REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: SC007633
Report of the Trustees and
Unaudited Financial Statements
for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
for
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
MacMillan Craig Chartered Accountants 100 Brand Street Glasgow G51 1DG
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
| Page | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Report of the Trustees | 1 | to | 5 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 6 | ||
| Statement of Financial Activities | 7 | ||
| Balance Sheet | 8 | ||
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 9 | to | 24 |
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
The trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of 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).
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
The Church of Scotland is Trinitarian in doctrine, reformed in tradition and Presbyterian in polity. It exists to glorify God and to work for the advancement of Christ's Kingdom throughout the world. As a national Church, it continues to acknowledge a distinctive call and duty to bring the ordinances of religion to the people in every parish of Scotland through a territorial ministry. It co-operates with other Churches in various ecumenical bodies in Scotland and beyond.
Paisley Abbey has as its core aims:
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To worship God, Father, Son and the Holy Spirit
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To welcome in Christ's name all who visit the Abbey for whatever reason
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To witness to the love of God within the community of Paisley
Volunteers
The congregation benefits from the contribution made by volunteers who give their time and talents willingly for the benefit of the Church. The areas of congregational life which rely on the contribution of volunteers are many and varied and much of the activity would be unable to continue were it not for the commitment shown.
Page 1
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
Charitable activities
2025 witnessed further progress within Paisley Abbey both in the development of the Abbey's activities and mission to the surrounding community and, also, in working in co-operation with the Presbytery of Clyde and the General Trustees of the Church of Scotland in ensuring Abbey finances are sustainable. Much of this effort derives from our 'Five Year Transition Plan of Action, 2023-2028' adopted by the Abbey Trustees (Paisley Abbey Kirk Session) and fully supported by a meeting held in 2023 of the Abbey congregation.
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ADMINISTRATION . Paisley Abbey is a Christian Church of the Church of Scotland serving the parish of Paisley and beyond. It is administered by its Trustees (members of the abbey Kirk Session) who are named elsewhere in this document. The Kirk Session is presently chaired by the Interim Moderator appointed by the Presbytery of Clyde. The Session meets five times throughout the year to approve decisions and recommendations made by its Executive and sub-committees; and to discuss and decide on new business brought before it. The Trustees are responsible for maintaining the property of the Abbey and the Place of Paisley in good order, restoring its historic accommodation for future use and income, raising funds and managing its finances and for the organisation of the congregation. Many Trustees have served on the Kirk Session for a number of years. Their loyalty and service remain undimmed, and their dedication is to be commended.
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WORSHIP . Central to the Abbey's life and function is its Christian Worship. Services are held every Sunday at 11.00am. Choral Communion is held monthly as is a more informal, said celebration of Holy Communion. The Abbey is unique within the Church of Scotland for its long tradition of holding Choral Evensong on a monthly basis. Other services are held at other times when required, e.g.: funerals, weddings, national and civic services, school and university services. The Abbey is globally respected for its excellence in worship and in music. Many of these services are broadcast nationally by the BBC or recorded. During 2025, an annual University Service was inaugurated in conjunction with the University of the West of Scotland. Its annual theme being 'Education in Scotland'.
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CONGREGATION . The most important people attached to the Abbey are members of its congregation. They are those who faithfully give their time and talent to support the ongoing work and outreach of the Abbey. In an age of everdiminishing congregations, the Abbey at Paisley is fortunate in having an encouragingly strong core attendance at worship every Sunday: the demographic of which represents all age-groups.
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FINANCE . Upkeep of such ancient and large buildings as those of Paisley Abbey place an enormous financial strain on the congregation. The Abbey Trustees are grateful to the Society of Friends of Paisley Abbey and to other outside Benefactors for their support. Discussions continued throughout 2025 with representatives of the Presbytery of Clyde, the General Trustees and the Finance and Stewardship Department of the Church of Scotland to secure a more sustainable financial position for the Abbey.
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MISSION . Stemming from worship is the Abbey's mission outreach in the form of service to the community. The Abbey has a long history of caring for people in need. Currently, our approach is two-fold:
HOMELESS PEOPLE- the Abbey has leadership in the outreach of churches within the Presbytery of Clyde towards caring for people who are homeless. This also reaches out to Asylum Seekers temporarily resident in Paisley; and those attending meetings of our TALK IT OVER groups - women and, also, men who find daily life difficult for whatever reason. These groups operating within the Abbey are officially recognised by local Social Work Departments and often receive referrals from medics in Paisley and Glasgow.
