The fall in number of men and women coming forward for training means many denominations (not just the Church of England) are facing a recruitment crisis, especially as the baby boomer generation retires in the next five to ten years. Many churches have been advertising for assistant pastors, associate vicars, women’s workers, student workers, youth workers and children’s workers for well over a year, without success.
But finding someone to take up these positions is not the only challenge. Even when suitable candidates have been found and accepted a job, a growing number have had to withdraw because they cannot afford to move to the area concerned. The rising cost of rental accommodation means that many letting agencies are expecting an annual salary of £50,000+ before they will allow people to view any properties.
And this is not just a problem in London and the South East. Since the pandemic, the cost of living has increased for everyone and many people are cautious about moving to a new area for a new job, especially if the salary they are being offered is lower than what they are currently earning.
