POVERTY DOESN’ T MEAN LOW ASPIRATIONS. IT DOESN’ T DEFINE YOUR FUTURE. AND YOUR VOICE MATTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK.
Poverty isn’ t something to hide – Sean Harris with colleague and co-author Katrina Morley OBE.
Young people across our schools have explored these issues creatively, through writing, drama and art. In one project, students invented a character called“ Tess from Tees” to show what it feels like to go to school tired and hungry. We also share low-cost ideas in our community magazine – from Saltburn beach walks to local history trails – and signpost places for support.
Teens taking action
Schools across the Tees Valley are making a difference through breakfast clubs, laptop loans and uniform swaps. But they can’ t do it alone. Change also needs your voice.
You can:
• Join youth campaigns through groups such as Children North East or Child Poverty Action Group.
• Write to your MP about what matters to you.
• Volunteer locally or share your ideas in school.
WHERE CAN YOUNG PEOPLE ACCESS FURTHER SUPPORT?
POVERTY DOESN’ T MEAN LOW ASPIRATIONS. IT DOESN’ T DEFINE YOUR FUTURE. AND YOUR VOICE MATTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK.
Why we will keep talking about poverty
Poverty doesn’ t mean low aspirations. It doesn’ t define your future. And your voice matters more than you think. We see your drive, creativity and hope every day. Poverty makes growing up harder, but it doesn’ t put a ceiling on your ambitions. Because poverty is more than money. And so are you.
The Junction: thejunctionfoundation. com Turn2Us: turn2us. org. uk YoungMinds: Text YM to 85258 or visit youngminds. org. uk Childline: Call 0800 1111 or visit childline. org. uk
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