MORE than 1,000 people in crisis were supported by Ryedale Foodbank over the last year.

Latest statistics published by The Trussell Trust Foodbank Network show figures are continuing to increase with 1,032 three-day emergency food supplies given to local people in 2016-17, including 337 to children - compared to 886 the previous year.

The top three reasons for foodbank referrals were: benefit delay 33 per cent, benefit change 23 per cent and low income 26 per cent.

Over the last year, local people and businesses have donated 13.4 tonnes of food to Ryedale Foodbank, and more than 50 people have volunteered their services.

Many Trussell Trust foodbanks, including Ryedale, are working with other agencies to provide additional services such as welfare advice, budgeting help and debt support, helping people to break out of crisis.

Lesley Hurley, manager of Ryedale Foodbank, said they shared the concerns of other foodbanks in Universal Credit rollout areas about the adverse side effects the new system can have on people.

She said: “The six-plus week waiting period for a first payment can contribute to debt, mental health issues and rent arrears.

“The effects of these can last even after people receive their Universal Credit payments, as bills and debts pile up.

“Ryedale Foodbank is working hard to stop local people affected going hungry, but is troubled by the extra pressure this puts on food donation stocks and volunteers’ time and emotional welfare.”

Lesley added: “It is deeply concerning that we are still seeing an increase in the number of three-day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis in Ryedale over the last year.

“We are concerned that some agencies and charities who would normally refer people to us have been unable to do so because funding reductions have caused their services to be squeezed or closed. We want to ensure that anyone in the community who hits a crisis is able to access our support.”

“Anybody could find themselves in need of the foodbank. Every week people are referred to us after being hit by something unavoidable – such as illness, a delay in a benefit payment or an unexpected bill – means food is simply unaffordable.”

Lesley added: “It really is only with the community’s support that we’re able to provide vital emergency help when it matters most, and we hope that one day there will be no need for us in Ryedale.

“But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.

“Thank you so much to everyone in Ryedale who already donates time, food and money to help local people.

“If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you.”

The foodbank welcomes any new offers of help with funding.

For more information, go to ryedale.foodbank.org.uk