Council pledges support and help for Oldhamers as households head towards a difficult winter

Oldham Council Leader Arooj Shah

A range of help and support is being offered to Oldhamers, as many households face the prospect of a difficult winter ahead. 

A combination of the rising costs of basic goods, energy price increases and the £20 a week uplift to Universal Credit ending, means that many people will be facing additional pressures on household finances. 

Oldham Council Leader Arooj Shah said: “I am deeply concerned about the challenges many Oldhamers, particularly our most vulnerable families, will face this winter.  

“The additional hardships caused by the Coronavirus pandemic are not behind us, and now with the Universal Credit uplift ending, rising inflation and increasing energy prices, we know people need our help more than ever.   

“That’s why I’m calling on the Government to keep the uplift to Universal Credit. 

"The UK has the fifth biggest economy in the world – so it's a national disgrace that we have so many living on so little.  

“As Leader, I am determined people in our borough are not limited by who they are, where they come from, or where they live. 

"This council will work toward preventing people from falling into poverty, intervene if they do fall into poverty and give them the support they need to stay out of poverty.”  

If you, or someone you know, is struggling now please visit the Oldham Council website or call the helpline.

Officers may be able to help with your energy bills and heat your home, offer support in dealing with emergencies, and advise on the range of benefits you may be entitled to. 

Help is available online here 

Call the helpline on 0161 770 7007 (9am – 5pm on weekdays).

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