Understanding the Impact of foodbanks in the UK
In the fourth episode of our Beyond Funding podcast series, Alice Garwood (Host) talks to Sophie Carre (Guest) from the Trussell Trust about the growing issue of poverty across the UK, and the charity’s determination to raise awareness and galvanise change.
This episode covers the landscape of poverty, the effect of the cost of living crisis, and how food banks are at breaking point. Sophie also talks about how key it is to change attitudes in society and how we can all work together to campaign for greater support.
The Beyond Funding podcast offers advice to churches and charities on their fundraising journey and hosts conversations about major social challenges with expert guests.
The fourth Beyond Funding podcast: ‘Ending Hunger with the Trussell Trust’ is available on Youtube and Spotify
Understanding the Impact of Food Banks in the UK
Rising Demand for Food Banks in the UK
The demand for food banks across the UK has increased dramatically in recent years. A combination of economic pressures—including rising living costs, stagnant wages, and changes to welfare support—has left many households struggling to afford basic essentials.
Statistics on Food Bank Usage
According to The Trussell Trust, the largest food bank network in the UK:
- 1 in 7 people in the UK face hunger due to insufficient income.
- In the last financial year, Trussell Trust food banks distributed nearly 3 million emergency food parcels—the highest number on record.
- 1 million of those parcels were provided to children.
Growth in Demand
- Food bank usage has risen by 120% over the past five years.
- There has been a notable increase in first-time users, indicating a deepening crisis.
Factors Driving the Surge
Several systemic issues are contributing to the growing reliance on food banks:
- Economic Hardship: Job losses, insecure employment, and inflation have left many unable to cover basic living costs.
- Welfare System Challenges: Delays and inadequacies in Universal Credit and other benefits have left vulnerable individuals without timely support.
- Rising Living Costs: Escalating prices for housing, energy, and food have placed additional strain on low-income households.
The Essentials Gap
- 5 out of 6 households receiving Universal Credit are going without at least one essential item—such as food, heating, or hygiene products.
- In response, The Trussell Trust is advocating for an Essentials Guarantee: a legal commitment to ensure that social security payments are aligned with the actual cost of living.
How You Can Support Local Food Banks
Supporting local food banks is crucial in ensuring they can continue to provide for those in need. Here are some ways you can help:
Donate Food and Essentials
Contributing non-perishable food items is one of the most direct ways to support food banks. Check with your local food bank for a list of items they need most.
Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering at a food bank is a rewarding experience. Volunteers are essential in sorting donations, packing food parcels, and distributing them to those in need.
Financial Contributions
Monetary donations allow food banks to purchase essential items and cover operational costs. Consider setting up a regular donation to provide ongoing support.
Raise Awareness
Help raise awareness about food banks and their work by sharing information with friends, family, and on social media. The more people know about food banks, the more support they can receive.