A BROMLEY food bank says it is struggling to keep up as there is an ‘influx in referrals’.

Food Plus Bromley is one of many organisations helping those in need as Church Action On Poverty revealed last Thursday (May 30) more than half a million in the UK are reliant on emergency assistance.

The food bank formed in December last year as an initiative of Citygate Church in Rectory Road, Beckenham.

It takes leftover food from more than 20 supermarkets and smaller shops to vulnerable people who are struggling to survive.

Those in financial need are referred to volunteer-run Food Plus through partner organisations such as Carers Bromley.

Project director Peter Clyde said the initiative is “still fledgling” but is gaining a lot of support from the community.

He said: "As we have grown we have certainly seen an influx in new referrals, and the organisations we work with are keen to make use of the service.

“We are also seeing an increase in the amount of surplus food and supplies we are receiving from supermarkets. 

“I have read recently complaints that food banks are being required to fill in the gap due to benefits cuts. 

“But in our model that is exactly what should be happening - if there is surplus in the community, is it not right the best way to meet the needs of those who lack is to get that surplus to them?

“In this way the community of Bromley is looking after for those most vulnerable and reducing waste at the same time.”

For more information or to volunteer, visit foodplusbromley.com