1.5 million British pensioners 'living in food poverty'

More than 1.5 million pensioners in the UK are now living in food poverty and are set to be hit the hardest this winter, according to new research. The study shows that over one million over 65s are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition.

Live updates

Govt 'not doing enough' for elderly in food poverty

65% of British pensioners believe the Government is not doing enough to help older people out of food poverty Credit: John Stillwell/PA Wire

Two-thirds of British pensioners believe the Government is not doing enough to help older people out of food poverty, after new research revealed that over one million over 65s are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition.

The study by the Centre for Economics and Business Research says a household is considered to live in food poverty if it has to spend significantly more than 10% (roughly a fifth or more) of its gross income on food.

Advertisement

More than a million pensioners 'malnourished'

More than one million over 65s in the UK are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition, according to new figures released by the Centre for Economics and Business Research.

The study shows:

  • A quarter (22%) of older people in the UK have had to make cut-backs on food over the past three years.
  • More than one million are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition because they are struggling to afford basic nutritious food.
  • Average annual food bill for over 65s will rise by an additional £297 by the end of 2018 - more than any other demographic.
  • Single pensioners on the lowest incomes will have seen the most dramatic percentage rise in their winter food bill since 2008.

1.5 million British pensioners 'in food poverty'

More than 1.5 million pensioners in the UK are now living in food poverty and are set to be hit the hardest this winter, according to new research.

The total number of over 65s living in food poverty has reached 1.5 million. Credit: PA

The report compiled by the Centre for Economics and Business Research said the rising cost of essentials such as food, has affected over 65s the hardest as their weekly shopping bill reaches an all-time high.

The study shows the over 65s will spend an average of £699 on food between October and December this year, an increase of £138 compared to the same quarter five years ago.

Back to top