Labour councils and COVID-19

People are understandably concerned about COVID-19. We do not know what will happen in the coming weeks and months. But Labour in power in local government can certainly take measures to support our residents.

I am concerned that the worst effects of the crisis will fall on those least able to sustain them. I have two suggestions for how we might alleviate these for the residents we serve. 

Defer council tax and rent payments for those affected

It is much harder to self-isolate if doing so reduces your income to statutory sick pay - just £94.25 a week - or, in the case of the self-employed or those on zero hours contracts, minimal benefits or nothing at all. For many in Southwark, the payments they make to the council comprise a substantial part of their monthly expenses. Can the Council offer those who are affected by the virus the option to freeze their council tax and council rent payments? Mortgage providers are already doing this so the system cannot be too complicated to introduce. I recognise that after a decade of Tory austerity it may be hard for the council to sustain this temporary loss of income, but it will be nothing like as hard as for some of our residents.

Continue provision of free school meals if schools close

Another concern is the effects of school closures on the children eligible for free school meals. Even if the government maintains its current policy of opposing general school closures, it is likely that some will still close due to staff shortages or students contracting the virus. Can we ensure that in these circumstances the council is prepared to distribute food to the children and young people who need it?

Southwark council is currently considering these suggestions. I am sharing them here so other councils may consider them too.

I hope this opens a discussion about what further measures Labour councils could implement.