An exciting new project that gives Wolverhampton people a direct voice in shaping the future of services within their city was launched at a packed event.
The Grassroots Voices, City Shapers project is one of six Poverty Truth Commissions across the country which will bring those who have experience of living in poverty together with influential civic leaders to contribute to the future health of Wolverhampton.
The project was convened by the Bishop of Wolverhampton, the Right Reverend Clive Gregory, in 2016 and has already enlisted several grassroots voices from the local community. It is being led by Transforming Communities Together, the Diocese of Lichfields joint venture with the Church Urban Fund.
People from a variety of areas and organisations joined the Grassroots Voices for the launch at the Molineux Stadium. Watch a video of the launch below.
Bishop Clive said: Grassroots Voices, City Shapers is about allowing people who are experts by experience to contribute to the future health of our city.
We want to create safe spaces for people to tell their stories and opportunities for those making and influencing decisions to listen. Wolverhampton is a city with lots of opportunities and this is about ensuring everyone can benefit. This will give local people a voice in making this happen and see that no groups are unintentionally left behind.
It isnt about quick answers but is about working together to tackle poverty in all its forms, whether in income, aspiration or relationships.