Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
Charity number: 511314
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity, its Trustees and Advisers | 1 - 2 |
| Trustees' Report | 3 - 9 |
| Independent Auditors' Report on the Financial Statements | 10 - 13 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 14 |
| Balance Sheet | 15 |
| Statement of Cash Flows | 16 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 17 - 34 |
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Trustees
John Anderson, Chair Lt Gen Robin Brims CB CBE DSO DL, Chair (resigned 19 April 2023) Dr Margaret Stewart, Deputy Chair Laurie McLeman, Hon Treasurer Joanna Pullan, Assistant Hon Treasurer The Rev Canon Robert McTeer George William Heslop Dennis Parker Matthew Alexander Pentti Sinclair Edward Tulasiewicz Elizabeth Mary Walford Rev Christopher Wardale
Charity registered number
511314
Principal office
7 Strothers Road High Spen Tyne and Wear NE39 2HR
Secretary
Mark Allison
Independent auditors
Kinnair Associates Limited Chartered Accountants Aston House Redburn Road Newcastle upon Tyne NE5 1NB
Bankers
Barclays Bank Hexham Northumberland
COIF Charity Funds One Angel Lane London EC4R 3AB
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NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Investment Advisers
RBC Brewin Dolphin Limited Time Central Gallowgate Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4SR
Rathbones 8 Finsbury Circus London EC2M 7AZ
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NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
The Trustees present their annual report together with the audited financial statements of the Charity for the year from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2024.
Objectives and activities
Policies and objectives
In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit: running a charity (PB2)'.
The objectives of the Trust are to apply its income and capital for the preservation, repair, maintenance, improvement, upkeep, beautification and reconstruction of churches in Northumbria and of monuments, fittings, fixtures, stained glass, furniture, ornaments and chattels in such churches so as to maintain them for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
Agreed priorities of funding dictate that offers are normally restricted to churches with urgent structural repair needs and which can also demonstrate financial need. All the decisions on grant offers are made by a full meeting of Trustees, in accordance with grant making policies. These are publicly available, through the Trust’s website or by contact with the Secretary or any of the Trustees. The Trust raises awareness of its activities amongst potential recipients through its website, occasional press releases and contacts with ministers and church officers.
In furtherance of its objectives the Trust liaises with the National Churches Trust to exchange and promote best practice while remaining independent of the National Churches Trust.
Strategies for achieving objectives
A Strawman paper was produced by the Chair to address several issues arising from changes that required making, following receipt of a couple of legacies, which has enabled it to substantially increase the number and size of grants it is prepared to offer. Such largesse has also entailed the necessity to continue upgrading rules and procedures that ensure regulatory compliance is fully satisfied, along with protecting the Trustees. This Paper was discussed by the Board of Trustees at a Strategy Review day, convened on Wednesday 17 January, that resulted in a number of decisions being taken in that respect; some of which are outlined below .
Activities undertaken to achieve objectives
No new Trustees have been appointed during 2023; invitations have been placed for potential applicants to apply for appointment in 2024. Lt.Gen.Robin Brims retired as a Trustee.
Grant-making policies
Grant applications will now be assessed over three funding rounds held at four monthly intervals, The size of grant will depend on an assessment of merit and need; if awarded, it will be typically within a range of £2,000£10,000.Churches will ordinarily be considered once in every three years for a grant; only in very exceptional and unforeseen circumstances will one be considered outside of this time frame. The Chair and Vice Chair have been empowered to award an emergency grant of up to £2500 at their discretion and by way of report at the following Board meeting; any sum sum in excess of this amount would necessitate Trustee approval out of committee. The overall intention being to ensure helping the many, rather than the few, albeit with smaller grants; such grants to be perceived as being ‘Fair. Proportionate, Sustainable and achieve Impact’.
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NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Objectives and activities (continued)
Volunteers
Those Trustees who are office holders carry out their duties on a purely voluntary basis.
Main activities undertaken to further the Charity's purposes for the public benefit
Considerable work and expense has been directed to improving the website; thereby ensuring the online grant making process is clearly articulated and that potential applicants are enabled to produce the necessary information for Trustees to make an equitable and informed decision.
Achievements and performance
Main achievements of the Charity
A Grant Making Budget of £225,000 was agreed for 2023; going forward, at the Strategy Meeting in January, £315,000 was agreed for 2024.
A Social Media Policy has been devised by the Vice Chair and approved by the Board.
Review of activities
It was decided at the Strategy Meeting for the Charity to become a CIO, along with taking the opportunity to review and update the Constitution; a working group was set up to take this forward; the first step being the appointment of Muckles as the firm of solicitors tasked to undertake this, following a selection process. The Working Group has been working hard to provide all the information required that will keep costs to a minimum. It is hoped the CIO, along with new Bank accounts, will be in place by the time of the 2024 Strategy Review; much however will depend on expeditiously satisfying the requirements of the Charity Commission and Bank.
Rathbones and RBC Brewin Dolphin remain as Fund Managers; though no presentations have been made to the Trustees, regular reports as to performance have been received from both and these have been scrutinised by one of our number who is a professional Wealth Manager. During 2024 both Fund Managers will report in person. Mark Allison continues in post as Secretary.
Investment policy and performance
The Trustees have adopted a total return investment approach to generate a combination of income and capital growth. The Charity intends to be a long term investor and on taking professional advice holds a diversified portfolio of listed investments with a view to maintaining the real value of the investment portfolio while providing income for the charity’s grant funding activities.
The Trustees have agreed a suitable asset allocation framework with the Investment Managers. Presently the following investment parameters on asset class concentration should be applied:
| Asset Class | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Income |
5% |
15% |
| UK Equities | 5% |
65% |
| Overseas Equities | 5% |
65% |
| Alternatives | 5% |
25% |
| Cash | 0% |
10% |
Total equity exposure should not exceed 90% of the Charity’s assets.
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TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Achievements and performance (continued)
The investment assets must be readily realisable. The Trustees would not, unless specific authorisation is given, wish to acquire investments in markets where marketability is limited.
An investment in any single company should not exceed 5% of the Charity’s assets.
