Staff at the Dumfries-based Food Train are concerned that increasing numbers of over-65s will become malnourished as they try to manage gas and electricity bills amid rapidly rising prices this winter.
And they have written to Scottish Secretary Alister Jack, calling on the UK Government to double the amount paid in its previously announced Pensioner Cost of Living payment to help people cope with the crisis.
Chief executive Michelle Carruthers this week said: “Our members are very worried about the winter ahead. Many have no idea how they’ll cope. Some will have to juggle between keeping warm and keeping fed.
“This puts people’s lives in danger. Without immediate action, alarming numbers of older people are going to be at greater risk of malnutrition and social isolation this winter, causing further health problems and putting further strain on our already under-pressure NHS.
“The reports we are hearing from our members are heartbreaking, alarming and unacceptable. Their concerns are clear and are growing. Doubling the new Pensioner Cost of Living payment will go at least some way towards keeping the heating on and the cupboards stocked this winter.”
Food Train works with more than 3000 older people each year across Scotland, helping them with shopping, meal making, befriending and other support projects.
Their survey found:
27% of those questioned had started buying less food.
25% said they would struggle to pay their bills
30% have switched to cheaper food brands.
60% said they will heat their home less.
41% are cooking more often by microwave to save heating their oven.
Others are going out less often to save money, increasing the risk of social isolation.
Meanwhile, Food Train’s grocery shopping service has faced sustained record-high demand across Scotland since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.
To find out more about Food Train go to www.thefoodtrain.co.uk
