A Colne family, who are struggling with the cost of living despite having a working income, were left “in tears” after a charity’s kind gesture.

The family of five, who wish to remain anonymous, visited Colne Open Door Centre, which provides food parcels and support to those struggling.

Both parents are said to be working hard to support the family, but says utilities and rent has increased by hundreds of pounds a month.

They have no disposable income left to treat their three children to days out.

Lancashire Telegraph: Nick Alderson, Colne Open Door Centre's charity manager, says it has seen an increase in people with a working income Nick Alderson, Colne Open Door Centre's charity manager, says it has seen an increase in people with a working income (Image: Nick Alderson)

The charity provided the family with a food parcel and as a kind gesture they also organised for the family to go swimming this weekend, for free.

Nick Alderson, charity manager, said it is the first time the family went to the charity for support.

He said: "The family was quite embarrassed to come to us.

“They both said two years ago, before the cost of living crisis, they never would have thought that they would be coming to a crisis charity for support.

“Their main problem was food poverty but when we got talking again the mum got quite tearful and said she would like to do something with the kids.

“They don’t have the disposable income to do anything together.

“We got some swimming vouchers from a local swimming centre so the family could go out and spend the weekend having a nice time.

“When we told them mum started crying. Dad didn’t say anything as I think he was in shock. It was an emotional moment.

“It was nice to be in a position where people can provide those outcomes for families."

Nick predicts that the charity will give out around 1,000 food parcels by the end of the year, the highest in its 23-year history.

Nick said: “Initially the charity operated as a drop in service, people could come to the centre.

“With the cost of living crisis more people are struggling now so we ask people to book appointments now.

“Food poverty is massive, especially in Pendle.

“Five years ago you could argue that charities mainly helped the most vulnerable in the community – now we support everybody.”

Lancashire Telegraph: Nick Alderson, Colne Open Door Centre's charity manager, says it has seen an increase in people with a working income Nick Alderson, Colne Open Door Centre's charity manager, says it has seen an increase in people with a working income (Image: Nick Alderson)

The charity has seen an increase in people getting support who have a steady income and stable job.

He said: “We have had nurses come through our doors for food parcels and support, as the petrol and parking prices at hospital are financially killing people.

“People in good and steady jobs come to us for food parcels and support.

“The world is a tough place to be right now and families face a lot of issues, many are dipping under the breadline.”

The charity is currently organising a Christmas hamper collection for children. Make a donation by dropping toys off to the George Street centre.

Make a monetary donation by visiting the JustGiving page at: www.checkout.justgiving.com/c/3262674