Iain Duncan Smith

A few weeks ago I met with Iain Duncan Smith, former leader of the Conservative Party, and now Chair of the Centre for Social Justice. I am pictured here in his office at the House of Commons alongside Phillipa Stroud, Executive Director of the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ)

Iain had a pretty rough ride as Tory Leader, and yet has now found a role as Chair of CSJ and a real champion for grassroots organisations making a real difference in alleviating poverty and injustice. I spent an hour with him, and briefed him on how Church Army was making a real difference in communities up and down the land. But above all, I was deeply impressed by the fire and passion in his soul, to make the lives of the poorest people better. His committment to better social housing, more early intervention, better support of parents, and creative ways to deal with crime have really impressed me. Even more so, as I am a Member of the Labour Party!

I had the privilege of attending the Centre for Social Justice Awards the other evening, and met some amazing people doing incredible things. Interestingly, the word that was embalazened across the front of the stage was the word "HOPE".