The Diocese of Bath and Wells is seeking volunteers to join its Lament to Action Group, which supports and shapes the Diocese’s long-term commitment to racial justice.
This work is rooted in Christian faith and values and seeks to move beyond words towards meaningful and lasting change. The group works alongside the Diocesan Racial Justice Adviser, offering insight, challenge and encouragement as the Diocese responds to its independent Racial Justice Audit and the Church of England’s From Lament to Action strategy.
Members act as critical friends, helping to ensure that commitments to racial justice lead to practical, sustained action. The group works collaboratively, valuing lived experience, professional insight and diverse perspectives.The focus of the group includes leadership and representation; training and formation; governance and accountability; community culture, worship and belonging; and listening and partnership with communities affected by racism and exclusion.
We welcome volunteers who bring one or more of the following: lived experience of racism, migration or exclusion; experience in racial justice, equity or anti-racism work; experience in theology, education, safeguarding, governance or policy; experience in community, youth or pastoral work; or experience in advisory, trustee or board-level roles. Church professional or academic experience is not required. Applicants should have an understanding of Christian values and theology, or be willing to develop this understanding, and be able to work respectfully within the life of the Church of England.
For the first six months, the group will meet monthly (in person/online), with the meeting pattern reviewed thereafter. Members should expect to commit at least one hour of preparation for each meeting. This is a voluntary role; however, travel expenses for in-person meetings and related events will be reimbursed.
We recognise that this work can be emotionally demanding. The Diocese is committed to the care and wellbeing of group members and will seek to put appropriate support in place where needed.
To express an interest in joining this group, please let us know the following to help us get to know you better. If you have a CV and would like to attach it, then please do so but it is not essential. Please email our HR Department with your expression of interest or post it to HR Department, Flourish House, Cathedral Park, Wells, BA5 1FD addressing the following:
- What draws you to be part of the Lament to Action Group, and what is your hope for how this work can contribute to meaningful and lasting change within the church?
- What relevant experience and skills would you bring to this role? (This may include professional, voluntary, community, or personal experience, and applicants are welcome to share only what they feel comfortable with). How would your skills and experience shape your contribution to the group?
- This work involves engaging with sensitive, complex and sometimes painful issues. How do you approach such conversations with care, humility and respect for others, including those with different perspectives?
- Please share an example of how you have contributed to, supported, or led work focused on justice, inclusion or cultural change, and what you have learned from that experience.
For an informal and confidential conversation about the role, please email Revd Narinder Tegally or telephone her on 07940 580859.
If you feel called to be part of this work and are willing to offer your time, we would love to hear from you. If you would like support in expressing your interest in this role, please just ask either by emailing our HR Department or by telephoning Enita Andrews on 01749 685113.
Notable dates
Closing date for expresssions of interest: Friday 6 March 2026