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British Imams GuildProfessional · Independent

Mosque–imam relations

Mosque–imam relations

Practical guidance for imams and mosque committees, working together.

Good relationships between imams and mosque committees benefit everyone — imams, trustees and congregations. Most disputes start with unclear expectations, and most can be avoided.

For mosque committees

  • Give every imam a written statement of employment particulars from day one (a legal requirement for employees and workers).
  • Agree a clear job description, working pattern and line manager.
  • Pay at least the National Minimum Wage / National Living Wage for all hours worked — including when accommodation is provided.
  • Have written grievance and disciplinary procedures that follow the ACAS Code of Practice.
  • Hold regular, respectful supervision and review conversations.

For imams

  • Ask for your contract and job description in writing, and keep copies.
  • Keep a simple record of hours worked and any concerns raised.
  • Raise problems early and calmly, in writing where possible.

Resolving disagreements

Most disagreements can be settled by honest conversation. Where that fails, a mediator acceptable to both sides can help. The Guild can signpost to mediation services and, for members, offer support through our employment-support service.

See the model contract, job description and procedure templates in our resource library.

For mosque committeesSign the Fair Employer CharterSix public commitments to treating your imams fairly.Recruiting?Advertise a vacancy freeReach imams across the UK through the Guild jobs board.

Templates and model documents

Free for mosques and imams to adapt. Take advice before relying on any template.

Model contracts & employment templates

Contract checklist for imams

Ten things every imam's contract should cover. A free, one-page checklist for imams and mosque committees.

Model contracts & employment templatesMembers only

Model contract: full-time imam

Employment contract and written statement of particulars for a full-time imam, covering hours and rota, rest days, pay, accommodation, leave and procedures.

Download

Model contracts & employment templatesMembers only

Model contract: part-time imam

For imams working fixed part-time hours, with pro-rata pay and holiday and protection from less favourable treatment.

Download

Model contracts & employment templatesMembers only

Model contract: assistant or trainee imam

For assistant and trainee imams, with supervision, training, a development plan and a clear route to review.

Download

Model contracts & employment templatesMembers only

Model contract: madrasa teacher

For teachers in supplementary schools and madrasas, with term-time working, safeguarding and holiday calculation.

Download

Model contracts & employment templates

Imam job description template

A template job description covering prayer leadership, teaching, pastoral care and outreach.

Download