Event to help those worried about cost-of-living

Posted on: Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Residents in Newark and Sherwood who are worried about the cost-of-living increase are being invited to attend a free event organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council, Nottinghamshire County Council and Community Friendly Nottinghamshire.

The ‘Fuelling You With Support’ event takes place at Castle House, Great North Road, Newark on Wednesday 30 November and starts at 1pm until 4pm. Residents can drop-in any time during the event without needing to book.  Attendees will also receive a free lunch.

Local groups and partners will be setting up stands and giving people information on financial support, recycling, food banks, debt advice, how to manage household bills and more. It’s a chance for residents to speak face-to-face with local support services who will be able to point people in the right direction to get the support they need. Another event is in the pipeline dedicated for residents who live in Sherwood and rural communities. More news on this event will be shared on the District Council Facebook page.

Councillor Tim Wendels, Portfolio Holder for Homes and Health at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “This winter will be difficult for many of us. The cold temperatures mixed with the increasing cost-of-living will be a huge worry over the next few months.

“As a District Council, we’re doing all we can to support our residents during this challenging time and if you do have any questions or need some support please pop in and meet  our teams and other local partners at this event.

“Most people have their own personal struggles or worries and nobody should feel embarrassed about asking for support; our teams and our partners are here to help you and offer you some friendly advice.”

Councillor John Cottee, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities said: “With so many people struggling with rising household bills, we have kicked off a series of information events around the county working with our district partners, with this event in Newark being one of the first.

“Everyone is welcome, so do pop along as there’ll be lots of useful information, tips and financial advice on keeping warm and healthy this winter.”

The event is just one of many measures the District Council has put in place to support its residents. A dedicated webpage has already been set up which is home to a wealth of information targeted at offering advice and signposting to support groups. Residents can find out what grants they’re entitled to, discover what benefits they’re eligible for and find out what local community groups can help them out. For more information go to: www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/heretohelp/

The District Council’s Crop Drop scheme, where local allotment owners donate their produce to families who may need additional help, is also supporting residents throughout winter. The District Council is currently on the lookout for more local growers and volunteer drivers to help them in their project. Please call 01636 655000 or email wellbeing@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk if you’re interested in supporting.