This issue begins with a wonderful story of five 11-year-old children who wanted to bring their community together through food, and who have become the youngest people in the country to open a Pantry.

You'll also see how art is helping people to speak up and reclaim and revitalise neighbourhood spaces in their town.

And you'll be able to read of a couple of promising signs of progress in Government approaches to poverty, and to engaging with people with first-hand experience. 

It's always a cheerful day in the office when we send SPARK out - and we love hearing back from you on which stories have encouraged or uplifted you. If you have any reflections, feedback or ideas, do please let us know by replying to this email.

Lastly, if you would like some printed copies of SPARK to distribute in your church, please let me know.

Best wishes

Gavin Aitchison, Church Action on Poverty