A BARNSLEY MP is asking her constituents to get in touch with her if they’re struggling with the cost-of-living crisis – but has praised government funding for local schemes.

Miriam Cates, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, held a number of one-to-one surgery phone calls last week – and said one of th main concerns was the rising cost of living and increased energy bills.

She has asked those struggling to contact her for help by emailing her at miriam.cates.mp@parliament.uk.

Ms Cates has also pointed residents in the direction of Barnsley Council for help.

She said: “Barnsley Council is identifying households in receipt of free school meals or pension credit who will receive an automatic payment, whilst other households who need help will be able to contact them directly to apply.

“In addition, households in council tax bands A to D across Barnsley should have started to receive their £150 rebate, and the council aim to have rolled this out completely by the end of May.

“Help is also available for those eligible through the warm homes discount.

“The government has allocated £1bn to local authorities through the household support fund to be distributed directly to families who are most in need of help.

“This includes pensioners and families with children who are eligible for free school meals.

“I’m particularly pleased that the government has also committed to funding the Holiday Food and Activities Programme over the summer holidays.

“This is a brilliant scheme that helps children and families during school holidays by providing enriching activities as well as free healthy food.”