The St Vincent de Paul Society welcomes the appointment of new Prime Minister Liz Truss, and we hope that her government will tackle the cost-of-living challenges such as the rising food and fuel bills, high inflation and interest rates, that are impacting on millions of household around the country.
This year the number of people requesting support from the SVP has doubled in comparison to last year, and with the cost-of-living crisis set to squeeze household budgets still further as winter approaches, we know this number will continue to rise. Additionally, the number of people accessing SVP’s other services such as food banks, kindness kitchens and debt advice has also seen a marked rise.
We would urge the government to work with us and other faith-based community organisations on plans to build stronger community support networks to ensure that families and the most vulnerable are protected and are able to economically navigate the coming months.
SVP National President Helen O’Shea (pictured) says: “Every day our members working in communities and our staff in our St Vincent’s centres and shops across England and Wales see the effects of the cost of living crisis on families and individuals.
“Through their compassion and kindness, our members, are working tirelessly to help those facing poverty in all its various guises, but it is only legislation built on equality, fairness and inclusion which will provide long-term solutions to the current squeeze on household incomes.”
She continues: “Until the government addresses the reality of the cost-of-living crisis for millions struggling to cope financially and mentally, the number of people falling into the vicious circle of poverty will continue to rise.”