Core Value 6: Sufficient communication, advice and support occur to enable a smooth transition to the place of ministry
It is good practice to ensure that mission personnel are aware of all matters relating to their relocation and to ensure that advice and support is given on practical matters.
Good practice includes:
6.1 Practical matters prior to departure
- Advising and providing help as required for travel arrangements such as obtaining visas [i] and work permits, booking flights [ii] and packing/shipping belongings [iii]
- Advising on practical arrangement in the UK such as renting out housing and tax affairs
- Agreeing how accommodation in the new country will be arranged and ensuring this is agreed with any local partner
- Agreeing how any necessary equipment or services will be located and provided 4
- Agreeing and helping with arrangements for children’s education [iv]
6.2 Commissioning service
- Holding a commissioning service in the supporting church with representative(s) from the sending organisation attending
- Holding other send off events in other supporting churches
- Ensuring the extended family is invited to appropriate send off events
- Including children in the commissioning service and other send-off events, in ways with which they feel comfortable
6.3 Arrival
- Ensuring that arrangements for meeting personnel on arrival are carefully planned and communicated
- Ensuring that initial accommodation has been located while more permanent accommodation is finalised
[i] For visa advice, see www.oscar.org.uk/service/logistics/documents
[ii] For travel advice, see www.oscar.org.uk/service/logistics/travel
[iii] For shipping advice, see www.oscar.org.uk/service/logistics/shipping
[iv] For educational options, see www.oscar.org.uk/service/children/education.htm
