Better Lives in Powys

Through Mel’s role as Local Community Organiser, a group of local people has come together to take action on the issues affecting their lives. They named themselves Better Lives in Powys (BLIP)—reflecting their shared vision for a fairer future.

BLIP is a people-led organising and campaigning team, building power in communities across Powys by developing local leaders and taking action on the issues that affect them.

The group is currently campaigning against the 104-week waiting time policy, introduced on 1st July 2025. Long waits for treatment across the border are causing real hardship and unnecessary pain for people in Powys—and BLIP is working to challenge this.

A community survey is now underway to gather experiences from those affected, ensuring that local voices and lived experience are at the heart of the campaign.

BLIP members have met with Adrian Osborne, Deputy Director at Powys Teaching Health Board (PTHB), and submitted questions to the PTHB Annual Meeting. While some earlier questions were answered after a recent PTHB drop-in event, further questions remain—and responses are still awaited.

This campaign highlights the power of people coming together to be heard and create change in their community.

Find out more, get involved, or share your experience at: www.betterlivesinpowys.co.uk