## ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS ## 30 SEPTEMBER 2025 THE CONFERENCE OF RELIGIOUS IN ENGLAND AND WALES Charity Registration Number 277024 **Contents** ## **Reports** |Reference and administrative information|1| |---|---| |Report of the Executive Committee|2| |Independent auditor’s report|27| |**Accounts**|| |Statement of financial activities|32| |Balance sheet|33| |Principal accounting policies|34| |Notes to the accounts|38| The Conference of Religious in England and Wales ## **Reference and administrative information** Year to 30 September 2025 Executive Committee Sr Sarah Dobson CJ elected Oct 2021 – elected joint leader in May 2024 Sr Monica Matthews SHJC appointed Oct 2019 – elected joint leader in May 2024 Sr Anne Morris DHS elected Oct 2021– elected joint leader in May 2024 Sr Margaret Donovan HC elected May 2019 Fr Richard Reid CSsR elected Oct 2021 Sr Jen Bromham IBVM elected November 2023 Sr Jane Maltby RSCJ elected Nov 2023 Sr Mary Deane PBVM elected May 2024 for initial 1 yr term – re-elected May 25 Sr Ann Sullivan SP elected May 2024 for initial 1 yr term – re-elected May 25 Sr Ellen Flynn DC elected May 2025 Fr Gerry Briody SDB elected May 2025 Fr Gladson Dabre OSA elected May 2025 Fr Colin Hope CSWG (Interim Anglican Representative) Apr 25 Sr Sue Berry CSF (Anglican Representative) elected Sept 2017 – stepped down from the Board in Feb 2025 Registered Office St Philomena’s 70-71 Euston Square London NW1 1DJ Auditor Buzzacott Audit LLP 130 Wood Street London EC2V 6DL Investment manager CCLA Investment Management Limited Senator House 85 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V 4ET Banker The Royal Bank of Scotland plc 48 Haymarket London SW1Y 4SE Solicitors Stone King LLP Upper Borough Court (UBC) Upper Borough Walls Bath BA1 1RG The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **1** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 The members of the Executive Committee (ie the trustees) of the Conference of Religious (CoR) present their report together with the audited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 30 September 2025. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out on pages 32 to 44 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 UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). ## **INTRODUCTION** The Conference of Religious (CoR) is a small charity, with around 227 members. Its formal membership consists of both the female and male Major Superiors of each institute and Superiors General in the Catholic Church (or their nominees) who work in England or Wales. Associate membership is offered to the superiors of Anglican Communities (since 1992) and to all Contemplative Superiors in England and Wales (since 2000). ## **Vision Statement of the Conference of Religious** The Conference of Religious seeks to be a dynamic and proactive presence in the Church and the world today. ## **Mission statement of the Conference of Religious** The Mission of CoR is to: - enable the prophetic voice of Religious Congregations to be heard making Religious Life better known; - unite its membership in collaborative initiatives translating Gospel vision into reality; and - offer support to its membership, and particularly those in positions of leadership. ## **Our Values** All our activities are inspired by Gospel Values. The hallmarks of CoR are: - unity in diversity - justice - integrity - hope The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **2** ## **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Our Aims and Objectives** The object of the charity is to promote the welfare of apostolic institutes of religious in the Catholic Church in England and Wales, while respecting the autonomy, nature and spirit of each other. This includes: - effecting closer co-operation with each other, including various other religious bodies and individual bishops; - providing representation with constituted authorities, both ecclesial and civil. ## _**To create a Prophetic Voice that gives witness to the values of the Gospel**_ - to be a prophetic, corporate, pro-active voice in the Church and in Society; - in particular, to speak on behalf of people who live on the margins, promoting justice; - to promote visible witness of the Good News of Jesus Christ, and Gospel values in today’s world; - to witness to the gift of community living; and - to witness to unity in diversity. ## _**To generate and participate in Networks that promote Collaboration**_ - to actively promote collaboration amongst members; - to find ways of improving communication between members; - to promote greater links with Vicars for Religious; - to seek greater dialogue with the Church and its agencies at national and local level; - to foster coordinated liaison with the Bishops, at both national and diocesan level; - to build deeper ecumenical relationships; and ## _**To serve and support Religious in England and Wales**_ - to answer enquiries and to respond to members’ needs; - to develop structures of mutual support; - to set up a professional database and informal group mailing systems; - to find ways of sharing gifts, skills and resources, ideas, etc; - to be active participants in Safeguarding initiatives in the Church in England and Wales; - to participate in the work of Vocations and to support the National Office; and The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **3** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 - to encourage and support the formation of new Religious Life initiatives. The charity pursues these objectives by operating through its Executive Committee and other committees, drawn from the expertise of its membership and professionals, coordinated through the Secretariat. The Secretariat disseminates information, organises conferences and meetings, provides advice and support to and maintains links with religious and other bodies that have similar interests. ## **Public benefit** CoR exists to support and promote the work of Religious in England and Wales. The members of CoR are involved through their ministry in a wide range of activities including: education, pastoral support, healthcare, working with refugees and victims of modern-day slavery, chaplaincy and counselling, which are all of direct benefit to the public. By providing increasing opportunities for collaboration and undertaking a range of other activities on behalf of its members that are outlined in this report, CoR assists in the provision of the public benefit, by our member congregations. When setting the objectives and planning the work for the year and future activities, members of the Executive Committee have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit. ## **ACTIVITIES AND PERFORMANCE** ## **Message from the Leadership** Welcome to our Trustees report for the year ending September 30[th] 2025. It has generally been a good year for CoR, as we hope it has for you all, despite many of the challenges which face most religious life groups at present. And, of course, it has been a significant year during which we mourned the death of Pope Francis and welcomed our new Pope, Leo XIV, noting that he too is a member of a religious order, with a very wide experience of ministry in the Church before he agreed to take on this new ministry. We keep him in our prayers. With the approval of members at the AGM in May, we have continued to have a model of shared leadership between the three of us. Generally, it is satisfactory, but we are aware that we need to be sensitive to the needs of our small secretariat and the challenges this sometimes poses for them. Even finding dates for Zoom meetings with the General Secretary can prove difficult, since we all have busy diaries. But we trust that between us, and with our very competent secretariat, we are serving our membership well. Also as a result of the AGM, we have been very pleased to welcome additional members to the Executive, which has widened our skills base and helped to share the load. The AGM, with excellent input on the Synod from a Sacred Heart Sister who had been present at the Synod, was very well received, and competently facilitated by Jo Kennedy. Among other things, it enabled us to put into practice conversations in the Spirit, which hopefully members can increasingly use with their leadership teams and members. Being together, with opportunities for meeting old friends and new, continues to be appreciated. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **4** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 Our Collaboration Workshops have continued to attract many attendees, both religious and others who work with them. It is hoped that during the coming year we will move closer towards providing a structure which will be of help to those groups who are particularly challenged by diminishment. Our monthly Care Forum is also popular as we all strive to care for and support our more frail members. Work to improve our website and to use it as our main means of communication, replacing our monthly newsletter, seems to have been welcomed, judging by the number of visits that are recorded. The secretariat also continues to be busy answering requests by email or phone. We are very grateful to them for their support of the Executive and of the members. With the background of a world in turmoil, we pray that the coming year will see less conflict in at least some parts of the globe. And may we all receive many blessings as we strive to live out our commitment. On behalf of Sarah Dobson CJ and Anne Morris DHS, the COREW leadership team. ## **The Secretariat** The Secretariat is now in a strong and stable position, working effectively as a small, but experienced team, to meet the needs of members. Led by Susan Thomas, General Secretary, with Irene Henderson (Administration & Governance) and Charlotte Vassallo (Finance & Communications), the Secretariat makes the most of limited resources through a flexible structure equivalent to 1.5 full-time posts. Each member of the team brings valuable expertise, ensuring that members and the Executive receive robust and professional support. Working primarily from home continues to deliver significant savings on overheads, while also allowing the team to use their time more productively. Members have reported that the transition has been seamless, with regular opportunities for face-to-face contact maintained through Executive meetings, collaboration workshops, health care workshops, and other meetings held throughout the year. The Secretariat’s priorities remain consistent: to provide stability, continuity, and support for members. Regular contact has been re-established and strengthened, reflected in the positive feedback and active participation of members at workshops, forums, and other events. The Secretariat has been particularly busy providing support to the Executive Committee and the Finance Committee, as well as supporting the Collaboration Committee. They run a programme of workshops, facilitating the regular online Care Forums, ensuring effective governance processes, responding to the needs and requests of members. Alongside these core functions, the Secretariat has also led the Porticus Project, a joint initiative with the RLSS on safeguarding elderly religious. In addition, the team has focused on wider organisational development, with particular attention to ongoing strategic planning, as well as updating policies and maintaining and developing the CoR website, and overseeing archive management. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **5** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 Throughout this period, the Secretariat has remained committed to maximising resources, ensuring value for money, and above all being approachable, supportive, and effective for members. CoR continues to retain a single archive room at Euston Square, which also remains the registered charity address. We are grateful to the PSMG sisters for their generosity and ongoing support in making this possible. ## **Meetings** Throughout the year, CoR has organised and conducted an increasingly large range of meetings, online and face to face, encompassing various topics and initiatives aimed at supporting its mission and Members; many of these meetings are detailed below: ## **Annual General Meeting May 2025 – “Synodal Leadership - Forward Thinking - Outward Facing”** The Annual General Meeting of the Conference of Religious took place on 20–21 May 2025 at Highgate House Conference Centre, Northamptonshire, with the theme _“Synodal Leadership – Forward Thinking – Outward Facing.”_ The gathering was facilitated by Jo Kennedy, with keynote input from Sr Maria Cimperman RSCJ. Members were warmly welcomed by the shared leadership team — Sr Sarah Dobson CJ, Sr Monica Matthews SHCJ, and Sr Anne Morris DHS — with particular acknowledgement of Fr Colin Hope CSWG, Anglican representative on the CoR Board, Sr Theresa Tighe DC, representing CRS, and Gerrard Gallagher, Secretary General of AMRI. The programme opened with a reflective exercise, encouraging members to introduce themselves, share their context, name and how they were arriving into the gathering. This created a sense of connection and presence that set the tone for the days ahead. Sr Maria Cimperman’s keynote address on synodal leadership invited members to consider it, not only as a way of structuring governance, but as a way of being. Drawing on global synodal insights, she encouraged deep listening, attentiveness, and the courage to foster intercultural and intergenerational participation. Her address was followed by group “Conversations in the Spirit” and quiet reflection, allowing participants to surface questions and reflections. In the afternoon, Sr Maria responded to these reflections by guiding members to consider synodality within their own congregations and within CoR itself. Insights emerging included the call to vulnerability, mutual respect, and honouring diversity, as well as the need for courageous and compassionate change, rooted in trust and collective discernment. Members affirmed that religious communities have the potential to model synodal practice for the wider Church, embodying Gospel-rooted witness attentive to the Spirit. The current shared leadership team then outlined their respective responsibilities and confirmed their wish to continue this model, first adopted in 2024 after no single individual came forward to serve as President. The collegiate approach was recognised as effective, offering continuity, stronger communication, and engagement across the membership. Members unanimously endorsed the continuation of the shared leadership structure. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **6** ## **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 The day concluded with thoughtful feedback and a closing session in which members expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect and reflect together. Many valued the chance for deeper dialogue on CoR’s purpose and prophetic voice, raising issues such as the treatment of migrants, workers, and responses to the Assisted Dying Bill. There was also strong appreciation for the Collaboration Workshops on areas such as change management and healthcare in local communities. Mass was celebrated by Fr Richard Reid CSsR, followed by a Gala Dinner, which offered relaxed space for social connection. On the second day, Sr Maria led morning prayer, inviting members to make a personal commitment to synodality and to share reflections on what they most needed from the Church. Themes emerging included vulnerability, transparency, inclusivity, and the prophetic role of women, as well as the need for intercultural living, honest dialogue, and a readiness to be witnesses attentive to the Spirit. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **7** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 The AGM also considered formal business. Peter Mackereth of Buzzacott presented the Annual Report and Financial Accounts for the year ending September 2024 via Zoom, before members unanimously accepted the accounts. Susan Thomas, General Secretary, then offered a Secretariat update, introducing staff members Irene Henderson and Charlotte Vassallo and outlining the Secretariat’s work over the past year. With only the equivalent of 1.5 full-time posts, the team continues to maximise resources through home-based working, delivering robust support to members and the Executive. Projects have included website development, archive management, strategic planning, and the Porticus Project, a joint initiative with RLSS on safeguarding elderly religious. A safeguarding update was provided by Sr Dr Una Coogan IBVM via a recorded presentation. She outlined the work of the Strategic Council for Catholic Safeguarding, including CoR’s representation and ongoing discussions around training, funding models, and the use of the National Tribunal Service. The update reaffirmed safeguarding as a shared responsibility and central to religious life today. The formal process of Executive Board elections and ratification was led by Sr Margaret Donovan HC. In accordance with CoR’s Statutes, the Executive Board is ordinarily composed of up to twelve members. However, with five individuals standing for election, acceptance of all candidates would bring the total to thirteen members. Members were therefore asked to indicate, by a show of hands, whether they were content to accept all five candidates, thereby temporarily increasing the Board to thirteen. The majority agreed to this proposal. It was also noted that Sr Ann Sullivan SP and Sr Mary Deane PBVM had previously committed at the last AGM to serve for one year and were now standing for re-election. Those elected were: Sr Ellen Flynn DC, Fr Gerry Briody SDB, Sr Ann Sullivan SP, Fr Gladson Francesco Dabre OSA, and Sr Mary Deane PBVM. The afternoon was dedicated to forward planning for 2026, with members working in themed groups on vision, inclusivity, prophetic voice, the Assisted Dying Bill, workshops and formation, and synodality. Suggestions ranged from greater collaboration and resourcesharing to promoting inclusivity across cultures and generations, enabling CoR to speak out more effectively on public issues, and preparing coordinated responses to the Assisted Dying Bill. Members also highlighted the need for formation opportunities, youth engagement, and mission-focused workshops, with insights feeding directly into CoR’s strategic planning. The AGM concluded with words of thanks from the leadership team, who expressed deep appreciation to members for their engagement, to the Secretariat for their efficient organisation, to Jo Kennedy for her facilitation, and to Sr Maria Cimperman for her inspiring contribution. The two-day gathering left members with a renewed sense of purpose, strengthened bonds of collaboration, and a shared commitment to walking together in synodal leadership. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **8** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Collaboration Committee Workshops** Following the success of the 2024 programme, the Collaboration Committee continued its work throughout 2025, building on the strong foundations laid in its first year. The Committee, originally established in response to requests from member Congregations facing the challenges of diminishment, ageing, and closure, remained under the leadership of Sr Jane Maltby RSCJ with members Sr Monica Matthews SHCJ, Sr Margaret Donovan HC, Sr Kathleen Colmer OSU, Sr Ann Sullivan RC, Sr Jen Bromham IBVM and Sr Julie Rose SSHJM. The guiding principles and objectives of the workshops remained unchanged: to respond to members’ needs in light of their charisms and spirituality, to ground discussions in gospel values and the vision of religious life, to foster mission and community, and to embed synodality in practice. Each workshop again offered participants the opportunity to share concerns, raise issues, and reflect on achievements, while receiving professional input on the chosen topics. Evaluation and follow-up collaboration were built into the process, ensuring ongoing learning and support. The Committee met regularly to plan and oversee the programme and, as in 2024, remained committed to holding the workshops in person. This was valued by members not only for the content but also for the space it provided for dialogue, sharing of expertise, networking, and meeting face to face. Up to two members from each Congregation were invited to attend any or all of the workshops, with flexibility for different representatives to attend on different occasions. Lay colleagues, who are increasingly involved in the administration of Congregational life, were again welcomed and actively participated. The 2025 workshops were as follows: - _New Ways of Working & Organising Ourselves_ – 14 February 2025 at the London Jesuit Centre, Mount Street, London. A panel of Congregation representatives shared innovative approaches to leadership, involvement of lay colleagues in decisionmaking and management, followed by group sharing and discussion of next steps. - _Health Care in Local Communities_ – 8 April 2025 at Little Sisters of the Poor, Meadow Road, London. This follow-up to the 2024 Eldercare workshop responded to requests for help in understanding and managing health needs in local settings. