We are pleased to announce the appointment of Lol Wood as the Diocese’s Growing Younger Enabler for Children and Families. This role sits within The Cumbrian Way programme and focuses on children aged 0–10, working alongside the existing youth strand (11–25s) to help churches and schools nurture faith and spiritual flourishing across Cumbria.

In this role, Lol will:
equip local churches and mission communities to implement their children-and-families plans, developing new or strengthening existing provision
work with the Diocesan Education Team and selected primary schools to design and deliver invitational ministry in school communities
lead and grow the children and families network, providing training, resources and peer support for leaders and volunteers
Support churches and schools in guiding children through key transitions (nursery to primary, Year 5–6 into secondary/NYC) so their discipleship journey continues without interruption.
contribute to the diocesan Growing Younger strategy and ensure the voices of younger people shape decision-making and practice across the diocese

Rachel Head said: “I'm thrilled to welcome Lol Wood as our Growing Younger Enabler for Children and Families. Lol is well known across the county and co-chairs the Children and Families Network. She is a respected, gifted leader in children-and-families ministry and brings rich, practical experience to supporting churches and schools. She has a proven talent for creating inclusive, welcoming, playful and creative worshipping communities where children and families can explore faith and grow together.

Her role is to resource and serve the diocese, working collaboratively with colleagues county-wide. Lol will focus on encouraging and equipping leaders, joining up work across parishes, schools and Network Youth Churches, and sharing practical resources and approaches that help others join in this important work.”

Lol Wood said: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve in this new role. My first priority will be to listen to children, families, volunteers and leaders. I’m looking forward to visiting parishes and schools, helping teams start simple, sustainable ideas, and sharing resources and stories so others can adapt what works in their context, so we can see churches across Cumbria grow younger.”

We give thanks to God for Lol’s faithful ministry in Lunesdale, and for the volunteers and partners who have served alongside her. Please pray for those communities as they plan next steps, and for Lol as she begins this new season supporting churches, schools and families to grow younger across Cumbria.