Where Is The Multi Faith Space ?

As an inclusive community based business you would expect to find a multi faith room or multi faith space (MFS) available to club users and staff at Hamptons. A multi faith space is a quiet location set aside in a busy public place where people of differing religions, or none at all, are able to spend time in contemplation or prayer.

The creation of such spaces is an development that has been endorsed politically. The Department for Communities and Local Government acknowledges the importance of 'Shared spaces for interaction' in a literal and material sense. Multi faith spaces are a tangible manifestation of tolerance and inclusivity, and should be a part of a modern business.

Of course there isn’t a MFS at Hamptons, although it was previously part of the plans for the centre, when the Chelmsford Muslim Society thought in June 2020 they could sneak in Friday prayers without planning permission. When the council rejected the idea, they went ahead anyway, safe in the knowledge that the very woke council would never enforce against a minority group.

Before they were served with notice to quit in February 2020, the Buddhist meditation group were quite happy for any club user or member to use their room as a quiet and safe space.

The recent ringfencing of the members bar and dance studio exclusively for use by the Muslim community (who have carpeted the prayer area, and installed ritual washing facilities) is further evidence of the long term plans for the club. The spiritual needs of the one community are clearly being catered for, but what about everyone else ?

The Covid pandemic induced a considerable degree of fear, worry and concern in the population at large and among certain groups in particular, such as older adults, care providers and people with underlying health conditions.

Now the restrictions are lifted, people will be keen to resume their normal activities, but let’s not overlook the spiritual needs of the whole community.

With the clubs comittment to “improve the health and wellbeing of the local community”, you’d think the multi faith space would a priority.

KBO