What is the difference between surviving and thriving? Between ‘getting by’ and ‘getting on’?
In this annual report, we’re seeking to shine a light on one key distinction – having choices.
This was motivated by the cost-of-living crisis, which has been a year of hard choices for many, including the people who use our services.
Years ago, I was struck by a definition of food poverty which didn’t just define it as a lack of food, but an inability to access that food “by socially dignified means”. That phrase really stayed with me and has informed our work at QSA.
How can we seek to ensure that whatever the service is we’re offering to people on low incomes, we do it in a way that preserves their dignity, maximises their agency and, as far as possible, offers choices?
It’s encapsulated at the heart of our mission where we talk about supporting people “to seek solutions to the issues that affect their lives.”
Their issues, their lives and therefore their solutions. And note the plural – given that life can often throw up more than one problem and many problems have more than one solution.
Generating wiggle room, options, hope, creative thinking – that’s the “how” of our work.
Another “how” of our work relates to our staff and our volunteers. The pandemic has dissolved much of the divide between work and life, has enabled us all to see more closely into our colleagues’ lives and has shifted what we want and expect from work.
I want all of my colleagues to feel that they’re in a workplace that is seeking to be equitable and inclusive, to expect that they’ll be seen, listened to, shown respect. We have a responsibility and a duty of care to them, and I fully expect to uphold it.
Within these pages, you will read about the services we’ve provided at QSA in the last year, services I remain so proud of. But, no-one can pour from an empty cup, so please rest assured also that, behind the scenes, we’re actively working to support the dignity and choices of our colleagues too.
Judith Moran, QSA Director