ROTHER District councillor Sam Coleman has voiced his concerns over the cost of living crisis which is leaving many families struggling to pay their bills.
Labour councillor Mr Coleman, who represents the Bexhill Sidley ward, says much more support is needed for those who are finding it difficult to make ends meet.
He said: “I became a councillor at the age of 22 because I saw the rapidly increasing poverty in my community.
“With 13 years of austerity, low growth and lack of well paid jobs locally, many have been struggling financially for some time now.
“Inflation, Brexit pressures and the cost of living crisis have only added to that. Not just for those out of work, but for many in full-time employment and the self-employed too.
Recent data from the Child Poverty Action Group suggests that three out of ten children in Rother are living in poverty.
Mr Coleman wants to see action to combat poverty being implemented as soon as possible.
He added: “At Rother District Council we have been looking at how we can better support those on low income and those living in poverty.
“We have implemented an anti-poverty strategy with local strategic partners, adding the socio-economic duty into our policy procedures. We are also consulting on removing the cap on the council tax reduction scheme.
“I have been extremely proud to lead on many of these initiatives. However, they are by no means a solution to the problem.
“Rother, like most local authorities, face huge financial challenges. For example, the cost of temporary accommodation used to house the homeless has skyrocketed in recent months and we have had to look at unpalatable cuts to keep our core services afloat.
“We desperately need central government to act on the cost of living crisis. This winter many families will be finding it tougher than ever before to enjoy the Christmas season.
“Despite the best efforts of councils, charities and good Samaritans I fear that without government intervention, people will yet again have to choose between heating and eating.
“In a country as wealthy as ours, no child should go hungry nor should any pensioner freeze.
“If you or anyone you know is struggling over Christmas please reach out to local charities like Citizens’ Advice, Warming Up the Homeless or your local foodbank as well as your local councillors because there is help out there.”
