THOUSANDS of emergency food packages were provided to people in the Barrow and Furness area during a 6-month period this year, according to Barrow Foodbank.

There was a slight decrease in the levels of foodbank usage across Cumbria between April and October this year compared to last year’s figures during the same period. But Barrow Foodbank is warning of increased pressures ahead as the centre heads into a busy winter period.

The latest data collection project published by the Trussell Trust indicates that national levels of food bank use have risen by 23 per cent this year, despite Cumbria-wide statistics showing a six per cent reduction on last year.

Barrow’s share - 3,266 emergency food packages - represents more than half of the number of packages distributed across Cumbria by the Trussell Trust during the recorded time.

Some 1,264 packages went to Barrow children during this six-month-period and 2,002 were given to adults.

Claire Coulthurst, Assistant Manager at Barrow Foodbank, told The Mail: “These figures don’t take into account our busiest time of year - as the colder weather draws in, we often find even more people needing our help.”

“We believe that everyone should have enough money coming in to cover the basics. But right now, more and more people in the Barrow and the surrounding areas are being forced to our foodbank’s doors. This isn’t right.”

“While our help is needed, we’re dedicated to ensuring that people in our community without enough money for food are able to access emergency support.

"Our vital work in the community has only been possible because of the incredible generosity shown by local people who have donated food, time and funds. Thank you.”