Treasurers are concerned with administration within the church, and all administration, financial administration included, should be seen as a key and core ministry of any church.
Whether you’re new to this role, or have been in post for some time, there are some key support services that will really help you:
National resources
ACAT Membership
The Association of Church Accountants and Treasurer’s (ACAT) is your must-have resource. We commend all Treasurers to the annual membership (incredibly good value at £22/year), so that you can access training, the ACAT handbook, access to expert advisers and regular, supportive events.
Parish Resources website
This is super national Church of England reference site for all kinds of procedures, regulations and administration. There is a dedicated page for Treasurers which outlines all you’d need to get started in the role.
If you’re new the Introductory Guide for New Church Treasurers will be your essential download.
Diocesan resources
This useful download reminds you of what and when certain accounting and other financial tasks need attention throughout the year.
The finance page on this site will be your go-to place for the up-to-date diocesan information and advice. It includes all you need to know about the Parish Share system too.
The Encouraging Generous Giving will guide you through all the ways generosity can be built in your church, as well as outlining where external funds can be sought.
The Church of England website updates its parochial fees information every year from this page.
There is also some diocesan-specific information about Fees in respect of Parish Returns. Download it here.
The Diocesan Annual Report can be downloaded here.
You might also be interested in following Diocesan Synod reporting, so that any decisions affecting parish finances can be noted and brought to the attention of your PCC.
Keeping in touch
Diocesan Google group for Treasurers
This groups keeps us all in touch and enables Treasurers across the Diocese of Guildford to support each other, share information and ask questions. It is a self-monitored group however the Parish Support team at Church House are able to engage as needed.
Diocesan news
All parish officers are encouraged to sign up for the diocesan regular emailed newsletter to keep in touch with all that’s happening across the diocese.