CURRENT ISSUES

The Executive of the CSR regularly sets up Working Groups to study and recommend action to be taken on issues. Membership of these groups is drawn from the Church, including CSR, and relevant statutory and voluntary agencies in the Diocese.

RoadPeace

An annual RoadPeace service is held each year for those bereaved or injured by road crashes. This marks the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.

The next service is on Sunday, 16 th November 2008 at 3.30pm, in Hereford cathedral.

If you have been injured or bereaved by a road traffic collision you might find it helpful to talk to someone else who has been bereaved by a road crash and is prepared to offer telephone contact and support. To find out more about this contact the SR office on 01432 373310.

Drug Misuse

Debates at Diocesan Synod reflect the concerns of the Church regarding the misuse of drugs. Close links have been developed with agencies supporting families in particular need.

A Service of reflection is held annually in December in both Hereford and Ludlow to support the families of those affected by drug and alcohol misuse.

• http://www.drugscope.org.uk
• http://www.familydrugsupport.com

Communications

Scooter is a monthly briefing produced for the clergy, CSR contacts and the wider community. It is also a useful insert for Parish Magazines. It is available on the website, but if preferred can be emailed or posted upon request. Contact the SR office on 01432 373310 if you would like to receive a copy regularly.

A newsletter, Skateboard , focussing on particular social issues is produced occasionally and has a large circulation both within the Church and in the wider world.

Other CSR publications include:

• A Social and Demographic Analysis of the Diocese
• “In a Strange Land ”, A study of M & S Workers in the Diocese
• A Diocesan Age Policy
• Mental Health Matters
• “ What on Earth Are We Doing? 2007- 2009”. The current CSR Strategy document .

Disability Issues

The Disability Discrimination Act (2005) builds on the 1995 Act and puts into law what Christians already believe, that we should all be treated with respect and equality. Consideration to those with a disability must be “active”, so CSR can help by advising churches, through the Diocesan Disability Officer Revd Pam Jordan, how to comply with the Act and ensure they are inclusive and welcoming to all.

Working with Children

Bertie Bear, the CSR Bear, is available to meet children in church and school groups. He is always keen to work in partnership with youngsters on social responsibility issues. Why not invite Bertie Bear to visit your church or school?

Other Concerns Include ....

• Homelessness
• Family and Life Issues
• Mental Health Issues
• Domestic Violence
• Migrant & Seasonal Workers (see Focus On….)

Finally .....

You're always welcome to make contact with the Council for Social Responsibility. The SRO will be pleased to respond to requests from individuals, parishes and deaneries for information and help.

Tel 01432 373311