Cash-strapped students at universities are increasingly turning to emergency food assistance programs and on-campus food banks, according to a recent study by London’s Brunel University. The research reveals that a significant number of young people across campuses nationwide are resorting to free food pantries and vouchers as high accommodation costs often leave them with limited funds for essential needs.
The study found that a substantial 63% of universities now operate food banks, with 59% distributing free food vouchers and a third offering complimentary meals to students in need. Researchers are urging the government to conduct a thorough review of student finance, enhance maintenance support, and impose a cap on food expenses within university premises. They also recommend the appointment of a dedicated basic needs coordinator at universities to ensure students’ essential requirements are met.
Concerns over student living costs were highlighted by the NatWest Student Living Survey, indicating that students outside London spend an average of £900–£1,200 per month, while those in the capital face even higher expenses ranging from £1,300 to £1,800. Dr. Ellen McHugh, a Senior Lecturer at Brunel University of London, expressed sadness over the dire circumstances faced by some students who are struggling with hunger and food insecurity.
The 20-month study, titled “Feeding Hungry Students: Geographies of On-Campus Free Food Provision Across England,” involved participants from 41 universities and was funded by the British Academy and the Leverhulme Trust. Many students admitted feeling ashamed and embarrassed when utilizing food banks, fearing potential judgment from peers or staff.
International students, in particular, were surprised by the steep food prices, prompting universities to adopt new approaches to providing food aid. Initiatives such as open-access food events and the rebranding of ‘food banks’ to ‘pantries’ or ‘larders’ aim to reduce stigma and make assistance more accessible to students in need.
Despite the positive impact of these programs, financial constraints within the UK university sector pose a threat to free food schemes. Professor Emma Wainwright from Brunel University of London highlighted the challenges faced by institutions in sustaining these initiatives in the long term due to associated costs. The research aligns with a recent Which? report indicating that rising costs are forcing millions of households to skip meals as a coping mechanism.