New figures show 1,323 emergency food parcels were given to local households by Bradford North Foodbank during 2016 – 2017.
- Over 3,000 people ate breakfast, lunch and dinner for three days after receiving emergency food supplies from our foodbank. 40% of the beneficiaries were children.
- Latest statistics published by The Trussell Trust foodbank network show UK-wide foodbank figures are still not decreasing.
- The local increase is due to people struggling with continued issues with benefit payments, Universal Credit roll out in the area, low wages and insecure work.
- The top three reasons for referral to our foodbank were: benefit change 32.6 %, benefit delay 25.6% and low income 21.6%.
Over the last year, local people have donated over 23 tonnes of food and over 90 people volunteered in various ways. Local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support, enabling us to give three days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.
Bradford North Foodbank shares the concerns of other Trussell Trust foodbanks in Universal Credit rollout areas about the adverse side effects the new system can have on people. The 6+ week waiting period for a first payment can contribute to debt, mental health issues and rent arrears. The effects of these can last even after people receive their Universal Credit payments, as bills and debts pile up. We are working hard to stop local people affected going hungry but we are troubled by the extra pressure this puts on food donation stocks and volunteers’ time and emotional welfare.
As well as providing emergency food, we provide essential cleaning products (washing-up liquid, laundry powder), basic toiletries and sanitary products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the local area.
Shuna Hartley, Foodbank Manager of Bradford North Foodbank said:
“It is deeply concerning that we are still seeing an increase in the number of 3-day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis over the last year. Anybody could find themselves in need of the foodbank. Every week people are referred to us after being hit by something unavoidable – such as illness, a delay in a benefit payment or an unexpected bill – means food is simply unaffordable. It really is only with the community’s support that we’re able to provide vital emergency help when it matters most, and we hope that one day there will be no need for us in North Bradford and surrounding areas. But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis. Thank you so much to all who already donate time, food and money to help local people. If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you!”