Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The question addresses the lack of referral to food banks by jobcentres in the constituency, highlighting a specific case in Widnes.
In my constituency, the jobcentre is not referring people to the Widnes food bank. It is important that the Minister intervenes and ensures that referrals do take place so that the people who need help get it quickly.
Jobcentres are working with local partners to signpost claimants to the support available in their local area. The Trussell Trust and the Independent Food Aid Network are putting in place appropriate solutions where food banks are in operation. Local councils in England will be able to use funding from the new £500 million local hardship fund to provide further discretion to support vulnerable people.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy