Red Cross launches emergency food aid plan in UK

Hard-up families could be forced to turn to the British Red Cross for help this winter for the first time in nearly 70 years, as thousands face crippling cuts to their household budgets.

The British Red Cross said it is about to launch a campaign in supermarket foyers asking shoppers to donate food which is then distributed to the most needy through the charity FareShare.

The hike in basic food prices and soaring utility bills has put a further squeeze on UK families, with more than five million people living in deep poverty.