Charlty reglstration number 212755 (England and Wales) Company reglstratlon number 006S3062 ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustees Namè Dr R H Mitchell Ms J K Hunuey Mr5 FAM Oommen Reverend R M Djan Dr M Hoek Mrs J Dudgeon Mr M Mayhew Date due for RetlremenVRe-electlon 2027 2025 2026 2027 2025 2025 2025 Secretsry Mr'A J Proudfoot Charity number 212755 Company number 00653062 Reylstered offlco Ashbumham Place Battle East Sussex TN33 9NF Audltor HJS Accountants Limited Tagus House 9 Ocean Way Southampton Hampshire United Kingdom S014 3TJ
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST CONTENTS Page Trustees, report Statement of Trustees, responsibilities Independent audilorfs report 9-11 ststemenl of financial activities 12 Balance sheet 13-14 Notes lo the financial statements 15-32
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The Trustees are pleased to present the annual report and audited accounts of Ashbumham Christian Trust for the year ended 31st March 2025. They confirrn that these comply with the requirements of the Charibes Act 1993 as amended by the Charities Act 2006, Charities SORP 2005. the special provisions of Part Vll of the cPanieS A¢t 2005 relating to small companies and the memorandum and artides. ObJectlv8s and acttvltles The Charitys object Is lo advance the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ throughout the wortd. Ashbumham Place is a gift. We are a catalytlc community who sorve and resource all whom God sends our way. We believe Ashbumham Place and ils people are a unique gift. W¢ are given to exploring and meeting the needs of the Body of Christ and wider eommunilies. We aim to be a community that provides excellent hospitality and eare to the Church and those from the margins of society. We are a connecting place and a hub that resources groups and individuals to be radical and bright through 811 of lrfe. We want people lo be impacted as they come in amongst the eommunlty here and that we wll impact as we go out lo serve and minister. Our desire is that people will come to Ashbumham Place and find exceptional levels of welcome, refuge, challenge. inspiration, learning and peace. In the financial year 2024125 the Trust met these objectives through.. Residential guests.. Day visf(ors'. Camping guests.. Orangery guests.. 28.104 2.705 3.500 50.740 All these represent groups and indivlduals coming for training, education. prayer andlor hospitality. Objectives were further met through our Catslyst volunteer training scheme wtruth saw around 100 young adults frorn aO$S the wodd mmplele the course. PUBLIC BENEFIT The Trustees have nSIdered the Charity Commission guidanc8 on public benefit arhj consider that 1he objectives and activities ofAshbumham Christian Trust provide th6 following benefits. The advancement of religion. This Is our primary objective and the focus of all our activities. Our extensive grounds and gardens reflect the beaLty of creation, providing our guests and staff with the opportunity to encounter God. Members of our staff and volunteers continue to go on to seNe God In communtties acros8 the wodd. The advancement of education. The majority of the conferences we h05t are educational in nature and our volunteers undertake an extensive training programme covering areas including theology. ecology and creative skills while they are with us. This has more recenuy been added lo, by the Closer lo the Land project, which teaches children about the land. bi(>diversity and where our foc*d comes from. The General Directors will consider requests to revlew fees for groups or individuals with financial problem5. Fees ft>r all Charittes and Churches are subsidised.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Achievements and perfomiance 11 has been another good year for the Trust. We have once again provided hospilality lo a larg8 number of individuals and groups who have come to Ashburnham Place lo leam. grow in their faith, and find rest in what can often be a busy and chaotic wodd. We continue to be encouraged by the breadth of those who visit and the many stories we hear of how their faith and relationship with God is refreshed and strengthened during IfEir stay. 11 has been a delight to welcome a growing number of children and young people lo Ashbumham Place over the last year, largely through the growth of our Closer to the Land projed. Envlronmental Progres5 and Slte Sustainablllty One of the year's major milestones was the successful instsllalion of a solar energy system across the site. following the granting of planning permission. This is now fully operational and generating electricity a signrficanl step towards reducing our environmental impact. We've also undertaken a number of other enviionmentally-minded improvements, including the inslallalion of.. An Electrical oplimiser Cavity wall insulation More efficient boiler tsnks in some of our aecommodalion buildings Physical Improvgments and Refurbishments This year has also seen significant improvements to our aceommodation and meeting facilities.. We completed two full refurbishments of the bathrooms in Tent Hill House, one ol our largest a0mModatIOn blocks. These updates replaced old shared facilities wth individual cubicles for showers. toilets. and sinks, dramatically improving the feel and functionality of the space. The Wesl Room was redecorated with new wallpaper, repainting. and lighting upgrades. The Great Hall, our largest and most prominent meeting space, received 8 full repaint, greatly enhancing the atmosphere for the many guests and groups that gather there. To maintain a high and consislenl standard across the sile, we've also invested in a dedicated pawiter-decorator, whose ongoing iole is to maintain the interior of all rooms. meeting spatss, and corridors. This has already made a visible difference. ensuring guests feel welcomed into a cared-for 8P8ce. The Kltchen Garden and Regeneratlve Practlce The Kitchen Garden continues lo be a place of both physical and personal growth. Wlh a f¢xus on Egenerative farming principles, the team has grown a wide range of fruit and vegetables. These not only nourish our land, bul also our guests. thanks to Jules and Kale's work with the kitchen team to integrate this produce into meals offered at the main house. This yèar, the Kitchen Garden has also contlnued its partnership with Amberstone Hospital, providing individuals struggling with mentsl health challenges the chance lo engage in therapeutic outdoor work. Wlh the support of their workers. these participants have found a sense of peace. recovery, and purpose through their lime in the garden during the week. The construction of an open sided bam in the comer of the Kitchen Garden has PTovided o much-used covered space for wet weather 8Ctivty, learning and gathering. parti¢ularfy for Ihe Closer lo the Land project. The onske community have made use of it for shared meals and the occasional Monday Prayers. ongside these, the food forest area has continued to grow and rnature. Existing planting has flourished, yielding fruit and contribLrting lo both beauty and biodiversity. We have worked lo manage and reduce bracken regrowth through taryeled cutting, and we also dug a pond during the summer. which quickly became home lo dra3Dnflies and other wildlife- another encouraging sign of healthy blodiversity on sFte.