When only 3% of the welfare bill goes to the unemployed but 46% goes on pensions, it begs the question “How many pensioners are being referred to Food Banks to help them survive”? The governments narrative, largely accepted, is that … Continue reading
One in 10 English households is now living in fuel poverty according to stats released in May/June. They show that in 2.28m properties, people are struggling to be able to afford to heat their homes. The Department of Energy and … Continue reading
Outrageous! The DWP quite openly state on their PIP (Personal Independent Paymemt) telephone helpline that it may take 26 weeks to deal with a claim. 26 weeks? 26 WEEKS???? That is 6 months!! Half a year!! This is NOT just … Continue reading
DWP is failing with the new PIP benefit. DWP statistics published earlier this month show that between April 2013 and March 2014 349,000 PIP claims were received. During that same period just 83,900 (24%) decisions were made. In addition, only … Continue reading
Data collected in 2013 show primary and secondary diagnoses of malnutrition (caused by lack of food or very poor diet) rose from 3,161 in 2008/09 to 5,499 in 2012/13 according to figures released by the health minister Norman Lamb. While … Continue reading
The Trussell Trust said that there was a “shocking” 51% rise in clients to established food banks. It said benefit payment delays were the main cause. They also said benefits payments had been a particular problem since welfare changes were … Continue reading
So ATOS the IT company that currently has the task of assessing whether benefit claimants are fit to work are in discussions with a view to ending their contract early. An Atos spokesman said the company would not walk away … Continue reading
It is of no great surprise to read that some food banks are giving out “kettle boxes” (rations that only need boiled water to become edible e.g. pot noodles etc) and “cold boxes” (rations that do not need any heat … Continue reading
Millions have started 2014 in fear of eviction. 4000 people were surveyed and one in 11 say they will find it hard to find enough money to cover their housing costs. Nearly two thirds say they are in danger of … Continue reading
Please ensure that if you visit a food bank and have been sanctioned (for whatever reason) that you appeal against the decision. If you don’t know how, please go to the CAB or Shelter. This is a message from a … Continue reading