Greater Manchester leaders and faith and belief communities commit to collaboration
Regional leaders and Faith and Belief community representatives have met to sign the Greater Manchester Faith, Belief and Interfaith Covenant (PDF, 68.1KB) which commits to collaboration across the city-region on a range of important issues.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, was joined by Councillor Arooj Shah, GMCA Portfolio Lead for Equalities and Communities, and co-chairs of the Greater Manchester Faith and Advisory Panel to sign the Covenant which is built on the principles of engagement, collaboration and delivery.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:
"Today’s Faith, Belief and Interfaith Covenant signing recognises the invaluable contribution that our diverse Faith and Belief communities make across our city-region. Greater Manchester prides itself on the cohesion between our different communities - we’re our strongest when we work together.
“The commitment we signed today is not just words on a page but outlines how we plan to go forward. Greater Manchester is a place where everyone belongs; there is no room for discrimination anywhere. The joint signing sends the clearest of messages throughout our ten boroughs that this is what our city-region is about."
The Covenant, developed by the Greater Manchester Faith and Advisory Panel, was adopted by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority in March 2024 and ensures that the voices of the 1.8 million people in Greater Manchester who follow a religion are recognised and strengthened when informing policy decisions and community cohesion.
Against the backdrop of difficult events during the summer, the Covenant also raises awareness of the role and contribution of Faith and Belief communities across Greater Manchester.
Cllr Arooj Shah, GMCA Lead for Equalities and Communities and Leader of Oldham Council, said:
"Faith and Belief organisations in Greater Manchester stand as pillars of support for all our communities, especially during times of need. Their unwavering service during the pandemic and in the face of current social challenges is a testament to their indispensable role in our society.
“In the context of the civil unrest seen over the summer, the Covenant gains even more significance. It stands as a symbol of our dedication to peace and understanding. It empowers us to build upon the collaboration already facilitated by the panel, improving faith literacy and overcoming misconceptions."
Since its adoption, the Covenant has helped to drive forward various initiatives across Greater Manchester, including the establishment of the new Trafford Faith Action Network and Wigan Interfaith Forum. It has also instigated new relationships between Faith and Belief organisations and services that support migration and homelessness. These initiatives ensure that Faith and Belief communities in every borough of Greater Manchester can work together with public services, improving social and community cohesion, and helping to support all communities in times of need.
Manjari Patel and Revd. Ian Rutherford, GM Faith and Belief Advisory Panel Co-chairs, said:
“The Faith, Belief, and Interfaith Covenant is a testament to our collective commitment to fostering positive relationships across Greater Manchester. By working together, we ensure that every Faith and Belief community is heard, respected, and supported.
“This Covenant is not just a document; it is a living commitment to trust, transparency, shared values, and innovative thinking. It underpins the panels work to support communities in Greater Manchester, help make a difference and act on poverty, homelessness, digital inclusion, climate change and social justice.”
Article Published: 20/11/2024 12:08 PM