Do they have the support they need? Illuminating the experiences and perspectives of Christian youth, children and family workers in the UK
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Against the backdrop of falling volunteer numbers in churches, our research examines perceptions of organisational support by UK ministry workers (paid and voluntary) in the sector of youth and children’s ministry. Analysis of data collected through an online survey from paid workers (n = 326) and volunteers (n = 312) revealed that support could be in the form of tangible aspects and approaches, but these actions are either upheld or undermined by the general ethos and feeling as to whether the ministry sector is valued and prioritised. Support is complex and varied but needs attention in order to retain existing volunteers involved in this ministry sector.
Source: Journal of Beliefs and Values
Authors: Sarah Holmes, Sam Richards
Institution: Liverpool Hope University
Language: English
Subfield: Religious studies
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7124731602