The need for the Consultancy has been established through the following research findings and through dialogue with the Church, government and general public over the last year.

• Churches are committed to community work. 90% of churches across all denominations run an average of 3 community projects each (Faithworks 2001 survey).

• There is political support for churches’ community work. The Home Secretary has announced a "new era" of co-operation with faith communities as central to achieving the Government’s aim of renewing civil society (Churches’ Main Committee 19/06/01).

• The public support churches’ involvement in local community. 78% of people support a greater role for Christian churches and groups in helping local people in need (MORI 2002).

• Church workers recognise the need for professional advice. 62% of church community project workers believe that their projects have not reached their potential due to lack of expertise or professional advice (Faithworks 2002 survey).

• Church leaders value faith-based services. 86% of church leaders/community workers considered it ‘important’ or ‘very important’ that any consultancy services which they utilise should address their particular needs as a faith-based organisation (Faithworks 2002 survey).

In response Faithworks has developed the following range of tools, services and resources to support local churches in identifying and responding to the real needs of their community:

Faithworks Tools

Community Audit – assessing the local community and its real needs.

Church Audit – analysing the church’s ability to respond to community needs.

Charter - a benchmark of quality assurance in community engagement for churches.

Exploring Ethos and Values –a series of resources will be made available to enable churches to prepare for this new legislation.

Faithworks Services

Skills Bank Consultants – a nationwide network of specialist advisers.

Engaging with your Community - training options to begin thinking through the issues.

Working with Local Government – training seminars for churches and projects.

Funding Bulletin – up-to-date funding news, advice and practical help.

Faithworks Resources

Directory of Resources – an online directory of key resources from leading agencies.

Books – including practical manuals, inspirational books and catalogues of ideas.

The Consultancy has also been welcomed by The Rt. Hon John Battle MP, the Prime Minister’s Interfaith Envoy, as a practical service that will equip local churches to engage with their local communities more effectively.

"Britain's churches and communities of faith have played an indispensable role in addressing people's practical needs for centuries. I'm delighted that the Faithworks Consultancy will build on this tradition by equipping churches to engage more effectively with their local communities in the 21st century." Rt. Hon John Battle MP

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