MSP: Rise in foodbank use is heartbreaking
Politician blames benefits rollout for increase
The rise in foodbank use across Renfrewshire is“heartbreaking”, according to a politician.
Figures recently revealed the number of three-day emergency food packages given to hungry families and children had increased by nine per cent in the last year.
Renfrewshire Foodbank, a member of The Trussell Trust network, had reported people being affected by Universal Credit issues.
The rollout of the welfare reform has seen a 52 per cent rise in foodbank use across the country, with demand in Renfrewshire expected to reach similar levels in the coming year.
MSP Tom Arthur said: “These are truly heartbreaking figures for Renfrewshire, which bring into sharp focus the devastating impact the Tory government is having on our local community.
“The fact that foodbank use is growing across Scotland is a clearly damning indictment of UK Government cuts to welfare, and the botched rollout of Universal Credit.
“While sustained Tory cuts have created this problem, we can see that where Universal Credit has rolled out it has made things worse – which is why the rollout must be halted, so the fundamental flaws can be addressed.
“I see the impact of Tory benefit cuts on a daily basis in my constituency, and the Tories have shown time and time again that they cannot be trusted with social security in Scotland.”
Maurice Golden MSP accused SNP man Mr Arthur of making “political points” and insisted Universal Credit can effectively support local families.
He said: “There are many complex reasons why people end up having to visit foodbanks, but of course I would rather be in a situation where foodbanks are not a reality.
“However, the reality is also one of a Conservative UK Government who are supporting our most vulnerable in our society.
“The recent budget yet again took many out of paying tax altogether, gave a boost to the national living wage and provided the vital extra support to Universal Credit that had been called for.
“The Conservative UK Government are creating a welfare system that works for everyone and provides a vital safety net to those that need it most.
“Tom Arthur continues to try and make political points, rather than working together to make Universal Credit a system that supports those who need it most across Renfrewshire.
“He should be calling on his SNP Government here in Holyrood to use their extensive welfare powers they now have at their disposal to help those who need it most, rather than continuing to blame everyone else.”