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Who uses foodbanks and why? Exploring the impact of financial strain and adverse life events on food insecurity

  • Edwina Prayogo
    ,
  • Angel Chater
    ,
  • S. Chapman
    ,
  • M. Barker
    ,
  • N. Rahmawati
    ,
  • T. Waterfall
  • University of Bath
    ,
  • University of Southampton
    ,
  • University College London
    ,
  • University of Indonesia
Research Output:
Contribution to journal
Article
 Peer-review

Open access

Sustainable Development Goals

  • SDG 2 - Zero Hunger
    SDG 2 Zero Hunger
  • SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
    SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth

Abstract

Rising use of foodbanks highlights food insecurity in the UK. Adverse life events (e.g. unemployment, benefit delays or sanctions) and financial strains are thought to be the drivers of foodbank use. This research aimed to explore who uses foodbanks, and factors associated with increased food insecurity. Methods: We surveyed those seeking help from front line crisis providers from foodbanks (N = 270) and a comparison group from Advice Centres (ACs) (N = 245) in relation to demographics, adverse life events, financial strain and household food security. Results: About 55.9% of foodbank users were women and the majority were in receipt of benefits (64.8%). Benefit delays (31.9%), changes (11.1%) and low income (19.6%) were the most common reasons given for referral. Compared to AC users, there were more foodbank users who were single men without children, unemployed, currently homeless, experiencing more financial strain and adverse life events (P = 0.001). Food insecurity was high in both populations, and more severe if they also reported financial strain and adverse life events. Conclusions: Benefit-related problems appear to be a key reason for foodbank referral. By comparison with other disadvantaged groups, foodbank users experienced more financial strain, adverse life events, both increased the severity of food insecurity.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output:
Contribution to journal
Article
 Peer-review

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 676-683

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Journal of Public Health (Volume 40, Issue 4)

Publication milestones

  • Published - 14/11/2017

Publication status

Published - 14/11/2017

ISSN

1741-3842

Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/622397
  • Scopus: 85059230534

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