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12 November, 2020 Open access

First six months of coronavirus pandemic saw a 47 per cent increase in need for help from Trussell Trust’s food banks

Vital local support must work in coordination with a national welfare system that is strong enough to act as a lifeline to anyone struggling to afford the essentials, says Trust's CEO

In the first six months of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Trussell Trust experienced a 47 per cent increase in need for help from its food banks.

Publishing new statistics today highlighting the work carried out by its UK-wide network between 1 April and 30 September 2020, the Trussell Trust reveals that -

The figures also show that the top three reasons for someone being referred to a food bank during the period were low income (47 per cent); benefit delays (9 per cent); and sickness/ill health (6 per cent).

Pointing out that the figures do not include people helped by community organisations, independent food banks and local authorities, chief executive of the Trussell Trust Emma Revie said -

'Throughout 2020, communities across the country have stepped in to provide vital support to people left without enough money. Volunteers in food banks have been working hard under extremely difficult circumstances to make sure support is there for people struggling to afford essentials. But it’s not right that any of us are forced to a charity for food, at any time of year.

In the last few weeks, we’ve seen incredible compassion and concern for people facing hunger following Marcus Rashford’s brilliant campaigning. And it’s hugely welcome to see the government build on steps already taken by providing significant new funding for local councils in England. This vital local support must work in coordination with a national welfare system that is strong enough to act as a lifeline to anyone struggling to afford the essentials.

This pandemic has shown the unexpected can hit us suddenly, with devastating consequences for people’s lives. But it’s also shown we can make huge changes to the way we live and look after each other. It’s shown that when we come together to push for change, the government responds. Together, we can build a hunger free future.'

For more information, see 2,600 food parcels provided for children every day in first six months of the pandemic from trusselltrust.org