The role of a treasurer is a very important one. Not only with handling of the Church’s funds, but the PCC is also an independent charity, and will need to conform to Charity Commission guidance.

You do not have to be a regular church attendee but an understanding and support of the Christian faith, Church of England, and its mission to serve the community of Old Catton through the love and care of all people is important (St. Margaret’s Church supports diversity and inclusion).

The treasurer does not need to be an accountant, some support and training can be provided, but must have both the honesty and enthusiasm to want to do the job.  Due to the push towards online banking, use of email and other computer-based support, access to a computer, email address and basic understanding of computer software is required.

Some of the following skills and characteristics would also be helpful.

Skills and Characteristics

• Reasonable financial competence, and the ability to maintain a basic accounts book.
• Understand the parish, its needs, and challenges.
• Have a basic understanding of how the parish fits into its wider Deanery, Diocesan, and national church contexts.
• Willingness to attend PCC meetings, not only to deal with financial matters but also to be aware of the PCC’s plans.
• Be in harmony with the PCC, the parish priest (incumbent), and the wider church.
• Be able to explain financial issues clearly, both within the PCC and to the general church membership.
• Be able to maintain confidentiality, particularly with respect to matters that relate to individual church members, e.g., their personal giving.
• Meet the wider requirements of the Charity Commissioners for all trustees: i.e. not disqualified by bankruptcy or by convictions for financial wrongdoing.
• Although PCC members can be 16 or over, the bank is likely to require someone who is 18 or over. Since the role carries significant responsibility, the PCC feels that it is appropriate to have someone aged over 18.

Key Tasks

• Carry out the financial decisions made by the PCC. The responsibility for both raising and spending money to meet the PCC’s responsibilities lies with the PCC. The Treasurer implements their decisions.
• Draft an annual budget to assist the PCC to plan how it will fulfill its objectives for the coming year.
• Record all financial transactions carried out on behalf of the PCC and ensure they are properly authorised.
• Monitor the PCC’s finances throughout the year and alert the PCC if any difficulties are likely.
• Work with the PCC to meet all its financial obligations, especially Parish Share, clergy expenses and insuring the church buildings against fire, theft, and public liability.
• Maintain, and set-up if needed, a book-keeping system – the Diocese of Norwich does have a predesigned Excel spreadsheet to help with keeping financial records (training can be given).
• Prepare the annual financial statements for approval by the PCC and submission to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, ensuring that they comply with current Charity Commission requirements. Send a copy to the Diocese and complete the national financial information return.

Safeguarding:

The appointment of a Treasurer will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. They will be expected to work within the PCC, Diocesan, and Church of England safeguarding policies and procedures. They will be expected to have due regard for the safety and well-being of themselves, church members, and visitors.

If you would like to know more then please contact the Vicar, the Revd David Hagan-Palmer.