The latest findings from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) present a stark reality for millions across the UK. According to JRF’s Cost of Living Tracker (Summer 2026), a record 7.4 million low-income families are currently unable to afford basic essential items.

Even more concerning, 5.6 million households reported cutting back on meals, skipping food, or going hungry in recent months due to tight budgets.

Moving Beyond Emergency Relief to Lasting Independence

Emergency food parcels and food banks meet a critical immediate need, but emergency food alone cannot solve the underlying crisis. Long-term change is needed and this should include equipping people with practical tools to build long-term food resilience.

This is precisely why Bags of Taste exists.

Our at-home Food Resilience Programme works directly with individuals who are experiencing food inequality and especially focuses on reaching those who struggle to access traditional in-person cooking classes due to personal circumstances, health conditions, or mental health. Rather than offering short-term crisis support, we help participants build confidence, skills, and knowledge needed to cook from scratch on a tight budget.

Through our structured, stepped learning approach, participants master:

  • Budget-conscious meal planning and strategic food shopping.
  • Batch cooking techniques that save time and minimise energy use.
  • Reducing food waste to stretch every pound further.
  • Preparing delicious, nutritious meals using affordable, everyday ingredients.

Real Impact: Building Financial Resilience

The result is transformational. On average, households completing the Bags of Taste programme save £1,055 per year on their food bills.

In an economic climate where millions are forced into debt or skipping meals, an annual saving of over £1,050 provides meaningful financial relief. It puts control back in households’ hands, turning daily stress into long-term self-reliance.

How You Can Support Sustainable Food Resilience

As the JRF research demonstrates, systemic challenges require sustainable solutions. By supporting practical, skill-based interventions, we can help families stay resilient against future economic shocks.

With thanks to the JRF for their important work highlighting inequality in the UK.