May 2024 — Sheffield Cathedral

Safeguard report

Sian Checkley (Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser) attended the Chapter to provide a report to the Chapter. Sian updated the chapter on the work the Diocesan Safeguarding Team is currently doing and the recent appointment of a new Safeguarding Trainee to fill a vacant post. Safeguarding training and safer recruitment of staff and volunteers were discussed. The integration of DST with the cathedral team was highlighted as something that works well.

Finance

The Cathedral Treasurer gave a report to the Chapter on the current financial situation of the Chapter and Enterprise and highlighted that the Cathedral is on track to achieve a challenging target set for 2024 for Events and Hospitality income.

The Chapter also agreed that the executive team should consider a review of contracted hours for staff in light of current working arrangements and recent difficulties in recruiting for 40 hour per week roles. Staff annual leave was also reviewed and the Chapter agreed that it was fair to look at annual leave entitlements as there was a current discrepancy between some roles. The role of Visitor Experience Coordinator was discussed and the next steps for filling this vacancy were agreed.

Role Descriptions

The Chapter was able to review draft role descriptions for non-executive chapter members and senior non-executive members. These role profiles were agreed to be sent to Bishop Pete for further review.

The role profile for Canon Precentor Minor was also reviewed and approved.

Dean’s report

Dean Abi updated the Chapter on a number of items, including her recent trip to Poland and her planned work with women in other religious groups. The Dean also spoke about the work he is doing with the City Partnership Council, the ongoing work on the triennial funding tender and the continued development of the Singing in Schools Programme. Security around the Cathedral was also discussed.

Dwellings of the clergy

Jason informed the Chapter that the purchase of a new home is in progress and negotiations for the sale of the current property are ongoing. Chapter agreed to a revised price to be returned to potential buyers for consideration

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 17, 2024