Bolton: Homeless organisation experience busiest weekend on record

Homeless Aid UK’s co-founder, Billa Ahmed, says that the change in utility costs all at once, has had a "massive impact", which has resulted in more and more people coming to their street kitchen.

Billa told The Bolton News that some of the people in need of food have ranged from the elderly, to the vulnerable, and the homeless.

And in some cases, service users have said that they have "no money left" after paying their utility bills.

Homeless Aid UK say some are having to choose between eating and the heating

Billa added: “All of our street kitchens have been extremely busy, where the amount of people calling for food has dramatically increased.

“We have not seen it like this before.

“We even had families arriving and we don’t normally see them at the street kitchen, we usually see them at the food bank.

“This is because of safeguarding issues with children.

“But luckily, we were able to help.

“People have been having to choose whether to keep the heating on or to eat instead.”

The homeless organisation has also seen a lot of new faces and have had to increase the food they make to keep up with the demand.

When looking to the future, Billa is concerned that the support that has been offered by the government won’t be enough, and that it will only get worse as the months go on, especially when it gets to winter.

Homeless Aid UK say some are having to choose between eating and the heating

He added: “Someone got in touch and said that they have just started a new job and have no money for packed lunches or even food, because they have to work a month before their next pay cheque.

“Even though they have had money from the government, how long will this last?

“No way is it going to be enough for the price of utility bills.

“What will happen in the winter?

“We have to do something.”

Other food banks across the country have also been in touch with Billa to say they are also having a similar experience, with an increase in demand.

Homeless charity Urban Outreach, however, have not yet seen an increase in demand.

But Dave Bagley, chief executive, has said he expects this to change in a week or so.

He said “I think people are still more nervous because it’s not their first bill.

“Everything has gone up, and the utilities is a major one, and it’s going to affect people.”

Homeless Aid UK say some are having to choose between eating and the heating

Homeless Aid UK is currently considering whether to purchase some candles, due to some requests from service users.

He said: “Other food banks and people have been asking for candles because they are scared of using too much electric.

“It’s such a shame.

“If we all stick together, we can come through it.

“But I don’t know what the future holds.”

As part of their services, they also offer advice and connect people with other organisations, including food banks.

The street kitchen is open from 7pm Monday to Saturday, and 6pm on Sunday outside Bolton Market which is open to anyone in need.

For information contact Billa on 07973 214 603.