Research undertaken by the Child Poverty Action Group, published on 1st August 2022, has indicated that 16.7 million people in England will be living in fuel poverty by January 2023, a figure drastically higher than the 3.65 million people reported to be in fuel poverty in 2019/20.
The research also suggests as many as 57.1% of East Midlands households are expected to be living in fuel poverty by January 2023.
A significant portion of these people will expect to pay 30% or more of their total net-income on heating their homes.
The Government will consider what measures they will undertake to address the cost-of-living crisis and rising energy prices, however, this Council can and should have a contingency plan currently in place to help the people in Nottinghamshire this winter.
Across the country, many Local Authorities have publicly acknowledged this and have plans to implement policies, such as the establishment of communal 'Warm Rooms', where residents in need can access free, heated spaces.
The Labour Group believe that waiting until November for the Overview Committee to start a project of considering what assistance this Council may be able, willing or required to provide over the coming winter months will simply be too late.
We therefore ask this Council to:
1. Provide a report detailing the potential actions this Council can take to mitigate the impact of the energy price and cost of living crises specifically over the coming winter months (From October onward) by no later than the next Cabinet meeting on 13 October 2022, for approval.
2. Support the Implementation of a 'Warm Rooms' scheme across Nottinghamshire, similar to existing schemes proposed by other Local Authorities elsewhere, at the earliest opportunity.
Councillor Paul Henshaw Councillor Kate Foale