In the context of the closure of schools due to Coronavirus, the government has put in place an arrangement for children of those deemed to be Key Workers to continue to be accommodated at school.
This is covered in the Coronavirus section of the Church of England website, where you can find an FAQ on Key Workers, including a link to the guidance note from the Department for Education. Please read this official guidance carefully.
The government definition of a key worker includes ‘religious staff’ and serving parish clergy and chaplains can in principle be covered by this arrangement. Please note, however, that the arrangement is only to be used when there are no reasonable means to care for the child at home, for example in cases where the clergy spouse is him/herself a key worker who needs to remain available.
The Church of England guidance requires that clergy or other church workers wishing to avail themselves of this arrangement should seek their bishop’s approval. In the Diocese of Chester, you should in the first instance approach your archdeacon, who will advise further.
Keeping you informed
We'll be issuing regular updates and important information about the Church's response to the current situation via the website and a new dedicated Coronavirus Briefing. You can subscribe to updates and important information from the Diocese of Chester via the form below:
