AN INCREASED number of distressed Frome area residents are turning to the Citizen Advice Bureau with financial fears during the current cost of living crisis.
Frome has a relatively low unemployment rate, and a high number of sole traders working zero contract hours.
Many families in the region are feeling the squeeze, and inadvertently suffering a reduction of earnings; as a result of the recession and the continuing hike in fuel and energy bills.
Mendip CAB revealed around 35 per cent of their clients are from five wards within Frome – with many people calling them in tears.
The economic down-turn has also led to increased food prices and a rise in inflation – which is affecting residents in most socio-economic brackets.
Iona, from Mendip CAB said, “It is desperate, it is a really worrying time for people.
“The main thing is income maximisation at the moment, having enough money to cover the bills and live on. We are having people on the phone in tears a lot – many are scared. We are also dealing with a higher number of issues, as people have more than one matter of concern.
“There are nearly 600 residents from Frome with more than 2,000 issues, including housing rights advice, debt advice and benefits advice – this system is increasingly complex. Council tax arrears is the biggest problem.”
In Somerset there is currently a discrepancy in the Council Tax Benefit, with South Somerset granting 100 per cent relief and Mendip District Council granting 80 per cent relief – it has been raised for this to also become 100 per cent.
Iona added’ “I have been able to assure clients there is list of help available, with more coming – there are rays of hope out there.”
Foodbank referrals are said to also be dealing with underlying issues, as well as the crisis energy top ups.
The CAB is looking to extend their availability by bringing in additional kiosks/ access points, taking on more staff to close the gap on unanswered calls, and extending their advice hours.
Frome Town Council said it is looking to Government to alleviate the worst impact of the rising costs, and it is likely new local innovations and greater local coordination might assist and it should explore the options open to them.
Residents have access to the Winter Fuel payment and Household Support Fund.
On a national scale, Government have announced:
• A £650 one off payment for all residents on benefits (to be paid in two halves)
• A £400 energy grant to all households (non-repayable)
• A £150 Council Tax rebate for all houses bands D to A
• A £300 Pensioner cost of living payment
• A £150 Disability payment
