Role Description for Convenor of Ministries Committee Role Description Role Title Convenor of Ministries Committee Governance Area Ministries (as outlined in the Terms of Reference) Main Points of Contact Connected Roles Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) Convenor of the Ministries Committee is a member of General Assembly and Assembly Executive Sources of Support Secretary to the committee is the Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) Location The majority of meetings will be online. Where meetings are in person, these are likely to take place at a central location Time Commitment 4 online meetings and 1in person meetings per annum (dates and times suitable for the membership of committee) plus additional follow-up work between meetings. Remuneration General Assembly residential meeting (Fri to Mon) in June/July, Assembly Executive one evening in November and a residential meeting (Fri-Sun) in February each year. The Convener is also a member of the Accreditations Sub-Committee and the MoM Sub-Committee. Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting the work of the Ministries Committee will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Background: The committee is responsible for the ministry of the Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Work, Assembly Accredited Lay Preaching, Assembly Accredited Lay Pioneers and Eldership. Through its main committee and sub-committees, it is concerned with facilitating the ministry of the whole people of God in the United Reformed Church through working to promote the policies of the church; advocating ministry in its widest sense; supporting ministry in its varied forms; facilitating the formation, training and learning for accredited ministries of the church. The committee is intentionally committed to taking seriously the place of safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion, Net Zero and being an anti-racist church in all we discuss and decide and listening intently to all voices. Committee Summary: The Ministries Committee carries the General Assembly’s responsibility and care for the Ministry of Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Work, Assembly Accredited Lay Preaching, Locally Recognised Worship Leading, Pioneering both lay and special category, and Eldership; This responsibility includes all life-long learning for the accredited ministries of the church named above including funding and other educational elements. It is concerned with central care and conditions of service of chaplaincies in industry, healthcare, higher and further education, prisons and in the armed forces and ‘special category’ ministry; along with Synods it has concern for the well-being of Ministers of the Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Workers, Assembly Accredited Lay Preachers, Locally Recognised Worship Leaders, Assembly Accredited Lay Pioneers, Special Category Pioneers and Elders including supervision where appropriate, appraisal, self-evaluation and counselling; it has a number of interlinked and interdependent areas, and works closely with the Faith in Action Committee, the CYDO+ team, the Synod Training and Development+ Network, the College Connective and the Ministries and Learning Forum; Ministries Committee has oversight of the Assessment Board and all relevant sub- committees. Principal responsibilities and duties Convening and Running Meetings 1. Work with the Secretary of Ministries to ensure that the agenda covers the appropriate 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. items for discussion throughout the year; Ensure that the work of the committee remains within its approved Terms of Reference (and delegated authority from General Assembly or URC Trust); Enable equal participation from the membership of the committee; Approve minutes of each meeting for timely circulation to its members; Ensure that the Committee’s risk register is reviewed at appropriate intervals during the year and any necessary actions taken; Submit the Committee’s up-to-date risk register as part of the annual review; 7. Work with the Secretary to develop, and keep under review, the five-year plan of committee work and matters to go to General Assembly, and submit to Business Committee as required. General Assembly/Assembly Executive 1. 2. Ensure appropriate papers for General Assembly and/or Assembly Executive are provided to the Business Committee by the relevant deadline. Present papers and associated resolutions to General Assembly or Assembly Executive with support from Secretary for Ministries as appropriate. Oversee Committee Membership 1. Ensure that the membership of each committee is diverse and meets the URC’s current expectations in terms of Equality Diversity and Inclusion. 2. Work with the committee Secretary and appointed Church House support to follow safer recruitment procedures in seeking new members of the committee as vacancies arise. Provide a list of appropriate names to Nominations Committee for them to make final nominations to General Assembly. 3. Training Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing conversation with the Senior Leadership Team, such training to include anti-racism training. Working with other Committees and Volunteers This section lists the type and level of interaction that this role has with committees and other groups. It may vary from time to time and as directed by the Business Committee/ General Secretariat. The Convenor of Ministries Committee will also attend: The Accreditations sub-committee MoM sub-committee Expected Standards This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/ responsibilities themselves. 1. 2. 3. 4. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role. Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice. This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this job description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