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Closer to the Land Our Closer lo the Land programme has grown 5ignificantty thls year. A total of 1,047 young people and 201 adults took part in the programme. Of those young people. 663 were able to attend free of charge or at a significanuy subsidised rate. thanks lo the generous support of our fijnders the Frank Jackson Foundation and The Jerusalem TTUSt. Amongst the young people attending, 35% were in receipt of free school meals. and 91% reported fedlng more connected to the land by Ihe end of Iheir visit. These eneouraging results highlight the depth of ergagement that the programme is facilitating. Partnerships have been essential to the programme's success. We've enjoyed worf¢lng with: Sussex County Councll Foster Placement Support Team XLP. a London-based charity worknng with disadvantaged young people ArcAlexandra Compass, an internal allemalive provision atArcAlexandra School in Hastings The Country Trust, who partner wlh schools in areas of highest deprivation These collaborations continue to bring meaningftjl encounters and Iransformalion to children and young people from a wide range of backgrounds. Communlty Partnershlps In alignment with our desire to provide opportunities for all, we continued our valued partnership with Little Gate Farm, a local East Sussex charity supporting young people and adults with leaming disabilities and autism into employment through training and supported yrk placements. This year, four of their young participants joined us in supported work placements. 11 has been a real pleasure to have them on our team we've learned a huge amount from them. and their PTesence has brought energy and insight lo our daily life. It has also bggn a joy to see their growth in confidence and their develcping capaeity in the workplace. We look forward to continuing and deepening this partnership in the coming year. We've conb.nued to extend hospitality to the local Ukrainian refugee community, particularly by hc6tlng summer aTh Christmas gatherings that bring people logelhèr for food, music, and rest. Children have enjoyed pl11 spaces Ilke bouncy castles. and families have nnected over shared traditions. A highlight of the Christmas season was the Ukrainian communty's Contributi to the local carol seryice. where they bfought th8 b&aLtty of their own traditional carols lo the wider congregation - profoundly moving act of cAJllural sharing and presence. Catslyst Dls¢lpleship Programme Over the last 12 months we have again weleomed young people118- 2n from around the worfd joinirvJ us as part of the Catalyst Programme. Hannah and Christian, wth the wonderful support of Sally, have continue lo refine the year-long Thodule of study and training. The impact of this Urse is best seen on graduation night when we are given a snapshot of each participant's leaming from the year. The sludenl presentations are often mving as they Share just how dèeply impacting their time al A$hbumham Place has been", how muth they have gr¢Jwn, leaml and the friendships they have fomied. The Famier's Mark•t The Ashburnham Farmer's Market has continued lo thrive, becoming a valuable polnl of connection for the local omrnunity. The monthly event draws steady footfall, with many stalls- includln9 our own- frequently selling out. Highlights indude.. Our In-house bakery, 0$8 cakes and pastdes are aayS popular The Kitch&n Garden's produce. freshty harvested and sold by Jules and Kate Our kitchen team's hol food stsnd. which add$ warmth and hospitallty to the atrnosphere The market has played a valuable role in supporting local enterprise. helping people engage wlh beal food prtsjucbon, and offering 8 rhythm ofcommunity gathering throughout the year.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) ICONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Honourlng Leadershlp: The Kenotlc Way This year saw the trans11ion of our lon*serving Chair of Trustees. Roger Mitehell. After many years of faithful service, Roger stepped down, and we were glad to honoui his contribution with a meal of thanks and, more significantly, through the creation of the Kenotic Way. The Kenolic Way is a guided walk through the Ashbumham Place grounds, marked wlh stations that refiecl theological insights into the nature of the Kingdom of God subjed Roger has devoted much of his life lo exploring. The term kenotic, from the Greek kenosis, means"poured-oul love. or'self-emptying" a theme central to Christ and lo Roger's legacy. The walk offers both a contemplative joumey for our guests and a lasting tribute to a trusted and thoughtful leader. Artistic and Cultural Engagement We've once again benefited from the ongoing partnership with Epiphany, a chamber ensemble of musioans who bring their ereativity and sensitivity lo many drfferenl settings. Their sound portrait5 - spontaneous ¢omposilions offered in response lo individuals - have been shared this year in the Otangery Tea Room, with guest gTOUPS, al local special needs schools, and within the refugee community- These moments have been deeply moving and encouraging. helping guests feel seen. known. and cared for through music. Financial Sustalnablllty and Gratitude We are very grateful to report that we have again remained finanaally sustainable this year. This has been made possible through the faithful use of our facilities by groups and individuals, the ongoing generosity of rular supporters, and the prayers of many who stand with us. In particular. this year we have benefited from legacy gifts, left to us In the wills of individuds