High Peak foodbanks extend advice services to all residents as economic impact of COVID-19 deepens

High Peak Foodbank @Zink, Helping Hands Foodbank, and Glossopdale Foodbank have adapted services to meet changing community need during the pandemic, with the number of clients sky-rocketing.

Among those now needing emergency food aid.People awaiting furlough payments from struggling employers, self-employed people and families awaiting school meal vouchers.

As the furlough scheme is withdrawn, staff and volunteers expect to see demand continue to rise with a surge of job losses, so the foodbanks will be offering extended support with issues related to work, housing and money.

Paul Bohan, from High Peak Foodbank @Zink, said: “As things are getting back to normal, foodbanks are ready to offer support to people so they no longer need emergency food.

“These services are available to anyone who needs the help they offer, not just foodbank users.”

He added: “The foodbanks are now encouraging and offering support to these families to help resolve the issues that caused foodbank need.

“It’s important that we do this so that the issues themselves do not snowball and get harder to sort out.”

To use a foodbank in the High Peak, people generally need a referral from Citizens Advice or support workers in services such as healthcare or local authorities.

One self-referral is allowed but after that recipients of food parcels usually must be working with a service to resolve the underlying cause of emergency need.

That expertise and relationships the foodbanks have built up over years could be vital in as the crisis evolves.

For advice on benefits, housing, finance, or furloughing, contact [email protected] or [email protected].

If you are looking for work, training, education or self-employment support, email [email protected].

The expansion has been underpinned by generosity from local residents, businesses and organisations.

Paul said: “It’s been amazing how people have come together to donate money and food to make sure families in our communities don’t go hungry.”​​​​​​​