In July 2017 Blackley Baptist Church decided to embark on a new chapter in the life of the Blackley Centre to develop it as a place for peace making and inter faith relations, under the guidance of the new joint Directors. The Centre now offers a developing range of events, mediation/facilitation and training for peace making and inter faith relations, for people and communities across the north and into the Midlands.

The Blackley Centre works in partnership with four other centres for peace making and inter faith relations through Reconcilers Together. These are St Ethelburga’s in London, St Michael’s House at Coventry Cathedral, the Rose Castle Foundation near Carlisle and the Corrymeela Community in Northern Ireland.

The Centre is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation with its own trustees and membership. Whilst it is a distinct organisation, the Blackley Centre continues to work in close partnership with Blackley Baptist Church, with both organisations sharing and developing the beautiful Blackley site and buildings to meet their future needs and vision.

See the What’s Happening, Training & Mediation pages of the site for more details about what the Blackley Centre can offer.

The Blackley Centre was originally set up by Blackley Baptist Church in 1993 and has since provided a welcoming and hospitable venue for retreats, away days, meetings, training and conferences. This continues to be an important part of the Centre’s work and offer.

The Blackley Centre offers the Thompson Jones Hall (with kitchen facilities) and the Prospect Suite (comprising of a training room, lounge, breakout rooms, dining rooms and fully equipped kitchen). See Gallery for photos.

The Thompson Jones Hall has step free access and a ground floor accessible toilet. The Prospect Suite is over two floors but has a lift making it fully accessible. It also has a ground floor accessible toilet.

If you would be interested in booking the Centre for your organisation please contact our Centre Manager (email details are found on the Contact Us page)

Revd Joanna Williams

Director for Reconciliation

jo.williams@blackleycentre.co.uk

Jo has over 26 years’ experience in devising and delivering bespoke training. An experienced mediator and restorative practitioner, she is a Training Partner for Bridge Builders Ministries and a member of the College of Mediators. Jo is also a Joint Minister of Blackley Baptist Church, alongside Andy.

Revd Andy Williams

Director for Interfaith Relations

andy.williams@blackleycentre.co.uk

Andy previously served as Chair of the Baptist Inter-faith Working Group and has experience in interfaith dialogue and supporting communities in developing understanding and peaceful relationships. He also serves alongside Jo as Joint Minister of Blackley Baptist Church.

Michyla Hickling

Head of Business Support

office@blackleycentre.co.uk

Michyla supports the administrative and operational aspects of the Centre. Prior to joining the Blackley Centre in January 2026, she lived and worked as part of the community at Scargill House and St Oswald’s (Whitby), overseeing the admin and bookings for both centres. Michyla has a range of administration and development experience, both within education and the Church, however she began her working life as a Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist.