Ken Loach’s new film I, Daniel Blake, the tale of a man forced to cope with the harsh reality of the benefits system after a heart attack leaves him unable to work, has caused a strong reaction on its release in the UK. Many are finding it hard to believe that these indignities are being suffered by people, in this country, now.

Sadly, for people coming through the doors of a foodbank today, this is their reality. Over 40% report benefit delays and changes as the main cause of their crisis. And new research shows that for every additional 10 adults whose benefits are stopped due to a sanction, 5 will need to ask a foodbank for help as a direct result. It is clear that this situation cannot continue. It is also clear that for as long as it does go on, we need to be here to help.

That’s why I’m reaching out to all of our friends and supporters today to ask you to make a donation if you can afford it, or give a regular gift if you don’t already have one set up, to The Trussell Trust. With your help we can provide support to foodbanks to deliver emergency food, guidance and advice to help people in crisis. We’re also able to do vital research into the causes of poverty and challenge government to improve systems and policy to work in favour of people like Daniel and, one day we hope, prevent the crisis from happening at all.

I really hope I can rely on your support today, and thank you for being part of the solution.

Best wishes,

Samantha Lane
Head of Fundraising

Marcella, 32 began struggling when she was forced to stop working due to her chronic spinal condition. When the health benefit payment that she desperately relied on was delayed, she was thankful the foodbank was there for her in her time of crisis. Read Marcella’s story in full here

Between now and March 2017, we’re encouraging people to step up to the plate and join the big conversation to End Hunger UK by sharing their ideas about what the Government needs to do to address the issue.