Keeping the Faith – Reflecting on Faith contributions during the COVID emergency

Published: 12 April 2021

Derby's faith leaders invite representatives of the city's diverse faith communities and local authorities to a special online event to showcase how faith has been a crucial partner in the city’s emergency response to the COVID-pandemic.

The event will share inspirational examples of how communities, motivated by their faiths and beliefs have mobilised to support vulnerable people during the crisis.  It will also reflect on the lessons learned, and the challenges and opportunities ahead for faith groups who want to continue working with local communities as part of the city’s recovery and beyond.

Organised by the Multi Faith Centre and Community Action Derby, the event is supported by Derby City Council’s Community Development Team and the University of Derby.

Interim Director of the Multi Faith Centre, Geoff Sweeney comments

Our faith communities have been integral to the city’s COVID response. They’ve provided many essential services to those who have needed them most. However, many of these contributions have often been hidden or unnoticed. By shining a light on our faith communities, we hope to highlight their agility, flexibility, and professionalism, build networks and encourage and grow the relationships between faith, civic society and the wider community.

Kim Harper, Chief Executive of Community Action Derby and Chair of the Stronger Communities Board said

The last 12 months have led to new collaborations and partnerships across the city. Relationships and mutual perceptions between faith organisations and local authorities are changing. We hope this conference will contribute to a greater appreciation and understanding of our faith communities and the implications for future policy and services.

Rachel North, Strategic Director for Communities and Place, Derby City Council, said:

COVID has had a devastating impact nationally and locally, but one positive outcome that cannot be ignored is the sense of community it has fostered – we have worked together throughout and our diversity of faiths and cultures has only strengthened this.

The event is not only about highlighting the dedication and compassion in which our communities have supported each other during the pandemic, but to reflect on lessons learned and how we can use this experience to recover as a resilient, more collaborative city.

The online event will be on Wednesday 19 May 5.30 to 8.30pm. Find out more and register on Eventbrite.

If you would like a platform at the event to share an example of what your faith community has done to help others during the pandemic, please email Geoff Sweeney, Interim Director at the Multi Faith Centre.

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