who believed in our mission. These larger donations have allowed us lo undertake projects that would otheise have taken yeats to nd. We are humbled by this trust and seek to honour il through good stewardship and long-tsrni vision. We are grateful for every donation - large and small- and continue to be inspired by the generosity of those who support the life and work of Ashbumham Place. Our gratitude extends PartiladY lo our incredible learn of local volunteers who. in all weathers and conditions, tum up lo lend our gardens, leach English, pray, offer pastoral support, c(Fordinate car-parking. do airports runs, mow the lawns and countless other tasks. Their generosity and energy is a big part of what makes Ashburnham Place so special. Flnanclal revlew Unreslrided income for the year totalled £2,729,509 {2024'. £2.742.5951. Unreslricted expenditure lolalled £2,656,677 12024.. £2.510.1611. The unrestricted fund surplus is £72.900 after transfers betsyeen funds 12024= £233,208). Restricted income for the year tolalled £50.38012024.- £433,075>. Restricted expenditure lolalled £265,31012024.' £112,260). The restricted fund deficit is £214,998 after transfers beiween fijnds 12024.. surplus £320,041). The deficit in in 2025 is arising as a result of £208,430 spent during the year on designated environmental capital improvements, which were funded by donations and legacies received in 2024. The propety al Ashburnham Place was independently valued on the 13 May 2020 al £4.100,000. The freehold property included in the valuation has not significantly changed and il was therefore agreed the valuation remains accurate. The value of the freehold property shown in these financial statements include additions and Improvements expensed since the dale of the valuation report. The Trustees have identified 40 areas of potential risk wilhln the categories of Governan. Operational, Finanryal, Environmental & External and Compliance together wlh the potential impaci each risk Could have and have identified appropriate steps to miligale them. This Risk Register is reviewed regularty by the Trustees and General Directors.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AIARCH 2025 Roserves Total fijnds induding property value of Ashbumham Pla a131 March 2025 stood at £3,710.572 wlh restricted funds of £129,848 and unrestricted, bul not freely available. funds of £3,580,724 as detsiled in note 23 to thè 8CCOUnts. Current Trustee reserves guidelines ar8 to maintain nèt current assets at a minimum of £100,000. At 31 March 2025 the Trust held nel assets of £315,469, of which £129,848 relates to ieslricted funds and £185,621 to unreslricled nds. This values includes fees received in respect of future years which are Irealed as liabilities. On 1st April 2025, when fees for 2025-26 cease lo become liabilities. net Current assets amount to £742,618. Plans for future p&rlods Looking ahead, Ashbumham Chrtstian Trust remains committed to stewarding our resources well and continuing to serve guests and our wider community wlh care, hospitslity, and hope. One of our key Priorities is to continue the refiJrbishmenl of our guest bedrooms. In recent years. we have been unable lo complete this work, and we recognise the importance of ensuring our accommodation is suitable for modem-day use. Creating a warm, comfortable, and welcoming environment is essential lo our ethos of hospitslity. and we plan to invest in further refurbishments lo bring more of our bedrooms up to a consistonlly high standard. We wll continue with renewed fwus on well-being both for those who live and work as part of the Ashbumham Place community and for those who wsit. We believe that caring for Ihe whole person is deeply root8J in our Christian faith. As such, we plan lo offer retreats and events centred on well-being, exploring how we flourish as human beings in a fasl-paced and often overwhelming wortd. These events will be open and acLessible lo people ol all badogrounds. induding those with or without a faith. ongside this, we are planning a full refurbishment ofthe Cedar Dining Room. This important communal space is in need of a refresh, and our plans include updated decor, new fumishings, and enhancements that will make r( a more comfortable and inviting plaee for meals and meaningful conversations. We wll also complete the final phase of the Tent Hill House bathroom refurbishment. One last bathroom remains, and once this work is done. the accommodation block wll be greatly improved for our guests. Another practical goal for this coming year is to restore the water supply to our fountains across the site. We have several fountsins in different parts ofAshbumham Place, and il feels quite strange not to have water flowng through them. We hope lo identify the SOU of the blockage possibly located somewhere in the woodland and restore wakr to the fountains, bringing back a sense of life. tranquillity and beauty that they were designed to offer. In the year ahead, we wll continue developing our various ongoing projects such a5 the Food Fost. ifjtchen Garden. Closer to the Land, and the Famers Market. These inilialives ¢onlinue to provide meaningful engagement th the land, food, and Community life. We are particularly keen to widen parbeipation in these progTammes locally. espècially reaching into areas of higher deprivation where we believe these opportunities can make a tsngible drfference. Our aim is lo respond creatively and courageously to the evolvin9 needs of the worfd in 2025, seeking lo offer something meaningful and resourcing for the communities around us. Part of this includes a pilot programme we are planning with the Dialogue for Peaceful Change {DPCI. We intend to work with DPC to train some of our team and young people in the skills and tools required for Feacebuilding and conversatlons across difference. We are ex¢il8d by the potential of this partnership. Through all these plans, our heart remains the same.. to provide a place of welMe, growth, rest. arKt tran5fomation for all who come. Structure. governance and management Ashbumham Christian Trust is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity governed by ils Memorandum and Arbcles ofAssocialion. 11 was incorporated on the 18th March 1960.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Thè trustees, who are also the d1Clor$ for the purpose of company law. and who served during theyear and up to the date of signature of the financial stslemenls were.. Dr R H Mitchell Ms J K Huntley Reverend R M Djan Mrs FA M Oommen Dr M Hoek Mrs J J Dudgeon Mr M Wmayhew Reference and admlnlstratlon Infomiation Charity registration no.- 212755 Company registration no.: 0653CE2 Registered address: Ashbumham Place Battle TN33 9NF AuditOfS.' HJSAc¢ounlanls Ltd Tagus House 9 Ocean Way Soulhamplon Hampshire S014 3TJ Banks.. National Weslmin$ler Bank Havelock Road Hastings TN34 1GW CAF Bank 25 lQngs Hill Avenue Kings Hill, Wesl Malling Kent ME19 4JQ Aldemiore Bank The Broadgate Tower 20 Primrose St London EC2A 2EW Soliulors.. Gunnercooke LLP 53 King Street Manchester M2 4LQ
