The Church of Scotland
ELGIN PARISH CHUCH OF SCOTLAND
Annual Report & Financial Statements
For the Year Ended
30th November 2025
Congregation no: 311915
Scottish Charity No: SC015164
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Trustees’ Annual Report Year ended 30 November 2025
The trustees have pleasure in presenting their report together with the financial statements and the Independent Examiner's Report for the year ended 30 November 2025.
Reference and Administrative Information
Charity Name: Elgin Parish Church Charity Registration Number: SC015164 Congregation Reference Number: 311915 Contact Address: The Church Office Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Williamson Hall Duff Avenue Elgin IV30 1 QS
Trustees/ Ministers:
Reverend Dean Oelofse
Reverend Sonia Palmer - Ordained Local Ministerial (Retired 30/09/25)
Elders: A Allardyce R Anderson G Archibald S Backx M Cameron H Carter E Cowie K Dale H Davidson J Dawson M Dawson H Dickson E Duffus H Duffus G Duthie M Duthie J Edmonstone A Farquhar G Farquhar A Forteath G Garrow M Gerrard A Gill C Gordon A Grant B Hamilton M Hamilton R Hay M Hay A Jamieson S Jamieson D Johnston P Keil S Lynch A Mitchell E MacRae J Manson G Mason I Morrison M Paterson A Ralph J Ralph V Regan R Richards B Ritchie H Robertson M Sim D Small H Strachan E Stuart N Sutherland Cecil Taylor K Thomson I Thomson A Urquhart K Wood M Wood
Session Clerk: Mrs H Dickson Church Treasurer: G C Archibald FCCA Independent Examiner Melanie Francis ACCA Goldwells Ltd, Wards House, Wards Road, Elgin, IV30 1NL Legal Advisors: Cockburn's, 82 High Street, Elgin, IV30 1 DL Bankers: The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, 209 High Street, Elgin, IV30 1 DL Virgin Money, 151 High Street, Elgin, IV30 1 DS
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Trustees’ Annual Report Year ended 30 November 2025
The trustees present their annual report and financial statements of the charity for the year ended 30 November 2025.
Structure, Governance and Management
Governing Document
The Church is administered in accordance with the terms of the Deed of Constitution.
Recruitment and Appointment of 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 the appropriate gifts and skills.
Organisational Structure
Certain responsibilities are delegated to the Finance Committee and the Property Committee as appropriate. The Kirk Session met four times this year and is responsible for all matters within the church.
Objectives and Activities
The Trustees confirm that they have had regard to the guidance issued by the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) on public benefit.
We are aware of the guidance on public benefit, and have taken it into account when exercising the charity's powers and duties.
Our charitable activities are designed to benefit the public by pursuing our stated charitable purposes. Where any private benefit may arise from these activities, it is incidental to the advancement of our charitable purposes and is not an end in itself. This is in accordance with the principles of OSCR.
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 acknowledges 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.
The Kirk Session has now made permanent the arrangement of having just one service each Sunday in Elgin Parish Church of Scotland. Communion was celebrated four times a year at the Sunday and at the midweek services. Special services were held on Christmas Eve. During Holy Week, a Communion Service is held on Maundy Thursday and a special service on Good Friday. There are two weekly Bible Study groups and there was also an additional eight week Bible Study course. There are two services held monthly at Anderson’s and The Grove Care Homes. A monthly service is also held at Spynie Care Home, and the Ministry team also pay regular visits to both Abbeyside and Abbeyvale Care Homes. The Ministry team hold two school assembly at West End Primary school monthly. Regular Home Communions are done at the Care Homes and in the homes of parishioners.
Some of our office-bearers play a major part in the Christian Aid Committee for Elgin, and many of our congregation are involved in Christian Aid Week which raises large sums for Christian Aid. Our own congregation also provides support for the Church in Malawi, with a specific link to the community of Ekwendeni.
