Hannah Blythyn, Member of the Senedd for Delyn, has echoed the calls of the Welsh Government for the UK Government to take steps to help tackle the cost-of-living crisis which is impacting households across the United Kingdom.

Figures released this week showed that almost 200,000 households in Wales are living in poverty, with a further 153,000 at risk of falling into poverty, back in October 2021. This shows the seriousness of the cost-of-living crisis and the impact of poverty on households, before energy and fuel prices reached a 30 year high earlier this year.

The Welsh Government has been taking steps to mitigate the impact on households across Wales – from a cost-of-living payment of £150 to all properties in Council Tax Bands A-D and a Winter Fuel Support Scheme, to expanding the Discretionary Assistance Fund, making over £350 million available to support individuals and families.

Estimates suggest that the number of households in poverty could triple following the lifting of the price cap in April, with over 100,000 households in severe fuel poverty.

Commenting on the figures, Ms Blythyn said:

“It isn’t too late for the UK Government to act and make real changes to help people now. Whether that’s reducing energy costs by removing additional costs on bills or increasing the support available through rebates and Universal Credit – there are decisions which can still be made.

 

The UK Government have the powers and levers at their disposal to not just introduce caps and reduce taxes, but also to ensure that the market responds fairly to the global pressures we are all facing. North Wales is the hardest hit region in the UK.

 

Here in our corner of the country I know that many households are being hugely impacted by the sudden rise in the cost of domestic heating oil, as well as the difficulty in obtaining supplies. The UK Government must engage with the market to ensure that customers right across the UK are being treated fairly.”

The Welsh Government is in contact with the UK Government about the pressures on households here in Wales and Ms Blythyn has been raising the concerns of constituents to ensure their voices are being heard.

Anyone struggling with their finances in encouraged to contact Ms Blythyn on 01352762102 or at Hannah.Blythyn@senedd.wales for advice on the support available.