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2024-12-31-accounts

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England

Report and Accounts

31 December 2024

Charity Registration Number 225485

Contents

Reports

Reports
Reference and administrative details
of the charity, its trustees and advisers 1
Trustees’ report 3
Independent auditor’s report 30
Accounts
Statement of financial activities 34
Balance sheet 35
Statement of cash flows 36
Principal accounting policies 37
Notes to the accounts 42

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England

Reference and administrative details of the charity, its trustees and advisers

Trustees Sister Anne Ord
Sister Bridget Brady
Sister Bridget Helen Cahill
Sister Helena Coskeran
Sister Mary Frances Boyle
Sister Catherine Philomena O’Brien (Monica)
(The trustees are incorporated under the Charities Act 2011)
Provincial Superior Sister Anne Ord
Provincial bursar Sister Helena Coskeran
Safeguarding Lead Mr Andrew Stables
Administrative address 55 Thetford Road
New Malden
Surrey
KT3 5DP
Charity registration number 225485
Auditor Buzzacott Audit LLP
130 Wood Street
London
EC2V 6DL
Principal bankers The Royal Bank of Scotland plc
49 Charing Cross
London
SW1A 2DX
Barclays Bank plc
Fulham Broadway Branch
75 Kings Street
London
W6 9HY

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 1

Reference and administrative details of the charity, its trustees and advisers

Investment managers Quilter Cheviot Quilter Cheviot Quilter Cheviot Quilter Cheviot Limited
Senator House
85 Queen Victoria Street
London
EC4V 4AB
BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Ltd (to 15th
November 2024
12 Throgmorton Avenue
London
EC2N 2DL
CCLA (from 19 November 2024)
One Angel Lane
London
EC4R 3AB
Solicitors Stone King LLP
Upper Borough Court
3 Upper Borough Walls
Bath
BA1 1RG
Insurers Marsh Commercial Insurance Brokers Limited
39 Kings Hill Avenue
Kings Hill
West Malling
Kent
ME19 4ER
Surveyors W B Surveyors Limited
3 Sandy Lane
Rhosneigr
Wales
LL64 5QF

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

The trustees present their annual report together with the accounts of The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2024.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out on pages 37 to 41 of the attached accounts and comply with the charity’s trust deed, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).

INTRODUCTION

The Marist Sisters (the Order) is a Roman Catholic Religious Order of Pontifical rite founded in France in 1827 and has its Generalate in Rome. Governed by its own Constitution it is an International Order whose members minister in Africa, Philippines, Oceania, North and South America and Europe.

The accounts accompanying this report are the accounts of the charitable trust on which the assets of the Order in England and Wales are held and through which its finances operate. The trust is governed by a Trust Deed dated 25 February 1963 and is registered under the Charities Act 2011 – Charity Registration Number 225485.

PUBLIC BENEFIT

In setting the objectives and planning the activities of the charity, the trustees have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit. In essence, all works carried out by the charity are grounded on religious tenets which constitute the values of the Christian Gospel and those of the founding charism of the Marist Order.

This report describes strategies, means and achievements for the year to 31 December 2024. The report covers activities, performance and achievements which address the aims, mission and objectives of the Order, listed below. All active members of the Order perform their ministries among the local public in areas of community houses with wider outreach as described. In evaluating quality, performance and achievement, the trustees believe they illustrate ways by which the charity meets the public benefit requirement, as outlined by the Charity Commission and that benefits are identifiable and touch the lives of large sections of the public. Members interact with and actively support the public in whatever environment and ministry they find themselves, in parishes, hospitals, care homes, youth centres, etc.

PRINCIPAL AIMS AND MISSION

In order to plan effectively for the future and to manage change, the Order’s General Chapter was held in Rome in April/May 2022. The Chapter considered the best way forward to ensure the mission of the Order be maintained in its integrity, to maintain the charism and to enhance the groups and areas where sisters work.

In October 2024 the Plenary General Council met in Rome to evaluate the previous eighteen months and to look to the years ahead.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

PRINCIPAL AIMS AND MISSION (continued)

The Charity of the Order of The Marist Sisters Province of England aims to support:

In all activities described in this report, the aims and objectives of the charity have been the main focus. Always based on Christian Gospel values, through strategies and service in the various geographical areas, the trustees have made every effort to be faithful to the aims, the benefits of which are far ranging. We work together to develop a structure that will be life giving for the mission of the Order within our Province.

In fidelity to the objectives, the Leaders of the Order frequently remind the Charity of the world context of escalating concerns, in which the Order moves.

“Reflecting on the life and mission of our Congregation over the past two years, I am reminded of Pope Francis' homily delivered on February 2, 2024, the Feast of Consecrated Life. He spoke of Simeon and Anna, who in their vulnerability, serve as an image and figure of waiting: two elderly people, patient in waiting, vigilant in spirit and persevering in prayer. Their hearts remained awake, like a torch always lit. They are advanced in age; they possessed a youthful heart and had not "retired" hope. The vulnerability that we experience in the Congregation is not a new phenomenon. We live this experience with Mary who continues to walk by our side. It is with this spirit of a synodal journey that we have undertaken to respond to the calls addressed to the General Team by the General Chapter.”

(Superior General October 2024)

Sisters, either communally or individually, minister among vulnerable people and are open to providing opportunities for personal, group and liturgical prayer.

The main aim of all service rendered in pastoral and social field is to support and empower people in their day to day living. The Christian Gospel teaching of “Be compassionate as your heavenly Father is compassionate” (Luke 6: v 36) motivates all religious and charitable work carried out by members of the Order respecting the dignity of all.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

PRINCIPAL AIMS AND MISSION (continued)

Care of the sick in the Charity’s care home involves responsibility for the retired, vulnerable members of the Order, who, having engaged in the activities of the Charity over many years, are now in need of care and support. Lay residents, who meet the criteria and choose to be cared for in a peaceful and religious environment are welcome.

An established culture of respect for the dignity and rights of each person reaches a wide public in a variety of ways including the nurturing of religious practice.

The work of the sisters in carrying out the aims of the charity include:

Worship and prayer

The provision of facilities for worship and prayer for members of the Charity and members of the wider public who join in their worship.

Members of the Order are given opportunities for:

Members of the Order celebrate and pray with the wider community. They do this through Church services, prayer groups, celebration of the Liturgy, praying with older people, with young people, children and mothers’ prayer groups. Included are the petitions of those who have requested prayers via telephone or other means of communication. Chapels are open to the public where and when possible. The benefits of sharing prayer with others are reciprocal and appreciated by all who participate.

Pastoral and social work

The active members of the Order, as well as retired members, are involved in various forms of social and pastoral work throughout England including:

The Charity maintains the properties where the members live and from where they carry out their apostolic work.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

PRINCIPAL AIMS AND MISSION (continued)

Operation of residential care home (Villa Maria)

The Charity owns and operates a care home which is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Villa Maria provides accommodation for 33 persons. Long-term care and short-term respite care for sisters and members of the public is available. It is under the management of St John of God Hospitaller Services.

ACTIVITIES, SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES AND RELEVANT POLICIES

In the following pages of this report, the trustees describe activities, performance and achievements which address the founding objectives, principal aims and mission of the Order. This illustrates the means by which the Charity meets public benefit requirements.

