Renfrewshire councillors will hear directly from local community groups next week at a round-table discussion on the impact the cost of living is having on local people.
Chaired by Depute Leader Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, community groups and third sector organisations will meet with elected members to discuss the ongoing cost of living crisis. Talks will take place on what impact the costs of living is having on the lives of families and individuals across the area and will inform the council’s plans on working with local groups and how they will work together to support people now and in the future.
The council’s Fairer Renfrewshire committee, which has responsibility for matters on cost of living, social renewal and tackling poverty and is convened by Councillor Cameron, was set up to ensure no-one in Renfrewshire is left behind.
Councillor Cameron said: “As local councillors, we’re all aware of the worry rising costs are causing people. Hearing the voices of our community groups as well who work on the ground in their own communities is incredibly important. Their insights will help us ensure we can provide the right resources and support that will help them do what they do best.
“During the pandemic, community groups really showed how valuable they are in supporting their communities due to their unique insight and agility, meaning that support could be delivered in the best way for the people living in that area. What we as a council need to do is ensure we maximise that support, pool our resources and all work together to help people impacted by the cost of living.
“Bringing community groups, third sector organisations and members of the committee together means we can hear from a wide range of people and create an up-to-date picture of how the cost-of-living situation is impacting communities and enable us to make informed decisions as a council.”
The committee met for the first time in August and will meet again at the end of October, where members will hear the feedback from the round-table discussions as well as any recommendations that come out of it.
The council have also put in additional funding to Renfrewshire Citizen’s Advice Bureau to ensure that more people can seek advice on their financial situation.
Councillor Cameron added: “If you are struggling to pay bills or are worried about your money, please get in touch with advice services as soon as you can. The earlier you get help, the better it is for your finances as well as your peace of mind.”
For advice and support, people can contact Renfrewshire Citizen’s Advice Bureau on 0141 889 2121 and the council’s advice works team on adviceworks@renfrewshire.gov.uk or 0300 300 1238. For advice on energy bills, contact the council’s energy advocacy team on emu@renfrewshire.gov.uk or 0300 300 0300.
For more information on cost-of-living support available locally, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/cost-of-living