By Hammad Alam

In the heart of Renfrewshire, a growing cost-of-living crisis is gripping communities, leaving residents struggling to make ends meet.

The Renfrewshire Food Bank, a vital support system, has witnessed a staggering 28% increase in demand over the past year, issuing 1,295 food bank vouchers in the quarter ending September 30.

Inflation and low income stand out as the primary culprits, according to Crystal Clayton, Senior Manager of the Renfrewshire Food Bank. “People don’t have enough money. Low income is a major factor. The rate of inflation is increasing rapidly, not in line with the money that people have,” explains Clayton, emphasizing the mismatch that is leaving many without the means to secure their essentials.

The impact is uneven across the region, with areas like Houston, Crosslee, and Linwood experiencing a startling 148% surge in food bank vouchers, while Paisley Southwest sees a significant jump of almost 70%. Clayton attributes this disparity to various factors and said “Some areas are deprived and some areas in Paisley Renfrewshire are more affluent than others. Therefore the gap is vast in terms of the size of the area and the population in that area. Therefore housing could be another factor in the rise in these numbers.”

Councillor Graeme Clark, Vice Chair of the Fairer Renfrewshire sub-committee, has taken a proactive stance in addressing food poverty. He said “Following a Fair Food Renfrewshire meeting in May 2023, a Vision and Charter were developed to foster cooperation across the region. A Steering Group, chaired by Renfrewshire’s Food Champion, Laura McIntyre, was established, comprising members from various organizations, including Renfrewshire Council, Renfrewshire HSCP, Engage Renfrewshire, NHSGGC, and the Renfrewshire Food Bank.”

He further said “Nourish Scotland continues to support these efforts, based on the Sustainable Food Places Toolkit. In a bid to amplify support, the Leadership Board, on June 14, 2023, approved an additional £10,000 in funding to bolster the remaining £15,000 in the Community Food Fund.”

As the cost-of-living crisis deepens, the Renfrewshire Food Bank remains a crucial lifeline for many residents. The community is called upon to unite, echoing the collective effort needed to address the growing challenges faced by those struggling in the face of rising inflation and economic hardships.