As stated under principal aims and mission on pages 3 to 6, the activities of the Order can be divided into four principal areas:

Care for members of the Order and operation of a residential care home

Aware of their legal and moral responsibilities to members of the Order who have spent most of their lives carrying out the charitable works of the Order and who have no personal resources, the trustees aim to provide the best possible care for all. They regularly assess needs and plan accordingly as the age profile of the members of the Order increases.

In planning they aim to:

The care home – Villa Maria – caters for those entirely dependent on care and for those who require some care but not of an acute nature.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

ACTIVITIES, SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES AND RELEVANT POLICIES (continued)

Care for members of the Order and operation of a residential care home (continued) The care home has 33 rooms all of which have en suite facilities. All rooms are accessible by stairs and by lift, are linked to a call system and have a television which includes a facility enabling Sisters and other residents to follow religious services relayed from the chapel.

The total expenditure of the care home is financed by the Charity. This expenditure is recognised as part of the cost of maintaining the members of the Order.

From 1 March 2017 Caterplus Services have been contracted to supply all catering arrangements in Villa Maria with a view to control expenditure, to monitor stock control and to improve the quality of the food presented.

Most of the residents are sisters, with members of the public accepted for long-term and respite care. In 2024 there were 4 members of the public as residents (1 of whom is a sister of another congregation) and, in addition, at various times during the year, one bed was used for respite care. The management team of the home meets weekly and at other times as necessity may demand. The trustees meet with St John of God Hospitaller Services at regular intervals to review the yearly budget and appraise management. In 2024 regular contact was maintained with the manager and residents.

St John of God Hospitaller Services Management
Review meetings
Budget meeting		 6thMarch 2024
13thJune 2024
10th September 2024
11th December 2024

The aim of the trustees regarding Villa Maria is to continue to provide good quality living by:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

ACTIVITIES, SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES AND RELEVANT POLICIES (continued)

Pastoral and social work

Work undertaken by members of the Province during 2024 included:

Aims of the trustees in this category include:

Overseas missionary work

The Charity supports members of the congregation working on mission principally in West Africa, Latin America and the Philippines. Support is financial via donations to the Marist Sisters Generalate CIO (Charity Number 1179883) who administer the Marist Solidarity Fund.

The extent of financial support is advised by the Generalate in consultation with other members of the Order as appropriate.

In 2024 the Province of England contributed £500,000 ( 2023: £500,000) to the Marist Solidarity Fund specially established for mission support, to which all Marist Regions in the world contribute and from which sisters can draw funds to support their work in poorer areas.

Through their contribution to the Marist Solidarity Fund, the Charity enables sisters working on mission in the geographical areas mentioned, to have professional experience in the various works and communities of the Order. This experience enhances their training, broadens their vision and better equips them in maintaining and forwarding the missionary aims of the Order.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Care of Members of the Order at Villa Maria Care Home

Villa Maria, is managed by Saint John of God Hospitaller Service on behalf of the Marist Sisters. Throughout the last year, the Service Manager of the Home, assisted by a conscientious and able staff continued to provide a peaceful, caring atmosphere ensuring that all residents live within a comfortable and supportive community; where compassion, hospitality, love, service, justice, dignity and respect are numbered among the core values.

The Charity continued to support and care for them throughout the year ensuring that all their needs, spiritual and physical were met. The provision of a safe, healthy and attractive environment for all residents remains a priority for the Service Manager, supported by her staff.

Through the various media, residents keep updated on world events. Thus, the everchanging needs of our world, the unrest and atrocities so familiar to all, climatic crises etc. are held in prayer daily and support offered in a variety of ways. A notable event this year was the generous response made by residents to an appeal for suitcases to be donated to refugees and asylum seekers in a local detention centre, who are regularly moved on to another such facility. Remembrance Weekend and other significant anniversaries were celebrated with meaningful liturgies, supported by visual displays and music.

Eighteen sisters and four members of the public were taken care of in Villa Maria during 2024. The Charity continued to support and care for them ensuring that all their needs, spiritual and physical, were met.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Care of Members of the Order at Villa Maria Care Home (continued)

Additionally, short term respite care was provided for members of the public. In line with the Trustees’ philosophy, the more mobile and active members were housed in accommodation with facilities that encourage independence and choice. Residents are encouraged to be pro-active in the ongoing development of the home through regular meetings with the Manager. Each resident has a member of staff as her ‘key worker’ who takes a particular interest and offers extra support as necessary. A representative of the Saint John of God Hospitaller Services visits regularly; residents welcome the opportunity to chat with her if they so desire.

Regular communication is maintained between the Trustees and Saint John of God Hospitaller Services to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the care home at all times. Quarterly meetings are held either online or ‘in person’ where any issues or concerns are raised, decisions reached, and achievements applauded.

The Service Manager works conscientiously at all times to provide, with the support of her staff, a safe, healthy and attractive environment for the residents.

Opportunities are available for leisure activities and individual interests and special occasions are celebrated with joy. Two staff members, employed as Activities Coordinators, facilitate art/craft workshops, games, musical activities etc. and, on occasion, organise outings to local places of interest.

The active ‘retired’ Sisters who remain mobile, engage in a variety of services and activities that benefit the wider community as well as those resident in the Home. These include:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Care of Members of the Order at Villa Maria Care Home (continued)

Prayer and Worship

As worship and prayer are important elements in the lives of the sisters, the provision of Daily Mass or Communion Services and occasional Retreat Days ensures ongoing spiritual support for the residents. A gentle atmosphere of warmth and respect is encouraged where personal contentment and mutual sensitivity can flourish. The local Parish Priest visits regularly and one sister is the designated chaplain to the Home. At various times during the year, a visiting priest conducts a three day ‘Retreat’ for those able to participate.

Care of Members of the Order at Villa Maria Care Home

Maintenance matters

Regular maintenance of the premises and grounds continued throughout the year in the belief that the accommodation and natural surroundings, when maintained to a high standard, is not only economical but contributes to the general well-being and morale of the residents and to the enhancement of the environment.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Care of Members of the Order at Villa Maria Care Home (continued)

Maintenance matters :(continued)

The strategic disaster plan (emergencies and crises) already in place to ensure the safety of residents and staff in the event of an emergency of any nature is reviewed at regular intervals.

Bedrooms were made available for members of the local public, one of which was funded by Kent County Council, for long-term care, and one bedroom is available for respite care.

Objectives for the coming year

The Trustees will continue to safeguard and promote the welfare of residents of the home by:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Care of Members of the Order at Villa Maria Care Home (continued)

Objectives for the coming year (continued)

The CQC suspended their routine inspections in March 2020 in response to Covid-19 but continue to regularly monitor the Service via the data recorded of monthly audits carried out by the St John of God Hospitaller Team. These audits reflect the new CQC Inspection process. Every third month a Deep Dive Audit on all KLOE areas is undertaken. The quality has remained consistently good throughout the year with many elements of Outstanding. Overall monthly scores for the audits average 98%.

A few of the Compliments received during the year:

Relative of Resident:

“Vicky has visited two or three times now and is very impressed by all the staff (from carers to caterers), the spotlessness of the house and the overall caring atmosphere.”

