That the Parliament commends the invaluable work of Peeblesshire Foodbank and recognises what it sees as the essential role that food banks play in supporting individuals and families experiencing hardship in Scotland; understands that 72% of those referred to food banks in Scotland are in receipt of the UK Government benefit, Universal Credit; believes that the current level of Universal Credit is so low that some people in receipt of it, many of whom are in employment, cannot afford the basic food and essentials of life; calls for urgent reform of the UK social security system to ensure that it provides adequate support to meet the cost of living, and reduces the need for emergency food aid, and commends Peeblesshire Foodbank, and other food banks, and volunteers throughout Scotland, for what it sees as the vital service that they provide.
Supported by:
Karen Adam, Clare Adamson, Colin Beattie, Stephanie Callaghan, Maggie Chapman, Jackie Dunbar, Annabelle Ewing, Bill Kidd, Fulton MacGregor, Stuart McMillan, Audrey Nicoll, David Torrance