Latest News for Bodhicharya UK

Bodhicharya UK Group Climbs Scafell Pike for Nepal Flood Relief

 

On Saturday 29 August, a group from Bodhicharya UK and friends completed a trek to the summit of Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, to raise funds for communities affected by devastating flooding in Nepal and the border regions.

The group took on the challenge with the aim of raising £2,000 for Karuna-Shechen, an organisation that has worked with communities in Nepal for many years.

The fundraiser was organised in response to severe flooding following a glacier collapse in the Himalayan region along the Nepal–China border. The resulting debris flow and surge of water caused widespread destruction, affecting communities in areas including Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading. Roads, bridges and other essential infrastructure were damaged or destroyed, leaving some communities isolated and making the delivery of supplies and access to essential services increasingly difficult.

Karuna-Shechen has been working in Dhading District for many years, including with communities in Ruby Valley and Khaniyabas. While these higher-altitude communities and Karuna-Shechen’s local teams were reported to be safe, damage to roads and communications has created significant challenges for the region.

The Scafell Pike walk brought members of the Bodhicharya community and friends together to do something practical in response, while raising awareness of the situation and supporting Karuna-Shechen’s relief efforts.

A huge thank you and congratulations to everyone who took part, and to everybody who has supported the fundraiser so far.

There is still time to donate. All money raised will support Karuna-Shechen’s work helping people affected by the floods.

[Donate via the Scafell Pike fundraiser on JustGiving]

 

BODHICHARYA UK CENTRE SUPPORT VOLUNTEERING POSITION OPEN

CENTRE SUPPORT VOLUNTEER – Key Activities

Centre hire: 

  • Responding to inquiries to hire the building, showing potential hirers around (or delegate this to other volunteers via the Volunteer Coordinator), Maintain an online and readily accessible booking calendar.
  • Send a copy of the hire agreement policies and procedures for renting and ensuring agreed payments are made (in collaboration with the Treasurer). 

Centre resources:

  • Maintain centre consumables e.g. toilet rolls, cleaning products, tea, coffee etc (or delegate to another volunteer via the Volunteer Coordinator)
  • Creating any additional volunteer roles deemed to be necessary

Liaison with key contacts:

  • Keep in regular contact with others supporting the Centre – notably the Volunteer Coordinator, the Spiritual Programme Coordinator, the Building Maintenance Manager, Medway Council when necessary and Chair and Treasurer of the Charity, to ensure use of the Centre is in keeping with the BCUK charity aims and wider legal requirements.

Manage a small budget to support the role:

  • This volunteer role will be allocated a small annual budget by the Trustees to fulfil the responsibilities above. They will also keep a record of spend against that budget and request additional resources from Trustees where required. 

OTHER KEY INFORMATION:

Expected time commitment each week: Approximately 2-3 hours per week.

Personal expenses: any expenses you might incur e.g. travel costs to pick up supplies etc, will also be covered by the charity. 

Responsible to: Board of Trustees.

Appointment: Initially a 3 month trial period for both sides will apply followed by a review discussion and then annual review. 

How to Apply

Please email uk@bodhicharya.org to express your interest, with a brief outline of relevant experience, why you would like to take on this role and how you would manage the time commitment. We look forward to hearing from you.

BODHICHARYA UK BOOKKEEPER: VOLUNTEERING POSITION OPEN

JOB DESCRIPTION

Organisation: Bodhicharya UK
Reporting to: Treasurer
Location: Remote
Hours: Voluntary, part-time (estimated 5-10 hours per month)
Salary: Voluntary role
Application: Open until filled

About Bodhicharya UK

Bodhicharya UK is a registered charity inspired by Buddhist teachings and guided by our Patron, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche. Founded in 2021, our objectives are informed by the principles of Healing, Helping, and Harmony. We advance the understanding and practice of the Buddhist faith through meetings, teachings, and retreats, and we promote wellbeing and intercultural dialogue.

In January 2025, we opened our first Dharma Centre in Rochester, Kent, marking an exciting new chapter for the charity. As we grow, we are looking for a dedicated Bookkeeper to support our Treasurer in maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring the smooth operation of our finances.

Role Overview

We are seeking a meticulous and experienced Bookkeeper to support the Treasurer with the day-to-day financial record-keeping of the charity. This role is central to ensuring the financial health and transparency of Bodhicharya UK. You will be responsible for gathering financial data from various sources, accurately inputting it into our bookkeeping software, and maintaining up-to-date records.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is well-organised, has a strong attention to detail, and is passionate about supporting a growing charity.

Key Responsibilities

Data Gathering & Recording:

  • Gather financial data from multiple sources, including bank statements, donation platforms (e.g., PayPal, Lopay), and records of fundraising events.
  • Work with other members of the team to ensure records of invoices and receipts are kept and organised.
  • Accurately record all income and expenditure transactions into the charity’s bookkeeping software.
  • Ensure all transactions are correctly categorised.
  • Process and record supplier invoices, volunteer expenses, and other payments for approval by the Treasurer.

