Hunger in the UK 2026: New research highlights the reality of hardship

New research from Trussell reveals that there has been no progress in the number of people experiencing hunger and hardship across the UK since 2024, with concerning signs that difficulties are becoming more severe for many households.

Published on 21 October 2026, Hunger in the UK 2026 is the latest report in Trussell’s ongoing research into the scale of hunger, the experiences of people facing hardship and the reasons why people need to turn to foodbanks.

The findings highlight the continuing pressures facing people who cannot afford everyday essentials, including food, heating and housing.

Why are people experiencing hunger?

The report identifies three key factors contributing to hunger and hardship across the UK:

• Incomes that are too low: Financial support, including Universal Credit and support for disabled people, alongside income from work, is not always enough to cover essential living costs.
• The high cost of essentials: Unaffordable housing and energy costs place additional pressure on people already living on low incomes.
• Unmet support needs and social isolation: When people cannot access the help they need, or lack connections and support, their circumstances can become increasingly difficult.

Together, these pressures can leave people facing impossible choices between paying household bills, keeping their homes warm and buying enough food for themselves and their families.

Understanding the reasons behind foodbank use

The Hunger in the UK research programme brings together evidence on food insecurity, the provision of emergency food and severe hardship. Importantly, the experiences of people who have needed emergency food support have helped shape the research, ensuring their voices are part of understanding both the problems and possible solutions.

The report also highlights that hunger and hardship are not inevitable. The circumstances that lead people to need foodbanks are influenced by wider systems, and changes to policies and support can help address the underlying causes.

Working towards a future without foodbanks

At Hart Foodbank and Community Pantry, we see how financial pressures affect local people and families. Emergency food support is essential for those who need it, but lasting change means ensuring everyone has enough money to afford life’s essentials.

The findings reinforce the importance of tackling the causes of hardship, improving access to appropriate support and ensuring people can get help before their circumstances reach crisis point.

We will continue to support people in our local community while sharing the wider ambition of a future where nobody needs to turn to a foodbank because they cannot afford food.

Read the report: You can explore the findings and access the full Hunger in the UK 2026 report on the Trussell website.

Together, we can work towards a future where everyone has enough to live with dignity and security. 💚

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