Hounslow Council is postponing its Cost of Living Marketplace due to be held tomorrow, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
After the Queen’s death on September 8, the nation entered a ten-day national mourning period, with the funeral to take place on 19 September.
Although there is no obligation for organisations to cancel events, many have done so, including Premier League football matches, planned strikes by rail and postal workers, and cultural and entertainment events such as Hackney Carnival.
A spokesperson for Hounslow Council said: “Following the passing of Her Majesty The Queen, the Cost of Living Marketplace scheduled for Wednesday 14 September from 9.30am until 1pm at Hounslow House has been postponed.
“A new date will be announced shortly.”
Following two years of coronavirus lockdowns and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, gas prices will reach an all time high this autumn – causing a huge increase in energy bills for UK households, with the poorest likely to be hit the hardest.
In response to the crisis, the government announced last week it is freezing energy bills at an average of £2,500 a year from October 1.
Hounslow Council’s cost-of-living support event included key services from within the council, as well as inviting guests from organisations such as Age UK, Citizens Advice, Job Centre Plus, and Mind to provide informal chats for vulnerable residents who need help.
Shivraj Grewal, Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Equalities said on the event page: “It’s important to bring together key partners from around the borough and our own services within the Council with one aim; to offer advice and guidance to our residents around issues connected with the cost of living.
“We hope the marketplace provides the kind of tailored support that prevents residents from reaching crisis point in the testing months ahead.”
Twitter user @magentawillow replied to the Council’s postponement of the event: “Have you any idea how appalling and tone deaf this decision is?
“Forced mourning for a privileged rich woman versus practical help for poor people struggling to survive.
“No wonder so many people are against the monarchy.”
When asked by our reporters why it was postponed, Cllr Grewal said: “During this period of national mourning, as a mark of respect, Council events and events managed by the Council will be cancelled including the Cost of Living Marketplace.
“The event is to be rescheduled to take place as soon as possible, once a new date has been confirmed it will be publicised across all our communications channels. In the meantime, any residents who require support or assistance can get in touch with Community Solutions on 02085832211.
“Alternatively they can attend one of our regular drop in sessions across the borough to speak to the team directly about any concerns or needs.”
Residents can find information about cost-of-living support here.
Featured image: Hounslow Council building via Wiki Commons
