The flourishing and well-being of ordained and authorised ministers is fundamental to the life and mission of our Diocese, and the Bishops place high value on it. Below are information and sources of support which are available within the Diocese and beyond. Ministerial self-care expectationsThe Bishops encourage and indeed expect clergy to take time for renewal, refreshment and re-creation for their own well-being and for the sake of their families and ministry. The following summarises the current expectations and entitlement: 1. Rest days – this is usually also specified in the Statement of Particulars
2. Holidays – this is usually also specified in the Statement of Particulars
3. Retreats – Up to five days retreat/year, plus regular time for prayer and periods of reflection/reading 4. Sabbaticals – Clergy are encouraged to apply for a period of extended study leave (sabbatical) or short study leave. See here for more information: Study leave | webpage 5. CMD – The Bishop expects that clergy, licensed lay ministers and lay elders will set aside regular time for study, retreat and professional development in ministry, and undertake at least one significant piece of CMD each year. More information can be found here: CMD | webpage Please contact The Bishops’ Chaplain for further information. Christian well-being, some notes from PhilippiCounsellingWhether it’s a crisis or simply something that is an ongoing worry or causing concern, you may find counselling useful. Counselling is available to all licensed clergy, lay ministers and their spouses and is offered by Susannah Burn. Susannah is a psychoanalytic psychotherapist registered with the UKCP (UK Council of Psychotherapy) and has been a member of the Bury Practice for Counselling and Psychotherapy for 20 years. It is her role to act as the initial contact via phone or email for those who are experiencing difficulties and wondering whether counselling may help. She will discuss their needs with them and then make a referral either to herself or to another experienced counsellor on the Diocesan Counselling Team if appropriate. Please email Susannah Burn or phone on 07742 908947. You can also read more in this leaflet: Diocesan Counselling Service for Clergy and LLMs leaflet | PDF Help against bullyingThe Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich is committed to creating a harmonious working environment, which is free from harassment and bullying and in which every office holder, employee and church member is treated with respect and dignity. Find below the Diocesan Policy and various resources and contacts:
Support groups and networksTo sustain well-being, many find it helpful to have someone with whom to talk to or share thoughts about their ministry, before any crisis or 'problem' arises. All ministers are encouraged to develop networks of mutual support in their parishes and benefices, work contexts and deaneries.
Churches Mutual Credit UnionChurches Mutual Credit Union is a collaboration with the Church of England offering loans (including car loans!) and savings to clergy: Churches Mutual Credit Union | Weblink Further resources for restoring mental, physical and spiritual health and wholenessSt Luke’s healthcare, providing physical and psychological support for clergy. Sheldon, providing space, a wide variety of retreats, and refreshment for those in ministry. Anglican pastoral care, providing care and counselling for those in ministry. The Retreat Association, providing information about retreat options.
Last updated 16 November 2020. |