Family member visiting for the funeral of a resident thanked the staff team for all their compassion and level of care their aunt had received, and stated that her aunt spoke about this to them.

Thank you card from prospective staff member to the manager : “I just wanted to say thank you for all the support over the last few months. I have had an awful time lately that would have been so much more stressful without your understanding. I am very much looking forward to becoming a member of the Villa Maria Team.”

Respite Care resident: “ Thank you for your welcome, your care and your support during my time here. You are certainly the right person for the job and hopefully you will continue for many more years.”

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

(continued)

Marist Youth Centre, Manchester

The Marist Sisters have conducted school and adult retreats at the centre since 1996. These events have catered for students from Year 1 to Year 11, chaplaincy groups and parish groups.

However, the Marist Youth Centre has not functioned at full capacity since the COVID pandemic. There was a steady reduction in bookings due to the pressure felt by schools because of increased financial constraints and a lack of personnel to fulfill the necessary roles making the running of the Centre unviable. Therefore the decision was made by theTrustees of the Charity to close the Centre at the end of the 2023/2024 academic year.

During the first 6 months of 2024 the centre offered themes relevant to the different Year groups – caring for the environment, respect for different cultures, recognizing and contributing to the different needs of society.

.

The principal aims and objectives of the Marist Youth Centre were:

Strategies to achieve these aims and objectives

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Marist Youth Centre, Manchester (continued)

Strategies to achieve these aims and objectives (continued)

Performance and achievements

Students attending the Centre were accompanied by teachers, teaching assistants and parents; all were involved in working with the students. The Centre Team provided materials and facilitated the activities which involved the students and the staff in group work and feedback to the entire group. In this way teachers and assistants were encouraged by the work of the day to try new methods with the students.

Through the activities of the Centre, which included prayer, song visual aids, group discussion and role play, the students came to know themselves and others in a new way. The Centre helped them to develop a capacity for critical thinking and a sense of commitment in their relationship to God and to their community.

Beneficiaries

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Pastoral and social work in the Communities

During 2024 sisters carried out their pastoral and social work in various areas of ministry.

The Trustees of the Charity supported them in their individual social and pastoral work which reaches out to those in need, and which benefits numerous members of the public focussing on those in greater need physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Sisters who are now retired, are readily available and willing to reach out to those in need be it by telephone, letter or other means of communication, or to involve themselves in a volunteer capacity in projects that address social needs.

To safeguard the reputation of the Charity, pastoral activities are regularly reviewed and monitored through assessments and critical evaluation so that the integrity of the aims of the Order in supporting religious and charitable work is maintained.

The Birmingham Community

Sisters are involved in:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

(continued)

Pastoral and social work in the Communities (continued)

The Hythe Community

Four sisters contribute to the life of the local parish, assisting in fund raising initiatives and inter-church projects, visiting the elderly and housebound. One sister supported the Rainbow Project for the Homeless, while another volunteers with ‘Age UK’. One sister assists in a Charity shop, and is also engaged in a literacy programme for refugees in a local immigration centre, another spends two mornings a week at the local junior school helping starter readers and others needing extra help. One sister is an active member of Pax Christi, engaging in several ‘justice and peace’ projects, including an advisory role with the office staff, facilitating online peace education seminars for students and teachers and maintaining contact with members in remote areas of the country, as well as networking with other organisations with similar values and aspirations.

The Manchester Community

In addition to the work of the Centre, the sisters are well known in the local parishes where they are in frequent contact with people belonging to the parishes. In addition, they spend time in volunteer work:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Pastoral and social work in the Communities (continued)

The New Malden Community

Sisters are involved in:

The Upper Holloway Community

Due to lack of personnel the Upper Holloway house was put on the market in June 2024. Until the end of August, before she moved to Manchester, one sister was involved in:

The Walsingham Community

The National Shrine of Our Lady is at Walsingham and is a place of pilgrimages. The Sisters keep an open-door policy and are available to the pilgrims. Their chapel is a welcoming place for private or group prayer and is open all day.

Sisters were engaged in:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

REVIEW OF THE PERIOD’S ACTIVITIES: ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE (continued)

Pastoral and social work in the Communities (continued)

Table showing the average hours volunteered by Marist sisters weekly.

Area of service No. of Volunteers Hours volunteered
Parish work 8 40
Hospital and care homes 3 15
Contact with housebound and families 4 18
Homeless and immigrants 1 4
Psychotherapy practice 1 3
Administration 4 120
Making craft items for charities 5 20
Assistance to other Charities 6 45
Diocese 2 4
Justice & Peace 2 5
Retreat work 3 14
Assistance in Schools 2 25

FUTURE PLANS

In planning for the future, the Trustees of the Charity intend to meet the following objectives:

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

FUTURE PLANS (continued)

FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR

Investment policy and performance

The investment strategy is set by the trustees and considers income requirements, present and future financial expenditure requirements, risk profile, the investment managers’ advice and the view of the market prospects in the medium term.

The policy is to maximise total return through a diversified portfolio whilst providing a level of income advised by the trustees from time to time. There is also an Ethical Policy precluding investment in any company which, after reasonable enquiry, clearly has significant profits from an activity which is contrary to the objectives of the Christian Church.

The performance of the portfolio and the charity’s investment strategy are reviewed regularly by the trustees with the investment managers.

The charity’s investments comprise two portfolios of listed investments. Investments with a market value of £18,923,610 (2023: £18,322,994) are managed by Quilter Cheviot. Investments were managed by BlackRock Investment Managers (UK) Limited until 15 November 2024. In January 2024 the Charity engaged the services of Portfolio Review Services to evaluate current investments. Following their review the Trustees decided to transfer the investments from BlackRock to CCLA Investment Management Ltd. This process was completed on 19 November 2024. The market value of investments held with CCLA Investment Management is £10,850,835.

There are no restrictions on the charity’s power to invest.

The investment managers’ objectives are to maximise total return through diversified portfolios, whilst providing a level of income as advised by the trustees from time to time. The managers follow guidelines, which are set out and regularly reviewed by the trustees.

During the year the charity’s investments continued to perform well.

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Trustees' report 31 December 2024

FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR (continued)

Results for the year

A summary of the year’s results can be found on page 34 of this annual report and accounts. In the year ended 31 December 2024, the total income was £1,828,487 (2023: £1,948,584).

With the age profile of the sisters continuing to rise, fewer salaries are received as sisters retire and receive smaller pensions. Pension income is affected by sisters passing.

During the year ended 31 December 2024 the charity incurred expenditure in maintaining sisters and enabling them to carry out their work.

Premises expenditure continued to be high, as properties grow older and modifications become necessary to facilitate elderly sisters.

Total expenditure amounted to £3,022,556 (2023: £3,114,665).

The net expenditure for the period before investment gains was £1,194,069 (2023: £1,166,081). Investment gains amounted to £1,178,989 (2023: £1,505,955) giving rise to a decrease in funds of £15,080 (2023: increase of £339,784).

Reserves policy

The trustees have examined the requirement for free reserves. i.e. those unrestricted funds not invested in tangible fixed assets, designated for specific purposes or otherwise committed. The trustees consider that, given the nature of the charity’s work, the need to care for members of the Order and to respond to unforeseen emergencies, the level of free reserves should at least be equivalent to between twelve and twenty-four-months’ expenditure, equivalent to £3.1m to £6.3m. The trustees are of the opinion that this provides sufficient flexibility to cover shortfalls in income, adequate working capital to cover core costs, and will allow the charity to meet its commitments to its education work and to members of the Order and will enable the charity to cope and respond to unforeseen emergencies.

