The Diocese of London is delighted to announce that we have been awarded funding from the Church of England’s Racial Justice Unit to expand and deepen our racial justice work over the next three years. We receive this not only as an important milestone, but as a sign of hope and a renewed invitation to walk more faithfully together, as we seek to become a Church where every person is welcomed, valued, and able to flourish.
Across our Diocese we serve more than 4.2 million people, and around 41 percent of our population is from global majority heritage. This rich diversity is a gift from God. It calls us to listen more deeply, learn more honestly, and respond more intentionally, so that our worshipping communities, leadership, and common life reflect more fully the breadth of God’s kingdom.
Strengthening our shared capacity for learning, inclusion, accountability, and advocacy
At the heart of this work is a commitment to change that is rooted in prayer, shaped by relationship, and expressed through everyday practice. We will collaborate with our Area Deans of Racial Justice, helping to resource parishes, schools, and communities as they continue this journey.
Through this funding, we will be enabled to build on what is already underway, strengthening our shared capacity for learning, inclusion, accountability, and advocacy. Honest and hope-filled spaces for education will be expanded, including anti-racism and cultural competency training, alongside the development of new curriculum resources for Church schools. Clearer and more accessible pathways into leadership and participation will emerge through listening circles and practical action to remove barriers and support people in their calling.
Governance will continue to be strengthened so that lived experience is heard and respected, and decision-making reflects integrity and shared responsibility. Compassionate and clear advocacy will be advanced through collaboration with trusted partners on issues affecting our communities, including youth safety, health inequalities, and the rights and welfare of refugees and asylum seekers.
The Rt Revd Anderson Jeremiah, Bishop of Edmonton and Lead Bishop for Racial Justice, said:
At the heart of our vision for every Londoner to encounter God’s love is the essential work of racial justice. Pursuing justice is more than a priority; it is the practical expression of our Christian discipleship. This funding is a wonderful investment in our shared calling to be people of mercy and equity. Our hope is that it will act as a vital catalyst, empowering our parishes and chaplaincies to become places where every individual can truly flourish.
This work aligns closely with the priorities and recommendations of From Lament to Action and supports the Bishop of London’s 2030 vision for a Diocese marked by justice, inclusion and a transformed culture. We know this journey requires patience and perseverance, and it will ask something of all of us. We invite prayers for wisdom, courage and unity as we take these next steps, and we look forward to sharing further updates as the programme develops.
Learn more
To explore the Diocese of London’s racial justice strategy, current projects, and resources, please visit the Racial Justice section of our website.