More than 100 faith group and community leaders from across Essex have pledged to work together to tackle social issues.

East Anglian Daily Times: Essex Faith Covenant. Picture: PAUL STARREssex Faith Covenant. Picture: PAUL STARR (Image: PAUL STARR Photographer)

The Essex Faith Covenant – which is supported by Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Jews, Buddhists and Pagans – was recently launched at the firstsite gallery in Colchester.

The launch included a multicultural showcase of music and dance as well as a world café where attendees discussed the issues which the group hopes to address.

The covenant is the first of its kind in Britain and aims to strengthen communities by addressing issues like isolation and loneliness.

It has been signed by a number of Essex councils as well as Essex Police and the Essex Fire Authority.

Cllr David Finch, leader of Essex County Council, said: “By promoting tolerance and understanding of different faiths and working collaboratively, we can make a real difference and build much more resilient and inclusive communities.”