Licenced clergy can apply for study leave to support any academic study they are undertaking or similar such as writing a book. 

>> Study leave grant application form

>> Additional academic grant application form

>> Download the information onthis page as a Word document

We are pleased to encourage licensed clergy who are enrolled on a substantial course of study, writing up a thesis or dissertation, completing a book, to request a study leave to complete the work. Please note it is recommended that study leaves are planned at least 18 months to two years in advance.  

• The Diocese of Derby funds up to two (2) study leaves in each calendar year.
• If the funds are not used, they are made available for additional sabbaticals.
• Because clergy require the bishop’s permission to be absent from their post, the process set out below must be followed regardless of whether funding is applied for or not.

The purpose of Study Leave

Study Leave is for use when a prolonged period of study is needed for a further degree or for a writing project/ book/publication or for a research project.

It is not the same as the time dedicated to personal or formal study that is part of the ongoing formation of all clergy and especially those who are studying for further degrees with the approval of the Ordained Ministries Development Officer.  In these cases, it will be expected that in order to complete the degree for which the diocese is expending funds, the priest concerned will take appropriate time to study routinely (e.g., a half day or a day a week and a few days together each year).

Study Leave remains a time apart from the rigours and demands of daily working life, and proper assurance will be sought, as with Sabbaticals, that adequate cover would be arranged before grants could be disbursed.

Eligibility 

Clergy of incumbent status are eligible to apply if:

• They have been in orders for at least 10 years
• It is at least 10 years since any previous Sabbatical or period of Study Leave
• They have been in their current post for at least 3 years
• They are at least 3 years from retirement

How long can it last?

The normal period for a study leave is three months (with a minimum of six weeks and a of maximum 12 weeks). These periods should be seen as over and above annual holiday.

Study Leave is more flexible than a sabbatical in length and structuring of time. It is available in two-week blocks from a minimum of two weeks up to a maximum of twelve weeks and over as many as three years.

Process

It is recommended that study leave is planned in advance.  This is to secure an allocation in the budget and to enable sufficient time for planning, preparation, and additional fundraising (if required). Applications for study leave are usually dealt with at the first meeting of the Bishop’s Leadership Staff Team after 30^th April in the preceding year of the proposed study leave. Proper planning before submission is key.

1. Arrange a meeting with the Ordained Ministries Development Officer by emailing or ringing Marietta Forman at either forman@derby.anglican.org or 01332 388673 to discuss ideas and possibilities. You might also consider talking through ideas about the study leave with your tutor/editor.

2. Complete in draft an Application Form for Study Leave

3. Bring a draft application form to that meeting

 A final version will eventually be submitted to the bishop for authorisation.

Your draft should:

• Set out a directed level of study with clearly defined outcomes
• Indicate a timetable
• Confirm support of your Area Dean
• Confirm support from the Churchwarden(s) or any appropriate other(s)
• Include what the arrangements for cover will be in your absence
  • This will involve consultation with the Area Dean and work colleagues. It is very important that throughout the period of the study leave you have no significant contact with your church and to arrange for all work-related phone calls to be redirected elsewhere. It is not appropriate to expect other family members living in the vicarage to deal with all enquiries during your absence.

Where funding is applied for, a budget indicating the costs of its various elements, including whether you will need to look to other sources of funding.  Please use the Grant Application for Study Leave Form. 

Funding

• A study leave grant of up to £900 is available, which can be divided over two or three years.
• In addition, any unused CMD allocation for the year in which you are taking the study leave can be used for specific retreats or courses (but not for travel expenses).
• Please use the Grant Application for Study Leave Form to apply for your study leave grant. Please support your application with receipts and invoices. We are only able to reimburse your expenses and do not pay third parties directly.
• These funds can be applied for before or after your study leave, but they must be claimed no later than 30^th November of the year in which you take your study leave.
• Stipendiary clergy continue to receive their stipend during the time of the study leave.

Please note you must keep the Ordained Ministries Development Officer informed should there be any change in your circumstances that would impact on your proposed period/s of study leave so that where appropriate adjustments can be made.

