COLUMN: Cost of living guide will help people in need of assistance
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In these uncertain times, many across our beautiful constituency of Banffshire and Buchan Coast are facing daunting financial challenges.
Rising food and energy costs have put unprecedented pressure on households, leading to what is now widely referred to as the cost of living crisis.
As your representative, I want to assure you that I am wholly committed to supporting you through this difficult period.
The escalating prices of everyday essentials are squeezing budgets and causing significant distress, which of course is also impacting the mental health of anyone who is financially struggling.
I have heard your concerns during our conversations at my surgeries and recognise the impact this crisis is having on you and your families.
It has been particularly heart-wrenching to learn that the need for food parcels has seen a significant increase, as confirmed by our local food banks.
In response to this crisis, I have been striving to find practical solutions and offering assistance in every possible way.
Last week, I held a surgery at a local food bank and was able to engage with many constituents struggling with the current situation.
Their stories moved me profoundly, reaffirming my resolve to help each and every one of you facing financial hardship.
Additionally, I held a surgery at the Asda superstore in Peterhead, allowing me to directly connect with a greater number of you and listen to your concerns.
To provide people with an additional level of support through these difficult times, I am pleased to announce the launch of a cost of living guide. It comprehensively outlines all the financial schemes and initiatives available for people living across Aberdeenshire and Moray.
From information on benefits to grants, this guide is an essential tool to help you navigate the support available and find the financial relief you need.
Not only does the guide cover support available from national and local authorities, but it also highlights the help that I, as your local MSP, can provide. For instance, I can facilitate referrals to food banks and help local businesses identify suitable grants and funding opportunities. I also recognise that while individuals are feeling the pinch, many local businesses are struggling to adapt to the rising costs.
As we weather the UK Government’s utter failure to address this storm, I urge all constituents facing financial hardship to reach out to me at Karen.Adam.MSP@Parliament.scot or call my office team on 0131 348 6811.
Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help. We all experience difficult times, more so now than in many other challenging periods in modern times, and it’s in these times that we must lean on each other.
By working together, I hope I can provide some level of support to help alleviate even some of the financial difficulties you may be experiencing, and that we can better tackle this crisis for the benefit of our communities across Banffshire and Buchan Coast.
If you are experiencing any challenges or know someone who is, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
I am more than happy to provide a copy of the cost of living guide to anyone who reaches out. Let’s use this guide to equip ourselves with the necessary resources.
