Community groups fear an increase in demand from struggling families as financial pressures mount this Christmas

Recent figures showed that 1.2million food parcels were handed out to struggling families during the first six months of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In Mansfield, The Trussell Trust handed out 1,319 emergency food parcels from April to September – the equivalent of 51 every week – and of these, 511 were for children.

These figures do not include the additional support provided by the large number of community groups which were set up around the district.

School’s Out is working alongside schools and other community groups to provide a raft of support during the pandemic to support struggling families, but leaders admit that ‘only time will tell’ in terms of the real financial impact of the virus.

Amanda Fisher, School’s Out Champion, said: “It is a constantly changing landscape, but the need is very much there and we fear with the pandemic, with redundancies and furlough, that the need for support could be much higher – only time will tell really.

"We believe we could see referrals reach up to 600 at Christmas, which is what we are preparing for.

“We get calls for emergency food parcels every week and have recently stepped in to assist with uniform help and have provided coats and shoes to those families who are struggling.

"This is a real community effort and we are working alongside some great local companies who are doing their bit to help.”

Not Just Desserts and Boo’s Pantry Zero Waste Store have introduced a coat rack outside their premises on Toothill Lane, providing free coats for those in need.

Amanda added: "This is a fantastic initiative and just one of many we want to highlight in the area.

"Whether you need a coat this winter or would like to leave one, this is a very kind gesture and such a helpful set up.”

Ladybrook Enterprises also run a food share initiative at Ladybrook Community Centre, providing free food, clothing and shoes for anyone who lives in Mansfield.

The food share operates from the community centre on Ladybrook Lane, Monday to Friday between 12pm and 2pm, or you can visit their facebook page Ladybrook Enterprises Ltd for more information.

School’s Out has also partnered with Mansfield Building Society for this year’s toy appeal, with the hope of providing Christmas gifts to struggling families this year.

Donations of new toys can be dropped off at their new branch on Mansfield Market Place.

Amanda said: “We just want to say a massive thank you for all the continued support and donations so far, you’ve all been incredible.

"It’s going to be a great Christmas for many families across Mansfield and it’s all down to the generosity of residents.

“If you do want to make a donation of a toy for our wonderful Christmas toy appeal, then please do so - at the Mansfield Building Society branch.

"They are accepting new toy donations only, due to the pandemic.”

For more information on the great community work School’s Out do, see their Facebook page: School’s Out For Summer

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