More than the essentials

Healthwatch Dudley undertook engagement with four local foodbanks during 2025. They wanted to identify the support and guidance that would support people moving out of financial hardship. However, during the project, it became clear that many experience long-term financial hardship and foodbank use has become a long-term solution to providing for themselves and their family. They spoke to 281 people.

Ill-health or disability was a common reason for long-term foodbank use. Welfare provided to people with unavoidable health conditions was often insufficient to meet basic needs. Another group of people who regularly attend foodbanks are asylum seekers and refugees. Without permission to enter employment, these groups of people struggle to survive on the money provided to them while they move through the asylum process.

People explained how they struggled to access other services that could support their health. This includes primary care services and opportunities for physical activity. They experienced poor mental health due to their financial situation.  They experienced long waiting times for support.

Barriers that impacted people ' s ability to book appointments included: 

• English as a second language
• No access to a mobile phone
• Not knowing how to book appointments
• Not knowing what to say in an appointment / how to explain the problem in a limited amount of time
• Not being able to read letters or text messages
• Anxiety

People talked about digital exclusion.  Barriers included the cost of devices, the cost of data and broadband and a lack of knowledge.

The cost of public transport emerged as a significant barrier, creating social isolation and preventing access to essential services. This includes travelling to hospital appointments, job interviews, or even reaching larger, more affordable supermarkets.