Community food organisations and food banks across Wales are receiving an extra £1 million right now to help feed more people who need support.
The funding brings the total Welsh Government investment in emergency food aid this year to £3.44 million. It will help organisations buy, store and distribute food, including surplus food that would otherwise go to waste, boosting their capacity to meet growing demand and ensuring people struggling with the cost of living can access good quality, nutritious food. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East causing uncertainty across global markets and has potential to push up the cost of everyday life, the funding comes at a critical time for households already under financial pressure.
The funding forms part of wider Welsh Government action to help households facing hardship. Between 2022 and 2026 it has invested over £7 billion to support households through programmes to alleviate financial pressures, help maximise income and to help keep more money in their pockets.
Through its Claim What’s Yours campaign, which directs people to Advicelink Cymru for free and confidential support, more than £10.5 million has been returned to people since 2020. The service helps people access benefits, pensions, help with care costs and council tax reductions they may be entitled to.
To tackle energy poverty, the Welsh Government allocates over £30 million each year to the Warm Homes Nest scheme, which provides free energy efficiency improvements to low income households. Since 2022, £7.4 million has also been allocated to the Fuel Bank Foundation to run a national fuel voucher and emergency heat fund in Wales, helping more than 230,000 people facing hardship with energy top ups and fuel deliveries to households off the gas grid.
Eligible households receiving both the Council Tax Reduction Scheme and Disabled Band Reduction are receiving a £100 payment for this winter, automatically through their local authority.
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, said:
The cost of living continues to put pressure on many households across Wales, and the war in the Middle East potentially may drive up prices, adding to the anxiety many people already feel about putting food on the table, paying their bills and heating their homes.
Supporting people through these pressures is a priority for us and we are doing all we can to help those who need support. This additional £1 million will help community organisations and food banks reach more people, as part of the wider work we are undertaking to tackle poverty.
Whether you are struggling with daily expenses, managing debt or unsure what help is available, Advicelink Cymru is there to help you claim the support you are entitled to.
People can contact Advicelink Cymru on 0800 702 2020 for free and confidential advice.