Benefit delay and low income are biggest causes.
Set aside for a moment the ‘leafy rich county’ stereotype. In the past year a growing number of clients at Citizens Advice Reigate & Banstead needed help to feed themselves and their families.
Most common causes were benefits – late payment and sanctions – and low income in the face of high rent and debts. As yet there is no sign of the numbers falling.
Our experience reflects national research published today by Trussell Trust which runs around half the country’s food banks (chart below).
The trust reports 42% of referrals stem from benefit problems, over 20% from low income.
We are grateful to the churches and other organisations who run food banks in East Surrey. They provide help to those in need following referral by our advisers and deserve the support of the whole community.