RENFREWSHIRE FOODBANK. Each month the congregation generously donate goods to our local Foodbank; and, also throughout the year to other charities such as Water Aid, Christian Aid, Erskine Hospital and, at Christmas, two toy appeals.
MUSIC is an important outreach from the Abbey. The Abbey Choir has a worldwide reputation for excellence in choral music. For over sixty years it has been under the direction of Dr George McPhee, MBE. They have made countless recitals, recordings and broadcasts. Membership of the choir is open to all who have a particular talent or skill for choral singing. Scholarships are offered.
ALLOVUS. This is a social gathering of people, meeting fortnightly within the Place of Paisley, offering friendship and interest to all who gather. Membership is not limited to within the Abbey and around forty men and women of all ages and experience enjoy the fun. A varied programme of activity and outing is offered. Although only in its first year, already the group is self-supporting financially.
Page 2
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
CAFÉ AND SHOP. Both are open to the public every day of the week. They are an essential part of our outreach to the many thousands of visitors who are drawn to the Abbey from all over the globe as well as throughout the United Kingdom. We are ever grateful to those who volunteer their time to give support in this way.
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OUTSIDE EVENTS IN ABBEY . Paisley Abbey is regularly used by community organisations and agencies to promote their cause: the Accord Hospice, the Variety Club of Scotland, the Association for Mental Health, Rainbow Valley in Paisley, Renfrewshire Council, Renfrewshire schools and the National Youth Choir of Scotland to name a few. The University of the Wes t of Scotland uses the building for its graduation ceremonies.
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ABBEY EVENTS . Thanks to a loyal team of willing volunteers, various events are open to the public held each year: Annual Food Fair, Sma' Shot Day, Doors Open Day, as well as the Abbey's own 'Open Days'. The Abbey boasts a large number of volunteers (from within the congregation and out with) who help staff the church, café and shop each day of the week and enable the Abbey to be open to visitors. On special occasions, the Abbey Scouts organise tours up the tower of the Abbey church.
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WORLD HERITAGE SITE . The close of 2025 brought the news that, as a member of the Federation of Cluniac Sites throughout Europe, Paisley Abbey's as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has been further progressed by the Cluniac Federation based in France. Discussions with the United Kingdom Government will take place during this coming year. Much work continues to be undertaken at the Abbey promoting its historic, cultural and architectural importance on the national and world st age.
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SIGNATURE CHURCHES . Paisley Abbey is one of the foremost Signature Churches of the Church of Scotland. These are historic ecclesiastical buildings of national significance, in particular, cathedral churches which bear exceptional burdens of finance and building maintenance that other parish churches do not. The General Assembly of the Church of Scotland has agreed that special assistance needs to be given to maintaining these iconic buildings into the future.
From the above it may be understood that Paisley Abbey remains a place of vibrant, eager and faith-filled spirit, motivation and dedication. Its people work hard to ensure the spiritual message and work of the Abbey is relevant to contemporary society. At its heart is a compassion and care for people, whatever their background, race, colour, sexual orientation or religion may be. It offers a warm welcome to all. In return, the people of Paisley claim it, proudly, as their own. This is a clear indication of the depth of love and faith found in and around this ancient, holy place. A place of love, forgiveness and peace not just in the present but for future generations too.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Financial position
The Statement of Financial Activities shows net income for the year of £28,379 (2024 - £32,180). Total unrestricted funds at the financial year end were £625,081 (2024: £578,559).
Investment policy and objectives
Surplus funds are deposited with the Church of Scotland Investors Trust.
Reserves policy
The policy is to retain sufficient funds required to meet regular commitments for a period of three months. This is estimated to be £65,000.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document
The Church of Scotland, part of the Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church is the National Church in Scotland, recognised by the State but independent in spiritual matters. In one sense, its Constitution cannot be written down in precise terms, as the church has built up, stage by stage, "upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone". In another sense, the Church's Constitution may be said to be set out in certain important instruments. These are the "Articles Declaratory of the Constitution of the Church of Scotland in Matters Spiritual" (1921), the Act anent Spiritual Independence of the Church" (1960) and the "Act of Union" (1929).
