The bishops of Worcester, Durham and Chelmsford are encouraging churches and individuals to engage in activism ahead of the general election expected later this year.

Led by Christian Aid and several other churches and charities, the Act of Poverty course will provide practical ways in which Christian communities can rally together to demand change.

Bishop of Worcester, Rt Rev Dr John Inge, said: "Jesus calls us to love our neighbours as ourselves: that means tackling poverty and its root causes.

"This course offers resources us help us think about how that can best be done – not just by giving, important though that is, but also by engaging decision makers to make a difference.”

Over 800 churches and individuals have already signed up to the six-week course which includes guidelines for Bible studies, conversation recordings with activists, group discussion prompts, videos on practical action, and a guide for church advocacy.

Christian Aid officer for campaigns and activism, Katrine Musgrave said: "We have hope for a world where there is justice for all and we believe our relationships and communities can be restored and transformed.

"With a General Election approaching, we have an opportunity to unite our churches with a compelling message for our next Government: it is time to act on poverty."

The Bishop of Durham, Rt Revd Paul Butler, said: “Poverty is not a new problem and its effects are widespread, impacting people’s lives and futures. We see it in our neighbourhoods and we see it in vulnerable communities around the world.”