Halton is child poverty blackspot, survey reveals (From Runcorn and Widnes World)
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Families struggle to survive as food and fuel prices soar
7:30am Tuesday 7th February 2012 in News By Barbara Jordan
Hitesh Patel, chief executive of Halton Citizens Advice Bureau Picture: Dave Gillespie DGA230112
HALTON is the 30th worst area for child poverty out of 39 north west local authorities.
The alarming statistics have been calculated on the percentage of children in families living on unemployment benefits.
Soaring fuel and food bills have left some parents going without so their children can eat.
Local churches and charities have been trying to alleviate the crisis by providing food hampers, clothes and practical support.
Halton Citizens Advice Bureau has been working with Halton Council and health professionals from Halton NHS Trust to help cash strapped families.
Hitesh Patel, chief executive of Halton CAB, said: “Despite the current economic climate and decreased Government funding, it is crucial we all remain committed to tackling child poverty.
“Our Sure Start families advice and information team has helped more than 2,500 people, many of whom are struggling to pay for basics like food and clothing.
“We have helped them to claim more than £3 million in benefits and tax credits that they were missing out on and our advisers have helped them sort out more than £20 million of debts.
“Advisers go further than just giving advice, they help get grants for furniture and bedding.”
CAB advisers persuaded local companies to donate materials, such as paint, so children can decorate their bedrooms.
They secured respite breaks for 30 families, giving many children their first ever holiday.
Government cutbacks have forced Halton Council to axe a £124,000 grant to Halton CAB in March, which funds their Sure Start service, putting five jobs at risk.
Mr Patel added: “No one organisation can tackle child poverty on its own.
“If we lost our focus, this strategic aim will be relegated to a mere ‘ticking the box’ political exercise and many more children and families will be let down.”
