A common problem raised by volunteers and users in all three areas is universal credit. The rollout of the new system – which merges six benefits into one monthly payment – began in 2013. It was designed to simplify the benefits system and help people move into work. However, the Trussell Trust says problems with universal credit - and a wait of at least five weeks before receiving the first payment - are a key driver of food bank use. Benefits not covering the cost of living - and delays in benefits being paid - were the most common reasons for people using food banks, according to its latest figures.

Research by the charity from 2018 also found a 52% increase in food bank use in areas that have had universal credit for at least 12 months, compared with 13% in areas that have not. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said there were many reasons for people needing food banks and denied that universal credit was driving use. A spokesperson said universal credit was a “force for good” which was providing support to more than 1.7 million people. They also said the department continued to make improvements where needed. But the Trussell Trust says ending the five-week wait should be the government’s first priority. In February, Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd said accessing money on time was “one of the causes” of the rise in food bank use. She said the government had introduced changes, including advances for those who do not have enough to live on while they wait for their first payment.