34. Sussex in the City, Drapers’ Hall, 26 September 2023

On City Giving Day, Past Master Horner and Chair of the Financial Services Group of Livery Companies, Mark Spofforth, invited the Masters of City Livery Companies and City leaders to a reception and lecture organised by the Sussex Community Foundation. The Foundation is a registered charity that exists to make Sussex a fairer and more equal place by providing expert advice and guidance on all areas of charitable giving and local philanthropy. They enable local people to support local causes, making grants to small charities and voluntary groups working in communities across Sussex.  It was held in the impressive surroundings of Drapers’ Hall.

The keynote speaker was Torsten Bell, CEO of the Resolution Foundation, a think tank that has produced research on social issues caused by recent economic events, and how the charitable sector has responded to these challenges.  He described how our view of society is influenced by social media, especially the likes of TikTok, and poverty is often hidden. He provided some hard-hitting information about the impact of the current economic situation as it affects ordinary people:  Highest level of inflation for 40 years.  Average UK wages are at the same level as in 2008.  Food has replaced energy at the centre of this crisis.  In the past two years the price of cheese has on average risen by 40% and a typical portion of fish and chips by 25%.  Across the UK 29% of families are in poverty; in Hastings it is 35%.  There has been a 25% increase in the use of food banks.  Life expectancy in a Ward in Bognor Regis is 14 years less than in Crowborough.

Afterwards as we mingled we discussed the increasingly important role of community support, charity and how the Livery companies can help. It was a sobering evening and encouraged us all to do more.