The latest figures from the Trussell Trust reveal a shocking increase in food insecurity across the UK. Between April 2023 and March 2024, over 3.1 million emergency food parcels were distributed, including 1.1 million for children. This marks a 94% rise over five years, highlighting an urgent crisis.

Despite falling inflation, more people than ever are struggling to afford basic essentials. The end of government cost of living payments and the upcoming closure of the Household Support Fund (HSF) are set to worsen the situation.

Families with children received 65% of the food bank support last year. There’s also been a significant rise in first-time users, including a 27% increase in parcels for pensioners, reflecting growing poverty among older adults.

The Trussell Trust urges the UK Government to implement an “Essentials Guarantee” within Universal Credit to ensure basic support for everyone. Emma Revie, Chief Executive at the Trussell Trust, stated: “We cannot allow food banks to become the norm. We need all political leaders to commit to ending food bank reliance.”

The Trussell Trust’s manifesto outlines essential actions for the next UK Government:

Reforming social security for adequate support.
Providing effective employment and financial aid.
Ensuring secure jobs and investing in social housing.

Easington MP Grahame Morris said: “These figures demonstrate 14 years of Tory failure. Our country and economy are simply not working when every year more families are falling into food poverty. The Government has normalised food poverty and food banks, which are becoming more prevalent on our high streets.

Food poverty damages life chances, society, and the economy. The Prime Minister should apologise that under his leadership poverty and hardship are so widespread.

We need to end food insecurity and create a society where everyone can thrive”

As the General Election approaches, the Trussell Trust calls on political leaders to build a future where food banks are unnecessary. For more information and to support the cause, visit Trussell Trust Manifesto.