This event is being organised by the Churches’ Regional Commission in the North East (CRC) and Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI). The workshop will interest all denominations. It follows an important gathering in November 2010 when church and faith groups discussed the idea of ‘the Big Society’.  Most participants were somewhat sceptical of the ‘Big Society’ idea at that time, and ‘street level discussion’ about it seems to have faded and the idea is in demise.

Nevertheless, the big social question today remains how to restore community, virtue and civility. in the earlier conversations and discussions many faith groups had much to allude to and hope for about the Good Society and provided many examples of how churches and faith groups are responding to social concerns and needs in the region; for example, organising local social service provision, running day centres, working with young people, and addressing the concerns of asylum seekers and migrant communities settling in the North East. The contribution of churches to social capital and social networks is immense and varied.

Celebrating initiatives through stories and life experiences. This event is about sharing experiences and reflecting on what has gone well - and sharing this with other groups.  Against the backcloth of the stories some key questions will be explored, such as….

Ø  what do we mean by a ‘good society’ ....are we heading in the right direction?

Ø  how best do we develop a ‘compassionate community’  …..  a key role for the faith groups?

Ø  Can a church group be a ‘critical friend’ working with public bodies? What local examples?

Ø  Can churches offer guidance to the Coalition government in response to ‘the broken society’?  Would faith groups welcome some of the new government resources to address this issue?  Can we attract this resource to the North East through the CTBI?

Who is invited to the workshop – how do you apply?

 This invitation is open to all members of churches and faith organisations across the North East who are interested in this question. We particularly welcome those involved in social action projects to come and share their experiences and concerns. There is no cost and refreshments will be available from 9.30am.  If travel costs are a barrier to attending the CTBI will meet these costs.