The cost of living crisis continues to be a major issue in Glasgow, with research indicating that a large number of households are struggling to make ends meet. High energy costs are particularly impacting low-income households. The report highlights the need for property retrofits to address fuel poverty and alleviate the financial strain on vulnerable residents.
The cost of living crisis remains a significant issue in Glasgow , with research indicating that approximately 89,000 households continue to face challenges in making ends meet. High energy costs are placing considerable strain on the disposable income of low-income households, according to an update provided to council members.
The report, compiled based on the latest research conducted by the Glasgow City Region intelligence hub, highlights that the cost of living has escalated to a point where the weekly disposable income of the poorest households is barely sufficient to cover their average weekly expenditures. The crisis stems from the decline in income experienced since the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Officials emphasize that this drop diminishes the standard of living for residents as the prices of essential commodities, such as energy and food, are rising at a faster rate than wage increases. The report underscores that this remains a major concern in Glasgow. It cites consultancy firm Cornwall Insights, which suggests that high energy prices are likely to become the new norm due to persistent geopolitical risks in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine. However, new forecasts anticipate a slight reduction in bills of 1.4% in April, bringing the annual cost for a typical dual fuel (gas and electricity) user down to £1,713, before dipping slightly again in July. Council officials point out that this offers some additional financial relief for low-income households, assuming other factors remain stable. More than 50% of people in Glasgow reside in social (34.9%) or private (16.9%) rented housing, while 46.7% own their homes, according to the report. Across the city region, encompassing seven neighboring council areas, these figures stand at 23% social rented homes, 9.5% in the private rented sector, and 66.5% owned. Glasgow also possesses the highest proportion of social housing constructed before 1918, with approximately 15% of its stock. Older housing often exhibits lower energy efficiency, characterized by inadequate insulation and outdated heating systems, leading to increased energy consumption and costs. Officials stress that this finding underscores the need for property retrofits to address fuel poverty, which can effectively reduce costs for both social landlords and residents, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for the most vulnerable individuals. They further add that the persistent crisis is likely to push people into poverty, which also intensifies pressure and expenses on council service delivery
Cost Of Living Crisis Glasgow Energy Costs Fuel Poverty Housing
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