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Trustees’ Annual Report Year ended 30 November 2025
Objectives and Activities continued
On a social level, there are weekly groups for badminton and for indoor bowling. We have Monday evening and Wednesday afternoon Women’s Guild groups, a Men’s Group and Ladies Group also meet twice a month. In the past year the Parish continued a weekly Bible Study, a monthly Healing Service and a Parish Bereavement Service.
A major part of the youth work of the congregation is St. Giles’ Theatre Group, which involves about a 150 young people. Owing to the size of the group, they staged two productions of Chicago: Teen Edition for the senior members and Aladdin JR for the junior section. Rehearsals have now resumed in preparation for their 2026 production, The Greatest Show. Throughout the year the spiritual needs of the young people have been supported by our Community Outreach Worker, who also serves on the Theatre Group Board.
The parish is very much involved in community outreach and support and host “Kicks” and High Jinks Groups. The ministers of the parish are currently serving on the Board of Trustees of The General Anderson Trust Care Home. Many of our members are very active in community projects for example Rotary, Rotaract, Anderson’s Care Home and Moravia to name a few.
Strategic report
The following sections for achievements and performance and financial review form the strategic report of the charity.
Achievements and Performance
There were two Baptisms during the year and one wedding. We have seen a return of some of our young families to regular weekly services and attending Sunday School. Sadly, the ministry team conducted around 58 funerals over the past 12 months and provided the necessary pastoral support to families in the parish during their time of grief. The Sunday School has sixteen regular attendees, with the older children receiving Bible lessons. In December the children presented a Nativity play returning to a more traditional format, which was warmly received by the congregation.
Outreach to the five local primary and two secondary schools continues with donations of, sadly, much needed cereal bar and breakfast cereals. Our community development officers continue their presence in developing community links for the local youth in conjunction with other local Christian denominations, Street Pastors and School Pastors.
Our joint venture with our partners in the Roman Catholic Church continues at Birnie Kirk as part of our ecumenical commitment under the Church of Scotland’s and the Roman Catholic Church’s St Margaret’s Declaration. Weekly services are held throughout the year, supplemented by additional services at Christmas and Easter. Elgin’s Scottish Episcopal Church also continues to make use of Birnie Kirk, holding Ignatian day retreats there, with a further four bookings confirmed for 2026.
Fundraising efforts through coffee mornings, appeals, and retiral offerings, supported by our Office Bearers and the wider congregation, have benefitted not only Christian Aid and Ekwendeni, as noted earlier, but also Moray Food Plus, Street Pastors, and Anderson’s Care Home. Our congregation also supported the Blythswood Shoebox Appeal for Eastern Europe, contributing 113 filled boxes along with £369 in monetary donations.
In addition, £1,500 was donated to the Laich O’ Moray Trust to support the use of a minibus that transports parishioners to monthly services and the weekly Lunch Club. A further £500 was raised towards the installation of the defibrillator now situated outside the Williamson Hall for both church and public use.
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Trustees’ Annual Report Year ended 30 November 2025
Achievements and Performance continued
Our Burns’ Supper was also very well attended and proved to be a great success, with excellent food, entertainment, and fellowship enjoyed by all.
With sensitivity and deep respect, we joined together with local dignitaries, military personnel, and members of our community to commemorate both Victory in Europe and Victory in Japan at two separate church services. These occasions offered a meaningful opportunity to honour those who served and sacrificed. The VE Day service was followed by a special afternoon tea in the Williamson Hall, where attendees shared fellowship and remembrance.
Joint ecumenical Christmas services with both Pluscarden Abbey and the Roman Catholic Church were once again held this year and were very well attended, reflecting the deepening bonds of fellowship across our local Christian communities. These shared acts of worship continue to strengthen our sense of unity and our commitment to working together in faith.
As we look ahead, the Parish anticipates another busy and fulfilling year. Our strong connections within the local area, together with our partnerships across the Christian denominations, place us in a blessed position to continue serving the community with compassion, cooperation, and a shared desire to bring Christ’s love into the everyday lives of those around us.
