Clergy and pastoral carers are often the first people approached by those experiencing mental health difficulties, and their day-to-day activity brings them in contact with people experiencing anxiety, illness, bereavement, the search for meaning, and suicide or self-harm.  Research suggests that many clergy in the COI are not well-equipped in this area so this project will provide training and information supports that respond to the needs identified in the research.

It is critical that clergy are properly equipped to engage with such approaches and respond appropriately.   Clergy need to be supported to recognise, acknowledge and manage the impact on themselves of working with people struggling with mental health issues.

It is expected that training will be rolled out in late 2021 or early 2022.