Poverty problems prompt appeal

from the Hemel Today

By Victoria West
Rising food and fuel prices are hitting those living in the area with more people than ever seeking help.

Anti-poverty charity Elizabeth Finn Care is urgently appealing for volunteers after a 400 per cent rise in those needing assistance.

And Hemel Hempstead's Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) has seen a 'significant increase' in the number of people wanting financial advice.

CAB debt specialist Ken Greer said: "Benefit income and low wages are not keeping pace with rising fuel and food costs.

"There has been a significant increase since the back end of last year in the people we are seeing, particularly those living solely on benefits or minimum wage."

Elizabeth Finn Care gives financial support through grants and advice to those struggling to cope.

Director of marketing and development at the charity Phil Reed said: "What is affecting people is increases in fuel, increases in food and increases in utility bills.

"Each of these things has happened before in the past but they have never happened all at the same time.

"We have seen a 400 per cent increase in applicants in the last seven weeks. It is not showing any signs of dropping off."

As well as cash assistance the group has a team of volunteers that meet beneficiaries to understand the issues they face.

Mr Reed said: "It is also a case of having someone to talk things through with. Poverty creates all sorts of problems and one of those is social exclusion.

"The other volunteers we need are people who can help us to raise funds."

The charity, formed 111 years ago, has put out its appeal to coincide with Volunteers' Week.

Volunteers must be over 18 and will receive a one-day training course and paid expenses.

To find out more about the Elizabeth Finn Care call Lucy McKay on 0845 603 6517 or visit www.elizabethfinncare.org.uk.