Financial Review
Receipts in 2025 were higher at £243,832 when compared to 2024 at £210,735 but only after receipt of £40,000 (2024 - £20,000) from the Consolidated Fabric Fund Revenue account (see appendix) held in Edinburgh. Last year also reported receipt of £750,056 of funds from Uniting congregations.
Additional property maintenance resource was required by the combined charges, but not being required to have an audit conducted this year will reduce the accounting charge.
Overall, we report a Surplus of £42,136 in the past year after adjusting for a gain on our investments of £43,930.
Investment Policy and Performance
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland has taken advantage of the expertise delivered by the Church of Scotland Investors Trust and placed surplus funds in their Growth Fund Units and Income Fund Units. Short term cash deposits are also placed in the Investors Trust Deposit funds. The Trustees receive reports on the performance of the funds and decide if they believe any alternative approach should be adopted. At this time, they are satisfied with the performance of these Funds.
Risk Management
The Trustees are aware of potential risks when involved with youth groups and individuals considered to be at risk. There is an active Safeguarding group monitoring these matters. Financial risks are minimised with regular reporting to Trustees. The Property committee do regular visits to the various properties owned by the Congregation and have a programme of works aimed at maintaining the buildings in good order.
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Trustees’ Annual Report Year ended 30 November 2025
Reserves Policy
The charity trustees have considered the reserves required and have taken into account their current and future liabilities. It is the Trustees’ policy to hold liquid reserves of approximately twelve months expenditure including designated funds. At the year end the Church held unrestricted funds of £1,733,995, Restricted funds of £67,763 and Endowment funds of £1,504. A significant proportion of the unrestricted funds are represented by Church buildings. The Trustees believe the liquid reserves are appropriate at this time as various Capital projects may be considered in the coming year.
Trustees’ Responsibilities in Relation to the Financial Statements
The charity trustees are responsible for preparing a trustees’ annual report and financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
The law applicable to charities in Scotland requires the charity trustees to prepare financial statements for each year which show a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the income and expenditure of the charity for that period. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are required to:
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select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the method and principles in the applicable Charities SORP;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operational existence.
The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charity’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended). They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information on the congregation’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
Approved by the Trustees and signed on their behalf,
Hazel Dickson
Session Clerk
Date: 10/03/2026
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Elgin Parish Church of Scotland
I report on the accounts for the year ended 30 November 2025.
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 charities 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 Accounting 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.
Melanie Francis ACCA
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
Goldwells Wards House Wards Road Elgin Moray
Date: 10/03/2026
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Statement of Financial Activities Year ended 30 November 2025
| Note Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies 1 Charitable activities 2 Other trading activities 3 Investments 4 Other 5 Expenditure on: 6 Raising funds Charitable activities Net gains (losses) on investments Net income/ (expenditure) Transfers between funds Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds: Total Funds brought forward Total funds carried forward Net income/ (expenditure) before gains and losses on investments |
Unrestricted Funds 2025 £ 136,896 6,463 25,740 29,509 40,000 238,608 322 240,080 240,402 (1,794) 43,930 42,136 - 42,136 1,691,859 1,733,995 |
Restricted Funds 2025 £ 5,000 - - 224 - 5,224 - 815 815 4,409 - 4,409 - 4,409 63,354 67,763 |
Endowment Funds 2025 £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1,504 1,504 |
Total 2025 £ 141,896 6,463 25,740 29,733 40,000 243,832 322 240,895 241,217 2,615 43,930 46,545 - 46,545 1,756,717 1,803,262 |
Unrestricted Funds 2024 £ 135,807 3,050 33,842 17,786 723,154 913,639 948 245,010 245,958 667,681 33,577 701,258 - 701,258 990,601 1,691,859 |
