Press Release: RCT Foodbanks concerned RE Disability Cuts

The foodbank networks in Rhondda Cynon Taf are deeply concerned about the government’s cuts to disability benefits, warning that they risk pushing more people into poverty. Already, 75% of people who have come to food banks are disabled or live in a household where someone is, meaning disabled people are disproportionately more likely to face hunger.

In 2023/24, 22% of people at Taff-Ely Foodbank, 20% at Pontypridd Foodbank, and 19% at Rhondda Foodbank cited long-term health conditions as a key reason for needing support, highlighting the failures of the current system to prevent hardship. While the foodbanks welcome the rise in the basic rate of Universal Credit, they strongly oppose the UK government’s cuts to Universal Credit, Health, and tighter PIP eligibility.

A spokesperson stated: “Disabled people are already three times more likely to experience hunger. Cutting support will only deepen this crisis. We are hearing first-hand about the stress and anxiety these cuts are causing to disabled people.”

The foodbank networks urge the government to rethink these cuts and instead, introduce an Essentials Guarantee into Universal Credit to ensure everyone can afford the essentials such as food, toiletries, and utilities, and no one needs a foodbank to survive.

The food banks encourage anyone interested in campaigning against these cuts to contact Matthew Stevens at 07936 554850 or [email protected]

For press enquiries or interviews, please contact Matthew Stevens (Campaign
Coordinator, Taff Ely Foodbank) at 07936 554850 / [email protected]

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