At West Special Fasteners, we’re proud of the precision and strength that go into every fastener we produce. But while we’re focused on holding things together in our industry, we can’t ignore the fact that, across the UK, many families are struggling to hold things together at home, especially during the school holidays. Shockingly, up to 3 million children from low-income families are at risk of going hungry when school is out. Chesterfield Foodbank are working hard to make a difference to those families.
The Reality of Food Insecurity
Putting healthy food on the table is a daily struggle for many families. It’s not just about going without, it’s about constantly choosing between what’s affordable and what’s nutritious. Many parents in the UK have even admitted to skipping meals so their children can eat.
That’s a heartbreaking truth in a country as wealthy as ours.
The Hidden Cost of the Holidays
For many families. the school holidays bring more stress then rest. During term time, free school meals often provide a crucial lifeline, one less thing for parents to worry about but when the holidays roll around, that support vanishes. But when the holidays roll around, that support vanishes and when kids don’t get enough to eat over the holidays, or only have access to cheap, unhealthy food, it shows. Some come back to school underweight, others have gained weight from poor diets. They’re tired, distracted, and often struggling to keep up. It can take weeks for them to catch up with classmates who spent the summer well-fed and active.
And it’s not just the food. Families who are already stretched thin often can’t afford outings or activities during the break, which means kids miss out on more than meals. They lose social connection, stimulation, and the chance to just be kids.
What’s Being Done?
Here in North East Derbyshire, Chesterfield Foodbank, part of the Trussell Trust network, work tirelessly since to combat hunger and poverty. They provide three days of nutritionally balanced emergency food to local people in crisis.
At West Special Fasteners, we believe in giving back. That’s why we recently held a food bank drive, collecting and donating bags full of essential items to support our community. This wasn’t just a corporate initiative, it came from the heart of our team, from the people on the factory floor, from people who care. And we’re only just getting started.
How You Can Help?
Local action makes a difference. Whether it’s donating to your local food bank, volunteering your time, or simply spreading awareness, every small act counts.
No child should go hungry, especially not in a country like ours.
To learn more about the fantastic work Chesterfield foodbank are doing click here Chesterfield Foodbank | Helping Local People in Crisis
And remember. Life’s better when we’re fastened together. Take help when you need it, give it when you can
