Star comment: Cold can be a killer in winter
Many like to imagine that the gulf between rich and poor has to a large extent vanished in modern times.
There is a welfare state, benefits to help those unable to help themselves and a range of charities and community groups that seek to plug any gaps.
The issue of social inequality is one that many would rather not consider. It reflects badly on society that there are haves and have-nots; that, in fact, there are enormous differences between those on the breadline and those who live on easy street.
That is not to denigrate those who have done well or who work hard to provide for their families. We live in an era of unprecedented opportunity when people are able to make something of themselves, should they wish.
However, a great many struggle and we have a collective responsibility to remember those who are impoverished, challenged and struggle without adequate resources. We should do what we can to keep them foremost in our thoughts and seek a society in which all have basic comforts and necessities, irrespective of our political views.
The news that some 16 per cent of Shropshire households will be unable to keep warm properly during the winter is a sobering thought indeed. Though some will be afflicted by living in colder, dated properties that are hard to insulate, others simply cannot afford to turn on the heating.
In our modern society, it is sometimes difficult to appreciate that there are some families or individuals struggling with poverty. Hidden behind closed doors, however, are people wrestling with decisions about the most basic commodities – as evidenced by the rise of foodbanks in recent times.
Heating is one of the most basic needs and the thought that some may have to go without will be difficult to comprehend for many. Of course, cynics will say the figures are skewed and do not tell the whole story. There will no doubt be some merit in that point of view as statistics and surveys rarely reveal the full picture.
But even if we accept that the figure may be lower than that indicated by Oftec, the survey nonetheless demonstrates that we must not be complacent as winter approaches.
Cold can be a killer, particularly among the elderly community.
Our politicians must do what they can to help and support the most vulnerable and needy in society. We can all do our bit too by keeping an eye on elderly neighbours as the nights draw in and the temperature drops.
