Manifesto 2019 FINAL

FAMILY POVERTY and HOMELESSNESS
A recent UN report criticised the Tory Government’s approach to
austerity and the universal credit system as ‘punitive, mean-spirited
and callous’. It also said ‘changes to taxes and benefits have taken
the highest toll on those least able to bear it‘.
Labour is committed to improving the lives of families struggling on low
wages, solving the causes of inequality and increasing standards of
wellbeing and safety in our city.
To help people living in Southampton, Labour will:
• Continue to fight against the roll-out of the unfair universal credit
system.
• Tackle fuel poverty by promoting the ‘not for profit’ CitizEN
Energy company launched in 2018 by the City Council.
• Work to reduce rough sleeping and those at risk of becoming
homeless.
• Use new initiatives such as container homes, to reduce
overcrowded accommodation and homelessness.
• Support local refuges and advice services for people escaping
domestic violence and abuse.
• Support Advice and Guidance services to residents in receipt of
welfare benefits.
• Fund and support projects that combat food poverty – such as free
fruit for schoolchildren and family welfare packages delivered in
schools and food banks.
• Promote the Red Box project to eliminate period poverty and
raise school attendance in Southampton.
• Implement the Modern Slavery Charter and put safeguards in
Council procurement policies to make sure the Council does not
indirectly fund slavery.
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