The Queen's University Students' Union (QUBSU) in Belfast has reported a 20% increase in students using its food bank, known as The Pantry, over the past year. The facility, which provides free household items, fresh fruit, and vegetables, now sees over 200 student visits daily and operates five days a week, funded in part by the university.

University figures indicate more than 10,500 visits to The Pantry between September and December 2025, compared to 8,691 in the same period the previous year. QUBSU President Amy Smith stated that many students struggle to afford three meals a day, often choosing between heating and eating due to insufficient student loans and rising rent prices.

Ben Friel, President of the National Union of Students Union of Students in Ireland (NUS-USI), which represents students across Northern Ireland, noted that student unions have evolved from social hubs to essential support services. He emphasised that students contribute to the economy and require a reevaluation of their financial support.

Students such as final-year law student Holly Dougan and Lucy O'Rawe described the modern student experience as focused on financial management, with inflated prices for rent, food, transport, and heating. Dougan, who chairs the university's women's students association, called the food bank essential despite its association with student fun and social activities, observing consistent long queues.