Paisley Abbey is a registered charity, and is administered in accordance with the terms of the Church of Scotland Quoad Omnia Constitution.
Page 3
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Recruitment and appointment of new trustees
Members of the Kirk Session are the charity trustees. The Kirk Session members are the elders of the church and are chosen from those members of the Church who are considered to have gifts of spiritual leadership and pastoral oversight. The minister, who is a member of the Kirk Session, is elected by the congregation and inducted by Presbytery.
Organisational structure
The Kirk Session, which met 8 times during the year, is responsible for spiritual matters and for oversight of all aspects of congregational life.
Induction and training of new trustees
All Trustees have been supplied with literature setting out their obligations as Trustees. In addition, new Trustees are supplied with an Induction Pack together with the publication, "Guidance for charity trustees", issued by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator. As appropriate, Trustees are briefed on new legislation and developments relevant to the charity sector.
Key management remuneration
The Trustees consider the Kirk Session as comprising the key management personnel of Paisley Abbey in charge of directing the Charity and running and operating the Charity on a day to day basis. All Trustees give of their time freely. No trustee remuneration was paid in the year. Details of trustees expenses are disclosed in the notes.
Related parties
The Church of Scotland (charity no. SC011353) is a "designated religious body" under the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005. As a result Paisley Abbey obtains certain exemptions under the Act. However, while the congregation is under the authority of the Church of Scotland General Assembly and Clyde Presbytery in matters of a spiritual nature, it is financially independent. As a consequence no related party transactions with the Church of Scotland are shown in the financial statements.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Charity number
SC007633
Principal address
Abbey Close Paisley PA1 1JG
Page 4
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
Trustees
Stewart McDougall Treasurer Marion Sommerville Session Clerk Revd James Gibson Interim Moderator David Davidson Depute Session Clerk Tom Campbell (resigned 29.10.25) Gillian Cassidy Allison Cook Margaret Corrie (resigned 21.8.25) Margaret Craig Deryk Docherty Alan Donn Irene Doole Jean Gardner Sylvia Jenks John Kitson Jan Leeming Aileen Livingstone Alistair McCracken Marion McDougall Michael McGill Margaret McPhee Linda Neilson Marjory Noble Jan Norris Kenneth Ritchie Priscilla Routley Rena Simpson Margaret Sharp Fiona Small Alistair Campbell Peter Bonnar Susan Donn Kenneth Good Iain Morton Linda Stamp
Independent Examiner
DCH Carslaw CA MacMillan Craig Chartered Accountants 100 Brand Street Glasgow G51 1DG
Church of Scotland Congregation Reference No: 140759
Approved by order of the board of trustees on 11 March 2026 and signed on its behalf by:
Marion Sommerville - Trustee
Page 5
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
I report on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2025 set out on pages seven to twenty four.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the terms of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended). The charity's trustees consider that the audit requirement of Regulation 10(1)(a) to (c) of the Accounts Regulations does not apply. It is my responsibility to examine the accounts as required under Section 44(1)(c) of the Act and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of the independent examiner's report
My examination was carried out in accordance with Regulation 11 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts.