Financial Reporting & Compliance:

  • Perform regular bank reconciliations to ensure the accuracy of financial records.
  • Produce monthly accounts in collaboration with the Treasurer to assist with budget monitoring.
  • Assist in the preparation of management accounts and financial reports for Trustee meetings.
  • Help prepare financial data for the annual independent examination of the charity’s accounts.
  • Support with the administration of Gift Aid claims, if applicable.
  • Maintain accurate and organised financial records and filing systems in line with HMRC and Charity Commission requirements.

Support to the Treasurer & Trustees:

  • Work closely and collaboratively with the Treasurer, providing financial information and insights as required.
  • Provide ad-hoc financial support to the Treasurer and other trustees.

Person Specification

Experience & Qualifications:

  • Proven experience in a bookkeeping role.
  • Experience with charity finance is desirable.
  • Experience using bookkeeping software.
  • Experience with Microsoft Excel is essential.

Skills & Attributes:

  • A high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Strong organisational and time-management skills.
  • Honesty, integrity, and the ability to handle sensitive financial information with discretion.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently and remotely.
  • A strong affinity with the values and mission of Bodhicharya UK.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this role, please email us at uk@bodhicharya.org with a short statement outlining your experience and fit for the role.

A MESSAGE FROM RINGU TULKU RINPOCHE

Dear Friends,

Since I came back to India in November I’ve had a few ups and downs with my health. Recently in March I had a bad chest infection followed by some prostrate issues. I am better now, but need further check ups and more treatment. My teachers also instructed me to get some thorough treatment.

I have therefore decided to cancel my proposed teaching tour in order to look after my health in a proper way for some time. I do not consider my teaching tours as work and I enjoy visiting my friends all over the world. Therefore I will deeply miss seeing you all physically, but I hope I will soon recover and see you soon.

I am not seriously ill and there is no need to worry about me. You will probably see me on some zoom connections anyway.

I will keep you informed about my health issues and send you my prayers and lots of love.

Ringu Tulku
8th April 2026

OPENING OF BODHICHARYA UK BUDDHIST MEDITATION CENTRE FOR HEALING, HELPING AND HARMONY

On 30th June and 1st of July 2025, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche officially opened the first Bodhicharya Buddhist Meditation Centre in the UK for Healing, Helping and Harmony in Medway, based in Rochester, Kent, and it was a most joyful and positive occasion for all involved.
On the 30th June, around 80 guests enjoyed the most delicious vegan food made by Russel and Bruce, a.k.a the Food Junkies, while experiencing Khaita Joyful Dance performed and taught by students of Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche’s Dzogchen Community, which really contributed to the atmosphere of celebration.

Rinpoche’s visit and opening ceremony in June/July 2025 with the Mayor of Medway, Cllr Nina Gurung, and Sangha.

After the festivities two Buddhist flags were raised, the non-sectarian Buddhist flag and the 16th Karmapa’s Dream flag with the help of Venerable Titthanyano from Ajahn Chah’s Thai Forest Sangha and Palden Tsultrim Yonten from Bodhicharya London.

Guests then listened to speeches from the Chairperson of Bodhicharya UK, Cesare, John from the Rochester Quaker House, who kindly and generously hosted Bodhicharya Kent there for 12 years, Beth from Medway Interfaith Action, Medway Councillor Nina Gurung and Ringu Tulku Rinpoche. Everyone in their own ways highlighted the importance of working together with a non-sectarian (Rimè), interfaith and interdenominational approach that celebrates similarities, but also differences as Rinpoche explained that they are just as important due to how different approaches appeal to and benefit different people in different ways. The first day concluded with Buddhist prayers from the Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana assembled sanghas and representatives.
On the 1st of July, sangha gathered midday for a Centre blessing ceremony conducted by Ringu Tulku Rinpoche, who kindly explained that the ceremony helps stabilise the energy and elements of the space, remove any obstacles and invited all the Enlightened beings to come and inhabit the space and sacred objects within it. It was most moving. Then there was a lunch served for all in attendance.
In the evening the event began with a fundraising effort and raffle organised by Andy Lowe where lucky participants won calligraphy drawn by Rinpoche and a signed copy of his new book, ‘Timely Questions, Timeless Wisdom’, edited by Mary Heneghan, which raised over £600 for the Centre’s Shrine Project.
Rinpoche then proceeded to teach on the meaning of outer, inner and secret Buddhist Refuge, explaining that they are not that different really, other than the degree one recognises the Awakened nature as more or less separate from how and what we truly are here and now. To top it all off, Rinpoche performed the Refuge Ceremony for two participants who went for Refuge in the Three Jewels of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha and gave Bodhisattva Vows to those in the assembly who wished to receive them.
The evening and opening of the Centre concluded with participants offering their thanks and gratitude to Rinpoche by presenting a khata, making an offering and having a book signed by Rinpoche, while the sangha sang the mantra of great compassion, Om Mani Padme Hum.
All in all a most joyful and auspicious occasion for the Dharma and the opening of Bodhicharya UK.

