The Yorkshire and Humber Faiths Forum (YHFF) was established in 2005 to:
* Advance the contribution of faith communities in the Yorkshire and Humber region;
* Encourage and educate faith communities to work together in matters of policy, strategy and action
* Challenge all forms of discrimination and injustice against persons or groups of people, particularly in the grounds of religious belief
Faith is a vital and live issue at the heart of our civic society. The Yorkshire and Humber region is rich in ethnic, cultural and faith diversity. According to the 2001 Census 77% of this regions population say they have links to a faith community. It is essential that all faith communities are involved in decision making. Policy makers are increasingly recognising the expertise and experience of faith communities, and the distinctive and vital contributions they are making to economic, social and environmental progress at regional and local levels. Faith communities are increasing in numbers and visibility. The population of this region is expected to rise by 270,000 by 2021. There will be an even greater ethnic, faith and cultural diversity. The newcomers will include those seeking sanctuary and Refugees, and particularly migrant workers.
We can specifically help, advise and delivery in the region to Reduce Inequality and Embrace Diversity and Achieve Sustainable Growth. We can provide important resource to local groups.
How does it work?
The Yorkshire and Humber Faiths Forum is open to all people, organisations, groups and faith communities. It brings people together through email, newsletters and events. It consults to hear the views of faith communities on specific policies and helps faith communities come together to discuss issues that matter particularly to them.
The YHFF is overseen by a Council whose members are drawn from the nine faiths recognised by the Interfaith Network UK, namely are Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh and Zoroastrian. A Board of Directors/Trustees are selected from the Council and they work with the CEO who holds responsibility for the day to day management of the organisation The Forum is open to people of all faiths and beliefs.
The Forum focuses on activities relating to three core aims, and has published a business plan to ensure fulfilment of its objectives.
Click here to read about the YHFF Council Members.
Faith and belief are a significant part of daily life today. More than 77% of people in Yorkshire and the Humber say that they have links in one way or another to a faith community. Faith communities are also active in local areas providing services, support and resources for all as well as worship for their own believers.
Faith communities work to improve the quality of life for people through education, social action and promoting values of harmony, peace and respect. They often work with the most marginalised, in the more deprived places where an important difference needs to be made. They often involve local people but can also often struggle for resources.
Based on the 2001 census the religious communities in Yorkshire and the Humber are chiefly made up of:
* Christian 73.07%
* Buddhist 0.14%
* Hindu 0.32%
* Jewish 0.23%
* Muslim 3.81%
* Sikh 0.38%
* Other 0.19% (including Jainism, Zoroastrianism and Baha’i)
With the role of faith in contemporary society so clear, there is a need for greater awareness and understanding, or ‘religious literacy.’
Click to view a Calendar of Holy Days and Festivals from the BBC website
