Rise in the number of primary school children using foodbanks

New research by anti-poverty charity The Trussell Trust found that almost half of children using foodbanks during the summer holiday months were of primary school age.

In Wales there was a 10% increase in the number of three day emergency food supplies given to children in July and August 2016 compared to the previous two months.

In Wales 5,185 three day emergency food supplies were provided for children by The Trussell Trust's foodbank network in Wales during July and August 2016, compared to 4,733 in May and June 2016.

The figures also show between July and August 2016, of all 67,506 three day emergency food supplies from The Trussell Trust foodbank network that went to children:

· 27% went to 0-4 year olds

· 47% went to 5-11 year olds

· 21% went to 12-16 year olds

· 5% went to children for whom their age was not known

At least 60 foodbanks in The Trussell Trust’s network will be providing additional services to families struggling during the holiday, and 24 of these will run a Trussell Trust Holiday Club, designed for both children and parents to provide families with fun learning activities and a hot nutritious meal.

The Trussell Trust’s data also revealed that the percentage of primary school children helped by foodbanks is consistently high all-year round, highlighting the need for support throughout the year, not only in the holidays.

The anti-poverty charity says checking with your local foodbank for needed donations is a good way to get involved.