MORE people than ever are relying on foodbanks just to feed their families.

Sandi McDonagh co-ordinator for the Forest Foodbank – which operates foodbanks in the towns of Lydney, Cinderford and Coleford – says the organisation has seen a 38 per cent increase in demand since last year.

She said: "After analysing the vouchers issued by a variety of professional organisations like doctors surgeries, we have seen an increase in demand of 38 per cent to feed people who have fallen into a crisis situation since the same period in 2013.

"These vouchers are not given out 'willy-nilly' so we know that the beneficiaries of the scheme are those in genuine need.

"Gone are the days of people having their benefit delayed over a weekend.

"A more normal timeframe is a week – and even up to six weeks if the claimant is subject to sanctions by the Department of Work and Pensions."

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