The Trustees seek to refrain from directly investing in companies that are wholly or mainly involved in the manufacture or production of: indiscriminate weaponry, conventional weaponry, pornographic material, tobacco, gambling, non- military firearms, high interest rate lending, human embryonic cloning, extraction of thermal coal and production of oil from oil sands.
Brewin Dolphin Portfolio performance and commentary
Over the year the portfolio gained 6.0% on a time-weighted basis compared to a rise in the RBC Brewin Dolphin Risk Category 7 benchmark of 7.8%. Over the same period the FTSE All Share gained 1.9%, the FTSE World ex UK rose 11.7%, and the FT Gilt (All Stocks) Index fell 1.1%.
In general, the first half of the period largely confounded forecasts with the global economy proving to be stronger than anticipated. Within equity markets, essentially 2022’s losers became 2023’s winners as the technology sector bounced back from the previous year’s rout. Growth and quality styles were at the forefront, although performance was mainly powered by a handful of mega-cap US tech stocks. The one topic the market became extremely excited about was artificial intelligence (AI).
Thereafter, it was a struggle to make further progress and gains were pared back. August had already been fairly mixed and September proved to be typically weak as global markets faltered. Hopes for a broadening of the rally were not met and, instead, leadership changed with energy taking over the mantle from technology companies. Easing inflation and upward surprises for growth had been supportive for most of the year but the dynamic changed and higher energy prices complicated those stories and became the latest conundrum for central banks.
The weakness continued into October before the most tangible signs of an easing in inflation came through and convinced investors that major Western central banks were moving closer to a much awaited pivot, from raising to cutting interest rates. The step change in inflation data put central bank rate cuts firmly on the table and, as the end of 2023 approached, a ‘Santa rally’ compounded gains and saw global equity markets register a rise of over 15% from late October. The S&P 500 index traded close to a record, the NASDAQ 100 had its best year since 1999, and the global bond market saw its biggest two-month gain on record.
The relative performance of the portfolio saw a noticeable boost and, whilst the pace and trajectory of easing is still uncertain, and there will always be many other forces that contribute to the to-ing and fro-ing in markets, we are confident that our approach will continue to see the benefit if global inflation continues on the current downward trend.
RBC Brewin Dolphin Portfolio performance and commentary
During the 12 months to 31st January 2024 the Trust’s assets returned 1.6% after all fees vs. the peer group comparator, ARC Charity Steady Growth Index, which returned 4.1% over the same period.
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TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Achievements and performance (continued)
The last 12 months has presented a complex landscape for investors. Not only was there a question mark over the pace at which inflation pressures would recede globally (and in turn the implications for interest rates) but also whether the global economy would starve off a recession. This coupled with geopolitical tensions, most notably the ongoing war in Ukraine and more latterly the escalation in the Middle East, resulted in a challenging environment for both equities and bonds. Inflation did begin to fall from the autumn of 2022, although central banks around the world continued to raise interest rates until the summer of 2023. Whilst the US equity market was particularly resilient throughout the year, this was driven by a very narrow group of stocks, specifically the “magnificent 7” US based technology stocks - Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Nvidia, Meta Platforms and Tesla. Whilst the portfolio held four of these stocks directly and one indirectly, underexposure to this area of the equity market was a key detractor of portfolio performance. Other key detractors of portfolio returns included exposure to certain mid-sized UK equities and listed infrastructure funds/property REITS, which have been particularly impacted by the rapid rise in interest rates.
Looking ahead to the next 12 months, we think it offers cautious optimism for investors. The Federal Reserve’s and Bank of England’s anticipated interest rate cuts later in the year should provide a positive catalyst for equity markets. Whilst continuing geopolitical uncertainty, particularly with upcoming elections in major economies, remains a key risk factor to navigate throughout the year, the global economy is maintaining its resilience. The portfolio remains well diversified, not overly exposed to any single sector and we continue to build upon our bias towards global businesses in sectors with sensible valuations.
Financial review
Overview
The income of the Charity for the year amounted to £1,502,728 (2023: £2,753,022) including legacies of £1,413,219 (2023: £2,714,095). Costs amounted to £268,859 (2023: £88,030) giving a surplus of £1,233,869 (2023: £2,664,992) before taking account of gains/losses on investments.
Going concern
After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Further details regarding the adoption of the going concern basis can be found in the accounting policies.
Reserves policy
The Trustees have sufficient assets in order to meet the operation expenses, grants offered and the proposed grant making budget.
The Trustees intend to hold a substantial proportion of these reserves in listed investments with a view to achieving both an investment income stream and capital appreciation. The Trustees understand that investing to achieve returns of a meaningful margin over inflation will result in the capital value of the investments fluctuating from time to time.
The Trustees are prepared to tolerate some volatility in the capital value of the Charity's investable assets provided that the Charity meets its grant making commitments, either by way of income generated by investments or the realisation of investments.
The balance sheet as of 31st January 2024 shows total unrestricted funds of £4,318,136 (2023: £2,959,275).
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NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Principal risks and uncertainties
The Trustees regularly review the major risks, to which the Charity may be exposed, particularly those relating to the operation and finances of the Charity.
The key risk to the long-term achievement of the Charity’s objective is considered to be inflation so assets are invested accordingly with a sizeable allocation in equities, where dividends can be expected to grow but capital value will fluctuate.
Financial risk management objectives and policies
The Trustees have appointed two investment managers to manage the investment assets on a discretionary basis in line with the Investment Policy which is expected to mitigate the long term effects of inflation while allowing the Trustees to continue their grant making activities for the public benefit.
The Investment Policy, which will be reviewed every three years, will provide the Investment Managers with a framework for the management of the Charity’s investments.
The investment managers are required to present a report on investment performance and future expectations at least annually.
Principal funding
The Charity has received another generous legacy and in the absence of any specific instruction, this will be added the Charity’s Investments, the proceeds of which will be spent in pursuit of the Charity’s objectives. As such legacies and donations provide a valuable source of income, this is an area that it will seek to encourage going forward, given the trustees forecast that the long- term needs of beneficiaries will continue to exceed the funds available.
