DEMAND for emergency food supplies in Malvern is still worryingly high despite figures falling – that’s the message from bosses of the town’s Foodbank.
Statistics published by the Trussell Trust foodbank network have revealed 1,514 three-day or more food parcels were given to crisis-hit Malvern residents over the past year – down by 143 in comparison to 2014/15.
The main reasons behind the number of referrals were due to benefit delay, low income and benefit change.
However national figures show a record high of more than one million three day supplies were sent to people across the UK.
Malvern Hills Foodbank received more than 19,000kg of food over the past year and more than 70 people have volunteered to provide support.
Local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the foodbank, enabling them to supply three days or more nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.
As well as providing emergency food, Malvern Hills Foodbank provides essentials like washing powder, nappies and hygiene products to families who are struggling, as well as sign-posting them to other services in the area.
Cathy Jackson-Read, Malvern Hills Foodbank chair of trustees, said: “We welcome the drop in need for the foodbank at the moment, and really hope this trend continues.
“But 1,514 is still 1,514 too many, and more needs to be done so we can continue to see the need for the foodbank decline.
“We are very grateful for the ongoing support of the community and hope that one day there will be no need for us in Malvern Hills.
“But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.”
Recent findings also suggest foodbank use is highest in areas where there are more people who are unable to work due to long term sickness or disability, are skilled in manual work or deprived.
David McAuley, chief executive of The Trussell Trust, added: “Figures on national food bank use prove that the numbers of people hitting a crisis where they cannot afford food are still far too high.
“One million three-day food supplies given out by our foodbanks every year is one million too many.
“This many people needing emergency food must not become the new normal.
“I’m calling on Government, the voluntary sector, businesses and communities to work together to tackle hunger and poverty in the UK. This has to be a society-wide effort.”
