Gemma Johnson’s Story
“Can you imagine being a parent of a child with SEND and not being able to pay for everything they need for their care?”
Gemma Johnson is a proud mum and carer to her 8-year old son, who has additional needs. She is one of Community Commissions who volunteered with the North of Tyne Poverty Truth Commission, sharing her experience of navigating life “trapped in the system”.
“If you don’t have family to support you, that means you’re a carer 24/7. You rely on health and social services to decide what help you can access and housing services choose where you live. It can be hard to get up to date information about what benefits and support you can apply for. I’ve found out more through Facebook groups about what is out there than professionals.”
“There is a lack of opportunities locally for SEND group sessions, similar to what the Tim Lamb Centre and the Alan Shearer Centre do. These are often not accessible and come at a cost, more expense than people like myself, who don’t have much of after the essentials are paid for, can afford.”
Gemma sees an important step in tackling poverty for many families, especially those who have limited options for work due to caring responsibilities, as adjusting the way benefits are calculated and paid.
“There needs to be a middle ground, either a reduction in the cost of food, fuel and other essentials, or an increase in benefits. Ideally, that would be finding systems that keep costs down so the government are not just handing over money for it to be passed straight to energy companies and supermarkets profits.
“We need to look at the bigger picture. For example, we’re told by the Government that Minimum Wage is set to reflect the least you can be expected to live off, but benefits are much lower – so when you can’t work you are pushed further and further into poverty.”
Taking part in the Commission has encouraged Gemma to reframe her experiences and grown her confidence in her voice.
“Constantly explaining to people your situation, like healthcare workers or to access benefits, it leaves you feeling like a broken record. This commission has made me recognise my strength and that my experiences do matter. You can feel very lost and lonely when things are difficult, but this Commission has reminded me you can make a difference not matter what your background.”