YMCA Burton hosts conference to address inequality across the area

YMCA Burton has reflected on the success of its inaugural Inequalities Conference, which brought together representatives from local government, charities, community organisations, emergency services and voluntary groups to explore ways of addressing inequality and strengthening support for vulnerable people across the area.

The conference created a valuable opportunity for organisations to share knowledge, develop new partnerships and discuss collaborative approaches to some of the most pressing challenges facing local communities.

The event was opened by Cllr Monica Holton, Mayor of East Staffordshire, who shared her personal experiences, setting the tone for a day focused on collaboration, inclusion and positive change.

YMCA Burton's chief executive, Paul Laffey, and senior development manager, Catherine Miles, welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of working together to create lasting change.

The conference also welcomed Jacob Collier MP for Burton and Uttoxeter, who joined Paul Laffey for a question-and-answer session, responding to issues and themes raised during the morning's discussions and Michelle Ugwueze, Inspector and Deputy Commander for Staffordshire Police, who also joined in support of the day's discussions.

Jacob Collier MP said: “I know all too well the demand for support here locally and the impact this has on Burton and Uttoxeter organisations, so it was great to join YMCA Burton’s Inequalities Conference to further discuss what more the Government can do.

“It has recently introduced measures like removing the two child cap, lifting over a thousand children out of poverty in Burton and Uttoxeter, and a youth hub here locally to support young people getting into work and with mental health. Initiatives which I know will greatly help my constituents.

“Going forward I will continue to speak up for East Staffordshire and call for more preventative support.”

Representatives from a wide range of organisations contributed expert insight throughout the day, including guest speakers from Christians Against Poverty (CAP), Trent & Dove, Staffordshire Council of Voluntary Youth Services (SCYVS), Support Staffordshire and The BAC O'Connor Centre (Burton Addiction Centre).

Delegates also heard from YMCA Burtons Mediator, Peter O’Reilly, whose presentation on Peacebuilding in a Polarised Society encouraged reflection on building understanding and resilience within communities.

The conference was facilitated by Professor Laura Walton-Williams, whose guidance ensured productive discussion and meaningful engagement throughout the day.

Speaking after the event, Paul Laffey, chief executive of YMCA Burton, said: "This was our first event of this kind and it demonstrated the strength of partnership working across East Staffordshire.

“Bringing together and learning from individuals and organisations with a shared passion and commitment to supporting and investing in our communities.

“Individually, you can make a difference, but working with others is far more effective and bringing together organisations with a shared commitment to supporting vulnerable people has sparked important conversations and created new opportunities for collaboration.

“We are grateful to every speaker, delegate and organisation who contributed to making the day such a success. Discussions don’t stop here; we are eager to build on the momentum generated and focus on the next steps for increased equality in our communities."

Reflecting on the day, Mayor Monica Holton said: “The Inequalities Conference was insightful, informative and inspiring.

“I would like to thank YMCA Burton for their unwavering dedication in supporting hundreds of residents within East Staffordshire.  

“It was encouraging to see so many local organisations represented, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these conversations, partnerships and shared ambitions will make across East Staffordshire.”

Pictured from left to right: Paul Laffey, CEO at YMCA Burton; Phil Pusey, chief executive at SCYVS (Staffordshire Council of Voluntary Youth Services); Mike Holton, the Mayor’s Consort; Cllr Monica Holton, Mayor of East Staffordshire; Jacob Collier, MP for Burton and Uttoxeter; Catherine Miles, senior development manager at YMCA Burton; and Amrit Virk, assistant principal at Burton and South Derbyshire College