Independent examiner's statement
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention :
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(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements
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to keep accounting records in accordance with Section 44(1)(a) of the 2005 Act and Regulation 4 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations; and
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to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with Regulation 8 of the 2006 Accounts Regulations
have not been met; or
- (2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
DCH Carslaw CA The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland
MacMillan Craig Chartered Accountants 100 Brand Street Glasgow G51 1DG
11 March 2026
Page 6
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
| Unrestricted funds Notes £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 2 160,645 Charitable activities 5 Church activities 139,990 Other trading activities 3 78,189 Investment income 4 5,191 Total 384,015 EXPENDITURE ON Raising funds 6 36,789 Charitable activities 7 Church activities 301,131 Total 337,920 Net gains on investments 2,857 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) 48,952 Transfers between funds 21 (2,430) Net movement in funds 46,522 RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 578,559 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 625,081 |
Restricted Endowment funds funds £ £ 29,906 - 7,200 - - - 3,772 - 40,878 - - - 63,525 - 63,525 - 334 1,740 (22,313) 1,740 1,023 1,407 (21,290) 3,147 85,522 56,941 64,232 60,088 |
31.12.25 31.12.24 Total Total funds funds £ £ 190,551 189,050 147,190 123,746 78,189 63,301 8,963 8,963 424,893 385,060 36,789 33,363 364,656 321,011 401,445 354,374 4,931 1,494 28,379 32,180 - - 28,379 32,180 721,022 688,842 749,401 721,022 |
31.12.25 31.12.24 Total Total funds funds £ £ 190,551 189,050 147,190 123,746 78,189 63,301 8,963 8,963 424,893 385,060 36,789 33,363 364,656 321,011 401,445 354,374 4,931 1,494 28,379 32,180 - - 28,379 32,180 721,022 688,842 749,401 721,022 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 385,060 | |||
| 33,363 321,011 |
|||
| 354,374 | |||
| 1,494 | |||
| 32,180 - |
|||
| 32,180 688,842 |
|||
| 721,022 |
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 7
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Balance Sheet 31 December 2025
| Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 13 Heritage assets 14 Investments 15 CURRENT ASSETS Stocks 16 Debtors 17 Cash at bank CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year 18 NET CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES CREDITORS Amounts falling due after more than one year 19 NET ASSETS FUNDS 21 Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Endowment funds TOTAL FUNDS |
Unrestricted funds £ 7,318 476,400 98,546 582,264 26,050 17,917 73,280 117,247 (73,571) 43,676 625,940 (859) 625,081 |
Restricted funds £ 45,390 - 11,527 56,917 - - 7,315 7,315 - 7,315 64,232 - 64,232 |
Endowment funds £ - - 60,082 60,082 - - 6 6 - 6 60,088 - 60,088 |
31.12.25 Total funds £ 52,708 476,400 170,155 699,263 26,050 17,917 80,601 124,568 (73,571) 50,997 750,260 (859) 749,401 625,081 64,232 60,088 749,401 |
31.12.24 Total funds £ 59,225 476,400 165,226 700,851 24,801 8,365 75,163 108,329 (84,721) 23,608 724,459 (3,437) 721,022 578,559 85,522 56,941 721,022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 11 March 2026 and were signed on its behalf by:
Marion Sommerville - Trustee
Stewart McDougall - Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 8
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing the financial statements
The financial statements of the charity, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, 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)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of investments which are included at market value, as modified by the revaluation of certain assets.
Income
All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
For legacies, entitlement is the earliest of the estate account being finalised, the date of receipt, or where there is sufficient evidence to provide the necessary certainty that the legacy will be received and the value can be measured with sufficient reliability. Legacies are credited to the relevant fund either in accordance with the wishes of the donor or as approved by the Kirk Session.
Tax recoverable on Gift Aid but not received is accrued at the year end.
Donations are recognised when the charity has evidence of entitlement to the gift, receipt is probable and its measurement can be measured reliably. Entitlement usually arises immediately upon receipt, however, in the event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance before the charity to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that those conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period.
Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank.
Government grants are recognised as income only when any performance-related conditions are met.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, 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 accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life or, if held under a finance lease, over the lease term, whichever is the shorter.
Plant and machinery - 25% on cost Computer equipment - 33% on cost Sound system - 10% on cost
Heritage assets
The charity has the right to occupy and use for its charitable objects certain tangible assets, including the Abbey and manse, vested in the Church of Scotland General Trustees.
No consideration is payable for the use of these assets. Expenditure incurred on the repair and maintenance of these assets is charged as expenditure in the Statement of Financial Activities in the period in which the liability arises.
Buildings owned by the congregation are revalued at market value on a regular basis.
continued...
Page 9
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
Stocks
Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items.
Taxation
The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Endowment funds are funds which have been given on the condition that the original capital sum is not reduced, but income therefrom is used for the purpose defined in accordance with the objects of the charity.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.
Hire purchase and leasing commitments
Assets obtained under hire purchase contracts or finance leases are capitalised in the Balance Sheet. Those held under hire purchase contracts are depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Those held under finance leases are depreciated over their estimated useful lives or the lease term, whichever is shorter.