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) ICONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARGH 2025 Auditor The auditors, HJS Accountants Limited. wll be proposed for r&8ppoinlment at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. The Trustees. report was approved by the Board of Trustees. ,Mii Reverend R M Djan Trustee Drm oek Trustee Date.. .i.Il.Iz12o.%S..................
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES. RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The trustees, who are also the directors of Ashbtjmham Christian Trust for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordan with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards {United Kingdom GenerallYACPted Accounting Practice). Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year %thich give a true and fair view of the slate of affairs of the Trust and of the ineoming resources and application of resources. including the income and expenditu. of the charttable company for that year. In preparing these financial stslemenls. the Iruslees are required lo.. select suitsble 8ecounling poliryes and then apply them consislenlly-. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP., make judgements and eslimales that are reasonable and prudent., slate whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject lo any material departufes disclosed and explained in the financial statements,. and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless il is inapproprialo to presume Ihallhe Tru$l will nlinue in operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Trust and enable them to ensure that the financial slalements comply wlh the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safegu8rding the assets of the Tnjsl and hence for tsking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST Oplnlon In our opinion. the financial stslements.. give a true and fair view of the stsle of the charitsble companls affairs as at 31 March 2025 and of ils incoming resources and applic81ion of resources, for the year then ended.. have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice., and have been prepared in accordance with the requirernenls of the Companies 2006. We have audited the financial statements of Ashbumham Christian Trust Ilhe Trust,) for the year ended 31 March 2025 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance Sheet and notes to the financial slatemenls, Including signtficant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation ¢8 applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, induding Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Iland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Basis for oplnlon We conducted our audit in accordance with Inlemalional Stsndards on Auditing {UKI {ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our respon5ibililies under those stsndards are further described in the Audrfofs responsibilrfies forthe 8udil ol the financial statements section of our report. We a independent of the Trust in aceordance wlh thè ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK. including the FRC'S Ethical Stsndard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we hav8 obtained is 5ufficienl and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Concluslons relating to golng concern In auditing the finantial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees. use of the going coneem basts of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. Based on the work we have perfomied. we have not Identified any material uncertainties relating to events or Conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubl on the Trust's ability to continue as a going CnCern for a period of al least tr1Ve months from when the financial statements are authorised for Issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees wllh respect to going nCern are described in the relevant sections of this reporL other Informatlon The other infomiation CL)mprises the infomiation included in the annu81 report other than the finarcial sl*emenls ond our audilorfs report Ihereon. The trustees are responsible for the other infomiation contained wlhin the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other infomiation and we do not express any fom of assurance condusion Ihereon. Our responsibility is lo read the other infomialion and. in doing so. nSider whether the other infomalion is materially inconsistent with the financial stslemenls or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit. or olherwse appears lo be materially misststed. If we identify such material InnSiStenC1e3 or app8nt material misstatemenls, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have perfomied, we condude that therè is material misstatement of this other inforynation, we are required to report that fact. 14Ve have nothing to report in this regard. Matters on which we are requlred to report by exceptlon We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requi$ us to report to you if, in our opinion.. the information glven in the financial stslements is Inconslslent in any material respect with the Trustees. report., or sufficient a¢coLtnting records have not been kept.. or the financi81 statements are not in agreement with the accounting records., or we have not ieceived all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OF ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST Responsibilities of trustees As explained more fully in the statement of Trustees, responsibilities. the trustees, who are also the directors of the Trust for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial stslemenls that are free from material misslalement. whether du& lo fraud or error. In preparing the financial stslemenls, the trustees are responsible for assessing the Trust's ability to continue as a going