The Trussell Trust has published their latest and most in-depth study to date on hunger reveals its causes, impacts and who is affected.
This landmark research is also the first time we’ve been able to dive more deeply into the experience of hunger in the UK, with reports on Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. Further information is available in our Hunger in the UK section, accessible by clicking the link below.
All you need to know about the research
We live in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, and yet one in seven people face hunger across the UK due to a lack of money.
With record numbers of people across the country already forced to turn to food banks, our new Hunger in the UK reports starkly reveals this is just the tip of the iceberg, with millions more struggling with hunger, but not yet reaching out for charity support.
Certain groups, such as disabled people, carers, families with children, and people going through an adverse life experience such as a bereavement or domestic abuse, are more likely to face hunger.
Our social security system is the driving factor in pushing people towards hunger. Our research finds that this system we expect to support us in hard times, which includes Universal Credit, is failing to protect so many of us due to how it’s designed and delivered.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
That’s why, alongside the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, we’re calling on the UK government to guarantee our essentials and ensure that the basic rate of Universal Credit at least covers our core costs, such as food and bills. Read/Download the Report: Hunger in the UK Report