Financial position

The balance sheet shows total reserves of £44.7 million (2023: £44.7 million).

£15.3 million (2023: £9 million) represents a retirement reserve designed to provide income to communities with elderly sisters needing care

and to provide for sisters generally in their retirement. In addition, there is a fund of £4million for the upkeep of Villa Maria Care Home which needs regular maintenance and updating.

A further £6.4 million (2023: £6.5 million) is represented by tangible fixed assets used to support the work of the sisters and their ministry. A decision was made to separate this fund from the general fund in recognition of the fact that the tangible fixed assets are used in the day-to-day work of the charity and the fund value cannot, therefore, be realised easily if needed to meet future contingencies.

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FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR (continued )

Financial position (continued)

A Giving Fund of £8 million has been created to allow the charity to support organisations involved in work that sisters are no longer able to carry out directly.

Funds available to support the work of the Sisters in the future are shown as general funds on the balance sheet and amount to £11 million (2023 - £17.2 million). The level of general funds held is in excess of the policy, however, the trustees are satisfied that their prudent approach to retaining reserves will ensure the future viability of the charity during a period of economic uncertainty and volatility in investment markets.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governance

In terms of Canon Law, the Order is governed at an international level by the Superior General and her Council resident in Rome. They are elected every seven years at a General Chapter of the Order in Rome by representatives of all Provinces of the Order.

A new governance system, in practice in the Order since 8 December 2015, was established to best carry forward, exercise and protect the founding charism aim and mission of the Order among the local public.

The Province of England is governed by the Provincial and Council who were appointed from 8 December 2018 by the Superior General and her Council. Each community has a community leader appointed by the Provincial and Council.

The Order is divided into Units with a view to rendering more effective the resources of the Order in its objectives, apostolic and charitable work. The Province of England is an independent Unit governed by a Provincial, two councillors and a bursar.

A system of accountability is established across the Order. The Provincial usually visits the communities of the Province at least once annually, thus maintaining a sharp awareness of any difficulties which arise, of the developments, progress and continued effectiveness of the ministries carried out by the Sisters of the Province. Communication across the Province is active, and Sisters can easily contact the trustees. A comprehensive review on fidelity to mission and to aims of the charity takes place regularly.

The Superior General visits the Province of England every three years.

The Provincial Bursar visits the communities regularly and is available to all when necessary, thus keeping track of financial business, the assets of the Province and the maintenance of the charity’s properties. Any updating of properties is closely monitored.

In terms of civil law, the Order in England and Wales operates through a charity governed by a trust deed dated 25 February 1963 and is a registered charity - Charity Registration Number 225485.

The trustees are appointed by the Provincial Superior and are registered as an incorporated body under the Charities Act 2011. At any one time there must be a minimum of two trustees.

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STRUCTURE. GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued)

Governance (continued)

The trustees of the charity are six members, three of whom are members of the Leadership Team. All have wide experience of the work of the charity and are well aware of the issues relevant to the Order to ensure the aims and purposes of the Order are met. Together with updating of personal specialisms, they follow courses and conferences arranged for trustees to keep updated and abreast of change. They use literature provided by the Charity Commission and attend conferences and meetings provided by our accountants, investment managers, firms of solicitors and insurers specialising in charity practice.

The names of the trustees who served during 2024 are set out as part of the reference and administrative details on page 1 of this annual report and accounts with short biographical details on each given as follows:

Sister Anne Ord

Sister Anne Ord worked as a civil servant in the Ministry of Defence and in 1991 became a Marist Sister in the Province of England. Having worked for two years as bursar in Marist School Sunninghill, she went to Stendal, East Germany to a new foundation of the Marist Sisters. She worked with the Russland/Deutsch, exiled in the Russian Empire and now invited back to their homeland after perestroika. After ten years in Germany she moved to a parish in Slavutich, Ukraine, built to house survivors of the Chernobyl disaster. She worked in the parish and taught English in the local language school. Compliance with legislation for foreigners becoming increasingly difficult, the Marist Sisters community withdrew from Ukraine. Back in England in 2012 she worked at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham until she took up her mandate as Provincial Leader in December 2018. She is based in New Malden.

Sister Helena Coskeran

Sister Helena Coskeran joined the Order of the Marist Sisters in 1981. She taught in a sixth form college in Manchester before becoming part of the Marist Sisters mission in Colombia where she worked in initial formation and completed a course for formators at a summer school in Mexico. She was also involved in pastoral work and with groups working for peace. On her return to England Sister Helena worked for CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development) and trained as a systemic psychotherapist. Following her time as General Bursar of the Congregation she completed the Graduate Diploma in Theology at Heythrop College. She has worked for the NHS in administrative roles and has been a volunteer therapist at Crossroads Counselling in Bethnal Green since 2011. In December 2018 she took up her appointment as Provincial Bursar.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 23

Trustees' report 31 December 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT ( continued)

Governance (continued)

Sister Bridget Brady

Sister Bridget is a teacher by profession and has taught in Primary and Secondary schools in England and Colombia. She served as deputy head in a Catholic secondary state school in Birmingham before being missioned to Colombia. On returning to England, she helped set up the Youth Centre in Manchester where she worked as Directress for five years. She was a member of the Provincial Team and a Governor in the Secondary school, Sunninghill during this time. She was then missioned to Venezuela where she worked with youth and was a member of the Latin American Regional Team. From there she was elected to the Generalate Team in Rome. On completion of her term of office she returned to the Youth Centre in Manchester as Directress. She is currently a member of our community in Birmingham and is a member of the Inter-Church Diocesan Team of spiritual guides and is an active member of the parish of the Holy Name of Jesus.

Sister Bridget Helen Cahill

Sister Helen joined the order in 1970. She is qualified in Childcare and as a teaching assistant. For several years, she worked in a Centre for disadvantaged children in Hythe, Kent. She has also worked as a teaching assistant in schools in Devon and Manchester. In September 2021 she took on the role of Community Leader in Sunninghill. She joined the Birmingham community in May 2022 as community Bursar. In October 2024 she moved to the Hythe Community.

Sister Mary Frances Boyle

After graduating as a secondary school teacher, Sister Mary Frances taught in several schools in Fiji over a period of twenty years. This was followed by a period of teaching in London and the Midlands. She served in Congregational administration in England and the wider Region of EurAfrica. Having finished this mandate, she spent three years administering a Skills Training Centre in The Gambia. Until its closure in July 2024, she was working in the Marist Youth Centre in Manchester as Co-Ordinator.

