We are delighted to be launching a Lived Experience Partner Programme to centre the voices of people who have experienced poverty and inequality in the UK.
This programme is part of Extended Table, a five-year initiative dedicated to transforming the food system. The project focuses on creating inclusive social spaces that include community cookery courses, community gardening, and outdoor food and wellbeing programmes.
As part of Extended Table, we have created a Lived Experience Partner Program to ensure real life perspectives are heard by decision-makers across the food system at local, regional, and national levels. These paid roles will receive a range of support, find out more below.
We believe that people who are experiencing poverty and are navigating multiple barriers in their lives are essential to creating a fairer, more inclusive food system. Yet too often, those who know what it means to struggle to access food are missing from the conversations and decisions that shape it.
This programme brings people with lived experience together with organisations and those of influence, to share knowledge, perspectives and insight – in order to make long-term change.
If this sounds like something that excites you too, and you have the direct experience we are looking for, we would love to hear from you!
About the role
Who we’re looking for:
People whose own experiences of poverty has made them passionate about improving food justice and community wellbeing.
We are specifically seeking people who within the last 5 years:
- Have lived experience of poverty and inequality* in Brighton & Hove that has regularly impacted their ability to afford food
- Have used a community-based food project in the city eg an Affordable Food Shop, Food Bank, Community Garden, shared meal group setting and/or attended Growing New Roots or Community Kitchen classes.
You will be:
- Open to sharing your ideas
- Able to commit to regular sessions and engagement over the programme period
What you’ll gain:
- Training in food systems, advocacy and public speaking
- Mentoring and peer support
- Opportunities for speaking and influencing work
- Support to develop professional pathways in the food justice sector
Time commitment
- Approx. 15 hours per month max
- Flexible arrangements designed to fit around other commitments
What we offer you
- Financial recognition at £75 per half day/ £150 per full day (this includes any training)
- Reimbursement of travel and related costs
- Access to mentoring and 1-1 support
- Skills development
- A supportive, inclusive environment
What you will do:
- Support awareness-raising and community engagement work (optional, with support)
- Contribute to the organisations learning and influencing work
- Share insights to inform BHFP projects and policy work
- Take part in public speaking opportunities (optional, with support)
How to apply
- Send a CV and complete a cover letter responding to the questions below
- Submit a video if preferred
- Email both to Elaine@bhfood.org.uk
If you would like some help applying or if you would like an informal chat, please email Elaine and she will arrange a call with you.
Application questions:
- Tell us a bit about yourself
- Why are you interested in this programme?
- How has your own experience of poverty and inequality made you passionate about making change?
- What would you like to gain from taking part?
