The Motherwell and Wishaw Community Action Network (CAN) recently held its first meeting during Challenge Poverty Week. The CAN initiative aims to unite various groups and organisations with a shared goal of addressing poverty and supporting the community. Challenge Poverty Week is an annual campaign led by the Poverty Alliance, focusing on raising awareness about poverty and advocating for solutions to combat inequality.
The network provides a platform for members to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and work together to assist individuals in the Motherwell and Wishaw area, as well as throughout Lanarkshire. CAN carries on the legacy of the Poverty Action Network, initiated in 2016 by former SNP MP Marion Fellows. Currently, Motherwell and Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson serves as the chair of the Community Action Network.
Adamson highlighted the dedication and commitment of CAN members, which include campaigners, volunteers, and experts from various policy areas such as mental health, climate change, food insecurity, and disability support. The initial meeting was described as positive and productive, with a focus on addressing rising costs impacting health and finances, food insecurity, social security challenges, barriers to education and employment, and mental and physical health issues caused by poverty.
The aim of the Community Action Network is to bring about improved outcomes for the local community while advocating for broader systemic changes at the national level. By fostering collaboration and drawing upon expertise from different fields, CAN seeks to address the multifaceted impacts of poverty effectively. Adamson acknowledged the importance of continuing the good work initiated by the Poverty Action Network and emphasised the ongoing efforts required to tackle poverty comprehensively.
Moving forward, CAN members are determined to work collectively to support those in need and bring attention to the pressing issues faced by individuals in Motherwell and Wishaw. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and a shared commitment to making a difference, the Community Action Network sets out to create positive change and advocate for a more equitable society.