivity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated direcuy to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those aclivits.es on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central stsff costs are allocated on the basis of lime spent. and dep￿ciall0n Charges are 8IIoc8led on the wrtion of the 8ssel's use_ 1.6 Tangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets are inits'ally measured at cost and subsequenuy measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairmenl losses. Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases.. Freehold land and buildings Fixtures and fittings No depreciation 10% straight line The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is detemiined as the differen￿ between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of finanoal activities. 1.7 Impairment of fixed assets Al each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carying amounts of its tangible assets lo determine whether there is any indication that those assets have SLrffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to delemiine the extent of the impairment loss Irf any). 1.8 Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalenis indude cash in hand. deposits held at call with banks, other short-temi liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabililies. 1.9 Finan¢ial instruments The charity has elecled to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Finanoal Instruments, and Section 12 'Other Financial Instruments Issues, of FRS 102 to all of ils financial instnjments. Financial instruments are recognised in the charitys balan￿ sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instnjment. Financial assets and liabilibes are offset. wth the net amounts presented in the finanaal statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to setue on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. Baslc financlal assets Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balan￿s, are initially measured al transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitules a finanong Iransaction. where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future re￿iptS disojunted al a market rate of interest. Financial assets dassilied as receivable wthin one year are not amortised. TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Accounting policies (Continued) Basic financial liabilitlgs Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction pri￿ unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payrllents discounted at a markel rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments are subsequenlly carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rale method. Trade creditors are obligations lo pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are dasstfied as current liabilities rf payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities_ Tr8de creditors are recognised initi811y al Ir8ns8ction price and subsequentty measured at amorts.sed cost using the effective interest method. Derecognition of financial liabilities Financial liabilitses are derecognised when the ¢*arty's ￿ntraCtual obligab.ons expire or are discharged or ancelled. 1.10 Employee benefits The cost of any unused holiday entidewnenl is rec(NJnised in the period in which the employee's services are received. Temination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the Charity is demonstrably Committed lo lerminale the employment of an employee or to provide temiination benefjts. 1.11 Retirement benefits Payments lo defined Contribution retirement benefft schemes are tharged 8$ 8n expense as they fall due. Critical accounting estimates and judgements In the application of the charity's accounting poliues. the Irustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions aboul the carying amounl of assels and liabililies Ihat are not readily apparent from other sources. The eslimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experien￿ and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from Ihese estimates. The estimates and undertying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the ests.mate is revised where the revision affects only that pericxj, or in the peri¢A of the revision and fvture periods where the revision affects both current and future pericxjs. TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Ineomo from donatlons and 1ogael•s Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Donations and gifts Legacies Grants Linked Groups Donations Gtft Aid 77,903 10,000 3.378 7,441 380 18,848 77.903 10.0(HJ 3,378 7.441 1.116 18.848 72,557 1,276 6.685 5,928 607 16,457 1,760 74,317 1,276 6,685 5,928 607 16,457 736 117,950 736 118,686 103,510 1,760 105,270 Income from charitable activities Unrestricted funds 2025 Unrestricted fund5 2024 Charitable activities Charitsble rental income 31,784 31,440 Incoma from investments Unr¢$trl¢ted Unrestrlcted funds funds 2025 2024 Interest receivable 2,362 4,525 Expenditure on grants Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Total Unrestricted Restricted nds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Grant and donations Gran15 and donations aw8rded 15,720 736 16.456 15,500 2,685 18,185 TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Expèndltura on charltablo actlvltlos Charitable activities 2025 Charitable activities 2024 Direct costs Staff costs - Ministry team Depreciation and impairmenl Church building maintenance Insurance Light and heating Rates and water Linked groups Training - SWYM Outreach Children and youth work Weekend 45,067 2,560 5,063 6,453 6.055 44,899 1,994 6,945 1.607 6,191 632 3.677 2,625 449 31,129 1.982 3,866 2.900 470 12,419 85,801 102,130 Share of support and gov•mance costs (se8 note 8) Governance 50,059 41,620 135,860 143,750 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds 135,860 143,750 Support ¢osts allocated to a¢tivitie$ 2025 2024 Staff costs -Administrator and caretaker Slalionery and Offi￿ expenses Miscellaneou5 Other propety running costs Accountancy 33,843 5,693 1,685 7,4 1,382 32,008 5,139 1.761 2,412 300 