As we continue to help local people across Wandsworth who are at the sharpest end of the cost of living crisis, we’re desperately worried about the weeks and months ahead – unless the government takes urgent action now.
We’re concerned for people like Hugh*, who phoned us this week and said: “I’ve always managed until now but I’m worried about my next electricity bill. I’m 77 and I’ve only got what I’ve got. I wondered if you might be able to help me?”
This week’s soaring inflation plus energy bills set to be unaffordable for so many, brings another wave of hardship to people on the lowest incomes: threatening to submerge individuals and families who already can’t afford essential costs.
The situation is so grave because it follows years of benefits freezes, and government policies like the two-child-benefit-limit and the benefit cap, which mean our social security system too often fails to protect people from poverty when they need it most.
Today NHS leaders are warning of a ‘humanitarian crisis’, where rising numbers of people will fall sick and see their health worsen unless the government takes further action to limit energy price rises.
Earlier in the week, leaders of 70 UK charities, including Trussell Trust, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Age UK, the Children’s Society and Macmillan Cancer Support, wrote an open letter to Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, highlighting that the current £1,200 payment to everyone on means-tested benefits only covers about half the energy price rise.
Now you can add your voice too! If you want to see change, please join us by asking your MP to call for a stronger social security system that genuinely protects us when we need it most, including urgent action to tackle the cost of living crisis.
Finally, we’re so grateful as ever to each person who is giving to support local people and families through Wandsworth Foodbank. You’re helping us provide emergency food, support and expert advice week in, week out as we welcome people to our seven food bank centres across the borough.
Thank you.
