Barrow Foodbank
Category: Other
Reducing debt and securing financial support.
Where
Furness.
Who
Barrow Food Bank.
Why
We were aware that people were struggling financially but were unsure or untrusting of where they could find help. Barrow Food Bank is seen as a trusted friend by many of those who visit. We felt we could offer financial support in a way which was discreet and would be a more acceptable avenue for help.
When
Over the last twelve months.
What are you most proud of?
£661,321.00 of financial support delivered.
This was made up from £454,672 in benefits people weren't getting but were entitled to.
£119,347 of debt written off as well as a lot of debt 'managed' so it was put onto plans they could afford.
How did you get people involved?
One of our staff volunteered to undertake training to help people in financial debt. We identified people we thought would benefit and then quietly made the offer to them. Other staff and volunteers have seen the benefits and are now going down the same route.
What difference did the project make?
People feel more in control of their financial affairs and felt that the offer was one where the stigma of visiting either a volunteer or authority offering financial support was eliminated.
What do you wish you had known at the start?
Just how rewarding it was going to be.
What do you hope for the future of your project?
That we can continue to help people access financial help in Barrow but also encourage and mentor a wider roll out of this this support to help alleviate poverty.