The interest element of these obligations is charged to the Statement of Financial Activities over the relevant period. The capital element of the future payments is treated as a liability.
Investments
Fixed asset investments are stated at market value at the balance sheet date. Unrealised gains and losses represent the difference between the market value at the beginning and the end of the financial year or, if purchased in the year, the difference between the cost and market value at the end of the year. Realised gains and losses represent the difference between the proceeds on disposal and the market value at the start of the year or cost if purchased in the year.
Debtors
Debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due.
Creditors and provisions
Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably.
2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
| Offerings Tax Recovered on Gift Aid Legacies Lent Appeal Flower & Candle donations Music donations Benevolent donations Building Fund donations |
31.12.25 £ 125,797 23,951 - 14,897 3,686 20,602 1,618 - 190,551 |
31.12.24 £ 121,596 20,646 2,000 9,840 1,716 17,084 1,968 14,200 |
|---|---|---|
| 189,050 |
continued...
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Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
| 3. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES Abbey shop & cafe income 4. INVESTMENT INCOME Deposit account interest Endowment interest 5. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Activity Weddings, Funerals and Baptisms Church activities Use of Premises - Church Church activities Use of Premises - Halls & Place of Paisley Church activities Consolidated Fabric Fund draw down Church activities Grants Church activities Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme Peter Brough Charitable Trust Hugh Smiley Trust Benefact Trust Church of Scotland Central Fabric Fund Historic Environment Scotland |
31.12.25 £ 78,189 31.12.25 £ 5,798 3,165 8,963 31.12.25 £ 3,065 57,096 3,691 22,744 60,594 147,190 31.12.25 £ - 9,000 - - 50,000 1,594 60,594 |
31.12.24 £ 63,301 31.12.24 £ 5,191 3,772 8,963 31.12.24 £ 9,474 39,011 7,065 13,405 54,791 |
31.12.24 £ 63,301 31.12.24 £ 5,191 3,772 8,963 31.12.24 £ 9,474 39,011 7,065 13,405 54,791 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 123,746 | |||
| 31.12.24 £ 4,613 9,000 250 13,250 27,678 - 54,791 |
|||
| 54,791 |
continued...
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Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
6. RAISING FUNDS
Other trading activities
| Purchases 7. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS Church activities 8. DIRECT COSTS OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Staff costs Rates and water Insurance Light and heat Office, Admin & General costs Sundries Giving to Grow Contribution, net of rebate Presbytery dues Minister's & Moderator's expenses Locum and Pulpit supply costs Music costs Fabric Repairs & Maintenance Flowers & Candles Manse costs Benevolent Fund costs Professional fees Costs of weddings Event costs Card donation terminal costs Waste disposal charges Befriending donations Depreciation |
Direct Costs (see note 8) £ 363,096 |
31.12.25 £ 36,789 Support costs (see note 9) £ 1,560 31.12.25 £ 96,355 6,799 33,335 40,253 10,539 2,290 77,475 2,766 2,126 3,084 26,087 36,698 1,666 1,104 1,306 7,700 - 2,001 539 956 1,300 8,717 363,096 |
31.12.24 £ 33,363 Totals £ 364,656 31.12.24 £ 86,469 5,352 26,447 62,723 12,472 280 (19,495) 3,515 1,888 20,536 21,082 42,389 1,975 21,330 1,551 16,075 1,091 2,933 508 1,870 - 7,944 318,935 |
|---|---|---|---|
continued...
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Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
9. SUPPORT COSTS
| SUPPORT COSTS | ||
|---|---|---|
| Governance | ||
| costs | ||
| £ | ||
| Church activities | 1,560 | |
| Support costs, included in the above, are as follows: | ||
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | |
| Church | Total | |
| activities | activities | |
| £ | £ | |
| Independent Examiner's Fee | 1,560 | 2,076 |
10. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 December 2025 nor for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Trustees' expenses
In the year ended 31 December 2025 the Rev James Gibson, the Interim Moderator, acted as a trustee from his appointment. He received reimbursement of travel expenses during the year of £2,106 (2024: £2,088) in total.