concem. disclosing, as applicable, matters related lo going concern and using the going concern basis of aeeounling unless the trustees either intend lo liquidate the eharilable company or lo cease operatsns, or have no realistic alternative bul lo do so. Audltor's responslbllllles for the audit of the financial ststements We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report In accordan with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect Ihereunder. Our objecb'ves are to obtsin reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements a5 a whole are free from material misslalement. whether due lo fraud or error, and lo issue an 8uditorfs report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance bul is not a guafanlèe that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS {UKI wll always detect a material misslatemenl when it exists. Misslalemenls can arÈse from traud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected trj influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial slalements. Capabllltles of the audit In detectlng Irregularltlg$. Includlng fraud Irregularities. including fraud, are instanS of non-compliance wlh laws and regulations. We design procedures in line wth our responsibilities, ouuined above. lo dete¢l material misstslemenls in rèspect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of deteding irregularities. including fraud, is deiailed below. Based on our understanding of the charitable company, we identified that the prinapal risks of non-compliance wth laws and regulations related lo breaches of UK regulatory principles. such as food hygiene standards and employment laws. We also considered the laws and regulations which have a direct impact on the finaal ststemenls such as the Companies Act 2006 and the ChariliesAct 2011. We evaluated management's incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the finanoal statements {including the risk of override of conlrolsl, and detemiined that the principal risks were related lo management bias in accounting estimates and judgemental areas of the financial slalements. Audit procedures performed by the audit engagement team included.. Discussions with senior management, including consideration of kn¢)wn or suspected instances of non compliance with laws and regulation or instances of fraud.. Identifying and lesling journal entries based on risk criteria., Designing audit procedures lo incorporate unpredictsbility around the nature, timing or extent ol our testing-, Testing transactions entered into outside of the nomial course of the charitable company's business-, Reviewing any potential litigation or claims against the entity which indicate any potential non MPlI8nce issues. There are inherent lirnilalions in the audit procedures described above. We are less likely to become aware of Instances of non-complianee with laws and regulations that are not closely related lo events and transactions reflected in the financial slatemenls. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misslalement due lo fraud is higher than the risk of not dètecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealrnenl by, for example. forgery or intentional misrepiesenlations, or though collusion. A further description of OUT responsibilities is available on the Finanaal Reporting Counal's website at.. https'.11 ww.frc.org.uklaudilorsresponsibilities. This description fomis part of our auditor's report. 10-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT {CONTINUED) TO THE TRUSTEES OFASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST This report Is made solety lo the eharity's trustees. as e body, in accordance wth Part 4 of the Charitie5 (AUnts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might slate lo the charity's trustees those matters we are required lo slate to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent pemiitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charsty and the tharity's trustee5 as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have fomied. Angela Tralnor {Senlor Statutory Audltor) for and on behalf of HJS Accountants Llmlted Ix Chartered Accountsnts and Statutory Audltor Tagus House Ocean Way Soulhamplon Hampshire United Kingdom S014 3TJ HJS Accountants Limited is eligible for 8ppointment as audf(or of the Trust by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006. 11
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Unrgstrlcted Restricted funds funds 2025 2025 Totsl Unrestricted Restrlcted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Notes Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies Charitable activities Other trading activities Investments Other income 14e,829 1.995,075 475,083 60.220 52.302 50,380 197,209 1,995,075 475,083 60,220 52,302 368,054 1.852.654 418.543 56,192 47,152 433,075 801.129 1,852,654 418.543 56.192 47.152 Total Income 2,729,509 50,380 2,779,889 2,742,595 433.075 3,175.670 Expendlture on: Raising funds Charitable activities 111,290 2,545,387 111,290 265.310 2,810.697 114,801 2,395,360 114,801 112.260 2.507.620 Totsl expendlture 2,656,677 265.310 2,921,987 2,510,161 112.260 2.622,421 Net Incomol{expgndlturel 72.832 1214,9301 1142,0981 232,434 320,815 553,249 Transfers betsveen funds 68 (681 774 17741 Net movemènt In funds 72,900 1214.9981 (142.098) 233,208 320,041 553.249 Rèconciliation of funds: Fund balances at 1 April 2024 3,507,824 344.846 3,852.670 3,274,616 24.805 3,299.421 Fund balances at 31 Mah 2025 3,580,724 129.848 3,710,572 3,507,824 344.846 3.852,670 All income and expenditure derive from continuing activitles. 12-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST BALANCE SHEET ASAT31 MARCH 2025 2025 2024 Notes Flxed assets Tangible assets 14 4,835.270 4,775,436 Current assets Stocks Debto Cash at bank and in hand 15 16 33.285 8,059 905,660 41.848 228.630 901.272 947,OfM 1.171.750 CredltOT5: amounts falllng du¢ wlthln one year 18 {631,5351 {543.577) Net current assets 315.469 628,173 Total assets less current Ilabllltles 5,150.739 5,403,609 Credltors: amunts falllng due after morethan one year 19 {1,440.167) {1,550,9391 Net a$ts 3.710.572 3,852,670 The funds of the Trust Restricted income fvnd$ Unrestricted funds 21 22 129,848 3.580,724 344,846 3,507.824 3.710.572 3,852,670 13-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED) ASAT31 MARCH 2025 The company is entitled lo the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the CompaniesAcl 2006. for the year ended 31 Marth 2025, although an audit has been carried out under section 144 01 the Charities Act2011. The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 wth respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements. The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of ils financial statements under the requirements of the Companies Act 2006, for the year in question in accordan w¢lh section 476. 