Faith leaders, residents and statutory partners gathered in Watford for a landmark Faith and Health Networking Board meeting convened by One Vision and generously hosted by Watford Synagogue.
What took place was both strategic and spiritual.
It was a serious conversation about prevention, early intervention and reducing health inequalities. Yet it was also a testimony to what happens when faith communities live out their calling to serve, welcome and walk alongside those in need.
From the outset there was a strong sense of shared purpose. Contributors spoke honestly about the pressures facing families, the quiet burden carried by unpaid carers, the impact of loneliness, and the barriers many residents experience when trying to access support. Again and again, the same truth emerged: long before people reach formal services, they often come first to a place of faith.
Rabbi Mordechai Chalk, Rabbi for Watford Synagogue, warmly welcomed those present and reaffirmed the congregation’s commitment to partnership working for the wellbeing of the wider community. His words resonated deeply with those in the room. Faith buildings are not simply venues. They are places of trust, refuge and belonging.
For One Vision’s founder, Enoch Kanagaraj BEM DL, the gathering reflected years of relationship building across Hertfordshire.
“Faith settings are where trust already lives. People come in moments of worry, illness, celebration and loss. If we are serious about prevention and inclusion, partnership with faith communities is not optional, it is essential. The Networking Board gives us a shared space to listen, learn and design solutions together.”
The language of the evening moved naturally between system leadership and Christian service. Participants discussed neighbourhood models and public health priorities, but also compassion, dignity and the responsibility to care for the whole person.
Matt Turmaine, MP for Watford, praised the collaboration.
“Watford has a proud tradition of communities working side by side. Seeing faith leaders, volunteers and system partners around the same table shows how we can make services more responsive and fairer. This is how we tackle inequalities in a practical way.”
There was strong recognition that churches and faith organisations hold deep insight into lived experience. They understand culture, language, fear, stigma and hope. When that understanding informs service design, support becomes more humane, more trusted and more effective.
Sharon Platt-McDonald, Director at the British Union Conference, said:
“Across our churches we witness daily acts of care for physical, emotional and spiritual needs. What is powerful about this model is that it connects grassroots ministry with public services in a way that is structured, accountable and sustainable. This is faith expressed through partnership.”
Sarah Perman, Director of Public Health for Hertfordshire County Council, added:
“Improving outcomes requires us to meet people where they are and to listen to communities with humility. Faith groups are trusted anchors in neighbourhood life. Working alongside them strengthens prevention, improves access and builds services that reflect real lives.”
By the end of the session, many described the meeting as hopeful and energising. New bridges had been built. Existing ones had been strengthened. Above all, there was a shared commitment to continue walking together.
For readers across our churches, this story is an encouragement. Mission today is not confined within our walls. It is present in partnership, advocacy and practical action that helps neighbours live healthier, safer and more connected lives.
One Vision will continue working with partners across Watford and Hertfordshire to ensure that community voice, faith-rooted compassion and trusted relationships remain central to the future of health and wellbeing.
For further information, please contact info@ovwatford.org.