Homelessness and food poverty
Sunday 8 July 2007
The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland commissioned research into food poverty and homelessness in Northern Ireland. The aim of this research was to deliver a better understanding of the impact of poverty and social exclusion on the diet of people who are homeless in Northern Ireland.
This survey involved a series of interviews and dietary assessments with homeless people staying in temporary accommodation and with rough sleepers, in order to gain an understanding of the issues faced by them in relation to food poverty.
The findings from the research will be used to inform decisions about how FSA can strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders in supporting, encouraging and developing effective policy responses to tackling food poverty and homelessness.
Key findings
A Food Frequency Questionnaire was used in this research to assess the vulnerability of participants to poor diet and inadequate nutrition.
The research shows that although most homeless people are getting enough to eat, the quality of their diet is poor. Key barriers to eating a balanced diet for those surveyed are their financial situation and education, as well as alcohol and drug abuse.
The research highlighted that the key barriers to healthy eating were:
- financial situation - the results of the research clearly showed that the financial situation of those interviewed impacted on their diet
- education - although all of the participants indicated that they could cook and had access to food preparation and storage facilities, it was evident from the results of the FFQ and from conversations with those working with hostel residents, that even though many perceived themselves to have good cooking skills, this may not actually be the case
- lack of appetite - reasons for this were given as depression, stress, alcohol and medication
- other issues - including image (particularly among young girls), peer pressure, and the view that food is not always seen as a priority
Related links
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