Mini budget offers little help to those most in need

Our CEO Susan McEniff says:

“We are ready for another busy week supporting more families who are finding themselves facing hardship or crisis.
 
As a charity supporting low income families and the most vulnerable people in the communities in which we work (Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire) we were extremely disappointed by the mini budget announced late last week.
 
Whilst there are benefits for the most affluent in society, there was little support for those who need help the most. The view that giving to those with the most will filter down to benefit those with the least, completely ignores the fact that we are in an urgent cost of living crisis which is leaving people unable to feed their families or keep warm as we approach winter knowing that things are only going to get worse.

Claire’s story demonstrates the reality for thousands of families:

Claire was referred to us for help with school uniforms for her children. Claire and her partner are struggling to make ends meet with the rising cost of living. They cannot afford to purchase uniforms for their children due to the increases in the cost of utilities and basic supermarket shopping. Both are in work but after outgoings for general living expenses there is no money available with which to purchase the items the children urgently need. Thanks you your support, we were able to provide the school uniforms so the children could start the new academic year year dressed appropriately and not feeling inferior to their peers. 

Vulnerable people require help now and we hope that the Government urgently reassesses the support it provides. In the meantime our work together to ensure those in need have a decent standard of living has never been more vital. Thank you for your continued support.”