With the cost of living having risen steeply this year and set to rise further, foodbanks, debt counsellors, family support groups and mental health groups across Wiltshire have contacted the Wiltshire Community Foundation to say that more and more people and families are getting in touch for help.
“We know that many people in our communities have found the early months of 2022 incredibly difficult” said Fiona Oliver, Chief Executive of the Wiltshire Community Foundation. “The increase in the cost of living is pushing low-income families and individuals deeper into hardship and poverty and the situation is only going to get worse. Poverty doesn’t just put a huge economic strain on an individual or family but can also affect their mental and physical health, social development and educational attainment, relationships and family stability. And this is why support from voluntary groups and charities is so vital.”
Keen to support those living in its home town, Nationwide has donated £50,000 to the appeal. “In the face of a soaring cost of living crisis, it is critical that businesses, communities and local government can come together to support the most vulnerable in our society.” said Rachel Smith, Senior Social Investment Manager at Nationwide. “That mutual spirit is nowhere better displayed than at Wiltshire Community Foundation and the countless charities and support groups that are working hard to help local communities across our hometown of Swindon, and throughout the county. Nationwide has a longstanding relationship with the Foundation, and we are proud to be able to offer our support once more.”
We’ll be updating you soon on some of the groups and charities to be supported by the Appeal. To find out more about the appeal or to donate you can visit the Wiltshire Community Foundation website by clicking here.
