A NEW forum will be launched next week in a bid to tackle poverty throughout Warrington.

The Warrington Anti-Poverty and Social Inclusion Forum will act as a lobbying group, watchdog and research and information body, as well as providing training awareness.

It aims to help individuals, families and groups of people whose limited material, cultural and social resources exclude them from the minimum acceptable way of life in their community.

The group will hold its first annual general meeting at the Town Hall next week, where community groups will get the chance to air their views.

Issues raised will then be taken up by the Policy Action Committee, which will work to tackle regeneration, work and employment, lifelong learning, housing and well-being, benefits and advice services.

Clr Chris Fitzimmons, chairman of the Social Inclusion Committee, said: "By letting people have their say and taking action on those views, we are helping ensure all the people of Warrington enjoy the benefits of Warrington's growth."

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