Candidates respond to hunger and hardship in Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr at food bank hustings
A hustings hosted by Taff-Ely, Pontypridd, and Merthyr Cynon Foodbanks was attended by a range of candidates yesterday as they discussed how they would play their part in ending the need for food banks in Wales.
The ‘Hardship Hustings’ event was attended by members of the local community and candidates running in Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr. The hustings offered the opportunity to discuss hunger, hardship, and the cost-of-living crisis with people in the local community ahead of the elections in Wales.
Panellists included Heledd Fychan (Plaid Cymru), David Jones (Welsh Conservatives), Angela Karadog (Wales Green Party), Mark Lawrence (Reform UK), Lloyd Watkins (Welsh Labour), and Beth Winter (Independent). The foodbank thanks all panellists for their attendance and for answering questions, and to the Welsh Liberal Democrats who were unable to attend but clarified that they are happy for the public to contact them with any questions.
A representative of the foodbanks said: “We are grateful to everyone who attended our hustings event to share their experiences of hunger and hardship in Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr, and to the candidates sharing what part they would play to end the need for food banks in Wales.
“Whoever is elected, our politicians need to take action for the 660,000 people facing food insecurity across the country. Whilst food banks and other charitable food support are a lifeline, they are not the solution. A future without the need for food banks in Wales is possible – which is why it’s crucial that our political candidates commit to ending hunger and hardship in Wales.
“People in Wales want to see action on hunger. Everyone should be able to afford essentials like food, bills and toiletries. We won't stop until the distribution of emergency food can end for good.”
In 2025, Trussell foodbanks in Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr provided over 13,000 food parcels to people facing crisis. Across Wales, over 150,000 parcels were distributed. With hunger and hardship remaining consistently high, it is vital that the next Welsh Government, and all Senedd Members, work to end the need for foodbanks. You can read Trussell's manifesto for the 2026 Senedd elections by clicking here.
For more information contact: Matthew Stevens, Taff-Ely Foodbank Partnership Coordinator, Matthew@taffely.foodbank.org.uk
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Notes to Editors
Taff-Ely, Pontypridd, and Merthyr Cynon food banks are part of Trussell’s community of food banks. Trussell is an anti-poverty charity and community of 1,400 food banks. We work together to ensure no one in the UK needs a food bank to survive, while providing food and practical support to people left without enough money to live on.
