A fast-paced, hour-long workshop to learn how both clergy and lay leaders can benefit from and participate in social justice work in the Diocese.

For over 8 years, the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham have been in partnership with Nottingham Citizens, the local chapter of Citizens UK. Citizens UK is the national home of community organising and exists to connect churches with other civic institutions of faith and no faith, uniting together to form a powerful alliance that listens to its communities and takes action on shared concerns. This work has brought about improvements to mental health services, won pay rises for thousands of local people, improved the lives of the refugee community and much more. Through this partnership, the Church is able to follow its biblical mandate to be a prophetic voice and actor for change.

Training is at the heart of the community organising methodology. With its relentless focus on relationships and the importance placed on listening which builds strong connections in our churches and neighbourhoods, parishes have also been learning to use the tools and habits of community organising to strengthen their church community and reach out into their local area. As we continue to live through the Covid 19 pandemic, working together is crucial. As we hopefully move to a new “normal” later this year, we need to prioritise the needs of those most impacted by health and economic challenges and inequalities. Community organising equips us to do just that.

We are delighted to have entered into a new 3 year partnership arrangement with Citizens UK and on the 11th March February at 7.30pm we’ll be joined by Pete Rogers, Community Organiser for Nottingham Citizens, who will share more about the work we do together in the Diocese and share ways in which we can join in with this vital ministry in the coming months and years.

David McCoulough, Director of Partnerships and Mission

Pete Rogers, Community Organiser, Citizens UK & Nottingham Citizens

More info on Nottingham Citizens: https://linktr.ee/nottinghamcitizens