UNIVERSAL Credit has come in for criticism from a number of sides and, while the government seem to firmly believes in the policy, statistics and stories coming out of foodbanks are proving it is not enough to help the most vulnerable in society.

While it is good to see a fall in the number of emergency food supplies being handed out by Malmesbury foodbank, there are still too many people in need of the service.

Malmesbury is an affluent part of the country and it is heartening to see the generosity of its residents in helping the less well-off in our society.

The government must be aware that in the last six months, more than three and a half tonnes of supplies were donated to Malmesbury foodbank but that generosity should not be relied upon as a solution.

It is a plaster, a temporary relief, where a long term plan must be placed instead.

Universal Credit must be improved and it is good to hear North Wiltshire’s MP suggest there may be amendments in next week’s Budget.