AN award-winning Keighley charity which supports people with drug and alcohol problems and complex needs saw a whopping 400 per cent rise in calls to its crisis service during the weeks after lockdown began.

Project 6 says demand for its Keighley Pathways service reached new levels as many people struggling before the coronavirus emergency were “tipped over the edge”.

The Pathways initiative, a partnership project involving several organisations, offers help and support to Keighley residents facing challenges and who feel they are reaching crisis point.

Specialist drop-in sessions provide information and advice, plus referrals to appropriate services.

A spokesman said: “The lockdown left people in very difficult situations, with many struggling to cope day-to-day. Those who were just about managing before coronavirus suddenly found themselves tipped over the edge into crisis.

“A significant number of calls were in relation to food poverty, loss of income and benefit claims and entitlement. People also stated that panic buying had left them feeling very fearful that supplies of food and essentials would simply run out.

“The number of people accessing our Third Place kitchen for hot food has also risen, by 100 per cent.”

Vicki Beere, chief executive officer at Project 6, says the number of calls has since fallen. But she adds that the figure is still “significantly higher than usual” and fears the situation will worsen.

“We’re concerned that this is a ‘calm before the storm’,” she said.

“Currently benefit sanctions, debt recovery and evictions have been put on hold but when this is lifted we expect many people to be facing significant hardship and multiple welfare issues. This will have a negative impact upon both physical and mental health, leading to further health issues.

“We’re in the process of planning for how we can support people and manage additional needs post lockdown.”

The charity is continuing to provide services throughout lockdown and can be contacted on 01535 610180.

Visit project6.org.uk for more details of its services.