Food banks expect winter surge

Trussell has warned that demand for its food banks is set to soar over the winter months.

Last winter, more than 68,000 families turned to a Trussell food bank for the first time.

The charity believes it will see a similar increase this year - and expects its food banks to provide an emergency parcel every 10 seconds in the next few months.

1 in 3 food parcels go to children

Between December 2024 and February 2025, Trussell distributed 740,000 emergency food parcels - 40% more than in 2019-20.

This included 266,000 parcels for children.

That’s an increase of 29% and accounted for one in every three parcels last winter.

At the same time, there’s been a surge in the number of over-65s getting help from a food bank.

Last winter, people aged over 65 received more than 24,000 food parcels.

That’s more than three times higher than the figure recorded five years earlier.

“Christmas should be a time of joy and celebration, but this winter too many people will be struggling just to get by,” said Sophie Carre, director of engagement at Trussell.

“Tens of thousands of families will be forced to turn to a food bank for the first time as they are left exhausted, isolated and without enough money to live on.”

Food banks appeal for donations

Food banks themselves are also under pressure, as demand is currently outpacing donations.

In fact, Trussell says some are now at “breaking point” and having to buy lots of food themselves just to keep up.

The charity is now calling on people who are able to do so to donate and “play their part in ending hunger for good”.

"Food banks offer more than emergency food,” Ms Carre said.

“They provide hope, dignity and relief to people facing hardship. 

“They welcome people with warmth, offer connection over a cup of tea and give advice that makes it less likely people will need to turn to a food bank again.”

How to access a food bank

If you or someone you know needs support, here’s how to access a food bank:

Get a referral

You’ll usually need a referral from a local organisation, such as:

• Citizens Advice
• your local council
• GP or healthcare professional
• school, social worker or charity

They’ll assess your situation and give you a food bank voucher.

The voucher may be given to you physically or via email.

Check the details

Look over the voucher to see if it includes any specific instructions or expiry dates.

Find your nearest food bank

The referral agency will tell you where to go. You can also visit the Trussell website to find a food bank near you.

 You can find out more about how a food bank can help you by reading our guide.