Last updated 18th June 2024
Training grants
All clergy should be engaged in in-service training, whether through diocesan events or other means. The cost of diocesan events is met from the diocesan budget, and we also offer support for other courses of study.
Grants will be given provided these courses of study can be shown to be part of a strategy for professional development for the clergy concerned.
- Applications should be made on this form (returning it by email is fine) with as much detail as possible. They will be approved in line with national guidelines provided funds are available in the budget. Please ask for advice, especially if your parish has Parish Share arrears.
- Grants for retreats will normally be paid at 50% of the total cost, up to a maximum of £150 a year. £250 is available towards the costs of conferences/training courses.
- Grants for study for further degrees or sabbaticals need the explicit consent of the Bishop's appointments team. These should be discussed with the Bishop of Blackburn who will advise on practical arrangements and other sources of funding. Sabbatical/study leave should not be taken during Advent & Christmas or Holy Week & Easter.
- These arrangements will apply to all licensed clergy, except those involved in IME Phase 2, who are supported separately, and those in posts with separate arrangements for in-service training (eg hospital and prison chaplains).