The government has been told it needs to better understand faith and recognise faith groups as a force for good.

That is the conclusion drawn by Colin Bloom in his independent review into how the government engages with faith.

Bloom, the government's Independent Faith Engagement Adviser, said in his landmark report that there are already some areas where the government has engaged positively with faith communities, like the Faith New Deal grant programme and addressing freedom of religion or belief violations internationally.

However, he concluded that the government needs to go further to improve its engagement with faith groups. 

The report makes 22 recommendations, including a call to the government to provide faith literacy training for all public sector staff, and increase partnership opportunities with faith groups that are already making valuable contributions to society. 

The report was based on responses from 21,000 to the public consultation. 

Bloom said: "For millions of people, faith and belief informs who they are, what they do and how they interact with their community, creating strong ties that bind our country together.

"As we as a nation continue to become more diverse, so too does the landscape of faith and belief. Our government's understanding of the role of faith in society must remain both current and alive to its evolutionary changes."

He continued, "It must also not shy away from some of the challenges that exist in small pockets within faith communities, from forced and coercive marriages to faith-based extremism, financial exploitation, and child safeguarding. These must not be consigned to the 'too difficult' box.

"Greater understanding of faith in all its diversity will ensure that we remain a country that respects, celebrates and understands people of all faiths, beliefs and none."

Faith Minister, Baroness Scott of Bybrook said: "As Faith Minister I will continue to shine a light on the important work of faith groups across the country, who play such an important role in public life.

"I welcome this review and thank Colin for his work – we will carefully consider the recommendations and I'll make it my mission to continue to work closely with those of all faiths."