Registered number 514539 New Life Church Congleton Report and Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31 December 2024
New Life Church Congleton Contents Page Referen and administrative infomation Report of the Trustees Independent Examiner's Report Statement of Financial Activities 13 14 Balance Sheet 15 Statement of Cashflows 16 Notes to the Financial Slalements 17
New Life Church Congleton Reference and adminlstrative infom)atlon TRUSTEES Stephen Neil Hodgkinson MBE Peter Marhn Giles Osborn Chapman George Hudstr)ne Susan Sparks Michael Burgess Linda Hurlslone Rachel Mellor Peter Minshull Reuben Oliver Gittings Jeff Lewls Resigned 4 Febnjary 2024 Resigned 4 FebnJ2ry 2024 Resigned 4 February 2024 Appointed 4 February 2024 Appointed 4 Febnjary 2024 and resigned 23 September 2024 TRUST ADDRESS Danesford Community Centre West Road Congleton Cheshire CW124EY LEGAL STATUS The charity was formed as 8 trust under a trust deed dated 21 October 1983 (With Deeds of Variation dated 8th April 2000,13th December 2010 and 19Éh January 2021) Registered with the Charity Commission- Registration Number 514539 The charity was fom)erly known as New Lrfe Christian Fellowship BANKERS The Royal Bank of Scotland PLC Drummond House (GEI Branch. Edinburgh INDEPENDENT EXAMINER K Salt {FCCA) BK Plus Audit Limited Chartered Certified Accountsnts Adventure Place Hanley stoke on Trent ST1 3AF ANNUAL REPORT These financial statements should be ad in conjunction with the trustees. annual report which is published on the same date as these accounts.
Church Danesford Community Centre West Road, Congleton Cheshire, CW12 4EY Trustees Report as at 31st December 2024 New Life Church Con leton. Registered Charty No. 514539 Bankers: Royal Bank of Scotland, Drummond House (GE) Branch, Edinburgh Independent Examiner: K Salt (FCCA) BK Plus Limited (formerly Walletts) Chartered Certified Accountants Adventure Place. Hanley, Stoke on Trent Solicilors: Fiona Bruce & Co Justice House, Stockton Heath Warrington
History The church was founded in 1983 and operates as a Charitable Trust under its Trust Deed dated 21st October 1983. which also contains the Statement of Doctrines, and by which the church life and business is conducted. A subsequent Deed of Variation dated 8° April 2000 was registered with the Charity Commissioners. th Further Deeds of Variation dated 13 December 2010 authorised the change of name from New Life Christian Fellowship. Congleton to New Lrfe Church, Congleton and 19 January 2021 clarifying conflicts of interest predureS of Trustee meetings. The church began as a small house fellowship, often referred to as a 'House Church.. As it grew and expanded, the church needed larger premises to hold its Sunday Services and to develop other ministries in the local community. The church acquired the freehold on the premises known as Danesford Community Centre from NCH Action for Children. from whom the premises were previously rented. during the financial year ended 31 October 2000. The cost was £185,000. Major improvements and refurbishments have taken pla and continue to take place as the trustees seek to maintain the facility to a high standard and ensure compliance with all health and safety and hygiene regulations and standards. A major first floor extension was completed in 2015 and provides four additional rooms and a tea bar. All rooms are being used extensively and are proving a great asset to the community centre, which is recognised as a Community Hub. During 2022, discussions have begun with Cheshire East Council with gard to being included as part of the Family Hub network which would release some level of funding Provided by HM Govemment to support Family Hubs. Fiona Bruce MP is being supportive. Whilst we are connected and directly involved with Cheshire East Council in this respect it would appear no funds from the £1,000,000 grant from Central Government will be coming our way! This was a great disappointment to both ourselves and Fiona Bruce MP who had worked so hard on our behalf. Review of centre facilities Th& extension to the renamed Family Room which was completed in the summer of 2017 has proved to be a great addition to our centre facilities. The church's involvement in the community has continued to expand during the year with numerous voluntary organisations, clubs, societies, fundraising bodies. especially those involving children and young people, using the centre. The centre also has a specially designated Counselling Room where people with difficult personal issues, including addictions are helped. New Life Church provides spaces on the car park to house the Iwo Congleton Community Partnership Minibuses and their hirelusage diary and fuel is managed through the church office. New Life Church is a member of The Evangelical Alliance, Churches Together in Congleton, Congleton Bible Week and closely associated with various local government community partnerships. including the CVS (Council for Voluntary Service Cheshire East), and active member of East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise.
