Just when it seemed the Covid pandemic might be over, the cost of living crisis has brought a new wave of fear and insecurity.

Energy price rises mean a deep breath before looking at our gas and electricity bills and the numbers on edges of the supermarket shelves seem to keep going up and up.

For many, the point at which they had to choose between heating and food or which meals to skip has long since been passed.

It is heartbreaking to hear - as we did from one foodbank boss - that many people would sooner go without food than face the stigma of going to a foodbank.

Read more: Watford children having to skip meals due to 'hidden hunger'

Some cases only come to light when some other disaster hits the household - a crisis that could well have been caused or worsened by avoidable cold or hunger.

Politicians should be careful with the language they use. Blaming people who find themselves in trouble will only deepen the shame and reluctance to come forward.

There may be some people who have never been taught to cook from scratch or draw up a budget - we could all do with a refresher - and it is right that foodbanks help with that. They are charities, not businesses, and don't want repeat customers.

But when energy bills double and the governor of the Bank of England warn of "apocalyptic" global food price rises even the most frugal might struggle.

There should be no shame in admitting you need help - especially if that help can keep a family fed, warm, in the black and away from the foodbank in the long term.