The staff and volunteers at the Norwood and Brixton Food Bank work hard all year round to support local people in our local area who are simply unable to make ends meet.  Sadly the need for their support keeps on rising.  I’m grateful for their dedication and for the care and dignity with which our local foodbanks provide support.  But it is shameful that the need for food banks continues to rise in one of the richest countries in the world, as a consequence of political decisions this government has taken. Local residents need to see action to address the causes of poverty. Last week, I asked the Minister what she is doing to end the need for food banks>>

Both Lambeth and Southwark Councils have worked hard to provide cost of living support in recent years, funded by the Household Support Fund. This has been a real lifeline for residents who are struggling to make ends meet. Providing one off emergency payments, free schools meals over school holidays and specialist advice.

The current Household Support Fund will run out at the end of March but the Government has failed to announce any plans for its future. Last week I asked the Secretary of State when he will be able to confirm future arrangements.  His answer was very disappointing >>

The government’s plans for early years education and childcare are in chaos.  With just weeks to go before the start of the expanded offer for two year olds, nurseries and childminders still do not know the rates they will be paid and parents do not know whether their children will have a place.   

The Government rushed into an announcement without any plan to guarantee the childcare places or the staff needed to support the expansion. Labour’s expert led review will deliver the plan parents and providers need to build a modern early years education and childcare system that can deliver for children and their parents from the end of parental leave until the end of primary school.  My question to the Minister today >>