RE: Cost of Living Crisis
Although at the time of writing this letter the government’s support for families remains unclear, we do expect more information in the next 7 days about the measures they will take to support families struggling to cope financially. For most of us, the rise in fuel prices, and the subsequent increases in costs of food and clothing, have been difficult, but some families are already experiencing financial hardship. Families are struggling even before the winter months arrive when additional heating and lighting are essential. Many families are understandably worried about the next 12 to 18 months and it is likely that far more families will find themselves in difficulty.
If you find yourself in a difficult situation financially please come and talk to us, as we may be able to help with advice or support.
Schools too are facing significant challenges due to fuel costs, inflation and an unfunded increase in staff salaries, but we will help where we can. In times such as these, our community comes together to support everyone. We know, for example, that many churches are setting up food banks. This link is to food banks registered with Suffolk County Council but there are others already running or about to begin.
It is very important for families to ensure that they are getting the benefits that they are entitled to and Free School Meals (FSM) is one of the most important. All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are entitled to a free school meal (part of the infant free school meals system) but you may be entitled to claim FSM for older pupils if you are eligible. If you would like to apply online please click on the link below or speak to the school office.
Suffolk provides access to other support services, including financial support, and some of these require a referral to be made through a gateway organisation. Citizen’s Advice Bureaus are in place across the county and can support with referrals (Diss CAB, West Suffolk CAB, Mid Suffolk CAB, Ipswich CAB. There is also a Suffolk Advice and Support line 0800 0683131 (Mon to Fri 9 am to 5 pm).
There may be other things that the school can help you with directly. For example, if you are finding school uniforms unaffordable or need longer to pay for your school dinners, this may be possible. Whilst on the subject of educational visits, we are planning on funding these entirely through the school budget this year, saving you costs but ultimately ensuring your child's enrichment offer is not affected.
We would also like to understand if there are particular concerns about the financial costs of school clubs or resources. We have therefore constructed a short survey to help us better understand how we can help (which can be completed anonymously). We appreciate that the answers you provide may be sensitive and therefore results will remain confidential to the senior leadership team, only generalised results (ie not attached to names will be shared).
The survey also asks for any ideas you may have or support that you know is available in the local area for others to use so that we can share this.
Please click on the link below.
