News / Food poverty
More Bristol families turning to food banks for support
An increasing number of Bristol families have turned to food banks for support, latest figures from the Trussell Trust show.
In the last year, 33,123 emergency food parcels were provided by Bristol food banks, as many struggled to get by on low incomes.
New annual figures show that more than 3.1 million food parcels were given out across the UK last year, making it the Trust’s most in-demand year.
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Bristol’s three Trussell Trust food banks have seen a 232% increase in the number of emergency food parcels distributed compared to before the pandemic, as more and more people struggle to afford essentials.
Although two-thirds of support from food banks went to families with children, the charity allows warns of a concerning trend of pension-age households needing to turn to food banks.
Ellen Wood, Manager at North Bristol & South Gloucestershire Foodbank, said:
“We’ve noticed a steady rise in food bank usage, with the start of 2024 being even busier than the same time last year. The ongoing cost of living crisis has also led to fewer food donations, forcing us to buy food to meet the growing demand.”
Levels of need rose in December, which is often the busiest month for food banks. Food donations plummet in January and February, leading to sustained demand which food banks struggle to meet.
The Trussell Trust continues to emphasise the importance of local communities in ensuring that food banks continue to provide help, particularly amidst rising levels of need.
However, the Trust also stresses the need for policy change in assisting those in need, particularly in the wake of a general election.
Emma Revie, Chief Executive at the Trussell Trust, said: “Food banks are not the answer. They will be there to support people as long as they are needed, but by taking bold action our political leaders can build a future where everyone has enough money to afford life’s essentials. The time to act is now.”
main photo: Ellie Pipe
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