Accessing nutritious food is a growing concern for people living in Wales, but how is the problem being addressed in Cardiff?
Local charities are under increased pressure and are struggling to keep up with demand following a rise in food insecurity across Wales.
In a recent study commissioned by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) it was revealed that over a quarter of people in Wales are now classified as “food insecure”, showing a 10% increase over the past two years.
According to the World Food Summit, a conference in which world leaders discuss problems related to hunger and malnutrition, food security is determined by whether people have physical and economic access to safe and nutritious food at all times.
In Cardiff, charitable organisations are fighting to address the problem, however as food insecurity across Wales grows, ability to meet demand remains a concern.
Communications lead at FareShare Cymru, Hannah Thomas, said that approximately 190 charities are currently on the waiting list to receive support from the organisation.
She said: “The demand is growing at a pace that us and other charities are really struggling to keep up with, we can only do what we can.”
Since its inception in 2011, FareShare Cymru has redistributed enough surplus food to provide over 3.5 million meals to individuals in need, however there is a continuous need for more resources.
Thomas said: “Food levels are steady, but without more, we won’t be able to support the people on our waiting list. We’re always in need of more volunteers to help with deliveries and sorting.”
The FSA-commissioned report provides further insight into the effects of food insecurity, showing people experiencing it are more likely to report a change in the quality or variety of their diet, and even reduce their food intake.
While Cardiff Council have an ongoing Food Strategy which outlines its aim to takle food insecurity by supporting the roll out of “community pantries” and promoting various support options such as Healthy Start vouchers, more immediate action may be necessary if demands continue to rise.