Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has committed to the End Poverty Pledge, reinforcing its determination to support residents experiencing financial hardship and embedding poverty awareness across its leadership, culture and decision-making.

As part of its commitment, the council will:

• Adopt the Real Living Wage from April 2026 as a minimum standard, aiming to provide a more sustainable income for workers;
• review the accessibility of venues for those experiencing financial hardship, e.g. Bourne Hall;
• ensure poverty is fully considered within future council policies through Equality Impact Assessments.

The pledge was endorsed at the Council Budget Meeting on 10 February 2026, following earlier approval by the Community and Wellbeing Committee on 13 January 2026.

Councillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council said:

“As a council, we are committed to supporting all our residents, including ensuring that those facing financial pressures are not left behind. The End Poverty Pledge helps sharpen our focus on understanding the barriers some of our residents’ face and working with our partners to remove them, so that Epsom & Ewell is a place where everyone feels supported and included.

We also recognise the wellbeing of our workforce as an important part of that commitment. By adopting the Real Living Wage, we aim to help staff more reliably meet living costs, contributing to a better quality of life for those who deliver our services every day. This pledge strengthens our determination to continue delivering services and partnerships that improve residents’ lives.”

Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community & Wellbeing Committee, said:

“We know that rising costs continue to affect many individuals and families across the borough. At Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, we have a long history of supporting vulnerable residents. Our Health & Wellbeing Strategy continues to deliver a range of initiatives aimed at improving mental and emotional wellbeing, alongside community services and support for key voluntary organisations including Age Concern and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

We want every resident to feel included, and the pledge ensures that compassion, awareness and practical support remain embedded in everything we deliver for our community.”

Jonathan Lees, Founder and Managing Director, Good Company (Surrey) said:  

“Good Company started its operations in Epsom & Ewell nearly 14 years ago; sadly, there is still a real need here. It’s fantastic that the council has officially committed and signed up to work with us and other partners to address poverty in our community.”