Social and religious trends in the Diocese of Southwark 2008 - 2010

The the Public Policy Group (formerly the Social Responsibility and Regeneration Working Group) has been giving consideration to the key issues that underpin our work. In particular what are the trends within society that we need to consider if we are to be effective in serving parishes and the diocese.

In seeking to identify the issues we are well aware that for most people in the pews what we perceive to be important might seem to be if not irrelevant at least secondary to their every day Christian lives.

The challenge for the Group and Advisers is to recognise this fact and at the same time be prepared to offer insights that are rooted in a theology that sees mission to be the primary aim of the Church.

At its May 2008 meeting the Working Group considered the question:

What are the trends within society - what are the key social and economic trends that will underpin our work and thinking over the next 12/24 months? The issues identified were as follows:

• Isolation of urban living - new housing developments include an emphasis on gated communities. Creating no go areas for people knowing their neighbours and for Churches that are seeking to meet new people moving into the parish.
• The poverty of public space - how do we create and sustain public space that is welcoming and a meeting place for people from across the community?
• Gun and knife crime that is focused on young people with a particular emphasis on the BME community.
• What makes a healthy community?
• A focus on environmental issues and concerns.
• The preservation and wise use of the Green Belt. In parts of Tandridge and Reigate and Banstead there plans for housing developments that will be to the detriment of existing communities. How do we ensure that a debate on the best use of land does not degenerate into ‘Not in my backyard'?
• The challenge of economic and social growth not always having a positive outcome.
• Issue of ‘white flight' or should this be ‘middle class flight'? Recognising that middle class people from BME communities are seeking what are perceived to be safer communities and better places to live.
• The issue of an ageing population across all parishes must lead to questions of ministry, evangelism and social care.
• In the light of the growth of an ageing population there is also the potential for increased isolation amongst the elderly.
• On the global scene the price of oil is increasing and will have an impact across all communities.
• Countryside - will there be a return to agricultural use of land to meet expected food shortages?
• The problems associated with the credit crunch which leads to fears about the future for individuals and families. In particular issues of personal finance and the possibility of increased debt.
• The importance of inter faith relations which are based on mutual understanding but also face the possibility of conflict in the context of political decision making. In particular the conflicting approaches of professional religious leaders and those seeking to impose a civic/political model of partnership.
• The potential for change in London wide policies with the election of a new Mayor of London.

The issues outlined cross the boundaries of the Diocesan working Groups, though there are particular linkages to the Mission Working Group. In addition all of the above are connected by issues of political action by both national and local government.

It is also important to recognise that any discussion must take into consideration global trends which we may not influence but must recognise and take into account when thinking through how we respond.