Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Warm Homes, Green Travel, Safe Climate 

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM presenter Rose met with Scott Herrett of Friends of the Earth Scotland, exploring the links between the environment, climate justice, and tackling poverty.  

Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Better Investment in Our Communities 

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, shmuFM volunteer Aron interviewed our very own Dave Black, Community Development Manager at shmu.  Themes covered included the need for increased and sustained investment in the community and third sector, the importance of investing in volunteer support, and how more power and resources can be transferred to communities.  

Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Better Investment in Life's Essentials

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM volunteer Alan Parker interviewed Iona Rennie and Davy MacIver from Shelter Scotland, to discuss the theme of better investment in life's essentials, with a particular focus on housing and homelessness.  

Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Fair work

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM volunteer Steph interviewed the President of Aberdeen Trades Union Council on the topic of Fair Work.  The discussion covered issues such as the role of trade unions in improving the situation for working people, and what more can be done to tackle in-work poverty.  

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM volunteers Dave and Rachel interviewed the ever-inspiring and passionate Fiona Young, Development Worker at Tillydrone Flat.  We explored the theme of social security, how individuals and communities are being impacted by the current benefits systems, and what changes are needed locally and nationally to change things for the better.

In this episode of shmu In Focus, we examine the critical link between poverty and health inequalities. Poverty has a profound impact on physical and mental health, often limiting access to healthcare, nutritious food, and safe living conditions. Those living in poverty are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses, face shorter life expectancies, and encounter barriers to mental health support.Through powerful interviews, expert analysis, and real-life stories, Shmu In Focus explores how poverty drives health disparities and what can be done to address them. Join us as we shine a light on the fight for a fairer, healthier society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their income or background.

In this episode of shmu In Focus, we examine the critical link between poverty and health inequalities. Poverty has a profound impact on physical and mental health, often limiting access to healthcare, nutritious food, and safe living conditions. Those living in poverty are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses, face shorter life expectancies, and encounter barriers to mental health support.Through powerful interviews, expert analysis, and real-life stories, Shmu In Focus explores how poverty drives health disparities and what can be done to address them. Join us as we shine a light on the fight for a fairer, healthier society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their income or background.

In this episode of shmu In Focus, we delve into the strong link between poverty and the stigma that often accompanies it. Host Mike sits down with Sarah Campbell, Head of Participation and Advocacy at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Project Lead for the Poverty and Stigma Design Team, along with Steve Arnott from Beats Bus, a mobile project that brings music, art, and dance to young people in Northern England. Beats Bus also runs a mentorship program for those aged 8-25, offering creative outlets and guidance.Poverty is not just about financial difficulties—it brings a host of social, emotional, and psychological challenges. Those struggling with poverty often face societal judgment and isolation, making it even more difficult to access help and support.As part of The Poverty Alliance’s Challenge Poverty Week, we are advocating for a fair and just society. In this episode, hear real stories from individuals affected by poverty, as we break down the stereotypes and misconceptions that fuel stigma. Through interviews, expert insights, and community voices, shmu In Focus highlights efforts to challenge stigma, promote understanding, and inspire change.

This shmu IN FOCUS episode for The Poverty Alliance's Challenge Poverty Week explores the experiences of unpaid carers. We highlight the vital role these individuals play in supporting family members, friends, or loved ones who require assistance due to age, disability, or illness, often without financial compensation. The episode delves into the emotional, physical, and financial pressures that unpaid carers face, particularly how their roles can lead to financial instability and poverty. Through interviews with carers and experts, the program sheds light on the societal and economic value of unpaid care, as well as the urgent need for better support and recognition. The episode encourages viewers to reflect on the invisible challenges faced by these carers and the importance of policy reforms to alleviate their burdens.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicide and mental health. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please contact Samaritans Scotland at 116 123.

Join us for a special episode of shmu IN FOCUS in recognition of Suicide Prevention Week. We're shining a light on the importance of men's mental health awareness and suicide prevention, featuring guests from Men In Mind, Aberdeen FC Community Trust, Suicide Prevention - North East Scotland, and SAMH. Together, we aim to #ChangeTheNarrative and encourage open conversations around mental health.