Blog

30.05.2017

Let’s change the way we fight poverty and inequality in Scotland.

Let’s break the cycle, says Deputy Chief Executive Helen Chambers 

We know inequality breeds poverty. And poverty, in turn, breeds inequality.
But it’s not that simple. Inequality is not just about being poor.

Inequality means never having opportunity when you have ability and knowledge. It’s about not having a choice when there should be so many possibilities. Inequality means never being heard when you have a voice and are full of ideas. It’s about never having confidence because you don’t have the chance to succeed. It’s about feeling you have no purpose and losing hope.

Inequality means not getting the chance to have a happy life because you feel trapped. Trapped in the cycle of inequality and poverty.

With Link Up, we are breaking that cycle. We believe the best way to do that lies at the very heart of Scotland’s communities.
Link Up is not a project or intervention. It doesn’t have targets or rigid, narrowly-defined and predetermined outcomes. Link Up works in some of Scotland’s most deprived communities where it is led and directed by members of the community.
It evolves and develops in the community and is different everywhere.

At its heart, it connects people, it energises them, and empowers their communities. Link Up begins with trust. Trust and belief in the power, talent, and ability of people to make a difference for themselves and those around them.

By connecting people, by championing ability, inspiring and encouraging ideas, by listening, Link Up breeds confidence and self belief.
It gives people choices and helps them create their own opportunities.

It allows them to rediscover a sense of purpose and find their own way to a happier life.
And that is how we break the cycle. And change the way we fight poverty and inequality in Scotland.

Helen Chambers, Deputy Chief Executive