SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood says shocking foodbank figures show that Universal credit he is failing people
Reacting to Foyle Foodbank’s recent Annual Report, the Foyle MP said: “As the Covid pandemic hit, it impacted the most vulnerable throughout our communities, but it is clear that many people are still falling through the gaps when availing of adequate support.
“In Derry, we saw many people finding themselves in hardship and food crisis for the first time in their lives, many with young families, and they found this very difficult not knowing who or where to turn for help.
“Covid has been a difficult time for many people, but the constant positive we can take from it is that people stepped up to help the most in need in our communities through donations and volunteering.
“Volunteers have continued to bravely work within very challenging circumstances to support people and the habitual goodwill and generosity of the people of Derry.
“Figures from the Foyle Foodbank Annual Report 2020 show that food was provided to 6,805 people in 2020, up a staggering 75% from 2019, with the top three reasons for food poverty given by Foodbank users as low income, benefit changes and benefit delays.
“Universal Credit has continued to put pressure on those most in need. I have had people contact me who have struggled to cope during this pandemic.
“This uplift provides families on Universal Credit with an extra £1,000 per year.
“The removal of this support in September would plunge many families into poverty, severely reducing the standard of living for thousands.
“These figures show that Universal Credit is failing people.
“Foodbanks are not the answer to our problems.
“The British Government must now step in and support people, ensure everyone has enough to provide for themselves and their families and make urgent changes to Universal Credit to help those struggling. We should never become numb to poverty and need.
“The SDLP will be doing all we can to support those most in need.”
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