National Deaf Ministry Officer

The National Deaf Ministry Officer plays an important role in helping the Church of England become more inclusive and accessible for Deaf people. Working within a national team that supports ministry and leadership across the Church, the post holder will bring expertise in Deaf culture, communication and advocacy to ensure Deaf people can fully participate in worship, leadership and community life. This includes advising senior leaders, supporting policy development and helping to shape a Church where Deaf voices are heard, valued and represented.

You will work closely with colleagues, dioceses and networks supporting Deaf ministry to provide guidance, training and encouragement. The role involves building strong relationships, supporting those already involved in Deaf ministry and advocating for fair access and opportunities, including for those exploring ordained or lay ministry roles.

This is a collaborative and outward-facing position, well suited to someone passionate about inclusion and equity, with the ability to influence change at a national level. You will help ensure that the Church’s mission reflects and serves Deaf communities in ways that are linguistically and culturally appropriate, enabling fuller participation across all aspects of church life.

This is a part-time role for 0.4 FTE

The National Deaf Ministry Officer will play a key role in ensuring Deaf people are supported, represented and able to participate fully in ministry and church life. This is a varied and collaborative role, combining national influence with practical support and relationship-building across the Church of England.

In this role, you will:

• Provide expert advice on matters affecting Deaf people, helping shape policy, practice and inclusive approaches across the Church
• Champion and advocate for Deaf people, ensuring their voices, experiences and needs are recognised and embedded in decision-making
• Support and strengthen networks by working with dioceses, chaplains and volunteers involved in Deaf ministry
• Facilitate training and development , equipping those working with Deaf communities with the skills and confidence they need
• Enable fair access to ministry pathways , supporting Deaf candidates through discernment, training and leadership opportunities
• Work collaboratively with key groups and stakeholders to progress inclusion and share good practice across the Church
• Play a full part in the Vocations team, working in partnership with colleagues in the team and in the wider Ministry Development Team

You will balance supporting strategic development with hands-on engagement, building strong relationships and helping create a Church that reflects and welcomes Deaf people at every level.

To be successful in this role, you will bring a strong understanding of Deaf culture and knowledge of BSL alongside the ability to influence, collaborate and advocate effectively within a large and complex organisation. You will be confident working with a wide range of people, from community members to senior leaders and motivated by a genuine commitment to inclusion and equality.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• A strong understanding of Deaf culture and community , with experience of working alongside Deaf people in an inclusive and empowering way
• A knowledge of BSL  and the ability to understand and communicate with Deaf people who use only BSL to communicate is essential
• Experience of advocacy and influencing change , particularly in relation to equality, diversity and inclusion
• An ability to build relationships and work collaboratively , bringing people together across different teams, organisations or networks
• Experience of supporting or developing others , for example through training, mentoring or working with volunteers
• Strong organisational skills , with the ability to manage priorities, work independently and deliver across a varied workload
• An understanding of the Church of England (or a similar organisation) , or the ability to quickly build confidence working within a large and complex national institution

You will also be someone who is reflective, adaptable and committed to ongoing personal and professional development, with a passion for ensuring everyone can participate fully and equally.