Post Study Leave

At the conclusion of your period of study leave, please plan to meet with the Ordained Ministries Development Officer to give a quick update on progress made.

Personal Details and GDPR? 

You can find details as to how we use and retain your details on our Diocesan Website. 

Questions? 

Please feel free to contact Marietta Forman or the Rev’d Susie Curtis.  They will attempt to answer any questions you may have. 

Complaints? 

If there is a complaint about how the grants were approved and/or distributed, please contact Claire Lees, Director of People & Ministry Development for the Diocese of Derby. 

Licenced clergy are encouraged to take the gift of a Sabbatical during their ministry.

The Diocese of Derby encourage all licensed clergy to take a three-month sabbatical every 10 years in ministry. This sustained period away from normal duties promotes professional development and personal enrichment.  It is recommended that sabbaticals are planned at least 18 months to two years in advance. 

• The Diocese of Derby funds up to six sabbaticals in each calendar year
• Episcopal permission is needed to be absent from a post, and therefore the process set out below must be followed regardless of whether funding is applied for or not

>> Application for for a Sabbatical

>> Grant application for a Sabbatical

>> Download the guidance on this page as a Word document

The purpose of a sabbatical

 A sabbatical is an expression of Sabbath. It is an extended period which is neither work nor holiday but an opportunity to live life differently; to study or explore; to look again at ministry, work and lifestyle; to let God speak to you afresh.

The shape of a sabbatical

A sabbatical plan should include significant elements of three transforming aspects:

Retreat – The space to reconnect deeply with God, to refresh spiritual roots, to renew your calling in ministry, and to consider markers for the future.  For some, this may take the form of a retreat or a pilgrimage or living in a community. A retreat at the beginning is a good way to mark the transition into a Sabbatical, as well as the transition back into full-time ministry at the end.

Renewal – This is the element of personal and/or professional development, which will normally take the greatest part of your three months. This is the time and space to equip you further in ministry, making the most of opportunities that you may not find in ordinary work time. It could relate to your present role, to a parallel interest, or something you’d like to explore with future ministry in mind. It will involve some element of learning, probably through study and theological reflection. For example: a self-determined research project, a short study course, or a ministry placement in an unfamiliar environment. Whatever is chosen, it should be designed to widen horizons or deepen thinking rather than simply revisiting familiar territory.

Rest and Recreation – A sabbatical is not intended as a holiday, but the biblical pattern of Sabbath includes rest as a vital part of life.  Take time and space simply to do what brings you well-being, joy, fulfilment, with no immediate link or outcome in your ministry; especially perhaps something you wouldn’t be able to consider in the normal pattern of work and life. For example: taking up painting, gardening, cookery, sailing, playing a musical instrument or even a challenge such as cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

How long can it last?

 The normal period for a sabbatical is three months (with a minimum of six weeks and a of maximum 12 weeks). These periods should be seen as over and above annual holiday.

Eligibility

Clergy of incumbent status are eligible to apply if:

• They have been in orders for at least 10 years
• It is at least 10 years since any previous Sabbatical or period of Study Leave
• They have been in their current post for at least 3 years
• They are at least 3 years from retirement

 Please note:

• A sabbatical is of greatest benefit to those in active and healthy ministry; it is not the right course for those who are recuperating or recovering from any kind of crisis.
• It would also be inadvisable for a minister to plan a sabbatical during a time of parish upheaval or when an important decision is being made or major project being undertaken. In such circumstances, the Diocese will offer alternative support and provision.
• If you are supervising a curate in training, the proposed period of the sabbatical should not fall within the first 2 years of the supervision of the curacy.

Process 

It is recommended that sabbaticals are planned at least 18 months to two years in advance.  This is to secure an allocation in the budget and to enable sufficient time for planning, preparation, and additional fundraising (if required). Proper planning before submission is key.

1. Arrange a meeting with the Ordained Ministries Development Officer by emailing or ringing Marietta Forman at either forman@derby.anglican.org or 01332 388673 to discuss ideas and possibilities. You might also consider talking through ideas about the sabbatical with your Spiritual Director.
2. Bring a draft of the Application for a Sabbatical Form to that meeting. A final version will eventually be submitted to the bishop for authorisation.

