A charity feeding vulnerable Bexley residents has been given a much-needed donation as demand for its help continues.

Bexley Foodbank has fed more than 7,000 last year. Since April this year, it has already fed 3,385 clients.

The charity – part of the Trussell Trust – gives out parcels filled with food and other necessities to the people in society who need it most.

With concern rising over how the charity will match the high levels of demand, the south east London branch has been given £5,000 by the Trade Union Fund Management Services and Old Bexley and Sidcup Labour group.

Manager of the foodbank Gillian Bates said: “This is fantastic news, there has been a steady increase in requests for help from our foodbank from families and individuals in need.

“Demand is even higher this year and despite generosity from Bexley residents and businesses, supplies are running low so this donation is a big help.”

Bexley resident and Vice-Chairman of Trade Union Fund Management Services Paul Noon O.B.E was there to hand the cash over earlier this month.

MORE Greenwich Foodbank: Society becoming 'dependent' on charity handouts as use soars

Mr Noon said: “Many people have an image of Bexley as a leafy, affluent outer London borough. The reality is much different for too many residents.

“The roll-out of universal credit, benefit changes, high rents and precarious employment have all caused major problems.

“Foodbanks are not the long-term answer but there is an immediate need which must be met. We cannot stand by to see families, including children, go hungry and without life’s essentials.”

Demand is similar in nearby Greenwich, which earlier this year saw volunteers report  that, despite the generosity of the public, they are quietly concerned that resources are wearing thin.

Following the roll-out of universal credit, paired with London’s housing problems, Greenwich workers say they are set to serve more than 1,000 residents in need this year, compared to 700 in each of the last two.

Universal Credit was designed to make the system simpler by combining several benefits into one, but has been criticised for causing a five week delay in payments.

The Government has admitted there is a link between the roll-out and increasing foodbank numbers, and committed to reviewing assessments.