From: Social-Policy is run by SPA for all social policy specialists <[log in to unmask]> On Behalf Of Natalija Atas
Subject: Cost of Living Conference in Liverpool (Call for Papers)

 Call for Papers: Rethinking Poverty, Insecurity and the Cost of Living Crisis in the North West and Beyond 

Wednesday 28th June, 2023 

Liverpool Hope University, Creative Campus 

The ongoing cost of living crisis is causing immense stress and hardship for individuals, families, and communities. The price of basic goods and services – food, electricity, fuel – is increasing at a much faster rate than average household wages and benefit increases. Moreover, recent tax changes mean that more people are now experiencing poverty and insecurity, unable to meet their basic everyday needs. Actors from civil society, politicians and academics have demonstrated concern as to the effect this is having at local and national levels, specifically the disproportionate impact on already marginalised and vulnerable groups. Such concern comes from evidence highlighting the impact this crisis is having on people’s physical and mental health and emotional well-being.

In light of this pressing issue, we are organising a conference which aims to bring together researchers, academics, activists, politicians and members of the third sector from across the Northwest and beyond to advance knowledge and further understanding of the specific ways in which people are experiencing the cost of living crisis. The conference will thus provide a knowledge exchange/ social partnership platform for researchers and stakeholders working in this area to share their expert opinion on the emergent issues, experiences and wider consequences associated with this crisis. We also seek to understand the different ways in which people are seeking to challenge, re-think and imagine alternatives in the face of this ongoing crisis.