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **9** ## **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 - _Legacy Planning and Archives_ – 4 June 2025 at St Paul’s Convent Conference Centre, Selly Park, Birmingham. Details were circulated after Easter, with a focus on planning for legacy and managing congregational archives. - _Possible Ways of Inter-Congregational Support_ – 17 July 2025 at St Paul’s Convent Conference Centre, Selly Park, Birmingham. This workshop explored possible models of support and collaboration across congregations. - _Ecology and the Church: Our Vocation for Prophetic Action and Investment for our Common Home_ – 4 September 2025 at the London Jesuit Centre, Mount Street, London. Organised in collaboration with the Laudato Si’ Movement, Operation Noah, JustMoney Movement and the Association of Provincial Bursars. The workshop concluded with Mass for the Care of Creation. The workshops of 2025 were once again well attended and highly valued by members, who appreciated the professional input, opportunities for shared reflection, and the chance to connect with one another. Feedback confirmed the importance of this initiative and the desire for the Collaboration Committee to continue offering a programme of inperson workshops in the year ahead. The range of experienced presenters for the workshops was extremely impressive, providing both informative and interactive content. Their contribution and commitment greatly enriched these collaborative events, and included all those listed below: - ♦ Sr Cath Lloyd, Society of the Sacred Heart - ♦ Catherine Hennessy, Executive Director of Society of the Sacred Heart - ♦ Sr Anne Redmond, Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul - ♦ Mike Anderson, Deputy CEO of Nazareth Care - ♦ Susan Thomas, CoR General Secretary - ♦ Dr Jonathan Bush Durham University - ♦ Dr Simon Johnson, Downside Abbey - ♦ Amanda Francis - ♦ Sr Ellen Flynn, Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul & CoREW - ♦ Fr Seamus O’Neill SPS – St Patrick’s Missionary Society - ♦ Sr Susan Francois CSJP – Sisters of St Joseph of Peace - ♦ Mark Campanale – Carbon Tracker - ♦ Rosie Venner – JustMoney Movement The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **10** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 - ♦ Bokani Tshidzu – Operation Noah - ♦ James Buchanan – Laudato Si’ Movement There was no charge for those attending the sessions, as costs were covered by the annual membership fees. CoR provided lunch and refreshments at each event, which was much appreciated by participants. The workshops attracted strong attendance throughout the year, with an average of around 40 people at each session. Presentations and slides were shared with all attendees afterwards, enabling onward sharing within congregations and serving as a helpful reminder of the content. In planning the 2025 programme, the Committee continued to respond to Members’ feedback on accessibility and location. Workshops were held at a variety of venues, including the London Jesuit Centre, Mount Street, London; the Little Sisters of the Poor, Meadow Road, London; and St Paul’s Convent Conference Centre, Selly Park, Birmingham. This spread of venues provided options for members in different parts of the country and helped make the workshops more widely accessible. Feedback from the 2025 programme is currently being collected and will be reviewed by the Committee in due course. Early indications suggest that members greatly valued the opportunity for in-person learning and exchange. A full evaluation of the workshops will be undertaken, and the results will inform the development of future sessions and the planning of the 2026 programme. ## **Trustee Training and End-of-Year Gathering** In addition to the AGM and workshop programme, the Executive Committee held its annual trustee training day in December 2024. The session focused on governance responsibilities and effective charity management. The day concluded with mince pies and a Christmas celebration, providing a joyful opportunity for trustees and Secretariat staff to mark the end of a productive year together. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **11** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Connections with the Wider Church** Representatives of the Executive continue to attend the Mixed Commission meetings alongside several Bishops of England and Wales. CoR’s representatives remain Sr Anne Morris DHS and Sr Margaret Donovan HC, with Sr Anne chairing whenever it is CoR’s turn to host. Hosting responsibilities alternate, and the Commission meets twice a year. These meetings provide a valuable opportunity for religious and Bishops to share developments in their lives and ministries, to reflect together on the life of the Church, and to explore ways of working more closely in unity as One Church. The current members of the Mixed Commission are: Archbishop Bernard Longley (Archbishop of Birmingham), Bishop Alan Williams (Bishop of Brentwood), Bishop Richard Moth (Bishop of Arundel and Brighton), Abbot Mark Barrett (Union of Monastic Superiors), Dame Andrea Savage (Association of British Contemplatives), Sr Anne Morris DHS (CoR Executive, Chair), Sr Margaret Donovan HC (CoR Executive), Sr Una Coogan IBVM (Lead Religious for Safeguarding), and Bishop Paul Mason (Lead Bishop for Safeguarding). Sr Una Coogan IBVM and Bishop Paul Mason have recently joined the Commission in their roles as safeguarding leads, and their participation is expected to further strengthen the Commission’s shared focus on safeguarding as a vital dimension of the Church’s life. In addition to its participation in the Mixed Commission, CoR continues to receive updates from the Nunciature in England, which are shared with members to ensure they remain informed of wider Church developments. ## **Safeguarding** ## **Report from Sr Dr Una Coogan IBVM, Lead Religious for Safeguarding** ## _Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors_ At the start of the year there was a request from the offices of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, in conjunction with the member Conferences of Religious of the Union of the European Conferences of Major Superiors (UCESM) following the conference on ‘Protection of Minors in the Church in Europe’ the conclusion was drawn that it is crucial for bishops and religious to work together more intensively to improve safeguarding in the Church. To give the religious a clearer voice, Sr. Marjolein Bruinen, OP, suggested inviting the presidents of the national Conferences to appoint a contact person from UCESM in their country. It was proposed that I, as the Religious Safeguarding Lead, would be the contact The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **12** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 person, and I gladly accepted the invitation. I have attended a couple of online conversations and provide written feedback on the Universal Guidelines Framework (UGF) which can be found at, https://www.tutelaminorum.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EN-Guidelines-book01Abr24.pdf. The annual report of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors is available at https://www.tutelaminorum.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Inglese_web.pdf ## _Safeguarding Briefing to the Bishops’ Conference – 2025_ As part of my ongoing responsibilities, I attended the Bishops’ Conference in April and November alongside representatives from the RLSS, CSSA, and the Lead Bishop for Safeguarding. These sessions provide an opportunity to brief the Bishops on current safeguarding developments and strategic priorities. In 2025, I delivered a short presentation outlining the evolving reality of religious life, highlighting three key challenges: - Declining membership across Religious Life Groups (RLGs) - Reduced numbers entering religious life - Diminishing income streams for RLGs This context was instrumental in supporting the CSSA’s financial plan for 2025-26, which proposed a rebalancing of contributions: - Increasing the Diocesan contribution to CSSA from 65% to 75% - Reducing the RLG contribution from 35% to 25% The Bishops expressed their full support for this adjustment. Following the conference, I formally wrote to the RLGs requesting their endorsement of the proposed change. All responses received affirmed their support. ## _Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS)_ I am grateful to the RLSS for their support and help in fulfilling this role. This year they have encouraged me to attend their Board meetings as an observer, which helps me keep in touch with the needs of the different RLGs and issues that occur. ## _Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA)_ As part of my role with the CSSA, I continue to work on two of the CSSA's subcommittees, the Finance and General-Purpose committee and the Quality Assurance Committee. Work on the Quality Assurance Committee, has led to useful insights to the audit results from the RLGs. There is a wide range of results from Basic to Exemplary. At present I am working with a small working party to look at the financial contribution paid by religious life groups to help finance the CSSA. This working party is only starting its work, but it is hoped that by the end of 2025 we will come up with a scheme that is acceptable both to the religious life groups and to the CSSA. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **13** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## _Strategic Council for Catholic Safeguarding (SCCS)_ A new strategic body for the Church in England and Wales; the Strategic Council for Catholic Safeguarding has started. This body has co-chairs: Bishop Paul Mason and me, as Lead Religious. The other members have been appointed, with four representing religious and four representing dioceses. The four religious representatives were chosen from a list of names gathered from religious when I asked for a mandated group to represent religious on safeguarding matters. They are Fr. Mervyn Williams SDB, Sr. Jane Bertelsen FMDM, Fr. David Smolira SJ, and Anne O’Brien (Chair of RLSS). The diocesan representatives are Bishop David Oakley (Northampton Diocese), Mary-Jane Crowley (Southwark Diocese Safeguarding Coordinator), Ruth Atfield (Portsmouth Diocese Safeguarding Coordinator), and Ed Whittaker (Finance Director, Hallam Diocese). Stephen Ashley, CEO of CSSA, and Melissa Andrews (CEO of RLSS) will also attend the meetings of the body but do not have a vote. We have met in person and online discussing various topics ## _Working Parties_ This year we have worked on an MoU with religious who ‘own’ parishes and run the parish on behalf of the Diocese. After various meetings, a Memorandum of Understanding has been drafted and was sent to religious groups for their comments. It is now being checked to ensure that there are no legal gaps in the safeguarding provision in the MoU. The final draft of the MoU has been sent out and commented on and amended by religious. Hopefully it will act as a guide to both religious and dioceses on who to contact if there are any safeguarding issues regarding training, DBS, consultation and case management when involving religious who work or have an agreement with a diocese. ## _Conferences_ I have attended several conferences this year, meeting various members of the safeguarding community. Firstly, the Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS) Conference was held at Highgate House, Northampton, from 13th-14th March 2025. There were 120 delegates and it was wonderful to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. This year’s conference differed from previous years. While past events were open to all, this year it was exclusive to religious members and invited guests. Bishop Paul Mason, Lead Bishop for Safeguarding, was one of the guests present at the conference. The first day involved delegates arriving, settling in, and attending the RLSS’s AGM. In the evening, we gathered for the Conference Dinner, where we were serenaded by a guitarist, a singer, and a fiddle player in anticipation of St. Patrick’s Day. Each table was entertained by a very accomplished magician who amazed us and filled us with wonder. The second day featured a mix of talks and workshops. The talks covered topics such as supporting members who find themselves accused, and data protection. The workshops included "Caring with Confidence: Communicating and Supporting Those with Dementia," "Social Media and Safeguarding," and a CSSA Audit workshop. The feedback from delegates was very positive and appreciative of the conference, its content, and the efforts of the RLSS staff in organising it. