THE Basingstoke Foodbank has reported that it has seen an influx of users since the beginning of the cost-of-living crisis.

This comes as energy prices begin to rise amid the highest levels of inflation seen in 40 years.

Basingstoke Foodbank Chair of Trusties Phil Thomas said the foodbank has seen a rise in the number of users, with twice as many users now than prior to the Covid pandemic.

He said: “It’s not like the steepness of the side of a house, but it is gradually increasing.

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“And I am sure as the autumn and winter kick in, we will see yet more, a yet bigger rise in our numbers.

“I’d be very surprised if that didn’t happen.”

Despite the recent rise in energy costs, Phil said that there was little risk that the foodbank would have to close any of its branches.

He continued: “At the moment we are operating at full strength.

“Apart from our headquarters, all of our centres are based in churches, and they are very generously giving us the space to operate out of their facilities, so that isn’t an issue for us.

“And I have to say, hats off to the generosity of the people and businesses of Basingstoke that we still have good supplies of food and financial donations as well to allow us to meet the needs that are out there.”

Most users are referred to foodbanks from 1 of over 100 agencies across Basingstoke such as adult services or GPs.

After being assessed by those agencies, and found to be in need, they are sent to the foodbank with an e-voucher which entitles them to food.

The foodbank will then assess the user’s situation, before providing them with 3 days’ worth of crisis supplies of food, the contents of which will give the user a balanced diet.

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Alongside providing food, the foodbank also funds an officer from Citizens Advice to sit inside the foodbank when it is open, so anyone who is having benefit issues or debt problems can receive immediate help.

The officers are also giving fuel vouchers to foodbank users who qualify, helping them with their energy bills.

To find out more about the Basingstoke Foodbank, or to donate, visit basingstoke.foodbank.org.uk/.