HIGH demand has led Malvern's foodbank to expand to a larger unit.

In the last three years, demand for the Malvern Hills Foodbank's services has doubled, with more people needing parcels than ever before.

Because of this, the foodbank has expanded to the adjacent unit, which has been empty since 2021.

This expansion has also freed up space in the original Unit 4, enabling the foodbank to have a larger, more comfortable stock-in area and an office space for a desk and computer.

A spokesperson for the foodbank said: "The increase in stock, along with the necessary areas for sorting goods, administrative work and the computer has meant working in an increasingly limited space.

"The extra space provided by the new unit is most welcome.

"Unit 3 had originally been occupied by a car mechanic company, so rubber gloves were donned and a thorough clean made it of use for the foodbank.

"We then took the opportunity to re-think our entire operation to make best use of both units.

"We have partitioned the new unit to provide a client waiting area, a large food parcel assembly area, and a new private room.

"The last provides a quiet space where clients can discuss their crisis with a volunteer or a member of staff from one of our referral agencies.

"We have always hoped that our foodbank would be a temporary measure, but in the present political and economic climate this is unlikely.

"As always, thank you for continuing to be generous and compassionate toward those in a crisis.

"We are grateful too to the district council who have helped us, and of course all our volunteers, team leaders and trustees who have worked so hard to make this happen."

The recent cost of living crisis has seen more and more people turn to their local foodbank as families struggle to keep up with the cost of energy bills and petrol, as well as food and other essentials.

A number of groups have called on the Government to do more to support people hit by the cost of living crisis.