Aims and Objectives The charity's objectives are as follows: 1. The advancement of the Christian faith. 2. The relief of persons who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress or who are aged or sick. 3. The provision of instruction in the principles of the Christian faith at any educational establishment. 4. To promote and support such other charitable schemes or projects as may be established to benefit the public and in particular the provision of facilities for a community centre in Congleton for the use and benefit of local residents. We have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aims and objectives and in planning our future activities. In particular, the trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives they have set. Elders The governance of the church is under an appointed Eldership. which is responsible for sound doctrine in accordance with scripture, and for the overall vision and direction of the church. Elders serving during the year under review were- Stephen Hodgkinson MBE Peter MartiWPeter has taken the role of'Elder Statesman. and reduced his day to day involvement in the eldership). Jeff Cutts Joanne Kilbry-The Trustees were unanimous in appointing Joanne Kilbry as a hurch elder which was endorsed by the whole church. The Trustees Under the Trust Deed. trustees are appointed to be responsible and accountable for the financial integrity of the church, including property, equipment, fixtures & fittings, health and Safety and Safeguarding. The trustees serving during the year under review were: George Hurlstone (Secretary) Sue Sparks Linda Hurlstone Peter Minshull (Resigned 4th Feb 2024) Rachel Mellor Reuben Oliver Gittings (appointed 4th Feb 2024) Jeff Lewis (appointed 4th Feb 2024, resigned 23rd Sept 2024) Stephen Hodgkinson (Chairman) Peter Martin (Resigned 4th Feb 2024) Giles Chapman (Resigned 4th Feb 2024) Michael Burgess
The trustees are empowered to appoint a treasurer to maintain the accounts of the church. Rory Sanders holds this position following his appointment 1st October 2023. The trustees normally meet each month, except August, to review and make decisions in all matters relating to the church finances, employment, health and safety, safeguardinglchild protection and the general running of the centre. A full financial review is undertaken each quarter. Minutes of the meetings are taken and maintained by the church administrator. The trustees employ a Church Administrator Louise Davies, whose contract is for 31.5 hours per week for 42 weeks per annum. None of the trustees receive any financial remuneration or benefits in kind from the Trust, other than a contribution towards out of pocket expenses paid to S Hodgkinson as declared in the accounts. Governance The Church holds an Annual General Meeting and for the year under review was held on Sunday 2nd February 2024 at which a summary of income and expenditure was presented, together with a summary of ministry reports. Marriages The church centre is licensed and registered with the Superintendent Registrar to conduct marriage ceremonies under certrficate. Our Registered Number is 42430. Two weddings were conducted during the period under review. Church ministn.es Prayer Ministry Prayer underpins and sustains everything that takes pla within and out from New Life Church and new ministries are birthed in prayer. Regular times of corporate prayer are held at the centre and in Life Groups throughoLrt the week. Individual church members are encouraged to pray privately each day and special prayer events are held from time to time. During the year under review, we have experienced amazing answers to prayer evidenced by miraculous healings. guidance for individual lives and new opportunities for the church to serve the community. Regular prayer clinics are held and the church elders are always available to pray for people's needs and situations. Members of The Prayer Ministry Team are always available on Sunday mornings to pray with people after the service. The team has been expanded under the guidance of Merle Williams who provides training for those joining the team. Healing Rooms England & Wales We provide roomloffice facilities on Tuesdays and Thursdays for Healing Rooms ministry whose headquarters are located at New Life Church Centre. Preaching Ministry The church Elders continue to have overall responsibility for the preaching and teaching of sound biblical truths bringlng guidance, direction and vision to the church.
Inspirational preaching is provided through church members and from time to time visiting speakers. The Elders are particularly grateful to Paul Williams, Catherine Krinks and Shane Wright who continue to form the core of the preaching ministry team, joined this year by Joanne Kilbry. Visiting preachers have included Mike Vickers (Cross The Nations), Rev. Derek Balsden (Global Methodist Church), Rev Paul Weaver {forner National UK Leader Assemblies of God Church), Rev. David Morris (Baptist Minister), Dennis Smith (Good News for Everyone). Rev Christopher Hill (C L Ministries). Praise & Worship Ministry Christian Contemporary Music plays a key part in our Sunday worship services and the church is blessed with a good number of gifted Holy Spirit anointed musicians and singers from whom we currently have several worship bands who alternate for various periods during the year. The bands are supported by a dedicated team of audio and visual technicians. Sanctuary Worship provides an extended time of praise and worship with an open time to hear from The Lord. This usually takes place monthly on the first Tuesday evening. Life Groups, Discipleship and Pastoral Care The church is committed to the discipleship and pastoral care of church members and this is undertaken in a variety of ways, primarily small groups. All new people joining the church are encouraged to join a small group or be linked to one. Each first Sunday in each month one of our Life Groupslstudy Groups leads the second part of our service which includes sharing together in Holy Communion, Praying for our Prodigals and bringing God's Word. Equip Foundations, remains well established and is very well attended including many people who recently completed the Alpha Course. 'Living God's Way, courses for new disciples takes place, primarily for those who have re- cently completed an Alpha Course. Evangelism The church is committed to evangelism within the local community. Church members carry this out most effectively through personal witnessing and development of friendships and relationships. Church wide Alpha Courses continue to be held every year in the autumn and spring terms. Alpha continues to be the main tool to assist members in introducing friends, neighbours and colleagues to the Christian faith. We have seen encouraging growth in attendance on Alpha Courses and these have been followed by foundation courses. Six new believers were baptised on Easter Sunday. Special events, e.g. Theatre Productions and Concerts are also held occasionally and these events provide an ideal opportunity to introduce people to the Christian faith. Life Groups play an essential part in Alpha by introducing guests and in providing the excellent weekly meals for the evening courses.
