Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, on how many occasions staff in his Department have suggested that UK residents could make use of foodbanks in response to issues they are having in accessing benefits.
Jobcentre Plus staff can, and do, signpost people in need to foodbanks, and other sources of help, while ensuring all sources of state support are explored. The number of claimants that have been signposted to foodbanks by the department is not captured.
Foodbanks are independent, charitable organisations and the Department for Work and Pensions does not have any role in their operation.