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **14** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## _International Safeguarding Conference 2025 – Rome_ I attended the International Safeguarding Conference 2025 at the Gregorian University in Rome, entitled “Women of Faith, Women of Strength” from 17–20 June 2025. This annual gathering, organised by the Centre for Child Protection/Institute of Anthropology (IADC), brings together church leaders, safeguarding professionals, trauma specialists, academics, and researchers dedicated to protecting children and vulnerable adults. The conference examined gender-related dimensions of safeguarding, focusing on: - Abuse of women within society and the church. - Women’s roles as perpetrators or bystanders in institutional abuse. - Women’s leadership in shaping safeguarding policies. - Integration of gender perspectives into safeguarding frameworks. Attendees engaged in workshops, presentations, and panel discussions designed to exchange expertise, promote best practices, and strengthen gender-informed approaches in safeguarding. ## _Vicars for Religious Conference_ I raised the important point that some religious groups are not joining the CSSA and not contributing to the finances needed to support it. This has become a serious problem, leading to an annual deficit which has so far been bridged by the CaTEW. The Vicars were encouraged to ask RLGs in their dioceses whether they are enrolled with CSSA/RLSS as a matter of urgency and to stress the importance of safeguarding and safeguarding training. I also raised the topic of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for religious groups who own buildings or the parish and run the parish on behalf of the dioceses, which had been agreed between the diocese and representatives of religious life groups. The MoU offered broad guidelines for the discussions between individual RLGs and the respective diocese. It does highlight the reality that civil law will hold the RLG responsible for any activities for buildings that they own. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the CoR Conference due to prior appointments, but I was able to send a short PowerPoint presentation. ## _Mixed Commission_ This year the Lead Bishop and the Lead Religious for Safeguarding were added to the mixed commission. So far, we attended our first meeting in June. The next meeting is on 12[th] December, hosted by CoR. ## _Canon Law_ I have been asked by several religious to lend support with Canon law issues and I'm happy to assist where I can. The RLSS and CSSA will often ask for help on strategic canon law advice and I try to help. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **15** ## **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 I have recently attended an online course run by the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors on Penal Law and the investigation of cases. ## _CaTEW Board Meeting_ . I have attended a meeting of the CaTEW Board with the CSSA Chair to explain the budget of the CSSA over the next five years. I was able to speak to the Board addressing the reality of RLGs in their decreasing numbers both as individuals and communities and how this will affect the amount of money they can pay towards the cost of the CSSA. ## _Identified Need: Centralised Religious Database for Streamlined Messaging_ To enhance communication consistency and reduce duplication, there is a pressing need for an accessible, centralised database of religious. This database would: - Enable unified messaging: Allow messages to be sent once to all relevant RLGs, ensuring simultaneous and consistent delivery. - Prevent redundancy and omission: Eliminate the current issue where RLGs may receive the same email multiple times—or not at all—due to fragmented contact lists or manual distribution. - Support safeguarding coordination: Facilitate timely dissemination of safeguarding updates, invitations, and documentation to all religious stakeholders. - Improve auditability and accountability: Provide a clear record of communications sent, recipients reached, and delivery status. After two years in the job, I can say that I am enjoying it. There is so much work to be done to ensure that we do act as one church, that the views of RLGs are heard and that we can create a safe church for all. In the year ahead I look forward to working more closely with CoR, with the CSSA, RLSS and the religious. Sr Dr Una Coogan IBVM, Lead Religious for Safeguarding ## **Safeguarding Elderly Religious Project** The Safeguarding Elderly Religious Project continues to be a collaborative initiative between the Conference of Religious (CoR) and the Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS), focused on enhancing the safety and well-being of elderly religious across England and Wales. Endorsed by the Executive in April and supported by funding from Porticus, the project remains committed to addressing practical and operational safeguarding concerns within religious communities, particularly regarding the care and support of elderly members. With an average age of 82 among those in religious communities, this work continues to be both timely and essential. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **16** ## **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 The Working Group, chaired by Susan Thomas, General Secretary of CoR, and including representatives from RLSS and religious leaders such as Jane Bertelsen FMDM, continues to meet regularly to drive the project forward. Their collaborative efforts focus on supporting members in embedding safeguarding within the daily life, care, and governance of religious communities. The monthly online Care Forum has continued to be extremely well attended and provides an invaluable space for shared learning, reflection, and the exchange of good practice. Attendance at the forums is open to both members and their lay colleagues who are responsible for care within registered and unregistered care homes, as well as those providing care and support in community houses. This inclusive approach ensures that the initiative reaches all those involved in the care of elderly religious, including those on the frontline of safeguarding practice. Each forum is shaped by the interests and needs of attendees, with guest speakers offering professional and pastoral expertise on a range of topics. Recent sessions have included: - October 2024 – First Forum: Launch and introductory session - November 2024 – Second Forum: Emerging themes in elderly care - January 2025 – Medication Management - February 2025 – Care Planning (Regulated and Informal) - March 2025 – CSSA Audit Preparation - May 2025 – Statement of Wishes, Advance Decisions, and Power of Attorney - June 2025 – The Assisted Dying Bill - July 2025 – Follow-up on The Assisted Dying Bill - September 2025 – Caring with Confidence: Communicating & Supporting those with Dementia Feedback from participants has been consistently positive, with religious and lay staff alike reporting that the forums have enhanced their understanding and confidence in managing complex care and safeguarding issues within community settings. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **17** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 Work has also continued on developing a set of core standards for care and safeguarding within religious communities. These standards aim to provide a clear, practical framework for ensuring quality, consistency, and accountability across both registered and unregistered care settings. Alongside this, the project is progressing the creation of a comprehensive map of religious care provisions across England and Wales. Drawing on information shared by members, this mapping exercise will build a clearer understanding of the range and distribution of care provision within religious communities. Following a period of RLSS site visits to religious community houses and care settings, the scoping phase of the project has now been completed. These visits provided invaluable insight into the diversity of care arrangements across Congregations and identified several priority areas for training and development, including dementia support, care planning, and leadership accountability. In response to these findings, the Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS) has developed a suite of new safeguarding training modules for those involved in the care and protection of elderly members of Religious Life Groups (RLGs). These tailored courses — _Communicating and Supporting those with Dementia_ , _Safe Recruitment_ , _Safeguarding the Elderly Needing Care_ , and _Understanding Care Needs Assessments_ — are designed to ensure that elderly religious are safeguarded with dignity, compassion, and best practice. Uptake has been very positive, reflecting the strong interest and commitment among religious and their lay colleagues to strengthening safeguarding practice in the care of elderly members. These tailored sessions provide practical skills and awareness for religious members, lay staff, and volunteers, equipping them to recognise risks, respond appropriately, and ensure that safety and well-being remain central to community life. The partnership between CoR and RLSS continues to strengthen safeguarding provision for elderly religious through training, engagement, and the development of best practice frameworks. Together, both organisations remain committed to promoting environments where the care of elderly religious is underpinned by respect, accountability, and compassion. The project continues to develop positively, with the final report to Porticus due for completion in summer 2026. ## **Health and Care Group** Led by Sr Monica Matthews SHCJ, the Health and Care Group has continued to provide advice and support to members in relation to all aspects of healthcare and community living. Supported by religious with professional backgrounds in healthcare, working in partnership with experienced lay colleagues, the group offers a valuable range of practical guidance and peer support. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **18** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 During the year, the Group’s work extended to encompass both the monthly online Care Forum and two Collaboration Committee workshops, which it led in collaboration with other contributors. The first of these, the Eldercare Workshop held in October 2024, provided a comprehensive exploration of issues relating to ageing and care within religious communities. Presentations included _The Journey into Care_ (Sr Anne Redmond DC), _Models of Care_ (Sr Doreen Cunningham CSN), _Managing Health Care Needs_ (Susan Thomas), and _Closing a Care Home_ (Michelle O’Reilly OSM), alongside discussion of CQC policy and registration guidance for Religious communities, and national variations in advance and anticipatory care planning documentation. The second workshop, Care in Communities, took place in April 2025 and focused on supporting religious congregations providing care in non-registered community settings. Sessions included _Care in Community Settings_ (Sr Anne Redmond DC), _Accessing Adult Social Care_ (Mike Anderson), and _Employment of Lay Staff in Community Settings_ (Susan Thomas). Feedback from both workshops was extremely positive, with participants valuing the practical insights, professional expertise, and opportunities for shared learning that these sessions provided. Looking ahead, further initiatives and events are planned, including guidance on mental health and capacity, supporting those living with dementia and employment of lay staff. The Group continues to serve as an important point of contact for members seeking advice and information, ensuring that good practice and shared learning remain at the heart of CoR’s approach to health and care. ## **Online Media and Communications** The transition from a monthly newsletter to sharing updates directly via the redeveloped website has continued to be a great success. Members and professional colleagues have fully embraced the new format, making regular use of the _News & Events_ page to share information and stay informed about current developments. The secure _Members’ Section_ is also being used effectively to distribute more sensitive material intended for internal circulation only, ensuring that important updates are communicated effectively across the CoR membership. This shift has also enabled CoR to monitor website traffic and gain valuable insights into engagement trends. The ability to track which pages are most frequently visited has been very positive, helping to inform content planning and guide future improvements. Further updates are planned to ensure that the website remains current, relevant, and a reliable resource for members and the wider religious community. