Demand to rise on foodbanks

Hike blamed on benefit changes

A Paisley- based foodbank expects to see an increase in demand of 30 per cent during the winter months.

Renfrewshire Foodbank is preparing for the hike as the full introduction of Universal Credit takes place in September.

Elizabeth Alexander, foodbank manager, said: “Other areas which have had Universal Credit introduced have seen a rise in demand at their foodbanks of 30 per cent. I don’t see us being any different.”

Ms Alexander was speaking following the publication of a report from Glasgow Caledonian University that says demand for foodbanks and crisis funds will continue to rise as “the UK Government shows a disregard for the realities of poverty”.

The report tracks the country’s progress towards achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Professor John McKendrick, of Glasgow Caledonian University, said the goal of ending poverty in the UK by 2030 is a remote possibility without a significant change in policy direction at Westminster.

Professor McKendrick, cofounder of the Scottish Poverty and Inequality Research Unit at Glasgow Caledonian University, said poverty and inequality has continued to deepen across the UK and predicts life for the most vulnerable in society will become more stressful.

He said: “The manner in which new provisions have been introduced, for example the back-payment cycles for Universal Credit creating shortterm vulnerabilities, has shown a disregard for the realities of life for those with least resource. Foodbanks are becoming a necessary part of the landscape of social support.

“Demand on crisis funds and welfare advice is increasing.”

Critics say Universal Credit leaves claimants worse off than when on previous benefits.

Renfrewshire Foodbank has been widely hailed as a lifeline for families and individuals who can’t afford basic food and household items.

Elizabeth Alexander said: “In 2017/ 18 we gave 8,600 three- day supplies in Renfrewshire.”

Ms Alexander added that although the expected increase in demand at the foodbank of 30 per cent is large, she was not unduly worried about meeting it, thanks to the regular flow of donations received.

“The people of Renfrewshire have always been so generous,” she said. “They’ve been wonderful.” To donate money or food to Renfrewshire Foodbank visit https:// renfrewshire.foodbank.org.uk/givehelp/

If you need help from the foodbank, phone 0300 102 2500 or email info@renfrewshire.foodbank.org.uk