Andrew Mitchell MP has chaired in the Royal Town a second meeting between Sutton Coldfield’s Baptist Church & United Reform Church (both of which operate Food Banks) and senior figures at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The meeting was organised by Sutton’s MP following a number of specific cases where Sutton Coldfield JobCentre Plus erroneously referred individuals to the Food Bank without – allegedly - assessing their eligibility for benefits.

The meeting was described as ‘constructive’ as both Clergyman and Civil Servants agreed that they should work more closely together to create a stronger ‘safety net’ for those deemed vulnerable in Sutton Coldfield.

One option that was floated was the possibility of a direct phone line between the Food Bank and Job Centre. There was also discussion about the possibility of work coaches attending food banks to train both the volunteers and talk to individuals about potential options.

It was subsequently agreed that DWP Officials would visit the Food Bank at Sutton Baptist Church to explore other ways of cooperating.

Andrew Mitchell said:

“I want to ensure that the safety net system works as well as possible for my most challenged constituents which means ensuring a really effective service from the skilled officials who deal with benefits in the Royal Town.”

Photo: Andrew Mitchell MP alongside representatives from the Food Bank Operation in Sutton Coldfield and DWP Officials