Newbury MP Laura Farris holding cost-of-living fair in Thatcham

Newbury MP Laura Farris is holding a cost-of-living fair in Thatcham next week.

The event aims to provide advice and support to those who may be struggling with rising prices.

Organisations from housing, banking, the utilities and local charities like the Fair Close Centre and West Berks Foodbank will be at the Old Bluecoat School in Chapel Street.

West Berkshire Council, Thames Water and Newbury Building Society will be in attendance.

Charities attending include Home-Start West Berkshire, Community Furniture Project and West Berks Foodbank.

The event is in partnership with the local Department for Work and Pensions and Citizens Advice West Berkshire.

She said: “I would like to thank all the organisations and companies that are coming to give their expertise to help local people in the Newbury area who may be struggling.

“It is important people are aware of all the support available through benefits and cost-of-living payments, and from local initiatives like the food bank and the Community Furniture Project.

“For example, the second £300 automatic cost-of-living instalment is now arriving for eligible low income and vulnerable households.

“Households in receipt of eligible means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or tax credits, will benefit from these payments totalling £900 in 2023-24.”

She added: “Low-income households are also eligible for a £150 rebate on their winter electricity bills through the Warm Home Discount, and the Cold Weather Payment is coming into effect from November 1, 2023.

“This will provide eligible households an extra £25 a week when the temperature drops below zero degrees for more than seven days.”

The event is from 10am to noon on Friday, November 17.

Anybody wanting to attend can sign up on Laura Farris’ website or contact her office via email at laura.farris.mp@parliament.uk

They can also call (01635) 551070.