Foodbank users 'terrified' about plan to cut benefits

Claimants urged to contact MPs with stories of hardship for campaign

- Phil Corrigan

VOLUNTEERS fear controversial cuts to disability benefits will make more people reliant on foodbanks.

The Government is proposing a major shake-up to the welfare system which will make it harder for many people to claim personal independence payments (PIP) or universal credit for health conditions.

Labour ministers say the 'pro-work' overhaul, which is expected to save £5 billion a year by 2030, will encourage claimants to take up employment but critics say the changes will push hundreds of thousands into poverty. Volunteers at Newcastle Foodbank are worried this will mean more people will need their emergency food packages.