News bulletin: Fuel poverty set to become ‘endemic’ in Liverpool in ‘doomsday’ scenario

A city official has warned that fuel poverty could become endemic across Liverpool within months if the energy price cap continues to increase.

As of October 1, a typical household energy bill will rise to £2,500 a year, an increase of almost £600. A support package of £400 was announced by former Chancellor Rishi Sunak in May.

Richard Jones, head of intelligence and analytics, said households in each ward across the city could be spending more than 10% of their income on energy bills by April.

Mr Jones presented what he described as the “doomsday” scenario at Liverpool Town Hall. Almost 20% of Liverpool is said to be in fuel poverty according to the 2020 figures, placing it more than 5% above the national average.

He said: “If nothing is done to provide support, there’s a huge crisis. People have less money to spend and vulnerability is likely to increase.”

🚨 Four men arrested in connection with the murder of Ashley Dale in Old Swan last month have now been released on bail. Three were held on suspicion of murder and possession of a firearm, while one was held on suspicion of assisting an offender.

🕯️ A special service of reflection will take place at Liverpool Cathedral to remember young people who have lost their lives through violence. The vigil will be taking place on Friday, September 23, and aims to bring together the family and friends of victims who have been killed as a result of violent crimes.