Are you passionate about making Manchester fairer? Manchester City Council are looking for four Manchester residents who care about tackling poverty to help shape and support the city’s new Anti-Poverty Strategy. Successful applicants will join the Anti-Poverty Insight Group to share their views and experiences and make sure the voices of people living on low incomes are heard.
About the group
The Anti-Poverty Insight Group was set up in 2024. It brings together residents and people from local organisations who understand poverty through their lived or work experience. The Group is also part of Making Manchester Fairer (MMF), the Council’s programme to reduce health inequalities and tackle poverty and debt across the city
So far, the Group has:
- Met with senior leaders from the Council and other organisations to discuss issues affecting people in Manchester
- Helped shape the current Anti-Poverty Strategy by identifying priorities and agreeing key areas for action
- Shared feedback and ideas that have helped influence the Council’s response to proposed Welfare Reform
Why the group matters
The Anti-Poverty Insight Group plays an important role in making sure decisions are informed by the experiences of people who understand poverty first-hand. Members provide valuable feedback, ideas and constructive challenge to help improve services and support for Manchester residents.
The Group is part of the MMF programme’s decision-making structure.
How your feedback will be used
As a member of the Group, you will have the chance to:
- Influence the future direction of Manchester’s Anti-Poverty Strategy Making Manchester Fairer: Anti-Poverty Strategy 2023-2027 | Manchester City Council
- Share your experiences and ideas to help improve services and support
- Make sure the voices of local residents are heard by decision-makers
- Contribute to wider conversations across Greater Manchester.
Who can apply?
People who:
- Live in Manchester and are aged 18 or over
- Struggle to make ends meet or have struggled in the past
- Care about making a positive difference in their community
- Are comfortable sharing their views and listening to others
- Can attend monthly in-person meetings in Manchester city centre
Applications are welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life, recognising the value of diversity.
Payment and expenses
Members will receive:
- £13.45 per hour for meetings they attend (the Real Living Wage hourly rate)
- Reimbursement of travel expenses incurred when using the most cost effective mode of travel
How to apply
To apply, send:
- Your name and contact details
- The area of Manchester you live in
- A short-written statement (300–500 words) or a video no more than two minutes long, explaining:
- Why you would like to join the Group
- Any relevant experience you have
- What you would like to contribute
To: info@barlowmoorca.co.uk by 23rd August 2026.
You can also include any other information that supports your application.
For more information, or to ask a question, email: info@barlowmoorca.co.uk