More than nine million people across the UK could face severe hardship and risk needing food bank support by 2029, according to new projections from anti-poverty charity Trussell. Rising living costs, particularly energy bills, are placing increasing pressure on low-income households despite earlier signs of improvement. The charity estimates that 9.07 million people experienced severe hardship in 2025/26, with numbers potentially reaching 9.1 million by 2028/29. It says that families are skipping meals, reducing heating and struggling silently to afford essentials. Although food parcel distribution fell during 2025, persistent inflation threatens to reverse recent progress. Jessica Foster, for Trussell, has appealed for continued Christian involvement, recognising the vital contribution churches make through food donations, volunteering, providing premises and supporting struggling neighbours. She particularly encouraged Christians to notice people experiencing hidden hardship and offer practical assistance alongside friendship and compassion. The charity fears that without sustained support and effective action, successive generations of children could grow up experiencing hunger and poverty.