Mother Struggles to Afford Food Amid Rising Living Costs in North Yorkshire

In North Yorkshire, a mother of three, Emily, has resorted to selling her family's belongings online each month to afford groceries, highlighting the financial strain many families face during the summer holidays. With rising living costs, Emily, who relies on benefits, received a £140 food voucher from North Yorkshire Council but still finds it challenging to make ends meet. "I used to be able to do a monthly food shop for £100 and I’d make it last," she lamented, emphasizing the difficulties of budgeting in the current economic climate. Despite government initiatives providing free holiday clubs and lunches for children on free school meals, Emily faces logistical challenges. She does not drive, making it difficult to access these services, and she struggles to balance her limited work hours with childcare. "If they were all at school full-time it would be easier," she noted, expressing her frustration with the lack of options available to her. In nearby Pateley Bridge, a primary school with only 59 pupils reports a higher-than-average number of children receiving free school meals. Local advocates, like Ms. Thornber, emphasize the stigma surrounding families who cannot afford basic necessities, urging for more support. "Families don’t want to speak out," she said, pointing to the need for greater awareness and assistance. North Yorkshire Council is aware of the increased demand for food support during the summer months, with approximately 19,000 children receiving free school meals in the region. Councillor Janet Sanderson confirmed that the council is actively working to provide resources and information to help families navigate these challenging times.