Food banks 'essential' for new generation of students
Queen's University Belfast says there were more than 10,500 visits by students to its food bank in the students' union.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"It is unbelievable the amount of students that use The Pantry, we have over 200 students visiting every day."
— Amy Smith , Activist
"Fundamentally we need to rethink how we look at students as a whole."
— Ben Friel , Activist
"It's become a lot more common. It's so sad that it has to be normalised."
— Lucy O'Rawe , Academic
"I would definitely say it's a massive misconception."
— Holly Dougan , Academic
Key People
QUBSU president who highlighted the struggles of students using the food bank.
National Union of Students NI president discussing the changes in student life.
Final year law student who chairs the university's women's students association.
Final year student reflecting on the financial struggles of modern students.
Tags
All Coverage
Queen's University Belfast says there were more than 10,500 visits by students to its food bank in the students' union.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
'We've saved 34 tonnes of food and a carpet'
Two community groups say they have welcomed "record attendances" and given away many 'random items".
July 11, 2026 at 05:48 AMDemand for baby bank growing faster than donations
The charity says it gave out 36,400 items of child clothing and 536 tubs of formula milk in 2025.
July 13, 2026 at 05:18 AMPop-up free school uniform and prom dress stall
People are being encouraged to donate, swap or take items they need for free.
July 14, 2026 at 05:31 AMLondoners face hidden poverty premium, study says
Low-income households in London are facing an additional burden of over £600 a year simply to access standard goods and services.
July 12, 2026 at 07:02 AM'You have to say no': Families struggling with holiday food costs
Susan Lilley, a single mother of two, said the weekly shop has become one of her biggest financial worries.
July 7, 2026 at 11:08 PMPupils vow to save 'dying' river in beauty spot
Children from a school near a popular beauty spot test local water quality over pollution concerns.
July 12, 2026 at 05:16 AM