member of the Fabric Advisory Committee

Candidate Information PackMember of the Fabric AdvisoryCommittee  2026www.carlislecathedral.org.ukDear ApplicantThank you very much for your interest in becoming a member of Carlisle Cathedral’s Fabric Advisory Committee(FAC). The FAC is a statutory committee formed under the Care of Cathedrals Measure 2011 and is responsible tothe Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England. Carlisle Cathedral, a Grade 1 listed building, was founded by KingHenry I as an Augustinian Priory in 1122 and celebrated its 900 anniversary in 2022. It became the CathedralChurch of the newly created Diocese of Carlisle in 1133. thThe jurisdiction of the FAC is limited to the Grade 1 listed Cathedral building and the various Grade 1 and 11 listedproperties within the Cathedral precinct. We are currently working on a 10-year Fabric Master Plan which willenable financial sustainability, achieve Net Zero Carbon targets and improve the Cathedral and its precinct for allwhile ensuring it remains a living church in use for daily worship. The Fabric Advisory Committee will play a critically important part by ensuring we conserve our history as weprepare to serve our community for the future.You will be joining a committee with a wealth of expertise in conservation, planning, art and design and governance.Successful candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have the experience and skills necessary to take anadvisory role in a complex organisation. While we are not looking for any specific qualification’s, applications wouldbe welcome from those with specialised experience/knowledge in conserving heritage glass, textiles and wood. Weare also passionate about ensuring that our committees are diverse and representative of the community we serve.This is meaningful work in a unique setting, and we are seeking committee members who combine professionalexpertise with a collaborative spirit and a commitment to the Cathedral’s Mission, Purpose and Values andsupporting Our Vision 2026 - 2030. Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of the FAC. We hope you find this information helpful and lookforward to hearing from you.Yours sincerelyCharles Blackett-OrdFAC ChairWelcomewww.carlislecathedral.org.ukRole PurposeEach cathedral has its own Fabric Advisory Committee (FAC) with specific responsibilities laid out by the Care ofCathedrals Measure. As a member of FAC your role will be vital in the oversight of the overall development, conservation andmaintenance of the Cathedral building and precinct.As a member of the Fabric Advisory Committee, appointees will, as appropriate, provide determination onapplications and advise the cathedral Chapter (the governing body of a cathedral) in line with the statutoryresponsibility of the Committee under the Care of Cathedrals Measure, remaining true to the values of thecathedral and its role as a living place of worship.Carlisle FAC is composed of six members with a quorum of 4. The Chair is elected by members from their number.Half of the members are appointed by CFCE and half by Chapter.More details about the role of the FAC is available through Cathedral Fabric Advisory Committees | The Church of Englandwww.carlislecathedral.org.ukDuties and ResponsibilitiesTo play an active role as a member of a cathedral Fabric Advisory Committee by reviewing papers, attendingarranged meetings and site visits.To work within the Care of Cathedrals Measure in providing determination on applications made to the FAC,balancing heritage significance with public benefits and the mission and vision of the cathedral.To offer expert advice via the committee to the Senior Management Team and Chapter, based on professionalexperience, practice and standing.To enable the Cathedral’s retained advisors, the Cathedral Architect and Cathedral Archaeologist, to findsolutions as they develop methodologies and conduct research studies.To offer pragmatic support and guidance to find sustainable solutions to complex fabric and collections relatedissues.To offer support and guidance in relation to the Church of England’s objectives toward Net Zero Carbon.To offer advice as the Cathedral continues to focus on financial sustainably. To actively support Our Vision and Strategic Aims 2026-2030Relationships and CommunicationTo liaise with the Chair of the FAC, the Chief Operating Officer (the senior officer of the cathedral) on specificmatters where the cathedral may wish to call on specific expertise.To work alongside other members of the Committee, respecting their professional expertise and standing.To recognise and praise good practice.To remain mindful of archaeological, architectural and resource issues, to support Chapter and its retainedexperts to find solutions to complex and inter-related issues that are fitting for the needs of a living cathedral.www.carlislecathedral.org.ukCompetenciesCompetenciesSubstantial experience of taking an advisory role in a complex organisation.Knowledge and experience of working in a heritage, listed building, arts, visitor attraction or cathedralenvironment, or in another specialism relevant to the life of the cathedral.Ability to think laterally and creatively to find solutions to problems while able to maintain focus on the bigpicture.Good communication and influencing skills.Ability to contribute at strategic level and offer constructive challenge through influencing.Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as acommittee member.A strong personal commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.Enthusiasm for our vision and strategy.Willingness to act according to the Cathedral’s values.Applicants should ideally have knowledge of the care and maintenance of outstanding historic buildings and aninterest in the Cathedral itself.Desirable competenciesExperience or knowledge in conserving heritage glass / textiles / wood.Experience or knowledge of the liturgical use of churchesExperience or knowledge of implementing Net Zero Carbon solutions in a Grade 1 listed buildingExperience or knowledge of working within a Christian setting.Experience of working on planning committees.www.carlislecathedral.org.ukTermsTime CommitmentCarlisle Cathedral FAC normally has four scheduled meetings per year. The committee may need to meet moreregularly when major capital works or repairs are planned. Ad hoc and support through working groups and/orsupport to the senior management team may also be required.Members are encouraged to take part in the wider life of the Cathedral, but this is not mandatory.You may also need to be able to commit to a small amount of training each year in addition to the mandatoryinduction (e.g. safeguarding training).Term of OfficeMembers are appointed for up to five years with the option for reappointment. All members are re-appointed everyfive years. The next Quinquennium begins in May 2026.RemunerationMembership of FAC is an unpaid role. Reasonable travel expenses can be claimed in accordance with the Cathedral’sExpenses policy.www.carlislecathedral.org.ukwww.carlislecathedral.org.ukFor an informal discussion about this role, please contact:Charles Blackett-Ord - Chair of FAC: engineering@blackett-ordconservation.co.ukEdith McColgan Chief Operating Officer: chiefoperatingofficer@carlislecathedral.org.ukFor any questions regarding the application process, please contact:Karen Nattrass, Senior Executive Assistant to the Dean and the COO - karen@carlislecathedral.org.uk To apply, please send:A current comprehensive CV outlining your key achievements in previous and current roles.A supporting statement, explaining how you believe your skills and experience match the requirements of therole.Details of two referees (who will not be contacted without your prior consent).Recruitment monitoring form.The successful applicant will be required to complete the Cathedral’s safer recruitment process, includingsafeguarding training.To – Karen Nattrass, Senior Executive Assistant to the Dean and the Chief Operating Officer.Via email – karen@carlislecathedral.org.uk marked ‘Member of the FAC – Application’ Closing Date – 20 March 2026thApplication Process and Interviewwww.carlislecathedral.org.ukOur MissionOur PurposeOur ValuesOur Mission, Purpose and ValuesCarlisle Cathedral is a community of prayer, welcome and rest for all to encounter the loveof God in Jesus Christ. For centuries, Carlisle Cathedral has been a living Christian community, seeking God and bringing rest to restlesshearts amid the ever-changing history of our borderlands. We steward this place and its rich heritage for the city,county and diocese we serve. We are entrusted with the stories it holds. We are called to use this inheritance aswe seek to tell anew the love of God in Jesus Christ for current and future generations. As the seat of the Bishop of Carlisle, we are a sign of unity, committed to deepening our life of prayer andworship while embracing new ways to build a sustainable and hope-filled future. We welcome all – visitors, travellers and pilgrims alike – inviting them to experience the transforming truth andpresence of God. Through the stories of God’s love and the richness of Cumbrian life and heritage, we seek to inspire and uplift allwho we encounter.Our values are drawn from the original foundation of the Cathedral based on the Rule of St Augustine. His wordsunderpin our daily pattern of prayer and radiate out into all aspects of our life.Unity We work together for a shared purpose, caring for one another as members of theCathedral community with“one mind and heart onthe way to God”.Truth We uphold honesty,integrity and humility for“the heart is