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **19** ## **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 In addition to online communications, CoR’s work has continued to gain visibility through external media coverage. Several articles have been published in The Tablet and Independent Catholic News (ICN), highlighting CoR’s active role in both _advocacy and formation_ . These include coverage of CoR’s membership in opposing the Assisted Dying Bill through forums, discussions at the AGM, and member advocacy initiatives, as well as features on the Ecology Workshop which explored the links between faith, sustainability, and care for creation. - Leaders of Religious Congregations Unite in Opposition to Assisted Dying — _The Tablet_ - Religious Leaders Unite in Opposition to Assisted Dying — _Independent Catholic News_ - Conference of Religious: Ecology Workshop — _Independent Catholic News_ ## **Collaboration with others** CoR continues to work to represent religious, share information and develop relationships with others in the Church and the wider community through varied means. Sometimes this is done by the Executive, for example via the previously mentioned, Mixed Commission Meetings, to represent the views of religious to the Bishops. We also collaborate with organisations such the Union of the Catholic European Superiors Major, Union of International Superiors General, Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland, and the Association of Provincial Bursars. Those who sit on the committees and groups ensure that CoR is kept abreast of activities and developments elsewhere including: - ♦ CBCEW Department of Social Justice – A member of the Executive regularly attends the Department of Social Justice meetings, which take place approximately three times a year. These meetings bring together Bishops responsible for various areas, assisted by laypeople who support them in preparing papers on key issues such as Life Issues, Marriage and Family Life, CSAN, Environment, and Human Rights. The meetings are The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **20** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 always held in person, allowing for meaningful discussions and the opportunity to engage directly with others in attendance. This setting fosters collaboration and the sharing of information where possible. Attending these meetings has proven to be an enlightening experience, offering deeper insight into the Church’s work behind the scenes and the significant efforts being made in the realm of social justice. We support and share information where possible. - ♦ Anglican Committees – Sister Margaret Shepherd NDS sits on the Anglican Committees and Fr Colin Hope CSWG is the interim Anglican representative on the CoR Executive Committee. - ♦ The National Office of Vocations – through which we support Vocations work by funding the role of Religious Life Promoter. ## **FUTURE PLANS** We are currently in the process of developing an updated strategic plan to guide our work in the coming years. This plan will outline the key priorities, objectives, and the steps needed to strengthen our mission and impact. One of the main focuses will be planning sustainable ways to stay both responsive and supportive to our membership. This will ensure that the plan aligns with the needs of religious communities and reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding, social justice, and effective governance The new strategic plan will provide a clear framework for decision-making and resource allocation, ensuring that our initiatives remain focused and effective. As we work through this process, we will continue to engage with members to refine our vision and goals. Updates on the plan’s progress will be shared in due course, with consultation and implementation expected to begin in the near future. The work of the Collaboration Committee will take up much of the coming year and this work will provide an opportunity for exploring how religious might collaborate with respect to the challenges they are facing. ## **FINANCIAL REVIEW** ## **Results for the year** The statement of financial activities shows that net income for the year before gains on investments was £8,139 (2024: net expenditure of £42,714 before gains on investments). Net losses on the revaluation of investments were £33,362 (2024: net gains of £117,749) leading to an overall decrease in funds of £25,223 (2024: increase in funds of £74,765). Income comprised mainly of membership fees, income from meetings and investment income. Some members continued to subscribe amounts in excess of their actual fees so that those members whose resources are more limited are not prevented from participating in conferences and other activities. Expenditure reflects the work of CoR. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **21** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## _**Investment policy and performance**_ The charity’s investments, managed by CCLA Investment Management Limited, were valued at £1,046,463 (2024: £1,079,824) at the year-end date. The investment managers operate within specific ethical guidelines which are set out and reviewed periodically by the Executive Committee. The ethical guidelines mean that the charity cannot invest in any company connected with armaments, gambling, tobacco, alcohol, contraception and known social injustice in the third world. The charity’s investment policy is to maintain a balance between capital growth and income, so that, over the long term, the real value of assets will be maintained. In accordance with the above policy, investments were held in COIF Charities Ethical Investment Fund Income Units and COIF Charities Ethical Investment Fund Accumulation Units during the year. The holding returned a total negative yield (income and capital) of 2% for the year (2024 positive yield of : 14%). ## _**Raising funds**_ The charity aims to achieve best practice in the way in which it communicates with members and other supporters. It takes care with both the tone of its communications and the accuracy of its data to minimise the pressures on members and supporters. It applies best practice to protect members’ and supporters’ data and never sells data, it never swaps data and ensures that communication preferences can be changed at any time. The charity manages its own activities in respect to raising funds and does not employ the services of professional fundraisers. The charity undertakes to react to and investigate any complaints regarding its activities for raising funds and to learn from them and improve its service. During the year, the charity received no complaints about such activities. ## _**Reserves policy**_ The members of the Executive Committee consider that it is essential to have in place an appropriate amount of working capital so that the charity may meet its liabilities as and when they fall due. To meet this objective, the members of the Executive Committee consider that funds available for working capital and held as free reserves should be equivalent to at least six months’ operating expenses. ## _**Financial position**_ At 30 September 2024, the charity had total net assets of £1,165,337 (2024: £1,190,560). Included within these total funds are restricted funds amounting to £50,711 to fund safeguarding advisory and associated activities in the future (2024: £53,624). £1,046,463 (2024: £1,079,824) of these net assets comprise the charity’s investment portfolio and represent a designated fund called the capital reserve fund. Demographic data relating to membership of religious congregations, together with the lower number of current vocations, continue to indicate that further reductions in income may be expected in future years. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **22** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 The charity will rely more and more on investment income in order to fund its charitable work. Consequently, the members of the Executive Committee have set aside, or designated, the value tied up in the charity’s investment portfolio as a capital reserve in order to provide a level of assurance that investment income will continue to be generated in future years and thereby ‘finance’ the charity’s work in the long term. Free reserves at 30 September 2025 stood at £67,048 (2024: £56,397). Comparing this to the charity’s reserves policy set out above, the charity’s free reserves are slightly below the level required. However, the Executive Committee believes that the reserves will be sufficient to enable CoR to continue to operate and do not expect material concerns to arise over the charity’s financial position. The Executive Committee, therefore, is content with the level of free reserves which will be reviewed again in the light of the Strategic Plan that will take shape during 2026. ## **PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES** The Executive is continuing to work on assessing the main risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those relating to the specific operational areas of the charity, its investments, and its finances. A Risk Register is prepared and updated for each Executive Committee meeting. The Executive believes that by monitoring reserve levels, by ensuring controls exist over key financial systems, and by examining the operational and business risks faced by the charity, it has established effective systems to mitigate those risks. These systems are also frequently reviewed with a view to possible updates and improvements. ## **Loss of key personnel** The Executive notes the importance of consistency in staff and key personnel within the organisation. It recognises, from past experience, the challenges that the loss of personnel places on an organisation that relies on a relatively small team of people. To assist in mitigating this risk, a number of strategies are in place. Some of the Executive Committee hold positions on external bodies, which are important to the effective functioning of CoR. There are also religious and lay people who participate in aspects of CoR such as its Finance Committee and in respect of safeguarding. ## **Reliance on limited income sources** The reliance on one single source of income continues to be a significant risk to the future ability of CoR to provide the service that the members require. The main source of income is the membership fees. As the number of members decreases, mostly as a result of ageing, the income derived from congregations also diminishes. This is reflected once again in the budget for 2025/2026. The Executive also recognises that it receives professional support from its professional advisors. The charity is indebted to these firms for their advice and guidance. