What is the Living Reconciliation Partnership ? 

This partnership brings the experience of Place for Hope — specialists in supporting faith communities through times of change, disagreement and tension — into the life of the URC. Over five years, we will work alongside URC congregations and Synods to nurture a culture where conflict can be seen as an opportunity for transformation and growth. We want everyone to reach their potential as peacemakers who navigate conflict and change well. 

What does the partnership offer? 

Through this partnership, members of the URC will have access to: 

1. Living Reconciliation Mediation Team (LRMT)  
A trained, equipped, and accredited team of Mediation Practitioners who can offer impartial accompaniment when groups or individuals are experiencing tension, transition, or conflict. 
Visit Support We Offer to learn more about our Practitioner services. 

2. Living Reconciliation Training Team (LRTT) 
A dedicated URC training team, resourced by Place for Hope, who will deliver foundational courses across the denomination. These sessions will explore how we approach difference, build understanding, and develop practical tools for peace-making. 

Who is it for? 

This project is for anyone in the URC seeking to: 

• Strengthen relationships within their congregation or Synod 
• Navigate times of change, disagreement or challenge 
• Build skills to respond to difference in healthy, hopeful ways 

It is especially relevant for ministers, church leaders, and Synod representatives, but open to all who wish to engage. 

The funded Living Reconciliation Mediation Team (LRMT) will be rolled out throughout Synods in phased stages from July 2025. From August 2025, LRMT is available in North Western and The National Synod of Scotland. Work in these Synods is fully funded and there will be no cost to your congregation or Synod. 

Synods who are not currently part of the phased roll out can access support from Place for Hope, although fees will apply. 

During 2025, we will be working on building and training the Living Reconciliation Training Team (LMTT) to deliver Place for Hope’s training courses.  If you feel called to the ministry of reconciliation and are interested in finding out more about becoming a Place for Hope practitioner, please contact Martha Hunt (Programme Lead) 

How do I get in touch? 

For more information, contact Martha Hunt, Programme Lead (Training & Reconciliation) at: martha.hunt@placeforhope.org.uk.  

For support from the LRMT, get in touch via our online form, give us a call or email.