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2024-12-31-accounts

Comasonic Benevolent Fund

Registered charity No: 205813

ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Comasonic Benevolent Fund Hexagon House, 37-39 Surbiton Hill Road, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 4TS www.freemasonryformenandwomen.co.uk E: benevfund@freemasonryformenandwomen.co.uk T: +44 (0)20 8339 9000

1

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

CONTENTS PAGE
Report of the Chairperson 2
Legal & administrative information 3
Report of the Trustees 4
Independent examiners' report to the trustees 10
Statement of financial activities (SOFA) 11 & 12
Balance sheet 13
Notes to the financial statements 14 to 21
Appendix 1 - Organisational Structure 22
Appendix 2 - Objectives, actions and targets for 2024 23

2

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND REPORT OF THE CHAIRMAN

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

As chair person and on behalf of the board of trustees (“Trustees” or “Board”) of the Comasonic Benevolent Fund (“CMBF”), I am pleased to present the annual report for the Comasonic Benevolent Fund (“CMBF”) for the year ending 31st December 2024.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Trustees, volunteers and support staff of the CMBF for their continued support this year.

The Trustees are volunteers. They provide their time, commitment and energy as the vital glue allowing all the other critical parts of CMBF to operate. For this I offer my heartfelt thanks.

The CMBF continues to donate to worthwhile charities and causes, both nationally and internationally. The CMBF helps in its small way towards improving the lives of our beneficiaries.

Looking to the future, we have as other small charities challenges ahead but I feel confident that we will continue to assist those in need throughout 2025.

Christine Hilcenko – Chair

1st August 2025

3

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Trustees

Dr Christine Hilcenko Chair Brian Roberts Secretary Rene Pfertzel Treasurer Anne Hoblyn MBE Nicole Vitzthum Kamil Kacprzak (appointed: 20.05.2025) James Moseley (appointed: 29.07.2025) Sue Moseley (appointed: 29.07.2025) Denys Julian Rees (resigned: 08.01.2025) The British Co-Masonic Trust Ltd (nominated representative - Sally Roberts)

Trustees resigned during & since year ended 31.12.2024

None

Trustees appointed during year

None

Charity Address

Hexagon House 37 / 39 Surbiton Hill road Surbiton Surrey KT6 4TS

Bankers

Lloyds TSB Law Courts (300004) Branch 222 Strand London WC2R 1BB

Independent Examiner

Reza Samii Chartered Accountant 5 Calico Row Plantation Wharf London SW11 3YH

4

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

The trustees present their report with the independently examined accounts of the Comasonic Benevolent Fund for the year ended 31 December 2024. The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out on page 14.

1. Constitution and Objectives

The CMBF is a registered charity number 205813. The governing document is a Trust Deed dated 30 October 1933, with a supplemental deed dated 14 December 2004 relating exclusively to property known as Hexagon House, 37/39 Surbiton Hill Road, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 4TS, (transferred to the CMBF on 30 October 2004). This supplemental deed specifies the terms under which the property known as Hexagon House will be held, and relates specifically to its use by the British Federation of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women Le Droit Humain (formerly known as International Co-Freemasonry Le Droit Humain) (the “British Federation”).

The Charity’s objects and purposes are:

Within these objects and purposes, Trustees’ priorities are:-

2. Organisational Structure

Management of the Fund falls under three principal headings:

A copy of the organisational structure and associated responsibilities is at Appendix 1 on page 21.

3. Financial Review

All persons involved in the management and administration of the Fund, and in pursuing its objects, are volunteers, with the exception of a part-time book-keeper. CMBF also calls on external service providers for Chartered Accountant services, part-time admin person, building maintenance / gardening and cleaning services. Consequently, employment costs continued during the year, although these have been kept to a minimum.

The CMBF owns and occupies the property and land known as Hexagon House in Surbiton, for which there is the usual expenditure on utilities, decoration and maintenance. These costs continue to be met from income received through the letting of office space, the top flat of the house and car parking.

5

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (Continued…)

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

3. Financial Review - (Continued…)

Ownership of Hexagon House, which was built in 1899, involves important maintenance costs and associated

administration.

The Fund’s limited financial assets are invested in low-risk deposit accounts and investment bonds, re-invested on maturity.

The Trustees regularly monitored income and expenditure to ensure compliance with budgetary aims.

