“Conservative decision to axe social fund will hit poorest hard” – Cllr Chris Stanbra

The Liberal Democrats at County Hall have reacted with shock to news that the Conservative administration will not be providing crisis loans as part of their new social fund scheme.

Previously emergency loans were available to people on benefits facing an immediate crisis. The Government is localising this support and the County Council will be responsible for the new scheme in Northamptonshire. A paper was brought to the November meeting of Cabinet examining a number of options, including provision of vouchers and pre-paid cards for certain items. Areas covered would include the emergency replacement of white goods, food, travel and others.

The scheme announced yesterday included donating to foodbanks and helping with debt advice.

Cllr Stanbra said "I deeply concerned with the apparent lack of support for many people in emergency situations. The paper at Cabinet clearly identified a number of situations in which people might need help and ways to do that. What has been announced will leave many of the poorest people without any help at all."

"What happens if a family member is seriously ill and they can't get help with transport costs? What happens if a fridge or freezer breaks down and people are unable to store any food? What happens if someone's electricity or gas is disconnected? This decision could only have been taken by a politician who have no idea whatsoever of how hard life for the poorest can be. This needs to be reversed as soon as possible and a new scheme drawn up which provides critical support for the poorest in our county."