Restricted Funds 2024 £ - - - 250 45,398 45,648 - 11,199 11,199 34,449 - 34,449 - 34,449 28,905 63,354 |
Endowment Funds 2024 £ - - - - 1,504 1,504 - - - 1,504 - 1,504 - 1,504 - 1,504 |
Total 2024 £ 135,807 3,050 33,842 18,036 770,056 960,791 948 256,209 257,157 703,634 33,577 737,211 - 737,211 1,019,506 1,756,717 |
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Balance Sheet At 30 November 2025
| 30 November 2025 | 30 November 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Note | |||
| Fixed Assets: | |||
| Tangible Assets | 9 | 714,000 | 864,000 |
| Investments | 10 | 823,757 | 354,827 |
| Total Fixed Assets | 1,537,757 | 1,218,827 | |
| Current Assets: Debtors Cash at bank and in hand |
11 | 7,717 262,811 |
10,038 545,764 |
| Total Current Assets Current Liabilities: Creditors and accruals falling within one year |
12 | 270,528 5,023 |
555,802 17,912 |
| Net Current Assets | 265,505 | 537,890 | |
| Total Assets Less Current Liabilities | 1,803,262 | 1,756,717 | |
| Net Assets | 1,803,262 | 1,756,717 | |
| Funds of the charity: Endowment Funds Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds |
1,504 67,763 1,733,995 |
1,504 63,354 1,691,859 |
|
| Total Charity Funds | 1,803,262 | 1,756,717 |
These financial statements were approved by the board of trustees and authorised for issue on and are signed on behalf of the board by :
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Hazel Dickson Session clerk
Date: 10/03/2026
Treasurer
Graeme Archibald
Date: 10/03/2026
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Statement of Cash flows Year ended 30 November 2025
| 30 November 2025 Net income per Statement of Financial Activities 46,545 Cash flows from operating activities adjusted for Addition of fixed assets - Addition of investments (425,000) Disposal of fixed assets 150,000 Interest received (6,542) Dividends received (23,191) Net gains on investments (43,930) Decrease (Increase) in Debtors 2,321 (Decrease)/ Increase in Creditors (12,889) Net cash provided by operations (312,686) Cash flows from operating activities (312,686) Net Cash provided by operating activties (312,686) Cash flow from Investing activities Interest received 6,542 Dividends received 23,191 Net cash by investing activities 29,733 Cash flow for the period (282,953) Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period (282,953) Opening cash and Cash equivalents at the beginning of reporting period 545,764 Closing cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period 262,811 Represented by: Cash on Deposit 189,883 Bank Current accounts 72,928 Closing cash and cash equivalents 262,811 |
30 November 2024 737,211 (450,000) (105,825) 300,000 (7,431) (10,605) (33,577) 732 13,682 444,187 444,187 444,187 7,431 10,605 18,036 462,223 462,223 83,541 545,764 168,949 376,815 545,764 |
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes to the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
General Information
The charity is a public benefit entity registered in Scotland. The address of the registered office is Williamson Hall, Duff Avenue, Elgin, IV30 1QS.
Accounting Policies
The principal accounting policies, which have been applied consistently in the current and preceding year in dealing with items which are considered material to the accounts, are set out below.
Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standards applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) effective from 1 January 2019 and the Financial Reporting standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102), the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended).
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional and presentation currency of the entity.
Acquisition accounting
On 1st December 2023 the former congregations of Elgin St Giles & St Columba's South Church, and Birnie and Pluscarden Churches linked with Elgin High, were United to become Elgin Parish Church of Scotland. The union was accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with the provisions set out within section 19 of FRS 102. Assets were measured at their fair value (there were no liabilities on union). See note 17 for further details.
Fund accounting
Funds are classified as either unrestricted funds, restricted funds or endowment funds, defined as follows.
Unrestricted funds are expendable at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the objects of the charity.
If parts of the unrestricted funds are earmarked at the discretion of the trustees for a particular purpose, they are designated as a separate fund. This designation has an administrative purpose only and does not legally restrict the trustees' decision to apply the fund.
Restricted funds are funds subject to specific requirements as to their use which may be declared by the donor or with their authority or created through legal processes, but still within the wider objects of the charity.