Your draft should:

• Include Retreat, Renewal, Rest and Recreation
• Include a plan of the proposed sabbatical with a rough schedule and itinerary
• Confirm support of your Area Dean
• Confirm support from the Churchwarden(s) or any appropriate other(s)
• Show what the arrangements for cover will be in your absence
  • This will involve consultation with the Area Dean and work colleagues. It is very important that throughout the period of the sabbatical you have no significant contact with your church, so we would encourage you to spend a significant amount of the sabbatical period away from the vicarage (particularly in the early part of the time) and to arrange for all work-related phone calls to be redirected elsewhere. It is not appropriate to expect other family members living in the vicarage to deal with all enquiries during your absence.
• Where funding is applied for, a budget indicating the costs of its various elements, including whether you will need to look to other sources of funding (Please use the Grant Application Form for a Sabbatical to apply for a sabbatical grant).

3. When your revised final application is completed and cover is sorted for the time you are hoping to be on sabbatical, the Ordained Ministries Development Officer presents the proposal along with their support to the Bishop and the Bishop’s Leadership Staff Team for approval.

4. You will be notified by the Ordained Ministries Development Officer whether your application has been successful.

Funding 

• A sabbatical grant of up to £900 is available.
• In addition, any unused CMD allocation for the year in which you are taking the sabbatical can be used for specific retreats or courses (but not for travel expenses).
• Please use the Grant Application Form for a Sabbatical to apply for your sabbatical grant. Please support your application with receipts and invoices. We are only able to reimburse your expenses and do not pay third parties directly.
• These funds can be applied for before or after your sabbatical, but they must be claimed no later than 30^th November of the year in which you take your sabbatical.
• Stipendiary clergy continue to receive their stipend during the sabbatical period.

Supervision

The Ordained Ministries Development Officer is available for consultation or advice at any time.  Together with the Ordained Ministries Development Officer you may, should you wish to, appoint or designate a supervisor to help you plan and resource your proposed sabbatical.  Please note that any charges a designated supervisor may make will need to be budgeted for within your application and will need to be supported by invoice.  Your CMD allowance cannot be used for this purpose.

Please note you must keep the Ordained Ministries Development Officer informed should there be any change in your circumstances that would impact on your proposed sabbatical.

Post Sabbatical

After the sabbatical, you will meet again with the Ordained Ministries Development Officer to debrief and evaluate the sabbatical.   Within a month of returning to normal duties you will also be expected to submit a short report, no more than a side of A4 so that we might share your experiences more widely within the Diocese, for encouragement and learning.

Personal Details and GDPR? 

You can find details as to how we use and retain your details on our Diocesan Website. 

Questions? 

Please feel free to contact Marietta Forman or the Rev’d Susie Curtis.  They will attempt to answer any questions you may have. 

Complaints? 

If there is a complaint about how the grants were approved and/or distributed, please contact Claire Lees, Director of People and Ministry Development for the Diocese of Derby. 

An annual retreat grant is available to all licenced clergy to support the cost of a retreat or spiritual direction. The retreat grant is offer to all clergy by the Diocese of Derby to support their wellbeing and spiritual renewal by financially supporting an annual retreat. 

>> CMD grant application form

>> Download the information on this page as a word document

Who can apply for the Retreat Grant?

The Diocesan Retreat Grant is intended to support all ordained clergy currently active in any form of post, whether Self Supporting or Stipendiary.

How much can I claim?

Up to £250 is being offered per person on an annual basis.  All grants are discretionary, but please do apply and we will always seek to support you in any way we can.

What is not covered?

• Books are not funded by the Retreat allowance
• Travel expenses are not covered by the Retreat budget and should be claimed with normal parish expenses
• CMD Training is funded separately. There is a separate CMD Grant Form you can apply for in addition to the Retreat Grant that is being offered.
• Sabbaticals and Study Leaves are funded separately.

How do I claim?

