The Spiritualists' National Union

The SNU's mission is to promote the religion and religious philosophy of Spiritualism based on the Seven Principles. These principles emphasise:

• The Fatherhood of God (divine energy inherent in all creation).
• The Brotherhood of Man (unity and equality among people).
• Communion with spirits and angels.
• The eternal existence of the human soul.
• Personal responsibility for one's actions.
• Compensation and retribution in the afterlife.
• Eternal progress for every soul.

These principles provide a moral framework rather than rigid dogma, guiding Spiritualists in their personal and communal lives.

• Founded on 18 October 1901 as the Spiritualists' National Union Ltd., the organisation has played a key role in advocating for the legal recognition of Spiritualism.
• It campaigned against laws like the Vagrancy Act 1824 and the Witchcraft Act 1735, which criminalised mediumship practices. These efforts led to the Fraudulent Mediums Act 1951, which legalised mediumship unless fraud was proven. This was later replaced by consumer protection regulations in 2008.
• The SNU also organised war memorial services after World War I and continues to participate in national events, such as the National Memorial Service at the Cenotaph in London.

• Support for Churches and Centres: The SNU supports approximately 340 Spiritualist churches and centres across the UK, fostering community and religious practice.
• Education and Training: It offers courses and training for spiritual healers, mediums, speakers and teachers. Notable institutions include The Arthur Findlay College in Essex, which provides advanced education in Spiritualism.
• Publications and Resources: The SNU publishes resources like the Pioneer Journal (historical insights). It also provides educational materials, such as an "Introduction to Spiritualism" course.
• Events: Key events include the annual SNU Peace Walk (promoting world peace) held at the National Arboretum, Alrewas, Staffs, and the SNU AGM (a democratic gathering for members).
• Charitable Work: The Fund of Benevolence offers financial aid to elderly or sick members in need.

• SNU has over 2,700 individual members who pay an annual fee to access resources, participate in events, and contribute to the organisation's democracy.
• It is structured as a private company limited by guarantee (without share capital), with its registered office at Stansted Hall in Essex.
• Recent presidents include prominent figures like Gordon Higginson (1970–1993) and Minister Jackie Wright (2022–present).

• The SNU has significantly influenced the recognition of Spiritualism as a religion, ensuring legal protections for mediums and practitioners.
• It emphasises scientific research into mediumship and promotes Spiritualism as a rational and progressive philosophy aligned with modern understanding.
• The SNU is a foundational organisation for Spiritualism in the UK, advocating for religious equality, education and community support.
• Its Seven Principles offer a framework for ethical and spiritual growth, emphasising personal responsibility and eternal progress.
• Through its churches, publications and events, the SNU continues to promote Spiritualism as a viable and meaningful religious path.