Inter Faith Week 2022, which began on Sunday 13 and runs up until Sunday 20 November, was established in 2009 to help strengthen good inter faith relations, increase awareness of the different and distinct faith communities in the UK, and increase understanding between people of religious and non-religious beliefs.

Over the course of the week Barking Town Hall will be illuminated purple and residents are invited to drop into open days held by faith organisations in the borough as an opportunity to strengthen interfaith relations and learn more.

These include:

• St Margaret’s Parish Church, The Broadway, North St, Barking IG11 8AS.Tuesday 15 November – Thursday 17 November, 10pm – 3pm.
• Al Madina Mosque, 2 Victoria Rd, Barking, Ilford IG11 8PY. Wednesday 16 November, 10am – 4pm.
• Barking Gurdwara Singh Sabha, 100 North Street, Barking, IG11 8JD. Friday 18 November, 10am – 4pm.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “Inter Faith Week is a chance for us all to celebrate the vibrant, diverse community we are proud to have here in the borough.

“There’s something so special about coming together to share beliefs and values with each other, no matter where you are from, and it’s a great opportunity to mix and learn in our neighbourhoods, schools, workplaces and communities.”

To hear a message from the Leader, Councillor Darren Rodwell, Deputy Leader, Councillor Saima Ashraf, and faith leaders from across the borough, visit: Celebrating Inter Faith Week in Barking and Dagenham - YouTube