Please complete the application form available from Marietta Forman or the diocesan website and send it to marietta.forman@derby.anglican.org.

Invoices and/or receipts must be included before funds will be transferred.

Can my application be retrospective?

Yes, but please note that the CMD Grant Budget is a limited pot, and these grants are subject to funds being available. 

Is there a deadline?

Applications should be placed with the Ordained Ministries Development Officer by 30^th November for that calendar year, assuming there may still be funds to disburse, to allow the budget to be properly managed as year-end approaches. (The Diocesan Board of Finance works to a calendar year).

It is not possible to carry money over from year to year.

Timeline once you apply

• We look at the forms and authorise shortly after you apply.
• We then apply to Finance for payment. This usually takes around 3 weeks to process.
• If for any reason your claim isn’t successful, we will be in touch straight away.

Personal Details & GDPR?

You can find details as to how we use and retain your details on our Diocesan Website.

Questions?

Please feel free to contact the Rev’d Susie Curtis with any questions.

Complaints?

If there is a complaint about how the grants were approved and/or distributed, please contact Claire Lees Director of People and Ministry Development.  claire.lees@derby.anglican.org

An annual CMD grant is available to all licenced clergy to support their ongoing ministerial development.

>> Discretionary grant application form

>> Download the information on this page as a Word document

From the ordinal

“Will you be diligent in prayer, in reading Holy Scripture, and in all studies that will deepen your faith and fit you to uphold the truth of the Gospel against error?”

Introduction

The Diocese of Derby encourages all its licensed clergy to continue learning throughout their ministry and this grant is available to help you do just that. It is our hope that, as ministers grow and develop in their ministry and discipleship, they will identify the training and development opportunities they need.  All grants are discretionary, but please do apply and we will always seek to support you in this way if we can.

Who can apply for a CMD Grant?

The Diocesan CMD Grant is intended to support those who are currently in post in a parish/chaplaincy/pioneer context/cathedral, whether Self Supporting or Stipendiary Clergy.

How much can I claim?

The maximum amount is £300 per year. The year runs from January-December. Please apply before the end of November so that the Finance Department has time for end of year preparation.  There is no roll-over – so if you don’t use all/any of your grant in any one year you can’t add this to the following year.

What sort of things are covered?

The CMD Grant will only be considered for training purposes.  That said, almost everything! From day courses, to training conferences, to further theological study. As you know, there are many other opportunities available through universities, colleges, church, and secular organisations. These are all covered.  

Can I still apply for an additional £250 if I’m doing academic study?

Yes, please do apply for the additional £250 if you are doing academic study such as a Master’s, a Professional Doctorate or a PhD.  Please fill out the separate Academic Study Form to apply for that.

What is not covered?

• Annual Events like New Wine or Greenbelt
• Books are not funded by the CMD allowance
• Travel expenses are not covered by the CMD budget and should be claimed with normal parish expenses
• Retreats. These are funded separately. There is a separate Retreat Grant Form you can apply for in addition to the CMD Grant that is being offered.
• Sabbaticals and Study Leaves are funded separately. (Please see guidelines and application forms available from Marietta Forman or on the diocesan website).

How do I claim?

Please complete the application form available from Marietta Forman or the diocesan website and send it to marietta.forman@derby.anglican.org. Invoices and/or receipts must be included before funds will be transferred.

Can my application be retrospective?

Yes, but please note that the CMD Grant Budget is a limited pot, and these grants are subject to funds being available.  Receipts or invoice are needed for the Finance Department to reimburse you your money

When do I apply?

Please apply within the calendar year in which the training event takes place.  It is not possible to carry money over from year to year.  Unfortunately, we cannot reimburse expenses from the previous year, nor can we process requests for the following calendar year. Therefore, please hold onto your application until January of the subsequent year.

Is there a deadline?

Applications should be placed with the Ordained Ministries Development Officer by 30^th November for that calendar year, assuming there may still be funds to disburse, to allow the budget to be properly managed as year-end approaches (The Diocesan Board of Finance works to a calendar year).

It is not possible to carry money over from year to year.

