One in four parents are worried they can’t afford to feed their children

At the launch of new research by Barnardos and Aldi Ireland are Suzanne Connolly, Barnardos CEO, Niall O’Connor, Aldi Ireland Group Managing Director, RJ and Ella. Photo: Maxwell Photography

  

February 22 2022 02:30 AM

---

One quarter of families are worried about not being able to provide food for their children, with more than half of parents reducing their spending on other essential items and leisure activities.

New research shows how food poverty has become a major concern for Irish parents who have admitted feeling stressed, guilty and embarrassed as they struggle with rising costs.

A survey of 1,130 adults showed that 51pc of parents have cut back on spending in other areas including gas, electricity, loan repayments and medical bills so they can afford to buy food.

This rose to nearly two-thirds (62pc) among those not working, including homemakers.

More than one-third (36pc) of parents reduced spending on clothing, around one-quarter (26pc) on household bills and 17pc cut back on medical appointments or supplies.

The research – conducted by Amárach on behalf of children’s charity Barnardos and Aldi Ireland – gives an insight into how the Covid-19 pandemic and cost of living is impacting families.

Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connolly told the Irish Independent that food poverty has always been an issue for families.

But she warned that the situation is “worsening”.