A note from our Chair person:

“The Centre has come to be due to the good hearts, clear minds and skilful hands of many, many people over the years, both near and far, living and now past on, who have all contributed in various ways to the project. It would not have been been possible without the inspiration of Rinpoche and his example, encouragement, guidance and teachings. As well as Rinpoche I wish to thank all of our Bodhicharya brothers and sisters for their support and goodwill, especially Dirk de Klerk of Bodhicharya London, my dear friend and guide who encouraged me to start Bodhicharya Kent back in 2013 and speak to Rinpoche about doing so.
I must also thank out Trustees, Michele Sisto, Jay Rao, Sally MacKinnon, Stuart McLeod and the late David Fry, who all too often are the unsung heroes as they quietly get on with their work and guidance diligently behind the scenes, but without which nothing would go well. We are also indebted to Medway Council, the steadfast support of the Deputy Leader Teresa Murray who from the outset of the Centre project through to its completion has been a constant force of progress. Councillor Nina Gurung who was Medway’s very first female, Nepalese and Buddhist Mayor at the outset of the Centre project and continued to support in various ways throughout, and David England who has arranged so many of the practicalities to make this all possible. David would even come to the Centre early in the morning before work to personally remove graffiti in his own time! It has been a joy and pleasure collaborating with the Council and we could not have wished for better partners or people to collaborate with. So, we look forward to a continuing fruitful relationship as we help support the Medway Community together.
I must also mention our kind and generous benefactors, of which there have been many, with donations often coming at just the right time to keep the project moving forward. I would especially like to thank the Nina and the Nepalese community who gave so generously, as well as Margaret Richardson and Dirk de Klerk and everyone else who donated. Thank you also to those who have pledged to give an amount every month to help pay for the utilities and keep the Centre operational. And of course I must thank our most wonderful volunteers who did all the manual work and who contributed their energy, skill, creativity and hours upon hours of their free time since February. They have collectively created a most beautiful and peaceful space to be in with their meticulous attention to detail and a devotion to the project that surpassed all expectations. Special thanks goes to Peter S, Brad and Joe who became the back bone of the renovations team and for everyone that helped and contributed in any way. Also to Martha who coordinated the volunteers for the opening event and all the volunteers who worked so joyfully for the opening to be a success and welcome our guests with such warmth and hospitality. And most importantly, as Rinpoche always says, his host and even more importantly his cook, Sally for looking after Rinpoche and Bernie during their visit here with us.
So, on the behalf of all sentient beings, from the bottom of our hearts, we truly and deeply thank everyone for their pure motivation, generosity, joyful and selfless efforts plus prayers and good wishes that have all helped towards creating this Centre. A Buddhist Meditation Centre dedicated to helping us heal and comeback home to ourselves and each other, what truly matters in life, a place to help those in need in whatever way we can, and foster harmony and understanding amongst peoples and diverse communities. All things that the world is in desperate need of. My hope is that as this Centre opens and its activities grow and develop, that it can be a beacon for all who are seeking refuge on stormy waves and that we can help provide a boat to help them to calmer shores, so they then too can ferry over others who are struggling at sea.
And we will not do this alone, as this Centre, as well as hosting our Bodhicharya activities will also be home to the Kent Western Chan Fellowship and The Jodo Shinshu Tradition, under the steady leadership and guidance of our Dharma brothers, Stuart McLeod and David Quirk-Thornton, respectively. Furthermore, this isn’t only a place for Buddhists or people interested in Buddhism, so come September we shall begin opening our doors to other providers who are involved with activities that revolve around our key objectives of healing, helping and harmony, for the benefit of all.”
– Cesare Saguato

Can you help?

We are reaching out to you now to ask for support with our fixed running costs such as rent, utilities and insurance [these will be around £450 per month], to see if you are able to support this project with a monthly offering that is comfortable and affordable to you. In this way the Centre, its activities and many volunteers can be unencumbered by the day to day financial burden of running costs and instead be fully focused on delivering the charity’s objectives.

You decide what monthly contribution you would like to offer, but here are some suggested amounts:

£5.00 monthly – Supporter

£10.00 monthly – Founder

£15.00 monthly – Patron

UK Bank Transfer

If you would like to contribute in this way, then please contact your bank to set up a monthly payment schedule starting 1st February 2025, remembering every amount really does help. Thank you for your generosity.

BCUK Bank details:

Cooperative Bank plc
Name of Account: Bodhicharya UK
Account no: 67222546
Sort code: 08 92 99

Please Reference: New Centre Fund

Online Donation

Alternatively to setting up a bank transfer, you can make a regular donation via PayPal using the following link. Simply click on either ‘monthly’ or ‘yearly’ and choose your donation amount.

Online Donation →

Bodhicharya UK Annual Report

 

The Bodhicharya UK annual report for the previous year has been released and is available to view in full here.

The report summarises all of the activities undertaken by Bodhicharya UK in 2023 and our upcoming plans for the next 12 months.