This month, BBC Radio 4’s Lent series confronts the uncomfortable realities of power and powerlessness, shining a light on Wigan’s own The Brick, a charity at the heart of our community, supporting people facing homelessness and poverty.
Tune in on 22 February to hear real stories from Wigan and Leigh, stories that challenge us to examine how power is wielded, abused, and withheld, and how inequality is perpetuated by our assumptions and judgements.
Keely Dalfen, CEO of The Brick, shares a personal journey and lessons learned from working alongside local people who have experienced tough times. The programme asks us to step back from our own power, to relinquish judgement, to listen without conditions, and to restore dignity for those who are too often defined by their circumstances.
This episode, inspired by George Orwell’s ‘The Road to Wigan Pier’, encourages us to see people for who they really are, not just as labels or headlines. It reminds us that anyone can go through tough times, and that unfair use of power, whether by organisations or individuals, can make things worse for others. The programme asks us to show kindness to everyone, no matter what, and to treat people with respect by letting go of our own assumptions and the way we talk about others.
Keely Dalfen said: “Power doesn’t only belong to institutions or systems. It lives in our assumptions, our language, and our confidence in explaining other people’s lives. This programme is an invitation to step back from that power, and to listen.”
The need in Wigan and Leigh is greater than ever. If you believe in a community where everyone has a place to call home and a chance to rebuild, please consider donating today. Your support helps provide emergency accommodation, food, and long-term support for local people in crisis.
Listen to The Brick’s story on BBC Radio 4 on 22 February and the 28 February or catch up on BBC Sounds. Join us in making a difference, by relinquishing judgement, and embracing compassion without conditions.
