Parish Secretary’s Report
David Hamilton-Peters, our Parish Secretary, reported on current issues. The PCC discussed, in particular, recent measures to increase the use of recycled products, specifically stationery and catering supplies, in line with St James’s Eco Church and green procurement policies. The PCC commended David on the recent progress, and also in relation to his wider activities in support of additional income generation and management of the parish office.
Head Verger’s Report
Chris Davies, our Head Verger, presented his report. The PCC reviewed arrangements for ongoing management of the verger team and the related budget. Additionally, the PCC discussed matters relating to the safety and welfare of the verger team and other staff, following a recent violent incident. The PCC was keen to ensure that all appropriate safeguards are in place, and made some additional recommendations for consideration by the staff team responsible for the operational management of the site. The PCC thanked Chris for his ongoing work and leadership of the verger team.
Management Accounts for the six months to 30th June 2017
The PCC perused the management accounts for the six months to the end of June 2017, noting that performance was broadly in line with budget. The PCC discussed areas for improvement, and notably the performance of the market in the context of recent changes and the current trading climate. The PCC also noted steps that were being taken to deliver additional cost savings and income, with the expectation of a satisfactory financial out-turn for the current financial year.
Our contribution to the Diocesan Common Fund 2018
The PCC considered and approved the level of Common Fund contribution to the Diocese for 2018. A £3k increase above that for 2017 was suggested and approved, making St James’s contribution £101k for 2018.
Support for Asylum Seekers
The PCC considered initial proposals relating to the methodology for pulling together the management and oversight of St James’s activities in support of individuals seeking asylum. These activities include the International Breakfast Group, letter writing and support at interviews and tribunals, the provision of physical accommodation, direct financial assistance in particular cases of need, and fundraising to support these activities. A further discussion on progress was scheduled for the September PCC meeting.
Strategic Plan monitoring
The PCC reviewed and agreed enhancements to the process for monitoring and celebrating progress in relation to the implementation of St James’s Strategic Plan 2016-1019, including scheduling of reports to PCC meetings.
Pastoral Assistant’s update
Ruth Edmonds, our Pastoral Assistant, provided a report on her work and experience at St James’s to date. The PCC commended Ruth on the positive impact that she had made in relation to the welcome for young people and children, as well as her wider contribution across other areas of activity, especially at the International Breakfast on Saturdays. The PCC agreed to look at ways to continue to employ a Pastoral Assistant going forward to further develop and build upon Ruth’s work.
Children’s Policy and Youth Ministry Policy
The PCC reviewed and approved draft policies in relation to ministry for children and young members of the congregation.
APCM 2018
The PCC agreed a date of Sunday 15th April 2018 for the next Annual Meeting of Parishioners.
Other matters
The PCC received for information and noted:
David Hamilton-Peters, our Parish Secretary, reported on current issues. The PCC discussed, in particular, recent measures to increase the use of recycled products, specifically stationery and catering supplies, in line with St James’s Eco Church and green procurement policies. The PCC commended David on the recent progress, and also in relation to his wider activities in support of additional income generation and management of the parish office.
Head Verger’s Report
Chris Davies, our Head Verger, presented his report. The PCC reviewed arrangements for ongoing management of the verger team and the related budget. Additionally, the PCC discussed matters relating to the safety and welfare of the verger team and other staff, following a recent violent incident. The PCC was keen to ensure that all appropriate safeguards are in place, and made some additional recommendations for consideration by the staff team responsible for the operational management of the site. The PCC thanked Chris for his ongoing work and leadership of the verger team.
Management Accounts for the six months to 30th June 2017
The PCC perused the management accounts for the six months to the end of June 2017, noting that performance was broadly in line with budget. The PCC discussed areas for improvement, and notably the performance of the market in the context of recent changes and the current trading climate. The PCC also noted steps that were being taken to deliver additional cost savings and income, with the expectation of a satisfactory financial out-turn for the current financial year.
Our contribution to the Diocesan Common Fund 2018
The PCC considered and approved the level of Common Fund contribution to the Diocese for 2018. A £3k increase above that for 2017 was suggested and approved, making St James’s contribution £101k for 2018.
Support for Asylum Seekers
The PCC considered initial proposals relating to the methodology for pulling together the management and oversight of St James’s activities in support of individuals seeking asylum. These activities include the International Breakfast Group, letter writing and support at interviews and tribunals, the provision of physical accommodation, direct financial assistance in particular cases of need, and fundraising to support these activities. A further discussion on progress was scheduled for the September PCC meeting.
Strategic Plan monitoring
The PCC reviewed and agreed enhancements to the process for monitoring and celebrating progress in relation to the implementation of St James’s Strategic Plan 2016-1019, including scheduling of reports to PCC meetings.
Pastoral Assistant’s update
Ruth Edmonds, our Pastoral Assistant, provided a report on her work and experience at St James’s to date. The PCC commended Ruth on the positive impact that she had made in relation to the welcome for young people and children, as well as her wider contribution across other areas of activity, especially at the International Breakfast on Saturdays. The PCC agreed to look at ways to continue to employ a Pastoral Assistant going forward to further develop and build upon Ruth’s work.
Children’s Policy and Youth Ministry Policy
The PCC reviewed and approved draft policies in relation to ministry for children and young members of the congregation.
APCM 2018
The PCC agreed a date of Sunday 15th April 2018 for the next Annual Meeting of Parishioners.
Other matters
The PCC received for information and noted:
- Provisional arrangements for the PCC away-day to be held on Saturday 16th September
- A report from LM and DC in relation to their role as St James’s Foundation Governors of Soho Parish Primary School
- The minutes of the Health & Safety Committee meeting of 22nd June 2017.
- The minutes of the staff meeting of 7th June 2017
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