Timeline once you apply

• We look at the forms and authorise shortly after you apply
• We then apply to Finance for payment, this usually takes around 3 weeks to process
• If for any reason your claim isn’t successful, we will be in touch straight away

Rationale

The Church of England recognises the centrality of lifelong learning, support and development in the lives and ministry of its clergy. In The Diocese of Derby, we are clear that clergy should feel both affirmed in their ministry and accountable to their Bishop and colleagues for their development.

Under the Ecclesiastical Offices (Terms of Service) Regulations, all those holding office under Common Tenure are under a duty to participate in Continuing Ministerial Development and Ministerial Development Review.

Additionally, all Stipendiary Clergy (and Self-Supporting Clergy, where possible) are expected to attend designated Bishop’s Study Days and Diocesan Conferences. Such conferences and study days are designed to offer opportunities to address issues of topical importance in clergy ministry.

Individual Lifelong Learning & Professional Development

It is our hope that, as ministers grow and develop in their ministry and discipleship, they will identify the training and development opportunities they need. All clergy are actively encouraged to undertake an annual programme to update their theological and associated studies as well as practical skills.  The grants we offer are intended to enable clergy to make the most of these opportunities.

Personal Details and GDPR?

You can find details as to how we use and retain your details on our Diocesan Website.

Questions?

Please feel free to contact Marietta Forman or the Rev’d Susie Curtis.  They will attempt to answer any questions you may have.

Complaints?

If there is a complaint about how the grants were approved and/or distributed, please contact Claire Lees, Director of People & Ministry Development for the Diocese of Derby.

Upcoming in-person events

We have a number of events for licenced clergy and those who offer a preaching ministry in the diocese:
 

Women in Ministry Day 

This session is for female clergy.

Wednesday 6 May, 10am to 3pm
St Alkmunds Church, Kedleston Road, Derby

Light refreshments will be available but do please remember to bring your own lunch. Book your place here.

Working with Teams, led by Rev Nicky McGinty

This session is for all licenced clergy.

Tuesday 19 May, 10am to 4pm
St Barnabas Centre, Pilsley Road, Danesmoor, Chesterfield
 

Working in churches often involves team working. Our focus for this day is how can we create, build and develop teams so that they are effective. We will also explore ways to respond when teams are not working well. This will be a blend of theory, practice and theology to help us improve our ability to collaborate well. Nicky is a highly experienced trainer, consultant, facilitator, coach and reflective supervisor based in Leicestershire.

She is a self-supporting priest in the diocese of Leicester and an honorary canon of Leicester Cathedral.

Light refreshments will be available but do please remember to bring your own lunch. Book your place here.

Trauma-informed Ministry: Moving forward in a changed world, led by Rev Tim Treanor  

This session is for all licenced clergy.

Tuesday 7 July, 10am to 3.30pm
St Barnabas Centre, Pilsley Road, Danesmoor, Chesterfield

Participants will explore: Physically responses to trauma, chronic stress, anxiety and conflict; The impact of trauma on communities and organisations; How churches might respond in considered, creative and sustainable ways; Where God is in all of this.

Rev Tim Treanor accompanies ordained ministers as a pastoral supervisor, facilitator of Reflective Practice Groups and Spiritual Director.  Influences on his practice include serving as a Team Rector, Ignatian spirituality, group analysis and contemplative prayer

Light refreshments plus lunch will be available. There is space for 12 to 18 participants which will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Book your place here.
 

Preaching the Lectionary - Mark, led by Rev Amy Hole

These sessions are for all who offer a preaching ministry in the Diocese of Derby.

Monday 2 November, 7pm to 9pm
Online via Zoom

 Tuesday 3 November, 2.00pm - 4.30pm
 St Johns Walton, Walton Back Lane, Chesterfield

Rev Amy Hole is Vicar of Christ Church Heeley in central Sheffield, serving a large parish with considerable socio-economic needs. The church is racially diverse, with a range of ages, and is broadly low evangelical in worshipping style. Alongside parish ministry, and serving as area dean, Amy is also an Associate Tutor at St Hild College, where she currently teaches New Testament Greek, Preaching, and Reflective Practice, and she writes Bible notes for Scripture Union.

