A secondary school store cupboard for tinned foods, cereal, baby food, toilet roll, and nappies used to create parcels for families of pupils in need
The report calls for greater awareness among policy makers and reform, including an overhaul of the social security system, to address the growing issue. “Teachers and support staff see the devastating effects of poverty and the cost-of-living crisis daily, so they have felt compelled to act. The report builds on Dr Baker’s previous research which uncovered how school food aid operations varied in size and structure, ranging from discreet food parcels given to parents and funded by staff donations to larger-scale, well-advertised regular provision with food supplied by large supermarkets and food waste charities.
“The fact schools are running foodbanks en masse is falling under the radar with no national support, guidance, or oversight.