REPRESENTATIVES from Redditch Foodbank and collaborating came together to share the latest information on their progress and the challenges they face, writes Alexander Shingler.
The event was attended by Redditch Mayor Joanna Kane, who gave her Mayoral Briefing, along with local councillors.
The four charities operate out of the ‘Acts of Kindness’ – AOK – shop in the town centre.
The title purposefully avoids anything to do with ‘foodbank’ in an attempt to shake the stigma attached to receiving financial help.
The briefing was opened by Emma Marshall, representative for Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Redditch, a legal charity which offers free face-to-face debt help.
She spoke about the charity’s emphasis on emotional, ‘holistic’ support as well as financial – offering shared prayer to clients feeling distressed.
CAP made sure to note they supported people of all religions, with Coun Marshall adding: “I’ve had the honour of sitting with a young Muslim man.
“He asked for prayer and we prayed together.
“It was a really wonderful moment for me as a debt coach.”
The charity supported 69 clients in 2024 – 14 of those were made immediately debt-free at the end of legal support.
Rev Ian Evans, from Redditch Foodbank, followed, thanking the donors who help the foodbank continue its good work.
He said: ““We’re dependent on our donors and our volunteers who give their time every week, working on the computer, packing bags, talking to customers, people who bring us food from the supermarkets.
“The Polish Baker everyday provides us with a small amount of bread, enough for that day – it’s all about teamwork.”
Nancy Deakin, Wellbeing and Service representative for Acts of Kindness (AOK), explained how it provided ‘white goods’ such as air fryers, washing machines and kettles to those in need.
“A lot of people are going into council accommodation where there aren’t these appliances, where houses aren’t ready.”
The briefing was finished by Lucy Bird, on behalf of ‘The Project’ – an organisation which helps people struggling with difficult or confusing financial paperwork, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) forms and Universal Credit translations for those who may not understand.
The Project deals with referrals from AOK, as well as regular drop-ins at Redditch Library.
Call 0121 453 0606 to contact The Project which is open both Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 3.30pm.
CAP Debt Centre is open Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 5pm, and Friday between 9.30am and 3:30pm.
Redditch Foodbank and AOK is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm.
