2024
May 2024
Chapter received updates on safeguarding, Cathedral finances and plans to strengthen staffing and working arrangements. Members approved revised role descriptions for non-executive Chapter members and discussed the Cathedral’s developing work with schools, local communities and city partners. Chapter also noted improvements to security arrangements and progress with the Cathedral’s housing provision.
June 2024
Chapter reviewed the Cathedral’s financial position, including encouraging income from enterprise activities, room hire and congregational giving, alongside the continuing need for careful financial planning. Members considered updated staff policies, changes to management arrangements and opportunities to make better use of Cathedral resources and restricted funds. Chapter also received updates on housing, recruitment and the development of the Cathedral’s mission and education work.
September 2024
Chapter received encouraging updates on the Cathedral’s growing programme of school visits, community activities, music and the Schools Singing Programme. Members discussed the developing Cathedral strategy, including stronger relationships across the city, support for communities experiencing disadvantage and the Cathedral’s Christian mission. Updates were also received on safeguarding, volunteering, staffing, future accommodation needs and longer-term financial planning.
October 2024
Chapter received updates on safeguarding arrangements and approved a revised management structure designed to support effective decision-making as the Cathedral grows. Members considered proposals for a major mission and community project, alongside the continued development of music and engagement with schools. Chapter also reviewed emerging strategic priorities, including Christian mission, partnership working and support for communities across the city and Diocese.
2025
January 2025
Chapter considered financial planning, risk management and the continuing development of the Cathedral’s governance and operational arrangements. Members approved new measures relating to cyber security and expenses, and discussed the skills and capacity needed to deliver the Cathedral’s longer-term strategy. Updates were also received on safeguarding, staff and volunteer training, and plans for the future role of the Cathedral Council.
February 2025
Chapter reviewed the Cathedral’s year-end financial position and discussed preparations for a significant mission and community project. Members considered long-term sustainability, staffing, communications and appropriate project oversight. Chapter also received updates on strategic planning, property and building matters, staff and volunteer training, and approved an updated Safeguarding Handbook.
April 2025
Chapter reviewed the Cathedral’s annual accounts and received assurance regarding its financial management. Members discussed longer-term financial sustainability and the importance of effective fundraising. Chapter also continued its work on the Cathedral’s 2025–2030 strategy, including plans for measuring progress and presenting the strategy clearly to the public.
May 2025
Chapter received an annual report on the condition of the Cathedral building and considered priorities for ongoing maintenance and conservation. Members reviewed the Cathedral’s developing marketing approach and noted positive growth in digital engagement and attendance. Chapter approved the 2025–2030 strategy, subject to final preparation for publication, and considered a range of operational matters.
July 2025
Chapter received updates on the development of Cathedral music and the Schools Singing Programme, including plans for the return of choristers. Members reviewed safeguarding arrangements and preparations for a future safeguarding audit. Chapter also considered IT provision, staffing, financial sustainability and the continued implementation of the Cathedral’s strategic priorities.
September 2025
Chapter reviewed the Cathedral’s financial position and agreed that further work should be undertaken on a financial recovery plan. Members received updates on safeguarding, leadership and management arrangements, and the maintenance of the Cathedral building. Chapter also agreed to trial a revised meeting schedule during 2026, with longer meetings supported by interim reporting.
October 2025
Chapter considered longer-term financial planning and options relating to the Cathedral’s existing borrowing. Members received assurance regarding safeguarding arrangements associated with the return of choristers and discussed future Chapter meetings and appointments. Chapter also welcomed progress in delivering the Cathedral’s strategy, including work with schools, Christian community development and the Cathedral’s partnership with the Archer Project.
December 2025
Chapter considered and approved in principle the Cathedral’s budget for 2026, alongside plans to develop a three-year financial recovery plan. Members discussed income generation, voluntary giving, events and longer-term financial sustainability. Chapter also reviewed its partnership with the Archer Project, including initiatives supporting people recovering from homelessness and plans to strengthen the relationship between the two organisations.
2026
January 2026
Chapter approved a financial recovery plan aimed at strengthening the Cathedral’s long-term sustainability through increased income, careful cost management and closer monitoring. Members also considered the Cathedral’s financial reporting, received an update on preparations for an independent safeguarding audit and agreed revised meeting arrangements for 2026.
May 2026
Chapter received a positive annual audit report and reviewed the Cathedral’s financial position, noting encouraging progress while recognising the need for continued careful management. Members discussed safeguarding audit preparations, governance development and opportunities to increase giving and earned income. Chapter also welcomed progress with the Archer Project redevelopment and considered building, partnership and operational matters.
June 2026
Chapter received encouraging preliminary feedback from the independent safeguarding review and agreed to begin work on areas identified for further development. Members reviewed the Cathedral’s improving financial forecast, while recognising continuing challenges relating to longer-term sustainability and enterprise activities. Chapter also considered the Cathedral’s mission and community work, future governance arrangements, building conservation, grant opportunities and plans for Advent and Christmas.