Our departments

The Church of Scotland is supported by a number of departments and trusts that oversee its administration, legal affairs, finance, property, communications, and support for congregations.

They ensure that the Church operates effectively and responsibly in its mission and daily work. The departments include Communications, Law, Central Properties, Information Technology, Human Resources, and Stewardship and Finance. The Church also has specialist services such as the Safeguarding Service and departments linked to the Faith Action Programme, which oversees national Church life through a range of committees and groups.

Administration and support services

  • Central Properties
    Provides professional property, facilities, and health and safety services for Church buildings and offices.
  • Communications
    Manages media relations, publications, design services, and the Church's website and social media channels.
  • Human Resources
    Oversees recruitment, employment conditions, and staff learning and development.
  • Information Technology (IT)
    Provides and maintains computer systems and digital infrastructure across Church offices and departments.

Legal and financial departments

  • Law Department
    Provides legal advice to the Church's courts, councils, and committees, and manages the sale of properties that are no longer required by the Church.
  • Stewardship and Finance Department
    Promotes Christian stewardship, provides financial guidance and support to congregations, and manages donations and legacies.

Specialist services and programmes

  • Faith Action Programme Leadership Team (FAPLT)
    Coordinates committees and groups that shape national Church life in areas such as mission, discipleship, social justice, and public engagement.
  • Safeguarding Service
    Works to prevent harm and abuse and ensures that the Church responds appropriately and promptly when concerns are raised.

Trusts and funds

  • Church of Scotland Trust
    Holds properties outside Scotland and acts as trustee for various third-party trusts.
  • General Trustees
    Manages the Church's property and investments, and supports congregations with the care and maintenance of buildings.
  • Housing and Loan Fund
    Supports ministers, their widows, widowers, and separated or divorced spouses with housing needs in retirement.
  • Investors Trust
    Provides a medium through which Church groups and congregations can invest their funds collectively.
  • Pension Trustees
    Responsible for managing the investments of all Church pension schemes.