We wish Andy Burnham every success as he begins the important task of leading the country.
At St Giles, we have spent more than 60 years working alongside people facing some of society’s greatest challenges, and we see first-hand both the barriers they encounter and the potential they have when the right support is in place. This appointment presents an opportunity to build on that potential and create services that are better connected, more responsive and centred on the people they exist to serve.
One of the clearest lessons from our work is that people’s lives do not fit neatly within government departments. The challenges our clients face often span justice, housing, employment, health, education and policing simultaneously. Lasting change depends on policy and practice that is joined up across these systems, recognising that no single department can solve complex social problems alone.
We also hope to see the voluntary sector recognised as a strategic partner in shaping and delivering public services. Charities work alongside communities every day, building trusted relationships with people who may struggle to engage with statutory services. As devolution and place-based working continue to evolve, involving local voluntary organisations from the outset will help ensure services are designed around people’s real experiences rather than organisational structures.
Equally important is the role of lived experience. People who have overcome homelessness, violence, exploitation, substance use, imprisonment or poverty bring invaluable insight into what works, what doesn’t and how systems can improve. When properly supported, their experience should not simply inform policy but help shape and deliver it.
We have been encouraged by this week’s announcements on rough sleeping and measures to ease cost-of-living pressures – issues that affect many of the people we support. They represent positive early signals that tackling disadvantage remains a priority.
Tracey Burley, Chief Executive of St Giles, said:
We hope this marks the beginning of a renewed focus on prevention, partnership and opportunity. St Giles stands ready to work alongside government, local authorities and communities to help build services that change lives, strengthen communities and ensure that everyone has the chance to realise their potential.