A voice for people living in poverty in the Lake District has been created.
The Poverty Truth Commission, run by Cumbria CVS, aims to help leaders in South Lakeland tackle poverty in the area.
David Allen, chief executive of Cumbria CVS, said: “I’m really pleased we can support this important initiative for the people of South Lakeland.
“As we have seen from the pandemic, poverty comes in many forms and can affect any one of us. It is critical we all learn directly from the voices of those most affected by poverty and then respond accordingly – in how we develop and deliver services, engage with communities and support individuals. I am keen that we seek out those voices and help find ways for them to tell their stories to greatest effect.”
The South Lakes Poverty Truth Commission Support Group have agreed to the charity running the programme, which will receive financial support for two years from South Lakeland District Council and Morecambe Bay Clinical Commissioning Group.
Suzie Pye, the authority’s portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, and poverty alleviation said: “I’m thrilled that Cumbria CVS has agreed to be the host organisation of a new South Lakeland Poverty Truth Commission.
“It will change perceptions of poverty in South Lakeland by promoting meaningful conversation and relationships between people experiencing poverty and people who control the resources and services that help alleviate poverty.
“SLDC and our wider partners are looking forward to working with Cumbria CVS in the development of the commission which will make real changes for those living in financial hardship”.
Ali Greenhalgh, Cumbria CVS’s district manager (South), who will lead the charity’s involvement, said: “It is a response to poverty led by those directly affected by poverty. It’s about moving from denial that poverty exists to an informed response to poverty in our area.
“Our work with vulnerable people and those experiencing poverty, economic, social or health inequalities means we understand that South Lakeland can be a very challenging place to live.
“With small pockets of deprived and geographically dispersed populations, rural isolation, and many other factors the challenge is a big one, but we’re looking forward to helping to make a real difference.”
Two new members of staff will be employed by the charity to support the programme.
