Cost of living crisis: The council help those where we can
As April arrives I have to reflect on the worsening combined effects on the cost of living crisis everyone is experiencing.
The rapid and increasing inflation effects on all costs are worsened by the shortages of supplies and availability of most commodities, with these increasing exponentially. The effects of Brexit are only now becoming clear and the surge in new COVID cases are causing staff shortages in all areas of the council.
The devastating and horrific war in Ukraine is also affecting our lives, especially with the millions of refugees fleeing the terror and destruction. It is heart-warming to witness the outpouring of assistance and efforts being displayed again locally, with donations and funding being provided as well as offers of support and assistance to refugees by communities.
The council is supporting where we can and are arranging wrap around services for refugees in all areas from medical, educational, translators and other support services. This augments our efforts for other refugees from Afghanistan etc.
I am unimpressed by UK government efforts in mitigating the effects on pensioners and the poorest in tackling the cost of living crisis.
Councils are dependent on funding from government, tax measures etc to offset the worst effects that are being felt and inline to worsen.
The offer of future changes to Tax rates (Scotland already has a 19p rate) fails to address the real crisis now and in the foreseeable future.
The current despicable attitude displayed in the treatment of P&O staff (many who reside in South Ayrshire), Is very worrying for the future.
Brexit means that employment rights and minimum wages are being ignored, and the UK government talking out bills to ensure protections, mean standard norms are being eroded.
I ask you all to participate in Local elections, local democracy is vital.
Be wary of promises that cannot be delivered and of single issues .