Guidance

The Church Appointments Team

Updated 13 January 2025

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Meet the Team

Helen Dimmock - Ecclesiastical Secretary to the Crown and Lord Chancellor

Melissa Crawshay-Williams - Assistant Head of Church Appointments

Where can I find vacancies?

Contact Us

Honours and Appointments Secretariat
Room G39,
1 Horse Guards Road,
London,
SW1A 2HQ

Email: crownandlordchancellorpatronage@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

To sign up to our newsletter email: helen.dimmock@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

Introduction to Church Appointments

The Crown is responsible for a range of ecclesiastical appointments in the Church of England, as The King is the Supreme Governor. Appointments are approved by The King on the recommendation of the Prime Minister or the Lord Chancellor on The King’s behalf.

Who does the Church appoint?

The Crown is responsible for the appointments of:

  • The two Archbishops (Canterbury and York)
  • The remaining Diocesan Bishops
  • Suffragan Bishops
  • 28 Cathedral Deans
  • 20 Residentiary and Cathedral Canons
  • Incumbents to over 650 Benefices

Who decides?

The Ecclesiastical Secretary represents the Crown and Lord Chancellor at interviews to appoint future incumbents. Once a candidate has been chosen and accepted the post, we will obtain approval directly from the Prime Minister and The King or the Lord Chancellor for your appointment.

Where do we appoint?

The Crown holds patronage rights across England, in all 41 Dioceses across the country.

Why should I apply to a Crown vacancy?

  • We are responsible for patronage across the country and can suggest roles suited to you
  • We provide a list of upcoming vacancies to give you time to consider if a post is right for you
  • We will provide comprehensive feedback following the interview
  • If you are successful, you may receive an invite to a Royal Garden Party
  • Helen will provide coaching sessions after your appointment to help your ministerial development
  • You will be given the opportunity to join a closed Facebook group to share experiences and connect with other Crown appointees across the country

What do I need to know?

We require all appointees to undertake an enhanced DBS check before any appointment can be announced.

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