Uttlesford Foodbank has seen a "consistent rise" in need over the past four years, with more than 3,200 children living in poverty across the district.

In 2019, the foodbank distributed 600 emergency food parcels across the district during the year, while their average over the last 12 month period is nearly 1,800.

Of the children living in poverty, an estimated seven in 10 are from working households.

Desiree Ashton, advocacy and campaigns manager for Uttlesford Foodbank, said: "At the recent hustings held in Stansted and Saffron Walden, it was clear that hardship within our neighbourhoods and wider community features as a growing concern for many residents.

"The rising cost of essentials, impact of an ongoing physical or mental health condition and priority debt are the most commonly cited reasons for referrals to our service."

Living in a rural location is known to amplify the challenges of those living in poverty.

Uttlesford is recognised as a Defra 80 District, which means that 80 per cent of the population lives in a rural settlement.

This means transport options are often limited and expensive, access to affordable food is more difficult and regular, well-paid local work can be scarce. 

Any type of hardship is also made more challenging by disconnection and social isolation.

Desiree said: "As the country and Westminster reorients following the election, there is an invitation for us all to consider what we can do locally to ensure that the rising level of need does not become normalised.

"While the indices of multiple deprivation continue to paint a picture of relative wealth in our district, our data and that of our partners, combined with the voices of concerned residents, present a very different picture."

To donate food or money, or to volunteer, go to https://uttlesford.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/.

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You can also find out how to get help if you need it.

Uttlesford Foodbank operates out of warehouse in Shire Hill, Saffron Walden, and is part of a nationwide network of foodbanks supported by the Trussell Trust.

The charity provides several days' worth of nutritionally balanced emergency food to people who are referred to them in a crisis.