Clive visits the Foodbank and the Refugee Support Group.

Clive Jones, Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate for Wokigham, visited two organisations doing important work in our community yesterday (17 June): The Wokingham Foodbank, which is part of a nationwide network of foodbanks working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK; and the Refugee Support Group, which seeks to improve the lives of refugees and people seeking asylum across Berkshire.

Clive was impressed with the joined up approach taken by the Wokingham Foodbank which works together with all the food organisations in Wokingham, as well as other charities such at Citizens Advice, for the benefit of residents. 

Clive said:

“The cost-of-living crisis is impacting people in Wokingham. Nearly half the referrals to the foodbank are due to rising costs for essentials. 

“Being part of the Charity Hub is helping clients meet their immediate needs whilst also allowing them to talk through what are often complex problems to find longer term solutions. The result of this is that the average number of times a client visits the foodbank is just over 2.

“The Trussell Trust envisions a future where foodbanks are not needed. The Lib Dems agree - we want a fair deal where no one should struggle to put food on the table or worry about heating their home.”

The Refugee Support Group, based in Reading, provides help to refugees and asylum seekers across Berkshire. Parliamentary candidates from the Reading and Wokingham constituencies were invited to take part in a hustings on Monday (17 June). Clive was the only participant from Wokingham and talked passionately about the plight of refugees under the Conservatives’ Hostile Environment and dysfunctional immigration system. 

Clive said:

“I was delighted to attend the hustings and to hear about the important work the Refugee Support Group does across Berkshire.

“The vast majority of asylum seekers are genuine. They want to work and rebuild their lives in the UK. But they are left languishing in hotels - which are being run by companies making vast profits - sometimes for years. Often they lack basic facilities, such as places to cook. 

“The Lib Dems would ensure all but the most complex claims would be processed within 3 months. And we would lift the ban on asylum seekers working if the decision takes more than 3 months - ensuring they can support themselves and contribute to the economy.

“The Lib Dems are fighting for a fair, effective immigration system that treats everyone with dignity and respect.”