December 2023
Every four or five years, the UK faces a monumental decision: electing a new government. With the 2024 General Election on the horizon, many of us in the community sector, especially here in Greater Manchester, are considering the potential implications for those we serve daily: the vulnerable, the hungry, those with the least.
Before delving into the future, let’s take a step back. Over the past few decades, irrespective of the colour of the governing party, poverty has persisted. The line might have shifted slightly left or right, but the line remained. For many in Greater Manchester, London or Liverpool, political decisions seem distant, theoretical, and disconnected from the hunger pangs they feel or the uncertainty over their next meal.
When politicians declare their intent to “end poverty”, those who live amidst it can sometimes regard such proclamations with scepticism. After all, in 2020, more than 4 million children were living in poverty in the UK, a staggering figure for one of the world’s richest countries. Fast forward to 2023, the scene remains grim. Our work at Humans MCR, for instance, bears testament to the unyielding demands of those who face food poverty, even in the 21st century.
While party manifestos are still not released, and a date not set, the campaign trails seem to be heating up, there’s a palpable energy. Some pledges seem promising, but pledges aren’t policy. Yet the question remains: will political change transform the landscape of poverty and food poverty in Greater Manchester?
The pessimist would say history repeats itself. After all, political promises come and go, but structural changes are rare. But this doesn’t mean that they’re impossible.
Some key considerations for the upcoming election:
– Comprehensive Policy Framework: It’s essential to look for parties that propose comprehensive solutions rather than piecemeal initiatives. For example, instead of isolated headlines, look for policies that address systemic factors like living wages, affordable housing, and comprehensive social safety nets.
– Grounded in Reality: It’s one thing to pledge an end to poverty, but how? Realistic timelines, evidence-based policies, and a clear understanding of the on-ground situation are paramount.
– Empathy Over Economics: While fiscal policies are vital, they shouldn’t overshadow humanity; our nation’s wealth makes this ideology possible. We must prioritise policies that may not be economically popular but ethically paramount. The true essence of a country is determined by how it treats its most vulnerable.
So, is there a political will to protect the most vulnerable if it doesn’t win votes?
Historically, policies aimed at alleviating poverty have rarely been headline grabbers. They often get drowned amidst contentious debates over immigration, defence, or other ‘buzzworthy’ topics. It is easy to side-line issues like food poverty when they don’t directly influence ballot decisions of the majority.
But here’s a thought: maybe it’s time to redefine political will. Political will, at its core, should be about creating an inclusive, thriving society for all, irrespective of its voting appeal.
Closer to home, in Greater Manchester, the story is multifaceted. We’ve seen exemplary grassroots movements that have prompted tangible changes. Marcus Rashford’s campaign on free school meals, born out of Manchester, was a testament to how people, not just politicians, can effect change.
The 2024 election offers a potential pivot point for the entire country, but regions like Greater Manchester have a unique role. As a microcosm of the UK’s socio-economic challenges, Greater Manchester’s voting patterns and the ensuing outcomes can serve as an indicator of national trajectories.
The 2024 General Election, like many before it, carries the weight of hope, anticipation, and, for some, trepidation. While it’s easy to get caught in the whirlwind of political rhetoric, we must keep our eyes fixed on the broader goal: a country where no child goes to bed hungry, where every individual has a roof over their head, and where the term ‘food poverty’ becomes an anomaly.
Irrespective of the election’s outcome, we at Humans MCR will continue to serve, support, and advocate for those on the margins. And we hope that the elected representatives, no matter their party, will do the same.
In the end, politics might be about votes, but humanity transcends ballots. It’s high time our policies reflect that sentiment.