Rising Living Costs in Cambridge Force Workers to Rely on Food Banks

Rising living costs in Cambridge are forcing low-paid workers to rely on food banks. University staff strike for pay supplements, urging Cambridge to match Oxford's local weighting scheme.

Living Costs Push Workers to Food Banks in Cambridge

The increasing cost of living in Cambridge is causing difficulties for some low-paid workers, who are turning to food banks to manage their expenses, BBC Politics East has reported.

This situation coincides with a strike involving hundreds of University of Cambridge workers demanding a pay supplement. The university has expressed willingness to engage in "constructive dialogue" with the striking workers.

Stephen Thornton, chairman of trustees at the Cambridge City Foodbank, highlighted that even households with employed members are seeking subsidised food assistance.

"People of modest means really struggle with the very high cost of rent," he said.

"There is an issue about [people on] low pay being able to look after their families."

Calls for Pay Supplements to Address Living Costs

William Ridgeon, a member of the Unite union, advocated for a "Cambridge weighting" supplement similar to what is provided to staff at Oxford University. Ridgeon participated in the picket line at The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge this week.

He explained the financial strain he faces, stating:

"I spend over half my salary on renting these days for what is quite basic accommodation.

"I don't think this is sustainable for me or for any young person on an entry-level job to rent in the city.

"I break even most months, so have no room for saving."

Phil Shepka/BBC A head-and-shoulders picture of William Ridgeon. He is standing alone in Cambridge city centre, with the river behind him. He has shoulder-length brown hair and is wearing gold earrings. He his wearing a blue zip-up top. — Unite member William Ridgeon said he spent half his salary on rent

Oxford University has implemented a local pay supplement to help workers afford living costs, and Unite is seeking a similar arrangement in Cambridge.

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In 2024, Oxford introduced a pensionable weighting of £1,500 annually for local staff. The previous year, this payment was increased by 15% to £1,730 and extended to all non-clinical staff, according to the union.

University of Cambridge Responds to Cost of Living Challenges

A University of Cambridge spokesperson acknowledged the challenges posed by the cost of living and outlined measures taken to address them. These include a 2.5% pay supplement for employees on lower pay grades, an increase in the minimum starting salary for research assistants, and enhanced paid family leave.

The spokesperson added:

"While we regret the industrial action is taking place, we remain committed to open and constructive dialogue with Unite around pay and other issues."