At a time when child poverty has reached a record high in the UK, schools across England have felt it necessary to introduce a school-based food bank that cater specifically to school students, families, and staff. These food banks run independently from charitable and third sector food banks, like those run by the Trussell Trust. In fact, the Bristol research reports that there are now more school-based food banks in England than other types of food banks.
SFM Founder and Chief Executive comments:
The reality that schools across England are having to introduce their own food banks to support families is heartbreaking. Families and communities are struggling during this cost-of-living crisis and food poverty is at an all-time high. The government needs to level up its support so that schools can focus on teaching and learning and not plug gaps in provision with these drastic measures.
According to Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), around 900,000 school children living in poverty are missing out on a free school meal due to the restrictive eligibility criteria. By provisioning universal free school meals, every child would be guaranteed a healthy, hot meal during their time at school. This policy is one measure that can be taken to support families.
Read the full report by the University of Bristol here.
