Money Matters: The rise of food insecurity and where you can get support

In this week’s Money Matters column, Wrekin’s debt and energy manager Dan Bebbington looks into the rise in food insecurity, and some of the local organisations offering support.

The cost-of-living crisis has left many people struggling to afford basic necessities. With bills higher than ever and the cost of food soaring, more and more households are finding they can’t afford to feed themselves.

This is no longer a problem affecting only a small number of people. The Food Standards Agency has published the results of a survey which found nearly a quarter of people (24%) are ‘food insecure’, meaning they have limited or uncertain access to food.

The signs of food insecurity can include skipping meals, eating less to stretch supplies, or relying on low-cost, less nutritious foods.

If you or a loved one are making these compromises, it’s important to seek support. There are a host of local charities and community groups helping those struggling with food insecurity, so please don’t suffer in silence.

Emergency food parcels can be accessed at our fantastic network of local foodbanks. Most will require a referral from a professional such as your GP, social worker, housing association, or from Citizens Advice.

However some food banks are open to anyone in need and don’t require a referral. Check with yours before you turn up.

Once there, you will be given a food parcel to see you through a few days. Parcels are put together taking into account how many people you have in your household and any dietary requirements. Toiletries and household items, pet food and baby and toddler essentials like formula milk and nappies, can also be offered if available.

If you are unable to travel to your nearest foodbank, it may be possible for a delivery to be arranged.

In Shropshire, most towns and some large villages have their own food banks, including Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Whitchurch, Market Drayton, Bridgnorth, Albrighton, Shifnal, Ludlow, Craven Arms, Church Stretton and Bishop’s Castle.

Telford is served by Telford Crisis Support, as well as other food banks in Dawley and Newport. Telford Interfaith Council also provides out-of-hours emergency food parcels.

Staffordshire is also served by a network of foodbanks run by the Trussell Trust and local groups.

Food banks aren’t the only option. There are also a number of community food share schemes and pantries, offering cheap or free food that may otherwise have been thrown away.

In Shropshire you’ve got the likes of Shrewsbury Food Hub, Osnosh in Oswestry and the Highley Community Project, while Telford has the Community Grocery in Ketley and Pantry Plus in Brookside.

In Staffordshire, you have schemes like the Community Social Supermarket in Stafford, and Affordable Food Stoke.

If you are struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to these organisations. They are here to help, and seeking assistance is a positive step.

You can also contact Citizens Advice or your local council for further advice, and Wrekin Housing Group customers can always contact our Money Matters team.

9th October 2024