Community food organisations and food banks across Wales are
receiving an extra £1 million right now to help feed more people
who need support.
The funding brings the total Welsh Government investment in
emergency food aid this year to £3.44 million. It will help
organisations buy, store and distribute food, including surplus
food that would otherwise go to waste, boosting their capacity to
meet growing demand and ensuring people struggling with the cost
of living can access good quality, nutritious food. With the
ongoing conflict in the Middle East causing uncertainty across
global markets and has potential to push up the cost of everyday
life, the funding comes at a critical time for households already
under financial pressure.
The funding forms part of wider Welsh Government action to help
households facing hardship. Between 2022 and 2026 it has invested
over £7bn to support households through programmes to alleviate
financial pressures, help maximise income and to help keep more
money in their pockets.
Through its Claim What's Yours campaign, which directs people to
Advicelink Cymru for free and confidential support, more than
£10.5 million has been returned to people since 2020. The service
helps people access benefits, pensions, help with care costs and
council tax reductions they may be entitled to.
To tackle energy poverty, the Welsh Government allocates over £30
million each year to the Warm Homes Nest scheme, which provides
free energy efficiency improvements to low income households.
Since 2022, £7.4 million has also been allocated to the Fuel Bank
Foundation to run a national fuel voucher and emergency heat fund
in Wales, helping more than 230,000 people facing hardship with
energy top ups and fuel deliveries to households off the gas
grid.
Eligible households receiving both the Council Tax Reduction
Scheme and Disabled Band Reduction are receiving a £100 payment
for this winter, automatically through their local authority.
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, , said: “The cost
of living continues to put pressure on many households across
Wales, and the war in the Middle East potentially may drive up
prices, adding to the anxiety many people already feel about
putting food on the table, paying their bills and heating their
homes.
“Supporting people through these pressures is a priority for us
and we are doing all we can to help those who need support. This
additional £1 million will help community organisations and food
banks reach more people, as part of the wider work we are
undertaking to tackle poverty.
“Whether you are struggling with daily expenses, managing debt or
unsure what help is available, Advicelink Cymru is there to help
you claim the support you are entitled to.”
People can contact Advicelink Cymru on 0800 702 2020 for free and
confidential advice.
Notes to editors
- The funding has been given to local authorities to distribute
to organisations in their area to meet local need.
- The Nest helpline can be reached on 0808 808 2244.
