What is the Governor Circle?

The Governor Circle is a special supporter community for those who previously held the Governor role at Clergy Support Trust.

It recognises the loyalty, wisdom and support given over many years, while creating a clearer way for members to remain connected to our work today. Members of the Governor Circle are supporters of the charity, not Governors of the charity.

As Clergy Support Trust continues to develop, the Governor Circle offers a meaningful and modern way for members to stay informed, engaged and involved in our mission to support Anglican clergy and their families. It honours the historic Governor role and celebrates members’ continuing contribution through prayer, advocacy, generosity, introductions and professional expertise.

How members stay connected

•    Receiving regular updates on the Trust’s work, priorities and impact
•    Being invited to selected events, briefings and opportunities for discussion
•    Sharing insight, expertise and feedback where appropriate
•    Supporting the charity through prayer, introductions, giving or legacy conversations

Frequently asked questions

Are members of the Governor Circle also Governors of the charity?

No. Members of the Governor Circle are valued supporters of Clergy Support Trust, but they are not Governors of the charity and do not hold a formal governance role.

Why has the Governor role changed?

The Trust’s governance has developed in line with Modern Charitable Governance. The historic Governor role has evolved into a supporter-focused community; this change helps recognise the contribution of former Governors.

This was voted on at an Extraordinary General Meeting of the then Governors, at Lambeth Palace in July 2026.

Who can be part of the Governor Circle?

Membership is limited to those who previously held the Governor role. 

How will members stay involved?

Members may receive updates, invitations to selected events and briefings, and opportunities to support the Trust through prayer, advocacy, introductions, giving, legacy conversations or professional expertise.

Can I leave the Governor Circle?

Yes. Membership of the Governor Circle is entirely voluntary. If you decide that you no longer wish to receive communications or participate in the Circle, you may opt out at any time by emailing Clergy Support Trust at hello@clergysupport.org.uk

Who can I contact with questions?

If you have any questions about the Governor Circle, please contact our Fundraising Manager, Katie Harding at katie.harding@clergysupport.org.uk

Past Assemblies and Meetings

Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) 2026

An Extraordinary General Meeting, to vote on the future of Governorship, will take place on Thursday 23 July 2026, at Lambeth Palace, London, SE1 7JU.

Entry is through Morton's Tower only (pictured). Please note that Photo ID will be required in order to enter Lambeth Palace, and join this Extraordinary General Meeting.

Important documents, including the Notice, Agenda and Minutes from last year's meeting, as well as instructions on how to RSVP, can be found below.

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The exterior of Lambeth Palace, a red-bricked building against a blue sky.

Annual Assembly 2025

The 347th Annual Assembly (AGM) took place on Thursday 9 October 2025, at the CCLA Investment Management offices, One Angel Lane, London, EC4R 3AB.

We began with a Eucharist at the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, followed by the AGM and lunch at CCLA.

Last year's guest speaker was The Revd Canon Thomas Woodhouse, Chaplain of the Royal Victorian Order and Deputy Priest-in-Ordinary to His Majesty The King. He is also Chaplain of The King’s Chapel of the Savoy, where we host our Christmas Carol Service. We heard about his unique role and experiences serving the Royal Family.

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The exterior of 1 Angel Lane, a glass building sat snug against the blue of the River Thames on a sunny day.

Annual Assembly 2024

The 346th Annual Assembly (AGM) was held on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at St Mellitus College (24 Collingham Road, London SW5 0LX), the largest theological college in England.

We began with a Eucharist, followed by the AGM and a cold lunch with wine.

Our keynote speaker was Dr Liz Graveling, a Senior Researcher for the Church of England. Liz is a colleague of the Trust, who recently collaborated with us on research into the wellbeing of UKME/GMH clergy.

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The exterior of St. Mellitus College, a brick church with stained glass windows.

Annual Assembly 2023

The 345th Annual Assembly (AGM) took place on Thursday 16 November 2023 at Southwark Cathedral (pictured).

The Rt Revd Humphrey Southern, Principal of Ripon College Cuddesdon shared his experience of the challenges faced by those in the early years of their ministry.

The Chief Executive, The Revd Ben Cahill-Nicholls and retiring Senior Treasurer, The Revd Canon Simon Butler shared updates on this year and the Trustee's Annual Report.

Particular highlight was given to the Trust's support of clergy children, and how donations and legacies can help continue this and the wider charitable work.

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Southwark Cathedral

Annual Assembly 2022

The 344th Annual Assembly took place on Thursday 17 November 2022 at St Margaret's Church, Westminster Abbey.

A speech was given by The Rt Revd Dr Chris Goldsmith, Director of Ministry for the Church of England.

The 2022-25 Strategy was presented by Chief Executive, The Revd Ben Cahill-Nicholls.

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St Margaret's Church, Westminster Abbey

Annual Assembly 2021

The 343rd Annual Assembly took place on Thursday 18 November 2021 in the Guard Room of Lambeth Palace.

The video on the right was shown during the meeting. It shared stories of the vital support received by four clergy and their families.

Please click on the link for the document you would like to read, which will download in PDF format.

Annual Assembly 2020

The following documents were for the 342nd Annual Assembly (formerly Annual General Court) of Clergy Support Trust held by Zoom on 12 November 2020. Please click on the link for the document you would like to read, which will download in PDF format.

Annual General Court 2019

The following documents were for the Annual General Court (AGM) meeting held on 14 November 2019. Please click on the link for the document you want to read, which will be downloaded in PDF format.

Safeguarding Statement

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility - Clergy Support Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children and adults at risk, in line with our Safeguarding Policy and Procedures. It expects all employees, trustees, volunteers and those publicly representing the Trust to share this commitment.