Lynsey says it took her two weeks to allow a council representative into her home. She was embarrassed that she couldn’t afford to turn the heating on or offer a cup of tea. She was referred to the local food bank. Until two years ago, the family had had a regular income but her husband was made redundant from the construction business. She says, “He keeps on filling in applications, but most of the time he hears nothing back. We’ve always been careful with our money, but it’s just tipped us over the edge. I’ve taught myself to go without eating up to four days sometimes, and last year I lost three stone. I can’t remember the last time we switched the heating on. Last night, I said to my husband, ‘what will I say if I see anyone here I know?’ He rightly said, ‘Well if they’re in the same position as you, they’ll understand.'”

Source: http://figr.es/s266