illuminedwhen it hears: God is truth”.Love We serve all withcompassion, hospitalityand kindness “to loveGod and our neighbour in all we do”.www.carlislecathedral.org.ukVision 2026-2030Strategic Aims 2026-2030Our Vision and Strategic AimsBuilding on more than 900 years of prayer,worship and discipleship, to create a vibrant,sustainable future for our community, buildings,heritage and music to enable everyone to taketheir next step with God.We will strengthen the Cathedral as aplace of prayer and a centre of excellencein worship and mission to enable all togrow in God’s love. We will nurture our staff and volunteersto develop and flourish in their roles. We will welcome successive generationsto be inspired and transformed throughengagement with the Cathedral and ourregion’s heritage. We will establish the Cathedral at theheart of the region’s musical and culturallandscape. We will develop a sustainable, holisticfinancial model, maximising the potential ofthe Cathedral’s fabric, endowment andcommercial activities. We will deepen our relationship with thepeople and communities of the Dioceseand county through prayer andpartnership. www.carlislecathedral.org.ukCarlisle Cathedral has stood at the heart of the city for over 900 years and remains an active place of worship withinthe Church of England today. While it is a site of great historical significance, it is first and foremost a living church,where daily prayers, services, and community gatherings continue a tradition of Christian worship that dates backcenturies.Founded in 1122 as an Augustinian priory, the Cathedral’s origins reflect its deep spiritual foundations. TheAugustinian canons who established it lived a life of both contemplation and service, committed to prayer, education,and pastoral care. When the priory was elevated to cathedral status in 1133, it became the seat of the Bishop ofCarlisle, a role it continues to hold within the Diocese of Carlisle today. As one of the Church of England’snorthernmost cathedrals, it serves a diverse and widespread community, welcoming worshippers, pilgrims, andvisitors from across the region and beyond.The Cathedral has weathered many changes over the centuries, shaped by Carlisle’s position near the border withScotland. It has stood through conflicts, including the medieval wars between England and Scotland, and was closelylinked to Carlisle Castle, a key military stronghold just a short distance away. The Dissolution of the Monasteries inthe 16th century saw the loss of many of its monastic buildings, and during the English Civil War, stones from theCathedral were taken for military use. Yet, through each challenge, it remained a place of worship, adapting andenduring as part of the evolving English Church.Today the Cathedral continues to be a centre of worship, learning, and community life. It holds regular services,including daily prayers, Eucharist, and choral worship, upholding the traditions of the Church of England while alsoembracing new ways to serve the people of Carlisle.Its breathtaking medieval architecture, including the Gothic East Window (which recently was named as the“Nation’s Favourite Stained Glass Window”) and the beautifully painted ceiling, provides an inspiring space for bothpersonal reflection and collective worship. The Cathedral is also an active supporter of education and outreach,working with local schools, charities, and faith groups to engage with the wider community. Carlisle’s history as a railway city, which brought prosperity in the 19th century, helped ensure the Cathedral’spreservation, and today, it remains a welcoming space for all who seek spiritual nourishment, history, or quietreflection. Situated near Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle Castle, and the city’s railway station, it serves as a lasting symbol offaith and resilience, carrying forward its mission as a beacon of worship and witness in the Church of England.The History of Carlisle Cathedralwww.carlislecathedral.org.ukThe Cathedral OfficeThe Cathedral Office is situated on West Walls, adjacent tothe Cathedral, in the former Carlisle Diocesan Office(Church House). The premises is owned by the CarlisleCathedral Development Trust (CCDT) and was fullyrefurbished in 2022. The History of Carlisle CathedralThe Fratry Hall and Cathedral CaféIn mediaeval times the Fratry building was the dining hall of the Cathedral Priory. The £3.5 million Heritage Lottery Fund partner project brought this world-class, Grade I listed building back to lifeand made it ready to serve the City, the County and its visitors. The project focused on the physical heritage of theFratry building, and its relationship to the wider Cathedral precinct, the library collections, and on the social,political, religious and archaeological heritage they can reveal. The Fratry is one of the most