More pensioners need us, say Cornwall's foodbanks

Foodbanks across Cornwall say they have seen a noticeable increase in the number of pensioners turning to them for help this winter.

Sites in St Austell, Bodmin, Redruth, and Camborne said they had all seen more older people through their doors in recent months.

They have linked it to the government's decision to means test winter fuel payments - meaning people are having to spend more on energy and have less money for food.

The government insisted it had extended schemes like the Warm Home Discount and Household Support Fund to support those in need.

Millions of pensioners have lost up to £300 after the government decided to restrict the payment to those who receive pension credit.

Jacqui White, project manager of a foodbank in Bodmin, explained: "Money that they would have spent on food goes on the heating bills.

"They would have had enough to cope - now they haven't got that money so it's really difficult."

Claire, 77, from Redruth, said she had turned to the town's Bethel Community Larder after losing her winter fuel payments.

"I can't afford to eat as I would like to. I've got to pay my bills. It's far more important that I'm kept warm before I feed myself," she explained.

Ruth Gunn, who manages the larder, admits some pensioners found it hard to reach out for support: "There's a lot of people with a huge amount of anxiety.

"There can be almost that shame attached to accessing a food bank."

Ben Maguire, Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, urged the government to reconsider who received winter fuel payments.

He argued: "This should be linked to other benefits, whether it's housing allowance, disability allowance, or council tax support, rather than the current cliff edge that Labour have introduced."

A government spokesperson said: "We do not want to see anyone suffering this winter, which is why we have continued the Warm Home Discount and extended the Household Support Fund which will help with the cost of food, heating and bills.

"We are committed to supporting pensioners – with millions set to see their state pension rise by up to £1,900 this parliament through our commitment to the Triple Lock."

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