CASH-STRAPPED families struggling to survive the credit crunch have been thrown a vital lifeline thanks to a local mums’ group.

Members of Netmums are clearing out their cupboards to donate vitally needed supplies to food banks in Bournemouth and Poole.

Their campaign follows a national study by the online parenting site, which found that one in 100 families is now forced to use food banks.

Michelle Peters of Wallisdown, known as Chelle, said: “While Bournemouth may seem one of the UK’s better off areas, lots of local families are still in desperate need of help.

“Our Netmums campaign aims to give a helping hand to the most vulnerable people in our area.

“Food banks provide a vital lifeline for struggling families, so please join us and donate whatever you can – in food or your time.”

But the study also found that more than a third of people believe Britain has become a better place to live following the credit crunch.

According to the survey, one in 14 mums now regularly pays a friend or relative’s bills and a further one in 10 buy food for neighbours who can no longer afford a full shop. One in 10 has even let a friend stay when they lost their home.

Netmums founder Siobhan Freegard said tough times often bring out the best in people. “Mums are the backbone of every street, in every town in Britain and the glue that holds communities together.

“So with each of us making just one small change a day, we’ll show Britain isn’t quite so broken after all.”

For more information visit netmums.com