important historic buildings in Carlisle and one of the few remaining monasticrefectories in the country. Our award-winning Café, which opened in summer 2020, sits at the heart of the precinct in the footprint of themedieval cloister, with unrivalled views of the Cathedral. The Café is open daily for hearty homemade food, cakes,coffee and more. www.carlislecathedral.org.ukOur PeopleAt the heart of the Cathedral’s life is a small group committed to sustaining the daily offering of prayer and worship.The resident members of Chapter, the Dean and two Residentiary Canons, prioritise this core calling, joined eachday by others who share in the rhythm of worship.Chapter as a whole provides the strategic leadership and governance for the Cathedral, and the Senior ManagementTeam alongside a dedicated and committed team of staff and volunteers deliver the Cathedral’s day‑to‑dayoperations. Chapter’s programme of activity shapes the ways in which the Cathedral engages with visitors, schools andcommunities to promote public engagement with our history, faith and collections. Chapter aims to make asignificant contribution to the City’s cultural and heritage economies.The Cathedral’s commercial activities, catering/retail sales/events, are overseen by the directors of the Cathedral’strading arm (Carlisle Cathedral Enterprises Ltd - CCEL). www.carlislecathedral.org.ukHow we are organisedThe Cathedral employs a mix of full‑time and part‑time staff who bring a wide range of skills and experience tosupport its work.We are also fortunate to have a committed group of volunteers who generously give their time and enthusiasm tohelp with many aspects of Cathedral life and visitor engagement.Please see below for our current structure.Organogram www.carlislecathedral.org.ukSafeguarding is at the centre of everything we do atCarlisle Cathedral. Ultimate responsibility for safeguardingsits with the Dean with day-to-day responsibility delegatedto the Chapter Safeguarding Lead, who at present is theCanon Warden. The Chapter Safeguarding Lead is then supported by theDiocesan Safeguarding Officer and members of theDiocesan Safeguarding Team who offer professionalsupport and advice to the Cathedral on all safeguardingmatters. SafeguardingWithin the day-to-day life of the Cathedral, we work to ensure that all members of the Cathedral team understandand contribute to our shared calling to keep everyone in our care safe. All members of the team are safely recruitedto a level relevant to their role. This robust process includes the completion of the appropriate level of safeguardingtraining, and where appropriate, Disclosure and Barring Service checks. Staff and volunteers then receive ongoing training. This is delivered through safeguarding refresher training at theannual INSET day, as well the relevant appropriate safeguarding training required for the role. The work ofSafeguarding is also monitored by the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel and, within the Cathedral, by Chapterand the Audit and Risk Committee. Challenge and support for the Chapter Safeguarding Lead isalso provided by the Cathedral Lay Safeguarding Lead. Thisis currently Julie Clayton who is the Chief-Executive of alocal hospice and a non-executive member of the CathedralChapter. She acts as a point of contact for all safeguardingmatters, independent of the structures of the Cathedral orDiocese. She also chairs the Cathedral Safeguarding Groupwhich draws membership from all the different communitiesand groups which make up Cathedral life to discuss anddevelop our safeguarding practice.At the Cathedral we are also acutely aware of the way inwhich the whole Church has failed those who we shouldhave had care for. Knowing this we work closely withadvocates of Victim-Survivors and all who have beenaffected by abuse to lament, listen and learn from them.Both through our annual Safeguarding Season and throughthe whole year we seek to better respond to our call tosafeguard all who are known and cherished and made in theimage of God. www.carlislecathedral.org.ukFurther InformationCarlisle Cathedral is an Equal Opportunities EmployerCarlisle Cathedral is committed to safeguarding & protecting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.Applicants must be willing to undergo the relevant safeguarding checks including checks with past employers and theDisclosure and Barring Service, appropriate to the post. Further information is available on our website www.carlislecathedral.org.ukOur Governance and Finance information, including a link to our Annual Report and Accounts, and our Constitutionand Statutes can be found here: www.carlislecathedral.org.uk/governance-and-finance/Cathedrals Measure 2021: www.legislation.gov.uk/ukcm/2021/2/contentsCare of Cathedrals Measure 2011: www.legislation.gov.uk/ukcm/2011/1/contents