Coming together for the launch of the Malvern Hills District Poverty Truth Commission was a truly powerful moment for our community, writes Facilitator Sarah McCarten-Williams. We gathered at Malvern Green Space, a food-waste charity who generously cooked a shared meal for us using surplus ingredients that would otherwise have gone to waste.

We were pleased to welcome guests from across the district, including representatives from Malvern Hills District Council, Malvern Town Council, The National Lottery Community Fund, local religious groups, and a wide range of voluntary and community organisations. It was wonderful to see such strong support from all corners of the community.

Exploring deep connections

Through film, art, and personal testimony, we listened to personal stories exploring the deep connections between poverty and issues like domestic abuse, homelessness, and poor health. Other pieces invited us into a “Week in the Life” and explored the tender theme of “Things Our Kids Don’t Know.” These were impactful stories told with courage, honesty, and hope. We had a break to enjoy our pudding and a quiz on Malvern, which highlighted some important and sometimes surprising statistics in the district, such as the percentage of children in poverty within the district.

We invited everyone there to respond. Guests were encouraged to write a promise or reflection on a leaf for our response tree, prompted by the question: “What difference will you make to positively impact the effects of poverty?” Watching that tree fill up with commitments from over 60 people was incredibly moving. A few that stayed with me were:

• “I will pledge to speak my truth openly and encourage others to do the same.”
• “More considerations made when business planning.”
• “Be an advocate for those who can’t speak or navigate for themselves.”

Our Community Commissioners also created a feedback form to help us shape what comes next and invited guests to stay involved, whether as a Civic Commissioner or a Business Commissioner – there are many ways to take part.

Event feedback

Jen Taylor, Director of Communities and Housing at Malvern Hills District Council, who attend the event, said: “As a district council, we make decisions about things that directly affect people’s lives, so it’s really important that we make space to listen to the voices of residents who aren’t always heard. Whilst their stories aren’t always easy to hear, the way the Commission works will help us to find common ground and work alongside one another to make a real difference. I’m really grateful to the Community Commissioners for their courage and openness at the launch event and for the commitment shown by council officers and other partners who attended. I’m excited to see what we can achieve together.”

One of our Community Commissioner’s said: “I’m pleased to see how many took the time and interest in what we are trying to create. I’m feeling hopeful that with their future support, we can move forward and make some important changes in our community.”

Another Community Commissioner commented: “The launch exceeded all my expectations and showed me that we can in fact achieve change when we all come together.”

I often come back to the proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” And this really does feel like the start of going far, together.

This is just the beginning. We’re excited about the road ahead — the conversations we’ll have, the changes we’ll help bring about, and the community we’re building together. Watch this space!