Report shows 'hidden contribution' of Glasgow churches

A new report by Glasgow Churches Action has shown that churches are making a "hidden contribution" to the city.

The report entitled 'Salt of the Earth' is the result of a year long study which highlights that local communities in Glasgow have benefited from 1,899 projects run by 315 churches, according to the BBC.

Lord Provost Bob Winter was quoted as saying, "The result is staggering, in terms of the amount of work that is under way and the range of people who benefit."

The report shows that over 50 per cent of churches are in the most deprived areas of Glasgow and over one fifth of church activities were aimed at people suffering from problems like homelessness, addicition, mental health problems and disability.

The author of the report, Meg Lindsay said, "What shines out through the information gathered for this report, is the humanity and commitment to their communities that the churches display.

"They are embedded in those communities in a way that few - if any - other organisations are."

Over 2.5 million people visited the different activities provided by churches which ranged from sporting activities, computer classes and mother and toddler groups, reports the BBC.

The report also noted that many churches are under significant financial pressure due to the cost of maintaining church halls as well a holding different activities for the local community.

In addition, the report showed that some church leaders felt that their churches were "not recognised or valued".

Glasgow Churches Action includes the Church of Scotland, Roman Catholic Church, United Free Church, Free Church, Scottish Episcopal Church, Baptist Church, Congregational Church, United Reformed Church, Salvation Army and Methodist Church.