Asking for help is one of the hardest things “we” ever have to do, as human beings, but accepting help is the responsible option.

Now in our 13th year, we’ve seen a massive decline in pots of available funding and grants to apply for to assist people struggling with their everyday needs. Along with providing vital supplies we also work with several partner organisations to help our clients spend a little better, waste a little less, and address their problems head on.

We run a Monday to Friday operation, making deliveries to households Tuesday to Friday. Clients receive weekly deliveries of groceries, sanitary/incontinence wear, fresh fruit & vegetables, fresh meat, cheese, milk and bread – if wanted – subject to dietary requirements.

We still deliver our food parcels – there are several reasons for this.

From a safeguarding point of view – seeing clients in their own surroundings gives us a better understanding of the level at which they are coping – especially if there are children or young people in the household.

From a transport point of view there is very little choice of public transport available and with the recent government increase in suggested bus fares – a return fare is now £6.00 (2 x £3 fares) per adult – it generally costs less in fuel for our drivers.

From a volunteer point of view – our building is their safe space – to carry out their volunteering and receive any support they require – allowing hundreds of visitors would be damaging to their circumstances, as they all get very different benefits (physical, health, mental health, confidence) from their sessions.

The ongoing Cost-of-Living crisis has put an even greater pressure on the most stable of households and people who never thought they would struggle, nevertheless need a food bank are asking for help.

This year we are facing higher than ever costs, and energy prices are set to rise again in April. We’re also facing a move – hopefully our last one – but we can’t do any of this without the help and donations from you – our fabulous supporters and local community.