There has been a sharp increase in the number of people collecting emergency food supplies from the Hammersmith and Fulham Foodbank , new figures show.
Over 4,392 three-day emergency food supplies were provided to people by Hammersmith & Fulham foodbank in the 2015/16 financial year, compared to 3,606 in 2014/15 - a rise of nearly 22%. Of this number, 1,231 went to children.
The figures, published by the Trussell Trust foodbank network also reveal generous people donated 41.6 tonnes of food to the H&F foodbank , which is run by hundreds of volunteers.
H&F Foodbank manager Daphine Aikens thanked those who have helped, and the local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support .
Figures showed the top three reasons for foodbank referrals in the borough were low income (23%), benefit delays (21%) and benefit change (13%), with no information recorded coming in with 19%.
As well as providing emergency food, Hammersmith & Fulham Foodbank provides essentials like washing powder, nappies and hygiene products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the local area.
In White City a new food bank hub recently opened which also has a Citizens Advice Bureau adviser to assist clients, alongside computer and internet access .
Ms Atkens said the service was of vital importance to many people. She said: “We are still seeing an increase in the number of three day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis in the last year.
“It is all too easy when you look at figures to forget the real people behind the statistics.
"A lady recently visited a Foodbank Centre in Hammersmith and Fulham after her benefits had been stopped for a month. She had an accident at work where she fell down a flight of stairs and caused damage to her back.
"Although her doctor continues to declare her unfit to work, at her assessment with the DWP she was declared fit to work. Since then her benefits have been stopped, leaving her unable to afford food and vulnerable to debt.
“That’s why the foodbank is so vital. We are very grateful for the ongoing support of the community, and hope that one day there will be no need for us in Hammersmith & Fulham.
"But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.”
