The Conference of Religious in England and Wales exists for the benefit of all religious in these countries. Its formal membership however, is limited to the Major Superiors of each institute or in the case of his/her temporary absence, to an officially appointed delegate. Superiors General resident in England or Wales are also members by right. Linked to the Conference there are Associations of Religious which provide for and offer membership to religious in different stages of formation and in their apostolic work.
Since the 1992 Annual General Meeting the superiors of Anglican Communities enjoy Associate Membership of the Conference. Since the 2000 Annual General Meeting Associate membership is offered to all Contemplative Superiors in England and Wales.
The requirements of members of the Conference are met by the management of The Executive and its office, the Secretariat.