Sister Catherine Philomena O’Brien (Sr Monica)

Having worked in Education in the South West of England for fifteen years, Catherine moved to London in 1990 where she was employed by the Southwark Archdiocese as a member of its’ Christian Education Team and worked in the area of Teacher Formation and catechesis in schools. From 1996 to 2008, she served in Congregational Leadership and Administration at Provincial and General level in the UK and in Rome. On returning to the UK she became an active member and volunteer with the international peace movement, PAX CHRISTI, who declare that its’ mission is to "to transform a world shaken by violence, terrorism, deepening inequalities, and global insecurity." She moved to Hythe, Kent in September 2022 and took up the role of community Leader in Villa Maria, the home of our retired Marist Sisters.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 24

Trustees' report 31 December 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued)

Statement of trustees’ responsibilities

The trustees are responsible for preparing the trustees’ report and accounts in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the of the charity and of the income and expenditure of the charity for that period. In preparing accounts the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011, the applicable Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Key management

The trustees consider that they comprise the key management of the charity in charge of directing and controlling, running and operating the charity on a day to day to basis.

All trustees are members of the Order and whilst their living and personal expenses are borne by the charity, they receive no remuneration or reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties as trustees.

Structure and management reporting

The trustees meet at least four times annually to review and assess developments of the charity and its activities and make any important decisions. In 2024 most meetings took place online. Minutes are filed after each meeting and made available to auditors. When necessary, the trustees access their professional advisers – accountants, solicitors, property consultants, investment managers, bank relationship managers and insurance brokers.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 25

Trustees' report 31 December 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued)

Structure and management reporting (continued)

The day-to-day management of the charity’s activities and the implementation of policies are delegated to appointed members of the Order or senior lay staff.

Structure and management reporting(continued)
The day-to-day management of the charity’s activities and the implementation of policies
are delegated to appointed members of the Order or senior lay staff.		 Structure and management reporting(continued)
The day-to-day management of the charity’s activities and the implementation of policies
are delegated to appointed members of the Order or senior lay staff.
MANAGEMENT PROFILE IN PROVINCE OF ENGLAND
Work Management
Villa Maria Care Home, Hythe Managed by St John of God Hospitaller Management Services
Manager – Miss Tamara Brown
Bursar – St John of God Hospitaller Management Services
Community Leader – Sister Monica O’Brien
Chaplain – Sister Angelina McNamara
Marist Youth Centre, Manchester Directress – Sister Mary Frances Boyle
Community Leader – Sister Mazarello Clyne
Bursar – Sister Helena Whelan

Working with other organisations

The charity works with and subscribes to several other charities and public bodies including:

Communities

During the year to 31 December 2024, the Province of England comprised 32 sisters who lived in six communities in England. Four of whom died during 2024.

Each community is governed by a Community Leader or a Community Liaison Person appointed by the Provincial and Council.

Some houses in the Province are in areas deprived socially and spiritually, where the sisters live among the people with whom they work to be more effective in their ministry and in carrying out the missionary and apostolic aims of the Order, to meet and help people where they are.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 26

Trustees' report 31 December 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued)

Communities (continued)

Work of the communities is kept under review including qualifications of staff and structure of the Order. Pooling of resources is reviewed regularly to more effectively meet and forward the objectives of the Order by evaluating the relevance of community ministries.

Risk management

The trustees continue to keep the identified major areas of risk under review. They seek constantly to identify the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and every effort is made to take precautions to prevent damage, accident, illness or any other form of loss that could occur. The latest update of Risk Management policies was in 2024.

Governance and management

Governance and management are regularly reviewed by the Order’s government in Rome to avoid any risk to the Order and hence to the charity through lack of control and guidance. Lack of skills and qualifications and best use of resources are identified and dealt with.

Operational

Risks relating to specific operational areas of the charity especially Marist Youth Centre, Manchester and Villa Maria Residential Care Home are under constant review. Each operates with its own risk management policy checked by the trustees who file copies.

Reputational

As far as possible trustees identify and take steps to prevent/remedy any risk situations where possible damage to the Charity’s and Order’s reputation might arise.

Financial

To minimise financial risk as far as possible the trustees exercise clear budgetary control across the Province and employ the services of accountants, investment managers and insurers. This enables the most efficient and effective use of the financial and personnel resources of the charity in taking forward the aims of the charity, by maintaining financial support to enable members of the Province to carry out the educational, pastoral, social and caring aims of the charity. The key funding sources are pensions, interest on investments and a part-time salary.

The trustees work closely with professional advisors for the protection of the charity and attended workshop and training days during the year.

Investment strategies are set by the trustees in consultation with their investment managers with whom they meet and review possible risk, especially when markets are volatile as in the present period of fluctuation. The Provincial Bursar attended the Unitholder meetings for BlackRock Catholic Charities Growth and Income Fund on 25 April and 18 July 2024.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 27

Trustees' report 31 December 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued)

Risk management

Risk management Risk management Risk management
Meetings with professional advisors in 2024
Buzzacott LLP 16thApril Finance Meeting
Caterplus 15thMarch
18thNov		 Review of catering in Villa Maria
St John of God 6th March
13th June
19thSep
11th Dec		 Review of service management Villa Maria
Budget Review and Review of Service
Management
Quilter Cheviot 10thSep Presentation and Review of Investments
Marsh Commercial 11thJune
16thAugust		 Insurance Portfolio Review
Royal Bank of Scotland 25thJan
22ndApr		 Fraud and Operation Review
Meeting with Relationship Manager
Portfolio Review Services 17thJune
24thJul		 Financial Review
Investment Advice and Presentation by CCLA
Stone King 19thJune Client Care Meeting

Ethical restrictions on investments

Sector Criteria
Tobacco Companies engaged in the ownership of tobacco plantations or engaged in
the production and manufacture of tobacco products.
Armaments Companies involved in military related activities where the company’s annual
turnover in relation to such activities exceeds 10% of the company’s latest
annual turnover.
Sanctity of Life Companies which offer services contrary to the Sanctity of Life or are
engaged in the production and/or manufacture of products contrary to the
Sanctity of Life
Pornography Companies which provide entertainment services via mobile networks,
publishers/wholesalers of pornographic magazines where the company’s
annual turnover in relation to such products and services exceeds 3% of
the company’s latest annual turnover.
Fossil Fuels Any company whose primary business is the extraction, production and/or
distribution of fossil fuel or uranium or who is responsible for environmental
degradation.

Law and government policies

Awareness of current government policies and regulations and assurance of compliance with them is the aim of the trustees in all risk assessment and at all levels of governance and management.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 28

Trustees' report 31 December 2024

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued

Risk management (continued)

Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

The trustees recognise the absolute necessity to ensure the protection of all those the charity serves and those in the service of the charity. All sisters who are involved in any kind of ministry in England and Wales have obtained clearance from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). All employees of the charity must also have DBS clearance before appointment.

Mr Andrew Stables represents the Province in the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CCSA), a professional standards body with regulatory powers along with the Religious Life Safeguarding Services (RLSS) covering religious orders and congregations, established following an independent review of the safeguarding structures and arrangements within the Catholic Church in England and Wales.

Manchester Youth Centre and Villa Maria Care Home each has a named Safeguarding representative.

The trustees believe that having established systems to mitigate major risks to which the charity is exposed, monitoring the level of risk and ensuring effective control in financial systems, awareness of present and projected reserves and by accessing the advice of financial and legal experts –– they have adequately mitigated those risks.

EMPLOYEES AND MEMBERS OF THE ORDER

The trustees wish to record their recognition of the professionalism and commitment of the staff and of the individual members of the Order. Their dedication and positive approach are much appreciated.

