Hamilton District Foodbank, as part of The Trussell Trust network, provides emergency food packs along with essentials like washing powder, nappies and sanitary products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the local area. Many Trussell Trust foodbanks, including Hamilton District Foodbank, are partnering with other agencies to provide additional services such as welfare advice, budgeting help and debt support at the foodbank itself, helping people to break out of crisis.

New figures show 4,015 emergency food supplies given to local people by Hamilton District Foodbank in last year

• 4,015 three day emergency food supplies given to local people in crisis by Hamilton District Foodbank in 
2016-17 – 1,424 went to children
• Latest statistics published by The Trussell Trust foodbank network show UK-wide foodbank figures are still not decreasing 
• Local increase due to people struggling with continued issues with benefit payments and low wages

4,015 three day emergency food supplies were provided to local people in crisis by Hamilton District Foodbank during 2016-17, compared to 2,667 in 2015-16. Of this number 1,424 went to children. The top three reasons for foodbank referral were: benefit delays, low income and benefit changes.

Over the last year, local people have donated 46,676 tonnes of food to Hamilton District Foodbank, and over 75 volunteered. Local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the foodbank, enabling us to give three days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.

Hamilton District Foodbank shares the concerns of other Trussell Trust foodbanks in Universal Credit rollout areas about the adverse side effects the new system can have on people. The 6+ week waiting period for a first payment can contribute to debt, mental health issues and rent arrears. The effects of these can last even after people receive their Universal Credit payments, as bills and debts pile up. Hamilton District Foodbank is working hard to stop local people affected going hungry but is troubled by the extra pressure this puts on food donation stocks and volunteers’ time and emotional welfare.

As well as providing emergency food, Hamilton District Foodbank provides essentials like washing powder, nappies and sanitary products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the local area. Many Trussell Trust foodbanks, including Hamilton District Foodbank, are partnering with other agencies to provide additional services such as welfare advice, budgeting help and debt support at the foodbank itself, helping people to break out of crisis.

Isobel Graham, Foodbank Manager of Hamilton District Foodbank said:

“It is deeply concerning that we are still seeing an increase in the number of three day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis in Hamilton District over the last year.

“Anybody could find themselves in need of the foodbank. Every week people are referred to us after being hit by something unavoidable – such as illness, a delay in a benefit payment or an unexpected bill – means food is simply unaffordable. It really is only with the community’s support that we’re able to provide vital emergency help when it matters most, and we hope that one day there will be no need for us in Hamilton District. But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis. Thank you so much to everyone in Hamilton District who already donates time, food and money to help local people. If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you!”