Consultation on Manchester anti-poverty strategy begins

Manchester City Council has asked residents to give their feedback on a proposed anti-poverty strategy which seeks to help the disadvantaged.

The cost-of-living crisis has caused concern over how it could impact the UK’s poverty rate – think tank the Resolution Foundation estimates that a further 1.3 million people could be in poverty by next year.

The anti-poverty strategy outlines the council’s plans for the next five years, considering the impacts of health and economic challenges on every household, not just those with children.

Cllr Joanna Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: ‘We are living in challenging economic times, and no-one is immune from the current squeeze on finances particularly with the rising costs of food and energy bills. Poverty is a complex issue and is driven by many factors including the impact of decisions made by national government.

‘We are determined to do all that we can locally to support people through difficult times. With that in mind we have spoken to partners, organisations and residents to help us develop our plans to tackle poverty, as well as ensuring that residents have the opportunities to improve their life chances to move out of poverty through better paid employment.’

The strategy will focus on four key themes: preventing poverty, mitigating poverty, pathways out of poverty and inclusive and effective delivery.

Plans to identify residents at risk of poverty and connect them with support have been outlined, as well as ways to help them manage expenses and debt.

Manchester City Council has also committed to ensuring everyone has access to advice services, food, warmth and shelter and will tailor support to help people find the financial support they’re entitled to and employment opportunities.

Funding will be increased for voluntary and community organisations working to alleviate poverty, while efforts will also be made to ensure people who have experienced poverty have a voice.

Residents are invited to share their views on the strategy, with the consultation running until December 11.

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