Food bank stories

Beatrice’s story

During the pandemic, Beatrice couldn’t afford to pay her bills or buy essentials while she waited more than five weeks for first payment of Universal Credit. She was referred to Wandsworth Foodbank by Citizens Advice Wandsworth.

Beatrice lives on her own in a council home. She has severe back problems and difficulties walking. During the pandemic, Beatrice couldn’t afford to pay her bills or buy essentials while she waited more than five weeks for first payment of Universal Credit. She was referred to Wandsworth Foodbank by Citizens Advice Wandsworth.

Beatrice says:

‘When lockdown happened, I was paying over the odds for basics because of the lack of availability. It messed up my routine and finances, and I couldn’t get my medication. I had issues paying my electricity bills.

‘I used to work for a mental health charity but I wasn’t there long enough to get furloughed. I’m waiting for my Universal Credit to come through and I should hopefully now get it in the next two weeks.

‘I would rate the foodbank 5 stars. The lady from the foodbank was lovely and the stuff was really handy. I could make a few meals out of it. Everything was there, even chocolate and washing powder.

‘My carer told me about food banks and eventually I found out that I could get a voucher from the Citizens Advice. Once I knew that it was fine, I was really pleased with what I got. But I was without food for three days before I found out how to get the help.’

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