On Tuesday, 10 March, charity leaders, volunteers, church members and the Mayor gathered at Swindon Academy to celebrate the launch of the Diocese of Bristol’s Social Action Audit. The report highlights the extent and depth of the projects that took place in churches across the region in 2025. The purpose of the event was both to celebrate the vital work already happening and to consider how the Audit can be used as a launchpad to foster new partnerships and projects.
The evening was opened by The Venerable Christopher Bryan, Archdeacon of Malmesbury, who began by thanking the “volunteers, leaders, and partners who made the audit possible." He then handed over to Naomi Jervis, who oversaw the audit process and explained some of its key findings.
This was followed by an inspiring panel discussion, where representatives from two churches shared stories of the impact their social action projects. Simon Halls, leader of Shine Pinehurst, a fresh expression of Church, shared about the ‘Wonky Pizza Co’ which began with the church teaching young people to make pizzas and deliver them around their estate for free. Over time, as confidence grew, the older youth began teaching younger children, and it is now a circular, peer-led project. Fr Toby Boutle of Swindon New Town Parish shared about the value of opening churches to the community, speaking about the warm welcome spaces tackling social isolation and building friendships in the Parish.
The Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Bishop of Swindon, spoke at the event, saying:
“What the Audit reveals is truly remarkable. Across the Diocese, we see so many fantastic examples of social action. Foodbanks, warm spaces, environmental work, debt advice, refugee support and so much more. The work is compassionate and deeply rooted in local need.”
The evening closed with time to connect, share ideas and explore opportunities for new partnerships.