DREW HENDRY: Do not struggle alone – money help is out there
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Time and again, we hear these hollow words from Westminster: “There’s no magic money tree”. And then there’s the millionaire Prime Minister’s favourite: “We are in this together.”
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People struggling to balance their household budgets don’t need to be patronised about “magic money trees.” Much like those who can’t afford to put food on their table don’t feel “in this together” with an out-of-touch millionaire who seems more interested in lining the pockets of his buddies.
The Autumn Statement provided a perfect opportunity for the Chancellor to outline the government’s plan to address the damaging cost-of-living crisis.
Especially following the damning report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation that in 2022, 3.8 million people in the UK, including a million children, couldn’t meet their most basic needs. A figure we know will have increased in 2023, meaning the crisis is deepening in our communities.
Yet, instead of measures that will actually help families, it was more fluff and spin by a government more interested in culture-war politics than in helping hard-pushed families.
With every day that passes, an increasing number of people are battling to keep a roof over their heads and the lights on, not to mention putting food on the table.
The cold weather is starting to bite and, in turn, so are our energy bills.
Off-grid households are further penalised because of the lack of parity around regulation and other fuel sources continue to rise in costs.
None of this is easy for anyone – least of all those who rely on their pensions or small incomes.
It terrifies me just how many of them are struggling in silence.
This is a subject I find myself writing about repeatedly, and there’s a stark reason for this: so many people here in our communities are suffering badly. I am so thankful that some of those struggling the most find the courage to contact me, local Citizens Advice Bureau teams, or charities. However, I also know many people out there – perhaps even you reading this – are struggling alone, without help.
If that is the case, know I am here to help. You can book a call or meeting with me or find the support you need on my website at www.drewhendrymp.scot or get in touch with one of the many local charities out there offering support.
One thing we can always be proud of is the humanity and compassion at the heart of our communities.
