Food poverty: The role of the school nurse

The cost of living crisis and food poverty continue to be a significant challenge for children, young people and their families. In SAPHNA's augural survey of school nurses, 70% of respondents reported to have supported children, young people, and families where the cost of living and/or food poverty was an issue. Comments include that services had noticed ‘an increased demand for community services – food banks, uniform banks, charity funding for white goods, etc.’ School nurses reported a range of activities in relation to supporting children, young people and families, which broadly fell into direct provision, supported access to community services and provision, and advocacy work. You will be able to read more about this in the full survey report which will be published soon. Ann Marie Gallogly, deputy professional officer shares how SAPHNA works as part of a coalition to support children, young people and their families and respond to the challenges of food poverty and the cost of living crisis, and explains how school nurses support children and young people.