We cannot forget the people most affected by the cost-of-living crisis

For me – as a journalist, as a consumer of media and as a person – it’s essential that coverage of the cost-of-living crisis is not just delivered in the abstract, writes Harriet Williamson

People are not fooled by Rishi Sunak’s paltry energy bill loan (Getty)

It’s important, when writing about the government’s lacklustre and frankly, quite insulting plans, including Rishi Sunak’s £200 “discount” on energy bills, to keep the people who will feel the most devastating effects of the cost-of-living crisis at the forefront of our minds.

For me – as a journalist, as a consumer of media and as a person – it’s essential that coverage of this crisis is not just delivered in the abstract. It shouldn’t always be about political point scoring or the impact on Sunak – who is worth a reported £200m, so probably won’t be worried about the heating bills – and his leadership bid.

Those who will, inevitably, be worst affected by soaring energy bills, rising food prices and the highest rate of inflation in 30 years – people already struggling after a decade of austerity – need to be at the heart of the story.