BENEFIT changes and delays are thought to have contributed to a doubling in the number of Scots turning to food banks.

Up to 50,000 people struggling to survive on a "financial knife-edge" seeking help in just the last six months, according to the The Trussell Trust, which operates the UK's largest network of foodbanks. It was up from 23,000 in the six months from April to September 2013.

Ewan Gurr, Scotland network manager for The Trussell Trust, said: "We had 6,500 more referrals this year than in the same time last year due to low income rather than unemployment.

"Benefit changes and benefit delays have had a real impact this year. Those who are in work are suffering the problems of ­insecure employment and then you have to factor in the cost of living, ­especially as benefits are not rising at the same rate. Tie it all together and you have people really living on a ­financial knife-edge."

The charity has warned the run-up to the festive season will add additional pressures for many who are already struggling financially. December has fewer working days for those who work shifts or are on zero or low-hours contracts.

He added: He added: "People are really struggling and they just cannot provide for their families. Christmas is looking pretty tough for families - the situation facing people is not looking good."

SNP MSP Stuart McMillan said: "In 21st century Scotland, it is ridiculous that anyone should suffer from food poverty. The UK Government's welfare cuts have thrown some of the most vulnerable people in Scotland into poverty."