A few recent experiences in the diocese have highlighted the need for every PCC to take great care when approached by Christian groups and independent churches wishing to hire church halls for worship, fellowship meetings or bible study.
It is important that we continue to develop good relationships with other churches whilst not giving any foothold to those groups which bring others into disrepute.
There have been several stories of difficult situations arising across the diocese including an extreme case in Willesden concerning a group known as the Gospelites (or 'The Gospel' or 'GLiTS: Gospel Life in the Spirit').
However, it is also important to recognise that we have many good news stories of the use of our church buildings by international churches with which we are actively developing more formal Anglican links. This is exciting and an important part of discovering more about what it means to be the Anglican Church in this world city.
The Revd John Chapman is now our diocesan Chaplain for International Churches and is a great resource both in terms of knowledge, wisdom and networks:
St Hugh's House, 22 Gosling Close, Greenford UB6 9UE
Tel: +44 (0)20 8813 0162
Mob: +44 (0)7735 593 474
Email: 
There is no simple rule for deciding who should be allowed to use church halls.
However, one way is to check what networks, if any, these churches relate to, for example membership of the Council of Churches for Britain and Ireland (CCBI); the Evangelical Alliance; their own networks or denominational organisations such as Lighthouse, Latin American Pastors Group etc.
Occasionally some groups fall more into the category of NRMs (New Religious Movements) but describe themselves as Christian fellowships or Bible groups, precisely because you will think you know what you are getting.
What is of the utmost importance is that PCCs take time to explore a group's origin, history and doctrine (particularly regarding the authority of the Pastor). It is also important to enquire if the group was previously meeting somewhere else (if so, contact the relevant Vicar or Pastor) and to make enquiries of colleagues in the deanery as to whether the group is known to them.
The PCC needs to obtain clarity on the exact use of the space e.g. worship, education, community service etc. It is then vital to ensure that there is a proper hall hiring agreement in place. PCCs should consult the diocesan website under Parish Property and Trusts in the Regulations section.
Michael Lewis acts as Custodian Trustee Officer for the London Diocesan Fund:
Property Department
London Diocesan House
36 Causton Street
London SW1P 4AU
Tel: 020 7932 1209
Email:
PCCs have a duty of care to advise organisations of their responsibility for the welfare and safety of any children and vulnerable adults in their care.
Sadly, there have been instances of faith-based abuse of children, some within churches meeting in church halls. This once again highlights the importance of PCCs being vigilant about following the guidelines in Children in the Diocese of London.
We suggest that this is written into any formal hiring agreement using the following statement:
"The parish of X regards the safe care and protection of children and vulnerable adults as of the utmost importance. Groups that hire or use church premises are expected to share this concern and ensure that any activities comply with current legislation.
"The hirer must supply the PCC with a copy of their safeguarding policy which must be in line with that of the parish of X".
Please note that it is not generally permissible for any other church or group to use the church building without the Bishop's agreement and a license under faculty. Any PCC wishing to consider another group or church using the church building should have a discussion with the Archdeacon in the first instance.
Occasionally in instances of a genuine ecumenical relationship, a formal sharing agreement may need to be considered under the Sharing of Church Buildings Act 1969.
Rachel Treweek
Archdeacon of Northolt
March 2011
