Elmbridge Borough Council signs Good Company’s End Poverty Pledge

Elmbridge Borough Council has signed Good Company’s End Poverty Pledge, strengthening its commitment to tackling poverty and supporting residents across the borough.

The pledge is part of a wider initiative to reduce inequality and create opportunities for everyone in our community. By signing, we will work with partners to deliver practical support and advocate for policies that make a real difference.

Cllr Gill Coates, Portfolio Holder for Community Care who proposed the Motion said: “Signing the End Poverty Pledge is an important step in our ongoing work to support residents who are struggling. We are committed to working with local organisations and community groups to support vulnerable residents and those particularly challenged with the increasing costs of living.”

Jonathan Lees, Founder and Managing Director of Good Company added: "Fantastic news that Elmbridge Borough Council has signed the End Poverty Pledge. Poverty has pervaded our society; by coming together, as councils, charities and businesses we can make a difference. Thank you to Elmbridge for taking this step."

About the motion

On Wednesday 3 December, Elmbridge Council heard that,

• while Elmbridge is perceived as prosperous, nearly 12% of our residents are facing financial challenges.
• Good Company, based in Epsom, is inviting organisations to commit to working towards a poverty-free future in Surrey by supporting the End Poverty Pledge. Over 400 signatories, including Surrey County Council, have already signed.

At the meeting, Council agreed to

• ask the Leader, Cllr Mike Rollings, and the Chief Executive, Mr Adam Chalmers, to sign the End Poverty Pledge on behalf of Elmbridge Borough Council.
• and to add poverty as a criterion to be considered as part of the Equality Impact Assessment undertaken on all Elmbridge Borough Council policies.

Cllr Wendy Gibbs was the seconder on the motion.

Supporting residents with cost-of-living challenges

In recent years Elmbridge Borough Council has taken significant steps to support residents with rising living costs including:

• Cost of Living Support Fund: over £390,000 allocated across three rounds to 37 local projects, including food security, energy-saving initiatives, and essential household items. A fourth round of £100,000 opened in October 2025.
   
• Community partnerships: working with Walton Charity, Citizens Advice, Rentstart, and others to deliver targeted support, including money management courses, benefits advice, and emergency food provision.
   
• We have part-funded a Poverty Truth Commission for Elmbridge in partnership with Walton Charity. This initiative brings civic, political and business leaders together with residents experiencing poverty to develop creative, collaborative solutions.
   
• Practical help: projects funded include BRITE Box meal kits for families, Dreams for Hope beds for children without a proper place to sleep, and hygiene banks offering affordable essentials.