Partying to fight climate poverty

Campaigning to end extreme poverty doesn't have to be about writing letters to your MP, or going on demonstrations in the pouring rain. In fact, unusual as it might sound, it is possible to help change the world for the better simply by getting your mates around to watch a film.

That's exactly what Oxfam supporters around the country did last weekend when they got together on 25 November to put on film parties to help themselves, their friends and their families learn about how climate change is already having an impact on poor people.

Around the country, from Bridgend to the Hebrides, Oxfam supporters hosted parties, sat down with their friends, tucked into some hearty wintry grub, and watched films, like An Inconvenient Truth, about climate change.

Almost 180 parties went on. Author, journalist and environmental activist Mark Lynas, and ethical correspondent and environmental campaigner Lucy Siegle kindly agreed to help out with the parties by taking part in a giant phone and web conference on the night.

Dialing in over the phone and taking part in the parties from the comfort of his living room, Mr Lynas explained how unpredictable weather events - like longer droughts, more frequent floods, and more intense hurricanes - are already having a huge impact on the world's poorest people. And reminded us why it's vital both individuals and politicians play their part and act now. If you missed out listening to Marc Lynas and Lucy Siegle on the night, you can listen again online.

The parties were put on as there's a mere couple of weeks left before crucial United Nations climate change talks in Bali. World leaders must take action to avert a climate catastrophe at the Bali conference, and put the needs of the world's poorest people at the heart of the talks.

A massive thanks to everyone who took part and hosted a party. Your photos can be posted to our Oxfam Flickr or Film Parties Facebook Group, or emailed to active@oxfam.org.uk.

If you weren't able to host your own film party, you can still demand the UK Government play their part by taking our online action, or check out our Oxfam International blog for the latest updates live from Bali when the conference starts on 3 December.