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **23** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT** ## **Constitution** The Conference is governed by its own statutes and is registered with the Charity Commission (Charity Registration No. 277024). The property of the Conference is vested in a Trust, regulated by a trust deed dated 20 November 1978, as amended by deeds of variation dated 4 March 1992 and 20 September 2001. CoR is administered by an Executive Committee, members of which constitute the trustees of the charity. At 30 September 2025, the Executive Committee comprises of a joint leadership team, and ten other members, as listed on page 1. The responsibility for representing the charity at meetings of other ecclesial and civil bodies falls mainly on members of the Executive Committee. However, the day-to-day management of the charity has been delegated to the General Secretary. The Executive Committee monitors progress by meeting quarterly and more often when deemed necessary. The Executive Committee also maintains financial control by approving the annual budget and receiving management accounts which are prepared on a quarterly basis by their accountant. After careful consideration, and following more than ten years without change, the Executive Committee took the decision to increase the annual membership fees for 2025. This was not a decision taken lightly. However, in light of rising costs and the need to continue offering the services provided to members, it was considered necessary to update the fee structure. The annual fee was therefore increased by 10%, raising it to £50.00 per professed/temporary professed member resident in England and Wales. From 2026 onwards, the annual fee will be reviewed each year and adjusted in line with inflation. The Executive Committee also ensures compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018, maintaining appropriate procedures for the secure handling and storage of personal data. ## _**Executive Committee**_ As stated above, members of the Executive Committee constitute the trustees of the charity. They are incorporated under the provisions of section 251 of the Charities Act 2011 as “The trustees of the Conference of Religious of England and Wales”. Members of the Executive Committee, who served during the year or who were in office at the date on which this report was signed, are set out on page 1. They are appointed by means of nomination and election procedures at the charity’s Annual General Meeting. Each member is elected for a period of three years and is eligible to serve for a maximum of two terms. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **24** **Report of the Executive Committee** Year to 30 September 2025 ## _**Key management personnel**_ The members of the Executive Committee consider that they, together with the General Secretary, comprise the key management of the charity in charge of directing and controlling, running and operating the charity on a day-to-day basis. None of the members of the Executive Committee are remunerated for their services to the charity. The remuneration of the General Secretary and other staff members is considered annually by the Executive Committee and any increments to the salary are agreed and ratified. ## **STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE** The Executive Committee is responsible for preparing the report of the Executive Committee 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 Executive Committee to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the income and expenditure of the charity for that period. In preparing these accounts, the Executive Committee is required to: - ♦ select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; - ♦ observe the methods and principles in 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 UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102); - ♦ make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; - ♦ state whether applicable United Kingdom Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the accounts; and - ♦ prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The Executive Committee is responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable it to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011, applicable Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations and the provisions of the trust deed. The Executive Committee is 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. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **25** Report of the Executive Committee Year to 30 Septanber 2025 The Executivewoukl like to thank the m￿nbern ofthe Cufrent Secretariatfortheirsupport and commitrnent to COR throughL¥Jt this I*ir￿Ult year. pproved by the members d the Exeortwe Commiitee and swan￿ on their beha￿ by.. Approved on.. CONFERENCE of REUGIOUS England & Wales The Conference of Religh)us in England and Wales 26 **Independent auditor’s report** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Independent auditor’s report to the members of the Executive Committee of The Conference of Religious in England and Wales** ## **Opinion** We have audited the accounts of The Conference of Religious in England and Wales (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 30 September 2025 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the principal accounting policies and the 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: - ♦ give a true and fair view of the state of the charity’s affairs as at 30 September 2025 and of its income and expenditure 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 requirements of the Charities Act 2011. ## **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 Executive Committee’s 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 Executive Committee with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **27** **Independent auditor’s report** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Other information** The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, including the report of the Executive Committee, other than the accounts and our auditor’s report thereon. The members of the Executive Committee 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. 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 course of 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 this gives rise to a material misstatement in the accounts themselves. 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: - ♦ the information given in the Report of the Executive Committee is inconsistent in any material respect with the accounts; or - ♦ sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or - ♦ the accounts are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or - ♦ we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. ## **Responsibilities of the members of the Executive Committee** As explained more fully in the statement of responsibilities of the Executive Committee, the members of the Executive Committee (who are the charity’s 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 Executive Committee determines 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 Executive Committee is 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 Executive Committee either intends to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **28** **Independent auditor’s report** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts** We have been appointed as auditor under section 145 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. 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: - ♦ The engagement partner ensured that the engagement team collectively had the appropriate competence, capabilities and skills to identify or recognise non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations; - ♦ We identified the laws and regulations applicable to the charity through discussions with management and members of the Executive Committee and from our knowledge and experience of the charity sector; - ♦ We focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a direct material effect on the accounts or the activities of the charity. These included but were not limited to the Charities Act 2011; Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable to the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102); and - ♦ We assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through making enquiries of management and those charged with governance and review of minutes of Executive Committee meetings. We assessed the susceptibility of the charity’s financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by: - ♦ Making enquiries of management and representatives from the Executive Committee as to where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud, their knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud; and The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **29** ## **Independent auditor’s report** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the accounts** (continued) _**How the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities including fraud** (continued)_ - ♦ Considering the internal controls in place to mitigate risks of fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations. To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we: - ♦ Performed analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships; - ♦ Tested and reviewed journal entries to identify unusual transactions; - ♦ Carried out substantive testing of expenditure including the authorisation thereof; - ♦ Assessed whether judgements and assumptions made in determining the accounting estimates were indicative of potential bias; and - ♦ Investigated the rationale behind significant or unusual transactions. In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to: - ♦ Agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation; - ♦ Reading the minutes of meetings of the Executive Committee; and - ♦ Enquiring of as to actual and potential litigation and claims. 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. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **30** ## **Independent auditor’s report** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Use of our report** This report is made solely to the members of the Executive Committee, (who are 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 members of the Executive Committee 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 members of the Executive Committee, 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: 25 February 2026 Buzzacott Audit LLP is eligible to act as an auditor in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006 The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **31** ## **Statement of financial activities** Year to 30 September 2025 |Notes|
Unrestricted
funds
£|
Restricted
funds
£|**Total**
**funds**
**2025**
**£**|Total
funds
2024
£| |---|---|---|---|---| |**Income from:**
Investments and interest receivable
1
Charitable activities
2
**Total income**
**Expenditure on:**
Charitable activities
. Promotion of the welfare of Apostolic
Institutes of Religious in England and
Wales
3
**Total expenditure**
**Net income/(expenditure) before**
**investment gains (losses)**
4
**Net investment losses gains (losses)**
8
**Net expenditure and net movement in**
**funds**
**Reconciliation of funds:**
Fund balances brought forward at
1 October 2024
Fund balances carried forward at
30 September 2025|
18,727

