Leader statement on cost of living crisis

The Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Mohammed Khan, has responded to the Government’s announcement today (February 3rd) that it will provide support to tackle the worsening cost of living crisis.

He said:

The cost of living crisis is one of the most serious issues facing the country right now, with many residents in our borough grappling with an impossible choice between eating or heating, as fuel and food bills soar.

Any announcement to address these issues and provide government support is welcome but I would have serious concerns over a scheme that takes money off utility bills this year only to add it back on later, adding pressure on households for years to come.

And while giving a one-off payment of £150 to residents in council tax bands A-D helps, it does little to deal with the increasing cost of living more generally, whether that is utilities, the cost of food or the cost of fuel.

Above all, we need permanent solutions to the problem not just temporary ‘sticking plasters’. In Blackburn with Darwen the Household Support Scheme support is available now for the most financially vulnerable people in our communities to access food, support with utility bills and other essentials to keep them warm and fed.

A total of £797,080 has been issued to partners to help provide the support and our aim is that, by everyone working together, we can get as many people as possible the help they need at such a crucial time.

And while this is a great scheme, it is paid for by one-off grant funding from Government. I would urge the Government to consider what actions it can take to provide long terms solutions to the cost of living crisis.