4,000 food parcels handed out to needy
Issue of emergency supplies rises by more than 1,000
The number of struggling people depending on Renfrewshire Foodbank is – sadly – on the rise again.
New figures show released yesterday show more than 4,000 emergency food supplies given to people battling to make ends meet by Renfrewshire Foodbank in just six months.
Between April 1 and September 30 this year, 4,190 three- day emergency food supplies were provided by the foodbank team compared with 3,038 in the same period in the previous year.
Of this number, 1,152 went to children.
The foodbank is a member of The Trussell Trust network, which has also reported an increase in UK foodbank use.
It is believed the local increase is due to people struggling with continued issues linked to benefit payments, the Universal Credit rollout in the area, low wages and insecure work.
In the months leading up to Christmas a number of factors – including cold weather, high energy bills and foodbanks and referral agencies ensuring that people who are likely to hit crisis have food ahead of Christmas Day – mean The Trussell Trust’s foodbank network traditionally sees a spike in foodbank use.
Renfrewshire Foodbank is now asking Express readers to help them prepare for their busiest time of year by donating urgentlyneeded food items.
There is concern that the further rollout of full Universal Credit locally, following evidence from other foodbanks in The Trussell Trust’s network about the issues people referred to them have experienced with the new system.
The six-week waiting period for a first payment can contribute to debt, mental health issues and rent arrears.
The effects of these can last even after people receive their Universal Credit payments, as bills and debts pile up.
Renfrewshire Foodbank is preparing to help prevent local people affected going hungry but is troubled by the extra pressure this puts on food donation stocks and volunteers’ capacity.
Elizabeth Alexander, manager of Renfrewshire Foodbank, said: “It’s really worrying that we are still seeing an increase in need for emergency food across Renfrewshire.
“Every week, people are referred to us after something unavoidable – like illness, a delayed benefit payment or an unexpected bill – means there’s no money for food.
“It’s only with local peoples’ help that we’ re able to provide vital support when it matters most, and while we hope one day there’ll be no need for our work, until that day comes we’ll be working hard to help prevent people going hungry.
“Thank you so much to everyone who already donates time, food and money to help local people.
“If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you.”
Mark Ward, of The Trussell Trust, said the Renfrewshire picture is being replicated across the UK.
He said: “We’re seeing soaring demand at foodbanks across the UK.
“Our network is working hard to stop people going hungry but the simple truth is that even with the enormous generosity of our donors and volunteers, we’re concerned foodbanks could struggle to meet demand this winter if critical changes to benefit delivery aren’t made now.
“People cannot be left for weeks without any income, and when that income does come, it must keep pace with living costs – foodbanks cannot be relied upon to pick up the pieces.
“Without urgent action from policy- makers and even more generous practical support from the public, we don’t know how foodbanks are going to stop families and children going hungry this Christmas.” ● If you can donate or volunteer at Renfrewshire Foodbank call Elizabeth and her team on 0300 102 2500 or email her at manager@ renfrewshire. foodbank.org.uk
Thank you to all who donate time and money Elizabeth Alexander