11. STAFF COSTS
| STAFF COSTS | ||
|---|---|---|
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Wages and salaries | 94,740 | 85,137 |
| Other pension costs | 1,615 | 1,332 |
| 96,355 | 86,469 | |
| The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows: | ||
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | |
| Music | 2 | 2 |
| Maintenance and Support | 2 | 2 |
| Secretarial and admin | 2 | 2 |
| 6 | 6 |
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.
All Church of Scotland congregations contribute to the National Stipend Fund which bears the costs of all ministers' stipends and employers' national insurance, pension and housing and loan fund. Ministers' stipends are paid in accordance with the national stipend scale, which is related to years of service. For the year under review the minimum stipend was £32,433 (2024: £31,642) and the maximum stipend in the fifth and subsequent years was £39,856 (2024: £38,884).
continued...
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Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
| 12. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES Unrestricted Restricted Endowment funds funds funds £ £ £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 155,056 33,994 - Charitable activities Church activities 110,246 13,500 - Other trading activities 63,301 - - Investment income 5,191 3,772 - Total 333,794 51,266 - EXPENDITURE ON Raising funds 33,363 - - Charitable activities Church activities 263,685 57,326 - Total 297,048 57,326 - Net gains on investments 865 113 516 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) 37,611 (5,947) 516 Transfers between funds 7,976 4,511 (12,487) Net movement in funds 45,587 (1,436) (11,971) RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 532,972 86,958 68,912 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 578,559 85,522 56,941 |
Total funds £ 189,050 123,746 63,301 8,963 |
|---|---|
| 385,060 | |
| 33,363 321,011 |
|
| 354,374 | |
| 1,494 | |
| 32,180 - |
|
| 32,180 688,842 |
|
| 721,022 |
continued...
Page 14
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
13. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
| Plant and Computer machinery equipment £ £ COST At 1 January 2025 7,733 1,668 Additions - - At 31 December 2025 7,733 1,668 DEPRECIATION At 1 January 2025 1,611 324 Charge for year 1,933 556 At 31 December 2025 3,544 880 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 December 2025 4,189 788 At 31 December 2024 6,122 1,344 |
Sound system £ 60,262 2,200 62,462 8,503 6,228 14,731 47,731 51,759 |
Totals £ 69,663 2,200 |
|---|---|---|
| 71,863 | ||
| 10,438 8,717 |
||
| 19,155 | ||
| 52,708 | ||
| 59,225 |
Fixed assets, included in the above, which are held under hire purchase contracts are as follows:
| COST At 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025 DEPRECIATION At 1 January 2025 Charge for year At 31 December 2025 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 December 2025 At 31 December 2024 14. HERITAGE ASSETS MARKET VALUE At 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 December 2025 At 31 December 2024 |
Plant and machinery £ 7,733 1,611 1,933 3,544 4,189 6,122 Total £ 476,400 476,400 476,400 |
|---|---|
The buildings included above comprise the heritable properties owned by the congregation, namely The Place of Paisley, Abbey Close, Paisley and Church Halls, Lawn Street, Paisley.
Both properties were valued at current market value at 31 December 2020.
Page 15
continued...
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
15. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
| 15. | FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Listed | |||
| investments | |||
| £ | |||
| MARKET VALUE | |||
| At 1 January 2025 | 165,226 | ||
| Revaluations | 4,929 | ||
| At 31 December 2025 | 170,155 | ||
| NET BOOK VALUE | |||
| At 31 December 2025 | 170,155 | ||
| At 31 December 2024 | 165,226 | ||
| There were no investment assets outside the UK. | |||
| Cost or valuation at 31 December 2025 is represented by: | |||
| Listed | |||
| investments | |||
| £ | |||
| Valuation in 2025 | 170,155 | ||
| The historical cost of the investments held was £177,485. | |||
| Investments are held with The Church of Scotland Investors Trust. | |||
| 16. | STOCKS | ||
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Stocks | 26,050 | 24,801 | |
| 17. | DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR | ||
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Other debtors | 11,675 | 2,096 | |
| Gift aid tax recoverable | 6,242 | 6,269 | |
| 17,917 | 8,365 |
Page 16
continued...
