I have been out and about across Reigate, Redhill, Banstead and our villages, listening to people and businesses and their concerns about the challenges they face. Although inflation has fallen, the cost of living remains a huge source of concern for many people.
The economic impact of the pandemic and Russia’s illegal and unjustified invasion of Ukraine has fuelled inflation and the cost of energy around the world. No one and no country is immune. The previous Government took unprecedented measures to support households and businesses, especially with energy bills and through direct cost of living payments. However, so many of you have shared with me how concerned you remain about high prices and rising costs.
My team and I are helping constituents every day with their individual challenges and we will continue to do so throughout these exceptionally difficult times. To help signpost people to specific points of contact we have also created this online 'cost of living support hub'.
From welfare benefits, like universal credit, to where to get help with gas and electricity bills, the hub also includes information on help with council tax, housing costs, how to access food banks and Government support schemes as well as how to contact voluntary organisations working across the area.
It also includes certain specialist financial advisory organisations who have the regulatory authority to provide individual financial or legal advice.
This Cost of Living Help Hub has links to information from the UK Government, Surrey County Council and Reigate and Banstead Borough Council along with other agencies and charities who may be able to provide assistance.
As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at [email protected] or [email protected] if you need any further advice.