THE co-ordinator of the West Kilbride Village Larder community initiative has spoken out on the impact of a £20 cut in Universal Credit and its impact on local families.

The Village Larder is extending its opening hours to provide more scope for those in need in the community and meet expected demand over the coming months.

Project co-ordinator Dawn Williamson says the service is helping people who may be struggling to access food but don’t want to go to a foodbank.

Based at the community centre in Corse Street, they are now open in daytime hours on weekdays from 9am to noon and Thursdays from 6-8pm.

With a team of ten volunteers, numbers using the facility have increased.

Dawn says she was 'really concerned' by the change to Universal Credit.

She said: "People may have just about been managing, but £20 to some families is a lot of money. We are expecting an increase in users at the Larder as a result."

The Larder is not a foodbank and instead requires a small payment, £3 from a family for £12 of shopping or £5 for £20 of shopping for larger broods.

Dawn explained: "Having spoken to our clients who use the service they say it is very useful as it helps by freeing up funds for bills, or even a few extra gifts this Christmas.

"The purpose of the Village Larder is to help people manage their money more successfully while giving a helping hand to those who need it.

"It is funded with grants from North Ayrshire Council and people who make standing orders every month into our account.

"From people dropping in fresh excess veg from allotments, to Morrisons in Largs and Co-op from West Kilbride with donations, it has worked out very well so far, and we are very thankful for all the support we receive."

Dawn says the village larder also shops local for supplies.

She added: "We have a policy of community wealth building so we try and use our local stores when we can for our stock.

"It is all about dignity and choice. People don't have to come in and prove that you are struggling - there are no nasty checks and we aim to foster a encouraging and supportive environment."

Covid regulations remain in place, with the use of sanitising equipment and face masks to be worn by users.

Dawn launched the venture when she learnt that villagers were being forced to pay bus and train fares to leave the area in order to get lifeline food supply aid.

She said: "It really shocked me, some people couldn't even afford a bus fare..

"This was one of the main driving forces for providing the Village Larder at the heart of the community."

You can find more information on facebook.com/The-Village-Larder and Instagram under the tag TheVillageLarderWK