Hope at No. 10: A Moment That Reminded Me Why We Do This Work

On December 18, 2025, I stepped through the iconic black door of No. 10 Downing Street, carrying more than just a diary appointment. I brought with me hope, memories, and the quiet weight of every family whose story has intertwined with the mission we pursue at Changing Realities.

This day will forever be etched in my mind—not just because we were welcomed into the heart of government, but because of what that welcome truly represented.

Inside No. 10, I watched my little son engage with the Prime Minister. In that moment, it felt like time stood still. His small voice, filled with confidence and clarity, echoed in a room where decisions are made that impact millions of lives. As a mother, my heart swelled with pride. But as an advocate, I felt something even deeper: a reassuring reminder that this country still has space for compassion, that the United Kingdom continues to believe that its children—especially those born into challenging circumstances—deserve dignity, opportunity, and a bright future.

For many families grappling with poverty, power often seems far away and out of reach. Doors feel shut before they’re even knocked on. Yet that day, those doors swung open—not just for us, but symbolically for the communities we stand for. Watching my son interact with the Prime Minister reminded me that the voices we uplift through Changing Realities truly matter. They aren’t just abstract numbers or policy footnotes; they are real, vibrant children whose potential deserves safeguarding.

The Prime Minister’s words during our visit were both grounding and inspiring. He spoke about the child poverty strategy and the commitment that, through this work, over half a million children will be lifted out of poverty. Half a million futures redirected. Half a million childhoods given the space to grow, learn, and dream. Many of those children we may never meet. We might never know their names or hear their stories firsthand. Yet, our work—our relentless advocacy, our determination to challenge inequality—will help shape a better future for them.

That’s a heavy responsibility we carry. But it’s also a moment to take pride in what we do. At Changing Realities, we often work behind the scenes, quietly and steadily, away from the limelight. We listen when others are overlooked, and we speak up when it would be easier to stay silent. We challenge systems that have never considered the needs of the most vulnerable. So, to hear an acknowledgment at the heart of government that our work truly matters—that it’s recognised, valued, and influencing real policy—was incredibly affirming.

My visit to No. 10 wasn’t about seeking applause or ceremony. It was about finding common ground. It was about realising that what we advocate for not only makes sense but is also being put into action. The real-life experiences we bring to the table are shaping strategies that can change lives. Hope isn’t just a vague feeling; it’s a tangible, actionable force.

As I walked away from Downing Street that day, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. I felt hopeful—not just for my son, but for every child whose opportunities have been unfairly limited by their circumstances. Hopeful that this country can still come together around the belief that poverty isn’t a personal failure, but a collective challenge we can tackle together.

This is a moment for reflection. A reminder that our efforts are meaningful. Even when progress seems slow, it’s happening. We are being listened to. We are being taken seriously. And most importantly, lives are being transformed.

Let’s hold on to that truth. Let’s look ourselves in the mirror tomorrow, as the Prime Minister encouraged, and feel proud. Proud of the courage it takes to keep pushing forward. Proud of the impact we’re making—both seen and unseen. Proud to know that through our work, hope isn’t just felt in places like No. 10, but is carried into homes, schools, and futures all across the United Kingdom.

We are seen. We are heard. And together, we’re helping to create a fairer country for our children.

Photo: Jonathan Cole