Cost of living charities warn of rising bills

Charities in Shropshire are sounding the alarm on the rising cost of living, urging for benefit reforms to help struggling families facing a tough winter due to surging food and energy bills. Recent data shows a concerning number of homes living in fuel poverty and one in three children living below the breadline in the county. Organizations like Little Stars are seeing a significant increase in demand for help, with family referrals rising by 176%, emphasizing the need for urgent assistance and policy changes. Shropshire Council is offering support, but charities fear they may need to step in more as the council faces financial challenges.