I have written this statement taking inspiration from Alexis J. Cunningfolk.  I give thanks to the work she’s put in around this subject.

 

Class and economic justice are topics that lots of people struggle to talk about because most of us aren't educated in schools or the culture at large to talk about money, access to resources, and what class actually is. Class, of course, cannot be understood as an isolated experience, but is part of the complex interactions of race, gender, ability, privilege, sexuality, and the myriad of identities we all hold. 

 

First, if you're unfamiliar with what class is and why it matters, please visit Britain Has Class to learn more.  You can also read more about social mobility in the UK by reading The State Of The Nation 2023

 

The concessionary tickets I make available are specifically intended for women facing financial constraints. I understand that financial circumstances can vary, and we are all living through a cost of living crisis. I trust your discretion in determining your eligibility, I won't ask for any proof  but I do ask that you read this statement before buying your ticket.  Concessionary tickets are intended to benefit such individuals in circumstances below but the list is not exhaustive.

 

• I frequently stress about meeting basic needs & don’t always achieve them

• I have debt and it sometimes prohibits me from meeting my basic needs

• I rent lower-end properties or have unstable housing

• I do not have a car and/or have limited access to a car but I am not always able to afford fuel

• I am unemployed or underemployed

• I qualify for benefits

• I have no access to savings

• I have no or very limited expendable income

• I rarely buy new items because I am unable to afford them

• I cannot afford a holiday or have the ability to take time off without financial burden

 

Consider making space for someone else to benefit from a concessionary ticket if you:

 

• Own the home you live in

• Benefit from racial privilege

• Have investments, retirement accounts, or inherited money

• Travel for recreation

• Have access to family money and resources in times of need

• Work part time or are unemployed by choice, including unemployment due to full-time school in a degree earning programme

• Have a relatively high degree of earning power due to level of education. Even if you are not currently exercising your earning power, I ask you to recognise this as a choice.

 

As I navigate the intricacies of sustaining my business, I'm also committed to ensuring that my services remain inclusive and equitable for all. If you find yourself in a position to purchase a supporter's ticket, I kindly encourage you to do so. By choosing this option, you not only provide support to me, a woman living with a chronic health condition and limited earning capacity, but you also contribute to our community by facilitating the attendance of women who may have less financial access.

 

In essence, your decision to be a supporter extends beyond benefiting just me; it also signifies your commitment to giving back to our shared community.