Reflections from our recent workshops.
Over the last nine months, we have hosted a series of workshops designed specifically with cathedrals in mind, attended by cathedral clergy, senior managers and chapter members. Of the 42 cathedrals in England and Wales, 64% have attended one or more workshop.
This has been a brilliant opportunity for individuals to discuss the unique challenges which face cathedrals and share experiences in dealing with them.
There has been lots to discuss and the timing of the Series was welcome, as cathedrals resume activities following the pandemic and as they begin their journeys to becoming registered charities under the Cathedrals Measure.
The series has covered the following topics:
- Charity governance
- Charity trading
- Cathedrals and their associated charities
- Recent developments in employment law and how they relate to cathedrals.
Workshop 1 – Empowering Chapter Members to become successful charity trustees
The first workshop held in September 2021 focused on the governance issues which arise as cathedrals transition to becoming charities and the additional duties that will be expected of chapter members. We also covered issues relating to conflicts of interest and effective decision making.
Workshops 2 and 3 – Cathedrals and charity trading: the opportunities and pitfalls
Workshop 2 was held in December 2021 and was repeated in February 2022, at the request of cathedrals who had been unable to attend first time.
This workshop concentrated on establishing and effectively managing trading subsidiaries in line with charity law and the role chapter members in trading decisions. Discussions during the course of the workshops covered a broad range of topics including tax, legal and governance considerations.
Workshop 4: Cathedrals and their connected charities: how to make the most of legal structures and relationships
Held in June 2022, this workshop looked at the charities which are associated with cathedrals, such as charitable music funds, friends groups or other trusts that support particular fundraising efforts.
The workshop explored how best to manage these relationships and structures, covering governance arrangements, fundraising considerations and handling permanent endowments, as amongst other things.
Workshop 5: Employment – an update on recent developments
In July 2022 we provided cathedrals with an update on recent developments within employment law explaining the impact these might have in the cathedral context. As well as a legislative update, we covered the latest trends in terms of equality, diversity and inclusion, as well as flexible working.
The diversity section of the workshop provided much discussion as cathedrals grapple with the ongoing challenge of recruitment. It was heartening to hear what different approaches cathedrals are taking to diversity and recruitment, hopefully providing attendees with some different options to consider.
Future workshops
This year's series has been relaxed and informal, yet informative and hopefully reassuring for those who have attended. We are looking forward to continuing our work with cathedrals and seeing some new and familiar faces in future workshops.
