rural poverty
At the most recent York meeting of General Synod, I organised a fringe event on church- es responding to rural poverty entitled “You Can't Eat the View.” This showcased our own Diocese of Truro Pretty Poverty report and helped bring the often-hidden reality of rural poverty to wider attention.
I have spoken on a wide variety of subjects – including churches engaging with rural poverty, parochial fees, funding for local and parish ministry, support for clergy in retirement and the Prayers of Love and Faith.
I spoke particularly about rural poverty and hardship often hidden behind hedgerows and closed doors: families struggling with the cost of living, inadequate transport, isolation and limited access to services.
Although our communities can appear prosperous, rural poverty, domestic abuse, loneliness and isolation are often hidden, while poor transport and digital connectivity create real inequalities of access.
I was pleased to be part of a Fringe meeting with the other Truro reps on rural poverty.
I have a heart for pastoral ministry, including a passion to address rural poverty.