MORE than half of Island households will be under food or energy stress this winter, according to a leading Isle of Wight councillor.

Now, Cllr Richard Quigley (Labour, Cowes North) is urging the authority to declare a Cost of Living Emergency.

He said it is expected that 54 per cent of households will be in food and or energy stress by the winter.

Two Isle of Wight councillors has submitted motions calling for the authority to help.

Labour Cllr Richard Quigley (Cowes North) has asked the council to note the cost of living emergency is a key issue and provide access to advice and support from partners in the community.

In his motion, Cllr Quigley calls for the council to continue taking a co-ordinated approach to addressing the emergency, also providing resources where possible.

He is also asking for the council to:

  • Set up a dedicated officer working group to address the issues
  • Call on Parliament to ensure a right to food is written into law
  • Free up money to target help through community groups and make it easier for groups to access any funding
  • Ensure all council decisions do not disproportionately impact residents who are struggling the most by considering the socio-economic impact in our assessment of actions we need to take
  • Champion a real living wage for all workers
  • Commit all 39 councillors to work together on the cost of living emergency for the benefit of the Island and its residents.

Read more: Winter is Coming event for advice and help during energy crisis

Cllr Michael Lilley, (Ryde Appley and Elmfield), in his motion, is asking the council to officially declare the emergency and resolve to put in place a clear package of support and help for Island residents.

He wants the council to work in collaboration with all stakeholders, including town, community and parish councils and the voluntary sector at grass-root levels.

The motions will be discussed and voted on at the full council's meeting on Wednesday, October 5.