top of page

Annual Vital Signs Publication finds that 2 in 100 families in Milton Keynes have used a Food Bank

MK Community Foundation is proud to announce the 10th release of its annual Vital Signs report. Vital Signs focuses on 12 major themes and combines published data with observations from local community organisations, to illustrate the lived experience in Milton Keynes.

The report aims to review how Milton Keynes has changed over the past 10 years, identifying its strengths and challenges.


With a population growth rate of 15% between 2011 to 2021, Milton Keynes is one of the fastest growing places in the UK.


Key findings surrounding poverty and deprivation, however, show a city that has struggled during a global pandemic. There has been a 110% increase in demand for MK Food Bank, and nearly 30% of children in the city are currently living in poverty. This is more than the national average of 27%.


More positive findings also show a city that is flourishing, with over 60% of MK neighbourhoods rated in the top two categories in England in terms of their access to green spaces. The city also boasts 133 Electric Charging Points per 100,000 of the population – the highest density of anywhere in the UK.


The 10th edition of the report will launch alongside a visual exhibition that celebrates a decade of growth and development in the city of Milton Keynes. The exhibition, which highlights the key findings of the Vital Signs report, will be on display in Middleton Hall in Centre:MK until Thursday 2 March 2023.


"We are thrilled to release the 10th edition of our annual report," said June Oldroyd, Director of Philanthropy at MK Community Foundation.


"Vital Signs has become an essential resource for our grant-giving, it provides a true insight into our city that enables us to send funding where it’s needed most. It also allows us to confidently advise individuals, families and businesses in their philanthropic aims, making sure we direct their giving to where it’ll make most impact.”


The report is available for viewing at:


If you would like some copies of this year's Vital Signs report for your Parish Council, Library or group, then please get in touch with us at info@mkcommunityfoundation.co.uk

bottom of page