3 minute read
Territorial structure update
Identifying key processes and structures
Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant presents the March update on the work of the Structure Co-ordination and Design Group
MARCH has been a mammoth month for our 13 Divisional Design Groups (DDGs), which are working through the design phase of the Structure Co-ordination and Design project. By the end of March, each of the DDGs will have submitted their responses for the next two key tasks.
DDG members have worked hard and their efforts – on top of jobs and their own family and ministry commitments – are very much appreciated. Please continue to surround them with your prayers and encouragement.
WHAT ARE THE DIVISIONAL DESIGN GROUPS WORKING ON?
The DDGs are identifying key processes and structures needed for local mission to flourish and considering what’s working well, as well as identifying any concerns. The Structure Co-ordination and Design Group (SCDG) is sharing DDG feedback and proposed solutions with the relevant Service Design Groups.
Not only that, but the DDGs have been carefully deliberating where the divisional boundaries of the territory should be, taking into account culture, language, geography and overall size (divisions do not need to be the same size geographically or in the number of corps or personnel). DDGs have been encouraged to use their own local knowledge to consider the size and location of the divisional boundaries and recommend what will help local mission to flourish.
Divisional boundaries should not be viewed as walls that prevent joint-working and engagement. Collaboration between divisions, corps and centres will continue to be encouraged wherever it strengthens relationships between people and grows God’s Kingdom.
WE ARE STILL LISTENING AND LEARNING
During the listening stage of the project, the SCDG was reminded about our Army’s tendencies for silo-working, which is why DDGs have been actively encouraged to collaborate with their neighbouring DDGs, particularly on the divisional boundaries where key insights can be shared. The DDGs also have an overview of their fellow design groups’ work and can access all feedback to each task to ensure their work is transparent and not executed in isolation.
That said, we haven’t got everything quite right! Since we published the listening stage results (Salvationist 26 February) we have been challenged about the lack of ethnically diverse and younger voices. Although attempts were made ahead of work commencing, this wasn’t as successful as we hoped.
This is an area for continuous development for all areas of the Army’s work and ministry and, while we cannot turn back the clock and start again, we do encourage people to keep in contact with the SCDG by emailing transformation@salvationarmy.org.uk and we will be glad to receive your feedback.
WHAT’S NEXT?
The DDGs are starting their final, fourth task. This task considers what support is needed for local mission to flourish and what oversight would look like.
Each DDG has a set of building blocks to help them strategically reimagine the division’s structures and processes, considering what needs to be done and how it could be delivered. There are some non-negotiable processes along the way, determined by governments, regulators and headquarters, but the building blocks will guide DDGs to make focused recommendations that enhance local mission rather than limit creativity.
THE DESIRED OUTCOMES OF THE STRUCTURE CO-ORDINATION AND DESIGN GROUP
Transformation
Increase the capacity of locally based Salvation Army work to contribute to the territory’s five mission priorities: share the good news; nurture disciples of Jesus; care for creation; serve others without discrimination; seek justice and reconciliation.
Integration
Build strong and effective collaboration between all aspects of Salvation Army work in a geographical area.
Streamlining
Design appropriate, effective, efficient and sustainable structures and processes that enable local mission to flourish.
As we enter this next phase of the project, spring is on our doorstep and, as The Salvation Army, we long for a time of rebirth and renewal. Please continue to pray for renewal in the life of our church and our people and for the Spirit’s continued leading.
May God richly bless you this Easter.
