Foodbank appeal after Universal Credit rollout in Rotherham

A GROUP which runs an annual Christmas foodbank appeal has warned the introduction of benefit changes could leave it in even more need of donations all year round.

The Food for People in Crisis (FiC) Partnership is made up of organisations in Rotherham which help people deal with emergency situations by providing them with food, whether it’s a parcel to take home or a cooked meal.

 

This emergency help is expected to come under more pressure following the rollout of Universal Credit.

Universal Credit came into force in Rotherham last month and replaces six working age benefits with a single monthly payment.

In some areas, claimants have had to wait long periods for their first payment to come through.

FiC said statistics released by The Trussell Trust showed that foodbanks operating in areas that have been in full Universal Credit rollout have experienced an average increase of 52 per cent in demand in the following year.

After helping 4,000 people last year, FiC said foodbanks “gearing up” for more referrals were in need of extra donations.

A spokesman said: “Voluntary Action Rotherham are working together with these frontline providers to find new support in anticipation of the rollout of Universal Credit. 

“The partnership is calling out to businesses and the wider community for ideas and offers of stock, to ensure these vital lifelines are maintained for all or our neighbours in crisis. 

“If you are able to gift ambient food stock within use by date or essential items such as toiletries, please email [email protected] to confirm how you can donate.”

VAR has also set up a dedicated 'People in Need' bank account to receive donations. 

All of the funds raised are granted via small grants awarded by an independent panel to improve Food in Crisis organisations’ services to people in need. 

Donations can be made by cheque payable to People in Need (VAR) and sent to Voluntary Action Rotherham, The Spectrum, Coke Hill, Rotherham S60 2HX or by bank transfer to People in Need (VAR), account number 20298847, sort code 086001.

 

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