Covid-19: Faith Groups

Opened the debate

The MP highlighted the significant contributions made by faith groups during the pandemic and discussed the challenges faced by these groups in collaborating with local councils. He detailed the establishment of a faith covenant to facilitate better collaboration between faith-based organisations and local authorities, noting that partnerships have increased significantly since the start of the pandemic. The MP praised specific examples from his constituency and beyond, such as Bonny Downs Baptist Church, Highway Vineyard Church, Ibrahim Mosque, Manor Park Christian Fellowship, City Chapel, and various Sikh temples contributing to community support services during lockdowns. He concluded by recommending that the Government appoint a faith commissioner and establish a framework for effective collaboration moving forward.

Government Response

The Minister thanked Stephen Timms for securing the debate and acknowledged the vital role faith groups have played in supporting communities throughout the pandemic. He highlighted examples from his own constituency, such as the Guru Nanak gurdwara's initiative to provide food seven days a week and imams delivering sermons to address concerns about vaccines. The Minister endorsed the findings of the APPG report 'Keeping their Faith', noting that 67% of local authorities have reported an increase in partnership working with faith groups since the start of the pandemic, with 91% describing these partnerships as positive or very positive. He welcomed the recommendations for a faith covenant and encouraged all councils to consider it for fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. The Minister also emphasised the need for ongoing engagement and the creation of new frameworks for partnership working, including challenges to faith groups to continue their critical work in vaccine rollout efforts.