The Birmingham Readers’ Association is pleased to offer financial support to Readers wishing to develop their ministry. This support might be used by Readers at any stage in their ministry. The Association is happy to take a broad view of training as long as it aids the Reader’s development and ministry. It is expected that those seeking funding will first approach the PCC of their own church for support. In seeking support from the Readers’ Association, applicants should provide:
- A brief explanation of the training to be undertaken
- The full total cost
- Details of the support available
- The support sought
- Details of any critical date by which a decision is required, e.g. for enrolment and the date by which funding is required.
- Letters of support from the vicar or chaplain to whom they are licensed, together with a letter from a lay person.
The Readers' Association would expect to match the contribution from the Reader’s church, (except where parish finances are very limited). In any case, grants are offered to each Reader up to a maximum of £250 over a 10 year period. It would normally be expected that requests for support would only be made where the total cost of the training is more than £20 but the association would not wish Readers to miss out on opportunities when a small contribution is critical.
During an interregnum, a letter of support from the Church Wardens or the Area Dean would be appropriate.
Applications should be made to Sheri Gidney: Warden of Readers, or Mike Lynch: Secretary of the Birmingham Readers Association. The Association will do all that it can to support requests on merit, subject to financial and budgetary constraints. Decisions about support will normally be made at the next meeting of the Readers' Association Executive Committee, but an earlier decision may be possible.