Introduction

As the Children, Youth & Family Worker at Bulwell United Reformed Church, I am dedicated to fulfilling the mission of the church and the North Notts Area Church Partnership (NNACP). My role focuses on connecting with children, youth, and families both within the church and the wider community, with the aim of fostering spiritual growth, strengthening relationships, and promoting Christian values. Through my work, I strive to create an environment where faith can flourish, and the love of Jesus Christ can be shared with everyone.

I am committed to ensuring that each individual experiences a personal and meaningful relationship with God. My work aligns with the NNACP mission: “In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray and work together to help people in our communities to develop their relationship with God and with each other.”

Core Purpose

My core purpose, based on the Future-Engage-Deliver (FED) framework, can be outlined as follows:

• Future: I envision a future where every child, young person, and family in our community develops a deep and meaningful relationship with God. This future is rooted in faith, where individuals experience God’s love in their daily lives and grow as disciples and future leaders.
• Engage: My work aims to meet children, youth, and families where they are—both spiritually and physically. Through inclusive and welcoming programmes, I create spaces that foster open communication, trust, and support.
• Deliver: To bring this vision to life, I consistently provide dynamic opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. I also encourage families to incorporate faith into their homes, creating long-term strategies that support the ongoing development of this ministry. By equipping volunteers, I expand our capacity to serve the community.

 

My Personal Mission Statement

"In the name of Jesus Christ, I commit to serving Bulwell United Reformed Church and the North Notts Area Church Partnership with unwavering dedication, proactive enthusiasm, and a heart full of passion. My mission is to work and pray to help all people in our communities develop their relationship with God and each other, ensuring that every action taken aligns with our core values of faith, love, and service. I will be proactive in identifying and addressing the needs of our church and its members, always striving to go above and beyond in my duties. My passion for this project drives me to seek innovative and effective solutions, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Through continuous personal and collective growth, I aim to advance our mission, upholding the teachings of Jesus Christ and spreading His light in every endeavour. Together, we will build a vibrant, progressive church that stands as a beacon of hope, love, and faith in our community, strengthening the bonds between individuals and God."

My personal mission statement guides me in being proactive in identifying and addressing the needs of the church and its members, always striving to go above and beyond in my duties. I am deeply passionate about finding innovative and effective solutions, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where all people, no matter their background, feel valued and loved.

Through continuous personal and collective growth, I aim to advance the mission of spreading the light of Christ in all that I do. Whether leading a group, planning an event, or providing pastoral care, I ensure that my work not only serves the immediate needs of the church but also prepares the next generation to carry the torch of faith forward.

With a clear vision, intentional planning, and a deep sense of commitment, I am dedicated to building a ministry that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ. Together, we will create a vibrant, progressive church that stands as a beacon of hope, love, and faith in our community—one that strengthens the bonds between individuals and God, and impacts lives for generations to come.

Why Am I Doing What I Am Doing?

The work I am doing in the Children, Youth & Family Ministry is driven by an urgent need to nurture faith and strengthen bonds within the church community, especially among the younger generations. As the world becomes more complex, the church must offer not only spiritual guidance but also emotional and practical support that meets the needs of children, youth, and families today.

Young people are searching for purpose, identity, and belonging. The church is uniquely positioned to offer these things through meaningful outreach, relationships, and practical assistance. My ministry creates a safe space where they can explore their faith, grow in character, and experience the love and grace of God.

My work is also about preparing the next generation to lead and serve both within the church and the broader community. Young people need guidance to live out their faith in a world that often contradicts Christian values. My ministry helps build a resilient faith, deeply rooted in biblical truths, equipping them to face life's challenges with confidence.

Lastly, I am committed to community transformation. Families are central to every community, and by supporting them, I am fostering a healthier, more united society. The ripple effect of nurturing families within the church extends far beyond its walls, impacting the wider community in meaningful ways.

Key Areas

Why I Need Vision

Vision is essential in my role as a Children, Youth & Family Worker because it provides the direction and motivation I need to continue serving effectively. A clear vision keeps me focused on the larger picture, ensuring that the work I do daily contributes to the broader goals of the church and community. Without vision, it would be easy to get lost in immediate demands and lose sight of the long-term impact I am striving to achieve.

Vision allows me to set a clear direction for myself and for the children, youth, and families I serve. It gives purpose to every programme, event, and interaction, ensuring that everything is aligned with the mission of the church. With a strong vision, I can inspire others to join me in this journey, showing them that our work is about shaping the future of the church and community.

A well-defined vision also helps me navigate challenges with confidence. When obstacles arise, my vision reminds me of the ultimate goals I am working toward, allowing me to persevere and adapt without losing sight of what truly matters.

Vision is not static—it evolves as the needs of the people I serve change. By continually refining and communicating my vision, I ensure that I remain responsive to these changes while staying committed to guiding others toward a deeper relationship with God.

Volunteers

Volunteers are the backbone of my ministry within Bulwell URC and the NNACP. Their dedication, time, and talents enable the church to run impactful programmes and reach more people than I could alone. A strong volunteer base not only enhance my workload but also fosters a sense of community ownership, where everyone plays a role in fulfilling the church’s mission.

