Councillors and a community union discussed empty property tax and Winter Fuel Support Scheme to address the cost-of-living crisis
A community union has been gathering signatures in the past six weeks which has proposed that Cardiff government should tax on the empty houses and establish a Winter Fuel Support Scheme.
Councillors from the Splott and the union members held a discussion on this proposal last Tuesday.
“With rising living costs, and energy prices rocketing, many people have to choose between eating and heating. It also puts more strain on our food banks” said Aled, the secretary of Acorn in Cardiff.
The Acorn is a national community union, composed of tenants, workers, and families which has 200 members in Cardiff and 8,000 in UK. It dedicated to striving for fairer treatment and improving the state of local communities.
UK government announced that cuts to the winter fuel payments in July, aimed at saving £1.4 billion, helping to close the budget gap in public spending.
Government analysis has revealed that the proposal could push 100,000 pensioners in England and Wales into relative fuel poverty.
“With rising living costs, and energy prices rocketing, many people have to choose between eating and heating, putting more strain on our food banks” said Aled, the secretary of Acorn in Cardiff.
In addition, Cardiff is experiencing a housing emergency, with families seeking help from the homelessness services hit a record high. There are currently over 9,000 people on the Cardiff Housing Waiting List.
Acorn members proposed that local government should tax on the empty houses to fill the hole in housing support and help people pay with their bills.
The councillor participating the forum indicated that Cardiff Council already implemented the Empty Homes premium, including empty properties and second homes. It will increase premiums by 100% annually within three years. All the premiums will be used to help meet local housing needs and increase the supply of affordable housing.
Meanwhile, the Council and its partners have implemented a series of support activities for those who is struggling with fuel poverty.
The Council’s Money Advice is providing a series of support projects, such as financial health check and full assessment of benefit entitlement. It also assists in applying for Warm Home Discount for people who are eligible.
Warm welcome spaces are available in the city’s Hubs and Libraries. ‘Warm packs’ will be provided for people who are struggling with heating costs.
Consult more details or expert advisors: 029 20 871 071 or www.cardiffmoneyadvice.co.uk
Warm welcome spaces can be found at: www.cardiffhubs.co.uk