In the weeks before an election, churches and community groups often organise election meetings (known as hustings) where members of the public can listen to and ask questions of the candidates who are standing for election.<\/p>\n
They do this as a public service, to support the democratic process, to facilitate public debate and as a contribution to the common good. These meetings are run by \u2013 but not for \u2013 the churches. People from all sections of the community should be encouraged to attend and to participate.<\/p>\n
This opportunity for respectful discussion in a neutral space is often appreciated by candidates as well as voters.<\/p>\n
Hustings create a space for clear and direct communication which can help deepen understanding, which can help mitigate some of the increasing concern about the impact of misinformation spread online.<\/p>\n
This guidance is intended to encourage churches to consider hosting hustings and to help those that do to organise safe and successful events which comply with the law.<\/p>\n
The guidance is in four sections, and can be found below, or in a downloadable PDF here.<\/p>\n