Bournemouth Foodbank Reports Growing Demand and Calls for Action

Bournemouth, 20 November 2024 – Bournemouth Foodbank has released its latest figures, revealing a sharp rise in the number of people seeking emergency food support from April to September 2024. This ongoing increase in demand highlights the urgent need for action to tackle food insecurity across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.

From April to September 2024, Bournemouth Foodbank supported 5,456 individuals, a 11% increase compared to the same period last year. Of those receiving help, 1,214 were children, accounting for 22% of all recipients. During this period, the foodbank distributed 3,393 emergency food parcels, ensuring over 49,000 meals, including 10,926 meals for children.

The demand for assistance reflects a wider crisis across the UK. Trussell, which supports a network of food banks including Bournemouth, reported that more than 1.4 million emergency food parcels were distributed to people experiencing hardship in the past six months – including 508,000 parcels provided for children. The total number for this period is 69% higher than five years ago, in 2019.

Bournemouth Foodbank’s data reveals that families and single-parent households make up a significant portion of those needing assistance. From April to September 2024, 482 families and 253 single-parent households accessed foodbank support, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by local families. This is a 7.8% and 7.2% increase, respectively, compared to the same period last year.

As winter approaches, many families will face even greater challenges, struggling to cover rising energy bills while keeping their homes warm during the colder months. The Christmas period is an especially difficult time for those in crisis. Bournemouth Foodbank is calling on the community to help by donating to their live Christmas Crowdfunder. Your support can make a real difference to families in need this holiday season as qualifying donations are matched. [Link below].

Support beyond emergency food

In addition to providing emergency food parcels, Bournemouth Foodbank offers vital support through income and debt advice, helping individuals and families navigate financial challenges. The foodbank also hosts a variety of weekly food events, not only ensuring access to nutritious meals but also fostering a sense of community. These initiatives play a crucial role in addressing the loneliness epidemic and supporting people in diverse circumstances. The data showcased in this report only include emergency food and not community meals.

John Saborido, PR and Comms Manager stated “The data paints a clear and concerning picture: while we’re working tirelessly to support local families, the demand for our services continues to rise. It’s crucial that we address these issues at their root, ensuring every family has the dignity of stability and security.”

Speaking about the need for emergency food in Bournemouth, Emma Revie, Chief Executive of Trussell, said: “People are being forced to turn to food banks as a last resort because incomes from work, and social security payments are not covering the cost of the essentials, such as food, bills, and toiletries. This cannot go on and we refuse to stand by while so many of us are pushed to the brink, left without enough money to live on. Food banks like Bournemouth Foodbank are a lifeline, offering a warm welcome and space to be heard. They need everyone to play their part to move us towards ending the need for emergency food in the UK. You can help make sure food banks can continue to provide warm, compassionate, practical support and advice this winter by volunteering, donating, fundraising or campaigning to help end hunger in the UK.”

Call to Action

Consider contributing to Bournemouth Foodbank’s Crowdfunder this Christmas. Yor support can make a great difference: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/christmas-crowdfunder

Whether it’s a donation of food, a financial contribution, or volunteering your time, every bit of support makes a significant impact. Additionally, by advocating for systemic change through the Guarantee our Essentials campaign, you can help address the root causes of food insecurity.

About Trussell

Trussell supports a nationwide network of over 1,400 food banks, providing emergency food and support to people in crisis. Their mission is to end hunger and poverty in the UK by campaigning for systemic change and ensuring everyone has enough income to afford life’s essentials. Trussell works with communities to address the root causes of poverty and advocate for a more just society.

About Bournemouth Foodbank

Bournemouth Foodbank is part of the Trussell network and provides emergency food parcels and support to individuals and families facing hardship in the Bournemouth area and beyond. Besides food assistance, the food bank offers various programmes to help people manage their finances, find employment, and receive debt advice. With the help of dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners, Bournemouth Foodbank aims to alleviate food insecurity and support those in need.

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