In its vision to turn outwards in mission enabled by seeking, sharing and sending, the Diocese of Newcastle is committed to a bold and faithful response to the climate crisis.
Following up on the bold targets agreed through General Synod in 2020, our own Diocesan Synod has started work to examine our carbon emissions, plan how to reduce them and report progress on a regular basis. In 2024, a Diocesan Net Zero Carbon Action Plan was created outlining the approach to net zero by 2030. Environment champions have been identified within our parishes and this growing cohort regularly network to provide encouragement and share good practice. This year a NZC Programme Manager has been appointed to accelerate delivery of the plan and four further roles are to be appointed to the NZC team this year.
However, in the work to win hearts and minds there is need for a role which provides theological insight and leadership in parishes and across the wider diocese. This new and exciting role will offer that leadership and insight.
Key Responsibilities:
- Theological Leadership
- Articulate a Christian theology of creation care and justice.
- Preach and speak at diocesan and parish events to raise awareness and inspire action.
- Strategic Engagement
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the diocesan environmental and Net Zero Carbon strategy aligned with the framework of the Diocesan climate action plan agreed by Synod and managed through the Bishop's Council.
- Collaborate across teams including the Church Buildings Support, Mission & Ministry, Education, Communications and NZC Delivery teams to embed environmental responsibility throughout diocesan initiatives.
- Parish Engagement
- Work with the Parish Environment Champions Coordinator to build and encourage the parish eco champions network, building relationships and providing theological input and resources to parishes and individuals who form part of the network.
- Formation and Education
- Support the Mission & Ministry team to design and deliver relevant training for curates, LLMs, ALMs, and ordained leaders to raise awareness, equipping them in their role.
- Contribute to the diocese's strategy for growing a younger and more diverse church, with a particular emphasis on environmental justice.
- Partnerships
- Liaise with the Church of England’s national team for climate justice and represent the diocese by attending and contributing to relevant conferences and networks, both locally and nationally.
- Advocate for the needs of specific groups of people and areas of ministry within the Diocese and its wider diocesan links with Botswana and Norway, to ensure that, as a Diocese, we are committed to climate justice through all we do.
- Advising and Representing
- Provide up-to-date information and advice on climate justice matters for the Diocesan Bishop, particularly in relation to her roles in the House of Lords and with the Church Commissioners.
- Raise awareness and engagement of climate justice through preaching or speaking in contexts across the diocese when available and as appropriate.
- Safeguarding and Inclusion
- Uphold the highest standards of safeguarding.
- Ensure that climate justice work is inclusive, equitable, and attentive to the needs of the communities we serve.
Support and Oversight
- The Bishop’s Advisor will report directly to the Bishop of Newcastle, with regular support and check-ins facilitated by the Bishop’s Chaplain.
- The role will serve as a member of the Net Zero Carbon (NZC) Oversight Group, which reports to the Bishop’s Council.
- At least two one-to-one advisory meetings with the Bishop will be arranged annually.
Key Relationships
- The Diocesan Bishop - for strategic direction and theological alignment.
- The Bishop’s Chaplain - primary point of contact and support for coordination
- Parish Environment Champion Coordinator - to support and grow the parish eco network
- Church House teams, including:
- Mission & Ministry - for integrating climate justice into discipleship and leadership development
- Education - for engagement with schools
- Communications - for promoting environmental initiatives and sharing stories
- Church Buildings Support - to advise on sustainable church property management
- National Church Bodies – Environment, Climate Change and NZC teams
- Link Dioceses – Botswana, Norway
Hours & Expenses
- This is a voluntary role.
- Reasonable travel and associated expenses will be reimbursed, subject to prior agreement with the Bishop’s Chaplain.
Training & Development
Ongoing learning is encouraged. Support for relevant training opportunities will be provided to enable the Advisor to flourish in this role.
How to Apply?
To apply please supply a covering letter detailing your expression of interest in the role, along with either a CV or details of your church record, and details of two referees, to the Bishop of Newcastle’s PA: d.botha@newcastle.anglican.org by Monday 23rd June 2025.
You can download the details of this role, as described above, here