In recent years, the greatest change in this distribution has been amongst chaplains and assistant priests. The number of priests involved in full-time chaplaincy has grown, especially in full-time posts in hospitals, while the number of assistant priests has declined. Priests are now serving as assistants for only five to six years before taking up appointments as Parish Priests. There is, therefore, a "pinch point" in the provision of assistant priests who are incardinated in the Diocese. At present, there is something of a reliance on priests from overseas when it comes to the appointment of assistant priests.

There is an increasing trend towards a more professional approach to Chaplaincy, especially in prisons and hospitals. Provision for Universities is a further demand on the Diocese and the way in which all these chaplaincies can be provided will require further consideration.