General Synod Election Candidates 2026

G E N E R A L S Y N O D E L E C T I O N S 2 0 2 6
Toni
Glazzard
Inclusive candidate for the
House of Laity, Diocese of Bristol
P R O P O S E D B Y
Caroline Jowett-Ive
Joint-Chair, Bristol
Together for the CofE
S E C O N D E D B Y
Sally Eaton
Secretary, Bristol
Together for the CofE
My story
I became a Christian at the age of 28 when my first child was born; I was
filled with gratitude and needed to channel it. I have now worshipped in
the Church of England for 35 years and that sense of gratitude for God’s
good grace has never left me.
I was an active PCC member for more than twenty years, during which
time Bishop Barry urged me to stand for General Synod.
Now retired from my job as head teacher in one of Bristol’s most
economically disadvantaged communities, I feel for the first time that I
have the time and space to try to follow the Bishop’s advice. I have been
greatly encouraged by local clergy and church members in deciding to go
for it.
Ephesians
2 : 8–9
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And
this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a
result of works, so that no one may boast.

Toni Glazzard
H O U S E O F L A I T Y · D I O C E S E O F B R I S T O L
Inclusion
I’ve always worked towards the inclusion of those who are marginalised,
through community development and voluntary roles as well as in my
personal and professional life. I believe inclusion to be one of the most
important issues facing the Church now.
I’m glad that Synod recently condemned antisemitism and Islamophobia,
as it stood in solidarity with Palestinian Christians, and that the Church
is finding ways to be more inclusive of neurodivergent Christians. I am
committed to the inclusion of women’s ministry at all levels within the
Church and to affirming people in same sex relationships.
Safeguarding
I have a long term interest in Safeguarding: I was for many years the Early
Years representative on Bristol Safeguarding Children Board, and a Parish
Safeguarding Officer. As a current trustee at a south-west charity bringing
theatre and creative performance to children and young people who
wouldn’t otherwise experience them, I have particular responsibility for
safeguarding and child protection.
Listening and
learning
In my professional life, I was a mentor and coach to colleagues at all
levels, including other head teachers. My school used conflict resolution
approaches, not only with the children, but also with parents and
colleagues. In other words, I try to listen to, and learn from, all, including
those who hold different views to mine.
I believe my knowledge, skills and experience would be
helpful on General Synod.
Thank you so much if you have read this far: I appreciate there’s a lot to get through.
Of course, I am asking for your first preference vote if what I have said resonates with
you, but do please consider making me your second preference if you are already
committed elsewhere.
I would be delighted to be contacted by anyone who is
undecided.
E M A I L
[email protected]

affirming,antisemitism,inclusive,islamophobia,pcc,safeguarding,safeguarding officer,same sex,same-sex relationships,young people