A comprehensive report of all the church's ministries is prodUd and reported at the AGM. A copy is available on request. Primary Schools, Ministry We continue to conduct lessons and assemblies using Open the Book materials and orr Mini and NIT Mini (formerly Bible Explorer) material. The teams have been strengthened with volunteers including Tina O'Hara who has lead our Open the Book team. We conduct a one hour lesson in all the primary schools preparing year 6 pupils who are moving up to High School and present each pupil with an 'lt's your move, booklet produced by Scripture Union. This is largely funded by Churches Together in Congleton. Our Children's ministry team also conduct assemblies in most primary schools and a new initiative called 'The Hope Journey, takes place, working with other local churches. This also included Christmas in a Box. High Schools, Ministry We have a longstanding strong relationship with our two High Schools particularly CU groups in Congleton High School. We hope for greater connections once again with Eaton Bank Academy. Nursery Group This consists of Pre-school for 3 and 4 year olds and 2 year olds in The Rainbow Room, catering for children on a sessional basis. 'Fees are charged and part-time staff are paid on a pro-rata basis per session. Staff are paid above the minimum wage and Childcare level 3 qualifications are recognised with an additional hourly rate supplement. Holiday pay is the required statutory 5.6 weeks. ('Most three & four year old children are now funded by Cheshire East Council Children & Families plus some two year olds who meet the special funding criteria.) Individual Pupil Funding (IPF) is secured to cover one to one support for special needs children. The Nursery Group continues to provide high quality pre-school provision. This was under the leadership of Alison Timbey our Nursery Manager who relinquished her role at the end of the summer term. Two existing members of staff, Maria Daniels and Jemma Irwin were appointed Joint Manag- ers in a shared leadership role. Sarah Morris continues as Deputy Manager, having returned from maternity leave. We believe in the inclusion of all children and we have developed and been recognised as a centre of excellence for children with special educational needs and disabilities. The Nursery is judged GOOD following the last Ofsted inspection in October 2019. Open Evenings for parents are held each year to discuss the proJress of their children.
Again we have seen a modest growth in numbers of the children attending, and especially those with special educational needs (SEND). Zang Qui Xi, who is sponsored by our nursery families. is a special needs child in the Lighthouse orphanage in Chagsha Province in China which is part of the church's ministry and support for International China Concern. New Life Nursery is a member of the Early Years Alliance and is registered with Children and Families Cheshire East. Special services are held for nursery children and families at Harvest, Christmas. Easter and Summer Sports, all of which are extremely well attended by the children and their families. New Life Nursery Group maintains a strong Christian ethos with daily prayers. Bible stories and songs. Childrens, and Youth Ministry We have an excellent team of enthusiastic and committed leaders in Beth Cosgrove, Sue Wood, Callum Davies and Chloe Page who provide energy, imagination and creativity to this ministry, working well together as a team. Early in the year Chloe decided on a career change and is now employed by the NHS based at the Christie Hospital as she provides special support for young peoplelyoung adults diagnosed with cancer. Following a fairly protracted search for a replacement the Trustees were delighted to appoint Jeremy Coles to the Children's Ministry Team who took on this role early in August. The church remains totally committed to children and young people and continues to invest unreservedly in this minislry. Design and Publicity and Communication Julie Thomas undertakes the role of running Facebook. keeping the Website up to date, and effectively communicating through Social Media. She is employed by the church one day per week. We are indebted to Elaine Sharples for her excellent work in designing our Alpha leaflets, publicity items and adverts for the local press. Ministry to Deaf People Loop systems exist in the Main Hall, Social Room and Children's Room.
Fairly Traded Goods New Life Church encourages support for Fair Trade which is promoted through Words & Music. Ukrainian Refugees The church provided support and regular gatherings (Conversation Café) for refugees based locally. UK Missions The church provides regular financial support to the following: Good News for Everyone (formerly Gideons Intemational) United Christian Br08dcasters (UCB) Alpha UK Christian Institute Lifelink Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) Care Churches in Cheshire Agricultural Chaplaincy Bible Society Open Doors Street Pastors Healing Rooms Sat7TV Message Trust Christian Aid The Message Other one-off gifts are made on approval of the trustees. Overseas Missions The church support various overseas missions financially on a regular basis in China, Slovakia, Romania, Africa and India plus support for the Persecuted Church worldwide through Open Doors charity. Samaritan's Purse (Christmas Shoeboxes) New Lrfe Church acts as a collecting ntre thanks to Yvon Degens, and Ruth Speed's Organisation and we collected over 1,100 shoeboxes. Caring Ministries I Serving the Community Objective 2 of our Trust Deed states "The relief of persons who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress or who are aged or sick" The major expansion of this work has continued during the year under review and we have further extended our network of referring agencies with whom we have excellent working relationships. Various grants have generously been made available to support this vital work and the trustees are extremely grateful to several agencies, charities and grant making bodies.
Christian Counselling and Listening Service This is run by Louise Daniels, a fully qualified counsellor accredited by BACP and ACC. The service is open to people both in and outside the church and many people are referred through local agencies. The church carries specialist professional indemnity insurance for this ministry. This service now includes Pregnancy Crisis Support and Child Loss (formerly provided under the Image banner). Storehouse Project This project continues to experien very strong demand and the church is extremely grateful for extra grants and an amazing response from the local community. Joanna Crichton and Lynnsey Miles oversee the Storehouse and during the year have built a great team of reliable volunteers. Lynnsey decided on a career change and relinquished her role as Volunteer Manager in December. Lynnsey's post was originally funded through a grant by Reaching Communities and she has not been replaced sue to financial constraints. The Storehouse Project, which was launched October 2010 has had an amazing impact within the community where more and more people and families have benefitted from crisis food parcels. Generous donations of food from church members, local schools and other churches in the town have kept The Storehouse stocked with food and essential items, plus some very generous regular financial gifts from people outside the church enables us to boost stocks on a regular basis. Collections at Tesco Congleton have also boosted stocks and the church is very grateful to the generosity of the Congleton public. (We are now included in Tesco's national food collection known as Fair Share) which takes place twice each year. Regular daily collections of fresh food are made at Marks & Spencer Food Hall, Tesco, Greggs and CO-OP. Regular bulletins are produced for general information. Circa 400 Bags of Joy and presents were provided to needy families and individuals referred to us by various support agencies. Furniture and White Goods Recycling l New Life Community Partnership The church for many years has sourced good condition second hand items, passing them on to those who are being re-housed, having previously been homeless. The church works in conjunction with the warehouse and team based on Bromley Road and is very grateful to them for their support, without which the service could not operate. We have experienced a massive increase in demand due to cost of living increase, especially in white goods for single parent families, often fleeing domestic abuse. Also we're helping an increasing number of individuals with mental health issues.
Forget-me-not Group Under the leadership of Clare Sheard and a team of dedicated volunteers the church runs, twice monthly, a very successful support group for those suffering from dementia and their carers. The Jubilee Club The Jubilee Club was founded in May 2012 in response to the needs of many people being helped through the Storehouse foodbank. People are referred through various agencies. The club meets every Tuesday. starting with tea. coffee and toast. followed by a brief "life message" Members of the team then opt for various activities. Many of those attending are struggling with serious life issues, e.g. recovering from drug and alcohol addictions, mental health patients, broken domestic relationships, abusive and violent relationships. The Club continues to thrive and grow with thanks to many committed volunteers. Job Club & Benefits Support This grew out of the Jubilee Club and has proved very popuSar and been very successful. Job vacancies are scrutinised and matched to suitable applicants. Cvs are written, mock interviews take place, references are provided and suitable attire provided rf appropriate. Well over 100 people have gained permanent employment since it began in 2013. Thanks to the commitment of a group of volunteers under the leadership of Catherine Morris this has conlinued to help an ever increasing number of clients who are referred to us. Family Support Ministry This ministry has continued to grow and was initially funded by a three year grant from the National Lottery's Reaching Communities. This expanding ministry is led by Joanna Crichton and Margaret Sanders and is now funded through church members My Giving. and very recently generous grants. Much of the work takes place wth damaged. broken and dysfunctional families and on occasions involves supporting clients in court appearances and EHA, CIN and CP meetings where children are involved. Parenting courses are proving very popular and helpful. Civic & Community Engagement The church continues to be actively involved in the local community including civic functions and charitable events with the Rotary Club. Church Elder Steve Hodgkinson relinquished his role as Mayor's Chaplain in May upon appointment of a new Mayor. 10
Financial Review The financial activity of the charity is detailed in the Financial Statements attached which have been prepared by B K Plus Limited Chartered Certified Accountants. The trustees are satisfied that the Financial Accounts reflect an accurate account of the year's activities. st The Income and Expenditure figures for year ended 31 December 2024 shows a net deficit of expenditure over income of £72,944. (£22656. 2023) The Balance Sheet reveals net assets of £807,965(2023 . £880,909) Whilst the charity remains in a strong and healthy financial position to support its ongoing work and vision. the trustees are reliant upon community grants to supplement the generous giving of church members. All designated giving, e.g. Grants, International China Concern, Building Fund, Ukraine Refugees, Romanian children etc. was directed in full to the designated account or recipient, together with allocated Gift Aid. The Trustees are continually reviewing the financial position and are confident that the significant cash reserves which have accumulated through prudent management will enable the church to continue to maintain all its ministries with its financial commitments and obligations. Plans for the future Our goal will continue to be the advancement of the Christian faith and the building of God's Kingdom through all the ministries described in the report. whilst being open to new initiatives through the guidance and inspiration of The Holy Spirit. Reserves Policy The Reserves Policy is as follows: Tier 1- Long Term The trustees will maintain a minimum cash balance of £85,000 overall funds to ensure continuation of operations, e.g. payment of wages and salaries, running and maintenance costs of buildings, fixtures and fittings. Tier 2 - Short Term The trustees will review the reserves policy annually when approving the accounts and make appropriate amendments in the light of current circumstances. Volunteers The church relies on the contribution made by its volunteers. These volunteers deliver services and also act as trustees, administrators, fundraisers and in other roles.
