Following 4 months of research, community consultant Ann Hindley has produced a report on the findings of the audit of faith related community activity which the Faiths Forum commissioned in October 2007. The report includes an Executive Summary [1], Full Report [2] and a Detailed Table of Findings [3].

 Information was collected by circulating a survey form to 314 faith organisations on the Faiths Forum database. A web search was also carried out of faith groups identified as particularly active. Face to face interviews were carried out with ten organisations to gather in depth information for some case studies. The information was analysed in relation to four key themes of Sheffield First, the Local Strategic Partnership: Strong economy; Successful neighbourhoods; Inclusive, healthy communities; Great place to grow up.
An analysis was also undertaken of how the identified activities contributed to the social capital of the city.

The findings show that:

• The amount of faith related community activity taking place in Sheffield is massive. There is evidence of activity among a diverse range of groups not only for the benefit of their members but also for the wider community in their local neighbourhoods, across the city and for people coming as strangers to the city.
• The evidence collected shows the many ways in which faith groups meet the priorities of Sheffield First both in terms of the work carried out directly by groups and the ways in which their buildings are used. 
• Faith groups that are based within and serve neighbourhoods provide a wide range of facilities and activities that make a neighbourhood successful, a great place to grow up, and an inclusive and healthy place to be and promote a stronger economy for local people.

To request the report in hard copy contact the OFFER office:
E: info@offer.org.uk [4]
T: 0114 2536730