Food bank issues urgent appeal as new figures show rising rates of isolation and hardship

A food bank has issued an urgent appeal for support as a new report shows that one in four people who access food banks are experiencing high levels of isolation due to financial hardship.

Almost 8,000 emergency food parcels were provided by Bromley Borough Foodbank, based in Ashgrove Road, between April 2023 and March 2024.

Around 4,804 of these were sent to adults with 2,998 going to children in the borough.

Whilst the food bank has warned that emergency need is likely to worsen over the winter, the service’s latest report, Hunger in the UK, also shows this is accompanied by rising levels of social isolation.

Kate Sing’ombem, manager of Bromley Borough Foodbank said: “For many of the people who receive our support, walking through the doors of the food bank is one of the few social interactions they will have that week. 

“We have become increasingly aware that we are not just providing them with food but also the hope of a welcome and connection. 

“We need the help of the community to continue to address hunger in Bromley and provide the warmth of hospitality to those who have nothing or no one else to lean on.”

Bromley Borough Foodbank, which is part of The Trussell Trust network, is calling for the public to support the service through donations, fundraisers, volunteering or raising awareness.

Over the last year, food banks in The Trussell Trust network have experienced record levels of need as more people struggle to afford the essentials.

Emma Revie, chief executive at the Trussell Trust, said: “We know that many people turn to food banks as a last resort and feel embarrassed that they need to ask for help but food banks across the country are there to offer a warm welcome, provide essential items and help people access services that can lift them out of poverty.

“By coming together and supporting Bromley Borough Foodbank through to winter you are not just offering a meal – you are extending a hand of friendship, combating isolation, and helping to provide an environment where everyone is valued.”

Bromley Borough Foodbank has been providing emergency food parcels and support to people in the area since 2010.

Social media channels, volunteer vacancies and donation information can be found in the LinkTree here: https://linktr.ee/BromleyBoroughFoodbank?utm_source=qr_code

(Picture: Bromley Borough Foodbank)