Endowment funds are funds which have been given on the condition that the original capital sum is not reduced, but the income there from is used for the purpose defined in accordance with the object of the charity.
Going concern
The Trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the ability of the charity to continue for the foreseeable future, and therefore have adopted the going concern basis in preparing these financial statements.
Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported. These estimates and judgements are continually reviewed and are based on experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes to the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
Useful economic life of tangible assets
The annual depreciation charge for tangible assets are sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic life and residual value of the assets. The useful economic life and residual value of the assets are assessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect current estimates, based on technological advancement, future investments, economic utilisation and the physical condition of the assets. See Accounting policies: Fixed Assets for the depreciation policy and see note 9 for the carrying amount of the assets.
Recognition of income
Income is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the item(s) of income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Donated services and facilities
Donated professional services and donated facilities are recognised as income when the charity has control over the item, any conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use by the charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably.
On receipt, donated professional services and donated facilities are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity which is the amount the charity would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market; a corresponding amount is then recognised as expenditure in the period of receipt.
Interest receivable
Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the Bank.
Recognition and allocation of expenditure
Expenditure is included in the Statement of Financial Activities on an accruals basis and is recognised when there is a legal or constructive obligation to pay for expenditure.
Fixed Assets
The charity has the right to occupy and use for its charitable objectives certain tangible fixed assets, including Elgin St Giles’ Church, and the manse at 18 Reidhaven Street, Elgin, 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 resources expended in the statement of financial activities in the period in which the payment is made. Following the Union on 1st December 2023, other assets were transferred to the new Elgin Parish Church of Scotland congregation including the following: Elgin High Church and Hall, the Elgin High Church Manse, Daisy Bank, 5 Forteath Avenue, Elgin, Birnie Church, Birnie Church Hall, Pluscarden Church, and Birnie & Pluscarden Church Manse. All surplus assets are to be disposed of when agreed with the General Trustees of the Church of Scotland and the Presbytery of the North East and Northern Isles.
All tangible fixed assets costing in excess of £5,000 having a value to the charity greater than one year, other than those acquired for specific purposes, are capitalised. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis to write off the cost original value, less residual value, of tangible fixed assets over their estimated useful lives:
Buildings Fixtures & fittings
No depreciation charged 5 years straight line
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes to the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
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 end of the financial year or, if purchased in the year, the difference between 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.
Taxation
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland is recognised as a charity for the purposes of applicable taxation legislation and is therefore not subject to taxation on its charitable activities. The charity is not registered for VAT and resources expended therefore include irrecoverable input VAT.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand and deposits held at The Royal Bank of Scotland, Virgin Money, Scottish Widows bank and on deposit with the Church of Scotland Investors Trust.
Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any discounts due.
