Small Rural Communities 2024-10-17
2024-10-17
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The Church of England operates a network of buildings that serve communities in various ways, including worship and education. There is particular emphasis on their role in small rural communities.
What steps the Church of England is taking to support parish life in small rural communities?
The Church of England operates 16,000 parish churches, over half of which are in rural areas, along with Church schools. It provides the largest network of buildings in England that serve communities—buildings that are used for worship and education, as well as warm spaces and hubs for activities such as food banks, post offices, credit unions and other social and community initiatives.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The parish of Bewcastle in the north-east corner of Carlisle is home to the Bewcastle cross, a significant historical monument. It hosts a vibrant community hub every month to combat social isolation and loneliness.
Will my hon. Friend ask the Church Commissioners to consider additional funding for the parish to improve the village hall?
I will look into the specific case that my hon. Friend mentions and see what advice can be given to support her.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment on funding not provided, only promise to look into it
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Church plays a role not only in telling the gospel but also in providing practical support like childcare, nurseries, and social media events.
What will the Church Commissioners do to ensure that practical activities happen alongside the telling of the gospel?
There is so much that the Church does by way of outreach in our communities. It also ensures that there is good infrastructure to protect all our communities, including children and young people.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions not detailed, only general statement about outreach and protection
Response accuracy