FOODBANK volunteers are facing a ‘huge task’ as the number of needy families given emergency food packages rises by 38%.

National figures show almost 500,000 people were given three days’ food from Trussel Trust foodbanks in the last six months - 38% up on the figure for the same period last year.

Slough Foodbank manager Sue Sibany-King says the figures mirror local pressures. “Here at Slough foodbank we are seeing record numbers of people attend each time we are open for distribution. “Thanks to massive donations throughout Harvest and now starting with Christmas donations we are currently able to support these numbers but transporting and restocking is a huge effort.

“We now desperately need a van to help with moving these large amounts of food and are seeking a local partner to support us with this urgent requirement.” Between April 1, and September 30, 492,641 people in crisis across the UK were provided with three days’ emergency food.

In Berkshire 6,233 people in crisis were provided with three days’ emergency food, of which 2,200 were children.

Trussell Trust chief executive David McAuley said: “Incomes for the poorest have not been increasing in line with inflation and many, whether in low paid work or on welfare, are not yet seeing the benefits of economic recovery.

“Instead, they are living on a financial knife edge where one small change in circumstances or a ‘life shock’ can force them into a crisis where they cannot afford to eat.”