Around 7.3 million adults (13.9% of households) experience food insecurity in the UK, meaning they struggle to access enough nutritious food. Hackney is one of the boroughs most affected, with food bank use at record levels and demand continuing to rise.
Yet food parcels alone aren’t enough to tackle the root causes of food insecurity. We are seeing diminishing dietary quality and nutritional health many being forced to cut back on essential food groups like fruits, vegetables, and fish. 25% increase adults in the UK reported rising costs in October 2024, with 90% blaming food prices. The cost of living crisis has exacerbated food insecurity, worsening dietary health inequalities. On top of this, without the skills or support to make the most of what’s available, food often goes unused – increasing both personal stress and food waste.
Right now, our Healthy Eating on a Budget (HEB) programme is more vital than ever and over the last year, we have been running HEB programmes with food bank users in partnership with Hackney Foodbank. Working directly with food bank users to make the most of the ingredients in food parcels, the programme empowers people experiencing food insecurity to independently meet their nutritional needs, make informed dietary choices and improve dietary behaviours, on a budget.
The sessions are designed around the actual ingredients donated in food parcels, such as chickpeas, tinned carrots, lentils and pasta. Practical cooking skills focus on creativity and ensuring the meals are nutritious. The recipes are made to instil confidence and empower participants with longer-term skills to enable them to become nutritionally independent.
One participant says, “I used to look at a can of chickpeas and have no idea what to do with it, now I make curries, stews… it’s opened up a whole new world”
Maureen – from participant to volunteer
Maureen joined as a programme participant to learn how to maximise her food parcels. In doing so, she gained experience in the kitchen, newfound confidence in herself and a valuable set of culinary skills. Maureen was so inspired by the programme that she now also regularly volunteers herself, helping others go through the same journey and transformation. This is so inspiring and a great motivator for others to get involved.
“It’s not just about food. It’s about feeling like I can do something for myself – and now, for others too”
Stories like Maureen’s are why we do what we do. This is made possible by the support of people and partners who believe in the power of community-led food education.
It’s helping people move past the limitations of unfamiliar items in their parcels. The programme empowers people with the tools to make delicious, healthy meals with what they have – which in turn helps tackling food insecurity, reduce food waste and social isolation.
This is where Healthy Eating on a Budget makes a real difference. Our programme in Hackney is a compelling example of how targeted interventions can create lasting change. If you represent a funder or business and would like to financially support future cohorts, do get in touch with us. Your support would mean we can meet people where they are at, helping people build up from there, and empowering lives long after the sessions ends.
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Written by Rebecca Clarke