Creditors
Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
| 1. Donations and legacies Offerings Tax recovered on Gift Aid Legacies 2. Income from charitable activities Weddings and Funerals Church Organisations - Donations 3. Income from other trading activities Rent received from Property Rent received from Hall Lets 4. Investment Income Dividends received Deposit Interest 5. Other income Receipts from General Trustees Transfer of Union (note 17) |
Unrestricted Funds 2025 £ 101,315 22,988 12,593 136,896 2,800 3,663 6,463 8,703 17,037 25,740 23,191 6,318 29,509 40,000 - 40,000 |
Restricted Funds 2025 £ - - 5,000 5,000 - - - - - - - 224 224 - - - |
Endowment Funds 2025 £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Total 2025 £ 101,315 22,988 17,593 141,896 2,800 3,663 6,463 8,703 17,037 25,740 23,191 6,542 29,733 40,000 - 40,000 |
Unrestricted Funds 2024 £ 111,034 24,773 - 135,807 1,798 1,252 3,050 9,006 24,836 33,842 10,605 7,181 17,786 20,000 703,154 723,154 |
Restricted Funds 2024 £ - - - - - - - - - - - 250 250 - 45,398 45,398 |
Endowment Funds 2024 £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1,504 1,504 |
Total 2024 £ 111,034 24,773 - 135,807 1,798 1,252 3,050 9,006 24,836 33,842 10,605 7,431 18,036 20,000 750,056 770,056 |
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
| 6. | Analysis of expenditure Raising funds Offering Envelopes Charitable Activities Giving to Grow Allocation Presbytery Dues Voluntary Additional Stipend Minister's Expenses Ministerial Assistance Pulpit Supply Other Salary Costs Fabric Repairs & Maintenance Council Tax Insurance costs Energy costs Church office expenses Organ & Music Other expenses Auditors renumeration Independent Examination |
Unrestricted Funds 2025 £ 322 322 96,575 6,447 - 5,355 4,203 - 41,347 36,323 3,765 13,924 18,225 4,583 576 7,643 - 1,114 240,080 240,402 |
Restricted Funds 2025 £ - - - - - - - - - 5,171 - - - - - (4,356) - - 815 815 |
Endowment Funds 2025 £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Total 2025 £ 322 322 96,575 6,447 - 5,355 4,203 - 41,347 41,494 3,765 13,924 18,225 4,583 576 3,287 - 1,114 240,895 241,217 |
Unrestricted Funds 2024 £ 948 948 98,337 5,556 - 5,563 5,154 - 46,498 26,765 4,344 13,224 18,540 6,185 - 9,144 5,700 - 245,010 245,958 |
Restricted Funds 2024 £ - - - - - - - - - 3,261 - 2,892 3,585 - 366 1,095 - - 11,199 11,199 |
Endowment Funds 2024 £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Total 2024 £ 948 948 98,337 5,556 - 5,563 5,154 - 46,498 30,026 4,344 16,116 22,125 6,185 366 10,239 5,700 - 256,209 257,157 |
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Support costs have not been separately identified as the trustees consider there is only one charitable activity, therefore all support costs are attributable to the one charitable activity.
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|Elgin Parish Church of Scotland|
|Notes forming part of the financial statements|
|Year ended 30 November 2025|2025|2024|
|7.|Staff costs and numbers|
|Salaries and wages|41,347|46,498|
|Total|41,347|46,498|
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The average number of ful-time equivalent employees during the year was as follows:
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|2025|2024|
|Full time equivalent employees|1.4|1.5|
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No employee had employee benefits in excess of £60,000 in 2025 or 2024.
All Church of Scotland congregations contribute to the National Stipend Fund which bears the costs of all ministers' stipends and employer's contributions for 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 and the maximum stipend (in the fifth and subsequent years) £39,856.
8. Trustee Remuneration and Related Part Transactions
The Church's insurance policy includes Trustee Indemnity insurance for all it's trustees.
During the year to 30 November 2025 expenses amounting to £5,355 were reimbursed for travel expenses to members of the ministry team (2024: £4,090) and council tax costs of £4,009 were paid in respect of our congregational manse for one member (2024: £3,696 one member).
During the year to 30 November 2025, five trustees who are members of the Kirk Session, received salaries for providing services for Ministerial support and Premises maintenance (2024: 5 trustess in repect of premises maintenance).
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|---|---|---|
|Year to|Year to|
|30/11/2025|30/11/2024|
|I Thomson|4,207|3,394|
|J Ralph|1,639|1,237|
|F McIntosh|3,335|7,032|
|A Mitchell|1,616|1,520|
|S Palmer|7,440|6,600|
|Total|18,237|19,783|
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No salary or expenses were paid to any other Trustee.
There were no other related party transactions.