Role Description for member of Ministries Committee Role Description Role Title Member of Ministries Committee Governance Area Ministries (as outlined in the Terms of Reference) Main Points of Contact Location Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) The majority of meetings will be online. Where meetings are in person, these are likely to take place at a central location Time Commitment Remuneration 4 online meetings and 1in person meetings per annum (dates and times suitable for the membership of committee) plus additional follow-up work between meetings. General Assembly residential meeting (Fri to Mon) in June/July, Assembly Executive one evening in November and a residential meeting (Fri-Sun) in February each year. The Convener is also a member of the Accreditations Sub-Committee and the MoM Sub-Committee. Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting the work of the Ministries Committee will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Background: The committee is responsible for the ministry of the Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Work, Assembly Accredited Lay Preaching, Assembly Accredited Lay Pioneers and Eldership. Through its main committee and sub-committees, it is concerned with facilitating the ministry of the whole people of God in the United Reformed Church through working to promote the policies of the church; advocating ministry in its widest sense; supporting ministry in its varied forms; facilitating the formation, training and learning for accredited ministries of the church. The committee is intentionally committed to taking seriously the place of safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion, Net Zero and being an anti-racist church in all we discuss and decide and listening intently to all voices. Committee Summary: The Ministries Committee carries the General Assembly’s responsibility and care for the Ministry of Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Work, Assembly Accredited Lay Preaching, Locally Recognised Worship Leading, Pioneering both lay and special category, and Eldership; This responsibility includes all life-long learning for the accredited ministries of the church named above including funding and other educational elements. It is concerned with central care and conditions of service of chaplaincies in industry, healthcare, higher and further education, prisons and in the armed forces and ‘special category’ ministry; along with Synods it has concern for the well-being of Ministers of the Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Workers, Assembly Accredited Lay Preachers, Locally Recognised Worship Leaders, Assembly Accredited Lay Pioneers, Special Category Pioneers and Elders including supervision where appropriate, appraisal, self-evaluation and counselling; it has a number of interlinked and interdependent areas, and works closely with the Faith in Action Committee, the CYDO+ team, the Synod Training and Development+ Network, the College Connective and the Ministries and Learning Forum; Ministries Committee has oversight of the Assessment Board and all relevant sub- committees. Principal responsibilities and duties Attending and participation in meetings 1. 2. 3. 4. Attend as many of the Committee’s meetings as practicably possible. Read all papers carefully in advance of each meeting in order to participate in discussions and ask appropriate questions. Familiarise yourself with the Committee’s Terms of Reference (and delegated authority from General Assembly or URC Trust). Be willing to support particular pieces of committee work outside of the meetings from time to time. Training Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing conversation with the Senior Leadership Team, such training to include anti-racism training. Working with other Committees and Volunteers This section lists the type and level of interaction that this role has with committees and other groups. It may vary from time to time and as directed by the Business Committee/ General Secretariat. Task groups as required Expected Standards This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/ responsibilities themselves. 2. 3. 4. 5. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role. Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice. This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this job description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
Ministries Committee
Part-time
Role Description for the URC Assessment Board Convenor Role Title Governance Area Main Points of Contact Connected Roles Role Description Convenor of the Assessment Board Ministries Committee Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) Convenor of the Assessment Board is a member of Ministries Committee, and also its Accreditations Sub-Committee Sources of Support Administrative support provided by PA to the Secretary for Ministries Location Convenor of the Assessment Board is a member of Ministries Committee, and also its Accreditations Sub-Committee Time Commitment Remuneration 2 on-line meetings (Annual General Meeting, and annual meeting with Synod Candidating Secretaries) and 3 in-person meetings (2 Assessment Conferences, normally in March and November (each of 4 days) and annual Assessment Training for Synod Assessors and new Assessment Board Members (4 days, normally in October), with additional follow-up work between meetings, usually on-line, occasionally with RCLs and students in person. Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting the work of the Ministries Committee will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Background: The Assessment Board is one of the sub-committees of Ministries Committee. It has delegated authority from General Assembly for the consideration and selection of candidates for the Ministries of the Word and Sacraments and of Church Related Community Workers, and for oversight of their training in Education for Ministry (EM1) in the Resource Centres for Learning (RCLs) of the URC. Committee Summary: Assessment Board The Assessment Board has delegated authority from General Assembly for assessing candidates for ministry under function xxix of the General Assembly. As such, it has its own Appeals Process. The functions of the Assessment Board are to oversee the candidating process for the Ministry of the Word and Sacraments and Church Related Community Workers on behalf of the United Reformed Church including the Assessment Conferences each year normally in March and November; to hear any appeals to the Assessment Conference discernment decisions using the Assessment Board Appeals Process; to oversee Education for Ministry Phase 1 training on behalf of the URC; hear concerns from the RCLs concerning students and, where necessary implements the Amber Light Policy Stage 2 process to makes decisions about the continuation of training for students; instigate any Occupational Health Assessments for students in EM as advised by the RCL; administers Assessment Board Training to which all new assessors must attend before they can begin as an assessor including EDI awareness training; continually review processes to ensure best practice at all stages of candidating including Synod and Assessment Conferences, advising Synods of changes to the process as necessary; advise Ministries of the accreditation of students in training through the Accreditation sub-committee; oversee the annual meeting with Candidating Secretaries or equivalent and the annual assessor training in October; contribute brief reports for General Assembly (annual) and Ministries committee (5 per year). Principal responsibilities and duties Convening and Running Meetings Work with the Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) to 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. ensure that the work of the Board remains within its approved Terms of Reference (and delegated authority from General Assembly); enable equal participation from the membership of the Board; ensure the smooth running of Assessment Conferences and decisions are reported in an appropriate manner; ensure Assessment Board training takes place on an annual basis ; ensure the AGM agenda covers the appropriate items for discussion throughout the year; approve minutes of the AGM for timely circulation to its members; ensure that the Board’s risk register is reviewed at appropriate intervals during the year and any necessary actions taken; submit the Board’s up-to-date risk register to the Ministries Committee as part of the annual review. Oversee Board Membership 1. Ensure that the membership of the Board is diverse and meets the URC’s current expectations in terms of Equality Diversity and Inclusion. 2. Work with the Secretary for Ministries and appointed Church House support to follow safer recruitment procedures in seeking new members of the Board as vacancies arise. Provide a list of appropriate names to Nominations Committee for them to make 3. final nominations to General Assembly. Training Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing conversation with the General Secretariat, such training to include anti-racism training. Working with other Committees and Volunteers This section lists the type and level of interaction that this role has with committees and other groups. It may vary from time to time and as directed by the Business Committee/ General Secretariat. The Convenor of the Ministries Committee The Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) Ministries Committee Accreditations Sub-Committee Expected Standards This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/ responsibilities themselves. 1. 2. 3. 4. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role. Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice. This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this job description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
Remote
Part-time
Role Description for Member of the Accreditations sub-committee Role Description Role Title Member of Accreditations sub-Committee Governance Area Ministries Committee (as outlined in the Terms of Reference) Main Points of Contact Location Time Commitment Remuneration Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) The majority of meetings will be online. Where meetings are in person, these are likely to take place at a central location. 4 online meetings and 1 in person meetings per annum (dates and times suitable for the membership of committee) plus additional follow-up work between meetings. Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting the work of the Accreditations sub-committee will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Background: The Accreditations sub-committee is one of 5 sub-committees of the Ministries committee. It deals with the maintenance of the Roll of Ministers and Roll of Assembly Accredited Lay Preachers; the approval and subsequent monitoring of CRCW projects; the approval and subsequent monitoring of SCM projects; the approval and subsequent monitoring of new pioneering projects; the consideration and management of Certificates of Eligibility; the consideration and management of Certificates for Limited Service; any other matters as may, from time to time, be allocated by the Ministries Committee. Committee Summary: It has delegated authority from General Assembly for the consideration and management of Certificates of Eligibility under function xxi and xxiii of the General Assembly. Principal responsibilities and duties Attending and participation in meetings 1. 2. 3. 