Lib-Dems plot fresh campaign against child and fuel poverty as Oldham braces itself for cost-of-living crisis

In Oldham, one in every three children live in poverty according to charities such as ‘End Child Poverty’

Liberal Democrat Councillors will set out a plan to tackle the rising cost-of-living in the borough at Wednesday's meeting of Oldham’s Full Council.

In Oldham, one in every three children live in poverty according to charities such as ‘End Child Poverty’ - the average across the UK as a whole is one in five. 

Yet the Lib-Dems insist that Oldham’s primary schools are facing a funding cut of £212,797 from infant free school meals budgets. 

Families across the borough are also braced for energy price rises of up to 80% in October.

The Lib-Dems have tabled a motion calling for a reverse of the cuts to free school meals as well as for the Council to step up its cost-of-living support by working with local food banks. 

“The party is also calling for Oldham Council to set up local libraries and community centres as ‘Warm Banks’ to offer residents a place to stay warm without racking up high energy bills at home,” stated Cllr Alicia Marland.

Cllr Louie Hamblett added: “The pressures facing people in our Borough our immense and people are already struggling. 

"Our child poverty rates are shameful, with 10 children out of every classroom of 30 living in poverty. 

"The price cap rises currently planned for October will quiet simply be devasting for many.  

"The Government and the Council must step in.

"Our Liberal Democrat group is highlighting the areas where a real difference could be made for our residents.”

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