Parish Council

St Richard’s Parish Council

Minutes of meeting held 14th July 2026

Present:Alan, John D, John G., Jo, Fr Kenny, Sue
Apologies: Colette, Frances
 
Matters arising:-

• SJRC – All more or less now complete, A few odds and ends still need to be done but the centre is functional and can be used. It was agreed that it would be a good idea to have a small get together to celebrate the reopening. An afternoon tea was suggested for September. Further discussion and planning to be undertaken. Sue to lead on this Sue

• Website: Leann is ‘on’ it but has been held up because new photos are needed. Lucy assisting with this.   More updates in next few weeks.

• H&S, Safeguarding and Risk Assessment: For full compliance, fire escape route signs and assembly point notices are now in each church. Notice to go into the newsletter. John D       - A safeguarding training course will take place in September for the new safeguarding leads from each church.

Developing stronger links with our schools:-

• Fr Kenny has sent an invitation to the head teachers of all of our schools, to come to a meeting early in September, to discuss how the parish community and our schools can become closer.  Jo to follow-up with head teachers. Jo/ Fr Kenny
• There was a discussion about having a central diary. For liaison with schools. To be continued.

Eucharistic Ministry to the Sick   
Following a question about people in the parish who might be missed during illness, it was confirmed that a visit to anyone who is ill or unable to come to Mass or would just appreciate a home visit can be arranged on request. If there is a need, and a person cannot make the request themselves,  someone should have a word on their behalf, with a PC representative or Leann in the office.
Notice to go into the newsletter Jo
                                                                                                       
Mass Intentions and the new card reader machine
It was confirmed that parishioners who feel they’re not technically skilled or would prefer not to use a QR code, are still welcome to give a written request into the office.
 
Summer arrangements
While Fr Kenny is away for a week during the summer, if there is sacramental emergency need, parishioners should call the office telephone number,  and every effort will be made to find another priest to come along.
 
Parish Council review
A questionnaire will be devised so that the parish community will have the opportunity to give their feedback about the PC after its first year.  It was agreed that this would be held back until September as many people in the congregation were likely to be away during July and/or August.  All
 
Kneelers at Communion: After a request via a PC contact form, kneeler pads will be made available at communion, for those who wish to kneel as they receive the Sacrament. All
 


Next meeting: Tuesday 1st September.   Venue SJR