There are many different approaches that can be taken to peacemaking. Since 1964 CHIPS has developed a distinctive style of grassroots peacemaking in which a team lives at the level of the local people in an area of tension. CHIPS recognises that political solutions are important, but without the engagement of individuals and communities, real and lasting peace may be difficult to sustain.
CHIPS is distinctive in not having its head office in the capital city!
Since 1984 CHIPS has had projects in Cyprus, the Philippines, Northern Ireland and Brixton (London). For some time Christian Industrial Enterprises Limited (CIEL) performed a creative role in stimulating new initiatives based on Gospel values. Today there are CHIPS teams in Uganda and Ghana.
CHIPS inspires and motivates local people to build peace in their communities. Teams of Christians undertake practical projects which foster positive interaction, increase trust and reduce enmity between opposing groups or individuals.
As a Christian Peace organisation, CHIPS is inspired by the person and teaching of Jesus who taught and embodied a way of peace and called followers to do likewise. CHIPS peacemakers try to follow in his footsteps.
CHIPS is a member of the Coventry Cathedral Community of the Cross of Nails.
CHIPS Trustees
Responsibility and oversight for the work of CHIPS is carried by five long-serving trustees:
Chairman: Keith Lindsey, former chemical engineer, first active with CHIPS in 1966 in Cyprus, now coordinates the work of "Action for Natural Medicine" in Uganda and Ghana.
Roy Calvocoressi, former Barrister, the founder of CHIPS in 1964 and to whom CHIPS owes its unique vision and inspiration. More Details.
Elfrida Calvocoressi, former senior nursing officer in Uganda, long serving trustee with the Langley House Trust. Provides hospitality and training in the CHIPS style of peacemaking in the UK and with the CHIPS Team in Uganda.
Eric Read, engineer and farmer, former CHIPS team member in Uganda and the Philippines, after serving with CMS together with his wife and family in Lubumbashi, D R Congo, is now with CMS in the Philippines.
Valerie Marché born in the UK of Barbadian heritage, an Interior designer, co-founder and Events organiser for Caribbean Scene who works closely with Schools, Churches and other groups to enjoy a Caribbean experience through food.
Advisor to the Trustees
Patrick Marché, husband of Valerie, born in Jamaica, a Tax Accountant and founder of the Caribbean Scene Restaurant Group.