To receive an update on the 2020 – 2021 SACRE Budget.

SACRE received a report from the SACRE Lead Officer which provided details of the budget for 2020/21. The report was introduced by the Strategic Finance Manager (SFM) who explained the source of SACRE’s funding and the accounting practice of aggregating the annual surplus to fund the syllabus review every five years.

SACRE raised the principal points below in the debate:

·         How would SACRE apply for increased funding? The SFM explained that SACRE would need to ask the Schools Forum for an increase in funding including the reasons why the current budget was insufficient.

·         The amount of funding accrued for the syllabus review was queried. The SFM explained that the amount available would be affected by inflation and potential increases in the cost of the contract with the RE consultant.

·         The reduction in the number of SACRE meetings from three to two was raised and the costs associated with meetings was queried. It was proposed that the autumn meeting was brought forward to ensure there was not such a long gap between meetings. The SFM explained that the majority of meeting costs were associated with Committee Services.

·         Proposals for additional funding could concern: an RE conference for children; the introduction of faith boxes: and training for SACRE members. It was explained that faith boxes existed in Ludlow which could be reserved; details would be shared with SACRE following the meeting.

·         SACRE could apply to the National Association of Teachers of Religious Education for funding and a number of trust funds. Specific details of a project and costs would be required. A faith room in a school was suggested and it was proposed that the Bishop of Hereford Bluecoat School could be considered as a venue. Councillor Stone and the RE Consultant could assist with the completion of applications for funding.

RESOLVED: That the SACRE budget 2020/21 is noted.