Cost of living: Students praise 'essential' food bank service
BBC World
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Food banks have become an essential resource for students at Queen's University Belfast, with demand rising significantly in recent years. Between September and December 2025, over 10,500 students visited The Pantry, a free food refill station run by the university's student union. This represents a 20% increase compared to the same period the previous year. Many students rely on this service to afford basic necessities, as rising costs of living—such as rent, food, and transportation—strain their budgets. Amy Smith, president of QUBSU, highlighted that The Pantry has become a lifeline for many students, enabling them to access essentials without having to choose between eating or heating their homes.
The growing reliance on food banks reflects broader financial challenges facing students today. Lucy O'Rawe, a final-year student, noted that prices for rent, food, and other expenses have increased while the quality of goods has declined. This has forced many students to prioritize their spending, often focusing on meeting basic needs over social activities. The shift in students' union roles from social hubs to essential support services underscores how student life has changed. As Ben Friel, president of NUS-USI, explained, students are now expected to contribute meaningfully to the economy while managing significant financial pressures.
The situation highlights a broader societal shift in how we view student life and welfare. While traditional perceptions often focus on academic and social experiences, the reality for many students is one of financial struggle. This trend is not isolated to Queen's University but reflects a global challenge faced by young people balancing education with rising living costs. As Smith emphasized, universities must adapt to support students holistically, recognizing that food banks are no longer a niche service but an essential part of student welfare.
The growing demand for such services also raises important questions about the financial support available to students. With student loans often insufficient to cover living expenses, many rely on initiatives like The Pantry to bridge the gap. As O'Rawe pointed out, it is concerning that students must resort to such measures to make ends meet. This issue not only affects academic performance but also shapes students' overall experience and well-being.
In conclusion, the surge in food bank usage
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/26/2026