A FOODBANK in Bournemouth has reported a sharp increase in the number of people seeking emergency food support.

From April to September 2024, Bournemouth Foodbank supported 5,456 individuals - a 11 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

Of those receiving help, 1,214 were children, accounting for 22 per cent of all recipients.

During this period, the foodbank distributed 3,393 emergency food parcels, ensuring over 49,000 meals, including 10,926 meals for children.

The growing demand reflects a wider crisis across the UK; Trussell, which supports a network of food banks including Bournemouth, reported that more than 1.4 million emergency food parcels were distributed to people experiencing hardship in the past six months – including 508,000 parcels provided for children.

The total number for this period is 69 per cent higher than five years ago, in 2019.

Bournemouth Foodbank’s data reveals that families and single-parent households make up a significant portion of those needing assistance.

From April to September 2024, 482 families and 253 single-parent households accessed foodbank support, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by local families.

This is a 7.8 per cent and 7.2 per cent increase, respectively, compared to the same period last year.

John Saborido, PR and comms manager, said: "The data paints a clear and concerning picture: while we’re working tirelessly to support local families, the demand for our services continues to rise.

"It’s crucial that we address these issues at their root, ensuring every family has the dignity of stability and security.”

Emma Revie, chief executive of Trussell, said: “People are being forced to turn to food banks as a last resort because incomes from work, and social security payments are not covering the cost of the essentials, such as food, bills, and toiletries.

"This cannot go on and we refuse to stand by while so many of us are pushed to the brink, left without enough money to live on.”

As winter approaches, Bournemouth Foodbank is calling on the community for donations to its live Christmas Crowdfunder.

Emma added: “Food banks like Bournemouth Foodbank are a lifeline, offering a warm welcome and space to be heard.

"They need everyone to play their part to move us towards ending the need for emergency food in the UK.

"You can help make sure food banks can continue to provide warm, compassionate, practical support and advice this winter by volunteering, donating, fundraising or campaigning to help end hunger in the UK.”

Visit the food bank's Christmas Crowdfunder at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/christmas-crowdfunder