The meeting opened with Peter leading us in prayer for the Annunciation of Mary’s Day.

The Annual Report and Accounts had been circulated prior to the meeting and were approved at the meeting by the PCC members present.

The Parish Safeguarding Officer had also circulated the Annual Review of St Hilda’s Safeguarding Policies and Procedures with suggested amendments. PCC considered all papers and approved the suggested amendments, including confirmation of the new process of issuing the confidential self declaration form and accompanying privacy notice, at the beginning of any recruitment process, before the DBS application process begins. Additionally, as St. Hildas does not have a grievance procedure, a whistleblowing procedure or a general complaints procedure, PCC agreed these are needed and they will be prepared and brought back to PCC for approval. PCC also authorised Sea Venturers use of the Hall, and confirmed verification of the current list of authorised non-church activities that take place in the Hall.

Peter Stokes spoke about the last Deanery Synod meeting in February. After deanery discussion, a question to Bishop Michael concerning vexatious complaints against clergy was approved for submission to diocesan synod. There was a presentation from Dawn Baker, Head of Generosity, concerning her role and that of her team, the focus of which will be encouraging generosity in its broadest sense and working with parishes to develop individual financial plans which will include the budgeting of common fund for the next five years. There was a presentation about a new parish partnership between St James Rounds Green and St Johns Harborne. And, Area Dean Mike announced that he will be retiring on the 17th May after twenty seven years of stipendiary ministry. The next area dean will also be a part time parish priest within the deanery.

Eco Church – The Big Plastic Count (counting all plastic waste in church) was zero, probably because the church was not in use during the dates. Another parish litter pick along Thimblemill Road to St Mark’s produced seven bags of litter. Another volunteer has joined the eco team and it was suggested that role descriptions should be organised.

Director of Music Ministry - Jenni has been given permission to keep the current grant until December and she is looking at other grants available.

Electoral Roll Report - no changes to the electoral roll. Electoral Roll Officer will ensure a number of forms will be available in porch for new members of the parish to be able to vote at the APCM.

Parish Identity Verifier report - Liz Farrier will be stepping down from this role and Julie Batham has agreed to take over.

The Hut - Julie is having problems accessing the building plans and has now contacted The Scout Association District Archive and the Diocesan Office to see if plans are there. Jenni will also contact a Diocesan officer to meet with us to share his expertise of how best to use the building for the church and wider community.

Maintenance works - Julie confirmed that the tower has been cleaned of bird guano and new mesh, with metal frames, has been fitted; the church guttering has been cleared; the parquet floor in one area of church seems to show signs of woodworm. As this may be historical it will be monitored closely. And, the large tree at the rear of the church needs to be made safe following storm damage. Julie to obtain quotes.

Date of the next meeting: after the APCM Sunday, 10 May, 2026.