A FOODBANK has seen a near 70 per cent increase in the number of emergency food parcels distributed as the cost of living crisis has spiralled.

The Trussell Trust, which manages foodbanks up and down the country, has released end of year figures for 2022-23, outlining the number of emergency food parcels foodbanks have provided to people.

The statistics cover the full financial year from April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023.

Braintree Area Foodbank has seen a 66 per cent increase in the number of emergency food parcels distributed.

The foodbank, which was set up 11 years ago by the Trussell Trust, has four distribution centres - two in Braintree and in Witham and Halstead.

In total, 9,474 parcels were distributed, 5,182 for adults and 4,292 for children, which is the most parcels the foodbank has ever provided.

This was up from 5,708 in 2021-22.

The levels of need were particularly acute in winter. In January and February the foodbank fed 119 per cent more people during those months in 2023 than in the same months in 2022.

Braintree Area Foodbank project manager Lee Ranson said: “A 66 per cent increase in those seeking help from food poverty is not acceptable.

“We are working tirelessly with local agencies to help those who find themselves in the most desperate situations.

“Foodbanks should not exist but the fact that they do highlights the inequality facing so many within our society. 

“We are preparing ourselves for the year ahead of us, where we simply cannot predict the demand we may see.

“We are always hopeful in the work that we do will ensure food security for people in need.”

Mr Ranson also thanked staff and volunteers who continue to help at the foodbank.

He said: “The commitment and dedication shown by the foodbank’s staff and volunteers across all areas of the foodbank has been awe-inspiring.

“As the foodbank has seen an increase in visitors, our volunteers have worked additional shifts, stayed open for longer and have met the challenge admirably. 

“Our warehouse staff, delivery drivers, office teams and the centre volunteers have answered every call to help those in food poverty and we can’t thank them enough.”