Structure, governance and management
Constitution
Northumbria Historic Churches Trust is a registered charity, number 511314, and is constituted under a Trust deed.
Methods of appointment or election of Trustees
The management of the Charity is the responsibility of the Trustees who are elected and co-opted under the terms of the Trust deed.
The Trust does not have a set number of Trustees; this is an item for discussion and decision in 2024. Trustees are appointed on three year terms which are renewable by agreement of all Trustees. We advertise for specific skills and have a general openness to applications to join us. The first step in the appointing process is also the start of induction: an informal discussion with the Chairman to confirm a suitable fit. If both parties are positive, then the applicant is interviewed by two or more Trustees. If still positive the nomination is put to the full board of Trustees for approval. Once this has been achieved references are taken up and the Chairman writes to our founding Bishops: Durham and Newcastle to approve the appointment.
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TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Structure, governance and management (continued)
Organisational structure and decision-making policies
All the positions below are being subjected to review by the Chair and discussion with the individuals as to their continuance and relevance; currently they are:
The patron of the Trust is the Duke of Northumberland
The Trust has three presidents: The Bishop of Durham The Bishop of Newcastle The Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle
The Vice presidents are: The Rt Hon The Lord Beith Mrs Sue Snowdon Lord Lieutenant of Durham The Duchess of Northumberland Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland Mrs Susan Winfield OBE Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear to 18 May 2022 Mrs Lucy Winskell Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear from 18 May 2022 The Lord Vinson LVO DL
Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees
The Induction process starts with the appointing process. Once appointed the new Trustee is given a copy of our Trust Deed and the previous year’s Trustees Report and Financial Statements. Further explanations are then achieved at our meetings.
Financial risk management
The Trustees have conducted a review of the major risks to which the Charity is exposed and systems have been established to mitigate those risks including the implementation of procedures for authorisation of all transactions and projects and for ensuring the consistent quality of the delivery of all operational aspects of the charity. These procedures are periodically reviewed to ensure that they still meet the needs of the charity.
Plans for future periods
The final amounts from The Bishop and Sewell bequest have yet to be fully determined by virtue of properties still to sold and a value established; regular contact between the Treasurer and solicitors ensure the Charity is being kept up to date on progress. Hopefully an end is in sight. Once this is clearly established, the Trustees will be in a better position to define an overall Financial Policy that encompasses capital preservation and income generation that ensure a sustainable grant making budget and meet expenses going forward..
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TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
Statement of Trustees' responsibilities
The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in England & Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:
-
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
-
observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP (FRS 102);
-
make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
-
state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards (FRS 102) have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Charity will continue in business.
The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Disclosure of information to auditors
Each of the persons who are Trustees at the time when this Trustees' Report is approved has confirmed that:
-
so far as that Trustee is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the charity's auditors are unaware, and
-
that Trustee has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a Trustee in order to be aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the charity's auditors are aware of that information.
Auditors
The auditors, Kinnair Associates Limited, have indicated their willingness to continue in office. The designated Trustees will propose a motion reappointing the auditors at a meeting of the Trustees.
Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees on 20 June 2024 and signed on their behalf by:
John Anderson (Chair of Trustees)
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NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Northumbria Historic Churches Trust (the 'charity') for the year ended 31 January 2024 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. 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).
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standards applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been withdrawn.
This has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2015.
In our opinion the financial statements:
-
give a true and fair view of the state of the charity's affairs as at 31 January 2024 and of its incoming resources and application of resources for the year then ended;
-
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
-
have been prepared in accordance with the 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 Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council'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 financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements 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 financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
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INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST (CONTINUED)
Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' Report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual Report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, 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 financial statements 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 financial statements 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
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
-
the information given in the Trustees' Report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial statements; or
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sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or
-
the financial statements 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 Trustees
As explained more fully in the Trustees' Responsibilities Statement, the Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements which give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
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INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST (CONTINUED)
Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditors' 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 financial statements.
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:
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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;
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we identified the laws and regulations applicable to the Charity through discussions with Trustees and other management, and from our commercial knowledge and experience of the charity sector;
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we focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a direct material effect on the financial statements or the operations of the Charity, including the Charities Act 2011 et seq., the Charities (Protection and Social Investment) Act 2016, the Trustees Acts 1925 and 2000 and Charity Commission regulation;
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we assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through making enquiries of management and inspecting legal correspondence; and
-
we ensured that the identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team regularly and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit.
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 as to where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud and their knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud; and
-
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;
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tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions; and
-
assessed whether judgements and assumptions made in determining the accounting estimates set out in the notes to the financial statements were indicative of potential bias.
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;
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reading the minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;
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enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and claims; and
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reviewing correspondence with HMRC, relevant regulators and the Charity’s legal advisors.
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.
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INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST (CONTINUED)
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 financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' Report.
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charity's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's Trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' 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 its Trustees as a body for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Kinnair Associates Limited
Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor Aston House Redburn Road Newcastle upon Tyne NE5 1NB
11 September 2024
Kinnair Associates Limited are eligible to act as auditors in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
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STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
| Note Income from: Donations and legacies 3 Investments 4 Total income Expenditure on: Raising funds 5 Charitable activities 8 Total expenditure Net income before net gains on investments Net gains on investments Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought forward Net movement in funds Total funds carried forward |
Unrestricted funds 2024 £ 1,414,104 88,624 1,502,728 28,685 235,174 263,859 1,238,869 124,992 1,363,861 2,959,275 1,363,861 4,323,136 |
Total funds 2024 £ 1,414,104 88,624 1,502,728 28,685 235,174 263,859 1,238,869 124,992 1,363,861 2,959,275 1,363,861 4,323,136 |
Total funds 2023 £ 2,736,530 16,492 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2,753,022 | |||
| 3,402 84,628 |
|||
| 88,030 | |||
| 2,664,992 110,215 |
|||
| 2,775,207 | |||
| 184,068 2,775,207 |
|||
| 2,959,275 |
The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
The notes on pages 17 to 34 form part of these financial statements.