181,911|
—

64,000|
**18,727**
**245,911**|21,604
152,408| ||200,638|
64,000|**264,638**|174,012| ||
189,586|



66,913|


**256,499**|216,726| ||189,586|
66,913|**256,499**|
216,726| ||
11,052

(33,362)|

(2,913)


—
|
**8,139**

**(33,362)**
|(42,714)
117,479| ||(22,310)
1,136,936|
(2,913)



53,624|**(25,223)**



**1,190,560**|74,765
1,115,795| ||1,114,626|
50,711|**1,165,337**|1,190,560| All of the charity’s activities derived from continuing operations during the above two financial periods. All recognised gains and losses are included in the above statement of financial activities. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **32** Balance sheet 30 September 2025 2024 2024 Fixed assets TwJibl• a&sets 1,115 1,1)46.463 1.047.578 715 1.079,824 1.080,539 Debtors Short temi def Cash at ba￿ arKI 12,963 189,496 194.592 171.169 184.132 tht0￿ am04Jts f￿1¥r0 d Yihin one y 10 1rn8331 (74.111 117.7 110.021 Totst nétA880ts 1,165.337 1.190.560 The funds ofthe clmrtty: Unrestricted fijnds . Gener81 fvnts . Ta￿￿￿e fved ass* ftThl . tjesignated 56.397 715 1,079,824 1,138.9 53,624 1.190,5 11 12 1,115 1.046A63 1.114.826 50,711 1.165,337 RestriL#ed 13 Approved by the memters of the Executrle c￿nMittee arnl signed on their behaff by.. Member ofthe ExecLrti4e Commitlee Approved on. 2S - L-IL The Conference of RelvJiou8 in EngLgnd and Wale8 33 **Principal accounting policies** Year to 30 September 2025 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 30 September 2025 with comparative information provided for the year to 30 September 2024. 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), 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 Executive Committee and management to make significant judgements and estimates. No significant judgements or estimates have been made in the preparation of these financial statements. ## **Assessment of going concern** The Executive Committee has assessed whether the use of the going concern assumption is appropriate in preparing these accounts. It has made this assessment in respect to a period of one year from the date of approval of these accounts. Free reserves at 30 September 2025 stood at £67,048 (2024 £56,397). Comparing this to the charity’s reserves policy set out above, the charity’s free reserves are slightly below the level required. However, the Executive Committee believes that the reserves will be sufficient to enable CoR to continue to operate and do not expect material concerns to arise over the charity’s financial position. The Executive Committee, therefore, is content with the level of free reserves. The Executive Committee believes that the reserves will be sufficient to enable CoR to operate and does not expect material concerns to arise over the charity’s financial position. The Executive Committee is of the opinion that the charity will have sufficient resources to meet its liabilities as they fall due. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **34** **Principal accounting policies** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Statement of cash flows** The accounts do not include a statement of cash flows because the charity is considered a small charity and is therefore exempt from the requirement to prepare such a statement under the Charities SORP FRS 102. ## **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 investment income and interest receivable and income from charitable activities, principally the income derived from membership subscriptions and financial contributions towards meetings. Investment income is recognised once the dividend or equivalent has been declared and notification has been received of the amount 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 comprising annual membership subscriptions is credited to the statement of financial activities on an accruals basis with reference to the period covered by the subscription. Income in respect to meetings and other events is credited to the statement of financial activities when invoiced and is accounted for net of any discounts and/or rebates. ## **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 stated inclusive of irrecoverable VAT. All expenditure incurred by the charity relates directly or indirectly to the principal charitable objective of the charity i.e. promoting the welfare of Apostolic Institutes of Religious in England and Wales. Within this heading, expenditure is categorised between the key areas of activity and is analysed in note 3 to these accounts. Indirect expenditure comprises support costs and governance costs. Support costs include all expenditure on financial procedures, the provision of office services and general administration. Governance costs comprise the costs of public accountability (including audit costs). All support and governance costs are allocated to activities in the ratio of the direct expenditure on each activity. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **35** **Principal accounting policies** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Tangible fixed assets** All assets costing more than £1,000 and with an expected useful life exceeding one year are capitalised. Depreciation is provided on office furniture and equipment purchased outright on a straightline basis at rates of 20% and 25% per annum respectively. ## **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 and short term deposits** 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 three or more 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 Conference of Religious in England and Wales **36** **Principal accounting policies** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **Funds structure** The unrestricted funds of the charity represent those funds which are freely available for use in furtherance of the charity’s objectives at the discretion of the members of the Executive Committee. Within the total unrestricted funds of the charity, the members of the Executive Committee have designated amounts for specific purposes and have identified those nonliquid funds represented by the tangible fixed assets and fixed asset investments. Those funds not designated or represented by tangible fixed assets or fixed asset investments are classified as general funds. ## **Pension costs** Contributions payable to defined contribution pension schemes and/or personal pension plans are accounted for in the year in which they are payable. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **37** **Notes to the accounts** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **1 Income from investments and interest receivable** ||Unrestricted
funds
£|Restricted
funds
£|**2025**
**£**|Unrestricted
funds
2024
£| |---|---|---|---|---| |Investment income
. Unit trusts and common investment funds
Bank interest|16,466
2,261|

—

—|**16,466**
**2,261**|16,372
5,232| ||18,727|
—|**18,727**|21,604| ## **2 Income from charitable activities** |**Income from charitable activities**||||| |---|---|---|---|---| ||Unrestricted
funds
£|Restricted
funds
£|**2025**
**£**|Unrestricted
funds
2024
£| |Membership subscriptions
Meetings
Other income
Grants receivable|144,468
18,350
65
19,028|
—

—

—

64,000|**144,468**
**18,350**
**65**
**83,028**|121,232
30,403
48
725| ||181,911|
64,000|**245,911**|152,408| ## _**3**_ **Expenditure on charitable activities:** ## _**Promotion of the welfare of Apostolic Institutes of Religious in England and Wales**_ ||**Direct**
**staff**
**costs**
**£**|
**Other**
**direct**
**costs**
**£**|
**Total**
**Direct**
**costs**
**£**|
**Support**
**staff**
**£**|**Other**
**support**
**costs**
**£**|**Total**
**support**
**costs**
**£**|
**Total**
**2025**
**£**| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |**Unrestricted**
Safeguarding
Members Meetings
Advocacy
Vocations
Development
Communications
**Restricted**
Safeguarding|**3,652**
**4,270**
**14,330**
**2,135**
**15,666**
**16,372**|
**1,711**

**19,501**

—

**13,000**

—

—|
**5,363**

**23,771**
**14,330**

**15,135**
**15,666**
**16,372**|
**14,537**

**2,611**

**8,763**

**1,306**

**9,580**

**10,012**|
**16,193**

**2,909**

**9,761**

**1,454**

**10,671**

**11,152**|
**30,730**

**5,520**

**18,524**

**2,760**

**20,251**

**21,164**|
**36,093**

**29,291**

**32,854**

**17,895**

**35,917**

**37,536**| ||**56,425**
**20,120**|
**34,212**

**46,793**|
**90,637**

**66,913**|
**46,809**

—|
**52,140**
—|
**98,949**
—|
**189,586**
**66,913**| ||**76,545**|
**81,005**|
**157,550**|
**46,809**|
**52,140**|
**98,949**|
**256,499**| ||_Direct_
_staff_
_costs_
_£_|
_Other_
_direct costs_
_£_|
_Total_
_Direct_
_costs_
_£_|
_Support_
_staff_
_£_|_Other_
_support_
_costs_
_£_|_Total_
_support_
_costs_
_£_|
_Total_
_2024_
_£_| |_Safeguarding_
_Members Meetings_
_Advocacy_
_Vocations_
_Development_
_Communications_|_8,539_
_— _
_8,954_
_— _
_6,179_
_6,790_|
_5,630_

