Woolwich Town hall, the headquarters of the Greenwich London Borough Council. Pic: Bob Speel

The cost-of-living crisis has pushed Greenwich council to help struggling homes this winter with a range of goods and services, including discounted prescriptions, money management advice, free meals and entertainment, but the initiative has drawn mixed reactions.

Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Council, said: ” The cost of living crisis is a harsh reality that vulnerable members of our community face everyday.”

He added. “We understand that the winter months can make this even worse and are committed to providing support to those that need it most. Whatever your income, I’m certain we have something to help you and your family enjoy winter with free activities and holiday meals to reduce some of your stress.”

But some residents have responded to the council’s initiative with frustration. A post on X, formerly Twitter, said “useless is too good of a word” to describe the council’s efforts to help struggling families, Multiple social media posters said the council should be held account for its actions.

More than 1,600 people had already shared their concerns about the rising price of daily essentials and 88% said they were scared about the cost-of-living crisis would mean for them.

With families across Greenwich are fighting to put food on the table and pay rent, the council’s Greenwich Supports initiative is timely. Other groups in the borough that help out struggling people include the Greenwich Food bank. It works with local agencies to provide help.

The situation in Greenwich reflects the wider national picture with 95% of households in Great Britain reporting in September that food bills had risen compared to the previous month. Some 60% reported higher electricity bills.