Barnardo’s report, ‘Overcoming Poverty of Hope’, reveals BAME young people’s concerns about the Economy, Jobs and Education
Celebrities Armeena Khan, Sonali Shah and Anila Chowdhry gave their support to the UK’s longest running children’s charity Barnardo’s at the charity’s Annual Parliamentary Reception . Other prominent British Asians at the event at the House of Commons, Terrace Pavilion included actors Priyanga Burford and Meryl Fernandes; as well as lifestyle blogger Rumena Begum. They were joined by further celebrities and Barnardo’s supporters such as actors Andy Serkis and Louisa Clein; music artist Nicola Roberts; and TV personalities Sam Thompson, Roma and Lydia Bright.
During the event, sponsored by Rt Hon Robert Halfon MP, a new Barnardo’s report, ‘Overcoming Poverty of Hope’, which looks at the concerns young people have for the future, including climate change, Brexit and crime, drew widespread support from attendees and the charity’s celebrity supporters. The findings of the report come from a YouGov poll commissioned by the children’s charity to look at the hopes and fears of young people.
On the day newsreader, presenter, journalist and long-time humanitarian, Natasha Kaplinsky OBE, was announced as the new President of the charity and invited to speak. Young people from Barnardo’s services also attended alongside MPs and representatives from the charity sector.
Speaking at the Reception, broadcaster Sonali Shah said, “What Barnardo’s has achieved today is not only commendable, it is a crucial part of ensuring that the next generation is empowered to speak up and campaign for change. It has been really interesting to be a part of that conversation.”
Presenter Anila Chowdhry said,“It’s an honour to be here today supporting the fantastic and inspiring charity Barnardo’s. Children and young people are the future, so it’s important that we invest in them, and give them the tools and platform to have their voices heard. I want to see every child have equal opportunity so they not only survive but thrive.”
Actress and writer Priyanga Burford said, “It’s been great to be at Barnardo’s Parliamentary Reception. The ‘Overcoming Poverty of Hope’ report shows us the heart of what concerns young people. Now that we know what the challenges are, it’s our responsibility to work together to make things better for them – which means better for all of us.”
Actress Armeena Khan said, “Barnardo’s is doing fantastic work in the UK with addressing the diverse and complex needs of children and young people. Today’s reception bears testimony to the hard work and vision of the charity, and I am keen to get involved and share my own global perspective.”
Barnardo’s Chief Executive Javed Khan, said,“We are really grateful to all the celebrities, MPs and other supporters who came to the event to hear about Barnardo’s vision, values and the impact we have on the lives of the most vulnerable children in the UK.”
Kiran Dhillon, 26, from Ilford, grew up in care since the age of two. She said, “I think young people are just put to one side by the government because there is always an excuse about money. There’s no funding and there is no investment in the youth.
“The fact is they are our next generation; they are our future doctors, social workers and lawyers, all of that. The core issue of what young people are facing in their communities is being lost.”
