MP Julie Marson has held a cost-of-living surgery at the Hertford & District Foodbank to support local people who are experiencing financial hardship.
Mrs Marson met with four people last week by appointment at the bank located in Hertford United Reformed Church.
Her team is now double checking whether the four are receiving all the benefits they are eligible for and she spent 25 minutes speaking to each of her constituents about their circumstances.
“It was important that I meet with people who are struggling at the moment for a variety of reasons with the rise in energy, food and fuel bills to see what I can do to help,” said Mrs Marson.
“The global rise in prices due to the war in Ukraine and post-pandemic supply problems is affecting everyone and will last for some time yet.
“The Government is helping and around 8000 families in Hertford and Stortford are starting to receive the first £326 of government support to help with cost-of-living pressures with more money coming this autumn.
“However, the work of the food bank is vital for those who are struggling and I thank it for its work at this challenging time and for allowing me to come and meet with those who need support in the shape of advice and food from the bank.
“I need to know what is happening on the ground across the constituency and how the food bank and the Government’s support is helping, and what more can be done.”
Cheryl Jackson, Project Manager at Hertford & District Foodbank, added:
“The Hertford & District Foodbank appreciates the interest and support of Julie Marson. As the cost of living crisis continues to bite, it is
necessary to emphasise how much more is needed to help people who are struggling to make ends meet.
“Before the pandemic, generally we would see clients who needed a food parcel to cover an unexpected expense such as losing their job or a family breakdown and needed support to get back on their feet. Now we are seeing clients being referred to us time and time again as their situations are getting worse and they just don’t have enough income to cover soaring food, energy and fuel prices. That’s why we’re calling on government to introduce a long term commitment into the social security system to ensure everyone can afford the essentials in life, like food”
Mrs Marson is holding a free Jobs Fair at Ware Priory on 9 September from 10am – 2pm. The local job centre will have a stand at the event along with other organisations.
The Hertford and District Food Bank operates a pre-booked collection service for those in need. It can be contacted by phone on 07851 708470 or by email at: [email protected].