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Rise in Foodbanks Use Under Conservative Government Set to Mar Christmas Period for Thousands of Families
A sharp rise in foodbank use will mar the Christmas period as damaging UK Government economic policies leaves families in destitution.
Figures from the Trussell Trust revealed earlier this year that 116,000 emergency food parcels were distributed in Scotland in the six months from April to September - an increase of 34% when compared to the same period last year, and 65% when compared to five years ago. 40,000 of these parcels went to children.
The report also shows that 27,000 people in Scotland used a foodbank for the first time in the last six months and that more working people were turning to food banks.
Gordon MP Richard Thomson warned the lingering Westminster-made cost-of-living crisis would hammer families over the festive period and force even more reliance on foodbanks as the worst of the crisis bites over the winter.
Commenting, Richard Thomson MP said:
“Foodbank use has risen dramatically since the Conservatives came to power in 2010 and even more so now, with their failure to get a grip of the cost-of-living crisis set to mar the Christmas period for many households who’ve been forced into destitution.
“Foodbanks should not exist in what is supposed to be a wealthy country, yet Westminster has consistently shown us that it is only with the full powers of independence that Scotland stands a chance of eradicating foodbank use for good.
“That 40,000 parcels went to children should shame anyone into action. Families shouldn’t have to make the difficult choice between heating or eating, and now sacrificing buying gifts for loved ones at Christmas and yet here we are.
“Scotland has made clear it wants to take a different path and independence is the only way we can escape unwanted Conservative austerity, Brexit and Westminster governments we don’t vote for for good.”
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Notes for Editors:
https://www.trusselltrust.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/11/MYS-UK-Factsheet-2022.pdf
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