Norwich foodbank calls on the Government to offer more support for those in poverty
The charity fed over 13,000 people in the 12 months to 30th November 2024
The head of a foodbank in Norwich is calling on the public to lobby their MP for the need to provide greater support to those struggling to afford the basics throughout the winter and beyond.
2025 will mark 15 years since this branch of the national 'Trussell Trust' charity opened its doors for the first time - with them feeding over 13,000 people in the 12 months ending on 30th November.
"If you're starting to struggle...speak to somebody now"
Hannah Worsley is project manager of the group: "The work we do makes a really big difference.
"When we see people coming in throughout the year, they will be quite anxious, upset or unsure about what to expect.
"But they'll head out with their food, which they might have expected, and a smile on their face - feeling like they've been listened to.
"If you're starting to struggle or you're worried about the future then speak to somebody now - whether it's the council or a specialised agency - make sure you reach out and don't bury your head in the sand."
What's the Government doing on this?
In their 2024 election-winning manifesto, The Labour Party said:
"Labour is committed to reviewing Universal Credit so that it makes work pay and tackles poverty. We want to end mass dependence on emergency food parcels, which is a moral scar on our society".