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
| 18. | CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Hire purchase (see note 20) | 2,578 | 2,578 | |
| Social security and other taxes | 2,175 | 1,828 | |
| Accruals and deferred income | 68,818 | 80,315 | |
| 73,571 | 84,721 | ||
| 19. | CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE AFTER MORE THAN ONE YEAR | ||
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Hire purchase (see note 20) | 859 | 3,437 | |
| 20. | LEASING AGREEMENTS | ||
| Minimum lease payments under hire purchase fall due as follows: | |||
| 31.12.25 | 31.12.24 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Net obligations repayable: | |||
| Within one year | 2,578 | 2,578 | |
| Between one and five years | 859 | 3,437 | |
| 3,437 | 6,015 |
continued...
Page 17
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
| Unrestricted funds General fund Fixed Assets Fund Flower & Candle Fund Benevolent Fund Building Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Restricted funds Psalmody Fund Sound System Fund Homeless Befriending Group The Isabella Memorial Trust Major roof repairs Allovus church group Endowment funds Capital Sheena Napier Fund TOTAL FUNDS |
At 1.1.25 £ 81,205 476,400 880 3,772 10,180 6,122 578,559 16,451 51,375 1,661 14,000 2,035 - 85,522 13,566 43,375 56,941 721,022 |
Net movement in funds £ 21,837 - 1,122 252 27,674 (1,933) 48,952 (5,947) (5,985) (550) (11,109) 570 708 (22,313) 404 1,336 1,740 28,379 |
Transfers between funds £ (2,430) - - - - - (2,430) 1,023 - - - - - 1,023 - 1,407 1,407 - |
At 31.12.25 £ 100,612 476,400 2,002 4,024 37,854 4,189 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 625,081 11,527 45,390 1,111 2,891 2,605 708 |
||||
| 64,232 13,970 46,118 |
||||
| 60,088 | ||||
| 749,401 |
continued...
Page 18
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Flower & Candle Fund Benevolent Fund Building Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Restricted funds Psalmody Fund Sound System Fund Homeless Befriending Group The Isabella Memorial Trust Major roof repairs Allovus church group Endowment funds Capital Sheena Napier Fund TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming resources £ 299,243 3,686 1,618 79,468 - 384,015 38,850 - 750 - 570 708 40,878 - - - 424,893 |
Resources expended £ (279,973) (2,564) (1,366) (52,084) (1,933) (337,920) (45,131) (5,985) (1,300) (11,109) - - (63,525) - - - (401,445) |
Gains and Movement losses in funds £ £ 2,567 21,837 - 1,122 - 252 290 27,674 - (1,933) 2,857 48,952 334 (5,947) - (5,985) - (550) - (11,109) - 570 - 708 334 (22,313) 404 404 1,336 1,336 1,740 1,740 4,931 28,379 |
|---|---|---|---|
continued...
Page 19
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for movement in funds
| Unrestricted funds General fund Fixed Assets Fund Sunday School Flower & Candle Fund Benevolent Fund Building Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Restricted funds Psalmody Fund Sound System Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Homeless Befriending Group The Isabella Memorial Trust Major roof repairs Endowment funds Capital Sheena Napier Fund TOTAL FUNDS |
At 1.1.24 £ 14,262 476,400 106 1,139 3,257 37,808 - 532,972 20,872 57,360 7,976 750 - - 86,958 13,443 55,469 68,912 688,842 |
Net movement in funds £ 67,309 - (8) (259) 417 (27,628) (2,220) 37,611 (16,908) (5,985) - 911 14,000 2,035 (5,947) 123 393 516 32,180 |
Transfers between funds £ (366) - - - - - 8,342 7,976 12,487 - (7,976) - - - 4,511 - (12,487) (12,487) - |
At 31.12.24 £ 81,205 476,400 98 880 3,674 10,180 6,122 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 578,559 16,451 51,375 - 1,661 14,000 2,035 |
||||
| 85,522 13,566 43,375 |
||||
| 56,941 | ||||
| 721,022 |
continued...
Page 20
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Sunday School Flower & Candle Fund Benevolent Fund Building Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Restricted funds Psalmody Fund Sound System Fund Homeless Befriending Group The Isabella Memorial Trust Major roof repairs Endowment funds Capital Sheena Napier Fund TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming resources £ 284,486 12 1,716 1,968 46,221 (609) 333,794 22,855 - 1,161 14,000 13,250 51,266 - - - 385,060 |
Resources expended £ (217,949) (20) (1,975) (1,551) (73,942) (1,611) (297,048) (39,876) (5,985) (250) - (11,215) (57,326) - - - (354,374) |
Gains and Movement losses in funds £ £ 772 67,309 - (8) - (259) - 417 93 (27,628) - (2,220) 865 37,611 113 (16,908) - (5,985) - 911 - 14,000 - 2,035 113 (5,947) 123 123 393 393 516 516 1,494 32,180 |
|---|---|---|---|
continued...