4. Attend as many of the Committee’s meetings as practicably possible. Read all papers carefully in advance of each meeting in order to participate in discussions and ask appropriate questions. Familiarise yourself with the Committee’s Terms of Reference (and delegated authority from General Assembly or URC Trust). Be willing to support particular pieces of committee work outside of the meetings from time to time. Training Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing conversation with the Convenor and Secretary. Working with other Committees and Volunteers This section lists the type and level of interaction that this role has with committees and other groups. It may vary from time to time and as directed by the Business Committee/ General Secretariat. The Convener of the Accreditation sub-committee is a member of the Ministries Committee and reports the work of the committee to Ministries Committee. Expected Standards This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/ responsibilities themselves. 1. 2. 3. 4. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role. Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice. This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this job description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
Ministries Committee
Part-time
Person Specification Role: Member of Ministries Committee Requirements Essential Desirable • Knowledge of URC governance structures or a willingness to learn • Ability to bring a critical and constructive voice to group discussions Experience and Knowledge • Knowledge of the various ministries of the church • Knowledge of the various policies of the church appertaining including: Ministry of the Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Work, Assembly Accredited Lay Preaching, Assembly Accredited Lay Pioneering, SCM and the Roll of Ministers and Assembly Accredited Lay Preachers Skills and Abilities Other • • • • Work collaboratively with a diverse range of people Good including IT skills Microsoft Office, Zoom and email Good communication skills and a willingness to participate in discussions Member of the United Reformed Church
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
around England, Scotland or Wales
Part-time
Role Description for Member of Children's and Youth Programme Enabling Group Role Description Member of the Children's and Youth Programme Enabling Group (Faith in Action Sub-Committee) URC Children's Advocate / URC Youth Representative / Synod lead worker (CYDO+) Children's, Youth and Intergenerational Discipleship Team Faith in Action link person (to main committee) Convenor of Programme Enabling Group Head of Children's, Youth and Intergenerational Discipleship The majority of meetings will be online or hybrid. Where meetings are in person, these are likely to take place at venues around England, Scotland or Wales. Times to be worked out once the Programme Enabling Group is formed, to meet the needs of the members. 2 online meetings and 1 in person meeting per annum (dates and times suitable for the membership of committee) plus additional follow-up work between meetings. 24 hour Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting the work of the Programme Enabling Group will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Role Title Focus Area* Main Points of Contact Connected Roles Sources of Support Location Time Commitment Remuneration Following the decision of General Assembly 2025, Faith in Action Committee Background: has been formed combining the work of the Mission Committee, Children and Youth Work Committee and the Education and Learning Committee. The new Faith in Action Committee is a Core or Programme Committee with specialist sub- committees related to the work of the Faith in Action staff team. C&Y PEG is a subcommittee. Committee Summary: The C&Y PEG directs the resourcing and equipping, events and opportunities to support and enable local church children’s, youth, family and intergenerational ministry. This includes URC Children, URC Youth, the CYDO+ programme, engagement with the Faith in Action Committee, and budget management. The role of the Programme Enabling Group is to support and guide the CY&I staff team in implementing the work agreed through the CYDO+ allocations and wider partnerships within and beyond the URC. *each member has an area of focus, alongside being a ‘general’ member of the Programme Enabling Group. Principal responsibilities and duties Attending and participation in meetings 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Attend as many of the Programme Enabling Group’s meetings as practicably possible and ensure apologies are sent if not able to attend. Read all papers carefully in advance of each meeting in order to participate fully in discussions and ask appropriate questions. Familiarise yourself with the Programme Enabling Groups Terms of Reference (and delegated authority from General Assembly). Be willing to support particular pieces of committee work outside of the meetings. Advocate for your focus area (URC Children, URC Youth, Synod work) as well as actively participate in the full business of the Programme Enabling Group. Connect with the relevant staff member/ Convenor. Training Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing conversation with the Convenor and Secretary. Expected Standards This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/ responsibilities themselves. 1. 2. 3. 4. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role. Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice. This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this role description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
Role Description for
Member of Faith in Action Committee
Role Title
Focus Area*
Main Points of Contact
Connected Roles
Sources of Support
Location
Time Commitment
Remuneration
Role Description
Member of the Faith in Action Committee
Mission or
Children and Youth/Intergenerational or
Lay learning/Education and Learning
Faith in Action Team
Faith in Action link person
(to sub-committee)
Convenor of Faith in Action
Deputy General Secretary (Faith in Action)
The majority of meetings will be online. Where meetings
are in person, these are likely to take place at
venues around England, Scotland or Wales.
