The Catholic Union has called on the Government to recognise the need to work with faith groups on its levelling up agenda.
Last month, the Government published the Levelling Up White Paper, which sets out a range of plans across education, health, transport, and investment.
The Catholic Union has raised concerns that the 300-page document contained only one mention of faith groups, describing this as a missed opportunity.
In a letter to the Levelling Up Secretary, Michael Gove, the Catholic Union said it was disappointing to see one brief mention of faith groups in the White Paper, especially when his department leads on the Government’s faith engagement work.
In the letter, the Catholic Union’s Director, Nigel Parker, also called for an update on when the Government’s Independent Faith Engagement Review will be published. The consultation closed in December 2020, and we are still waiting for the report to be published.
The Catholic Union raised this matter with Michael Gove in September last year and has expressed concern that the report may have become side-lined.
Catholic Union Director, Nigel Parker, commented: “We saw during the pandemic, just how important Catholic churches and charities were in getting support to those most in need. As we look to rebuild society after Covid, it’s clear that faith groups have an important role to play.
“There is much to be welcomed in the White Paper. Efforts to secure a more even and fair distribution of investment and opportunities can only be a good thing. But the test will be in the delivery of these broad aims and objectives.
“It’s extremely concerning that this flagship White Paper makes only a passing reference to faith groups. We have heard a lot of warm words from the Government about the work of faith groups, but we need to see that backed up with action. On the surface at least this appears to be a missed opportunity. The Catholic Union will continue to make the case for better working with faith groups, including on plans for levelling up.”
Read the full letter here: Letter to Michael Gove 02.03.22