Barking and Dagenham council is encouraging residents to come together, learn about different faiths and celebrate the borough's diversity as part of Inter Faith Week 2026, taking place from Sunday 8 November to Sunday 15 November.
To mark the week, faith venues across the borough will be opening their doors to residents, offering an opportunity to explore places of worship, ask questions and learn more about the different faith communities that make up Barking and Dagenham.
This year's theme, 'Lighting the Way for a Shared Future', celebrates hope, understanding and the importance of bringing communities together, recognising the shared values that connect people of different faiths, beliefs and backgrounds.
Residents are invited to visit the following venues during their open days:
- Al Madina Mosque: Monday 9 to Thursday 12 November, 10am to 4pm
- Powerhouse International Ministries: Thursday 12 November, 10am to 4pm
- Barking Gurdwara (Singh Sabha London East): Tuesday 10 November, 11am to 3pm
The open days will provide a welcoming and friendly environment for anyone interested in finding out more about different faiths, meeting people from other communities or simply exploring a local place of worship. Everyone is welcome, regardless of their faith or beliefs.
Residents are also encouraged to keep an eye out for further announcements, as more faith venue open days and activities may be confirmed here.
Continuing the conversation around inclusion and community cohesion, Councillor Saima Ashraf will also host the Don't Let It Slide: Community Panel Event on Thursday 19 November, from 11am to 1pm, in the Council Chamber on the first floor of Barking Town Hall.
The event will bring together community leaders, councillors and residents to discuss the importance of standing against Islamophobia and promoting inclusion. There will also be opportunities for networking, refreshments and meeting others from the local community.
Residents can find out more and register for the event through Eventbrite.
Inter Faith Week is a national initiative aimed at strengthening relationships between faith communities, raising awareness of different beliefs and recognising the valuable contribution that religious and non-religious groups make to local communities.
Inspired by the symbolism of light across different faiths and traditions, this year's theme highlights the importance of standing together against prejudice, discrimination and hatred, while building trust, understanding and friendships.
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community, Business & Engagement said:
“Barking and Dagenham is home to people from many different faiths, cultures and backgrounds, and our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.
“Inter Faith Week is an important opportunity to bring communities together, celebrate our differences and build greater understanding and respect for one another.
“I would encourage residents to take advantage of the open days, visit a place of worship they may not have been to before and learn more about the different faiths in our borough.
“Our Don't Let It Slide community panel event is another opportunity to come together, have open conversations and stand united against Islamophobia and all forms of hatred and discrimination.
“By continuing to listen, learn and work together, we can help make Barking and Dagenham a place where everyone feels safe, welcome and valued.”
The council continues to work alongside faith organisations and community partners to strengthen relationships across the borough, challenge discrimination and promote understanding, respect and inclusion.
Residents of all faiths and none are encouraged to take part in Inter Faith Week 2026, visit a local place of worship and help build stronger connections across Barking and Dagenham.