Nearly half of UK parents say feeding their children has become harder

For millions of families across the UK, putting food on the table is becoming more challenging.

New research carried out by Opinium for the Social Market Foundation (SMF) found 44% of the UK's 17 million parents say feeding their children is more difficult now than it was five years ago. One in ten parents said their child is often or always unable to eat enough because there isn't enough food available at home.

The research also found that 15% of parents are relying on a very limited range of low-cost foods simply to get by.

The findings come as around four million children are currently living in poverty across the UK, according to the Child Poverty Action Group.

The government has announced a number of measures that it believes will help tackle child poverty and ease pressure on family finances, including:

• increasing access to school meals
• extending funded childcare entitlements for working parents
• investing in family hubs
• scrapping the two-child benefit cap

While these changes may help some families, many parents continue to face difficult choices every week when it comes to feeding their children.

What is a food bank?

Food banks are community organisations that provide free emergency food and essential items to people facing financial hardship. They're designed to offer short-term support when you're struggling to make ends meet and need help getting through a difficult period.

How to access a food bank

If you or someone you know needs support, accessing a food bank is usually straightforward.

Get a referral

Most food banks require a referral from a local organisation. This could be:

• Citizens Advice
• your local council
• a GP or healthcare professional
• a school, social worker or charity

The organisation will assess your situation and, if appropriate, provide you with a food bank voucher. This may be issued in person, by email or via text message.

Check the details

Before visiting the food bank, check your voucher carefully for any instructions, opening times or expiry dates.

Visit your local food bank

Your referral agency will usually tell you where your nearest food bank is located. You can also use the Trussell website to find support in your area.

Food banks can often provide more than just food. Many also offer practical advice, signposting and support to help you address the underlying financial challenges you're facing.

You can find out more about how food banks work and the support they offer by reading our guide.

If you're struggling, don't wait to seek help

If you're finding it difficult to afford food, pay bills or cover other essential living costs, support may be available.

If your income is no longer stretching far enough to cover your outgoings, get in touch. We can help you check whether you're claiming all the benefits you're entitled to, as well as support you in creating a realistic budget that works for your circumstances.

You may also find our guide on cutting the cost of your supermarket shop useful, with practical tips to help make your food budget go further.