_44,559_

_— _

_9,589_

_4,559_

_8,539_|
_14,169_

_44,559_

_8,954_

_9,589_

_10,738_

_15,329_|
_6,124_

_— _

_6,422_

_— _

_4,431_

_4,870_|
_25,660_

_— _

_26,908_

_— _

_18,568_

_20,405_|
_31,784_

_— _

_33,330_

_— _

_22,999_

_25,275_|
_45,953_

_44,559_

_42,284_

_9,589_

_33,737_

_40,604_| ||_30,462_|
_72,876_|
_103,338_|
_21,847_|
_91,541_|
_113,388_|
_216,726_| The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **38** **Notes to the accounts** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **4 Net expenditure before investment gains (losses)** This is stated after charging: ||**2025**
**£**|2024
£| |---|---|---| |Staff costs (note 5)
Audit costs including VAT
. Statutory audit services
Depreciation|**123,354**
**10,320**
**799**|95,968
10,600
1,593| ## **5 Staff costs** |**Staff costs**||| |---|---|---| ||**2025**
**£**
**77,813**
**1,108**
**1,733**
**80,653**
**42,700**
**123,354**
**23,772**
**2,135**
**18,600**
**20,540**
**15,666**
**16,372**
**19,200**
**7,069**
**123,353**|2024
£| |Staff costs during the year were as follows:
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Pension costs
Consultancy
Staff costs per function were as follows:
Safeguarding
Vocation
Leaders’ meetings
Advice and information
Development
Communications
Governance
Support||49,243
2,059
1,007| |||52,309
43,659| |||95,968| |||13,093
1,589
14,467
19,234
14,613
11,481
15,846
5,645| |||95,968| No employee was paid £60,000 or more (including benefits) during the year (2024 – none). The average number of employees during the year, including consultants, (by head count), analysed by function, was as follows: |Secretariat (safeguarding, advice and information, members’ meetings,
advocacy, vocations, formation)
Support|**2025**
**No.**|2024
No.| |---|---|---| ||**3.7**
**0.3**|3.6
0.2| ||**4.0**|3.8| The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **39** **Notes to the accounts** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **5 Staff costs** (continued) ## _**Remuneration of key management personnel**_ The members of the Executive Committee, together with the General Secretary, comprise the key management of the charity. The remuneration paid to key management personnel during the year ended 30 September 2025 was £42,700 (2024 – £31,779). No member of the Executive Committee received any remuneration in connection with his or her services during the year (2024 – £nil). Four members of the Executive Committee were reimbursed expenses during the year of £658 (2024: £384) in respect to travel and meeting expenses in connection with their duties as members of the Executive Committee. ## **6 Taxation** The Conference of Religious in England and Wales is a registered charity and, therefore, is not liable to income tax or corporation tax on income derived from its charitable activities, as it falls within the various exemptions available to registered charities. ## **7 Tangible fixed assets** |**Tangible fixed assets**|| |---|---| ||**Office**
**furniture**
**and**
**equipment**
**£**| |**Cost**
At 1 October 2024
Disposals
At 30 September 2025
**Depreciation**
At 1 October 2024
Charge for year
Disposals
At 30 September 2025
**Net book values**
At 30 September 2025
At 30 September 2024|**7,663**
**1,199**| ||**8,862**| ||**6,948**
**799**
—| ||**7,747**| ||**1,115**| ||**715**| The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **40** **Notes to the accounts** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **8 Investments** |**Investments**||| |---|---|---| ||**2025**
**£**|2024
£| |**Listed investments**
Market value at 1 October 2024
Disposal proceeds
Additions
Realised losses on disposal
Unrealised investment gains
**Market value at 30 September 2025**
**Cost of listed investments at 30 September 2025**|**1,079,824**
**(560,974)**
**560,974**
**(17,738)**
**(15,624) **|962,345
—
—
—
117,479| ||**1,046,463**|1,079,824| ||**826,235**|642,324| At 30 September 2025, the listed investments comprised holdings in the following two Common Investment Funds managed by CCLA Investment Management Limited: |Holding|**Market**
**value at**
**30 September**
**2025**
**£**|**Percentage**
**of portfolio**
**%**| |---|---|---| |COIF Charities Ethical Investment Fund Income Units
COIF Charities Ethical Investment Fund Accumulation Units|—
**1,046,463**|—
**100.0**| ||**1,046,463**|**100.0**| |_Holding_|_Market_
_value at_
_30 September_
_2024_
_£_|_Percentage_
_of portfolio_
_%_| |_COIF Charities Ethical Investment Fund Income Units_
_COIF Charities Ethical Investment Fund Accumulation Units_|_578,712_
_501,112_|_53.6_
_46.4_| ||_1,079,824_|_100.0_| ## **9 Debtors** |**Debtors**||| |---|---|---| ||**2025**
**£**|2024
£| |Prepayments and accrued income|5,096|12,963| ## **10 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year** |**Creditors: amounts falling due within one year**||| |---|---|---| ||**2025**
**£**|2024
£| |Membership subscriptions received in advance
Accruals
Other creditors|**45,899**
**29,388**
**1,546**|29,470
22,558
22,083| ||**76,833**|74,111| The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **41** **Notes to the accounts** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **10 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year** (continued) The movement in membership subscriptions received in advance is reconciled below. ||**2025**
**£**|2024
£| |---|---|---| |Deferred income brought forward
Released in year
Deferred in year
Deferred income carried forward|**29,470**
**(29,470)**
**45,899**|80,325
(80,325)
29,470| ||**45,899**|29,470| ## **11 Tangible fixed asset fund** ||**2025**
**£**|_2024_
_£_| |---|---|---| |At 1 October 2024
Movement in year
At 30 September 2025|**715**
**400**|3,130
(2,415)| ||**1,115**|715| The tangible fixed assets fund represents the net book value of the charity’s tangible fixed assets. A decision was made to separate this fund from the general fund and other designated funds of the charity in recognition of the fact that the tangible fixed assets are essential to the day-to-day work of the charity and as such their value should not be regarded as funds that would be realisable with ease, in order to meet future contingencies. ## **12 Designated funds** The income funds of the charity include the following designated fund which has been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the members of the Executive Committee for specific purposes: ||**At 1**
**October**
**2024**
**£**|**New**
**designations**
**£**|
**Utilised/**
**released**
**£**|**At 30**
**September**
**2025**
**£**| |---|---|---|---|---| |Capital reserve fund|**1,079,824**|1|**(33,362)**|**1,046,463**| ||_At 1_
_October_
_2023_
_£_|_New_
_designations_
_£_|
_Utilised/_
_released_
_£_|_At 30_
_September_
_2024_
_£_| |_Capital reserve fund_|962,345|117,479|—|1,079,824| The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **42** **Notes to the accounts** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **12 Designated funds** (continued) The charity will rely more and more on investment income in order to fund its charitable work. Consequently, the members of the Executive Committee believe it prudent to set aside, or designate, the value tied up in the charity’s investment portfolio as a capital reserve in order to provide a level of assurance that investment income will continue to be generated in future years and thereby ‘finance’ the charity’s work in the long term. ## **13 Restricted funds** The income funds of the charity include the following restricted funds to be applied for specific purposes: ||**At 1**
**October**
**2024**
**£**|**Income**
**£**|**Expenditure**
**£**|**At 30**
**September**
**2025**
**£**| |---|---|---|---|---| |Safeguarding project|**53,624**|**64,000**|**(66,913)**|**50,711**| ||_At 1_
_October_
_2023_
_£_|_Income_
_£_|_Expenditure_
_£_|_At 30_
_September_
_2024_
_£_| |_Safeguarding project_|_53,624_|_—_|_—_|_53,624_| The safeguarding project fund is to be applied towards the cost of specific safeguarding advisory and associated activities. ## **14 Analysis of net assets between funds** ||**Restricted**
**funds**
**£**|**General**
**funds**
**£**|**Tangible**
**fixed**
**assets**
**funds**
**£**|**Designated**
**funds**
**£**|**Total**
**2025**
**£**| |---|---|---|---|---|---| |**Fund balances at 30 September**
**2025 are represented by:**
Tangible fixed assets
Investments
Net current assets
**Total net assets**|—
—
**50,711 **|
—

—

**67,048**|**1,115**
—
—|—
**1,046,463**
—|**1,115**
**1,046,463**
**117,759**| ||**50,711 **|
**67,048**|**1,115**|**1,046,463**|**1,165,337**| The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **43** **Notes to the accounts** Year to 30 September 2025 ## **14 Analysis of net assets between funds** (continued) ||_Restricted_
_funds_
_£_|
_General_
_funds_
_£_|_Tangible_
_fixed_
_assets_
_funds_
_£_|_Designated_
_funds_
_£_
_—_
_1,079,824_
_—_
_1,079,824_|_Total_
_2024_
_£_| |---|---|---|---|---|---| |_Fund balances at 30 September_
_2024 are represented by:_
_Tangible fixed assets_
_Investments_
_Net current assets_
_Total net assets_|_— _
_— _
_53,624 _|
_—_

_—_

_56,397_|_715_
_—_
_—_||_715_
_1,079,824_
_110,021_| ||_53,624 _|
_56,397_|_715_||_1,190,560_| |||||**Total**
**2025**
**£**|Total
2024
£| |||||**437,500**
**(201,648)**
**(15,624)**|320,021
117,479| |||||**220,228**|437,500| ## **15 Financial commitments** At 30 September 2025 the charity was committed to pay £nil in respect to rent and service charges payable (2024: £nil). ## **16 Transactions with related parties** The religious congregations to which the members of the Executive Committee belong are all members of the charity and pay membership subscriptions to the charity. All such payments are made to the charity on an arm's length basis. During the year, the congregations to which the members of the Executive Committee belong made contributions to the charity totalling £20,455 (2024 – £30,905). These contributions consist of membership fees and donations. During the year, the charity incurred rent and service charges totalling £2,000 (2024 - £18,000) payable to the Poor Servants of the Mother of God (PSMG). PSMG, are members of the Conference of Religious in England and Wales. During the year, the charity incurred costs of £46,793 to Religious Life Safeguarding Services (RLSS) for services, of which £7,182 is included in accruals. Sr Ellen Fynn DC is a Director of RLSS. The Conference of Religious in England and Wales **44**