New figures reveal almost three quarters of a million (740,000) emergency food parcels were distributed overall last winter. a 40% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels
Stars have urged the public to support food banks as they brace for a winter surge so severe that a food parcel will be provided every 10 seconds.
New figures from Trussell reveal almost three quarters of a million (740,000) emergency food parcels were distributed overall last winter between December 2024 and February 2025 to people across the UK – a 40% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels five years ago.
More than a quarter of a million (266,000 parcels) were provided for children last winter, representing one in every three parcels – a 29% rise.
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The biggest increase was among people over 65 who received more than 24,000 food parcels last winter – more than three times (202% higher) the level of support compared to half a decade earlier. Last winter alone, over 68,000 families visited a Trussell food bank for the first time.
As the UK heads into the festive season, Trussell estimates that once again tens of thousands of families will need to turn to a food bank for the first time.
They say the rising costs of food, electricity and rent will push more families to the brink, with over half (58%) of Trussell’s community of food banks say that preparing for this winter feels harder than ever.
Trussell is now urging people to support them and their local food banks in any way possible – to help provide emergency food and advice for people facing hardship and play their part in ending hunger for good.
Carol Vorderman said: “ Christmas is the toughest time of year for people on the very lowest incomes, who are already struggling to make ends meet.
“When I was growing up in the 60s my Mum was a single parent and I grew up in North Wales in abject poverty, that hardship stays with you. This year too many people will spend the festive period worried sick, skipping meals so their children can eat and unsure how they will cope. It doesn’t have to be that way and together we can call for change to end the need for food banks. But until then, food banks remain a lifeline for people struggling to put food on the table. Please support and give what you can to help families across Wales this winter.”
Joseph Fiennes, Hollywood actor and Trussell supporter, said: “Every day in the UK, I’m reminded of the stark reality of how the cost of living continues to affect people’s lives. I see the stress of parents in debt, struggling with the basic costs of clothing and feeding their children.
“As winter sets in, we have a responsibility to support people who are struggling most. I encourage everyone who can to donate to the Trussell’s winter appeal and help those who can’t take heating and eating for granted.”
Last winter alone, food banks spent an estimated £3.5 million on food as donations struggled to keep up with high levels of need across the UK.