Signed on behalf of the trustees:

Anne Ord

Trustee

Approved by the trustees on: 3 June 2025

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 29

Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2024

Independent auditor’s report to the trustees of The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England

Opinion

We have audited the accounts of The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows, the principal accounting policies and notes to the accounts. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland’ (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the accounts:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the accounts in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the accounts, we have concluded that the Trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the accounts is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the accounts are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the Trustees’ Report, other than the accounts and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the accounts does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 30

Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2024

Other information (continued)

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the accounts or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the accounts or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the trustees’ report. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts 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 accounts that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the accounts, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the accounts as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these accounts.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 31

Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2024

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts (continued)

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

How the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud

Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows:

We assessed the susceptibility of the charity’s financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:

To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 32

Independent auditor’s report 31 December 2024

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts (continued)

How the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud (continued)

In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to:

There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the trustees and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.

Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the accounts is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Buzzacott Audit LLP Statutory Auditor 130 Wood Street London EC2V 6DL

Date: 12 June 2025

Buzzacott Audit LLP is eligible to act as an auditor in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 33

Statement of financial activities Year to 31 December 2024

Notes 2024
Total
funds
£		 2023
Total
funds
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
1
Investment income and interest receivable
2
Charitable activities
. Provision of retreats
. Provision of care including respite care
Other sources
. Surplus on disposal of tangible fixed assets
. Miscellaneous income
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
. Investment management costs
Charitable activities
. Support of members of the Order and their ministry
3
. Donations in support of charitable activities
5
Total expenditure
Net (expenditure) before gains on investments and transfers
6
Net investment gains
Net (expenditure) income and net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Balances brought forward at 1 January 2024
Balances carried forward at 31 December 2024		 559,706
1,136,020
7,540
125,221
—
—
638,639

1,126,634

10,445

147,900

442

24,524
1,828,487
1,948,584
129,823
1,713,548
1,179,185
90,431

1,929,177

1,095,057
3,022,556
3,114,665
(1,194,069)
1,178,989		 (1,166,081)

1,505,955
(15,080)
44,709,952
339,874
44,370,078
44,694,872 44,709,952

All of the charity’s income and expenditure derived from continuing activities during the above two financial periods. All recognised gains and losses are included in the statement of financial activities.

All income and expenditure in both financial years was unrestricted.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 34

Balance sheet 31 December 2024

Notes 2024
£		 2024
£		 2023
£		 2023
£
Fixed assets:
Tangible assets
9
Investments
10
Total fixed assets
Current assets:
Debtors
11
Short term deposits
Cash at bank and in hand
Total current assets
Liabilities:
Creditors: amounts falling due
within one year
12
Net current assets
Total net assets
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds
. Tangible fixed assets fund
13
. Designated funds
14
. General funds
Total charity funds		 333,603
1,000,000
6,928,984		 6,369,302
30,221,040		 282,512
1,000,000
7,906,559		 6,466,600
29,173,867
36,590,342
8,104,530		 35,640,467
9,069,485
8,262,587
(158,057)		 9,189,071
(119,586)
44,694,872 44,709,952
6,369,302
27,300,000
11,025,570		 6,466,600
21,000,000
17,243,352
44,694,872 44,709,952
Approved by the trustees and signed
on their behalf by:

Anne Ord …………………. Trustee

Approved by the trustees on: 3 June 2025

Charity Registration Number: 225485

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 35

Statement of cash flows Year to 31 December 2024

Notes
2024
£		 2023
£
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net cash used in operating activities
A
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investment income and interest received
Proceeds from the disposal of tangible fixed assets
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Proceeds from the disposal of investments

Purchase of investments

Net cash provided by investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 2024
B
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 2024
B
**(2,193,997) **		 (2,332,231)


1,136,231
—
(51,604)
22,375,471
**(22,420,736) **		 1,126,634
1,400
(72,414)
1,215,716
(1,582,066)
1,039,362 689,270

(1,154,635)


8,530,214		 (1,642,961)
10,173,175

7,375,579		 8,530,214

Notes to the statement of cash flows for the year to 31 December 2024

A Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash used in operating activities

2024
£		 2023
£
Net movement in funds (as per the statement of financial activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charge
(Gains)/ losses on investments
Investment income and interest receivable
(Surplus) deficit on disposal of tangible fixed assets
(Increase) in debtors
Increase (decrease) in creditors
Net cash used in operating activities		 (15,080)
148,902
(1,178,989)
(1,136,210)
—
(51,091)
38,471		 339,874
145,876
(1,505,956)
(1,126,634)
(442)
(148,715)
(36,234)
(2,193,997) (2,332,231)

B Analysis of cash and cash equivalents

Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
2024
£		 2023
£
Cash at bank and in hand
Cash held by investment managers
Total cash and cash equivalents		 6,928,984
446,595		 7,906,559
623,655
7,375,579 8,530,214

No separate statement of changes in net debt has been prepared as there is no difference between the movements in cash and cash equivalents and movement in net cash (debt).

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 36

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2024

The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the accounts are laid out below.

Basis of preparation

These accounts have been prepared for the year to 31 December 2024 with comparative information provided in respect to the year to 31 December 2023.

The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policies below or the notes to these accounts.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (Charities SORP FRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

The accounts are presented in sterling and are rounded to the nearest pound.

Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement

Preparation of the accounts requires the trustees to make significant judgements and estimates.

The items in the accounts where these judgements and estimates have been made include:

Assessment of going concern

The trustees have assessed whether the use of the going concern assumption is appropriate in preparing these accounts. The trustees have made this assessment in respect to a period of one year from the date of approval of these accounts.

The trustees are of the opinion that the charity will have sufficient resources to meet its liabilities as they fall due. With regard to the next accounting period, the year ending 31 December 2025, the most significant areas that may affect the financial position of the charity and the carrying value of its assets are the level of investment return and the performance of the investment markets.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 37

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2024

Income recognition

Income is recognised in the period in which the charity has entitlement to the income, the amount of income can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received.

Income comprises donations, investment income and interest receivable, fees for the provision of education, retreat and respite care and other income including the surplus on the disposal of tangible fixed assets.

Donations, including salaries and pensions of individual religious received under Gift Aid or deed of covenant, are recognised when the charity has confirmation of both the amount and settlement date. In the event of donations pledged but not received, the amount is accrued for where the receipt is considered probable. In the event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance before the charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that those conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period.

In accordance with the Charities SORP FRS 102 volunteer time is not recognised.

Dividends are recognised once the dividend has been declared and notification has been received of the dividend due.

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank.

Income from retreats represents income from the Marist Youth Centre, Manchester whilst that for care represents income from lay residents of Villa Maria Care Home. Such income is recognised when it falls due.

Expenditure recognition

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to make a payment to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis. Expenditure comprises direct costs and support costs. All expenses, including support costs, are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings. The classification between activities is as follows:

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 38

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2024

Charitable grants and donations are made where the trustees consider there is real need following a review of the details of each particular case and comprise single year payments rather than multi-year grants. Grants and donations are included in the statement of financial activities when approved for payment. Provision is made for grants and donations approved but unpaid at the period end.

All expenditure is stated inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

The majority of costs are directly attributable to specific activities and any apportionment between headings is negligible.

Tangible fixed assets

All assets costing more than £1,500 and with an expected useful life exceeding one year are capitalised.

