Holiday Hunger in the UK: Local Responses to Childhood Food Insecurity

The book "Holiday Hunger: The Phenomenon of Childhood and Household Food Insecurity in the UK" explores the issue of holiday hunger in the UK, which affects up to three million children when free school meals are not available. It outlines the history and scope of holiday hunger, discusses the benefits of holiday clubs, and highlights the challenges they face. The book concludes with recommendations for food insecurity policy and the role of government in fighting holiday hunger.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This timely and much-needed book delves into the phenomenon often referred to as holiday hunger in the United Kingdom. It serves as a comprehensive exploration of the issue, shedding light on the condition that arises when a child's household experiences or is at risk of food insecurity during the summer holidays. The book begins by providing a historical backdrop, outlining the decline of the UK welfare state and the rise of neoliberalism, which have contributed to the prevalence of holiday hunger. It is estimated that up to three million children in the UK face food insecurity during this period, as they face additional financial pressures on the working poor and the absence of free school meals.

To address this pressing concern, the book delves into the level of childhood and household food insecurity in the UK. It describes one of the primary responses to holiday hunger: holiday clubs. These clubs are locally organized and funded, offering children a place to receive nutritious meals for free during the school holidays. The benefits of holiday clubs extend beyond mere food provision, as they provide a safe and supportive environment for children to socialize, engage in activities, and receive educational support.

However, the book also acknowledges the challenges that holiday clubs face in the present and future. These challenges include funding constraints, staffing issues, and the need to adapt to changing demographics and evolving needs. The book concludes with recommendations for food insecurity policy and the role of government in combating holiday hunger. It emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach that addresses not only the immediate needs of children but also the underlying factors contributing to food insecurity.

This book is of immense interest to students and scholars of food and nutrition security, social policy, and public health. It offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of food insecurity and provides a roadmap for addressing this pressing issue. By raising awareness and promoting effective policies, we can work towards creating a society where no child goes hungry during the holidays or any other time of the year.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032046655