THE head of a Bradford charity has said that things may get worse before they get better as the cost of living crisis continues to take its toll on people.

Ridwana Wallace-Laher claimed that some are even having to choose between food and hygiene products and are able to afford one, but not both.

She added that the level of deprivation in Bradford is increasing, and that the current climate is hitting the city harder than it is others.

Ridwana is the senior director of growth at charity Penny Appeal, which feeds those in need in Bradford every week.

Its new food truck, which travels up and down the country, offers a helping hand on Manor Row in the city centre on Thursdays.

“The demand is growing. We started off helping around 20 people. In the last couple of weeks, it’s gone up to around 60,” said Ridwana.

“I don’t think it’s going to get better any time soon. I’ve met families saying that the hot meal handed to them by Penny Appeal is the only one they’ve had all week – they just can’t afford it.

“People are asking themselves if they should buy food or buy shower gel. They have to choose and it’s really affecting families.

“You can already see the disparity between different groups growing. A lot of the families we speak to say that they are no longer entitled to some of the benefits they used to get, so that’s having a big effect too.

“It’s harder in places like Bradford. Deprivation stands out here that little bit more.

“It’s very evident. You just need to walk around the city centre and see how many are begging for money and food. You don’t always see that same level of poverty in other places.”

Ridwana added that Penny Appeal’s work is acting as a lifeline.

“We encourage people in need to come and visit us,” she said.

“As well as food, on the first Thursday of every month, we also give out a hygiene pack, which would last a family of two a whole month.

“It includes things like toothpaste, wipes, shampoo and conditioner.

“There’s help out there for people. It’s unfortunate we’ve got to that stage, but people need to get in touch if they are struggling.

“All the food we give out has been donated by local businesses, and we’re always on the lookout for people who want to give back.

“Anyone willing to help should email ridwana.wallace-laher@pennyappeal.org."