Tower and Town, October 2024

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Pewsey's Response to Rural Poverty

The Hidden Struggles of Wiltshire: Poverty's Impact and Community Resilience

Poverty is an often invisible yet pervasive issue affecting many communities across the UK, and Wiltshire is no exception. Despite its picturesque landscapes and historic charm, Wiltshire faces significant socio-economic challenges that impact the lives of its residents, particularly in rural areas like Marlborough, Pewsey and surrounding villages..

The Stark Reality of Poverty in Wiltshire

Recent data reveal that over 15,000 children in Wiltshire are living in poverty. This alarming statistic underscores the broader issue of financial hardship that many families face. The effects of poverty are far-reaching, influencing not only the immediate well-being of individuals but also the overall health and stability of the community.

Children growing up in poverty are more likely to experience poor health, lower educational attainment, and limited job prospects. The stress and uncertainty associated with financial instability can lead to mental health issues, further exacerbating the cycle of poverty1. Additionally, the lack of secure housing is a pressing concern, with over 100 children in Wiltshire currently homeless.

Phil Brady a founding Director with Positive Community Action, tasked with tackling poverty and its effects on society in Wiltshire has recently been a victim of poverty and homelessness himself after being served, not one but two section 21 eviction notices and was forced to live in a van last year with his partner, two young children and their family dog. Phil tells us "having experienced first hand the brutally sharp edge of the effects of poverty and the local housing emergency, I can tell you that we have to make changes both at grassroots and government levels to ensure local working families can afford to live sustainably, securely and without fear of homelessness, poverty and isolation which have huge impacts on our physical and mental health and on society as a whole. This is why we continue to campaign for a more just and fairer society at PCA and why we believe that strength in unity and kindness is crucial in holding communities together"

Community Response: Positive Community Action CIC

In the face of these challenges, grassroots organisations like Positive Community Action CIC (PCA) are making a significant difference. Based in Pewsey, PCA is dedicated to addressing food poverty, food waste, loneliness, isolation, and malnutrition in the local community.

• Emergency Food and Household Supply Boxes: PCA provides essential supplies to individuals and families facing financial hardship, ensuring they have access to basic necessities.
• Weekly Nutritional Meals: To combat malnutrition, PCA cooks and delivers home-cooked meals to vulnerable community members, ensuring they receive at least one nutritious meal each week.
• Foodshare Initiative: By collecting surplus food from supermarkets, PCA helps reduce food waste and distributes it within the local community, providing much-needed resources to those in need.
• Friendship Cafe: This welcoming space offers a chance for people to enjoy a chat over a cup of tea and some cake, helping to alleviate loneliness and build community connections.
• Buddy Crew: PCA's telephone befriending service offers companionship to those who are isolated or housebound, providing a vital lifeline of social interaction.

How You Can Help

PCA relies on the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of the community to continue its vital work. There are numerous ways to get involved, from preparing meals and providing companionship to assisting with food bank operations and driving the community bus.

If you are interested in volunteering or need assistance, you can visit PCA's website at ourpca.uk or call 01672 487022.

Phil Brady

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