Non-specialised buildings are those designed as, and used wholly or mainly for, private residential accommodation. Those that were owned by the charity on 1 January 1994 are stated at deemed cost based on a trustees’ valuation made in 1994 on a market value basis for existing use; additions since are stated at cost. Such buildings are not depreciated. Their value and condition are reviewed annually by the trustees, who are satisfied that their residual value is not materially less than their book value.

Specialised buildings comprise the care home for elderly sisters. Those that were owned by the charity on 1 January 1994 are stated at deemed cost based on a trustees’ valuation made in 1994 on a replacement cost basis for existing use; additions since are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided at 2% per annum on a straight-line basis to write the buildings off over their estimated useful economic life to the charity.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England

39

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2024

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s net book value exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use.

Investments

Listed investments are a form of basic financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction value and subsequently measured at their fair value as at the balance sheet date using the closing quoted market price.

The charity does not acquire put options, derivatives or other complex financial instruments.

Realised gains (or losses) on investment assets are calculated as the difference between disposal proceeds and their opening carrying value or their purchase value is acquired subsequent to the first day of the financial year. Unrealised gains and losses are calculated as the difference between the fair value at the year end and their carrying value at that date. Realised and unrealised investment gains (or losses) are combined in the statement of financial activities and are credited (or debited) in the year in which they arise.

Debtors

Debtors are recognised at their settlement amount, less any provision for non-recoverability. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid. They have been discounted to the present value of the future cash receipt where such discounting is material.

Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand represents such accounts and instruments that are available on demand or have a maturity of less than three months from the date of acquisition. Deposits for more than three months but less than one year have been disclosed as short term deposits. Cash placed on deposit for more than one year is disclosed as a fixed asset investment.

Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised when there is an obligation at the balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are recognised at the amount the charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt. They have been discounted to the present value of the future cash payment where such discounting is material.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 40

Principal accounting policies 31 December 2024

Funds structure

Unrestricted funds are available for use in furtherance of the charity’s objectives at the discretion of the trustees. Unrestricted funds include the tangible fixed assets fund which represents the net book value of the charity’s tangible fixed assets. The fund has been established in recognition of the fact that the tangible fixed assets are required for the charity’s work and are not available as a reserve to fund activities or meet future contingencies.

Within the unrestricted funds of the charity, the trustees have also designated amounts for specific purposes. Details of these are provided in note 14.

Funds which must be applied for specific purposes in accordance with donor’s wishes are treated as restricted funds. The charity currently holds no restricted funds.

Services provided by members of the Order

For the purposes of these accounts, no monetary value has been placed on the administrative and other services provided by the members of the Order.

Foreign currencies

Assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rate of exchange ruling at the date of the transaction. Exchange differences are taken into account in arriving at the net movement in funds.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 41

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

1 Donations and legacies

Donations and legacies
Total
funds
2024
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Donations by individual religious of their salaries, pensions and other
personal income
General donations		 547,920
11,786		 638,579
60
559,706 638,639

2 Investment income and interest receivable

Investment income and interest receivable
Total
funds
2024
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Income from listed investments
Common investment funds
UK equities
UK fixed interest
Overseas equities
Overseas fixed interest
Property funds
Alternative investments
Interest receivable
Bank interest		 331,874
128,145
158,968
123,784
15,203
79,313
65,090		 398,920
134,712
125,512
112,758
13,029
74,636
72,924
902,377
233,643		 932,491
194,143
1,136,020 1,126,634

3 Support of members of the Order and their ministry

Support of members of the Order and their ministry
Total
funds
2024
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Staff costs
Premises
Sisters' living and ministry expenses
Education, training and spiritual renewal
Governance costs (note 6)		 650,115
587,434
349,400
25,300
101,299		 744,364
512,436
552,786
29,840
89,751
1,713,548 1,929,177

4 Governance costs

Governance costs
Total
funds
2024
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Professional fees 101,299 89,751

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 42

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

5 Donations in support of charitable activities

Donations in support of charitable activities
Total
funds
2024
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Contributions to Generalate – general fund
Contributions to Generalate – Marist Solidarity Fund
Other donations
. British Red Cross
. CAFOD
. Crisis UK
. DEC Middle East
. Emmaus UK
. IRC
. Magic Breakfast
. Mary's Meals
. Medecins Sans Frontieres
. Medecins sans frontieres UK
. Mission without borders
. Practical Action
. Refugee Council
. RNLI
. Salvation Army
. Sightsavers
. The Trussell Trust
. UNHCR UK
. UNICEF UK
. Women's Aid Federation
. Donations of less than £1,000
Total funds		 500,000
500,000		 500,000
500,000
1,000,000 1,000,000
30,000
10,000
10,000
10,000
10,000
10,000
1,000
10,000
2,000
10,000
2,000
10,000
10,000
5,000
10,000
1,000
5,000
10,000
10,000
10,000
3,185		 15,000
10,000
—
10,000
10,000
—
—
—
—
—
—
10,000
10,000
—
—
—
—
10,000
5,000
10,000
5,057
179,185 95,057
1,179,185 1,095,057

6 Net (expenditure) income for the year before gains (losses) on investments and transfers

This is stated after charging:

2024
£		 2023
£
Staff costs (note 9)
Auditor’s remuneration, including VAT
. Statutory audit services – current year
. Statutory audit services – prior year
. Other non audit services
Depreciation		 650,115
37,560
7,536
8,520
148,902		 744,364
36,600
23,947
6,300
145,876

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 43

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

7 Staff costs, remuneration of key management personnel and trustees’ remuneration

2024
£		 2023
£
Staff costs during the year were as follows:
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs
Agency costs		 549,979
39,357
14,095
46,684		 585,349
39,348
15,540
104,127
650,115 744,364

In the year to 31 December 2024 one member of staff was employed directly by the charity and the majority of the above staff costs relate to staff employed by St John of God Hospitaller Services. All staff costs relate to the support of members of the Order and their ministry.

In the year to 31 December 2024, including taxable benefits but excluding employer pension contributions, no employees earned in excess of £60,000 (2023 - none).

The key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing and controlling, running and operating the charity on a day-to-day basis comprised the trustees. The key management personnel remuneration was £nil.

The average number of staff provided by St John of God Hospitaller Services during the period, analysed by function, was:

period, analysed by function, was:
2024
No.		 2023
No.
Support of members of the Order and their ministry 30 31

As members of the Order, the trustees’ living expenses during the year were borne by the charity, they received £Nil remuneration or reimbursement of expenses in connection with their duties as trustees during the year (2023 – £nil).

As members of the Order, none of the trustees have resources of their own as all earnings, pensions and other income have been donated to the charity under a Gift Aid compliant Deed of Covenant. During the year, the total amount donated by trustees to the charity was £96,833 (2023 - £89,266).

