The die seems cast for the next General Election, says Simon Barrow. But much can still shift if non-Conservative parties, voters and reformers swing into action.

Look out for a major convention on ‘Real Change’ in the near future, with input from civic groups (including churches) and a manifesto for wide-ranging reform, says Simon Barrow.

An event to explore the role of civil society groups in creating spaces for dissenting voices, both in the UK and globally, will take place in a major London church tomorrow.

Cynicism about politicians and political institutions runs very deep, says Terry Waite. But the current crisis is also an opportunity for change, for reinvesting politics with hope and the participation of people from outside 'the party system'.

Churches could have a vital role to play in rejuvenating democracy, says Jonathan Bartley. But it needs to be through a faith-engagement with politics based on openness and change.

Christians attending a Pentecostal festival have been urged towards a thoughtful and prayerful engagement with politics in the European and local elections, following the MPs' expense scandal and calls to isolate the racist BNP.

Dr Rowan Williams is being accused of complacency and instititutional isolation for his suggestion that MPs are being humiliated in the current expenses scandal, and that this could irreparably damage public engagement with politics. A new poll suggests he is mistaken.