Food bank use in the UK has soared to record levels this year. That so many people are having to use food banks to get help for their families and themselves should be unnecessary in the UK – one of the richest countries in the world.
Worryingly, much of this increase in food bank use has been linked to the continuing introduction of Universal Credit by the UK Government. Universal Credit has only recently been introduced for new benefit claimants here in the North East. It has still to be introduced for people already claiming benefits.
Reasons for using food banks include:
- Low income
- Benefit delays
- Benefit changes
- Debt
- Homelessness
- Ill health
There are a number of food banks in Aberdeen. These include food banks operated by Aberdeen Cyrenians, CFINE, Instant Neighbour, TLC and the Trussell Trust. All these food banks accept donations. You can make donations of food to food banks directly or by using collection points in places such as some community centres, churches and supermarkets.
The types of non-perishable items you can donate to a food bank include:
- Tinned meals
- Tinned soup
- Tinned fish
- Tinned meat
- Tinned vegetables
- Baked beans
- Rice
- Pasta
- Cooking sauces
- Cereals
- Tinned fruit
- UHT or long life milk
- Biscuits and snack bars
- Teabags and instant coffee
- Sugar
- Diluting juice
- Dog and cat food
- Basic toiletries
- Nappies
If you, or someone you know, is in difficulty you can find more information about were and when in Aberdeen you can either collect free food or have a meal on the premises here. You may also find it helpful to contact Aberdeen Citizens Advice Bureau.