8 Taxation

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England is a registered charity and, therefore, is not liable to taxation on income and gains derived from its charitable activities, as it falls within the various exemptions available to registered charities.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 44

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

9 Tangible fixed assets

Freeholdland and buildings Furniture
and
equipment
£		 Motor
vehicles
£		 Total
£
Non-
specialised
£		 Specialised
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024
Additions
At 31 December 2024
At cost
At deemed cost – 1994 valuation
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024
Charge for year
At 31 December 2024
Net book values
At 31 December 2024
At 31 December 2023		 2,715,432
—		 5,327,399
29,167		 289,930
22,437		 99,197
—		 8,431,958
51,604
2,715,432 5,356,566 312,367 99,197 8,483,562
589,222

2,126,210		 5,356,566
—		 312,367
—		 99,197
—		 6,357,352
2,126,210
2,715,432 5,356,566 312,367 99,197 8,483,562
—
—		 1,689,984
106,548		 179,095
39,436		 96,279
2,918		 1,965,358
148,902
— 1,796,532 218,531 99,197 2,114,260
2,715,432 3,560,034 93,836 — 6,369,302
2,715,432 3,637,415 110,835 2,918 6,466,600

As permitted under Financial Reporting Standard 102, the charity has continued to adopt a policy of not revaluing its tangible fixed assets.

It is likely that there are material differences between the open market values of the charity’s land and buildings and their book values. The amount of such differences cannot be ascertained without incurring significant costs, which, in the opinion of trustees, is not justified in terms of the benefit to the users of the accounts.

The historical cost of the freehold land and buildings included above at deemed cost based on a 1994 valuation cannot be ascertained with accuracy.

10 Investments

Investments
2024
£		 2023
£
Listed investments
Market value at 1 January 2024
Additions at cost
Disposals (proceeds: £22,375,471, gains: £1,907,733)
Net unrealised investment (losses) gains
Market value at 31 December 2024
Cash held by investment managers for re-investment
Cost of listed investments at 31 December 2024		 28,550,212
22,420,736
(20,467,738)
(728,765)		 26,677,906
1,582,066
(1,258,172)
1,548,412
29,774,445
446,595		 28,550,212
623,655
30,221,040 29,173,867
30,094,150 25,410,704

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 45

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

10 Investments (continued)

Listed investments held at 31 December 2024 comprised the following:

2024
£		 2023
£
UK equities
Common investment funds and common authorised investment funds
UK fixed interest
Overseas equities
Overseas fixed interest
Property funds
Alternatives		 2,206,936
10,850,835
3,610,710
10,262,683
—
1,278,646
1,564,635		 4,453,717
10,227,218
3,574,363
7,838,960
319,351
1,316,220
820,383
29,774,445 28,550,212

All listed investments were dealt in on a recognised stock exchange.

11 Debtors

Debtors
2024
£		 2023
£
Prepayments and accrued interest
Other debtors		 149,940
183,663		 174,355
108,157
333,603 282,512

12 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

2024
£		 2023
£
Accruals
Monies administered by the charity on behalf of individual members
of the Order		 116,089
41,968		 77,618
41,968
158,057 119,586

13 Tangible fixed assets fund

Tangible fixed assets fund
2024
£		 2023
£
At 1 January 2024
Net movement in the year
At 31 December 2024		 6,466,600
(97,298)		 6,541,020
(74,420)
6,369,302 6,466,600

The tangible fixed assets fund represents the net book value of the charity’s tangible fixed assets and has been established in recognition of the fact that the tangible fixed assets are required for the charity’s work and are not available as a reserve to fund activities or meet future contingencies.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 46

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

14 Designated funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity include the following funds designated for specific purposes:

purposes:
At 1
January
2024
£		 New
designations
in year
£		 Utilised/
(released)
£		 At 31
December
2024
£
Retirement reserve
Villa Maria property and maintenance fund
Provincial giving fund		 9,000,000
4,000,000
8,000,000		 6,300,000
—
—		 —
—
—		 15,300,000
4,000,000
8,000,000
21,000,000 6,300,000 — 27,300,000
At 1
January
2023
£		 New
designations
in year
£		 Utilised/
(released)
£		 At 31
December
2023
£
Retirement reserve
Villa Maria property and maintenance fund
Provincial giving fund		 13,050,000
4,000,000
8,000,000		 —
—
—		 (4,050,000)
—
—		 9,000,000
4,000,000
8,000,000
25,050,000 — (4,050,000) 21,000,000

♦ Retirement reserve

The retirement reserve consists of monies which the trustees have set aside in order to provide for the sisters in their retirement. The value of the fund has been calculated on actuarial principles to provide for the Province’s sisters but is adjusted as necessary in the light of available resources and changes in the number of the Province’s members and their age profile.

This represents monies set aside by the trustees for the future maintenance and refurbishment of the Villa Maria care home.

This represents monies set aside by the trustees to fund future donations to the Order and other organisations with objectives consistent with those of the charity.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 47

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

15 Analysis of net assets between funds

Tangible
fixed
assets
fund
£		 Designated
funds
£		 General
fund
£		 Total
funds
2024
£
Fund balances at 31 December 2024 are
represented by:
Tangible fixed assets
Investments
Net current assets
Total net assets		 6,369,302
—
—		 —
27,300,000
—		 —
2,921,040
8,104,530		 6,369,302
30,221,040
8,104,530
6,369,302 27,300,000 11,025,570 44,694,872
Tangible
fixed
assets
fund
£		 Designated
funds
£		 General
fund
£		 Total
funds
2023
£
Fund balances at 31 December 2023 are
represented by:
Tangible fixed assets
Investments
Net current assets
Total net assets		 6,466,600
—
—		 —
21,000,000
—		 —
8,173,867
9,069,485		 6,466,600
29,173,867
9,069,485
6,466,600 21,000,000 17,243,352 44,709,952

The total unrealised gains as at 31 December 2024 constitutes movements on revaluation and are as follows:

and are as follows:
2024
£		 2023
£
Unrealised (losses) gains included above:
On investments
Total unrealised (losses) gains at 31 December 2024
Reconciliation of movements in unrealised gains
Unrealised gains at 1 January 2024
Less: in respect to disposals of listed investments in the year
Add: net gains (losses) arising on revaluation of listed investments arising
in the year
Total unrealisedgains at 31 December 2024		 (319,705) 3,139,508
(319,705) 3,139,508
3,139,508
(2,730,448)		 1,580,854
14,948
409,060
(728,765)		 1,595,802
1,543,706
(319,705) 3,139,508

16 Capital commitment

At 31 December 2024 there were no capital commitments (2023: none).

17 Grant commitments

At 31 December 2024 the trustees committed to making further annual donations totalling £50,000 per annum for the next year. The donations are subject to the satisfactory receipt of confirmation of how current year donations have been expended.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 48

Notes to the accounts 31 December 2024

18 Related parties

Transactions with trustees are disclosed in note 7 to these accounts.

Two of the trustees of the charity are also trustees of The Marist Sisters Generalate CIO (Charity Registration Number 1179883). During the year the charity paid donations totalling £1,000,000 (2023: £1,000,000) to The Marist Sisters CIO.

There were no further related party transactions requiring disclosure (2023 – none).

19 Ultimate control

The charity, which is constituted as a trust, was controlled throughout the period by the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England by virtue of the fact that the Provincial Superior of the Order appoints all of the trustees.

20 Post balance sheet events

On 24 January 2025 the freehold property at St Johns Villas, Upper Holloway sold for proceeds of £1.16 million. The property had a net book value in these financial statements of £0.61 million.

The Charity of the Order of the Marist Sisters Province of England 49