Times to be worked out once the Committee is formed, to
meet the needs of the Committee members.
2 online meetings and 1 in person meeting per annum (dates
and times suitable for the membership of committee) plus
additional follow-up work between meetings.
Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure
financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting
the work of the Faith in Action Committee will be
reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses
policy.
Background: Following the decision of General Assembly 2025, Faith in Action Committee
has been formed combining the work of the Mission Committee, Children and Youth Work
Committee and the Education and Learning Committee.
The new Faith in Action Committee is a Core or Programme Committee with specialist sub-
committees related to the work of the Faith in Action staff team.
Committee Summary: The Faith in Action Committee supports the United Reformed
Church’s outreach in terms of evangelism and witness; public issues; community engagement;
pioneering; ecumenical & interfaith relations; intergenerational worship; global & intercultural
ministries; racial justice and legacies of slavery; as well as ministry among children, young
people and young adults, intentionally listening to their voices; net zero advocacy; lay learning;
and world justice through the URC’s Commitment for Life programme. The role of the
Committee is to support and guide the Faith in Action staff team in implementing the work
agreed by Assembly through the Mission Strategy created to reflect the focus areas vital to the
life of the URC.
*each Committee member has an area of focus, alongside being a ‘general’ member of the Committee.
Principal responsibilities and duties
Attending and participation in meetings
1.
Attend as many of the Committee’s meetings as practicably possible and ensure apologies
are sent if not able to attend.
2.
Read all papers carefully in advance of each meeting in order to participate
fully in discussions and ask appropriate questions.
Familiarise yourself with the Committee’s Terms of Reference (and delegated
authority from General Assembly).
Be willing to support particular pieces of committee work outside of the
meetings.
Advocate for your focus area (Children and Youth/Intergenerational or
Education and Learning/Lay learning or Mission) as well as actively participate
in the full business of the Committee.
Connect with the relevant staff member/ Convenor of sub-committee, ensuring
regular liaison between them and the Faith in Action Committee.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Training
Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing
conversation with the Convenor and Secretary.
Expected Standards
This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/
responsibilities themselves.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Promote a culture of open and effective communication.
Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity.
Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and
knowledge applicable to this role.
Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice.
This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it
may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this role
description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
United Reformed Church
Part-time
Person Specification Role: Member of the Accreditations sub-committee Requirements Essential Desirable Knowledge of URC governance structures or a willingness to learn Experience and Knowledge • Knowledge of the various ministries of the church • Knowledge of the • various policies of the church appertaining including: Ministry of the Word and Sacraments, Church Related Community Work, Assembly Accredited Lay Preaching, Assembly Accredited Lay Pioneering, SCM and the Roll of Ministers and Assembly Accredited Lay Preachers Skills and Abilities • • Work collaboratively with a diverse range of people Good IT skills including Microsoft Office, Zoom and email Good communication skills and a willingness to participate in discussions • Other • Member of the United Reformed Church
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
Member of the United Reformed Church
Part-time
Person Specification for Member of Faith in Action Committee Role: Member of Faith in Action Committee (Each member has a particular focus as well as being a general member of the Committee). Requirements Essential Desirable Experience and Knowledge • • • A commitment to evangelism and sharing the Gospel in creative and imaginative ways A heart for joining in with where God is at work in the world A commitment to discipleship development and learning for the whole people of God • • • • Knowledge of URC governance structures or a willingness to learn Experience in some form of learning or teaching context with adults or young people, or working with children and young people or having a heart for mission and evangelism A willingness to advocate for Education/ lay learning or mission or Children and youth/ intergenerational, within and outside, the workings of the Faith in Action Committee Experience in reviewing and tracking budgets. Skills and Abilities Other • Work collaboratively with a diverse range of people Good IT skills including Microsoft Office, Zoom and email • • • • Member of the United Reformed Church A commitment to inclusivity and diversity Awareness of safeguarding and its golden thread through the life of the church
