One of the big outrages of the last decade has been the rise of food banks across the UK. They used to be a rarity, but are the most glaring symbol of the inequality that scars the country.
Now a similar phenomenon seems to be taking hold – the emergence of so-called “ warm banks ”. These are places of warmth people on low incomes can go to without switching on their heating. Hot food, clothes and vouchers can also be provided by the volunteers who run them.
On one level the rise of warm banks is a reflection of the sky-high energy costs families are struggling to pay. While multi-national energy giants rake in huge profits, the vulnerable shiver in cold homes and are fearful of using their gas or electricity.
But the existence of warm banks is also a damning indictment of the UK’s 21st century welfare state. A social security system should have compassion at its core, with the needs of children and families central.
Twelve years of Tory rule have undermined these core principles and added a harshness to the system. The bedroom tax, rape clause and the reversal of the £20 a week increase to Universal Credit were all shocking examples of Tory ideology.
Little wonder that so many people fall between the cracks and have to leave their own homes to get warm.
The treatment of the vulnerable is a stain on our society and another reason why this Tory Government should be turfed out.
Rare honesty from government on emissions failures is refreshing
It’s always refreshing to hear a government minister admit when they need to do better.
Speaking to The Record, biodiversity minister and Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater was clear – we’re not currently doing enough to curb Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Indeed, the independent Climate Change Committee’s report this week was damning in its verdict that the country lacked a coherent plan to reach its bold environmental targets.
Slater is right to say it should be a “wake-up call” – not just for her but, perhaps more importantly, for her SNP governing colleagues and the First Minister herself.
So often, politicians spin, bluster, deflect and try to shift blame rather than face up when they’re falling short – so, we commend the minister for her candour. But now, Lorna Slater has to press harder for her eco agenda in Nicola Sturgeon ’s administration.
She must ensure the Greens become a force in government – rather than just a second vote for supporters of independence.
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