May I start by wishing everyone a happy new year. I hope 2023 is a happy and healthy one for you and yours.

I'm stating the obvious by saying that we face a tough year ahead.

The cost-of-living crisis continues and, everywhere, people are having to cut back even more to try and make ends meet. It shouldn't be the case that more and more people are having to turn to foodbanks and use warm hubs because they can't afford these necessities.

It's up to the government to step up, not for families to have to cut back on the basics like heating and food we all need. Much of this cost inflation could have been avoided.

Recent statistics show that food inflation has risen to a record 13.3 per cent, prompting worries of another difficult year for people across the country.

I visited two of our local shops last month and purchased the same basket of goods I'd purchased just over a year prior, and the cost increase was shocking. It's clear to see that these rises are really hurting local families.

"Much of this cost inflation could have been avoided"

Our local foodbanks and their volunteers are doing an incredible job of supporting people who need them most.

When I dropped in just before Christmas, they said it was the busiest they had ever seen it. It's crucial we keep supporting them into the new year – January is always a time when donations drop so if you can, please do consider dropping a few things off to help keep them going.

The government must do more to support families up and down the country who are struggling. My team and I are here as a resource to help as best we can so please do get in touch.

Before Christmas, many of you may have seen that residents in Christine Ledger Square were told they needed to leave their homes due to fire safety concerns.

The first priority in these cases must always be the residents' safety so I am relieved they were moved from any possible risk. However, I am concerned about the disruption this has caused residents so close to Christmas, particularly those with families.

Residents at Christine Ledger Square were forced into temporary accommodation just a week before Christmas (image via google.maps)

I wrote to the council before Christmas to raise my concerns and put questions to ensure that this action was taken as soon as the issue became apparent, that residents are fully supported and have clear communication about what the next steps will be.

If you've been affected by this or have any concerns about it, please do get in touch.