A survey carried out by Barnardos and Aldi has revealed the truly devastating impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on families across Ireland.
The cost of the basic necessities is one of many things on the rise at the moment, all the while, most people’s incoming funds has not changed - ultimately resulting in a shortfall for thousands of people each month.
The results of the survey revealed that 29% of parents admitted that over the past 12 months, they have been skipping meals, or reducing their own portion sizes, so their kids would have enough to eat.
Alarmingly, the research also found that the number of parents using food banks and relying on donations has doubled.
There is an increasing number of children in Ireland who are living in homes where parents are beginning to rely more on vouchers from voluntary organisations or food packages from friends and family in order to survive.
One in five parents said that, at some point over the past 12 months, they did not have enough food to feed their children - which marks an increase from just 15% in January 2022.
25% of parents had to find ways to cut down on household bills, such as gas and electricity, in order to afford the food shop.
The stark results of this survey show that more and more parents are stressing about providing food for their family with 13% of respondents saying they always worry about it.
Speaking about these realisations, Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connolly has said the Government must act to protect families across Ireland.
She told Newstalk Breakfast: "These findings align with Barnardos experience of working with vulnerable children and families in communities across Ireland.
"We see far too many families, often one-parent families, really worried about being able to provide their children with enough food.
"We're calling on the Government to develop and implement a food poverty plan as part of its programme of work under the new Child Poverty and Wellbeing Unit.
"We're also calling on the Government to continue to roll out the Hot School Meals Programme, and to introduce targeting measures to families who need it most - which are lone-parent families and families on fixed and limited income”.
READ MORE:
Ireland food prices soar by fastest rate on record as cost of living crisis escalates
Mr Flashy pal injured after being targeted by hit squad with 'military-grade' arms
Family of missing Amy Fitzpatrick 'completely broken' as they mark her 31st birthday
Mystery as huge statue of Our Lady goes missing from Wicklow grotto
Weather phenomenon hurtling towards Ireland as Jetstream disrupted and high pressure 'blocked'
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter
