Putting families first

Everyday, The Salvation Army helps families unable to escape poverty because Government support systems are failing. We are calling on the Government to give families the help they need. 

Food banks, clothing donations, and temporary housing can only offer struggling families some short-term relief, but what they desperately need is support that lifts them out of poverty and puts them back on their feet.

We hope Government will use its review of the welfare system to make sure benefits properly cover the cost of housing and other basic essentials – and to remove the two-child benefit cap. We must ease the burden of those who have been suffering for too long.
Lieutenant Colonel Nick Coke

4.5 million children in the UK are living in poverty. 

The most vulnerable families can no longer rely on the welfare safety net to provide the very basics like enough money to eat and pay rent.

The Government must invest in ensuring the poorest of parents can afford to feed and house their children and access help into employment and affordable childcare. 

School uniform banks provide lifeline for parents

The Salvation Army has seen a rise in demand for second hand school uniforms from its uniform banks.

York youth leader clocks up miles to help fund summer camp

James ran a half marathon to help two students attend Salvation Army Divisional Camp in Harrogate.

Families must not suffer to fill the budget ‘black hole’

The Salvation Army is concerned that families will have to face the burden as Government manages finances.

Summertime means struggling families could skip meals

43% of families worried about being pushed into financial difficulty over the summer holidays.