Faith leaders, workers and volunteers are being sought to join a new Faith Community Development Programme to develop representation, communication, safeguarding and other skills.

The programme, accredited by the National Open College Network, is set to be launched in Leicester on 1 November, with other programmes starting across the nation in the following months. NIACE has been tasked with delivering the programme following its work on pilot courses for faith leaders, which was funded by the DIUS and completed in March of this year.

Derek Owens-Rawle, NIACE Development Officer for Faith Community Development, said: "The consistent message from the participants on the initial Faith Leaders pilot courses was that they have enjoyed being involved in stimulating discussions and the process of learning from other faith leaders, workers and volunteers, was as important as gaining the qualification."

NIACE will bring the course through partnership with a variety of providers, including educational institutions, local authorities, community education providers and community training organisations.

Mr Owens-Rawle continued: "We welcome interest from everyone and are particularly keen to hear from women and young people as it is recognised that they currently play a marginal role faith community development. All participants need to be over 18 and active in a faith or community group. The course will lead to a range of qualifications and training is free.

"Although there are designated areas where the pilot programme is being launched we are happy to help faith groups and other organisations to set up courses in other areas across the country."