Charities say Salford families hit hard by cost-of-living crisis

Salford charities say there has been a serious knock-on effect caused by the cost of living crisis as an increasing number of families find themselves struck by poverty.

Charities across Greater Manchester are helping families with a variety of resources ranging from financial advice and accessible essentials.

Community Grocery Salford Manger, Theresa John, said: “I see people from all different backgrounds in Salford impacted in different ways.”

The Community Grocery helps people in Salford get an affordable weekly shop, and offers support to those in need, specifically as the cost of living drastically increases.

Theresa John said: “We’re almost in a period of grieving and restoration, people are trying to find themselves back on their feet again…

“There are people that are struggling to get off benefits, but we’re also finding people who have never been on benefits before finding themselves in this place of low income and not knowing how to gauge their finances.”

In Salford alone, 22% of children are living in poverty, with the highest figures being recorded in Ordsall, with child poverty rates of 32%.

The Grocery Manager also shared how there are misconceptions about who is being struck by the poverty crisis. She said:  “I think there’s a stigma around it.

“But I do think there are some people who have been bought to a place of crisis, they have never seen themselves in this position before. No matter how much hard work is being put in, people are finding themselves having to access services like ours.”

Greater Manchester charity ‘Mustard Tree’ also aims to combat poverty and prevent homelessness as they help to tackle the financial crisis the people of Salford face.

Communications Manager, Jack Barton, shared how the organisation is helping people in Salford tackle the cost-of-living crisis and poverty. He said: “We help people increase their income through training, vocational skills, avenues into to work and debt management.”

Mustard Tree has a free furniture collection system, which allows for unwanted furniture to be donated to other families that  need it, all around Greater Manchester.

The charity shared an Instagram Reel following Driver Mentor Andrew on his journey delivering furniture.  He said: “Sometimes when I’m delivering a couch, I’m also delivering a bed – because they haven’t got anything else to sleep on.”

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Mr Barton also shared how those in the community can help. he followed: “I think the best way people can help is by sharing our Winter Wish List and if anyone can donate items from the list it would help us massively!”