121ti120T? The financi81 statements were approved by the trustees on .. .. vll |Id, Reverend R M Djan Trustee Dr M Hoek Trustse Company regislration number 00653062 (England and Wales) 14-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting pollclès Charfty Infomiatlon Ashburnham Christian Trust is a private company limitsd by guarantee incorporated in England and les. The registered office isAshbumham Place. Battle. East Sussex, TN33 9NF. 1.1 Accounting conventlon The financial slalemenls have been piepared in accordance wtth the Trust's Memorandum and Articles of Association. the Companies Act 2006 arKI °Accounling and Reporting by Charities.. Stslemenl of Rewmmended Practice applicable lo charitÈès preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021. {as amended for 8ccouiiling periods ¢ommencing frorn 1 January 2016). The Trust 15 a Public Benefit Entity as definèd by FRS 102. The Trust has tsken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletln 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows. The accounts are prepared in sterting, %thich is the fundional currency of the charitable company. Monetary amounts in these financial slalements are rounded to the nearest £. The financial statem¢nts have been prepared under the hislorical cosl convention. The pdncipal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 1.2 Golng con¢em At the time of approving the financial statements. the trustses have a reasonable expectslion that the Trust has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trteeS continue to adopt the going concem basis of accounting in preparing the finanryal slalements. 1.3 Charltable funds Unrestricted funds are available for use al the discretion of the trustees In furtherance of their charitable objectives. Restricted funds are subject to speofic conditlons by donors or grantors as lo how they may be used. The rposes and US of the restricted funds are sel oul in the notes to the finandal 8ts1emts. 1.4 Income All income is recognised in the Statement of Financ4al Activities once the charitable company is legally èntitled to il after any perfomiance conditions have been met. the amounts can be measured reliably, and it Is probable that income wll be received. Booking fees and deposlts relaling lo future periods but recelved in advance are shovm under deferred Income in the balance sheet released to income in the period to which they relato. 1.5 Expendlture Liabilities are fecognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charitable company lo that expenditure, it is probabie that a transfer of economic beneffts will be required in seWement and the amount of the obligation tan be Measu reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been dassiffed under headings that aggtEgate all cost related lo the category. Where cos15 noI be directly attributed lo PartI10T headings they have been allocated to actNities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Ralslng funds Raising fund5 Indudes all expenditure incurred by the charity to Trise funds for Its charitable wrposes and Includes Costs of all fundraising activities. events and non<haritable Irading. 15-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting policies Icontlnued) Governance costs Governance costs indude costs of govemance arrangements which relate lo the general njnning ot the Trust. Allocatlon and apportionment of costs Vvhere costs cannot be directly attributed lo parbcular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consislenl with the use of resources. 1.6 Tanglble fixed assets Tangible fixed assets are initially mèasufed at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, nel of depreciation and any impaimient losses. Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the wst or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases.. Freehold propety Biomass Fixtures and fittings Computer equipment Motor vehiclès Equipment Online booking system not prowded 50A on cost 25Oh on cost 33% on cost 25% on cost 25% on cost 25% on ¢osl The gain or loss arising on the disposal of 8n 8ssel is determined as the difference betsyeen the Sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset. and is recogni5ed in the stslement of financial aclivilies. The Trustees consider that the value of the freehold propety wll continue to increase in lime aTra. 8$ such. they have decided that no depreciation should be provided. Assets with cost in excess of £1.000 are capitslised. 1.7 Impalmient of ftxed assets Al e8ch reporting end dale, the Twsl reviews the carrying amounts of ils tangible assets to deterniine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impaimienl loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is ests'mated in order to detemiine the extent of the impaiiment10ss (if any). 1.8 Stocks Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs lo complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and. where applicable. diiect labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower ol replacement cost and cost. Net realisable value is the eslimaled selling price less all estimated costs of completion and $1$ lo be incurred in marketing, selling and distribLrtion. 1.9 Cash and cash equfvalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand. deposits held at call wth banks. other short-lemi liquid investments wtth original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowngs in current liabilities. 