Charity urges action as foodbank demand 'soars' in Midlands

Credit: PA

A charity has warned foodbanks could struggle to meet demand this winter unless urgent action is taken to improve Universal Credit (UC).

The Trussell Trust said over 52,500 three day emergency food supplies were given to people in crisis in the first half of this year in the West Midlands and 29,602 in the East Midlands.

Foodbanks in areas of full Universal Credit rollout for six months or more have seen a 30% average increase six months after rollout, compared to a year before.

The charity also said it is concerned the situation will worsen in the months leading to Christmas when demand for food traditionally spikes, and when the number of foodbanks in areas of full Universal Credit service will triple.

New survey data also reveals that foodbank managers across the UK identify three main obstacles to meeting future need:

  • Longer term issues requiring higher than average number of foodbank referrals

  • Overwhelming numbers of people needing help

  • Food donations not meeting need

Mark Ward, Interim Chief Executive at The Trussell Trust, said: