When “Just Getting By” Becomes the Norm: Why Employers Must Help Staff Afford Food

Every day, more people face the hard reality of the cost of living crisis. Rising prices are tightening budgets, and food poverty in the UK is reaching levels that can no longer be ignored.

For many employees, this isn’t about extras or luxuries, it’s about buying enough food to feed themselves and their families. While food poverty charities across the UK are working tirelessly to help, the workplace has become a critical place for support too.

That’s where employers can step in with something impactful and immediate: food vouchers for staff from Red Letter Days, a practical solution for businesses navigating the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Why Food Support Matters Right Now

Hunger impacts performance.
It’s almost impossible to concentrate when you’re worried about your next meal. Lack of food affects energy levels, focus and motivation, all of which directly impact performance and engagement at work.

Mental health suffers.
Employers supporting mental health need to recognise the deep link between financial stress and anxiety. When people are struggling to afford essentials, wellbeing initiatives lose effectiveness unless those basic needs are addressed.

Families are under pressure.
Many parents quietly go without food so their children can eat, a silent struggle no one should face. Supporting staff through food vouchers from Red Letter Days can ease that burden and help families stay healthy and secure.

This isn’t a perk. It’s essential wellbeing support at the most fundamental level.

A Powerful Addition to Your Employee Wellbeing Initiatives

Businesses are rightly investing in employee wellbeing initiatives, from gym memberships to counselling support. Some organisations even look to schemes like the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for guidance on mental health.

But food security is the foundation beneath all other wellbeing efforts. You can’t focus on resilience, mindfulness or productivity if you’re hungry.

Providing food vouchers for staff:
• Boosts both mental and physical wellbeing
• Reduces financial stress and absenteeism
• Helps employees stretch their income further
• Demonstrates genuine care and empathy

This is a simple, effective way to strengthen your employee wellbeing initiatives and send a powerful message about company culture and values.

Why Choose Red Letter Days?

We understand that every business is different, which is why our food voucher solutions are flexible, simple and stigma free.

This is proactive, practical wellbeing delivered without complexity.

We have a wide range of food product vouchers available, from Gousto and Green Chef, to HelloFresh and more.

Explore the full range of Gifts At Home experiences here. 

How to Introduce Food Support in Your Workplace

1. Share the case
Start by highlighting the reality of the cost of living crisis and its direct impact on focus, performance and overall wellbeing.

2. Link support to values
Frame this initiative as part of your company’s broader commitment to employers supporting mental health and family wellbeing.

3. Pilot and learn
Try a small scale rollout first. Gather feedback, measure outcomes and refine before expanding.

4. Communicate sensitively
Language matters. Present this as an inclusive benefit that supports everyone, not just those in visible need.

5. Measure outcomes
Track engagement, morale, retention and productivity to demonstrate the cultural and commercial value of this support.

The Impact You Can Have

Imagine: one less parent skipping dinner so their children can eat, one less employee arriving at work hungry and anxious and a team that feels protected, valued and able to focus on their best work.

That’s the difference employers can make by addressing food insecurity directly. It’s the kind of human first decision that defines brilliant, caring workplaces.

Take the Next Step

If you’re exploring ways to strengthen your employee wellbeing initiatives with meaningful, immediate support, food vouchers can make a life changing difference.

Your employees need reassurance now, and your business can provide it.

Let’s help your teams worry less and thrive more.
Red Letter Days are ready when you are.

Book a meeting with our team today to find out how Red Letter Days can help you bring practical, people first wellbeing into your workplace during the ongoing cost of living crisis.