A message from the North-East Equality Group

Submitted by Kathryn Busby on 19 February 2010

Guest post from Geoff Holmes

"I have recently taken on the initial co-ordination of a North-East Group, based loosely on Newcastle-upon-Tyne, but extending throughout the region. My experience to date confirms that there is genuine strength in The Equality Trust and quality in the support they offer to affiliated groups such as ours.

It seems to me essential that the positive evidence-based messages of The Spirit Level are disseminated as widely as possible. However, I don't underestimate the degree of crowding that already exists in those areas of communication and influence which Equality Trust groups are entering. This and other considerations, not least geographical ones, will help to inform what I hope will be innovative approaches by the North-East Group.

Clearly there is an urgent need for bold corrective policies to deal with the extreme income inequality which blights our society to the detriment of all. This is a key debate both in the lead up to the general election and beyond.

Like the other groups I am aware that there is a lot of ground to cover and that changing attitudes and perceptions let alone behaviour are substantial challenges. Wherever you are in the north-east, if you would like to engage in this work, whether or not you have much time to give to it, please send me an email at equalitytrustne@btinternet.com or contact Kathryn in The Equality Trust office. Even if you wish to do no more than receive regional news via email please understand that by making contact you will be boosting the confidence of the Group.

STOP PRESS

The authors of The Spirit Level are giving a seminar in Newcastle on 24^th March from 5.00pm to 7.30pm. To book your place, please contact: Charlotte Branch on hs.hcesevents@northumbria.ac.uk