How to apply for the award

Faith Tourism

The association was formed in the belief that tourism is an integral part of the major faiths.  Pilgrimages are the most noticeable example of organised tourism. Very few people undertake a pilgrimage but for many people the visit to a cathedral, mosque, synagogue or parish church whilst on holiday or on a day out is a normal part of their leisure pursuits and should be encouraged.  For many faith communities their sacred site is the jewel in the local area with hidden treasures and interesting history.

Our organisation believes that our diverse faith communities, are part of the tourism industry and therefore we must link and liaise closely at all levels with the Tourism Industry, relating and working together in shared dialogue and action.  This sharing approach will be of mutual benefit in attracting more visitors to our region thus promoting understanding and knowledge between faiths.

We believe that our network – the North West Multi faith Tourism Association plays a valuable role in offering help and support to sacred sites and faith based groups interested in welcoming visitors.  The association is constituted as a charity.

What is the Marque of Excellence?

This is an award which is supported by Lord Lloyd Webber, VisitBritain, the North West Development Agency and the tourist boards of the northwest.  The award is given to sacred sites (gurdwaras, cathedrals, parish churches, mosques, synagogues, temples etc.) that show they are making good progress in hospitality and visitor welcome.  Sites achieving the award receive a quality plaque to be displayed in a prominent place.  The plaque is on loan (permanent we hope) and could be withdrawn if the standard isn’t maintained or the annual membership isn’t renewed.

The benefits of membership / registration

Besides the prestige of having gained the ‘marque of excellence’ award you will have many benefits from accredited membership of our association:

·          More visitors to your building

·          An entry on our website

·          Publicity

·          Opportunities for networking and meeting like minded people

·          Ideas for developing the vision of your community

·          Opportunities to take part in cross culture / multi faith events

·          Invitations to special events and days out

·          Invitations to Open Days/workshops on how to best to welcome your visitors

·          Opportunities to publicise your activities via our website /news sheet.

·          Access to our website closed section for – minutes, reports etc.

·          Contact with like-minded people

·          Representation on the steering group

·          Opportunity to attend quarterly meetings.

·          When accreditation status is achieved, opportunity to be promoted by VisitBritain 
     with links to Local Tourist Boards.

·          Visit Britain ‘Code of Practice’ status at the reduced rate of £10 per year.

How to register for membership

The ‘marque’ award is heavily subsidised and therefore, according to the rules of the association, the award can only be given to sacred sites registered and holding up-to-date membership.  The charge for this is currently £30.00 per year.  Unregistered sites can send for/download a membership application form.

More about the ‘marque’

Current members wishing to apply for the .marque’ can send for /download the self assessment application form.

If you are unable to fulfil the minimum requirements we will be unlikely to be able to give you the award but we would hope that you would use these criteria to help you make the changes needed to bring your establishment up to the standard required.

We have thought carefully about the needs of the visitor / tourist when visiting sacred sites and feel that to ensure that visitors have an enjoyable and educational visit applicants would need to be able to answer positively the following questions.

·          Have you a Health and Safety Certificate and Public Liability Insurance?

·          Are there suitable opening times with disabled facilities?

·          Do you provide any refreshments?

·          Is there a quiet area?

·          Do you provide information about your site?

·          Do you have community links?

·          Are there toilet facilities?

If you are still interested please read on to find out how to proceed with your application

How the application will proceed

If your application meets the minimum requirements our assessors will visit your building anonymously at a time when you have indicated that the building will be open to the public.  After the visit you will be contacted to discuss your application.  Should the building fail to achieve the necessary standard you will be informed and given the details so that you and your community can work towards obtaining the award some time in the future. 

After receiving the award you will be asked to consider holding an open day for nearby communities so that they can benefit from your experience.

Your Application

Return the application form accompanied by a short letter of application and any leaflets you wish to submit.

Further Information

If you would like to discuss your application in advance of our visit please feel free to telephone one of the Steering Group members below.