4. Governance issues and Policy Review

Risk Management

The main risks to the Fund have not changed and are:

Reserve Policy

The Fund’s reserve policy is to:

Appointment of Trustees

The Board of Trustees consists of at least three and at least six more individuals, but not limited to this as a maximum, to take on the roles needed and all of whom must be members of the British Federation. It comprises:-

6

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (Continued…)

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

4. Governance issues and Policy Review - (Continued…)

The British Co-Masonic Trust Ltd (a company limited by guarantee) has a representative on the board of Trustees of CMBF. Mr. Colin Bleach is that representative.

Each Trustee has a portfolio of responsibilities (see Appendix 1).

Conflict of Interest Policy

Any conflict of interest must be declared at the commencement of each meeting.

Health and Safety Policy

A policy is in place.

Fraud Prevention Policy

A policy is in place.

GDPR Policy

A policy has been put in place to comply with the revised legislation related to the collection, handling and storage, correction and retention of personal information held by the Comasonic Benevolent Fund. Limited personal details are retained and include mainly those of for the CMBF’s trustees, volunteers, beneficiaries, the independent examiner and contractors, as applicable. Such information is retained within the retention periods required by law and solely for the purposes of the charity, for inclusion in reports to the Charity Commission and for any other legislative requirement. Enquiries regarding access to personal data are made to the Secretary who provides a subject access request form if necessary.

Safeguarding Policy

The CMBF does not interact directly with children and vulnerable adults, but donates to charitable organisations that do. One of the principal beneficiaries is SPES Togo, a charity in Togo that provides a home for abandoned children and which clearly requires a safeguarding policy of its own, due to the number of vulnerable children in its care. Trustees of the CMBF studied their policy carefully and have received a report of its implementation. The implementation report included multiple levels of monitoring, the ability to report locally as well as anonymously. The CMBF, on the basis of these safeguards reported, has agreed to continue payments to SPES Togo.

Similar scrutiny is applied to other charities / organisations which have direct access to children and vulnerable adults and which seek donations.

5. Public benefit

The purpose of CMBF, as stated on page 4, is to relieve poverty and distress amongst members of the British Federation of the Order and others, as well as such other charitable purposes as determined by the Trustees from time to time based on certain criteria and guidelines using certain principles or directions set out from time to time by the Trustees in line with the current objects of the charity.

The definition of “others” was amended in 2019 to include persons related to the members of the Order (immediate family) or immediate dependents (by non-marriage).

Assistance to the public is focused on deprived young people up to and including the age of 24 years in order to help them achieve their full potential and the elderly, who have limited capabilities.

7

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (Continued…)

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

5. Public benefit - (Continued…)

All lodges contribute 25% of their charitable collections to the CMBF, but these and other donations remain at a very low levels and have minimal impact on the Fund’s income.

The purpose of the Fund is achieved through:

●the making of financial gifts to members of the British Federation who are poor or distressed and through the provision of welfare support services such as home visits.

●making donations to other organisations and (non-masonic) charities whose aims and objects also relate to helping those who are in poverty or distress, particularly amongst children.

When setting annual objectives, the Trustees ensured they include actions that realistically will help achieve the overall purpose.

There are six important principles/directions taken by the Trustees each year. These remain the same every year:

the Charity does not raise money from the public. All income derives from donations by members of the British Federation, donations from lodges and chapters of the British Federation, legacies from deceased members and rent from properties. A large proportion of this rental income is gifted to third party charities.

the Charity does not charge any fees for any of its services.

there are no membership fees, contributions or subscriptions payable.

all members of the British Federation qualify for financial assistance, provided they meet the aid criteria including (without limitation) the criteria required to benefit from state welfare support.

Management and administration of the Charity, is effected by volunteers (in as much as possible). The CMBF’s policy is that volunteers provide their services or assistance free of charge. Administrative costs therefore are kept to an absolute minimum.

Donations to external bodies or charities are made only to those whose aims are similar to ours, in respect of the relief of poverty and distress.

Identifiable benefit or benefits

The benefits arise from the provision of financial aid to members of the British Federation and to other organisations and charities, and the provision of welfare support, interest in and contact with sick or elderly members. These benefits are directly related to the CMBF’s purposes. The trustees of the CMBF ensure that they set annual objectives most likely to achieve them. These objectives are monitored and reviewed throughout the year. It is the view of trustees that no harm or detriment arises from these benefits.

8

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (Continued…)

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

5. Public benefit - (Continued…)

Benefit to the public, or section of the public

In making grants to members, the Trustees of the CMBF have set criteria that must be met before financial assistance is given. These criteria are used to measure the extent of poverty or distress. They are quite strict which, coupled with the fact that only a tiny proportion of our members live at or below the poverty line, means that very few need or qualify for aid. However, a greater number who are sick or elderly do require welfare support, but this is usually of a temporary nature and costs little. For the purpose of alleviating temporary circumstances, loans to cover extraneous circumstances are provided, with a repayment period. Generally no interest is applied.