Person Specification for Convenor of Ministries Person Specification Role: Convenor of the Ministries Requirements Experience and Knowledge Skills and Abilities Other Essential • Desirable • Experience in convening/ chairing meetings Leadership experience, ideally in a committee or governance role Experience in facilitating discussions and building consensus Knowledge of the various ministries of the church • • • • Understanding of the principles of safer recruitment or a willingness to learn Knowledge of URC governance structures, policies and procedures or a willingness to learn Knowledge and experience in structures and processes in Higher and Further Education Institutions of Ability to facilitate both online and in-person meetings Ability to support the development of committee members Strong public speaking and presentation skills • • • • • • Good communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders Ensure effective oversight of processes and procedures • Work collaboratively with a • • • • diverse range of people Good IT skills including Microsoft Office, Zoom and email Member of the United Reformed Church Commitment to embedding principles of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
around England, Scotland or Wales
Part-time
Role Description for Member of Children's and Youth Programme Enabling Group Role Description Member of the Children's and Youth Programme Enabling Group (Faith in Action Sub-Committee) URC Children's Advocate / URC Youth Representative / Synod lead worker (CYDO+) Children's, Youth and Intergenerational Discipleship Team Faith in Action link person (to main committee) Convenor of Programme Enabling Group Head of Children's, Youth and Intergenerational Discipleship The majority of meetings will be online or hybrid. Where meetings are in person, these are likely to take place at venues around England, Scotland or Wales. Times to be worked out once the Programme Enabling Group is formed, to meet the needs of the members. 2 online meetings and 1 in person meeting per annum (dates and times suitable for the membership of committee) plus additional follow-up work between meetings. 24 hour Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting the work of the Programme Enabling Group will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Role Title Focus Area* Main Points of Contact Connected Roles Sources of Support Location Time Commitment Remuneration Following the decision of General Assembly 2025, Faith in Action Committee Background: has been formed combining the work of the Mission Committee, Children and Youth Work Committee and the Education and Learning Committee. The new Faith in Action Committee is a Core or Programme Committee with specialist sub- committees related to the work of the Faith in Action staff team. C&Y PEG is a subcommittee. Committee Summary: The C&Y PEG directs the resourcing and equipping, events and opportunities to support and enable local church children’s, youth, family and intergenerational ministry. This includes URC Children, URC Youth, the CYDO+ programme, engagement with the Faith in Action Committee, and budget management. The role of the Programme Enabling Group is to support and guide the CY&I staff team in implementing the work agreed through the CYDO+ allocations and wider partnerships within and beyond the URC. *each member has an area of focus, alongside being a ‘general’ member of the Programme Enabling Group. Principal responsibilities and duties Attending and participation in meetings 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Attend as many of the Programme Enabling Group’s meetings as practicably possible and ensure apologies are sent if not able to attend. Read all papers carefully in advance of each meeting in order to participate fully in discussions and ask appropriate questions. Familiarise yourself with the Programme Enabling Groups Terms of Reference (and delegated authority from General Assembly). Be willing to support particular pieces of committee work outside of the meetings. Advocate for your focus area (URC Children, URC Youth, Synod work) as well as actively participate in the full business of the Programme Enabling Group. Connect with the relevant staff member/ Convenor. Training Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing conversation with the Convenor and Secretary. Expected Standards This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/ responsibilities themselves. 1. 2. 3. 4. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role. Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice. This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this role description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
Role Description for Assembly Appointments Panel Role Title Location Time Commitment Remuneration Role Description Member of Assembly Appointments Panel Interviews will take place in specific synods or close to the Offices of General Assembly in London, depending on the position being interviewed for. Online meetings prior to interview, for shortlisting. Daytime interviews for Appointments. This will involve travel around England, Scotland and Wales and an overnight stay. It is difficult to specify how often each year a Panel will be gathered, but no more than 5 times, is likely. Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers while supporting the work of the Assembly Appointments Panel will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Background: The Ministries Committee was asked to establish a small task group to undertake a review of the process, in October 2023. The Task Group brought a report and revised processes to General Assembly July 2025 where the revised process was agreed. The Nominations Committee then brought resolution 35 to General Assembly July 2025: ‘General Assembly instructs the Nominations Committee to recruit a new Panel for General Assembly Appointments, in line with the constitution set out in the Ministries Paper H10 (General Assembly Book of Reports 2024)’. (See General Assembly 2024 Book of Reports Paper H10 pp210- 227) The Nominations Committee is committed to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging. Panel Summary: Following the decision of General Assembly July 2025 in PaperJ1 in the Book of Reports 2025, the Nominations Committee was tasked with appointing a Panel of eight people in line with constitution set out in Paper H10 General Assembly Book of Reports 2024. This related to the process for the nomination and appointment of Synod Moderators and other General Assembly roles reserved for Ministers of the Word and Sacraments. This Panel will be made up of people who commit to undergo training and make themselves available to serve on the majority of such panels for a five-year period. Principal responsibilities and duties Attending and participation in meetings 1. 2. Attend the Appointment Panel meetings and interviews, when requested. Read all papers carefully in advance of each shortlisting or interview in order to participate in discussions and ask appropriate questions. 3. Participate in the interview process fully. Training Undertake training in key areas: HR practices, safer recruitment, unconscious bias, interpreting strengths analysis and written tasks, anti-racism awareness, and any other training as required. Expected Standards This section refers to the way in which the role should be done as opposed to the duties/ responsibilities themselves. 1. 2. 3. 4. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role. Ensure compliance with safeguarding practice. This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this job description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required.
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
United Reformed Church
Part-time
Person Specification for Assembly Appointments Panel Person Specification Role: Member of Assembly Appointments Panel Requirements Essential Desirable Experience and Knowledge • Knowledge of URC governance structures and conciliar nature • Experience of engaging at Synod or Assembly level (eg Synod meetings and General Assembly) • Experience of interviewing for leadership roles • An awareness and understanding of Equalities legislation • Previous membership of a • Experience in convening meetings and supporting conciliar decision making • Has a good understanding of safer recruitment and safeguarding practices • Willingness to convene an appointment panel Skills and Abilities Other Synod or an Assembly level Committee or URC Youth • • Good communication skills- verbal and written Good IT skills including Microsoft Office, Zoom and email • • Member of the United Reformed Church Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion • Willingness to undergo training and be available to serve for 5 years
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
58,648 - 62,342 per year
London
Full-time
19th January 2026
Head of Ministries – Learning and Development
- London
- Full-time
- Salary: £58,648 – 62,342 or URC Minister’s stipend
- Nominations deadline: Sunday 28 December 2025
- Closing date for applications: 12 noon, Monday 19 January 2026
- Interview date: Thursday 12 February 2026
- *In accordancewith the Equality Act 2010: Part 1, Schedule 9, there is a genuine occupational requirement for the post holder to be a Christian and/or a member of the United Reformed Church or member of a Church which belongs to one or more of World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), Disciples Ecumenical Consultative Council (DECC), the Council for World Mission (CWM) Action of Churches Together in Scotland (ACTS), Churches Together in England (CTE), Churches together in Wales (Cytun), Free Churches Group (FCG) or Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI)*
- This role also requires a satisfactory enhanced DBS certificate from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Job Advert
Are you enthusiastic about the training and development of lay and ordained ministries?
The United Reformed Church is seeking a dynamic and collaborative leader to take on a newly created role supporting the flourishing of ministry across the Church. The role will be responsible for ensuring, under the authority of the Ministries Committee, that appropriate learning and development is in place to support formation and training for the range of accredited, commissioned and ordained ministries of the church. You will support the work of the Ministries and Learning Forum in co-ordinating the development and delivery of learning and development of these ministries across the United Reformed Church. Working collaboratively with, and accountable to, the Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) you will support the wider work of the Ministries Committee and its sub-committees and deputise for the Deputy General Secretary (Ministries) as required.
