Families in Poverty in Western Isles increase by 4.8%

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News

2021

15 November 2021 at 14:49:16

The number of families in poverty in the Western Isles has increased by 4.8% since the COVID Pandemic, says the local Poverty Action Group.

As winter approaches, increasing levels of poverty affecting people in the Islands and actions to combat the issue are being highlighted. 881 families are known to be in poverty in the Western Isles, an increase of 41 compared to pre-COVID. In addition there is a child poverty rate of 21.5% in the Islands which also continue to have the highest levels of fuel poverty in Scotland. Extra costs to household budgets in remote areas have increased by between 15-30% depending upon the constitution of the household. On islands the biggest cost burden is with single pensioners at extra costs of 37%. (Cost of RemotenessReport)

A range of assistance is available to those who are struggling as living costs increase and incomes decrease.

A local multi-agency group dealing with these issues has signposted agencies which can provide assistance.

Chairman of the Poverty Action Group of the Community Planning Partnership, Angus McCormack, said: "These figures are, quite simply, appalling. Through no fault of their own there is an increasing number of people who are struggling to make ends meet in our communities. That is a fact whether it be attributed to political actions, economic reasons or as a result of the Pandemic. People are facing increased fuel and food prices and benefits such as Universal Credit are being cut.

Assistance can be provided for many of these issues but often it is difficult to know where to go or where to look for that assistance, advice and practical help.

That's why it is important that as much information is made available as possible."

Support Agencies

Western Isles Citizens Advice Service

Telephone: 01851 705 727

Email: bureau@lewiscab.casonline.org.uk

Website: www.wicas.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Westernislescitizensadviceservice/

Hebridean Housing Partnership

Telephone: 0300 123 0773

Email: customerservices@hebrideanhousing.co.uk

Website: www.hebrideanhousing.co.uk

Twitter: @HebHousing