Bishop of Manchester and Council discuss recession plans

Representatives of Rochdale Council have met with the Bishop of Manchester to discuss the economic downturn.

The Right Reverend Nigel McCulloch discussed the impact of the recession on local communities with officials from Rochdale, Stockport, Wigan, Manchester, Salford and Bury.

There was agreement that the Church of England, and other faith communities, were well placed to work in partnership with Local Authorities. A number of practical steps were suggested including the use of local Churches and their halls as drop-in centres for essential services such as debt counselling.

The Bishop of Manchester said: “Many people turn to the Church for help in times of economic hardship and we want to respond to their needs as effectively as possible. The Church has a presence in every neighbourhood and community and we can be a channel to those people other agencies find hard to reach. This gives us the opportunity, working in partnership with local Councils and others, to serve those communities as they face difficult times.”

The meeting discussed the current recession and its possible effect on community relationships, regeneration and employment.

Those present welcomed the initiative and future meetings will explore what further practical help the Church can offer.