Age Scotland criticises devastating cuts to lifeline Glasgow food service

The national charity for older people has responded to news that Food Train Glasgow is facing closure at the end of March due to the removal of its funding by Glasgow City Council.

Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, Mark O’Donnell, said:

“It’s a real blow to see the Food Train in Glasgow in this position and set to lose their funding for such a vital service. We know local authorities are facing challenging decisions right now, but this will have a devastating impact on some of Glasgow’s most vulnerable residents.

“Organisations such as Food Train provide services which are often a lifeline to hundreds of older people, offering support to those at risk of malnutrition and loneliness who often have nowhere else to turn. With the cost of living crisis placing an increasing number of people under strain, their work has been even more crucial.

“If the council do not consider maintaining older people’s access to food enough of a priority to protect then we are really are in trouble.

“We would urge councillors to reconsider this decision as a matter of urgency and call on the Scottish Government to step in if necessary to safeguard the future of Food Train Glasgow.

“It’s heart-breaking to think of this service coming to an end after 10 years of supporting older people, and begs the question of who would support these older people if Food Train Glasgow is forced to close their doors for good.”