I hope that everyone had a lovely Easter break and enjoyed time with family and friends. Many people will have been visiting parents, grandparents, and extended family, enjoying quality time together.
I know that many local people support the older members in their families and as a community we all want to assist our older generations and those who are more vulnerable.
Many pensioners in Cannock Chase will live on fixed incomes, making many local pensioner households susceptible to rising prices because of high inflation. This is something that many local constituents have contacted me about, setting out their concerns and the squeeze on their household finances.
I am delighted that this Conservative Government has delivered again on our commitment to protect the Triple Lock for pensioners. We have just seen the very welcome news that pensioners are now benefiting from the Government’s 10.1 per cent increase in the Basic State Pension from April 2023 – including 18,753 pensioners here in Cannock Chase. This represents the biggest ever cash increase in the state pension.
As the Government delivers on its five priorities, including halving inflation, this inflation-busting increase in the Basic State Pension will ensure pensioners’ income is protected.
This is not the only support for pensioners. In addition to this uplift, pensioners will benefit from another £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment this winter, continuing the Government’s direct support for those groups most vulnerable to the effects of high inflation caused by Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine.
I know that the impact of rising prices has been particularly challenging for many households here in Cannock Chase, and not just pensioners who live on fixed incomes.
If you are struggling with the cost of living or your energy bills, please do get in touch with me. I can provide you with useful information and advice regarding your energy costs and what support is available to help with the cost of living.
As ever, please do not hesitate to raise any issues with me by telephone on 01543 877142, via e-mail at amanda.milling.mp@parliament.uk or in writing to 11a Market Street, Hednesford, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS12 1AY.
