Poverty Stigma Insight Network

The Poverty Stigma Insight Network was established by WCPP in 2024 as is a UK-wide network of individuals and organisations who have the shared aim of seeking to better understand, prevent and address poverty stigma. Members include lived experience experts, policy makers, practitioners, researchers and academics. The Network is one strand of WCPP’s broader programme of work to address poverty stigma, alongside our place-based work in Swansea and the development of a rapid evidence review.

Through the Network we seek to influence local and national decision-making and practice to address poverty stigma by: using evidence and insight to raise awareness and understanding of poverty stigma, to challenge myths about poverty, and shift the narrative; and to change the attitudes and practices of public services, professionals and other organisations.

The Network meets every two to three months, usually online, to:

1. Share ideas, good practice and examples of ‘what works’.
2. Centre the voices of people with lived experience of poverty stigma, and drawing on their expertise to find solutions.
3. Encourage and support the co-production of anti-poverty initiatives and services with those who have lived experience of poverty.
4. Build a strong and confident collective voice to influence and campaign for change.
5. Support the development, sharing and use of evidence and resources to combat poverty stigma.

Members of the Network have collaboratively developed the following values which underpin our work together:

• Continue to centre lived experience ethically and sensitively;
• Seek to include diverse perspectives and voices, including those who are impacted by poverty stigma alongside other forms of stigma (for example, black, Asian and racially minoritised people and disabled people);
• Be inclusive by looking for and removing barriers that might stop some people/groups from taking part;
• To have an impact and make a difference
  • Build relationships with decision-makers who can change policy and practice
  • Share learning beyond the Network itself and,
• Be a joint effort – WCPP can lead on some elements, but others will be better placed to lead on other areas.

The next Poverty Stigma Insight Network meetings will take place on the following dates:

• IN PERSON. 8th May, Cardiff – with a focus on youth voice. Registration details tbc.
• Wednesday 16^th July, 10am – 12 (online)

To join the Poverty Stigma Insight Network for future updates, please email info@wcpp.org.uk