YORK Minster has told how it cares for and supports its volunteers in a glossy new brochure outlining the cathedral’s volunteering strategy.

Canon Michael Smith said in the brochure, entitled ‘Volunteering Strategy 2016-20, Inspiring, Participating, Adorning:’ “The Minster cares for, and supports, the huge community of people who work here as volunteers and as paid employees.

“We are talking about an unconditional commitment of companionship, providing a solid sense of self-worth and community.”

He said there must be a ‘careful and professional’ approach by the Minster, but added: “We must never lose sight of the fact that all work, whether voluntary or paid, comes down to people communicating and connecting with each other as human beings.”

A volunteer carillon bell ringer said he received the brochure a day after slamming last week’s decision to axe 30 bell ringers and a day before he was suspended for speaking out.

“It’s unfortunate timing, to say the least,” said John Ridgeway-Wood, whose volunteer agreement has now been terminated. “The wording in the brochure is very ironic.”

The brochure features details of the Minster’s aims and of an action plan drawn up to achieve the aims.

A Minster spokeswoman said publication of the brochure was timed to coincide with the arrival of a new head of HR, who started work there only last week.

“She’s meeting lots of our volunteers as part of her induction in the next few weeks,” she said.

“Many of our volunteers actively contributed to the development of the strategy and the content.

“If you take the time to read through it you will see that it reflects their views, both positive and negative.”