Cost of living: Places of worship in Bradford speak out

Members of Bradford’s Hindu and Sikh communities explained how price increases, higher demand for support and a lack of donations are piling on the pressure.

Many in Bradford – of all faiths and none – are finding refuge in places of worship. Hindu mandirs and Sikh gurdwaras are just some examples of places providing food and warm spaces to those in need.

However, some are wondering how long they can keep this up.

“Many faith centres are facing uncertainty, as donors experience their own financial pressures,” said Sujie Mogane, director at Keighley Community Access CiC and a member of Bradford’s Hindu community.

“There’s an increased demand for support, but we’re seeing significant decreases in donations.

“Places of worship are supporting people who can’t afford to heat their homes – but they’re struggling to cover it themselves.”

A decline in volunteers is also an issue, said Sathish Babu, another member of Bradford’s Hindu community.

“People are giving up volunteering for paid work, trying to make ends meet,” said Sathish, who is also the CEO of Keighley-based baby clothing store Bump & Babes.

Sathish and Sujie (Image: Sujie Mogane)

“A lot of families have had to cancel direct debits to charities, or stop making donations. These are very hard choices to make.

“If we can give generously and help places of worship get through this storm, that would be great. Without donations, a warm temple building and free hot food that many rely on may be at risk.”

Harcharan Singh, of Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara on Leeds Road, added that there has been a surge in demand for support of late.

“We provide food, on a daily basis, to anyone in need – numbers have doubled recently,” he said.

“People are feeling the pinch, but so is the gurdwara.

“I don’t think any places of worship are going to shut down or anything. Our donations have been similar to what they were before, but we’re spending more on bills, so there’s less money for other projects.”

Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara (Image: File)

Harcharan worries that things may get worse before they get better.

“Most people we talk to don’t see any improvements within the next few months,” he said.

He said more support is needed for places of worship and added: " We’re providing an essential service to ensure that people don’t struggle as much.

“Sikhism tells us to look after the vulnerable – we want to do that as much as we can.”