17/02/2026
3 in 10 children in the UK are growing up in poverty.
New data from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation shows that child poverty has risen for the third year in a row, with 4.5 million children now living in households struggling to afford the basics.
This crisis is landing on the doorstep of our schools. Recent research from the University of Bristol shows that schools have now become the largest provider of food support in England, with around 4,000 school-based food banks operating nationwide.
After speaking with our friends at Rethink Food we have learned that teachers are bringing in food from their own homes to help hungry pupils. This shouldn't be the reality in 2026.
Over the years, Neighbourly has helped over 1,700 schools provide 45 million meals made from surplus food that would otherwise go to waste. 🫂
Are you a teacher or school staff member? We can help to connect you with local stores and supermarkets that have free surplus food to donate. Joining Neighbourly is free and helps you provide a vital safety net for families.
👉 Sign up your school here: https://www.neighbourly.com/goodcause/new
👉 Support the National School Pantry Network’s mission: https://www.nationalschoolpantrynetwork.co.uk/
