Hunger and neglect

Children going hungry is one of the main signs of child neglect. We're determined to be there, for as long as it takes, to help.

• Text "HUNGRY" to 70099
• Buy a Very Hungry Caterpillar sponsored badge from Gap
• Click here for more ways to help

The signs of hunger

Our project staff see neglect every day in children who, because they go hungry, feel like there is something wrong with them, and that they don't deserve to be looked after. A child hungry though neglect is one that is deprived of meals every day or eats food that is very unhealthy, meaning they miss out on essential vitamins and minerals. They may be skinny and small for their age, with clothes that hang off them; or they can be obese. Children hungry through neglect are often pale and grey; they can suffer from rickets, and have sunken eyes, poor skin and lank hair.

The devastating effects

Neglected children can be so desperate for food that they eat things like dog biscuits just to feel full. For others, school dinner can be the only square meal that they get. Not surprisingly, when these children do eat, they bolt their food or hoard it. The effects of this hunger can be devastating, from daily pain and poor health to low educational achievement and bullying.

Why does it happen?

The reasons for hunger and neglect are complex. Parents who were neglected as children can pass the behaviour on; there could be drug and alcohol issues in the home, or parents could be being forced to prioritise paying for heating rather than food. Importantly, while poverty and deprivation can make the symptoms of neglect worse, they are not themselves part of the cause.

It doesn't have to be like this...

There are many ways in which this hunger can be combatted, from classes for parents on how to cook on a budget; to food parcels given out at children's centres. But early intervention is key. Action for Children is campaigning for more early intervention services, which get involved with families facing neglect before their problems gets out of hand.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Action for Children

Action for Children is partnering with iconic children's character, 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar', to raise awareness of - and funds towards - the 'Take your action for children' neglect appeal. As part of the partnership, Action for Children's Very Hungry Caterpillar pin badges are now available for a minimum donation of £1 at Gap shops nationwide.