Alarming increase in people helped by Wirral Foodbank

Data from the foodbank reveals 14,369 emergency food parcels were provided to people facing hardship across Wirral in the last year – with 4,975 of these going to children.

Wirral Foodbank has seen a 56% increase in the number of emergency food parcels distributed compared to last year.

March was the busiest month for Wirral Foodbank, since it started in 2011, with 1,628 emergency food parcels provided, compared to 757 last year.

The charity's general manager Richard Roberts is calling for a stronger social security system that ensures we can at least cover life’s essentials, like food, heating, and clothes and called on the continued support of our readers.

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New annual figures from the Trussell Trust show that almost three million (2,986,203) emergency food parcels were given out across the UK – more than ever before.

Food bank use is on an alarming rise on Wirral (Image: PA Wire / Images)

Mr Roberts told the Globe today: "The cost-of-living crisis is affecting many in our community, with 60% of people attending Wirral Foodbank stating that their income is not sufficient to meet their day-to-day needs. 

"We can only meet this need through the continued generosity of the people of Wirral and the tireless support of our volunteers and staff. 

"We recognise that emergency food is not the solution to poverty, that is why together with Trussell Trust, we seek to tackle the underlying causes of food poverty." 

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In 2018, Wirral Foodbank commissioned Citizens Advice Wirral to provide a dedicated advice service, called Foodbank Plus, offering advice and support, addressing the reasons why people need emergency food.

Mr Roberts continued: "We need your support more than ever before.

"Our latest shopping list can be found on our website, with details of where you can donate."