Parents in work are sometimes on such low wages that they are having to choose between fuel or food for their families, the Chief Executive of anti-poverty charity the St Vincent de Paul Society told a Catholic Union meeting. Kate Nightingale was speaking on the hidden depths of poverty today at the latest pub talk organised by the Catholic Union.
Members and supporters of the Catholic Union gathered this week for a fascinating Pub Talk given by Kate Nightingale, CEO of The St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP). Chaired by journalist Catherine Pepinster, Kate’s talk identified the changing needs of people, highlighting the depths of invisible poverty.
The discussion focused on several interrelated issues including in-work poverty, refugees and asylum seekers, mental health and loneliness. Much debate centred on a recent SVP report, ‘The Hidden Crisis of In-Work Poverty – A Frontline Perspective’, which drew on first-hand accounts from over 200 of its frontline workers and volunteers who had supported individuals and families facing in-work poverty in the last twelve months. It shone a light on how many, despite being in work, remain trapped in poverty and must choose between essentials such as fuel or food. Related issues were also discussed, such as instances of workers being exploited and being unable, or too afraid to, access support services. Loneliness and disenfranchisement particularly amongst young adults are a huge cause for concern. The SVP is embedded in the communities across England and Wales and uses its frontline experiences to advocate for change.
Kate Nightingale, CEO of SVP, says: “The SVP is about turning concern into action, our staff and members are committed to seeking those in need and tackling poverty and hardship in all its forms. Invisible poverty can be difficult to detect, but through our networks we can take practical steps to help alleviate it. We must not lose heart but instead act wherever we see need.”
The SVP has over nine thousand volunteer members and they reach over eighty thousand people each year, from all walks of life and regardless of faith and background. The SVP runs a range of services according to local need, including a befriending service, food banks, support and advice for asylum seekers, community centres and shops. Its geographic spread and reach enable it to gain insight into the issues creating poverty and hardship which it uses to campaign into Government at all levels, providing a strong informed voice for those they help.
Catherine Pepsinster, Journalist, says: “Kate offered some very practical examples of how the SVP can help those in need, including those stuck within the system. There are many different models for people to follow and volunteer for the SVP including those with little time to spare as well as children and students who wish to get involved. In-work poverty is clearly an issue that needs more joined up thinking and the Catholic Union is well placed to facilitate discussions and thought between policy makers”.
The Catholic Union’s Pub Talks have proved a popular series of events with people in public life exploring a subject of particular interest to Catholics. Previous speakers include Lord Alton, Ruth Kelly, Catherine McKinnell, Jon Cruddas, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, Ann Widdecombe, Lord Glasman, Andrew Hawkins and Andy Keen-Downs. The Catholic Union’s next Pub Talk is on Monday 19 January with Sojan Joseph MP, booking details to follow. Louisa Collyer-Hamlin
