A conference aimed at raising awareness of poverty on the island has been held at Elmwood House’s lecture theatre in Douglas.
The event was arranged by students studying public health at Isle of Man College in conjunction with The University of Chester.
There were over 60 delegates, mainly made up of students, but also a few representatives from various charities around the island and the government.
Speaking at the conference were Michael Manning from Manx homeless charity, Graih, John Richards from the government’s Children and Families division, the Salvation Army’s captain Simon Clampton, Superintendent Kevin Willson, from the police, and students Sarah Breed and Elise Quirk.
Mr Richards talked about the pilot project called ‘Team around the School/Family’ which is now in the process of being introduced throughout the island.
He defined ‘being in poverty’, not only in terms of levels of income but also through a range of other variables including: living in a poor environment; lack of social relationships; having health, emotional well-being and mental health problems; experiencing difficulties in learning; lack of access to resources; lack of love and happiness and lack of aspiration.
To date, Mr Richards said that 64 families had been supported and that requests from families, schools and health visitors were being received on a weekly basis.
Sarah Breed said: ‘The main messages to come from the day, were that relative poverty is an issue on the Isle of Man. It is a hidden problem and just because it may not be obvious, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. The issue of poverty is complex and requires a multi-agency approach when dealing with these issues. Changes to legislation and also education are important when it comes to preventing and reducing poverty.’
Graih’s Michael Manning said: ‘The poverty conference was an excellent idea from the Isle of Man college students.
‘In a small community it is easy for the real and pernicious poverty that we have on our doorstep to be hidden and denied.
‘Events like this bring a much-needed light on to the darker corners of island life and Graih were very pleased to be able to be a part of the day.’