With the double whammy of the pandemic’s effect on global supply chains and the war in Ukraine continuing to push prices up across the board, I know that households across Hertsmere remain under serious pressure.
I was clear from the outset that I would be pressing my colleagues in government for comprehensive support for those struggling, especially those such as the elderly and those on low incomes who are most vulnerable to rising energy costs.
Following the Chancellor’s recent announcement, the Government has stepped in again with a package of support worth £15 billion to support all households, with more generous support for the vulnerable.
All domestic energy customers will receive a £400 grant to help with the cost of their energy bills – doubling the initial figure and removing the requirement to pay the money back in installments. This is in addition to the £150 Council Tax rebate for those in bands A-D.
Extra support will go to those who need it most, with millions of the most vulnerable households set to receive at least £1,200 of support in total this year to help with the cost of living. More than 8 million households on means tested benefits will receive a payment of £650, while all pensioner households will receive an extra £300 to help them cover the rising cost of energy this winter. People with disabilities will receive an extra £150 to help with the particular extra costs they face.
This unprecedented package of support will work alongside measures already in place to ease costs on struggling households, including the £1 billion Household Support Fund and the rise in the National Insurance Threshold – a tax cut worth £6 billion. The fuel duty cut announced earlier this year is also worth £100 per year for a typical motorist.
I will continue to listen to local residents to ensure the right support is in place to tackle the cost of living and protect the most vulnerable. Please do as always reach out to me at [email protected]