An annual report on emergency food support in Brighton and Hove has found that 1,500 children in the city were supported per week in 2025. Brighton and Hove Food Partnership are promoting the findings of their report to coincide with the Government’s budget, recognising the significant effect of changes like scrapping the 2-child benefit cap.
“We welcome the Government’s decision to scrap the 2-child benefit cap. One of the most heart-breaking statistics we’ve heard this year is that one in four children in Brighton and Hove are in poverty. Wages and benefits are not high enough to meet the ever-increasing cost of living, and this is deeply damaging for families and for individuals”, said Jo Eckersley, Project Manager at Brighton and Hove Food Partnership.
“This policy change is one step in improving the lives and futures of these children, though there is still a long way to go. We need systemic change.”
There are over 50 projects in the city delivering food support, including food banks, affordable food shops, pantries, meals-on-wheels and community meals. This year the report found projects are still feeding nearly 6,000 people a week – only a small drop from last year – as the cost-of-living crisis continues to prevent households from affording the essentials, even while in work.
The Food Partnership have just launched their Winter Appeal, a city-wide competition asking businesses, teams, year-groups and schools to see who can raise the most tins for these projects.
“We’re hoping to spread some seasonal cheer through this competition, it’s an opportunity for everyone to do their bit in supporting our community”, said Jo.
The Food Partnership continue to join national charities in campaigning for wages and benefits levels that prevent poverty, recognising that many people who need food support do not access it due to stigma.
“Children should not be going hungry in one of the 10 richest countries in the world, and we needed much more from this budget to reduce inequality.”
To find out more about the competition please visit the Brighton and Hove Food Partnership website, email info@bhfood.org.uk, or call 01273 234810
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