Starting a food bank in the UK can be challenging but very rewarding. The first decision that must be made though, is whether the food bank will be a “one-off” event or a long-term permanent venture. Before setting up a food bank, carry out thorough research to understand the needs in your local area. Ensure you register your food bank as a food business to comply with regulations.
If your church or community group wish to hold a one-off event e.g. A Christmas Food Hamper to local needy families, then it is relatively easy to organise. Decide whether you need permanent premises or can operate without them, like some successful food banks. Asking members of the group or the congregation to donate food can be done at the same time as asking the same people to identify individuals or families who would appreciate a donated box of food. It is also important to implement proper food hygiene and safety practices to ensure the food received and distributed is safe for consumption.
However, if the community group or church wish the donations to become a long-term or permanent venture then there are different ways to go. Either set up a charity (please contact the
Charities Commission for help and advice) or be part of the foodbank network at
The Trussell Trust who (for a fee) will provide training, support, an operating manual, PR and branding materials, an online forum, annual audits, conferences and access to the foodbank network’s shared ideas and experience. Consider seeking guidance from organizations like
The Trussell Trust or other established food banks for support and advice..
Starting a food bank in the UK can be challenging but very rewarding. The first decision that must be made though, is whether the food bank will be a “one-off” event or a long-term permanent venture. Before setting up a food bank, carry out thorough research to understand the needs in your local area. Ensure you register your food bank as a food business to comply with regulations.
If your church or community group wish to hold a one-off event e.g. A Christmas Food Hamper to local needy families, then it is relatively easy to organise. Decide whether you need permanent premises or can operate without them, like some successful food banks. Asking members of the group or the congregation to donate food can be done at the same time as asking the same people to identify individuals or families who would appreciate a donated box of food. It is also important to implement proper food hygiene and safety practices to ensure the food received and distributed is safe for consumption.
However, if the community group or church wish the donations to become a long-term or permanent venture then there are different ways to go. Either set up a charity (please contact the Charities Commission for help and advice) or be part of the foodbank network at The Trussell Trust who (for a fee) will provide training, support, an operating manual, PR and branding materials, an online forum, annual audits, conferences and access to the foodbank network’s shared ideas and experience. Consider seeking guidance from organizations like The Trussell Trust or other established food banks for support and advice..