Pastoral Care

We want everyone at BEC to feel known and cared for (because we do care!),

and to be able to access support if they need it.

We believe it is the responsibility of each one of us to care for one another and seek to help

and care for others. We feel the best way of doing this is through community and

people who know you, which is why pastoral care primarily takes place within our Life Groups.

Life Groups

Our Pastoral Care Coordination Team (PCCT)

Alf Berridge

Jan Wilding

Karon Newton

On occasion, issues may arise that need more particular care and are beyond the skills and experience of the Life Group leader. In these circumstances the issue would, with the individual's permission, be referred for advice. This would first be to the Cluster leader who is responsible for a group of Life Groups, but may also be to the Pastoral Care Coordination Team (PCCT).
The PCCT consists of a small group of specifically appointed individuals, who are led by the Pastoral Care Team Leader. These individuals have been endorsed by the Church Leadership as having particular gifts, skills and experience relevant to pastoral care at BEC.

Although any church member may be involved in visiting others in their own home, other organised visiting may be arranged for those in need, those who are sick or otherwise not in routine contact with the church. This would be arranged by the PCCT.

All those who are asked by the PCCT to provide pastoral support will hold DBS clearance and will have training and adhere to BEC Safeguarding and Pastoral Care policies, linked below.

Anyone can refer themselves directly and confidentially to the PCCT by emailing care@becchurch.org.uk or through their Life Group leader.

Pastoral Care Policy

Safeguarding Policy

Support Fund

The Church Leaders and Trustees recognise they may receive requests for financial assistance from church members and those in our local community who regularly engage with BEC ministries and life groups. The Trustees of BEC decided that the PCCT should manage the support fund.

All current BEC members, those who regularly attend BEC ministries and those in Life Groups are eligible to benefit from the fund provided their application is approved by the PCCT. Forms can be obtained by asking your Life Group or Ministry lead or emailing care@becchurch.org.uk.

All members of the PCCT work strictly within a circle of confidentiality. The maximum amount that can be given to one person per application is £200, and each individual can make two applications. The PCCT recognise that in some circumstances a rapid response may be required. The team will help to ensure the application can be submitted within 3 working days, then the PCCT will consider the request within the next 24 hours to make a decision. Payments will be made via electronic transfer to the individual as soon as possible.

It is recognised that those in financial need would often benefit from additional support, such as financial mentoring, budget counselling, participation in a support group or food supplies.

The PCCT are aware of a number of local organisations who may be able to help and will seek to signpost those in need to the relevant resources. Members of the PCCT are also able to issue Food Bank Vouchers.