The session is offered on line via zoom or in person please complete a booking form according to your preference. Book the online session here or book the in person session here.

How to Lead a Church where Discipleship Thrives, led by Matt Hogg CPAS 

This session is for all licenced clergy.

 Tuesday 2 February, 10am to 4pm
St Barnabas Centre, Pilsley Road, Danesmoor, Chesterfield

This training day equips leaders to embed discipleship and formation into everyday church life. We’ll explore simple rhythms, practices, and culture-shaping influences that can help people move from spiritual curiosity to lasting commitment, growing deeper in their faith and trust in Jesus over time. 

Light refreshments will be available but do please remember to bring your own lunch. Book your place here.

Training Opportunities within the Diocese

Ministry Mondays

An hour long online workshop on the third Monday of every month 1-2pm.  We shall discuss a range of topics that are pertinent to parish life.  We shall advertise events three months in advance so do keep checking to see what is coming up.

Join the Ministry Mondays sessions here

How to Use AI in Ministry 

led by James Lawrence from CPAS

Monday 20 April, 1pm to 2pm
Online via Zoom 

We hear so much about AI. Some see it as their 'saviour' (it isn't!), others as leading to the apocalypse (it won't). We'll explore practical ways to use AI in ministry that will utilise AI as a contributor to your leadership. No knowledge of AI needed. Sceptics welcome!    
 

All things young people

 Monday 18 May, 1pm to 2pm
Online via Zoom 

A chance to meet the new Diocesan Lead for Growing Younger and the wider Growing Younger.
 

Following St Francis of Assisi: lessons for everyday ministry

led by Simon Cocksedge and Brother Samuel SSF

Monday 15 June, 1pm to 2pm
Online via Zoom 

The 800th anniversary of Francis' death is 4 October 2026. In this session, Br Samuel SSF [Franciscan friar] and Simon Cocksedge [Third Order Franciscan] will each offer brief presentations considering how this significant Franciscan date might be used in everyday ministry this autumn. There will also be time for discussion and sharing of ideas. 

Derby Diocesan Synod met for its 148th session this month at St John’s Walton near Chesterfield.

Gathering together in unity

Peter Kelsey, Chair of the House of Laity, began by welcoming people to the meeting, giving particular acknowledgement to the fact that this was the final meeting that Rt Rev Malcolm Macnaughton, Bishop of Repton, would be attending. Peter also mentioned that it was the last meeting that Amanda Shreeve would facilitate before she leaves her post at the DBF this April. He expressed thanks to both on behalf of Synod members.
After the customary housekeeping notices and the noting of apologies for absence (28 laity and 12 clergy), Peter invited representatives from Peak Deanery to lead us in morning prayer.
Rev Fiona Kouble, from St John the Baptist in Tideswell, led a reflective time of worship, drawing on the words of Psalm 31, inviting synod to join in the refrain ‘into your hands I commend my spirit’. We also joined in a sung version of the Lord’s prayer to the melody of Kum By Yah – setting the meeting in a context of prayer and the continued presence of God.

Presidential address – reasons to be thankful

After worship, Peter invited Bishop Malcolm to give the presidential address.

Malcolm began by commenting that it had been the first sunny day for some weeks after a period of unsettled weather during February and early March, set against the international context of uncertainty and turmoil brought about by the US-Israel led conflict in Iran. He commented that these divisions are sadly reflected in our communities and even in our church, and of the need for continued prayer into these situations.
While there is uncertainty, Malcolm reminded us that we have things to be thankful for, and that the following Sunday was Laetare Sunday, a moment part way through the season of lent where we can break fast and celebrate God’s provision.
Inviting synod members to write down what they are thankful for on pink paper appropriate for the Laetare moment, Malcolm shared what he was especially grateful for in our diocese. He referenced the life and enthusiasm of Messy Church in Repton, new growth in the congregation at St Edmund’s Shelton Lock and the continued expansion of the Monday evening football outreach led by St Francis’ Mackworth. He expressed gratitude for the clergy who have already been through the Launchpad series, and for those on the current cohort learning how to reach young people in contexts where this sort of ministry has not been done before. He mentioned the innovative work that is pending in our schools, following funding from the national church, around racial justice and encouraging greater connections and conversation between people from different backgrounds. He celebrated the fact that we have four times more licenced clergy from global majority backgrounds than we had five years ago. Malcolm also gave thanks for the recently renewed ambition for greater international links with partner dioceses in Burundi, India and Canada.

