Bishop James has announced changes to some of the arrangements to senior staffing in the Diocese.
As a result of discussion among themselves and taking into account the financial challenges being faced by the dioceses, the archdeacons have agreed that their work may be done on the basis of 2.5 full-time equivalent posts rather than 3.
To test this possibility, Archdeacon Julie will reduce her work to a part-time role for an initial period from January. She will also hand over her major diocesan-wide role as Bishop's Lead for Safeguarding to Archdeacon Andy.
Bishop James acknowledged Archdeacon Julie's work as safeguarding lead by saying:
"During her time as safeguarding lead, Julie has brought knowledge and passion to this role, she has guided the necessary growth of our safeguarding team and has enabled us to reach towards excellence through a time when safeguarding has rightly been a focus of attention."
There are also some changes to the Archdeacons’ rest time arrangements. This will ensure that one of them is always available:
- Archdeacon Andy is to be off on Mondays
- Archdeacon Paul on Fridays
- Archdeacon Julie on Fridays and Saturdays.
Alongside this, Fiona Porter is now working with both Archdeacon Paul and Archdeacon Andy; her working hours are Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm (fiona.porter@rochester.anglican.org)
Maria Campbell continues to work with Archdeacon Julie; her working hours are Monday-Thursday, 9.15am-2pm (maria.campbell@rochester.anglican.org)
Bishop James said:
"This new pattern of working will also be assisted by a growing spirit of collaboration between the Archdeacons as they work together and support one another."
All the arrangements will be kept under review in the light of experience.
You can read Bishop James' letter in full here