Saturday 7 July saw over 40 PCC treasurers gather in Helston Community School to take part in the second Treasurers’ Training Day. This followed a similar event which 50 treasurers attended in Liskeard on 16 June.

The role of PCC treasurer is a specialised one, requiring specific skills and commitment; and as such is sometimes difficult to fill. It is also a critical role with serious financial and legal consequences attached to it.

The programme was designed to have something for everyone, no matter what level of financial skills they possessed; so sessions included treasurer’s responsibilities, buying schemes, insurance threats and how to save money.

There was an opportunity to challenge current practices, to share advice, and to browse through a market-place of resources, similar to the one that proved so popular in last year’s Roadshows. Representatives from Parish Buying, Ecclesiastical Insurance and Data Development also took part.

Every ‘delegate’ received a pack of information to take away, including a CD containing the presentations and, we hope, left feeling encouraged and more up-to-date on key aspects of being a PCC treasurer.

Feedback suggests that we should be running these special days for treasurers on a regular basis. “I enjoyed talking to other treasurers and sharing problems!” said one delegate. “There was so much information on new ways and new roles,” said another. “It is much better to have a day just for treasurers.”

There is now a dedicated Parish Finance Officer to support PCC treasurers both centrally and at a parish level. If you have any questions about the Mission & Ministry Fund (MMF) or applications for financial help through the Parish Resource Fund (PRF) or Archbishop’s Council Mission Fund (ABCMF), contact Milly on 01872 274 351 or e-mail Melissa.clare@truro.anglican.org