October 7, 2015 1.31 pm This story is over 101 months old

Report claims faith groups boosted Lincoln’s economy by over £14 million

Economic impact: Lincoln churches and faith groups have boosted the city’s economy by more than £14 million, according to a new report.
The Lincoln Poverty Conference. Photo: Stuart Wilde

Lincoln churches and faith groups have boosted the city’s economy by more than £14 million, according to a new report.

A survey conducted by The Cinnamon Faith Action Audit for Lincoln has said that the 270 paid staff and nearly 5,000 volunteers have worked on 353 projects in the city.

The total financial benefit to the economy through their work has been calculated at £14,400,046, with other 63,000 people benefiting last year.

The work of the organisations includes providing debt advice, coaching people back into work, offering emergency food parcels and providing a place to build friendships.

Councillor Ric Metcalfe, Leader of City of Lincoln Council and Local Sponsor for the Cinnamon Faith Action Audit, said: “The faith communities in Lincoln are an outstanding exemplar of values and beliefs being translated into action which addresses inequality and injustice in the city.”

City of Lincoln Council Leader, Councillor Ric Metcalfe

City of Lincoln Council Leader, Councillor Ric Metcalfe

Joy Blundell, from Alive Church, said: “We are very much inspired by the amount of work that is being delivered by the faith sector in Lincoln and are looking forward to celebrating together and exploring future partnerships which will enable greater impact and more effective service in the city.”

The findings of the report will be marked at a special invitation-only event at Chapter House at Lincoln Cathedral on October 8.