Imagine an economy where people and planet matter more than profit. One where growth is about everyone’s ability to flourish. How do we help people to believe in, and work to make possible, such an economy.

Back in May (2026), members of the Poverty Truth Network joined a host of others in York for a conference looking at how we get beyond the idea that there is nothing that can be done about how the economy currently works. Or, in reality, doesn’t work for far too many.

The conference, hosted by Friends Provident Foundation, brought together funders, academics, climate change activists, entrepreneurs, media, think tanks, systems thinkers, disability groups, community activists and so many more. During the day, we were treated to a variety of inspiring speakers, including inspiring contributions from Ella Saltmarshe (Director of the Cultural Initiative) and Hazel Sheffiel (author of Frontierlands).

Members of the Poverty Truth Network were asked to get the day started, inviting people to think that if we are really going to reimagine the economy, we need to start by listening to those for whom things work least well. Or most badly.

Claire (our Chair of Trustees) and Kate (a Community Commissioner and member of our Economics for All group) shared something of how unfair the current system felt, constantly leaving people short, failing to support families, undermining confidence, rewarding the wrong things. Hannah, who has been involved in our work through Carnegie UK Trust, spoke about the importance of listening deeply.

Together we challenged people as they took part in the rest of the day to ask: “Does this really make a difference for those who struggle most?” It was gratifying how many people did keep on asking that question throughout the day, and challenging others to do the same.

Throughout the day, including in an afternoon workshop we hosted, we encouraged people to walk in the shoes of those struggling against poverty as they reimagined what a future economy might look like.

You can find out more about our work with Friends Provident Foundation in our summer newsletter (2026) or by emailing Cat at cat@povertytruthnetwork.org.uk