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
9. Tangible Fixed Assets
| Freehold Land & Buildings Fixtures & Fittings Cost At 1 December 2024 868,398 234,318 Disposals (150,000) - At 30 November 2025 718,398 234,318 Accumlated Depreciation At 1 December 2024 4,398 234,318 Charge for year - - Eliminated on Disposals - - At 30 November 2025 4,398 234,318 Net Book Value At 30 November 2025 714,000 - At 30 November 2024 864,000 - 10. Investments 2025 £ Market value at 30 November 2024 354,827 Transfers at date of union market value - Purchased Investments 425,000 Gain on investments 43,930 Market value at 30 November 2025 823,757 Investments at Cost 635,966 The following investments are held (Market Value) Growth Fund Units 91,203 units 624,740 Growth Fund Units - transferred on consolidation - Income Fund Units 17,581 units 199,017 823,757 11. Debtors 2025 £ Gift Aid Tax Refund Due 5,543 Other 2,174 7,717 |
Total 1,102,716 (150,000) 952,716 238,716 - - 238,716 714,000 864,000 2024 £ 215,425 105,825 - 33,577 354,827 210,965 141,338 119,660 93,829 354,827 2024 £ 6,325 3,713 10,038 |
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
12. Creditors
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£ £
Creditors 779 5,555
Accruals 3,285 11,172
Social security and other taxes 959 1,185
5,023 17,912
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13. Analysis of Net Assets among Funds
| Fixed Assets Investments Current Assets Current Liabilities Net Assets at 30 Nov 2025 Fixed Assets Investments Current Assets Current Liabilities Net Assets at 30 Nov 2024 |
General £ 714,000 821,453 203,565 (5,023) 1,733,995 General £ 864,000 352,523 493,248 (17,912) 1,691,859 |
Designated £ - - - - - Designated £ - - - - - |
Restricted £ - 2,304 65,459 - 67,763 Restricted £ - 2,304 61,050 - 63,354 |
Endowment £ - - 1,504 - 1,504 Endowment £ - - 1,504 - 1,504 |
Total £ 714,000 823,757 270,528 (5,023) 1,803,262 Total £ 864,000 354,827 555,802 (17,912) 1,756,717 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
14. Volunteers
In common with all congregations of the Church of Scotland 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.
Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
15. Movement in Funds
| At 1 Dec 2024 £ Endowment Funds Unrestricted funds 1,504 1,504 Restricted Funds Birnie/ Plusgarden Organ 1,541 Birnie/ Plusgarden Organ 1,180 Birnie/ Pluscarden Fabric Fund - Birnie Churchyard Fund 763 Sunday School - Capital 8,490 Sunday School - Offerings 232 Youth - Capital 5,000 Youth Income 81 Music & Praise 3,854 Disabled Access facilities 13,696 Lunch Club 1,790 St Giles Theatre Group 26,727 63,354 Unrestricted Funds McArthur Bequest 15,000 Harry Guines's Estate 12,821 C Anderson Legacy 11,778 Bonthrone Fund 10,000 General Funds 1,642,260 1,691,859 Total Funds 1,756,717 |
Income £ - - - 53 5,171 - - - - - - - - 5,224 - - - - 282,538 282,538 287,762 |
Expenditure £ - - - - (5,171) - (824) - - - (276) - (182) 5,638 (815) - - - - (240,402) (240,402) (241,217) |
Transfers £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
At 30 Nov 2025 £ 1,504 1,504 1,541 1,233 - 763 7,666 232 5,000 81 3,578 13,696 1,608 32,365 67,763 15,000 12,821 11,778 10,000 1,684,396 1,733,995 1,803,262 |
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
15. Movement in Funds continued
| Endowment Funds Unrestricted funds Restricted Funds Birnie/ Pluscarden Fabric Birnie/ Plusgarden Organ Birnie/ Pluscarden Fabric Birnie Graveyard Fund Sunday School - Capital Sunday School - Offerings Youth - Capital Youth Income Music & Praise Disabled Access facilities Lunch Club St Giles Theatre Group Unrestricted Funds McArthur Bequest Harry Guines's Estate C Anderson Legacy Bonthrone Fund General Funds Total Funds Purposes of Endowment funds Purposes of Restricted Funds Birnie/ Pluscarden Fabric Birnie/ Pluscarden Organ Birnie Churchyard Fund Sunday School – Capital Sunday School offerings Youth - Capital Youth Income Music & Praise Disabled Access facilities Lunch Club St Giles Theatre Group |
