DON'T LET OUR FOOD BANKS GO BUST - WE NEED THEM NOW MORE THAN EVER... 🍞

Report from the Editor's Desk by Duncan Williams 

The West Country is facing a growing cost of living crisis, with an increasing number of families relying on food banks to make ends meet. The cost of living has risen dramatically over the past few months, with the cost of essential items such as food, housing, and energy increasing at a faster rate than wages.

According to recent figures, the number of people accessing food banks in the West Country has risen by over 50% in the past year alone. This is a worrying trend that highlights the extent of the problem facing many families in the region.

The rise in food bank use is not just a problem for low-income families, but also for those on middle incomes who are struggling to make ends meet. Many families are finding it difficult to afford basic necessities such as food and heating, and are being forced to turn to food banks to put food on the table.

The reasons for the cost of living crisis are complex, with many factors contributing to the problem. Rising energy bills, increasing food prices, and the high cost of housing are all contributing to the problem, and many families are finding it difficult to keep up with the rising cost of living.

The government has come under increasing pressure to take action to address the cost of living crisis, and to provide support for families who are struggling to make ends meet. However, critics argue that the government's response has been inadequate, and that more needs to be done to address this growing problem.

Many charities and community groups are stepping in to help, with food banks and other support services providing a vital lifeline for families in need. However, these services are often stretched to the limit, and many are struggling to keep up with the growing demand.

The cost of living crisis is a growing problem in the West Country, and one that needs urgent attention from policymakers at all levels. Unless action is taken soon, the number of families relying on food banks is likely to continue to rise, with devastating consequences for those who are already struggling to make ends meet.

If you need emergency food, want to make a food donation or are interested in volunteering, you can find your nearest Trussell Trust food bank using this map.

https://www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/find-a-foodbank/

THE BIG SQUEEZE GRIPS THE WEST

Report from the Editor's Desk by Duncan Williams

In recent months, the cost of living crisis in the South West of England has seemingly reached a critical point, with reports of many local residents struggling to make ends meet. Rural communities can often seem especially neglected and are apt to feel completely off-the-radar as far as Westminster is concerned.

Rising prices for essentials such as food, housing, and energy have hit working people particularly hard, with many families finding it increasingly difficult to balance their budgets.

According to recent reports, the cost of living in the South West has risen by almost 20% in the last five years, with households spending an average of £600 more per month on essentials than they did in 2016.

With wages failing to keep pace with this increase, many workers are finding themselves in a precarious financial situation, with little room for savings or unexpected expenses.

So how can West Country people best save money in the face of this crisis?

One key strategy is to focus on reducing expenses wherever possible. This could mean cutting back on discretionary spending, such as eating out, entertainment, and luxury items, and focusing on essentials like food, housing, and transportation.

Another strategy is to seek out cost-saving opportunities wherever possible. This could mean switching to a cheaper energy supplier, shopping around for better deals on groceries and household essentials, or taking advantage of discounts and promotions wherever possible.

Finally, it's important for people to stay informed and engaged on issues related to the cost of living, and to advocate for policies that can help address this crisis. This could mean supporting initiatives to increase the minimum wage, improve access to affordable housing, and reduce the cost of essential services like energy and healthcare.

Ultimately, the cost of living crisis is a complex and challenging issue, but by taking proactive steps to reduce expenses, seek out cost-saving opportunities, and advocate for systemic change, people can help protect their financial security and build a more sustainable future for themselves and their families.