Risk Management The trustees actively review the major risks which the charity faces on a regular basis and believe that maintaining reserves at the cuent levels, combined with an annual review of the controls over key financial systems. will provide sufficient resources in the event of adverse conditions. The trustees have also examined other operational and business risks faced by the charity and confirm that they have established systems to mitigate the significant risks. Safeguarding The church operates Child Protection. Safeguarding Adults and Working wth Offenders policies. All people working with young people and children and vulnerable adults are DBS checked. Health and Safety Issues are reviewed monthly at the Trustees. meetings and Martin Hambley, Health and Safety Officer, and provides regular, usually weekly visits, carrying out alarm tests etc. Independent Examiners BK Plus Ltd were appointed as independent examiners during the year and have expressed their willingness to continue in that capacity. (Our main contact is Steve Orme). Church in the Community We have continued to help more and more vulnerable and needy people and families and we are seeing many of them become part of the church family. The church has eXperIend further growth during the year under review with more and more people and families becoming committed church members. We continue to be committed to the 'Great Commission. to 'go and make disciples of all nations, (Matthew 28.19) and to see God's people 'growing and being built up in love, as each part does its work. (Ephesians 4.16) stephen Hodgkinson MBE Chairman of Trustees Dated: 12
Independent Examinerfs Report tr> the trust8•s of New Life Church Congleton I report lo the trustees on my examinatii)n of the accounts of the New Life Church Congleton Ilhe Trust) for the year ended 31 December 2024, vtt)ich are sel out on pages 14 to 28. Re5ponsibilitle$ and basis of rèport AS the charity trustees of the Trust you are responsible for Ihe preparatitin of the accounts In accordance with the requirernenls of the Charities Acl 2011 1.the Act?. I report in respect of my examination of Ihe Trust's COUnts carri8(l out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrwng out my examination I have followed all the applicable DireCb.or gwen by the Charity Commission under section 145{5l{bl of the Act. Indendent examlner's statèment Since the Charitys gross incomè exceeded £250,000 your examiner fflusl be a member of a bchly listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that l am qualifd lo undertake the examination because l a member of The Asso¢ialion of Chartered Certified Ac¢wntants. whi¢h rs one of the listed tKxlies. I have completed my examinatDn. l confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in nned)ll with the examination gniing me cause lo lieVe that n any merial respect= 1. accounting records were nol kept in respect of the Trust as required by secti)n 130 of thè Act.. or 2. the accounts do not accord wth those records.. or 3. the accounts do not comply with the applble requirements conceming the fomi and ¢tent of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Rerx)rt51 Regulations 2008 other ihan any requirement that th& accounts give a 'true and fair view, which is rt a matter eonsidered as part of an irKlependenl eXaination. I have no ¢oncems and have come rOSS rK) other matters in conneciK)n with the examinatson to whid) attention should be drawn in this report in order to enatAe a proper understandiro of the accounts ID be reached. Signed.. Dated ". K. Sall IFCCA} BK Plus Audil Limited Chartered Certified Accountants Adventure Place Hanley Stoke on Trent ST1 3AF 13
New Life Church Congleton Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024 Unrestricted Rèstricted Endowment Funds Funds Fund5 2024 Totsl 2023 Totsl Notes Income Incoming resources from generated funds Donations & Grants Charttablts activities Fundraising activities Investment income 277.644 266,168 18,1(K) 168.918 446,562 266,168 18,100 1,061 494,838 195,696 13.897 1,362 Total inGon 562,973 168,918 731.891 705,793 ExpenditUTe Cost of raising funds Fundraisirig Expenditure on Gharitable actiMties= Ministy Youth, children and schools outreach Cafing ministries Support of missionaTies and other ch8rity donations Nursery Café and bookshop 258.996 90.633 6.121 1.583 67.225 265,117 92,216 73,731 229,649 1 D1,279 80.429 13.784 150,156 111.124 98,707 112.491 150,156 111,124 85.101 134.628 97.363 Total expenditure 631,199 173,636 804.835 728,449 Nel Incon{expendilureJ {68.2261 14,7181 172.944} 122.6561 Transfer beten funds Gross transfers betsveerTr funds 16 16,712 (16.712} Nel movement in funds 151.514) {21.430) {72.9441 122,6561 Rèconciliatlon of funds Totsl funds brought forward 583,789 74,41S 222,705 880,909 903,565 Tot81 funds ¢arried fonvard 532,275 52.985 222.705 807,965 880,909 14
