Poverty Truth Network’s National Annual Gathering

In North Devon, the Devon Mental Health Alliance is supporting the embedding process for the Ilfracombe Poverty Truth Commission. As part of this work, we were keen to join the national Poverty Truth Network for the annual gathering, to share and learn with other commissions.

The gathering was a two day event, where facilitators can come together as people and share the elements that have been successful, and those that have been difficult, in establishing Poverty Truth Commissions in their localities. Phil Harris, DMHA’s Community Development Lead in North Devon, discussed the progress being made in the area and his involvement so far, Phil commented:

“The Ilfracombe Poverty Truth Commission has already started working on better housing in the area, strategic changes to approach through Civic authorities, and a growing Campus of support in the town that has garnered interest from NHS colleagues seeking to utilise our learning in the embedding of Neighbourhood Health.” Phil continued, “it was an enlightening two days, with deep-dives into evidencing change. The contacts made have strengthened our knowledge base and we are now sharing information with other Poverty Truth Commissions to help overcome the major barrier that data sharing presents. And above all, to witness the meaningful changes that each commission is helping to bring about for local people.”

Devon Mental Health Alliance is proud to play an active role in this important work and supporting the communities in North Devon and beyond. The continued collaboration and commitment across the Poverty Truth Network reflects a strong foundation for meaningful, lasting impact. Looking ahead, the Alliance remains focused on building on this progress and contributing to the ongoing development of more responsive and inclusive mental health support.

Photography by Nick Jones Photographer