Foodbank figures "appalling", says Jardine

A rise in the number and use of foodbanks across Edinburgh West shows the cost-of-living crisis is still hurting families, according to local MP Christine Jardine.

Christine attended the opening of the Community Fridge at Queensferry Parish Church earlier this month, one of a number of initiatives across Edinburgh West that provides food and ingredients free of charge for residents who need them.

She also met the Edinburgh Food Project earlier this year, where she heard of how demand is often greater than supply, with referrals to the service growing.

Figures from the Trussell Trust show food bank use in Scotland has grown by 30% since last year, 26,000 people using one for the first time between April and September 2023.

Christine said: “That in one of the richest countries in the world so many people are being forced to turn to foodbanks is appalling.

“The festive season is supposed to be a time of joining family and friends to celebrate, not worrying about the choice between heating and eating.

“And whilst we should be proud of the strength of the community spirit in Edinburgh West - from projects like the community fridge in Drylaw, to the Edinburgh Food Project - we must see more action from the Prime Minister and his Government.

“With food prices still rising and just a handful mentions of energy bills in the Chancellor’s recent budget, the Government needs to get a grip on this crisis.

“We need urgent help for the most vulnerable households and more support for our community food producers and farmers, so no one goes hungry this winter.”