18-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accountin9 pollclgs {Contlnutd) Basic financial assets Basic financial assets, 1¢h indude debtors and Cash end bank balan$, are IniallY measured at transaction price induding transaction costs and are subsequently carried 818mortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement eonslitules a financing transaction. where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future reiptS discountsd al a market rate of interest. Financial assets dasslfied as receivable within one year are not amortised. Baslc financlal Ilabililies Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loan5 are initially re9led al transaelion price unless the arrangement conslilLrte5 a financing transactign, where the debt instrument is measured al the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities dassified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments are subsequentty carried al amortised cost. using the effective Inte$t rale method. Trade creditors are obligali¢)ns to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not. they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequenuy measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Dern¢ognition of Ilnancial liabllities Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charitsble companvs contractual obligations expire or are discharged or canlled. 1.10 Taxatlon The Trust is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable aetivrties. 1.11 Employee benefits The cost of any unused holiday entittement is recognised in the period in which the employee's services are receiveit. Temiinalion benefits ar8 recognised immediately as an expense when the Trust Is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provkle termination benefits. 1.12 Retirement benerts Payments to defined contribution rrement benefft schem85 are tharged as an expense as they fall due. 1.13 Leases Leases are dassified as finance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substsnlially all the risks and rewards ol ownership to the lessees. All other leases are classified as operating leases. Assets held under finance leases are recognised as assets at the lower ol the assets fair value al the dale of inception and the present value of the minimum lease payments. The related liability is included in the balance sheet as a finance lease obligation. Lease payments are Irealed as consisting of capital and interest elements. The inleresl is charged to nel incomellexpenditurel for the year so as to produce a constant periodic Tale of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. 17-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Income from donatlons and legacies Unrestrictèd Restricted funds funds 2025 202S Total Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Donations and gifts Grants 123.664 23.165 50,380 174,044 23,165 362,921 5.133 433.075 795,996 5,133 146,829 50,380 197,209 368.0S4 433.075 601.129 Income from charitable actlvltles Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds 2025 2024 Conference fees Conference fees ACT Events Individual guest fees Summer camp Weslmill5ter Thèological Hub Artisan village income Net surplus on sale of fixed assets 1.671.614 144.544 76,512 93.117 4,186 5,102 1.6,118 112,340 80.057 82,873 994 7.272 3.000 1,995,075 1,852,654 Incorne from other tradlng actlvltles Unrestricted Unrestrlcted funds funds 202S 2024 Shop income Tea room income Garden sales 64.676 318.969 91.438 63.768 301,674 53,101 other trading aciivities 475.083 418,543 18-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Incom• from Investments Unrestricted Unrestrfcted funds funds 202S 2024 Rental income Interest receivable 31,831 28,389 33.219 22,973 60,220 56.192 other income Unrestricted Unrestrlcted funds funds 2025 2024 Renewable heat incentive 52,302 47.152 Expendlture on ralsing funds Unrestrlcted Unrestrlcted funds funds 2026 2024 Tradlng costs Shop expènses Bar expenses Tea room expenses 42.232 9,248 59.810 45,991 7.702 61,108 111.290 114,801 19-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Charltable actlvlties costs 2025 2024 Staff costs Depreciation and impaimient Rates and water Insurance Light and heal Materials purchases Laundry Provisions purehases Repaiis and replacements 788.046 105.272 51,167 42,241 253.172 38,021 50,566 476,030 33,806 716.792 69.789 57,385 82,658 235,322 46,599 46,804 461,990 33.309 K 11 Vending machines Cleaning materials Household MIslIaneoUS Summer camp ACT holiday and event costs Volunteers expenses Garden and grounds maintenan Maintenan¢e Other charitable expenditure 27,694 16,474 3,130 26,712 27,050 19.550 42.413 73.167 437.296 27,741 8,484 2.250 15,635 20,312 16,108 33,413 55,461 241,189 2.511,e07 2,171,241 Grant fvnding of activitses {see note 9) 977 Share of support costs (see note 10) Share of govemance costs {see note 10) 287,278 11,612 312.162 23.240 2,810,697 2,507.620 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 2,545,387 2,395.360 265,310 112.260 2.810.697 2.507.620 Grants payable Grants to Institutlons 2024 Grants to institutions.. Qlher 977 -20-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 10 SupportC05ts Support Governance costs costs 2025Support costs Govemance 2024 Staff costs Telephone Postage and slalionery Sundries Travelling and motor expenses Computer and IT expenses ACT holiday and events cos15 Subscrfplions M8rkeling and adverbsing Other staff costs and training General expenses Bank charges 151.122 10.533 4,959 5,478 151.122 10.533 4,959 5.478 162,990 27,478 2,536 12,820 162.990 27.478 2.536 12.820 17.485 17,485 19.417 19,417 33,644 33,644 18.443 18.443 4,863 1,958 4,863 1,958 2,235 2.235 15.109 15.109 23,764 23,764 9.310 17,318 15.499 9,310 17,318 15.499 19,595 11,699 11,185 19.595 11.699 11.185 Audrt fees Leg81 and professional 10,528 1,084 10,528 1.084 9,819 13,421 9.819 13.421 287,278 11,612 298.890 312.162 23,240 335,402 Analysed betren Charitable activitles 287.278 11,612 298.890 312.162 23,240 335,402 Govemance $ts indudes payments to the auditors of £10.52812024- £9,819) for audit fees. 11 Trustees During the year. the Charity paid ils Iruslees a total gross salary of £1,897 12024-. nil) and made employers pension contributions of £13312024.. nill. The total trustees, travel expenses in thè year was £3,08012024.. £2.939). The totsl number of trustees to whom expenses were reimbursed in the year amounted to 412024.. 5). 12 Employees The average monthly number of employees during the yearwas.. 2025 Number 2024 Number Charitable staff 35 33 -21
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 12 Employees Icontlnuedl Employment costs 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs 836,668 56,591 45.909 784,868 50,105 44.809 939.168 879.782 There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000. 13 Taxatlon The charity is exempl from lax on income and gains falling wlhin section 505 of the TaxesAct 1988 01 sectiorb 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied lo its tharilable objects.
