A FOODBANK has seen a jump in demand and is appealing for help as people struggle with changes to the benefit system.

New figures show 591 emergency food supplies given out by Ryedale Foodbank in the six months between April and September - 133 more compared to the same period in the previous year. Of this number, 184 went to children.

The foodbank believes the local increase is due to people struggling with continued issues with benefit payments and Universal Credit roll-out.

Manager Lesley Hurley said they were working hard to prevent people going hungry, but were troubled by the extra pressure on stocks and volunteers.

β€œIt’s really worrying we are still seeing an increase in need,” she said.

Anyone interested in supporting the work can find out more at ryedale.foodbank.org.uk