I understand anxiety over rising prices and inflation, and I want to assure you that the Government will continue to listen and ensure that the policies in place do help those who need it most. I have made my ministerial colleagues aware of my constituents' concerns and I strongly welcome the range of measures put in place, including the new three-part plan to help households with their energy bills during this challenging period. Several external factors have driven inflationary pressures, including shortages created by the restart of the global economy and global energy price spikes brought on by the inability of supply to keep up with demand. This has been particularly acute when it comes to the price of wholesale gas.
A rise in the National Living Wage will mean an extra £1,000 in the pockets of millions of people. The Government has also cut the Universal Credit taper rate and increased work allowances - which represent an effective tax cut for low-income working households in receipt of UC worth £2.2 billion in 2022-23. Furthermore, broad changes to the tax system are benefitting 31 million workers and mean that the first £12,500 a person earns will be completely tax-free and money has been made available to councils to distribute as hardship funds. I will be working with my Parliamentary colleagues to ensure the Government continues to help ordinary households up and down the country as our economy continues to recover from the shock of Coronavirus.
We have also announced £125 million in extra support for councils to provide shelters, refuge, and support services to help victims of domestic abuse and their children. Home is not the safe place it should be for domestic abuse victims and their families - we are determined to support councils in delivering the vital services that keep victims safe. Councils across England will receive a share of this extra £125 million to fund safe accommodation, including refuges and shelters, for victims of domestic abuse. It will provide support services including health and social care, benefits, interpreters, immigration advice, and drug or alcohol support. We will also revise rules on joint tenancies and Local Connections tests to make it easier for victims of domestic abuse to escape their abusers. This support will give victims of domestic abuse and their children across the country the practical and emotional support to recover and rebuild their lives from this terrible crime.
As always if there is an issue that I can help you with then do not hesitate to get in touch with me via [email protected], and please keep an eye on my social media page Facebook.com/TheRightMannforNorthCornwall for all my latest updates.
