ALTON Foodbank has experienced a marked increase during the last year of emergency food supplies given to people living in and around the town.

Figures from April 1, 2017, to March 31 this year show that 832 three-day emergency food supplies were provided to people in crisis by Alton Foodbank, compared to 650 the previous year. Of this number, 387 went to children.

In addition, the school uniform bank distributed around 240 items of clothing and footwear.

A member of The Trussell Trust’s network, which last week reported a UK-wide increase in foodbank use, Alton Foodbank manager John Jacobs believes the local increase is due to people struggling with low income, zero-hours contracts and issues with benefit payments.

And this is not helped by local referral agencies which, “having cut staff, no longer have the time to write vouchers as they are so busy”.

While nationally the increase in foodbank use is being linked to the introduction of Universal Credit, Alton isn’t yet in the Universal Credit rollout area. However, it does share the concerns of those who are and the difficulties faced, as highlighted by a new report by The Trussell Trust.

Mr Jacobs said: “As part of a national network campaigning for change, the foodbank is working hard to offer practical emergency support to help prevent people affected (by Universal Credit) going hungry while simultaneously participating in vital research and raising awareness about the issues people are facing.”

And he was adamant: “We don’t want to be here forever. No-one in Alton should need a foodbank’s help and we want to see an end to local people needing emergency food at all.

“It doesn’t have to be this way - with a benefits system that catches people before they fall into crisis, and secure work that provides people with enough money to cover the cost of essentials, this is possible. But until that time, we’ll continue to provide vital support when it matters most.

“We’re dedicated to ensuring that people in our community with no money for food are able to access emergency support, and that has only been possible in the last year because of the incredible generosity shown by local people in donating food, time and funds.”

According to Mr Jacobs, the running costs for Alton Foodbank are around £13,000 per year, all of which is raised locally to enable the foodbank team to continue their work. Costs include premises rent, staff costs and other overheads like utilities and insurances.

In thanking all those who have supported Alton Foodbank in the past, Mr Jacobs added: “The foodbank welcomes any new offers of help with funding.”

He said that local businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the foodbank’s work can find out more at alton.foodbank.org.uk.