Aston Healthcare launch Patient led Food Bank

Launching January 2025, Aston Healthcare Patient Group are collaborating with Care Merseyside in collecting donations for Knowsley Food Bank, supporting their local communities.

The collection point for Aston Healthcare will be Manor Farm Primary Care Resource Centre, initially. The success of the food bank will be reviewed with the practice, supported by the Patient Group in March 2025.

What is a food bank?

Food banks offer emergency food and essential support to individuals facing financial hardship and unable to meet their basic needs.

In addition to providing nourishment, food banks also offer emotional support, reminding people that they are not alone and that others care. Volunteers at these centres offer kindness and a listening ear, often providing the first real sense of understanding for individuals who feel overlooked, especially after struggling with the challenges of everyday life.

How do Foodbanks Work?

Every day in the UK, many individuals face hunger due to challenges like job loss, unexpected medical bills, or unplanned expenses on a limited income. These difficulties can make it hard to afford enough food. A simple food parcel can offer vital relief and comfort, helping to prevent issues such as crime, homelessness, family problems, and mental health struggles. By providing nourishment and a supportive, caring environment, foodbanks play a crucial role in making a difference in people’s lives during their most challenging times.

Food Donations Make a Difference

Food donations come from a wide range of sources, including schools, churches, businesses, and individuals who contribute non-perishable, in-date food. These generous donations ensure that foodbanks are stocked and able to meet the needs of those relying on them. Large-scale collections often take place during events like Harvest Festivals, where communities gather to donate, and at local supermarkets, where shoppers can add a little extra to their purchases. Every donation, no matter how small, helps provide food for those who need it most.

Volunteers

Volunteers are the heart of foodbanks. They sort donations, check expiry dates, and pack food into boxes for those in need. This process requires careful attention to ensure the food is safe and ready for distribution. Over 40,000 dedicated volunteers make this all possible, ensuring foodbanks run smoothly and efficiently. Without their hard work and commitment, foodbanks wouldn’t be able to provide the crucial support they do.

Helping Those in Need

Foodbanks collaborate closely with professionals such as doctors, social workers, health visitors, and police officers to identify individuals in crisis. These professionals issue foodbank vouchers to those in need, ensuring that food reaches those who are most vulnerable. The vouchers also help to connect individuals with additional support services. This system ensures that people get the food they need while also addressing the wider challenges they may be facing, providing a holistic approach to care.

A Warm Welcome and Emergency Food

With a foodbank voucher, individuals can visit a foodbank centre and receive three days’ worth of food. But foodbanks offer more than just food – they provide a warm welcome, a listening ear, and emotional support. Volunteers take the time to talk with people, offering kindness and understanding, ensuring they feel heard and supported. Foodbanks also connect people with other organisations that can assist with more serious challenges, such as housing, financial problems, or health concerns. This holistic support helps individuals begin to overcome their difficulties, making a lasting, positive impact on their lives.

If you would like to donate to the Food Bank, or get involved with Aston Healthcare’s Patient Group, get involved by emailing aston.healthcare@nhs.net!