Malcolm shared some of his personal moments of gratitude, in particular the privilege he had of confirming many people. He recounted some of the testimonies that he had heard: ‘the church has become my refuge’, others describing the ‘joyous love of God’, and yet another sharing that they had ‘found healing’.

The Accessibility Symbols project led by the Disability Inclusion and Action Group (DIAG) was highlighted as work that Malcolm was proud of on behalf of our diocese, especially now that it has expanded to the national ‘A Church Near You’ portal.
He also referenced the work we do across the diocese to challenge injustice; the tragedy of the need for foodbanks but the beacons of light and hope that they provide for the most vulnerable people in our communities. He noted too the work that we have done towards lowering our carbon footprint.

Malcolm concluded his address by pointing to the coming conclusion of his own public ministry – that he was doing so with a mixture of joy and sadness, but also with an assuredness of God’s presence in the world amidst times of struggle and pain. His final challenge to us was simple: ‘be strong and let your hearts take courage’.

His address was met with applause.

Finance strategy update

The minutes of the 147th meeting of synod, also held at St John’s, were approved. This was followed by an update from Will Hagger, Diocesan Secretary, about the newly-formed Financial Strategy Group. Will shared the remit of the group and a little about the context in which we find ourselves as a diocese, in particular the run of deficit budgets over recent years, the falling trajectory of common fund contributions from parishes, and the challenges associated with accessing Diocesan Investment Programme (DIP) funding.

The group has only met once so far, but has clear objectives to work towards: to return the DBF to a balanced budget over five years, to increase church’s financial health (and thereby grow common fund capacity), and to look at sustainable efficiencies in clergy and DBF costs.

There were no questions.

Living in Love and Faith – any next steps

After noting and considering the written question and answers item on the agenda, Peter ceded the chair to Brain Parker, lay chair of South East Derbyshire Deanery, who hosted the discussion on Living in Love and Faith (LLF). This included an update on the consultation with separate Houses of Diocesan Synod on LLF, and follow up on the decisions of General Synod in February responding to the House of Bishops Statement on Living in Love and Faith.

The discussion began with group members with different points of view on LLF sharing their reflections on the format and tone of their discussions. These reflections were mainly positive: there was space to engage constructively with each other, a recognition of the nervousness and anxiety around being vulnerable in conversations of a sensitive topic, but also an appreciation of the respect shown and the desire to find common ground.

A positive challenge was shared by one of the speakers: ‘Don’t be scared to engage with others who may have different point of view.’

Rev Gary Weston, Priest in Charge of St Thomas and St Mark Brampton, then led synod in the discussion of a couple of questions, set in the context of feedback from both the House of Laity and House of Clergy. Gary shared two word clouds (from each house respectively) which highlighted peoples’ feelings about the conversations around LLF

Synod were asked to consider two questions in light of this discussion:

1. Would Synod like the Consultation Group to work through how we might have a facilitated conversation, as Synod, to share the hurt and distress we feel and to explore behaviours that we would want to exhibit as Synod members as we discuss this and other challenging matters?
2. Does Synod feel that the offer of a facilitated conversation would be helpful in other areas of Diocesan life, such as at Deanery level (Both Synods and Chapter) and at the Clergy Conference?
    

The results were captured via a digital Slido poll, indicating an affirmative answer to question one, but less enthusiasm for question two. Synod recognised that not everyone would have had the opportunity to take part in the digital poll and that these results were indicative only.

