Accessing benefits entitlements is a complex and stressful process, this shouldn’t be the case. Every individual should have a single point of contact that understands their unique circumstances. Work with residents and community groups to co-design changes to the system that address the biggest challenges.

As an organisation, we believe that people don’t ask for food unless they need it. Therefore, it’s alarming that 78% of Our Little Market’s fresh fruit and veg box recipients were also in receipt of benefits. Camden Giving support the campaign by The Trussell Trust and Joseph Rowntree Foundation calling on the Government to Guarantee Our Essentials. The UK government must make sure the basic rate of Universal Credit at least covers life’s essentials and that support can never be pulled below that level.

Actively encourage residents to report housing issues, especially damp, mould and other health hazards. Work with community organisations and local translators to provide support for residents whose first language isn't English, ensuring that they can communicate their needs and access assistance.

A lack of affordable housing is driving families and young people out of Camden. Whilst progress has been made, it’s not enough to meet the growing demand. Increase investments into affordable housing schemes.

Establish funding programmes that allow organisations to creatively address root causes of local food insecurity with the room to pivot and adapt to changing needs. Platform key learnings and findings to wider audiences within your network and encourage delivery groups to mobilise and campaign for change.

Reduce the administrative burden on grantees to prevent burnout and free up community leaders’ time to deliver their projects. Implement participatory approaches to monitoring and reporting, such as employing members of the local community to interview grantees and review programmes.

Work can be a key route out of poverty. Pay at least the London Living Wage to your employees as a step towards reducing experiences of in-work poverty that lead to food insecurity. Provide access to training and development opportunities so that employees to enhance their skills and advance in their careers.

Promote dignity and choice
Ensure that people can access your food services in a dignified manner by prioritising sensitivity and compassion, preserving the dignity and respect of your beneficiaries. Offer a range of food options whenever possible, allowing for choices that align with cultural preferences, dietary restrictions, and personal tastes.

Address needs beyond food
The 5 funded projects introduced initiatives that go beyond traditional food aid. Streamline your food bank services with regular access to fitness classes, wellbeing workshops and sessions that promote good mental health and joy. It’s also crucial to support users to address the underlying causes of food insecurity, such as unemployment and If it’s not within the scope of your organisation to provide the likes of employment workshops or benefits advice, consider making key partnerships that enable your organisations to refer users directly for essential support.

Centre your approach around your local community
Every community is different, and so are the needs. Run regular consultations with your local community to better understand current issues and priorities and adapt your services. Work closely with the local authority to share community challenges and amplify the most unheard voices.