Choice of eating or heating is real, says charity

A charity said it is "frightening" to see an increase in new faces seeking help after providing food, household items and support services to more than 20,000 people last year.

Volunteer-led iCare Peterborough is based at the Khadijah Mosque and Islamic Centre on Cromwell Road, and provides food parcels, hot meals, clothing and advice across the city.

Founder Akeel Khalil started the charity in 2021 and has supported about 60,000 people "from all walks of lives and communities" since then.

He said the cost-of-living crisis has "massively" contributed to their rise in demand.

iCare Peterborough is a branch of a national organisation run by the United Kingdom Islamic Mission (UKIM).

Mr Khalil recalled starting the city's charity with two volunteers and "six biryani boxes in our hands looking for homeless people".

"We started off with surplus food giveaways and from research and speaking to people – we understood there was need for cooked meals," he said.

"We then launched a community kitchen and have our own pool of chefs, and run a food bank."

The charity's volunteers also deliver food and household and baby essentials to those in need with limited mobility or transport issues.

The charity works with Peterborough City Council and operates a weekly community hub at the mosque for families in need.

Mr Khalil said the stigma of seeking help was dwindling due to the "sheer need" people were experiencing.

"Everyday we are being contacted by new people and it's frightening," he said.

"The stigma does occur. It was worse in 2022 in comparison. But as the cost-of-living crisis deepened, I feel that's gone.

"People are saying we literally have no food or we need help with baby clothes, or medicines or hygiene items.

"And yes - people are sadly choosing between heating or eating. It is a reality."

Her said the charity provided "a welcoming environment" where dignity and privacy were protected.

"We are supporting people from all walks of life - from babies to elderly people who are lonely and have not had any human contact," he added.

Mr Khalil said he felt "proud" of the journey and all the volunteers working with iCare.

The charity is looking for more volunteers and support from the community and urged anyone who wanted to help to get in touch.

Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.