Have you ever used a food bank? Use increasing in the south east

Use of food banks in the south east of England has increased by more than 60 per cent in the last year, according to a report by a Green Party MEP.

Keith Taylor, The Green Party’s Member of the European Parliament for the South East, revealed in the report that there are now 59 food banks in the region.

Thirty three per cent of people requiring the donations face benefits delays, 19 per cent cite benefits changes as their reason for visiting, and 18.5 per cent point to low income.

Addressing the report, Mr Taylor said: “Food banks are a lifeline to those in need and, sadly, one of Britain’s booming industries.

“Across the South East demand for emergency food is soaring while people’s wages stagnate and the cost of living shoots up.

“In the sixth largest economy in the world no one should be relying on emergency food handouts at Christmas, it’s a national disgrace.”

What do you think? Does the increase in use of food banks surprise you? Comment below or email [email protected]