The appointment of a Faiths Commissioner is the key recommendation of a new report published today by the Good Faith Partnership (GPF).

In its 'Stepping Up and Stepping Out' report, the GFP has looked at the pivotal role of faith communities in supporting the vulnerable during the last fifteen months.

It suggests moving forward that a Faiths Commissioner, and an Expert Panel of Faith Leaders, are appointed to enable further strategic collaboration at all levels of local, regional, and national government.

In her introduction to the report, the Bishop of London, the Rt Revd Sarah Mullally said: "If the experience of collaboration is built upon, if trust continues to be developed and strengthened, then the opportunities for future collaboration could have a profound impact. This report opens up the discussion for this next stage of our journey together and suggests ways in which we can foster positive, effective collaboration to serve our local communities."

Russell Rook from the GPF told Premier: "I think Government realises we need faith communities, we need churches to step up and do what they are doing even better and bigger than they were doing it before if we are going to accelerate our way through the recovery and help communities return to normal and hopefully, as the government is fond of saying, build back better."

"The reflections and insights of this vital report highlight the need for listening, ongoing dialogue and learning between the government and faith communities. The new deal between the two sides must be based on the firm commitment from both sides to invest in deeper cooperation," said Elizabeth Harris-Sawczenko, Interfaith Director at the Good Faith Partnership.  

Bishop Sarah, Danny Kruger, MP for Devizes, and Baron Stephen Greenhalgh, the Minister of State, Housing, Communities and Local Government, launched today's report virtually.