£100m-worth of help thanks to religions

Mar 12 2008 by Gareth Rogers, South Wales Echo

RELIGIOUS groups have clubbed together to contribute more than £100m to the Welsh economy.

According to a report called “Faith in Wales: Counting for Communities” – the first of its kind in Wales – all the main religions in Wales have raised the money through voluntary work and donations.

The research, carried out by Christian group Gweini, and the Wales Council for Voluntary Action, highlights the contribution of faith groups to Welsh society.

The figure is calculated by looking at accommodation provided in faith community buildings, faith tourism, voluntary work and paid work.

Social Justice Minister Dr Brian Gibbons said that the report was an important milestone in better understanding the faith communities in Wales. He said: “I would like to thank all those who were involved in this research since for the first time ever we have estimates for the contribution of faith communities to society in Wales.

“The detailed evidence will help improve and strengthen interfaith relationships.”