| The Forum is at an early stage of development, but it is intended that ultimately it will become a body providing strategic representation to all faith communities in South Gloucestershire, including any appropriate strategic planning groups, policy making forums and regional networks/partnerships – it is now represented on the South Gloucestershire Partnership Against Hate Crime.
The Faith Forum was funded by the Faith Communities Capacity Building Fund for initial set up and administrative costs. It also received funding form South Gloucestershire Council for the same purpose.
At present faithnetsouthwest is providing administrative support and guidance, but it is hoped that a South Gloucestershire organisation can take on this role by the start of the next financial year i.e : 2008/9.
If you want to find out more about the Faith Forum, please contact:
Alistair Beattie
Development Officer - faithnetsouthwest
162 Pennywell Road
Bristol BS5 0TX
Tel: 0117 304 2298
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- Promote harmonious relations between people of different faiths in the local authority area of South Gloucestershire
- Break down barriers of prejudice
- Work together to promote religious harmony and cohesion in the area
- Involve faith and cultural groups in the civic life of South Gloucestershire, giving them a representative voice
- Improve the quality of life for local people by working together on agreed projects, demonstrating partnership between different faiths
- Encourage dialogue and provide an opportunity for faith organisations to network with each other and relevant bodies.
Forthcoming events
The Faith Forum proposes to hold a number of seminars in 2007/8 for people of faith and other concerned individuals and agencies to discuss and debate issues of common concern – identifying future joint action where possible. The events are designed to promote a greater understanding of the positive role faith groups can play in engaging with the community and promoting social harmony. The events will be designed to be a catalyst for future joint partnership working between faith groups, community and voluntary sector organisations and public bodies. The Forum is particularly keen to involve the local community and some of the larger local employers in these events. It is intended that they will help inform policies of local businesses on issues that arise amongst their workforce |
