Our researchers have worked with community support workers to explore the drivers behind foodbank use and offer alternative solutions to support vulnerable people.
The report ‘Reducing the need for foodbanks in County Durham’ is a collaboration between our Centre for Social Justice and Community Action (CSJCA) and the Durham Christian Partnership (DCP).
The report’s authors worked with representatives involved in tackling food insecurity from housing providers, advice services, Durham County Council and Durham Community Action.
The project involved focus group meetings to explore the drivers of demand for foodbanks and the impact of the cost-of-living locally.
They identified barriers and challenges in addressing food insecurity and discussed the roles that health, housing, geography, employment and financial insecurity can all play in leading people into food poverty.
The report makes several recommendations to help policy-makers move away from foodbanks to more sustainable alternatives.
A need for a more joined-up approach to address the multiple factors that cause food insecurity was identified, including better co-ordination and information sharing about the different work taking place across County Durham.
New arrangements to share information, pool resources, and replicate good practice initiatives were also recommended.
Dr Stephen Crossley of our Department of Sociology co-authored the report.
He said: "While foodbanks play a crucial role in supporting those in need, our goal should be to create a society where no one needs to rely on emergency food aid.
“We've suggested better infrastructure and co-ordination of efforts to tackle food insecurity and a greater consideration of alternative community food project models, such as community pantries, welcome spaces and/or activities and sessions that include food but are not focused on it.
“By addressing structural issues and implementing innovative local solutions, we can reduce food insecurity in County Durham.”
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