CLOSE to 1,000 emergency food parcels were distributed to people facing hunger across Peeblesshire over a six-month period, new figures show.

More than 200 were provided for children between April and September this year, a figure which Peeblesshire Foodbank described as ‘alarming’.

The vital facility saw a six per cent increase in the number of emergency parcels distributed in the community compared to the same period in 2023.

Fiona Dalgleish, general manager at the Peeblesshire Foodbank, said: “It’s just unbelievable that we are facing yet another winter of hardship for so many people.

“We really need those in power to commit to end the need for foodbanks by reforming our social security system.

“In the meantime, we are very grateful for any packets or tins people can spare to give to those in need at Christmas.”

A total of 954 food parcels were provided to people facing hardship across Peeblesshire between April 1 and September 30 this year.

The figures have been released as the food bank enters its winter season, which is often its busiest time.

The food bank said the need for emergency food in Peeblesshire was ‘consistently high’, with more people struggling to afford the essentials.

It is calling on the public to continue to play their part to meet this urgent need by volunteering, donating, fundraising or campaigning to help end hunger in the UK.

The most needed donations for the food bank are tinned meat, tinned vegetables, tinned fish and cereal.

Emma Revie, chief executive of the Trussell Trust, said: “Peeblesshire Foodbank was set up to provide short-term support to people struggling to afford the essentials, but it shouldn’t have to exist. Hunger in the UK isn’t a food problem, it’s an income problem.

“People are being forced to turn to food banks as a last resort because incomes from work and social security payments are not covering the cost of the essentials, such as food, bills and toiletries. This cannot go on and we refuse to stand by while so many of us are pushed to the brink, left without enough money to live on.

“Food banks like Peeblesshire are a lifeline, offering a warm welcome and space to be heard.

"They need everyone to play their part to move us towards ending the need for emergency food in the UK. You can help make sure food banks can continue to provide warm, compassionate, practical support and advice this winter by volunteering, donating, fundraising or campaigning to help end hunger in the UK."