Cost of living as we approach Christmas

BY JAMES SUNDERLAND MP BRACKNELL, CROWTHORNE, FINCHAMPSTEAD, SANDHURST & WOKINGHAM WITHOUT

‘Christmas is a joyous time for many, but it can also be challenging for those struggling to make ends meet or for people living on their own. As your MP, I am acutely conscious that prices have risen since the pandemic, mainly due to the global supply chain pressures that all countries are experiencing. Inflation is thankfully now falling due to the Government’s fiscal policies, and we are seeing cheaper energy prices at home and at the pump. There however no time to be complacent.

No Government can regulate every aspect of people’s lives, but support is available to those who most need it. Millions of households are set to receive £300 from DWP between 31 October - 19 November 2023. This is the second of three cost of living payments totalling up to £900 for supporting eligible people on means-tested bene- fits, which make up part of the Government’s record financial support for the most vulnerable, worth an average of £3,300 per household. A payment of £650 was also paid to households on means-tested benefits in instalments in the previous year 2022/23. Tax credits-only customers who do not qualify for a payment from DWP will receive £300 from HMRC between 10 - 19 November 2023. 9,000 households are eligible for the means-tested payment in Bracknell Forest and my heart goes out to those who are still struggling. In addition, a bespoke cost of living payment of £150 was made in 2022/23 and a second payment will be made in 2023/24 to help with extra costs for individuals on disability benefits. This is in addition to the £650 and £900 cost of living payments for disabled people who receive means-tested benefits. Two cost of living payments of

£300 for pensioners are also offered as an automatic top-up to the Winter Fuel Allowance, the first in 2022/23 and the second payment in Autumn 2023. Previously, the Government had provided a non-repayable £150 cash rebate for homes in Council Tax bands A-D (equivalent to 80 per cent of all households) and £144 million of discretionary funding for local authorities to support those not eligible for the council tax rebate. Accordingly, all households would receive £550, with lower-income families receiving even more help. This comes in addition to the £400 Energy Bill Support Scheme, which will support millions of people through a difficult winter and hopefully supplement the benefits of the Energy Price Cap guarantee.

Sadly, it is not possible for any Government to provide the totality of support needed and there is much more to do, but I continue to lobby hard in Westminster to get the best deal for everyone in Bracknell Constituency, which remains a great place to work and live. I would also urge anyone who needs specific support to contact either Bracknell Forest Council or my office. Best wishes to all’.