We are delighted to announce that Natalie Wainwright has been appointed as the new Lead Giving and Funding Adviser, taking over from 
Gary Watson who has moved on to a role as Regional Giving Adviser for the National Church.
Natalie has been the Local Giving and Funding Adviser for Taunton and Wells Archdeaconries since January 2023 and brings a wealth of experience to her new role, from that recent experience, previous jobs and her involvement in her local church and community.
Jenny Hollingsworth, Diocesan Secretary, says "We are delighted to be able to follow on the great work already done and feel exceptionally blessed that we have someone on the team able to step into the role with such an excellent range of relevant skills and experience, as well as a real passion for the job.
‘’Natalie was born in Somerset and has demonstrated her commitment to the community since her initial appointment. Her transition to the Lead Giving and Funding Adviser position signifies her dedication to supporting people and parishes across our diocese.’’
Natalie will continue to support parishes in the Taunton and Wells archdeaconries until appointments to those roles can be made. Kate Mayo works alongside Natalie, as the Local Giving Adviser for Bath archdeaconry.
Natalie says, “Whilst the Giving and Funding team are sad to say goodbye to Gary, I am personally so grateful for the wonderful foundations that have been laid in Bath and Wells, through the launch of the Parish Giving Scheme, to the successful roll-out of 100 contactless devices at the end of last year. Kate and I are eager to build on this good work and to see generosity flourish across the diocese in 2024.
“It has been a privilege and a joy getting to know the people and parishes in those areas and I look forward to developing these relationships further, as well as fostering new connections as your Lead Giving and Funding Adviser. I would urge anyone who has a passion for giving and the church to consider taking on one of the Giving and Funding roles .”
For further enquiries about the part time Local Giving and Funding Adviser roles for Wells archdeaconry or Taunton Archdeaconry, please contact Natalie Wainwright.