Older people across Dumfries and Galloway are buying less food so they can save money to heat their homes as energy costs spiral.
A survey of members of the Food Train charity has revealed “heartbreaking and alarming” feedback from the elderly.
And it has prompted the Dumfries-based agency to call on the UK Government to double the Pensioner Cost of Living payment to help with the burden of rising energy bills.
Chief executive Michelle Carruthers said: “Our members are very worried about the winter ahead.
“Many have no idea how they’ll cope. Some will have to juggle between keeping warm and keeping fed.
“This puts people’s lives in danger. Without immediate action, alarming numbers of older people are going to be at greater risk of malnutrition and social isolation this winter, causing further health problems and putting further strain on our already under-pressure NHS.
“The reports we are hearing from our members are heartbreaking, alarming and unacceptable.
“Their concerns are clear and are growing. Doubling the new Pensioner Cost of Living payment will go at least some way towards keeping the heating on and the cupboards stocked this
winter.”
One elderly resident who took part in the survey said: “I am careful just to buy essential food. I don’t eat out any more. I will not be able to have central heating on because of the cost.”
Another said: “I have cut down on main meals and don’t snack between meals. I don’t eat larger portions of food for my main meals.”
Food Train works with more than 3,000 older people each year across Scotland, helping them to eat well and live well in their own homes through a range of shopping, meal making, befriending and other support projects.
The charity’s survey of members across the country found:
■ 27 per cent of those questioned had started buying less food;
■ a quarter said they would struggle to pay their bills, with 37 per cent having already dipped into savings to make ends meet;
■ 30 per cent have switched to cheaper food brands;
■ 60 per cent said they will heat their home less, and;
■ 41 per cent are cooking more often by microwave to save heating their oven.
Others are going out less often to save money, increasing the risk of social isolation.
The charity has written to Scottish Secretary Alister Jack, calling on Westminster to double the amount paid in its previously announced Pensioner Cost of Living payment.
Food Train’s grocery shopping service has faced sustained record-high demand across Scotland since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, making more than 60,000 shopping deliveries in the last year.
The Standard contacted Alister Jack’s office for comment.
■ To find out about how Food Train could help you or someone you know, email shopping@thefoodtrain.co.uk or call 0800 3047924.
To register as a volunteer, go to www.thefoodtrain.co.uk.