In making donations to other bodies or charities, the Trustees assess the degree to which their aims are similar to ours in respect of the relief of poverty and distress. Donations are made only to those that clearly demonstrate that relief.

Benefits are spread across a very small number of members of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women (the “Order”), for whom the CMBF originally was set up in 1933. The number of members to receive financial support in 2024 was 0 (zero).

Membership of the Order is open to all sections of the public who are 18 years old or more and who are of good character. Members pay a small subscription to the British Federation of the Order, but not to the CMBF, which is open to all members without cost.

Criteria for selecting third party organisations, including non-masonic charities with aims similar to ours:

● Financial support towards a bursary for a gifted pupil in the Reigate area.

●Abandoned children in Togo, through sponsorship and support for two orphanages, in Lomé and Kpalime. The CMBF sponsors four children.

●Other than for the abandoned children in Togo, there are no geographical restrictions for beneficiaries. No fees are charged and the financial benefits are restricted to those who are in poverty or distress.

6. Year under Review

The business plan for 2024 was implemented. A synthesis of this is at Appendix 2 on page 22, with a summary of the results, showing the extent to which our annual objectives were achieved.

Income from fund raising activities remained £NIL for the sixth year running as no such activities were arranged.

The top flat of Hexagon House remained let for the period.

Extensive repairs to Hexagon House were enacted.

As in previous years, without the income derived from the property, the Fund could not meet its commitments and would be regarded as a very small charity.

9

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT (Continued…)

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

6. Year under Review - (Continued…)

There were no grants to members of the British Federation as none were brought to notice as being in need of help.

£17,428 was given to UK charities in total. The sponsorship to SPES (for TOGO) for 2024 was £NIL.

In line with our desire to support deprived young children and help them to fulfil their potential, £1,600 was again donated to Reigate Grammar School towards the sponsorship of a boy’s education.

Welfare calls were made to members, who are house-bound or resident in care homes and no longer able to travel. This is an important aspect of welfare for the sick and elderly who might not need financial assistance but who do need someone to show an interest in their well-being. The CMBF paid for the cost of these calls.

In addition to the above, the CMBF donated ten boxes of food to the Kingston Food Bank.

The receipt of donations and the allocation of assistance to the British Federation members is dealt with by the British Federation’s Almoner, who chairs a Board of Benevolence comprising five members, not including herself/himself, drawn from members of the British Federation. This Board of Benevolence is responsible for all welfare issues at the British Federation level, whereas individual lodge almoners have responsibility at the local level.

Donations to external bodies and charities are decided separately by the Board of Trustees of the CMBF.

The CMBF is a member of the UK Debt Management Office’s Approved Group, which enables it to buy and sell British Government Stocks

7. Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities:

The Charities Act 2011 requires the Board of Trustees of the CMBF to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the CMBF and the income and expenditure of the CMBF for the relevant financial year.

In preparing those Financial Statements, the Trustees are required to :

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper Accounting Records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the Financial Position of the Fund and to enable them to ensure that the Financial Statements comply with Charities Act 2011. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Fund and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

This report was approved by the Trustees on 1st August 2025 and signed on their behalf by:

Christine Hilcenko - Chair 1st August 2025

10

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity for the year ended 31[st] December 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).

I report in respect of my examination of the charity’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:

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.

Reza Samii Date: 1st August 2025 Chartered Accountant and Registered Auditor

5 Calico Row Plantation Wharf Battersea London, SW11 3YH

11

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

Income and endowments from:
Other trading activities
Investments
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities - direct
Charitable activities -
- establishment costs
Other expenditure
Net Income / (Expenditure)
before transfers
- C/f to next page
Charitable Activities
Total
Total
Donations & legacies		 2024
2023
£
£
765
478
0
0
0
0
730
302
1,495
781
(591)
(970)
0
0
(147)
(113)
(738)
(1,083)
ALMONERS FUNDS
Funds
Unrestricted
Note 2		 2024
2023
£
£
0
0
0
0
64,279
56,761
1,708
539
BUILDINGS FUNDS
Unrestricted
Funds
Note 3		 2024
2023
£
£
25
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
25
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Restricted
Funds
BUILDINGS FUNDS
Note 4
(SPES FUND)		 2024
2023
£
£
25
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
25
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Restricted
Funds
BUILDINGS FUNDS
Note 4
(SPES FUND)		 TOTAL
2024
2023
£
£
790
478
0
0
64,279
56,761
2,438
841
65,988
57,300		 25 67,507
58,081
(17,428)
(12,600)
(50,400)
(40,322)
0
0		 0
0
0		 (18,019)
(13,570)
(50,400)
(40,322)
(147)
(113)
(67,828)
(52,922)		 0 (68,566)
(54,004)
757
(302)		 (1,841)
4,378		 25 0 (1,059)
4,076