At 1 Dec 2023 Income Expenditure Transfers Total £ £ £ £ £ - 1,504 - - 1,504 - 1,504 - - 1,504 - 5,879 (5,879) - - - 2,721 - - 2,721 - 3,859 (3,859) - - - 763 - - 763 - 8,490 - - 8,490 - 232 - - 232 - 5,000 - - 5,000 - 788 (707) - 81 - 4,220 (366) - 3,854 - 13,696 - 13,696 1,775 - 15 - 1,790 27,130 - (403) - 26,727 28,905 45,648 (11,199) - 63,354 - 15,000 - - 15,000 - 12,821 - - 12,821 - 11,778 - - 11,778 - 10,000 - - 10,000 990,601 897,617 (245,958) - 1,642,260 990,601 947,216 (245,958) - 1,691,859 1,019,506 994,368 (257,157) - 1,756,717 Income from the Endowment Fund is available for unrestricted purposes Costs associated with the Birnie/ Pluscarden Properties Costs associated with the Birnie/ Pluscarden Organs Costs associated with the Birnie Churchyard To be used to provide income for appropriate purposes involving the Sunday School To be used to support good causes as chosen by the Sunday School To be used to provide income for appropriate purposes involving youth of the Church To be used for appropriate purposes involving youth of the Church To be used for new hymn books, aids to singing and organ maintenance To assist with the weekly Elgin Parish Church of Scotland lunch club Funds to facilitate the operation of the Youth Theatre group within the Congregation This fund is for the costs associated with providing facilities for the disabled under the terms of current legislation. |
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
| 16. Collection for Third Parties Christian Aid Elgin Street Pastors Crossreach Moray Woman's Aid PoppyScotland Scottish Bible Society Moray Monday Club Scottish Air Ambulance Keirans Legacy Andersons Care Home Elam Lgugu Leli NGO Friends of the Oaks Ladybird Development Group North East Sensory Services Eco Congregations Step by Step in Moray Laich of Moray Trust Bus Embrace the Middle East Church of Scotland HIV Programme Mission for Fishermen Ekwendeni Moray School Bank Blythswood Care |
2025 £ 995 1,400 800 125 843 200 325 350 650 150 300 200 200 200 100 - - - - - - - - 6,838 |
2024 £ 500 215 400 400 213 - - - - - - - - - 336 200 100 31 1,487 68 259 214 312 4,735 |
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17. Acquisition note
Upon the union of the churches on 1st December 2023, the following assets were acquired, stated at their fair value.
| CoS Investors Trust, Investments received Growth Fund Units CoS Deposit Funds (Ex Elgin High) Cos Deposit Funds (Ex Birnie) Elgin High Bank accounts (Virgin Money) Birnie & Pluscarden Bank Accounts (Virgin Money) Daisybank Manse Elgin High Church & Hall |
Book Value £ 105,825 104,856 28,361 29,362 31,652 300,000 150,000 750,056 |
Fair Value £ 105,825 104,856 28,361 29,362 31,652 300,000 150,000 750,056 |
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Elgin Parish Church of Scotland Notes forming part of the financial statements Year ended 30 November 2025
19. Off balance sheet arrangements
Funds held on behalf of the congregation by the Church of Scotland General Trustees
| Capital Account Credit balances held at 30 November at cost Market Value of Balances at 30 November Revenue Account Credit Balance at 30 November Temporary Account Credit Balance at 30 November |
2025 £ 42,353 64,736 63,063 - |
2024 £ 42,353 57,578 87,416 - |
|---|---|---|
Notes
1. The above funds were transferred to Elgin Parish Church of Scotland at the date of the Union on 1st December 2023. During the year to 30 November 2024, £20,000 was withdrawn from the Revenue account noted above.