Page 14
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 JANUARY 2024
| 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | £ | £ | ||||
| Fixed assets | ||||||
| Intangible assets | 12 | 5,184 | - | |||
| Tangible assets | 13 | 312 | 490 | |||
| Investments | 14 | 4,393,749 | 2,868,058 | |||
| 4,399,245 | 2,868,548 | |||||
| Current assets | ||||||
| Debtors | 15 | 4,789 | 2,636 | |||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 75,876 | 135,491 | ||||
| 80,665 | 138,127 | |||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due within one | ||||||
| year | 16 | (156,774) | (47,400) | |||
| Net current liabilities / assets | (76,109) | 90,727 | ||||
| Total assets less current liabilities | 4,323,136 | 2,959,275 | ||||
| Net assets excluding pension asset | 4,323,136 | 2,959,275 | ||||
| Total net assets | 4,323,136 | 2,959,275 | ||||
| Charity funds | ||||||
| Unrestricted funds | 19 | 4,323,136 | 2,959,275 | |||
| Total funds | 4,323,136 | 2,959,275 |
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on 20 June 2024 and signed on their behalf by:
John Anderson Chair of Trustees
The notes on pages 17 to 34 form part of these financial statements.
Page 15
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
| Cash flows from operating activities Net cash used in operating activities Cash flows from investing activities Dividends, interests and rents from investments Purchase of intangible assets Purchase of tangible fixed assets Proceeds from sale of investments Purchase of investments Net cash used in investing activities Cash flows from financing activities Net cash provided by financing activities Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year The notes on pages 17 to 34 form part of these financial statements |
2024 £ 1,259,372 88,624 (6,912) - 1,085,943 (2,486,642) (1,318,987) - (59,615) 135,491 75,876 |
2023 £ 2,645,437 16,492 - (535) 703,025 (3,414,234) (2,695,252) - (49,815) 185,306 135,491 |
|---|---|---|
Page 16
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
1. General information
Northumbria Historic Churches Trust is a registered charity, number 511314. The charity is unincorporated and its principal office is 7 Strothers Road, High Spen, Rowlands Gill, Tyne and Wear, NE39 2HR.
2. Accounting policies
2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - 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) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.
The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair' view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair' view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP (FRS 102) published in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.
Northumbria Historic Churches Trust meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.
2.2 Going concern
The Charity reported total unrestricted funds at the year end of £4,323,136 and already has a significant amount of funding for the current year. The Trustees are of the view that the immediate future of the Charity for the next 12 to 18 months is secure and that on this basis the Charity is a going concern.
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The Trustees have reviewed and considered relevant information, including the annual budget and future cash flows in making their assessment. The Trustees have concluded that they can continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the annual report and accounts.
Page 17
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
2. Accounting policies (continued)
2.3 Income
All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.
The recognition of income from legacies is dependent on establishing entitlement, the probability of receipt and the ability to estimate with sufficient accuracy the amount receivable. Evidence of entitlement to a legacy exists when the Charity has sufficient evidence that a gift has been left to them (through knowledge of the existence of a valid will and the death of the benefactor) and the executor is satisfied that the property in question will not be required to satisfy claims in the estate. Receipt of a legacy must be recognised when it is probable that it will be received and the fair value of the amount receivable, which will generally be the expected cash amount to be distributed to the Charity, can be reliably measured.
Grants are included in the Statement of Financial Activities on a receivable basis. The balance of income received for specific purposes but not expended during the period is shown in the relevant funds on the Balance Sheet. Where income is received in advance of entitlement of receipt, its recognition is deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Where entitlement occurs before income is received, the income is accrued.
Donated goods are measured at fair value (the amount for which the asset could be exchanged) unless impractical to do so.
Donated services and facilities are included in the SoFA when received at the value of the gift to the charity provided that the value of the gift can be measured reliably. Donated services and facilities that are consumed immediately are recognised as income with the equivalent amount recognised as an expense under the appropriate heading in the SoFA.
Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
The value of volunteer help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the Trustees' annual report.
2.4 Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Expenditure on raising funds includes all expenditure incurred by the Charity to raise funds for its charitable purposes and includes costs of all fundraising activities events and non-charitable trading.
Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Charity's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.
Page 18
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
2. Accounting policies (continued)
2.4 Expenditure (continued)
Grants payable are charged in the year when the offer is made except in those cases where the offer is conditional, such grants being recognised as expenditure when the conditions attaching are fulfilled. Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year end are noted as a commitment, but not accrued as expenditure.
All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.
2.5 Interest receivable
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 institution with whom the funds are deposited.
2.6 Intangible assets and amortisation
Intangible assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, intangible assets are measured at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses.
Amortisation is provided on intangible assets at rates calculated to write off the cost of each asset on a straight-line basis over its expected useful life.
Amortisation is provided on the following basis:
Website development - 25 % straight line
2.7 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation
Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working condition should be included in the measurement of cost.
Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.
Depreciation is provided on the following basis:
- Computer equipment 3 years
2.8 Investments
Fixed asset investments are a form of financial instrument and are initially recognised at their transaction cost and subsequently measured at fair value at the Balance Sheet date, unless the value cannot be measured reliably in which case it is measured at cost less impairment. Investment gains and losses, whether realised or unrealised, are combined and presented as ‘Gains/(Losses) on investments’ in the Statement of Financial Activities.
Investments held as fixed assets are shown at cost less provision for impairment.
Page 19
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
2. Accounting policies (continued)
2.9 Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
2.10 Cash at bank and in hand
Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.
2.11 Liabilities and provisions
Liabilities 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.
Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.
2.12 Financial instruments
The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value.
2.13 Fund accounting
General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.
Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.
