We are at crisis point. My plan to take action.
menu
With the economic impacts of the pandemic, changes to Universal Credit and national insurance, and increasing energy bills and council rents – I know this is a really difficult time for lots of Hackney residents.
In speaking to residents across Hackney, I’ve heard how people are doing all they can to make ends meet and need those in power to do more to help. From the work I do for the NHS, I know that it is structural and systemic issues that trap people in debt and worsen health inequalities.
As Mayor, I will do everything I can to help, and use all the council’s powers to cut household costs now and in the future.
Zero council tax for Hackney’s poorest
Currently, Hackney’s poorest citizens are required to pay 15% of the regular amount of council tax. Many are falling behind on council tax payments and being unfairly hit by court summons, extra costs and bailiffs. Under a Green Mayor, the lowest-income residents of Hackney will have to pay zero council tax – a 100% council tax discount. Those who can’t pay, shouldn’t pay – and should not live in fear of bailiffs.
Other London boroughs have already exempted low-income residents from council tax, with Green councillors leading the way in other boroughs such as Camden.
A Hackney free of child poverty
Almost half (48%) of the borough’s children are already living in poverty, with many more now at risk due to rising living costs. I am committed to working towards a Hackney free of child poverty. Having recently met with 4in10, London’s Child Poverty Network, I know that the main cause of poverty is a lack of affordable child care. I supported the campaigns to save Fernbank and Hillside children’s centres, and will continue to protect subsidised children care. As Mayor, I commit to support our children’s centres and not close any.
A living-wage borough
To lift people out of poverty, we need work that pays. I commit to making Hackney a living-wage borough, following the Living Wage Place scheme, and will work with every local business to make this a reality.
As Mayor, I will also:
We are at crisis point. My plan to take action.
Giving residents more power over their lives, homes and communities.
A mission to build community wealth.
Cleaner air and safe, healthy streets for every resident
A new approach to provide the housing we need
Green spaces benefit people and our planet
Rethinking our use of resources
Creating a world free from nuclear weapons
A new approach to advertising supporting healthy people, place and planet