CAFOD is the official Catholic aid agency for England and Wales

Fairtrade in your community

Take action now - make your parish, school, diocese or town a Fairtrade one - many others have already done so successfully!

In May 2000, Garstang in Lancashire declared itself "the world’s first Fairtrade Town". The campaign caught the imagination of local people, the interest of politicians, made headlines across the north-west and raised awareness of the Fairtrade Mark in the area.

Fairtrade dioceses lead the way

Hexham and Newcastle was among the first Catholic dioceses to launch its official Fairtrade status following a seven-month drive in which half of its 176 parishes committed to using and selling Fairtrade products.

Fairtrade facts Rss Feed
  • Over 4,500 different Fairtrade products are available to UK shoppers
  • There are over 6,700 Fairtrade faith groups
  • Over 1.5 million people – farmers and workers – across 60 developing countries benefit from Fairtrade

To be certified as Fairtrade, a diocese needs to encourage the use and sale of Fairtrade products; ensure that half of its churches have become ‘Fairtrade Parishes’ and encourage parishes and deaneries to adopt a Fairtrade policy.

In addition, they must set up a Fairtrade steering group to develop and publicise their commitment to Fairtrade. This could include displaying literature, attracting media coverage or organising events.

Take a Step for Fairtrade in 2012 >>


Fairtrade guides

Becoming a Fairtrade parish Information, ideas and an application form to help your parish get Fairtrade status.

Becoming a Fairtrade diocese Information, ideas and an application form to help your diocese get Fairtrade status.

spread the word

Fairtrade in your community

Take action now - make your parish, school, diocese or town into a Fairtrade one.

Resources for primary schools

Quizzes, games and activities to introduce Fairtrade to children

Resources for secondary schools

Lesson plans, games and activities to get your students engaged and excited about Fairtrade

Published on 21/02/2005, last updated on 17/01/2012
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Fairtrade Mark Fairtrade Foundation

CAFOD is proud to be a founding member of the Fairtrade Foundation, which licenses use of the FAIRTRADE Mark and provides resources to help you promote Fairtrade