Good grievance

Toolbox: leading and managing volunteers and staff

OK, nobody likes talking about this topic, but if we are employing someone in our church or we are an employee working for a church, it is hugely important that we understand how to navigate conflict and problems well. I genuinely believe it is possible to resolve issues and address them if we have good processes and communication in place.

Firstly, before we get into the detail, every church that employs staff (or for that matter has some key volunteers that oversee work that directly involves ministry or activity with people) should have a grievance procedure and disciplinary process in place. It should be part of your staff handbook along with other policies, such as safeguarding and health and safety.