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 14 Tanglble fixed assets Icontlnuedl The Trustees undertake an annual impairment review of the freehold property. The property at Ashbumham Place was independently valued on the 13 May 2020 81 £4.100,000. The freehold propety included in the valuation has not significantly changed and ¢t was therefore agreed the valuation remains accurate. The value of the freehold propety shown above indudes additions and improvements expensed since the valuation report. The freehold land stands in the Balance Sheet at a nil value. 15 Stocks 2025 2024 Raw materials and consumables Finished goods and goods for resale 19,783 13.502 24,382 17.466 33,285 41.848 18 Debtors 2025 2024 Amounts falling due wlthln ong year: Trade debtors Other debtors 4.432 3,627 15.478 213,152 8,059 228.630 17 Loans and overdrafts 2025 2024 Bank loans 1.466.884 1.565,472 Payable within one year Payable after one year 54.591 1.412,293 48,465 1.517.007 Amounts included above which fall due after five years.. Payable by instslments 918.715 1,252,311 There are Iwo b8nk toans with CAF bank. These are both secured by way of a fixed and floating charge over the assets of the Chafity. The loan is repayable over 25 years. and will be repaid by 2041. Interesl is payable at the iale of 2.25rhi above the Bank of England base rate. -24-
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 18 Creditors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year 2026 2024 Notss Bank loans Obligations under finan leases Other tsxation and social security Deferred income Trade creditors other creditors Accruals 17 54,591 4.241 35,994 427,149 83,222 16.388 9,950 48.465 3,689 22,171 353.222 101.042 5,238 9,750 20 631,535 543.577 19 Credltors: amounts falllng due after morg than one year 2025 2024 Notes Bank loans Obligations underfinance leases Deferred inctsme 17 1,412,293 14.504 13.370 1,517.007 18,745 15,187 20 1,440,187 1.550.939 20 Deferred Incomg 2025 2024 Arislng from deferred income deposits and fees received in advance 440,519 368.409
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 20 Deferred In¢ome Icontlnuedl Deferred income is induded in the financial statements as follows.. 2025 2024 Deferred income is included wthin.. Current liabilities Non-cutrent liabilities 427,149 13,370 353,222 15,187 440,519 368.409 Movements in the year.. Deferred income at l April 2024 Released from previous periods Resources deferred in the year 368,409 (368,4091 440.519 307,916 {293,2261 353,719 Deferred income al 31 March 2025 440.519 368.409 -28-
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ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 22 Unrnstricted funds The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as lo how they may be used. These indude designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted fijnds by the Iruslèes for speafic purposes. At 1 Aprll 2024 Incomlng Resources resources expendgd Transfers At 31 March 2025 General furKIs Revaluation reseNe 3.496.295 11,529 2.729.509 12.656,677) 68 3,569.195 11,529 Prevlous year: At 1 Aprll 2023 Incomlng resources Resources expgnded Transfers At 31 March 2024 General funds Revaluation reserve 3,263,087 11.529 2,742,595 12,510.1611 774 3,496,295 11.529 23 AnalysEs of net assets b&twoen funds Unrestrlctsd funds 2025 Restrlcted funds 2025 Total 2025 At 31 March 2025: Tangible assets Cuirenl assetsl{liabilitiesl Long term liabilities 4,835,270 185.621 {1.440.1671 4,835,270 315.469 (1.440.167) 129.848 3.580,724 129.848 3.710.572 Unrestrlthd funds 2024 Restrfthd funds 2024 Totsl 2024 At 31 March 2024". Tangible assets Current assetsllliabililies) Long term liabilities 4.775.436 283.327 {1,550,9391 4.775.436 628,173 (1,550,939) 344.846 3,507.824 344.846 3,852.670 31
ASHBURNHAM CHRISTIAN TRUST NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 24 Operatlng lease commltments At the reporting end dale the Trust had outstanding eommttmenls for fuiure minimum lease payments under non4antsllable ope¥ating leases, which fall due as follows.. 2025 2024 Within one year Been tsvo and five years 12,209 20,541 13,387 31,515 32,750 44,902 25 Relatsd party transactions During the year, £1,80012024= £1.9401 was paid lo 2MT for training by Mrs Sue Mitchell. the wile of Trustee. Dr Roger Mitchell.