There has been a ‘huge increase’ in demand for warm clothing and bedding due to the cost of living crisis, according to a charity which supports people in the Woodley area.

More than 2,800 people have sought warm coats, blankets and duvets from the Cowshed, in Hurst Grove in the last six months.

This is more than double the number of people the charity supported in the same period last year.

As the colder months approach, the Cowshed is aiming to raise £10,000 through its Warm Winter Project campaign.

READ MORE: Body of woman in her twenties found in Reading address

“Most of us will feel the impact of the rising costs but there are some people for whom the impact will be devastating,” wrote the group on Facebook.

“These individuals and families need our help and by making a donation, however small, you are contributing towards the purchase of warm coats, duvets and blankets so that we can help ease some of the worries these people will face through the coming winter months.”

From October 1, energy prices were capped at £0.34 per/kWh for electric and £0.10 per kWh for gas, plus standing charges, which are on average 46p and 28p respectively, according to Ofgem.

READ MORE: Reading developer launches bid to reduce affordable flats in 26 home block

Liz Truss apologised on October 4 for not being “more specific” following her statements that “nobody” will pay more than £2,500 for their annual energy bill.

This figure refers to how much a someone would pay if they were using the average amount of energy a Great British household consumes in a year, but the more energy you use, the more you pay.

This means energy prices increased by 27 per cent on October 1, following an increase of 54 per cent in April, and 12 per cent in October 2021, according to the House of Commons Library.

“As a charity we feel that we are needed now more than ever and feel privileged to be in a position to support anyone in crisis across Berkshire,” the Cowshed posted on social media.

According to the charity, a single mum who was struggling to provide for her baby said: “I am stunned and greatly appreciative of everything you donated to me.

“I was lost for words and cried when I saw what was kindly donated. Your charity has helped me beyond what I can tell you and will forever be grateful for the help you have given me.

“Thank you and the team for your help and time.”

More than £5,000 has been donated to their winter appeal so far.

The charity said: “If you can, please consider supporting The Cowshed by donating to our warm winter appeal below to help struggling individuals and families keep warm this winter.

“The funds raised will go towards providing warm clothing, bedding and coats.”

People in need of support can email referrals@thecowshed.org.