Struggling mother shares her experience of turning to food banks to feed her children when they were younger, following alarming statistics highlighting child food poverty. A recent report by the Education Policy Institute revealed that nearly one-quarter of households with children under five in England face food poverty, with preschoolers experiencing higher levels of food insecurity compared to older children.
Meg Bonnie, a 21-year-old mother of two from Nottingham, has been on Universal Credit since she turned 18 in 2023. With her children aged four and one, she receives approximately £800 in benefits each month and has previously relied on food banks to provide for her family.
Expressing her thoughts on the concerning statistics, Meg remarked, “It doesn’t come as a surprise. We’ve had to use the food bank a few times before or utilized apps like Olio or Too Good To Go bags. There’s a sense of shame in seeking help from a food bank. I felt quite judged.”
Meg emphasized the financial challenges faced by single-parent households like hers, particularly during school holidays, stating, “I think it’s beneficial during the summer break that many places offer free or low-cost meals for kids. We plan our meals in advance to manage our budget. I aim to spend between £50 and £70 per week on groceries.”
While reflecting on the rising cost of living, Meg noted, “I’ve noticed a significant increase in food prices. I now opt for store brands and long-life milk due to the difference in prices.”
The government has announced measures to alleviate child poverty, including lifting the two-child benefits cap and increasing funding for nurseries, aiming to support families in need. A government spokesperson emphasized the commitment to reducing child poverty by ensuring access to essential resources like food for all children.
The government spokesperson stated, “We are dedicated to tackling child poverty and ensuring every child has a fair start in life. Our efforts include removing the two-child limit, raising the national living wage, and expanding free school meal eligibility for families on Universal Credit. We are also seeking input from parents and providers on further initiatives to support low-income families, including additional funding for nurseries and childminders.”
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