Food banks across the West Midlands are issuing a stark warning as they brace for a devastating winter surge in demand, with thousands of elderly residents, working families, and carers struggling to afford essentials.
Alarming Spike in Demand for Emergency Support
Last winter, between December 2024 and February 2025, a staggering more than 61,000 emergency food parcels were distributed to people in the region. This figure represents a 27 per cent increase compared to pre-pandemic levels seen five years ago.
With the biting cold of winter arriving, bringing higher energy bills for heating, the Trussell Trust anticipates demand will climb even higher in the coming weeks and months. The crisis is affecting all demographics, but some groups are being hit particularly hard.
Disturbingly, support provided to people aged 65 and over last winter was almost triple (171 per cent higher) than before the pandemic, with over 1,900 parcels given to this age group. Furthermore, food banks supplied almost 22,000 parcels for children in the region last winter, a rise of 19 per cent over five years.
Food Banks at Breaking Point as Donations Fall Short
The Trussell Trust predicts its network in the West Midlands will provide tens of thousands of emergency parcels this winter, as the soaring costs of food, energy, and rent push more households to the brink. Last winter alone, more than 6,400 families visited a Trussell food bank for the very first time.
However, this critical lifeline is under severe strain. More than half (58 per cent) of all Trussell food banks in the UK report that need continues to outpace donations. The Trust states that many are at breaking point and are being forced to buy significant amounts of food to keep up with demand.
Last winter, food banks in the West Midlands spent an estimated £315,000 on food as donations failed to match the high level of need across communities.
Urgent Appeals for Public Support
Jane Baker, manager at Newcastle-Staffs Foodbank, highlighted the severity of the situation. "We are bracing ourselves for another difficult winter and are urgently seeking the public’s support so we can continue to help people facing hunger," she said.
"We are seeing so many working families, carers, and pensioners walking through our doors. This isn’t right. Food banks are not the answer, but right now, they’re a lifeline. Donations are down, while costs are up. When people’s shelves are empty, our food banks can’t be."
Sophie Carre, director of engagement at the Trussell Trust, emphasised the broader role food banks play. "Food banks offer more than emergency food - they provide hope, dignity and relief to people facing hardship," she said.
She added a direct appeal: "As the coldest months draw in, food banks need your help more than ever. If you are in a position to give, you can make sure food banks are there for everyone who needs support this festive season." The Trust is urging people to donate via its website to help provide food, essentials like blankets, and advice to prevent future crisis.