Notes 1 to 9 form part of these accounts

12

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
£
£
Balances B/F from previous
757
(302)
page
Transfers between funds
0
0
Notes 2 & 3
757
(302)
Other Recognised gains/(losses)
Unrealised Gains on revaluation
0
0
Net movements in funds
757
(302)
Brought Forward :
Income Funds
54,311
54,612
Reserves on Transfer of Assets
0
0
Rounding adjustment
0
0
Total funds carried forward
55,068
54,311
Note 2
Funds
Unrestricted
ALMONERS FUNDS		 2024
2023
£
£
Note 2
Funds
Unrestricted
ALMONERS FUNDS		 2024
2023
£
£
Note 3
Funds
BUILDINGS FUNDS
Unrestricted		 2024
2023
£
£
Funds
(SPES FUND)
Restricted
BUILDINGS FUNDS
Note 4		 2024
2023
£
£
Funds
(SPES FUND)
Restricted
BUILDINGS FUNDS
Note 4		 TOTAL
2024
2023
£
£
757
(302)		 (1,841)
4,378		 25 0 (1,059)
4,076
0
55		 0 0
0
(1,841)
4,433
0
250,000		 25
0		 (1,059)
4,076
0
250,000
(1,059)
254,076
1,992,619 1,738,542
1,003,403 1,003,403
0
0
2,994,964 2,996,021

Notes 1 to 9 form part of these accounts

13

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

Notes
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible Assets
5.
Investments
6.
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
7.
Cash at bank and in hand :
- Almoners Funds :
Lloyds TSB - Business
- Buildings Funds :
Lloyds TSB - Treasurers
Lloyds TSB - Instant access
SPES Account - restricted
Cash in hand
CREDITORS : Amounts falling due
within one year
8.
NET CURRENT ASSETS / (LIABILITIES)
TOTAL NET ASSETS / (LIABILITIES)
THE FUNDS OF THE CHARITY:
Unrestricted income funds
- Building Funds - unrestricted
9.
- Building Funds - restricted(SPES)
4.
- Almoners Funds - unrestricted
8.
- Reserve on transfer of assets -
Building Funds
9.		 £
£
£
£
2,750,387
2,750,516
85,955
85,278
2,836,342
2,835,794
9,530
10,415
4,428
5,323
31,799
28,844
119,493
118,111
2,057
2,032
0
0
153,349
148,986
(8,687)
(4,498)
158,620
160,227
2,994,962
2,996,021
1,934,437
1,936,278
2,057
2,032
55,065
54,308
1,003,403
1,003,403
2,994,962
2,996,021
31-Dec-24
31-Dec-23		 £
£
£
£
2,750,387
2,750,516
85,955
85,278
2,836,342
2,835,794
9,530
10,415
4,428
5,323
31,799
28,844
119,493
118,111
2,057
2,032
0
0
153,349
148,986
(8,687)
(4,498)
158,620
160,227
2,994,962
2,996,021
1,934,437
1,936,278
2,057
2,032
55,065
54,308
1,003,403
1,003,403
2,994,962
2,996,021
31-Dec-24
31-Dec-23		 £
£
£
£
2,750,387
2,750,516
85,955
85,278
2,836,342
2,835,794
9,530
10,415
4,428
5,323
31,799
28,844
119,493
118,111
2,057
2,032
0
0
153,349
148,986
(8,687)
(4,498)
158,620
160,227
2,994,962
2,996,021
1,934,437
1,936,278
2,057
2,032
55,065
54,308
1,003,403
1,003,403
2,994,962
2,996,021
31-Dec-24
31-Dec-23
2,835,794
10,415
5,323
148,986
(4,498)
160,227
2,996,021
1,934,437
2,057
55,065
1,003,403
2,994,962
1,936,278
2,032
54,308
1,003,403
2,996,021

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 1st August 2025 and signed on their behalf by:

Ms. Christine Hilcenko……………………………...…………… Chair

Mr. Brian Roberts…...………..…….……………………………..Trustee

Notes 1 to 9 form part of these accounts

14

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

a) ACCOUNTING BASIS AND STANDARDS:

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified to include the revaluation of the freehold property and in accordance with Accounting Standards in the UK, the Financial Reporting Standard FRS 102, the Charities SORP FRS 102 and the Charities Act 2011.

