Fairtrade
Chester Diocese is committed to Fairtrade which is making a real difference to the lives of more than 7 million farmers, workers and their families in 59 developing countries.
In 2003 Chester became the first Fairtrade diocese in England. PCC’s were asked to pass a resolution to use tea and coffee that carries the Fairtrade Mark and to pray, study and act to develop their witness in the area of trade justice. Over 60% of parishes across the diocese signed up. The role of CSR (Committee for Social Responsibility) is to monitor the fairtrade status of the diocese. In 2009, through the Archdeacons Articles of Enquiry, we asked parishes about their use of fairly traded goods and their developing witness in the area of trade justice. We found:
- 72% of parishes use Fairtrade tea and coffee at meetings and after services.
- 58% of parishes are moving forwards and using other Fairtrade products.
- 53% of parishes promote Fairtrade throughout the year.
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Take a Step for Fairtrade Fortnight:
Register as a Fairtrade church direct with the Fairtrade Foundation and help Chester Diocese retain its Fairtrade status
The Fairtrade Foundation now require churches to register with them direct in order for a diocese to be recognised as a Fairtrade diocese. We need over 50% of our churches to register with the Fairtrade Foundation. Most of you support Fairtrade already so all it means is agreeing three goals and filling in a very simple application form to send to Fairtrade. Once your application has been processed, they will send you a pack of materials including a Fairtrade Church certificate to display in your church. The three goals: Your Church Council must agree to the following:
- Use Fairtrade tea and coffee after services and in all meetings for which you have responsibility
- Move forward on using other Fairtrade products such as sugar, biscuits and fruit
- Promote Fairtrade during Fairtrade Fortnight and during the year through events, worship and other activities whenever possible
How to register: Complete the very simple application form Send it to the Fairtrade Foundation by Email or post to Fairtrade Church Application, The Fairtrade Foundation, 3rd Floor, IBEX House, 42-47 Minories, London EC3N 1DN.
How our parishes celebrate Fairtrade fortnight
Please let us know how you celebrate Fairtrade fortnight and if you hold any events through the year to engage with the community. Email Victoria Day
