As a diocese, we have made a serious commitment to clergy care and wellbeing and in line with the Covenant for Clergy Care and Wellbeing which was agreed by General Synod in 2019.
Please use the pages on this website as a resource, not only as a means of support for our clergy but also for our families – both within our homes and within our churches.
Clergy Care and Wellbeing
Manchester Diocesan Synod has also discussed the Church of England Covenant for the Care and Wellbeing of Clergy. PCCs and Deanery Synods are encouraged to adopt the Covenant. A number of documents, including A document for Reflection and Action for the Clergy and A document for Reflection and Action for Local Congregations, have been produced by national Church, to support the ‘Big Conversation’ on clergy wellbeing in our diocese.
Clergy personal crisis
The diocese has a number of trained Spiritual Directors of Spiritual Companions. Pastoral conversations can always be organised with any Bishop or Archdeacon.
The Inter-Diocesan Counselling Service operates in our region. This service offers confidential marital and individual counselling for clergy, accredited lay workers and their families. Please visit http://interdiocesancounsellingservice.org.uk/
Clergy spouses
Bishop's Visitors are available to provide support and give practical assistance to the spouses of clergy who are experiencing marriage breakdown. They maintain complete confidentiality and can advise on a range of support. Contact: Penny Applegate 07802 669379
Sanctuary Course
One in four people will be affected by a mental health challenge at some point in their lives, yet the stigma surrounding these experiences often prevents faith communities from responding compassionately and effectively. The Sanctuary Course is a free small-group resource designed to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and engage communities in meaningful conversations about mental health and faith. Each session examines a key mental health topic, and the accompanying films feature insights from mental health professionals, church leaders, and theologians.
The Sanctuary Course is designed for small groups which might include:
- People with questions about mental health
- Mental health professionals with a wealth of knowledge to share
- Leaders who want to engage their community in mental health conversations
- People supporting loved ones with mental health challenges
- People living with mental health challenges
- Anyone who wants to learn about faith and mental health
The Sanctuary Course requires no previous training or expertise—just a willingness to engage in dialogue with other believers. This course and films address difficult and sensitive topics, and may not be appropriate for a young audience. It is not recommended for people ages 17 and younger.