Quilombo UK: The impact of the cost-of-living crisis

Amid the growing challenges posed by the cost of living crisis, we undertook a project in collaboration with Kingston Council in 2024. Recognising the need to amplify the voices of affected residents and supporting organisations, we created a series of podcasts to delve into the crisis's far-reaching impacts. This initiative aimed not only to shed light on the struggles but also to drive informed policymaking by sharing these compelling stories.

The project engaged with residents battling the financial strain, exploring their personal experiences and the difficult choices they face daily. Local organisations, vital pillars of community support, also shared their perspectives, offering insights into the increasing reliance on their services and the support they provide to those willing to seek it.

We used podcasts to convey emotions and experiences, while storytelling vividly brought to life the resilience and determination of the Kingston community.

The collected insights revealed stark realities. Residents shared their struggles with economic strain, often forced to choose between heating and eating. The mental health toll of the crisis was evident, with heightened stress and anxiety affecting many lives. Shame emerged as a significant barrier, preventing some from seeking help due to stigma surrounding financial struggles. At the same time, community support services proved to be lifelines, underscoring the importance of collective action during tough times.

Through this project, the team highlighted the resilience of Kingston’s residents and emphasized the critical need for effective support systems and policy interventions.