Statement by the Bishop of Bristol on the closure of Swindon's Honda plant

First published 19th February 2019

Following the announcement that Honda will be closing its Swindon plant in 2021, Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, Bishop of Bristol, has offered the support of the church community to those facing redundancy.

Bishop Viv, whose bishopric covers Swindon, said: The decision by Honda to close its Swindon operations is a devastating blow for the town. We think of not just the thousands of people in the area who face the prospect of redundancy, but also the thousands of others who will be affected by the plants closure.

At this time, the church communities are sitting alongside those people that they know and love, offering them a place to reflect and to come to terms with the news. Our church leaders also want to offer practical support as well and will be looking for ways that they can be a resource for the on-going discussions that will need to happen now.

Swindon is a vibrant place with communities which are increasingly working together for the good of everyone. I have no doubt that the people of Swindon will demonstrate their strength and resilience at this time, as they stand alongside all those who are anxious for the future.

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