This part of the agenda concluded with some questions around process: were the pastoral principles of LLF considered during the consultation – to which the answer was yes; and also a question around clarity around the remit of LLF – to which synod was directed to the House of Bishop’s statement. Some specific resources for facilitating healthy yet challenging conversations in a church context were promoted, specifically the Difference course that has recently been released by the Church of England.

After this synod adjourned for a coffee break.

Social isolation – a motion to debate

The second half of Synod was chaired by Rev Nicola McNally, who invited Matt Barnes, Director of Mission, Evangelism and Parish Revitalisation, to introduce a debate on a motion from, Peter Kelsey of Carsington deanery, to combat social isolation.

The motion was welcomed almost universally by synod, with several comments from members to draw out specific themes and challenges. The need for objectivity in assessing the need, thinking long-term and seeing the big picture was raised by Peter Robinson, Dean of Derby. Others drew on examples of people who experience social isolation who may not immediately come to mind ranging from victims of domestic violence to refugees and asylum seekers. Synod was encouraged not to forget the missional outcome of contexts of social and economic deprivation, and not to divert funds away from equally important aspects of our work. There was also a plea to involve people who experience loneliness in the design of any projects or interventions; to ‘do with’ rather than ‘do to’ people who are isolated in their communities.

The motion was carried, with these comments noted.

Final business

Synod received and noted regular reports including notices and updates around elections and appointments to committees.

Bishop Libby shared an overview of the process for appointing a new Bishop of Repton once Bishop Malcom retires from office. She explained that filling the vacancy was not automatic and that a case needed to be made to the Dioceses Commission. Libby invited comments and feedback that might shape the role profile and job description for the see to be sent through to her office. Bishop Libby also sought the views in principle that recruitment to the vacancy for Bishop of Repton be sought. Most of synod indicated their support, with one person voting against.

The final piece of business was an amendment to Canon law which was shared verbally as per Church of England governance practice: ‘Amending Canon No. 44 amends Canon C 8 to include provision for the exercise of ministry by Armed Forces chaplains’
Synod adjourned earlier than the expected time of 1pm, but will meet again on Saturday 13 June at St Werburgh’s, Derby.

On Saturday 7^th March, 28 Licensed Lay Ministers (Readers) from across the diocese gathered at St Helen's Church, Darley Dale, for their annual Lent Quiet Day. Led by the Archdeacon of Peak and Dales, Nicky Fenton, they spent the day reflecting on the life and stories of Saint Brigid through the use of scripture, prayers, nature, poems, creative stations, silence and sharing.

Do you thrive on bringing clarity, structure, and confidence to complex projects? 
Are you an experienced project manager who enjoys working with purpose driven organisations and senior stakeholders?

We are seeking a skilled Project Manager to lead and coordinate our preparation for an upcoming INEQE safeguarding audit. This is a key role, ensuring the organisation is fully audit ready, with high quality evidence, clear governance, and strong cross departmental engagement.

Working closely with the Head of Safeguarding and Senior Leadership Team, you will:

• Lead the end-to-end audit preparation project

• Create and manage clear plans, workstreams, risk logs, and readiness reporting

• Coordinate contributions across teams and hold actions to account

• Maintain a robust, GDPR compliant evidence repository

• Provide clear assurance and briefings to senior leaders

• Capture learning and support post audit improvement planning

This role would suit an experienced project manager who:

• Is highly organised, analytical, and detail focused

• Is confident working with senior leaders and governance bodies

• Can deliver structured outcomes within limited, parttime hours

• Brings experience from regulated, safeguarding, education, or compliance led environments

You don’t need to be a safeguarding expert already – but you do need strong project discipline, credibility, and a commitment to high standards.

This is a fixed term part time opportunity, working 14 hours a week until June 2027.

Working pattern: 14 Hours per week (ideally over 2 set days a week)

Salary: £47,500 full-time equivalent

Closing date: Wednesday 8 April

Interview date: Monday 20 April

>> Download the job description here (PDF)

>> Download our guide to working for the Derby Diocesan Board of Finance here (PDF)

>> Download an application form here (Word)

>> Download the recruitment monitoring form (to be returned with your application form) (Word)