Residents across Chester North and Neston will benefit from a cut to the cost of living and falling NHS waiting lists, thanks to the fair choices unveiled in the Chancellor’s Budget.
This week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her Autumn Budget, laying out Labour’s plans to ease the cost-of-living crisis and secure a more stable economy. Key points include measures to lower energy bills, a rise in the National Living Wage, a new ‘mansion tax’ on properties worth more than £2 million and the removal of the two-child benefit cap.
Samantha Dixon, MP for Chester, shared her thoughts on how the Budget will impact local residents, noting that it’s a step toward making life more affordable for many.
Following the Budget Samantha said:
“We know there is a long way to go but the measures in this Budget are a real lifeline for families and individuals who have been struggling with rising living costs. The freezing of prescription charges and rail fares will offer immediate relief to people who rely on these services. And the £150 reduction in energy bills is a much-needed step to help with the ever-increasing household costs.”
One of the key features of the Budget is the rise in both the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage. Samantha noted that this will help workers, especially those on the lowest incomes, and provide a boost to many households in the local area.
Samantha added:
“The increase in both wages will make a real difference to thousands of people in Chester. For too long, many workers have struggled to get by, and this rise will help them manage everyday expenses more effectively.”
Samantha also welcomed the announcement of the removal of the two-child limit for Universal Credit. This will lift 450,000 children out of poverty across the UK. Locally, an estimated 1,350 children in Chester and Neston will benefit from this policy change
Pensioners in Chester North and Neston will see a £550 increase in the State Pension next April. This rise, protected by the Government’s triple lock, will provide much-needed support for local pensioners, helping them cope with rising living costs.
Finally, Samantha spoke on the Government’s commitment to the NHS:
“The additional funding for neighbourhood health centres and the extra 5.2 million appointments will ease pressure on local services and reduce waiting times. It’s vital that we continue to invest in the NHS to ensure that everyone can access the care they need.”
Samantha concluded:
“This Budget offers important steps toward a fairer economy and better support for our communities. It’s about giving families the help they need, providing opportunities for young people, and ensuring that our public services can meet the demands placed on them.”