3. Income from donations and legacies
| Unrestricted funds 2024 £ Donations 885 Legacies 1,413,219 1,414,104 |
Total funds 2024 £ 885 1,413,219 |
|---|---|
| 1,414,104 |
Page 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
3. Income from donations and legacies (continued)
| Donations Legacies |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 21,625 2,714,905 2,736,530 |
Total funds 2023 £ 21,625 2,714,905 |
|---|---|---|
| 2,736,530 |
4. Investment income
| Unrestricted funds 2024 £ Income from listed investments 75,097 Interest receivable 13,527 88,624 Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Income from listed investments 16,026 Investment income - local cash 466 16,492 |
Total funds 2024 £ 75,097 13,527 |
|---|---|
| 88,624 | |
| Total funds 2023 £ 16,026 466 |
|
| 16,492 |
Page 21
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
5. Investment management costs
| Unrestricted funds 2024 £ Investment management fees 28,685 Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Investment management fees 3,402 |
Total funds 2024 £ 28,685 |
|---|---|
| Total funds 2023 £ 3,402 |
6. Analysis of grants
| Grants offered to churches (note 7) Grants offered to churches (note 7) |
Grants to Institutions 2024 £ 219,366 Grants to Institutions 2023 £ 74,132 |
Total funds 2024 £ 219,366 |
|---|---|---|
| Total funds 2023 £ 74,132 |
Page 22
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
7. Grants
| 2024 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Allendale St Cuthberts | - | 4,825 |
| Alnmouth St John the Baptist | 4,100 | - |
| Alnwick Hexham and Newcastle Diocese | - | 5,000 |
| Alston Moor Group | - | 217 |
| Ashington Holy Sepulchre | 5,000 | - |
| Barnard Castle St Marys | 5,000 | - |
| Bellingham St Cuthberts | 7,500 | - |
| Bensham St Chads | - | 5,000 |
| Benton St Andrews | 7,326 | - |
| Benwell St James | 25,000 | 20 |
| Bishopton St Peters | 5,000 | - |
| Brancepeth PCC | - | 5,000 |
| Bywell St Peters | - | (5,000) |
| Cambo Holy Trinity | 5,000 | - |
| Cornhill St Helens | - | 5,000 |
| Darlington St Cuthberts | 5,000 | - |
| Durham St Chads | - | 5,000 |
| Easington St Marys | - | 1,800 |
| Elswick St Matthews PCC | - | 1,360 |
| Esh St Michael and All Angels | 5,000 | - |
| Felton St Michael and All Angels | 2,000 | - |
| Felton St Michael and All Saints | - | 3,000 |
| Fourstones with Warden Methodist Church | 3,000 | - |
| Gateshead All Saints | - | 5,000 |
| Great Bavington URC | - | 4,498 |
| Greatham Durham St Johns the Baptist | 10,000 | - |
| Haydon Bridge St Cuthberts | - | (3,000) |
| Haydon Bridge St Johns | - | 5,000 |
| Heaton St Gabriels | 20,000 | - |
| Heighington St Michaels | - | 2,000 |
| Hetton le Hole Methodist Church | 8,000 | - |
| Hexham Abbey | 10,000 | 5,000 |
| Jesmond Holy Trinity | 5,000 | - |
| Kimblewsorth St Philip and St James | - | 5,000 |
| Kirkhaugh Holy Paraclete | 6,532 | - |
| Lobley Hill All Saints | - | 1,412 |
| Lucker St Hildas | 8,000 | - |
| Marley Hill St Cuthberts | 5,000 | - |
| Matfen Holy Trinity Church | 10,000 | - |
Page 23
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
| Medomsley, Consett St Mary Magdalene Church Middleton St Marys - offer withdrawn Morpeth St Mary the Virgin Newcastle St Lukes Northgate URC Darlington North Shields Christ Church Otterburn Church of St John the Evangelist Rock St Philip and St James Seaham St Hild and St Helens Shotton Colliery St Saviour Simonburn St Mungo's Stockton on Tees St Peters Wallsend St John the Evangelist Wallsend St Lukes Whorlton St Johns Wingate Holy Trinity |
2,258 - 10,000 7,500 - 5,000 4,000 - 1,650 - 10,000 7,500 10,000 - - - 219,366 |
- (10,000) - - 5,000 - - 5,000 - 5,000 - - - 5,000 5,000 3,000 |
|---|---|---|
| 74,132 |
8. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities
Summary by fund type
| Unrestricted funds 2024 £ Direct costs - Activities 235,174 Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Direct costs - Activities 84,628 |
Total 2024 £ 235,174 |
|---|---|
| Total 2023 £ 84,628 |
Page 24
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
9. Analysis of expenditure by activities
| Direct costs - Activities Direct costs - Activities Analysis of support costs Depreciation Insurance IT costs General administration Financial administrator's and secretary's fees Governance costs Travel expenses Donations to churches Amortisation of intangible assets |
Grant funding of activities 2024 £ 219,366 Grant funding of activities 2023 £ 74,132 |
Support costs 2024 £ 15,808 Support costs 2023 £ 10,496 Activities 2024 £ 178 504 1,038 314 7,055 4,506 85 400 1,728 15,808 |
Total funds 2024 £ 235,174 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total funds 2023 £ 84,628 |
|||
| Total funds 2024 £ 178 504 1,038 314 7,055 4,506 85 400 1,728 |
|||
| 15,808 |
Page 25
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
9. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)
Analysis of support costs (continued)
| Depreciation Insurance IT costs General administration Financial administrator's and secretary's fees Governance costs Travel expenses Donations to churches 10. Auditors' remuneration Fees payable to the Charity's auditor for the audit of the Charity's annual accounts Fees payable to the Charity's auditor in respect of: All non-audit services not included above |
Activities 2023 £ 45 421 393 485 4,410 4,200 267 275 10,496 2024 £ 4,410 96 |
Total funds 2023 £ 45 421 393 485 4,410 4,200 267 275 |
|---|---|---|
| 10,496 | ||
| 2023 £ 4,200 - |
11. Trustees' remuneration and expenses
During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2023 - £NIL) .
During the year ended 31 January 2024, expenses totalling £ 86 were reimbursed or paid directly to 2 Trustees (2023 - £389 ). These were for travel and advertising expenses.
