Children's work
Introducing the new Children and Youth development Worker for the Archdeaconry of Richmond
Graham Richards is the new Children and Young People’s Development worker in the Richmond Archdeaconry. Graham comes with many years of experience in such diocesan work, having previously been the Children’s & Youth Officer for Rochester Diocese and the Archbishop’s Senior Adviser in Youth Work in York Diocese. Most recently, Graham has been Diocesan Giving Adviser in Wakefield Diocese, before moving to St. Gemma’s Hospice, Leeds as a senior fundraiser.
Graham’s appointment follows a major review of children and young people’s work in parishes and deaneries. He told Together, “ I want to look at all the ways we can improve support for those volunteers who give their time, week in, week out, to work with young people in their parish.
As well as developing on the ground opportunities for training and networking, I’d also like to explore how we could begin to use social media, to resource and support parish volunteers. I also believe that young people benefit from experiencing being part of the wider Church, especially if you attend a very small, rural parish. So the possibility of holding occasional events in the Archdeaconry, where youngsters can meet, share and learn together, will be another area I’ll be looking into. I’d also like to explore with parishes how they can reach out to children and young people beyond their church’s doors during the week.”
Graham’s interests include travelling, photography, cycling and performing in musical theatre and as a solo performer. He is passionate about Twitter & social media as effective tools for voluntary organisations to use.
Contact Graham on 01423 329153
or email: graham.richards@legacyman.net