2,000 IN STOCKPORT TO BE HIT BY GRANT CUTS - STUNELL

12.30.00pm GMT Mon 17th Nov 2008

Local MP Andrew Stunell has criticised the government after it emerged that over 2,000 people in Stockport are facing cuts in government help. The Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has announced that the Supporting People Grant, which helps vulnerable people live more independent lives, will fall by 12% by 2011, an average of £200 for every person in need.

Spending for Stockport will be frozen, whilst the council is also facing a large cut in funds provided to administer the grant. Overall, Greater Manchester residents will see their grants slashed by nearly £4 million.

Commenting, Andrew said:

"It's an absolute disgrace that the Government has not properly budgeted for the independent living of the elderly and the vulnerable. Once again, it is the most vulnerable in society that are being let down.

"We hear a lot about Labour's stealth taxes, yet this is a stealth cut. When combined with Post Office closures, a derisory state pension, and thousands still left in fuel poverty it forms a clear pattern of neglect.

"The fund helps the disabled, domestic violence victims and older people who might not otherwise be able to lead independent lives. With the elderly population expected to rise, these cuts are only going to lead to greater strain on services and more and more vulnerable people being forced out of their homes".

ENDS