Andy Drozdziak
A social action charity is urging supporters to put their running shoes on to make a difference.
Caritas Salford, a charity that supports people from across Greater Manchester and Lancashire, has seen a significant increase in demand for its services and is appealing for support from runners who want to take on a challenge in 2024.
Patrick O’Dowd, director of Caritas Salford, told the Universe: “Our teams are working hard to support as many people as possible, but the fundraising landscape is also difficult as budget cuts mean many sources of funding are being reduced or simply aren’t available. We are working really hard to generate funds and work as efficiently as possible while also continuing to meet the urgent needs of local people.
“That’s why we’re putting out this appeal for people who might be willing to take on the Great Manchester Run or another challenge – whether physical, mental or both – in aid of Caritas Salford this year.”
The call comes as the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) charity said in a new report that six million people were in very deep poverty – in households below 40% of the median income after housing costs – in 2021/22, which it said is 1.5 million more than 20 years ago.
Consumer champion Martin Lewis said the report must prompt policymakers and regulators to “sit up (and) take note”.
“Now we have hit the stark reality that 100,000s of people in the UK, even after they’ve had professional help from money charities, are still deficit budgeting – so their income is less than their minimum necessary expenditure,” Mr Lewis said.
“Definitions of poverty are tricky, especially when based on relative incomes, but that smells like a clear indication the problem is getting worse.”
Patrick O’Dowd underlined the reality of poverty for many in the North West.
“There are many people locally who are experiencing acute crisis and simply aren’t able to afford things that all of us should have access to,” he said. “Whether that’s a safe, secure place to call home, three meals a day, or simply knowing they’re able to keep their children warm at night, hardworking individuals and families in Greater Manchester and Lancashire are finding themselves in unthinkable situations they never thought would happen.
“It’s a difficult balancing act, especially as our own costs, such as to heat the buildings that support people experiencing homelessness or food that we provide for local families, have also increased.”
The charity has launched its Every Step campaign to help raise awareness and funds for Caritas Salford.
Places are available for runners in various running events across the region, such as the Manchester Half Marathon and the Great Manchester Run.
To find out more, visit www.caritassalford.org.uk/EveryStep