How Kent is dealing with the cost of living increase

Kent County Council (KCC) has been given extra funding by the government to extend the Household Support Fund to help low-income families struggling financially.

The Chancellor has announced local authorities being given further £500 million in household support fund which will help with the cost of essentials like food, clothing, and utilities.

The cost of living has seen an increase since 2021, with global uncertainty and the Ukraine crisis being huge factors.

In January 2022 the UK had the highest level of inflation, with the Consumer Prices Index measured by the CPI increasing by 5.5% which is the highest it has been since 1992.

By February 2022 the CPI had risen by 6.2% increasing the cost of household bills, food, motor fuels, and much more.

With bills increasing, a lot of people are looking to the government for support.

Kent families who were struggling with their income are also been given a one-off payment to help cover their water and fuels bills which includes 4000 households by the KCC.

Kent County Council Leader Roger Gough said “Shockwaves from the Ukrainian conflict are also creating new financial challenges and contributing to the cost of living crisis, so the Chancellor’s announcement today extending the Household Support Fund to help those struggling financially is a very welcome vital lifeline.”

The KCC launched a helpline called Kent Together, for vulnerable people who need urgent supplies and medication.

“No one should struggle to provide for themselves or their family. We will continue to do what we can to help and I would urge anyone who feels they are in need of support to get in touch with our Kent Together helpline.”

If you’re struggling because of the impacts of COVID-19 or for other reasons. Different people will be facing different sorts of challenges and Kent Together is here to help you find the support that’s right for you.

If you need help or know someone needing support, call Kent Together on 03000 41 92 92