Minister says church groups can bond communities, regardless of faith

Church leaders are in a unique position to connect people from different faith groups and to get communities involved in local action, Communities Minister Andrew Stunell has said.

He paid tribute to the important community work that so many faith based organisations are engaged in and encouraged church groups to use their embedded links in society to put localism into action, whether it's running local youth clubs and campaigns, or simply acting on behalf of a local area.

Stunell made the comments at a speech to senior figures from London churches in Southwark.

Representatives from across the Christian denominations gathered to explore ways in which the church can practically engage with the priorities of the Big Society.

Church leaders were encouraged to identify any barriers they encounter when providing services to the community - such as any regulations, byelaws, planning rules or legislation in the way of community action. The Minister also asked how churches can link up with other faith groups and share their skills and knowledge to increase the positive effects of their good work.

He said:
"Churches and other religious establishments do a huge amount to improve neighbourhoods and support vulnerable people. They often have a better reach into communities than other organisations, with strong networks on the ground and a significant presence at the heart of their neighbourhood.

"This means they are often best placed to bring local people together - of any religious or cultural background - and work with them to achieve common goals.

"My Department can help remove unnecessary red tape or legislation that some currently face - and which are likely to be common to all faith based community projects. This, along with measures in the Localism Bill, will mean that groups are empowered to carry out their work even more effectively.”