A FOOD bank in the city is finding the current coronavirus situation difficult to plan for because of its “unpredictable” nature.

Grahame Lucas, manager of Worcester Foodbank, said: “What makes this difficult is the situation is so unpredictable, making it difficult to plan for.

“But, it’s very much business as usual as the measures we’ve put in place at the start of lockdown such as social distancing in the warehouse, has allowed us to continue to support those in need.

“We expect to see a greater use of the bank as we gear up to Christmas but the furlough scheme is designed to keep people in work so we don’t think we’ll see an uptake in use from furlough staff but we’ll see.

“During the previous furlough scheme, people were being made redundant so we saw a big increase in use then when furlough came to and end.”

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The charity ended 2019 by feeding 1,150 clients during December – the most referrals it has handled during a single month since opening its doors in 2012.

Many of those referred to food bank continue to be hampered by lengthy delays in the payment of Universal Credit or other difficulties caused by the benefits system.

Low income or unstable hours of employment make it impossible for some clients to cover the cost of essentials including food, rent and heating.

Mr Lucas added: “We hope the generosity and volume of food donated by the community will continue and thank everyone for their support."

Worcester Foodbank which provides emergency food for people living in crisis situations across the city – and other foodbanks that form part of the Trussell Trust - is continuing to press the Government to ensure everyone has enough income to afford the basics we all need to live.

Two friends will be running a half marathon on November 15 in a bid to raise cash for Worcester Foodbank, which was inspired after the government voted against a proposal to provide free school meals during the holiday.

Worcester Foodbank opened in 2012 with the aim to "restore people’s hope of a happier and more sustainable future where they can stand on their own two feet."