A recent survey reveals that one in five food bank providers in London anticipates a doubling or even greater increase in demand within the next year.
Conducted by the Felix Project, a charity specializing in food redistribution, this survey involved 614 community organizations. The findings indicated that 21% of respondents foresee a considerable surge in demand, while approximately two-thirds expect to experience some level of increase.
Almost 85% of the providers noted an uptick in demand compared to the previous year, with nearly half reporting an influx of first-time users.
Charlotte Hill, the chief executive of the Felix Project, emphasized that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is significantly impacting people’s lives.
The Felix Project, which redistributes excess food to nearly 1,200 organizations and schools throughout London, indicated that close to 40% of the services it assists are concerned about their ability to meet the rising demand.
“This survey was conducted prior to what has been termed ‘awful April,’ when individuals faced increases in council tax, energy, water, and broadband expenses,” Ms. Hill remarked.
“This has further tightened people’s financial situations, leaving them with even less to spend on food and heightening their anxiety about affording meals for themselves and their families.”
Additionally, the survey highlighted that 87% of the organizations offered more than just food assistance, providing services such as financial advice, mental health support, and recreational activities like yoga and football.
Dads House, located in Hammersmith and Fulham, receives over 600 kg of food each month from the Felix Project and runs a food bank four days a week along with a weekly lunch club.
Its founder, William McGranaghan, stated, “We are seeing new visitors every week; our doors are open to everyone, which I believe is crucial.”
“The cost-of-living crisis continues to be a pressing concern; far too many individuals are struggling to earn enough to meet their expenses, and this situation shows no signs of improvement, leaving them with no alternative but to seek assistance from food banks like Dads House.”
