20th February 2026

Diocese's new youth representative reflects on first time at General Synod

The Church of England in Lancashire (Blackburn Diocese) was one of five Dioceses to have a Youth Representative attending the most recent General Synod for the first time.

William Leeming from Clitheroe is also Churchwarden of Whitewell St Michael in the Parish of Hodder Valley.

General Synod is the national ‘parliament’ of the church and it meets several times a year.

The latest meeting William attended was in Church House, Westminster. It was also the first time The Most Rev and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally attended in her new role of Archbishop of Canterbury; previously she had been Bishop of London.

Dame Sarah was also one of the many key people William and the other Youth Representatives met during his week in London alongside the Archbishop of York, The Most Rev and Rt Hon Stephen Cottrell.

General Synod discussed and finalised plans in 2025 to increase the number of young people able to take part in its debates, marking a significant step in strengthening youth representation at the heart of the Church of England’s decision making.

William joined Eleanor Motion (Bath and Wells); Joel Plant (Leicester); Philip (Pip) Collins White (Portsmouth) and Rob Hindle (York) at the February Synod sessions.

Church leaders praised the young representatives, acknowledging that their insight, energy, and lived experiences will enrich Synod’s work.

You can read more about the background to the creation of the new Youth Representative posts here.

Reflecting on his first experience at General Synod, William said today: "It’s been an absolute privilege to represent the Diocese of Blackburn as a Youth Representative. I’ve enjoyed every moment and there were so many highlights.

“Listening to the Archbishop of Canterbury’s debut Presidential address was very inspiring and a true moment in history.

“Meanwhile, hearing the debates and contributing in the fringe meetings throughout the week has been very interesting. Synod is definitely listening to the younger voices across the country – something I experienced myself when I had the opportunity to make my debut speech on 'Poverty and the Church: 40 years after Faith in the City'.

“I met so many inspiring people and I can’t wait for it all to happen again at York in July."

Caption for above pictures:

• William Leeming from Blackburn Diocese is pictured, far left, with the other Youth Representatives and the Archbishops of Canterbury and York at the February General Synod
• William speaking during one of the Synod debates