Fledgling politicians spoke eloquently on cost-of-living

This week, as a member of Barnsley Council’s overview and scrutiny committee, I had the pleasure to attend a meeting of Barnsley’s Youth Council, held within the Town Hall’s council chamber. The age range those attending was quite varied, but most were certainly under voting age.

What was on the agenda? The cost-ofliving crisis.

I sat and listened to the young, fledgling politicians as they spoke eloquently on how budget cuts and price increases impact on their daily lives.

I heard how some young people are being forced to give up further and higher education to care for family members. I heard how transport cuts are causing social isolation for those who need engagement most.

I heard how some are suffering with poor mental health, unable to access timely support when needed, as medical appointments are becoming harder to book. I had nothing but admiration for those who spoke at the meeting; their barely concealed anger at what was happening is to be applauded.

It was clear that they are worried and frankly scared for the future; as if they had no hope. I share that fear.

You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to see where the blame lies; Tory mismanagement, Tory intransigence,

Tory failure.

We live in a great country; but families, workers, pensioners, and our youth are worse off after 12 years of Tory government.

The country has ground to a halt, with the UK set for the lowest growth and highest inflation of any major advanced economy next year. People are working harder and earning less.

What future have our young people got to look forward to? Thanks to the ‘budget not a budget’ spiralling mortgage costs now mean the first-time buyer’s dream of owning your own home is slowly turning to a nightmare.

Let’s not forget that under the Tories, borrowing costs are up with mortgage repayments set to increase by £500 per month.

Instead of hitting working people and our public services, they should reverse their disastrous budget.

That’s why Labour has a plan to reboot our economy, revitalise our public services and re-energise our communities.

That’s why I’m determined to work with my Labour colleagues to offer these young people, and those they represent a future, a future of hope.

Our young people need a future that offers public transport that works, public services that are there when we need them; a secure and well-paid job and a place to call home.

Hope; I’d vote for that.