Lay Employment

The Methodist Church, like any other organisation, is subject to employment law in every aspect of lay employment - from recruitment all the way through to dismissal.  Every time you employ anyone in a lay worker role within your church, be it a cleaner, a youth worker or a cook, you will need to follow these laws.  Employment legislation can be complex and is constantly evolving but it is a non-negotiable aspect of modern life. 

My role as your DLES is to help you navigate safely through these rules and regulations. We are all expected to follow these laws whether we are experts or not. There are 3 main ways you can ensure YOU are following correct procedures.

  1. CHECK the lay employment resource on the Methodist website Here

  2. ASK your DLES if anything is not clear or needs approval.  I am happy to answer any queries, no matter how big or small.  Remember you also need to contact me at the start of any recruitment.


  3. UPDATE your understanding by completing the training that is currently available on the learning network.  Line Managers should all have taken the Line Manager training course Here

    There is also an excellent handbook for line managers explaining the responsibilities of the role Download it here


Kate Dalton
District Lay Employment Secretary
East Anglia District of the Methodist Church

Tel: 07410 219256