Social housing provider, Stonewater, has confirmed that they are recalculating their planned rent and energy price raises for residents of Cornmill House in Glossop.
Several residents of Cornmill House raised concerns with Robert Largan MP earlier this year when they were notified of huge increases in their rent and energy bills. In some cases, weekly rent and utility costs were set to be double their 2022 cost, with some individual utility costs rising by almost 500%.
Cornmill House has a large percentage of residents who are in retirement and in supported living, with many of those people on fixed incomes. Many residents were, therefore, concerned about how they would cover the cost of these above-inflation increases.
Following pressure from Robert Largan MP, Stonewater have struck a new cheaper energy deal, in what they say is an ‘exceptional’ move, and these savings will be backdated to June 5th and credited to residents’ accounts”.
Stonewater commented:
“As a result [of] the cheaper rates we’ve secured in our new energy contract the majority of our schemes have seen a reduction in energy charges – including Cornmill House - and we have written to customers to explain this.
“While we have been able to secure a good deal on our new contracts, energy prices do remain high. We are continuing to offer a range of support measures for anyone struggling”.
Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:
“Since this issue was brought to my attention, I have been in regular contact with High Peak Borough Council and Stonewater.
“The impact of these price rises would have been disastrous to some of our most vulnerable residents and I am thankful that Stonewater has listened to the concerns raised and taken vital measures to limit the increased rent and utility costs for residents of Cornmill House.
“The global pandemic has caused a supply chain shock, with disruption driving up prices. That has only been made worse by Putin’s invasion of Ukraine which has led to record gas prices.
“I will continue to do all that I can to support our elderly and vulnerable residents in ensuring that they are given all the help and support that they need and that’s why the Government’s priority is rightly focused on cutting inflation. It’s the best way to help people with the cost of living.”
