Food parcel handouts in Renfrewshire & East Renfrewshire reached a record number last year, according to new figures.
In Scotland, more than 170,000 three-day emergency food supplies were distributed by The Trussell Trust’s 52 food banks, a 17% increase in demand.
Tom Arthur, MSP for Renfrewshire South constituency, said: These figures are incredibly disappointing to read, and it’s of great concern to see so many people in my constituency have required this help.
“The Trussell Trust have also highlighted that impact that Universal Credit rollout has on areas they serve, with a 53% increase in foodbank use where it has been fully implemented.
“With Universal Credit planned on being implemented in my constituency from September this year, I worry that this poorly implemented reform will impact on the most vulnerable.
“As my recent question to the Minister for Social Security showed, the Scottish Government is putting as much support in place as they can and supporting families through the Scottish Welfare Fund, but Universal Credit service must be improved.
“It is heart-breaking that children here have been reliant on food bank supplies, but I am forever grateful to the staff, volunteers and those who donate for helping those who require it, and my office continues to accept food bank donations.”