Church on the Moor

Faith in Action

The Faith in Action Community Project responds to growing social, financial, emotional, and spiritual needs in Cleator Moor, Westh Cumbria. Through a coordinated programme of community activities, we provide practical support, pastoral care, and opportunities for meaningful connection. We support vulnerable individuals and families through compassionate outreach, practical assistance, and by helping them access wider support services. Our activities include community gatherings, wellbeing groups, and youth and family initiatives, all designed to reduce isolation and strengthen resilience. Rooted in local relationships, we aim to foster belonging, social and family well-being, and create lasting positive change across the community.

Who we are:

Church on the Moor is a local church based in Cleator Moor, a former mining town in West Cumbria. The area faces significant challenges, including poverty, isolation, and limited access to support services. Many individuals and families experience ongoing hardship, poor mental health, and a lack of consistent support. There are many without hope in our community. We aim to provide this practically, emotionally and spiritually, resulting in lasting positive change in Cleator Moor. As a church rooted in the community, we are committed to serving those around us and responding to these needs in a way that is personal, consistent, caring and accessible.

Our approach:

We recognise that people facing complex challenges are rarely helped by one-off or short-term interventions. Our work is built on long-term, relational engagement, and we prioritise building trust through regular presence, listening, and ongoing support. As a bible-centred church we believe that everyone is made in the image of God, is of great worth and in need of hope- especially when they are flawed. This shapes our commitment to building long-term, supportive relationships with people across the community.

We have a geographical focus, with leadership and volunteers living in the town. We are well placed to understand the realities of the community and to engage those who may be hesitant to access formal services. People in these communities feel regularly let down by outside agencies. Through trusted relationships, we are able to support individuals in stabilising their circumstances, improving wellbeing, and connecting with appropriate external support when needed.

Collaboration is central to this project. We will actively partner with local schools, charities, community groups and food initiatives to share resources, avoid duplication, and ensure a joined-up response to local need. Our approach has been informed by other churches and community groups that have rooted themselves in local communities and seen good outcomes.

Our impact:

This work has already been taking place on a small scale, with clear evidence of positive impact through strengthened relationships, reduced isolation, and individuals accessing further support. With additional funding, the project will expand its reach and consistency, enabling more people to be supported in meaningful ways. It will allow us to bring a special focus to women on Cleator Moor, who often maintain families by great hardship.

We will also run social events and provide hospitality at central locations and people’s homes. These safe spaces will create and strengthen community relationships and reduce isolation for individuals and families.

Additionally, we will utilise a hardship fund, allowing us to bring targeted help to individuals and families in distress. For example, an emergency food shop for a family in need, or support an asylum seeker with a bus pass so he can access affordable shops and council-provided asylum seeker support.

We will regularly review the impact of this work on the wellbeing and stability of the people who engage with us.

For more information please see the Church on the Moor website by clicking here.