The Bishop of Worcester has thrown his support behind a new course on practical activism ahead of an anticipated general election later this year.

The practical activism course is part of the Act on Poverty initiative, a partnership between international development agency Christian Aid and other organisations including the Baptist Union, Methodist Church, United Reformed Church, Church Action on Poverty, and the Trussell Trust.

Over 840 churches and individuals have already registered in the lead-up to the general election.

<hr>

Read more: 

<hr>

Bishop John Inge is among those supporting the project.

The Rt Revd Dr Inge said: "Poverty is a terrible curse which blights the lives of huge numbers of people all over the world.

"It is dehumanising and devastating to all those who experience it."

He continued: "Jesus calls us to love our neighbours as ourselves: that means tackling poverty and its root causes.

"This course offers resources us help us think about how that can best be done – not just by giving, important though that is, but also by engaging decision makers to make a difference.

"You and I can help to enable those suffering from poverty to have hope."

The course runs for six weeks, leading participants to a better understanding of poverty’s reality, both in the community and globally.

A series of actions, such as engaging with MPs, are encouraged.

Resource packs providing guidelines for Bible studies, conversation recordings with activists, group discussion prompts, videos on practical action, and a guide for church advocacy are part of the course.

Christian Aid officer for campaigns and activism, Katrine Musgrave said: "We have hope for a world where there is justice for all and we believe our relationships and communities can be restored and transformed.

"With a General Election approaching, we have an opportunity to unite our churches with a compelling message for our next Government: it is time to act on poverty."

Patrick Watt, the chief executive of Christian Aid, said: "Working in partnership is a core principle of Christian Aid and this course demonstrates the power of people coming together in faith."