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TRADE union reps have come together to form a solidarity group in Basingstoke.
The group, called Basingstoke Solidarity Society, has been set up to build support for striking workers and community campaigns against poverty and the cost-of-living crisis that residents are currently facing.
Phil Gordan, a CWU rep for Royal Mail Basingstoke, was just one member who helped set up the group, which has only been running for a few weeks.
He said the group is about supporting those in a bad situation who might be facing mental health problems with the stresses of affording to live through the current crises.
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He said: “I met someone who was just 30 not so long ago and he is having to live through the cost-of-living crisis, an energy crisis and struggling to buy a house and he has had enough.
“We all thought this group could come together and support our youngsters because a problem shared is a problem halved as they say.”
Phil is encouraging more workers to come along to the group’s next meeting.
He added: “If you are struggling and if you feel you have had your pay cut and are struggling to get a house then please come along. Sharing a problem is the first step to solving it.”
Phil, who has lived in Basingstoke for 44 years and been a postman for 26, said he has faced mental health issues himself due to the stress and hopes he can help others who are now in the same position.
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He continued: “I have two adult children myself and I look at them and think they do not have the same opportunities as I had at their age.”
The group is also made of up BT workers facing the same issues. Phil said he knows that the cost-of-living crisis does not just affect working people but the elderly too.
Phil added: “It is early days yet but we hope to arrange more meetings and people should keep an eye on our Facebook page for the date of the next meeting.”
Visit the Basingstoke Solidarity Society Facebook page for more information.