Page 26
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
12. Intangible assets
| Cost Additions At 31 January 2024 Amortisation Charge for the year At 31 January 2024 Net book value At 31 January 2024 At 31 January 2023 |
Website £ 6,912 |
|---|---|
| 6,912 | |
| 1,728 | |
| 1,728 | |
| 5,184 | |
| - |
Page 27
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
| 13. Tangible fixed assets Cost or valuation At 1 February 2023 At 31 January 2024 Depreciation At 1 February 2023 Charge for the year At 31 January 2024 Net book value At 31 January 2024 At 31 January 2023 |
Computer equipment £ 535 |
|---|---|
| 535 | |
| 45 178 |
|
| 223 | |
| 312 | |
| 490 |
Page 28
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
14. Fixed asset investments
| Cost or valuation At 1 February 2023 Additions Disposals Revaluations At 31 January 2024 Net book value At 31 January 2024 At 31 January 2023 15. Debtors Due within one year Prepayments and accrued income Tax recoverable 16. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Accruals and deferred income Grants offers outstanding (note 17) |
Listed investments £ 2,506,614 2,486,642 (921,040) 153,372 4,225,588 4,225,588 2,506,614 |
Cash held for re- investment £ 361,444 - (193,283) - 168,161 168,161 361,444 2024 £ 4,753 36 4,789 2024 £ 7,515 149,259 156,774 |
Total £ 2,868,058 2,486,642 (1,114,323) 153,372 4,393,749 4,393,749 2,868,058 2023 £ 2,600 36 2,636 2023 £ 4,400 43,000 47,400 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
17. Grant offers outstanding at the year end
| Alnmouth St John the Baptist Ashington Holy Sepulchre Barnard Castle St Marys Bensham St Chads Benwell St James Cambo Holy Trinity Cornhill St Helens Darlington St Cuthberts Durham St Chads Esh St Michael and All Angels Felton St Michael and All Saints Fourstones with Warden Methodist Church Gateshead All Saints Greatham Durham St Johns the Baptist Haydon Bridge St Marys Heaton St Gabriels Heighington St Michaels Hetton le Hole Methodist Church Hexham Abbey Jesmond Holy Trinity Kimblesworth St Philip and St James Kirkhaugh Holy Paraclete Marley Hill St Cuthberts Morpeth St Mary the Virgin Newcastle St Lukes Otterburn Church of St John the Evangelist Shotton Colliery St Saviour Stockton on Tees St Peters Wallsend St John the Evangelist Wingate Holy Trinity |
2024 £ 4,100 5,000 5,000 - 25,000 5,000 - 5,000 - 5,000 - 3,000 - 10,000 - 5,000 - 3,627 10,000 5,000 - 6,532 5,000 10,000 7,500 4,000 5,000 7,500 10,000 3,000 149,259 |
2023 £ - - - 5,000 - - 5,000 - 5,000 - 3,000 - 5,000 - 5,000 - 2,000 - - - 5,000 - - - - - 5,000 - - 3,000 |
|---|---|---|
| 43,000 |
Page 30
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
18. Financial instruments
| 2024 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Financial assets | ||
| Financial assets measured at fair value through income and expenditure | 75,876 | 3,003,549 |
Financial assets measured at fair value through income and expenditure comprise investments and cash at bank.
19. Statement of funds
Statement of funds - current year
| Balance at 1 February 2023 £ Unrestricted funds General Funds 2,959,275 Statement of funds - prior year Balance at 1 February 2022 £ Unrestricted funds Designated funds Designated Funds 2,000 General funds General Funds 182,068 Total Unrestricted funds 184,068 |
Income £ Expenditure £ 1,502,728 (263,859) Income £ Expenditure £ - (2,000) 2,753,022 (86,030) 2,753,022 (88,030) |
Gains/ (Losses) £ 124,992 Gains/ (Losses) £ - 110,215 110,215 |
Balance at 31 January 2024 £ 4,323,136 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at 31 January 2023 £ - |
|||
| Unrestricted funds Designated funds Designated Funds General funds General Funds Total Unrestricted funds |
|||
| 2,959,275 | |||
| 2,959,275 |
Page 31
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
20. Summary of funds
Summary of funds - current year
| Balance at 1 February 2023 £ General funds 2,959,275 Summary of funds - prior year Balance at 1 February 2022 £ Designated funds 2,000 General funds 182,068 184,068 |
Income £ Expenditure £ 1,502,728 (263,859) Income £ Expenditure £ - (2,000) 2,753,022 (86,030) 2,753,022 (88,030) |
Gains/ (Losses) £ 124,992 Gains/ (Losses) £ - 110,215 110,215 |
Balance at 31 January 2024 £ 4,323,136 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at 31 January 2023 £ - 2,959,275 |
|||
| Summary of funds - prior year | |||
| Designated funds General funds |
|||
| 2,959,275 |
21. Analysis of net assets between funds
Analysis of net assets between funds - current year
| Unrestricted funds 2024 £ Tangible fixed assets 312 Intangible fixed assets 5,184 Fixed asset investments 4,393,749 Current assets 80,665 Creditors due within one year (156,774) Total 4,323,136 |
Total funds 2024 £ 312 5,184 4,393,749 80,665 (156,774) |
|---|---|
| 4,323,136 |
Page 32
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
21. Analysis of net assets between funds (continued)
Analysis of net assets between funds - prior year
| Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Tangible fixed assets 490 Fixed asset investments 2,868,058 Current assets 138,127 Creditors due within one year (47,400) Total 2,959,275 22. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities 2024 £ Net income for the year (as per Statement of Financial Activities) 1,363,861 Adjustments for: Depreciation charges 178 Amortisation charges 1,728 (Gains)/losses on investments (124,992) Dividends, interests and rents from investments (88,624) Increase in debtors (2,153) Increase/(decrease) in creditors 109,374 Net cash provided by operating activities 1,259,372 23. Analysis of cash and cash equivalents |
Total funds 2023 £ 490 2,868,058 138,127 (47,400) |
|---|---|
| 2,959,275 | |
| 2023 £ 2,775,207 |
|
| 45 - (110,215) (16,492) (2,438) (670) |
|
| 2,645,437 | |
| Cash in hand Total cash and cash equivalents |
2024 £ 75,876 75,876 |
2023 £ 135,491 |
|---|---|---|
| 135,491 |
Page 33
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
NORTHUMBRIA HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JANUARY 2024
24. Analysis of changes in net debt
| At 1 | At 31 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| February | January | ||
| 2023 | Cash flows | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Cash at bank and in hand | 135,491 | (59,615) | 75,876 |
25. Related party transactions
The Charity has not entered into any related party transaction during the year, nor are there any outstanding balances owing between related parties and the Charity at 31 January 2024.
