In January 2011 the Conforti Institute in conjunction with the STUC and Faith in Communities Scotland brought together faith groups, trade unions and civil organisations to discuss the issues of social injustice within our communities at the first meeting of the Lanarkshire Economic and Social Justice Forum.
Throughout the course of the day the forum looked at the issues of poverty and social injustice facing those living in the Lanarkshire area, particularly given the current economic climate. They examined how local organisations could work together to tackle the issues most affecting people in order to achieve change where it is needed.  
The speakers included John Slaven from the STUC, Peter Kelly from the Poverty Alliance and Ian Galloway, Convener of the Church and Society Council of the Church of Scotland. Informative afternoon workshops were led by representatives from ASLEF, UNISON and the Conforti Institute.
John Convery, the Depute Director at the Conforti Institute, said “We were delighted to host the event and all present agreed it was a very successful day.  There are so many issues facing the people of Lanarkshire today that it makes sense for all sectors of the community to work together to effect change. “
Following on from the Forum around 40 community leaders from throughout Scotland came together in April to take part in Leadership and Broad Based Community Organising training led by Citizens UK. Since then the various parties have continued to meet and work together to effect the change needed to make our society a more socially just place to live for all for the community.

Citizens UK brings together more than 160 faith communities, schools, universities, trade unions and community groups who work together to bring about an end to poverty, to improve housing, to make our streets safer and to tackle the many economic issues facing our communities today.

www.citizensuk.org