Recent research by Trussell reveals that over 14 million individuals in the UK are experiencing food insecurity, leading to a rise in the utilization of food banks, particularly among working families.
The study indicates that approximately 16% of households, equivalent to more than the combined populations of London, Manchester, and Glasgow, are affected. This marks a significant increase from 2022 when the estimated number of people facing hunger was 11.6 million.
Furthermore, the survey highlights that children aged 0-5 are disproportionately affected by food insecurity, with over a quarter of them living in households struggling with hunger. Among this age group, one in three children face food insecurity.
Trussell emphasizes that even minor changes in financial circumstances, such as a broken-down car, can push families to rely on food banks when their incomes are already minimal.
The charity urges the UK Government to take immediate action to fulfill its pledge to eliminate the demand for emergency food. This includes abolishing the two-child limit and offering enhanced assistance to low-income private renters to cope with rising rental costs.
In a statement, actor Brian Cox, a supporter of Trussell, emphasized the detrimental impact of childhood poverty and stressed the necessity of eradicating hunger to provide children with a better start in life.
Helen Barnard, director of policy, research, and impact at Trussell, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the widespread struggle faced by various segments of society and calling on the government to address the root causes of hunger and financial hardship.
In response, a spokesperson from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combatting the rise in food bank dependency through initiatives such as extending free school meals and implementing strategies to support individuals in securing stable employment.
