By Isle of Wight Observer
Dear Editor,
I read your article about the increasing reliance on the IW Foodbank, in Shanklin, with great concern. Unfortunately, I believe this is only likely to get even worse. The new National Insurance and minimum wage hikes will make it harder for businesses to retain staff, hire new ones, and stay solvent.
Meanwhile, household expenses increase relentlessly – council tax, water rates, electricity, broadband – every bill seems to be getting bigger. This leaves Islanders with less disposable income to spend, with businesses adding to the problem. If families must choose between keeping the lights on or enjoying a meal out, we can all predict which they’ll choose.
Tourism is another area of concern. Unreliable, terribly expensive ferry services put off visitors before they even have the chance to set foot here and spend money at our attractions or in our hospitality sector, causing even more losses.
Although I try to remain optimistic, the outlook for our Island feels bleak. It’s not solely about blaming the current government – these issues have deep roots stretching back over decades. Our entire system is broken.
Last week, you reported some kind people sleeping on the streets in Ryde to highlight the plight of veterans forced to do the same. Men and women who risked their lives for this country yet are now homeless. Contrast this with the treatment of economic migrants arriving across the English Channel. Young men who have given this country nothing are housed in hotels with none of the financial burdens that Islanders face. Surely, something is very wrong with our priorities.
B Meadows, Ryde