Framing and reframing poverty

14.4 million people are in poverty in the UK. Poverty is deepening and levels of destitution are rising – this is widely acknowledged as corrosive and unacceptable in the fifth richest country in the world. Questions around change thus invariably come to the fore.

Strategies for change comprise various elements which include methods for framing our messaging and activities which have recently risen in profile amongst voluntary organisations, civil society groups, local authorities, religious activists and churches. If you are involved in activities which form a response to poverty – then this short course is for you.

What will you learn?

This two-hour session will provide you with insights into lived experiences of poverty, the extent and distribution of poverty in the UK and some of the main drivers of poverty, including dominant ways in which poverty is framed and informs policy making. We will also explore some potential drivers for change, including resources for re-framing poverty and examine how these insights might inform our messaging, relationships, activities and engagements, both within our communities and beyond.

The course will offer insights, resources and tools for re-framing poverty, drawn from a range of actors/activists, think-tanks, academic and theological work. We aim to help you become more resilient in tackling poverty in your own line of work.

Who will you learn with?

Dr Tina Hearn is a Social Policy Lecturer at the University of Birmingham and Widening Participation Lead in her Department. Tina has taught modules on Social Theory, Poverty, Wealth and Inequality and Policy Analysis, and has a particular interest in the roles of faith groups in politics and policy making. She has been involved in community politics, with a focus upon equalities, racialisation and care. Her main research area is social theory, with a current focus on ‘New Materialisms’ and exploring some of the various inferences and implications for the roles of change agents, including faith movements in politics and policy making.

This session has been developed as part of the William Temple Festival of Public Theology which will take place on 21-22 June 2024. The Festival offers an innovative online programme of short courses about theology, plurality and activism in public life. Building on the earlier traditions of William Temple College, it draws on current research and expertise of scholars affiliated with the William Temple Foundation.

**This taster session is offered on a 'pay as you feel' basis. Your donations are much appreciated**