Page 21
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Fixed Assets Fund Sunday School Flower & Candle Fund Benevolent Fund Building Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Restricted funds Psalmody Fund Sound System Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Homeless Befriending Group The Isabella Memorial Trust Major roof repairs Allovus church group Endowment funds Capital Sheena Napier Fund TOTAL FUNDS |
At 1.1.24 £ 14,262 476,400 106 1,139 3,257 37,808 - 532,972 20,872 57,360 7,976 750 - - - 86,958 13,443 55,469 68,912 688,842 |
Net movement in funds £ 89,146 - (8) 863 669 46 (4,153) 86,563 (22,855) (11,970) - 361 2,891 2,605 708 (28,260) 527 1,729 2,256 60,559 |
Transfers between funds £ (2,796) - - - - - 8,342 5,546 13,510 - (7,976) - - - - 5,534 - (11,080) (11,080) - |
At 31.12.25 £ 100,612 476,400 98 2,002 3,926 37,854 4,189 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 625,081 11,527 45,390 - 1,111 2,891 2,605 708 |
||||
| 64,232 13,970 46,118 |
||||
| 60,088 | ||||
| 749,401 |
continued...
Page 22
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Sunday School Flower & Candle Fund Benevolent Fund Building Fund Social Enterprise Academy Scotland - Steps to Sustainability Restricted funds Psalmody Fund Sound System Fund Homeless Befriending Group The Isabella Memorial Trust Major roof repairs Allovus church group Endowment funds Capital Sheena Napier Fund TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming resources £ 583,729 12 5,402 3,586 125,689 (609) 717,809 61,705 - 1,911 14,000 13,820 708 92,144 - - - 809,953 |
Resources expended £ (497,922) (20) (4,539) (2,917) (126,026) (3,544) (634,968) (85,007) (11,970) (1,550) (11,109) (11,215) - (120,851) - - - (755,819) |
Gains and Movement losses in funds £ £ 3,339 89,146 - (8) - 863 - 669 383 46 - (4,153) 3,722 86,563 447 (22,855) - (11,970) - 361 - 2,891 - 2,605 - 708 447 (28,260) 527 527 1,729 1,729 2,256 2,256 6,425 60,559 |
|---|---|---|---|
Endowment Fund - Capital
The fund is held to produce income for Choral Scholarships
Benevolent Fund
The fund is used to financially assist those in need within the parish.
Psalmody Fund
The fund is used to support music in the Abbey.
Flower and Candle Fund
The fund is used to provide flowers and candles for the Abbey.
Sunday School Fund
The fund is used to support the financial activities of the Sunday School.
Building Fund
The fund is used to support specific building projects at the Abbey.
Minister's Expenses Fund
The fund is used to support expenses incurred by the Minister.
Kathleen McCracken Music Fund
The fund is used to support music in the Abbey.
continued...
Page 23
Paisley Abbey (Church of Scotland)
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2025
21. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Fixed Asset Fund
This fund has been set up to hold the fixed assets of the charity.
Steps to Sustainability Fund
This fund is used to spend on the cafe improvements project
Endowment Fund - Sheena Napier
The fund is held to produce income for Psalmody
Isabella Memorial Fund
This trust made a grant of £14,000 to change lighting in the Abbey to LED
Major roof repairs
This fund is donations and grants for roof works on the south side of the Abbey.
22. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
During the year Mr G McPhee, the husband of a trustee, was employed as Director of Music and received a salary of £13,444 (2024: £13,644).
23. MEMORANDUM - CONSOLIDATED FABRIC FUND
Funds held by the Church of Scotland trustees for the benefit of the Congregation at 31/12/2025 amounted to £87,691. These funds do not form part of the accounts of Paisley Abbey. Amounts drawn down from the funds are shown as income in the accounts of the relevant year.
.
Page 24