New Life Church Congleton Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 Noles 2024 2023 Flxèd assets Tangible assets 11 421,039 446,501 Total fixed assels 421.039 446,501 Current assets Stock Debtors Cash at bank and in harKI 7.581 23.431 403.620 11,965 39,289 424,093 12 Total cuffent assets 434.632 475.347 Liabilities Creditors= amounts falling due wlhin one year 13 47.706 40,939 Net currenl assets 386,926 434,408 Tot81 assets less c(Jrrent liabil&$ 807,965 880,909 Creditors= amounts falling du8 after more than one year 14 Net assets 807,965 880.909 The funds of the charlty: Endowment fund 15 222.705 222,705 Restricted income funds 16 52.985 74,415 Unrestricted income funds General funds 17 532.275 583.789 Total Charity funds 807.965 880.909 The notes al pages 17 to 28 form part of these accounts Approved by the trustees on the date s signed on their behalf by: n below and Stephen Neil Hodgkinson MBE Date- 2¢J2S . 15
New Life Church Congleton Statement of Cash Flows as at 31 December 2024 Total funds 2024 Total funds 2023 Notes Net cash used in operating 20 10,094 23,458 Cash flows from investing Interest and dividends Propety improvement costs Purchase of fumiture and equipment Proceeds from sale of inveslments 1.061 1.362 (11.440> 122,547} Net cash provlded by invostlng 110,379) {21,1851 Cash flows from financing Repayment of borrowing Cash inflow from new borrowings Net cash provlded by financing Change In cash and cash (20.473) 2,273 Cash 8nd cash equivalent brought 424,093 421,820 Cash and cash equivalents carried 403.620 424,093 16
New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Slatements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Accounting policies Basls olpreparation of ?c¢ounts The accounts Ifinancial stalemenls) have been prepared under the historical cost convention wth items Te¢ognis&d al cost or transaction value unless olheThvise staled in the relevant nolelsl lo these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordan with the Statement of Recommended Practice.. Accounting and Reporting by Chartties preparing their accounts in accordance wtth the Financial Reporting Standard applicab in the UK and Republ+c of Ireland IFRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 and the Charities Act 2011. The Iruslees consider that there are no matetial uncertainties about the Trusl's ability lo continue as a going concern. Fund 5tru¢ture The charity maintains various ty5 of furKls as follows: Endowment funds Endo¥M)ent funds represent assets which are to be held permanently by the charity. Restricted funds Reslricled funds represent grants. (k)natnS and legacies received which are allocated by the donor for specific purpos8s. Designated funds Designated funds are amounts whrch have been put aside out of unrestricted funds at the dIsCtion of the trustees which are therefore not av8ilable for other purposes. General unrestricted funds General unrestricted funds represent unrestricted income which is expendable at the discretion of the Iruslees in the furtherance of the obj'ects of the charty. Such funds may be hehj in order to finance both working capilal and capital inveslrnenl. 17
New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Incomlng recognition All income is recogntsed in the slatement of financial acliviiies when the conditions for receipt have been met and there is reasonable assurance of receipt. Where a claim for repayTnent of income lax has or will be madè. such income is grossed up for the tax recoverable. The folkjwng accounting policies are applied to income.. Gifts in kind and donated goods Assets given for distribution by the charity are recogni5ed as income for the year only when they are distributed. Where such undislribuled assets exist at the year end, they are not included in the accounts bul 8 note is provided of their estimated value. Assets given for use by the charity are recognised as incoming resources at their estimated maikel value when receivable. If they form part of the fixed assets of the charity, they are capitalised in the balance sheet al the value at which the gift was included in incoming resources. Assets given in kind for conversion into cash and subsequent application by the charity are recognised as income in the accounting period when receivable. Al estimates of value of such gifts are made by the trustees. Donations Donations and all other receipts from fundraising are rewrted gross and the relat fundraising costs are reported in other expenditure. Investment income Investment income is aceounled for when receivab16. Tax recoverable Telating to investment income Is aecounled for in the same period as the related income. Resources expended Liabilities are recognised as resources eXpeIed as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation commilling the charity to the expenditure. All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Grants payable are aCCOL¢nted for when the trustees have accepted a legal or moral obligation to make the grant. Allocation of overhead. support and governance Costs Costs have been alloeAted first lo the charitable activty concerned. Overhead, SUPPDrt and govemance costs Telating to Charitable AclNities have been apportioned based on usage. The allocation of overhead, SUPFX)rt and governance eosls is shown in note 7. Costs of generating funds The cost of generating funds consist of the support eosts in relation to the administration support provided th regard to room hire. Charitable activitles Costs of charitable activities comprise of t)se costs incurred in the delivery of ils activities. It includes both costs that can te allocated directly and the relevant amount of 5UPPOrt cos(s that relate lo Ihal particular activity. 18
