Warrington Borough Council and partners came together for a ‘Addressing Poverty in Warrington’ conference.
75 people attended the recent conference, to discuss the challenges people in Warrington face as a result of poverty, cost of living demands and the factors that might add to these challenges.
In recent years, the situation has worsened due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, rising costs for essential goods and services alongside wage reductions in real terms and the effects of welfare reforms. These factors have made it harder for those families already struggling to get by and pushing many more into financial hardship.
Organisations such as Citizens Advice, Warrington Disability Partnership and Warrington Youth Zone shared with the group the work they do to support residents across the borough and also highlight the issues they see people facing.
The conference looked at how we can work together in Warrington as a partnership alongside residents, to ensure support to tackle poverty remains part of the conversation, keeping it, a top priority going forward.
Cabinet member for poverty, inequality and protection, Cllr Sue Emery said: “The conference highlighted some important real-life stories that many residents face and by listening to the voices of our residents and creating solutions together as a partnership, I hope we can make a positive change to people’s lives.”
Ben Pennell a trustee of Warrington Foodbank and Warrington resident said: “My own journey out of homelessness was supported by people who listened and responded to me, built strong connections and gave me a sense of belonging. These things helped to validate me, inspiring me to do more and transform my life.
“It’s vital that we provide these same opportunities to all of those who are experiencing poverty and all the anger, fear and anxiety that this can bring. We can make a real difference by working in an intentional and collaborative way, that places at its heart the needs and voices of those in need.”
Warrington will be launching a Poverty Truth Commission to help those in Poverty. To find out more information or to get involved please contact Warrington Voluntary Action.
If you are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, please visit the cost of living page which can help you with:
- Reviewing your benefits
- Food support
- Household support fund
- Financial support
- Help with energy bills
- Childcare support
- Funding for community groups
- Mental health support
The page also includes a cost of living support directory which highlights the different organizations and schemes that can help you. Some of these are local to Warrington but there are also national schemes available.
