Wolverhampton steps up winter support for residents facing ongoing cost-of-living pressures

Winter support for Wolverhampton residents is being expanded by the council with new measures to help people access affordable food, manage household finances and stay healthy during the colder months.

The support forms part of the council's continued response to the cost-of-living crisis and comes alongside the launch of a refreshed three-year Financial Wellbeing Strategy, designed to ensure residents can access the help they need both now and in the future.

Leader of the council, Councillor Stephen Simkins, addressed Full Council last night about the full extent of support for city residents. 

‘We know times are still tough for many residents. Families across our city continue to face pressures from rising household costs, and for some people choosing between heating and eating remains a very real concern.

‘Wolverhampton is a city that looks after its own, and we're committed to making sure support is available for anyone who needs it. We’re here for you.

‘Whether it's help with food, financial advice, energy costs or health and wellbeing, we want residents to know they are not alone and that help is available,’ he told councillors.

Since the council's financial wellbeing work began, more than 135,000 people have been supported through the cost-of-living crisis, which is half the city’s population.

More than £18.5 million has been distributed directly to residents who need help most. 

The council continues to develop initiatives that help residents access affordable, quality food with dignity and choice.

Over the past six months more than 17,000 residents have used Wolverhampton's network of community shops, with additional shops opening in Pendeford and Graiseley soon, along with the reopening of Bilston shop.

Support includes the redistribution of around three tonnes of food every month through the Gatis weekly community markets, alongside plans for further markets across the city this winter.

The council is also expanding its successful Community Chefs programme into schools, helping children develop cooking skills while sharing meals with their families.

More than 1,000 residents have taken part in the programme during the past six months, producing around 6,000 meals.

The council's Boost financial wellbeing service continues to help residents maximise income, reduce costs and gain confidence managing household budgets.

Since launching in January, Boost has helped residents increase their income by more than £3 million and achieve annual financial savings of over £89,000.

This winter, the service is being expanded through new partnerships focused on energy costs and home heating support. Specialist financial advice will also be introduced for residents living with cancer and those receiving palliative care.

Alongside financial support, the council is taking steps to help residents stay healthy and well throughout the winter months.

Winter warm packs have already been distributed through Family Hubs to support some of the city's most vulnerable residents.

At the same time, Adult Social Care teams are working closely with health partners to help reduce winter pressures on the NHS and ensure residents can access the right care and support when they need it.

Councillor Simkins added:

‘Our ambition is simple, we want Wolverhampton to be a city where everyone has the opportunity to live a safe, secure and happy life.

‘Every resident regardless of income, background or circumstances should be able to access opportunities, services and support they need to strengthen their financial wellbeing.

‘They should be able to do this free from stigma, exclusion, or inequality, not just now, but for years to come and for future generations. This winter, we will protect the most vulnerable and ensure nobody is left behind.’

Residents can find out more about the support available, including financial wellbeing services and cost-of-living assistance, by visiting the council's website – Cost of Living Support | City Of Wolverhampton Council