Outcomes from the PCC Meeting: Wednesday, 9th July, 2025

  • Asbestos Removal Issue: The PCC was informed that in the process of negotiating a service agreement for our boiler, it has become apparent that there is a significant and dangerous asbestos issue in our boiler room. This room (underneath our church) has now been sealed off pending action to remove the asbestos. A specialist asbestos consultant has been appointed and three quotes obtained for the work to be done. The PCC has agreed to accept the lowest quotation. The work will cost £29,455.  We understood that if we are to have heating in the autumn and winter, the work needs to be done and paid for in the next two months.  The PCC will actively seek potential grants and all members will take on applications.  Given that any grants will not come through quick enough, it was agreed to suspend our parish share payments to the Diocese and to seek our church community’s help in assembling the resources to meet this huge challenge.
  • Fund-Raising Events: The meeting recognised the success of the two Greek meals and considered arrangements for the July coffee morning, also monthly coffee mornings in September and October, the Christmas Fair on 29th November and a possible Harvest Supper and bonfire on 11th November.
  • Director of Music/Organist Post: An advertisement has been created for this post which will shortly be put on our website and then advertised both within and beyond the Diocese during August with a view to interviews being held in early September.  A full job description has also been created.
  • Churchyard: Consideration was given to the ongoing maintenance of the churchyard and it was agreed that some parts of the churchyard will not be mown to encourage natural growth (as other churches whose burial sections are full.   It was also agreed that the use of the gifted field the other side of Hill Farm Road will never be appropriate for an extended churchyard for several significant reasons. 
  • Sub-Committee Updates: Worship Sub Group to meet at the end of August, Mission & Outreach reported on fund-raising events,  Pastoral Care is reviewing our list of vulnerable people we are visiting, The fabric committee have noted that the vestry chimney needs re-pointing.
  • Friends of St Nicolas Church: There will be a Taplow Talk advertised soon taking place on Thursday, 21st August and a further one is planned for 6th November.  The Friends have also donated £240 for one of the new pew cushions.
  • Treasurer’s Report: The meeting noted our current delicate financial position especially in the light of the asbestos removal issue.  The measures to address our financial needs were agreed.
  • Safeguarding: No changes to our policy are recommended.  The policy will be easier to see both within our church and on our website.  The Safeguarding Officer’s contact details will also be easier to find.
  • Our emailed Pew Leaflet: It was reported that this goes to 94 email addresses and is opened by an average 85%.  54% click a link of which about half are to the prayers and readings for the day.