Merseyside Youth Association service in Liverpool helps 16- to 25-year-olds who have been hit by benefit sanctions and are going hungry but feel uneasy about visiting foodbanks. They might go to their nan’s or to their friend’s and say ‘Can I borrow a few tins of beans?’ Each client is helped to complete a form asking why they are attending, and a counsellor is available for emotional support. Although the service is only in its second week, organisers say 36 young people have already used it, with debt and benefit sanctions the most common reasons. These young people are constantly worried about whether or not they’re going to be able to afford to feed themselves, as whatever money they do get has to go on rent. Research has shown that young people are disproportionately affected by benefit sanctions.