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Too many social problems persist despite unparalleled levels of prosperity and the best efforts of the state. One Nation Conservatism aims to renew civil society; delivering care and a new start for hardpressed families and communities.
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There is a new poverty in today's Britain
Over the last four years the Conservative Christian Fellowship has held approximately 400 face to face consultations with believers of every denomination. We have met senior churchleaders and listened to unknown 'saints' serving needy people quietly throughout Britain. We are continuing to hold these consultations and you can read more about them by accessing the Listening to Britain's Churches link on the mission page.
These Listening to Britain's Churches consultations have revealed the persistence of many social challenges despite today's prosperity and massive welfare expenditure.
Much of our country is drugged by a culture of entertainment and materialism; always looking for a bigger fix but never finding peace or meaning in these things. Too many others enjoy little comfort and lead lives marred by crime, insecurity, addiction, loneliness and poverty. And, on the horizon, threatening rich and poor alike, are the challenges of environmental degradation and terrorism.
One Nation Conservatism understands that neither the market nor the state can meet society's greatest challenges
Whilst One Nation Conservatism recognises the importance of a healthy market economy and a state provided safety net, it also recognises that the good society is founded upon the compassionate energies of millions of parents, neighbours and volunteers. The neglect of this obvious truth explains much of the discontent of both haves and have nots.
A special Conservative Party research project, Renewing One Nation, is underpinned by the following principles:
We are One Nation. Every individual and family deserve the chance to earn a living and gain an education; to live in a warm, safe home; to go about their daily lives without fear of crime; and to have the support of the wider society in times of illness or other adversity.
Prevention is better than cure: the earlier that children receive love and guidance from families, schools and community institutions the more a sense of citizenship and belonging will develop.
Personal, holistic care: people need spiritual and relational care as well as material sustenance.
'Small and local are beautiful': the most exciting social innovations are being pioneered by community action groups, faith inspired social projects and other grassroots initiatives outside of politics; in exactly the way that small businesses are the most dynamic actors in the economic sphere
Society before the state: success in addressing social problems depends upon reconnecting people with each other (neighbours, families and communities) using government as a safety net and not a substitute for these networks
The CCF supports R1N in unpacking and developing these principles.
Go back one page in your browser to access an account of our faith in Jesus Christ and for an overview of our other core political beliefs: (1) the need to fuse social justice and personal responsibility and (2) the case for Christian political involvement.
Related links
Listening to Britain's Churches
Renewing One Nation
ccfwebsite.com briefing on poverty
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