Newcastle council has unveiled a package of measures and initiatives to help address the cost-of-living crisis which is impacting on the lives of thousands of residents. The council is one of the first local authorities in the region to launch a seven-day dedicated hotline to offer advice and support to its 280.000 residents and has produced a booklet titled ‘Cost of Living Support for Newcastle’ which summarises the range of help available from both statutory and voluntary bodies.
The measures, the council says, are ”focused on immediate action”.
The city wide package includes:
- An outreach team to assist vulnerable residents struggling with rising fuel, food and rent costs to help the access relevant services;
- A network of ”winter well being spaces” including libraries and community centres where people can go to keep warm while being able to use free wi-fi, learn new skills and take part in activities like cookery classes. In Kenton the Children and Family Newcastle North Hub have set up a ”Family Warm Space’ in The Haven, Mountfield School to provide an afternoon warm space as winter sets in. The centre will provide a warm space for families where youngsters can enjoy crafts, arts and games. The facility is open every Tuesday – 3,30 to 6,00pm.
- Supporting the Food Newcastle Network in providing residents with food parcels seven day a week. The Kenton Food Bank is providing food parcels for up to 80 families a week.
- Opening access to meals on wheels.
Further support
The Council has secured a further £2.89m from the UK Government’s Household Support Fund to cover the period October 2022 to March 31 2023. The planned spend is:
- £1.25m Free School Vouchers during all the half -terms and Winter holidays giving 17,000. city children a daily lunch. The Holiday Activity Fund is funding a range of community projects where youngsters can access ”fun and exiting activities”. Last summer Kenton Park Sports Centre played a major role and is expected to participate in future schemes.
- £1.3m Cost of Living ‘top up payments’;
- £200k in Crisis payments – £200 one-of payment for those deemed to be in ”sever need’. Up to 23 agencies across the city will act as the first point of contact and will help with referrals and paperwork.
- £150k for local cost of living schemes or to top up Discretionary Housing Payments.
Dealing with the Cost of living crisis remains the top priority for the council.
For help and advice call the Council’s seven day a week free hotline: 0800 170 7001.