The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102.

b) INCOMING RESOURCES:

Recognition of incoming resources

These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when:

c) EXPENDITURE AND LIABILITIES:

Liability recognition

Liabilities are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to pay out resources.

d) TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS AND DEPRECIATION:

Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less residual value of each asset over its expected useful life, as follows:

Fixtures & fittings - 25% reducing balance Office Equipment - 25% reducing balance

e) PROPERTY REVALUATION:

The freehold property is revalued by the Trustees after obtaining professional assistance.

f) RESERVES POLICY:

The charity starts each year with one year’s estimated expenditure in the bank excluding potential income and invested funds and in addition;-

The charity retains a reserve of £30,000 to cover annual maintenance, repairs and decorations to Hexagon House and the land in Surbiton Hill Road, including Cranhurst Lodge and an additional £10,000 for annual grants plus £11,000 for routine running costs.

15

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.
£
£
INCOME:
25% Dues from Lodges
420
Donations from Lodges
345
765
Charitable activities - fund raising
0
Interest on Investments & savings accounts
730
1,495
EXPENDITURE: Unrestricted
Direct Charitable Expenditure
Grants to Brethren & Gifts
591
(591)
OTHER EXPENDITURE:
Printing, postage & stationery
147
Travelling expenses
0
Sundries
0
(147)
(738)
Net incoming / (outgoing) resources
757
before transfers
Transfer between funds - from Building Funds
0
Net Incoming / (outgoing) resources
757
ALMONERS FUNDS - Unrestricted
2024
TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED		 £
£
248
230
478
0
302
781
2023		 £
£
248
230
478
0
302
781
2023
781
970 (970)
(113)
36
36
40
(1,083)
(302)
0
(302)

