PREPERATIONS FOR WINTER CRISIS

Plans are underway in Hailsham to deal with a tough winter ahead for vulnerable and low-income families. Rising energy costs and the threat of localised back-outs this winter have urged Hailsham Town Council to make plans in case residents need a place to keep warm.

In a meeting of the Assets Committee, Councillors discussed plans to introduce ‘Hubs’ across Hailsham to support people who really need help this Winter, a sub-committee to set up the hubs has been formed ‘as a matter of urgency’. There are worries local residents could suffer the worst winter since war times and those on any level of income suffer massive increases in energy bills. East Sussex County Council has suggested its Library network could potentially be a place where residents could turn to as a place to keep warm and save money by not having to heat their homes.

Foodbank services have never been more in demand with a dramatic increase in demand in recent months for their services.

Councillors suggested one large hub for the town is unviable as those who need support shouldn’t be reliant on their own, or public transport to get to the hub, so smaller venues

Although Wealden District Council is responsible for general Emergency Planning for Hailsham and Wealden, councillors are forming the sub-committee which consists of members of the Assets Committee, to immediately discuss plans to create the hubs ahead of the cold period.

During the meeting, Councillor Keogh said “The impact on our domestic economy by the Russian war criminal Vladimir Putin

International energy pressures on everybody in the UK and more importantly the resulting rise in oil and gas energy prices for our local communities.

He added: “In addition to the government’s initiatives, we as a council must do all we can over the forthcoming winter period to put in place initiatives that will enable our residents to come together in a warm and safe environment if and when they need it.”

Cllr Keogh continued: “In times of international strife, it’s all about community spirit”.

A call for volunteers has gone out to man the hubs if they were created. DBS checked staff would be required to look after people attending and to ensure they continue to operate when residents need them.

Locations across Hailsham could include Hailsham East Centre, The James West, Hailsham Library and the Charles Hunt Centre, some of which already provide hot meals and help for those who need it.

According to gov.uk: “Households to start receiving £400 off their energy bills from October, with the discount made in six instalments to help families throughout the winter period.”

There’s a lot of support and help for households who are struggling this winter. The Citizen’s Advice Bureau is the place to turn to if you need help.

We all have the right to heat our homes and feed our families, so it’s so important that anyone who needs support should not hide or be shy, but challenge the energy companies. Ignoring the problem will make it worse, so always speak to your provider and tell them your situation. They are obliged to do what they can to support you.