A leading Christian social action charity, Faithworks, has announced that it is restructuring to focus on new ways of achieving its strategic priorities in the current difficult funding climate - including a new Charities Paliament.

Religious groups will have their capacity to participate alongside others in regional policy-making in England enhanced thanks to the new Regional Networks Support project, says Faithworks, which has established the initiative.

PM Gordon Brown has launched a new consultation involving the Labour Party, churches and faith communities. It will focus on identifying the values held in common by different faiths and beliefs - ones that also echo with the non-religious.

The Christian agency Faithworks, which contracts with government and has 20,000 community and church partners, has made a critical response to a report challenging the contribution faith groups make to public service provision.

Church and faith groups have a key role to play in bringing transformation to communities across the UK, according to the government minister responsible. But critics say many questions remain about the agendas of both parties.

Difference between faiths and life-stances do not have to lead to division, but can be part of a rich blend of perspectives working for the common good, says a leading Christian service agency responding to a bridge building letter from Muslim scholars.