Ways to take action – May policy update
Do you know someone who would enjoy this article?
“We are called to live not as one without others, above or against others, but with and for others.” Pope Francis
Our charity’s vision is for an equal and just society, where the voices of people experiencing poverty, homelessness and disadvantage are heard, valued and acted upon.
Therefore, we advocate and campaign for changes to policies, systems and attitudes affecting people in Greater Manchester and Lancashire, and work to raise awareness and understanding of the issues and the change that is needed.
Our monthly policy updates, which can all be found in the news section of our website, will keep you informed about campaigns and activities calling for change, and let you know ways in which you can get involved and make a difference.
Hopefully you’ll be inspired to actively participate and make a difference in your community. Get in touch and let us know what you’ve been up to and your thoughts now by clicking here.
We’d also be really interested in any feedback you have about these updates. What’s helpful for you to read about, and what would you like to see more of? Click here now to let us know your thoughts.
Our exclusive research shows a huge rise in child poverty locally
We’ve recently released new research showing a significant increase in child poverty within Catholic schools in Greater Manchester and Lancashire over the last three years.
More than 95 per cent of school leaders surveyed said that the number of children living in poverty has risen, with 35 per cent stating that the increase has been significant. Alongside this, schools have seen a huge rise in mental health challenges among children and young people.
It was clear from our research that schools are on the frontline in their communities every day, going above and beyond with very limited resources. One headteacher told us, “A headteacher’s role mirrors the role of a social worker more each day as the needs of our children and families increase.”
We believe this is unacceptable and change is urgently needed, so we are making a number of recommendations, including:
- Increased funding for schools
- An end to the two-child limit
- Free school meals for all primary-aged children
- A duty on local authorities to notify schools when a family is placed in temporary accommodation
You can help us end child poverty by reading our report and sharing it with others in your community. You could also consider taking part in an Every Step challenge or donating to our charity to help us to continue our work with local families in Greater Manchester and Lancashire.
The need for prevention to end homelessness
As members of Homeless Link, we are supporting their ‘Breaking the Cycle’ campaign.
The campaign outlines how, in order to end homelessness, the Government must shift its funding priorities away from expensive, short-term crisis responses towards long-term, preventative solutions.
Through our services, we see every day how crucial prevention is, and we support people at risk of homelessness as well as those who are already experiencing homelessness. At our homelessness day centres, we see every day the urgent need for action with increasing numbers of people rough sleeping accessing our services, more and more of whom have never experienced homelessness before.
These people who are newly experiencing poverty and at risk of homelessness require significant support with navigating unfamiliar services and processes, such as claiming welfare benefits and engaging with housing services. Therefore, funding for preventative support is crucial in stopping even more people having to experience homelessness.
As the Government moves towards concluding its current spending review, we will continue to engage with decision makers and call for them to break the cycle of homelessness and consider long-term solutions to end the current crisis.
You can read about what we call for through our policy and advocacy work in more detail here.
Inequalities in ageing and challenges faced by older people
Inequalities across regions in England continue to have a significant impact on people’s quality of life – especially for people in later life where the gap is widening.
According to a recent report from the Centre for Ageing Better, it is in parts of the north of England and urban areas where older people experience the poorest health, have the lowest life expectancy, and need the greatest levels of care.
Increases in poverty among older people are a major contributing factor, and the report states that the number of pensioners unable to afford basic necessities last year grew by 300,000.
Challenges raised by the report such as poor-quality housing, difficulties accessing healthcare, and isolation are experienced by many older people accessing our services. We meet many people who live alone and benefit from socialising with others when they come to our services, and we have seen people experience increased confidence and improved mental health as a result of these interactions.
One older person who came to our Cornerstone Centre was struggling with poor health, financial hardship, and social isolation. With support from our team, their debt was reduced or written off and they were able to attend medical appointments regularly. Over time, their health improved, their finances stabilised, and they gained a renewed sense of confidence. Eventually, they began volunteering with us, and found both purpose and community through this.
People of all ages are welcome at many of our services, and perhaps you or someone you know would benefit from the support and sense of community our services can offer. Take a look at how we help to find out more.
In July, look out for a resource we’ll be releasing for the Jubilee of Grandparents and Older People. It will provide information about how parishes and families can celebrate the contributions of older people, whilst signposting to available support for those who are experiencing issues with housing, healthcare, and isolation.
To find out more about our policy and advocacy work and ways you can get involved, visit https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/about/policy-and-advocacy/