50,059 41,620 Analysed between- Charitsble activities 50.059 41.620 10- TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Nèt movomènt In funds 2025 2024 The nel movement in funds is slated after chargingl{creditingl= Fees payable for the independent examination of the charivs finanual statemenls Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets 1,442 2,560 300 1,994 10 Trustees Remuneration During the year, one trustee received remuneration as authorised by the charity's governing document for specific professional services provided to the charity. Trustee Name.. Rev R Matcham Remuneration.. £37,69612024'. £36.4501 Employers National Insuran￿.. £99012024 £1,354} Pension Contributions.. £4,54312024'. £44061 Nature of Services.. Provision of speaalist legal cor)suMancy services unrelated to Iheir duties as a trustee. Legal Authority: Article 12.4 of the Art"bdes of Association. No other trustees received any remuneration or other benefits from the charity during the year. Expenses Trustees are entitled to be reimbursed for out-of-po¢kel expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. During the period. total expenses of £770 12024- £1,428) were reimbursed lo 1 truslees12024.. 1 trusleesl. These expenses re18te(I prim8rily to travel, subsisten(*, and ovemight accommodation for vists. 11 Employees The average monthly number of employees during Ihe year was: 2025 Number 2024 Number Employment costs 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs 68.133 1.396 9,381 68,038 1,742 7,127 78.910 76,907 There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60.000. 11 TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 11 Employees (Continued) Remuneration of key management personnel The remuneration of key management personnel was as follows= 2025 2024 Aggregate compensation 43,229 42.210 12 Taxation The charity is exempt from taxation on its aclivities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes. 13 Tanglblè flxad ass•ts Freèhold land Flxtures and and building$ ffttings Total Co$t At 1 January 2025 Additions 200,000 66,193 5,656 266,193 5,656 At 31 De￿mber 2025 200,000 71,849 271,849 Depr•clatlon and Impaimient Al 1 January 2025 Depreaation charged in the year 54.203 2,560 54.203 2,560 Al 31 De￿mber 2025 56.763 56.763 Carrying amount Al 31 De￿mber 2025 200,000 15,086 215,086 At 31 De￿mber 2024 200,000 11,990 211,990 14 Debtors 2025 2024 Amounts falling due within one year: Trade debtors Prepayments and accrued income 4,329 100 3,384 4,429 3,384 12- TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 15 Cr•dltors: amounts falllng duè wlthln onè year 2025 2024 (Xher taxation and soual security Trade creditors A￿ru¥1$ and deferred income 187 3,732 1,320 1,620 4,324 360 5,239 6,304 16 Retirement benefit schemes 2025 2024 Defined ¢ontrfbutlon schemes Charge to profrt or Ios5 in respect of defined conth"bution schemes 7,543 7,127 The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying ernployees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. 17 Endowment funds Endowment funds represent assets which musl be held pemianenuy by the charity. Income arising on the endowment funds can be used in accordance with the objects of the charity and is inclkjded as unrestricted income. Any capital gains or losses arising on the asseis fomi part of the ftjnd. At 1 January 2025 At31 De¢ember 2025 Pemianent endowments 196,000 196,000 Previous yaar.. At 1 January 2024 At31 Decembar 2024 Pemianent andowmants 196,000 196,000 13- TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 18 Unrèstrletsd funds The unrestricted funds of the charity ¢x)mprise the unexpended balan￿S of donations and grants which are not subjed to specific condrtions by donors and grantors as lo how they may be used. These include designated funds whi¢h have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specffjic purposes. At 1 January 2025 Incoming resources Resources expended At31 December 2025 General funds 119.778 152,096 1151,5801 120,294 Previous year.. At 1 January 2024 Incorning resources Resources expended At31 December 2024 General fLJnds 139,553 139,475 1159,2501 119,778 19 Analysis of net assets ￿tWO￿n funds Unrestricted Endowment funds funds 2025 2025 Total 2025 At 31 December 2025: Tangible 8ssels Current assetsl{liabilitiesl 19,086 101,208 196,000 215,086 101,208 120,294 196,000 316,294 Unrestrfct•d Endowmont funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2024 At 31 December 2024: Tangible assets Current assetsllliabilitiesl 15,990 103,788 196,000 211,990 103,788 119.TT8 196,000 315,778 20 R•lat¢d party tran$a¢tlon$ There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year {2024 - none) other than the trustee transaction already disdosed. 14- ## **TAUNTON BAPTIST CHURCH** ## **NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)** _**FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025**_ ## **21 Accounting for merger of charities** As of 1 May 2025, the unincorporated charity Taunton Baptist Church of 19 Silver Street, Taunton, TA1 3DH (Reg. no 1132949) transitioned in to the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (Reg. no.1209599). All assets and liabilities were transferred on this date in view of the charitable objectives continuing in the same manner. The business combination qualifies for merger accounting and so these account reflects a full year's activity for the combined entities. As the CIO did not commence operating until 1 May 2025, the comparative amounts included within these accounts are those of the unincorporated charity alone. The current year being reported on comprise 4 months of the unincorporated charity and 8 months of the CIO. The unincorporated charity reports the following data in respect of the period prior to the merger being 1 January 2025 to 30 April 2025: Total income: £46,204 Total expenditure: £50,014 Net income/(expenditure): (£3,990) Other gains/(losses): £Nil Net movement in funds: (£3,990) Net assets: £311,788 Represented by: Unrestricted funds: £115,788 Restricted funds: £Nil Endowment funds: £196,000 Total funds: £311,788 - 15 -