Change the price of college food at Suffolk One

The current food pricing at Suffolk One is becoming increasingly difficult for many students to manage. An average teenager needs around 2,200 calories per day, yet a single portion of macaroni cheese, roughly 400 calories, costs nearly the same as an entire day’s bursary allowance. This means that many students cannot afford enough food to get through the day. For those who do not have breakfast at home, due to lack of food or limited time in the morning, this situation is even more challenging.

Students who narrowly miss the bursary criteria are also placed in a difficult position, as they often cannot afford college meals at their current prices. Vegetarians face additional issues: options are extremely limited, and cross-contamination is common. On one occasion, a cheese and onion pastry was mistakenly filled with chicken, which is unacceptable—especially for students who have never eaten meat.

We are asking for one of two solutions:
either offer larger portions and better value for the current prices,
or reduce prices so that students are able to stay fed, focused, and healthy throughout the day.

Many of us are struggling financially, and access to affordable, reliable food at college is essential for our wellbeing and our education.