The DAC is a body of experts who advise parishes and the Chancellor of the Diocese over alterations to church buildings, furnishings, and churchyards. In addition, they publish a wide range of publications and advice sheets.

Their aim is to ensure that churches and everything which belongs to them are properly cared for, and that whatever is done to them is thoroughly considered beforehand and carried out in the best possible way, so that the inheritance is safeguarded while the Church’s role as a living centre of worship and mission continues.

The DAC receives applications from parishes for any work to be carried out in a church or churchyard. Works may range in scope from general repair and maintenance to a building extension to provide, for example, new kitchen and toilet facilities. The Committee considers all cases put before it in detail in order to advise the Diocesan Chancellor on his decision to award a faculty to proceed with work. Sometimes the Committee will visit the church in question to get a better idea of the work to be done and, if satisfied, will issue a Certificate of Recommendation for a Faculty. This is then sent to the Diocesan Registrar who forwards the papers to the Chancellor. When he has given his consent, the Registrar contacts the parish to arrange for the Faculty to be issued. On completion of this process, the work can begin.

The Diocese of Norwich has nearly 650 churches, most of them medieval, and the majority of these Grade I or Grade II* listed buildings – indeed we have more of these high-grade listed churches than any other Diocese in England. This is a wonderful heritage, but also an onerous responsibility.

Chris Brown is Chairman of the committee and Hugh Richmond is Vice-Chairman.

The DAC office at Diocesan House is staffed by Jean Gosling, the Pastoral and Advisory Secretary, and her assistant, Caroline Rawlings.  Jean and Caroline work with the Committee under its Chairman to streamline the faculty process for parishes and making it easier to understand.

Jean and Caroline are in the office to give friendly advice and help on the best way to care for your church building.  They can advise if a faculty is necessary and on how to apply for a certificate of recommendation in order to obtain that faculty. They can also put you in touch with experts on various aspects of church work and help you with any problems you may have in caring for your church.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with either Jean (01603 882350) or Caroline (01603 882351) – they are here to help.

View DAC meeting dates.

Further information and resources about church buildings