South Cotswolds MP Says Working Families Should Not Need Food Banks

Roz Savage MP has called for urgent action following the release of the South Cotswold Food Poverty Report 2024 to 2025, which shows food insecurity worsening across the region. The report, from Cirencester Foodbank and local partners, reveals that over 3,500 emergency food parcels were distributed last year, with nearly half going to children.

Roz highlighted that over a third of recipients had some form of income, including from employment. “It is appalling that in an area often seen as affluent, people in work still can’t afford to feed their families,” she said. “Food poverty is simply poverty, and it’s driven by political choices.”

The report found that 47 percent of referrals were linked to serious health issues, and half of all users were in housing-related debt. Families with children are especially vulnerable during school holidays, when food and childcare costs rise.

Roz criticised the two-child benefit cap, introduced by the Conservatives and retained by the Labour government, for pushing families into poverty. One mother of five featured in the report faces a £148 monthly rent shortfall because of the cap. “It’s punishing children for the size of their families, and leaving parents with impossible choices,” Roz said.

She also raised concerns about proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment, warning they could strip support from those most in need. “Disabled people are already under pressure. These changes will only make things worse.”

During Prime Minister’s Questions, Roz challenged Sir Keir Starmer over the UK’s high levels of inequality, calling on him to take real action.

Roz is pushing for more integrated local support. She is advocating for Citizens Advice advisors to be based in food banks, a model used in Cricklade that led to a significant drop in repeat visits. “That’s the kind of support we should be replicating,” she said.

She also praised community-led food initiatives, including the community fridges like the ones in Tetbury, Malmesbury, Purton and other local communities. “They provide a dignified way for people to access food while tackling food waste. They’re a brilliant example of local resilience.”

Roz is calling for the government to scrap the two-child cap, reverse PIP changes, increase school funding, and invest in affordable housing. Locally, she supports better public transport and rural support hubs.

“No one in work should need a food bank,” she said. “Our communities are strong, but they need a government willing to act.”

ENDS