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← Franche Community Church

2024-12-31-accounts

Franche Community Church, Kidderminster

Chestnut Grove, Kidderminster DY11 5QA

Registered Charity Number: 701151

Trustees’ Annual Report for the period 1st January – 31st December 2024

Overview

This has been a year of transition for Franche Community Church (FCC) with challenges and a renewed vision.

Despite significant changes in leadership and oversight, FCC has continued in its mission to serve the community of Franche and the surrounding area.

FCC continues to operate as a registered charity governed by a Constitution, which the Trustees have reviewed periodically to ensure it reflects the current status and needs of the church.

Our premises, located adjacent to Franche Community Primary School, remain a good hub for worship, outreach, and community support.

Governance and Trustees

The Trustees met monthly throughout 2024 to oversee the charity’s operations, finances, staffing and strategic direction.

The year saw several changes in Trustee roles resulting in the Trusteeship being reduced from four to two people. These transitions were handled with a commitment to continuity and accountability.

The Trustees are currently seeking additional Trustees in line with the FCC Constitution.

Leadership Transitions

2024 began under the inspired leadership of Minister Sam Guille, who had faithfully served FCC for seven years.

Sam’s ability to communicate the message of Jesus in a relevant and engaging way, both within the church and in local schools, was a blessing to many. However, during the year, Sam discerned a calling toward education and announced his departure in September. His final service on 6th October was a moving celebration of his ministry.

Following Sam’s departure, Paul Guille and Barbara Guille also stepped down from their roles, leaving Richard and Heidy Hague as the Elders and Church Leaders.

These transitions were marked by prayer and gratitude.

Staffing

A significant milestone in 2024 was the formal employment of FCC’s two staff members:

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Effective from 1st January 2024, both transitioned from self-employment to employment status, with contracts and job descriptions agreed and signed.

The payroll is administered via Stewardship.

Salaries are aligned with the recommendations of The Resolution Foundation.

Safeguarding

FCC addressed and resolved safeguarding issues during the year.

Trustees received safeguarding training from Pioneer.

FCC remains committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Finance

Following the advice of our independent examiner, we continue to revise our methods of accounting by regularly updating our monthly spreadsheets, which has enabled the Trustees to have a more transparent view of the Charity’s finances.

Both income and expenditure have reduced during 2024, compared with 2023.

There are sufficient Reserves to support the Charity for the foreseeable future.

During the year, funds have been transferred from the Current Account to new Savings Accounts.

The Treasurer was Mrs Barbara Guille until 15[th] Nov 2024 and then was, and is currently, John Balcon.

Our independent Examiner is Brian Richard Price.

His report is attached with this report together with the SOFA.

Mission

Under Sam’s leadership, FCC focused on three ministry goals: deepening faith, strengthening fellowship, and expanding mission.

He continued these focuses until his departure.

While attendance at services remained low, the spiritual enthusiasm among members remained strong.

Preaching / Teaching ministry

While Sam was the main preacher during 2024, messages were also brought by the Elders and visiting speakers.

For most Sundays, the services followed a pattern of musical worship; preaching on a theme or following a series; testimony and spoken worship and communion.

A table was provided for children to do creative activities.

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There were also opportunities for prayer ministry after the service.

Food Bank Ministry

The Wyre Forest Food Bank, is an independent Food Bank, a member of the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN), and part of the ministry of FCC.

It continues to provide vital support to families and individuals in need.

It is recognised by the Wyre Forest District Council Financial Inclusion team, Community Housing and Citizens Advice as a unique and essential service to the Wyre Forest

It is primarily from these agencies that the referrals come.

A summer buffet was organised to celebrate the Food Bank's volunteers, past and present and promotional mugs and pens were distributed to volunteers and supporters to raise awareness and appreciation for this essential ministry.

Donations of both food and monies come from many individuals and a variety of organisations including businesses, churches and supermarkets, as well as occasional grants.

We are very pleased that we have been able to meet all the referral needs over the year.

Property and Facilities

FCC secured a new three-year contract for gas and electricity.

Monthly work parties ensure regular maintenance and improvements to the premises, which remain a valued resource for the local community.

Off-road parking is provided, behind the church, especially for the larger groups that use the building.

Groups

An Events group conducted successful events such as a Litter Pick, a Macmillan Coffee morning and supporting Operation Christmas Child.

A Knit and Natter group has helped many non-church people to come together to talk and meet new people, whilst knitting and doing other crafts.

Oversight and Transition

FCC has been part of the Pioneer Network for many years. However, due to geographical limitations, it became clear that a new oversight arrangement was needed. Discussions began with Hope Church, Worcester (Catalyst Network), and on 4th December, FCC formally agreed to pursue a partnership with Hope Church.

Pioneer has continued to offer support as a spiritual oversight.

FCC is grateful for their encouragement during this transitional period.

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Looking Ahead

As FCC enters a new chapter, the Trustees and Leadership Team are committed to:

We give thanks to God for His faithfulness and to all who have served and are currently serving FCC.

May we continue to be a light in Franche and the surrounding area, sharing the hope of Christ with all.

Richard Hague

Chair of Trustees

Franche Community Church, Kidderminster DY11 5QA

September 2025

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