Record number of Britons relying on food banks

90 per cent of UK food banks have seen a big increase in visitor numbers in the last two months compared to the same period last year. From IFAN (Independent Food Aid Network).

Half of the food banks surveyed say that if demand continues to rise, they will be forced to reduce aid or turn away new applicants for operations. writes The Observer.

Businesses testify that soaring food and energy prices in recent years have led to new groups such as health care workers and teachers.

“Many lose their legs”

According to IFAN co-ordinator Sabine Goodwin, there are many signs that the situation for many Britons will worsen.

“Over the winter many have tried to borrow money and built up debts that will eventually cost them their standing,” he tells the British newspaper.

Food inflation in the UK has risen for some time to 16.4 per cent, the highest level since 1977. In particular, prices of key commodities like milk, butter, cheese and eggs have risen – putting pressure on the country’s food supply. Banks grew at a rapid rate.

Inflation behind the strike wave

Widespread inflation combined with high energy prices is behind the wave of strikes that have rocked the country in recent months. Among others, nurses, ambulance workers and teachers have stopped their work to protest the deteriorating living conditions.

According to Sabine Goodwin, the growing need for help among Britons is putting a heavy workload on volunteers working at the country’s food banks.

– We endure, but the need never ends. As a volunteer, you often feel that our help is not enough, she tells the Observer.