Do they have the support they need? Illuminating the experiences and perspectives of Christian youth, children and family workers in the UK

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.