A recent study by Trussell has revealed that individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds are nearly twice as likely to encounter food insecurity compared to those from White backgrounds. According to Trussell’s upcoming Hunger in the UK report, 25% of individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds face food insecurity, contrasting with 14% of those from White backgrounds.
Moreover, the data indicates that individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds are disproportionately represented among those referred to food banks in the Trussell community. Statistics shared with The Mirror show that 19% of food bank referrals are from ethnic minority backgrounds, exceeding the 14% representation of the overall UK population.
Sharing her experience, Tayyaba, a former NHS worker, recounted her struggles, saying, “I became a single parent after leaving an abusive relationship. Despite working for the NHS, my income was insufficient, necessitating support from Universal Credit and visits to food banks to make ends meet.”
Levi Roots, Trussell ambassador and Reggae Reggae Sauce entrepreneur, highlighted the issue, emphasizing that structural inequalities persist, resulting in ethnic minority individuals being disproportionately affected by hunger and reliance on food banks. Roots emphasized the need to address this disparity, stating that no one should have to resort to food banks for survival.
Dr. Shabna Begum, the CEO of the Runnymede Trust, a racial justice charity, emphasized the systemic nature of the issue, noting the high levels of poverty among certain ethnic groups. In response, a Government spokesperson acknowledged the need to tackle racial inequality and poverty, mentioning initiatives such as creating breakfast clubs, crisis support packages, and adjustments to Universal Credit to alleviate financial strain.
The study conducted by Trussell involved interviews with 4,427 UK adults and a separate survey of 3,866 adults referred to food banks between May and July 2025.