Archbishop Nichols to address civil society leaders at Citizens UK summit

The President of the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, Archbishop Vincent Nichols, will address Britain's faith, education and third sector leaders at a civil society summit hosted by Citizens UK. The Planning Ahead for a Generation summit takes place next Wednesday 19 June at Queen Mary, University of London.

Archbishop Vincent Nichols' speech will initiate a discussion with faith and civic leaders about how their respective national networks can work together to address shared concerns, building towards a coordinated effort to influence the next General Election. They will also plan a new wave of social action for the next decade and beyond, using Community Organising - a process where communities are empowered to make positive change through working with others for the common good.

The Archbishop will meet leaders from a diverse range of faith communities, including the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, Farooq Murad, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain, and the senior rabbis of the Reform, Masorti and Liberal movements of Judaism. He will also be joined by leaders from schools, universities, NGOs and trade unions.

Archbishop of Westminster, Vincent Nichols said: "This summit is an opportunity to strengthen civil society and revitalise politics, through a renewed commitment to the common good. Our faith calls us to take action for justice and peace. By working with Citizens UK, Catholics can help build trust in society and improve the lives of families across the country."

Neil Jameson, Executive Director of Citizens UK said: "Citizens UK has a 25 year track record of building diverse local alliances through Community Organising. The Catholic Church has a strong tradition of positive action, alongside other faiths, for the common good. We are delighted that Archbishop Vincent Nichols is participating in the Citizens UK summit and look forward to working with him launch a new wave of action."