Question

To ask the hon. Member for Battersea, representing the Church Commissioners, what steps the Church is taking to support (a) LGBTQ+ clergy and (b) people considering entering ministry.

Many dioceses now offer specific LGBT+ chaplaincy teams to offer specialised support to LGBT+ candidates, ordinands and clergy, with more in development. Dioceses work on this to locally developed plans, not national guidance or advice.

All candidates, ordinands and clergy receive support to discern and develop their vocation through their local church and clergy, through Diocesan Directors of Ordinands, Theological Education Institutions, and through archdeacons and bishops.

Dioceses also offer appropriate support, where required, for the wellbeing of clergy, including offers of counselling, retreats and sabbaticals.