Employing lay workers

We recognise lay employees are a key resource for our local churches and circuits, and recognise that employing staff is a significant and complex task for any organisation to undertake.

If you are considering employing a lay worker, and for an early conversation around good practice, please contact Andrew Crawford, our District Employment Advisor – hr@sheffieldmethodist.org.

Should you have Church Council or Circuit Meeting approval to make an appointment, complete the Authorisation To Recruit Form and send to Andrew so that the necessary district approvals can be achieved (Standing Order 438a)

Andrew will support you to create a 'job pack' and remain available to you during the recruitment and onboarding process. A conversation at this stage will ensure that the district's recommended employment terms are incorporated into your vision.

Using Contractors

From time to time it may be commercially viable for you to use the services of a self-employed contractor. If you are considering making an appointment on self-employed terms we ask that you read our Guidance on Engaging a Self-Employed Contractor and we encourage you to have an early conversation with Andrew to ensure that the correct employment status is established.

Please note that no vacancy may be advertised, neither can an appointment can be made, unless prior approval has been obtained from the District Lay Employment Sub Committee (CPD 438A (5)). This can be achieved through conversation with the District Lay Employment Advisor. For all circuit appointments it is a requirement of the district that a member of district staff is invited onto the shortlisting and interview panel.

The Lay Employee – New Starter form below should be completed within 1 month of the start date.

Changes to Lay Employment role

A change of job, job title or a change in working hours may require an appropriate process to be followed. Such a change may require consultation and a new or revised contract to be issued. Please contact hr@sheffieldmethodist.org if this applies to you as an employee or as an employee's line manager.
The Changes to Lay Employment form below should also be completed to keep the District updated.

Policies, Processes, & Forms

The district has approved a range of employment and workplace policies, and guides. Please contact Andrew if you need any support.

Line Management

Did you know that the Learning Network deliver line management training for anyone who line manages a lay employee in the Methodist Church?
See below for details on this.
Further line manager support is also available through a recently updated Line Manager Handbook.
See also the Line Managers page on the Methodist Church website