RESOLVED:

A. That Cabinet noted progress in delivering the Merton Council Cost of Living Strategy and Action Plan 2023 – 2025.

B. That Cabinet agreed to further expand the Merton Council Cost of Living Fund by allocating a further £1million, to be funded from the Strategic Priorities Fund reserve, in recognition of the ongoing challenges faced by local residents and businesses as a consequence of the cost of living emergency.

C. That Cabinet agreed the five broad areas of focus identified in the report against which the additional funds will be allocated.

D. That Cabinet delegated authority to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, in consultation with the Chief Executive and Corporate Management Team, to agree the financial allocations against each of the five broad areas of focus along with a detailed delivery plan