Food banks across the United Kingdom are preparing for a devastating winter surge, with new figures revealing they expect to hand out an emergency food parcel every ten seconds.
Stark Figures Reveal Deepening Crisis
According to the latest data from the Trussell Trust, almost three quarters of a million emergency food parcels were distributed between December 2024 and February 2025. This staggering figure represents a 40% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels five years ago.
More than a quarter of a million of these parcels were for children, meaning one in every three packages supported a young person. This marks a 29% rise in support for children compared to earlier years.
The most alarming increase was seen among people over the age of 65. Last winter, this group received over 24,000 food parcels – a figure more than three times higher (202%) than the support provided half a decade ago.
Families Pushed to the Brink
The Trussell Trust reports that over 68,000 families visited one of their food banks for the first time last winter alone. As the festive season approaches, the charity estimates that tens of thousands more families will be forced to seek help for the first time.
The relentless pressure of rising costs for food, energy, and rent is pushing households to the edge. Over half (58%) of the food banks in the Trussell network say that preparing for this winter feels harder than ever before.
To meet the soaring demand last winter, food banks spent an estimated £3.5 million on purchasing food, as public donations could not keep pace with the overwhelming need.
Celebrities Issue Urgent Plea for Support
In response to the escalating crisis, celebrities have joined forces to urge the public to back their local food banks. Broadcaster and mathematician Carol Vorderman shared her own experience of childhood poverty, stating that food banks provide a vital lifeline.
"Christmas is the toughest time of year for people on the very lowest incomes," Vorderman said. "This year too many people will spend the festive period worried sick, skipping meals so their children can eat... Please support and give what you can."
Hollywood actor and Trussell Trust supporter Joseph Fiennes highlighted the daily reality of the cost of living crisis. "I see the stress of parents in debt, struggling with the basic costs of clothing and feeding their children," he said. "I encourage everyone who can to donate to the Trussell’s winter appeal."
The Trussell Trust is now calling on people across the UK to support their local food banks in any way they can. This support is crucial not only to provide emergency food but also to offer advice and campaign for a future where no one needs to go hungry.
