AS THE NHS experiences continued financial challenges, faith groups are being increasingly utilised to fill gaps in health and social care.

The Cinnamon Network, a faith-based charity that builds partnerships between local churches and civic groups, has just released a report which addresses pressing needs in our communities. 'The Church’s impact on health and care’ can be viewed online at www.cinnamonnetwork.co.uk.

Thirty two local church community projects have been created and delivered to provide a menu of best-practice Cinnamon Recognised Projects (CRPs).

Churches can select one of these off-the-shelf projects and put them into action to practically support their communities.

There are currently 3,500 churches running a CRP – mobilising more than 200,000 volunteers a year and impacting the lives of over two million people.

The Cinnamon Faith Action Audit 2017 identified the value of the time given by the UK Church to community each year is worth more than £3 billion.

Matt Bird

Founder of the Cinnamon Network

Battersea