Somer Valley Foodbank provided 281 emergency food parcels to local people in April 2020. Of this number, 130 went to children.

The figures are a 33% increase on the same period last year.

As the impact of coronavirus continues to unfold, Somer Valley Foodbank believes the local increase is due to people struggling with low income, from benefits or loss of work due to coronavirus; continued issues with benefit payments; issues with Universal Credit such as the five-week wait; insecure work and the temporary closure of local charities offering crisis support.

The food bank relies on the support of people across the Radstock and Midsomer Norton area. This support has been fantastic, which means we have enough food to help those in crisis.

Paul Woodward, Foodbank Manager of the Somer Valley Foodbank said: “We’re dedicated to ensuring that people in this area without enough money for food are able to access emergency support. We’ve been making big changes to our work to ensure we can continue to offer people who can’t afford essentials the emergency help that is needed as safely as possible. But ultimately, no one should need to use a food bank.

Our vital work in the community has only been possible in the last few months because of the incredible generosity shown by local people in donating food, time and funds. To everyone that has donated - thank you.”

Foodbanks provide three days of emergency food to people who need it the most. Professionals such as health visitors, social workers and the CAB identify people in crisis and issue them with a Foodbank voucher.

The voucher can be taken to a Foodbank distribution centre where a friendly team of volunteers will offer a cup of tea and help people with their food needs.

For more information about the Somer Valley Foodbank visit www.somervalley.foodbank.org.uk, email [email protected] or call 07729523986