Introduction to the project
We are transforming the way that poverty and disadvantage is approached within Peterborough, with a view to developing a single strategy focused on increasing the cumulative impact of the work taking place and creating thriving, resilient communities.
This project cannot be done in isolation and will extend relationships with partners from community through to statutory sector organisations building on work such as that of Peterborough Council for Voluntary Services (PCVS) through the Poverty Truth Commission. Poverty is a key determinant of health. It is strongly associated with poorer outcomes across:
- Life expectancy
- Mental health
- Child development
- Employment
- Chronic illness
Peterborough is in the most deprived 20% of all local authorities in England. A few local wards are amongst the most deprived 10% in the country. Deprivation is not a new issue for the city and is often multi-generational and entrenched.
The strategy will be informed by local data, evidence, and best practice on 'what works'. It will set out recommendations for how policies and services across the local system can be tailored to improve poverty outcomes. It will be the first strategy to consider the cumulative impact of work across the system.
Timeline
- December 2024 – Official launch and start of evidence gathering
- March 2025 – Continue evidence gathering and stakeholder engagement
- April - June 2025 - Further evidence gathering and initial recommendations
- June – July 2025 – Draft strategy and stakeholder engagement
- July - August 2025 - Reviewing recommendations
- Early 2026 – Taking forward recommendations and publish final strategy
Next steps
The evidence collected will inform a comprehensive strategy to address poverty in Peterborough through targeted public health interventions, partnerships, and policy recommendations.