WOKINGHAM Borough Council is calling on residents affected by the cost-of-living crisis to seek help.
More than 95% of repsondents to a recent survey said they are still worried about how they will afford things, despite cutting back on energy use, switching to cheaper food options, and reducing the amount of leisure activities they take part in.
The council says the majority of people responding were highly concerned about their finances, with many borrowing from friends and family, others using credit or store cards, and others using overdrafts and loans to stay afloat.
The research was conducted by the Hardship Alliance, a partnership between the council, charities and other organisations working to help people affected by poverty in Wokingham.
Responses included:
“Worrying about money more than we did sometimes causes me sleepless nights”.
“We are living pay cheque to pay cheque. We’ve cut back everywhere we think we can. We worry as we are professionals with a reasonable income and yet struggling.”
“I’ve fallen into debt with my energy supplier, I only go shopping for food for my children, I try to eat a little as possible so they are taken care of”.
“Wages aren’t increasing and all the bills are so, so much. I’m worried about becoming homeless.”
“Financially we are okay, but are having to support family members who cannot afford to eat or pay their bills so therefore it is having an impact on us.”
“Turned the heating completely off. No social life at all. No clothes or haircuts since last May.”
“Life has no enjoyment and there is fear for the future and the possibility of being forced to sell my home.”
“Spoiling my retirement. Can’t afford activities or fun after bills paid.”
“We are cold in our home, cannot afford to do activities that we liked, we have sold our cycles to pay for food, we seem to work hard for not much any more.”
“I’m scared watching my smart meter every time I do a load of washing or cook dinner.”
More than half of people who have responded said they had not looked for help, despite struggling to make ends meet.
Amy Garstang, chair of the alliance and manager at Wokingham United Charities, said: “The impact of the cost-of-living crisis is heartbreaking and continues to leave many unable to pay for the essentials.
“Support is available, but many are choosing to struggle in silence rather than come forward for help – don’t. The Household Support Fund and One Front Door are open for anyone who is struggling.”
And Cllr Rachel Bishop-Firth, executive member for equalities, inclusion and fighting poverty at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “We may be into the warmer months now but the impacts of inflation and cost of living crisis on our communities is still huge.
“Many are seeing mortgages or rents go up more quickly than wages, leaving them with less despite savvy shopping and giving up hobbies or social activities.
“Grants are available to help with essentials and partners across the community and voluntary sector can help. Reach out today if the struggle is becoming too much.”
Anyone who is struggling can get support in form of a £100 voucher. Those helped do not need to be in receipt of benefits, and the fund is for food, energy, bills and other essentials.
Funding is from a £1million Government fund allocated to help Wokingham Borough residents in 2023/24.
To apply, call Citizens Advice Wokingham One Front Door on 0808 278 7958, or via its website.
Call Age UK Berkshire on (0118) 959 4242, or contact First Days Children’s Charity, which is providing support for families where children receive means-tested free school meals.
This is £15 per week, per eligible child, during the school holidays. Anyone who received this support from First Days since October last year does not need to apply again.
Anyone who needs other help or support can contact the Citizens Advice Wokingham One Front Door
This includes support for welfare benefits, debt, housing, employment law among other areas or helping you to access services.
Residents can use the online referral form or call 0808 278 7958, Monday to Friday.