Page 34
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
20 June 2024
Kinnair Associates Limited Aston House Redburn Road Newcastle upon Tyne NE5 1NB
Dear Sirs
We provide this letter in connection with your audit of the financial statements of Northumbria Historic Churches Trust for the year ended 31 January 2024for the purpose of expressing an opinion as to whether the financial statements give a true and fair view of the financial position of the charity as at 31 January 2024and of the results of its operations for the year then ended in accordance with UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (“UK GAAP”).
We confirm that the following representations are made on the basis of sufficient enquiries of management and staff with relevant knowledge and experience and, where appropriate, of inspection of supporting documentation and that, to the best of our knowledge and belief, we can properly make each of these representations to you.
-
We acknowledge our responsibility for the financial statements of the charity and for their fair presentation in accordance with UK GAAP.
-
We acknowledge as trustees our responsibility for making accurate representations to you.
-
We acknowledge our responsibility for the design and implementation of internal control to prevent and detect fraud and errors.
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We have provided you with all accounting records and relevant information and granted you unrestricted access to persons within the entity, for the purposes of your audit.
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All the transactions undertaken by the charity have been properly reflected and recorded in the accounting records or other information provided to you.
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The methods, data and significant assumptions used by us in making accounting estimates, and their related disclosures, are appropriate to achieve recognition, measurement and disclosure that is reasonable in the context of the applicable financial reporting framework.
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We have considered the adjustments shown in the audit findings report proposed by you. We confirm that, in our judgement, these adjustments are appropriate given the information available to us. We further confirm that we have now made these adjustments to the financial statements.
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We confirm that we do not wish to adjust the financial statements for the unadjusted items set out in the audit findings report as we believe that the errors are immaterial, both individually and in aggregate, to the financial statements as a whole.
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We are not aware of any actual or possible litigation or claims against the charity whose effects should be considered when preparing the financial statements.
Docusign Envelope ID: 07C288DA-5B79-4038-8D8B-AC592EEEB33E
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All grants, donations and other incoming resources, the receipt of which is subject to specific terms and conditions, have been notified to you. There have been no breaches of terms or conditions in the application of such incoming resources.
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We are not aware of any breaches of our charitable trusts and that we have advised you of the existence of all endowments and funds maintained by us.
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There have been no events since the balance sheet date which require disclosure or which would materially affect the amounts in the financial statements. Should any material events occur which may necessitate revision of the figures in the financial statements, or inclusion in a note thereto, we will advise you accordingly.
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We have assessed that there is no significant risk that the financial statements are materially misstated as a result of fraud.
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We are not aware of any fraud or suspected fraud affecting the charity involving those charged with governance, management or other employees who have a significant role in internal control or who could have a material effect on the financial statements.
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We are not aware of any allegations by employees, former employees, regulators or others of fraud, or suspected fraud, which would have an impact on the charity’s financial statements.
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We are not aware of any known or suspected instances of non-compliance with those laws and regulations which provide a legal framework within which the charity conducts its business.
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We confirm that complete information has been provided to you regarding the identification of related parties and that we are not aware of any significant transactions with related parties.
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We confirm we have appropriately accounted for and disclosed related party relationships and transactions in accordance with applicable accounting standards and with the recommendations of the applicable charity SORP.
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We confirm that, having considered our expectations and intentions for at least the next twelve months and the availability of working capital, the charity is a going concern. We are not aware of any events, conditions, or business risks beyond the period of assessment that might cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern.
Yours faithfully
………………………………….………….
Mr John Philip Palmer Anderson
Chair
Signed on behalf of the Board of Trustees
Registered Charity No 511314 Registered Office: 7 Strothers Road, High Spen, Rowlands Gill, Tyne and Wear, NE39 2HR
Certificate Of Completion
Envelope Id: 07C288DA5B7940388D8BAC592EEEB33E Subject: Complete with Docusign: NHCT final 31-01-2024.pdf, NHCT LOR 2024.pdf Source Envelope: Document Pages: 38 Signatures: 4 Certificate Pages: 5 Initials: 0 AutoNav: Enabled EnvelopeId Stamping: Enabled Time Zone: (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada)
Status: Completed
Envelope Originator: Detlev Anderson detlev-anderson@kinnair.co.uk IP Address: 185.16.152.169
Record Tracking
Status: Original Holder: Detlev Anderson Location: DocuSign 9/11/2024 6:11:11 AM detlev-anderson@kinnair.co.uk Signer Events Signature Timestamp John Anderson Sent: 9/11/2024 6:18:31 AM john@kirkharlecourtyard.co.uk Viewed: 9/11/2024 7:08:01 AM Partner [ sa.DocuSigned7C334AB A 9E8D472...nderson by: Signed: 9/11/2024 7:09:11 AM The Little Harle Partnership Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style Security Level: Email, Account Authentication (None) Using IP Address: 109.157.158.125 Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure: Accepted: 7/19/2023 9:54:20 AM ID: 32a04dcb-8461-4143-83a3-cd3519279185 Kinnair Associates Limited DocuSigned by: Sent: 9/11/2024 7:09:13 AM detlev-anderson@kinnair.co.uk Viewed: 9/11/2024 7:12:17 AM Director [bisa8228AFA7794A4DC...Associates limited Signed: 9/11/2024 7:12:56 AM Kinnair Associates Limited Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style Security Level: Email, Account Authentication (None) Using IP Address: 185.16.152.169
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure: Not Offered via DocuSign
| In Person Signer Events | Signature | Timestamp |
|---|---|---|
| Editor Delivery Events | Status | Timestamp |
| Agent Delivery Events | Status | Timestamp |
| Intermediary Delivery Events | Status | Timestamp |
| Certified Delivery Events | Status | Timestamp |
| Carbon Copy Events | Status | Timestamp |
| Mark Allison | Sent: 9/11/2024 7:12:58 AM | |
| secretary@northumbriahct.org.uk | Viewed: 9/11/2024 11:53:21 PM | |
| Security Level: Email, Account Authentication | ||
| (None) | ||
| Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure: | ||
| Not Offered via DocuSign | ||
| Witness Events | Signature | Timestamp |
| Notary Events | Signature | Timestamp |
| Envelope Summary Events | Status | Timestamps |
|---|---|---|
| Envelope Sent | Hashed/Encrypted | 9/11/2024 6:18:31 AM |
| Certified Delivered | Security Checked | 9/11/2024 7:12:17 AM |
| Signing Complete | Security Checked | 9/11/2024 7:12:56 AM |
| Completed | Security Checked | 9/11/2024 7:12:58 AM |
| Payment Events | Status | Timestamps |
| Electronic Record and Signature | Disclosure |
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure created on: 2/28/2022 10:29:55 AM Parties agreed to: John Anderson
ELECTRONIC RECORD AND SIGNATURE DISCLOSURE
From time to time, Kinnair Associates (we, us or Company) may be required by law to provide to you certain written notices or disclosures. Described below are the terms and conditions for providing to you such notices and disclosures electronically through the DocuSign system. Please read the information below carefully and thoroughly, and if you can access this information electronically to your satisfaction and agree to this Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure (ERSD), please confirm your agreement by selecting the check-box next to ‘I agree to use electronic records and signatures’ before clicking ‘CONTINUE’ within the DocuSign system.
