Hayes and Harlington MP, John McDonnell , hopes to raise awareness for the plight of people in poor housing and those suffering from homelessness.
The Labour Shadow Chancellor attended the launch of Shelter’s new campaign, to raise awareness of its vital advice and support services, on Tuesday (January 5).
Mr McDonnell met with Shelter’s Director of Services Alison Mohammed to discuss the frontline services the charity delivers in Hayes and Harlington as well as across the UK.
These include the 531 cases that Shelter dealt with in the Hillingdon area last year alone.
Mr McDonnell said: “Shelter’s frontline services provide invaluable assistance to many of Hayes and Harlington residents, particularly at what can be an extremely tough time of year.
“They can often be the difference between a family staying in their home or becoming homeless.
“I know from my regular surgeries that it is absolutely critical people who are struggling to stay in their homes seek help at the earliest opportunity.
“I would urge anyone who is having difficulty making their rent or mortgage payments to contact Shelter, or myself, as soon as they can.”
Prompted by a new Shelter and YouGov survey, the event highlighted the strain families face in London in January, with 1 in 10 rent or mortgage payers fearing they will be unable to meet their housing costs this month.
At the same time 21% of people in London are cutting back on winter fuel and clothing to meet their housing payments – the equivalent of 1.4 million people.
Mr McDonnell added: “With so many parents in the UK cutting back on winter essentials to pay their rent or mortgage, it is important that people in Hayes and Harlington are aware of the support that is available to them.”
The Labour Party MP and Shelter are urging anyone who is struggling with their housing costs to seek advice, before problems spiral out of control.
Shelter, the leading housing and homelessness charity, helps over 4 million people a year with free, practical housing advice, through its online support, face to face and national helpline services.
Alison Mohammed, Shelter’s Director of Services, said: “Every day at Shelter we hear from families who face the bleak choice between missing their rent or cutting back on heating. Or from parents whose children have stopped asking for treats because they know they’re struggling just to keep a roof over their heads.
“No-one should have to face these problems alone, which is why Shelter is here 365 days a year. Getting advice early can make all the difference, and we’re only ever a click or a call away at shelter.org.uk/advice or on 0808 800 4444.”
