Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has invested £250,000 in a suite of Cost-of-Living initiatives.

A Scoping Study undertaken by the Council identified that families with children, the 'working poor', those living with disabilities and older people will be most adversely affected by the crisis. A key concern for residents at this time is the increase in the cost of fuel, energy and food, and the potential impact these concerns will have on people's mental health, due to increased anxiety and stress.

Projects supported by the funding include direct emergency fuel support via St Vincent de Paul, financial food bank for established food banks, development of a Winter Wellbeing programme and a Warm Coat initiative by Council staff.

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Speaking about the cost-of-living initiatives, the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, said: "I am very pleased that the Council is implementing these initiatives to the value of £250,000 to support our residents and community groups who are most in need at this time due to the cost-of-living crisis.

"The cost-of-living crisis will affect everyone, therefore, it is important that the Council has taken these measures to provide this much needed support.

"The variety of initiatives will help to ensure the key concerns in terms of the increase in the cost of fuel, energy and food will be addressed.

"As a Community Planning Partner, the Council is committed to ensuring that our residents are healthy and well – physically, mentally and emotionally.  It is important now more than ever that we strive to achieve this."