16

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

3.
£
£
INCOME:
Rent from lodges and chapters
17,876
Outside Obediences
2,960
20,836
Rent : Cranhurst Lodge
17,477
: Top floor flat
17,180
Car Park
8,640
64,133
Other donations
146
64,279
Interest on Investments & savings accounts
1,708
65,988
EXPENDITURE: Unrestricted
Direct Charitable Expenditure & Donations
(17,428)
- see page 17 for details
EXPENDITURES:
Establishment Expenses :
General Rates incl. water rates
1,115
1,115
Light & Heat
13,881
- less contributions (Cranhurst)
0
- less contributions (1st Floor)
(2,669)
11,211
Gardening expenses
1,825
- less contributions
(525)
1,300
Cleaning & refuse collection
expenses -includes wages & tax
6,480
- less contributions
(397)
6,082
Insurance costs
3,702
- less contributions
(500)
3,202
Repairs, renewals & maintenance
- repairs & renewals
14,674
14,674
(37,585)
(55,012)
Carried forward to page 17
TOTAL INCOME
BUILDINGS FUNDS - Unrestricted
2024		 3.
£
£
INCOME:
Rent from lodges and chapters
17,876
Outside Obediences
2,960
20,836
Rent : Cranhurst Lodge
17,477
: Top floor flat
17,180
Car Park
8,640
64,133
Other donations
146
64,279
Interest on Investments & savings accounts
1,708
65,988
EXPENDITURE: Unrestricted
Direct Charitable Expenditure & Donations
(17,428)
- see page 17 for details
EXPENDITURES:
Establishment Expenses :
General Rates incl. water rates
1,115
1,115
Light & Heat
13,881
- less contributions (Cranhurst)
0
- less contributions (1st Floor)
(2,669)
11,211
Gardening expenses
1,825
- less contributions
(525)
1,300
Cleaning & refuse collection
expenses -includes wages & tax
6,480
- less contributions
(397)
6,082
Insurance costs
3,702
- less contributions
(500)
3,202
Repairs, renewals & maintenance
- repairs & renewals
14,674
14,674
(37,585)
(55,012)
Carried forward to page 17
TOTAL INCOME
BUILDINGS FUNDS - Unrestricted
2024		 3.
£
£
INCOME:
Rent from lodges and chapters
17,876
Outside Obediences
2,960
20,836
Rent : Cranhurst Lodge
17,477
: Top floor flat
17,180
Car Park
8,640
64,133
Other donations
146
64,279
Interest on Investments & savings accounts
1,708
65,988
EXPENDITURE: Unrestricted
Direct Charitable Expenditure & Donations
(17,428)
- see page 17 for details
EXPENDITURES:
Establishment Expenses :
General Rates incl. water rates
1,115
1,115
Light & Heat
13,881
- less contributions (Cranhurst)
0
- less contributions (1st Floor)
(2,669)
11,211
Gardening expenses
1,825
- less contributions
(525)
1,300
Cleaning & refuse collection
expenses -includes wages & tax
6,480
- less contributions
(397)
6,082
Insurance costs
3,702
- less contributions
(500)
3,202
Repairs, renewals & maintenance
- repairs & renewals
14,674
14,674
(37,585)
(55,012)
Carried forward to page 17
TOTAL INCOME
BUILDINGS FUNDS - Unrestricted
2024		 3.
£
£
INCOME:
Rent from lodges and chapters
17,876
Outside Obediences
2,960
20,836
Rent : Cranhurst Lodge
17,477
: Top floor flat
17,180
Car Park
8,640
64,133
Other donations
146
64,279
Interest on Investments & savings accounts
1,708
65,988
EXPENDITURE: Unrestricted
Direct Charitable Expenditure & Donations
(17,428)
- see page 17 for details
EXPENDITURES:
Establishment Expenses :
General Rates incl. water rates
1,115
1,115
Light & Heat
13,881
- less contributions (Cranhurst)
0
- less contributions (1st Floor)
(2,669)
11,211
Gardening expenses
1,825
- less contributions
(525)
1,300
Cleaning & refuse collection
expenses -includes wages & tax
6,480
- less contributions
(397)
6,082
Insurance costs
3,702
- less contributions
(500)
3,202
Repairs, renewals & maintenance
- repairs & renewals
14,674
14,674
(37,585)
(55,012)
Carried forward to page 17
TOTAL INCOME
BUILDINGS FUNDS - Unrestricted
2024		 £
£
11,244
4,320
15,564
13,129
16,380
11,520
56,593
168
56,761
539
57,300
(12,600)
2023		 £
£
11,244
4,320
15,564
13,129
16,380
11,520
56,593
168
56,761
539
57,300
(12,600)
2023
15,564
13,129
16,380
11,520
56,761
539
57,300
(12,600)
1,800 1,800
10,029
1,370
5,338
2,190
12,600
(79)
(2,493)
1,860
(490)
6,214
(876)
2,190
0
8,111
8,111
(28,838)
(55,012) (41,438)

17

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

£
£
3.
(55,012)
Administration Expenses :
Printing, postage & stationary
10
Accountancy fees
3,000
Book keeping costs
2,680
Legal and professional
2,498
IT, software & web design
373
Administration fees
3,925
Staff welfare
68
Sundries
133
Depreciation on fixtures & fittings
94
Depreciation on office equipment
35
(12,816)
(67,828)
Net incoming / (outgoing) resources
(1,841)
before transfers
Transfer between funds
0
Net Incoming resources / (outgoings)
(1,841)
2024
£
Direct Charitable Expenditure & Donations
- Kingston University
8,000
- North London Bikur
2,000
- Missing People
5,000
- Reigate Grammar School
1,600
- Kingston Foodbank
828
- SS John & Elizabeth Charity
0
17,428
BUILDINGS FUNDS - Unrestricted (continued…)
Brought forward from page 16
2024
TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED		 £
£
(41,438)
0
4,140
2,240
1,980
54
2,397
156
345
125
47
(11,484)
(52,922)
4,378
55
4,433
2023		 £
£
(41,438)
0
4,140
2,240
1,980
54
2,397
156
345
125
47
(11,484)
(52,922)
4,378
55
4,433
2023
4,378
55
4,433
2023
£
6,000
0
0
1,600
0
5,000
12,600

18

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

4.
RESTRICTED FUNDS - SPES FUND
Balance as at 1.1.2024
Income for the year - Donations from lodges
Expenditure
Transfer between funds
Balance as at 31.12.2024
- represented by the bank balance		 2024
Building
Funds
Income
(Restricted)
£
2,032
25
0
0
2,057		 2023
Building
Funds
Income
(Restricted)
£
2,087
0
0
(55)
2,032

19

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

5. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
(Building Funds)
- Unrestricted Funds
Cost or Valuation
At 1st January 2024
At 31 December 2024
Depreciation
At 1st January 2024
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2024
Net Book values
At 31.12.2024
At 31.12.2023		 Freehold
Property
(Investment
Fixtures,
Office
Property)
Fittings
Equipment
Total
£
£
£
£
2,750,000
37,625
3,959
2,791,584
2,750,000
37,625
3,959
2,791,584
0
37,250
3,818
41,068
0
94
35
129
0
37,344
3,853
41,197
2,750,000
281
106
2,750,387
2,750,000
375
141
2,750,516

Freehold Property:

The trustees, after obtaining professional assistance, are of the opinion that the above revalued amount of the investment property fairly represent its market value as at 31st December 2024.

