Faith communities are contributing to at least £250 million to the Welsh economy annually, up by 49% after accounting for inflation since 2008.
A Faith in Wales report produced by the Evangelical Alliance outlines the significant and diverse beneficial contribution that churches and faith communities across Wales are making to all aspects of society.
Faith in Wales finds that 97% of faith communities are engaged in social action initiatives and identifies that places of worship are often community hubs, serving as the heartbeat of local communities and highlights why churches are such essential parts of civic life.
Jane Hutt, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip, who attended the launch of the report, said:
“Faith is important to so many people in Wales. Our faith communities help their local areas in many ways, promoting equality, social inclusion and community cohesion. As a government we value the input from our faith communities, as part of a range of perspectives which are crucial to policy development.
“I welcome this report, which highlights our shared values of diversity, inclusivity and supporting the vulnerable.”
Rev Canon Tim Rowlands, head of the Evangelical Alliance in Wales said:
“This report is extremely encouraging for faith communities, demonstrating their important and positive contribution to the lives of so many people. I hope it will prove a helpful incentive towards further collaboration between faith communities and policymakers, while also providing information to assist faith communities in their planning and service delivery.”
