Rising demand for food support during holidays

Charities say they are seeing more families in need of food support as the school holidays have begun for many.

The Salvation Army in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire has launched a Frozen Food Appeal during the six‑week break and is asking for donations of long‑lasting items such as nuggets, sausages, pizzas and chips which will be given to local families.

Volunteer Thomas Lewis said: "Over the six‑week holiday, there are no free school meals and parents do struggle."

The YMCA in Cheltenham said it will also be offering free meals and activities to children throughout the summer.

The Salvation Army's Coleford Hub, located on North Road in Broadwell, is open Monday to Wednesday from 10:00 to 14:00 BST.

The appeal is asking for frozen food donations as well as non-perishable items like pasta and pasta sauces, beans, spaghetti hoops, sauces and crisps.

Church and community leader Jon Harris said food insecurity is a "real issue for local families", and he expects the hub to be "extremely busy".

He said factors such as reduced disposable income, trying to keep children occupied, part‑time work and potential unemployment can all lead to families struggling more during the holidays.

YMCA Cheltenham will be hosting free activities and will be also providing packed lunches on 22 and 29 July, and 12 August, at King George V Playing Field in the town.

Linda Grice, YMCA Cheltenham's connect community manager, said the summer can be an "isolating time" for families in need.

She said the purpose of the programme is to "make sure children are entertained, active, educated, safe, and fed during the holidays".

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.