I am in post-election mode, which is to say I’m still catching up on sleep, still trying to make up for a period of prolonged physical and emotional absence from my poor family, and still trying desperately to get back in control of my inbox and all my casework.

In doing the latter, I came across an email with details of some training about helping residents with the cost of living, and was so struck by some of the stuff I read about the Newham Food Alliance that I thought I should share it here.

The Newham Food Alliance is ‘an open collaboration between partners who reach thousands of residents each week with food parcels, meals and other support’.

Sadly I think food banks are now a much better recognised and more widely used part of society than they were.

‘Food Banks support those experiencing an emergency and offer time-limited food support as well as other support/assistance/crisis resolution.

•Examples include delays with benefits – universal credit, people not knowing or struggling to assert their rights re benefits, escaping domestic violence, family break down, sudden life changes – from a sudden loss of job to a broken-down car or boiler, or leaving prison.

•Currently 24 organisations continue to identify as Food Banks in Newham Food Alliance but important to note that most of these offer substantial wraparound support.’

But I only knew about the idea of ‘food clubs’ very vaguely so it was great to find out more about how they work:

‘Food clubs are a way to work with a regular group of residents who are long term low income by offering food support. Examples include gig economy, zero hours contracts, debt, benefits cap, benefits thresholds too low, inadequate pension, NRPF.

•They operate as a membership scheme with fees of around £2 – £10 per week depending on the club, household size, and basket and type of items.

•They offer access to additional services & support such as financial & digital inclusion, training & employability.‘

Most importantly, and what I really wanted to share here, was that the Alliance operates an online referral form where anyone can refer themselves or someone else if they are having trouble affording food. The online form is here: The Newham Food Alliance – Newham Council (there is also a phone number where you can leave a message, or an email address).

I hope anyone who needs it finds it helpful.