Oxfam Cymru Kicks off 2020 with Big Win at Welsh Government
Welsh Government to use Oxfam’s Sustainable Livelihoods Approach to improve the delivery of devolved benefits for the people of Wales.
Following an Assembly enquiry into improving the benefits system for Wales, Oxfam Cymru is delighted with the news that the Welsh Government has accepted their recommendation of using Oxfam’s Sustainable Livelihoods Approach in the delivery of all devolved benefits currently delivered in Wales.
Rachel Cable, Head of Oxfam Cymru welcomed the news;
“I am absolutely delighted that the Welsh Government has recognised the value of Oxfam’s Sustainable Livelihoods Approach as a way of changing the lives of people experiencing poverty and disadvantage. Oxfam uses this approach around the world. It is a hugely positive move that Welsh Government has grasped this opportunity to make a real difference to the people who need it most. Oxfam Cymru looks forward to working with Welsh Government to help people build a sustainable route out of poverty”.
The Sustainable Livelihoods Approach: Toolkit for Wales was first published in 2013 and is a method of analysing and changing the lives of people living in poverty and disadvantage. The toolkit takes a holistic approach to understanding the needs and the abilities of the individual, in order to help individuals experiencing poverty improve their lives for the long term.
Oxfam Cymru has been using the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach in several partner projects in Wales. When Emertha Uwanyirigira arrived in Wales for the first time with her young children, she knew no one and had no access to support. Oxfam’s Skills for Life project put the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach at its core, and Emertha explained how it changed her life;
“Being new in the UK and having no family was challenging for me. Oxfam’s Skills for Life project showed me how to get in contact with the right people. I had the opportunity to learn useful skills, it gave me clarity and helped me decide on the right career path. It empowered me and I hope this development empowers others in Wales”.
ENDS
To arrange media interviews or further information please contact Heulwen Davies, Oxfam Cymru’s Media and Communications Officer at hdavies1@oxfam.org.uk / 07817591930
You can view the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach: Toolkit for Wales at
Evaluation of the Oxfam Cymru Skills for Life project https://oxfamilibrary.openrepository.com/bitstream/handle/10546/620487/er-skills-for-life-oxfam-cymru-070618-final-evaluation-en.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
To view the Welsh Government’s full response visit https://www.assembly.wales/laid%20documents/gen-ld12913/gen-ld12913%20-e.pdf