Minutes:
Following a request at a previous meeting the Chair advised that he wished to review the current vacancies on SACRE. He asked for an overview of the vacancies and the groups in which they fell to be outlined in order to determine how best to seek to fill those vacancies. He added that some reflection may be required with further discussion at a future meeting.
Discussion ensued regarding suitable persons who may be interested in taking up vacancies. P Welch asked that the Clerk contact the United Reformed Church with a view to seeking a nomination. He also asked that any other suggested nominations for any of the other category groups be forwarded to him.
With regards to the wider issue of the composition of SACRE, further discussion took place regarding how other SACRE’s operated and noted that some statistical information on County Durham’s current demographics may be helpful in determining a way forward. A further suggestion of looking at the British Attitudes Survey, which published regional information may also be informative to discussions.
The further matter of the timing of meetings was raised. K Clayton added that whilst it was acknowledged that SACRE felt that evening meetings would better allow for attendance of teachers, it would not be possible to introduce any changes to time or dates of meetings for the forthcoming municipal year as these had already been published online. However, should this be something that SACRE wished to pursue in advance of the next cycle of meetings that could be explored at that time.
As a point of clarification K Clayton advised that any changes to the make up of the current membership would be required to be made via a change to the Constitution and furthermore agreed by Cabinet.
Resolved: That the item be placed on the agenda for the next meeting and further information be sought and provided to that meeting regarding prominent religious groups in County Durham.