Councillors in Carmarthenshire have carried out a thoroughgoing investigation into poverty in the county.
The move by the county council’s social justice scrutiny committee was sparked by the credit crunch and global recession.
Council officers and councillors have worked closely with the voluntary sector and faith groups and the National Energy Association Cymru on issues such as fuel poverty.
The scrutiny committee will meet this Friday to discuss its task and finish group’s Review of Poverty in Carmarthenshire.
Research shows that areas in Llanelli such as Glanymor, Bigyn, Tyisha, Llwynhendy and Lliedi are some of the most deprived in the whole of Wales. These communities have been identified as Communities First areas, which are specifically targeted with funding from the Welsh Assembly Government, but there is poverty and social exclusion in more prosperous areas and in rural areas. Parts of Carmarthen Town are also amongst the most deprived in the county.
A Helping Hand information fair was held last May to let people of all ages know what help and support is available to them during the recession.
There was advice on energy efficiencies, benefits and services for vulnerable people.
Utility companies, along with organisations including Care and Repair, Citizens Advice Bureau, Credit Unions, the Department of Works and Pensions, Catch-Up and Age Concern attended.
An information film has been made which covers topics such as debt management, illegal moneylending and fuel poverty.
Social justice scrutiny committee chair Cllr Stephen James said: “When we decided to do this review the country was experiencing an economic downturn which turned into a global recession, the impact of which will be felt for years to come.
“We wanted to find out what was being done to help vulnerable people and families in our county and see what more could be done. We felt strongly that we wanted to help this council and its partners to strengthen and co-ordinate action to help the increasing numbers of people experiencing problems in the current economic climate.
“We are delighted that this council has taken action following the Helping Hand/ Help Llaw event, with the re-establishment of the anti-poverty advice network (Advice and Support Carmarthenshire) led by the newly created Anti-Poverty Champion, Executive Board Member, Cllr. Kevin Madge.
“The findings of this Group have informed the key areas to be taken forward by ASC and will, we hope, help us all respond to the challenges we all face now and in the coming years.”
