Information for Clergy
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Being an active member of the clergy can be an immensely rewarding role. At the same time, the job can also contain hidden pressures such as isolation, loneliness and an overwhelming workload.
The wellbeing of all clergy is a shared responsibility of the clergy themselves, the diocese and the local church. Working together we can create a culture of realistic expectations and the support necessary to meet the challenges of church leadership.
As a diocese we are continually reflecting on how to improve our approach to clergy wellbeing. Please take time to explore the resources above, and if there is anything you would like us to consider adding or amending, please email Neil Smart.

Cairns
We believe all our clergy should be in Cairns – small groups to eat, pray and study together with those who we trust and are accountable to. Our diocese is creating a network of Cairns to support clergy in their personal discipleship, to encourage them in mission and to allow them to be accountable in their discipleship. It's part of the REVIVE element of our diocesan strategy.
To find out more about Cairns, click here.
Continuing Ministerial Development
As part of the REVIVE strand of our diocese’s strategy, we’re seeking to reawaken a locally-based programme of Continuing Ministerial Development courses. This includes Bishop's Study Days, other in-person training courses, and monthly webinars. Find out more on portsmouth.anglican.org/cmd
Handbook and Supporting Documents
Some important documents for you to download:
- Clergy Handbook (pdf)
- Clergy Induction presentation (pdf)
- Clergy Self Certification form (outside link - gov.uk)
Employee’s statement of sickness to claim Statutory Sick Pay - Bullying and harassment policy (pdf)
- The difference between capability, grievance and discipline (pdf)
- Letter from the Bishop, two consecutive rest days per month (Word)
This letter was sent out in 2019 by Bishop Christopher Foster - Deed of Resignation (pdf)
- Parental Leave (Word, April 2024)
- Guidebook for the Clergy, by the Register Office (pdf, February 2023)
- Changes to the Registration of Marriages, came into effect May 4th 2021 (pdf)
- Post-Brexit changes to marriage requirements for EEA nationals, came into effect July 2021
Transitioning in ministry
If you are considering a change in your ministry, there are a number of courses available to help walk you through the process. Click here for details.
Other Resources
- Register of Ministers Form (Word, February 2014)
- Terms of Service Measure
- Terms of Service Regulations
- Liturgical resources from the diocese
- Potential Ordinands information for Parish Clergy
- Surrogates for Marriage
- Common licences
- What happens if a complaint is made against me?
- Chaplaincy in Education
- Diocesan social media policy
- Hustings Guidance for Churches (February 2024)
Parochial fees
- Please see: portsmouth.anglican.org/fees for more information.
Retirement
- Supported housing
The nearest Supported Housing scheme is Manormead, in Hindhead, Surrey. If you would be interested in viewing any of their flats, or would like any further details, please contact the Manager, Peter Hilling, on 01428 601500 or by email.