SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Councillor to live on benefits for a week

A COUNCILLOR is taking up the challenge of living on benefits for a week – something she knows only too well is the way of life all-year-round for many people in South Somerset.

Cllr Linda Vijeh, who is a member of South Somerset District Council and Somerset County Council, is seeing if she can manage on just £42 a week as part of National Care Leavers’ Week.

“I have been told that I have £42 to spend for everything except rent, rates and utilities,” she told the Yeovil Press.

“Whilst I have been willing to do this as a test, I am all too aware that for many people this is their reality, day in, day out.

“I have been working closely with the Somerset Leaving Care Council, and one area in which they are focusing on is how to help and support young people leaving care and going it alone for the first time, often having to manage on benefits.”

PHOTO - RIGHT: Cllr Linda Vijeh of South Somerset District Council and Somerset County Council.

Cllr Vijeh added: “Fortunately, due to financial problems myself in recent years I am quite used to living frugally. It will however mean that I have to do some things differently, and I’m determined not to cheat.

“One of the main issues will be the cost of petrol and parking, so we have agreed that I will only be costing petrol used for personal activities, rather than those where I have work obligations, as I am able to claim these back anyway.

“I will also be working out the cost of small things such as loo roll, soap, shampoo, toothpaste, dishwashing liquid and washing powder. These seemingly minor items can really push up the bill if you’re not careful.

“On the food side I am lucky that I can cook. I find it easy to make dishes very cheaply, and I don’t use my mobile ‘phone very much at all for personal calls. I just don’t have the time!

“I intend to keep a diary so that I can log the results. I’m sure it will be an interesting week.”

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