Agenda item

The Director of Public Health submits a report to update the Commission on cost of living projects being managed by the Health in All Policies (HIAP) team.

The Director of Public Health submitted a report to update the Commission on Cost of Living, Food Poverty and Fuel Poverty. The Project Manager for Public Health presented the item, the following was noted:

·       It was highlighted that poverty was strongly linked to poor health. People living in deprived communities were more likely to have lower life expectancy, spend fewer years in good health and experience greater barriers in accessing healthcare, contributing to both physical and mental health conditions.

·       Low income made it difficult for residents to afford essentials including food, heating and hygiene products.

·       A 2 year Fuel Poverty programme concluded in 2024. The programme raised awareness of fuel poverty issues and worked closely with National Energy Action. Although the formal programme had ended, partnership working continued, particularly in supporting complex cases. It was noted that deep and meaningful advice had been provided in some instances, including support with debt write offs.

·       The priority remained strengthening referral pathways and continuing to promote awareness of available support.

·       Period poverty was highlighted as a significant issue, defined as the inability to afford essential menstrual products. It was noted that stigma meant the issue often remained hidden. Data suggested over 25% of individuals had experienced period poverty, including borrowing products or using unsuitable alternatives such as socks, toilet roll or nappies, or using the same product for longer than recommended, increasing risk of infection.

·       Since December 2024, free menstrual products had been made available in 16 libraries across the city. The approach was designed to remove stigma by making products freely accessible without the need to ask. The scheme had also expanded into substance misuse centres and gyms. It was described as low cost with strong uptake and significant impact.

·       It was reported that 12% to 11% of adults had struggled to access food, with nearly 4% reporting having skipped food for a whole day due to lack of money.

·       Feeding Leicester, the local arm of Feeding Britain, brought together a wide range of organisations focused on addressing food insecurity. It was noted that many of the same communities experiencing food insecurity were also those with lower vaccination uptake.

·       At the start of the Cost of Living crisis, agencies had been brought together to coordinate support. It was noted that difficulty affording basics, including heating, had become normalised for many residents.

In discussion with Members, the following was noted:

·       Members welcomed the pilot programme which auto enrolled eligible pupils for free school meals and noted that over 1,000 students had been identified as eligible. Members asked when wider rollout would take place and what the timeline was for implementation across the city.

·       In response, it was explained that the main challenge was data protection legislation governing how eligibility data could be accessed and used. It was noted that the authority already held data indicating eligibility, however significant data analysis and cross referencing with DWP and NHS records was required. Other councils had developed frameworks which Leicester was reviewing and adapting. There was a commitment to progress this work further.

·       Members asked whether implementation was more difficult for academies compared to maintained schools.

·       Members also queried the future of the period poverty scheme and whether it would be expanded further. It was explained that the initial aim had been to demonstrate that provision was lower cost and more straightforward than anticipated. The scheme had been supported by a £10,000 grant and had been running for 15 months, with potential to continue for a further period subject to funding.

·       A suggestion was made regarding food bank cooking clubs. It was confirmed that a cooking scheme was already delivered through Public Health.

·       Reference was made to the Company Shop model as a dignified and affordable alternative to traditional food banks. It was noted that this provided a respectful and lower cost food offer.

·       It was suggested that the Council could utilise its relationships with companies and organisations to explore further partnerships, and this approach was welcomed for consideration.

AGREED:

1.     The Commission noted the report.

2.     A further update be brought back to the Commission in April.