National Council for Lay Associations
A consultative body to the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales
Consultation • Collaboration • Lay participation
Our purpose
A shared voice for Catholic lay associations
NCLA brings representatives from a diverse network of Catholic organisations together to share ideas, insights and experience on issues of national concern. Through twice-yearly conferences and regional meetings, it develops recommendations for the Bishops’ Conference and encourages co-operation among member associations.
Consultation
We gather the experience of member organisations and contribute considered recommendations to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference.
Collaboration
We help member associations share ideas and co-operate so their individual and collective apostolates are strengthened.
Lay participation
Twice-yearly conferences and regional meetings connect Catholic lay voices from across England and Wales.
Catholic news
From the National Catholic Register
3 Oct 2026Pope Leo XIV Appoints Cardinal Mauro Gambetti to Lead the Archdiocese of Chieti-Vasto
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3 Oct 2026From Civil Union to Sacred Bond: California Diocese Celebrates Marriage Convalidations
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3 Oct 2026Disabled Child’s Papal Blessing in Lourdes Gives Family ‘Strength and Hope’
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3 Oct 2026Vatican Observatory Scholar Says Earth May Be Rarer Than Once Believed
Read articleOur network
A diverse network, one shared purpose
NCLA brings together a diverse network of Catholic lay organisations. Each association contributes its own experience, apostolate and service to the Church and wider society.
The Union of Catholic Mothers
St Vincent de Paul Society
National Justice and Peace Network
Catholic Women's League
Christian Life Community