New Llfe Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Tangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets a stated al c05t less depreciation which is provided over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Fixtures and fittings Equipment Building improvements Property 20Yo reducing balance straight line over 5 years slraighl line over 15 years straight line over 50 years Opergting leases Rental costs under operaliry leases are charged to Ihe statement of financial acts'mties in equal amounts over the period of the lease. Stocks Stock is valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Grants Grants receivable are credited to the Statement of Financial Activities ISOFA} in the year for which they are received. Deferred income represents amounts received for fLrture peri(Kls and is released to incoming resources in the period for which il has been received. Charitable commitments Commitrnents which are legally binding on the trustees are accounted for as resources expended irk the statement of financral aclivilies. Where the promise of financial support is not binding on the tftjslees, such intentions are accounted for by a Iransfer lo a designated fund. Activtties that are lo be wholly financed from future income do not form part of such designation and are disclosed in a note lo the accounts. 19
New Llfe Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 De¢ember 2024 Donations & Grants Unrestricted Restrlcted 2024 2023 Grfts and donations Plus Dane Housing - Caring ministry granl William Dean Trust- Alolment grant Congleton Inclosure Trust- Electrical work John Holford Charity- Caring ministy grant Congleton Young People Trust Ltd Sainsburys- Storehouse grant Cheshire East- CEC - Flourish Fund J H Rausing Trust- Caring ministry wages Conglelon 4 Conglelon- Caring ministry grant Cheshire East- Cost of Living grant THIBA Ltd- LEO grant Conglelon Inclosure Trust- Equipment grant 277,6M 149.568 1,000 1.000 4.000 5,000 250 500 7.600 427,212 1,000 1.000 4,000 5.000 250 500 7.600 478,013 1.000 8,125 2.000 5,000 200 500 277.644 168,918 446.562 494,838 Income from charitable activities UnrestTiCted Restricted 2024 2023 Ministry sundry income Nursery school lees Nursery sundry income Café and bookshop income Events 3,606 171.949 971 86.666 2.976 3.606 171.949 971 86,666 2,976 10 114,279 1,356 78,808 1,243 266,168 266,168 195,69 20
New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Income from fundralslng activities Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2023 Room hire Miscellaneous events and income 18,100 18.100 13.897 18,100 18,100 13,897 Investment income Unrestricted Restrlcted 2024 2023 Bank interest from UK cash deposits 1.061 1.061 1.362 1.061 1.061 1.362 Cost of ralslng funds Unrestrleted Reslricted 2024 2023 Fundraising.. Room hire support costs Inole 7} 21
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New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 Support of misslonaries and other charity donations Unrestricted funds Restrlcted funds Total Funds 2024 Total Funds 2023 Material grants payable by the trust: 3 grants were made to individu81 missionaries {2023-.3) South African Missionary Work Amic mission- Romania Mali appeal ICC- China Carrot Tops Christian Aid Romania children's home Support to Romania-ukrainian Refugees 7,400 12,450 6,530 6,566 5,970 450 1,075 30,066 7.400 12,450 6,530 6,566 5,970 450 1,075 30,066 9.314 10,900 870 6,794 6,475 1,200 1,000 10,022 5,687 15,381 21,068 18.607 Olher small grants to charities Special donalions from the Church Family Fund 8,097 8,097 8,734 12,819 98,707 12,819 112,491 11,185 85.101 13,784 24
New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 10 Staff numbers and costs The average weekly number of staff employed by the charity during the year, was as follows: 2024 2023 Nursery staff Coffee shop and bookshop staff Admin slaff Youth and children's ministy Counsellor Cleaning Church leadership Volunteer managerlco-ordinator Family Support Ministry 14 12 37 31 Thé aggregate payroll costs of the above was: 2024 2023 Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs Total emoluments (remuneration and taxable benefits) 442,467 21.426 6,473 470,366 398,810 16,108 6,031 420,949 No employèes emoluments exceeded £60,000. The Trust considers its key management personnel comprise the trustees. No remuneration was paid to trustees in the year (2023.. Nil). Transactions with trustees Mr S N Hodgkinson MBE received £1,200 by way of a nominal allowance towards out of pocket expenses during the year. Mrs J Crichlon, daughter of Mr S Hodgkinson MBE and sister of Mrs R Mellor who are trustees was employed by the charity as a family support worker. The salary paid during the year amounted to £18,916. Mrs S Wood, sister of Mrs L Hurlstone who is a tmstee was employed by the charity as a youth and children's minister. The salary paid during the year amounted to £22.082. Mr G Wood, brother-in-law of Mrs L Hurlslone who is a trustee was employed by the charity as Assistant Manager in Words and Music. The salary paid during the year amounted to £15,637. 25
New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 11 Tangible fixed assets Freehold Land & Buildings Building Improve- ments Equipment Fixtures Total Cost As al 1 January 2024 Additions Disposals At 31 December 2024 548,353 209,951 340.073 11,440 1,098,377 11,440 548,353 209,951 351,513 1,109,817 Accumulated depreciation As al 1 January 2024 Disposa15 Charge for the year At 31 December 2024 198,629 180,889 272,358 651,876 12,114 210,743 6,883 187,772 17,905 290,263 36.902 688,778 Net book value At 31 December 2024 337.610 22,179 61,250 421,039 As at 1 January 2024 349,724 29,062 67,715 446,501 The property from which the charity operates is included at cost. The propews current value cannot be quantified as this depends on the future possible use of the site. 12 Debtors: amounts falling due within one year 2024 2023 Gift Aid accrued income Prepayments Sundry debtors 20,674 2,757 36,161 3,128 23,431 39,289 13 Creditors: amounts falllng due WRthin one year 2024 2023 Taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals Deferred income 6,732 5,752 5,441 29,781 5,252 5,510 5,899 24,278 47,706 40,939 14 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 2024 2023 Bank loan 26
New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 15 Endowment funds Endowment funds represent the charity's propety which is Ihe fellowship's pemianent place of worship. 2023 Balance Incoming Resources resources expended 2024 Balance Trdnsfers Property fund {cosl) 222,705 222,705 Total endowment funds 222,705 222,705 This fund represents donations and gffts from church members together with grants towards the purchase and extension of the church property which was previously rented. The implied Gondilions of donations and grants being that the church pemanently function from this site. In accordance with the Statemenl of Recommended Practice Accounting by Charities" (SORP 2005) an endowmenl fund has been created. 16 Restricted funds The mov8menls on the restricted funds of the chariiy were as follows-. 2023 Incoming Resources Balance resources expended 2024 Balance Transfers Church building fund Charities and missionaries fund Romanian children's home Ukrainian refugee support fund Church youth fund Church family fund Children's ministry Congleton 5nclosure Trusl - Electrical work Equipment fund Caring ministry funds General Jubilee project storehouse Family support Furniture recycling Jubilee Club Dementia group Tools for love thy neighbour Flourish Fund 2,121 41,712 23,179 12,540 250 4,324 1,333 4.000 3.500 2,121 42,698 30,066 13,123 250 12.819 1.333 4,000 4,527 10,990 583 {2,641) 2,641 900 6,744 9.636 1,141 13.500) 5,794 18,452 24,246 41,869 45,226 75 1,428 567 1.611 1,000 7,600 37.921 75 1,428 567 1,989 1.000 (13,212) 35,962 1,016 638 7,600 74.415 168,918 173,636 116,712 52,985 Transfers Transfers from restricted funds lo unrestricted funds relate to grants received towards support cost expenditure which was incurred during the year. Therefore the conditions of the grants have been met and the grant income was transferred into unrestricted funds. 27
New Life Church Congleton Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024 17 Unrestricted funds 2023 Balance Incoming Resources resources expended 2024 Balance Transfers Valuation reserve {Unrealised gain) Designated funds: Local evangelism account General fund 2,188 2,188 583,789 560,785 629,011 16.712 532,275 Total unrestricted funds 583,789 562.973 631,199 16,712 532,275 The local evangelism account represents monies intended to be used for the promotion of the charity via evangelistic, civic and cornmunty events All funds are considered adequate to meet their intended pUose$. 18 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestrlcted funds Restricted Endowment funds funds Total funds Fund balances as at 31 December 2024 are represented by.. Tangible fixed assets Current assets Creditors.. Amounts falling due within one year Amounls falling due in more than one year 478,797 473,594 222,705 421,039 434,632 52,985 (22,009) (47,706} Total net assets 532,275 52.985 222,705 807,965 19 Commitments There were no commitments for capital expenditure at the year end (2023= none). 20 Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities 2024 2023 Net movement in funds Add back depreciation charge Deduct interest income shown on investing activities Decrease (increase) in stock Decrease (increase) in debtors Increase (decrease} in creditors Net cash used in operating activities (72,944) 36,902 {1,061) 4,384 15.858 6.767 (10,094 (22,6561 36,452 {1,3621 <1,7441 (4.9461 17,714 23,458 28