A BRADFORD food bank – which is continuing to see an increase in demand amid the cost of living crisis – has warned that the situation may not improve for another three or four years as families struggle to cope with rising prices.

Amber Hussain of Feedo Needo – based at the Woodroyd Centre in West Bowling – said that many are struggling to survive and, with colder weather forecast, are having to choose between heating and eating.

Amber also said that some service users are surviving off tinned food and have not had a proper meal in months.

“Families are also having to buy out-of-date food to save money, or choose between food and hygiene products,” she added.

“The cold weather is a concern. We’re providing service users with hats, gloves and scarves, but as a small charity, there is only so much we can do.

“With prices going up and the food shortages, I can’t see any improvements for another three or four years, if I’m honest.”

Feedo Needo was founded in 2007 and its Bradford branch was launched at the start of the pandemic.

“We had a lot of service users around that time,” Amber explained.

“But since September this year, the demand has doubled.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Feedo Needo service users Rena (left) and Nasima (right)Feedo Needo service users Rena (left) and Nasima (right) (Image: Feedo Needo)

With the festive season fast approaching, Amber added that there is even more pressure.

“It’s going to be hard – just think of what it will be like for children, who are looking forward to presents and holidays,” she said.

Amber believes that food wastage is a problem, and that being more mindful could help alleviate some of the issues.

“We need to start looking at how restaurants and takeaways can deal with having surplus food,” she said.

“A fish and chip shop, for example, might have 10 or 11 portions left at the end of the night and save them for the following day. But organisations who work late would be happy to take them.

“If a supermarket contacted us, for example, we’d also distribute that excess food to those in need.

“Organisations need to work with food banks. We can’t change things overnight, but if we all work as a consortium, we can help.”

Feedo Needo are always open to doantions, Amber said.

“Even half a box is better than nothing,” she added.

“Please donate if you can. People can deliver to us directly or contact us via phone or email.”

To get in touch, call 0300 311 1312, email info@feedoneedo.org.uk or visit feedoneedo.org.uk.