At Bulwell URC and across the NNACP, I work closely with volunteers who bring diverse skills that enrich our ministry. Together, we manage events, lead groups, offer pastoral care, and handle administrative tasks. This teamwork allows me to focus on the bigger picture—strategic planning, casting vision, and building deeper relationships.

Involving volunteers provides individuals with opportunities for personal growth in their faith and service. Through their work, they can develop leadership skills, explore their spiritual gifts, and deepen their faith. This, in turn, strengthens the church community as more people engage in serving God and one another.

A committed volunteer team ensures sustainability for the ministry. By relying on a diverse group of volunteers, I ensure the ministry remains resilient and adaptable even as needs change or unexpected challenges arise.

Recruiting and training volunteers is a priority for me. It’s not just about finding willing hands but about helping people understand the significance of their roles and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed. I offer training on safeguarding, communication with children, and creative session planning. By investing in volunteers, I am investing in the long-term success of the ministry.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is central to my ministry. By building strong relationships with the broader community, I create opportunities for the church to extend its reach and demonstrate Christ’s love and hope in practical ways. Through these connections, I meet both the spiritual and social needs of families who may otherwise feel isolated.

Light Night is one example of this outreach, offering a family-friendly alternative to traditional Halloween celebrations. This event provides a safe space for families to come together and celebrate in a meaningful way. Through this event, I have been able to connect with families who had no prior relationship with the church.

Building on this, I introduced Easter Eggstravaganza, an event that engages children and families in activities while celebrating Christ’s resurrection. This event allows families to experience church in a welcoming and accessible way, continuing conversations that began at Light Night.

Both events show that the church is a community hub, not just a place for worship. They create pathways for deeper conversations about faith and lead families to explore church activities more regularly.

Compassion for the Community

Compassion is a fundamental aspect of my ministry, especially during times when families face additional challenges, such as school holidays. The cost of living crisis has made it increasingly difficult for families to meet their basic needs, whether it be food, warmth, or meaningful activities for their children.

During school holidays, many families struggle to afford activities for their children. I have developed Family Drop-In sessions that provide free, warm spaces for families to enjoy activities, crafts, and refreshments together. These sessions are more than just a way to keep children busy—they are an opportunity for families to connect, share their burdens, and experience the love and care of the church.

Food insecurity is another significant issue. During school breaks, families that rely on school-provided meals face additional hardships. My Family Drop-In sessions help alleviate this pressure by providing snacks, ensuring that children do not go hungry.

Providing warmth and a safe space is also important, especially during colder months. Through these efforts, I demonstrate that the church is here to offer not just spiritual support but practical help during difficult times.

Why I Am Shaping Activities

Shaping activities within my ministry is intentional, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the community while aligning with the values of Jesus Christ. Each activity I plan serves a distinct purpose, engaging participants in ways that foster spiritual growth, build relationships, and offer practical support.

• Little Stars Baby & Toddler Group: A nurturing space for young children and carers to connect and build relationships in a Christian setting.
• Tuesday Board Games Group: A relaxed environment where people of all ages can connect over board games and social interaction.

• Wacky Wednesdays: An after-school club that combines fun, learning, and faith-building activities for children aged 7-11, providing opportunities for young ones to engage with the gospel in a way that resonates with them.
• Friday Youth: A dedicated time for teenagers to explore their faith, build friendships, and participate in engaging discussions and activities relevant to their lives.
• Messy Church: An all-ages initiative that allows families to explore faith together through creativity, celebration, and shared meals.
• Children & Youth Church: This programme provides young people the opportunity to grow in their faith during Sunday services, ensuring they are valued and included as active members of the church community.

 

There is a noticeable gap in activities for children aged 3 to 7. While Wacky Wednesdays caters to children aged 7 to 11, there is a need for an additional group for younger children. This age group is critical for early spiritual development, and I recognise the importance of offering a programme tailored to their needs. By creating a group for 3 to 7-year-olds, I will provide a vital link between Little Stars and Wacky Wednesdays, ensuring a consistent and supportive faith journey from infancy to adolescence.

Shaping these activities is driven by a desire to create meaningful experiences that resonate with children, young people, and their families. Many are looking for connections, guidance, and a safe place where they can explore their faith and find support for the challenges they face. The activities I offer are not just social gatherings—they are opportunities for spiritual engagement, community building, and personal transformation.

Mission & Ministry Partnerships

United Reformed Church and Scripture Union Partnerships
To strengthen our outreach and enhance engagement, I am establishing key partnerships with the United Reformed Church Children & Youth Department, the United Reformed Church East Midlands Synod’s Children Youth Development Officer and Mission Development Officer, and Scripture Union. Each partnership offers specialised resources, training, and support that build upon our existing outreach events, helping us create a more sustainable and impactful ministry.

