'We're here for you' say Alnwick Food Bank as new research shows rising demand
Food bank volunteers are urging anyone in need of its service to get in touch.
Alnwick and District Food Bank has been a lifeline for many individuals, couples and families since 2014.
Now, with winter approaching and the cost of living ever-rising, the charity is encouraging people to access the service if they need to.
Susie Scarlott, chair of trustees, said: “As we head towards the winter period and festive season we are conscious that ever-rising food, energy and other costs and the ongoing economic uncertainty can bring stressful financial pressures.”
The food bank was very much in the spotlight during the covid pandemic when uptake spiked.
However, dozens of people are still supported every month.
Anti-poverty charity Trussell reports that 340,000 people in the North East in 2026/27 have so little to get by on that they are at risk of needing to use a food bank. Analysis from WPI Economics shows that this is an increase of 20,000 people since 2024/25.
“Numbers vary during any given year as seasonal work and other factors affect when people might need us,” explained Susie.
“We issue an average of up to 100 food parcels a month, although this can be higher or a bit lower depending on the time of year.”
It operates a 'corner shop' model where customers can browse shelves and choose food from a limited but health range of basic foods. This includes tinned and dried food, as well as some fresh items such as bread, cheese, meat, fruit and vegetables.
“We are reliant on donations but can usually provide some extras such as pet foods as well basic toiletries,” added Susie.
It is based at the Lindisfarne Centre, opening on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9am and 11am.
The food bank covers the area between Felton and Seahouses and has a satellite branch in Rothbury which covers Upper Coquetdale.
Susie added: “Our volunteers, some of whom have been volunteering with the food bank for many years, offer a bright, dignified and welcoming environment for people to come along and choose food in a friendly setting.
"Being co-located with the CAB and NCC housing team means we can signpost to other support if we think it's needed. And the cafe also on site provides another warm space where people can get a drink or meal.
“Depending upon individual circumstances we can offer from a single food parcel to help tide someone over a sudden and very short term crisis, to up to six months worth of support for people with a slightly longer term need.”
Helen Barnard, Trussell's director of policy and research, said: “People just a few streets over from you are sitting in the dark to save electricity, skipping meals so their kids can eat, feeling invisible and alone as they try to get by for weeks and weeks without any support.
“If we don’t act, we risk blighting the futures of a whole generation of young people who are experiencing and witnessing hardship UK-wide as the norm. We need politicians to take the heart-breaking scale of hunger in the UK seriously.”
Get in touch via email to [email protected] or visit its website.