Tackling Poverty Together Strategy 2026-2036
Introduction: Facing challenges together, with hope
Poverty in Gateshead has worsened in recent years due to the combined impact of Covid-19 and the ongoing cost of living crisis. As a result, the council and partners have had to focus heavily on crisis support to help people meet basic needs and prevent families from going without essentials. This strategy aims to re balance that work. While crisis support will remain vital, we also want to take action that helps people move out of poverty for good - by building long-term resilience and tackling the inequalities that limit people's opportunities.
Poverty is not only about low income; it also reduces people's choices, confidence and wellbeing, leaving many feeling trapped and powerless. With global and political uncertainty likely to continue, we need a stronger, collective approach. Many families in Gateshead have been affected by poverty for too long and have struggled to access the joined-up support they need. Although some causes of poverty are outside local control, sustained, coordinated action can still make a real difference.
National and regional alignment
Th UK Child Poverty Strategy aims to raise incomes,reduce essential living costs and strengthen local support. The North East Child Poverty Action Plan brings regional investment to address both immediate needs and long-term barriers.
Local integration
The refresh of strategies across housing, health and wellbeing, skills, economic development and children's services highlight the strong links between poverty, poor health and reduced life chances. The Crisis and Resilience Fund 2026-2029 delivery plan for Gateshead will strengthen financial resilience support and the coordination of community based services.
Tackling poverty requires a whole-system effort across all organisations.
Our Tackling Poverty Together Partnership is a key strength, and involving people with living and lived experience will be central to shaping better policies, services and decisions. Insights from the Poverty Truth Commission and the Tackling Poverty Together Summit show the importance of sharing power and working differently with our communities.
This strategy sets out the shared priorities and actions partners across Gateshead will take over the next ten years, recognising that tackling poverty requires cultural and system change, supported by ongoing learning, evaluation and flexibility.