Getting paper copies
At any time, you may request from us a paper copy of any record provided or made available electronically to you by us. You will have the ability to download and print documents we send to you through the DocuSign system during and immediately after the signing session and, if you elect to create a DocuSign account, you may access the documents for a limited period of time (usually 30 days) after such documents are first sent to you. After such time, if you wish for us to send you paper copies of any such documents from our office to you, you will be charged a $0.00 per-page fee. You may request delivery of such paper copies from us by following the procedure described below.
Withdrawing your consent
If you decide to receive notices and disclosures from us electronically, you may at any time change your mind and tell us that thereafter you want to receive required notices and disclosures only in paper format. How you must inform us of your decision to receive future notices and disclosure in paper format and withdraw your consent to receive notices and disclosures electronically is described below.
Consequences of changing your mind
If you elect to receive required notices and disclosures only in paper format, it will slow the speed at which we can complete certain steps in transactions with you and delivering services to you because we will need first to send the required notices or disclosures to you in paper format, and then wait until we receive back from you your acknowledgment of your receipt of such paper notices or disclosures. Further, you will no longer be able to use the DocuSign system to receive required notices and consents electronically from us or to sign electronically documents from us.
All notices and disclosures will be sent to you electronically
Unless you tell us otherwise in accordance with the procedures described herein, we will provide electronically to you through the DocuSign system all required notices, disclosures, authorizations, acknowledgements, and other documents that are required to be provided or made available to you during the course of our relationship with you. To reduce the chance of you inadvertently not receiving any notice or disclosure, we prefer to provide all of the required notices and disclosures to you by the same method and to the same address that you have given us. Thus, you can receive all the disclosures and notices electronically or in paper format through the paper mail delivery system. If you do not agree with this process, please let us know as described below. Please also see the paragraph immediately above that describes the consequences of your electing not to receive delivery of the notices and disclosures electronically from us.
How to contact Kinnair Associates:
You may contact us to let us know of your changes as to how we may contact you electronically, to request paper copies of certain information from us, and to withdraw your prior consent to receive notices and disclosures electronically as follows:
To contact us by email send messages to: graham-murray@kinnair.co.uk
To advise Kinnair Associates of your new email address
To let us know of a change in your email address where we should send notices and disclosures electronically to you, you must send an email message to us at graham-murray@kinnair.co.uk and in the body of such request you must state: your previous email address, your new email address. We do not require any other information from you to change your email address.
If you created a DocuSign account, you may update it with your new email address through your account preferences.
To request paper copies from Kinnair Associates
To request delivery from us of paper copies of the notices and disclosures previously provided by us to you electronically, you must send us an email to graham-murray@kinnair.co.uk and in the body of such request you must state your email address, full name, mailing address, and telephone number. We will bill you for any fees at that time, if any.
To withdraw your consent with Kinnair Associates
To inform us that you no longer wish to receive future notices and disclosures in electronic format you may:
i. decline to sign a document from within your signing session, and on the subsequent page, select the check-box indicating you wish to withdraw your consent, or you may;
ii. send us an email to graham-murray@kinnair.co.uk and in the body of such request you must state your email, full name, mailing address, and telephone number. We do not need any other information from you to withdraw consent.. The consequences of your withdrawing consent for online documents will be that transactions may take a longer time to process..
Required hardware and software
The minimum system requirements for using the DocuSign system may change over time. The - - current system requirements are found here: https://support.docusign.com/guides/signer guide signing-system-requirements.
Acknowledging your access and consent to receive and sign documents electronically
To confirm to us that you can access this information electronically, which will be similar to other electronic notices and disclosures that we will provide to you, please confirm that you have read this ERSD, and (i) that you are able to print on paper or electronically save this ERSD for your future reference and access; or (ii) that you are able to email this ERSD to an email address where you will be able to print on paper or save it for your future reference and access. Further, if you consent to receiving notices and disclosures exclusively in electronic format as described herein, then select the check-box next to ‘I agree to use electronic records and signatures’ before clicking ‘CONTINUE’ within the DocuSign system.
By selecting the check-box next to ‘I agree to use electronic records and signatures’, you confirm that:
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You can access and read this Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure; and
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You can print on paper this Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure, or save or send this Electronic Record and Disclosure to a location where you can print it, for future reference and access; and
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Until or unless you notify Kinnair Associates as described above, you consent to receive exclusively through electronic means all notices, disclosures, authorizations, acknowledgements, and other documents that are required to be provided or made available to you by Kinnair Associates during the course of your relationship with Kinnair Associates.