Cost of living 'pushing people out of properties' in St Helens

As energy, food, and fuel prices continue to rise, 16 residents were evicted from their rented properties in the three months to June, Ministry of Justice figures show.

Up from three evictions during the same period last year, local charities are worried that this number could rise even further if living prices continue to soar.

The Teardrops team outside their town centre hub

With a focus on homeless and housing-related issues, 'Teardrops Supporting Your Community' has seen a "huge increase" in people needing their services since the turn of the year.

Also providing welfare, mental health, and benefits support, a backlog of patients is being created as the charity does not have the resources to meet the rise in demand.

Teardrops CEO Denise Kelly and founder Shauni Ward

Shauni Ward, founder of Teardrops, said: "There has been a huge increase in people in need of our services in general, but in particular with accommodation.

"There is a massive demand for affordable houses, and this is creating a huge strain on the social housing sector because people can't afford mortgages and there is a lack of affordable options.

"As people struggle with inflation and the cost of living, rent arrears can accrue and this is pushing people out of properties to look for cheaper options - which there is a lack of."

Teardrops get involved in numerous projects to support the community throughout the year (Image: Teardrops)

With rates of inflation outstripping people's wages and benefits, Shauni said that it is a "really worrying" time as the cost of living looks to deepen further this winter.

There are also concerns that charities like Teardrops will not be able to meet the demand of people needing their services as monetary donations drop from the public.

Shauni added: "Extra government support such as the financial payments are great, but not everyone qualifies for this and they are a short-term solution.

"There needs to be more of a long-term sustainable plan to reduce inflation and give people an equal chance of tackling the crisis.

"The crisis has a massive impact on local authorities and charities who have to pick up the pieces of people becoming homeless, so it needs to be resolved from its core with a long-term plan."