Foodbank use has soared by 113%

Independent foodbanks in Scotland have seen the use of their services more than double amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to new data.

The Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN) recorded a 113% increase in emergency parcel distribution between February and July.

Sabine Goodwin, IFAN coordinator, said: “The Scottish and UK governments, as well as local authorities, must do all they can to prioritise access to ‘cash first’ solutions for people unable to afford food.”

The IFAN is calling on Holyrood ministers to deliver on commitments to a “cash first” approach, including promoting the Scottish Welfare Fund and taking immediate action to put in place the equivalent financial support of the Scottish Child Payment due in February 2021.

More than £110 million has been invested by the Scottish Government in responding to food insecurity as a result of the pandemic.

A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “We have more than doubled the national budget for the Scottish Welfare Fund and have given local authorities the flexibility to provide their allocation of Food and Other Essentials funding as cash where appropriate.”

A DWP spokesman said: “With Universal Credit, urgent payments are available and throughout the pandemic we have provided further support to people on low incomes by introducing income protection schemes, mortgage holidays and additional help for renters.”