Since 1996, when churches were allowed to apply for public money for social work as part of welfare reform, only 3% of congregations have actually done so.

ECONOMIST: The working poor need help, and in all kinds of ways

The UK, they argue, is being held back by an excessive public sector, substantial public sector pension liabilities and a welfare system which does not provide sufficient incentives to work.

BBC: British workers 'among worst idlers', suggest Tory MPs