ISLE of Wight volunteers have played a key role in the biggest ever study of foodbanks, which warns usage is likely to increase.
Working with Oxford University, foodbank volunteers helped collect data that has highlighted the reasons why people go hungry and what can be done to stop people needing foodbanks in the future. 
The university collected data which suggested foodbank usage was likely to increase due to benefit freezes, and the continued roll-out of welfare changes — such as universal credit and cuts to disability payments. 
The research highlighted the connection between foodbank use and financial insecurity — almost half of households reported their incomes as unsteady week-to-week and 78 per cent were severely food insecure. 
Over half of respondents had gone without heating for more than four days in a given month, been unable to buy essential toiletries, and been unable to buy appropriate clothes for the weather. 
Isle of Wight Foodbank manager, Hannah King, said: “In 2016-17 we provided 1,987 emergency food parcels to local people in crisis. Our work on the Island is entirely rooted in the community.
“We are really pleased to work with the University of Oxford and the Trussell Trust to not only make an immediate impact on the Island but work for future change too. 
“We are certainly looking forward to the day when people don't need our help, but until that day comes we'll make sure that everyone referred to us receives a friendly welcome, emergency food and whatever help we are able to offer.”