Sykes: Councils need more support from Government or families will break apart and more people will die

Cllr Howard Sykes

Councillor Howard Sykes, Leader of the Liberal Democrats and Opposition Leader on Oldham Council, has called on the Government to stick to its promise to help families and Councils.  

"Many people are living below the bread line and many are dependent on food banks.  Some families will become vulnerable to loan sharks or turn to crime in order to ‘put bread on the table’ for their family. It's imperative that the Government funds Councils properly so they can prevent problems like this arising."

Oldham council estimate that the projected losses during the Coronavirus crisis are £27m, with just over £19m on increased expenditure  So far, the authority has received £14.2m from government.

Councillor Sykes says Oldham has now overtaken other areas in Greater Manchester in terms of detected Covid-19 cases: “Apart from the tragic deaths - which every one is - many others will develop or accelerate chronic conditions that shorten life expectancy.  This will impact on all of us and burden the public sector with further demand.  Not just today or later this year but for years to come"

"Loss of income for Councils is a much bigger issue for some than the additional costs caused by the Coronavirus crisis.  The support package being issued by the Government is welcome but does not address loss of income and does not address need and deprivation in areas like Oldham Borough."

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