On a historical cost basis, freehold land and buildings would have been included as follows;-

Cost 2024
£
975,000		 2023
£
975,000

20

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

6.
Bank of Ireland: 1 year fixed term bond: b/f
National Savings Income Bonds: b/f
Interest earned during year
Represented by:
Bank of Ireland 3.82 % Fixed Term Deposit
- Maturity date: 28.10.2026
National Savings Income Bonds
As above
INVESTMENTS		 2024
2024
£
£
Almoners
Building
Funds
Funds
(unrestricted)
(unrestricted)
39,096
36,181
10,000
0		 2023
2023
£
£
Almoners
Building
Funds
Funds
(unrestricted)
(unrestricted)
39,096
36,181
10,000
0
49,096
36,181
352
326		 49,096
36,181
0
0
49,448
36,507		 49,096
36,181
2024
2024
£
£
39,448
36,507
10,000
0		 2024
2023
£
£
TOTAL
TOTAL
75,956
75,278
10,000
10,000
49,448
36,507		 85,956
85,278
7.
DEBTORS
Trade debtors - rent & fees receivable
Short term advance
Prepayments and accrued income -
- repairs		 2024
2024
£
£
Almoners
Building
Funds
Funds
(unrestricted)
(unrestricted)
0
8,181
1,300
0
0
49		 2023
2023
£
£
Almoners
Building
Funds
Funds
(unrestricted)
(unrestricted)
0
9,889
0
0
0
526
1,300
8,230		 0
10,415

21

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

8.
CREDITORS-amounts falling due within
one year:-
Trade creditors
Accruals
Building
Funds
9.
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
Income
(unrestricted)
£
Balance as at 1.1.2024
161,278
Surplus / (deficit) for year
- Buildings Funds
(1,841)
- Almoners Funds
0
Balance as at 31.12.2024
159,437
RESTRICTED FUNDS - SPES FUND
Balance as at 1.1.2024
Income for the year - Donations from lodges
Transfer between funds
Balance as at 31.12.2024
- represented by the bank balance		 8.
CREDITORS-amounts falling due within
one year:-
Trade creditors
Accruals
Building
Funds
9.
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
Income
(unrestricted)
£
Balance as at 1.1.2024
161,278
Surplus / (deficit) for year
- Buildings Funds
(1,841)
- Almoners Funds
0
Balance as at 31.12.2024
159,437
RESTRICTED FUNDS - SPES FUND
Balance as at 1.1.2024
Income for the year - Donations from lodges
Transfer between funds
Balance as at 31.12.2024
- represented by the bank balance		 8.
CREDITORS-amounts falling due within
one year:-
Trade creditors
Accruals
Building
Funds
9.
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
Income
(unrestricted)
£
Balance as at 1.1.2024
161,278
Surplus / (deficit) for year
- Buildings Funds
(1,841)
- Almoners Funds
0
Balance as at 31.12.2024
159,437
RESTRICTED FUNDS - SPES FUND
Balance as at 1.1.2024
Income for the year - Donations from lodges
Transfer between funds
Balance as at 31.12.2024
- represented by the bank balance		 2024
£
Almoners
Funds
(Restricted /
unrestricted)
0
0		 2024
£
Building
Funds
(unrestricted)
1,768
6,919		 2023
£
Almoners
Funds
(Restricted /
unrestricted)
0
0		 2023
£
Building
Funds
(unrestricted)
1,498
3,000		 2023
£
Building
Funds
(unrestricted)
1,498
3,000
0 8,687 0 4,498
Building
Funds
Reval'tion
(unrestricted)
£
1,775,000
0
0		 Almoners
Funds
Income
(unrestricted)
£
54,308
0
757		 Reserves on
Total
£
2,993,989
(1,841)
757
transfer of
assets
(unrestricted)
£
1,003,403
0
0
159,437 1,775,000 55,065 1,003,403 2,992,905
( Total
2024
Building
Funds
Income
Restricted)
£
2,032
25
0
2,057

10. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

During the year Ms N Vitzthum, a Trustee charged the charity a sum of £3,923 towards administrative and accounting services provided. The outstanding balance as at year end amounted to £2,232. No other Trustees received any benefits or remuneration during the year.

