Islanders can have their say on Cost-of-Living challenges at Arran community drop-in session
Posted on 2 Feb 2023
People living and working on Arran are being invited to a drop-in session to discuss the Cost-of-Living Crisis.
North Ayrshire Council and its community partners are hosting a mini enquiry later this month to give residents a chance to come together and talk about the specific challenges people are currently facing.
The enquiry is a public forum to share ideas and information, and involves Council officers and elected members, community groups, social enterprises and charities who are working together to improve life for people.
A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “We are hoping to have a discussion with as many Arran residents and groups as possible to offer advice and explain the different supports that are available to help during these difficult financial times.
“This could cover topics like access to food, the cost of the school day and energy bills.”
Representatives from some island community groups will be there to highlight some of the work currently being delivered to support Arran’s communities.
The event will look at what issues are important to people and will also examine what is happening to ease the Cost-of-Living Crisis locally now, how this can be improved and what practical steps can be taken going forward to make life better.
North Ayrshire Council’s top priorities include tackling child poverty and supporting residents through the Cost-of-living Crisis. The three key drivers of child poverty are income from employment, income from social security and the cost of living.
This event is the latest in a series of mini enquiries that are part of the work of the Child Poverty and Cost of Living Board, chaired by Council Leader Marie Burns. Feedback will also help develop the Council’s Child Poverty Strategy.
The Arran event will be held on Monday, February 13 in the Ormidale Sports Pavilion, Shore Road, Brodick, and anyone can drop in between 3pm and 6.15pm. All will be made welcome.
Short presentations will be made by various groups, ahead of an open discussion session, from 5pm.