Epsom and Ewell food bank charity sees demand almost double

An Epsom and Ewell charity says demand at its food banks has almost doubled since the pandemic

A charity has seen demand at its food banks across Surrey almost double from the levels it saw during the pandemic.

The Good Company, which operates in Epsom and Ewell, said food parcels were provided to 10,720 people in 2022-2023, compared to 6,116 in 2019-2020.

It was one of the groups taking part in the East Surrey Poverty Truth Commission, which brought together residents, councillors and charities.

The government said it was providing billions of pounds in support packages.

Ysabelle Knapp from Tadworth, one of those taking part in the commission, believes there is a stigma associated with poverty.

"I think there is a lot of anxiety around it and I think people are scared of losing their dignity," she said.

"A lot of politicians think it is a lifestyle choice, which is deafeningly stupid for me.

"[The cost of living] limits my life. I don't think that money makes you happy, but it gives you options."

The Epsom and Ewell Food Bank has been in operation for a decade

Ben from Leatherhead said he struggled with not being able to work because of ill health.

"I've worked ever since I was about 11 or 12", he said.

"So suddenly finding myself where I'm not working, it affects your identity, your sense of self worth and that is incredibly hard."

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: "There are 1.7 million fewer people in absolute poverty than in 2010, but we know some families are struggling, which is why we are providing a record support package worth £3,300 per household.

"This includes the latest cost of living payments paid directly to over eight million households this month and our decision to raise benefits by over 10% earlier this year."

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