Faith communities in the Northwest are not a 'sector' like any other. They have their own distinct ways of organising themselves. Their administrative boundaries do not necessarily coincide with political boundaries. They certainly do not coincide with each others!

This can make them difficult to 'do business with'.

It should be born in mind, however, that it is faith communities' diversity that makes them valuable partners in engaging the hard to reach.

Information on faith communities both nationally and regionally can be found on the website of Inter Faith Network for the UK:

[ Visit www.interfaith.co.uk ]

There are a number of sub-regional and local interfaith bodies in the Northwest. These can be an initial point of contact for those who wish to consult with faith communities in their locality:

In addition, the mainstream Christian Churches jointly employ Ecumenical Development Officers in each sub-region to co- ordinate their activities.

The Churches' Officer for the Northwest (Monsignor John Devine) is employed by the mainstream Christian Churches at regional level to develop partnership working with government at every level. John also works with the NWDA in supporting the Northwest Forum of Faiths.

Monsignor John Devine, Churches Officer for the Northwest, Northwest Regional Development Agency, Renaissance House, PO Box 37, Centre Park, Warrington WA1 1XB. 01925 400366

Email: john.devine@nwda.co.uk

There follows a list of key contacts at sub regional level/county level. These are correct as of 23rd June 2008. Please contact Mavis Barnsby if any of the details are incorrect. (mavis.barnsby@nwda.co.uk 01925 400366).