A local foodbank is calling on greater support for the community after research revealed rising levels of social isolation.

Ely Foodbank issued the appeal after the Trussell Trust's 'Hunger in the UK' report found one in four people accessing food banks experience isolation due to financial hardship. 

Responding to the findings, MP for Ely and East Cambridgeshire Charlotte Cane said: “Harvest is traditionally a celebration of abundance, so at this time of year hunger—and the social isolation it causes—is even more acute. Ely Foodbank plays a crucial role in helping local residents who are hungry and lonely.

“I encourage everyone in Ely and East Cambridgeshire who can, to support the Foodbank during this critical time. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your contribution will make a real difference.

“In addition, however, the government must urgently step in with comprehensive measures to address the root causes of poverty and social isolation, so that food banks are a last resort rather than a weekly lifeline. It’s time for a national strategy that tackles hunger and social isolation head-on and provides real support for those most in need.”

It comes as data shows more than 3,300 emergency food parcels were provided by the foodbank, which is part of the Trussell Trust network, between April 2023 and March 2024.

Séamus Connolly, operations director at Ely Foodbank said that any form of support - from volunteering to donations or raising awareness - will make a "big difference". 

The charity outlined a number of ways locals can help, including donating non-perishable goods, financial contributions, volunteers and raising awareness about the Harvest campaign.  

He said: "This Harvest season, we are reaching out to Ely's local community to help support our work to break the burden of isolations on those in hardship, so that no one feels alone in their garage. 

"For many of the people who receive our support, walking through the doors of the food bank is one of the few social interactions they will have that week. We have become increasingly aware that we are not just providing them with food but also the hope of a welcome and connection.

"We need the help of the community during Harvest to continue to address hunger in Ely and surrounding areas and provide the warmth of hospitality to those who have nothing or no one else to lean on.”