A CHARITY is looking for volunteers to help out during the cost-of-living crisis.

Brent Foodbank is currently feeding more than 1,100 people each month between its Neasden and Kingsbury centres.

Every week the foodbank sees people who are having to make impossible decisions. Decisions such as whether to heat or eat, or how many meals to skip so their child doesn’t have to go without.

More than a third of those needing to use the services are children and as winter looms, the charity anticipates an increased demand for emergency food parcels.

But this greater demand means more people are needed to help meet it. The centre says its volunteers are invaluable, calling them the backbone of the Foodbank.

Foodbank helpers, warehouse assistants and drivers are needed at the Neasden, Kingsbury and Willesden sites. Volunteer shifts are usually 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday.

Volunteer Wendy talks about being a part of Brent Foodbank: "I’ve been a volunteer at the Neasden Foodbank Centre for a while now and really value my time there.

"Whilst it would be great if food banks didn’t have to exist, the reality is that they are clearly a lifeline for many.

"Our food bank is really well run and brings together volunteers of different ages and skill sets.

"You really feel that your time and efforts count and I always leave feeling that my time has been well spent.

"I enjoy interacting with the people who use the food bank, and also feel that I am learning new skills.”

If you are interested in volunteering at Brent Foodbank, visit the website for further details on how to apply here.