22

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

APPENDIX 1

Board of Trustees Chair + 8 other Trustees (inc. The British Co-Masonic Trust Ltd)

Trustees' Responsibilities

1st Trustee - Chair - Control and coordination inc. donations to outside bodies, SPES and other charities 2nd Trustee - Treasurer - Finances and budgets. (Investments; fundraising; book-keeping (with employed assistant); insurance cover) 3rd Trustee (Secretary) - Legal issues & responsibilities and compliance with law; policy drafting; trustee liability; leases / rentals; car park and grounds 4th Trustee - Business planning; performance monitoring; evaluation and review 5th Trustee - Charity Commission liaison 6th Trustee - Fed Almoner - see below 7th Trustee - (Vacancy) Property Management - maintenance of house & contents, stock control, but not maintenance of grounds and equipment; emergencies ; health & safety; Gift Aid; Website 8th Trustee - British Co-Masonic Trust Ltd 9th Trustee - (Vacancy) Annual Report

23

THE CO-MASONIC BENEVOLENT FUND BUSINESS PLAN FOR 2024

FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2024

APPENDIX 2

Purpose

●The relief of poverty and distress among members of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain, British Federation and others and to assist deprived children and young people, up to and including the age of 24years – to achieve their full potential – and such other charitable purposes as may from time to time be prescribed in that behalf by the said constitutions regulations and laws

Aims

● To be a leading Masonic charity in Great Britain

Priorities Objectives Steps to Achieve Action by Time
Scale		 Any
issue
identified
on
review
Welfare of members
of the British
Federation who are
in need		 1. Provide financial assistance to
all members who are known to
need it

 Supplement the income to a maximum of £140 for single Brethren and £150 per couple per month with the
capacity to go above these figures if not in receipt of state aid. This is for all members in-capable of self care
due to age or infirmity, according to agreed criteria.
 Donate up to 15% of annual surplus to the Almoner's Fund (when required)
 Provide emergency funds up to a maximum of £2,000 to members suffering genuine financial hardship as a
one off - through no fault of their own, according to agreed criteria
 A provision to grant an interest free loan facility to Brethren who are in financial need; a figure of up to
£2,000 to be repaid within a timescale individually agreed; but within 12 months. To meet the usual conditions
applied regarding eligibility.		 All members of
Committee unless
otherwise stated.		 On-going
unless other
timescale
stated.
2. Provide pastoral care to all
members who are known to
need such care		  Provide occasional visits or gifts to elderly and/or infirm members not in need of regular assistance to benefit
their general well - being or to meet a specific need.
 Liaise and communicate with elderly and infirm members who are not able to attend lodges due to age or
infirmity.
 Regular communication by email, phone or post and including other forms of digital media		 All members of
Committee unless
otherwise stated.		 All ongoing
unless
otherwise
stated
Help for the less
fortunate or suffering
members of
humanity,
particularly children
1. Support national charities,
other bodies, organisations and
individuals whose aims are to
relieve poverty and distress, in
areas local to lodges in the
British Federation.
2. Support worthy causes
anywhere in the world.
1.  Identify suitable national and local charities, bodies, organisations and individuals.
 To make a donation of up to 25% of the annual surplus in 2024 (as a guideline) and of 2023 in addition.
.
2.  Identify worthy causes anywhere in the world and allocate appropriate funds.
 Sponsor four SPES children in Lomé, Togo, until self-sufficient.
 Monitor world catastrophes and donate funds accordingly..
.

All members of
Committee unless
otherwise stated		 All ongoing
unless
otherwise
stated
Give support to
children and young
people up to and
including the age of
24 years to fulfil their
full potential.
1.Support Local, National and
International Charities, other
bodies, organisations,
individuals and other causes,
whose aims are related to the
achievement of potential.		 3. Identify suitable Local, National and International Charities, other bodies, organisations, individuals or
causes
 Make donations up to 25% (as a guideline) of the annual surplus in 2024 and of 2023 in addition.
All members of
Committee unless
otherwise stated		 All ongoing
unless
otherwise
stated
OUR VALUES 1. Compassion, care and empathy
2. Belief in the dignity of all
3. Transparency
~~4. Speed and efficiency in dealing with identified needs~~
All members of
Committee unless
otherwise stated		 All ongoing
unless
otherwise
stated