This week we hear from Lauren Roberts-Turner, a researcher and campaigner from England who specialises in issues relating to young people and the welfare state, poverty, and the economics of social justice. When we spoke she was involved with Leaders Unlocked which does incredible work enabling young people to speak out and have influence on the issues that impact their lives. Thanks to Rose Dowling, CEO at Leaders Unlocked, for putting me in touch with Lauren.

Lauren & I talked about her journey into activism, her thoughts about how change happens, the importance of peer research, the wonders of the NHS (UK National Health Service) and her learning about collaboration. What she doesn’t know about welfare and social justice isn’t worth knowing, enjoy the conversation!

Show links:
The ChildFair State Inquiry
Benefit Row – ‘Benefits Street’ TV show
Joseph Rowntree Foundation
YE2030 Research & Campaign & more here
Sheila McKechnie Foundation
Marcus Rashford & Free School Meals
Intergenerational Foundation

Youth blogs on London Challenges Poverty Week website:

• The Reality of Rising Bills
• Poverty & Mental Health
• Poverty

Lauren’s writing:

• ‘Hit From All Sides: why the world isn’t working for Gen Z’
• Redesigning the Benefits System with Young People in Mind
• Youth Poverty: Understanding & Challenging the Narrative

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Credits:

Created, produced, and hosted by: Debs Erwin

Music: GlowCity

Artwork: Rachel Brady

Sound Editing & Mixing: Stu Reid, Stunt Double Music