UK’s Inter Faith Week and Community Engagement

There is no other country in Europe as Inter Faith Week – a yearly occurrence that has been going on since 2009. UK certainly has its own problems on the integration front but it is also a place where multi-faith and multi-race works well in many places.

By Martin Weightman, from the All Faiths Network UK

Each November, the United Kingdom observes Inter Faith Week, an annual programme designed to strengthen understanding and cooperation between people of different faiths and beliefs. It has become a prominent feature in the national calendar, reflecting the country’s religious and cultural diversity.

Inter Faith Week runs from Sunday to Sunday each year, this year from November 9th to the 16th, and engages a broad spectrum of participants, including faith communities, educational institutions, local authorities, voluntary organisations, and civic bodies. A wide range of events takes place during the week, from interfaith panels, conferences, and cultural exhibitions to shared meals, open place-of-worship initiatives, and community service projects. Collectively, these activities provide opportunities for dialogue, encourage collaboration, and foster greater mutual respect.

The week serves several key purposes: to promote good interfaith relations at all levels of society; to highlight the positive contributions of faith groups to the wider community; and to increase public awareness of the UK’s diverse religious landscape. By drawing attention to the charitable, social, and educational work undertaken by people of different faiths, Inter Faith Week underscores their role in supporting national life.

Importantly, the initiative also extends beyond religious communities. It actively encourages the participation of individuals and organisations representing non-religious beliefs, thereby affirming the value of dialogue across a broad spectrum of perspectives.

At a time when global and national challenges can give rise to division and misunderstanding, Inter Faith Week offers a constructive model of engagement. It reminds society of the importance of respect, cooperation, and shared values in building cohesive and resilient communities.

 consortium of interfaith groups develop the week throughout different sectors and help get the message out around the UK.

Inter Faith Week is just the focal point for what goes on throughout the year and plays no small part in the tolerance and respect for religions that is not found in some other European countries.

This article is adapted from its original publication in the European Times on 22 October 2025. By Martin Weightman, from the All Faiths Network UK