Employment / HR
People work in parishes in many different ways: as volunteers, contractors, employees or in a self-employed capacity. Parishes should be cautious about assuming that someone is self employed: should HMRC determine that the worker is an employee rather than a self-employed contractor, then they could pursue the employer for any shortfall in payments to them whether this be the difference between what has actually been paid by the worker and what would be due had they been an employee, or in the case of the worker defaulting on payment altogether, the entire dues.
There is no set format or single factor that HMRC use to determine if someone is genuinely self-employed. They do however use similar indicators to those used by Employment Tribunals to determine whether someone is self-employed or an employee. A number of factors are likely to be taken into account such as whether the individual concerned undertakes work on a regular basis, provides their own equipment, determine their own pattern of work etc.
A useful guide is available on the Parish Resources Website.
Information is also available on the HMRC website.
The Diocesan Registrar has commented that organists are a completely borderline matter, depending on the particular arrangements in any parish. The best advice is to get the organist onto a contract so that there is clarity as to the agreed position. If it is to be a selfemployed relationship, the Incorporated Society of Musicians has a template contract which you can download.
Recruiting and employing staff
The Diocese retains an HR advisor, Redway HR, who may be able to help with queries from parishes. Please see the document below for details of how to contact them should you have a recruitment query. If you wish to speak to Diocesan staff regarding an HR issue, please contact the Diocesan Secretary.
Human Resources support for Parishes in the Diocese of St Albans
Guidance on recruiting and employing staff, including template job descriptions, application forms, written statements of employment and job offer letters is available on the ACAS website via the following links:
ACAS Guidance – managing staff
ACAS Guidance – disciplining staff
Employment of Youth Workers
Please visit our Youth and Children section