• URC Children & Youth Department: The URC’s Children & Youth Department provides a wealth of support, including practical resources, safeguarding training, conferences, youth camps, and networking events and lots more. These resources equip our leaders and volunteers, fostering a spiritually thriving environment where children and youth can grow in faith.
• URC East Midlands Synod Support: Collaborating with the East Midlands Synod’s Children Youth Development Officer and Mission Development Officer provides localised expertise suited to our community’s needs. With tailored workshops, mission development training, and region-specific resources, we are well-positioned to address local challenges and deepen our community impact.
• Scripture Union: Through the Revealing Jesus Framework, our partnership with Scripture Union offers innovative approaches to engage children and young people. As a Faith Guide, I gain access to targeted training, coaching, and outreach resources, including tools for connecting with Gen Z and guidance for pioneering new ministry models. This partnership broadens our reach, helping us create meaningful pathways for young people to encounter faith.

 

These partnerships not only enhance our outreach events but also equip us with the expertise, resources, and networks needed to foster a nurturing, faith-centered environment where children, youth, and families can deepen their relationship with God.

These partnerships are not only strengthening our ministry’s community engagement but are also enhancing our volunteer programme. With access to training, resources, and a supportive network, we are building a professional team environment that attracts dedicated individuals. Volunteers gain valuable skills, from safeguarding and youth ministry training to communication and leadership development. By creating a structured, well-supported environment, we make volunteering with us a meaningful and enriching experience, where each person is equipped and empowered to make a lasting impact. This approach not only meets our ministry’s current needs but fosters a dynamic, motivated team that is well-prepared to sustain our outreach for the future.

Evaluation

Evaluation is a critical part of the ministry’s development process. By regularly assessing what is working, I can identify areas for improvement and ensure that the activities I provide continue to meet the needs of the children, youth, and families I serve. Far from being something to avoid, I see evaluation as an opportunity to reflect on progress, celebrate successes, and make necessary adjustments to enhance the ministry’s impact.

Why Evaluate?

Evaluation provides the framework I need to maintain focus on the ministry’s goals. It allows me to review the effectiveness of the programmes I offer and ensure they align with the vision and mission of the church. By regularly assessing outcomes, I can make informed decisions about how to adapt and improve activities, ensuring that the work I do remains responsive to the dynamic needs of the community.

Furthermore, evaluation gives me the chance to receive feedback from participants, volunteers, and other stakeholders. This feedback is invaluable for understanding how the programmes are experienced from different perspectives. Listening to these insights allows me to fine-tune what I offer and involve the community in shaping their own spiritual journey.

Desired Outcomes

The desired outcomes of this evaluation process are:

1. Improvement: By evaluating the effectiveness of activities, I aim to continually enhance the quality and relevance of the programmes. Whether it’s tweaking the structure of an event or finding new ways to engage families, my goal is to always strive for better, more impactful ministry.
2. Sustainability: Regular evaluation ensures that the programmes are sustainable, both in terms of resources and volunteer engagement. By assessing the practical aspects of each activity, I can ensure that resources are used wisely and that the programmes have long-term viability.
3. Growth: Through evaluation, I can identify areas where the ministry can grow—whether that’s reaching new families, expanding volunteer involvement, or increasing the spiritual depth of the content I provide. Growth is both about numbers and deepening the engagement of those already involved.

 

While evaluation may reveal areas where improvements are needed, I welcome this feedback as a chance to grow stronger and more effective in my calling. Mistakes or setbacks are part of the journey, and they provide valuable lessons that allow me to refine the work I do.

Embracing evaluation shows a commitment to excellence and a willingness to be accountable to those I serve. It demonstrates that I take the work seriously and am always looking for ways to better support the children, youth, and families who are part of this ministry.

Development Action Plans

For each area of the Children, Youth & Family Ministry, I have specific action plans that guide the activities and goals. These action plans focus on implementing the vision, engaging the community, and delivering outcomes that reflect the ministry’s core purpose. By maintaining clear and actionable plans, I ensure that every aspect of the ministry contributes to the broader goals of spiritual growth, community building, and sustainable outreach.

Each action plan is designed to be flexible and adaptive, allowing me to respond to changing needs while remaining faithful to the mission. These plans include key objectives, timelines, and resources required to achieve the desired outcomes, ensuring that my work is both strategic and measurable.

Through thoughtful planning, consistent evaluation, and a commitment to excellence, the Children, Youth & Family Ministry at Bulwell United Reformed Church and the North Notts Area Church Partnership will continue to grow, thrive, and serve as a beacon of hope, love, and faith in our community.

Conclusion

As the Children, Youth & Family Worker, I am passionate about fulfilling the mission of Bulwell United Reformed Church and the North Notts Area Church Partnership. Through the ministry I lead, I strive to create opportunities for young people, families, and the wider community to develop their faith, build meaningful relationships, and experience the love of Christ.

By shaping activities that engage and inspire, recruiting and supporting volunteers who are integral to the ministry, and continuously evaluating the impact of the programmes I lead, I ensure that the work I do aligns with the vision for a vibrant and faith-filled community.

Together, with a clear vision and a deep sense of purpose, I am committed to building a ministry that not only serves the present generation but also prepares the next generation to carry on the mission of the church.