A new faith and belief network has been launched at the Trade Union's annual Congress (TUC).

The network will seek to enhance dialogue between unions, faith organisations and community groups, exploring common ground on the dignity of labour and trade union rights.

NASUWT General Secretary Dr Patrick Roach, told Premier Christian News, they want to recognise the “common cause” faith groups and unions have and work together in their “shared mission”.

“What we're saying is that we need to commit to working together, strengthening our work together in that vein, to improve the quality of life for all of our members,” Dr Roach said.

“The key area for that functioning is, of course, dialogue. It is about exchange of thoughts, ideas, and views, sharing our understanding, sharing our intelligence, about what is happening to our members. We're seeing the way in which communities, both communities of faith, but also trade unions, as communities and working people, are responding to those very real and practical challenges that our members are facing. I hope that this network will give us an opportunity to explore how we can do that work together.”

The network has been launched as delegates from 48 unions meet in Liverpool to discuss critical issues such as the cost of living emergency, workers’ rights and the state of public services.

TUC president Maria Exall said: “Unions want to work more closely with faith organisations and local groups to find long-term solutions to the social and political challenges our communities are facing.

“This new coalition will bring together community activists and trade unions to support real-terms pay rises, an end to food poverty, a reduction in energy bills, decent homes for all and an increase in taxation on those at the top end of society.”