Three key focusses for the new Government

The new government has it in its power to end the need for food banks. We know what needs to change to create a future where no one is forced to turn to us for help.

We call on the Government to create a social security system that supports everyone when they need it most.

Over half of those in receipt of Universal Credit ran out of food last month, and just over a fifth were unable to heat their food because of the high cost of utilities. By enshrining an Essential Guarantee into law, the Government can ensure that everyone has enough money to cover their basic living costs and no one is forced to make the choice between heating or eating.

We echo the Trussell Trust’s call for the Government to invest in building and maintaining 90,000 social homes a year.

In Cambridge, around 2,500 people are on the waiting list for social housing. There is a direct correlation between high private rent costs and the increase in need for our services. Providing more social housing will reduce financial stress for those in need and improve overall quality of life.

We call on the Government to develop a comprehensive UK financial inclusion strategy that prioritises support for those struggling to make ends meet.

Access to financial advice is crucial for people on low incomes. This is evidenced by our partnership with Cambridge and District Citizens Advice, which within its first year has helped unlock £477,854 for 311 of our visitors through providing access to funds, grants and unclaimed benefits. 74 of those people now no longer need to visit our Foodbank. If this advice was readily available at an earlier stage, it could prevent many people from ever needing to turn to a food bank for support.

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