Supporting you through the cost of living crisis

We know that many people are struggling at the moment with food and energy costs and how hard it can be to make ends meet. And sadly we know that things are likely to get worse during the autumn and winter months.

That’s why Sutton Council has launched a cost of living support campaign, working closely with local charities, partners and community groups to ensure you get the support you need right here in Sutton. 

Next week all households will receive a leaflet through the post with details of how to access support, ranging from money matters to mental health and wellbeing. Over the coming weeks and months, we will hold cost of living events and continue to let you know what support is available in our borough. 

As well as helping you and those you care about to access the support you may need, we will continue to stand up for all Sutton residents. We recently stepped in to fund Free School Meals for the whole summer holidays; and I have written to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to call on the Government to properly fund School Holiday Food Vouchers for all the school holidays. 

I am also calling on the Chancellor of the Exchequer to cut VAT from 20% to 17.5% to reduce pressures on household budgets; and we are asking supermarkets and local businesses to help with practical support to tackle the rising cost of living.

There is a strong sense of community here in Sutton and it’s wonderful to see examples like the community-led Little Free Cupboard by the Riverside Centre and countless examples of neighbours checking in on others to offer support. 

We will continue to take action and stand up for Sutton to ensure that everyone in our borough has the support they need through this difficult time. 

If you are able to spare some time or donations (including food donations) to support others, thank you; please visit our cost of living webpage to find out how. 

Councillor Ruth Dombey