You will be educated to degree level or equivalent or are a Minister of the Word and Sacraments*. You will have experience of leading projects as part of a team. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills are essential in addition to the ability to advocate and inspire others.
We offer a friendly and flexible hybrid working environment three days per week in collaboration with those at the Office of General Assembly and two days from home.
Apply for this post
If you wish to nominate anyone for this role, please email recruitment@urc.org.uk by Sunday 28 December 2025. If you are interested in this role and can meet the above requirements, please send your application form to
Please note, we do not accept CVs.
- Job description(PDF | 149kb)
- Job application form(Word | 975kb)
THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (WESSEX) TRUST LIMITED
Church House, London
Part-time
Role Description Role Title Safeguarding Committee Convenor Governance Area Safeguarding Policy and Compliance Main points of contact Sharon Barr – Committee Secretary and Head of Safeguarding Sources of Support Administrative support provided by Emma Pearce - Safeguarding Co-ordinator Secretary to the Committee is Sharon Barr Location The committee meet 4 times a year; three are online for two hours and one in September is in full day in person at Church House, London. Time Commitment Remuneration Three online meetings and one in person meetings per annum (dates and times suitable for the membership of committee) plus reading time for papers prior to the meetings which are issued one week in advance of the meetings. You will meet with the Head of Safeguarding prior to each meeting and in between as required. On occasions the committee authorise small working groups for short pieces of focus work that members are invited to join. Volunteers are not remunerated. The URC will ensure financial expenses incurred by volunteers whilst supporting the work of the Safeguarding Committee will be reimbursed, in accordance with the URC expenses policy. Most meetings of the committee are held online, with one in person meeting each year. All expenses incurred in attending in person meetings will be reimbursed in full. Background: The Safeguarding Committee is a standing committee of the General Assembly, and is the body responsible for overseeing the implementation of General Assembly’s Safeguarding Policy throughout the United Reformed Church and to oversee strategic matters related to safeguarding. Committee Summary: See attached Terms of Reference. 1 Principal responsibilities and duties Attending & Participation in Meetings 1. Attend as many of the Committee’s meetings as practicably possible and must be able to committee to attending 75% of meetings a year. 2. Read all papers carefully in advance of each meeting in order to participate in discussions and ask appropriate questions. 3. Meet with the Head of Safeguarding (Secretary to Committee) prior to each meeting. 4. Familiarise yourself with the Committee’s Terms of Reference. 5. Be willing to support particular pieces of committee work outside of the meetings from time to time. Training 1. Undertake training in key areas as highlighted within the induction and through ongoing conversation with the Secretary. Working with other Committees and Volunteers 1. Review as part of agenda items of the Safeguarding Committee other Committee papers that need agreement of the Safeguarding Committee. 2. As required work collaboratively with other Committees on joint areas of work. 3. Attend General Assembly (GA) and Assembly Executive (AE) both once a year residentials. 4. Present papers at GA or AE as required by the Committee. Expected Standards 1. Create a culture where safeguarding is a core value of the Church. 2. Promote a culture of open and effective communication. 3. Actively foster an environment which nurtures equality and cherishes diversity. 4. Take responsibility for own personal development and develop skills and knowledge applicable to this role 5. Ensure compliance with Safeguarding practice This role description reflects the overall scope and responsibilities of the role. However, it may change and evolve over time in order to meet organisational needs and this job description will therefore be subject to periodic review and change if required. 2 Desirable • Strategic management within the safeguarding field Role: Convenor of the Safeguarding Committee Person Specification Requirements Experience and Knowledge Skills and Abilities Essential 1. A current work knowledge of safeguarding children and/or adults at risk 2. An understanding or willingness to learn about contextualised safeguarding within a faith organisation 3. Knowledge of URC governance structures or a willingness to learn 4. A member of the URC 5. Work collaboratively with a diverse range of people 6. Good IT skills including Microsoft Office, Zoom and email. 3