To ask the Minister for Communities what actions are being considered to reduce families' dependency on foodbanks.

The Department has been running a Social Supermarket Pilot Programme since 2017. Following a positive evaluation of the programme and working on a co-design basis with local Councils, the Social Supermarket model will be rolled out. A Social Supermarket provides holistic support through the provision of food alongside wraparound services to address the root causes of poverty. This includes, but is not limited to, debt and benefits advice, budgeting, healthy eating, cooking on a budget, training and volunteering opportunities to enhance future employability.

I am deeply frustrated that the lack of a functioning Executive and agreed budget prevents any further cost of living support measures being introduced, which could help to reduce dependency on foodbanks. However, I remain determined that my Department will continue to deliver support for those who are in need. I have tasked my officials to fully explore and expedite all options to address both the immediate needs of, and medium to longer term solutions to, the cost of living crisis.