Half of all households are missing meals because of the cost of living crisis. 

A survey of 1,000 Irish parents by Heinz and Barnardo's found putting on the table is a huge issue for many; 87% of families said they have been forced to reduce their portion sizes to stretch their budgets, 51% reported skipping meals and nearly a third feel they are putting their child’s physical health at risk because of a lack of nutrition.

In response, Heinz and Barnardo's have joined together to launch 'Heinz Meanz Meals' to help families who are struggling.

“For this particular campaign, they have a ‘Heinz Meanz Meals cans’,” child psychologist Dr Malie Coyne said.

“With every three pack sold in supermarkets, money will go towards breakfast for a child and that’s why Barnardo’s have linked with Heinz to support this campaign.”

Back to school costs

Another recent survey by Barnardo’s found that one-in-four parents this year have been forced to take out a loan in order to pay for the cost of their child returning to secondary school.

This year, books for primary school pupils will be issued free to primary school pupils for the first time and Barnardo’s said this was one way to reduce financial pressures on parents.

"This year Barnardos is calling on the Government to continue this progress and extend free school books to all secondary school children to help to provide a genuinely free school system for all children,” Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connolly said.

"Barnardos believes that no parent should face financial pressure in trying to meet what are essential costs for their children’s education.”

Main image: A man in the supermarket.