Join us as a Vacancy Support Officer
We have recently received grant funding to pilot a programme of vacancy support across the diocese. This programme will include support in preparing attractive parish profiles, maintaining and strengthening relationships with church schools, and looking after buildings. It will also allow us to offer parishes in vacancy the support of a Vacancy Support Officer.
When a parish enters a time of clergy vacancy, it can feel daunting for local leaders. That’s where our Vacancy Support Officers come in — bringing reassurance, encouragement and wisdom at a crucial moment, and helping to make this season in church life one of growth and renewal.
We’re looking for people with rich experience of parish life — recently retired clergy, or lay leaders such as Churchwardens, Treasurers, PCC Secretaries or Licensed Readers — who can walk alongside parishes in transition. This is an opportunity to use your gifts, experience and heart for mission in a flexible and rewarding way.
What you’ll do
- Come alongside parish leaders during vacancy, offering practical advice and missional encouragement.
- Work with each parish for around six half-day sessions (over 3–6 months), with the possibility of extending support by agreement.
- Share prayer, mutual encouragement and good practice as part of our Vacancy Support Officer network across the Diocese.
- Help parishes grow in confidence and faithfulness during seasons of change.
What we offer
- A chance to make a real difference by supporting parishes at a key time in their journey.
- Flexibility: work on a sessional basis, with remuneration of £100 per session (fully grant funded, with no cost to the parish).
- Ongoing support from your Archdeacon and from a network of fellow Vacancy Support Officers.
Please note
- This role complements the ministry of Archdeacons but does not carry their authority. Vacancy Support Officers are accountable to the Archdeacon.
- Vacancy Support Officers are not expected to provide service cover or be considered for future incumbencies.
- Vacancy Support Officers are not expected to play any role in guiding the parishes through the clergy appointments process.
- All Vacancy Support Officers will need to meet diocesan safeguarding requirements before starting.
Interested?
We’d love to hear from you. To find out more or to apply, please contact Helen Scheven for an application form.